Balance The Realms Nov 2024 - May 2025

[Denix Vames]

Carter loomed over Sebastian as he rubbed himself against him. Knowing that he would make his moment memorable.

(private time)

---

Life snapped his fingers and a book popped out, "You might want to read this before going." He handed her the book which read, 'Ways To Socialize.' "Nothing against you. Just figured you'd might need it."

---

Charles was sitting on the couch with the TV on. He smiled, "Ah Amelia! I take it everything went well?"

---

Salem smiled, "Of course Grandma."

Blake immediately shook himself out of his silence, "Uh yes ma'am. Salem handed it to him in person." He awkwardly picked at his sleeve. "Excuse me ma'am for that kiss she gave me. I didn't make her do it."

---

Will gave the signal. Everyone went in. Firing at anyone who wasn't a police officer or a victim in all of this chaos. Despite probable injuries or deaths, the police wouldn't stop until this organization was done. Luis had a chance to grab a guard's head and smashed it into a wall. Smirking as the brain matter exploded out in the open.

---

Raven said, "I could always eliminate anything living here if that helps."

---

Conrad clenched his fists but listened. He looked up at them, "When....When could I visit him?" "Right now I imagine. If you'd like." ,said Death. Conrad nodded, "Please." Death handed him the five passes. Conrad put them all away in his pocket except for one. "So, how are we traveling?"

---

Gabriel summoned a glass of water and took a swig of it before spitting it out with a shocked expression. He whispered, "You're kidding me! Holy shit! Don't you get it? I have to tell him! Once Nate knows about it, he'll help you get a less terrible punishment."

---

Ash turned around. To the naked eye, he was a young handsome gentleman. However, his power said it all. He might not have had the same feared appearance but his power still held in greatness. He laughed, "It's good to know I can still scare anyone. I had to stop by and check on things." He raised his hand and brought the blood from the floor to his own mouth. Absorbing it so that his deer-like appearance came back. "Now, what is it that you desire?"

[Shadowess]

Ellesse's face turned a little red as Life handed her the book. She turned to him, feeling a little awkward. "I- um... Thank you, Sire," she said, then walked away with the book tucked under her clipboard. She'd never admit it, but she would spend a little of her free time glossing over that book.

---

"Everyone's up for it!" Amelia cheered as she plopped herself onto the couch next to him and cuddled up to his side. "We just need to let them know when and where. How's Oliver been? Is he asleep?" she asked, noting the child wasn't in the room and the place was quiet apart from the TV.

---

"Oh, pish!" Aunty said to him with a dismissive wave. "You're both young! I might be a stickler for manners, but I am certainly no prude! I had many a fella in my day. The odd dame too. I could tell you stories!" She chuckled. "Life is short and can be taken away at a moment's notice. So, make the most of these experiences. As long as you don't go breaking her heart, we'll get along just fine." She told him then reached into her pocket and pulled out a crumpled slip of paper with shaky handwriting on it. "These are the instructions for the bracelet. See that Kris gets this, would you? Had a lovely Demon stop in here back in '82... said he'd escaped an Angel that had called it a 'prototype' before slapping it onto his wrist. He had to cut his own hand off to give it to me. He said that only the person who places the bracelet onto someone can remove it, and it drains the power of the wearer, leaving them practically human. He seemed really glad to be rid of it, and then he went on his way. For the life of me I couldn't get the damn thing to open all these years and then last year, click! It opened. I'm guessing either the Demon met his demise or the Angel who had placed it on him had. Either way, it's Kris's to use now."

---

Among the officers were Lang, Malone and Henderson. They charged in on Will's signal, and a gunfight broke out. The building was a chaotic mess of shouting, running and bullets flying in all directions. 
Malone saw Luis's brutality and stopped to shout at him that this wasn't supposed to be a killing spree. As he did, a stray bullet ricocheted off a wall and struck the back of his leg. Causing him to cry out and fall. Lang rushed over, pulling Malone behind a crate for some cover as he tried to quickly heal his wound. 
Henderson was screaming and laughing in an unhinged way as he charged ahead and fired off his gun towards criminals, not aiming at anyone in particular. His senses had been completely overwhelmed, and right now, he wasn't himself at all.

---

"I don't think anything is even living here at all," Lilly answered. "I'm alright. It just... reminds me of things..." she said as she picked some more flowers. "I think I have enough to head back now. What about you?"

---

"The passes work by simple teleportation. Simply hold one in your hand and focus on the mental image of your beloved. You will appear near them instantaneously. After twenty-four hours, your pass will teleport you back here and will evaporate so that it cannot be used again. So once you use one, be sure to make a note of the time as that is when you'll be brought home the following day." Uriel explained. "If you want to stay for longer than twenty-four hours at a time, simply hold the relevant number in your hand before you teleport. Two passes will let you stay for forty-eight hours before bringing you back, three would be seventy-two hours, etcetera, etcetera... Raven will also be getting five, so he can visit you here if he'd like. This is only a temporary solution. If you boys are happy to, we can arrange a pass that would allow you to teleport to and from each other as you please." 

---

"Take this seriously." Raguel groaned at Gabriel's theatrics with the glass of water. "You cannot!" he said sternly, with his voice kept low. "Gabriel, I am serious. If word gets out that I am his father, then it is only a matter of time before the Angels I had worked with back then put two and two together. There is no less terrible punishment for this. I directly interfered with His plan by completely destroying the first attempt at creating humanity, and His wrath for such a crime will be unbridled. Gabriel, please. I know you are his close friend, and I am asking a lot." 

---

It would seem Shezmu's hesitation to leave had resulted in this Devil finding him faster than he would have liked. He eyed the being cautiously as he contemplated how to answer. "Ah, you must be the Devil that stole Abbadon's powers," he surmised, given the immense power he could sense from him. He debated allowing this Devil to sense his own power to let him know that he wouldn't be easily intimidated, but by now, he had realised who he was speaking to and preferred not to risk this Devil becoming interested in potentially taking Shezmu's powers for himself. So he kept the volume of his own powers hidden so as not to tempt him.  

"I have not come to seek violence. My name is Shezmu, and I am interested in negotiating a deal," he explained. "I recognise that my species once hunted yours for sustenance. But now, it appears that the numbers of both of our kind have dwindled to a dangerous level. Therefore, I propose we come to an arrangement that might benefit us both. I would require but a few drops of Devil blood once every few days. But I wonder, what can I offer you to make this a fair deal? Therefore, I must pose your own question back to you; what is it that you desire?" The way he spoke to this Devil was smooth. Confident. There was no longer a hint of fear in him at all.

[Denix Vames]

Charles replied, "I checked on him earlier. He's doing just fine. Lights out for him I guess. He's sleepy at the moment. Looking at him there in his crib, I cannot imagine him becoming the King of Hell someday. Yet, I won't deny him of that when he's old enough."

---

Blake nodded, "Thank you ma'am. I'll be sure to let him know." He accepted the note. Hesitantly, he asked, "When do you think I could see your granddaughter again?"

---

Dick jumped from criminal to criminal as he shot them before grabbing Henderson and knocking him out. Dragging him around the corner. Luis's wings sprouted as he grinned. While the shots were flying, he began punching his way through every enemy. Destroying instantly with his strength. Leaving nothing but a mash of meat behind.

Will glared. He found himself surrounded his own aura. His black feathery wings sprouted. A purple glow showered everyone. Freezing the enemies in place. He growled, "Luis! Stay with Malone while I take Lang with me. Now!" Luis glared back but headed to Malone's side. Will smirked at the scared enemies, "Didn't think I wasn't going to bring any magic tricks?"

---

Raven practically held a bouquet of flowers, "I think we've got plenty. Let's go." He turned to leave when he froze. Conrad stood across from him. The flowers fell from his hand. Raven was shaking as his heart raced, "Conrad? My prince? Is that you?" Conrad had tears running down his cheeks, "It is. Death helped me reach you." He began walking towards him when Raven suddenly ran over.

Both boys were soon in each other's arms. Kissing deeply as it felt like they would never see each other again.

---

Conrad nodded, "I'll discuss this with him. Thank you. You had no obligation too but I am glad you helped anyways." Death replied, "He is my son now. His worries are now mine." Conrad smiled at his words. He soon took a deep breath and closed his eyes. His body glowed along with the pass. Suddenly, he wasn't there anymore.

Death nodded at Uriel, "Thank you for your help. Could we possibly be of assistance? Or is that all?"

---

Gabriel crossed his arms and sighed, "Ok. I...I won't tell. But if I won't then maybe you'll have a chance to talk to him someday. At least think about it, ok?" He leaned against the bars, "Anyways I guess we could play charades while waiting for this whole trial business. Or are you into poker?"

---

Ash transformed into another appearance. A man in his thirties with a small afro, brown casual suit, black fedora, and light skin. He took off the hat and smirked, "Sounds like a tempting offer. I don't suppose you know any good books on how to raise a baby? Or perhaps a present for my wife?" He spun the hat in his hand. "It's a long story but I have a lot to make up for as a father and a husband. I rather do it right."

He suddenly frowned, "And I can't decide on what a father should look like for her."

[Shadowess]

"Yeah..." Amelia sighed thoughtfully. She recalled the intense fear she'd felt back before she knew Charles and had found out that Damien had been destroyed, making her a Queen overnight. Until that moment, she had been content to assume that Damien would always be there to rule Hell and had not at all been prepared to take over for him when he'd vanished. She had been so desperately against inheriting the throne that she'd even caught herself occasionally wishing that Lucifer would just return out of the blue to demand his throne back, and she would hand it over to him without question. But with David's firm yet gentle guidance, she was inspired to try enacting the very idea that Damien had continually shot her down on for years. And then, of course, she met Charle,s and the rest is history. 

So, she knew the heavy burden that their son would one day inherit and knew that they had their work cut out for them if they were going to build Oliver up to be a competent and confident King one day. "We have so much work to do before then..." she sighed. "We need to continue our work to make Hell more of a place of redemption rather than punishment. There are still Demons out there who refuse to accept us as royalty, are convinced that Lucifer will come back one day and are determined to continue their original work of torturing souls... They will need to be dealt with. We don't want our son to inherit a world where more than half his subjects aren't even loyal to him." She shook her head slightly. "And that's not mentioning bringing up Oliver, too. We'll need to teach him how to rule. To be firm but fair. To not let the power go to his head the minute the crown sits on it... We're going to be very busy for a long time... but at least we have each other for support in getting it done."

---

Aunty laughed warmly at the question. "Go on back home now. I'm sure it's passed your bedtime, and Kris will likely be putting you to work soon like the rest of his boys. Pop back when you get some time off. I homeschool Salem, and she works in my shop most days. You can always find us here."

---

"Actually, pig, we was counting on it." The thug chuckled darkly. Now that they had confirmation that at least some of these officers were supernatural and not regular humans, a trap had been sprung. They hadn't needed to move to put the trap into motion. Having seen the chaos through security cameras within the building, thugs elsewhere had flipped a switch. Immediately, the doors became locked down with thick sheets of metal, and speakers began blaring a siren sound that only those with supernatural hearing would be able to hear. Its pitch was so sharp that it caused agonising pain. Enough to bring Lang to his knees as blood trickled out of his ears. Even Henderson, who had lived his entire life believing he was an ordinary human, woke up and cried out from the pain. 

Once the siren had them all disoriented, vents opened up and began rapidly filling the room with knock-out gas. "Those Jap scientists will pay a pretty penny for you pigs. Thanks for bringing them Dick. You did great!" the thug grinned as he too began to lose consciousness. Outside, armoured black vans pulled up to the building. The thugs inside them were awaiting radio confirmation that everyone inside was knocked out before they'd hurry in to tie them up and transport them to Japan.

---

Lilly watched the reunion with a small smile as she moved forward to scoop up the flowers that Raven had dropped. She waited patiently for them to finish, but when it seemed they might go on kissing forever, she politely coughed into her fist to get their attention. "You must be Conrad." She greeted him. "Raven has told me about you. I'm his sister, Lilly."

---

"We may call on you to testify at Raguel's trial. But until then, your Grace, we can take things from here." Uriel answered. He was eager to get away and see what Gabriel had managed to find out. "Once again, I apologise on behalf of Heaven for his assault. Please don't hesitate to let us know if there is any way that we can assist you further."

---

Raguel nodded to Gabriel's suggestion at one day talking to Nate about his true origins but said nothing. He had wanted nothing more than for Nate to know the truth since he was born but he'd been afraid of being found out. Then, as the years went on, he also became afraid of how Nate might react to the news.

He smiled a little at Gabriel's offer to play cards with him. He'd been about to say that he didn't know how to play, given he'd never gambled in his life. But memories that were not his own flashed through his mind, and he realised he knew how to play after all. "You choose," he replied. There was no point in him worrying about the gambling aspect anymore, considering his current situation. He figured he might as well make the most of this time with his adoptive son while he was still able.

---

Shezmu was intrigued by Ash's requests. He pondered on them for a moment while rubbing his chin. "I'm afraid my knowledge on rearing young is a little beyond me. I've never had children. However, I believe I may be able to locate suitable reading material to assist you with your venture into fatherhood," he said thoughtfully. Already he thought of the library with the German Castle. Granted, those volumes may be more directed towards vampiric children, but Shezmu supposed it couldn't be that much different than raising a Devil child. 
"Regarding your appearance and intent to woo your lady, I may be able to provide advice." he offered then looked at Ash expectantly. His advice wouldn't be free and he'd already told him what he wanted in exchange.

[Denix Vames]

Charles wrapped an arm around her, "And we have our friends to be there for us too. This time, we won't be alone in this journey." He kissed her cheek.

---

Blake nodded, "Of course ma'am. Thank you." He disappeared.

Appearing in front of Kris's now rebuilt door as he knocked. With the door open, he handed the note. "Audrey said this is what the last person who wore it wrote down. Apparently, the person who puts it on someone's wrist can be the only one to take it off."

---

Dick's eyes widened, "No!" He lifted his gun and tried to shoot but faltered. Falling over like everyone else.

Xenos appeared in front of the black vans and smirked. He manipulated the vans and transformed them into nothing but metal balls. Expecting gun fire, he appeared behind one thug and ripped his head off. He zoomed past the others and sliced them up like sushi.

After killing them, he appeared at the main control room where he shut the gas off and the siren. He pulled out his phone and called for his agents.

---

The whole police force would find themselves laying in their own precinct. Once everyone began to wake up, Xenos would be standing. He sighed, "You should have called us you know."

---

Raven grabbed Conrad's hand and practically dragged him over. "I nearly forgot to introduce her!" Conrad smiled at the joy he saw in his boyfriend. He nodded at her, "It's nice to meet you. Did you get here like us? You don't seem like you have the same presence as everyone else. Pardon me if that sounds rude."

---

Death nodded, "I'll let you know." The duo disappeared.

Gabriel jumped at the sight of Uriel appearing before he had a chance to pick out a game. He nervously chuckled, "Hey buddy old pal! So, I don't know about telling you....stuff? It's sort of complicated."

---

Death took a deep breath before sitting on his throne. "Quite the day ahead of us, wouldn't you say?"

---

Ash chuckled. He pulled out a razor before poking his finger, "Come and take your fill. Preferably without the sensual part of the business. I'm taken."

[Shadowess]

Not drunk but not quite sober anymore, Kris answered his door and looked at the messily scribbled note as he listened to Blake. "Huh... Verrry interesting. That old woman is a wonder for collecting random magical relics. Thanks kiddo. Go to the bunks now, ok? Get to know your new brothers and get some rest. You've done good today, alright? But you need to be up bright and early tomorrow to start your training. Go chill." he put the note between the fingers of his hand that was also holding the half-empty bottle of rum, then used his free hand to ruffle the boy's hair before closing the door. He wandered over to the evergreen rug on the left side of his room and sat on it with his legs crossed. Insence was burning on a little wooden locker in front of him. He placed his bottle nearby and rested his hands on his knees as he began deep breathing and meditating.

---

"Wha-What happened? Why does my head hurt so much?" Henderson groaned as he slowly came to. 
"Oh man, I feel hungover..." Malone said with a gag as he held his head in his hands. "Fucking gas..."
"....WHAT?!" Lang shouted, making the officers around him jump. He was barely able to hear the others as his eardrums had burst from the siren.

Meanwhile Xenos's agents were busy cleaning out the building, removing the sirens and the gas cannisters from the vents. They stormed the remote location and began decrypting and downloading all the files they could get from the computers. By the time they would be done both locations would be completely empty of equipment, cleaned from top to bottom and the bodies disposed of. Leaving no trace behind.

---

"I see." Uriel said though he looked between the pair with suspiscion. Raguel glared back at Uriel. He didn't trust him at all and considering what Gabriel had told him earlier had a strong suspicion that he was manipulating Gabriel for his own means. 
"Gabriel, perhaps I could speak to you in Raguel's office for a moment?" Uriel asked him as he turned away from Raguel's white hot stare.
"Why Uriel? Don't want me to hear you talking about me?" Raguel growled. 
Uriel merely glanced back at him and responded sassily. "It's classified and you're no longer my superior officer so..." he nodded for Gabriel to follow him before turning on his heels and strutting towards the door. 
Raguel seethed for a moment but as Uriel's back turned, he quickly looked at Gabriel. He pointed towards Uriel and mouthed 'watch out for him!'

---

"Yes, your Grace." Andi agreed as she stood to the side. She was at ease but continually on alert as his guard. 

"I don't mind." Lilly chuckled. "Sort of. I came through a portal from another world, too. Long before you two arrived. But I was being chased by a Wraith. I'm so sorry, I think that's why the humans reacted to you the way that they did. They thought you might be another Wraith coming into this world. They are terrible, fearsome creatures. I wouldn't wish them on any world." 

Feeling a little awkward after explaining this, Lilly glanced around for a moment before showing him the flowers that they had been picking. "We were collecting these to trade for goods in the market nearby. We're trying to get a gift to cheer up our father's beloved. Would you like to help us?" she asked, and then, realising that these two might want to spend some time together after their ordeal, she quickly added. "But you don't have to. If you two want to catch up and go for a walk or something, I don't mind going back to the market myself."

---

Shezmu didn't move. Knowing the strength of this Devil, he wouldn't risk getting too close just yet. Not until he could trust him, and he doubted that he ever truly would. Also, stepping so close and feeding would leave him open to an attack. With a small, cunning smile, Shezmu lifted a couple of his fingers and summoned Ash's blood from the small wound, lifting it into the air until it formed a floating mass the size of a golfball. He then levitated this ball over to himself and opened his mouth, allowing it to stream down his throat. He was a little sad that he didn't get much of a chance to actually taste it this time around, but at least he managed to get what he needed. Swallowing it with visible relief, he looked back at Ash. "Thank you. I had been quite starved of a proper meal for some time now." He walked casually towards the Library before stopping to admire the architecture for a moment. That this building was still standing after all this time was nothing short of a miracle. 

"A deal is a deal, and I am a man of my word. You wish to woo your wife? Earth has an abundance of gifts and sights that you can treat her to. Visit a florist. Select a bouquet of delicate and elegant flowers. Give these to her as a gift. Then, choose a destination to visit with her. Somewhere breathtaking to create a memory that she will cherish for all time. But most importantly?" he turned to look at Ash. "Use the time and her company to get to know her. As a person, not a conquest. Create a bond with her. Respect her as you would wish to be respected. After all, if she is to be your mate, then she is to be your equal in all things." He then gestured to Ash's appearance. "As for how a father should look. I'd expect that as long as she adores how you look as a husband, then she would logically like how you appear as a father." Meaning, if she already liked him as he was, then he didn't need to change anything.

[Denix Vames]

Blake smiled, "Yes sir."

He headed to the bunks. Finding everyone in bed either asleep or still talking to each other. He got undressed until he wore only his boxers. Climbing under the covers and sitting there before saying, "So none of you guys want to challenge me or kill me?" He found it odd that he wasn't meant with hostility when he first met them.

---

Xenos rolled his eyes. He sent out his words into their heads. Letting them know the CIA was taking care of everything. That Dick was placed in federal prison too. There was nothing to worry about anymore. They could go on with their usual lives.

---

Gabriel gave a thumbs up to Raguel before following Uriel. Once inside the office, he took a deep breath. "Let me guess. You want me to tell you everything otherwise I'll be tortured?"

---

Conrad said, "Actually that sounds like fun. I'd love to help and spend some time with your sister, Raven." Raven held his hand. He took some of the flowers from Lily so she wouldn't hold so many. The trio headed out of the forest and to the market. Raven said, "I can't wait to show you everything!" Conrad replied, "I only have twenty fours to spend time here so let's make this count. I wish to see everything!"

---

Death tapped against his armrest, "Should I be supervising their visit? They are young after all."

---

Ash replied, "Well well! Sounds like the all powerful ancient being knows a few things about being a considerate person. Maybe there's hope for you yet." He walked over and pat his shoulder, "Don't quit on the idea of having a friend now." He snapped his fingers, "Cause just like that! You've got me as a potential friend." He walked away, "And I know what you are so don't worry about us getting to know each other. You can try to hide all you want but I sensed it the moment you appeared. I must say I am impressed." He tipped his hat, "Call on me when you require my blood again. Free of charge from now on." He disappeared.

[Shadowess]

"You're one of us now, bud." One of the boys replied. He was sitting cross-legged on his bed with another boy sitting across from him. They had been playing cards when Blake had walked in. 
"It's Ortiz you want to watch out for." The other boy commented, earning a nudge on the arm from the first boy. 
"Not so loud, Drake. He'll hear you."
"And what? Crybaby wants all of "Daddy Kris"'s attention. I'll bet he's too busy jacking off with his ear to the Boss's door to hear us anyway." The boy, now known as Drake, chuckled. 

---

"What-? No!" Henderson gasped and then groaned as the sound of his own voice made his head throb. "Y-you can't lock Dick up! We agreed he'd get immunity if he helped us take down his boss!" He dragged himself to his feet to face Xenos. "You can't do this!"

---

"Tortured?" Uriel feigned offence as he placed a hand on his own chest. "Why, Gabriel, do you think so little of me that I would resort to such barbaric tactics? No, dearest Gabriel. I will not torture you. But I must admit that I worry for you." he went on. If Gabriel's question had told Uriel anything, it was that he definitely knew something and currently had no intentions of sharing it. But Uriel was cunning. He walked over and closed Raguel's office door to give them privacy before walking back to Gabriel with a look of concern. He placed a hand on his shoulder. "I worry because I know how close you and Raguel are. I fear he is manipulating you, my friend. If he's told you something and you fail to disclose it before his trial, you could be considered complicit in his crimes. He would drag you down along with him! I don't want to see that happen to you. You can trust me, Gabriel."

---

Lilly smiled at the pair as they headed into the market. Learning how the trading system worked took a little practice, but the local residents were kind and patient enough to talk them through it. When the merchants realised they were speaking to the new Prince and Princess, however, they quickly began offering some of their items for free as gifts. Lilly had been hesitant to accept anything for free, but a couple of merchants seemed disheartened by her refusal, so she quickly changed her mind. Even Conrad was being given tokens and gifts just for being with Lilly and Raven. Jewellery, perfumes, gems and treats were being offered left, right and center. Making the trio absolutely spoiled for choice.

---

Andi smiled at Death from her position. "They're in one of the safest realms there is, and their father is literally Death. If I might be so blunt, your Grace, they'll be fine. I'm sure they'd appreciate some time to themselves and it will help them develop some independance. If you're constantly around them, they might begin to feel smothered. Trust me, as someone who's been that age once, I know."

She bit her lip momentarily as she worked up the courage to ask Death a question. "Sire, I know it's a little off-topic, and you have a lot on your mind already... I was wondering, when Azrael is well enough to resume his position, could I- that is, before I died, I was about to begin a um... transition. But I never got to even start when- my new life here began." She fumbled a little as she tried to explain as best she could. She sighed. "What I'm trying to ask is... is there any way for me to change, you know... into a man?"

---

"You know of me?" Shezmu gasped as Ash revealed he'd been able to sense his power despite his attempts to conceal it. He watched the Devil leave, unsure of how to feel about the encounter. The idea that the two of them could be friends was novel, but by nature and from experience, he was dubious. He supposed there might be an opportunity here for friendship at some point in the future. But for now, he remained cautiously optimistic, especially now that their current deal had essentially just concluded. Leaving him right back at square one. 

With a thoughtful expression, he teleported back to his room at the German castle. At least now, he felt more or less like himself after such a nutritious meal. However, he noted that as soon as he arrived back in his room, he got a particular sense of relief. As if he'd sensed someone watching him while he was in Hell, but the moment he teleported, he was no longer being watched. He shrugged off this feeling, knowing Hell had always been a place of danger, so the feeling of being watched or hunted was fairly normal. Feeling a little more lighthearted, he picked a book from the shelf near the hearth and took it to his couch. He wondered how his pupil had been in his absence as he settled into his seat, ready to read.

[Denix Vames]

Blake suddenly chuckled, "You guys want to see him drop dead?" He quickly cleared his throat, "I didn't mean...I don't know what was that. Sorry."

---

Xenos grabbed him by his collar, "You and your little club agreed to it! You should have come to us for this operation! Your Chief knows better!"

A black car pulled up. He turned to the window, "Which is why I'm assigning an agent here to make sure something like this doesn't happen again." He glared at Henderson. "Stay in your lane."

Just as Xenos disappeared, the CIA agent walked in. He didn't look like what you would expect. He was a thin pale man with brown short curly hair. He wore a simple white buttoned sleeved shirt and brown pants along with a sweater vest over his shirt. He looked around and awkwardly adjusted his leather brown messenger bag. "Is there an Angel here who can heal everyone? I'm sorry to intrude but I have an assignment."

---

Gabriel rolled his eyes, "Here we go again. First Raguel and now you. Is everyone trying to play dirty?" He leaned against the wall. "Frankly, I rather talk because someone close to me deserves to know the truth. However, I can't stand how you two are playing this cat and mouse game. I can't believe I'm saying this but it's beneath both of you. You guys are better than this."

He suddenly frowned and held tears in his eyes, "Or at least I thought you were."

---

Raven held his bag tightly, "Well we definitely have some stones for me to pick and choose." Conrad replied, "Amongst other things. I wonder if I can bring some of these home."

Death thought for a moment, "I'm unsure about such an idea. I do accept your want of this but we have never seen such a thing here. I would need to discuss this with Azrael. Perhaps he knows something."

The trio soon arrived. Death smiled and walked downstairs, "Ah! My children! How was your trip?" Raven lowered the bag. Placing it on the floor, "Too good if you ask me. The moment they realized who we were, they couldn't stop giving us everything! But at least, I have something for Azrael now." Conrad chuckled, "It has been fun doing this. Just like old times when we use to go to that little town where the markets had so much to offer."

---

Dariel appeared. He was in armor and holding a sword, "Hey boss! I got-" He fell over. "This damn thing is so heavy! How did people ever fight in this crap?!" He sat down and took the helmet off. "Anyways, I've been practicing. Nearly chopped someone's head off too."

(the CIA agent is going to look like Spencer Reid from Criminal Minds)

[Shadowess]

(Nice!)

"It's fine. He gets on everyones case so we all get frustrated sometimes." the first boy shrugged. 
"Especially if the Boss gives you any attention." Drake chortled 
"But we're a family here. We give each other grief sometimes, but we still look out for each other. Ortiz included. I'm Benny, by the way. I've been here about six months. This is Drake."
"Been here two years as of tomorrow," Drake told him with a nod. 

---

Henderson was a little shaken and furious from how Xenos had grabbed him and spoken to them. His head pounded as he stared at where he'd been standing just a moment ago. He then turned to glare at this new Agent and scoffed as he walked towards the door, aiming to 'bump into' the Agent's shoulder on his way past while calling over to Will; "I'm going to get some air!" then muttered under his breath; "Fucking god damn CIA bastards showing up, taking over everything and fucking us over... again!"

At the Agent's question, Malone massaged his temple with one hand while pointing towards Lang with his other hand. "He's you're guy."
Seeing Malone point at him, Lang squinted. "WHAT?!" he shouted, making Malone jump and the rest of the group groan from their collective headaches. 
"Lang, heal your damn ears!" Malone snapped
"MALONE, WE'RE ON DUTY. WE CAN GO GET BEERS LATER." 
"No, ears- YOUR EARS, LANG!" 
"WHAT ABOUT ISLAM?"
"EARS!!!!" Malone pointed to his own ears, then to Lang. "HEAL!!!"
"OHHHH! RIGHT! GOTCHA!" Lang turned a little red from embarrassment as he placed his hands over his ears. A moment later, he removed them and made a few 'mawp' sounds to see if he could hear himself. "Oh, that's better."
"Thank fuck..." Malone slumped back down and cradled his head in his hands. 
"Now, what were we talking about? Something about beer and Islam?" Lang looked at them all, confused. 
Malone groaned again in aggitation then pointed to the new Agent. "Fancy pants CIA agent asked if you can heal everyone."
"Oh! Sure, I can do that." and with that, Lang jumped to his feet and started groing around the room to heal each officer.

---

A flicker of irritation crossed Uriel's face for an instant before he went right back to his friendly facade. "I understand why you'd feel this way, but I'm trying to look out for you. I'm serious, if you know something and you don't come clean, you could also end up being investigated for conspiracy and treason here." He stepped back and raised his hands. "But I understand your concerns, so I won't press you. Just know that I only want to help you, so if you ever want to get... whatever it is, off your chest, I hope you'll come to me." he walked over to the office door and opened it, signalling that Gabriel was free to leave if he chose to. "You know how to find me," he said while giving Gabriel a caring look.

---

Andi was a little disappointed by Death's answer, yet hopeful that he would at least look into it for her. She was a little surprised when he said that nothing like that had ever happened here but then again, although gender changes were at least a few decades old by now on Earth, she supposed that in comparison to centuries or even a millenia where such a thing wasn't even possible, that it wasn't too surprising for such a thing to still be unheard of in the after life. After all, what's a few mortal lifetimes but a meagre blip in an immortal's timeline. She nodded thankfully to Death, then continued to keep watch over him as his children entered the castle.

"I've never felt like that before," Lilly commented as she placed her own bag down as well. It was heavy from the various gifts she'd received, and by the time they'd reached the castle, her arms were a little sore from carrying it. "Everyone was so excited to meet us. It was a little overwhelming, honestly," she said a little breathlessly while smiling at Death. "But it was fun." She looked over at Raven and Conrad. "We should give Azrael his gift."

---

Shezmu watched the boy clumsily arrive in his room in metal armor. He held a small smile as he watched his pupil sitting down and removing his helmet. "You will make a fine warrior, yet," he mused with a grin. He stared at his book for a moment in thought as he tapped the cover with two of his fingers. "Dariel, you've been my student for a short while now, and so far, you have excelled in most of your studies. You have a tenacity about you that I admire and the potential to become one of the greatest warriors of this age," he said. 

Then he turned his head to look boy. Barely even a boy anymore. Almost a man. "What I mean to say is, I believe that were you to complete your training, you may become worthy of one of the greatest gifts that I can bestow." He quickly held up a finger. "I must be clear, I do not offer this gift lightly. I choose my fledglings very, very carefully. And I will not bestow my gift until you come of age but only if your consent has been granted. The choice to reject or accept my offer is entirely yours, and I do not expect an answer from you now. So, be sure to think on it carefully." 

He lowered his finger and turned his head with a faraway look in his eyes. "My kind is in danger of extinction. We cannot have children, you see. And there is great risk when creating a fledgling. It must be done out of love and compassion always, or you would risk condemning your fledgling to an eternal madness. A fledgling made out of violence and trauma will always be consumed by an unquenchable lust for power and blood." 

He closed his book and stared at the title. His fingers tracing the lettering on the cover as he continued to speak. "But a successfully created Blood God will have eternal life without the restrictions that the other vampires here live with. We can go out in the daylight. We can move faster and more silently than most Demons and Angels because we are their natural predators. We can fly and, on a healthy diet of Angel or Devil blood, we become a force to be reckoned with. We have the ability to kill our foes or destroy them entirely." He paused, realising that this might be a lot for Dariel to take in all at once. He gave the young man an awkward little smile. "As I say..." he opened his book once more. "Think on it. The offer is there for when you're old enough and trained enough."

[Denix Vames]

He said, "I'm Blake. Before you ask, Salem was only here to give Kris an item that would benefit him. I know how we can gossip sometimes so I rather not have that going on."

---

The agent jumped a bit at Henderson bumping into him. He nervously cleared his throat before saying, "If I could have everyone's attention? Because of recent events, it is in Xenos's best interest to have an agent watch this precinct. We would like to avoid the NYPD getting involved in more higher matters. It is recommended that this force stays within city cases. Not federal ones."

He continued, "Other than that, I could be a fellow colleague should you need to any questions answered. If those questions aren't classified. My name is Ethan Reed." Luis scoffed, "More like egghead! So what? The CIA sent a total loser to watch us?" Will spoke, "That's enough! Now, I know none of us like this but we still have to show respect. If I hear so much as another insult about this man, I will have you all reprimanded. This is about making up our mistakes and doing things right. And Xenos was right. I should have reported this to him earlier. Otherwise, none of you would have put your lives on the line for me."

Will walked over. He held out his hand, "Welcome to the team." Ethan hesitantly shook his hand. Not expecting this from any officer. "Thank you."

---

Gabriel scoffed, "Yeah sure. And I'm pretty sure I'm God himself!" He said that last statement sarcastically before disappearing.

---

Conrad raised a brow, "The stone? Do you think it'll work here?" Raven took out a green round stone, "It should with my magic. I need to make it become an amulet." He turned to Death, "I thought it would be good if Azrael had an amulet that could protect him when he's at his most vulnerable." Death smiled, "That sounds like a grand idea. I recommend going to the empty room in order to focus your magic there. Before you go, I don't suppose either you know how to change the sex of a being? My temporary right hand here wishes to be a man."

Raven shook his hand, "Sorry but even our magic doesn't go that far. It requires too much power and could pose a risk if the spell isn't done right." Conrad sighed, "Unfortunately, he is right."

---

Dariel was about to agree when he heard the trauma situation. "Uh Well...I didn't exactly have a great home and I'm not exactly feeling awesome about anything. So, it might be a while before the sunshine and rainbows come in for me."

[Shadowess]

Both Drake and Benny chuckled at Blake's quick defensiveness. "Man, chill," Drake said as he put a card down on the bed and drew another one from the deck to the side. "I mean, only a blind person wouldn't see that she was totally eye-banging you, but sure, whatever."
"You're such a perv, Drake." Benny shook his head and then looked over at Blake. "Ignore him. He likes to push buttons."
"Shut. Up!" A boy that had been snoozing in one of the bunks huffed at them. "Fuck man, do you guys ever sleep?!"
"Yeah, I sleep right after I'm done banging your dad!" Drake laughed. Benny picked up the pillow from behind him and hit Drake with it, knocking a few cards to the floor and making him laugh a little more. The boy in the bunk gave an annoyed groan and turned over, pulling the covers over his head. 
"That's Cecil," Benny said to Blake while pointing to the boy in the bunk. 
"He's a snooty prick for a klepto. Keep an eye on your socks." Drake said, then leaned forward a bit with his mouth cupping one side of his mouth as he whispered loudly across the room. "He has a serious foot fetish!"
"Drake! Stop being mean! You're going to scare away the new guy!" Benny laughed as he hit Drake over the head again with the pillow, sending some feathers flying. Drake laughed out loud again.

---

Not wanting to risk a disciplinary, Malone didn't object but he wasn't happy about this arrangement either. Without a word he headed to the armoury to return his SWAT gear.
Lang, having finished healing everyone by now, headed over to the new Agent and gave him a kind smile. "Don't mind the others. They're a prideful bunch, but they mean well," he said to him. "I'm Officer Lang." he turned to Will. "Sir, I can help Agent Reed here set up a desk and get settled in. I have a feeling Henderson might need to be talked down before he does something stupid," he said, reminding Will of how Henderson had been behaving manically before Dick had managed to knock him out back at the warehouse.

---

Uriel said nothing as Gabriel left, but as soon as he was gone, his smile vanished and was replaced by a grim determination. Silently, he sent a private telepathic communication to his most trusted spies to keep a very close eye on his rival. Then he turned and also vanished.

---

Lilly shook her head as well. Such a thing was unheard of in her own world. Andi had been caught off-guard as Death asked the group of teenagers about her very sensitive issue, and her face turned red from embarrassment. At least these teens seemed to be handling it in a mature way, and although none of them had any answers, she nodded to them thankfully all the same. 
"Maybe David would know?" Lilly suggested as she looked back to Death after seeing Andi's defeated expression. "I've only met him a couple of times but he always seems to know a lot." she then turned to Raven and Conrad. "C'mon. I'd like to see how your do your magic. Maybe you could show me how to do it too?"

---

Shezmu paused and looked at Dariel with his head slightly tilted in confusion. Then he realised what he was saying and chuckled before shaking his head a bit. "No, no. You misunderstand. I mean, the event itself cannot be traumatising. It must be done in a peaceful environment and performed preferably out of love," he explained and then sighed. "In my time, I've regretably had to destroy one or two mad Blood Gods. Those poor bastards had been torn from their families, beaten bloody, likely feared for their lives as they were drank from and then had blood fed to them by a Blood God who could have cared less if they lived or died... either that or they were a half-Devil who was turned by an oblivious and cruel vampire master." 

He closed his book again and leaned back slightly in his seat while looking at his student. "It is how vicious rumours of our kind began. Now, many Angels, Demons and Devils believe we are always born mad when the simple, unfortunate truth is... when one mad Blood God is made, he inevitably begins a viscious cycle of creating more Blood Gods in the same violent way, which leads to more mad Blood Gods, and on and on. But no, if done right and if done safely, the risk of losing your mind is practically none."

Shezmu stood and placed the book back onto the shelf. "And fear not, Dariel. You may have come from dark beginnings but you will always have a home with me." He turned to face him with a small smile. "I admit, I have grown rather fond of you." He then smirked. Now, if you don't mind, I believe you're beginning to stain my upholstry with your sweat and you may need to remove that armour before it rusts."

[Denix Vames]

Blake blushed, "Maybe we should get some sleep. Kris says he wants me to have energy. He probably has some assignments for us." He thought about Salem though. A smile crept his lips but he wondered, "Besides, what would a girl like that want with a guy like me?"

---

Will nodded, "I appreciate it." He headed out and looked around, "Henderson? We need to talk."

Reed pulled out a book, "I have this excellent study on creating friendships. Perhaps we could play a fun game like it mentions." He flipped through the book. "We could do a potluck and discuss matters in order to get to know each other."

---

Death's eyes lit up, "Of course! Why didn't I think of that?" He stood, "Let us see David, Andi. I'm sure he knows something."

Raven picked up his bag, "Sure. Just watch from a distance. I need some silence so I can focus on the stone." The trio would head to the empty room. Conrad placed the bags in one corner. Away from the circle. Raven sat crisscrossed in the circle. Alone with the green stone in hand. His eyes closed as his aura grew. Suddenly, his eyes glowed. The stone floated out of his hands before transforming. A black string wrapped through the stone with a swirl embedded in it. Golden flecks were within the swirl.

---

"Oh crap!" Dariel quickly took the armor off and left it on the floor, "Is there a closet for this stuff?" He crossed his arms and bit his lip, "And thanks for taking me in by the way. I like your company too."

[Shadowess]

"I can think of a few things you could give her!" Drake laughed, and not content that it was doing an effective job, Benny threw down the pillow before tackling Drake. They wrestled while laughing loudly. 
"Guys, seriously, knock it off!" Cecil snapped at them, having now sat up to glare at them. "If Ortiz hears you're still awake and comes in, we'll all be in for it! I'm not collecting boil puss again just because you two have no volume control! Took weeks to get the stink out of my clothes..."

---

Having been walking briskly, Henderson had already walked far down the road by the time Will had come out to look for him. He was still seething, and his mind was racing. Ideas of finding and breaking into the CIA facility kept popping into his mind, and the more he thought about it, the more he wanted to do it. Even the idea that he could be shot down in the attempt was appealing to him, though he couldn't fathom why.

Lang looked at Reed's book with an amused smile and a raised eyebrow. He chuckled and gently closed the book in Reed's hands. "It's not a bad idea, but maybe we could just start with something simple? Like, talk to each other over a coffee and some dohnuts?" he suggested. He then gestured towards the break room where there would already be some boxes of various dohnuts opened on the table. 

---

Andi hadn't met David yet, but if he had the answer she was looking for, then she was willing to give it a try. She nodded to Death, ready to follow his lead.

Meanwhile, in the empty room, Lilly stood off to one side with Conrad as they watched Raven work. She was fascinated with the process and how easy he had made it look. When he was done, she smiled at the amulet. "He'll love it." She commented. "And you have to teach me how you did that!" 

---

Shezmu smiled and nodded to Dariel's thanks. He looked at the armour on the ground with an amused smirk. "I believe you will need to return it to wherever you retrieved it from," he told him simply. 

Meanwhile, across the castle, Jessica, who had been in a depressive state after the news that she couldn't have children, finally emerged from her bedroom. She'd washed herself up and gotten dressed up. 
Up until now, she'd had Ben and everyone else who cared for her worried as she had locked herself away and refused to speak to anyone. During his last visit with Shezmu, River hadn't gone straight home. He'd stopped by Ben and Jessica's place to check in and see if they knew about Shezmu. When he learned of Jessica's mental breakdown following the news that the ancient Blood God had brought, he'd stepped into her room to talk to her. It was some of his advice that had brought her back to herself, and she now held a determined look about her as she emerged and looked at Ben.

---

Within the sanctuary of their new little Eden, John sat back on a large cushion, watching Daisy and Juliette babbling excitedly about their new lives and budding pregnancies. He glanced at the walls of their home and at the runes he'd carved. He wondered if there was any way to safely speed up the pregnancies to give them more of a fighting chance at succeeding in their endeavor before they'd be discovered. He didn't know of any spells or potions that would work, and in all his years, he'd only ever heard of one Demon that might've been intelligent enough to create such a thing. 

He'd heard of her destruction, but as he sat there pondering, he recalled the chaotic void that was his time in Oblivion. Most of his memory of that place had already faded by now, but he distinctly remembered sensing her there, and her presence remained even as his essence was yanked from the madness of the obyss. He had awoken on his own but with the distinct feeling that Clementine had also managed to escape Oblivion. He would need to locate and observe her before they approached her. He needed to know whether her mind had stayed intact the way his had or whether she had succumbed to madness from their time in the void. After all, she might be clever, but John wasn't about to risk everything they had worked towards so far if she was unstable.

While the girls were chatting, John was lost in thought, and Adam was doing whatever he was doing, Eve stood outside the building. Still within the safety of the protection spell. The location here seemed to follow a timed illusion of night and day. Right now, it was night and the areas surrounding their home were shrouded in complete dark. Her arms were crossed as her eyes carefully scanned the field and trees close by.

[Denix Vames]

Blake rolled his eyes and laid under the covers, "He's right. Let's just get some sleep."

---

Will appeared in front of Henderson, "Talk to me man." He placed a hand on his shoulder. "Just take a deep breath and tell me everything that's on your mind."

Reed put the book back in his bag. He spoke, "Doughnuts are high in calories. It is recommended that an officer has an intake of 3,000 to 4,000 calories." He followed Lang into the break room. "You should throw those out and bring nutritious snacks."

---

Death made sure he was close by Andi, "Let us see him." The duo disappeared to wherever David might have been.

Raven chuckled, "It might be different from your magic but I think I can teach you." He stood up and walked over. "Let's go see Azrael." Conrad pointed at the bags, "Don't you have a room for these? We can't keep lugging this stuff around." Raven replied, "Probably should have done that before. Let's go do that now."

---

Dariel let out a sigh, "C'mon!" He began picking up the armor. Holding it like a bunch of books. He soon disappeared.

Ben stood from his chair. He had a hard time relaxing after what Shezmu had said. Especially considering the toll it took on Jessica. "Jessica!" He suddenly hugged her. "I'm so glad to see you!" He looked at her, "That look. What's on your mind?"