Balance The Realms Nov 2024 - May 2025

[Shadowess]

Seeing the flute burn was the last straw for Stevie. He began screaming with a mixture of horror and grief. She thrashed in the chair, throwing his fists at Amelia's arms to try and get her to release her grip as he sobbed uncontrollably. 
"Not that I don't agree with getting rid of that wood, but perhaps burning the object he'd been cherishing like a friend in front of him wasn't the best idea?" Sebastian sighed while looking over at Charles. 

---

La Tramoggia leant against the railing and looked up at Life with a smile. "Are you feeling better, my muse?"

---

"I..." Kat hesitated then blushed and laughed nervously. "I'm glad that you did. I thought you might hate me after what I put you through."

---

"Then we'll hit some stores first and get you a wardrobe that's more you." John grinned. He took a wallet out of his jeans and handed it to Adam. "While you were um, busy, I took advantage of the riots on Earth. Don't worry, I took precautions by hiding my face and deleting any CCTV footage. I managed to empty a few safes and opened up a bank account to deposit the money. I also took those items from different stores. No point in worrying about theft if we're making a new Eden to be our home. Besides, it's not like the humans will really miss it and aruably, we'll need it more."

[Denix Vames]

Charles shouted, "Silence! At this rate, we should just lock up this brat! He clearly won't see to reason!" His eyes glowed as his aura surrounded him.

---

"Far better than before now that you're here." Life looked out at the sea, "I don't know what you did to impress my brother. He could have easily trapped you somewhere and do the mission himself. Instead, he trusted you. Whatever you did to get on his good side, it worked."

---

Sawyer frowned, "I don't hate you. Frankly, I hate myself even more for what I did to you. I ruined your life."

---

Adam smirked, "That's what I like about you John. Always so helpful. Now, let's head to a store and you can help me pick some outfits."

[Shadowess]

"He's just a child, Charles!" Amelia snapped at him. Shocked that he was being cold. "What's gotten into you?" While she was busy scolding Charles, Stevie managed to finally break loose from her grip and made a run for the door. Sebastian ran faster than Stevie's eyes could track, blocking his exit. Stevie ground to a halt and stumbled back with wide eyes as he stared at Sebastian. "Wait... are you a vampire?" he asked. 
Surprised by the question, Sebastian answered; "Yes, but you don't need to be afraid. I won't hurt you-" 
"Give me some of your venom!"
"What?!"
Stevie whipped out his hipflask which was now empty. "I need it! Please!" 
"C-Carter?" Sebastian called, unsure of what to do and staring at the boy with wide eyes.

---

La Tramoggia looked away from him. "I didn't really do anything," she said with red cheeks. "He would have every right to destroy me..." She didn't understand Death's mercy either. She had stolen more life than she was entitled to then placed a curse on Death's lover in order to avoid the consequences. She fully believed that Death hated her and had only tolerated her to keep Azrael from harm. But now that the curse was broken, she wasn't sure whether Death would keep to his word or take his revenge. 

---

"No!" Kat reached out and touched Sawyer's arm then retracted it quickly. He wasn't used to open signs of affection. "You didn't ruin it, you saved it. Think about it. If you hadn't been sent on your mission then I would have died along with my clan when that quake happened. I only survived and got out because you were there..." he looked at the airport. "We should go in and find our gate."

---

Happily, John took Adam's arm and teleported them both of them into the heart of a shopping district in France. Not too far from where they needed to go to find Adam's next wife. "Ah, why not? Let's have some fun with it!" John beamed as he gestured for Adam to lead the way. 

[Denix Vames]

Carter walked over, "Look kid. I get it. This stuff can be satisfying. It takes away the pain, right? But that's only a temporary solution. You need to trust us. Please. We're really do want to help." Charles slammed Stevie against the wall, "I tried to be gentle! I tried to be understanding! You may be a child but you know what you did!"

---

"I guess we both don't really know him. I thought my brother was always depressed and mopey about everything. Turns out he's actually happy despite his occupation." ,said Life. "Even through the challenges he's faced, he can still encourage his people. I should have done that with my army. I tend to just look down on everyone and get whatever I want. No sympathy for anyone who gets in my way. Funny how our personalities are so different than what someone might expect." He frowned. Wondering if he could ever rebuild that trust with Death.

---

Sawyer thought about what he said as he entered the airport. They soon reached their plane and took their seats. "So, how are you with planes? Not anxious, I hope?"

---

Adam's eyes sparkled against the lights as he gazed upon the clothes. He grabbed a crop top, "This would look so cute! Don't you think?"

[Shadowess]

"No, dad, don't!" Stevie cried out and flinched at Charles's movements. His flask had clattered on the floor.
Amelia had seen enough. She ran over and snatched Stevie from his grip before throwing him into Carter's arms. Then she grabbed Charles and teleported to Hell's Cells where she threw him into one and slammed the door shut behind him. There she stood, staring at him in shock. Both at how he'd acted and by what she'd done as well. 

But she took a step back from the door and continued to look at him questioningly. She'd noticed he'd been acting a bit more ruthless, particularly with Ash but at the time she'd assumed it was to make sure Ash wouldn't dare try anything funny. Admittedly she had even kind of liked the way he'd displayed dominance. But there was no excusing how he'd reacted to a traumatised mortal boy having a breakdown. Something was wrong. "What's happening to you?" she whispered, shaking her head a little.

Meanwhile, back at Carter's, Stevie was sobbing uncontrollably in his arms. Now too frightened to run or fight back as he was mentally reliving his trauma.  
Sebastian hadn't moved from the doorway and watched the boy with saddened eyes before lifting them to look at Carter as if to ask him 'what the fuck just happened?!'

---

"It would seem I was wrong about a lot of things." La Tramoggia admitted after a moment of quiet contemplation. "I did everything and anything I could to avoid dying. I just could not get enough of life. The thrills. The adventures. Watching the world change with such wonders!" she smiled a little. "I didn't know that I could still do all of that if I had just let my life end naturally... I always thought that it all would just... end." she looked at Life and placed a hand on his. "I'm glad it didn't."

---

"I've flown before," Kat said as they took their seats. "Only on short flights but I'm fine with it." he looked over at Sawyer. "What about you? Not going to be sick, are you?" he smirked.

---

"I think it would suit you." John smiled. "Perhaps not something to wear when flirting with women but a few men might find it appealing. But then again, you never know. Attraction is a funny thing." he pulled a white silk button up shirt from one of the racks. "Would you like something like this? I imagine you'd look very nice with the first few buttons undone in a casual way."

[Denix Vames]

Charles gripped the bars, "Amelia! You should know that the boy was never going to see reason! I did what had to be done! I'm not losing myself!"

---

Carter held Stevie close, "It's alright. No one's going to hurt you. You know, a friend of mine use to get abused by his boyfriend. And he wasn't even my friend before. He was an infamous serial killer. But when he died and went to Hell, he was put into a Redemption Program where he learned he didn't have to kill people in order to find meaning in his life. He could do great things for people and still be happy." He gently rubbed the back of his head as if this was his son, "You can find that happiness too."

---

Life held her hand and smiled, "If anyone was going to support your adventures, it would have been me. You could have asked me for help against my brother. But the moment has past. Things are better now for all of us." He kissed her hand, "My love."

---

Sawyer chuckled, "Nah. Just wondering how bad the food is going to be. Airplanes aren't exactly known for five star meals."

---

Adam took a look at the shirt, "Now this is sexy formal but casual. I could definitely tease people with this." He thought out loud, "But what pair of pants would work with them?"

[Shadowess]

Amelia looked at Charles, feeling guilty for locking him up. But she shook her head a little at him. "Charles, he's been abused. He needs help, not more violence! You terrified him... and you frightened me." She bit her lip and looked away from him for a moment. She didn't want to throw him into a cell. She didn't want to think, even for a moment, that he could be a danger. In fact, she'd love nothing more than to open that cell, run into his arms and have him reassure her that everything would be ok. But when she'd watched him throw that boy against the wall like a rag doll... she couldn't help but imagine Oliver in Stevie's place and it had sparked a deep fear in her.

---

Stevie continued to sob, though he had quietened down quite a bit. His whole body shook violently. Expecting to be hit at any moment. He jumped and stiffened when he felt Carter's hand on his head. Though he didn't speak or move, he heard what Carter said and stared off across the room as he thought about it.

Sebastian hesitated to move as he didn't want to startle Stevie while he was in this state. He carefully crept over to the flask and picked it up. Undoing the top, he didn't even need to bring the neck of the bottle to his nose to be able to smell the venom. He quickly fastened it back up and gave Carter a frown now that their suspicions had been confirmed. The poor boy was hooked on it and although it would be necessary, making him go cold turkey wasn't going to be pleasant. He slipped the flask into his back jeans pocket to try to keep it out of Stevie's sight. "I'll get him a blanket... and a new hot chocolate." he whispered to Carter "What you're doing seems to be working. He's calming down," he added as he quietly crept past them, knowing Carter could also hear the boy's heart rate slowing down to a calmer level.  

---

"I didn't know about you." La Tramoggia replied. "I didn't even really know about Death... not until my third- or was it fourth?- body jump. All I knew was that I wasn't ready to give up on life yet." she blushed when he kissed her hand and referred to her as his love. She moved to stand closer to him and playfully ran her fingers up the middle of his chest like she had back in Death's castle. "My muse... I believe we were interrupted before," she said with a coy smile.

---

"I've had worse." Kat chuckled. "If I am honest, I will probably just fall asleep until we get there."

---

"Hmm..." John looked around. "A couple of options. Some dark, tight-fit jeans or black trousers?" he looked back at Adam and blushed as he imagined him in such an outfit. He quickly cleared his throat and tore his eyes away. He wanted them to complete what they'd come back to Earth to do. There was always time for fun later. "Did you see anything else you like?" he asked, trying to keep on the topic of clothes.

[Denix Vames]

Charles's eyes widened when he read her thoughts. Tears streamed down his cheeks, "You think that I would do that to Oliver? I could never think of hurting our son. You and I both know that. I have sacrificed myself many times to protect him. I...." He clutched his chest, "Whatever is in me, I need to separate it from myself. You have to let me out. To let me do this while I'm still me."

---

Carter said, "Hey Stevie? I've got some movies we could watch. I know you're a teen so maybe something more R rated would be right up your taste?"

---

Life smirked, "Indeed we were." He kissed her slowly. Enjoying every moment with her. Raven rolled his eyes and walked to Azrael. Standing by to get away from that mushy scene. He frowned as he tapped his arm, "Your ruler. Death. Isn't he supposed to put his foot down? Why is he being so kind to me? Especially after what I did to everything and everyone."

---

Sawyer raised a brow, "You sure? You won't need anything?" Despite barely confessing his love earlier by a kiss, he was already talking as if they were married.

---

"Definitely tight jeans. And maybe a nice booty short for the fellas?" Adam grabbed a pair. He winked at him, "And when we're not doing TED talks, we can always have some fun."

[Shadowess]

Amelia hugged herself as she watched him and tears clung to her eyes. She wondered how awful it must feel for him to know she'd thought of him in that way. She placed herself in his shoes and couldn't stand the idea of him thinking such things about her. But after what she'd seen she needed to be careful. She needed to be sure.

With tears dripping down her cheeks she walked over to the bars and gently placed her hands on his. "I know... I know you wouldn't. That's why it scared me that you're not acting yourself." she told him but she was still hesitant to let him out yet. "Charles, I love you. I'm not going to let whatever this is take you from me. Let me go and get David. We can search the library for answers then come back to you when we know a cure."  

---

Stevie didn't answer but after a moment he gave a small nod. Letting Carter take him to the couch and pick a movie. He was tense in his seat. Struggling to relax as his eyes darted around the room every so often in case Charles came back. He'd already scoped out all of the exits in case he needed to make a quick getaway. This is unfortunately a common trait for people who were used to living in violent homes.
Sebastian came back into the room with the blanket. He approached Stevie slowly and held the blanket up for him to see that it was all he was holding. "Did you want me to put this on you or would you prefer if I passed it to you?" he asked him while keeping a small distance between them to help the boy feel a little more comfortable in their presence. 

Stevie thought for a moment as he looked up at him then reached out a hand to take it. With a kind smile, Sebastian slowly passed it to him. He then left the room to bring in Stevie's hot chocolate which he placed onto the coffee table across from him. "Help yourself to it if you want it but you don't have to," he told him before moving to sit in the armchair. 
Stevie looked from Carter to Sebastian then stared at the hot chocolate as he thought about all the ways these two men could have hurt him by now. But they hadn't. Tears were falling slowly from his eyes and he wiped them away while sitting back and wrapping the blanket around himself. He still didn't trust them yet but he was beginning to feel more at ease.

---

When he kissed her and she heard the waves crashing behind them she couldn't help but be reminded of cheesy romance movies. She smiled as she kissed him back. Savouring the feel of his lips against hers. When they finally stopped to breath, her cheeks had flushed pink and she grinned at him. "Leandra... My real name. It's Leandra." she told him quietly. 

Azrael had been filling Bob in on what had been happening with Lilly when Raven joined them. He looked at the boy and smiled warmly. "Every mortal I've ever met always imagines Death to be this cold, emotionless being with a fascination for hourglasses..." he said with a small chuckle. "But he is a wise, just and benevolent ruler. He cares greatly for his people and for the souls that need guidance to their afterlives. Your past deeds matter little if you have the capacity for goodness in your soul. I have no doubt that is what he saw in you. You have the potential to do great things, you just need the right guidance."
"And a sister." Bob said with a huge grin. "You came from a portal too, right?"
Azrael faltered then smiled awkwardly at Raven. "I'm not sure if Death has informed you about Lilly yet."

---

Grinning at Sawyer, he shook his head. "I barely got any sleep in that warehouse. I can catch up while we're in the air. Then I'll be awake enough to see our new home." 
'Our new home'... it sounded strange to Kat to hear that out loud. All of this still felt surreal to him. 

---

John's eyes wandered back to him. "I look forward to it." he smirked. He then pointed over to the changing rooms. "Maybe you should try those on before we buy them?"

[Denix Vames]

Charles shook his head, "You're not listening Amelia. I can take it out of myself! Please! Let me do this!"

---

Carter wrapped an arm around Stevie like he use to with his kids. Giving him some comforting support.

---

Life said, "Leandra. That's a beautiful name. Do you want me to use that name in front of everyone? Or would you prefer if people knew you by La Tramoggia?"

Raven raised a brow, "Sister?" Once he was informed about Lily, he clenched his fists. "She tried to help me. I remember. Yet, I fought against her. Believing her to be another enemy. I don't know if she'll want to talk to me."

---

Sawyer replied, "Alright then. I'll wake you up when we get there."

---

"Sure thing." Adam would soon come out of the changing room wearing the buttoned shirt and pants. "How do I look? Ready for the club?"

[Shadowess]

Amelia looked at the lock, tempted. She bit her lip and weighed her options. She knew, deep down, that logically she should get her father for advice. That she shouldn't take the risk in case whatever was causing him to act strangely took over. But she wanted to trust him and she convinced herself that Charles was strong enough to do what he said. After all, she'd witnessed him do a few things before that she had previously thought to be impossible. She looked back at him with a serious expression. "I'll let you out. But the second you start acting weird again I'm throwing you back in... even if it'll hurt me to do that to you." she moved to unlock the cell.

---

Stevie didn't move when Carter wrapped his arm around him. He tensed but continued to watch the movie as he gradually relaxed again. After a while, he burst into tears again, even though the movie was at a humorous point. Sebastian looked over at them, unsure of what to do. Then Stevie finally spoke. "I'm sorry! I did a bad thing!"

---

"La Tramoggia was a body hopper. Stealing lives to add to her own. I don't want that to be me anymore..." Leandra said thoughtfully. "I want to start again. A new life in the afterlife! New adventures and excitements!" she beamed, excitedly. She then smirked playfully. "After all, just because I'm dead does not mean I cannot be 'full of life'." she winked.

"Give her a chance," Azrael told him gently. 
"Yeah, Lilly's a great friend! She used to love playing hide the bones with me!" Bob said with a gleefully reminiscent look. "See, it's this game she made up. Like hide and seek but it was half of my bones. She never thought I could find them but you should've seen the look on her face when caught up with her several days later in a whole different country to prove her wrong! Oh wait, I have a face now! I can show you how she looked! It was like-!" he pulled a very accurate representation of the frustration and annoyance Lilly used to have when she'd failed yet again to lose Bob on the road.
"He used to be an animated skeleton that was bound to her..." Azrael quickly explained to Raven while trying to hide his amusement at Bob's story.

---

Kat smiled and nestled down a bit in his seat while tilting his head back slightly. Before long he'd started to doze lightly. 

---

John stared speechlessly for a moment as he admired the new look. "You look great!" he said. "You look like you could charm anyone you wanted!" 

[Denix Vames]

Charles stepped out. "Thank you." He stood a bit from her before his aura appeared. He casted his power to himself and dropped to his knees. He began to vomit up a large pulsating meat. The meat began to change as it transformed into a tall royal-looking bird-like creature wearing a dress. His eyes widened at the sight of her. She simply glared, "You there! Make me some tea! I need to rest!"

---

Carter gave him an encouraging smile, "Hey it's ok. I know you feel bad. Just take some deep breaths."

---

Life laughed, "I can never get enough of your humor!"

Raven bit his lip, "I'm sure she's great. I just don't know if she will want to be around me."

---

Adam replied, "Thanks. Now, let me try the other outfit." He soon came back out wearing those shorts and crop top, "How do I look now?" He licked his lips. "Like a package waiting to be unwrapped?"

[Shadowess]

Amelia ran over to Charles and knelt beside him. "Are you ok?" she said then stared at the woman curiously "A lot of people are sprouting new beings lately..." she mumbled then replied to the woman in an annoyed tone "Get your own damn tea." Then looking to Charles "Can I lock her up?"

---

"It's not ok! I killed my parents! I killed my bullies!" He continued to cry. "There's something wrong with me! I'm a murderer! I heard a voice from a flute and did what it told me! I might be schizo!... And my veins hurt so much!" he cradled his head in his hands as he rocked back and forth. 

Sebastian recalled how desperate he'd seemed when he'd asked him for his venom and wondered how long he'd been out of his supply for. He had hidden the flask away now and knew the boy was going to be in for a very uncomfortable time for a while. But there was at least one positive thing to take away from what Stevie had said. Whatever hold the flute had had over him was gone. It likely happened when Charles destroyed the flute completely. Stevie now seemed to realise that hearing voices from an object wasn't normal and that he needed help. 

"Stevie," Sebastian said while leaning forward and clasping his hands together. "What happened was bad, yes, but you know it now. It's going to feel bad for a while but this is a good thing, I promise. We can help you. We want to help you. And I don't believe that what happened was completely your fault... You see, that flute came from a tree that... well it's a long story but let's just say it had some very evil energy trapped inside it."

---

Leandra giggled with him and cuddled into his side as she turned her body slightly to look out at the horizon. "My Life, my muse, my love," she said dreamily. "Whatever new adventures we have, I want it to be by your side, always."

"Lilly may be a little older than you but she hasn't practised or honed her powers like you have. She came from a world that would have persecuted her if she showed the slightest signs of magic. She spent most of her life on the run and burying her abilities within herself." Azrael told him. "She may find it easier to bond with you as a sibling if you share your knowledge with her."

---

John's mind immediately went to the day they'd made love in his apartment to the sound of Cry Little Sister. "Yes..." he said lustfully. He was tempted to push him into the dressing room to take him right there. But they came here for a reason, and also he was sure the store clerks would call the authorities on them immediately. He had to tear his eyes away again but he smirked. "We should save that outfit for later." 

[Denix Vames]

The creature pointed at her and shouted, "You insolent wench! How dare you talk to me like that? I am royalty!"

Charles nodded at Amelia. Letting her know that it was ok to lock her up. The creature stomped over, "My name is Sarah Highbride! I am to be the rightful heir to the throne! And you will obey me!" She brought her hand out and was ready to backhand her. Whether or not, Amelia would stop it would be anyone's guess.

---

Carter continued, "There was a terrible man who wanted to do bad things to everyone. We turned him into a tree so he could never do harm. But it seems like even his power is still there despite being dead."

---

Life bent her back as if they were dancing. He kissed her again. "Oh my darling Leandra. Wait till you enter my realm. I shall shower you with gifts and a new throne."

Raven thought for a moment and nodded. He smiled, "I can't wait to meet her properly."

---

Adam winked again, "Sure thing." He soon took off the clothes and got into his clothes. Looking over the racks, "Now what else can we work our magic on? Oh! I know! You can surprise me by picking out an outfit that I haven't seen." He covered his eyes, "Now don't be shy. I know you'll wow me with your fashion taste."

[Shadowess]

Amelia glared up at the spoilt creature as she scolded her for not obeying her order. Seeing Charles's nod, she smirked and kept her eyes on Sarah. As the hand came down, Amelia caught her wrist and twisted it. Not enough to break it, but enough that it'd hurt. "No, we are the royalty here and you have some manners of your own to learn!" she growled while aiming to throw her into the cell that Charles had just come from. If successful, she would slam the door behind her. 

---

Stevie sniffled and sat up a bit while staring at his hands. He now understood every story he'd heard when it referred to a guilt-ridden killer seeing blood on their hands. He thought about his flute. How charming and convincing the voice inside it had been. "The voice I heard was the bad man you turned into a tree?" he asked, and although it sounded absolutely insane it also made sense. "He kept talking to me. Almost all the time. Telling me that he was the only one I could ever trust. That everyone else would kill me as soon as they had the chance. He'd tell me things I always wanted to hear... that I could be strong and powerful. That my parents didn't love me but he did. That he'd always be there to listen and encourage me. Then he'd tell me to do bad things... to kill my enemies. To make them suffer for hurting me. That one day soon, I'd be so strong that I could make him into a person like me and we would get our revenge together. I just had to keep playing the flute..." he trailed off and shivered.

"He was trying to manipulate you into bringing him back but the flute is gone now," Sebastian said. "He can't come back and you're safe."
"I did awful things..."
"Stevie, it may be bad but what's done is done and we can't take it back. But we can try to help you move on and become a better person. That lady who brought you here, Amelia, her whole thing is helping people to redeem themselves."
Stevie looked up at him and recalled Amelia talking to them. "She said she was a Devil."
"She is... but you can't believe everything you see in the movies." Sebastian smiled at him warmly. "Even Charles is nice. I know he scared you earlier and I'm sorry he did that. I promise he isn't usually so angry. But normally he helps Amelia to help people."

At the mention of Charles Stevie had tensed again and looked on the brink of tears once more. But he listened to Sebastian and nodded. "What about Raven?" He asked.
"Who?"
"There was another boy with me... He took me in when my flute snapped and taught me some magic." Stevie looked down with a guilty expression. "He was taken away by Death but he was nice to me and I-... I threw it back in his face... I wish I could tell him that I'm sorry. That I didn't mean it... I was just scared of being hurt and alone again."

---

"So, I guess I'm gonna be alone for a while now..." Bob commented as he stared out across the sea. Now that all of his friends were dead, he felt more alone than he'd ever felt. 
Azrael frowned at him. He recalled Bob having suicidal thoughts when it had only been Lilly who had died. But now he was completely alone he worried for his mental health. "Stay strong, Bob. Your friends have moved to the afterlife but that doesn't mean you'll never see them again."

---

"Hmm..." John smirked as he looked around the racks. He quickly picked out a tight fitting black leather jacket and a pale grey v-neck shirt. "I think these with those tight jeans you had on earlier would look good." he said as he showed them to Adam.

[Denix Vames]

Sarah cried out at Amelia's strength. Her back hit the bars of the cell before she hit the ground. She glared at the two as she found herself locked up, "I will take everything! Soon enough, someone will see my potential!"

Charles groaned as he collapsed to the floor. Still feeling exhausted from what he had done earlier.

---

Carter said, "He might still be with Death. Probably doing a mission. Maybe someone we know has already met him? We can get them to let him know."

---

Raven nodded at Bob, "If I can see Lily in the realm of death as a new living being then I know the others will be fine too."

---

Adam grabbed the clothes, "Ooh! Let's see!" He went back out with the clothes on him. "How do I look? Ravishing? Like a present?"

[Shadowess]

"You know, you really shouldn't shout and scream like that. It's not very ladylike." Amelia teased with a smirk before turning her attention back to Charles. She knelt down and ran her hand through his hair lovingly. "I'm sorry that I doubted you..." she whispered before teleporting them both home. Despite their size differences she managed to lift him into their bed where she made sure he'd be comfortable while he recovered. It was at that moment that she heard Tom's voice calling to her. "Really? It's one thing after another..." she groaned. "Tom, my telepathy is shit so I hope you or Nate hear this. Whatever it is, you'll need to come to us. I'm a little busy."

---

"I'd want him to know..." Stevie nodded. He assumed he would never see nor hear from Raven again but he felt a need to somehow make him aware of how sorry he was. 

---

Bob smiled, comforted. Azrael smiled too but his was a little strained. He'd just realised that Raven is still completely alive. Both himself and Death had told Lilly that they couldn't risk living beings being in his kingdom for too long. If Raven wants to remain in Death's kingdom, he would have to lose his life. He wondered if Death had realised this yet or not. He also worried about how they could possibly broach this subject with Raven without frightening him. No matter what though, this was ultimately Death's call and it would be out of line for Azrael to bring this up in his absence.

---

"You will always be a gift to me," John said then his eyes widened and he blushed deeply. "That was out loud, wasn't it?" he cleared his throat awkwardly. "Um, I mean that outfit also suits you. Gives you an edgy 'bad boy' look. Some people love that."

[Denix Vames]

Sarah said no more. Only glaring at them.

Charles turned his head, "Amelia? I can still help."

---

Carter replied, "We'll find a way to let him know. I promise. Right now, let's just relax. Ok?"

---

Raven raised a brow, "What's going on? Azrael?"

---

Adam smiled, "That's alright. I actually dig the compliment. Honestly, you've been a blessing to me." 

[Denix Vames]

Nate and Tom appeared in front of Amelia. Nate said, "Hope things are going well on your end of the chaos."

[Shadowess]

"You just spawned another being into existence from your own body. You need to recover." Amelia told him firmly but gently. She still didn't understand how such a thing had even happened nor could she barely comprehend the amount of power Charles would have needed to pull it off on his own like that. But she simply didn't have time to ask or go looking for answers right now. She turned to Nate and Tom as they both appeared. "We've certainly been kept busy." She sighed in response to Nate's comment. "What's going on with you two?"

"I'm hoping you can tell us," Tom replied, earning him a raised brow from Amelia. He went on; "A spirit punched me. Not great but something I can handle... except I almost blacked out right after. The feeling that came over me... it was weird. Like... a mixture of pure instinct and rage. I could feel myself starting to lose control. Like..." he hesitated, knowing how it was going to sound but he continued. "Like a dark part of me wanted to take control. I felt like I wanted to rip the soul to shreds until there was nothing left and nothing could possibly stand in my way. It was hard to resist it. The last time I felt like that I-... it was when some angels tried to drag me to ADIUE... I blacked out and when I came to they were... they were..."

Tom had trailed off, still traumatised by the memory of it. He paused for a moment to regather himself before asking; "Do you know why that might happen? I mean, I'm guessing it's a Devil thing, right? Your blood is the only reason I can walk around in the sunlight, after all."
As Tom had been talking, Amelia's features had been growing paler and paler. Everything Tom had described had sounded intimately familiar. She looked from Tom to Nate with a serious expression. "I don't suppose you'd be able to get one of those training crystals that new Angels wear when they learn to control their new powers? Tom is going to need one... Tom, you might want to sit down. I'll explain everything."

---

Stevie looked up at Carter and nodded before sitting back and trying to watch the movie again. He glanced down at the hot chocolate for a second then leant forward to pick it up. He took a sip and savoured the warm feeling it gave him as he sat back, finally relaxed. Despite the cold sweat that was beginning to break out across his forehead. 

Sebastian smiled warmly at Carter, feeling that they'd finally had some form of win today. He looked worriedly at the beads of sweat on the boy's head. He listened carefully for his heartbeat. His heart rate had increased a little but he wasn't in any danger. He would be fine. They just needed to make sure he stayed relaxed and hydrated.

---

"I-" Azrael was taken aback at how observational Raven seemed to be. He stammered, wondering how to answer without going over Death's head. "I'm afraid it wouldn't be my place to tell you," he said honestly. "But when we return home, you and Death will need to have an important conversation regarding your future as his son. That is all I would be able to say for now. I hope you understand." To be on the safe side, Azrael raised his telepathic guard. No minds could penetrate his thoughts without his consent.

---

Smiling to himself, John nodded thankfully to Adam. He looked around awkwardly. "Shall we pay for these clothes and head to the Wiccan market, then?" he asked.

[Denix Vames]

Nate frowned but gave a gentle squeeze on Tom's shoulder, "I'll be back with the crystal." He soon parted himself from him and disappeared. Allowing Amelia to have the time to talk to Tom.

---

Carter smiled back but still had his concerns. Though he did miss these moments with his own kids. Being able to settle things down and make them feel a little better.

---

Raven bit his lip, "Fine." He walked to a part of the ship where he could look out at the sea by himself. Taking in the noise and scenery.

---

Adam said, "Hell yeah! Those feisty witches are gonna get the big package!"

---

Ash was bored from being in Hell's Library. He had grown tired of waiting and decided to explore. Hoping to find a meager soul to feast on. Despite orders, he couldn't help himself.

[Shadowess]

Worried about how Amelia had told him to take a seat and interested in what she had to say to him, Tom sat down in the living room where Amelia joined him. She sat in an armchair while he sat on the couch. 
Taking a breath, Amelia prepared herself to give him this tough news. "What you described... It sometimes happens to me." She took her own crystal out of her pocket to show him. "I always keep this on me, just in case anything happens that could trigger it." She replaced it in her pocket and went on. "It's called Devil's Rage. It's a rare affliction that some new Devils can get within their first hundred years. Basically, it's kind of a natural defence against anything that could threaten your life. Once it starts and a life-threatening danger has been perceived, the Devil's Rage is usually unstoppable and won't end until the danger has been um... 'eliminated'... Unfortunately, the Rage also doesn't distinguish between friend or foe so if anyone tried to stop you from killing your, let's say 'target', then the Rage would just think it's another enemy in the way and destroy them too."

She paused, giving Tom a moment to let this information sink in. He sat there, staring at the floor in shock. "And... even though I'm not actually a Devil, I have this too?"
"It looks like it. You'll need to take precautions going forward. I don't know how strong your Rage would be. It might be managable considering there wasn't much of my blood in Sebastian's system when he turned you... but then again..."
"It might be devastating... like when I killed those Angels that broke into my hotel room..." Tom finished. 
"Yes... I'm sorry, Tom. I suppose the ability to walk in the sun needed some kind of cost. But as I said, it's manageable. And if you can make it to 100 years of being what you are then you'll be in the clear. Like me."

"Oh God..." Tom gasped as he realised. "I could've hurt Nate! Or worse!" he looked up at her and explained "When the spirit punched me, he placed himself between us to try to calm me down. We didn't know what was happening."
"Shit... well, you didn't. That's the main thing. But how did you manage to get out of it once it started?"
"I don't know... it was strange. The first time I blacked out in seconds but this time I could feel it coming. Like another part of me wanted to take control to get revenge but I didn't want to because I knew the spirit hadn't meant to harm me. Then the spirit apologised when he saw me struggling to keep control and it kind of... faded."

"That's interesting..." Amelia commented.
"The way it felt... like it was another being in me. Is it like when Parker's soul had split?"
"No... it's you but the more primal you, if that makes sense? David explained it to me once after doing hours of research. Everyone has several parts of themselves that makeup one soul. This is more like a 'shadow' or 'primal sense of self' but when the Rage is triggered, that sense of self is magnified while your 'conscious self' essentially goes to sleep."

---

Azrael watched him leave with a small frown. Wishing he could reassure him but he couldn't risk slipping up and knew Death would know the right words to say when they'd get home. 
"Well, I'm pretty beat. I'm going to take a nap until we get there." Bob said as he walked away as well. 

Before long they were pulling into the docks. The people who had been held captive went about helping them to guide the boat in safely and tie it up. Once they were able to disembark, the captives broke into cheers. They gave each of their rescuers a hug or a handshake in thanks before leaving to go back to their homes. Only Bob lingered with them for a moment on the docks. "So, I guess I'll see you folks when I see you. Hey, don't be strangers! Come and visit me! I've... I've never been alone before." he said to them. 
Azrael smiled at him warmly. "Lilly will be relieved to know that you're safe. I'm sure you'll see her again soon but for now, take care of yourself." he turned to Raven. "Ready to go home?"
"My love, I want to live with you in your kingdom," Leanna told Life while holding his hand. "We should tell your brother. I'm not sure if he expects me to work in his."

---

Unable to help but grin at his comment, John helped Adam to take his desired outfits to the register and then carried his shopping bags for him as they walked towards the Wiccan market. There were market stalls and a few shops scattered in the area and the place had various scents of incense. 
Some were clearly tourist traps to sell bogus spells and potions to unwitting tourists. But John was familiar enough with Tricksters and their practices to recognise genuine from fake. "Ah, here." He tapped on Adam's shoulder and pointed to an easily missed little shop. It had various boxes, candles and even chicken feet in its windows. The name of the shop was worn with age but read 'Sorcerer Study'.   

Through the window, they'd be able to see one lone woman sitting at a little round table which was littered with heavy and old-looking books. She was scratching her messy brown mop of hair with a look of deep concentration as she read one of them. She had pretty features and couldn't have been more than twenty-five years old. Much like Adam now, she was wearing a leather jacket and a deep red tank top. Her fingers were adorned with various silver rings. All, John noted, except her ring finger. He'd walk in with Adam, attempting to blend in by pretending to look at the trinkets on the shelves nearby. 

Shortly after they'd walk in, an older man would walk into the room from the back of the shop while calling out "Juliette!" 
The girl at the table rolled her eyes and continued to try to read the book she had in front of her. The man walked over to her, speaking entirely in French. "Juliette, I didn't say you could take a break! The stock still needs sorting in the back and the floor needs sweeping."
Juliette groaned in annoyance. "Is your back broken? Why can't you do it?"
"Excuse me? Because I'm your father and I told you to do it! And you should be thankful to have a job in our community after the trouble you caused in the last coven meeting!"
"It wasn't even that bad!-"
"You turned four councilmen into mice!"
"They were annoying me. Besides, I turned them back, didn't I?! At least now they have a new appreciation for cheese." She chuckled.
"This is no laughing matter, young lady! You are too old to be behaving this way! Until you can prove you're capable of being responsible, no more magic for you!" he slammed the book shut that she'd been reading and yanked it from the table. 
"Papa!-"
"The stock. Now!"
With another annoyed groan, Juliette stood and stomped off to the back of the shop moodily. 

John glanced over at Adam and smirked as he got an idea. He could distract the shop owner by pretneding to be a human tourist asking questions about magic while Adam could go and talk to the girl in private. 
"Um, excuse moi?" he said to the owner. He then pretended to try to ask him questions in terrible French as if practising the language for the first time. This would give Adam as much time as he needed as each question would take several minutes to say and then several minutes more for the shop owner to try to answer in a way that John would 'understand'.

---

Carol and Eris had begun their trek back towards the library by the time Ash was leaving. They were bruised and had a few scratches by now. Some escaped Demons hadn't been so willing to follow Charles's rule and they'd had to fight them before locking them back into the now repaired cells. A few Demons had been defensive to begin with but once things were explained they relaxed and became more compliant. They had yet to find the rest but considering all they'd managed to achieve today, Carol figured they'd earned a rest.

[Denix Vames]

Nate appeared with a crystal necklace. He frowned at the sight of Tom's worries. "I see she already told you everything. That's good, at least." He placed the necklace over his neck. "There. You'll be alright. I'll never leave your side." He winked, "And I'd say that necklace makes you look beautiful."

---

Raven raised a brow, "Shouldn't we take Bob home first? I assume we can teleport there."

Life blushed, "Definitely going to have to tell my brother about this. Can't believe I'm asking for his blessing."

---

Adam walked over to Juliette, "Hey there! Name's Adam. Heard ya got a sexy name. Juliette, is it?" He raised his hands up like he was performing, "Count yourself lucky on meeting the first man!" His body glowed.

---

Ash had been chasing a soul in his giant form. He grabbed the soul and grinned at the sight of their fear. Eris sighed, "Oh boy. Here we go again. I thought Charles already put a leash on him?"

[Shadowess]

Tom smiled weakly up at Nate as he let him place the necklace on him. He looked down at the crystal numbly while lifting it with his fingers. "Nate..." He whispered. "I could've hurt you... I'm sorry."

"I know you'll want some time alone to come to terms with this but I should warn you both before you leave... don't tell anyone else about this or what that crystal is for. Not unless you absolutely trust them... or they might try to use your Rage for their own gain..." Amelia said seriously. She knew how much it hurt to suddenly come back to her senses to see the carnage she'd wrought only to realise it was the result of her crystal being slipped off her person without her knowing by someone that she was supposed to have been able to trust.

---

"Oh, I'll be ok! I'm sure it's not that far... it's this way, right?" Bob said the pointed out towards the street. Azrael considered him for a moment and knew Bob had absolutely no idea where they currently were nor how to find his way home from here. He smiled at Raven. "I believe you may be right. Let's take him home first." He then turned to Life and Leanna. "La Trammogia, Life. Death will want to know of our success. Please assure him that Raven and I will be home soon."

"I guess we can pass along your message for you." Leanna said, as if Azrael had asked a favour rather than given an order. As Azrael, Raven and Bob vanished she then turned to Life. "You know, I've spent all of my lives saving myself. I've never been a hero before... it feels different...  Nice."

---

Juliette had gone to the back of the store as she'd been told to do but in a fit of protest was leaning against the shelves and had lit up a cigarette by the time Adam had walked in on her. At the sound of his voice, she'd jumped and been prepared to flick her cigarette away but paused when she realised it was a stranger, not her father.

She stared at the man with a mixture of curiosity and surprise as he introduced himself. Then he began to glow. Just like John & Daisy had, she found herself entranced by his aura and unwilling to take her eyes off him.

Her pupils had dilated, giving away that she was attracted to him but she tried to play it cool. "So, you've come to be my Romeo? From what I remember that story does not end well." She said coyly. Her French accent was thick but her English was perfect.

Meanwhile, her father was still in the main part of the shop trying his best to help serve John and growing increasingly impatient with him.

---

"He did. But maybe it's time that I gave it a little yank!" Carol growled, already agitated by the fights she'd recently come from. She charged forward and snatched up a rock along the way to throw at Ash's head to get his attention. "HEY!" She screamed at him while running. As she got close enough and gained enough momentum, she leapt up to attempt a flying or roundhouse kick to knock him off balance.

[Denix Vames]

Nate nodded at Amelia, "Understood." He smiled warmly at Tom, "You don't have to be sorry. I would have been able to stop you despite the rage in you. Don't underestimate this sexy angel."

---

Life replied, "It does. I believe we will enjoy it more together."

They appeared at Death's throne room where Death sat there. Death raised a brow, "Brother? What is this now?" Life spoke, "Azrael says he's taking Bobby home before he returns." He swallowed the lump in his throat, "Also Leanna will be living in my kingdom." Death replied, "Leanna?" "That is her real name. She and I want to live together." Death walked down the stairs. He studied them, "I see. It would seem that I am not the only one here who has found true love. It is hard to believe Leanna that you were once my enemy. It appears that your character has changed quite a bit." He nodded, "Very well. I shall allow it to be so."

Life smiled, "Thanks brother." Death touched both of their shoulders, "It appears we have both grown. I look forward to your visits when things aren't chaotic."

---

When Bobby would be taken to Pain's house, he would see Pain and the rest of the band with Hades. Everyone was relaxing and making sandwiches for themselves. Hades waved as she saw him, "Hey Bobby! How's it hanging? Want a grilled sandwich topped with cheesy swirls?"

---

Adam chuckled, "That was centuries ago. Things are different now. I'm going to be creating a new Eden and I need a talented sexy witch to be my wife slash helper."

---

Ash turned at the rock hitting his head. He fell back at the kick. He transformed into his human sized self and glared, "You again? Haven't you done enough?! I only wished for some peace!" Eris said, "And peace meant killing a soul? C'mon man. What's going on?" Ash's antlers grew larger, "It's none of your concern!" Eris sighed, "Look man. I was part of Insanity. I could feel his truest feelings. I know what pain is like." Tears dripped down from Ash's cheeks as he cried out, "Shut up! You are not my wife!"

His eyes widened as he realized he had spilled the beans about his late wife.