Topic: Imprisoning Mab

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-08-26 21:59 EST
((Authors Note:

First, in case you aren't aware of this already, this storyline has a religious foundation. It deviates from the religious in that it deals with the angelic like any other race of beings rather than merely holy deities sent by God. The angelic hierarchy has been based upon a myriad of Judaic, Talmudic and Christian texts, however the hierarchy used in this story is fictionalized and not based on any one particular religion or time frame.

If you are of an extremely religious nature you may find this storyline distasteful, you are warned not to read it. We are not writing this to offend anyone.

Those under the age of eighteen are encouraged to seek religious understanding of their own and not base what they think they know on the following. This is a fictionalized accounting, not real, simply created from the minds of the writers and not intended to be considered a theological text.

We are not supporting any particular religious point of view. Again, let me reiterate that this is fiction and the Angelic are being treated much like any other race.

Thanks))

Imprisoning Mab Part 1

There was a time of innocents, when the world was new and the beings crafted by the hands of the Great Architect frolicked like children upon the pristine wilderness. There were no boundaries then, no rules, no constraints; it was a place where physical pleasures abound, something the creatures of energy had never before known. Many were beguiled and seduced by this new realm, hungry to taste every aspect and it is here where our story truly begins.

Memories: They flow like blood from a mortal wound, unstanchable and without control. They are snapshots of experiences encapsulated by times long past. Images, words, the emotions of the moments; they are like ghosts haunting, forever weaving their threads into perceptions that influence choices made in the present and future. The past cannot be forgotten because it inspires the wisdoms that mold what happens today.

All that has gone before shapes the future that is to come.

Raphael, "God has Healed" his Seraph title, was sitting beside a fresh water pond; the air around him is quiet, calm, empty of breeze or the sounds of insects and animals. He has been charged to nurture the life already developing in this grand new world. Fingers dip in to the pond, trailing waves in their wake as he senses the life already teaming inside.

It was Morningstar who had suggested this physical form; two legs, two arms, fingers and toes, a torso, a head with eyes, ears and a mouth. Morningstar had made it seem that this is the only way to utterly experience the physical, by taking on a form that can enjoy every aspect. How had Morningstar known" It is a question that may forever remain unanswered.

Morningstar, as Angelic history claims, was created to be the Great Architect's companion; they were supposedly equal in talent and thought. Yet the Great Architect spoke only to the Seraph through Michael, "Who is as God", whereas Morningstar adapted a comfortable fa"ade that allowed him to mingle with the Seraph, speak with them, enlighten them, instruct them. It was Morningstar to whom most of the Seraph looked when in doubt or in time of need. Michael always seemed distant and preoccupied, hard to commune with, lost to his contemplations or conversations which left the others out. Of the seven Seraphs; Michael was the least accessible.

At this time in Angelic history, the seven Seraphs were comprised of Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Raziel, Uriel, Chamuel, and Raguel. Morningstar and Azrael, although both Seraph, were not of the High Council, but considered to stand alone in their duties.

Michael, "Who is as God", communicated with the Great Architect, passing the information, when needed, on to the others. Gabriel, "Gods Strength", was in fact the carrier of death, the bringer of God's vengeance. (Unfortunately at this time in their history there were none yet to punish.) Raphael's, "God has Healed", duties comprised of bringing life, of gifting energy; his job was to maintain the Seraph should any harm befall them and to nurture the life that the Great Architect wished to breathe in to existence. Raziel, "Secret of God", held all knowledge, be it arcane or Angelic. Raziel had been set to keep the secrets of their race, so that none can use them for nefarious purpose. Uriel, "God's Fire", is the Angel of chance. It is Uriel who carries the fire and nurtures the Suns. Chamuel, "He who sees God", has the honor of sight and the wisdom of foretelling. It is Chamuel that understands the mysteries of time and consequence. Raguel, "Friend of God", has the dubious pleasure of watching over the good behavior of his fellow angel's. Should Raquel notice misbehavior it is to Gabriel that he must go. Azrael is the Angel of Death, it was his job to keep tabs on all things that have lost their life-force. Azrael was not of the High Council, for it would be his job to claim their essence should such a time arrive. He was kept on the outskirts, not feared but rather scorned.

They were all still very new to their duties and their collective history slight. Until the time of creation began, the seven had very little to do but to amuse themselves amidst themselves. That had all changed when the Great Architect birthed forth the multiverse.

Suddenly more help was needed and so it is then that the Celestial Hierarchy was created. Each of the Seraph were given the power to create their own 'resources", however of the seven only two did not take such advantage; Raphael and Raziel. Neither of them felt the need to pass on their duties to others, but this behavior did not gain them favor in the eyes of the others.

It is in this midst of this chaos that Raphael finds himself sitting beside the pond, contemplating his current situation. As he draws fingers through the water he watches the ripples that trail in their wake, letting the innate life, which floods this world, fill him. It is an intoxicating experience one that he holds most precious. There is little work for him here; the life force of the planet is doing it for him. It's a mystery to the Above, how life blossoms un-nurtured, without interference or care of the Above. Yet there is no fear in Raphael, but rather a communion with that mysterious energy.

"I see you busy at work, Brother" the words come from behind Raphael, he already knows the speaker.

"Gabriel, what brings you to the physical?" Raphael doesn't look up from the ripples, nor does he turn to face the one who's come for a reason. Gabriel never does anything without a reason.

"I wanted to chat with you, Raphael. I thought it was time that we talked." Gabriel moves up to stand over the angel sitting beside the still pond. "I know you disapprove of what I am doing."

Raphael ponders what words to use in addressing this statement. It's true, he doesn't approve of Gabriel's "Legions". Raphael can't fathom a reason worthy enough that would justify what Gabriel is doing. Diplomacy among the Angelic Hierarchy is a necessity, not merely polite behavior, so he must pick and choose his words wisely.

"You know how I feel, Gabriel. There is no need for an army; we've no enemies to battle, no threat looming over us. An army insinuates otherwise." Yet, Raphael understands that, of all the Seraph, Gabriel was created to be *different*. Gabriel is "God's Vengeance"; it is he who has been assigned as their race's protector and defender. Raphael knows that mere words cannot change what has been gifted through creation.

"Yes, yes, I've heard your petty argument before, but what you fail to realize, Raphael, is Morningstar's quest for power. How is it you are so blind to his flaws?" Gabriel's voice is heated, angry, unrelenting in his pursuit to convince Raphael in the error of his judgments.

"Morningstar is behaving according to his nature, Gabriel. You above all others should understand this." Raphael spoke calmly, although the words may be harsh, the sentiment is granted with gentleness.

"You forgive all of us our flaws by excusing them. You are a blind fool, Raphael, and one of these days that's going to be your downfall."

"Is there a point to this conversation, Gabriel" For I have much left to accomplish before I return to my duties Above." Raphael wants this conversation done with, over.

"If you aren't with me, Raphael, then you're against me. Is that plain enough for you?"

"Oh, yes, Gabriel, very plain." Raphael's tone suggesting that this isn't news, he's heard it before and expects he'll hear it again. "Do what you will, Gabriel, but do not expect me to stand in support of you or your choices. I will do as I have been created to do. Is that plain enough for you?"

"Extremely." The sarcasm cutting through Gabriel's voice with the one word spoken. "You do what you are meant to and I shall do as I am."

Gabriel doesn't wait for Raphael to respond. He vanishes in a soft, hazy shimmer leaving his brother alone once again. Raphael shakes his head while his gaze continues to follow the ripples created by the drag of his fingers through the quiet surface of the pond. Gabriel is declaring war upon Morningstar; this is becoming obvious to most of the Seraph, save Michael of course, who believes that Gabriel can do no wrong. Raphael is left to wonder what the consequences will be.

Long Lankyn Progenitor of the Bloods

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-05 17:14 EST
The scene shifts and like grains of sand tumbling upon the waves of the majestic ocean another takes its place.

By now in the history of the Celestial, the hierarchy included the Cherubim, the Thrones, the Domination, the Virtues, the Powers and the Principalities. The Archangels and the common Angels have yet to be created. Each of the Choirs was assigned specific duties, meant to serve the Greater Good. However there were some who speculated otherwise.

Of the Choirs newly created, each was asked a "tribute" for Gabriel's "Legion", a tithe so to speak. This had some in the elite circle of Seven out of sorts, a few angry. None were pleased with Gabriel's choices in training and his reason for such tactics made them all uneasy. Save Michael, who seemed to uncannily understand Gabriel's ambitions. There was tension building within the Hierarchy.

It is a point of interest to note that at this time in Angelic History gender had no meaning. The concept of male and female had yet to be consciously recognized.

Raphael has fled the Above, seeking solace in the arms of the physical. Some of the Seven whisper that this would be Raphael's eventual downfall; his obsession with the, then named, Below but Raphael has found himself caring less and less about the opinions of the others. There is something growing inside, a sense of anticipation. He could not have given a name to this sensation, nor explain what even to him remains shrouded and abstract.

He realizes that something is about to happen, things are about to change. This, he believes, is all part of the cycle of life. Something to be expected, embraced, rejoiced in. But the others do not see this in the same light and Raphael knows such frustration. In truth, his time spent Below is a way of escaping from the politics of the Above.

So it is that we find Raphael strolling through the dense forest under a starlit sky. He likes the night here in the physical, there is a beauty to the muted shades of color, a density of life that whispers of primitive and instinctual things.

He comes upon the glade unexpectedly, having thought he had known this path well only to discover otherwise. Things in the realm of the physical change must faster than they do Above or perhaps the Angelic don't mark the passage of time the same way the world of the physical does" It is nevertheless a pleasant surprise.

Out of the corner of his eye he catches a light, a brightness that captures his attention. He turns curiously to investigate the source only to find a female bathed in a shimmering blue-tinged glow. He knows this is not of his race; this is something unknown to him; not only in essence of energy but in form of the feminine. He doesn't understand yet what she is. Her aura, her power carries the scent of the wind and rain, of the forest and earth that grants this realm the secret of life un-nurtured.

This Being is beautiful, like the sunrise or the blooming of a flower fresh from the caress of the morning dew. He is captivated by this being, pulled to her like a moth to a flame.

His feet take him closer without effort of thought, there is no hesitation within that makes him pause to wonder what this could mean. No worry of consequence. It is as if it is meant to be. He stands before her, basking in the energy she gives freely, marveling at the wonder of such a Mystery.

"Lady of the Moon." He dubs her with the title inside his mind as well as with his words. He doesn't know if she understands him, it doesn't really matter if she does or not.

She looks at him with such compassionate eyes; there is ancientness to the being, something that speaks of timelessness. She extends a hand towards him, small and delicate, the gesture as trusting of him as his approach was of her. He takes that hand, holding it gently, feeling the energy between them merge.

Some kind of mental link between them has been forged in their touching, Raphael feels a clear understanding of masculine and feminine. A foreign concept to the Seraph, for Above they have no gender, sex is not an aspect or ambition. Raphael is nevertheless intrigued by this new possibility. In a flash of insight, he instinctually recognizes himself as male. It's a confrontation of self, forcing him to speculate on this change in identity and self-awareness.

"You are a bringer of life too." She speaks interrupting his thoughts, bringing him back to the moment. Her words are soft yet in a language he understands, for it is his own.

"You know our language, Lady of the Moon, yet you are not one of us."

"No, I am of the infinite, my gift is much like yours; I am a bringer of life and light. I can speak to you through our touch. It allows my thoughts and words to make sense to you, although it is not your language I truly speak."

Raphael bows his head to the Lady of the Moon, a sign of respect. "It is appreciated. I would enjoy knowing your wisdom and through your sharing my own will grow."

"No need to seek from me what you already own." Her smile is radiant as she draws him closer in towards her through the sharing of hands. "It is you, your race, which I seek to understand, Raphael."

He smiles in to those eyes, nodding his head in agreement. "We seek understanding of each other, curious beings that we are." He does not think to ask her for her name, to him she already has one. "What could I tell you that you could not know through our communion?"

She laughs; a soothing melodic sound. "I would take only what is freely offered. You grant me the privilege then we shall share."

Raphael studies the being before him, it would be simple to acquiesce, yet there are some things that even a Seraph may not wish to know. He's already wrestling with the concept of gender identity and what such consequence shall come. The hesitation is felt or seen by the Lady and she is quick to reassure.

"I will give only what you wish to know, if that will grant you peace?"

"Ah, that is the trap is it not?" Raphael queries in response. "I would ask to know all, but once I did then perhaps I would not care for such knowledge. One cannot know the impact until its felt."

"Yes, very wise." Her comment is made aloud, but more for herself than for him. It is as if she's contemplating what he'd said. "Then we shall not share, for I would not wish upon you greater hardships than what you already face."

In that moment, Raphael understood that the Lady of the Moon could foresee the future, or perhaps only his" He did not question for he did not want to know the answers.

"I would let you have what you have asked." He is willing to share his knowledge with her although he does not wish to be gifted the same.

"No, that would not be fair. For to take from and not return" This is not the way of things, there is, in such an act, no balance. And balance in all things must be retained."

"Balance in all things." He repeats this much like one might a mantra, a tidbit of knowledge to be prized and applied. "Yes, in this glorious realm there is always a balance. I have felt it, I have reveled in it."

"Yes, and you have nurtured it. You give freely to life, Raphael, and that makes you more than your counterparts. Always remember that you hold the key to creation. It is a rare and wonderful gift."

What happened next is a fog to the angel, even today. Her touch, the radiance of her aura, they merged and mingled with his. He felt her through every particle of his being, that eerie yet awe-inspiring experience left him disoriented, feeling much like a leaf tossed and tumbled, blown along by the strong wind. When he came back to himself, he was alone, only the delicate bunching of wild flowers blooming where she had stood was left there to greet him.

Raphael could only contemplate and wonder what meaning was behind the meeting; oddly he never did ponder the consequences and perhaps he should have"

He never saw the Lady of the Moon again but he always remembered that moment. It was then that Raphael knew that the Mysteries were indeed real, as real as the Angelic.

Long Lankyn Progenitor of the Bloods

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-06 11:41 EST
Asziel Part 1

Like rain drops tumbling from the heavy dark skies, one memory is followed by another. Drawing inextricably towards the present and the answers to the question of why Corwyn must do what he is about to do.

Raphael and Asziel walk side by side through the great forest. They speak in soft tones about philosophies and creative ethics as they enjoy the beauty and bounty of the physical realm. They see possibilities that the others of their brethren overlook and a bond begins to form.

At this point in Angelic History heated debates were common. Gender identity had become an issue, as had creationism Below. Some of the angelic were adapting a gender. Others were visiting the Below where they spent their time impulsively creating things that many proclaimed as *contaminants*.

On one side there were some who wanted sterner rules, stricter policies, most especially concerning the Below, (the physical realms). Morningstar argued that the Angelic had just as much right to the physical worlds as any other creature. Michael advocated duty and wanted the Below off limits for their race.

Sides were being taken and lines were drawn. The tension, that has been building all this time, is coming to a heated boil. Everything is changing for the Above.

Raphael went Below frequently these days, but it wasn't often he had companionship nor an offering of similar opinions. It is a lighthearted interlude as the pair of them ambles along but Raphael has a goal in mind, which he has yet to share with Asziel. He prefers to keep this a surprise, he wants to see her first reaction, for some reason, yet unknown to him, this moment is important, or at least it will be telling. The conversation continues delightful and inspiring, Asziel seems to be unaware that Raphael is leading them towards some place in particular.

It's a secret he's been keeping for a while, but he believes it's time for him to start sharing. He knows the direction the tide is flowing Above, the direction he'd seen from the onset of Gabriel building his "Legion". Raphael knows that war is coming, but he's not planning on taking a side. Raphael has his own ideas; he's been plotting them for a while now.

He leads her to the heart of the great forest, to a tree that looks as if it's been lit with stars. The massive, thick trunk is veined and pulses with an ethereal energy that has nothing to do with the Above. Branches unfurl dense with leaves that sparkle with an inner light, the essence of stars captured. Raphael looks from the great tree to Asziel, carefully watching her expression.

"This is the moment, the first. What comes of this will shape the future." He thinks as he watches Asziel, noting how she's staring at the tree with deep concern and puzzlement.

"Where did this come from, Raphael" You?"

"This is not of me, nor is it of any of our race, Asziel. This is of these lands, of this realm and part of its bounty."

"I don't understand" This is what they whisper about when they speak of the Mysteries?"

"Yes, Asziel, this is one of the Mysteries. It is their Tree of Life." How he had found it, he couldn't explain, he'd simply stumbled upon it on accident one day and kept it secret ever since. Raphael didn't believe that the others truly wanted proof that the Mysteries exist.

"Then it is true and they do exist' It isn't some story you made up as others accuse?" Something about her tone suggesting that this inspires fear rather than wonder.

"No, it is true, you see it before you. Do you doubt your own senses?" Raphael feels disappointment but keeps this emotion from tainting his words. He sounds, as always, gentle and reassuring.

"No, I feel that the energy is alien, but I cannot feel a link to it as you claimed is possible." Again he senses that perhaps she prefers it this way.

Raphael isn't sure how to respond to Asziel, he'd had hopes that she would feel the same bond to this energy that he has. Perhaps the others cannot feel the same because they were not made the same as he" He needs to think more on this later; right now he has another matter to address.

"Perhaps it will come in time?" This is Raphael's way of changing the topic to one of greater import to him although he recognizes that it may not grant her peace of mind. He had hoped for more from her like empathy or excitement. Fear wasn't what he had anticipated. "This realm has much to offer, Asziel, as you well know, but I think it can offer haven, sanctuary, for the times ahead. What say you??

Long Lankyn Progenitor of the Bloods

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-06 17:14 EST
Asziel Part 2

Asziel turns from her inspection of the tree to stare at Raphael, uncertain if what she's heard is what is meant. "What do you mean, Raphael" You are as aware as I of the debates currently occurring Above. Michael stands in opposition of us coming Below, it is foolish to think that any other will win over him. He is the Word of God."

"Michael has become Gabriel's puppet, we all know this. And war is not far from coming among our own, Asziel. I for one do not wish to be caught up in the conflict."

"And this"! After you insisted that the History of the Angelic be kept"!" Her tone is angry and accusatory. "You seemed to be on Michael's side!"

"My desire to see the History kept had nothing to do with Michael. It is for the future prosperity of our race that I would take this position." Raphael speaks gently but with a firmness that reflects his decision is unshakable.

"Oh! No! It is because the Seraph seek to control the rest of us!"

"Not all of us want this control you speak so vehemently against, Asziel" He keeps his voice calm, soothing and comforting. He would heal the rift dividing the Seraph from the lesser of their race if he could. "Only two hold such ambitions."

"Ha! Michael and Gabriel!" Asziel scoffs "They would have us all banned from Below, have what little choice we are allowed to be taken away. Duty! It is all we ever hear from the Seraph. We have become naught but slaves to you and your kind, Raphael."

The accusation hangs heavy between them. Raphael knows all about the jealousy that haunts Michael because of Morningstar, it is why Michael has merged his resources and support with Gabriel's. An uneasy alliance to say the least, but one that Michael believes will grant him what he wants most: Morningstar gone. Raphael, the healer, has done all he can to alleviate this situation, the hatred building in Michael towards Morningstar, but to no avail. Michael is reticent, he doesn't want to let go of it.

"If Morningstar were not on our side, all hope would be lost for those of us Lesser!" Asziel spoke as if Morningstar were their savior.

Raphael could only nod for to do otherwise would reveal the struggle for power within the highest ranks of their race. Something that could cause a greater rift than the one that already exists. Instead he once again attempts to lead the conversation back to his primary topic.

"If you would consider my proposal, then perhaps none of what is happening Above need concern us. There is a new Choir planned, the Archangels, they will allow any of the Above, from any Choir to join their rankings. They will be assigned the Watchers of the Below. Those of us willing will then be spending most of our time here, in the physical. Think upon this, Asziel, it is the opportunity to escape the Above and their petty politics."

"Yet our hands will be tied, will they not, Raphael" We will not be allowed to do anything except *watch*, isn't that the *duty* they've outlined" How is that fair, I ask you?!"

"There is life here, Asziel." Raphael gestures towards the Great Tree. "There are possibilities abounding, never overlook that. We will aid in the shaping of the physical, have no doubt."

"You delude yourself, Raphael, but I will consider what you've told me."

From high atop the tree a crow ka's bringing their attention forcibly to it. Both Raphael and Asziel look up at the odd, unexpected creature. The bird's wings are black and iridescent, catching a rainbow of color where none should have been. It cocks its head, fixing an intelligent seeming eye upon them, almost as if attempting to communicate. Raphael feels the import, understands that this is an invitation; he is on the right track. Asziel however picks none of this extraordinary exchange up. She looks from the odd bird back to Raphael, blankly, no comprehension that anything at all has occurred.

"I will need time to think about all of this Raphael." Asziel speaks with skepticism. "You have not convinced me that this is the right path, but you have a point, if war is coming, it would be safer to be *elsewhere*."

"Time is running short, Asziel, do not wait too long to make up your mind."

"You and I will both know when that time is right, now won't we, Raphael?" Asziel turns from The Tree dismissively, retracing their path away from the Mystery.

Raphael senses her discomfort in the discovery but he's not sorry, although he does have second thoughts on the wisdom of including Asziel in on his plan. It is something that will haunt him in the future for it is here where the first seeds of Mab's future betrayals have been sown.

Long Lankyn Progenitor of the Bloods

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-07 01:45 EST
Raziel Part 1

The scene inside his mind shifts, like ripples ever widening chasing one after the other across the surface of a calm pool. The past unraveling, revealing the path that leads to this moment. Time for the Angelic flows slowly as does change; what seems to be a rapid advance of events happens at the pace of a snail's slither for the Above but it does happen. Slowly but surely even the Angelic face change.

Raphael sits atop a high cliff, in the distance smoke rises from a small, controlled fire. He watches as the smoke curls upwards towards the sky drifting hazily over the dense foliage of the forest below. From here he cannot hear the laughter or playful calls of the children of the earth, he cannot see the adults as they move through the daily rituals of their physical lives but he already knows the hardships they face. Many die young and knowledge is hard won for the people of the physical and yet it is here where he feels most at home. He knows given the opportunity that the people of the physical would benefit from the wisdom of the Angelic. Raphael feels shamed that so few Above understand this concept.

He isn't "allowed" direct contact or intervention; the rules of the Above have declared the people of the earth off limits. However there is a new movement Above that challenges these "rules". Lead by Morningstar, (of course), and gaining a sizable following; many suspect that more than the quarter that Michael insists of Angelic have joined Morningstar's "ranks". In fact many speculate that Morningstar is becoming more popular within the Choirs than Michael. Raphael realizes that the eruption between the two rivals is inevitable and fast approaching. He has no desire to participate in things to come, he has other plans.

" Ah, so this is where you escape to these days, eh?" the voice from behind is familiar and comforting.

"Raziel!" Raphael turns from his contemplation of the smoke to smile warmly to the new arrival. "Glad you found me, Brother. By the way, how did you find me?" Raphael speaks with amusement and enthusiasm; however his question is quite sincere. He not only wants the answer, but requires it. He's been working hard to shield himself from his brethren; he wants to know what went wrong.

"No worries, Raphael! I know because I hold the knowledge to know, none others can find you." Raziel assures with a quickness of empathy few of the Angelic possess. "It was imperative that we speak."

Raphael studies his friend closely, wondering what could be so important as to bring the hermit from his typical hidey hole in the Great Library. "Imperative you say' What is it, Raziel?"

"We both see what is coming, Raphael, we both realize the consequences. It is my duty as the Keeper of Angelic and Arcane Secrets to keep them safe from those who would abuse them, wouldn't you agree, Raphael?" Raziel's tone grows very serious as he joins his friend, sitting down beside him on the cool hard ground.

"I don't understand where you are going with this, Brother?" but Raphael has suspicions for he too is holding close a secret of his own. Perhaps they are the same"

"I cannot allow either side to gain access to what I hold." Raziel states simply as he looks to his friend and brethren.

"Leaving Heaven?" Raphael works to keep his voice soft and light for his words will weigh heavy enough.

"As are you. Don't think I haven't noticed, Raphael, everyone has noticed. You spend little time Above these days, its not a stretch of imagination to figure out how much you detest what?s happening. Besides, you can't fool me, I know you far too well." Raziel smiles as he says this, their bond of friendship acknowledged in those few words.

"True, nor is it my goal to fool you, my Friend." Raphael chuckles as he pats Raziel on the back in a camaraderie fashion. "Yes, I too have an exit strategy."

"It is common knowledge that the Great Architect favors the physical beings over us. Many Above grow anxious and fear like that leads to revolts. Both Michael and Morningstar are pressing me to take a side and to be honest with you, Raphael; I don't care for either any more than you do. I feel as if I don't have a choice, really. The only way to keep the "Secrets" safe from them is for them to lose access to me."

"I see your point, Raziel, but you know as well as I that neither Michael nor Morningstar will take your departure lightly. Words of betrayal will be whispered if not screamed."

"Yes, but do not forget, Raphael, that we are not alone in our struggle. I shall be safe from ramifications as will you.?

Raphael nods slowly in agreement. What Raziel says is true, they are safe from repercussions; of all the Angelic, Raphael and Raziel have nothing to fear.

Long Lankyn Progenitor of the Bloods

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-08 12:39 EST
Raziel Part 2 " I have worked the spell we spoke of?" Raziel turns from studying the distance to eye Raphael intensely; there is more meaning in the look than in the words themselves. "If it comes down to it, we have a way to stop them. Both of them, either of them," Raziel shrugs eloquently, "it doesn't matter what happens because if push comes to shove we can do as need be done, Brother."

Raphael stares back at his brethren knowing the boldness of such a move yet recognizing the significance behind it. "If push comes to shove", would it' Would things fall to such chaos as to leave them no other choice" More questions without answers.

"Let's hope that they don't, Raziel. I have no desire to hold such sway Above. In fact, I grow weary of the sameness, the fear; the constant drive of 'duty" as Michael dictates has begun to sicken me." Raphael gestures to the forest and sky before them. "This is my home; this is where my essence thrives. The politics and ambitions of Above mean nothing down here."

"So the rumors are true?" Raziel looks out over the wild, untamed landscape; he appreciates the beauty but does not feel the same kinship to it that Raphael obviously does.

"Rumors." Raphael spits the word out with a tinge of bitterness, the first negative emotion to taint his voice in a very long time. "Innuendoes based off of things they think they've witnessed. They know nothing and I plan to keep them in the dark. It is safer and wiser in the long run for them to know as little of my plans as possible until the time is ripe. Then I shall 'resign" my duties and take my place here, where I truly belong."

"You belong in Heaven, Raphael, just like I do. Do not delude yourself otherwise; it's what we've been created to do." Raziel reminds his friend gently, however his concern for Raphael's well being and state of mind begins to blossom. Raziel fears that Raphael will lose himself in his own fantasies; forget his primary reason of existence. Should the worst occur it would not due to have one of the three impaired by madness. Michael has proven what happens when the ego takes over where Duty should have held fast.

Raphael laughs amused shaking his head as he replies "You think I am following in Michael's footsteps now" Rest your worries, Raziel. I do not delude myself of anything. I know why I exist. The question is; does anyone else?" Raphael moves fluidly to his feet, black orbs of eyes sweeping over the horizon, the sky, the forest below and the gentle swell of smoke drifting lazily on the wind. "It is my duty to nurture life and by all that is holy I shall do as I was created to do. No matter what obstacles I must face in order to do it. Just as you will do as your duty dictates.

"We are not meant to serve Heaven, Raziel. We are meant to serve The Great Architect; it is He who dictates our path, directs our destinies. I follow what is inside me, what I feel to be truth and I believe it is He who guides me."

"Raphael." Raziel rises to stand beside his friend, placing a hand to his shoulder. "I hope your conviction and belief is real and not a figment of your ego but I am compelled out of my love for you to warn caution in such forward thinking. If you are wrong this path of yours could lead to your destruction. Be careful my friend, do not give them more fodder than they need to declare you enemy."

"Ah, that is the catch, isn't it?" Raphael smiles over to Raziel. "I doubt that any actions we take will keep them from such declarations, Raziel. No matter what we do, if it isn't what either Michael or Morningstar want, they will see us as against them. All three of us know this."

Raziel knows Raphael is right. No matter what, there is no escaping that the two most powerful of the Angelic will consider the three traitors simply because they won't bow to either's demands. He shrugs this off for there is little that can be done about it.

"So when are you leaving?" Raphael asks of the suddenly silent Raziel.

"Now." Raziel quips in response. "This is my farewell speech. Figured I would make it to you; you can relay what needs sharing to the others."

"Now"!"

"There you go again, Raphael, assuming the worst. The two of you will always know where I am and will be able to find me. Have no worries, Brother, I am not forsaking the alliance, merely making it harder for the others to manipulate me or the secrets I keep."

Raphael chuckles shaking his head at his fellow brethren, "You misled me on purpose."

"Of course." Raziel grins mischievously. "Have to keep the pair of you on your toes, don't I?"

Long Lankyn Progenitor of the Bloods

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-08 23:19 EST
Michael

Like the relentless cascade of a waterfall, the memory of Raziel streams away to be replaced with one of Michael. As the spell Corwyn is weaving nears completion, his remembrances come quicker much like a movie on fast-forward. Images, scenes; his past all running forward to catch up to the now.

Raphael had been summoned to appear before Michael, he has no idea why nor does he wish to think about it. The atmosphere in Heaven is thick and heavy, ripe for an uprising and Michael didn't seem to care to stop it which made Raphael angry. Raphael has at this point lost all interest in the affairs of Heaven.

Yet to ignore the summons would create only more tension amidst the Angelic. And so it is that Raphael finds himself standing in the High Council Chambers deep inside the Heavenly Citadel. The last place he wants to be.

At this point in Angelic History, the Archangel have become a reality. Many of the Angelic from all of the Choirs have rushed to join the ranks of the newest addition but few have been allowed and only those most loyal to Michael. The rules are strict and growing more so every day.

Only Morningstar and his rapidly expanding base of followers stand in open opposition to Michael and his heavy-handed new rules.

Rumors are whispered that The Great Architect has insisted on a Choir built to serve the mortal souls exclusively. Michael has yet to confirm this as fact; however a new city, outside the Grand Citadel, is under construction which Michael insists will be "paradise" for the mortal souls. It would not be a far reaching conclusion to draw that soon enough they will have a Choir dedicated to them as well.

In the chamber, besides Michael and Raphael are Gabriel, (of course, as he and Michael have become constant companions of late), Raquel, "Friend of God", and Chamuel, "He Who Sees God". Gabriel stands to Michael's left, while almost directly behind him a little off to his right is Raquel. Michael uses Raquel as one might a weapon. Raquel is a terror tactic of Michael's; a silent threat to bully those whom seem reticent to do as he commands. Chamuel stands before Michael, strong and filled with conviction; he is not easily cowed by the tactics Michael employs.

"You can't make the rules, Michael, then turn around and break them." Chamuel's words are the first thing to greet Raphael as he appears.

It is obvious he's arrived at a bad time but Raphael has no intention on leaving only to be forced to return later. So he hangs back, letting Chamuel have the floor and his say.

"The rules are not made by me, Chamuel, as well you know. The Great Architect dictates them, I merely relay them." Michael responds with the same old rhetoric. It is a line many of the Angelic are tired of hearing, especially when it is so apparently obvious that Michael listens more to Gabriel than he does to The Great Architect these days.

"If that were true, Michael, then the souls of the mortals would be welcome in the Citadel, not kept outside the gates like unwanted garbage." Chamuel does not mince his words, cutting straight to the point.

"Is that an accusation Chamuel?" Michael's voice falls low and threatening as he centers his energy and attention on the speaker. "I have done what has been requested of us, Chamuel. The mortals are being provided for in grand style. But as well you know many within the Choirs are not happy with them wandering our fair city. There is a balance that must be maintained. You above all in the High Council should *understand* this."

Chamuel issues a low growl of frustration. "Trying to talk sense in to you is like trying to train a rock to jump through a hoop; it's a wasted effort. Maybe when you stop being Gabriel's puppet we can speak again."

Chamuel nodded to Raquel, and, upon noticing Raphael, offered the same to him before storming out of the chambers. He did not deign to show deference or respect to either Michael or Gabriel. Michael said nothing until Chamuel had left.

"You should see to that one, Raquel. It is your job after all to ensure the Angelic do as they are told."

"No Michael. It is my job to ensure they tend to their duties. Not the duties you think to assign them but the ones they were created to do. That, Michael, is my job. Which I might add you have been making it harder and harder for me to accomplish. Eventually you will have to face the consequences of your own misbehavior."

"Another threat?" Michael glanced over his shoulder to Raquel. "Good thing you are merely the watcher of Angelic behavior and not the one who metes out the *Punishment*. Your flagging wisdom is showing I'm afraid and that could lead you down a dangerous path, Brother. Hmm, it begs to wonder if you two are fellow conspirators??"

Before Raquel could respond Raphael steps forward, clearing his voice to draw Michael's attention. "You summoned me Michael, I'm here. What is it you want?"

"Ah, Raphael, our wayward healer." As if Michael hadn't known he was there all along, "Nice of you to come by. Glad you could tear yourself away from your precious mortal realms. Too bad you won't be able to spend any more time wasted down there."

Raphael doesn't respond, rather he waits. Whatever Michael is up to Raphael isn't planning on making it easier for him.

"Have nothing to say?" Michael and Gabriel exchange glances, significant only between them, before Michael returns his attention to Raphael. "Your request to serve as an Archangel is refused. Too many of the High Council serve in other Choirs, I need the few who are still dedicated to their original duties to remain committed. You are excused so that you can get back to your Heavenly chores and no more roaming the Below, Raphael, that realm is now considered off limits to you."

Michael does not wait for a response; he turns dismissively away focusing his attentions upon Gabriel. The pair of them drift away, speaking in low whispers not intended to be overheard or accidentally caught.

Raphael looks to Raquel and another significant glance is shared but this time it is between the two of them. Raquel drops a surreptitious wink to Raphael. Raphael hides his grin by turning away and striding with purpose from the council chambers.

No one but the three of them knows of the shared alliance, but it remains steadfast even in the face of Michael and Gabriel's attempts at intimidation. The real problem is that they are suspicious that something is afoot. They may not know who's involved, but they suspect something is up.

The Three need be more cautious than ever and make sure they cover their tracks with impunity. Otherwise their plot may be uncovered too quick leaving them unprepared and at Gabriel's mercy. And everyone knows that Gabriel has no mercy.

It goes without saying that Raphael has no intention of doing what Michael has commanded of him. He has nothing to fear from Gabriel, although neither Gabriel nor Michael knows this. Michael may not have allowed Raphael the freedom to join the ranks of the Archangels, but that changes nothing. Raphael intends to go ahead with his own plans.

All the meeting had accomplished, in Raphael's opinion, was to demonstrate just how far gone Michael truly is. It isn't at all surprising that so many are flocking to Morningstar's side; Michael's lost all focus and Gabriel is the one who's in charge now. Of all the Angelic, Gabriel is the last of them that should hold such power!

Long Lankyn Progenitor of the Bloods

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-09 14:46 EST
Morningstar Part 1

Like a rampaging river rushing and rapid the scene alters from one side to the other. A kaleidoscope of images, of colors and sounds rapidly unfold as the energies invested in the spell begin to heighten and become concrete. Soon. Soon they will be ready but the past has yet to be played out so Corwyn's memories chase one after the other leading ever forward towards the present.

Raphael spends most of his time Below these days, staying out of the politics and intrigues" of the Above. He has honed his techniques and knows how to keep himself from the sights of the Above; no one can trace where Raphael is unless he wants them to.

He's built himself a home in the clouds nearby The Tree of Life. He sees himself somewhat as a caregiver to the greatness that are the Mysteries, and recognizes that The Tree is of importance. He will do what he can to keep It safe.

None can see his new home, it is kept from mortal and Angelic sight on purpose; he's not advertising his location as he doesn't care to be found. Only a small select few, those he's been cultivating for his "plan", know where or how to find him (and the two others of the Three, of course.)

Of those he's placed trust in most are Archangels assigned as Watchers, for it is they who have witnessed the hardships of the mortals" first-hand. They recognize the injustice being done because of Michael's ridiculous rules and wish to see the situation change. Many of the Watchers who've joined with Raphael share his point of view concerning the Below and the Mysteries; they've grown to appreciate both with a vehemence nearly as fanatical as his own.

Very few of Raphael's "followers" are still within the confines of the Above but there are a few. Asziel was denied access to the Archangels as was Raphael. She joined forces with him right after the refusal. Perhaps out of anger and rebellion of being told "no" by Michael, perhaps she really does believe in Raphael's cause" He's not yet sure what motivates her.

During this point in Angelic History chaos has overwhelmed the Above. Two distinct sides have risen to power; Morningstar heading one side, Michael the other. Not that this comes as a surprise to any of the High Council, they had seen it coming for a long time now. However the situation Above has fallen in to utter disorder as Morningstar and his followers refuse to abide by the rules set down by Michael. The First Great War in Heaven looms, darkening the horizon and tainting the future of the Angelic.

Change is on its way and everyone can clearly see that bloodshed lay ahead.

Raphael stares out the tower window atop his invisible manse, black orbs roaming over the expanse of the great forest below as he ponders what his next move in this game he's began will be. The choices are limitless once Michael's rules are overlooked, and there is a growing anticipation within Raphael to get started with his new life.

Already there are progeny of angels and mortals. They have been dubbed Nephilim. Raphael has seen them and knows the history on how they came about. One of Morningstar's followers, Shemhazai lead a small group of Angelic to the Below with the idea of tutoring the mortals in the ways of Heaven. At the time it was assumed that doing this would influence the mortal souls in behaving more appropriately when arriving Above. However the plan failed as Shemhazai and those he brought with him were seduced by the mortals and their physical realm. All too soon, the angels took mortal forms and began propagating a new, hybrid race, the Nephilim.

Raphael wonders how this sits with Michael and Gabriel, but he's not curious enough to go Above and ask. Rumors have reached him that Gabriel has dubbed mortals as "monkeys", (he is sure that Gabriel means this derogatorily), and the Nephilim "abominations".

"So this is where you're hiding out, eh?" the voice from behind is familiar and unwelcome.

Raphael turns from the window to face Morningstar, allowing his displeasure to show.

"What brings you here and how is it that you came to find me, Morningstar?"

"I come to negotiate an alliance, Raphael. As to how I found you," Morningstar, the fairest and most powerful of all the Angelic, grants Raphael a graceful shrug, "I followed the scent of a traitor."

Even now Morningstar displays the attributes that would later describe him as the Prince of Lies and Deceit. Raphael realizes he's been betrayed by someone he's trusted. It is the only way Morningstar could find him. The question remains: who was it"

"You came for nothing, Morningstar. I have no intention of allying with you." Raphael's voice is calm but determined; he means what he says. "You have played Michael in to this situation, almost as if you are as jealous of him as he of you. It begs to question why you would wish this strife to flower as it has Above" You as well as I can see where this path is leading."

"Because even Heaven changes, Raphael." Nonchalantly spoken with an almost bored air, Morningstar isn't interested in chatting about his behavior. "I did not come here to be chastised by you, Traitor. I came to offer you the chance to redeem yourself and return to your position of power Above.?

Long Lankyn Progenitor of the Bloods "Nothing is evil which is according to nature." Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-09 18:55 EST
Morningstar Part 2

"Oh, yes, my "position of power"." Raphael's turn to sound bored and disinterested. "Do not delude yourself, Brother, I have no desire to return to the Above."

"You have outright disobeyed Michael and he's declared you 'renegade". Gabriel will be hunting you, Raphael. However," Morningstar steps closer to Raphael, his voice falling to a conspiratorial and cajoling whisper as he places a friendly hand on Raphael's shoulder, "I am willing to stand by you, aid you in returning. I will see you given back your standing, Raphael; take the price off your head so to speak."

Raphael pushes away from Morningstar, not roughly or quick in distaste, but rather extracting himself smoothly from the nearness of the other. "No. As I have said, I have no desire to return to the Above, under any circumstances."

"You are a fool, Raphael!" Morningstar snaps, losing patience and growing angry. He's used to getting his way; it is unusual for anyone to stand against his demands, especially when he's being so cordial about them. "You really don't want to make an enemy of me, Raphael. I can surpass Gabriel's cruelty if the need arises."

"Enemies" There is no need to take this to such an extreme, Morningstar. I have no intentions of standing in opposition to you or what you want." Raphael speaks as he moves further from the window, deeper in to the depths of the tower room, further away from Morningstar. "And I most certainly do not wish to hear your confession concerning flaws best kept buried.

"This is a political play for you and nothing more. You want another of the Seraph to stand on your side in the High Council. My sincere apologies, but it won't be me."

"If you aren't with me, then you are against me!" Morningstar declares as he closes the distance between them menacingly.

"Odd, that is the same exact thing Gabriel once said to me." Raphael chuckles with amusement but does not back away from the encroachment of Morningstar; rather he stands his ground firmly. "As I have said only moments before we need not take this to extremes. Perhaps a truce is in order?"

"A truce"! You won't give alliance, but you offer me a *truce*" As if you hold the same power as I! I could smite you from existence with a thought, Angel." Morningstar scoffs.

"In no way do I intend to infer that I hold more of anything than you, Brother. I merely suggest that we need not be enemies. Truthfully spoken Morningstar you have enough of them already, you don't need to add more to such an already explosive mix."

"Hm, perhaps you have a point." Morningstar's tone is contemplative much like his expression reflects. "A truce may be acceptable. I am sure since you brought this up you already have terms in mind?"

"But of course, Brother. I would not have suggested something so forward were I not already willing to make the offer." Raphael replies as he steps forward, towards Morningstar; indicating his willingness to negotiate. Dealing with the Above is just like any other game; you calculate your moves and then play them with consummate skill when the time is ripe.

"I offer to stay out of your way if you give me the same freedoms. Neither of us will meddle in the other's plans. In short, we do as we want and leave the other alone to do the same. Does that work for you, Morningstar?"

"Hm, it seems that I am somehow getting the short end in this deal, Raphael. What do I get out of it' "Staying out" of your business, eh' The way I see it, I can take you down with barely a thought. What should stop me?"

Raphael laughs softly as he steps closer to Morningstar, "Perhaps you can, then again, perhaps you can't.

"As for what you get' It's pretty straightforward Morningstar; I and mine will leave you and yours alone to do as you wish.

"Do you know what powers I possess, Brother" Have you any idea" And what if, hypothetically speaking of course, I have more than you are aware" Do you really wish to test me?" Raphael speaks sincerely and with conviction as he "allows" Morningstar to see what he's carefully kept concealed for a very long time.

This is no trick or ploy; the Three have taken astonishing measures to ensure their safety, not only from Michael and Gabriel, but from Morningstar as well. Some might say that Raphael holds the winning hand in this round of cards.

Morningstar studies Raphael closely, as if reading for the truth. A snarl twists beautiful lips as he hisses, backing away from Raphael with the suddenness of movement that the Angelic own. "You stink of the *Arcane*." but there is something in Morningstar's tone that hints at uncertainty. "What tricks have you and Raziel been up to, eh, Raphael?"

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-10 12:32 EST
Morningstar Part 3

"I do not have the same need as you to confess, Brother." Raphael allows a serene smile to smooth his features and lessen the bite of his words. "And who said anything about Raziel being involved"

"Do you honestly believe that you are the only one of the Angelic with any intelligence" Please, Morningstar, think past your own ego and see what is right in front of you. Your lust for power and greed for control have brought your race to the brink of war and still you blind yourself with thoughtlessness.

"The Angelic are not blind, we too can see where the path has been leading. You must have suspected that others would take whatever measures we had to in order to guarantee our own survival. It is our nature, we are instinctively driven towards self-preservation, just like the mortals that so many Above are quick to condemn. I have done what needed doing in order to insure that I could continue to attend to my *Duties*."

"You are a slippery one, Raphael. You played this well, keeping it so close that not even a whisper of it has been murmured. No one knows, except me now, of course. Who's to say I won't tell on you, eh' Especially after the insulting way in which you've just spoken to me! "Thoughtlessness"" Look past my own *ego*"! And it is Michael who's starting the war; I'm trying to stop it. If blame you want to lay then at least lay it where it belongs."

"You've fed the situation just as much as he, Brother. Deny it if you will, delude yourself otherwise," Raphael's shrug is expressive, "but you are just as responsible as Michael."

"Now who's deluded?" Morningstar snorts as he waves a dismissive hand towards Raphael. "I didn't start this, but I am going to see it done. Just like you I have the right to insure my own survival and just like you I am doing what I must. There is a difference however Raphael; I'm still serving in Heaven and you aren't. You speak of doing your *Duty*, but you just ran away."

Raphael laughs softly as he shakes his head. "It is here where I ask you; what are my *Duties*, Morningstar?"

Morningstar stares at Raphael as if he'd suddenly turned in to a freak. "You aren't serious, you have to be aware of what and why you've been created. This is a trick or something; either that of you've lost your senses like Michael."

"No, I haven't lost my senses." Raphael feels irritation that everyone seems to think this about him when he tries to explain what he believes is an easy concept to grasp. "My *Duty* isn't to serve Michael, it's to serve The Great Architect. Following Michael's orders is in direct conflict with my real *Duties*. Understand?"

There is a pregnant pause then suddenly Morningstar busts out laughing, stepping up to clap Raphael on the back; a gesture meant to imply friendship and a level of bonding. No doubt, Morningstar wishes to infer trust and casualness to establish a foundation for whatever plots he's begun formulating. "I get it. You hate Michael as much as I do. That works for me." Whether or not Morningstar actually believes what Raphael is saying is left to question. Maybe he does, maybe he thinks Raphael as mad as Michael"

"A truce it is then. Me and mine won't bother with you and your's as long as you keep to the same agreement."

"We have no desire to war with you, Morningstar; we just want to be left to do as we are meant to. A truce it is then."

"Hm, in the spirit of our newborn understanding it seems only fair that I should warn you; your "followers" may not be as loyal as you presume." Morningstar's sly remark is intended to undermine Raphael, but Raphael had been hoping for such an opportunity to arise.

"Yes, it is how you found me." Amused and light sounding in tone, Raphael gives nothing away.

"Yes, it is." Morningstar responds, nodding as if saddened to report such news. "If they betrayed you to me who's to say they won't do the same with Michael and Gabriel?"

Raphael wonders where Morningstar is going with this, but remains quiet, his fa"ade carefully kept introspective.

"I could, for a small token in exchange, be persuaded to tell you who it was?"

"A small token?"

"Yes, very small, tiny in fact. You have practically *resigned* from the High Council already," Morningstar picks his words with caution and finesse, hoping to wheedle Raphael in to doing as he wishes, "All I want is for you to do it publicly Above. Announce your resignation, Raphael. I will make sure you have the support you need from within the Choirs. This way, you will still have access to the Above. Michael and Gabriel will not be able to label you "traitor". You not taking Michael's side will gain me more favor, Raphael, and gain you and your followers" peace from the wrath of Gabriel and his Legions."

"Small Token" indeed, he'd been planning on doing this anyway. It would be better if Gabriel and his goons weren't chasing after him and his. A slow nod in acquiescence, he hopes that Morningstar will assume he'd talked Raphael in to doing this as it works in his favor; gaining him the name of the one who's betrayed him.

"Is that a yes?" Morningstar pushes for Raphael to verbalize his answer.

"Yes, I shall be happy to do as you ask, in exchange for the name, of course."

"Of course." Morningstar smiles, his expression reflecting that he did indeed think he's won this round. "I'll give you the name right after you make the announcement. Deal?"

"Yes, Morningstar, we have a *deal*.? Raphael allows himself a contented smile.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-11 16:15 EST
Into Exile Part 1

The scene flows with the ease of water seamlessly from Morningstar to the Council Chambers. All of the Choirs are present although Raphael did not summon them personally. In fact, he'd done little planning for this event, merely informing the High Council Members that he would speak at this moment and that his words would echo throughout the Citadel for all to hear.

Raphael intends for all of the Angelic to know his course. Michael and Gabriel will not be allowed to 'spin" Raphael's departure as they had Raziel's. Raphael would make sure that the truth is known rather than the misdirection that others may wish to paint it. In Raphael's opinion it is time that the Angelic were allowed to see the rupture that Michael, Gabriel and Morningstar have wrought amidst them; time for the veil of ignorance to be ripped away. If there were any left Above that couldn't see where this path was heading, Raphael aims to give them clear sight.

Currently, chaos holds supreme over the Angelic. The First Great War is already being waged; not outright but through guerrilla tactics. Morningstar and his followers openly disobey the myriad of strict rules that Michael has laid down, but they haven't stopped there. Pockets of violence between Morningstar's ranks and Gabriel's Legions have broken out, both Above and Below. Blood is already being spilt no matter how hard Michael tries to pretend otherwise. Michael and Gabriel have worked hard to cover such incidents up, but Raphael is about to expose all of it to everyone. No more lies, no more deceit or half-truths; it is time that the Angelic know the full reality.

Free Will: This is what Morningstar and his followers fight for, this is their mantra.

Raphael finds it hard to ignore the validity of their cause; he feels that the Angelic deserve to follow their own paths, choose how they will serve their duties. Perhaps this is the real reason why he agreed to do this" Because at the very heart of it Raphael really is on Morningstar's side, not because he fears the wrath of his fellow brethren nor is it out of some twisted sense of revenge against Michael, but because Raphael truly does believe in freedom of will.

Idealistic, this is the tag many have placed upon him. They assume Raphael weak because of his compassion and ethics; exploitable. Raphael knows otherwise, for it is these very traits that have shaped and honed him, made it possible for him to understand in ways that the others of his race aren't able. It is not their fault; they simply weren't created to perform the same *Duties* as he. However this doesn't mean that they should be abandoned to the subjection of Michael and Gabriel's service.

Everyone sees two sides but he will ensure that another choice is given them before he takes his leave.

When Below Raphael takes on a physical shell, similar in shape to the mortals but Above he assumes his true form. The Angelic are beings of energy, they are bright light and blinding to mortals, (even those who have entered Heaven still turn from the painful visages of the Angelic.) Since the introduction of mortals to Heaven many of the Angelic have adapted similar likenesses when they are around the mortals. It is a token of good will and the desire not to hurt them while communing. However here in the Council Chamber no mortal souls are allowed and only the true state of being is accepted.

The time is upon him and Raphael moves towards the center of the chamber, taking this moment to let the energies in the room wash over, wash through him. He senses Raquel and Chamuel just off to his left before him. Michael and Gabriel are standing out in front of the crowd directly centered, their whispered conversation lost in the murmurs of the Angelic but their attentions are focused intensely upon Raphael. He can feel the heat of them beating at him, as if even now they are attempting to bully him. The arrival of Raziel somewhere behind him to his right is a welcome jolt of power and he is most grateful his friend has come. Near the back of the chamber is Morningstar, a few of the High Council gather around him and the Angel of Death, Azrael, as well.

Raphael takes the floor as he begins to speak.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-13 13:03 EST
Into Exile Part 2

"I come before you not as Seraph, not as High Council, but as an Angel. We have been created to perform specific *Duties* but at our very core we are all the same. We each deserve to serve our *Duties* as best we are able. No one, not even Michael, has the right to place obstacles in our path!

"And yet, with the strict rules he levies upon us, many of us are hindered. Our *Duties* ignored as we are pressed in to servitude. Servitude not to The Great Architectl, but to one of our own!

"The tide in Heaven moves inextricably towards war. Two sides are rising to overwhelm and the blood of the Above already flows! Brother has taken up arms against Brother." Raphael pauses allowing his words to sink in as he backs them up with proof. His energy shimmers outwards bringing the images of battles already fought to all. He can feel the intense anger from Michael and Gabriel, the heated desire to have him destroyed, but they have no real impact. Raphael is beyond their control.

"I will not raise my hand in violence against any of my Brethren but neither shall I abandon my *Duties*. It has become increasingly difficult for me to do as I was created while still serving the High Council hence it is that I tender my resignation.

"Those who feel as I do are welcome to join me in my self-imposed exile Below. I do not pretend that mine is the only way, but it offers freedom of will without the violence. It is for each and every one of you to decide what your fate will be. Anything else you've been told is a lie." Raphael steps backwards, an indication that he's finished his speech.

"Traitor!" Michael declares loudly as he glides towards Raphael, effectively seizing control of the floor. "You bring lies to the Council Chamber and you incite insurrection with your insane babble. You are branded *traitor* and hence have earned your destruction!"

"Oh, I beg to differ with you, Michael." Morningstar moves through the crowd, speaking from within the rankings, rather than out on the floor. "He's well within his rights. Isn't he Raquel?"

Raquel shrugs as he joins Michael on the floor. "Raphael is not abandoning his *Duties*, he has broken no laws that I hold."

"Is this a revolt"!" Michael demands as he turns his attention to the other two Angels. "You *dare* naysay me" I am The Word of God!"

"Your motives are questionable." Morningstar's laughter is mocking to say the least; he is gaining much pleasure from this coup. "If you call Raphael traitor then so must you name Raziel for it was he who first claimed exile."

"That is not for you to decide, Morningstar!" Michael retorts angrily.

"Nor is it for you to decide, Michael." Raquel reminds gently.

"How dare you?!" Michael spins to pin his attention solely upon Raquel. "You are behind this, I know you are!"

"Me?" Raquel chuckles as he shakes his head. "My *Duty* is to watch over my fellow Angels, Michael. Judge them not by your standards but by those set before me by The Great Architect. No matter what you say or do, it makes no difference. I have been given the sight and wisdom to make such judgments, not you or Gabriel. Believe as you will, my *Duty* remains mine."

Gabriel steps forward, moving to Michael's side to speak in a low whisper. Silence looms over the Council Chambers as the two commune exclusive of all others. Michael nods to whatever Gabriel has said before turning to face Raphael.

"You have played this game well, Raphael. My hands are tied, but know this; one day I will make you pay for this betrayal. You are henceforth exiled, do not return Above unless you are willing to retake your service to *me*."

Raphael nods just once, turning away from Michael as he starts to move from the chamber's center. Raziel nods to him as he passes, but they share no words. They will meet later to discuss the ramifications of this event, in the meantime there is no reason to incite further paranoia or suspicion.

"Oh, no, Michael." Morningstar steps closer towards the floor but not out of the crowd of Angelic. At his words Raphael pauses in his departure.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-16 14:08 EST
Into Exile Part 3

"Raphael can return as he is want. If this privilege is granted to Raziel; then so must it extend to him. You can't keep making rules you expect the rest of us to adhere to, then breaking them when the whim moves you."

"How dare you?! Neither you nor your followers adhere to the rules, Morningstar!" Michael snaps. Gabriel moves closer in towards Michael, their energies merging and mingling.

"Aw. My words have upset your pet, I see." Mocks Morningstar, his comment made to incite Gabriel rather than Michael.

"Morningstar." Gabriel warns by tone of voice alone. Taking a more casual manner he continues, "You are right, of course. Raphael has the same privileges that have been extended to Raziel. Now that is all settled we are done here."

"So you speak for Michael now?" Taunts Morningstar moving ever closer towards the floor but nevertheless remaining within the ranks.

"No, of course not?" Gabriel begins only to be interrupted by Michael.

"If I give him leave to speak for me, Morningstar, then speak for me he does."

"Yes, as long as everyone is clear, then I care not which of you speak." Morningstar retorts.

Raphael has no desire to stand here and continue to listen to this quibbling. It is little more than a power struggle brought to full light and these petty politics are no longer his concern. He retakes his pace, quickly moving from the floor without further ado.

As Raphael reaches the edge of the chamber's protective shields, preparing for his departure, a familiar voice flickers inside his thoughts.

"Asziel," Morningstar relays telepathically, "it was she who has betrayed you, Raphael."

Raphael does not return communications to Morningstar, there is no need; he has what he came for in more ways than one. In a flicker he departs the Above, hoping he will never be forced to return and yet knowing that it is inevitable.

* * * * * * * * *

This was the beginning of Raphael's new life Below. He'd abdicated his position in the High Council Above, but he hadn't abandoned his *duties*. He would continue nurturing life, to keep the energies flowing but he saw before him a greater path; a chance to mingle with the humans, to teach and enlighten them. He realized that he could no longer offer aid to his fellow Angels, and this brought him bouts of grief; heavy and dark. Yet he recognized that his choice was the only one open to him. As the tension had risen between Morningstar and Michael, Raphael's abilities had been diminished anyway; there was nothing left for him to do. He could only offer to heal those who came seeking it.

Surprisingly, after his speech to the Angelic, many came to him looking for sanctuary from the Above. Perhaps it was because of The First Great War, which broke like a tsunami over Heaven shortly after his official departure. He would always be left to question the motives of his brethren, wonder if those who had followed him into exile were truly friend or potential spy. Yet such worries were minor replaced by the excitement of what lay ahead. He saw potential in everything.

Below, the exiles begun taking on the guise of humans. They learned to slip unnoticed in to their ranks, move through their lives as if they were one of them. Many were lost to this practice for years, centuries, eons, for within the exiles there were none to stop them. Free will hadn't been an empty promise Raphael had offered; he'd meant every word. The exiles were allowed to choose their own direction without hindrance or interference from the others.

As for Raphael, he too slipped in to the guise of human and traveled the vast paradise of the Below. After a time, he even took a human woman as bride and had many children. All the while he worked to enlighten and educate the people for this fed his sense of purpose and hope; this fulfilled his *Duties*. He fought valiantly to open their eyes to the futility of violence and war but, just as with the Above, humans are instinctually driven to dominate; it is their nature. With profound sadness and sinking heart he recognized his attempts were nothing more than wasted effort.

He could count the foundation of religion and the desire to retain history as his most lasting accomplishments, but both brought bloodshed among the humans. It seemed they were driven to battle over everything. He watched in horror as the humans lost respect for their lands and grew blind to the wonders of the Mysteries misled by their own ambitions for power and control. It was then that he understood he must take action to preserve that which was most precious.

Perhaps it was the haunting memory of the Lady of the Moon" Or the sight of The Tree withering in a desert; the once great forest razed by the hand of human development to build temples to Gods and Goddesses they were slowly destroying" Whatever awakened him, awake he was.

Raphael and those most loyal began to build their own world; a world of wonder and magic. A world built to serve and protect the Mysteries of the physical. A world that they hid from the sights of the Above and the humans; allowing only a chosen few to see beyond The Veil. A world built to cherish and nurture the spirit of life.

He became known as Oberon, the King of the Fay and Raphael became a title soon forgot.

History is a fickle thing, he'd learned during his travels, easily rewritten. Once he'd fought to see it kept, thinking of the knowledge that could be gained, but now" He did not lay down words to explain their new world, he did not document who or why. Instead he let the past fall away and a new dawn rise.

Oberon was no longer the Angel Raphael; he'd been changed by his myriad of experiences. He had become something else.

* * * * * * * * *

What became of Asziel, you may wonder?

She did not follow Raphael to the Below, although she'd supposedly joined his cause so long ago. Instead she remained Above but none seemed to know much about her. No rumors reached his ears, no news of her was forthcoming and over the centuries Asziel's treachery dulled. The petty politics and maneuverings of the Above faded to a distant gray. He hadn't forgotten but he no longer cared about such matters.

The Oberon had more important issues on his mind than to contemplate ancient history best left buried.

Of course, it is when you least expect it that your past comes back to haunt.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-09-22 01:05 EST
The Fall Part 1

The memories shift with ease, like waves replaced by the rising tides, from the beginnings of life among the humans to the unexpected arrival of Asziel Below.

The spell Corwyn is working nears completion; the time grows close for the summoning to commence. It is as if the memories are compelled to hurry forward, drag him through the past towards this moment, towards this action. He is caught as much in the rushing tides of remembrances as he is in the mounting energies of the Arcane. Destiny awaits and what was all leads to what will be.

Oberon has had little contact with any who remained Above and, as time passed, fewer Angels have come to join the Exiles" cause. Rumors grow sparse and information concerning events in Heaven no longer find their way Below. Even the Official Watchers assigned by the Archangels Above spend their time Below, as if their jobs have become irrelevant and the information they gather no longer of any interest.

It seems that Oberon has indeed escaped the politics of the Above at last.

And then she came.

Like a harsh stormy wind Asziel appeared, her fury lashing at the trees and flattening the grasses, demanding to speak to Raphael, the Angel that Once Was. She brooked no argument, heard no appeal; she was intent upon seeing him and only him.

Many tried to keep her from their leader, they worked against the Angel they felt had betrayed them all, and yet her very tenacity frightened them. It was Oberon who made the decision, allowed her access to his palace and gave her the opportunity to find him. Much later he would question the wisdom of his choice, but at the time he was curious as to what had brought her to them.

"So, I find you at last, Raphael, playing God here in the In-Between."

"In-Between?" A term he'd not heard before.

"Asziel, the betrayer. I would say it's nice to see you but?" He lets the word trail as he taps an impatient finger against the arm rest of the grand throne that graces his audience chamber; a stage set to impress any seeking to officially address him. "What has brought you here before me?"

"So much for the pleasantries, eh' Not even an offer of hospitality to an "old friend?" You have changed, Raphael." Her tone accusing, her words meant to be harsh and biting. "Have you lost your compassion, Healer?"

"No, Asziel, I've lost my patience with you and to term yourself as "friend?" You insult me." He speaks softly, but there is a hard edge to his tone that she's never heard before. "Again, I ask; why are you here?"

"The Second Great War has just ended. They have cast Morningstar out of Heaven and all those who followed him. Even now they interview Angels to judge which side they stand. If any should dare agree with Morningstar they too will be damned and cast down. You must return Above and stop this madness, Raphael, it is *Your Duty*!"

"Damned", "Cast Down": two more new terms. Oberon lifts an inquisitive brow, the tapping of the finger replaced by a soothing smooth of its tip over polished wood.

"Damned, In-Between, Cast Down; terms I am not familiar with, Asziel. It is almost as if you speak another language." Coldness taints the bright silver eyes as he watches her suspiciously. "*Must* return" My *Duties*" You are in a demanding mood today, if a bit misinformed."

"You would allow Michael and Gabriel to perpetuate this sacrilege"! You would remain here and not lend aid to your brethren Above" What has happened to you, Raphael?"

"I am named Oberon now, Asziel. The Angel That Once Was is no longer. You cannot appeal to that which does not exist."

"Liar. You have no right to turn your back and allow this blasphemy to be perpetrated Above. No matter what you say, Raphael, you are still Seraph, your *Duty* is as your title suggests: God Has Healed. You are required to return, to save your own from this madness!"

Perhaps it was the vehemence with which she spoke, or her words struck a cord somewhere deep inside, or maybe his own guilt haunting but in that moment he softened towards her. This would, in the end, be his undoing. He had yet to question her motives; all he witnessed was the sincerity of her concern for their brethren and he allowed it to sway him.

"Asziel, please calm yourself." A gesture from the graceful, long-fingered hand to a chair nearby his own, "Sit, be comfortable and start from the beginning for, so far, you've managed only to confuse.?

Hours passed as the tale of The Second Great War and consequentially The Fall unfolded. Asziel did not know every detail that had led to Morningstar being cast down from Heaven; she could not explain how the power shifted from him to Michael and Gabriel. Nor did she understand how the final judgment of Damnation had come to pass. However she knew well the consequences since she herself faced much the same fate as Morningstar and his followers. By the end of her tale the Oberon realized she was right; he would once again ascend to face his brethren in hopes to stop this rift from continuing any further.

But before taking such an action he needed to speak with the other two.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-10-01 20:42 EST
The Fall Part 2

Heaven had changed a lot since last he had been here. Some things seemed the same, like the High Council Chamber, while others were dramatically different.

The first sight to greet him when he arrived Above was the wall.

A wall had been erected around the Grand Citadel, effectively shutting the mortal souls and any others deemed unfit out. The "paradise" Michael had built for them seemed little less than slums. No Angelic caretakers were apparent, nor was there any sign of comfort and compassion that had once been freely offered. The souls looked bewildered, confused; lost. He was not only appalled by the sight, but sickened to the very core of his being. How could the mortals be so poorly treated when all knew The Great Architect favored them above all others"

It is these images that haunt him even today; the injustice perpetrated against the mortals. He has never been given an answer as to why this had been done.

The Oberon could not access the High Council Chamber directly as he once had been able, (back in the days he'd been known as the Angel Raphael). It didn't surprise him; he'd expected Michael and Gabriel to pull such a stunt. Having Cast Down Morningstar, they held all the power now. He anticipated they'd abuse it.

Forced to request admittance at The Gate, (the only way to gain access to the Grand Citadel), he was given ample time to assess the "haven" the mortals had been "gifted". The Oberon knew that Michael made him wait on purpose. The motive was yet unclear but the message came across without confusion.

At last The Gate opened and allowed him inside. He was "escorted" to the High Council Chamber, given no free reign almost as if it had been forbidden for him to commune with any others of his race. His guards, Angels from Gabriel's Legion, left him at the entrance of the chambers without ever a word passed.

The Oberon stepped in to the chamber expecting the High Council Members to be present, only to find Michael alone.

From his conversations with his fellow conspirators he had been warned to expect the worse, however neither had painted this grim an image. Perhaps they hadn't known how bad it had gotten Above" Perhaps they hadn't wanted to be the bearers of such grave tidings" He made a mental note to ask them both later.

"Raphael, you have returned at last. I assume it is to retake your *Duties*." Michael appears distracted as if something weighs upon him, heavy and sinister. "I must say you took your sweet time. Your talents could have been of use during these dark days."

"Where is the rest of the Council, Michael?"

"Gone."

"Gone" What do you mean; Gone?"

"I mean they are gone, Raphael. Have you lost your ability to understand our language" Gone as in no longer here, need I be plainer?" Michael's voice is cold, harsh, with an edge the Oberon recognizes he too has acquired over time. "You are not the only one to abandon *Us*, Raphael."

The innocence of Angels has been shattered. The Oberon wonders if this is the true bane of the immortal; losing purity, going from optimist to pragmatist"

"Michael, I understand you plainly enough, but your words create nothing but questions. You claim they are gone, but you do not explain the why of it. I know you have cast down Morningstar; that he has been damned. I have seen the state Heaven is in. What I don't understand is how any of this came to pass" What have you done, Brother" Why has the Council vanished?"

"Hmm, why haven't you noticed it yet, eh, Raphael" Have you strayed so far from your heritage that you lost it long ago' It begs to question, Brother, why you can't sense what is *most obvious*!" Michael fairly spits the words at the Oberon; heated, angry, full of spite. "The Angelic have been forsaken, Raphael. We are being punished for Morningstar's betrayal!"

There are moments that define us; this was one of them for the Oberon. He'd never lost communion with The Great Architect, he'd never once abandoned his true *Duties*. It came as a surprise that here, where he should feel closest to his Creator, there was an eerie absence of His Presence.

He doesn't understand how such a thing could happen, he isn't sure he knows how to repair it. The stark truth is this is out of his depths and the Oberon does not like being in such a position. He scowls at Michael pondering what to say next but Michael beats him to the punch.

"You act all high and mighty, you claim what you've done is just and yet you have been in the *dark* far longer than we, isn't that right, Raphael" Tell me, does it get easier as time passes?"

"Easier" I would not know, Michael. Our Creator has not abandoned me." He doesn't monitor his tone; he allows the scorn he feels to taint it. "What have you done to deserve this" Why has this happened, Michael?"

"Why"! I've told you *why*! Morningstar turned against The Great Architect, he betrayed us all and so must we suffer! We did as He bade; we cast Morningstar out of Heaven, but it was not enough for He is no longer among us! There have to be others: we must hunt them down to finish this!"

"Michael you sound paranoid and dramatic. Calm yourself, Brother." The Oberon speaks in a cajoling tone, hoping to soothe Michael towards greater wisdom. "Perhaps together we can work this out?"

"The same old Raphael, trying to manipulate like always; don't you ever grow bored of it' These games you try and play' Don't think I don't know how you came to be here. You can tell that bitch that she's banished. She ran away rather than come to her appointment, so we judged her accordingly."

"*We*, Michael" I see only You."

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-10-02 02:33 EST
The Fall Part 3

"You are blind! You know nothing; you are nothing. Yet you come to Heaven with the intent to dictate to me"! Do not dare woo me with your soothing words; do not dare to control me with your Angelic talents! You abandoned us, Raphael and unless you have come back to serve *Me*, then you, like that scum Asziel, are no longer welcome here! Be gone and do not return unless it is to retake your *Duties* to Me!"

The Oberon is speechless in the face of Michael's growing insanity. He doesn't know how to bring Michael back from this abyss for reason seems to have fled the Seraph. Of all the things Raphael can think to say he is fairly certain none of them will reach Michael. Michael has no intentions of listening to him. If anything, the Oberon has learned when to walk away and this is one of those situations. He can't win; he recognizes this with the quickness of his inborn talents.

"Then rot in this bed you've made, Michael, if that is your true desire." He speaks as he turns towards the exit with every intention of leaving as Michael has commanded.

"Oh, no, Raphael, you don't get to walk out of here." The foreboding tone hangs heavy in the air between them. "You leave from *here*, Raphael. No more tainting the Angelic for you, Brother, those days are gone."

The Oberon laughs as he turns to look back at his fellow Seraph, "You fear I will entice others away." A statement, not a question, "What you fail to understand, Michael, is that you drive them away. I don't need to speak to them to lure them out of Heaven, Brother; you will send them to me."

"You insolent, arrogant deserter! How dare you?!"

"How dare I" You and yours are the reason you have been forsaken by The Great Architect, Michael. Perhaps you should lose your delusions and face the reality of your actions" It is not Morningstar who has caused this rift, but you and your followers. What have you done to deserve this Michael" It is time you asked yourself this question. Perhaps it isn't too late to reclaim the glory you've lost but you must know how you lost it first." The Oberon doesn't bother mincing his words, although he expects Michael to turn a deaf ear. "I dare to speak because it is my *Duty*, Brother. I wish to see Heaven as it once was, not as it is now."

"Oh, judging me are you? You have no right to judge anyone Raphael. You gave up such rights when you advocated your position in the Council. Be gone from here for we in Heaven have no use for the likes of you!"

"Happily. Heaven is no place for any souls now because of what you've made of it." The Oberon turns away but before he has the chance to make his escape Gabriel appears with another of their race in tow.

"This is the last of them." Gabriel says as he pushes an Angel barely known to the Oberon away from him. Briefly Gabriel grants a scowl at the Oberon and then with intention he turns his back; meant to be a slight, done with the same insolence one would grant an annoying insect.

"Are you sure?" Michael demands.

"Yes, Michael. I have combed the Citadel; this is the last to be judged."

"What is your name?" Michael demands of the confused Angel.

"Belial. I am assigned as a Keeper of History. Might I ask why I have been summoned?"

"I found this one writing about The Fall." Gabriel's tone accusing as he shoves the Angel further away from Michael and himself; almost as if the space is mandatory to keep them safe from some kind of potential infection.

"I see." Michael replies coldly as if Gabriel's words explained everything.

"A history keeper's job is to record what they witness." The Oberon is appalled by the behavior of the two Seraph, he feels compelled to interrupt. "There is no rhyme or reason in judging one for doing their *Duties*."

"There you go again, displaying your ignorance, Raphael. You know nothing of our *laws* any longer. And pray tell me why do you think you have say in what happens *here*"! You are unwelcome and your advice; useless. Be gone. We are done with you!"

The Oberon would have made comment had he been given time, however Michael waved his hand and suddenly he found himself back on Earth, staring at trees where his brethren should have been.

* * * * * * * *

To say that the Oberon was angry would be an understatement, but what recourse did he really have" He saw the bleakness of the situation and also recognized that his ability to influence the Above had come to a crashing halt.

What had become of the Council"

It would take many centuries for him to discern but over time he would discover the truth. It would be too late to stop the progression of deterioration of Heaven or the coming of the Third Great War, but not too late to save their race and those of the mortal realms. In the end, Corwyn would win out' but that day was far in coming from this slice in time.

As for Asziel; she took her banishment hard, falling into a deep depression that ate away at the very core of her. The Oberon knew she blamed him for her situation, although he was not the one who'd condemned her. She had expected him to go Above and fix everything and when he failed in this task, she was quick to lay the responsibility of her hardships on his shoulders. He offered comfort and reassurance, he tried to show her that she had choices, but it took many years for her to snap out of it. Finally when she did, she decided to remain with the Exiles In-Between rather than joining Morningstar and his ranks Below.

The Oberon never asked her for loyalty, never pressed her for an oath to protect their creations. Perhaps if he had things would have gone differently"

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-10-02 15:34 EST
Sid Part 1

The prison is ready. It is time to summon the criminal. The three Seraph join, lighting the beacon they know she won't, can't refuse. It has taken many months to reach this point and soon the fruits of their labor will see accomplishment.

Even as the Three merge, Corwyn's memories flow unheeded. Like the tide, at last, pulling away from the shore, there is one moment yet to be relived. Perhaps the most telling of them all and it refuses to remain locked away. Rather it collides into them even as the spell of summoning commences.

The day Manon was "born".

Corwyn remembers the details with a clarity few other experiences hold, for on that day he saw his destiny shining and clear in the eyes of the youth. He had all that he believed confirmed. Yet only the Three now One were aware of it, for he had kept his secrets close and safe.

That morning he had been arguing with Mab, the title Asziel had taken when she'd joined the Exiles. Their argument was an old one, a tired one, a point he felt he'd made more than plain.

"Oberon, you are a fool to think that the rest of us should follow you like some kind of leader. You are just like us, no better, nor worse. Why do you persist in pushing this issue when you above all others should recognize its dead?"

"Mab, we are not Gods, no matter what you perceive and I will continue to refuse such ignoble title. It is merely a mortal perception, one that taints the true glory of our race. Laying claim to such powers which are not ours is arrogant and egotistical. It is true we have created many species to walk this wondrous world, but we did not create the world. We are the caretakers; we have procreated not created our unique offspring's. We can not lay claim to being greater than we are for it goes against the teachings of our race. All Exiles know from whence we've come, there should be no reason for me to reiterate this now or ever again!"

"You delude yourself that the rest of us care about our origins, Oberon. We have been abandoned by the Above, none save you see reason to continue in such service!"

"Blasphemy that is what you speak, Mab. You had best watch yourself?"

"Or what? You'll *punish* me"!" She interrupts before he can finish his sentence, her tone scornful. She turns away from him in disgust, her anger based on far more than this argument. "You have given me nothing, Oberon! You take liaison with the lowest of us but you refuse me the attentions I crave. Instead"! You give "wife" to H'll"n"!"

"You overlook the obvious, Mab." He smirks as he reclines upon the plush pillows of his private quarters. "My feelings for the lady are what granted her such privilege."

"Oh, yes, *love*." Mab's laughter is cutting and cruel. "Obviously the Seraph were gifted the right to have emotion. Do you think it returned" I have news for you Oberon; she could give a rat's ass about you; it's the power she craves!"

"Some would say the same about you, Mab."

"Taunt me all you will, but you will rue the day you chose her over me!"

"Will I" Will I really?"

"Milord, Milady' There has been a disturbance in the Great Forest, near the Tree I was sent to tell you." The Elven servant would rather have been any where else than there, but duty called. He'd overheard a part of their exchange and although he may not comprehend the depths of it, he understands that Mab is upset. An upset Mab is nothing to be messed with.

"Out you sniveling little weasel, can't you see we are busy"!" Mab snaps at the servant before the Oberon has time to make comment.

"Mab, that's enough! You will not speak to *mine* like that. They have orders to inform me of such situations and you have been given no leave to treat them as you will."

"How terrible of me to assume that my time with you is to be respected!"

He would like to tell her to shut up and get lost but there is no diplomacy in such behavior. Besides, Mab has been building an army to rival Gabriel's Legion. She claims it is to protect the Lands and races they have nurtured to life. But the Oberon suspects it's her lust for power that drives her, not protection. In this, his wisdom has flagged, for he has not countered her army with one of his own, an oversight he plans on remedying.

"We will speak on these matters later, if you insist, however my attention is needed elsewhere." He speaks as he rises, moving towards the doorway and freedom from her nagging.

"This is far from over, Oberon. I won't give up until I have everything I want.?

He takes it as the threat he knows it to be. He has no intentions of giving in to her demands, but he recognizes that this won't stop her. She will do whatever needs doing to get what she thinks she wants. In this he has no illusions. What the Oberon fails to realize is the depths to which she will sink; the morals and ethics agreed upon by the Exiles do not hold any power over Mab because no one had ever thought to ask for her accord. She has no scruples and this is something she has carefully kept hidden from him, from them all.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-10-03 21:31 EST
Sid Part 2

At this time in Angelic History, the Above has already fought two wars against the Below. The Oberon has heard the name Belial again, mentioned in connection with Gabriel and his Legion. Supposedly the History Keeper was cast down and somehow won the privilege to lead the armies of the Below against Gabriel's Legion. In the two wars fought so far, Belial has been victorious. The Oberon often wonders if this sits as poorly with Gabriel as he suspects it would. It was Gabriel who'd seen Belial damned after all, certainly losing wars to the demon must incite an impassioned anger. Yet the Oberon can not help but find it fitting.

The temperature Above is tense and many Angels have fled Heaven, seeking sanctuary with the Exiles In-Between. He suspects that as Belial is Gabriel's bane, so he has become Michael's. Losing followers to your most detested of enemies would sting the ego of any being. Again, the Oberon finds this fitting for he had warned Michael of such an outcome.

Rumors run rife concerning the rift developing Above, between the Choirs and Michael and Gabriel, the only two Seraph who have remained in the so-called Council. The Angel Simon has risen above the others as a leader against the Seraph that have remained in control and the word is he plans to unseat them both. The Oberon hopes this is truth; witnessing the overthrow of the two Seraph would please him immensely. He has even contemplated offering the rebels aid but has yet to approach them. He would like to know more of this Simon before making such a commitment.

Since there have been so many new arrivals, the Exiles created a Welcoming Committee of sorts; a group dedicated to greet their fallen brethren, and acquaint them with the ways of the In-Between. The Oberon has insisted that he be among them for it is to him his *Duty* to ensure that the newly arrived are reassured and comforted. It is a small thing he can offer them and it has won many to lend him their support. Something he must consider these days as some within the ranks of the Exiles strive towards seizing control over and above all others; like Mab for example. But of late few have come seeking such sanctuary and the Exiles are left to ponder why.

On this day, the Oberon feels an odd sense of excitement, perhaps it is because the news from Above has grown so sparse" Or maybe the Fates are whispering" Or he is just happy to have escaped the grilling by Mab" Whatever the reason, he finds himself smiling as he joins the others awaiting his arrival.

"We're ready when you are, Milord." Danise bows her head as she speaks. She has been assigned as the committee's head.

"Not so fast." The voice is unmistakable and he turns to glare at Mab. "I think I shall be joining you today." Her smile should have charmed the skin off a snake, but the Oberon knows she has ulterior motives; it does nothing but disgust him.

"You are like a pesky puppy Mab; you just don't know when to leave well enough alone."

"So, you want to advertise our little disagreement, Oberon' I am more than happy to tell everyone my point?"

"Don't try such a game with me, Mab, it won't work."

"Hmph, you put a lot of faith in your abilities, Oberon, but many may prefer my ideals over yours. Careful how you count those loyal, you may be surprised to discover how few truly stand at *your* side."

"Enough! We have an Angel to greet. If you are coming, fine, but keep your mouth closed, Mab. We've heard enough of your poison for one day."

"Poison?" Mab laughs amused as she steps in to the circle with the others. "Hmph."

"We are ready, Danise.? The Oberon gives the Exile a nod to let her know she can teleport them now, but his cold, silver gaze remains fixed on Mab. He's becoming more than tired of her incessant games.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-10-03 23:07 EST
Sid Part 3

The moment he laid eyes on the youngling, he knew. In an intuitive flash he saw the threads of energy that glittered as bright as summer stars within; this being was no mere Angel but a hybrid. The essence of the Angelic entwined with those of the Mysteries. How such a thing had come to happen, he had no answer but happen it had.

He also knew without understanding that they were not the first to greet the newest arrival; the Mysteries had already paid homage.

He does not recall how he came to stand before the youth, he simply found himself there, his hand already reaching to caress the being's cheek with the back of spidery thin fingers.

"You're safe now." The words are whispered, gentle and soothing, in the language of Angels, as he gazes into eyes filled with such horrors. The youth has no reluctance; allowing him to 'see" the existence that Fate had meted out.

Brethren against Brethren, dealers of death, the blood of Angels flowing like a raging river Above. A battlefield unlike any ever witnessed In-Between. Bodies of Angels strewn like so much wood tossed about like a hurricane to litter the landscape; the only land this soul has ever known.

Gabriel's Legion has been trained to fight and die over and over again, in order to build the perfect army. Sickening images fill the Oberon but he does not turn away. Rather he welcomes them, taking them in to himself to free the torment of the soul ensnared by those experiences.

"You are safe." He repeats low and tender, again in the only language the being may know, his hand cupping the youth's face, keeping that gaze locked with his.

"It's one of Gabriel's Legion!" Mab's voice declares from somewhere behind him. She speaks in the tongue of the Elves. "It's a spy, we should kill it. Kill it NOW!"

A murmur rises among the welcoming party, low at first but building as they commence to argue. The odd way the Oberon is reacting does not bring the others comfort, but rather inspires greater fear.

Has he been bewitched" They begin to speculate.

The Angelic are not limited by distance or space like other races; they have the innate ability to commune telepathically with each other using little more than thought. As beings of energy they can travel where they want in a blink of a mortal's eye. As the scene unfolds, many confer with those they have befriended and all too soon, other Exiles begin arriving; the Oberon's "wife", H'll"n", among them.

Although he senses the new arrivals and the growing fear of the Exiles, his thoughts are centered on the being before him.

He knows this being is no spy.

It is true that none of Gabriel's Legion had ever come seeking sanctuary, nor had any of them been cast down to serve Below. There are many theories as to the why of it, but few facts to back them up. Some conjecture that Gabriel has created them soulless, empty vessels, with no ambition or drive, built to serve Gabriel's will alone. Gabriel, like many of the other Seraph, has the ability to create lesser Angels, but all save Michael, Raziel or Raphael, have been limited in their creations. It is possible that Gabriel did not actually create this Angel.

In fact, this being should not exist, yet obviously it does. The Oberon may not have the answers as to how this has happened, but he believes he knows the why.

This is his destiny.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-10-04 15:27 EST
Sid Part 4

For many centuries he'd pondered his meeting with the Lady of the Moon; what it had meant, why it had happened. He'd assumed, over time, she'd simply bequeathed him the gift of communing with the Mysteries. He drew this conclusion based on the fact that he alone felt such a close kinship to them, whereas others of his race seemed apathetic at best. But now, confronted with this being, he realizes otherwise.

What he sees is a new beginning; a shared beginning.

All will be greater because of this union. Binding the powers together will instill better understanding between the races. Mortals, Angels and the Mysteries will benefit from this fusion. He can not help but feel excited by the myriad of new possibilities and revel in a future where peace among them flourishes.

But he is not paying heed to what is happening behind him.

"What is this" Why is he acting so strangely?" demands H'll"n" in a heated whisper of her supporters nearby.

Mab is thinking the same as she scowls at the new arrival, her hatred already spawning dastardly plots.

"It is a spy!" Proclaims a voice from somewhere in the back of the ever growing crowd. "It's one of Gabriel's Legions. We should do as Mab says and kill it!"

"Send it back to Gabriel in a box!" Mab concurs with the unidentified speaker loudly.

"This is no spy." The Oberon responds in Elven, glad that the youth can't understand them. He stares in to the coal dark depths, drinking in the pain dealt by Gabriel's driving ambition for victory. The Oberon feels the anger rising inside, like a tidal wave ever growing intent on devouring all the land. He can't fathom the horror that this soul has been subjected to. He can't find understanding for such a despicable act.

"You can't know that!" hissed Mab as she steps from the circle, stopping a few feet behind the Oberon. She turns to face the crowd, "Gabriel has sent it to spy on us, and we will not allow such traitors in our midst!" Her voice loud and clear so to be best heard over the grumblings of the anxious Exiles.

"Shut up, Mab." The Oberon turns from the youth to glance at Mab as he speaks. "You work to inspire a mob, and I will not allow any harm to come to this soul. Not now; not ever again!" He turns his attentions to the others. "Can't any of you *see* what has been done here" Or are all of you blinded by your fear and paranoia?"

"Oberon?" H'll"n" calls his name softly as she too steps forth to stand behind him. "I don't understand" It is one of Gabriel's Legion. How can you offer it sanctuary without questioning its motives?"

"None of Gabriel's Legion has ever fallen; none have ever come seeking sanctuary before. There is only one reason why such a thing would happen now. If you won't do what needs doing Oberon, then step aside and allow us to." Mab commands fiercely.

There is a murmur of agreement from the restless crowd, and the Oberon understands that he must act quickly, or they will move against him.

Has this been Mab's plan all along" Has she been waiting for such a moment' He can't keep these thoughts from coalescing.

"Since none of you seem to wish to see beyond the obvious, allow me to *show* you." With his words the Oberon opens himself to their minds, allowing them to see as he has. He holds nothing back for he wants them each to taste the horror of what has been done to their brethren.

Gasps and cries of dismay erupt in a flurry from the crowd, some even stumble away, tears streaming from wide eyes as they fight to regain their lost composure. It gives him a twisted sense of satisfaction.

"How dare you use such parlor tricks in attempt to sway us Oberon!" Mab accuses, untouched by the horrific images.

She outplayed herself for it is then that he knew. Mab had known all along about Gabriel's Legion and the training that was forced upon them. Cold, silver eyes fall on the lesser Angel as he steps away from the youth at last.

"You *knew*, Mab. You knew and you said nothing." His words are soft and low as he turns the anger inside upon her; a useful outlet for such a hefty weight. She's kept her knowledge hidden all this time and he feels she's earned a taste of his wrath.

"So what if I knew?" she fairly spits the words in his face, "Care I for the lot of those Gabriel creates" No! They hold loyalty to Gabriel and only him Oberon. You delude yourself with your compassion; he plays to your flaws and weaknesses as he would to any mortal's. What is most disgusting is: you let him!" Mab flings her words as if they are weapons, born from the intensity of her desire to hold his perceived position. "If you can't stand strong, then step aside, weakling, and allow those of us who wish to survive do what must be done!?

Long Lankyn

Date: 2006-10-05 16:48 EST
Sid Part 5

If he could have killed Mab at that moment, he would have but he sensed that there were others in the crowd that thought along similar lines; too many others to justify such an action. To move against Mab so openly would create a rift too wide to bridge; all that he has worked to build would be gone in a mortal heartbeat. He must bide his time and in the meantime, regain the control she's trying to wrench from him and steal for herself.

"I know many of you feel that this is some ruse, a trick being perpetrated upon us by Gabriel, and that we should kill this being to save ourselves. But I ask you, save ourselves from what?" He steps away from Mab, careful to keep the disgust he feels for her from his expression or his tone of voice. This isn't about her right now; it's about keeping what he's created safe.

"Gabriel can't touch us; there is no reason for him to send a spy among us. Killing this Angel will prove only our fear of him." He realizes even as he speaks what he's saying doesn't hold the power he needs for it to take root in the fearful minds of the others. Yet even as he struggles to find the right thing to say H'll"n" interrupts.

"She is no spy." Softly spoken yet firm with fact, her words easily travel over the agitated crowd for all to hear. Unlike Mab who practically yells, H'll"n"'s dulcet and tender tones touch their minds oddly able to comfort their uncertainties.

"And pray tell how *you* would know that?" Mab demands with the lifting of an imperial brow, her tone suggesting that she doesn't believe H'll"n" in the least.

The Oberon turns to stare at H'll"n" in surprise, wondering how she knew the Angel is a 'she"; he had yet to discern that for himself.

"I asked her." H'll"n" replies with a calm, cool voice. Turning to the new arrival she opens her arms beckoning the youth to her side and then, speaking in the tongue of Angels, asks "Come over to me child, it is time you told your story to the others."

The youngling moves from her stance near the Great Tree to H'll"n"'s side, allowing the elder to place a protective arm about her shoulders. The youth is far taller than H'll"n", built like a soldier, but that doesn't seem to affect the elder; H'll"n" enjoys being motherly. H'll"n" looks squarely at Mab. "While you chose to bicker with the Oberon, I choose to speak to the child. You can continue your play for power, Mab, but not right now, and certainly not while wasting my time. Nor will I allow you to involve this innocent being."

A chastisement mixed with a brutally public accusation. H'll"n" is no fool, although Mab is quick to paint her as such. H'll"n" is as tired of Mab's plots and ploys as is her husband and will do what she can to see them come to an end. H'll"n" turns her attentions to the youth, whispering quietly before turning to eye the crowd. A hush falls over those gathered as their Mother figurehead grants them her direct attentions.

"If you question me or the Oberon, then ask her yourselves! She may not speak in the tongue of the Exiles, but all of us here will understand what she has to say." A tender pat granted to the child, a prodding for her to speak and speak she does.

"I am tired of the killing." Simple words, not expected from a soldier, spoken quietly but truth rings clear in her words. "I would rather cease to exist than continue to serve such *Duties*."

"Lies! He's given them the talent to lie." Mab accuses as she jabs a finger towards H'll"n" and the youth while addressing the others. Yet Mab's words ring weak and empty, too many know that Gabriel has no such talent.

"You wish, Mab." H'll"n" snaps in response. "Please cease with your incessant ambition for control, many of us are well and truly sick of it."

The restless stirring of the crowd begins to abate as reason returns; the mob mentality ebbing away. The reassurance granted by their Mother H'll"n" relieves many of their impulsive fears. Too many are aware of Mab's driving ambitions, and in this H'll"n" is correct; most are tired of her constant manipulations. They would rather follow H'll"n" than be subjected to Mab.

Yet not all of them believe the soothing words of H'll"n", a few still perceive the new arrival as a potential threat, all of them supporters of Mab. Yet none of them dare speak out for they know this will not win them favor in their Mistress's eyes; she wishes to keep their increasing numbers quietly to herself.

It appears as if H'll"n" and the Oberon have won this round.

But Mab's anger swells ever more heated; she hates to lose, even a small battle such as this and there is something about this new arrival that bodes badly within. A warning bell is tolling, loud and shrill; the Oberon's reaction to the Angel is what feeds this response. Mentally she vows to see this Angel destroyed if it is the last thing she ever does; too bad she hadn't thought to shield her thoughts tight enough to keep the Oberon from "overhearing" them.

"You will regret taking this one into your fold!" Mab sneers at no one in particular as she turns away, her disgust evident in her tone and the lines of her body. "She will be the downfall of us all!" a threat, a warning; perhaps both' And before any can naysay her, or the Oberon confront her for her wicked thoughts, she's gone.

H'll"n" smiles to the new arrival, happy to ignore Mab and her drama, as she smoothes a hand over the youth's arm soothingly. "Everything will be alright now; you are safe as the Oberon has promised."

Watching H'll"n" with the youngling, the Oberon smiles, pleased; this is the reason why he chose her over Mab. H'll"n" is a lot like him; a nurturer, someone who wants and believes in all that is good and kind. Even in Mab's most sincere moments she can't come close to understanding such instincts.

Yet H'll"n" does not strike the same cords inside him that the new arrival does" and this could bring discord if he is not very, very careful. But that, dear readers, is a story for another time.

* * * * * * * *

The youth took the name of Manon, and eventually became the Maiden. The Oberon and she spent many blissful years together until the machinations of Mab reached out and destroyed them.

It was not only Mab's jealousy that drove her but her overwhelming desire to hold power over all in the Lands. To this end, she went to great lengths, betraying all that was precious. She committed many crimes to acquire her power but the one that stung the deepest and lingers even to this day was the destruction she wrought upon the species of the Lands; stealing away the goodness and innocence only to replace them with lust, greed and an insatiable appetite for power.

At last the time has come for Mab to face the consequences of her actions and the Oberon is pleased he will be there to witness it.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2007-02-03 17:29 EST
Mab's Betrayals

The summoning has been sent, the moment they have been planning for is upon them. The Three now One wait for they know she will come and soon. She won't be able to resist and they have set their trap carefully. Mab will believe exactly as they wish her to.

In a blinding flash of white light she arrives; just as they had anticipated. Her laughter rings derisive and cruel as she turns to face what appears to be Corwyn alone.

"You've summoned me, Fool, and here I am." So confident and poised, she is convinced she is untouchable, and this is what they wanted her to believe.

"Do not trust what you think you see," Corwyn allows his smile to widen, "It is not I that has summoned you, Mab."

"Oh?" Her laughter fills the cavern echoing against hard rock with scathing triumph. "You fool; you have wasted all your energies to get me here! Did you miss your prison so much, Oberon' Well, I am happy to put you back in it!"

The Three now One separate, Raziel stepping to Corwyn's right while Raquel moving to his left, each taking physical form. Corwyn shakes his silvered head allowing his amusement to show in the unlined, un-aging Elven countenance but this is not his moment, he does not bother to respond to her.

"You have been summoned before me to face your judgment, *Angel*." Raquel says as he smiles serenely.

"What is this"! How dare you?" Her anger is not dulled but there is now surprise and a hint of fear to her tone as she steps backwards away from the Three.

"It is my Duty that I serve Asziel." Raquel speaks softly as he moves two steps closer towards her. "Do not bother to try to escape; we have sealed your passage. It is time to face the consequences of your sins."

The expression on her face is priceless and Corwyn allows himself the luxury of basking in this moment. Perhaps it isn't the kindest of gestures, but there is a deep satisfaction knowing that at last she will pay for her crimes against him and his.

"You did this!" Mab screams jabbing an accusing finger towards Corwyn. "Look at him! He is pleased by my plight! He calls himself faithful, he lays claim to his Seraph title and Duties yet he relishes in my distress! It is not I whom should be facing your judgment, Raquel?"

"Please, Asziel. I am "Friend of God"; do you think that I do not know my Duty" Do you believe your petty words will sway me" Your powers do not work against us, for we have gone to great lengths to remain pure of such contaminants." Raquel speaks in a soft tone, but his words are edged with steel. This is the first time that the Three have admitted to another soul of their clandestine partnership, but it will not be the last.

"I should have known! All along it was the three of you, wasn't it' Michael and Gabriel suspected, but they assumed it was Raziel and Chamuel, not you Raquel who had somehow sided with Raphael! Wait until I tell them, then we shall see who's paying for what!" Mab threatens even now at the moment of her judging.

Raquel laughs shaking his head. "You are deluded by thinking you will have the opportunity to speak to anyone save us, Asziel. We are your Keepers now."

"You can't keep me here Raquel. None of you hold the energy to work the spell of imprisonment." Mab's words are gleeful as she grants them a knowing smirk. "Do you think I would walk in here sensing that kind of power?"

"Do you think we would be foolish enough to advertise such power?" Raziel speaks for the first time since Mab's appearance. He knows this is Raquel's 'show", but he too holds bitterness for what she's stolen from him. Her actions have jeopardized his Duty to keep the Angelic Arcane secret and safe; he is as invested in this moment as Corwyn. "We knew you'd resist the summoning if you sensed any strength behind it."

"Raziel." Raquel warns gently with the speaking of his brother's name. "Later, please" The time is upon me to see to my Duty."

Mab doesn't pay heed to their words, but attempts to teleport away, only to find the passage blocked just as both Raquel and Raziel had warned. Fear and hesitation momentarily freeze her in place as she tries to figure a way out of this situation. The Three watch her changing expressions, reading her thoughts with the ease of their heritage. Their silence feeds the frenzy of her panicked state.

"Deceit! You have lured me here under false pretense." Mab proclaims, "Lies, trickery, and plots!?" And you call me here to be judged" Who will judge you, Raquel?"

"You challenge me and my Duties again Asziel"!" Raquel's tone is low and suddenly threatening. "Enough! You have been summoned to stand judgment for your crimes against your Brethren."

He doesn't give her time to make comment but continues immediate upon his statement.

"You have worked in league to see others of your race destroyed; offering liege in a time of madness in exchange for Raphael's destruction." Raquel presents the evidence in a shimmer of images magically displayed in the air between Mab and himself as he speaks.

In the scene conjured Mab stands before Michael and Gabriel, offering her forces to aid in the End of Days in return for a small token; the life of Corwyn. She is willing to sacrifice all to see the Oberon destroyed.

"Wait! That is unfair! I gave them the Lands so they would not destroy them during their foolish End of Days!" Mab insists in growing desperation.

"Hm, I can add yet another lie to the already long list." Raquel shrugs off her words as another image takes shape. In this one she's attempting to seduce Raziel and when that failed she resorted to poisoning him; all to gain access to the Angelic Arcane which would allow her to imprison the Oberon and attempt to destroy Manon.

"You dare use that against me"!" Mab screams. "It was my *right* to take what Raziel refused!"

"How can you lay such a claim, Asziel" You know the *rules* of the Above."

"I do not serve the Above, Raquel! I was banished, remember" How dare you judge me and not those who tore Heaven asunder?"

"All in good time, Asziel, all in good time. They will face their judgments the same as you." Raquel waves a dismissive hand as yet another image unfolds.

Mab weaving the spell of enchantment over Raphael, stealing away his free will, while binding him to her. A quick shift as another scene unfolds: the Lands blanketed in cold, harsh Winter, the Maiden ensnared in the Tree of Sorrows. In rapid succession another image flows over the last; the Oberon trapped in a crystalline prison, Mab cruelly taunting him.

"Oh, no, *that* has *nothing* to do with you or the Above, Raquel, you cannot hold it against me!"

"Ah, in this you are wrong, *Angel*. You broke the rules; you used stolen Angelic Arcane to ensnare one Brother, stealing away his freedom of thought, and then as if that weren't enough you tore apart another Angel's essence, threatening her very existence. Then when everything you'd done failed you imprisoned your Brother, simply out of your lust for power. Again, there is a price to pay according to the laws of our kind."

"But it has nothing to do with you or the Above!" Mab insists with mounting fury.

"It has everything to do with me and the Above, Asziel. The rules are simple but they are firm; we are not to do harm to our own for personal gain."

"Yet Gabriel is allowed to *train* his Legion as he will"!" She confronts manipulatively.

"You do not stand as Judge, Asziel. That is my Duty. Gabriel will face his crimes when it is his turn. We are not here to discuss the misdeeds of others; we are here to confront your actions."

"But?"

"There are no "buts" Asziel. Just because one breaks a rule, does not give leeway for others to follow that same path." Raquel doesn't allow her to finish her sentence; he's growing ever more tired of her useless, senseless arguments. "You are done speaking your cause, fall silent and hear your crimes."

"I will do no such?"

"Oh, but you will or I will silence you!" Raquel snaps, once again interrupting her. What patience he had is now at end.

"You don't have that power!"

"You wish to play this game with me, Asziel" Then so be it! Your crimes can be recited over the next millennium, while you languish in a prison of your own creation!?

Raquel looks to Corwyn, giving him the nod. The cavern begins to swirl with energy as Corwyn summons the Power of the Triumvirate, pulling the essence of the most newly created Seraph, Sid and Belial, into himself. Without words the trap is triggered. Energy stored for just this moment erupts with a suddenness in a brilliant flash of many colors and Mab finds herself locked up; inside a prison she'd crafted so long ago for a similar if less noble purpose.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2007-02-16 19:32 EST
Mab's Betrayals Part 2

Mab's fury can be heard even through the thick crystal walls of her cage, screaming at the injustice of her situation, cursing and threatening them, yet all three ignore her for the moment. Just as Mab had done so long ago to Corwyn, they too have done to her; her powers have been limited. She cannot teleport away nor can she contact any with her mind. Mab's own trap has truly been turned against her.

"We have to work fast." Raziel comments turning to the other two. "Belial's situation is precarious at best; he will know she's been drained."

"I have that covered, Brother." Raquel responds with his serene smile intact before shifting his attention from Raziel to Corwyn. "You are now charged to do your Duty, Raphael or I shall be forced to do mine. You have made them into the powers they are, they are yours to Heal. Do your Duty or face my Judgment."

"I understand, Raquel, but know this: What has been done was agreed upon by the three of us. They are Seraph now, and it is up to all of us to see them educated."

"There is little time, Brothers." Raziel reminds gently but urgently. "Even now he is making his move."

"Belial is safe, Raziel." Corwyn replies with a knowing smile, "She's with me and not abandoned Above."

"I still sense her there, Raphael." Raziel insists with a frown. "You know what may happen if even one of you is destroyed; the other two will be greatly weakened. It is the reason why we three did not attempt such a joining."

Raquel nods contemplatively. "We could not take such a risk as we are the only Seraph left that have remained loyal to our creation. However times have changed thanks to Raphael's shrewd maneuverings. Heaven has been restored and the Great Architect returned. Michael's madness has been healed and Gabriel's powerbase weakened."

"Worry not, Raziel. I would not allow any harm to befall the two under my care nor would I jeopardize any of us." Corwyn reassures.

"At last the time has come. He will know soon enough the trick that has been played on him. I must ascend and strike now before he grows wise to our plot." Raquel comments quietly yet there is about the Seraph an air of satisfaction as if he is pleased and excited by what lay ahead. "God's speed to you both."

In a flicker of brilliant white light Raquel vanishes, leaving the other two to face the ever increasing wrath of Mab alone. Raziel turns his head towards the imprisoned one, shaking his head slowly.

"I feel left out of some loop, Raphael. There are things you and Raquel have kept from me, I fear."

"No, Brother. Not kept from you with intention. Each of us has our Duties to perform, and each of us have done what we thought best to see them done. I do not know what Raquel is up to, he's not shared his thoughts or plans with me. I, on the other hand, am driven to ensure the safety of my own. I will allow none under my care to be sacrificed. They have placed their trust in me and I shall do all in my power to prove their faith worthy."

"Yes, I understand." Raziel replies contemplatively. "However know this: All too soon those we've protected will no longer be safe. It was I who imbued them with our power to hide it from Asziel. I who have watched over and protected those touched by any of our essence, but my abilities extend only so far, Raphael. You must know that neither Michael, Morningstar nor Gabriel will take what we've done lightly. And soon, very soon, they will see beyond my skills to what we've hidden. It is inevitable."

"I know, Raziel. I know. And yes; soon we'll be facing a new war. Many will say what I have done is blasphemous; they will be seeking my head. And they will know you aided me. Yet?" Corwyn pauses taking in a deep breath, silver gaze resting on the Angel trapped in the crystal cage, "what we've done we did out of Duty. We had no choice."

"We had many choices, Brother. Do not delude yourself otherwise." Raziel's tone is soft, yet firm. "But I, like you, know that none of them would have been as successful. We needed the strength of the Triumvirate to stop the End of Days; it was the only way to garner the power needed to bring down Michael's ill begotten wall. We could not risk ourselves, for there were no others to take up our cause should we have failed and we would not have been able to keep it concealed. All of this I understand but what we've done" Should we not be facing Judgment" We've put innocents in danger, Raphael. Perhaps, in the long run, it would have been better to have sacrificed ourselves rather than involve others who may not be able to stand up to what may come?"

"We would have failed, Raziel; you know this. They would have destroyed us and the End of Days would have eradicated the mortal planes. Yes, we had other choices, but none that would have given us the ability to accomplish what we have."

"So it was you, Oberon who stopped the End of Days!" Mab interrupts accusingly, her voice rising over and above the other two with an intensity born out of hatred and anger. "I should have known it was you all along! And creating a Triumvirate! I suspected that was what you were up to, going to that place of power, speaking the ancient words! Yet you are Seraph, I did not think you'd stoop to such devious devices! You three dare imprison me"! You have done far worse deeds than I; broken rules that I would never dared dream to!"

"Mab, what we have done was to regain the glory of Heaven. What we have done we did to serve our Duties. What you have done was to garner power for yourself. You may shout your accusations but they are weakened by your ambitions. You can lay no noble claim to your behavior. What you did was not out of Duty or the desire to protect our race and the souls entrusted to us. What you did was motivated by your own selfish goals." Corwyn is done with her, he turns his back on the one caged, giving his brother a nodding smile. "It is time for me to get to work, Raziel. Belial grows restless and confused and Manon' She too will be weakened beyond what she should be. I sense an alien energy attempting to overwhelm her."

"Don't you dare turn your back on me Oberon! You should be in here right alongside me!"

"God's speed to you Raphael, tell them to come to me when they are ready." Raziel grants his brother a radiant smile. "They have much to learn."

"You won't be able to stay away Oberon, you won't be able to resist the temptation to torment me as I did you! It is in your nature now! You've been as corrupted by the physical as I!" Mab screams with mounting desperation.

Corwyn turns his head glancing one last time at the prisoner allowing his smile to widen with amusement. "I'll leave that to Raquel, Mab. He can visit you during this time of imprisonment; recite to you your crimes. As for me: I feel nothing but satisfaction knowing you can no longer work your evil against any of us. You can rot here for all eternity for all I care. This is the last you will see of me until Raquel sees fit to release you. And know this, Mab, should he ask me when I feel such a time is ripe, I will tell him in truth: Never.?

Without another word Corwyn departs, knowing he means what he's said; he will never willingly return this place. He is well and truly finished with the likes of Mab.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2007-02-17 13:16 EST
Mission Complete

Many months have passed while he's been down in the cavern working the spells to cage the monster, Mab. Yet as it is with all immortals, time is fluid for Corwyn. Very little has changed in Bordertown, less in the Lands. But these places are not his destination; he plans to return to Rhy"Din. This is where he's allowed the freedom to be a father to his children, a husband to his wife. It is Rhy"Din he has come to call home and it is in Rhy"Din that his most pressing *Duties* call. He must heal Manon and Belial, not to mention, induct them in the ways of the Seraph.

His first order of business is to restore Belial to her physical state of being. He'd taken her essence in to him as he had during the confrontation that had led to the fall of Michael's Great Wall and the termination of The End of Days.

He can feel her inside him, confused and rattled, unsure of what?s happening. He could communicate with her but his mind would become an open book. She may see too much; more than she needs to know at this time. The truth is should he attempt to commune with her he could do more damage than good. In fact, he's still keeping himself mentally shielded from all for individual and various reasons.

Although Belial's physical construct had been left abandoned in the Above, most of her remains intact. However he needed energy to 'reconstruct' her and, on any other day, this would have been a cake wake for Corwyn. But he'd been drained by the spell castings to ensnare Mab. Corwyn has contingencies for such situations; he always has. He believes in keeping substantial backup for all his plans.

The Spider Mages dwell in a mountain deep inside the Lands. They are a sect of gifted magic users cultivated for their natural talents and one of the reasons why humans are now allowed to enter the Lands. They have been allied with the Ancients for centuries. Loyal only to Corwyn, they are beyond exploitation. Many may suspect that the agreement between the Ancient and the Spider Mages was coerced but the truth is far simpler: a shared need of support. The Spider Mages need Corwyn's protection as much as Corwyn needs their skills. It is to the Spider Mages Corwyn goes.

Upon his arrival he discovers the extent of the trouble DCH has been causing in his absence. The Spider Mages have been attacked, their numbers greatly decreased and the demonic attorneys are the culprits. He will deal with them soon enough; once he's resolved the more immediate issues.

It takes him only a few hours to regain enough strength to 'restore" Belial's shell. The process is one he's more than familiar with; he's been doing it for centuries. The little of her energy that remains locked in her abandoned body Above will be returned shortly; when the need for her "presence" there ends. However, since the physical shell was not created consciously by the host, it will take a while for her to adjust to her new body. She is likely to remain "asleep" for about five hours, time enough for her to integrate fully with her new skin. Corwyn isn't certain what she will remember when she wakes up, but she'll whole, back in a body and safe.

Wanting Belial to awaken in familiar surroundings (and no where near him), he teleports the unconscious Bel to her bedroom at HadesDawn. Soon enough they will be facing one another, but that time is not now.

Corwyn has duties to attend to both in the Lands and Bordertown before returning to Rhy?Din. He is still Corwyn of Oberon and Long Lankyn, the Butcher of B-Town; both men are responsible for many aspects of their collective businesses. He has left his responsibilities untended too long but once normalcy has been restored he will be free to return home and address the growing problem that is DCH.

Mab

Date: 2007-06-12 16:20 EST
Beauty is nothing but the beginning of terror which we are barely able to endure and are awed because it serenely disdains to annihilate us. Each single angel is terrifying. RAINER MARIA RILKE, Duino Elegies

In the deepest recesses of the earth's bowels lies a cave undiscovered by mortal-kind and at its heart, trapped frozen in darkness, sheathed by ice and glass, she waits. Silence is her only companion as time marches forever on leaving her unmercifully behind. There is no wisdom in its passage, no comfort in its stoic, everlasting embrace. Here in this cavernous depth it is only marked by the faintest ticking of her cold, cold ancient heart' and her thoughts? her rage-filled, unstoppable thoughts.

Mab is alone, unable to move, unable to speak. Her ears hear the echoes of ages past as no sounds resonate outside of her or her prison. In this lonely grave-like cell she does not rot or decay for such would be a blessing, a promise of release to come. Without relief she's haunted by hopelessness and the ever-present realization that none are coming.

There will be no rescue of the Mother Sun. She will remain trapped and all too soon forgotten. Becoming little more than a legend, a myth to be passed to her children's children but never recalled with the glory that IS.

Alas, History is an unkind creature, controlled by the hands of the winners, it lacks compassion, truth or sympathy. If *He* has his way, even the memory of her will be erased, no myth, no legend. Nothing save a gaping, open wound where once her story lay.

Mab has been betrayed and it is the only heat left to her.

Mab

Date: 2007-09-21 15:47 EST
In the vast pit of darkness there is naught else but the mental wanderings to distract the mind or face the creeping insanity which will devour even the heartiest of souls. With no power to call upon, there is only what was and dreams of what will be, that is if she survives and does not fall into the maw of madness.

"Here in this lonesome place, a prison of glass and ice, crafted by the hands of my Angelic brethren, I have little left save the past. As every new day dawns I feel the pull of the sun, I feel the loss of its warmth and yet take comfort in the knowing it has risen: for it means yet another day off of my unjust sentence.

It is not I who should languish here, for no crimes have I committed save for that which is dictated by my nature. Can I help being what I am' I had no say over the components that have made me; I did not chisel myself out of cold stone or mold me from the mud. Should I be punished because of what I am, for what I was created to be?

History is a fickle creature, manipulated by the hands of those who hold control. Truth' I would laugh had I but been left the voice for it. History does not speak in truths; it is painted by perceptions of those who have vanquished all others. I have never supported the idea of such absurdities for I knew from the moment of its conception how easily exploited it could be. One needs but ask the History Keepers, they know well enough the holes that lie in our pasts. It was upon them to fill them, you might think, but alas, the Keepers were little more than pawns themselves. When faced with annihilation would you have done any different'

My earliest recollections are of my duties Above, of course, since it is where I begin it would seem the most appropriate. Yet much of that life, (could it be called such), has passed in to a vague fugue tainted by experiences that have come since. I recall tiny details of no real significance but the overall perception has been lost. At least I am aware enough to realize it.

I often wonder if my brethren do the same. Somehow I seriously doubt it. So few Above hold conscious thought with any sort of importance. Rather they prefer to recite dogma fed to them over the millenniums" with little to no understanding of its true content. I am reminded of the words from a once great philosopher:

"A casual stroll through the lunatic asylum shows that faith does not prove anything." Friedrich Nietzsche

Ahh, Friedrich, a wise mortal with whom I spent many hours. In my youth, I enjoyed frivolous indulgences, basking in the pleasures of flesh, roaming through the corridors of mortal passions. However as I became increasingly older, I sought more intellectual pursuits. I found myself enthralled with understanding the state of the mind, the soul. But I digress.

My brethren put far too much on their faith and far too little on the wisdom of free-thinking. Perhaps my existence would have been easier had I too so blinded myself" But like others who were cast down, I choose a different path. I call it a path towards enlightenment, but many others see it more as damnation.

It is true that sides were drawn, with Morningstar in one hand, Michael and his cadre of loyal servants in the other. It is true that Morningstar left the Above. But this is where the truth ends for many texts mislead by stating he was cast from Heaven. Yet he chose his path; it wasn't chosen for him. He was given a realm where he could rule, he was given a task that he still serves faithfully even now. In truth, Morningstar is no different than the rest of my brethren, save perhaps three others. Three others than myself, I must amend.

Those who followed Morningstar were not all given a choice, some Michael simply declared would go with him. I was one such as these. Hmph, in the end, Michael's declaration meant nothing, I did not follow blindly the orders of the hierarchy; instead I made my own choices. Be damned to them all!?

To Be Continued...

Mab

Date: 2007-12-01 22:58 EST
"I dreamt of dancing" the hall was alight with hundreds of candles; the soft glow showered the dancers with warmth. The myriad of colors! Whirling and swirling as pairs came together than flowed apart. The grace of synchronized movement as lavishly dressed couples mingled and merged. The music lilting and full, it shaped each dancer's soul, tugging at heartstrings; whispering sweet nothings of love. The rich tantalizing smell of pheromones" heavy, pervasive on the nights still air. The knowing that soon lust-filled pleasures would erupt as the night passed into early, early morn.

So many balls have I been to' so many dancers have I wooed. So many nights spent entwined in the arms of new love" But none of that came close to the swelling of a newly dawning truth:

I dreamt"

I dreamt and it is something I've never done before! And there on the Dreamscape I felt it, a power so intense I could not turn away from its beckoning call. It surged through the ethereal lands; it crooked its diaphanous finger for me to follow and hence I did not deny. Follow I did"

I saw the Tree of Life, blooming and vibrant. It looked oddly twisted, not quite natural. It had to be a shadow of what is, what was, but here it felt corrupted and yet so incredibly complete. I recalled in vivid detail the first time I laid eyes upon it, in the company of Raphael. It had held nothing for me then, not even a wisp of familiar energy. Yet here, in this place....It was shockingly, amazingly alive!

Buried at the heart of it was that power, that awe-inspiring throb that feeds the dreams to life. That feeds me! I drank deep of that power until I grew drunk and dizzy!

As I tumbled towards the soft grass, overwhelmed and aching from it, I heard the whispers" low murmurs of voices, some soft, some harsh, some pain-filled, some tender with sheer joy. They spoke of things lost and found. They spoke of secrets and all that is most precious.

And there on the winds of someone's imagination I found *her* scent.

It was strong, it was vivid; it was electric. Here in this wonderland reserved for sleeping mortal wanderings, I may have found the key to my prison.

A way out perhaps"

I skipped through scenes some twisted and perverse, some shallow and empty, some so rich and lively they tried to steal away my breath, until at last I spied it; the slumbering beast. It was a white dragon of majestic and royal design, a magnificent creature if ever there was one, and it reeked of Manon.

I had found my nemesis and in such an unexpected place" a place where my race was never supposed to go. Odd how the Fates weave our strands" so close together, so tightly knit.

It was then I began plotting" Plotting my escape....Plotting my revenge!"

Mab

Date: 2008-01-04 16:14 EST
"How could the mere mortal mind even come close to perceiving the magnitude of my discoveries"

You see, humans simply can't. Who knows why they blinded themselves from the truth surrounding them, who knows why they refuse to see what?s staring them right in the face" I surely haven't the answer"

Humans prefer to perceive less than a quarter of reality. For whatever purpose they've buried the rest behind a cool, calculated fa"ade of pessimism and skepticism. Humans rather argue over the existence of the paranormal than believe their own senses. Odd how they allow logic and science to overwhelm what personal experience is telling them.

But then"

Who am I to tear their petty suppositions to shreds" Besides, a blind human is easier to lead than those with true sight. Indeed those with sight should be condemned for the witches they most assuredly are. Either a witch or a half-breed; both are far beneath the Truebloods, the Gods of the In-Between, like myself. All of such are abominations, freaks of nature that shouldn't be tolerated to exist.

It is We who breathed life into the fae races. I take my position of Mother to heart, for birth many have I. Unlike that broken, insolent abomination Manon, who fled her worshippers, abandoned them, leaving them unprotected. Most all perished under the hand of her aggressors. No truer a coward than she, the Maiden. The Maiden of Malice I say! The Maiden of Malice and Mishap, for never have I known another creature as she; quick to cry and run away, quick to paint herself as the poor sad victim.

And it should be noted that never before had Legion fell and never since. It begs to question why Manon was the only one to have made such a traitorous gesture. It begs to question whether she is pure or otherwise tainted.

Alas, she found a way to ruin everything I worked to build, in her twisted, manipulative, convoluted way. Exploiting Raphael which she has done ever since he laid eyes on her, then using my own brethren against me! Oh, the bitch will pay! Mind me, I vow it here and now, one way or another I will rain ruin and destruction down around her brainless head.

And when I am done" She will be back to the nothing she was created and fated to be.

To these ends, I have been making frequent visits to the Dreaming. I have spent countless hours whispering to the White Dragon, offering him secrets for trust. Slowly he is becoming mine and once I hold his loyalties, I shall use him as a weapon to begin taking back what Manon has stolen.

That damn Dreamwitch keeps stalking me however! As if I would let her catch me"! I hide when she stumbles insanely about. Yes, I know she senses me, she feels my invasion in her realm but she has lost a substantial amount of sanity, poor creature. Ha! I find her easy to evade and avoid. She is as she's always been; a large bundle of nothing important.

What I despise the most about this despicable realm, the Dreaming"! Brethren like Manon can mould and shape this world, but I cannot! It allows me no quarter, no creationism. Perhaps if I were to confront the Dreamwitch I could steal away her powers" And then I could create to my heart's content on the plane she has no business controlling.

Does the pipsqueak not see how insignificant and small she is in comparison to me, the Queen Mother Mab"!

Time to teach that bitch a lesson too, a lesson a long time in coming I might add! Playing her manipulative games; exploiting the control she held over the Dreaming. Demanding the rest of us to give her some token position! She came from nowhere and was polluted by the primordial; she was never fit for anything. Not a full Trueblood, and seeking to hold station within our royal midst"! And Raphael so quick to embrace her! He always has been a pushover.

Well" the time is upon them, one and all. Time to let all of them know that I will not take this unjust imprisonment lying down and doing nothing! I will smite them one by one until at last I hold Manon in my grasp. And then" oh, and then, my revenge will taste incredibly sweet and poignant."

Mab

Date: 2008-02-14 00:40 EST
"I have gotten in close now, the White Dragon listens and has learned to yearn for my touch, ache for my company. At last it has given dominance over to the one most deserving: Me.

It, the addled creature, is a gateway, you see, a gateway to the offspring's of Manon and the traitorous Crow. I can stroke them, the children, through the White Dragon, whispering and tempting, teasing them to use their powers so that I might understand their limitations. They are strong, these two, a mingling of my creation with that of the Maiden of Malice and Mishap. They have no illusions to shatter, such young tasty morsels. They know of me not! And fear has not been tasted. Nor have the imbeciles" they call parents yet granted them names. How foolish the Crow and the Maiden"! To leave them to my naming! Yet they quicken towards their sixth years.

Hmph, Stupid Crow, Foolish Maiden! If you do not name them' then name them I will!!!! And then I will own them as I once did their Father, the Crow.

And the pair of them; the Crow ever preening and the Maiden ever whining, they remain, as to be expected, unaware. So blind, so foolish, so unprotected; I confess I prefer them this way. It is easy to walk right into the children's dreams, so easy to murmur words of inducement. Yes, the time is approaching and the children will be my vessels. They will bend to my will; serve me and only me! They will be my weapons and I will wield them against those whom I despise; against those who created them!

To think I have taken that which is most precious from those most hated!

I would sing in bliss were there any voice allowed me. I would dance with the joy of my conquest would but my feet move. Yet all such pleasure has been denied me! I linger in my cold, cold prison, unable to do naught but wander the Dreaming and corrupt those tasty morsels of youth.

Even now I hear them' away in the Lands, my Lands! How dare they lay claim to shadows and magic when I am so unjustly imprisoned!

Once I have gained my freedom, I shall make them beg me, kneel to me; crawl as they plead for the lives of their children. And in the end, I shall make the Crow and Maiden watch as I slaughter their children like sheep, make them watch as that bitch Manon never did as I slaughtered those she'd birthed, those races she'd breathed to life but soon forgot and never nurtured.

Yes, it was I, you see, who destroyed everything she created once she'd betrayed all and departed our Lands for the amoral and forsaken soil of the World. Polluted as it was by the hands of pesky mortals and cold, hard steel, a foul place indeed! Not for our ilk, not for Gods like me!

It is perfect for the drug-addled imbecile that ran screaming away because her lover had been ripped from her arms. My Lover! He was mine and he shall be again. For I am the Mother and He is my King, my right! She stole him away, right out from under my nose with her wicked wiles and pretentious innocence!

I would laugh to the very core of Heaven had I but the voice!

But for now I shall comfort myself with thoughts of my retribution. For soon enough the call of the White Dragon combined with the corruption of her last and only offspring will shove the bitch over the edge! Right back into the abyss where the feral snakes" intent on devouring her rotten soul will swallow her whole! And once again she will fall into the embrace of the pecca. She will lose all she has come to cherish to the nothing she has always been.?

Mab

Date: 2008-04-29 03:25 EST
She nearly caught me tonight, that Dreambitch, raving like a nightmare, tripping insanely through dream after dream hunting. I had to hide, and the anger nearly ate me alive!

Forced to hide from that creature"! It is my worst nightmare become real.

Look at the depths to which I have been subjected! There was a time when my powers rivaled hers and I could have crushed her like a bug even then. However, the encounter proved enlightening; very enlightening and profitable indeed. I am incredibly pleased. I may very well hold a key to my escape!

Perhaps I should feel pity for the Dreamwitch' I don't. Yet, is she not too sealed in a prison of sorts" True, she has impulsively crafted it with her own hands, but, as Corwyn was always fond of saying, we should hold compassion for the lesser of us. He always was such a sap.

Hold compassion, bah! He can hold compassion while I dole out vengeance.

I'm certain now she's lost all her senses and is little less than a raving imbecile; polluted by her tainted talents, dragged down at last by her poor half-breed nature. Not like us, those who were created to be perfect.

Yet, I could not help but wonder does Corwyn know how far his little toy has fallen" Has he any idea just how gone the Dreamwitch truly is" There has never been a better example of insanity.

Wonder why I care" I don't. I want to rub his nose in it and flaunt how right I was so very long ago. If only any of them had listened perhaps all this insanity would never have come to pass. But no, I was pushed aside, shoved to the shadows, and abandoned for contaminated goods! Do you know what it feels like to be so cruelly cast away'

Ahh, but I am straying from my tale. As I was saying, I had to hide from the deranged Dreamwitch and in seeking a spot I came again upon the Dreaming's version of the Tree of Life. Oh, the sight of it made me sick! I clearly recall how Corwyn worshiped that damn tree in the physical. How he spoke in a reverent tone of some lady in some moon and how it was all intertwined. I had questioned then if he hadn't lost his mind"!

It was while I was standing before this twisted version that I noticed that there was a niche, not too big, nor too small, a hollow that ran down one side of the great tree. For a moment I wondered if I would be able to fit. I never should have worried. I easily fit inside and there, at the heart of the tree, lay the gem. It pulsed with life, like a beating, throbbing heart and it sang to me! I took hold of it, gently at first and gave only the most tentative of tugs. It wouldn't budge, but outside silver acorns rained down from the tree's branches. It was beautiful. I reached out and let one fall into my palm, I drew it back to gaze at its shiny perfection. Such a lovely token, I remember thinking. Then the oddest thing happened; it melted away, almost as if it had melted into me.

I once more reached for the precious living gem at the heart of that twisted Tree and" With no effort at all, it came to my hands!

It was destiny, my destiny that guided me. It was what was meant to be. For the power that has fed me through all my trips to the Dreaming, has at last been revealed! And even now, I cradle the prize in my diaphanous hands. It glows with power, throbs with the elixir that creates life and I cannot keep from gazing upon it. It is my prize and I own it now, be damned to them all!

Of course, gaining it is only the first hurdle. I already face another significant challenge. I do not yet know how to bring it out of this dimension and into the physical. Hmm, perhaps the White Dragon can teach me a few tricks" I've ridden him thrice already into the ether just surrounding the physical planes. Ahh, such fond memories I shall cherish; haunting the Maiden of Malice and Mayhem, teasing her ever closer to her inevitable doom.

As you can see, I am in no way defeated, I will find a way. And when I do this power will give me the strength to break free of the prison my brethren have cast me to. This power will feed me and my army as I wreck retribution down upon the heads of those who have betrayed me. Starting with Corwyn and his quaint little elven pets!

But before that' Before I even worry about departing this lovely landscape of human wrought fantasies", I am going to destroy the Maiden of Malice and the traitorous Crow! Yes, even now I hear the girl whispering her secrets to me through the ether. The boy is proving harder to crack, but soon enough I will find the key to unlock his mind to mine.

Twins. The powers they personally own are not nearly what they have should they join forces. The two together works as a larger conduit, even a simple joining of hands would make them both three times stronger. But' Nobody knows" nobody is looking" nobody save one is watching. And her time has come to its end. That nanny has interfered enough and will now know the bite of my wrath. Once I destroy the telepath, there is no one standing between me and those tasty little tidbits of the treacherous duo. Yes, soon' all my dreams really will come true.

Hmmm' I really should drop the Dreambitch a "thank you? card.

Melantha

Date: 2008-05-15 20:36 EST
The silver acorn started to spin lightly upon the palm of her uplifted hand. Silver eyes focused in concentration, the acorn began to spin faster and faster.A veil of lashes fell as the acorn began to unravel into a ribbon of silver. Stretching away from The DreamWitch the ribbon of dream swam through the air. Her eyes opened to watch the dream take flight. The ribbon turned and twisted, a spiral formed. "Both" the word almost a whisper. The spiral of ribbon turned thrice more before it split down it's length into two exact pieces. A smile claimed the TrueBloods lips as the daydream ribbons slid with ease into the flow of dreams in search of their destinations.

That completed, the DreamWitch turned her thoughts to the problem at hand. Time for action. She downed the remainder of her drink as she stood. A brief glance around the near empty inn before she lifted her hand again. This time instead of an acorn her fingertips caught a hold of the invisible. A passing ribbon of another dream taken hold of, she disappeared as she let it drag her into the dreamscapes.

The daydreams would find their quarry soon enough.A moments lapse in concentration would find Lankyn and Belial....

Lankyn and Belial were sitting facing each other in a pair of leather wingback chairs that sat before the great hearth in the sitting room of the Bloods house in Rhydin. Though the fire in the hearth was unlit, there was more than enough light streaming in through the french doors to light the room. A moments time would bring them understanding that this was no usual passing daydream. Before either could voice a question a shadow fell across the room. The french doors opened to reveal the reason for the shadow. The head of a dragon in the doorway. The dragon's scales gleamed even in the shaded light.A familiar gleam to both, no doubt, it reminded of mithril steel. Blood red eyes fixed a draconic stare at both of them,it almost seemed as an eye ridge lifted like a brow. A glint of light then in blood red eyes, a line of silver that would be reptilian pupil flared with light to blind the pair for an instant. In the dying light there stood a familiar figure where the head of the dragon once was. Melantha stepped forward into the room.

The DreamWitch moved towards the pair, a bow of her head to both in turn as she stopped. Melantha's gaze caught the twitch of brows and lips of Belial and she knew the question she wanted to ask. But that was not the reason for this dream. Her gaze caught Belial's and then turned to find Lankyn's as well.

" No, I don't know how or why, but that is for another time."

Lankyn,of course, showed no expression. Bel managed to bite back any questions. They both continued to watch the DreamWitch as obviously this was just her way of sending them a message.Melantha took a slow breath before she began.

" Someone has invaded my domain. I don't know who yet or how,but they have been able to create something there as well. Thus far they have eluded me. I have only been able to capture a small fragment of one of his or hers dreams. Needless to say I have a plan for that thread."

Those last words spoken with controlled anger. Her attention fixed upon Bel now.

" Warn the Bloods, I fear their dreams might twist even more than they have of late.I don't care that they will blame me, but a warning from me might be thought to just be a ruse or something."

Her gaze shifted between the pair again. A cheshire grin now upon the DreamWitch's lips.

"For now, I'm off to dream up a little night terror to send the intruder"

That said, the DreamWitch simply faded from view. The room around the pair began to spin and dissolve until...

Both blinked themselves out of the daydream and back to what they were doing before the daydream had struck.

Long Lankyn

Date: 2008-05-23 16:26 EST
It should be noted that Angels don't dream. They are creatures of energy and hence their sustenance is not based on mortal needs. They don't need to sleep to allow their bodies to recuperate from daily wear and tear. They feed on the invisible strands of energy created by a myriad of things. Emotions are the most filling, easy to access and offered more than freely.

How often do mortals consider the wasted energies their emotions create"

What the mortals give away without thought or consequence the angelic feasts upon.

Yet for Corwyn the Dreamscape had never been closed. He was one of the rare few that had been touched with more than Celestial blessings. He carried the taint of primordial, just as Melantha has. In this, the pair was unique or so they believed.

It was written, long ago, that several of the Seraph had been tainted in such ways. It was said they were driven from the Above to linger in exile until the End of Days. Given earth-bound tasks, they had been left to fend for themselves, abandoned and locked away as if they might be contagious. Yet nothing was recorded of who they were, why they were sent into exile or where they might be found, although among the more scholarly of the angelic, theories abounded. Yet, for Corwyn and Melantha, it meant keeping their "otherness" secret, at least during their time Above.

With the exodus of the Watchers to the In-Between, Corwyn had left much of the beliefs of his race behind. Embracing instead the lessons taught by the physical and the mortals that populate it. He saw in the short-lived a wealth of morals and faith he felt embodied what should be cherished, what should be revered and wanted to share it with all beings. However, he'd lost his naivet' long ago, realizing that the differences between the races held more influence than any basic truths.

Today

Corwyn was pacing in tight circles as he and his first, Treveinor, discussed upcoming negotiations. Issues had arisen in the Lands and it had begun to effect trade. Corwyn understood the politics behind the issues, but he had no intentions of allowing him or anyone else to be blackmailed into anything. And in his eyes, that is exactly what they were attempting to accomplish.

Loyal followers of Mab had become the proverbial thorn in the thicket for the TrueBloods. They demanded the return of their "Goddess" and were refusing to continue production of any kind until their terms were met.

It was a rare occurrence when Melantha stepped into his 'dreams", waking or otherwise, but Corwyn was used to such communications from the Dreamwitch. Corwyn and Melantha go back a long way; their bonding occurred before the Great Fall of Morningstar, before the first of the Watchers were ever assigned. Corwyn trusts Melantha with his life, which cannot be said of many.

As the Dreamwitch stole him away from his conference, Corwyn got his first look at her latest manifestation; Dragon Kin. Corwyn was surprised. Not taken aback shocked, simply curious about this new materialization of Mel's. Yet her intent hadn't been casual, she carried with her important, if cryptic, information. Corwyn noticed Belial's presence, granting his charge a casual nod in greeting before shifting his attention to the Dreamwitch.

Corwyn was fully aware of the Heart's existence. He knew of Daugolozan's obsession for it, although he didn't understand the relic's importance to the Bone Dragon. He knew that Belial had stolen it fairly out of the Bone Dragon's claws. He knew that Belial had entrusted the Heart to Melantha, and that Mel had placed it in the safest place she knew of; inside the Tree of Life at the core of the Dreaming.

What Corwyn remained unaware of was the impact the Heart was having on the Dreaming and consequentially how it was corrupting the Dreamwitch. Until now, that is. Corwyn sensed the evolution of the Dreamwitch and found the situation perhaps more fascinating than the news she carried to them.

He listened avidly to what Melantha had to say, but truth be told, it never dawned on him to suspect the intruder could be Mab. She had made plain her hatred of all things tainted and not True of Blood. Nor did he suspect Sid's White Dragon to be a product of the Dreaming's corruption. Later, with hindsight, he will chastise himself for missing these vital clues, but for the time being he, like Melantha and Belial, was left to contemplate what seemed an intriguing, yet minor, mystery.

Melantha

Date: 2008-05-24 23:38 EST
The ocean of tall grass rippled at the touch of a slow moving breeze. Upon a slight rise stood a lone tree. Some that saw it might be reminded of drawings they had seen of the so called Tree of Life. In truth it was a reflection of that fabled tree but this one was not set in the physical world. This tree was in the Dreamscape. It was the anchor of the one they called The DreamWitch.

She sat in a crook of limbs high in the tree. Mercurial gaze fixed upon the sea of green grass. She was not lost in thought, she was gathering her strength. The slow breeze started to pick up. Within a matter of a few breaths, the wind was lashing violently at the grass in it's path as it headed for the tree. Zephyr winds raced as the DreamWitch opened her eyes and took a slow deep breath. The wind was power and each rise and fall of her chest captured more and more. Her breaths stopped and suddenly all was still and silent. She was ready to begin.

Her head lifted, gaze searching among the branches above her head till she spotted what was needed. A new silver acorn. The tree was laden with the things but this one was still forming. Pale hand lifted, palm up. The acorn fell, released by the tree, to rest upon upturned palm.Her free hand delved into a pocket to pull out a dark thread. This was all she had been able to capture of a dream The Intruder had had. But it would be enough.

Delicate fingers worked with slow care. The thread wound tightly around the small acorn till it was fastened tightly. Eyes narrowed upon the little acorn as it was once again laid in her palm. Lifted up, lips parted to expel the held breath upon the wrapped acorn. It began to simmer and shift, silver mixing with the dark thread. Intertwining until the silver darkened to gunmetal gray.

The dream being spun would sink down deep into the subconsious mind of The Intruder. Feeding on the fears buried there and festering till it bloomed into a nightmare.Trapped with their fears within the dream there would be laughter. Ringing loud in The Intruder's mind, echoing on and on would be The DreamWitch's laugh. She would appear before them. Cheshire grin touching her lips and mirth in the sparkle of those silver eyes. A flick of her wrist would extend the dueling rapier to it's full length from her hand. The resounding laughter would serve as music for this macabre dance. A pivot on her hell, the rapier dragging an acid bite over The Intruders cheek. Spin and step, on and on the rapier would sting again and again till The Intruder fell upon their knees. Delicate pale fingers would take hold of a fistful of hair, the head drawn back. Silver eyes would find the others for a heartbeat before the rapiers edge was slid across The Intruders throat. An explosion of light then before all that was left was darkness.

Such a dream as this would be the end to most. Their body would be found in their beds in the morning. The wounds given in the dream having crossed into the waking leaving their flesh cut to ribbons. Though The DreamWitch knew that The Intruder was more than a mortal, their true nature was yet unknown. She couldn't be sure it was enough to kill The Intruder.

The DreamWitch curled her fingers around the acorn in a tight fist. Leaned back upon the trunk of the tree she opened the channel. Just a hint of the power of the thing secreted deep within the tree. Placed there for safe keeping so another could not acquire the relic. She had been keeping it's influence from leaking into the dreamscape as much as she could. Now she let it flow. Through her the darkness seeped into the acorn held so tight. Just enough of the power to heighten the effects of the dream. Fingers uncurled. The acorn upon her palm had turned to obsidian. It did not glint in the sunlight as she held it up for study, it seemed to drink in the rays of light. The channeling of such power would exact a price upon the DreamWitch for a time. Obsidian now gazed at the acorn as it began to spin upon her hand. The spinning quickened, the acorn unravelling into a ribbon flying away from her hand. The dark ribbon of dream sent on it's way to find it's target, The Intruder.

It was done.