Topic: Mab - The Acquisition

LdyBelial

Date: 2010-11-13 13:31 EST
"We know what we are, but know not what we may be." William Shakespeare

Part I

Belial's back is pressed against the wall, her blaster hovers beside her head in her right hand. Her jaw clenches as she sums up their current situation. They are inside a dilapidated old warehouse somewhere in San Francisco, The World. As far from Rhy'Din as one can possibly get. Bel has never really favored the place the Elves call The World, not over other realms where being what she is has some tolerance of acceptance. Wulf and she are trapped at a juncture of hallways and under heavy gunfire. Bullets whiz past down the long stretch of hall separating her from the object she has come to "acquire". A glance of green eyes to her companion, nay, assigned bodyguard really. (A distinct lack of trust in her on Corwyn's part...) Wulf is grinning like a fiend as he takes pot shots at the enemies.

"Whoohoo!" he hollers over the zing of passing bullets having caught her eyes on him. "Never knew you had this much fun on your business trips!"

Yeah, right. Fun.

Bel scowls and shakes her head. He may think this is fun, but she's not really enjoying it. "I hope whatever it is Corwyn has sent us for is worth this mess." But, it is more likely Wulf can't hear her over the constant barrage of echoing shots. He nods nevertheless and keeps on grinning as he pops off a few more shots meant more as a determent than to actually hit anything.

"Maybe we outta come up with a new strategy, Bel?" He shouts over the noise. "They've got us pinned down here, and unless you got an idea on how to get us outta this, I'm seeing a stalemate coming when we run outta ammo."

He's right of course. Bel scowls harder, her thoughts drifting back to Corwyn's office and how simple he'd made this assignment seem.



"I need you to pick something up for me in the World." Corwyn said as he looked up from the paperwork scattered over his desk. A wave of his elegant Elven hand invited her to sit, but Bel stood instead. She was still upset over what Jack had said only a few weeks past. "Corwyn's manipulating you both, Bel! Why can't you and Sid see it"!" Was Jack right' Bel crossed her arms over her chest and stared at Corwyn.

"Something on your mind, Belial?" He asked as he glanced from the papers back up at her.

"Why me" You said since I have been assigned House Leader of Onyx, that my wandering days have ended. Isn't there someone more..." She paused for effect "Capable, less impossibly placed, who might better serve you as errand boy?"

"This is a sensitive matter, Bel. It requires someone I can trust implicitly. At this time, that would be you." He smiled with his typical easy charm. "The information you will need is in that envelope" a nod of his regal silver-haired head towards the envelope on the edge of his expansive desk. "I need you to keep this mission under wraps. Of course, Wulf will accompany you; it is his assignment to see you are kept safe."

Bel had frowned then just as intensely as she does now. 'His assignment to keep her safe'; yeah, right. Unlike her, Wulf can get shot and it could prove fatal. A low growl falls from between clenched teeth as she levels the blaster while rounding the corner. Humans don't have the same skill set of those of her ilk; she targets two of the shooters and takes them both out with well placed shots of her own, too quick for them to have time to aim back and she's pressed once again against the wall.

"Shit, Bel! That was like..." Wulf's expression is more than a little impressed, obviously he doesn't know how closely related she really is to him. "Wow!"

"You didn't really think I was merely a human, Wulf, now did you?" She smiles, a hint of her old self showing through. "We aren't likely to take them all out that way, but a few less never hurts."

"Right on, sister!" Wulf laughs zestfully; he really is enjoying himself. Good for him.

"You stay here and keep them occupied, I am going to slip up to the roof and see if I can't find a way to outflank them." Bel says as she holsters her blaster, preparing for action. Wulf nods and grins again. Maybe he heard her. Maybe he didn't...

The Thorn of Zenfaer.

Bel thinks the title sounds sinister, and assumes it is a relic of some sorts. Why else would Corwyn have sent Bel" Bel has a knack for finding high-powered relics; she's been hunting them for years and has gained quite a reputation for her "finds". She'd also assumed that they would meet some kind of resistance. Acquiring powerful things tends to lead to powerful opposition - no one ever wants to lose their trinkets and toys, most would rather die than let them go. Bel sees no problem giving them what they want. She's good at bartering in many ways and if death is the payment demanded, then who is she to argue" She beyond most understands that there is more to existence than the physical realms.

But just once she would like it to be a civilized affair, No gunfire, no magic tricks, just a quiet exchange of money for item kind of thing.

Bel slips down the hallway, retracing their previous path. She has the layout visualized, and already a strategy in mind. Her feet carry her swiftly and silent, her movements practically on auto-drive. Her thoughts however are chaotic; a mishmash of now and the past as scenes flicker across her mindscape like some disjointed, independent film. She recalls her first days in Rhy'Din; she was a different creature then, a demoness hungry for her freedom with a wanderlust that demanded action. She'd been the monster in the night, a predator of humans and elves alike. Back in those days, bartering for souls for personal gain was the game. And, she learned to play it with finesse. That was all before the awakening...

It dawns on her that Corwyn must have known what she was all along. Bel pushes the thought out of her head. Now is not the time to ponder such repercussions. Nevertheless, all that has happened to her has shaped and influenced this moment. As her feet find a sure path towards the metal stairs and a ladder she suspects will take her to the roof, inside her head Bel is wondering just what it is she really wants. Once upon a time, killing had been fun. Drenched in blood, in the heat of a fierce battle, the adrenaline alone was the drug. Adventure such as this would have been top of her list of 'things to do today'. Somewhere, somehow, that's all changing. When Corwyn had kyboshed her "walkabouts" citing her position as Leader of Blood House Onyx, Bel had assumed that she, like many others in the Family, was being relegated to a more domestic, paper-pushing kinda gig. Yet....Here she is, being shot at and sneaking around to ambush from behind, thick in the violence she had begun to think of as her past. So....What does she really want' She had pined for the adventure while trapped behind her desk....Then, she'd found an interest in Corwyn's private library.

Some might wonder how come it took her so long to figure it out. Belial thinks Freud would have a field day diagnosing her. Whatever the myriad of excuses, or reasons she may have given in the past to avoid such things as tomes the size of small boats, went out the window when she realized that the more she read the more she began to understand things. So many things in fact that more and more questions have arisen. Bel has found a new passion that eclipses even the heady draw of violence - wisdom. Through her studies, Bel has learned the value of spirit, soul, the essence of connection and the magic of the grace of humankind. This new found understanding has not dulled her "killer" instincts, she has no qualms when it comes to protecting her and hers, but it does make her reconsider such choices as the situation in which she finds herself now. She could choose not to do this.

Up the ladder and to the roof. Not a soul covering the hatch. Bel counts three, perched to cover the front entrance and the side door that she and Wulf had already stolen in through. Not a very tactical bunch, which gives Bel a sick feeling. Poorly trained people means non-military, non-military means civilians. Damn it! Killing them is akin to slaughtering hapless sheep. No sport, no victory, just a bunch of corpses whose souls become barter for others' gains. Bel sneers silently as she makes a swift surveillance of the rooftop. No other obvious way inside, but she has her own tricks up her sleeves. Having lost all desire to kill their current enemies, Bel leaves the hapless would-be snipers alive as she turns into a nearly invisible mist. Drifting much like a ghost she crosses the roof unseen to the point where she knows the gunmen had lain in wait for them. And, like a ghost she sinks down through the layers of the building. It feels strange, passing through physical objects, like pulling apart strands of herself, stretching them like taffy only to draw them tight again.

This is a new trick, a trick learned from one of the many books in Corwyn's private library. If she'd not read about it, she'd never had tried it. It had taken her months of practice and even now she is not quite sure what to expect next. She doesn't feel a draw off of her energy, but certainly there must be some disadvantage, something she simply hasn't triggered yet. Well....today might be that day. Bel drops a mental shrug as she shifts through walls and over floors, just like a floating specter. Until she hits something that she cannot penetrate. Bel scowls at this new barrier; it's not physical, it might be mental....or magical, but it would take someone of great talent to create it: someone that can't be simply human. A mental sigh. Of course, it would be as far from simple as possible. Damn Corwyn! He had to have known. Bel moves around the barrier, trying to find any holes, trying to find any answers but to no avail. She is now by the top of the stairs leading down to the ambush site. She can hear the gunfire but not as sharply as when she was physical. She should put a stop to that then figure out this new obstacle. Bel solidifies; her feet hit the floor with a soft thud. Her blaster already in hand she begins creeping down the steps. So far no ill effects from the dematerializing....

"Psst!" a voice behind her hisses. "Hey You!" A loud whisper beckons. Bel turns her head to peer over her shoulder at a petite Japanese girl peeking out of a door Bel hadn't seen before. Green eyes widen with surprise.

"Where did you come from?" Bel stage whispers back so to be heard of over the noise of the gunfight below.

"Oh," The girl grins sheepishly "it's a little trick I do. But that's not the point! Would you not kill off my friends please" They are only trying to protect me."

"Protect you?" Bel is more than a little confused and she is letting it show.

"Yeah, I know, it sounds weird and maybe even a little cult-ish, but they're really nice folks and they think I am something I'm not. I just, well, you know, I don't think they should die because of me. So, if ya tell me why you are here, maybe we could just work this out and no one else has to die?" The girl asks hopefully.

Careful for what you ask for, you may get it comes to Bel's mind as she smiles at the girl. "Happy to. I've come to acquire the Thorn of Zenfaer. I would be more than willing to pay handsomely, and without further violence."

The girl smiles wide as she stretches out her hand towards Bel, a chain dangles through her fingers. "That's what you wanted?" A soft giggle. "Here ya go then. It's just a silly old silver necklace, but if you want it, it's yours!"

"A silver necklace" Ahh..." Bel takes the trinket, fingers brushing the girl's and like a flash of lightning she realizes it's not the necklace she's actually here for. Thrown for a loop, Bel's mouth falls ajar and those green eyes widen obviously on the small figure crouched beside her. "You..."! Damn you, Corwyn!"

"Me" What?" The girl retains her easy smile, hopeful and sunny. "You have the necklace, do you mind calling your people off please?"

Bel has to stifle a chuckle. Her people. There are only she and Wulf, how terribly demeaning for the poor fellows fighting, no doubt. "Yes, let me call my people off." No need to humiliate when it could potentially be sidestepped. Compassion' Maybe....or maybe it's really about the bartering. The attracting more flies with honey method. With a thought, Bel tells Wulf to stand down. "I have a bodyguard in the hall; I would like him to be escorted without damage to us if you could arrange it. Would that be suitable" The rest of my....er, people are gone."

"Ah?" The girl stares at Bel suspiciously. "Wanna explain how you did that without a radio?"

This time, Bel chuckles out loud. "There are more things in this world than heaven and earth." She quotes Shakespeare. "We have our ways, child. Suffice it to say, do you mind letting your people know not to hurt my person please?"

"Oh, yeah, of course. Hey Haru!" The girl hollers down the stairs. "We've worked it out! Don't shoot the man at the end of the hallway, let him through!"

"Huh"!" Came a voice from below followed by a thunder of feet on the steps. Three men with guns drawn round the corner and come to a sudden stop staring at Bel and the girl crouched on the stairs.

"What the..."

"Hey, how'd you do that"!"

"So, you're saying it's over?"

They all spoke at the same time; it made Bel's head hurt.

"Yeah, it's over. She came for my necklace."

All three turn to stare at Bel, their expressions say it all; they don't believe that for a minute.

Well....they're right.

Bel gives them her most dazzling, trustworthy smile. "Please let my bodyguard through' The others have already left. We promise to do no further harm. You have my oath on this."

She watches as they struggle to make up their minds. With the one they are trying to protect sitting on the other side of the one they are wary of, the answer is pretty easy. They lower their guns and the one who seems to be in charge turns and heads down the stairs, barking orders for the others to 'stand down'. At least the violence aspect of the acquiring has been quashed. The next phase will be far harder to manage no doubt. How could Corwyn have sent Bel to pick up this girl and not tell her?"!! A relic. So simple! All of it bullshit!

To be continued...

LdyBelial

Date: 2010-11-14 12:34 EST
Part II

Wulf and Bel stand like two sentinels, inside the hidden room on either side of the once hidden door, watching as the chaos of after-battle sets in. She had offered help, but they had declined. Of course....none of these people would be in this situation if it hadn't been for her and Wulf so the refusal is understandable. Bel and Wulf are uncomfortable, as neither of them typically hangs around for this part of the fighting, but they are doing their best not to show it. The killing is easy, the healing and tending of the wounded isn't so much....As the wounded are brought into the room they are being laid out wherever space allows; a wonderful opportunity for the two of them to get a front row view of their handiwork. She and Wulf had done more damage than she'd theorized and it isn't sitting very well with her. Wulf, at least from his expression, seemed little more than terribly bored. Bel knows it is likely a facade, hiding his personal thoughts quite well. She feels a surge of pride for her fellow Blood; he represents her and the House rather well.

Across the room, an elderly man, with an interesting aura, is speaking in low tones to the young man, Haru, Bel recalls the girl naming him. She is sure they think their words cannot be heard, but she isn't what she appears, anymore than Wulf is. In the World, glamour is used to hide their true natures. Wulf and she look perfectly human to their eyes.

"They are not what we were expecting." The elder shakes his head peering over at Bel and Wulf suspiciously.

"Maybe they are hired hands?" Haru interjects hopefully.

"Maybe." The elder answers, but his dour expression does not change. "And maybe, they are just unexpected."

"Ha! Like that could happen." Haru scoffs.

"She is powerful, yes, but not infallible. Do not delude yourself, son. We knew what to expect, and these people were not it. Keep the guards up, keep the men in position."

"But..."

"No, buts, Haru San. This was not prophesied, and that means they have yet to come."

"Yes, Kisho San, we will remain at ready." Haru hangs his head, already weary from the first battle and certainly not looking forward to another.

Bel glances over to Wulf, who meets her look. He'd overheard them too no doubt. Just what have they gotten themselves into, she ponders. She didn't have to wait long for an answer as the Elder begins moving in their direction. Bel has enough time to glance over the rest of the long room, noting how these people deferred to the young girl as she sat in quiet meditation before some kind of altar. Odd, Bel has time to think before the elder is standing in front of her.

"Haru says you came for the necklace. But you and I both know that's not true." Direct isn't he"

Bel doesn't bother to force a pleasant smile; she knows what this man is. He's a Truth seer, he will know if she speaks true or not. She nods and meets his brown eyes with her solemn green. "I was sent to acquire the Thorn of Zenfaer, I was not told it would be a child."

"Were you sent by the Dragons?" Words she never anticipated hearing here in this place, mayhaps Bordertown where the Dragons are one of the more powerful of gangs. Green eyes widen with her surprise and the Elder nods. "I see, so there are others seeking the Thorn." Simply put, but that means the girl really is the relic she's been sent to get. Wonderful....."It was prophesied they would come, and yet, here you are. Are you our saviors, or our doom?"

Bel doesn't know the answer to this odd question so she stares at the Elder, allowing her expression to answer with her confusion. "I know nothing about the Dragons or why they would be seeking the Thorn. I had assumed this task was something it has turned out it isn't."

"Then perhaps you and your companion are aspects of the prophecy, however..." The elder's voice trails away as he stares deeply into Bel's green gaze. "You look human, not at all like what I had thought a celestial being might appear as."

Well, if that isn't hitting a nail on the head, Bel doesn't know what is. Again she doesn't bother to hide her internal reaction, letting him see her astonishment. These folks must have one hell of a prophet!!!

"Ahh, by your expression, I take it you understand me far better than any human would." The Elder smiles and it is beyond beatific, filled with the depth of spirit few humans have been able to attain.

"You are..."

The Elder shakes his head slowly, cutting her words off before she can speak them aloud. "Alas, no, I am but touched by the glory of the Heavens, but have yet to walk in the beauty of their realms."

Beauty"! Nope, he's never been to Heaven... "I don't understand..."

"It is a long story, best told another time. It is far more important that I learn from you what your plans are now?"

"Ah..." Bel's plan was to convince these folks to let her take the girl and leave....She isn't sure how she is going to accomplish this, but....it was the only plan that seemed feasible. Now however, it seems these folks are facing an enemy that will show no mercy unlike she and Wulf had. Damn Corwyn!!!! He's dropped her and Wulf in the middle of a freaking war without a clue! "Ahhhh...?"

"I see that you are unsure of what path to take next, but I also sense compassion. You do not wish to feed us to the wolves." The Elder doesn't speak in questions, rather in statements. His smile never wavers as he reaches out to pat Bel on the arm, a gesture meant to reassure but to Bel it infers a trust in her that is more than a little unexpected. "You will either help or hinder, the choice of course is yours. If you wish to help, please speak to Haru, he is the head of our..." The Elder chuckles softly, seeing humor even in such dire circumstance, "head of security as it is. We are a simple people, who never expected a need to be an army."

Bel is a sucker for the underdog....She glances over at Wulf, who gives her a look that says "Heh, you're the boss, don't look at me!" then turns back to Elder. "We will be happy to do what we can to keep you and your people safe." And the weight of this promise falls like a ton of bricks on Bel's shoulders. Great, now what have you gotten yourself into?"!! But the real question here should be why"

Bel could just as easily grab up the girl and teleport all three of them away. But....That would still leave the rest of these poor folks undefended....She already knows they haven't any hope against the well-trained Dragons. Hell, they didn't have a hope against anyone with even a modicum of battle training; the common thug in Rhy'Din could take these folks out! They don't have a prayer unless someone intervenes that can flip the odds in their favor. Bel gives the Elder her most beatific of smiles. "My companion and I are skilled warriors, we will handle the Dragons. But, you and I shall need to speak in length afterward. We have but a limited time, more appropriate security for you and your people will need to be arranged for the long term."

"For a Fallen Angel you offer far more compassion than one might expect," The elder smiles ignoring the surprised expression on Bel's face again. "I trust that when this day is over, we will no longer have need for protection." The Elder responds cryptically then nods satisfied. Without another word he turns and ambles away. Bel stares at the man's back, wondering just what the hell he'd meant by that....Truth seers and Prophets, they always speak in metaphors and riddles. What's up with that?"!

Wulf looks over at Bel and chuckles. "Who knew you were such a sucker for the softies?"

Bel rolls her eyes at Wulf. "Lot of help you were!"

"Yeah, Boss Lady. Whatever you say." Sarcasm drips from his words but he softens the tease with a laugh.

"Well, don't just stand there like a lump; we've got some Dragons to knock down." Wulf hasn't said anything about the Elder's 'Fallen Angel' remark, maybe he missed it' Yeah, fat chance.

"Now you're singing a tune I wanna hear." Wulf grins evilly. "I like teaching Dragons not to mess with Blood.?

Before Bel can respond she's suddenly hit with a powerful prod of celestial-tainted energy....Something is seeking to pull from Bel's own essence to feed its own and this something's power is akin to that of the Archangels but also polluted by something else....something disconcertingly familiar.

To be continued...

LdyBelial

Date: 2010-11-20 13:34 EST
Part III

Bel slams her psychic barriers down, cutting off that powerful probing tendril with an ease granted by her Triumvirate bonds. But the visage of Veighn haunts as an aspect of that seeking energy reminds her most distinctly of the Dark Lord himself. Surely he can't have anything to do with any of this"! Stranger things have happened, and over her existence she has learned that more often it is Fate rather than coincidence driving the bus.

Pushing the thoughts of the Dark Lord from her mind Bel turns to survey the room, looking for any hints as to where this power source has sprung. Without any undo surprise she finds her gaze landing on the girl again. The girl's aura is aglow with an unearthly bluish-white as she hovers over one of the wounded at the far end of the room from where Bel and Wulf stand. Her eyes are closed and her lips are moving, but only a whisper of syllables can be heard. Even by one as talented as Bel.

The man had a laser blast in his torso, Bel's work, and from the look of him he didn't have much time left. Yet....as the girl continues her odd swaying over him the man's wound begins to knit closed, impurities trickle from the quickly sealing opening in his chest and already the pale of death is receding. Without breaking the trance the girl moves to the next man, repeating her strange chant and sway with the same results. It looks effortless, as if the cost of energy is null and void somehow....Even with Elven Healers the energy consumption would be appreciable. What the hell is going on here"! This child is much more than she appears, and even as Bel thinks this a glimmer, a flicker of a glance, reveals a hidden truth: The girl is glamoured. The spell seems nearly as intrinsic as Bel's own, meaning maintaining it cost her little and leaves no residue for others to pick up on. The glimpse is too quick for Bel to catch more than a shade of what?s real; she still has no idea what the girl really is.

"Bel" We gonna go do this, or we just gonna stand around here while you gawk at the girl?" Wulf asks, stepping closer as if that might aid in snapping her back to the now.

"Ah' Yeah, right, the Dragons..."

"I saw something too." Wulf leans in and whispers. "You as lost here about all this as I am' Or am I the only one having the wool pulled over my eyes?"

"We're in the same boat, Wulf."

"Yup." He nods, taking her word on it, and straightens. Losing the whisper he continues "then we'd better get to the Dragon issue before trying to cipher out the girl."

"Yeah..." Bel turns her back on the room and strides out the door, leading the way down the stairs to the makeshift fortifications below. Tactically they had chosen a good spot to put up their defense, but there are still many holes that need plugging. They have a few things to do before company comes and no one seems to know just when that will be....Heck, they thought Bel and Wulf were the company!

Time is sparse and preparations are many. Not wanting to undermine the current chain of command, Bel pulls the youthful Haru aside, to begin assessing the set-up, while Wulf makes the rounds, checking ammo, and weapons. It takes only a handful of minutes for Bel and Wulf to realize how poorly prepared these people are. Wulf heads off to rig the entrances with scrounged booby-traps as Bel once more pulls Haru aside and begins filling in the tactical blanks. She already knows this battle will have to be won by her and her personal brute squad, Wulf. Should any strays get past the two, however, better to have the motley troops in line and as ready as they can be.

Bel does her best to inspire Haru, hoping it will carry over to his people; high morale can turn a battle she has witnessed. As with all bad timing, Wulf rounds the corner of the hallway, heading back towards them at a rapid pace while she is still in the middle of rallying the commander.

"Hope every thing's set, cuz we've got company!" He announces, hopping over the makeshift-blockade and coming to a stop beside Bel, peering down at her with a wicked grin. "They brought a freakin' army." He fairly beams with pleasure. "This is gonna be fun!"

"Ah, yeah, fun..." Bel looks back to Haru. "If anyone comes down that hallway, you and your men shoot 'em. Do just like you did before with us, ok" Keep shooting."

"We will. But..."

"Inspire your men to fight valiantly, Haru San, and don't worry about us. Wulf and me won't be using this hallway, sweets. We've got other ways to....hop around." Bel smiles reassuringly at Haru, as she reaches over to place her hand on Wulf's arm. In a flicker the two vanish.

Somewhere in the darkness of the first floor, they materialize. "Ya know how much I hate doing that, right?" Wulf complains.

"Yeah....and you got a better suggestion?" Bel smirks as she hankers down, taking in the vantage point, assessing the best locations from which to strike in the opening gambit.

"You think they have any idea what?s about to happen to them?" Wulf whispers as he joins Bel in a low crouch.

Bel shakes her head. "Doubt it, they likely expect this to be a walk in the park..." and it would have been if she and Wulf hadn't come along.

"Yeah." Wulf darts a quick look around, listening intently. "You cover the front, I'll handle the side. Sounds like you got the higher concentration."

"Don't worry about me, Wulf. You keep an eye on your six. I will get through them as quick as I can."

"Heh. You're a cocky bitch, Bel. You keep an eye on your six." Before Bel could retort, Wulf is edging off towards the side entrance.

With a roll of green eyes, Bel begins making her way towards the front doors. Bold of them to use that entrance, but then again....seems they might have known more about their mission than she and Wulf did about theirs. None of that matters now. Bel focuses on the task at hand. A rough estimate from previous run-ins with the Dragons, and keeping the object of desire in mind, this could be anywhere between eight to twelve guys - Pretty easy for Bel to mow through, if she doesn't mind advertising her 'talents'. Bel knows better, however, so she will rely on stealthy hand-to-hand then ranged weapons. Being nearly invincible has some advantage; she doesn't have to worry about some lucky shots. As she lays in wait she listens, as the footsteps grow closer. She hones in her senses, letting them tell her what they could.

A visual of the front of the building forms; sounds are like homing beckons, granting her a layout of their approach. They are exercising a certain caution and attempting to move quietly. They are trying to be sneaky. There are at least twelve at the front....Bel does a quick calculation. Damn, that means six to eight at the back! Wait a minute; this isn't a typical Dragon Squad....This is more like a death squad....Bel opens her mental connection with Wulf to inform him just as he does the same.

'More than I thought, Bel, this ain't your everyday Dragon dung...'

'Yeah, was just about to tell you that too. Keep sharp, you've got at least six to take out...'

'Seven by my count. But you've got something else up there....ya picked him up yet"'

Bel frowns as she tries to puzzle through what Wulf is relaying to her. She opens herself up just enough to snake out a tendril of energy to investigate, (Veighn had taught her the wisdom of being cautious with this specific talent). It takes less than a minute....Demonkin.

What the fuck"! Damn Corwyn, damn his eyes! 'Ok, they came a lot better prepared than we did...'

'Yup. Tag, he's yours, fallen angel babe.'

So much for the hope he hadn't heard the Elder....Bel mentally squares her shoulders. Demonkin doesn't really change the game plan it just adds a bit of hefty spice, she tells herself. The concern is why did they send Demonkin" The Dragons are a primarily human group, they believe in keeping their Asian bloodlines as pure as the Trueblood Elves. Demonkin are a hybrid of human and demon, and although the Dragons prefer purity of lineage they aren't stupid enough to turn down the occasional 'gifts' granted their community. What must they know of the Thorn that they would resort to sending such a powerhouse to collect her" No time to worry about that right now as the front doors blow off their hinges and the booby traps spring into action.

Forty-seven minutes later and the open first floor area of the warehouse is a bloody wreck. Body parts are strewn all over. The walls blackened and otherwise decorated with gory graffiti. Blood spatter seems to be the hallmark of the new interior design. Bel wades through the grisly mess to Wulf lying prone near the office entrance. He'd been tossed there by the demonkin only a few moments ago. Bel leans down, extending an arm to him.

"What a mess!" She comments as she looks over the warehouse.

"Did he say anything?" Wulf demands as he finds his footing after hoisting himself up with her aid.

"Who?" Bel releases her hold on Wulf's arm and continues her visual inspection of the warehouse.

"The demonkin?" He gives her an exasperated look.

"Ahh.... We didn't have time for a chat, Wulf....in case you missed it."

"Ya killed him outright Bel"! So much for questioning the bad guys to figure out what they know."

"Hmm....killed" Not exactly..." Bel trails off looking at the floor at their feet.

"What do you mean....'not exactly'?" Wulf sounds suspicious.

"He teleported away before I could finish him," Said flatly as that green gaze flashes heatedly up at Wulf. It wasn't her choice and she'd had no control over it.

"What?"! He got away"! Shit!" Wulf looks over at Bel, shaking his head. "So basically you're saying we've just declared war on the Dragons'."

Bel drops a half shrug, "We'll worry about that later....we have to check on the others. I didn't sense any alarm from them, but..."

"We can't know until we have eyes on 'em. Got it." Wulf heads for the door leading into the office area.

"Ahh, Wulf" Sorry, sweets, we can't go in that direction, they are likely to shoot us..."

"Oh, yeah." He chuckles rubbing at the bump on the back of his head. "Greeeat, now we get to teleport again...." He sounds none too happy about this mode of travel but he moves back towards her anyway. "Let's get this over with." He mutters as darkly as he can muster.

"Of course...? Bel's chuckle echoes in their wake as they vanish.

To be continued...

LdyBelial

Date: 2010-11-24 11:28 EST
Part IV

Neither she nor Wulf had taken the time to worry about their personal appearances. For them, being covered in gore and vitae were expected outcomes of battles. For the average everyday folks, the sight of the two of them brought gasps of horror and a few faints. Bel and Wulf look at one another in complete surprise, and realization dawns.

"You're covered in blood!" Wulf laughs as he jabs a finger towards her face.

"Oh, and you're not"!" Bel wonders if glamour might work on this too....but best not to do the tricks in front of others, it tends to make folks uneasy. Instead, she turns to smile at the stunned faces in the room. "Any reports from downstairs" All safe up here" We're just checking in..."

"We're fine," The girl who had first spoken to Bel steps forward and answers. "I'm Lin-Mae by the way, sorry I haven't had a chance to introduce myself earlier." The girl extends a hand towards Bel.

Bel smiles and takes the offering, shaking the girl's hand gently. "Belial, most call me Bel, and this is Wulf. Sorry about the mess downstairs....We did our best to avoid it." Ok, that was a bald face lie, but Bel keeps her expression open and sincere. "Oh, and we haven't had time to clean up either....we hope we haven't caused too much trauma?"

"No, they will be fine. It's just not something one sees everyday, at least not from where we've come." The girl offers her hand and that smile to Wulf. "Nice to meet you too, Wulf. I think the name suits you."

"Thanks, Lin-Mae. Good to meet ya too. So, ya trust us enough to tell us what you are yet?"

Lin-Mae blinks confusedly at Wulf. "I'm sorry' I don't understand what you mean?"

Wulf shrugs and chuckles. "Just checking." Then he tosses a look Bel's direction.

Bel shakes her head slightly in warning at Wulf, turning to smile back at Lin-Mae. "We've got to check on the others and make sure they know they can stand down now. We should get cleaned up a bit too....we'll be back shortly."

Lin-Mae smiles and nods, pretending she understands. Bel can sense the angst in the girl however. "Oh, yes, of course! Well, hurry back please" There are some things I need to talk with you about."

"Of course, sweets....that goes for me too," Bel smiles, while leading Wulf by the arm towards the doorway. She gives him a glance that instructs him to stay quiet until they are out of humans' earshot at least, and to the stairs she heads.

"She doesn't know jack, Bel." Wulf grumbles as they begin making progress down the stairs.

"Yeah, I know. But I also suspect that the Elder does..."

"Ah, so that's why you're the House Leader." Wulf chuckles teasingly.

"Yeah....and you aren't. Boo-fucking-hoo! You wouldn't want my job, sweets!"

"You got that right."

Haru meets them half way on the stairs. His eyes move over them and widen in horror. "Are you ok?" Do you need me to get Lin-Mae?" He asks with true concern.

Bel and Wulf exchange another look then both shake their heads and reply at the same time.

"We're fine." Bel mutters.

"Naw, we're good." Wulf grins.

"We heard such a racket!" Haru exclaims. "The walls shook and there were all those loud booms!"

"Yeah, about the mess..." Bel begins.

"No!" Haru interrupts, "We don't care about the mess. That's why we chose this place. Just as long as you are alright?"

Such a nice guy, Bel thinks as she studies the genuine concern. He obviously has leadership capabilities, but as a general....If these folks are to stay safe they are going to have to put more attention into their military. "We really are fine. But I do need to speak with the Elder, if you could arrange it?"

"Of course, right away! I am sure he wants to speak to you too." Haru nods and brushes past them to make his way up the stairs.

Bel looks over at Wulf and points at his face. "Time to wash up, sweets..."

"Ain't no way, Bel. I'm soaked to my bottom layers." Wulf says skeptically. "I'm gonna need a change of clothes."

"Naw....I figure to tweak our glamour."

"Yeah, that's right! You're the all powerful fallen angel chick. You can do all kinds of shit with your eyes closed." Wulf says sarcastically then in a more sober tone. "Look, don't waste power here in the World, let's just wash off our faces. I still am hoping to get home in time to sleep in my own bed tonight."

Bel chuckles softly, a hint of her old devilish self as she waves a dismissive hand. "Oh, ye of little faith....I haven't even begun to tap into my resources....See?" She smiles, clean-faced, fresh and sunny, up at Wulf. "You look good too..."

Wulf smirks. "Can I have that in writing?"

"You know what I mean! Don't even start with me, buddy!" Bel jibes back. "Let's go get this over with..."

Wulf just nods, his expression suddenly thoughtful and brooding. "We're walking into more shit, I can feel it."

"Yeah....I know." But the way Bel sees it, they've been walking in it since this adventure began. Might as well finish it off...

In unison they turn and head back up the stairs in hopes of finding Haru or the Elder. Luck is with them as Haru is walking crisply down the hall in their direction. "The Elder wishes to speak with you now, before you talk to Lin-Mae. If you would follow me, please?" Bel and Wulf nod and allow Haru to lead them away from the once hidden room, deeper into the upper floor of the warehouse. If their luck holds, maybe they will even get some answers soon. At least Bel can hope. It is a short walk to the room where the Elder had taken up residence. He sits behind a large, industrial looking desk. On the blotter before him is a largish book, the spine is rough, the cover worn leather. Not a typical looking book by any means. He gestures for Bel and Wulf to make themselves comfortable as he begins speaking.

"For over a thousand years my people have been sanctioned to watch over the Thorn of Zenfaer, to keep it safe from harm or misuse. Powerful objects can destroy just as they might create, and it was our task to oversee that the Thorn bloomed in goodness. It is true that at times the Thorn's face changed. That an old Thorn would whither, only to have a new Thorn birthed. But always there has been a Thorn. The one soul that could chase away darkness with light, that can heal wounds untreatable, that can call nature to their desires. The one soul that can see beyond time, Our people prospered, grew strong from the luxuries of having such a powerful tool in our tribe. Yet we have always known the Thorn would one day be returned to its creator."

The Elder pushes the book across the desk towards them. "It was written long ago that the Thorn would one day be called home. It was written by the first of the Thorns generations ago, that the angel last fallen would come during dire circumstance and take up the mantle of the Thorn's protection. We have always known you would come, we did not know when that would be. Here you are now, when we were in our most dire of circumstance and our task is at last done. You are now the protector of the Thorn.

"I wish I could say we shall be heartbroken over the loss of our duties....Over the loss of Lin-Mae, but truth is above all the mark of one's character. Do not mistake me. Lin-Mae is a fine girl; we love and respect her as one of our own, more so in fact. But we have felt the burden of our task and paid dearly; we've lost our homes, our history, and some have lost their lives. We do not begrudge Lin-Mae, or hold her accountable for our Fates. But we know that we may now reclaim our lives as our own with freedoms we did not have before. We know this will be a time of great peace for our tribe, and we embrace our future. Sadly, we are happy to let our duties fade to past.

"Take the book. It is but a copy of the writings collected during our time of tasking. There is much that lies within that we do not understand. Truth told, some of it harkens of devastation we would prefer to remain ignorant. It is yours to heed now as you take on the task we've carried so long.

"I could, for the sake of my tribe, plead to understand why we were so heavily tasked. From both of your expressions, I feel it safe to assume that you know less than we do. Pity. We had always hoped for some answer when this day came. Yet, I confess that I am not surprised. My people were not warned when they were tasked. So it is with you. May your burdens be lessened by the knowledge of greatness you have been governed to protect. It is as much a treasure as a curse.

"Now, if you will please pardon me" I would speak to Lin-Mae first. I would prefer to break the news to her as gently and lovingly as possible." The Elder doesn't wait for questions, he stands and exits the room before either Bel or Wulf can think of anything to say. Bel scoops up the book and starts to open it, only to shake her head and flick it shut. Whatever lies within may be things she's best not knowing. Duty bound to protect the kid, huh" Not that Bel hasn't been fond of picking up strays on her own in the past....Besides, the kid seems to have some pretty interesting talents. Bel pulls herself from her thoughts to look over at Wulf. He is watching her. His expression well schooled, guarded, unreadable.

"Guess you're getting your wish....we should be home in time for dinner and sleep in our own beds tonight.?

Wulf doesn't say a word. He just looks at her with that unfathomable expression.