NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: I'm back! :D

IC: Tal had been on his way to find Umbra, but had run into some rouge demons on the way. He had just finished off the last one, and he looked up at the sky. He wondered if Umbra wasn't back with the others by now. After all, he had taken quite some time hunting the demons. He continued gazing into the sky, trying to decide what to do. Finally he decided to head back to Zena and the others, although he wasn't sure why. He never was one to doubt his instincts. He shot up into the air, when he thought of something. Where exactly is the jet now?

OOC: YAY!

IC: Joshua thought about it. "I was thinking more of something where we all competed at once, but I suppose your idea could work."

Tal was gliding along, thoroughly lost. I have no idea where Zena and the others have gone to.... and for some reason I can't sense them.... Tal stopped. Wait... why can't I sense them? Unless its..... Tal immediately zoomed through the air towards where the jet had last been.

Zena was struck by a thought. "Hey guys, Tal left while we were in midair and we're about to land. I don't think he knows where we are." Tal, where are you? And please don't say lost, cause I'm pretty sure you are.

Tal knew he shouldn't be, but Zena's voice in his head still startled him. Well... for your information, I know exactly where I am. It's you I'm not sure about. But first, is Umbra back with you yet?

He is not. Why? And if you need to, Josh can teleport you. He's getting good at that now, no feeling like you'd barf afterward.

Tal remained silent for a moment, thinking to himself. (not realizing that Zena could hear him) Umbra isn't back yet? That's not like him.... hmmm.... I hope nothing bad's happened.... then, he thought (directed at Zena) I'm going to find Umbra first. I think he's in Iceland, so I'll head there. Tal flew off towards Iceland, spotting the odd storm clouds up ahead. (he was already close)

Zena shrugged. You sure you don't want him there to at least help you? He'd be glad to if I asked him.

Tal sighed. It's really up to Josh, I guess. I think Umbra should be able to handle anything that happens, and with me here too.... but still... there are some pretty strange clouds here.... too bad you can't see them.

Zena closed her eyes. Ah, but I can. And you're right, they don't look good. "Hey Josh, feel like a road trip?"
"Sure, where to?" He asked.
"Tal. He's near Iceland."
"Tell him to hold out his arms, I'm on my way." Joshua vanished.
Hold out your arms, he's teleporting now.

Wait, what? You can? Huh? Before Tal had any time to think about that any more, he was thinking about what she said next. Hold out my arms? For what? Josh? He put out his arms as he said this, ready to catch Josh. Right, he can't fly. he thought to himself, once again forgetting Zena was listening in.

Joshua caught Tal's hands. "Sorry to drop in like this. But I'd rather be with you than in those clouds."

Zena meanwhile giggled a bit. I borrowed your eyes to see the clouds. And yes, Joshua is incapable of flight.

Tal grinned at Josh. "Fair enough." He swung him up so he could carry him easier. "I think they may be the doing of Umbra. We must be getting close." Yeah, I guess I had forgotten that-... wait, what? You can see what I can? At any time? Tal shuddered a little. Have you, uh, ever done that before?

Well, there was this one time before our high school was destroyed. Josh had gotten a date with someone he'd been trying to for a while and before they got home, they found a little spot, fogged up the windows of the car, and then I borrowed his eyes. Now here's where things get creepy. They were getting busy and I ended up seeing the whole thing cause I couldn't disconnect from his eyes for three hours. Zena shuddered and it came though to Tal. Ever since I learned to control it better. but yes, any person I can connect to at any time.

Joshua meanwhile laughed. "Ya, they do look classic Umbra. Hey, here's a thought. Methua is a moon god and so is Mond. With Hell in turmoil, it's possible that Methua could break Mond out and then we'd be facing something truly terrifying."

Tal kept flying straight, although he felt Zena's shudder. I... I never really thought of it as so awkward, but the way you put it... well, I've had to witness such scenes myself while guarding humans. Before it didn't really make a difference, but suddenly..... anyway, what I was trying to get at was, well..... have you ever done that to me? Tal paused a moment. I'm referring to the eye-seeing thing, of course. He quickly thought, somewhat embarrassed.

"That's not even something I want to think about. Besides, he seems to think of himself as the good guy. I don't see why he would want to resurrect a demon."

Never to you, but to Joshua plenty of times. It keeps him in line knowing that I could watch what he's doing at any time. But it's rather awkward to get roped into watching something like that.

Joshua chuckled. "You're right. But he's willing to do whatever he needs to do in order to get what he wants. Besides, after Typhon screwed up his army, Mond would need a new one and soulless bodies would be perfect for him. So, Mond gets soldiers, Methua gets souls. So however unlikely, it's possible."

Oh, ok. Thank you. Although that's somewhat controlling, isn't it? So, umm.... that's something everybody does, right? To be honest, I don't know much about it... but I know its awkward, so sorry, just never mind.... ummm yeah.

Tal shook his head. "I suppose we'll cross that bridge when we reach it. Although you're right, it is possible. If Methua can even do that."

Oh my, it's like having a kid in the house. Do we need to have the sex talk? Zena was nearly giggling at this point. I'm sorry, but from my point of view, it's hilarious that a being thousands of years old doesn't know all that much about, you know.

Joshua meanwhile looked at Tal. "I wouldn't put it past him. And you're talking to Zena aren't you? I recognize that look. Most people get it when talking to her."

What? Tal's face reddened ever so slightly, but he immediately did his best to hide it. No! I mean, of course not! It's just that... well, I've seen... er, well.... sex...before, but, well.... I don't exactly do.... well, I don't do it you know. I am an angel after all. But I know what its for, and who should and shouldn't be doing it, but...... Tal stopped mid sentence, trying hard not to think anymore on the matter (since Zena would hear him), which was harder than it seemed.

"Er.... yeah, you got me. We're... yeah, we're talking."

It's hard to think about not thinking isn't it? Zena said, still giggling slightly.

"From the looks of it, an embarrassing topic too." Joshua said, nearly matching Zena's giggles.

I fail to see the humor! you talking about it doesn't help... I, uh... and.... has Zena ever...?..... No, I.... ummm..... Tal was fighting a losing battle with his thoughts that were slipping through.

"Er, yeah, you could say that.... wait, I shouldn't even be embarrassed.... should I?"

I'm sorry, but I find this situation hilarious for reasons unknown.

"Probably not. It's not as bad as what she did to me in high school."

What makes you an expert, huh? Have you...... er..... umm.... I, uh.....


Tal nodded. "Yeah, I..... she told me."

Tal shook his head and changed the subject. "I think we're getting closer." Indeed, the clouds had darkened, and Tal could feel Umbra's familiar presence as they neared Iceland, even though they were a ways away still.

OOC: If you're still here, Greal, I'll give you something to do.

IC: A single scouting angel was flying over Canada, when he saw a strange sight. It looked like somebody was lost, and searching the cars on the roads. He wasn't supposed to interact directly with humans, but he could sense some demons were near, and the human would need protection. He flew down to the person, wings spread. "Greetings, mortal. Do not be afraid. I have come to help you."

Rollins was alarmed by an appearance of an angel. He had grabbed his light machine gun, but he relaxed his hand a little when the angel spoke his purpose. "Alright, have you spotted any "enemies" nearby?"

Miles away, Massacre the demon was on a trail of a human.

There was lightning all around Umbra's location so he wouldn't be hard to miss. He, however, didn't really notice Tal, he was far to busy to be paying attention to every presence entering his general area.

Zena's voice changed. Now you lost me.

Joshua meanwhile sighed. "She's so dead when we get ba... That's a lot of lightning."

Rollins was alarmed by an appearance of an angel. He had grabbed his light machine gun, but he relaxed his hand a little when the angel spoke his purpose. "Alright, have you spotted any "enemies" nearby?"

Miles away, Massacre the demon was on a trail of a human.

The angel nodded. "I see you like to get down to business. That is good, I suppose. Yes, there is a demonic presence nearby, but I can't tell for sure where or how far away. I haven't spotted it, but... it seems rather strong. It is either a small horde, or a single more powerful one. Only time will tell, I suppose."

Good, I'm trying very hard to not ask- Tal cut himself off.

Tal nodded. "I wouldn't worry about it. If it is indeed Umbra, I doubt it would hit us. Even if he doesn't notice us."

You're a killjoy Tal.

"I figured as much, but it doesn't mean I like it. In case you forgot, my arms are made of metal making us a lightning rod."

Methua nodded in satisfaction. "So then, are we in agreement? Everyone is okay with this deal?"

Aozora shrugged. "Works for me mate."

Zena cleared her throat. "Let me get this straight. You pick a challenges for us, and we pick challenges for you, and at the end of it all, the team or individual with the most points wins? And what about loses? If someone loses, does the other get a point or is no point awarded?"

Methua looked confused, as if the answer should be obvious. "Why should people be rewarded for the failure of others? They had nothing to do with it, it doesn't prove they have any particular skills, just that the other person does not."

"I figured as much, though with some games it's played out that way. It never hurts to ask though." Zena replied.

The angel nodded. "I see you like to get down to business. That is good, I suppose. Yes, there is a demonic presence nearby, but I can't tell for sure where or how far away. I haven't spotted it, but... it seems rather strong. It is either a small horde, or a single more powerful one. Only time will tell, I suppose."

Rollins prepared his light machine gun. "Should I keep driving?"

"I figured as much, though with some games it's played out that way. It never hurts to ask though." Zena replied.

Methua nodded, than thought of something. "I feel I should tell you, however, that you may think of absolutely anything. It matters not how unconventinal, I will make it happen. As long as it is not impossible, it is a valid challenge."

Zena smiled. "I was hoping to hear just that. It makes thinking of challenges both easier and harder all at once. Know what I mean?"

OOC: WTF!? New emotes!? When did that happen!?

OOC: Hehe, just barely notice that? I think it happened when Jolt was down for a bit yesterday.

IC: Methua nodded, and abruptly sat down cross-legged. "Yes, I do know what you mean. So, when would you like to begin?"

"Good, and I'd say as soon as Josh, Tal, and Umbra get back." Zena said before a thought entered her head. Hey Josh, we can use all the help we can get against Methua right? So what about asking Kathy to help? She's helped before, just never on the front lines. And she did hold her own while we were in the Garden.

Joshua, busy avoiding lightning managed a reply. I can work with that, but then I'm assuming you want me to make another stop and get her?
Well of course, she won't sprout wings and fly here.
Fine, I'll ask Tal. "Hey, Zena wants us to make another stop after Umbra to pick up another friend, up for it?"

Zena meanwhile asked Methua, "We've got someone else we'd like to ask for help. Mind if we bring her in?"

OOC: JOLT WAS DOWN!? WTF else have I missed!?

Methua shrugged. "This is fine with me. Bring in whomever you want. I suppose if you think about it, I've got much in the way of help as well, what with the souls and whatnot." A thought suddenly occured to him. "Speaking of souls, where is Alehkra's body? Its much safer to return his soul directly. I could do it from here, but I can't gaurantee that it will reach his body."

OOC: By the way, I feel required to point this out right now: the good guys will lose the games, no questions asked. But, don't worry, I've got it planned out, so they won't lose their souls. And something very good will actually come out of it.

"It's in a secure location." Zena said, unsure if it was still with Deserea or if she'd moved it somewhere safer. "I'll try and contact her quick." Deserea, Methua has agreed to release Alehkra's soul for his "games", but we need his body. Where are you so I can send Joshua once he's got a couple other friends.

OOC: Gimme a quick speed update and Ill try to rejoin. And help out a little with my re-intro. (OR ELSE THE MONOCLE ~_O WILL GET YOU!)

OOC: But, Monocle's monocle is still up my butt... or did you forget?

OOC: Rundown, SCHNELL!!!!:soap:

OOC: En anglais sil vous plaît?

ooc: En Anglais Sil Vous Plaît?


Ooc:beschmutzen Sie Französische Hure!

Same place came the short reply. Methua sighed. "No need to get Joshua involved. I can do it just fine, and it would undoubtedly be faster."

Ooc: Non!! Pas Ce!! Tout Pas Ce!!

OOC: still waiting for that summary...

OOC: Ask Sylvonia, he could do it better than me, as I was gone for about a week.

OOC: Humm... Well, here we go, inserting them at random.

IC:

Patrick grimaced. "A game for a soul..... reminds me of carnies. Something's not right here."

Same place came the short reply. Methua sighed. "No need to get Joshua involved. I can do it just fine, and it would undoubtedly be faster."

OOC: Ask Sylvonia, he could do it better than me, as I was gone for about a week.

OOC: I defer to GW.

IC: "Fine." Zena said grudgingly. "But bring them both back here unharmed."

Tal looked down at Josh. "Fine then. You know, if you want, you can go on your own. I'll just find Umbra alone. I'm already very close."

I, er.... I'm guessing something has happened, right? I suppose we could finish this some other time... or preferably not at all.

OOC: Say who what now?

Rollins prepared his light machine gun. "Should I keep driving?"

The angel furrowed his brow, trying to think. "I should be able to handle a demon that should arrive, but still.... yes, we should keep moving. It's a bad idea to stick around anywhere for to long."

OOC: Are we in a moving car, or just at the road next to a bunch of ones that are off?

The angel furrowed his brow, trying to think. "I should be able to handle a demon that should arrive, but still.... yes, we should keep moving. It's a bad idea to stick around anywhere for to long."

OOC: Are we in a moving car, or just at the road next to a bunch of ones that are off?

OOC: Well, Rollins naturally stopped the car. There are other car wrecks nearby.

"Good idea. Lets get out of here. This place is scaring me already." said Rollings, starting the car, and putting his light machine gun away.

Massacre halted, he heard a car start nearby.......

At a later date works just fine.
"Good point. Besides, I attract lightning like you wouldn't believe." he vanished and appeared in Rome. "Hey Kathy, long time no see."
After a short scream in surprise, she replied. "Zena's out looking for you! She..."
"I know, she sent me here. We'd like your help so change into something more suited for fighting and grab your wrenches." He chuckled at the thought of Kathy whacking Methua over the head with a wrench.
"Sure, but my apartment's across town." She said, starting to lock things up for the day.
"No problem." Once all was ready, they appeared in said apartment. It took just a few minutes for her to change clothes (absurdly tight jeans, a black tank top, and a violently purple sweatshirt tied around her waist) and grab a grey tool box. One end of the box had a white attachment with a red cross on it, a symbol of her medical training and stocked to the brim with medical supplies.
Once that was said and done, they were back in the jet which was just landing.
"Long time no see, Z." Kathy joked.
"Ya, it's been all of what, 18 hours since we looked face to face?" Zena giggled back.

OOC: I dare someone to piss her off. ;)

OOC: Sounds like a job for Mirage....

OOC: I won't stop you. :)

Er-, thats fine, really, don't worry about it.

Tal continued on without Joshua, and eventually reached Umbra, who was attacking Beelzebub. He shouted out to him over the storm, "Somethings going on with Methua! Zena wants us back at the jet, and I'm not sure why!"

~

The angel got in the passenger seat. "These cars seem so awkward and hard to use. I can't imagine using one constantly like you humans do. So, this demon nearby... do you know anything about it?"

OOC: If Rollins doesn't know, could you give me a reminder OOC? I'm not sure where to find your char, and I forgot what he does.

No I insist, we'll continue this later. Don't worry about it. Zena was almost giddy at the thought of creeping out Tal like this. It was mean, she knew it, but still, it was funny to see his reactions.

Lighning was all around UMbra and his scythe, he brought his hand to send out a wave of his dark electricity when he heard Tal. "What?! NOW?! Damn her! Damn her and her mission!" The clouds parted but the electricity still gathered around him. In his fury he sent a mental message out. WHAT THE HELL DO YOU WANT FROM ME NOW ZENA??!!!!!

"I apologize. I was just checking on you, you were gone for awhile, when she insisted I bring you along." Tal hadn't seen Umbra like this before, and it was somewhat awe-inspiring, if not intimidating. He had completely ignored Zena's response.

Zena recoiled a bit at Umbra. NOW THAT'S NOT VERY NICE! ALL I WANTED WAS A LITTLE HELP TO, I DON'T KNOW, SAVE THE SOULS OF EVERYONE ON THE PLANET! She was louder than ever before. BUT APPARENTLY YOU'RE TOO BUSY TO HELP SAVE THE WORLD. ONCE IS YOUR LIMIT I GUESS. IF YOU FEEL YOUR PERSONAL NEEDS ARE GREATER THAN THE REST OF THE PLANET, WE'LL JUST LEAVE YOU BE. I'M POSITIVE WE CAN DEFEAT THE PERSON STEALING EVERYONE'S SOULS WITHOUT YOU!

Umbra let out a loud roar that would be heard hundreds of miles away, it shattered glass and caused pipes and buildings to crumble in the immediate area. Pyro had entrusted him with something and now he was being held back by Zena, it actually pissed him off. WELL THEN DO IT WITHOUT ME!! i MADE A PROMISE TO PYRO AND I'M NOT GOING BACK ON MY WORD!! YOUR FEELINGS BE DAMNED!!!

Tal's hands flew to his ears as everything around him shattered. He wasn't sure what Umbra was thinking, but he could tell by his yell that he was angry. However, Tal stayed right where he was.

WAS IT TOO HARD TO TELL ME THAT BEFORE YOU STARTED SCREAMING BLOODY MURDER!? It was as if an entire football stadium full of Zena's were upon Umbra. IF YOU HAD SOMETHING TO DO, JUST SAY SO, DON'T FLIP OUT ON ME FOR NO APPARENT REASON! Her personality changed like someone flipping a light switch. So what exactly does Pyro have you doing?

Umbra took no effect from the mental noise that was filling his head and when Zena asked him about what he was doing for a change he calmed down. His rows of fangs receeded and his wings began to smoothen, Since you have to know, I'm supposed to be handling a demon here in Iceland you has been converting many chraches to Satanism. Here's the catch, due to Satan being destroyed by us, they worship him, and from his bragging he was apparently Satan's right hand. So needless to say, I have been a little busy.

So wait, they're worshiping someone dead? That's just wrong. Feel free to ask if you need any help reversing the damage. Feel free to keep Tal if you need him, but it'd be nice to get him back. It was as if she was loaning him out as an office temp.

Tal took his hands off his ears. They were still ringing, and a little blood was on his hand, but it didn't concern him. Whatever Zena's saying, I guess it's calmed him down a bit.

I am returning to your position as of now, I just need to offload some baggage. Umbra was now in his normal state of mind and looked up at Tal, "We will fly soon." He then swung his scythe, unleashing the entire payload of his dark power upon his flightless target. The ground exploded but Umbra wasn't going to wait to survey the damage, he knew he had done some damage, how much didn't matter to him. "Tal, as of now we fly."

Tal blinked as Umbra's attack hit the ground, then nodded. He began to fly off to where he had come from. He shouted back to Umbra, "Oh, and I'm not sure where the others are. And Zena still hasn't told me what's going on exactly, so be ready for anything, I guess."

"I do wish Zena would learn to respect people more and actually ask them about things like this before tossing them into it."

"She does have a very controlling personality."

Umbra laughed, "Bullshit. I just happen to be in a good mood. You saw that thing back there? That was my avatar of fury, an emotional avatar, they very rarely come out."

You never asked Tal. Methua has challenged us to a round of games, winner take all. So are both of you coming or what's the deal here?

Tal had been ready for Zena to say something this time, but the message itself threw him off. Games?... Are you serious? The fate of the world is to be determined by games?

"Emotional avatar? I never knew you had those. It seemed very.... vibrant." Tal's ears were still ringing, and his one ear had dried blood on the inside.

Er-, thats fine, really, don't worry about it.

Tal continued on without Joshua, and eventually reached Umbra, who was attacking Beelzebub. He shouted out to him over the storm, "Somethings going on with Methua! Zena wants us back at the jet, and I'm not sure why!"

~

The angel got in the passenger seat. "These cars seem so awkward and hard to use. I can't imagine using one constantly like you humans do. So, this demon nearby... do you know anything about it?"

OOC: If Rollins doesn't know, could you give me a reminder OOC? I'm not sure where to find your char, and I forgot what he does.

OOC: Rollins and Massacre (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13788492&postcount=102)
IC:

"I don't know a thing about this demon. But I think It has been chasing me ever since I crossed the border." said Rollins as the car started to move down the road.

Tal, we're not talking monopoly. We're talking more like Extreme Fear Factor. The game is anything we can think of. We each make one for Methua, and he makes one for each of us.

"Again, very rare. I've only found out about them in the past 50 years or so and due to their rarity in coming out and showing themselves I never bothered to bring it up. It might have something to do with all the people I've killed... you are aware this scythe can be very vamperic when it needs to be?" Umbra sped along, Do I have to smell you out Zena? Or do you want to occassionally send a mental communication so I can follow?

We're at the only airport left in Vancouver. It's not that hard to find.

Tal shrugged. "I am now. It seems like it could be very useful... and very dangerous."

Still.... what if it's a trap? Then again... do we have a choice?

~

OOC: ty

IC: The angel looked out the window. "These car things seem to be rather slow. I feel that the demon approaches, but from where I can't tell."

Vancouver... Umbra stopped and gathered himself, "Okay, that way." He said pointing in Zena's direction, "Going supersonic."

Tal shrugged. "I am now. It seems like it could be very useful... and very dangerous."

Still.... what if it's a trap? Then again... do we have a choice?

~

OOC: ty

IC: The angel looked out the window. "These car things seem to be rather slow. I feel that the demon approaches, but from where I can't tell."

"Don't worry, the car always seems to outrun these demons." said Rollins chuckling.

He was wrong.

Massacre quickly, and quietly approached to right side of the car. He took out his deadly bow, aimed at one of the car tires and let the arrow off.

Tal raised his eyebrow. "Supersonic?" He didn't pursue the topic, and instead turned to the direction Umbra pointed. He then spread his wings, and shot straight forward in a brilliant streak of light at about 85% of his top speed, which was about twice as fast as Umbra had seen him fly ever before.

"Don't worry, the car always seems to outrun these demons." said Rollins chuckling.

He was wrong.

Massacre quickly, and quietly approached to right side of the car. He took out his deadly bow, aimed at one of the car tires and let the arrow off.

The angel was looking toward Rollins, to the left, and so didn't notice the demon's attack. However, the car suddenly shook and began swerving. "Hang on!" He pulled his short Roman-style sword and cut a hole in the top of the car. He then grabbed Rollins and flew out the top of the car holding him, while searching for the demon who had attacked them.

Umbra laughed before bursting with his own speed causing a massive shockwave and sonic boom. Umbra was flying at the speed of sound currently, he could go faster but not in this particular form.

The angel was looking toward Rollins, to the left, and so didn't notice the demon's attack. However, the car suddenly shook and began swerving. "Hang on!" He pulled his short Roman-style sword and cut a hole in the top of the car. He then grabbed Rollins and flew out the top of the car holding him, while searching for the demon who had attacked them.

Rollins was surprised but managed to grab his pack in time. As he flew ou tof the car, he was struggling to grab his light machine gun.

Massacre hiding behind bushes, left off a barrage of arrows before quickly moving to another area to fire again.

Tal stared back in surprise as Umbra was quickly gaining on him. He then pushed himself to go 100%. He used his power to pass through the air particles and sound waves, so technically he was traveling at about 110% of his top speed. He couldn't look back to see if Umbra was gaining still, but Tal was going as fast as he knew he could.

Umbra didn't bother to race Tal this time and watched as Tal slowly, ever so slowly, began pulling away from him.

Octavius cocked his head in confusion, and walked alongside him. "Werewolves? That doesn't make much sense, unless you attacked them first. Or...damn, must have been followers of the false god."

"Well we usually attacked first..but not this time, they came after us...what false god?" Kash replied standing still now as Octavius was alongside him.

Rollins was surprised but managed to grab his pack in time. As he flew ou tof the car, he was struggling to grab his light machine gun.

Massacre hiding behind bushes, left off a barrage of arrows before quickly moving to another area to fire again.

The angel was ready for the arrows this time, and he began to swiftly dodge them. However, as he twisted in the air, a final arrow was headed straight for Rollins. Right, forgot about him. He twisted through the air, so instead of hitting Rollins, the arrow simply grazed the angel's arm. It hurt, but it was worth it. He continued to fly down the highway. "I can't get close. You'll have to shoot him from up here, ok?"

Tal noticed that Umbra was falling behind, so he stopped passing through the air. It was like running into a brick wall when going so fast, but he slowed down a bit so Umbra would catch up. After all, I'm not sure where I'm going.

"No you don't, it's actually a matter of when to land. Go on for about an hour in this direction, or wait and ask if Zena can feel you presence. You don't have to wait for me." Umbra smiled as he continued at his speed.

The angel was ready for the arrows this time, and he began to swiftly dodge them. However, as he twisted in the air, a final arrow was headed straight for Rollins. Right, forgot about him. He twisted through the air, so instead of hitting Rollins, the arrow simply grazed the angel's arm. It hurt, but it was worth it. He continued to fly down the highway. "I can't get close. You'll have to shoot him from up here, ok?"

Rollins nodded and grabbed his light machine gun. He started firing at the demon, but from high up, Rollins could barely see him.

Massacre, enraged by all the bullets everywhere, fired more arrows, not at the angel, but at the human.

Since when can you read minds? I think I'm losing mine, Jeez... Tal shook his head, then resumed his top speed, passing through particles.

You're not losing it, it's just being stolen from you. Zena joked. I know we drive you crazy, but it's a good thing!

Rollins nodded and grabbed his light machine gun. He started firing at the demon, but from high up, Rollins could barely see him.

Massacre, enraged by all the bullets everywhere, fired more arrows, not at the angel, but at the human.

The angel frowned at the incoming arrows. Not good. "Don't worry about those, just keep firing!" He put his one arm around Rollins waist, and using his other pulled his sword. He began dodging the arrows, occasionally blocking one with his sword. It was hard to pull Rollins out of the way without getting hit himself, and this fact solidified itself when an arrow grazed his hair. I can't keep this up forever.

"I think I might have jacked a little of Zena's power whilest she was yelling in my head... yup... I can't hear anything now. At least none of your thoughts... anyway."

OOC: Thought that thought was directed at me... anywho good night all

OOC: It was, Zena just wanted to interject. Anyway, night. And don't worry my hate, I'm sticking around.

IC: Umbra, that wouldn't surprise me.

"I think I might have jacked a little of Zena's power whilest she was yelling in my head... yup... I can't hear anything now. At least none of your thoughts... anyway."

OOC: Thought that thought was directed at me... anywho good night all

IC: Tal just shook his head as he flew.

OOC: 'night

Really? It suprised me. Wait how the hell can you hear me from here?

The angel frowned at the incoming arrows. Not good. "Don't worry about those, just keep firing!" He put his one arm around Rollins waist, and using his other pulled his sword. He began dodging the arrows, occasionally blocking one with his sword. It was hard to pull Rollins out of the way without getting hit himself, and this fact solidified itself when an arrow grazed his hair. I can't keep this up forever.

Rollins light machine gun suddenly ran out of bullets. Rollins had left his bullets in the car, but he couldn't risk getting them there. He managed to put the light machine gun back and took out his Glock instead and began firing.

Massacre knew he was gaining. At least he was on the ground and had plenty of strength. He fired another barrage of arrows. This time at the angel itself.

You're not losing it, it's just being stolen from you. Zena joked. I know we drive you crazy, but it's a good thing!

How is it good? For me anyway? Also, Umbra says it'll be about an hour when we reach there, maybe a bit longer for him.

Rollins light machine gun suddenly ran out of bullets. Rollins had left his bullets in the car, but he couldn't risk getting them there. He managed to put the light machine gun back and took out his Glock instead and began firing.

Massacre knew he was gaining. At least he was on the ground and had plenty of strength. He fired another barrage of arrows. This time at the angel itself.

The angel knew this wasn't going very well. He had to fight, but Rollins would only be a distraction. He swooped down to the road while dodging the arrows and set Rollins on top of a car. "You need to get out of here, fast. I'll hold him off." The angel pulled one of his feathers and slammed it into the hood of the car. It immediately started. "Drive about 80 miles north of here. You'll find some of my comrades. They can take care of you. If I can't beat this demon, maybe I can at least by you some time." He immediately ran into the bushes in search of the demon.

Then I suggest stopping right now. "Josh, pickup time." He nodded and vanished.

And in 5,4,3.. Josh landed on Tal's back. "Miss me?"

The angel knew this wasn't going very well. He had to fight, but Rollins would only be a distraction. He swooped down to the road while dodging the arrows and set Rollins on top of a car. "You need to get out of here, fast. I'll hold him off." The angel pulled one of his feathers and slammed it into the hood of the car. It immediately started. "Drive about 80 miles north of here. You'll find some of my comrades. They can take care of you. If I can't beat this demon, maybe I can at least by you some time." He immediately ran into the bushes in search of the demon.

"Thank you." said Rollins, then he drove off down the road at high speed.

Massacre smiled and drew his infamous Dark Sword, the sword gave off a red glow. Then he attacked.

Then I suggest stopping right now. "Josh, pickup time." He nodded and vanished.

And in 5,4,3.. Josh landed on Tal's back. "Miss me?"

Tal had been flying so fast, he had to pass through the air particles to avoid wind resistance. So when he felt something funny pass through him and heard Josh, he know he would fall straight down when he thought he'd land on his back. Tal stopped immediately and flew backwards to catch Josh before he fell. "This wouldn't happen if you would just warn me."

It's really hard to concentrate with these weird conversations in my head.

"Thank you." said Rollins, then he drove off down the road at high speed.

Massacre smiled and drew his infamous Dark Sword, the sword gave off a red glow. Then he attacked.

The angel had seen a red glow, so he had spun around, sword drawn, and barely blocked the demons first attack. "Who are you, and why are you attacking a human?" he demanded.

Joshua laughed. "I could have stopped myself you know." Anyway..." he grabbed Tal's wrist and vanished before grabbing Umbra and heading to the Jet. "Delivery!" he announced when they arrived.
Zena chuckled. "I know it's hard, but trust you, you get used to it."

Tal frowned a little, but it quickly passed. "Josh, once again, warning please? It's really disorientating when you do that."

"It's like Zena said, you get used to it." Joshua found a seat and claimed it. "It's rather cramped in here with all of us isn't it?"
"Ya, a bit." Zena replied.

Tal thought about that. Get used to....hmmm.... Tal turned and froze when he saw Methua. He immediately drew his sword, but had to be careful as there were so many people around. "Zena, you forgot to mention he was here. Now, can you give me one good reason why I shouldn't kill him right now?" Tal's eyes were suddenly cold with deadly intent, his sword pointed straight at Methua's face.

"Because to be honest, I doubt you can without hurting someone else in the process. Remember how well your last fight with him went?" She tried to be nice, but it was hard. "Aside from that, we've struck a deal and if you kill him, we may not get Alehkra's soul back."

Tal's eyes went to Zena. "Remember why that happened to me in the first place?" He remained facing Methua. Every fiber in his body was telling him to charge, to end this before it could go any farther. But he was held back by something more powerful than his body... his emotion. The only difference between now and before was that part of him wanted to give in to his emotion.

Zena's eyes began to glow a bit and she used something she'd not used in a very very long time. Her power of suggestion. She implanted thoughts into someone's mind and coaxed them into doing something without forcing them to. Put the sword away and stand down. She told Tal.

Tal watched as his arm began to lower. Wha- No, Wait! His arm straightened itself, but it was a little wobbly. No, I... he's right there! I... I can't stand down!

Maybe Zena has a point though. Alehkra's soul could be at risk here. Zena's power was strong, but Tal's will was not something to mess with. Stand down. Tal wouldn't realize that the thoughts weren't his own.

Tal hand was shaking badly now, and a bead of sweat appeared on his forehead. True, there is logic there. Maybe I should just... Wait, what? No, I must... but why? I could just...... just.... Tal's head was swimming, when he saw Zena's eyes glowing. Z....Zena? Tal was slowly filled with rage, rage that he hadn't felt in a very long time. Zena... how could you... you...... Tal, concentrating as hard as he could, passed through the plane, plummeting to earth.

OOC: Plumeting a whole, what, 5 feet?

IC: Zena watched Tal. What are you talking about? I'm checking out Iceland to see what you guys did there. It wasn't a total lie, she'd been meaning to do so, but at the same time, she needed to calm Tal down. Tal, get back here, please.

OOC: Right, forgot.

IC: Zena, I've been around the earth longer than it has existed. Don't try to lie to me. Just because I don't know about sex, doesn't mean I'm stupid. Normally this would be a joke, but Tal's tone indicated otherwise. He landed on the ground, still very disorientated.

OOC: that's why I reminded you.

IC: Ok, you want the truth? Here it is. You wouldn't stand down on your own, so I was trying to give you subtle encouragement to do so. You can't beat Methua alone, you should know that. I'm sorry I did that, but it was either suggestion or I force your sword into it's sheath. I figured you'd be even more angry if I'd used force.

IC: So you thought you needed force at all? I wasn't going to attack him head on. But I wasn't going to just stand there and pretend he wasn't there either. Maybe you should have tried asking first. Zena... I thought I could trust you in my head, but I guess not. Tal then closed his eyes. Using his powers, he hid his brain's waves, and his presence, completely. It was like he, and his thoughts, weren't even there. He rose back into the plane, silent, still visible to the eye.

"Tal, I'm sorry. I was just trying to get tensions to drop." Zena said, truly sincere and ashamed of her actions.

The angel had seen a red glow, so he had spun around, sword drawn, and barely blocked the demons first attack. "Who are you, and why are you attacking a human?" he demanded.

The demon didn't answer and attacked again with more strength, he wass trying to use the sword to slash the angel's wings.

"Tal, I'm sorry. I was just trying to get tensions to drop." Zena said, truly sincere and ashamed of her actions.

Tal glanced over to Zena. "Zena... I forgive you. I know you are truly sorry. But that doesn't mean I can trust you." He still kept his mind hidden, and he sat down.

The demon didn't answer and attacked again with more strength, he wass trying to use the sword to slash the angel's wings.

The angel quickly pulled in his wings close to his body, then moved his sword in front of the demon's. He felt the recoil of the hit along his arm, but he didn't show it. This isn't like any ordinary demon I've met before. Usually they're thrilled at the chance to mock an angel. But this one... he's all business. He pushed the blade back and made a swing at the demon's neck, hoping to end this quickly.

OOC: Let's consider something that Josh doesn't seem to think about, Umbra was going supersonic, Josh somehow grabbed him even though he didn't stop when Tal did, and then Josh blinked him (without making him stop first). There is going to be a very large hole in this plane.

"And just in case you're trying to hide your mind, you should know that Joshua could still find you and that I could still send thoughts to you, but not use the suggestion." Zena was running purely on intuition, she didn't even try to see what was going on with anyone's mind other than her own at the moment. That in turn caused her irises to go from green to electric blue as her mental shields magnified exponentially in power, all without her knowledge.

OOC: GW, it's NSG, physics don't apply in a fantasy thread. Yes, that's me trying to cover my ass. However, assuming that Umbra uses his wings to fly and that he's built up a lot of momentum. Now, when Joshua teleported him, that momentum would vanish and Umbra would hit his head on the ceiling and probably whack someone in the head.

"If you say so." Tal noticed Zena's eye color change, but it wasn't like before. He wasn't sure what to expect, so he made sure to totally erase any trace of his presence and his mind, so that he was completely invisible and untraceable, except for being physically visible of course. And I could fix that too if I wanted. Tal mused.

OOC: And he would also speed up again due to the fact that he's still using energy for propulsion, meaning that even if that was true, he go through the plane.

OOC: So let him shoot through the plane. Worst that happens is that he ruins Zena's favorite CD. Joshua can manipulate matter to fix it and Umbra will end up with one hell of a headache.

IC: Zena nodded. "Well, erasing traces of a mind doesn't make it not exist. Wide band telepathy will easily reach said mind and Joshua works off of physical presences, not mental ones."

OOC: Well the idea of a demon brusting through the pope jet is hilarious to me, espescially when its not his fault. Plus it gives Umbra a good reason to do this....
IC:

Umbra burst through the top of the plane tearing a hole in it and sending shrapnel outwards. He continued upwards for awhile before stopping and spreading his wings so that he could softly touch back down. He put his scythe away and assumed his human form before jumping into the hole he'd made. He looked at Zena, then Tal, then Josh, then at the guy he who Zena kept bothering him about, then at Blade, then he did a double take. "Okay, so he's here. Zena, can I safetly assume you signed my name on something without asking me? Yes, yes you did, you piss me off at times." He then looked at Josh, "Budddyyyyyyyy," He said walking over to Josh before promptly bitch slapping him, "WARN ME NEXT TIME YOU ASSHOLE!!" He then calmed down and walked back over to Zena, "What are we doing? Tell me. ell me now, before I decide that I can no longer be bothered to deal with you as a person and go into isolation again."

OOC: So let him shoot through the plane. Worst that happens is that he ruins Zena's favorite CD. Joshua can manipulate matter to fix it and Umbra will end up with one hell of a headache.

IC: Zena nodded. "Well, erasing traces of a mind doesn't make it not exist. Wide band telepathy will easily reach said mind and Joshua works off of physical presences, not mental ones."

Tal shrugged. He didn't feel the need to explain to Zena that, buy bending the energies around him, he was able to bend mental signals, so they couldn't reach him; any energy, so it couldn't sense him; and finally, bend light, so no one could see him. Essentially, he was perfectly invisible. But instead of saying all that, he just eyed Umbra, grinning at the way he was acting.

OOC: HILARIOUS! :)

IC: Joshua rubbed his cheek where Umbra had slapped him and grinned. "I get a lot of people asking for warnings, so far, I have yet to give one. It's much more fun to just do it. And apparently you have a head of steel to break through this aluminum." He touched a seat and the plane mended itself. Of course, it still left the shrapnel on the ground.
Zena meanwhile cleared her throat. "I suggest you get all the facts before jumping to a conclusion. Your name wasn't signed anywhere, merely suggested that you be brought here. As I explained before, Methua has challenged us to his games and we're here to participate in them. If we win, he leaves Earth and releases the souls he collected here. If he wins, he gets our souls. Now for Aozora and Joshua that's not much of a problem, they've only got half a soul anyway, but I'm rather attached to mine and I'd rather not lose it."

OOC: Reminds me of my one friend hyped up on espresso beans this one time... except it was a brick wall....

IC: Tal looked around, and noticed the new girl that was near Josh. "And who might you be?" he asked, motioning to her with his hand.

Kathy looked up from a small machine she'd been working on. "I'm Kathy." She held out a calloused hand with nails that matched her sweatshirt. "And you are?"

OC: ouch.

"And so naturally you call me in to lose mine... wait, our souls or simply any soul? I have a lot of 'em actually... long story." He grinned to Josh, "I am a demon after all." Then he looked to Zena, "Well as much as I'd like to call Pyro, Gold, and Ceestial, they are currently handling there own affairs as I'm sur eyou well know. Now then, where the hell is Mirage?" A hand raised in one of the seats further down near the front of the plane, "You called?" Umbra nodded, "You coming." Mirage stood up and looked back, "Hell no! I'm not an idiot." UMbra rolled his eyes, "Right, live for yourself and all that crap." Mirage shook his head, "Gotta look out for me, I gotta garden to take care of. Anyway, Sharpshot is coming. Hold on." Mirage vanished only to appear a second later in the same seat with Sharpshot next to him, "Iamherewhendowebegin?" He said quickly. Blade looked over at him, "English is a wonder thing to use here my friend." Sharpshot sttod up and faced Blade, "Oho, someone's got a lover, how cute. And I said: I am here, when do we begin?" Umbra looked to Zena, "Well then, back to my point. Did you suggest my name when the topic came up and did you make any sort of suggestion that I'd come here?"

OOC@Syl: Glad you like
OOC@Tal: Wait, did your friend run into a wall?

Tal reached out with his hand and shook hers. "A pleasure to meet you. My name is Tal." He let go of her hand and looked at the small machine. "So, what is that you're working on?"

OOC: To make a long story short.... really old, abandoned brick barn, there's a big wall of bricks for no reason in the middle. We didn't realize it was just a pile of extras, with no cement. :( So we told my hyped up friend to try to run up it, and he jumps at it feet first. He goes through it, and all the bricks fall down. They for the most part fell straight down, although a few hit him. He wasn't seriously hurt, a few scrapes and a lot of bruises, but he was really pissed and chased us around trying to bitch-smack us.... with a brick. And there you have it. :D

OOC: LOL bitch smacking with a brick. The one way you know someone's fine: when they chase you around in anger.

"You're free to leave. Methua said that if someone doesn't want to compete they don't have to. Besides, we said we'd ask you, and this is how we're asking you. And we begin when Methua brings back Alehkra and Deserea I think. The basic rules are that each of us picks a challenge for Methua and he picks one for each of us. Whoever has got the most points at the end wins.

"And of course this changes depending on how many people you have." Umbra said with some thought, "I personally want ti kick his ass... I also want to kill the weakling in Iceland. Could Josh just come and get me when it's my turn... nah, knowing him that's a bad idea.... and I could be in the middle of something important." Mirage looked at him, "Well Sharpshot is here so you have someone to replace you..." Umbra shook his head, "Sharpshot is good but I'm different... we each have our own skills.... Zena, could I use you for a moment?"

"Use me how?" Zena inquired unsure of what was going on now.

"Well Tal, it's a new motor for Josh's right arm. The one in there is burning out." Kathy said and Joshua demonstrated. Indeed, there was a funny noise coming from his shoulder.

OOC: Gotta go now, heading up to Willmar.

"So, you're good at this kind of stuff? It seems very interesting." Tal was looking at the device intently. He didn't get the chance to inspect machines closely often, and it seemed wondrous to him what humans could to with technology.

"Like this," a mouth opened on Umbra's palm and an eye opened on the back of the same hand. He place the palm on Zena and sent a message to Pyro, Hey Pyro, can I put your mission on hold? Zena has some odd soulstealing demon or something she needs help with. Pyro, who was asleep at the time woke up, Umbra? What the hell? How did you- Umbra stopped him, No time, yes or no? Pyro rubbed his eyes, If you must, just let me sleep. Umbra nodded, Thankyou and sorry. He removed the hand from her forehead, "In case you're wondering, I just hijacked your mental abilities. Sorry but it was easier to do it that way than to explain it before hand. And you heard Pyro, now I can stay."

Kathy laughed. "I'd like to think I'm good. Nobody can beat my grandmother though. She's the undisputed queen of machines."

Zena meanwhile shivered. "I feel so violated. How did you even get through my shields? I had them up for a reason."

"Yes, isn't it wonderful." Said Umbra with a grin, "Physical contact can get past your shields. See this mouth on my palm? It allows me to temporarily bond with one's soul and body in a slightly parasitic way. Essentially, we were the same person for a few moments, which is why I had to concentrate to make sure your thoughts and mine didn't mingle." He laughed, "But at least you got an answer."

"It's still revolting and violating." She pulled her knees up to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. "Did you at least pause to consider what would happen to me?"

"No. Not once." Umbra said quickly, "I wasn't too concerned, I mean, I am a demon with some considerable skill. Even if that particular skill was stolen from another demon I killed." Umbra gave another dark laugh.

Tal laughed. "I suppose I'll just have to be sure to meet her one day. You humans sure are creative. Us angels have been using the same tricks for as long as I can remember." He laughed again. He wasn't sure if she had noticed he was an angel, as he had been hiding his glory so he didn't glow, and his wings were tucked behind his back.

"Well you stick with what works. And once all is said and done here, we could head back to Rome. We've got a nice little apartment there." Kathy said, looking over the motor. "Did you want to take a closer look?" she asked, extending the device to Tal.

Zena meanwhile shivered again and Joshua put his arm around her. "Look, he just wanted a quick way to contact Pyro, it's alright." Zena meanwhile was near tears. Using her powers was the equivalent of Umbra raping her and she couldn't get over the feeling.

Tal reached out for the device hesitantly. "Really? Well, ok...." He turned it around, looking at all the gears that fitted each other perfectly. Amazing. "Tell me, did you make all these parts on your own?"

The mouth and eye on Umbra's hand receeded into his flesh, "Can I assume you have a problem with me hijacking your abilities for a few seconds?" He still had a slight grin on his face, he then turned to Tal, "Amazing, humans are typically amazing by angels and angels are amazed by machinary."

"Most of them, ya. There's a few that are easy enough to get from the local hardware store and there's no way I'd make the bolts myself. Anyway, it's time for the part Josh hates most of all." She pulled a small brick of foam from her toolbox and handed it to Josh who promptly stuck it between his teeth and closed his eyes.
"You know the drill. 3, 2, 1." She pulled and Josh's right arm detached itself from his body. Joshua bit clean through the foam and whimpered like a dog someone had hit. Knowing the worst was over, he went back to Zena. "Yes she has a problem. Her abilities and her mind are extremely personal to her and you violated that without so much as a second thought."
Kathy figured it was a problem best left for them to solve and so started taking Josh's arm apart to replace the offending motor still in Tal's hands.

Tal was still staring in wonderment at the device. "Umbra, have you ever made something like this?" He then saw what Kathy was doing. "Oh, right, here you go." he said, setting it down next to her. He then walked over to Zena. "So, I guess you don't like it when someone uses your mind for their own intentions against your will, huh?" he said, putting a hand on her shoulder.

"Oh, how unfortunant, being thoughtful isn't always in my nature." Umbra said as he sat down. "Anyway, I'm more concerned about when this entire thing is going to start. The faster I finish here the faster I can go back to what I was doing."

"Umbra, have you ever made something like this?" He then saw what Kathy was doing. "Oh, right, here you go." he said, setting it down next to her. He then walked over to Zena. "So, I guess you don't like it when someone uses your mind for their own intentions against your will, huh?" he said, putting a hand on her shoulder.

Umbra couldn't help but chuckle at Tal's words. "No, Tal, I've never made somthing like that. I've made other things." Blade chimed in, "Things that Zena would know plenty about."

Tal glanced back at Blade as Umbra said this, then turned back to Zena.

Zena remained silent as Kathy disassembled Josh's arm. "It is unfortunate when you're around people who might have a problem with actions like that. And if he'd asked, Tal, I'm sure Zena would have gladly bridged their minds or asked Pyro herself." Josh said as Zena nodded. Kathy was making quick work of the arm, having taken out the old motor and beginning to attach the new one.

"Thank you, but if she can, I'd like to talk to Zena." He looked down at her face. "And maybe if you'd asked me earlier, I would have stood down, instead of violating my mind like that, hmm?"

Raphael sighed and dropped the Angelus on the floor. He'd read it cover to cover and still didn't have a clue as to what to do. HE was sure the answer was there...he just had to find it.

Sanctuary

In the middle of the field Uriel (http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t165/dark_angel_044/cosplay%20death%20note/NEAR.jpg) stood at a desk, moving around pieces on a gameboard reminiscent of Risk. He held a small figure in his hand and a pen. He wrote 'Raphael' on the figurine and placed it on the board.

"Uriel, what are you doing?" Gabriel asked as he walked up.

"The last pieces are finally in place," Uriel muttered. "Now all is left to strike..."

Umbra smiled, "Josh, I had no idea that the only person who could ever give a care about was Zena. How sweet."

Tal sighed, then walked over to Raphael. He picked up the Angelus from the floor. "We need to talk about this."

Tal sighed, then walked over to Raphael. He picked up the Angelus from the floor. "We need to talk about this."

"Yes, we do," Raphael agreed. "I read it when I was young...and several times since then, and now I've read it again and again. Yet, nothing seems to help..."

Tal sighed. "Listen... I can tell you something... but you must understand... I really shouldn't be saying any of this at all. We should talk in private sooner or later."

Tal sighed. "Listen... I can tell you something... but you must understand... I really shouldn't be saying any of this at all. We should talk in private sooner or later."

"I trust you, as a subordinate to his commander," Raphael assured him, "You may tell me what you wish." He plucked a feather, "And as for somewhere private..." There was a gleam of light and suddenly, they were in a small glade.

The angel quickly pulled in his wings close to his body, then moved his sword in front of the demon's. He felt the recoil of the hit along his arm, but he didn't show it. This isn't like any ordinary demon I've met before. Usually they're thrilled at the chance to mock an angel. But this one... he's all business. He pushed the blade back and made a swing at the demon's neck, hoping to end this quickly.

The demon easily blocked the angel's sword with his own sword, then he tried to slash the angel's wings.

Meanwhile, Rollins had driven 100 miles an hour down the road, he was scared.

OOC: I defer to GW.

IC: "Fine." Zena said grudgingly. "But bring them both back here unharmed."

Methua dissapeared. He was gone for several minutes, then returned with an obviously confused Alehkra, and a furious Deserae. "Here we are." He announced. "I have kept my end of the bargain."

Umbra clapped, "Woopdeefuckingdoo for you." He muttered. Blade and Sharpshot eyed the demon but didn't bother to move, they were here on nuetral grounds for the moment. Mirage gave a half look over his shoulder, "and let the games begin..." he said quietly.

The demon easily blocked the angel's sword with his own sword, then he tried to slash the angel's wings.

Meanwhile, Rollins had driven 100 miles an hour down the road, he was scared.

The angel had to jump closer to the demon to avoid having his wings chopped off, but he wasn't fast enough and lost a few feathers. He seems to be going for my wings. Maybe I can use this to my advantage. He brought his sword up at an angle at the demons jaw, now only about a foot away from him.

Methua shrugged. "I will allow your team to go first. You may each of you think of a challenge for me."

OOC: By the way, Methua is not a demon.

The angel had to jump closer to the demon to avoid having his wings chopped off, but he wasn't fast enough and lost a few feathers. He seems to be going for my wings. Maybe I can use this to my advantage. He brought his sword up at an angle at the demons jaw, now only about a foot away from him.

The demon was almost killed. This will never happen again. He managed to avoid the blow and nearly lost his footing. He decided to attack again.
"You will lose."

"I trust you, as a subordinate to his commander," Raphael assured him, "You may tell me what you wish." He plucked a feather, "And as for somewhere private..." There was a gleam of light and suddenly, they were in a small glade.

Tal looked around for a second, then closed his eyes, shaking his head and grinning. "You've really got to teach me some of these tricks sometime. But anyway.... the Angelus... is a book of angels. There are some times, like this, that a human used the Angelus. However, the only way to access all of its secrets.... to fully read it cover to cover... it with an angel." Tal took the feather Raphael was holding, and laid it on the book. There was a dull flash, and the Angelus was the same, if not a little thicker. "It won't allow any angel who becomes a human to remember these parts of the book, and I'm not sure how long you will remember it if you read it now. However... it should now hold the answers that you seek." Tal looked off into the distance of the glade. "However, as far as I know, there is only one way to become an angel again."

The demon was almost killed. This will never happen again. He managed to avoid the blow and nearly lost his footing. He decided to attack again.
"You will lose."

The angel grinned as he began to block the attack the demon was throwing at him. It seemed he was becoming desperate. He used his sword to hold the demon's away, then kicked at his chest.

The angel grinned as he began to block the attack the demon was throwing at him. It seemed he was becoming desperate. He used his sword to hold the demon's away, then kicked at his chest.

The demon move to the right to avoid the kick and attacked from there.
"Why do you protect these pathetic humans?"

The demon move to the right to avoid the kick and attacked from there.
"Why do you protect these pathetic humans?"

The angel jumped forward as he blocked, so as not to leave his leg exposed. "Why? I'm an angel. If you don't think I've been asked that before, you're sadly mistaken." I guess he's just another demon after all. He made a sweep kick at the demons legs while slicing at his torso.

Methua sat cross-legged on the floor. "So, does anyone wish to think of a challenge for me?

The angel jumped forward as he blocked, so as not to leave his leg exposed. "Why? I'm an angel. If you don't think I've been asked that before, you're sadly mistaken." I guess he's just another demon after all. He made a sweep kick at the demons legs while slicing at his torso.

"You and your pathetic race." said the demon as he avoided the blow, but the battle was still on.

OOC: Someone catch me up please, I've got too much going on. :(

The angel just rolled his eyes. I've heard it all before. He began stabbing relentlessly at the demon. He really wanted to get back to Rollins to be sure he was all right.

OOC: Methua came back with Alehkra and Deserae, and theres some sort of fight going on between Tal and Grael.

Tal handed the book to Raphael. "I'll leave that to be found by you though. Now, to get back, I use my feather and....?" Tal plucked one of his feathers, and suddenly he was back with the others, although probably more because of Raphael's doing then his own. He looked over to Zena. "Are you able to talk now?" he asked, somewhat coldly.

OOC: Not much, Methua left and came back with Alehkra and Desarae, with Alehkra's soul back. Tal left with Raphael then came back. That's it.

Aozora scowled at Tal. "Watch your tone with my wife, mate."

OOC: Ok.

Zena looked up to see Alehkra alive and well. She'd always looked up to him, even more after hearing everything Aozora had said about him and she flung herself at him like a daughter needing her father. Still too shocked to speak she played back the memory of what Umbra did for him.
Kathy meanwhile finished putting back together Josh's arm. "Screw the foam." she stood up and he closed his eyes. "3, 2, 1." she jammed the arm into it's joint and after a very short scream, he pulled himself together as the pain vanished and tested out the new motor.
"Good work Kathy. Now just find a way to stop the pain when connecting and disconnecting."

"Thank you, but if she can, I'd like to talk to Zena." He looked down at her face. "And maybe if you'd asked me earlier, I would have stood down, instead of violating my mind like that, hmm?"

Umbra smiled, "Josh, I had no idea that the only person who could ever give a care about was Zena. How sweet."

OOC: Syl, two lines you need to respond to

The angel just rolled his eyes. I've heard it all before. He began stabbing relentlessly at the demon. He really wanted to get back to Rollins to be sure he was all right.

The demon probed for any weaknesses, he attacked the flanks over and over. The demon wasn't running any time soon.
"Why don't you run and join your human friend? I'll catch you anyway."

OOC: Methua came back with Alehkra and Deserae, and theres some sort of fight going on between Tal and Grael.

OOC: Its just a random angel and his demon char, but somewhere on a highway in Canada.

IC: Tal just turned his head to glare at Aozora. He didn't feel the need to pick a fight. He turned his back on them and stood facing Methua. He still didn't trust this whole idea, but he would go along with it... for now.

Alehkra laughed and patted her back. "Ah, nice to see you to Priestess. Now, would you mind telling me how I'm standing here at all? The false god has been silent, and my beauteus and oh so dangerous wife seems about ready to suck the blood of anyone who crosses her." Deserae scowled at him. "You know I don't like to be worried, and thats just what you did." Alehkra grinned, and leaned down to whisper in Zena's ear conspiritorally, "Don't let her grumbling fool you. Shes damn near as old as I am, and one of the old customs of her people is to not show emotion around other people. She'll be weeping in happiness as soon as we are alone." He was of course well aware that a vampires hearing was more than enough to hear him, and grinned at the now faintly smiling Deserae.

OOC: Its just a random angel and his demon char, but somewhere on a highway in Canada.

IC: Tal just turned his head to glare at Aozora. He didn't feel the need to pick a fight. He turned his back on them and stood facing Methua. He still didn't trust this whole idea, but he would go along with it... for now.

Methua looked confused at Tal's stare. "May I ask the reason for your hatred? I understand of course your mistrust, but I fail to see the reason for hatred."

Mirage rolled his one eye, "And now we're all nice, warm, and reunited... now then. I'm preparing to leave, if no one has anything worth my time I'm gone." Blade didn't bother to look at Alehkra and instead looked over at Sharpshot. Umbra didn't say anything, his emotion was fading after his sudden outburst of anger back in Iceland.

The demon probed for any weaknesses, he attacked the flanks over and over. The demon wasn't running any time soon.
"Why don't you run and join your human friend? I'll catch you anyway."

"Exactly. Why run if you'll just hunt us down again with the element of surprise. No, I'll let him get as far away as possible." He struggled a bit to keep his defense up, the demon was attacking his opposite sides as much as possible. He finally got an opening and whirled around, hitting the demon's red blade up as he suddenly arced his sword down.

OOC: Thanks GW.

Zena sobbed a bit into Alehkra's shoulder. You know how I feel though, right? About that whole thing with Umbra. She was refusing to use her voice, instead going for private conversations. Josh, can you ask Tal to let me converse with him though telepathy please?
Sure. "Tal, she'd like to talk privately with you. Telepathically."

OOC: GW, I don't understand that second quote the wording is screwing me up.

Lydia, seeing that Blade wasn't going to join her in welcoming Alehkra, pulled away from him and ran to him, joining Zena in hugging him. Alehkra again laughed. "Well now, it seems I was missed, doesn't it?"

Methua looked confused at Tal's stare. "May I ask the reason for your hatred? I understand of course your mistrust, but I fail to see the reason for hatred."

"Hatred? You can't comprehend my righteous hatred? I have a righteous hatred of all things that oppose God, and you are claiming to be smarter then he. You want to take God's work, and change it for your own desires. I don't hate anybody. All are welcome to the Lord's forgiveness. No, I hate your actions." Tal sighed. He doubted any of this would sink in.

"Exactly. Why run if you'll just hunt us down again with the element of surprise. No, I'll let him get as far away as possible." He struggled a bit to keep his defense up, the demon was attacking his opposite sides as much as possible. He finally got an opening and whirled around, hitting the demon's red blade up as he suddenly arced his sword down.

The demon was surprised, he lost his footing, but before the angel could take advantage of that, Massacre was up again, with his sword.
"If I'll never catch that human, then I may as well kill you."

Meanwhile, Rollin's car ran out of gas, it didn't really matter, because up ahead was nothing but forest.

OOC: Thanks GW.

Zena sobbed a bit into Alehkra's shoulder. You know how I feel though, right? About that whole thing with Umbra. She was refusing to use her voice, instead going for private conversations. Josh, can you ask Tal to let me converse with him though telepathy please?
Sure. "Tal, she'd like to talk privately with you. Telepathically."

OOC: GW, I don't understand that second quote the wording is screwing me up.

Alehkra narrowed his eyes. What did Umbra do you Zena he asked. Though people not used to his customs would fail to notice it, him calling her Zena instead of priestess was a big thing. It marked the question as much more personal than it normally would have been.

OOC: <Umbra smiled, "Josh, I had no idea that the only person who you could ever give a care about was Zena. How sweet.">

That's what it was suppose to be

OOC: Thanks GW.

Zena sobbed a bit into Alehkra's shoulder. You know how I feel though, right? About that whole thing with Umbra. She was refusing to use her voice, instead going for private conversations. Josh, can you ask Tal to let me converse with him though telepathy please?
Sure. "Tal, she'd like to talk privately with you. Telepathically."

OOC: GW, I don't understand that second quote the wording is screwing me up.

Tal took a deep breath as he turned to Josh. "Does she promise not to try anything like before?"

"Hatred? You can't comprehend my righteous hatred? I have a righteous hatred of all things that oppose God, and you are claiming to be smarter then he. You want to take God's work, and change it for your own desires. I don't hate anybody. All are welcome to the Lord's forgiveness. No, I hate your actions." Tal sighed. He doubted any of this would sink in.

Methua laughed. "I do not require your God's forgiveness. I have my Goddess, and that is all I need."

The demon was surprised, he lost his footing, but before the angel could take advantage of that, Massacre was up again, with his sword.
"If I'll never catch that human, then I may as well kill you."

Meanwhile, Rollin's car ran out of gas, it didn't really matter, because up ahead was nothing but forest.

He shrugged. "Then I already have won. But just to be sure..." he leaped with incredible speed at Massacre. His sword was one swift blur as he swung it with all his might at the demon's torso, yelling at the top of his lungs.

Methua laughed. "I do not require your God's forgiveness. I have my Goddess, and that is all I need."

"That is why." Tal said no more, and focused his attention on Josh and Zena.

"Yes." Said Joshua simply.

OOC: Zena already played the memory for him, but she'll do it again.

IC: Zena closed her eyes and showed the memory to Alehkra, glad to have someone knowledgeable to seek help from while she shook in terror.

Umbra smiled as Josh failed to deliver any sort of retort. It didn't matter to Umbra, his smile soon faded as his emotions went into full recession. "So, anyone have a decent challenge yet?"

Tal sighed. "Very well. But just for the moment." Tal began controlling his energy, redirecting it so his presence, energy, and mind were no longer hidden. His last thought before he had taken down his defenses was, Zena, don't make me regret this.

OOC: To be perfectly clear, if I wasn't already, Zena did not hear that thought.

Alehkra growled. It was obvious he was angry, but it was not his normal loud rage. It was more of a silent, towering fury, which seemed somehow all the worse, yet when he talked to Zena, his voice was gentle as could be. "I understand Zena, and he was very wrong to do such a thing. Worry not my dear, as soon as this business with the false god is over, I shall have a little chat with him." The way he said chat made the normally pleasant act, extremely painful, and quite possibly fatal.

He shrugged. "Then I already have won. But just to be sure..." he leaped with incredible speed at Massacre. His sword was one swift blur as he swung it with all his might at the demon's torso, yelling at the top of his lungs.

The demon had simply moved to the right then tried to strike at the side of the angel.
"Fool."

OOC: I figured.

Zena sensed Tal again and asked simply. How many times must I say I'm sorry before you stop pushing the subject? She then returned to Alehkra and hugged him with enough force to shatter a normal man's ribs. "thank you." she whispered.

"Why don't you talk to me right now Alehkra?" Umbra said with little emotion in his voice, "I do hate to be kept waiting. We're not doing anything and I'm sure Mirage here can take us somewhere private." Mirage nodded, "Can do."

Alehkra merely smiled kindly at the forceful hug. This was obviously a side of the old werewolf not normally presented to the world. It was the face of the father and husband he really was on the inside, rather than the ancient monster filled with anger at holy people and humanity and general that he preffered people to think of him as. "You are quite welcome Zena. Now, I'd suggest you do not tell Aozora how much it bothered you. As I'm sure you've noticed by now, he's really quite hostile towards those he even percieves being rude in any way to you. As angry as I am at Umbra, I know that this has to wait, and Aozora quite simply doesn't have very much in the way of patience."

"Why don't you talk to me right now Alehkra?" Umbra said with little emotion in his voice, "I do hate to be kept waiting. We're not doing anything and I'm sure Mirage here can take us somewhere private." Mirage nodded, "Can do."

Alehkra growled at Umbra. "Because as much as I despise rapists, this business with the false god is more important. But worry not, we will talk, that I can promise you."

OOC: I figured.

Zena sensed Tal again and asked simply. How many times must I say I'm sorry before you stop pushing the subject? She then returned to Alehkra and hugged him with enough force to shatter a normal man's ribs. "thank you." she whispered.

Without answering Zena, he turned to Alehkra and Umbra. "Before you two go off and... chat, I'd like to ask Umbra something. I realize that what you did, you thought that it was the easier thing to do. Sure, you could have asked first, but like I said, it was easier to just do it your way. You also didn't realize that it would upset Zena so. Now, knowing all this, and seeing that is obviously upsets her, in retrospect, would it have been better to ask? And if so, are you sorry?"

Zena smiled a bit. Why do you think I went to you? He thinks of you as a father and mentor, and that leaves you my dad-in-law. she joked a bit, but then her smile vanished and she let go to return to her seat.

Alehkra growled at Umbra. "Because as much as I despise rapists, this business with the false god is more important. But worry not, we will talk, that I can promise you."

"Rapists? Didn't see that one coming..." Umbra said quietly, "Who got raped?"

Alehkra smiled, and then went to hugging Lydia, and Deserae even joined in the family hug, which said something about how happy she was to have Alehkra back.

Aozora meanwhile, looked confused and sat down by Zena, putting an arm around her shoulders. "Hey, what was with that love? You seemed pretty upset."

Without answering Zena, he turned to Alehkra and Umbra. "Before you two go off and... chat, I'd like to ask Umbra something. I realize that what you did, you thought that it was the easier thing to do. Sure, you could have asked first, but like I said, it was easier to just do it your way. You also didn't realize that it would upset Zena so. Now, knowing all this, and seeing that is obviously upsets her, in retrospect, would it have been better to ask? And if so, are you sorry?"

"Tal, you expect far too much of me. I feel nothing as of this moment, no emotion flows through me. I'm not exactly sorry, I feel no remorse." Blade took this chance to chime in again, "Zena, tell them what you saw in my dreams. Tell them everything." Umbra raised an eyebrow, "She went into your dreams? So of course playing any mind games is fine as long as she doesn't realize it's a double edged sword? Pathetic." Umbra was cold at this point.

The demon had simply moved to the right then tried to strike at the side of the angel.
"Fool."

The angel had been expecting something like this, but he still wasn't completely ready for it. He spun to the side, his sword swung around at the demon's leg. The demon's sword continued though, and it made a long, bloody gash as it grazed his stomach. However, the angel knew that now there was no way the demon could block his own attack in time.

"Rapists? Didn't see that one coming..." Umbra said quietly, "Who got raped?"

Alehkra seemed about to answer, glanced at Aozora, and lowered his voice. "You know exactly who I am talking about Umbra. You may not have done it physically, but you violated her. That in a way makes it worse, because it wasn't simply her body, but her mind, who she is."

Five miles outside Ontario

Medunia was wandering again. She had no idea where she was, but didn't really care. Wearing a black leather jacket didn't suit her either. The forests were thick and annoying. She occasionally found a wrecked car or two.

"Bullshit." Umbra said coldly, "I used her power, I didn't tap into her thoughts... I have some limits. I'm still interested in what Blade has to offer to this." Blade shook his head, "She saw my creation... you and me... the dark secrets which I've ceased to care about..." Umbra smiled, "So Al, say what you to this?"

OOC: By the way, I feel obligated to tell you that there is no city there, it is now the begginings of a massive fortress.

Tal looked around for a second, then closed his eyes, shaking his head and grinning. "You've really got to teach me some of these tricks sometime. But anyway.... the Angelus... is a book of angels. There are some times, like this, that a human used the Angelus. However, the only way to access all of its secrets.... to fully read it cover to cover... it with an angel." Tal took the feather Raphael was holding, and laid it on the book. There was a dull flash, and the Angelus was the same, if not a little thicker. "It won't allow any angel who becomes a human to remember these parts of the book, and I'm not sure how long you will remember it if you read it now. However... it should now hold the answers that you seek." Tal looked off into the distance of the glade. "However, as far as I know, there is only one way to become an angel again."

"I'd always thought it was impossible," Raphael said, even as he began to reread the Angelus. "I am content in my life as a human...it lets me stay with Aya."

Zena snapped. "Umbra, you have no right to judge!" her voice was both physical and mental and it affected everyone near her. "You constantly act without knowing all the details, you're irrational, often thoughtless of others, self centered, and on top of all that, you often seem to not give a damn about anything so long as you get what you want!" Through all of this, Josh and Kathy worked with the motor, knowing they couldn't do anything to stop Zena.

The angel had been expecting something like this, but he still wasn't completely ready for it. He spun to the side, his sword swung around at the demon's leg. The demon's sword continued though, and it made a long, bloody gash as it grazed his stomach. However, the angel knew that now there was no way the demon could block his own attack in time.

The demon also suffered a wound, a long bloody wound on his leg. He yelled then he slashed again at the angel, but the pain was almost too much.

"Bullshit." Umbra said coldly, "I used her power, I didn't tap into her thoughts... I have some limits. I'm still interested in what Blade has to offer to this." Blade shook his head, "She saw my creation... you and me... the dark secrets which I've ceased to care about..." Umbra smiled, "So Al, say what you to this?"

Alehkra smiled unpleasently. "First off, you seem to think that Zena looked into Blade's dreams on purpose. You must realize that for all her skill, she is still but a pup, who sometimes cannot control what she does. You however, have no such excuse. You used her, caring not whether she was willing or not." He turned to Blade. "I'd begun to think better than this of you Blade. Would you be so uncaring if someone raped Lydia? Your lover, and my daughter?"

"AND HOW ARE YOU DIFFERENT! ARE YOU PERFECT? I THINK NOT!" Umbra settled down, "The only difference between you and me is I take full responsibility while you make bullshit excuses." Umbra swung his hand at an unoccupied part of the jet, it exploded into pieces. "I have outstayed my welcome. I bid you all farewell." He jumped off the plane to the ground before changing into demon form and speeding off.

"Tal, you expect far too much of me. I feel nothing as of this moment, no emotion flows through me. I'm not exactly sorry, I feel no remorse." Blade took this chance to chime in again, "Zena, tell them what you saw in my dreams. Tell them everything." Umbra raised an eyebrow, "She went into your dreams? So of course playing any mind games is fine as long as she doesn't realize it's a double edged sword? Pathetic." Umbra was cold at this point.

Tal just shook his head. It obviously wasn't the answer that he was looking for. Instead, he walked over and held his hand out to Zena. Need a hand? Before you share Blade's memories and worsen your mood, I'd like to ask you something. And I need to hear this from you, not from Josh. Please, it's important to me. Tal paused, and his face seemed to sadden. Can I trust you not to violate my mind like that, ever again?

"I'd always thought it was impossible," Raphael said, even as he began to reread the Angelus. "I am content in my life as a human...it lets me stay with Aya."

OOC: I'm going to take a wild guess and say that Aya is there with him.

IC: Aya smiled, and hugged Raphael. "Ah, thats sweet, thanks."

Alehkra smiled unpleasently. "First off, you seem to think that Zena looked into Blade's dreams on purpose. You must realize that for all her skill, she is still but a pup, who sometimes cannot control what she does. You however, have no such excuse. You used her, caring not whether she was willing or not." He turned to Blade. "I'd begun to think better than this of you Blade. Would you be so uncaring if someone raped Lydia? Your lover, and my daughter?"

Blade shook his head, "Don't look at me, I have nothing to do with this. This is their deal and it's not my place to get involved."

Alehkra's eyes narrowed. "Than why exactly did you chime in?" He wasn't nearly as angry at Blade as he would once have been. For all his intolerance and anger, he was protective and affectionate of his family, and he viewed Blade as family.

OOC: By the way, I feel obligated to tell you that there is no city there, it is now the begginings of a massive fortress.

OOC:Thank you
IC:

Medunia now saw a clearing up ahead. There was a city nearby. She cautiously approached the "city".

It just so happened, that at that time Mecca, the second in command of the clan when it came to military matters, was out patroling. He spotted Medunia, and seeing she was obviously not a human, called out in a friendly fashion. "Hey, whats a pretty lady like you doing out here eh?" He called in his thick Scottish brogue.

Alehkra's eyes narrowed. "Than why exactly did you chime in?" He wasn't nearly as angry at Blade as he would once have been. For all his intolerance and anger, he was protective and affectionate of his family, and he viewed Blade as family.

"More due to the fact that despite whether it's accidental or not, it still happens. That's the point I wanted to make. And of course that the two people involved changes the outcome. Look here, when she looked into myy memories the roles were: she cared and I didn't. Therefore everyone's happy, then Umbra comes and its again: she care and he doesn't, only this time it went the other way around and she was the one being... 'exploited.'" Blade shrugged, "Plus, since Zena hasn't apparently told anyone... Umbra is my master so I can't go against him..."

Yes Tal. Zena's reply was solemn, but honest. "I guess I'm ready when everyone else is." her voice was almost none existent, though steady. She sat down as Joshua repaired the jet. He couldn't believe that Umbra would still be acting like that, even after all that had happened. "Hey Mirage." He had a feeling he'd be heard. "Has Umbra always been like that?"

OOC: You people post too fast...

OOC: I'm going to take a wild guess and say that Aya is there with him.

IC: Aya smiled, and hugged Raphael. "Ah, thats sweet, thanks."

Raphael blushed slightly, he had forgotten that she was within earshot...

"More due to the fact that despite whether it's accidental or not, it still happens. That's the point I wanted to make. And of course that the two people involved changes the outcome. Look here, when she looked into myy memories the roles were: she cared and I didn't. Therefore everyone's happy, then Umbra comes and its again: she care and he doesn't, only this time it went the other way around and she was the one being... 'exploited.'" Blade shrugged, "Plus, since Zena hasn't apparently told anyone... Umbra is my master so I can't go against him..."

Alehkra frowned at that. "Your life is yours to live boy. Noone has a right to your life."

Raphael blushed slightly, he had forgotten that she was within earshot...

Aya grinned. "Ah, watcha blushin about Raphy?" She giggled wickedly. "You should be used to much more than a hug."

Zena looked around, not wanting to speak more. Blade has asked me to share the memories I saw. I ask that you please give me your attention so we can continue. She was using "wide band" telepathy so it would be heard by everyone, but if they were too focused, they would miss it.

Yes Tal. Zena's reply was solemn, but honest. "I guess I'm ready when everyone else is." her voice was almost none existent, though steady. She sat down as Joshua repaired the jet. He couldn't believe that Umbra would still be acting like that, even after all that had happened. "Hey Mirage." He had a feeling he'd be heard. "Has Umbra always been like that?"

"On and off." Mirage said, "Actually, this is a domino effect of sorts. Zena interrupted him causing the release of an emotional avatar called the avatar of rage. More on that later.... anyway, as he was flying back, Josh furthering his annoyment didn't help the situation... essentially, after all the anger his emotions became dead. Rock bottom dead, and so at the moment he's in a state of 'assassin mode.' He actually doesn't give a damn about anything because he doesn't possess the ability to at the moment... it's complex, I've known him to do this every once in awhile. As you so elequently put it before, 'you'll get used to it.'" Mirage chuckled, "I can listen in on you all from the garden just so you know."

Aya grinned. "Ah, watcha blushin about Raphy?" She giggled wickedly. "You should be used to much more than a hug."

"Hehe, I am," he answered, putting the book at his side as he gave her a passionate kiss.

ooc: when'd greal join in...?

OOC: I'm honestly not quite sure, but its fine with me.

IC:Aya sighed in satisfaction, then layed her head against his chest. "So, have you figured out what you want in your book thingy?"

OOC: Tal left Aya and Raphael back in that glade, with one of his feathers, which I assume is enough to get back.

IC: Tal sighed. I'm sorry about that Zena. It's just that.... well, I know things that no human, or even half angel, can ever know. And when you did that... well, I felt like you do now. He shook his head and laughed a little. Why can't I seem to stay mad at you? Very well, I suppose you should respect Blade's wishes.

OOC2: He's been here for a while. I've just been keeping him busy. Which reminds me....

"Good to know. And Mirage, I kinda figured that. Hence my asking you. And since it's later, what's with the Avatars you keep mentioning. I've seen Zena's personalities before. But that's a rare occurrence and it seems kinda similar when they get loose." Joshua said, almost prepared for an intellectual discussion.

OOC: Tal left Aya and Raphael back in that glade, with one of his feathers, which I assume is enough to get back.

IC: Tal sighed. I'm sorry about that Zena. It's just that.... well, I know things that no human, or even half angel, can ever know. And when you did that... well, I felt like you do now. He shook his head and laughed a little. Why can't I seem to stay mad at you? Very well, I suppose you should respect Blade's wishes.

OOC2: He's been here for a while. I've just been keeping him busy. Which reminds me....

Zena giggled in Tal's head. Angels have a hard time staying mad and holding grudges. At least that's what I've noticed. And maybe it's got something to do with my outstanding good looks. She was jesting at this last point, but her heart wasn't quite in it.

It just so happened, that at that time Mecca, the second in command of the clan when it came to military matters, was out patroling. He spotted Medunia, and seeing she was obviously not a human, called out in a friendly fashion. "Hey, whats a pretty lady like you doing out here eh?" He called in his thick Scottish brogue.

Medunia nearly drew her sword, but instead put her hand on the hilt and answered. She watched Mecca as she spoke.
"Looking for friends."

Methua had been smiling in his faint way during the entire time, although when he learned how Zena felt about her powers being used, he unexpectedly frowned at Umbra for a second, before going back to smiling, looking immensly ammused. Finnaly though, he interrupted. "My apologies for interrupting this most amusing banter, but aren't you forgetting the entire reason you are all together?"

The demon also suffered a wound, a long bloody wound on his leg. He yelled then he slashed again at the angel, but the pain was almost too much.

The angel wasn't ready for an attack this quickly, and he lazily held up his sword with one arm. The blow pushed his sword back, causing it to bite into his arm. He pushed back from the demon, now thoroughly bloody. Not waiting even a moment to recuperate, like he was trained, he rushed at the demon, if not a little slower, swinging his sword back-handed.

OOC: I'm honestly not quite sure, but its fine with me.

IC:Aya sighed in satisfaction, then layed her head against his chest. "So, have you figured out what you want in your book thingy?"

OOC: Tal left Aya and Raphael back in that glade, with one of his feathers, which I assume is enough to get back.

IC: Tal sighed. I'm sorry about that Zena. It's just that.... well, I know things that no human, or even half angel, can ever know. And when you did that... well, I felt like you do now. He shook his head and laughed a little. Why can't I seem to stay mad at you? Very well, I suppose you should respect Blade's wishes.

OOC2: He's been here for a while. I've just been keeping him busy. Which reminds me....

ooc: well, it's fine w/ me...greal's keen beans in my view. i was just curious.

ic:

"I dunno," Raphael said, stroking her hair, "Let's read it and see."

"They're exactly what they sound like. At the least, they are simple emotional states that dominate over all the others and make certain abilities more powerful. At their worst... you saw Umbra right now... imagine him truly pissed off, I mean in such a way that could rival, if not put ALehkra to shame. Now imagine that being a separate entity which could act outside of Umbra's body, mind, and control. And throw this into the mix: Because it's the physical form of an emotion, it cannot be killed, only unsummoned, which would require Umbra to be in a correct state of mind. And trust me, when they do seperate, it's really hard to keep Umbra in a decent state of mind. Why exactly am I wearing these bandages? Because his rage managed to do this once." Mirage laughed, "But all the horrors I've described only follow the Rage Avatar, I've never seent he physical embodiments of his others. That being said, he'll be back, he just needs to cool off."

Medunia nearly drew her sword, but instead put her hand on the hilt and answered. She watched Mecca as she spoke.
"Looking for friends."

Mecca grinned. "Ah, whats with the hostility lass? Now, come over here, so I don't have to yell, and mayhap I can help you find said friends, hmm?"

Methua had been smiling in his faint way during the entire time, although when he learned how Zena felt about her powers being used, he unexpectedly frowned at Umbra for a second, before going back to smiling, looking immensly ammused. Finnaly though, he interrupted. "My apologies for interrupting this most amusing banter, but aren't you forgetting the entire reason you are all together?"

Joshua stared daggers at Methua. "You can wait your turn. You seem to have all of eternity so what's it to you if we end up participating in your games a little happier and a little smarter? Besides, you seem bent on killing us to put us out of our misery, so why can't we die happy?" He sounded like he was putting a kid in his place, but at the same time Josh didn't make it sound like he was angry or accusing.