Pleased To Meet You...

Cadmus, of the Seraphim On the run from the Ancient Order. You may know me by a...different name. I would appreciate if you didn't use it.

[petraofthemalakhim]

Mark of the Beast | Circa Crete 400 | Petra & Lucifer

[petraofthemalakhim]

Despite the man’s protests, Petra knelt down beside him. She took the hand he was using to try and wave her away and gave it a squeeze.

"Lucifer," she whispered. "It’s me; your friend Petra from the Malakhim." She wasn’t sure if he recognized her, but he turned over to face her. Her breath caught in her throat and she had to stop herself from backing away in horror. When she could breath again, she leaned forward to get a better look at his chest. She let her fingers hover over the burn that looked like it was quickly becoming infected.

"What have they done to you?" she breathed. Her eyes finally moved from his chest to the bruises that covered the rest of his body and face. She knew that, if he’d been mortal, he probably wouldn’t be alive. 

He was twice her size and she doubted he could walk very far, if at all. So she took a deep breath and touched her hand to his wound. Instead of healing the burn though, she only felt the power of the magical fire herself. She screamed and pulled her burning fingers away.

[cadmusthefieryone]

He tries to focus on the woman as she bends over him. She has curly blond hair that's tied back and a hood over her head. As she continues to talk, his eyes focus on her and he realizes who she is. He watches as she reaches for his chest. He wants to warn her, to stop her, but he doesnt' have the strength.

When she pulls back in shock and pain, he reaches out for her hand. "I am sorry," he mutters.

He tries to sit up, but can barely manage. "Petra, you should not have come. I have been banished. I am outcast now." She starts to protest, but he waves it away. "They think I betrayed them. If they find out you are helping me, they will punish you too."

The uncontrollable shivering returns and his eyes lose focus. He shakes his head, trying to stave off the darkness. He focuses on Petra's face long enough to read her concern. He lies back on the ground and sees her hand reaching for his face.

"You must go," he tries to insist, but it's barely more than a whisper. As her hand touches his cheek, he feels warmth spread through his face. Some of the pain subsides, but he can't help finally sliding into unconsciousness.

[cadmusthefieryone]

Dangerous Liaisons | Cadmus & Raphael

[iam-olderthenlucifer]

Raphael heard them speak of the child she believed she had in her womb and he tensed a little remembering how happy he had been to hear such news after months of trying with one another. She had finally been able to carry a child past the first few months, they were hoping it would survive full term and it had. Seeing his old friend come out with the look of shock and disbelief the memory was collapsing. He gasped once back in his body and shook his head accepting the help to stand up, with the elders frozen around them he spoke, “It was a memory, I projected it to speed up the process that is why I did not want to be dragged into your argument for fear I’d collapsed leaving us both compromised.”

He didn’t want to expand on the memory but he was certain his old friend would have quite a few questions about it, “I am fine thank you for the concern, even this old immortals body cant withstand a blast from the past I assume,” he chuckled then added, “That was the young girl’s mother that you met ealier,’ he smiled sadly, “That woman is no longer alive before you ask.”

"Immortals were never meant to have children but somehow I managed to get one," he stood circling the room, "I built the underground kingdom for her and her people to keep her innocence that seems to have left children of  these times," he looked to his friend, ‘We will speak more of this matter later but for now you need to leave fast

[cadmusthefieryone]

Cadmus had never seen anything like the projected memory he'd just witnessed and again, he wonders what all the old immortal is capable of. But thoughts of that are pushed aside as he learns more about what he'd seen. "The girl? From the village?" he repeats in disbelief, looking in at the room that has returned to normal. "Does she know you are her father? Does she have...any of your abilities?"

He wants to speak more of it, but Raphael is suddenly ushering him away. He glances toward the meeting room, knowing that it's only a matter of time before time starts again. He knows he may be in danger, but he still wants to stay. He glances up at the old immortal, questions flooding his mind, but maybe he should get back to headquarters and let the others know what he's found. So, he stands and dons his hat. With a nod, he starts for the door.

[petraofthemalakhim]

Mark of the Beast | Circa Crete 400 | Petra & Lucifer

Petra rushed down the darkened cobblestone streets, her hood pulled up over her head. The way was dimly lit, but she’d been wary of carrying any light with her. She would have to make deal with the oil lamps that were lit here and there. She wasn’t even sure where she was going. The rumors that had circulated up from the Order were vague and probably embellished. She could tell enough truth from them though to know that something devastating had happened.

The night was cool, winter just touching the Mediterranean. The city was walled and she had already covered most of it. There was hardly a soul out at this hour and those that were paid her little mind. The back-alleys were full of refuse from both people and animals, but she checked them anyway.

As she made it to the outer reaches of the city, there was less light and the neighborhoods were poorer. More people roamed the streets as well. Some lived on them and some worked them. Fires burned for people to try and keep warm. As she passed one at the head of an alleyway, something caught her eye. Firelight flickered off what looked like a large human body. It was dirty and clad only in a white loin wrap.

[cadmusthefieryone]

Though the night was only moderately chilly, Lucifer began to shake uncontrollably. He was dressed in ony his ceremonial loin wrap and his various wounds did not help. After his punishment, the Elders had ordered that he be cast out without delay or further ado. Apollion had volunteered to escort him to the surface of the island.

"Look at you now," he'd purred. The hooded acolytes that had joined them minded their own business and kept their faces hidden under their hoods.

The mark that had been tattooed and branded into Lucifer's chest was so painful that he could barely keep from losing consciousness. He'd said nothing to his supposed friend.

Apollion had laughed, dismissed the acolytes and then sneered into the other's ear. "I will make myself their favorite now." Then he'd proceeded to beat Lucifer with relish before tossing him onto the ground close to the nearby city.

Lucifer had managed to crawl through a hole in the city wall and collapse in an alleyway where he hoped he'd be left alone. He knew that he couldn't actually die, but at that moment he wanted nothing more than to sleep and never wake. His vision started to go black despite the cold and he welcomed it. Before he could pass out though, he was startled awake by the sound of footsteps. He tried to turn over and wave the person away.

"No," he mumbled through a swollen jaw. "Please leave me be."

[cadmusthefieryone]

Dangerous Liaisons | Cadmus & Raphael

[iam-olderthenlucifer]

Raphael was very soon back in his body but dragged along to join Lucy in the memories, his body was getting old meaning his control of such things wasn’t possible. He Stood up beside Lucy over looking his younger self kissing the native woman passionately. Sighing he looked over at Lucy and spoke, “Let us go, we will be here a while longer till this memory ends,’ he didn’t want to rewatch what plagued his dreams. Walking out of the bathing room he sat down in the unfinished changing room waiting for his fellow immortal

The pair kissed a while longer, her hands traced his tribal tattoos streaming down his arms, she says his name again when they break allowing them to take a breath. He stands beside her wrapping a towel around himself and wrapping one around her, he stepped away and tell her to go. She frowns deeply and takes his hand having him sit once more as she sits in his lap. They speak alittle longer and she moves his hand over her stomach telling him something, his face is concerned but he bursts into a smile hugging her.

Raphael bowed his head placing them in his hands thinking to himself he started to feel the sensation once more and the memeory was fading, he collapsed to the floor once more feeling the world collapse. Waking on the floor with time still frozen he sat up feeling very ill and h looked oer to his old friend bowing his head, “I am sorry you got sucked into that”

[cadmusthefieryone]

Cadmus watches the events unfolding, resisting the urge to ask what was going on. He feels as if he's intruding on something he shouldn't be seeing, but fascination keeps him from turning away. A light blush tinges his cheek as his old friend steps over. He looks bewildered and much older than the Raphael he witnesses in the memory. He turns his head and watches the man walk away, but before he can bring himself to follow, he takes another peek at the memories unfolding.

He can't hear what's being said, but he watches the motions and the reactions. As he does so, his eyes widen as he realizes the implications the images are suggesting. Is it possible? He knows that he and his fellow Seraphim are barren, each one an original creation, but the Malakhim have families, passing down their gifts through the generations. He isn't a hundred percent certain about the immortals, but he's never heard of any of them having children. Then again, he knows that Raphael is a unique case. And if he has had children...What kind of beings would they be? Perhaps he even knows some of them and didn't realize it.

He hurries to the old immortal, intending to question him about it, but he sees that the man is in distress. When Raphael falls to the floor, Cadmus quickly kneels beside him, but he isn't sure what to do. As he wakes again, he helps him sit up and shakes his head, dismissing the apology. "Are you alright?" he asks and then adds, "What was that?"

[cadmusthefieryone]

Dangerous Liaisons | Cadmus & Raphael

[iam-olderthenlucifer]

Raphael was too shaken to react after he laughed because of the memories, it was all coming back whether the elder liked it or not, the pain and physical memories would cause quite the scene that looked like a panic attack. Holding Lucy’s eyes he shook his head to keep him out of the situation, if the memories took over before he could get out Raphael didn’t want them in a bad situation. hearing the dark man laugh Raphael started to pale.

Seeing the Elders react Raphael tried to ignore the tingling in his spine that was growing, he watched Lucy nervously. He coughed weakly and he was about to stand fast when he noticed Lucy was leaving Raphael made time stop once again and tipped over in his seat.

Vulnerable in his state he started to project the memory to quicken the effects,

Turning to face the woman he was in his younger form and he smiled gently walking over to the edge of the bathing pool, she started at him in shock. Yet her eyes softened she moved to the edge and sat on the edge speaking in their native language he cupped her face gently speaking in return, he didn’t even see that Lucy was in his memory. She nodded and kissed the immortal suddenly, he went ridged but his body relaxed an he purred her name.

[cadmusthefieryone]

For a moment, Cadmus isn't sure what's happening. He starts to walked through the ruined doorway when he senses a change in the air. He turns and realizes that time has stopped again, but something even stranger is happening. While the Council of Elders are again frozen in time, Raphael seems to be enduring some kind of fit. He cautiously steps forward and is startled when images fill the room.

He's known Raphael for a long time, but he's never seen him do anything like this. At first, he thinks they've been transported again, but then he realizes the shapes of the room are still vaguely recognizable. Instead, it's as if the space of the room has been joined by something else. He watches the pained expression cross the old immortal's face and the thought occurs to him that he might be witnessing memories.

He turns away from Raphael to watch the scene unfolding around him. There is another version of the other man, virtually identical of the one sitting near him, but different somehow. Cadmus senses that he is actually much younger, though he doesn't really look it. There seems to be something lighter and more innocent about him. Suddenly a women enters the picture and what follows is a scene he doesn't know what to make of.

More than anything, he wonders why Raphael has picked this moment to relive these memories and if the man knows that he is still there. 

[cadmusthefieryone]

The Dynamic Duo | Cadmus & August

[magicandinsanity]

August sits up and takes the plate when it’s offered, but never gets around to eating. He can feel the discomfort the man had mentioned, but also feels stronger. When Cadmus is through talking, he only stares at him for a moment. Then he suddenly starts laughing hysterically.

"Mated for life?" he repeats.

"I’ve barely even been able to get anyone to like me." Cadmus seems to be confused; like he thinks August should be more upset so he adds, "OK, I admit you could have warned me, but…I like the idea. Mated for life. That sounds nice." When the other man only chuckles, he gets up, a million questions coming to mind. "Is it kind of the opposite of what everyone else feels; the way your presence repels them?"

They finish eating and getting ready to go, August chattering until he sense that Cadmus might like some peace and quiet. So he sets his curiosity aside. Being with the other man has given him back enough strength to return to his chosen persona, though he decides to don the guns in case of trouble instead of having to use more magical power. They spend the next few days trying to pick up Luca’s trail. The weather becomes milder the further south they go and they make good time, hoping that they’re catching up.

"He’s off course," August announces one morning. They’ve crossed into a rockier landscape that doesn’t look like what Luca had described. "I think we’ve lost him."

[cadmusthefieryone]

The two of them continue on their current path, straddling the line between where Luca is supposed to be and where he's, apparently, ended up. After two days of searching though, they seem to lose track of him altogether.

Cadmus stands on the edge of a valley and shakes his head. He turns to August, standing a few paces behind him, and says, "We must have got ahead of him somehow. I do not know why he would have stopped, but we'll have to wait him out." They find a safe spot to set up camp for the night, keeping their fire under the cover of a large evergeen at the foot of the mountain.

They spend the next few nights at their camp, knowing it's a risk, but feeling like they have to take it. During the day, they scout out in different directions, hoping to find Luca when he catches up with them. They find no one though. On the fourth night, they settle into their camp, but the night seems eerily quiet; too quiet for Cadmus' comfort. "I don't think a fire would be a good idea," he whispers. He starts to move closer to August when he hear's something that curdles his blood.

[cadmusthefieryone]

The Dynamic Duo | Cadmus & August

[cadmusthefieryone]

The next morning, Cadmus opens his eyes and finds that August is still in his arms; his chest softly rising and falling in his sleep. He gently backs away and sees a small frown cross the other's face. He covers him with the blanket, though he knows that the shiver is about more than just the cold.

He builds the fire back up and cooks them some breakfast, watching his lover sleep. As August's eyes flutter open, he gives him a warm smile. "Would you care for some bacon?" he asks. He sees a pained look on the other man's face and moves closer. "Are you alright?" He watches for a nod and then hands him a plate. "What you are feeling is difficult to explain. What happened last night, between us...was more than just sex. There is a reason Seraphim don't usually mate, especially outside our own kind. We have more...energy than you. Nicolae knows that I mean. He was there for The End."

He chewed on a piece of bacon, waiting for the information to settle in. He suddenly became very aware of his own nakedness and stood up to dress. "You were very weakened. You told me that yourself," he said as he buttoned his shirt. "Sex is when we are all most vulnerable. I...gave you some of my energy. I tried not to let you get carried away. It was just a bit, but you might experience some...withdrawal. Oh...and it could turn out that we're mated for life."

[cadmusthefieryone]

The Dynamic Duo | Cadmus & August

[magicandinsanity]

August waits patiently for Cadmus to return, sliding the door closed to conserve what little heat there was in the train car. When he hears the door opening again, he jumps to his feet nervously. He takes the pile of wood from the other man’s arms and then helps him inside. He stands back, in the corner, and watches while he piles up the wood and lights a fire with the tips of his fingers.

When it’s lit, he stares into the flames and whispers, “I’m sorry.” He catches the other’s surprised look when he stands and he adds, “I just didn’t want to worry you…And I’m not really good at sharing things.” He crosses his arms and paces back and forth in the small space.

"Nicolae is starting to weaken from using so much magic; most of it for me, to keep up the way I look."

When Cadmus tells him to let it go and rest for a while, he shakes his head, afraid of losing his identity. “I can’t,” he whispers, but the look on the other’s face makes him feel safe, accepted. Slowly, the costume melts away, until he’s standing naked, in front of the fire. His hair fills out until the length is even, but longer. He looks down at himself and feels his hair with an exclamation of surprise.

"This is that I looked like when I was…alive," he says.

[cadmusthefieryone]

Cadmus watches in awe as August changes, seeing that he doesn't really look that much different. At the other man's comment, he smiles and says, "I think the real you is rather cute." But he knows immediately that it was the wrong thing to say. As the younger man begins to sputter about how the costume, the hair, is the real him, Cadmus rushes over and takes him in his arms.

"I'm sorry. Shh," he whispers as August continues to cry. Then the sorcerer is kissing him and he kisses back, feeling the moisture from his tear stained cheeks. He runs a hand through the now thicker hair, noting the strangeness of the change. His other hand pulls him close, willing him to feel safe in his embrace. He feels the other man's hands slip under his jacket and he quickly shrugs it off, following it with his waistcoat and shirt. He see's August's gaze turn to the dragon on his chest and this time he picks up the man's hand and helps him trace the pattern with his fingers.

"There's more," he murmurs and turns. He hears a gasp. Then he feels August's fingers lightly dance over the six wings tattooed on his back. A moment later, he returns the gasp as fingers are replaced by lips. He waits patiently, feeling goosebumps come up on his exposed skin. When the younger man coyly walks around him, he takes his face in his hands and kisses him again.

He feels August melt under his touch, a small whimper leaving his lips. He pulls him close again and they begin to grind together. Cadmus slides his hands down, pulling the other's hips even closer and squeezes the firm flesh beneath his fingers.

[cadmusthefieryone]

Dangerous Liaisons | Cadmus & Raphael

[iam-olderthenlucifer]

Raphael missed the child as the world returned to the courtroom he spoke, “Lucy, do be careful when you come to visit them will you?” h asked gently then spoke, ‘Those people do not need the council discovering them,” he added quietly as the world began to play once more. Hearing the uproar Raphael simply played with a book ignoring the whole scene itself, he loved the chaos but they were boring to him. He opened the book and watched his own memories play across the pages.

It had been only a few years prior to his joining of the new council and his own plans coming back to place. The old god was still bulding the underground palace that Lucy had come to witness, Raphael was in the bathing hall alone, the marble tiles or dark blues and darker clay made the room have its own errie feeling or relaxation to the god. He was standing in waist deep water and played with a black rose petal that floated on the waters.

Sighing contently he lit all the petals on fire they burned for a moment then they all went out. His black tribal tattoos that covered most of his skin was lightly glowing orm the sudden use of abilities. He heard a soft gasp behind him and turn to see one of the tribe’s woman staring in horro at him.

Closing the book fast Raphael sshivered a little then lifted his head hearing Lucy’s question he laughed darkly and smirked at the older members who gave him slight horrified looks to his reaction of Lucy’s presence

[cadmusthefieryone]

The Council is quiet and Cadmus gives them a moment to decide. When they don't answer, he demands, "Tell me what is going on!" He glances at Raphael, not sure whether to involve the man or not. He seems to have a nice life set up for himself. He'd hate to condemn him to a life of banishment.

When he looks back to the Council the Dark Man is laughing. "We will not tell you anything."

When Cadmus speaks again, his voice is different. It's low and melodious and has a sing-song quality to it. "Oh...I...think...you...will," he hums and steps closer.

The Elders instinctively throw their hands over their ears; trying not to listen. As they do, the Seraph walks around them, looking them over. He stops behind the small, fat man and plucks the ball of blue light from above his head. With Cadmus not having any magic of his own, the light fizzles and disappears, but at least there's one less threat to contend with. Then he steps behind the Dark Man and a momentary wave of anger and hatred passes through him.

Flashbacks of betrayal and pain flood his memory, but he pushes them aside. He lays a heavy hand on the Elder's shoulder and leans in to his ear. "I will not let you torment these people again. I will convince them of your lies and have them rise up against you first. Rest assured, I will find out what you are up to and I will stop you."

As he turns to leave, he glances at Raphael again, almost imperceptibly. He doesn't know if the ancient immortal can read minds, but he figures he can do anything he wants to. So he sends him a message, Find out for me, will you? and then he turns and leaves the Council chambers.

[cadmusthefieryone]

The Dynamic Duo | Cadmus & August

[magicandinsanity]

August gives Cadmus a sideways look. “No, you’re right. When I first met Luca he was lost in the Wastelands. I spent three days getting him back to his village and almost got killed for it. Things are different now though. I have a feeling he might be stronger. This is much more important to him.” When Cadmus nods at him, he nods back and then the two of them fall silent for what seems like hours.

He appreciates that Cadmus doesn’t feel the need for constant conversation. In fact, they’d gone entire days without saying a word to each other. And yet, in all that time and all of their hustle and bustle to find Victoria Thorne and figure out the Order’s plans, they still hadn’t taken the time to make love. It felt strange to him, or at least, he imagines that it should feel strange to him. But it doesn’t really. It’s not that he doesn’t want to, wishes they had that first night, but he seems to be OK without it. He also recognizes that it’s an odd thing to be thinking about, given the circumstances.

He’d conjured a thick cloak and wraps it tightly around him as the sights of Copenhagen begin to dwindle. He barely feels the heavy pack on his back, that’s laden with food, ropes, extra blankets, water skins and first aid gear. He knows that most of these supplies could be got magically, but he also knows that Nicolae is starting to tire from the constant magic, used to keep up August’s appearance. He knows that soon, he will have to let him rest, maybe even give up control.

[cadmusthefieryone]

By the second evening, they'd left the urban areas behind, moving slightly inland. They can only hope that they're on the right path. It had been impossible to track Luca in the city. As it starts to grow dark, Cadmus searches for a place to camp for the night. It is mostly wide open spaces, but he spots an abandoned train car on abandoned tracks that might, at least, give them a bit of shelter.

He leads the younger man, who has spent most of the last two days in his own reverie, to the car. When they reach it, he puts a finger to his lips and checks to make sure that it's empty. Then he nods and they both climb inside. The train car is rusty and full of dirt, but the doors shut with some effort and they'll be able to keep out of the cold. The two of them clean a spot as best they can and sit down to rest. Cadmus grabs his pack and pulls out a pouch full of dried fruit and nuts; silently offering some to August. When the other man only shakes his head, he frowns.

"What is troubling you, August?" he asks. He waits, but the man only stares at him for a moment and then averts his eyes. Cadmus roughly puts the pouch away and stands up. He slides open the door, puts on his hat and announces, "I'm going to find some firewood."

[cadmusthefieryone]

The Dynamic Duo | Cadmus & August

[magicandinsanity]

August hears the footsteps too and his ball of light pulsates faster. As Cadmus slowly turns, he follows suit and sees two people walking out of the shadows of a waterfront warehouse. His muscles grow taut and he prepares to confront whatever threat the two might pose. A moment before he’s ready to strike, he hears a familiar voice call out their names.

"Petra?" he questions. He can see them well enough now to see her nod.

"What are you boys doing out here?" she asks, sounding testy and unlike herself.

He hangs back, sensing the overwhelming emotions coming from Dorian and Petra, as Cadmus informs her that they were looking for them. He watches Dorian, who is quiet and distant, and thinks that he has given up. Or maybe…

"Did you find her?" he blurts out and instantly regrets it. The immortal slowly looks up at him with something akin to loathing, but it quickly fades to dispair. August isn’t sure what to make of it so he shakes his head. "I’m sorry, I didn’t…"

"No, it’s alright," Dorian murmurs. "Yeah, we found her." He stares off into the distance for a moment and then brushes passed them all; walking into the darkness towards their apartment.

The other three stare after him and then follow in silence. Eventually, August hears Cadmus telling Petra about Luca’s plight and their plan to help him.

[cadmusthefieryone]

As they get back to the apartment, Dorian is still quiet and Cadmus turns to Petra. "Will he be alright?" She nods slightly and he stares at her for a moment before taking her word. "I'm sorry we cannot stay, but now that you've found her, perhaps it's possible for the two of them to heal; to put the past behind them." He pauses for a moment and then takes her arm and pulls her aside. "The Order are here," he whispers. "Almost all of the Elders. I do not know exactly what they are up to, but it can't be good. Keep an eye on them if you can."

It takes them the rest of the night to gather supplies and set out for Luca and Mathias' house. It doesn't surprise them when they find the young man gone. "He's left us a rough map," Cadmus informs August when he finds Luca's note on the kitchen table.

"He can't have gone too far without us." He quickly rolls up the map and nods at August. Then the two of them step back out into the city and start south. The sun is climbing high into the sky already, and Cadmus curses their delay. "Do you really think he is capable of taking care of himself in the Wastes? Has he ever had to do it before?" His tone is a little harsh and he can hear. "I'm sorry. I do not mean to disparage your friend."

[cadmusthefieryone]

Dangerous Liaisons | Cadmus & Raphael

[iam-olderthenlucifer]

Raphael loved the little city, the little girl clung to him and hid her face in his shoulder when the people circled them, she was painfully shy around them especially when Raphael was there to keep her safe. But now she strode holding onto Lucy’s fingers, she watched and lead by Raphael’s example. The people had been underground months before Raphael found them, the chief of their village called upon him to make a deal. The deal was accepted, Raphael was in charge of the people and the young girl, he wasn’t burdened much and he received the old leader’s soul.

When Lucy took a candle the little girl impatiently tugged gently on his fingers feeling his slight pause in the steps. The black curls of her hair falling in her face almost like Raphael’s when he allowed it to grow long enough. As they entered the village and Raphael let Lucy be in awe he was whispering a few things in their ears as he past a few. The young girl released his hand.

Hearing his question Raphael smiled  a little and spoke, “You act as if you are surprised I am able to create such beauty, death can be beautiful Lucy, remember that,” he chuckled. When inside and the little girl gone up the stairs he looked to Lucy and spoke, “You are always welcome,” he repeated then looked around. He didn’t want to leave but he could feel Lucy’s need.

"Let us go then," the world around then shattered and they were once again in the frozen courtroom, he nodded towards the broken doors, "You should go back," he walked up to his seat and sat propping his feet up once again and sighed, "Get this over with"

[cadmusthefieryone]

Cadmus can sense Raphael's reluctance to leave and the truth is that he doesn't blame him. Since leaving the Order, he's never truly had a place he could call home. It's not that he's never felt safe; very little frightens him anymore, but that he's never really felt comfortable anywhere or with anyone. He was hoping that Copenhagen could be that place, but he knows, as they return to the darkened room, that it could never be. But, perhaps, in August, he at least finally has someone.

He nods at the old immortal and steps back over the room's threshold and waits for time to begin again. He sees the smoke and dust begin to swirl and then hears shouts from inside. Casually, he strolls into the room, exuding confidence and righteousness; something the Order lost ages ago. The Elders look up at him in indignation and The Dark Man jumps to his feet.

"How dare you invade this sacred space, Betrayer!" he yells, his green eyes glowing and the White Woman nods from her position next to him.

"Sacred?" Cadmus growls in disbelief, ignoring her icy stare. He glances around the table, seeing familiar faces and new ones. Apparently new members had ascended to the Council since his banishment. He notes with a mixture of trepidation and happiness that Elder Indigo is not among them. "This Council has not been sacred in almost two millenia!"

There are roars of disapproval from the younger members of the Order, but the older ones only stare at him in disgust. "Shame on you," a short, plump man whispers, with a ball of glowing blue magic dancing above his head.

Cadmus shakes his head. "No, sir, shame on you. Shame on all of you for bringing this evil into the world; for forcing my brothers to cause this destruction." He pauses, glaring at each one individually and then says, "And what new horrors have you been planning for it now?"

[cadmusthefieryone]

How Lucifer Lost His Wings | Circa 400 | Cadmus, The End

One morning there was a knock on Lucifer's door. He didn't think much of it, but as he opened it, he took a step back in shock to see the figure of Elder Indigo. "Elder," he stuttered out and then bowed his head.

"You would be seen by the Council," Indigo imparted. His voice was stern, but his eyes kind.

The other man nodded. "Of course," he answered and followed him out into the hall. He stared at the back of the ancient giant's head, his heart sinking. To be summoned to the Council by an Elder was unheard of. Once again, they turned toward the amphitheatre instead of towards the Elders' private chambers. And once again, he could see the pillars surrounded by his brothers.

Before they breached the entryway though, Indigo stopped and turned to Lucifer. Quietly he said, "You should have come to me with your grievances." Then he stepped into the circle, leaving the other man to follow.

As he slowly crossed the marble floor, each footstep seeming to reverberate damningly, he glanced around at the Seraphim. This time they had their hoods drawn about their faces, all of them making an effort not to look at him. Save for one. Sitting next to the Elders' table, a smug smile on his face was Apollion. Lucifer stepped in front of them, waiting to see what had brought him here, but deep inside he already knew; Apollion had betrayed him and he could only guess as to what the man may have told them.

He was torn from his reverie by an authoritative female voice. Her skin was pale and her eyes an icy blue. "You stand here today, Lucifer of the Seraphim, accused-"

"Accused?" he interrupted in disbelief and a murmur of shock went through his brothers.

"Yes," she affirmed, unaffected by his outburst. "You have been accused of heresy and conspiracy against the Order. Do you deny it?"

"Yes I deny it! I was simply..."

"Yes?" the dark man with the booming voice mocked.

"I thought that the policies you set out in the Decleration were too drastic. I was hoping to appease you."

"By conspiring with your brothers?" the woman asked.

"No, by offering alternatives."

The Elders conferred for a moment and then the woman spoke again, "Your brother Apollion has given us detailed accounts of secret meetings that would speak otherwise of your activities. According to him you have been planning a revolution to bring the Council down."

"What! I would never. I have always been loyal!"

"Nevertheless, he has detailed accounts and testimony from other witnesses."

"What witnesses?"

The Council ignored his question and the dark man brought out a scroll and quill. "There were others in these meetings. You were not conspiring by yourself. If you give us the names of your brothers in question and any others helping you, we will be lenient with you. You have been a good angel in the past. You have served us well."

Lucifer stared at them in horror and then shook his head. "I will not. If your purpose is to punish them for something they did not do then I will give you no names."

The other man looked at him in shock and then set down his quill. "Very well," he sighed. "If you will not cooperate, then we have no choice." He nodded at Apollion, who stood up and put his chair in the center of the room. Then two of the Seraphim grabbed Lucifer and stripped him of his robe before forcing him into the chair.

"What are you doing?" he screamed as magical ropes bound his arms and legs.

The dark man stood and slowly strolled over to the Seraph. "Henceforth, Lucifer, you shall be banished from our ranks. Your name shall become known to the humans and to your brothers as the Betrayer and Deceiver, just as you have betrayed and deceived us here." With that, he reached inside his own mind and conjured up a ball of red flame and a ball of blue magic. The two slowly flowed toward the bound man until they found his chest.

Lucifer began to scream in agony as the two lights carved and burned into his flesh. The torture seemed to go on for ages, but eventually the pain suddenly stopped. He looked down at the red, screaming flesh of his chest in horror.

The Elder nodded and the ropes fell away. "You will forever carry the mark of the Beast."

[cadmusthefieryone]

How Lucifer Lost His Wings | Circa 400 | Cadmus, pt. 4

For a while after the meeting, Lucifer had sat on his bed and stared at the floor. He didn't really see anything; his mind blank with disbelief over what he'd heard. Slowly, though, the wheels began to turn. The Order had always been benevolent, had existed for the betterment of humanity. Now, it seemed as if they were only interested in their own betterment and in controlling humanity. He knew that they'd influenced events in the past, but very subtly and not for their own gain.

Finally, he shook his head and got up to pace his cell. He crossed his arms and rested a finger on his lips. He'd known that something was changing within the Order, but he'd never imagined something this drastic. He knew there was only one thing he could do. There was no way he could sit back and do nothing. He would quietly find others that felt the same and they would try to change this decision.

It turned out that his mission wasn't so simple. He had no idea how to approach his brothers. He knew that some of the other angels, like those of the Malakhim and the Watchers, would be more willing to help, but they were prone to outright rebellion and not very discreet. Still, there were a few he trusted. Finally, he had to reluctantly admit that he needed to talk to Apollion.

"Well, my, my," the man said, sticking his head outside his cell and looking around like something clandestine was going on. Then he added, in a whisper, "I thought we were not supposed to be meeting like this anymore?"

"I know, but this is important," Lucifer insisted.

"Oh, please come in then," the other quipped and beckoned him in.

He didn't beat around the bush. As soon as the door was shut, he turned to his friend and said, "Were you there for the decleration?"

"No, Lucifer. The Elders do not consider me quite that important to the Order. I have heard what was said, of course. Why?" he asked, suspicious of the look of concern on the other's face.

"You do not think it is wrong; what they plan to do?"

"Oh I don't know, not particularly. Everyone seems to think they have a valid point." He paused, squinting. "Do you think it wrong? Are you planning something, Lucifer?"

"Planning something? You make is sound like I am organizing a rebellion. I was just hoping that, if enough of us felt the same, maybe the Elders would reconsider."

"Hmm. That sounds rather boring and harmless."

The other Seraph looked at him in disbelief. "I have always been loyal to the Order, Apollion. You know that. I am not suggesting doing anything that would go against them."

His friend stepped closer so that they were only inches apart. "I will help you, Lucifer. But I am afraid that you are going to find that nothing short of rebellion will make them reconsider their position." The two of them stared at one another for a moment and then Apollion stepped back with a smile. "So, what were you thinking?"

Lucifer was quiet for a moment and then took a deep breath. "Alright, I want to try and find some of our brothers who disagree with the new policy. Then we could draw something up or perhaps just take our grievances to the Council."

"I do suppose they will listen to you. You are special to them after all. They will listen, but they may not hear."

"Fine, but how do we find out if any of the others feel the same?"

"Well, you could just ask like you did me."

Lucifer shook his head. "I think it would be prudent to be a bit more discreet than that."

Over the next few months, the two of them gathered a small group of Seraphim who had reservations about the Order's new direction. They met in secret in seldom used areas of the stronghold; below in the underworld, in the maze that separated them from the world above, but never in their cells or the amphitheatre. Unfortunately, while they could agree on their reservations, little progress was made on what to do about them.

More than once, Lucifer thought about going to Elder Indigo, but never found the courage. In the end, it didn't matter, the Elder found him.

[cadmusthefieryone]

The Dynamic Duo | Cadmus & August

[magicandinsanity]

August sits on a stool, with his head down, eyes shaded by his hat, waiting while Cadmus looks around. He too can sense that no one is there. As the other man steps back into the room and starts to speak, his hat pops up and he looks the man over. “What about Luca?” he asks, worried about his friend. The other gives him a desperate look and he nods. “Of course, you’re right. If they’re in trouble, we have to help them. Hopefully, Luca will have enough sense to wait.”

He and Cadmus pull out a map of Copenhagen that they’ve been working on since Dorian’s arrival. There are still a few areas that haven’t been searched, but most are the worst parts of the city; no mans’ lands. Other are areas that they don’t think are inhabited anymore.

"You don’t know where they were going?" August double checks. When Cadmus shakes his head, he says, "I guess we’ll just have to search them all." and rolls up the map. He knows it’s a crazy scheme, but that’s what he’s there for; to keep Nicolae out of trouble. "Let’s go," he says with a mischievous look and pulls out his pistol.

[cadmusthefieryone]

The two men scour the city for their friends, but hours later, they had still seen no signs of them. It's night now and they move forward slowly. A blue ball of pulsating light hangs above August's hand and a red ball of swirling fire above the other's. Cadmus rubs his brow with the other hand. "We may have missed them by now," he points out. "They could have gone back to the apartment."

The other man is quiet and he knows that he's lost in his own thoughts, his own reverie. August still baffles him sometimes. He knows there's a name for the behavior patterns he displays, but they never speak it. There's a reason he doesn't like to be touched unless asked, that he chooses to manifest the strange costume he wears, but Cadmus has never asked him about it. It doesn't matter to him and he knows the other man doesn't like to dwell on it.

He suddenly realizes that, perhaps, it's not that August is lost in reverie, but just that he's paying more attention. They're getting close to the docks now and he gets the distinct feeling that they may not be alone. There are no specific signs yet, but something about the night seems to have changed. The two men stop and put out their lights, barely breathing in the silent night. Out of the darkness comes the sound of footsteps.

[cadmusthefieryone]

How Lucifer Lost His Wings | Circa 400 | Cadmus

Late the next evening, Lucifer was called in to see the Council of Elders. It was a sudden summons, without any word as to why. He knew he probably had no reason to worry; he was highly valued and trusted by the Order. Yet, something about this meeting had him feeling uneasy. He wove the cotton wrap that was their traditional covering, around his nether regions and then put on his ceremonial robes over that.

He walked out into the cool and quiet stone hall and quickly made his way to the amphitheatre beyond. He thought it strange to have a meeting with the Elders at the amphitheatre, but he soon realized why they'd called him there. As he stepped into the room, outside the pillars, he stopped short, a frown crossing his face and his mouth falling open. Not only were the Elders waiting in the center of the great room, but dozens of his fellow Seraphim were standing around the edge in front of the pillars.

One of the Elders; an ancient looking, but strong man with long white hair and beard and piercing violet eyes, spotted Lucifer. He beckoned him forward with a long, knarled finger. "Come forth, Lucifer. There is something we would have you and your brothers hear."

He composed himself and nodded. "Of course, Elder Indigo." He stepped into the circle and waited to hear what the Elders had called them for.

For a moment, it looked as if Indigo would speak again, but then he fell into a stupor, almost as if his age had grown so great that he could no longer keep himself awake. Instead, a younger looking man with skin so dark he could blend into the night, opened his mouth to speak. "The world is changing," he announced in a booming baritone. "As you know, the world has changed many times before. Sadly, we no longer believe it is for the better. These are troubling times, especially for those of us in the Order. The world is no longer friendly to the supernatural. They see our powers as something evil or something that can only belong to a chosen few."

There was a murmur among the Seraphim and the Elders nodded in agreement. When they had quieted down, he continued, "There has been much discussion amongst us of this new corruption of mankind. Many of you have been sent out to observe, to help us discern what must be down." As the man went on, Lucifer looked up in realization. "We've always sought to subtly influence the world's direction, to maintain order and righteousness. I'm afraid that the time has come that we have a more direct hand in the destiny of humanity. We can no longer trust the ordinary people to control their own fates. We must put ourselves into every facet of the world. New religions have come forth. This is the perfect opportunity for us to control what they believe. They will never know that it is our laws they are following, us that they are praying to."

For a moment, the man was silent, letting the weight of what he'd said sink in. There were more murmurs of shock, but with the revelations the Elder had given them, not with what he planned to do about it. The voices of the Seraphim were in agreement with the Elder. But a fear gripped Lucifer's heart and he looked up in horror. As he did so, his blue eyes met the violet ones of Elder Indigo. They looked the same as they always had, but he could tell somehow that the ancient man felt the same.

[cadmusthefieryone]

Dangerous Liaisons | Cadmus & Raphael

[iam-olderthenlucifer]

Looking over the immortal the little girl whispers to Raphael unsure about Lucy, but the immortal reassures her he is safe. The small girl is set down and grabbed Lucy’s finger to tow him into their village that moved to the underground in order to be let free of all that had been rotting above their heads. Her white tattered dress was a gift from the man, what most weren’t aware of was their actual connection, Raphael made sure any possibilities of it being discovered was repressed.

The stairs of a subway lead down, the devil pushed it open for her and let them in before closing and locking it behind him. The young girl pulled on Lucy’s fingers to keep him moving down the stairs, it was quite literally a city underground, the tallest buildings built into the wall reaching 3 stories deep. All was lit by candles and a few strings of lights, most of the buildings brick or mud,  the people were well fed by growing and Raphael’s endless herds that grazed over head.

ONce the 3 were spotted, the people hurried over and gave slight bows to Raphael and a few women dared to reproach and either kiss his hand or offer a gift. He took a few and thanked them then they greeted Lucy with bows and blessings Raphael had taught them. The people were clean and well taken care of in fresh clothes and washed faces.  The old immortal looked back to Lucy and spoke, ‘They welcome you to their home,” he smiled and lead for the building in the back of the city that was a few blocks wide either way, his home was building all the way into the walls so the door was against the last wall.

Opening the door it was gothic and well furbished like the others, he spoke, “You are welcome to take refuge here,” he added then set the little gril down who hugged Raphael’s leg and kissed his cheek before going to the upstairs for the night, “Lets go shall we?”

[cadmusthefieryone]

Cadmus doesn't know what to expect. He'd heard that some of the survivors in the Wastes had gone underground, mostly for protection from other survivors. So, he thinks that maybe he will find a series of ancient caves or people living in the ruins of a sewer system. He smiles when the little girl takes his finger. Most people give him a wide berth, sensing his power like a physical presence, but he imagines that she's gotten quite used to the feeling because of Raphael.

Of course, he's also aware of the acute possibility that this could be some kind of trap. But, somehow, he doubts it. Raphael had had plenty of opportunities to spring a trap. Why go through the elaborate charade? As they reach the bottom of the stairs, Cadmus reaches out and takes one of the hundreds of candles lighting the city. He's seen much in his long life, but he can't help his mouth falling open in awe and wonder. This place was nothing like what he'd been expecting.

After a moment, he whips around to the old immortal. "Did you build this place?" Before they have a chance to discuss it though, the people come out and begin to greet him like an honored guest. When the sea of people finally part, he follows Raphael down the street in a daze. He's sure there is no way the Order knows of this place and, again, he wonders what's really going on. But he doesn't question it this time. His feelings of mistrust slip away and he simply says, "Thank you for the offer. I might just take you up on that someday." Then he nodded, putting his mind back on the task at hand, and waited.