[IC] The Three Realms War [A DMC, Bayonetta and Darksiders RP]

[I-Am-X]

Blair | Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@Sho Minazuki

Sacrificing her golem, she was given additional time for her search. While she was thoroughly searching the courtyard, for a way back into the main building, a Massive surge of power caused her to stop what she was doing. This power was something she was easily able to recognize, fear. It was a fitting power considering the state of the cathedral and one that she was able to quickly pin-point it's location.

Wasting not a second longer, Blair took off in direction of the power surge at full speed, having finally found her target.

[Sho Minazuki]

Fortuna City - Ifrit

@Kafka Komedy

The Blitz was a hardy demon and would not break apart so easily, yet as it fell to the ground it flared red lightning. It seems it needed more than that to go down, however as soon as it rose, it was met with an extraordinarily powerful bullet from Nero, landing square in it's face. It no longer had enough vitality to control it's own power as it was lifted into the air in a stunning display of red lightning, promptly exploding and charring the area around it, like an especially vicious bolt of lightning had struck.

"Those guys were always a pain... Good work. We should be able to secure the town ourselves now, so continue your search. Remember to report back to HQ from time to time. We could use any info you can give us", and with that he began motioning to the troops in his informal way, not at all like a military commander, but they followed his beck and call nonetheless.

MISSION COMPLETE
Style: 3/5
Kills: 4/5
Objectives: 2/2

---

Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@ProPro@EnterTheHero@I-Am-X

As Fiametta led her group through, they beheld a vision of grotesque horror, the chapel that many religious folk had once entered to pray to the lord was defiled beyond belief. Banners and ornaments slathered in a black red filth, the ground teeming with a mix of dried and fresh blood as the walls grimed with a sickly white and black flesh, bleeding as it were. They spotted a figure sitting upon the altar, now modified into a black marble throne. It was strange, to see something so seamless amidst such terrible and revolting surroundings.

As they stepped up, they could see the figure in better detail, as it stepped down from it's throne. It was obvious this was the demon at the source of this mess. By the throne it had stepped down from, there were mutilated bodies beyond recognition, but their clothes matched that of the clergy.

"Well now, if I'd known I'd have visitors, I would've cleaned this place up...", she began. The demon had no mouth to speak of, but it was clear it was speaking. It's voice had a strange filter to it, making it seem otherworldly.

"As common courtesy allow me to introduce myself. I am Madamma Enepsigos. Charmed I'm sure", with a bow she finished her introduction, clapping twice. Blair then managed to slip in behind the group as the scenery changed.

The entire room was transformed into a rather well-decorated ballroom, it wasn't just the room had changed their looks too, the space as well, as if everyone present was transported to another place entirely. Enepsigos demonstrated this was true as she threw a wine glass far into the corner, it was not stopped.

"Now then, please take a seat. I do would like to hear of the stories heaven's envoys have to offer. The humans here have no use for me now, nor were they very interesting at all", with a click of her fingers she conjured up an entire dining table and chairs with it, to which she took a seat. There was one for everyone. Including Blair.

"Now now, you there, demoness of Mundus, please do join us. It must've been a harrowing trip to come see me after all", so what was her angle...? She certainly did not seem like other demons, mindlessly aggressive and arrogant in their prowess. Should they humor her for now...? Or should they outright fight? Were these visions merely illusions? Or did she have the ability to physical transport people through dimensions? The keenest senses will pick up things that do not belong to their surroundings, but it appears Kushiel was humoring her, but based on his expression... He seemed to know exactly what was going on.

[Lugubrious]

Mad World - Epilogue

@zarkun@lazo@kapuchu

Panoptos watched, arms folded and eyes bearing every indication of a smirk despite his lack of mouth and eyebrows, while the Agents under his command scrambled to get within 'range' of the Seal. In only a few moments, every one of them had made his or her way up to the flickering icon, and the emerald-eyed specter looked away to scan the horizon. His gaze landed on the bank of fog, now floating far away, through which the great being Ourakekem ferried his team only a quarter-hour prior. Its surface broke apart, and through the vast cloud plowed what appeared to be a giant ship. Twisted red and black and wreathed in flame, the flying vessel couldn't have been any more hellish, and the sharp peepers of Panoptos spotted dozens of demons lining its deck in the distance. ”Looks like our friends are a little tardy! I bet ol' Mundus won't be happy to hear that the Seal in Wit's End slipped right between his fingers, heheheh!”

He rounded on the agents, a surprised look on his face judging by the wideness of his eyes. ”Oh, my! Did the countdown expire while I was gawking at the hellions? And yet...all of you are still here?” A mad cackle escaped from him. ”Whoops! Guess I'd better warp us out myself!” Still laughing at the way his underlings rushed to beat the imaginary clock, he snapped his fingers, and the entire Seal vanished in a whirlpool and pitch black and golden light.

The next instant, the world returned, and this time instead of the Undersky, an endless cavern of brimstone and lava stretched in all directions. Not far away, the familiar outline of the Charred Citadel stood in a lake of lava. Panoptos, still snickering, flew toward it at a leisurely pace. Several seconds passed before Souta could get over the bothersome combination of frothing anger and warp nausea that troubled him in order to lower himself to the ground. Around him, the corona of the Council's magic glowed faintly, protecting him from the area's immense ambient heat. Barely had he lowered himself to the ground, however, than a clank of metal behind him caught his attention. The smith span around to see none other than Uhelei, the Agents' technoorganic guide to the Undersky. ”Wait, didn't you want to stay in your world?” Souta asked with an eyebrow raised.

Uhelei shrugged. Around him, the Council's corona shone as well, evidence of his brief stint spent as a captive here. “In Wit's End, I would not last long. The demons would have made scrap of me in a second. Besides, my exile is not over. I cannot return until I have served my time.”

Touched by respect, Souta found himself nodding. ”Huh. I see. Y'know what, you're a pretty cool guy, even if you can't fight worth anything.”

The eyes behind Uhelei's mask glimmered in confusion. “I do not know what you mean. At the moment, I am a warm guy. If not for Council rune, I would be melting.”

Stifling a laugh, Souta clapped a hand on the warrior's shoulder. ”Yeah, yeah. C'mon, let's get back to the fortress. I bet the watchers will be happy to see us.” The two began the trek back to the Citadel, their lingering, shared elation at the defeat of the Creatrix overshadowing their awkwardness.

MISSION COMPLETE
Style: 4/5
Boss Kill: 2/3
Objectives: 1/1

[kapuchu]

Sometimes it was easier to simply stay silent and ignore the rambling of those of lesser intellect. The brief moments before, and immediately after, the transportation of the Seal proved to be such times. Panoptos, no doubt, felt that he himself was hilarious, but the fact of the matter was that he was simply obnoxious. Perhaps the distinction flew straight over the Watchers’ collective head. So far all of them had been irritating, annoying, or infuriating to one degree or another.

Such thoughts were not actually important, but at least served the purpose of distracting the demoness from the drab surroundings that composed the realm of the Charred Council. The novelty of grand fires quickly diminished when one could wield flames as effortlessly as she breathed. Put it simpler terms: Lily was not impressed. She had known an artist or twoin her time, as well as a handful of architects, whose touch was very much needed here were it to even come close to being called aesthetically pleasing.

Lily took a few steps away from where they had appeared in the Brimstone cavern, stretching her arms above her head with her fingers interlocked and spread her wings wide. A satisfied groan escaped her lips with the motion, and she let her arms fall back to her side, wings folding up. She looked over her shoulder at the hellhound, smiling coyly at him. "See something you like?" She asked.

Fenn’s eyes turned away from flinging daggers at the small of Panoptos back to give her a sidelong glance. “Do you fish for compliments, Imp?” he drawled. “From me?”

“I was asking a question, dear Hound,” Lily said, turning around to face him, “not for compliments. Although if you wish to give them, be my guest.”

The dog grunted. “You shall have to work harder for those. If I even deign to give you the satisfaction.” With that, the dog began to lazily trudge towards the distant Citadel.

A pensive look came over her face, as she watched her companion leave. She would have to find some way, to at least make him acknowledge her in a way that was more than just "Contractor". That would be for another day, however, as she had other things that she wanted to do. So she took flight in the direction of the Citadel, the heated air making it easy to gain altitude.

---

Lily found herself in her and Fenn's room within only a few minutes. The place was much cleaner now, after it had been given a chance to clean itself following the restarting of the Heart of the citadel. By now the Citadel could almost be said to be more welcoming than Hell. Her room, however, was an entirely different story.

It may not have been worthy of being called extravagant, but it was still impressive. Thick rugs covered most of the floor, ranging from actual fur to more synthetic materials. One full-sized bear skin adorned one wall, while the others remained barren. A four-poster bed stood at the far-right corner, a translucent canopy of violet fabric hanging over its four sides to obscure whoever was within. In the far left corner was a screened off section, with two full body mirrors so as to allow someone view themselves from both the side and the front simultaneously. And most importantly, just left of that where a series closets, several of them filled to the brim with the clothes Lily have brought in, the last time she was here.

By the right wall stood a dark oak desk and chair, flanked on either side by a bookcase filled with an assortment of everything from philosophy, to science, and to fiction. Some distance from it, closer to the door, stood not only a vastly oversized dog bed, but also a pair of equally large food and water bowls, with only the latter being full at the moment.

On both of them, the word "Spot" was crossed out, and "Fenn" carved into them instead. Evidently the Watchers who decorated the place had a legitimate sense of humour this time.

Lily immediately headed for the screened-off section, with the mirrors and closets, her form shrinking until the two and a half metre tall, draconic behemoth she had been was replaced by a short, blonde haired woman, skin as bare as her scales had been.

On her way she opened every closet she knew contained some kind of clothing, but gave them little attention for the time being. She instead retreated behind the screens in front of the mirrors, facing one with a determined expression. She was of a mind to visit Mary later, but before that she wanted to look presentable.

She claimed to be able to look like anyone, and everyone, but that didn't mean that it was an easy thing to do. Sometimes, it required a little bit of trial and error, and especially so when it was a person only ever described in text let alone ever properly visualized.

A smile tugged at the corner of the shapeshifter's lips. She enjoyed a challenge such as this.

---

An hour later the demon known as Lily stepped out, into the hallway between her and Mary's room. The one stepping out the room, however, looked nothing like any of the demoness' standard appearances.

She stood at a height similar to Mary's, wearing a sleeve-less, floor-length green dress that hugged her torso tightly enough to emphasize her generous curves, and plunged deep at the neck, displaying much of her full breasts to the world. From the hips and down it flowed freely, a cut in the side showing some of her long, slender legs. It was her face, however, that drew the most attention.

Contrary to her demonic origin, her face was open and kind; her eyes large and impossibly green, mouth red and full causing noticeable dimples whenever she smiled. Her hair was long and silver white, falling in gentle waves to the small of her back and not a hair out of place. It was broken only by a pair of elfin ears, long enough to not be hidden by her hair.

It would be easy for Lily to replicate a cold and cruel beauty, so often seen in other demons who took a female guise, but this time it was different. Her fine features, came together to something barely human: A beauty like looking at a gentle fire, designed to create a deep sense of satisfaction, rather than lust or admiration as she so often did otherwise.

She had read a book once which a character sharing her name, and it was with her face and body that she knocked on Mary's door.

[Zarkun]

An unexpected homecoming

If there were names worse than those which came to the Nephilim's mind for the emerald Watcher as he made his snide remarks while the agents of the Council had all just finished scrambling to safety, he did not know them and he was more than positive Uriel would have either pat him on the back for being right or have him doing combat drills until one of the Angelic Champions was tired. Still, he avoided saying it out loud and waited for the inevitable warp. When it came, he decided right then and there that he was going to try his hardest to avoid ever having to do that again, for any reason, as he almost fell off his sword from the sickness. Once he had stabilized himself and recovered, the Nephilim reached down and grasped the hilt of his blade before deftly leaping from the blade and pulling it free in the same motion and somersaulting through the air once before landing with a heavy thud.

Under normal circumstances, Wrath would have been up and moving again right after, but the impact caused his wounds to act up again and he gasped slightly. Staying on one knee, he listened to Lily and the hell hound exchange words briefly before they both set off for the Citadel, though from the sound of wing beats, Lily had decided to fly. Finally managing to pick himself up from his kneeling position, he began his own trek to the Citadel in the distance, sheathing Rage Bringer as he walked. For several long minutes, his only companions were silence and the abrasive heat of the Charred Council's realm. The battle with the Creatrix had caused some question for the Nephilim, not the least of which was how such a creature had gained the power to create such a realm in the first place. The Council is the ultimate authority of reality, powerful enough that even the Lords of Heaven and Hell answer to it.

And yet, this being, who was far from equipped to handle the level of power she'd been given, had not only managed to get away and create a world, but had sealed it off from the Council and it's agents. Knowing something like that...it begs some real serious questions... Looking up as he reached the Citadel, he stopped outside it's great doors for only a moment before pushing one open and entering. Every time he had come in this building, he both feared and hoped that one of his sibling's would be waiting for him, but each time he had been wrong and this time was no different. A Watcher, however, did wait for him. "Ah, there's the halfbreed. Little birdy told me you got pretty banged up fighting a rather nasty bitch on your mission. I'm here to fix that." Before Wrath can respond, the Watcher touches his chest lightly with a whispy finger and instantly the pain of both his wounds vanish, along with a sense of revitalization that usually only came from a good rest for the Nephilim, and as fast as it happened, the obnoxious, shadowy being was gone.

Wrath glared at where it had been for a moment before shaking his head and moving deeper into the halls of the Citadel. Just one more reason for the Nephilim to not care for the Council's shadowy servants. Moving through the labyrinthine halls of the structure, Wrath walked past the door to his room and made straight for the World Tree. A Watcher moved to stop him but Wrath brushed past it and entered the portal that would take him to the White City, to home, even if he'd spent centuries avoiding it. The transition was brief, almost instantaneous, and then Wrath found himself on the streets of the White City, surrounded by it's pearly white buildings with their golden decorations. As he looked around, he grew familiar with the scenery of the Army of Light preparing for war, including the Hellguard, who's armor bore a red demon's skull with a spear thrust through it. And Wrath knew that meant Uriel would be leading the charge herself if it came down to it.

He started down the broad avenue that the doorway to the Tree dropped him on, which also lead to the Council Building where Heavens leaders met, before a pair of the Army's standard infantry spotted him and landed. "Hold Wrath! Uriel isn't in the Council Halls this day." Wrath eyed the pair as he came to a stop, raising an eyebrow.

"Oh? That's a surprise, given that even the Hellguard is preparing to go to war." The pair look at each other, but the one who had spoken answers.

"The Hellguard is a precaution, but all the same, that's why she's not there. You'll find her in the weapons forges, getting weapons ready all across the board for the Army of Light and the Hellguard. The Hierarchy...well, they're still doing their own thing, likely squawking at each other about why they don't just wipe out the Third Kingdom already to lessen the number of foes they'll have to face. Anyways, you remember the way, don't you?" The Nephilim nods and the pair take to the sky once more, leaving him to change course and take a side street that was a shorter path to the armories and weapons forges.

As he walked, Wrath considered everything going on around him, watching a group of angels lead by a Champion soar over him, the mark of the Hellguard on thier shoulders and chest plates. Wrath had spent enough time under Uriel to know better than to agree with what the angel on the main boulevard had said. The Hellguard was never mobilized as a precaution, always as insurance for when Hell intended to use it's biggest and baddest forces. He began to wonder how things on Earth were really going and decided to ask as he arrived at the forges. Some brief questioning brought him to where Uriel was, overseeing the forging of the spears that many of the infantry of the Army of Light preferred for combat. He waited until she was done speaking with one of the forgemaster's before speaking. "Mother, you have a moment?" Uriel jumped slightly at the sound of the Nephilim's voice, it being deeper than even most of the angels there, and turns to face him.

"Wrath! I didn't expect you back so soon." She quickly chases everyone out of the room and closes the doors before facing the Nephilim further. "And I've told you not to call me mother, that honor would belong to Arciel were she still with us." Wrath chuckled as he found a spot to sit that wasn't going to damage some of the work.

"Maybe, but it was only her bones that made me. You and you alone raised me, albeit with the help of training instructors." Uriel sighed, rubbing her temple with her fingers.

"That all may be true, but I still am not the best example for a mother, what with having put you in harms danger more times than any mother worth anything would. I even let you run off for two or so centuries."

"You still cared enough to come and find me, more than Lilith ever did for my older siblings. Besides, you and I both know trying to stop me would have been messier than you wanted. Anyways, I'm not here to argue whether or not you're my mother, I need something to give me some range when fighting. My last mission for the Council...well, let's say I was at a bit of a disadvantage for some of the last fight."

Uriel frowned at her Nephilim charge, but nodded and poked her head out a door. After a brief discussion with the Angel obviously on guard out there, she pulled her head back in and closed the door. "Yes, reports came in that the Demons had found another Seal. If I may, where did you go for your last Council mission?" Wrath grimaced, but knew better than to try and keep it from the angel who'd raised him.

"A place called the Undersky. A place the Council has no jurisdiction in. Mother...is that even possible?" Uriel looked thoughtful when Wrath answered and didn't answer right away. However, when she did, it was clear that his use of Mother had either gone unnoticed or been ignored.

"Well, clearly it is if it was done, but the Undersky was always a strange place. The creator of it...she wasn't fit to wield the power of Creation, but it is what it is. What was your last battle in the Undersky against? Some mechanical monster?" Wrath chuckled and the blades from one of his Wrath Dealers came free with a snik sound.

"Let's just say you can add the title god slayer to my resume, because the Creatrix of the Undersky is dead by these blades." Uriel opens her mouth, likely to make a comment about such a claim, when there's a knock at the door that the Angel Commander had poked her head out of earlier.

"Ah, there would be the gift for you I had commissioned when I heard you were working for the Charred Council." Approaching it, she opened it to take a weapon that Wrath couldn't quite see from the angel standing on the other side and closed the door, speaking as she approached an empty work table. "When word reached me that you'd be working for the Council, I had a feeling you'd be back sooner or later for something to let you hit from further away; so I commissioned this."

Stepping back and turning, she revealed a crossbow of exquisite work, with black and gold metal making up the body and arms of the weapon and the bolts made of a darker metal as well. "We haven't yet picked a name for it, so I thought I'd allow you to. It's designed to be fired rapidly, with decent accuracy if I do say so myself. However, it can also be changed using this small switch here," she points to the only piece of metal that appeared to be silver on the entire weapon, "to make it fire more powerful bolts at a slower fire rate. It's already got one clip in, and I'll send you with a dozen spares. I'll contact the Council to see if they'd allow us to send you more as you need them."

Standing from his seat, Wrath approaches the crossbow, picking it up carefully and aiming down the sights. It wasn't his usually style of hit hard and heavy, but it was still good for him. And given that it WAS designed to be rapid fire..."Death's Rain. That's what I'll call it. Thank you, Mother."

Uriel scowled. "Stop calling me that. But all the same, you're welcome. I can only hope it'll serve you well." Wrath placed the crossbow on his back, next to Rage Bringer and approached the window in the room, leaning against the wall and looking out it at all the angels. Now the Angels of the Hierarchy of Laguna were amongst those from the Army of Light, but their formations were different.

"M-Uriel, I have a favor to ask of you. One I doubt you're going to be happy I'm asking you for." This piqued the interest of the Angelic Commander, but also a glare.

"And what would that be, Wrath?" Wrath turned, letting the light from outside hit his back.

"If you see anyone you even THINK is working for the Council, you get out of there. And sure as hell don't deploy the Hellguard. You do that, then the other Seals breaking won't matter in the end because the fighting between Heaven and Hell will do the work for any consequences." Uriel folded her arms thoughtfully, approaching the window and forcing Wrath to turn and follow her as she walked. Silence reigned for several long moments, and Wrath feared he'd have to attempt to go deeper into his reasons for it, but Uriel finally broke the silence as he began to speak again.

"I don't know that I can promise that every time we cross paths with the Council's agents, and it won't matter if those agents are one of the Horsemen. But I will do everything I can to keep the angels of the Army of Light from getting caught in the cross fire. And...I promise that I will not lead the Hellguard into battle unless we see forces from Hell's Vanguard. Will that suffice?"

Wrath gives a nod and rests a hand on Uriel's should before turning to leave. Before he takes his first steps, he feels her hand on his shoulder and he turns to face her slightly. "And you can call me mother in private, alright?" Wrath smiles and nods again before facing her fully and wrapping the angel in a hug, which she returns.

"I've gotta head back, Mother. Stay safe." Uriel nods and releases her adoptive son, watching him make his way back out the door to leave the weapon forges. All she can hope is that he wouldn't get himself killed trying to do the mission that she and the Council had given him.

---

An hour after returning from the White City, Wrath still sat in his room, going over his newest edition to his arsenal. Had he known it was ready before the trip to the Undersky, he'd have wasted no time in retrieving it, but such was the way of things. With a sigh, he finally set it down and laid down in his bed. Perhaps a nap would do him some good after the day he'd had.

[Kafka Komedy]

Mary had almost forgotten how the Charred Citadel felt. It was reminiscent of hell, lava, fire, brimstone constructs looming in the distance. But there was a pleasant warmth to everything, like a nice toasty cabin in January, with a fire going. It certainly didn't ring of the base of operations for a powerful contingent of agents based on saving the earth. Not that she had any idea what that would look or feel like.

It seemed she was the first to return. Not many Watchers seemed present, and none of her allies were present. Or, at least, she didn't run into any of them while trekking to her room. Gently opening the door and entering, she was greeted with her simple temporary abode. A nice queen-sized bed, a dresser, a shelf, a weapons rack, a small table with a lamp, and one of her own recliners she requested a Watcher bring in. Although it seemed to have a new tear or two in it, it was still just as comfy.

Setting her weapons down and undoing her bonnet, Mary unwound for a small amount of time, simply lying on her bed. Fighting demons was tiring work, after all, and a mission would be coming again soon. She was honestly surprised she was allowed to assist with protecting Fortuna with everything going on, but she had faith in her allies. A simple trip to an alternate dimension or something like that would be no issue for an authentic half-demon, two full demons, and a man whose life was built on making weaponry to protect himself and others.

But as she relaxed, there was some inkling in the back of Mary's head that she should have gone anyways. That Nero could have handled everything. And there was the fact that the other girl, Korasa or Kosara or something like that, didn't return with her. Could she have died? It was a possibility but... Mary had gotten out just fine and she wasn't even- Korasa was presumably more acquainted with her powers, that was to say, so it didn't make sense for Mary to get off with not more than some gashes and have someone else not even live.

A knock at her door reassured Mary that, at the least, the Watchers were still kicking about. Quickly and a bit excitably opening the door, Mary was not greeted by who she thought she'd be. Instead of being greeted by Souta, Midori, Akoni or hell even Lily, Mary was greeted with... Lily. Not her Lily but Lily from a novel she had read a while back. The resemblance was uncanny, it was like the woman was ripped right out of the page. A gorgeous woman, absolutely stunning even to someone who wasn't truly attracted to the sex like Mary was. She was very surprised to say the least, simply standing there and taking her in. Although Mary was a tad embarrassed at first, what with the low cut dress and legs that rivalled her own, this quickly turned into confusion. Again, there was a fictional character in front of her and Mary wasn't sure how. But the emotion Mary expected to feel but hadn't was jealousy. The woman was admittedly much more beautiful than her but there was a sense of welcoming, like she took no join in being "better," simply that she was an appreciated it every day.

But Mary digressed, she wanted to know why Lily was standing at her door. That very same statement in her mind allowed the pieces to click into place, too. Her ally named Lily had been know to shapeshift as well. "Very nice job, Lily." Mary commented, stepping out from her door-frame and taking a small stroll around Lily. It really was a pretty spot on interpretation, though obviously certain stuff was a tad different from how Mary saw it. The facial expression she wore, even exuberated a much different air. Instead of haughtiness and mischief, Lily was gentle, but strong. The kind of woman Mary had always been, or wanted to be at the least.

"Very nice Lily, just cut the dress a bit shorter and you'd look just like, well, Lily." Mary said, a bit of a genuine smile on her face. "Hah, you almost look like a nice person now!" She joked, sure Lily wouldn't mind the light jab. Still, Lily made stuff like this look so effortless. Akoni too, wielded magic on the battlefield, and he was a man past his prime, not that she still didn't think he was worth bringing along. Briefly, Mary pondered if she had any aptitude with magic of any kind.

"Hmm. Lily, would it be possible for you to teach me something magic? Shapeshifting might be a bit much for a beginner, anything you would suggest?"

[ProPro]

@Sho Minazuki@I-Am-X

Akoni entered the cathedral hall with his accompanied team to be greeted by a demoness of strange form and stranger manners. He might almost think of her as gracious, had it not been for the enslavement of humans and necromantic abomination in the crypt. She introduced herself as Madamma Enepsigos and urged them all to sit rather pleasantly. The old mage's head filled with thoughts of a rabbit having tea. The angel took her invitation immediately, so Akoni figured him the Mad Hatter in this equation. Did that make him Alice? No. Unlike Alice, he was no stranger to these types. Despite the danger Akoni decided to humor the demoness, after mystically scanning the seat and surroundings to ensure he was not in immediate danger.

The old man mulled over her name in his mind. Madamma Enepsigos. Possibly familiar. He tried his best to remember anything about this particular figure in his studies, or perhaps his personal experiences in Hell. Maybe he would come up with something. Maybe not. His memory isn't what it used to be. Damn it all. Even his senses weren't what they used to be. The demon addressed another of her kind, one that Akoni hadn't sensed. He checked around to find Blair and silently chastised himself. Sloppy. Arrogant. Set in your ways. You're not as skilled or powerful as you used to be, you need to remain ever vigilant! How could you have missed that? Blair was vaguely familiar to him. He hadn't seen her personally, but he knew of her presence in the Cairn not two days before. When Sevrin stole the Yamato and destroyed a seal...

Akoni pulled his thoughts together and focused. Mundus was a task to handle at a later time, as were his servants. For now, he was on official DHO business and his attention was required for Madamma Enepsigos. Clearly she was powerful to be able to warp space like this. If it was merely an illusion, then it served as a testament to her power regardless, as Akoni could not tell the difference, and warping space was his own specialty. "Madamma Enepsigos, my name is Akoni," he introduced himself, with a tone of insistence, one that said you should already be familiar with my work. "For what purpose are you here? By your own accounts the humans here have not been entertaining. I would not associate someone of your status with a deliberate waste of time. Not unless your goal all along was to attract outside attention."

[ProPro]

@Sho Minazuki@I-Am-X

Akoni entered the cathedral hall with his accompanied team to be greeted by a demoness of strange form and stranger manners. He might almost think of her as gracious, had it not been for the enslavement of humans and necromantic abomination in the crypt. She introduced herself as Madamma Enepsigos and urged them all to sit rather pleasantly. The old mage's head filled with thoughts of a rabbit having tea. The angel took her invitation immediately, so Akoni figured him the Mad Hatter in this equation. Did that make him Alice? No. Unlike Alice, he was no stranger to these types. Despite the danger Akoni decided to humor the demoness, after mystically scanning the seat and surroundings to ensure he was not in immediate danger.

The old man mulled over her name in his mind. Madamma Enepsigos. Possibly familiar. He tried his best to remember anything about this particular figure in his studies, or perhaps his personal experiences in Hell. Maybe he would come up with something. Maybe not. His memory isn't what it used to be. Damn it all. Even his senses weren't what they used to be. The demon addressed another of her kind, one that Akoni hadn't sensed. He checked around to find Blair and silently chastised himself. Sloppy. Arrogant. Set in your ways. You're not as skilled or powerful as you used to be, you need to remain ever vigilant! How could you have missed that? Blair was vaguely familiar to him. He hadn't seen her personally, but he knew of her presence in the Cairn not two days before. When Sevrin stole the Yamato and destroyed a seal...

Akoni pulled his thoughts together and focused. Mundus was a task to handle at a later time, as were his servants. For now, he was on official DHO business and his attention was required for Madamma Enepsigos. Clearly she was powerful to be able to warp space like this. If it was merely an illusion, then it served as a testament to her power regardless, as Akoni could not tell the difference, and warping space was his own specialty. "Madamma Enepsigos, my name is Akoni," he introduced himself, with a tone of insistence, one that said you should already be familiar with my work. "For what purpose are you here? By your own accounts the humans here have not been entertaining. I would not associate someone of your status with a deliberate waste of time. Not unless your goal all along was to attract outside attention."

[I-Am-X]

Blair | Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@Sho Minazuki @ProPro

As she continued to follow the source of the surge of power, she noticed a group traveling ahead of her and a familiar face among them. The Archangel, Kushiel. It seems, her hunch was right. Though, she didn't expect to run into him again so soon, not that she minds at all. Deciding to follow them, considering they too were following the source of power, Blair arrived at the chapel, which was defiled on a whole different level than the rest of the Cathedral. She managed to slip in behind the group before the scenery changed.

It was there she was met with another familiar one, Enepsigos. Of course, it all makes sense now. It was the name of a demon that held the title of 'Madamma', Blair has only came across her a few times, and each sight was equally brief, since she started working for Sheba but she has heard enough about her to know what she's capable of. Though, she's quite different from how she pictured her and how most of the other demons acted. Not just any demon obtains the title of 'Madamma' after all.

Just as she noticed that the table Enepsigos conjured up had the exact number of chairs for the heaven enjoy and her, the other demon called out to her. Stepping into view of the others, she walked past the Archangel with a mocking grin. Despite being found out, Blair wasn't surprised in the least. "As expected of a 'Madamma'," Showing as much as she calmly walked towards Enepsigos. Though, it's not like she was being overly discreet or anything. Not after those minor annoyances she went through to get here.

Blair wasn't sure what the demon was up to nor did she care, as long as she got her job done, nothing else mattered. As much as she'd love to finish off the Archangel here, she was outnumbered and she was in a Madamma's territory. Wouldn't exactly be wise, besides, if she could finish this mission without the aggravation of a drawn out battle, she'll gladly go along with it. Though the demon was aware of her, this was the first time they formally met and it would be rude not to introduce herself. With a respectful bow, "A general of Mundus, I go by the name 'Blair'."

To produce such 'toys' from before, one can sense that Enepsigos must've been quite bored and as the human stated, must've held an ulterior motive. Real intentions aside, everything now hinges on whether she can convince Enepsigos to become Mundus's ally.

[Sho Minazuki]

Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@ProPro@I-Am-X

As all introductions came to a close, the lady demon of a grotesque elegance spoke, all while holding a cup out to the side, as tea was poured from seemingly thin air. Was this all an illusion...? Or was it real? The angel Kushiel seemed to know, but he did not act. In fact he was rather calm.

"My my, such a lovely set of guests, even the esteemed Kushiel is here, from high heaven of course, and a Sage, and a rather wise-looking old man, and you, lady Fiammetta, the clergy here seemed quite fond of you, such a motley crew", she sipped her tea before keeping her leaned back posture in her chair, with legs crossed.

"And a General of Mundus too, I know of you Blair, occasionally you're the gossip of the day sometimes, we all think it's a shame you chose to stand with Mundus, perhaps if you had chosen differently we would also refer to you as 'Madamma'", she commented.

"Now with introductions nicely tucked away, I would like to respond, Akoni", she placed her tea upon the table in front of them. They blinked, and saw all that was needed for tea time, from sweets to tea. It seemed tempting, but Kushiel seemed to not even notice anything had changed.

"Yes, the humans here were once entertaining. To some extent. More or less for me, they were just a light snack", evidently this was true, based on what they had seen, but even with that explanation, some things were left unexplained...

"They did stop coming in here though eventually, as a result had you all come a day later I'd have been long gone from here, but don't you all feel so lucky to catch me here? Well, in any case, have you all any questions? I sense most of you had come to slay me, most of you, that is", she repeated, hinting to Blair that she was aware that she was not a hostile presence. Kushiel remained silent.

"Yes, of course we did. What you did to those people out there is unforgiveable, to become such monstrosities...", Fiammetta flared up, she seemed to have some personal connection to this place.

"Oh pipe down dear, all they did was sacrifice themselves to me, it was their choice. In fact I don't think I've left this room for awhile. I heard you humans had some kind of term for shut-ins... 'hikomiro'? 'hikakumori'? Hmmm... That's not quite right... In any case I wish not to become one of those. I will be leaving for hell very soon, so if you simply desired this place to be rid of... 'filth'-Oh I do hate having to demean myself-then you will get your wish. If you have objections and desire justice, you may do so. As for you Blair, have you any demands, now would be a good time to make them", she picked her tea up and began sipping slowly again. Her mouthless face was... Strange, she was actually sipping away the tea, it seemed to simply disappear as it touched her.

Regardless... Something did not seem right.

[ProPro]

"Hikikomori," Akoni helpfully informed Madamma Enepsigos. It was something of a reflex, and could possibly be taken as disrespectful by the wrong person, but he had a feeling she would be more grateful than not. Still, things didn't sit right with him. Those creatures out in the cemetery, and the ones within the crypt, especially the necromantic eye beast, they were all slain far too easily. Too easily for the servants of a Madamma, at any rate. These were demons that held the very highest status and power within Sheba's Inferno. Anything Enepsigos, the two headed woman, could create would undoubtedly prove more challenging than mindless skeletal hordes or a few easily dispatched minions. Even if they had been forged from the souls of fragile humans it made little sense. Akoni's mind raced, going over every detail he had known so far. The strange mist outside, a cult worshiping this fallen angel of a demon, the cathedral, monsters made from men, spacial distortions Akoni could not detect, the words of Enepsigos herself... Wait. Something clicked in that moment. Hikikomori. Japanese generally meaning a shut in. Literal definition "pulling inward, confined." Then the old man's eyes widened for just a moment, just a brief second that would allow anybody especially perceptive to notice he had had a terrible epiphany.

"If we object and desire justice, then we would need to throw ourselves upon our blades, Fiametta." Akoni's body language shifted drastically. He was already taking the situation seriously, but now it had become a matter of the grave. "You don't wish to become 'one of those' you say, Madamma Enepsigos. Curious choice of words. Tell me please, are you responsible for the mist that surrounds this cathedral?"

[kapuchu]

Lily kept smiling as the door in front of her, and Mary—hair free of her bonnet—opened the door with a look of astonishment on her face. Her smile only widened as the look of astonishment turned to recognition, then disbelief, and finally realisation. She even remained motionless as Mary stalked around her, inspecting her from all angles. Judging by Mary’s reaction, she had also read the books from which the character she looked like originated, and it made her take a some measure of satisfaction from the fact that she had, after all, managed to mimic the character so well that, even if no one had ever seen her, she was instantly recognisable as them.

Choosing to, for the moment at least, ignore the questions directed her way, she instead asked, “Do you see something you like?” Her voice lilting and musical, sounding nothing like she had when she first talked to Mary. Like everything else in her body, the vocal cords were also subject to her metamorphic powers.

Another, much smaller look of surprise graced Mary's face as Lily's voice too was apparently subject to change. "So the shape shifting is more than skin deep. Interesting…" Mary posited, again taking a small walk around Lily. This time though, there was less wonder and more curiosity. She was a woman who studied demons for a living, and her inner scientist seemed to be getting brought out. "Is it possible to harden your skin? Is it always immune, or at least resist to fire?" She asked, reaching out to touch Lily's skin.

As if for demonstration, Lily extended her arm, for Mary to see, then let scales replace the skin of her arms from the elbow down. “Hardening it is not difficult. But it’s easier to do when I have schematics to work with. That is to say, it’s easier to harden my skin as scales than it is when it’s simply skin. As for my resistance. I am naturally better acclimated to high temperatures, but I am only resistant, or immune, when I adopt a Shape that has the qualities for it.” She then let the scales recede, her lower arm once more composed of creamy skin.

Mary nodded as Lily demonstrated her abilities to manipulate her own flesh, and described her relationship with heat. Though she didn't have a pen or paper with her, it was obvious Mary was taking these facts down mentally. What magical and biological processes allowed material to switch from hard scales to smooth skin would be useful to harness, particularly as armor. Still, the question of why Lily had showed up was still floating around, and Mary decided to bring it up. "So, as nice as it is to see at least one of my allies is alive, did you need anything?"

Rather than answer immediately Lily instead stepped into Mary's room, twirling in place to take in the entirety of the abode. It wasn't much, but then again not everybody had her gifts when it came to convincing the Watchers. Or maybe Mary just didn't have a need for anything more. It's well worth considering.

She turned to Mary, hands clasped behind her back and still smiling. "No, not really. I came to talk to you."

"Ah..." Mary cautioned, following Lily back inside and closing the door. Last time the two 'talked' Mary didn't like how it ended. Still, Mary hadn't stopped to rest in about two days at that point and the issue was begging to boil over. The Watcher's constant pestering and the loss of the Yamato also added to that stress. As long as she kept herself calm, things would be fine. "What was it you wanted to talk about, Lily?"

"I wanted to ask if you had thought about what I said the last time we spoke," she offered, sitting down on the edge of the queen sized bed, patting the space beside her in invitation. "And if so what you have been thinking."

Mary sighed openly, making her way over to her chair and sitting down. As much as she hated rejecting invitations, Lily had just brought up a pretty sore spot for her. Admittedly, she hadn't been thinking about it, not since she had fallen asleep doing so about a day ago. The demons being on separate missions from her allowed that, but now with Lily in her room, she'd have to confront it.

"Not much since the day, no." Mary explained to her ally, obviously exasperated. "But… what happened to Fenn? I hate to talk about a man behind his back but… that whole night I couldn't get his chains out of my mind."

"Fenn is not who I came here to talk about, Mary. But I will tell you this: He was a slave--Gladiator, actually--bound by the chains he still carries with him, until the day he either escaped or was released. I do not know the details of his story."

She frowned slightly at Mary decided not to sit beside her, but decided to not comment on it. Yet. She gathered her hands in her lap, inspecting her nails--long, and coloured sky-blue-- while mulling over Mary's words.

"Do you at least remember what we spoke of?" She inquired at length.

Mary frowned at the information she was given, even the very basics painted a bleak life for the hellhound. Especially considering how long demon lives were, he was probably locked up for longer than Mary would ever even live. But, as Lily said, that wasn't what she came to talk about, and she probably wouldn't leave until they discussed the main issue.

"Yes, I remember what we talked about. I was tired and strained, and I said some bad things. Not that you weren't being a bit condescending, but I remember dismissing you. If we could both be a bit more mature on the subject…" Mary trailed off. She wasn't sure what Lily wanted to accomplish, or even what she herself wanted to get out of the conversation, but she continued anyways, partly out of obligation and partly out of some strange curiosity to see where Lily was going.

Lily shook her head, eyes closed, and seeming almost mournful. It had been a hope of hers that Mary had realized the meaning behind, at least some of what she had been saying the last time.

"I think you misunderstand, my dear. I was not condescending. I simply spoke and acted as who and what I am. I spoke the truth, nothing more." She gazed upon Mary with steady eyes, the green in them seeming almost luminescent in the dim light of the room. "I will begin with a question. Mary, do you truly believe that I am evil because I am a demon?"

There was an unreadable expression on Mary's face as she thought through the question. A few times she opened her mouth and quickly closed it, obviously unsure of how to phrase her response. Finally, she managed to express herself. "I'm not sure, I suppose. I want to believe in my heart that all living beings can be good., and Sparda proves that at least one demon can be. But sometimes he seems to be the exception to prove the rule, yes? When all the other demons I've seen, barring you and Fenn, have been out for my throat… It's hard not to believe you two have some form of ulterior motive."

Lily countered with another question almost immediately. “Is there only good and evil?”

"No. I suppose not. I'm not sure I fully understand it, but you two aren't helping the earth out of any sense of good or evil?" Mary asked, growing continually more confused by the moment.

At this Lily smiled, genuinely. It seemed that Mary was catching on. She gave the other woman a single nod. "You are right. Fenn is helping the earth because I hired him. And I am doing it because I want to, that because I don't want help to rule on Earth, or for humanity to die." She paused for a moment, letting what she had just said sink in, then continued. "I am not here because it is a good thing to do, but simply because I want humanity to survive."

"I see." Mary affirmed, nodding her head slowly. "But why do you want humanity to survive? I feel like that would have a more definite good or evil motive."

Lily’s smile fell and her voice became grave, but not unkind. “It’s simple, Mary. I have lived pretty much all of my life among humans. I have portrayed myself as a God. A wife. I have watched a single fishing hut become a village, the village become a town, and lived in them. I have had friends, lovers, and worshippers.” Her eyes rose to the ceiling, the look on her face become reminiscent. “I have been a mother, and even still am.” When her eyes once again fell on Mary, there was a bittersweet quality to the way she looked at her. “Ulterior motive, you said? I want to save my home, and my children who yet live.”

The look on Mary's face was astounded, to say the least. She had no idea about Lily’s past or even much of her present, but this illumination changed the way Mary felt about Lily. To want to save one's home, to protect one's children, one could argue it wasn't entirely good, but it was by no means evil. That was what Mary was fighting for too. For her parents back home in Sweden, her friends in Fortuna. Hunter, Nero, Kyrie. That goal was certainly not 'ulterior.'

"Yes." Mary said, rising from her seat and making her way over to the spot that Lily originally offered her. "Thank you for helping me understand you, Lily." She said with a smile, before hugging Lily. "And I'm sorry for doubting you before."

For perhaps the first time in a long while, Lily didn't quite know what to say or how to respond. She had it telling the truth all right, but this sudden embrace from Mary was unexpected.

As way of response she wrapped one arm around the other woman's shoulders, pressing her close for a few moments before letting go again.

"You're welcome, I suppose, and you have no reason to apologise." Silence fell, and with it came a sense of tension lightening. Up until this point the time, Mary had believed Lily to be either evil or having some sort of motive, beyond simply wanting to prevent the Apocalypse.

Now, it seemed, there was a foundation from which they could work forwards.

Lily reached out to brush a lot of hair, from Mary's face. "This, however, brings us to the next topic." She shuffled a bit to sit askew on the bed, so that she could easier face Mary. "You asked me if I could teach you any kind of Magic. Unfortunately, ordinary people are completely incapable of using it."

A bit embarrassed at her hair being brushed from her face but also very happy to have finally come to an understanding with her ally, Mary readjusted herself to face Lily. "I'm not exactly an ordinary person." Mary joked, though not with a grin, at Lily's comment. Though she certainly wasn't happy about what she had had done to herself, she was in good company, and the thought of being part demon seemed a tiny bit less repulsive currently. "Besides, we'll never know if I don't try. What's a simple magic trick I could learn?"

"It's not so simple as that," Lily said, shaking her head slightly. "I do not believe for a second but your attitude towards what you are, has changed in less than two days." She fixed very with a look, tilting her head ever so slightly. "When last we spoke, you were disgusted by your demonic half, and would be rid of it how to use a chance. Such disgust does not disappear in a span of time as short as this."

Mary was a tad confused for a second, not entirely acclimated to the fact that a demon could be and, frankly was becoming, her acquaintance, before huffing openly. "Do demons not have self-deprecating humor? Humans make jokes about tragedies to help ease the pain. While I certainly may not like my situation, there isn't much I can do but joke while the world is in the process of ending."

“And that,” Lily said promptly, pointing a finger directly at Mary’s nose, “is where the issue is. You know what you are, but you refuse to accept it. You cling to your humanity, unwilling to accept the fact that you are no longer human. You see it as nothing but a tragedy, a thing to be wished gone, ignoring what you have gained by it.”

Mary sucked in air at Lily's bluntness, her face scrunching up a bit. "I understand I'm more powerful now, but as you've said, I've lost my humanity! It's part of who I was that I can't get back. Imagine if you were suddenly part angel. Wouldn't you feel like you've lost something important?"

"But I won't be. This isn't a question of how I would react where is a similar situation. It's about you. Tell me, what have you actually lost?"

"I've lost my blood, my appearance, some of my empathy…" Mary explained, eyes gazing towards the weapon's rack in her room, and the blood on her blade.

Lily followed her gaze towards the weapon rack, noting the various weapons and the blood of one of the blades. So the girl was convinced that killing has made her lose her empathy? A ridiculous notion.

"Blood it's necessary to survive, so there I can already say that you are lying." She turned back to the half-demon beside her. "And your appearance? Your empathy? You've lost nothing, girl. Your appearance is never the same. It's changes throughout your life. And just because if you have the ability to take a lives, does not mean that you are apathetic. Ask any parent who has ever killed a threat to their children." She sighed, pausing to let her words sink in.

"You are stronger," Lily went on, "faster, more difficult to kill, and you will live longer. You have lost nothing, but you have changed. There is nothing that you had in the past that you do not have now. On the contrary, you have gained more than you realise. If my assumptions about you are correct, you have gave something that you wanted: The ability to protect."

Mary cast her eyes down shamefully and gripped the sheet of her bed tightly, absorbing Lily's words. "Yes I suppose I was being selfish and single minded. If I endeavour to protect people, I shouldn't be holding back. No one else is, after all."

Lily dipped her chin in a tiny nod. “So who are you, then? What are you?”

"I'm Mary, and I'm a half-demon." Mary muttered just loud enough for Lily to hear.

A smile fought to tug at the corner of Lily’s lips, but she forced it down, keeping her expression neutral. “I’m sorry, a what?”

Mary's grim smile was more like a grimace as she said, "This is quite cliche, you know." But still, she gathered her strength, and gave a louder "I'm Mary, a half-demon."

This time Lily didn't fight the smile that crept onto her lips. "Good," she said. "Then, have you lost anything, girl?"

"No, I've changed, for the better." Mary admitted, her smile getting a little less grim.

This time Lily’s smile fell, and she shook her head. “Change is neither good nor bad. Simply change.” Then, as if to dispel the tense atmosphere, she put a hand on top of Mary’s head, ruffling her hair and pulling her to her chest in a one-armed embrace. “But I’m glad to see that you at last acknowledged what you are. You’ll only ever be held back by refusing to acknowledge yourself.” She let go of Mary and stood up, taking a few steps away from the bed.

“So show me. Show me what you are.”

Quickly recovering from a faceful of Lily's chest, Mary stood up as well. With a frown, she closed her eyes and focused, her breath accelerating considerably. "Just like a shot." Mary muttered, as a slight area around her was blown back. Now, Mary was wreathed in fur, and was much bigger as well, with sharp claws for hands and feet, and razor sharp teeth. Atop her head were four bone-like horns reminiscent of antlers, ending in spiked tips.

Still, it was obvious she wasn't fully over herself. Her clawed hands moved to cover herself as if she was indecent, and her face under the fur grew paler. "T-there." She stammered, her voice somewhere between the growl of a wild beast and the embarrassed woman underneath. After a few seconds, she changed back, obviously a bit sick and slightly shivering.

Lily nodded slowly, looking Mary's form up and down with a completely detached look on her face. She was more reminiscent of someone looking at a sculpture or a painting, rather than someone making silent judgements on someone else's demonic form.

"Not bad," she said, nodding approvingly once more. "Natural weapons, increase sized, longer arms means longer reach. Dense fur means protection." A look of satisfaction support on her face. "Looks good."

She walked around Mary back to the bed, sitting primly on the edge of it again. "Now, you mentioned magic earlier?"

"Ah, yes." Mary sighed in satisfaction, finally being done with all of that half-demon business. "Akoni is able to keep up with the rest of us at his age with magic, I feel like I could be more of an asset if I knew some. Now that you're done with your current mission, I should have enough time to learn something simple." She explained, again taking a seat on the bed with Lily.

"Well, as I said earlier, no ordinary human can simply learn to use Magic." she smiled, then, putting a hand on Mary's head and rustling her hair again. "But, then again, you have acknowledged that you are no simple human. With being said, there may be something I can teach you." She lifted a finger, forestalling any suggestions or requests. " I could teach you shape-shifting, as that is mine, and mine alone. However, what about Projection, as I call it?"

She reached out into empty air with one hand, fingers closing around something unseen. From the air surrounding her fist, mist coalesced slowly into the shape of a simple sword before solidifying into what look like a real sword in every conceivable way.

“Like this. It allows me to create any object I desire, so long as I know how it is built.”

Mary sported a slight grin and nodded as Lily demonstrated her magical technique, projection. "Yes, I think that would work nicely." She agreed, looking over the blade. "Also, if you could stop ruffling my hair as if I'm a child, that would be most appreciated, mom." Mary joked, playfully shaking her ally's shoulder.

“I’m over 2000 years old. You are a child compared to me, Kid,” Lily replied, though not without a slight smirk. “Now, how about we get to teaching you the basics, hmm?”

[Lugubrious]

With each smack of a scuffed forest-green sneaker on the floor, Souta's stride grew slower. He meandered one hallway after another unconscious of the change, aware instead of the irony that a place so permeated by heat would be so coldly stark. On his trip through the Citadel, he encountered no living thing. Even the watchers, unbound by a more corporeal creature's avenues of locomotion, and uninterested in wasting time with a human ostensibly on their side, avoided him. Instead, the smith traced with his eyes the veins of lava that ran helter-skelter across the walls and ceilings of the corridors through which he walked. Before long, he crossed the threshold of the room he'd claimed as his own, and the instant he closed the door he slumped over. Sustained by leftover adrenalin, maybe, he hadn't quite noticed until now just how drained he felt. A puppet with his strings cut, he sagged over to the bed prepared for him by the watchers and flopped into it face-first. There, fully clothed, he lay motionless.

After a few moments, he couldn't help but to roll over to avoid oxygen deprivation. His eyes, though, remained shut. It wasn't sleepiness that afflicted him, but exhaustion all the same. For the first time, he rolled his eyes up into his head and wondered why. A tear slid down his cheek, not from sadness but from the fact that in all the action he'd forgotten to blink as often. The same thing, he remembered, happened after logging a few hours straight on a video game. Just the thought made him long for the comforts of home, the distraction of a virtual world in particular. After all, despite his armor -be it water or stone- he'd been rattled by the whole experience. Even now, in his crash, he could feel his nerves jittering. The Nephilim and demons could look down on him all they wanted, but Souta knew that he wasn't cut out for this. Enjoying the odd scrap with some punks meant nothing when it came to battling eldritch monstrosities from another dimension, and no amount of combat training could have prepared the smith for something like that. What was he doing here? A weapon maker and designer, and a mere human to boot, expected to kick ass and take names alongside beings born and bred for slaughter?

Souta groaned. He missed far more than just the games of home. He missed the structure and routine—knowing what to do, when to do it, and how to excel. Here, he felt as though he were caught in a constant riptide, rushing him from one ridiculous situation to the next. Things had worked out so far, but who knew when some monster might turn its attention toward him? He remembered the malformed homunculus created by the Creatrix, with its arm poised to crush him like an ant. Worse still, he recalled the little demon girl that had been a part of his party and, without anyone even noticing, disappeared. He remembered that she had blonde hair and horns, but not a single detail of her face. Would he share that fate, he wondered, or survive long enough that someone might remember him when he was gone?

He missed more than consistency and security, however. Though he'd never admit it to her face, Souta missed his sister. Even if the two had gone separate paths, she never held anything against him. Few knew that Otsune was far, far less robotic than she looked when it came to the soul, and in her Souta knew he had a friend he could always count on. Yet, his sister couldn't be father away now. And what of his other friends? Souta missed Babyfingers, Petard, Fortunato, Ophelia, Enoch, Estragon, Atlas, Prospero, and of course, Ell. Even loud-mouthed Katherina would have been a sight for sore eyes now. Among the Agents, the only ones weren't savages, freaks, or both were highly dismissive of him. Just thinking of Akoni made him smolder. Why did the Council pick him? He suspected that they needed a smith, and wanted to test his mettle before he forged their metal. Just great. It's like interning all over again. Just a bit more dangerous. Bosses aren't as hot-tempered or thickheaded, though. He sat up, turning himself against the wall. It was comfortably warm to the touch. “Well,” he muttered aloud. “It's not like I can just quit, unless I wanna end up like that one guy.” The scream of a man, even a moron, cooked inside his own melting armor had not helped his sleeping situation.

A few minutes passed before he heaved himself to his feet and headed for his room's second door. He entered the Nascent Forge to see it outfitted with a few more tools than last time. “Computer or no, I've always got something I can pound to feel better.” Silence filled the room as he considered what he just said. I'm done talking, he concluded with an eye roll before he moved to inspect what he'd been given. If he couldn't live longer, fight harder, run faster, be smarter, or be better-looking than anyone else here, he could still cling to the one thing he knew for sure: an art ignored by the rest for its insignificance. Donning a thick mitt of some unidentifiable hide, he picked up a dented, dull metal sword from a pile of scrap in one corner and plunged it into a crucible of lava standing in the room's center. When the business end of the metal was red-hot, he moved to the anvil and picked up a hammer. Water streamed around him, shielding him from the heat as he did so. Among the new implements available to him was a hydraulic press, which would have made flattening the heated blade in order to reshape it a cinch, but Souta felt like doing things the old-fashioned way just now. A bellow wrenched its way from his throat as he smashed the tool against the fiery metal. CLANG. No hopeful resolution lifted his spirits. He was here to stay, as good as a prisoner. CLANG. There was nobody who would cut him a break or give him a hand. Humanity meant nothing in this place. CLANG. So here he would stand, clinging to the one thing he knew for sure.

[Sho Minazuki]

Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@ProPro@I-Am-X

"Mist? Oh, right... That. I thought that was simply the morning dew, but it seems it was more than that, from what I saw from in here. I didn't care to think much of it though", Madamma Enepsigos began to fiddle a little with her tea before taking another sip. So she didn't know about the mist... Likely she did not make it, either she did unintentionally, or she did not whatsoever.

"On the other hand I was expecting you all, there was a barrier before you all stepped in here, it keeps this entire area in almost continual night time, which suits me better honestly. Even if fake, I do love to see the moon whenever I look to the sky..."

[I-Am-X]

Blair | Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@Sho Minazuki @ProPro

Chosen differently... Blair repeated in her mind. To be honest, it's not like she chosen anything at all. Well, to put it more accurately...it's just something that happened. It's not like she just picked one side and forsaken another. From the time she was roaming the Scottish Highlands spreading chaos and fear every which way, to the present of being 'General of Mundus', not much has changed.

Then again, with her becoming a 'General of Mundus', it somehow lead people to believe that she was extremely loyal to him given how she acts. However, that's not the case at all. Back to the previous point, she just simply did what benefited or interested her the most. If there was any change from her days in Scotland to her present, it'd probably be that it's been more of what she benefits from than what entertains her. Its just that being a 'General of Mundus' is quite beneficial, in a lot of ways, to say the least.

Plus, she still does work for Sheba, it's just her focus been more on Mundus as of late...especially with the latest missions he had sent her to do in the human world. Things were starting to get interesting again after so long, after all. If she were to choose who was better to work under personally, it'll probably be Sheba. Blair doesn't really care for Mundus at all, she'd do away with him in a heartbeat if she was able.

All that aside, Enepsigos seemed to recognize that Blair wasn't hostile nor did it seem like the Madamma had any intention of fighting her. So that was a plus at least. As things developed, it seemed she had no intention of sticking around much longer so the time table for either side to do anything was quite short. Made even more clear when the demon turned towards her and made that comment.

"Demands...Rather than 'demands' i'd say 'Selfish Request' is much more fitting. But regardless of the terminology one uses, it's all the same in the end. That said, I'd like to make use of your power. Not exactly for Mundus or whomever, but I'd like to have it on my side, to be honest. Besides, maybe you'd find more ways to entertain yourself or toys to play with? Especially with the seals and the ones who chase it." And maybe something to use against Mundus in the future should a moment arise, who knows.

Rather than an ally to Mundus, it would be an alliance to herself, should she deem it unbecoming to be an ally with Mundus.

[Sho Minazuki]

Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@ProPro@I-Am-X

"Hmmm, so not a simple dog of Mundus then. I like it, it befits a demon. I suppose there's little wonder why Mundus and even Sheba puts stock in you, but not too much. Ambition is healthy for a demon after all", she responded.

"Very well, I shall end this", she clicked her fingers and the world around them had flickered and became as it was when they walked into this room. It seems... It was all an illusion. What they were sitting on were actually coarse stone chairs and tables. Kushiel seemed rather displeased.

"Oh don't give me that dirty look 'archangel', would you have preferred to talk in this shithole?", she commented.

"Well, forgive me, but those illusions do not reach an angel of my status. So for me it seemed like everyone was being tricked... You are very cordial for a demon, many I meet simply raise their hand at me only for me to put them down", he explained.

"Well, you should go out more often. If you are satisfied with me leaving and removing my influence from here, then I will be going with my new friend. Seriously, anything you have in mind is far more interesting than this dainty little church, Blair", she spoke, first to the heavenly entourage and then to Blair.

"W-wait! You said you didn't know anything about the mist...",

"Yes, there was no mist when I came here and there was no mist generated by me. I suspect the answers you seek are in that book your old man friend is carrying right now. Another strange man came by and said it was a 'donation'. I much doubt he meant for the goodness of the church", she answered. Enepsigos motioned over to Blair,

"It appears there is a good moon out tonight, meaning we can leave in style", she stated. She clicked her fingers, causing a wisp of magic to fly up, it's purple and deathly blue, yet beautiful sparkle create a circle on the seal, before as if someone had simply pried it open, created a hole, exposing the night sky and the full moon.

"Come Blair, we have much to discuss", she stated.

After this, Enepsigos would be gone. They had one last chance to ask her anything or even attack her should they wish to. Fiammetta was beset with confusion, it seemed she was intent on blasting Enepsigos for vengeance, but it seems the truth was far different to what she had imagined.

[I-Am-X]

Blair | Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@Sho Minazuki @ProPro

With negotiations being successful, and the demon on board, Enepsigos snapped her fingers and dispelled her illusion, showing the chapels true defiled self. It really didn't surprise Blair in the least, after all, no matter how refined a being may be, the scenery they were made to see was just completely unnatural. Especially considering how the rest of the church was. Illusion or not, it made the place more presentable.

Though, the archangel wasn't too pleased about it and as usual, tried to maintain his pride. When Kushiel finished, Blair let out a mocking laugh, recalling their previous encounter in her mind. "To think an Archangel will get all smug picking on small fry." Speaking in a matter-of-fact tone. He truly does need to get out of heaven more, agreeing with Enepsigos in mind.

With Enepsigos having wrapped things up with the humans, they prepared to leave as the demon created a hole exposing the night sky and the full moon. Always did appreciate a good night sky... At the Madammas urging, she followed behind the demon, keeping a close eye on the others as they began to leave.

[kapuchu]

Mary had proved to be a quick study, relatively speaking, and had picked up the basics of Lily's projection within a short time. She had found herself contemplating, why exactly she had agreed to teach Mary any sort of skill. The girl neither brave nor particularly strong, and yet something that compelled Lily to teach her. The question was, why?

The question brought her mind back to their conversation, as she wandered the halls of the citadel-still using her stunning, elven appearance. What she is shared with Mary was something that she hadn't actually said out loud before, even if she could recognise it as being her honest intentions. But that was not everything, how could it be? She was not so capricious as that. It was something else, something tied to it, even if only as a matter of correlation. Mary had, over the course of less than an hour, gone from hating her demonic half to acknowledging that it was a part of her. She refused to believe that the girl had actually learned to welcome it, or even accept it, but at the very least she seemed willing to tolerate the fact that her humanity was a thing of the past. So why, again, was it that such a thing had made Lily teach her?

Once again she thought back to their conversation, going over each topic, each word. Mostly, Lily had berated Mary for being spineless, cowardly, self-pitying, or any variation thereof. Of course she was justified, as Mary had done very little, to prove herself as being anything but. Was it rude to think of her that way? Probably. But no-one gained anything by sugar coating the truth. She was getting off topic again, however. So she had told Mary of her motivations for initially joining forces with the Council, even went so far as to reveal that she had had children wandering the Earth, and still had at the current moment.

Lily's stopped mid step, eyes widening as realisation dawned on her. Of course, the answer had been simple; staring her right in the face from the very beginning. What Mary went through, what's the exact same thing that so many of her children, had gone through at one point or another during their lifetimes. It was something she could sympathize with, even if she has only ever experienced it's second-hand.

"Well, that explains it," she muttered, allowing herself short chuckle at her own expense.

That was one question answered, after which remained only one: What to do now? She could wander the halls for another few hours, exploring that which she had not yet seen. Alternatively she could look for Fenn, spend some time in his company be it as an annoyance to him, or something else, would remain to be seen were she to take that option. Other activities included things such as pestering and annoying the Watchers, practicing one of her skills or-the sound of metal on metal interrupted her train of thought, making her pause and turn towards the sound. Or I could find out what or who is making that sound.

She took off towards what was presumably the smithy, green dress fluttering about her and heels clicking on the stony floor with each step. What awaited her there was none other than Souta, one of their resident demon hunters, and one of the few pure-blooded humans among them, if not the only one at this point.

She stood some distance away, watching the man work with her hands clasped behind her back, an easy smile on her lips. She waited a while, studying his methods, how he worked, and what materials he used. He was good, she had to admit, better than the average blacksmith, but even then he was by no means perfect, and still had a long way to go before he could be considered a master craftsman.

"You're doing it wrong," she said aloud, making her presence known for the first time since she'd arrived. Contrary to basic meaning of what she'd said, there was a teasing quality to her words. As if they were not entirely genuine. Teasing, even. Intended to rile him up, and garner a response.

[Sho Minazuki]

Backwoods Cathedral - Soul Sacrifice

@ProPro@I-Am-X

With that, there was no resistance as Blair and Madamma Enepsigos left in a flash of moonlight. There was nothing left to do now, their task here was technically done. After an uneasy silence, Fiametta spoke up,

"I'm... Going with you guys... This cathedral is... There's no one left here, so I have nowhere to stay. Besides, I can help you out", they weren't sure what the policy on having assistants was at the Citadel, would they also have to become one of the Charred Council's agents...? Fiametta wasn't willing to that prospect likely, she was very closely aligned with the side of heaven after all, but it seems in her interest to help humanity.

For now it seemed she was going to be going to the Citadel and staying there until her assistance was needed, or she decided to leave.

Meanwhile...

Blair and Madamma Enepsigos appeared in a clear a ways off from the Cathedral. As soon as they did, one of Mundus' morphs appeared.

"I see the mission was a success general. I will report this to Mundus. A camp for rest awaits you ahead", with a nod, the morph was dismissed to do their duty. Sure enough, not more than a minute was a small camp, already tended to by the morphs. Demons normally had no need for these comforts, but comforts were comforts, and they still found these more inviting. Plus, it was a good chance to have a talk.

As Blair spoke with Madamma Enepsigos, they deliberated what she offered, which was illusions and zone control, she can keep areas locked down or surveiled with little effort. She didn't seem to be the best at direct combat, relying on illusions and materialization like a mage. Regardless, Blair could now count her among her allies, along with Gorgon, who was in the 'main camp'.

MISSION COMPLETE
@I-Am-X Blair
Style: 3/5
Kills: 5/5
Objectives: 2/2

MISSION COMPLETE
@ProPro Akoni
Style: 4/5
Kills: 4/5
Objectives: 1/2

[Lugubrious]

As cathartic as it was, the relentless beating did not last for long. Even in the middle working out his issues, Souta could not mentally justify ruining what could be a perfectly good piece of metal, and he proceeded to the next stage of reclamation. Using a handy chisel, he went to work evening out the sword blade's edges to get them more regular. It was a rough job, but at this stage, all that was required. Next came confirmation. At this point, an ordinary smith would have plunged the newly-shaped, red-hot metal into a bucket of water to cool it, but the odds of finding a reservoir in this place didn't seem good even if he felt like barging through the corridors with a hunk of glowing slag in his mitt. Souta came prepared for this eventuality, however, and instead solidified the trimmed sword using a torrent of water. Steam hissed violently, and the man paused for a moment while the metal cooled off to observe the effect of sweltering air meeting the watery glow of his hoodie's pattern. Another few seconds later and he put the visually engaging distraction behind him. He set his sights on the only other motorized tool currently available in the forge: a grind wheel. Memories of a grindstone's characteristic skull-rattling sound and spray of sparks made him almost eager to put the machine to use.

He almost succeeded in turning it on, too, but at that moment an unannounced guest made herself known. In a manner both bemusing and frustrating, in fact, she revealed per presence via criticism, though from her voice the smith did not get the impression that this unknown person was being serious. Surprised at the intrusion, Souta turned to look, and the sight of the person before him made his eyebrows shoot up and his lids open wide. In the space of an instant, however, his look of pure interest turned into skepticism. Before him stood a woman both exceptionally beautiful and tantalizingly sexy, with features as drop-dead gorgeous as her figure.

Souta didn't buy it for a second.

The odds of such a woman existing in the first place did not inspire much confidence in him, but one coming in here and talking to him, of all people? Starting in middle school, Souta had learned that whenever any half decent-looking girl came up to him, it was invariably a deception—a mean-spirited prank, either on the girl's part of her friends, hidden behind a corner nearby to watch the poor, awkward boy go googly-eyed, thanking his lucky stars. They, and those that came after them throughout high school and beyond, felt the need to test-drive their charms on hapless guys like him, making sport of desperate dudes' desires. They were no better than bullies, and when Souta looked at Mary, he could not help but feel echoes of the past. He wouldn't be anyone's sucker. Either this babe was some illusion conjured by a watcher or that kooky old goat Akoni, or she was some kind of shapeshifter or succubus. During his time at Gilgamesh, Souta hadn't been given the privilege of dealing with a succubus, but some of his friends had, and he always liked to hear their stories. The succubus, possessed by an unflappable confidence matched with inflated ego, attempt to toy with her 'victims', only to soon realize that Gilgamesh Inc didn't train idiots. Occasionally, the troops would even pretend to be taken in by their charms, only to turn it in their faces. Stories like those gave Souta some reason to believe that humans were stronger, smarter, and more special than many might realize, but they wouldn't do him much good now. Faced with this exquisite, unbelievable beauty, Souta simply decided not to believe.

He tore himself away, turning back to the grind wheel, and attempted to put her image out of his mind. After a moment, he replied in a flat tone, ”If you have any constructive criticism, I'm all ears.” Contrary to this statement, however, he switched on the grinder, which immediately belted out a deep mechanical roar and gave no signs of stopping. He pressed the blade's uneven, hodgepodge edge against the wheel, and sparks began to fly as the tool began to smooth the sword. Almost immediately, a few sparks flew into Souta's face and burned his flesh like miniature lances. He grit his teeth and grumbled, increasing his water aura to block out the spikes. If not for the newly-arrived distraction -and her two large distractions in particular- he might have remembered to grab something to use as an impromptu welding mask. Still, he was determined not to let this whoever-it-was play him for a fool.