Welcome to my blog! My name is Andrei Mazilu and I wrote a fantasy novel called Crux, that's also the first book from a series called The Angellove Society. I know it sounds like bragging, but my agent insisted on mentioning these things... But don't worry, you're in the right place!
It's been a really long time since I last posted here, but a lot of things have happened in the meantime. CRUX came out on January 18th and it's available on Amazon, Nook, Kobo and on many other websites, in e-book and paperback formats. Also, on February 9th, Deea and I organized a little event we called a "book launch", though it was more like a book presentation for the Romanian readers. We chose a pub (and not a local book store as it's usually done), and I thought it would be awesome to do a screening of the book trailer.
Deea & I
As you might have noticed, there are other people who worked on this and whom, I am proud and happy, to call family and to have had at the book event: Oly Saldinger and Vladimir Belciug. Oly has handled the video and music editing, while Vlad is the voice of Maar in the trailer. I am also thankful and definitely owe George Calin (Deep Central) for lending his help and studio, and provided us with a professional voice recording - an awesome man! Sadly, our distant family, Andrei Marc - the book cover designer and trailer drawing artist - could not be with us, but I'll make sure he will be there for the sequel.
With Vlad (center) & Oly (right)
Last but not least, I want to thank WheelMan Press for turning this project into reality and for their constant support and good advice. Currently, the guys at WheelMan are working on formatting the first CRUX intro story and adding it to the retailers pages. This first episode is called Magic & Madness and it is part of the trilogy that I hope will ease the reader's way into the novel; the stories will be available for FREE and, while the first one will soon be up on the internet, I am half-way through the second and really pleased with the outcome.
At the moment, I am back on my "day job", on the same ship in the same ports of the Caribbean, but taking care of other tasks than last time. I hope I can balance my writing and my duties, and finish HELLBENT before I come back home. Sadly, I realize now that I should have worked more when I was there, but... no point crying over it now. Will try to keep you up to date on the progress and hope this little presentation convinced you to give CRUX a try. It's only 2$ for the e-book version and, if you consider the opinions on Goodreads (and not just take my word on it), it's definitely worth reading!
That's it for me, for now. Oh! Almost forgot: if you're curious about what else I can write, there's a feature of me on Catherine Garnell's blog. I should start working on the rest of that story, shouldn't I? Alright, people! Talk to you soon!
Ladies and gentlemen, we offer our sincere apologies for the delay regarding the important news update we mentioned in our previous entry, but considering Deea and I share a lot of personal space, it is no wonder we also shared a beautiful flu or cold or whatever demonic virus we manage to attract. And being that we are nurturing people, we hung on to this evil baby for 2 weeks (I am still not ful
ly recovered), but we ARE now able to type and focus somewhat, thus... we are proudly sharing our joy and excitement:
CRUX IS GETTING PUBLISHED!
On the 20th of October 2012, yours truly has signed the first publishing contract with our friends at WheelMan Press <<http://www.wheelmanpress.com/ >>, who promise to release the first book of The Angellove Society series at the beginning of January 2013! We are currently working on our promo campaign and, starting tomorrow, we will discuss our book trailer with the wonderful people from Raizing Hell <<http://www.facebook.com/Raizing.Hell >> and give the coolest graphic artist alive, Cookie Thief, a harder new assignment.
So stay tuned and wish us luck! We promised quality stuff and we aim to deliver. Thank you all for the 1000+ likes and sharing our page, helping us both physically and (even more so) morally, supplying us with the necessary confidence and fortitude to get this far! (And boooooo!!! to the two people who took back their likes!)
Great day yesterday! ...Except for the fact that my Chrome didn't let me use the Facebook chat, post or comment... But that problem's fixed ('cause I'm smart)!
We've received 3 sketches, rapidly and professionally delivered, and we love them! I can't speak for Deea, but I must confess it's really hard choosing just one. I want them all! Especially since they are all very good and, even more so, visibly different, clearly ...unique!
I've asked for a scene involving the two main characters, Maar and Kara, and that's what they delivered. It was a real pleasure observing how each artist imagined and captured the moment, and I've enjoyed their drawing styles greatly. Out of the three, though all annoyingly good, we both have a favorite, yet we will not hand over the teddy bear until Tuesday, as we are still waiting on two (also) very talented girls and their proposals.
We will announce the winner then, but, as said, I hope this selection is not viewed as a competition; we assure you that we want to and we WILL work with all of these artists, on one project or another, if they won't (and I certainly hope they won't) hold anything against us.
Also, if you haven't figured it out by now - the race for a beautiful book cover not obvious enough, we are very close to PUBLISHING. Yes, that's right! There are a few houses lined up and we are weighing the pros and cons, but can't decide anything yet. Not before I return home. But, by the end of September / beginning of October, we should make our great announcement!
So stick with us! It's been a great and exciting journey, and it's not over yet. There have been bumps, ups and downs, but I for one have grown stronger and wiser because of it. As I quoted to a unusually panicked and pessimistic Deea yesterday, "endings are supposed to be happy; if it's not happy, it's not the end!"
This may sound funny, but I'm very happy I wrote five more pages for Book 2: Hellbent tonight. It took me over an hour and it may seem petty, but you can rest assured it DOES take this long to write something decent and be satisfied with it. If you think creative writing is easy, you're wrong! There are times when I have to delete the phrase I just wrote five times and finally settle for the first version - really frustrating moments!
Still, if you think that's petty, THIS will really make you think I'm lame; there's no way to explain the joy an author feels when he sees his creation growing. Even if it is just five more A4's. Even if the total is 33 tortured pages, every bit builds my confidence in this second novel and, just like you would upgrade your computer, my perspective on the story just gets better and clearer.
It's going to be dark, violent and morbidly funny! While Crux was more fantasy than horror, Hellbent will freak you out! To be honest, writing about a demon attempting to possess Drew in his sleep, even made me shiver and chilled my blood all the way through! So if I got your attention yet, don't forget to Like (if you haven't done it yet) my Facebook page and Share it with your friends. You will love Hellbent with Crux as its prequel already in your virtual or actual library!
I can't say much about this. I'm delighted, I think. I guess the idea hasn't sinked in yet and I can't react properly, but I'm sure I will. One more big final step left!
This is one of the last fragments added to the final version of Crux, before being PDF-ed and ready for a review. As I'm sure Deea hasn't yet read this part of the new and improved manuscript, this one's for her as much as it is dedicated to my growing fan base. If I was to give it a title, that would be When Kara Met Akaba. Enjoy!
(Akaba - alternative version)
“Fire,” Daeva ordered with a veiled grin behind Benjamin’s mask. A series of deadly bolts swept the air and crashed onto the white walls and far beyond it. The catapults and ballistae may have seen less effective than an actual cannon, but their projectiles were in fact charged with negative energy generated by the advanced artillery systems; not only did they do smash damage, but they also created a deadly kill zone around the spot where they hit, electrocuting anyone nearby.
“This isn’t right!” the girl said. “If they breach the city before we manage to sneak inside, it’s all over…”
“What do you want me to do about it?” Akaba replied, raising an eyebrow.
“You’re supposed to be an expert on all things… war. Right? Think of something!”
The Infernal grinned and his molten honey eyes scanned the mass of troops focused on firing.
“Well… There is one thing.”
“Without killing them!” Kara added and slapped his shoulder, hurting her own hand.
He grumbled and frowned at her for a moment. Then, for some reason, he just looked amused. He shrugged, took her in his arms and paused for a moment, while planning his route:
“For some reason, I like you,” he said surprising her. “I’ll get you to where you’re going. Besides, there are a few angels there I want to meet.”
“No killing?” she asked full of hope, widening her brown eyes at him.
“No, no killing,” he agreed. “Now hang on tight!”
While Kara buried her face in his chest, holding on to his neck, the Infernal dashed out of hiding and roared like a madman as he charged the first Meka catapult he encountered. The entire moment was so unexpected that the three gray creatures just paralyzed there, staring dumbly at the hulk of rage who rushed in like a tank. He leapt on the ridiculously big spiked sphere they used as ammunition and stared down the mechanized soldier in charge of firing the device.
“You! Raise your aim twenty degrees and fire!” he bellowed at the small Meka.
“Umm… Sure, if you want to die, who am I to convince you not to?” the soldier replied. “Any last words?”
Kara looked at Akaba’s serious face as he posed theatrically over the ball of metal while it
charged up.
“I don’t regret the things I’ve done…” he said with a complete lack of feeling and talent. “But the violent murders I won’t get to commit!”
“…You gotta be shitting meeeeeeeee!” she screamed as they were both thrown in the air, over the beaten Nephalem fortifications.
Good morning, friends! It seems we have another slow weekend ahead of us, but Deea made up for the lost time by almost killing herself with exhaustion, advertising, reaching out and doing whatever she does for the project (because I just don't want to know).
I bashed her pretty hard this morning, not for taking a break, but for being too bloody hyperactive! If you haven't figured it out yet, this journey we both embarked on is not only about publishing a fantastic book (not flaunting, merely stating a truth); it's also about evolving, learning, honing our skills, and also have some fun with it. From my point of view, Deea's the best person to handle my P.R. campaign. She's invulnerable to pessimism, she's unflinching and she goes for the throat, no matter whose throat it is! ...She also shares another characteristic of mine: the A.D.H.D. that makes us unable to focus on one thing for a longer period of time, and we end up bored. It's because of this that I sometimes have to pick up the slack. Don't get me wrong: I enjoy working side by side with her very much! But while I keep interfering, cleaning up or just adjusting the finer details, she doesn't learn. So, from this point on, if you see something that doesn't seem right or thought through, let us know! While I'll try to keep my nose out of my agent's activities, I would appreciate your input very much.
We had a hell of a time with our Facebook page and it felt like the old IRC days (for those of you who might remember them), when we spammed the main channels like fanatics with all sorts of crazy ads about some new chat room. So much so that I've received a messaged from the admins telling me to stop. Or else. Still, we received 65 Likes in 24 hours and we are very happy about it! It would be truly great if we could keep the rate constant, though I am aware there is a certain cap and people are lazy or just suspicious about such a (seemingly) minor project. I just want you all to know how thankful we are for your continuous support and be assured that this will be mentioned in Crux after it's published!
What else did I do...? Ah, yes. Except advertising on all the English publisher pages I could find, I tried to contact the Romanian ones as well. Surprise, surprise! As it goes, our local publishers do NOT own pages, but regular user profiles that don't even allow posting. For a moment, I felt frustrated: 14/15 English pages let me advertise The Angellove Society, while 14/15 Romanian profiles made me turn tail and go home. But then I amused myself by realizing that our F.B. page makes the local publishers look like a Mini next to a Ferrari!
I also e-mailed Total Biscuit, whose shows I've followed for years! He's one of the most annoyingly smart and funny people I had the luck to stumble upon, and he's the one responsible for my discovery and growing admiration of Sir Terry Pratchett. But as I know T.B., he's probably very busy with his many projects (or too cynical to mind me). So I pushed it even further and messaged one of the owners of his Facebook page who, as it turns out, he's -ta daaa!- Romanian! Hopefully my explanations had been interesting enough for either of them to call back. Fingers crossed!
And now for the fun part! Yes, I will explain the picture above. "Hobbit With A Shotgun" is the title I chose some weeks back for a short story meant to introduce a future Angellove Society novel (possibly Book 3). It has nothing to do with the terrible subject of the film "Hobo With A Shotgun" which is a horrible waste of money and time; I do not endorse gratuitous violence nor scenarios written by untalented people, and that movie is the pinnacle of both concepts. This story however is funny and explosive and, I hope, a typical Steampunk fantasy! It's still 'under construction', so I ask you to be patient for a few more days until I manage to sort out the newly developed matters here, on my ship. It appears that we must sail for Tampa, Florida, very soon, and considering I am the one responsible with planning the trip (a process that is quite complicated), these matters will require my full attention.
I will however check in with you guys as often as possible and, seeing how my poor agent is forced to teach a class about teaching methods (yes, you read it correctly!) on her birthday, messing up her entire weekend, I'll try to update you on whatever news we receive or new tasks we might get involved with. But it's summer so most of you will most likely run outside to enjoy the sun and lovely weather, so no biggie, eh?
...And that's why, when I'm home, I usually start my week Tuesday. Because, as it's once again revealed to me, this day SUCKS.
It started in the morning, when I jumped out of bed because of the noise; my brilliant bosun thought it would be wise to start chipping the rust off right outside my cabin. NOT a pleasant way to wake up, especially after only 4 hours of restless sleep. I couldn't return to my dreams (yes, plural, because lately I get about 3 or 4) so I decided to at least repair the spelling mistakes on the Webs.com site, but surprise! Again, I couldn't log in. So, in my morning dizziness, I realized that there wasn't really a point to that: we have the texts and one of the stories, so I should just wait for Deea to wave around her magic wand and conjure the professional website I kept mentioning.
About 1 hour later, like telepathy had something to do with it, she gave me the news: she would meet a friend who's a web designer and talk things out. "Great!" I said. Finally some progress. Only to learn in the afternoon that this whole process costs around 200 Euros, funds that I have but can't transfer to her. And to top it all up, it seems Deea has to teach some crazy class the coming weekend. On her birthday. Hurray for the f-ed up logic by which the Universe functions!
My e-mail inbox was mostly empty, except for a couple of ads and a notification message. Still no replies there and still no word from all the people I tried to contact via Facebook. I can't help but feel a little disappointed here... It works for me; I focused my feelings into an article (give it a read if you can decipher Romanian) worthy to be a newspaper editorial, though I'd have rather received some good news for a change, instead of becoming painfully aware of how dual people can be.
So here's today's update: there's no update to follow. Webs.com can kiss my tail, the new website is a possibility but not a certainty (so yeah, no real change there), Crux is still not fully corrected and Deea's taking a break, trying to find a new source of income, and neither of us received any messages that would make us bounce with joy.
I have no idea what to do except wait for the law of compensation to take effect. The thing that I do know, the thing that's clearer and deeply implanted in my brain, is that I will not give up. It's Tuesday already so that's already an improvement. I guess I'll figure out what to do next in the morning...
I only ask of you to stick around. I know things got a little dull in the past few days but I will see this book published, even if I have to carry this whole project there by myself. Or die trying. In either case, you get to read about exciting stuff.
It's Sunday which means people are taking a break from... everything really. I know I certainly would be asleep until 1-2 PM and probably recover from a night of dancing and drinking, if I were home. So I'm not expecting many of you to read this until Monday morning when you're sitting at your desk and procrastinating big time... Which is actually good news!
I just finished crosschecking Crux, after Deea so excitedly announced the correcting was done. Far from me to undermine her skills, but she did rush to finish the process and I found enough omissions to know she's going to have to go over the text again. Worst of all, I noticed there's a missing chunk; I wrote the novel in more than three separate documents (which were supposed to be just three) and somehow I mixed up the two versions of Part II. It means I'll have to re-write the missing chunk because, without it, two secondary characters, that mainly interact in Part III, would just pop up out of the blue. Not a dull moment...
And there's more bad news... It seems my free server at Webs.com refuses to cooperate since yesterday. I tried to add a Guest Book page for all of you loyal readers to use, but I couldn't connect; I remember (almost) clearly that I used my regular e-mail address and password when I signed up, but their log in system apparently disagrees. I even tried reseting my pass, but so far none of my e-mail addresses contain any message confirming this. I can only hope it's just a bug that will be fixed - I'm really not thrilled about the idea of re-designing another web page.
The last bastion of hope for Sunday not to be a complete and utter disappointment is Mana. We spoke earlier and she mentioned she'll try to make time today to read the synopsis Deea wrote. Maybe we're lucky and she likes it enough to advertise us on her blog...
In other news, I'm still not fully recovered after the past week's marathon, but there's a silver lining. Leaving aside the very few hours of sleep (most of them interrupted by workmates or caffeine + nicotine induced nightmares), I pretty much split my time between my job and this process. What pleases me is the fact that neither of them influenced the other and I proved to myself that I can handle both like a professional. It may not seem like a true accomplishment to you, but trust me: keeping a clear and focused mind when handling a eight thousand cubic meters of gasoline products is pretty damn important! One slip and you can end up polluting the beautiful waters of the Caribbean.
As for today, I'm rewarding myself with a break. My agent better have some good news for me, otherwise Crux will have to survive without my attention for the next 20 hours or so. I think I may pull out the Terry Pratchett novel Deea lent me and give it a try. So far, Sir Pratchett didn't disappoint and, after rocketing over the first few pages when I bought Reaper Man for her, it seems like the funniest one from the Discworld series.
I wanted to write another background story for Thomas and Lexi, but locked out of Webs and rest remaining a foreign notion, I cannot push myself to do it right now. Boredom is a writer's worse enemy. Hope you all have / are having a better Sunday. See you Monday! (unless a miracle happens)
I keep telling myself I need to post sometime some details regarding my job, but then I realize that 99% of you won't relate no matter how plastic I get. Don't take it as an insult! People who haven't spent more than a couple of hours on a fishing boat can't relate to how it feels to work and live on one that's a hundred times bigger, heavier and noisier. So I'll spare you the drama, sacrificing the striking contrast between my daily routine and receiving exciting news almost every time I get online.
Saturday started pretty darn great! For me that means beginning the day at 00:01. Still, not complaining - I'm definitely a nocturnal creature. It's quiet then so I can get some writing done without having that interfering with my job. So I kept my word and finished the first background story for Rene. I guess I should be more excited but since neither Deea nor anyone else for that matter have gotten to reading it, plus the fact that I can barely hit the right keys at the moment, I'll just remain cautiously optimistic instead of insanely excited. But there's more good news! I also built the website and added a few extra details that you might enjoy. That being said, you can find everything HERE, soon to be added to a link list (because I just can't summon enough strength to do it right now).
But this isn't the best part. At least not the reason of my joy and constant smile. A close friend whom I've met when I was still posting as Tomcat83, had agreed to honor me with a short piece about my writing skills. Her opinions mean a lot to me, not just for the fact that she's an excellent composer, a vicious music critic, an author in her own right and a brilliant human being, but because she's the type of person who will never sugarcoat it when it comes to voicing her thoughts. The fact that her words deeply flattered me is just a bonus. So if you're interested in what the very smart and talented Dana Dorian has to say about me, jump to light speed and head for Deea's blog right now!
...There's also a possibility that I forgot something else I wanted to share, but I am TOO tired to care. Stay tuned. It'll come to me.
I'm not getting nearly enough sleep as I need, and (sadly) that's not because of the excitement I still feel regarding this project. But that's a boring story about life at sea... Maybe not really that boring since you hear stuff like "Is the ship upright? Check the screwdriver!", but still: 1 funny moment doesn't provide the thrill of visiting this page and seeing one more person sharing a post or reading a new comment.
I mentioned the serious sleep deprivation as to explain why things aren't moving as fast as I'd like. Even so, I sacrificed some extra minutes and now I'm pretty much upgraded to the teeth with accounts on advertising websites, like Reddit and Digg, in addition to those mentioned before. Never been a bookmark person, but now I was forced to add them to my browser bar to make sure I don't forget.
Also I figured out a way to bring you wonderful people those character background stories; Since Blogspot refuses to supply me with different blog pages / tabs / menu, I'm going to bypass this inconvenience and add a link list towards said character stories, which I will post in the following days. Since we're still negotiating for the official website, you will find them at asociety.webs.com (still under construction) and the first one is called "The Lion". I'm going to let you guess who the center character in this story is!
Last, but definitely not least, I am honored and delighted to say that an old blogging acquaintance, a very smart and kind person and (not really an attribute but still very cool) the better half of one of my favorite journalists, Mrs. Mariana Ciutacu a.k.a. Mana, has agreed to promote Crux on her own blog! If you're Romanian, you surely must check out her page - it's in the blogroll!
That being said, I have to run. I'm so late for my watch! Later!
It's almost 6 AM and I am dead tired, but as I've learned over the years, there's nothing like sleep deprivation to make one believe that the ideas in his head are pure genius. Or, as a crazy vampire once put it, ""Personally, I think prolonged periods of sleep deprivation along with gallons of caffeine gives you a buzz like you wouldn't believe, and later you remember everything, but not exactly why you did those things to that cat or why it was so damn funny." But seriously, don't do things to the cat just to test the theory!
...What was I saying? Ah, yes. Ideas. This one didn't just appear through a magical epiphany, but it's more of an upgrade to what my clever and lovely agent has asked me to do a few weeks back. Naturally, I postponed it until I actually forgot about it, so thank Shakespeare's ghost for inspiration! Or just be grateful for instant coffee.
Deea has asked me then to write 2-3 short stories, preferably involving, revolving or evolving around some characters from Crux. The point was to launch them as teasers for the general public, hoping we would get the online community to talk about my upcoming masterpiece. Fate has it that I managed to remember this about an hour ago and I decided to improve it; I won't post 2 or 3 stories but enough to cover all the main characters, that are quite a few, I might add! So, as soon as we find a way to add some tabs or menus to Deea's blog, I will add said stories, written in a manner that will allow you to get to know them better and connect!
I know many of you don't really know what Crux is all about, while a handful have already read more than what is posted here. And I think this will be a real treat to both groups, as some will get intimate with the heroes and others will just enjoy the details they were hoping for. Now don't be disappointed if you haven't had the chance to read more than others - I assure you nobody will savor the full flavor of this novel until it'll end up where it belongs: on your shelf!
As you can notice, I decided to brighten up the room and get serious about this. I hate Twitter and generally posting on a thousand similar websites, but if I want to play with the big boys, sacrifices must be made. So! Tweets reactivated and now you can also find me on Delicious.com. Also changed the horrible Crux cover I posted earlier - I hope you like it. It's a loaner so don't get too attached!
Yesterday, as in until 20 minutes ago, was a total maelstrom. Deea and I rushed to write a synopsis of sorts about Crux. It was supposed to be a 1-2 page text, meant to explain what the book's about. I couldn't do better than FOUR pages so I had to pass the task to my eager agent who managed... THREE. Yes, we had a laugh about it. Hopefully, the man who's going to read it won't think we're complete idiots...
In other news, the P.R. campaign is still going strong. I'm waiting for some content for Deea's blog, negotiations are underway for a pro website and the novel is 1/4 corrected and revised. I'm told that it will look nice and shiny by Friday. It better!
I'm still biting my nails, waiting for a reply from Felicia Day. No answer from the Creative Monkeyz or Mr. Bendeac, but as you can see, neither Deea or I have the time to worry too much about it. We have Determination in our corner and our spirits are soaring most of the time. So much so that I summoned all my courage and wrote a short message to Mr. Ryan Sohmer whose work for L.F.G. Comics I've admired and loved for years!
I take this opportunity to leak a spoiler:
When Crux is going to leave the printing press, it will be with the highest blessings of a talented graphic artist, whom will sign and design the covers and the drawings inserted between the novel's sub-chapters. If the L.F.G. team will be the one honoring me and the book with their awesome artwork, it remains to be seen. As a long time fan of comics, and theirs in particular, nothing would make me happier than having them say YES!
Yes, it's finally complete! I wrote a whole novel and I couldn't be more excited. Well, for now anyway. I'll probably bounce like a hyperactive bunny when I'll hold it in my hands, on paper and with a better cover than what I managed in Paint.
The point is: it's done and looks really good! My agent is working out the kinks, crossing the T's and dotting the I's, and I'm told I'll soon be the proud owner of a professional website. But untill that website is online, you will be able to check out the news about the changes and development of Step 2 of my master plan on a sister blog: http://deeaswritersgallery.blogspot.com/ and, of course, here.
I'm extra excited about the Felicia Day initiative; I sent an e-mail today to this lovely and talented young lady, after exchanging a few words with her website admin, and I'm hoping she will be interested in reading a few pages of Crux. Hoping even more that those pages will prove interesting enough for her to read the whole book. So fingers crossed, guys!
I also left a comment on Terry Pratchett's official website, being as I couldn't find an e-mail address. Even so, the chances of the God of Discworld noticing a literary ant like myself are... [insert giant number here] to one. Still, had to try and I'll keep on trying. I've spent two years writing this and I won't stop until it beats the crap out of Twilight in sales! :))
Arlo ran ahead by herself, leading the throng of armed creatures back to their boats. Behind her, the lycanthropes and the other shape shifters followed in their beast forms, some carrying the ones who couldn’t keep up the pace. Andrew rode on Nom’s back and Thomas tried to hang on to Ash, but had a hard time doing it. He barely knew how to ride a horse, let alone a giant wolf that mostly leapt than actually ran. The vampires followed closely but didn’t overtake the beasts mostly out of respect for this type of group organization; in reality, some of them could easily outmatch their speed.
“Oh, no…” she muttered while realizing that the mountain pass was closed, but then also pondered about how Nom and his people reached Genesis.
“Go right!” Andrew shouted. “Nom knows an another way through!”
She nodded at him and went in the indicated direction, running along the mountain wall. For a second she thought she is imagining things, but when the stone vibrated a second time, she looked behind. The rocks came out of the mountain and slid back in just like a wave, with something advancing inside the giant peak. It passed her at an incredible speed and some yards away it sprung out like a baby from a womb, without leaving any trace of its passing. She expected the stone to explode and massive clouds of dust and pulverized snow to rise, but the creature delicately parted the wall and walked out elegantly on four giant hooves.
The entire Bastion army stopped in its tracks as Esseriss strode out carrying a Fallen with eyes like sapphires glowing in the azure light. The air smelled like fresh soil as a breeze blew Maar’s long hair to the side and reached the group, and Arlo was the only one to step forward and speak.
“You’re blocking the way. Shouldn’t you be somewhere else right now?” she asked with a hint of irony in her voice.
“She tends to do that,” Maar replied, dismounting and walking towards the half-angel.
“I was addressing you, my dark cousin. Isn’t there a Nilithar you’re supposed to protect?”
“The girl is safe, don’t worry. She…” he said jerking his head towards the horse-elemental “wanted me to come here. Why that is, I’m not sure I understand.”
Arlo turned her crimson gaze towards Esseriss and bowed her head and flexed a knee in something that resembled a curtsey.
“Greetings, ancient earth-spirit! Arlo Bloodfire is honoured by your presence.”
And well-met to you, young half-angel. I came with this Fallen one to warn you of great danger! Esseriss said melodically, while her crystal eyes reflected light arrows in all directions. Although it is a terrible thing to ask, I must request that you do not join the battle of Enoch…
“What?!” Thomas exclaimed. “But they will be overrun!” he added extending his hands in Arlo’s direction. “There’ll be a massacre!”
That is indeed a strong possibility, human. But not joining the conflict would mean less victims, less death for the demons to feed on. The dark ones are led by a one who feeds on destruction. The more die, the more powerful he will become.
“I cannot stand idly while innocents are slaughtered!” Arlo shouted, her eyes burning red.
What of the mechanical ones? Aren’t they innocent, half-angel? Esseriss asked.
“She does have a point,” Maar said miserably.
“And you?” Arlo questioned him. “Were you brought here to convince us to keep away?”
He was brought here to make a choice.
“Yes, you keep saying that,” Maar growled. “But you never told me what are my choices.”
Andrew fell to the ground, looking as white as the snow.
“Drew! Drew!” Thomas shouted, shaking him wildly.
“I’m okay…” the mage whispered as a circle formed around him.
“No,” said Ash. “No, you’re not, lad.”
Arlo looked at them then back at the elemental guardian and Maar with anger in her eyes.
“I have no more time to waste here! I don’t care for your prophecies and foreshadowing - we need to leave NOW! So do yourselves a favor and get out of the way!”
Arlo! - the telepathic voice made her jump.
“Tesla?” she asked out loud.
Yes, it’s me. Just listen: do not engage my people. I know how we can solve this. Keep the army away from the Meka!
“But they will be the ones leading the siege on Enoch. I can’t allow that to happen!”
Please, trust me with this. Flank the Fallen army and I will deal with the siege! Go now!
She just stood there, completely blank. The faith of the entire world depended on her choice. Her crimson gaze locked with Maar’s, pleading for an answer. She was feeling the full weight of the burden he carried with him for time immemorial.
“What was the message?” the blue-haired warrior asked calmly.
“…He said we must not attack the Meka, but the Fallen instead. This is horrible!”
“These are my choices, Esseriss? To tell her to attack one or the other?”
You’re fighting skills are not more impressive than your wisdom, young one. But there’s also a third choice: not to enter the battle at all. Whatever you decide, you must act quickly. I will support you all the way, as I am bound by my oath of loyalty.
Maar watched the broken half-angel, then his electric gaze scanned the entire contingent of ragged souls. They looked discouraged and already broken. And then there was those two humans… What were they doing on this plane?
“Hold,” he replied to Esseriss and joined the group tending the mage. He appeared truly ill, pale as one could get with his veins surfacing and turning purple and thin. “What’s wrong with him?” he asked Thomas.
“Drew somehow got us here to help your cause, but he has no anchor to his earhly body. It’s dying and destroying his projected spirit in the process.”
“So… he’s some sort of magician?”
“A wizard, yes. “
“Then he feeds on magic. Just like a vampire would feed on human essence.”
“I think so. I don’t fully understand his spiritual metabolism…”
“I do!” he growled and crouched next to the ill mage, taking his hand and putting it against his own chest. “Feed then, friend.”
Without even realizing he could do it, or even wanting to, flashes of blue light shot forth from the Nephalem and became absorbed by Drew, in the rhythm of his increasing heartbeats. The light rushed through his veins, making them shine like a complicated iridescent exoskeleton. In but moments, the wizard felt like a pure adrenaline had been shot directly into his bloodstream. With great effort, Maar removed his hand and stumbled back, looking quite dizzy, under the surprised eyes of everyone present.
“Wow!” said Drew. “That was amazing! Thank you so much!”
“Don’t mention it,” the Nephalem replied and turned to Esseriss. “Now everyone’s ready. Let’s do this before there’s no need for me to act.”
Have you decided?
“I did. And I choose neither. We will do this right. Listen up!” he ordered the mass of troops. “I am Maar of the Fallen Nephalem! And I’ve been fighting for so long to fulfill the prophecy of the Nilithar, I forgot what this was all about. It’s about freedom! It’s about casting aside all those who wish to control us! …I refuse to be controlled any longer! And I refuse to pick an option the Universe throws at me! That’s why, right now, we will march to Enoch and hit the ones that who really deserve it!”
“Wait a damn second!” Nom interceded. “I lead Bastion and none of these men and women will follow you just like that. What makes you believe I would even consider following a Fallen Nephalem?”
“Because,” Maar replied smiling. “When I said ‘we’ I didn’t mean your people, nobble one. I plan to go avoid all unnecessary combat - I need a few volunteers with me to help the Nilithar. If Innanna is freed, there will be no need for bloodshed. Arlo! You come with me! I’ll need you to hold off your brethren. They must not attack the Fallen.”
“Yes,” she said confused but happy with his plan. “Sounds good.”
“Good! Whoever else wishes to join us, is welcome to do so!”
“We’re with you,” Drew said and acknowledged the nod Thomas shared with him.
“We’re coming too,” Ash grumbled, poked by Mona.
“Then I will join as well,” Nom said silently. “I can’t have any of Bastion’s people fight our battle while I just watch.”
A loud rumble came from the army behind. Shouts of disapproval and concern overwhelmed the group. Maar stepped and and rose his hands in the air.
“Stop! Hear me out! This is the best plan we have!”
“No way we’re standing idle while Nom fights!” came a shout.
“Yes! We will not let him battle alone! I want to come too!” shouted another one.
“Looks like another puzzle,” Drew told Maar, joining him. “But consider this: why don’t you split the troops?”
“He’s right, Thomas confirmed. We can go in, secret agent style, while Nom leads the bulk of troops on a diferent front. Or at least stand by as back-up.”
“You are wise, warrior. Are you a strategist on Earth?” Maar asked.
“No,” Drew responded for Thomas with a smile on his lips. “But he’s the best damn chess player I’ve seen. You should consider his advice.”
“Very well then!” the Fallen said decisively. “Nom, you will lead your men to Enoch and observe the outcome of our effort. If needed be, attack the demon. We will go straight in.”
“No offense, lad,” Ash interrupted. “But how are we going through the blockade? There be your people, the Meka and the High who I’m sure won’t just open up their gates just to let us run in.”
“We’re not going through,” Maar said with a playful smile on his lips and jerked his chin at Esseriss: “We’re going under!”
Tesla observed how his ragged and colourful army was being armed and prepared for the upcoming conflict. In a short period of time, the Genesis weapon depot managed to fulfil the needs of over five hundred mixed vampires, were kin and a few other creatures he did not know how to call, but the irony of providing the means to fight his own people did not slip past the green-eyed Meka. If he had a mouth and fully functioning lungs, he would sigh deeply in sorrow.
Arlo presented herself to him and reported that everyone was ready for the journey back to Enoch, but that wasn’t an accurate statement. He knew he needed to guarantee the safety of the Meka and their legacy before everything else.
“I need to… do something first” he told her.
“I mean no offence, dear friend, but we’re running out of time. The battle will surely start before we arrive, so we need to hurry as it is…”
“Go on ahead then,” Tesla said confidently. “There’s no need to wait for me – I will catch up with you, don’t worry.”
“How will you do that?”
“I’ll find a way. Go now! Lead them back to Enoch! I will meet you there.”
Arlo took a knee and looked the small metallic creature in those giant eyes of his. Hers would show concern, but she put on a brave face and hugged him tightly.
“Don’t worry” she whispered. “We will win this. I promise I will do my best not to harm your brethren.”
He bobbed his head in agreement and returned in the belly of the mountain. The shadows and silence felt discouraging but he pushed on, going through the mazes and tunnels and circular passageways that led deeper and deeper inside Genesis. As he descended, the blue stripe of light illuminating the way and leading him to the heart of the city became thinner and thinner, until nothing but a string remained that slid under a vault door. Tesla triggered the mechanism and four iridescent crystals came out of the walls on both sides. He thought for a moment and then ran his three-fingered hand over them in a chaotic pattern. Something clicked, then the motors behind the locks activated and the door slid up into the ceiling, revealing a dark room. The thin light was not enough to show anything that may have been hiding in the darkness.
“State your name” a metallic voice demanded when Tesla entered the room.
“Tesla the Seeker” he answered.
“State your position” another voice asked, in a melodic way.
“Tolgarim of Enoch” the answer came again.
There was a pause and then four massive diamond-shaped crystals started glowing powerfully enough to reveal every detail of the steel chamber. Between crystals was a large metal egg with cables and pipes leading upwards into a convex ceiling. The room was oval and the walls were polished to perfection, reflecting everything like mirrors.
“You should not be here” hummed a third crystal in a deep voice.
“I am aware of that, great Ohm. Yet I had no choice. Our race faces extinction and I had to come.”
“Extinction you say?” the first crystal asked. “Explain this to us, Tesla the Seeker.”
“There is no time. Scan the city yourself and you will find no trace of Meka. Something has happened in my absence; the Galileo Council is no more and someone is manipulating our people into war against the High Nephalem.”
“He is right” the second crystal sang. “There is no Meka in Genesis.”
“How can this come to pass?” the third asked. “Can you tell us?”
“There is no time!” Tesla repeated. “I came to activate… the Epsylon function.”
“Preposterous!” Ohm boomed. “You do not possess even half the wisdom a Galileo Councilman would require for such a thing!”
“True. Which is why I am suggesting an alternative approach.”
“And what is that, youngling?” the first crystal asked.
“I would require access and control over a single project of my own. One that would ensure the safety of Genesis and our race from now on. I seek no other influence over your area of activity, noble Amper.”
“Even if we were to consider such a proposition, who is to say that you are correct? Our people may overcome these complications. Assuming your analysis is right, our purpose is to learn and evolve. Considering that the Meka will perish, our conscience will go on and-“ the second crystal said.
“You are wrong!” Tesla finally snapped, not able to contain his feelings any longer. “This city has been breached, our brethren have been slain! And you continue this futile argument with no reason whatsoever! We NEED the Epsylon activated now, Morse!”
“Your time among the Nephalem has altered you, Tesla the Seeker” Ohm replied. “You are no longer capable of cold logical thought. You are not being rational, but emotional… This was not your purpose in the city of Light.”
“To hell with your rational thinking! Do you think the ones seeking to destroy us care if we’re logical or not? The issue is a simple one: accept my request or wait for the inevitable outcome!”
“We will ignore this outburst” Amper said and paused for a second then continued as all three crystals seemed to glow at the same time much brighter. “…And your request. This is a matter that needs to be analysed in depth. Probabilities must be calculated before we could consider such a bold suggestion.”
“Then analyse yourselves to death!” Tesla replied bitterly. “I’ll go and try to save what’s left of our people!” he added and turned to walk away, but a fourth voice spoke in a female tone.
“Stop! Tesla the Seeker will be permitted to take a place among us!”
“Gamma, we can’t grant such an honour to one so young. Be him a Tolgarim…” Morse said.
“Young or not, he is right. We will deal with eventual functionality issues along the way if we must. For now, we must ensure that the Meka survive. That is and always was our priority, or have you forgotten, brothers?”
“No, you are right, Gamma” Amper agreed. “Very well, we shall honour your demand, Tesla. What is the name of your project?”
The mechanical creature turned and looked at the crystal and stared in awe as the metal-shaped egg opened in half, releasing a cloud of steam. He bowed his head towards the fourth crystal and answered to Amper:
“My project is called Defender. And I am ready to submit it.”
“Then step inside and be welcome among us” Gamma said.
“Thank you, wise one” Tesla answered as he walked inside the machine.
All light in Genesis died that instant. And a new one was born, more powerful than any of the physical creations of the Meka.
Well, thank God for anchoring! And cigarettes. And coffee. And all the bad things that make life good and make me write like a machine. Speaking of which, I’m not particularly fond of this second and last hatrick, but it’ll have to do for now because I simply had ENOUGH of Revelation. It’s time for a break and some meditation on the last part of Crux which surely must be the jewel. Well, I’ll try anyway. So yeah! Here’s the last part of the second chapter of my book and the last piece you’ll get until the book is published or I’m dead! I hope you enjoyed my writing and that, by now, you’re a true fan. If not, get the fuck off my blog! …Kidding. Somewhat. I will see you later with some non-Crux stuff!
*
Akaba had a permanent facial expression that demanded a certain amount of healthy paranoia from whoever was near him; a rather smug smile combined with a sinister look in his eyes, something you would expect from a serial killer or a politician. The latter being a more adequate description and not an entirely metaphorical one, considering the constant struggle for power among demonic entities. Even the way he moved managed to keep Kara on the edge, leaving the impression that at any moment he might turn and tear open her ribcage. Maar didn’t feel much comfortable either, but unlike the girl, he was showing no sign of fear, keeping up the pace with the Infernal as they walked at a hurried pace through the tall grass.
“Are you sure we are going in the right direction?” Akaba asked at some point, with Kara burning holes in the back of his head.
“If there were any doubts, I’m completely positive now. The land is becoming alive and I caught the scent of Yama trees in the wind. We shouldn’t be far now – I expect Enoch lies over the next hill.”
The Infernal hummed his approval and turned his head towards the sky. The second sun was almost setting and soon a chilly night would embrace Crux like a vampire lover. The white star that shone a second day over the planet was becoming blue and the point where it would hit the horizon bled in indigo swirls of mist. Akaba narrowed his eyes and grumbled like a silent volcano.
“You can feel it too” Maar said without even looking. “Something terrible is about to happen.”
“Yes. I’m surprised you can… Interesting beings you Nephalem are. Vicious warriors as well… Makes me wonder if I’m not making a mistake by aiding you.”
“Why are helping us then?” Kara asked with a slight tremor in her voice.
“Because, human, despite the fact that Hell will lose so many precious agents when this… cherub is released, I will be the one who brought some rogue forces to their knees. And who knows? Maybe Balittian is right and Innanna does intend to turn this entire race abide the rules of Judgement. My masters will be truly pleased with my actions-”
“Say that again!” Kara exclaimed, her eyes widening at the mentioning of Maar’s father. Even the Nephalem jumped at the name.
“Yes, Balittian summoned me here. What do you think, sport?” Akaba grinned and gave Maar a nudge that would dislocate a man’s shoulder. “Think ‘old dad’ wants to patch things up with ya, eh?” he mocked. “…Nah!” he bellowed and laughed maniacally. “He’s just thinking of himself! He’s just a scared old demon, afraid I would pull out his insides and decorate his temple with them… Pitiful. But you have to appreciate a hellspawn’s betrayal. Proved he belongs perfectly where he is…”
“Hey, do you mind?” Kara said, frowning and feeling her anger take over. “…You don’t need to be a douche about it” she added and quickly started to regret her words. Her gaze slid toward Maar who kept walking silently, not visibly affected by the words. “You knew?” she asked confused.
“I suspected he had something to do with the whole thing. Why else would he take residence here? It wasn’t like he came to watch over me. But you’re wrong-“ he said to Akaba, without even turning to look at him, his dark face hidden by the mane of blue hair. “He is not a coward at all.”
“Oh? I wouldn’t call him brave now, boy” the Infernal growled. “Selling out his partners and doing a wonderful job of watching out for himself...”
The Nephalem snorted and finally glanced at the hellish warden, a nasty smile dancing on his lips.
“I thought you smarter than that, Infernal” he said, suddenly looking like he was the most powerful of the three. “It took a lot of guts to call on you and… “ He started laughing and kept laughing until Akaba finally yelled in frustration.
“What? What is so funny, half-breed?!”
“Well…” he said, wiping an invisible tear. “I just have the feeling that you were not the only plan he had. Actually that is a certainty. I wouldn’t expect anything less from him.”
Kara sped up and came by Maar side smiling a little. She gave him a supporting smile and added: “He does rule over the land of vice, lies and all other nasty things…”
There weren’t many things that gave pause to Akaba. His mind worked with the speed of light and one like him couldn’t afford to be tricked by lesser creatures, be they demons who cowered in alternative dimensions. But for the first time since his creation, the Infernal pondered the fact that Balittian, a weak entity with petty aspiration, might have indeed manipulated him far more than he ever realized. And then he did something that made both Kara and Maar smile in silent amusement: he looked back.
As they climbed a gentle hill, littered with short trees bearing red pear-shaped fruit, something shifted in the air. It was like a the kind of noise only a dog could here. Or someone with demon blood. Maar and Akaba exchanged glances and rushed to the top, under a patch of foliage, with the girl trying to keep up.
“Oh, no…” the Nephalem muttered. “What are they doing?”
As Kara reached the spot, she froze with the sight of thousands of Fallen Nephalem warriors preparing for war. A massive camp site lay in the valley and giant fires were lit and burning blue in the dimming daylight. There were no shouts of rage or morale-lifting battle cries, but the anticipation of the carnage could be felt clearly. Come daylight, there would be no stopping the force commanded by Mattias; it would crash like a riptide against the walls of the distant white Enoch. Over there, the three saw, the lights of the capital shone brighter than usual. Its towers burning a golden light that enveloped the surrounding area and protected it with their magic beyond the thick tall walls. Although it was not clear from their position, Maar knew they were preparing for the assault as well, and couldn’t help but wonder why the sudden decision to attack directly. Both sides usually met on neutral ground and did battle because neither was strong enough to conquer the other’s city. He instantly looked to the east where a passage broke through the dark-stoned mountains.
“No, no, this isn’t right…” he growled silently. “So many will die for nothing” he added between his teeth in frustration.
A force like no other came slowly but at a steady pace toward the Fallen camp. Clad in their thick armour, some levitating, others using machines that resembled tanks, the Meka advanced with determination to meet their allies. Maar’s fists clenched until it hurt. He turned to Kara with the look of a wild beast in his eyes:
“We need to break into Enoch before they start fighting!”
She didn’t know what to say. His eyes were demanding a solution from the wrong person and the girl felt at a complete loss, managing only to nod slightly and return a puzzled expression.
“There” Akaba said in his low hellish voice and pointed at the demon marching through the ranks, inspecting his troops. “That’s the one I want” he added and started walking towards the camp but Maar grabbed his shoulder.
“No!” he roared. “There will be no killing. If that’s who you want, you can have him. But if you march in there many of my brethren will die trying to stop you!”
“No, little man,” the Infernal replied. “They will all die!”
“You can’t do this! There has to be another way!”
“My patience is wearing thin – take your hand off me! I agreed killing the demons. There’s no clause that says I have to let you live, Nephalem.”
In an instant Maar drew his daggers and assumed the stance, preparing to fight, while Akaba grinned sinisterly and made the spear appear in his hand, but just before they would rush each other, Kara interrupted.
“Look! Look there!” she said, pointing at Mattias. “What is he doing?”
The Nephalem lowered his daggers and realized there was no point in fighting: the demon had prepared a portal and was now walking through its burning ripples, fading slowly out of sight. Akaba grunted and dismissed his weapon, then leaned in: “This isn’t over. When our business is done, you and I are going to have… words.”
“Looking forward to it” Maar retorted and turned towards Kara. “We move now. We’ll go around the walls and find another way in before morning.”
Before she could even agree, he was already walking down the hill and appearing to give the camp a wide berth. Altering their path would make the trek a little more difficult, but among the forested hill they would be safe, yet it would take longer to reach Enoch. Even at full walking speed Kara couldn’t manage to keep up with Maar. She had to jog half the way, while the Infernal followed in disturbing silence, still undecided whether to stick with them or stay behind and hunt the demon.
As the shadows grew thicker at sunset, under the abundant vegetation, Kara had to half-guess where the black clad guide was headed. Nearing a narrow bent over a steep fold, the girl tripped and yelped as she fell to over the side. A strong arm caught the back of her jacket and pulled her back immediately.
“Watch it, human” Akaba said with a thoughtful expression. “You wouldn’t want to die so stupidly after surviving for so long, would you?”
“T-thanks… And no, I wouldn’t want to die at all, if possible. But I can’t see a damn thing.”
He nodded and with a gesture, extending his hand to the side, brought forth his unholy spear. The large spear started glowing immediately but in a manner so odd it made the girl rub her eyes in disbelief: it shone a grey light and everything around her looked like it was being seen in night vision. Everything in a small radius became illuminated in different shades of silver, while being perfectly visible to them and completely undetected from afar.
“If I made a mistake,” the demonic creature said, his molten eyes appearing amused. “I might as well go with it now… “
*
Palisera stood silent, watching the seraphim hover over a patch of violet flowers. It said nothing since it arrived, but she knew that could mean only one thing. In her wisdom she realized, as the celestial being examined the life in her garden, that Nadir wasn’t actually seeing the complexity of the beautiful plants in front of him but just waiting there lost in thought. The seraphim had an entirely different purpose altogether and, even though they stood on the same side with angels and cherubs, they could never understand creation. They were divine messengers, promoting the ways of Light, driven only by the need to purify everything in the Universe. The fact that Nadir even existed in this dimension was a complete paradox, one which upset the balance of Crux, abnormal as it was already.
He’s here, she said melodically as a portal opened not far from where they stood.
Mattias strolled in proudly, wearing his bloody armour and spiked shoulder pads. His hooves burned the soil and everything in his path withered and died. It made Palisera flinch with pain just by feeling his presence nearby.
I thought we had a deal! the seraphim echoed in its hundreds of voices. What is this, demon? Have you lost your senses?
“This… alliance,” Mattias spat. “Has gone on for long enough! Our children must make war – that was agreed from the beginning. Or have you forgotten?” he added, snorting.
I have not. But there was no agreement about approaching the Meka! This was supposed to be a battle between us alone. Whomever would win would claim this realm and purify it. THAT was what we said then!
“You pathetic, wretched creature!” Mattias growled and his white glare burned hatred. “I helped you banish Innanna, put up with your schemes and suffered your presence for eons, and now you summon me here to bitch about breaking the rules?! I intend to cleanse Crux, make no mistake about that! And I will do it in my own way!”
The seraphim extended its arm towards the demon and an elegant thin silver blade emerged from its hand. Mattias returned the gesture by flourishing his own giant broadsword.
“Come on! Let’s finish it now!” he bellowed and spun the blade slowly.
STOP! Palisera commanded, her voice hitting the rounded ceiling full of stars and planets. This is a place of peace and I will not permit either of you battle here!
Nadir obeyed and dismissed his weapon, throwing a glance from his unseen face masked by the silver hood and the blinding light underneath.
You will regret your actions, you filthy creature! Nadir threatened and disappeared in a white explosion of light.
Mattias turned to Palisera and narrowed his eyes, scanning her for a moment. He sheathed his sword and marched determined towards her. The stench of death came with him and she could barely refrain from showing her disgust as he neared her.
“This land will burn” the demon said.
This land’s fate remains uncertain, she retorted.
“Is this one of your… predictions? Vague as ever. Let me clear it up for you: my army and the Meka will grind Enoch to pebbles.”
Your army… fights for no cause. The Enochians fight out of instinct. And the mechanized beings fight because they are being lied to. There is no glory and no purpose to your conflict, demon. The Universe sees no true outcome to this.
“The Universe…” he growled as he gestured at the air and another portal opened. “Will quake from the fury I will unleash upon it. I will rule this realm and turn it into my own Hell!”
There is no absolute truth, just as there is no absolute force save the Creator.
“Then I will ask for your wisdom and you will obey” Mattias roared, facing her again.
You forget there is still one small factor in your plan for obliteration. The Nilithar still lives.
“The Nilithar!” he said arrogantly. “The Nilithar is a useless concept now, Oracle! It has been since the beginning. A human that could overthrow demons and angels? A human that could change the fate of a world? It is ridiculous! It has only managed to avoid us so far. After we’re done with the High, we will hunt it down and deal with it once and for all! And then… when all lies in ashes, I will come after you personally!” he added and stepped through the portal.
Palisera watched him leave and, for a moment, she pondered the scenario. If Mattias would win, she and all life on Crux will perish, including the Nephalem. The demons cared not about their offspring. If anything they saw them as failed experiments that could never accomplish more than kill each other; having no souls, but being the physical manifestation of their spirits, material reflections as it were, the Nephalem couldn’t ascent or fall. They could never leave Crux and they would not bolster the armies of Heaven or Hell. After exterminating each other, there would be no purpose for them save to amuse the demons by getting tortured and killed in unspeakable ways.
The Oracle turned, shimmering in and out of view, and hovered over to a small pond in the middle of Rhodima. Her bare feet touched the perfectly still waters and her whole body started glowing wildly, as her mind reached out throughout Crux.
Hear me, Valenthar! Hear me, First Born! she commanded and all life on Crux stopped to listen.
*
Ash spun the wheel and made the ship slide sideways in the gentle waves and roll on the beach with little effort, making Andrew wonder again about the sailing methods of the werewolf sailor. Arlo, Tesla and Thomas hopped over onto the snow covered beach and looked up at the steep mountains in front of them. Not far from where they had landed, a pass could be seen running between the mountains, but the rocky outcrops appeared to be closing in on it.
“Get a move on, Drew! We need to hurry!” Thomas yelled as Arlo and Tesla were already jogging towards it.
The mage sighed and looked at Mona for a moment then turned to his friend and offered a sad smile.
“This is good-bye then, Gates. I can’t come with you. I’ll meet you on the other side then – whatever that may be!”
“What?! You’re doing this now?”
“Come on, mortal!” shouted the Meka. “We have little time!”
“Come with me, damn it!” Thomas said with desperation in his voice.
“Tom, go!” the mage ordered. “I won’t be of any use to you. I am already being drained of power and I would only get in the way. Please, just go help them! I will be fine here!”
“Damn it…!” Thomas conceded and then nodded at the wizard in acceptance before he dashed towards the other two. “Don’t die on me, you hear!” he called out from the distance.
“Will try, my friend! Will try! Good luck!” Andrew shouted back.
Ash came to him and put a giant arm on his shoulder, while Mona took his hand and squeezed it gently.
“Don’t worry, mate. They will be fine and you… Well, you need to put this dying business out of your head. I’ve something special in the hold, I do…” the captain assured him and winked, disappearing below decks.
“He means rum” Mona explained. “Stuff that would make your eyes explode and your lungs boil. Hope you can hold your liquor, dear.”
“Well!” Drew replied with the smile frozen on his lips. “That takes care of one problem. I’ll feel more alive than ever.”
As they followed Ash in the belly of his rundown ship, Arlo, Tesla and Thomas were speeding through the closing pass. The rocks were melting together, like perfect puzzle pieces, and the latter felt the adrenaline pump through his veins like never before. Somehow, he found this mad race very funny. How silly it would have been to die swallowed by a mountain.
“There!” Arlo called, pointing at the exit. “Almost made it! Hurry!”
Tesla lept over a rock coming out of the ground and as Thomas dodged a monolith, he replied loudly: “We won’t make it! Probability is too small! Calculating an alternative route!”
Thomas frowned and roared loudly, making the other two flinch in surprise as he boosted past them with unnatural speed.
“If this mountain thinks it can eat me… It can EAT me!” he yelled leading the way.
As they neared the closing maw, meeting a wall of stone, Thomas focused all his strength and his fist met the obstacle with godly force, pulverizing the rock and pushing the still growing rock to the sides.
“HURRY!” he shouted, trembling with effort and pain.
The Meka reached him first, bouncing over him and landing gracefully on the other side, while Arlo just slid like a baseball player between spread legs. He cried loudly and jumped away, rolling to safety as the passed closed with a deep clunk.
“What happened to your eyes?” Tesla asked as he came close and reached a hand to Thomas’ face. He dodged it and backed away.
“Easy there, fellow!”
“He’s right. They’re orange!” Arlo said, dusting the snow off her clothes. “Why are they orange? And glowing?”
“Vampire blood” Thomas said matter-of-factly.
“Oh,” she replied casually. “Of course. Why not?”
The Meka gazed at him with his green orbs, pondering the scientific uses of said liquid, but without managing to contain his enthusiasm.
“Don’t even think about it!” Thomas warned. “You’re complicated enough as you are!”
“Come on, Tesla!” Arlo called already climbing the irregular slopes. “I can see the top from here. Genesis lies just ahead!”
“Indeed!” the Meka agreed and something about the notion of returning to his home city after so long made him look excited, though Thomas couldn’t tell how that was exactly.
Half of the way up Thomas couldn’t get him mind off Andrew. He felt awful about leaving the wizard behind like that, but it didn’t seem like he had much choice. The need to speak about it was overwhelming, but he doubted Tesla could understand a thing he would say and Arlo seemed way too concerned with her own problems. He was grateful though for Mona being right about the snow. It wasn’t cold at all and it felt quite pleasant to the touch. While trying to focus on this little thing and try to put Drew out of his head for the moment, the Meka broke the silence.
“Something is amiss” he said in his mechanized voice. “The towers!” he added, pointing the three-fingered hand at the peak ahead.
Now, as they approached, they could see the low drill-shaped towers protruding out of the mountain and reach towards the sky. Energy crackled slightly on them and this aspect seemed to bother the green creature greatly.
“This is very bad” he said and looked at Arlo. “Hurry! I must investigate this!”
“Why?” she asked as Tesla was running towards the arched gate that was wide open now revealing the dark tunnel behind. “What’s wrong?”
“They activated an emergency protocol!” he replied still running.
“Not a moment of peace around here” Thomas commented and gestured Arlo to follow as they tried to catch up with Tesla.
He had stopped in front of the massive metal gate, looking confused. Nothing had ever managed to break through their fortifications but there it was: the entryway completely accessible and the bodies of several guards sill scattered in green pools of blood.
“Oh, my…” Arlo muttered as she and Thomas approached the Meka slowly. “That’s terrible…”
“You must wait here” Tesla said quietly now. “Foreigners are not allowed within the city.”
“I think that rule has already been broken” said Thomas, regretting his words immediately. It was no time for jokes and Arlo gave him a grave look. “Sorry. We’ll wait here.”
“That was cold” the half-angel told him when Tesla disappeared in the darkness of the mountain corridor. “He claims he’s all logic and mathematics, but I think he can feel just like any other creature. And your words were… inappropriate.”
“I know,” he admitted bitterly. “I’m just… worried about Drew. I shouldn’t have left him there.”
“Your friend has a lot of faith. You should too. Let’s rest… He will return shortly.”
The last remnants of light disappeared and thousands of stars faded into existence on the dark orange sky, its reflection on the snow making it look like the Grand Canyon. Inside the mechanized city, the smell of hot metal and sound of electricity still floated in the air. It felt warm and artificial and Tesla felt at ease. Along his way he saw more and more bodies of his murdered brethren, but now, strolling through the adjoined science rooms and factories, relaxed his mind. He felt purpose again, he felt the familiar emotion of belonging, but most of all, he felt the burning need to avenge the loss of Genesis. Being cut from the central neural node, he didn’t receive the order to prepare for battle against Enoch, and that gave him the advantage over whoever thought they could control the Meka. His mind raced and analyzed possibilities.
It was obvious that the cyborg creatures constructed weapons and readied for a conflict. It wasn’t however to defend themselves and it wasn’t under the order of the Galileo either, lest he, as a Tolgarim, would have been informed. Logic dictated only one thing: the only creature capable of taking command over the Meka was the other Tolgarim, the one assigned to Babel: Benjamin.
Tesla turned and dashed towards the Galileo Council’s chambers. The room murmured remnants of energy and death. The Meka leaders were dead and so were many of their bodyguards. Green blood stained the polished stone floors and walls. Even the blue light from the core pulsated slowly in apathy. Approaching the thrones of metal, Tesla noticed that the one responsible for these killings lay among the victims as well. A wave of green electricity washed over his eyes as he placed his hand over Benjamin’s face. And then he saw everything.
A golden moon rose over the peaks to the west, shinning on the silent trio sitting in the stone, each struggling with different thoughts. Thomas felt angry and frustrated, while Arlo fought with confusion and the need to help, and Tesla meditating on the course of action. Three individuals could not stop an army.
“Three people can not stop an army!” Thomas finally yelled and slapped the snow.
“Stop yelling, man. You’re not helping” Arlo said and her eyes moved from one spot to another, trying to think of a solution.
“We will go to Enoch and…” Tesla began, but didn’t know how to finish the sentence.
“Okay, go and?” Thomas asked.
“I… I do not know. We can’t warn them in time, we can’t fight my brethren, let alone the Fallen. I see no possibility of success here. I see… nothing.”
Thomas jumped on his feet and yelled a series of curses, his voice making the canyons tremble. He took the air in and faced the other two.
“Had to get that out, sorry” he said softly.
“Hey, mind the language, will you! You Americans are so bloody rude!” came Drew’s voice from behind him.
Thomas turned taken aback by the sight of his friend and the other quickly stood as they saw the mage riding on the back of a huge lion as white as the snow. Slowly, behind them, Mona, Ash and a few other individuals followed at a gentle pace.
“Drew?” Thomas asked stupidly with his eyes as wide as ever. “What… What’s going on?”
The wizard laughed softly and dismounted the massive feline who slowly morphed into his human shape. Nom cracked his neck as he walked on two feet again and offered the three the most gentle smile possible.
“Your friend here can be very persuasive, you know! We-“ he said opening his arms wide. “-decided to… get involved. So… need an army, do you?”
Arlo nodded in silence while Tesla was still coming to terms with what was going on. Nom gestured them to come closer. As they reached the ridge, he pointed towards the shore that could be seen over the closed pass and the low mountain. A few hundred boats of random sizes floated on the pink shallow waters. While they admired the massive force that came to their rescue, Thomas grabbed Andrew and gave him a quick hug, whispering: “Don’t do that again. You’re sticking with me until the end.”
“For such a badass, you can sure be a wimp sometimes, Gates” the mage retorted.
“What did you say to him?” Thomas asked jerking his chin in Nom’s direction.
“Before we all left his house, I told him that they couldn’t avoid war. If the Nephalem were trying to purify the planet, they really stood no chance, being hybrids themselves.”
“Smart observation” said Thomas.
“Here’s another one” said Arlo. “Our army doesn’t have any weapons. Sure, we don’t want to hurt the Meka but there is still a Fallen army to be dealt with… “
“Well, that’s true” Nom agreed. “We banned weapons from Bastion a long time ago. But we can still fight – we have our strengths, no?”
“Won’t be enough” Tesla said shaking his head. “My people are heavily armed and your powers will do you little good. But… I think I can help with that” he added and gestured them to follow. “No other creature but the Meka stepped inside Genesis until now. Sad that it has happen under such circumstances…”
Nom, Arlo and the two earthlings walked through the blue lit corridors in silence as Tesla led them in through the maze of chambers, finally reaching a giant metal gate in a tall chamber. He passed his hand over the crystal panel on the right side and it buzzed electrically. Cogs spun into motion and the door opened with a heavy sound while the blue stripes of light illuminated the depot.
“We have gathered these for study, yet we found them crude and… unreliable” the Meka said.
“Impressive” said the leader of Bastion, then quickly added. “What are they?”
Thomas and Andrew looked at each other grinning like children in a toy store.
“Oh” the mage said. “We know what they are.”
“Dibs on the chaingun!” Thomas yelled and rushed towards the pile of machineguns.
