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View Full Version : [M] The Demon's Vows / IC



Auki
03-08-2012, 09:12 AM
The altar felt smooth beneath her hands, the marble’s cool caress a blessing despite its many chips. Parts crumbled at her touch; she didn’t notice. Even the scuffling of nervous feet behind did not break the trance. It was only the accompanying voice that finally drew her attention.

“Miss Idée?” It called out, the very name stabbing at her heart, a point of marking out the incomplete ceremony. Or, more so, that was how she took it. The chances of Hindermost acting so malicious were doubtful, after all. He did not own the capacity for evil.

His footfalls came to a halt as though he overheard her thoughts, shifting silently upon the dusty floor. He was kind for a demon, but foolish in manner. Surprising was that he was too powerful to take for her own. Perhaps it was a frivolous notion, that the weak could only frolic with the weak, but society’s upturned nose had a way of keeping demons in line. Her own lover – soon-to-be husband – was on the same level as she, feasting on mere slivers of power, and yet… he was kind, calm and patient. What more could she hope for? A more punctual man… maybe, but one needed to love in spite of flaws.

“What do you want?” she finally answered, her soft voice still echoing between the chapel’s walls. Her red hair fell before her eyes as she turned and felt suddenly small when faced with the size of the room.

“I thought you said there would be a summoning, Miss.” He replied, huddled in the middle of the floor. He didn’t meet her eyes, instead tamely licking the dirt from his hands as though trying to find excuse to occupy his vision.

“There is,” she said flatly, “They’re coming now.”

He looked about to protest, but a strange humming filled the room. His frightened squeal drowned it out for a few seconds - the demon shortly bounding behind an overturned pew – but when the sound returned, its magnificence could not be denied.

One by one, they appeared, stolen from the depths of dreams.

“There’s so many,” Hindermost whispered.

“There should be more, but alas, I am not strong enough.”

It was only a handful, a meagre sum, but it would do. Witnesses were all they needed.

As the humans began to gain consciousness in the demon world, she threw her arms out in welcome.

“Thank you all for attending! I trust-…”

“Miss... Miss Idée!” Hindermost interrupted. He had teleported himself next to her, it seemed.

“What?” she hissed, hands dropping to her sides.

“They’re not ready, Miss.”

She looked at him quizzically before he continued,

“The humans are still in their nightwear. We must give them a chance to change, look their best.”

Idée pondered the idea. He did hold a valid point, after all.
“You’ll fix this for me, Hindermost?”

“If that’s what you desire.” He seemed more distressed than normal, but she waved him forth with warm wishes of gratitude. His hands wrung as he did her bidding, scuttling across the debris. He tripped over his own two feet on many occasions, but picked himself up with the same vigour.

“Come with me, humans! This way!” he called as he galloped towards the door, a hand held behind to beckon them closer.

SmileyCassandra
03-08-2012, 11:59 AM
Marie awoke and took in her surroundings. Her eyes wide, and a gulp forming at her throat. This was different then the dream she was just in, how could a dream change so fast? Was that even possible? This place, the way it looked. She'd never seen it before. The gaps in the ceiling, looking as if it would fall at any given second. How was this place standing? Why was she even dreaming about it? Her dreams got weirder every time.

She shook her head slightly, and jumped at a voice telling her to follow. She didn't understand why she was now wearing what she wore to bed. In the dream she was having before she was in a sun-dress walking hand in hand with her ex-boyfriend. So why was she in what she called her pajamas? A red tank, and pick cupcake covered skirt. This made no since to Marie. It didn't scare her, but it really made no since.

She then caught a glimpse of the one telling her to follow, and her eyes opened wide. W-what the hell is that!? She'd never seen anything like that, and sure the hell never dreamed about it. She pinched her arm, and flinched when she felt a pain shot through it. This isn't a dream? Then where the hell am I? She shuttered at the thought of the think before her being real. This was to bizarre for comfort. Does his back have a fucking mouth!? She was to shocked to even notice her step brother laying on the ground.

Andy began to blink his eyes opened, and yawn slightly. He could see some sun, and figured that it was morning. He began to cough, and noticed dust on the ground. The hell? He then stood up, and took a look around. "Wow, this isn't my room" he said out loud, causing Marie to look at him. She was shocked to see him, and shook her head once more. Of course he ignored her, and continued glancing around.

He spotted the creature telling them to follow, and his jaw dropped. "How fucking cool is that?" he asked, and chuckled slightly. He noticed the dead flowers on the wall, as well as the cracks. It looked like an awesome place to pull some cool ass pranks. He then laughed, and walked over to his sister. "So, we gonna follow him?" he asked. Marie sighed, and nodded. "Yeah" was all she said, and began walking away.

Andy did the same, his black pajama pants swishing as he did. He wore his fathers old bud light t-shirt, and some white socks. He yawned yet again, and let a grin form on his face. He didn't care if it wasn't a dream or not, unlike Marie who wished she was dreaming. It was a new place to adventure on, and he wanted to learn more about the creature he and his sister were following. They continued to follow the demon, not aware of the others around them.

V
03-08-2012, 12:52 PM
Well this was off to a good start, waking half naked in a decrepit Chapel full of strangers. At least he was wearing the pants he'd put on to sleep in, be even more awkward otherwise. They others seemed to be in the same way as him, well except the creepy guy who was hunched over with another face coming out his back.... tongue just rolling about. Sometimes his dreams hated him, like the rest of him then, and this was nothing new this one.

Seemed a bit more real though than his usual dreams, which were incredibly dull. Like making a chair. That's because Ben you are not that interesting, he told himself. Dream or not it didn't matter to him anyway.

“Come with me, humans! This way!” Beckoned the creepy guy.

"Yes, follow the guy with the scary face on his back. Smart idea."

Luckily nearby a young guy and girl had decided it would be a fine idea to go away with the creature. Well the guy thought it was 'cool' and she seemed to not really care. Ben shrugged. "Yes, smart idea," he said at their backs.

He gave a look over the other group, whatever.

With those in front acting as a shield in case the back faced guy really did want to eat them or kill them, Ben slunk along behind. Coward.

Lithiora
03-08-2012, 03:24 PM
Shay Lest

Shay opened her eyes to find herself in a place she truly did not recognize. She had gotten used to people putting things in her drinks at parties and her ending up in places she didn't know when she woke. This, however, was way too freaky for her. Dust swirled around her from the lack of use. She looked down at the dust, there were no drag marks or anything to prove that she had been brought here by any normal methods. Hell, there were even cobwebs on the floor.

The last thing she remembered was being at Danny Brim's party. She knew she went to one of the bedrooms and ended up passing out. Rubbing her head she mumbled, "God, that is the last time I accept kool-aid from the art teacher..." She looked around herself and her eyes shot wide as she saw at least a dozen other bodies, mostly in pajamas it seemed. "What the fuck..." she shot up out of the pew she was in and cocked her head to the side at the misshapen thing in the aisle told them all to follow it.

"Right... let's all follow hunchback... that makes sense..." she sighed and rolled her eyes. There wasn't much else she could do. He was headed toward the exit. She might as well find out where she was. She walked into the aisle and got behind a guy that was obviously as excited about all of this as she was. She leaned over his shoulder, resting her chin on it and smiling as she whispered in his ear, "Well hello there..."

Familiar
03-08-2012, 06:28 PM
She wasn’t naked. That was a problem. Maybe. It was hard to say, really… The white robe that she had been provided with was rather comfy, and Ariella wasted no time whatsoever in giving it a trial spin, laughing as the hem rose up from its resting place. She knew for sure that she didn’t own any gowns like this… She’d never be able to keep them clean, for one. She also knew for sure that she didn’t recognize any of the people that were either laying or standing around her. She may have seen the hunchback-face-man on the back of an album cover, but she really wasn’t sure, one way or another.

Regardless of whether hunchback-face-man was a band logo or not, it was all too clear to Ariella that she was dreaming because she was reasonably sure that she hadn’t fallen asleep in a creepy gothy church with dead flowers everywhere. So, why not enjoy the ride? Absolutely no reason! Stifling a giggle at the end of her train of thought, Ariella stood up and looked around the room, quite pointedly not following after the man with the strange back-face because, honestly, the pretty woman wearing the mask and the wedding dress was a much more interesting figure. It wasn’t until Ariella was only a few feet away that she noticed the odd shape of her ears, the nails on her fingers… But this was a dream, right? Still less weird than the other guy. The real problem was that she really didn’t know what to say now that she was here, the odd girl staring at the demoness in silence for a good thirty seconds before finally settling on “that’s a pretty dress…”

Grant
03-08-2012, 10:23 PM
Felix awoke quietly, opening his eyes slowly as his body adjusted to the unique feeling of being summoned. As his eyes adjusted to the dim light of the chapel, he noticed the sad state of his surroundings, the decayed chapel, his fellow wedding guests, and the demons by the altar. A dream perhaps? Not likely, I rarely dream... But then, where am I? The woman demon's dress stood out to Felix, and caused him to realize that he was in a chapel. The woman demon spoke “Thank you all for attending! I trust-…” Before being cut off by the beastly demon. While the two interchanged a brief conversation, Felix guessed that he must be the guest of a wedding.

The beastly demon's appearance was most peculiar to Felix, reminding him of the horror stories he and his brother used to share as children, but the way he moved was what really interested him, the clumsy enthusiasm made him think of a dog if it walked on two legs. As the demon spoke of how their current clothes were unacceptable, Felix looked down upon his blue pajamas, noticing that the pants had already gotten covered in dirt, and his bare feet were gray as well. As Hindermost galloped towards the door asking for the guests to follow him, Felix thought of what his options were. What a strange creature, I'd love to chat with him, but that other woman by the altar would also be excellent to talk with... I suppose I'll have plenty of time to talk with her, I'd better get dressed properly, I have a wedding to attend after all.

Felix smirked at the situation, following Hindermost slowly, carefully picking his way around the rubble, while stroking his beard and thinking of questions he could ask these strange creatures.

Edynol
03-08-2012, 10:45 PM
Tibbs woke up and triued to take a swig of the bourbon he held in his hand the whole night, but it wasn't there. Soon after he knew something wasn't right. He was not in his bed. He was not in his house. He was not even in his own clothes! He took a looked around with wide eyes wondering where in the hell he was and how exactly he got there. No one could sneak up on him and take him away, and no one could've spiked his bourbon because no one could have gotten into his safe. He then gave a start when he saw others who seemed just as confused as he was and again when what he thought was some woman in a costume appeared, greeting them. "Hey where the hell are we, lady?"

Suddenly, some wretched thing appeared right beside her from thin air and Elroy blinked. I really need to quit drinking, he thought to himself. He then listened to their exchange and reached for the gun in his back holster, but it wasn't there. "The humans are still in their nightwear," the thing said to her. Well, the weird looking thing definitely wasn't human, but apparently the girl wasn't either. Then the thing said, “Come with me, humans! This way!”

Tibbs had enough of this and wasn't about to follow that thing anywhere without some answers. So he took a few steps at them and yelled out. "Hold it right there! No one is going anywhere until you tell us what in the hell is going on. I am an NCIS special agent and you have just kidnapped a government official. You have a lot of explaining to do young lady."

Kris
03-08-2012, 10:51 PM
Not the finest taste, and yet not too shabby like, unless you are god damn critic, may god take pity of your shitty soul!

Alas, He would have liked nothing better than to find the one responsible for his relocating and personally thank the mischievous devil with a nice right hand 'pet' straight up for his abdomen. Suppose lower attack might, oh my, take place by some dear unforgivable circumstances, forgiveness shall be requested still.

But not without a nice warm grin to come along with it.

Fixing his jaws within his hands and licking his teeth and lips he reached his palms for his clothing, making sure they were somehow decent and tidy without a speck of a dust to add for his clumsy embodiment within his night gown. And so, the dear sir approached the hall which seemed to be taken directly from some 50's films, black and white times, may they rest in peace, directly from these years even, with all the dust and mold and dead flowers...

With Curious eyes he studied his surroundings, at least he was not the only one to be improper about his dressing code.

And as much as it pleases him, this knowledge that he was not the only one to be at a total loss around, he realized that someone as honorable as him shouldn't be thrilled at the sight of other's misfortune.

Yet... it was still amusing none the less..

A lady called from her balcony, such a sight surly cannot be of this world. He could barely hear the imps' discussion with all the noise the others around him created. Sure, they were terrified like little mice within a new maze, but he was trying to listen for fuck sake.

Foul words, such language Erebus, surely such fine man as yourself will not let this incident take out the worst in him now, will you? Embrace yourself, correct your stance and be grateful that no one here has heard your dirty thoughts. Really now, you are supposed to be an example you know?

He inhaled and moved closer, slowly adjusting to this new situation.

Isis
03-09-2012, 12:25 AM
When she came into awareness, Zaire reacted to all her surroundings with all the eloquence she could muster.

"What the fuck?"

At least she was still in her clothes. Shorts which had once hung loose on her hips now fit snugly around the curve of her lower belly, the swell of The Fetus barely starting to shadow the folds of her overlarge shirt. She'd probably have to get new shorts soon or something.

"Seriously." The girl turned her head in either direction, taking in the equally disoriented people standing around her like the cast of a particularly bizarre play. Or a bunch of people with hangovers. But the second didn't seem likely, considering that Zaire didn't drink. "What the fuck is going on here?"

"Thank you all for attending! I trust -"

Whipping her head around at the sound of speech, Zaire's mouth dropped open. Immediately, she wished she hadn't looked. The woman with the horns and the oddly colored skin? Not so much the problem. Bizarre as all hell, but Zaire didn't let it faze her. She'd heard of stranger. No, it was the thing with the tongue and the face. It looked like a dog bred with a man gone horribly wrong. Like something from one of her Grandmother's increasingly vivid hallucinations. And it was talking. Zaire turned away. She did not need to subject her eyes to that kind of torture. Plus, if she vomited, it would take nutrition away from The Fetus. Or she could inhale it in her sleep. Or something. Whatever. Zaire didn't like health class anyway.

"Come with me, humans! This way!" The thing ran by them. And Zaire realized that its front end was the least of her worries. A face, complete with fangs and a giant slavering tongue extending down its ass, sprouted directly out of the monster-creature's back. What had she done to deserve dreams like this? She didn't drink, did no drugs, and premarital sex... not really that bad, in the long run. The father of The Fetus was still free. As in, not incarcerated. So why, in the name of Buddha, or Shiva, or whatever you wanted, did she have to look at that thing?

To no one in particular, and particularly to The Fetus, Zaire commented "that is seriously disgusting".

And yet... When the FBI man started to make a speech about personal rights or whatever, she had to make a stand.

Zaire shrugged, one hand in the air, one on her hip. "Seriously? This is either a dream or a hallucination. Not something to have a first amendment cow over. So I don't know about the rest of you, but I..." The stone floor was cold and smooth beneath her bare feet, like it had once been trodden down by an ocean of feet but long lain lonely. "I am going with supercreepypants over here. Just as long as I don't have to actually look at him."

CALYPSO
03-09-2012, 12:56 AM
Rosalyn always had been a light sleeper. As soon as she heard the slightest movement of someone else, her body twitched and her eyes slowly opened. A haze covered her vision, but she was not focused on looking around yet. Not until the conversation was over…

“They’re not ready, Miss.”

“The humans are still in their nightwear. We must give them a chance to change, look their best.”

Humans? Rosalyn quirked a brow and continued eavesdropping; she remained still, even breathing ever so slightly in fear of getting noticed.

“You’ll fix this for me, Hindermost?”

“If that’s what you desire.”

There was another shuffling of feet and voices, making her more alert. As her vision finally cleared, Rosalyn grew baffled as to where she was. “Huh?” She sat up, observing other people who stood and spoke amongst themselves. They were all in a cathedral, long forgotten and aged. Yet what caught her attention was not the debris or the dust, but the two creatures ahead of them. The vile looking one stood by a door, beckoning everyone to follow. Rosalyn, however, was not so sure.

She patted the dirt off her polka dot pajama pants, comforted that she wore socks this time. As she stood, a man abruptly began to shout, practically causing her to jump. He was angry, for sure, and it was best to ignore him for now. Rosalyn began to walk a bit, eyes frantically looking at other people who have not regained consciousness. When she spotted her sister, she gave a small sprint towards her. “Ivy!” She shook her gently, causing the older woman to stir slightly, “Ivy! Thank goodness you’re with me!” She smiled, “I shouldn’t have listened to you about that movie. You said it wasn’t scary, but it was! And I think we’re stuck in one of my nightmares.” She looked at everyone, including the creatures, and turned back to Ivy. “Only, I don’t know these people.”

Lost Goddess
03-09-2012, 01:34 AM
Anahlie awoke to a strange sight. A near fallen apart chapel like interior and an altar at the very end of the isle, away from where she stood. She got up and murmured "Hmm, how weird of my dreams to take me here. I've never encountered such a place before in my drea.... " She looked down to what she was wearing and said out loud failing to see the other people and the hunchback creature in the room " What have i got on?!. Time to wake up Anahlie." At this point she began talking to herself, and looked up to see other people already moving about in the interior following a strange hunchback creature with a face on its back.

Anahlie blushed slightly as she realized that she was in a room wearing only a white gown, and she followed the strange creature that was really giving them no other choice than to follow him out the great chapel doors. She began walking out of the isle of pews that had fallen into disrepair and towards the doors. She made no attempt to talk to the others. Just yet anyway...

She spoke up then to the creature with a slightly shy and wary voice " Umm, excuse me sir..er...thing..it.., but where are we? And, most of all how did i get here?" The last thing she remembered was sleeping in her bed at home after... that was it maybe she was hallucinating, perhaps she had drank a little to much at her friends party, but she didnt even remember when she got home. Perhaps the little man could explain it to her, so she awaited his reply.

Storm
03-09-2012, 02:42 AM
Devon lay on her back as she had in her bed wearing purple training pants and a white pull over t-shirt which highlighted her tan complexion and white socks. As an occupational necessity she was a light sleeper ready to move or defend herself at a moments notice. As her sleep was interrupted by voices in her house … worse yet, it would seem the voices were in her room, she would just barely open her eyes giving appearance of still being asleep to survey who was in her room. She moved her hand toward her night stand to recover her Glock before realizing her night stand was absent. Stirring more from her sleep state to a conscious state she realized she was not in her bed however was laying on a cold hard floor.

Her attention is drawn to the words “Thank you all for attending! I trust-…”. Attending? Attending what? One thing she was clear on, this was no dream for she has many dreams lately … visited by the faces she eliminates … no, this is no dream or nightmare. She moves her hand slowly down her right training pant leg for the sewn in Velcro sealed pocket which she keeps her thin, custom made switch blade. A perplexing oddity comes over her, her knife is gone, hell, she has no pocket. She already dismissed the possibility of being drugged as she is far too careful for those things. This oddity was getting odder by the moment.

As the larger massed thing gallops announcing “Come with me, humans! This way!”, thoughts of ‘As if’ run through her mind. Her eyes open slightly wider to gain better perspective of her surroundings and almost lets out a giggle catching sight of others seemingly following what she now sees as a hideous abomination. More to herself whispers “Yes, blindly follow this … thing … into who knows what” now scanning the area with just eye movement.

Her attention more on Idee and Ariella as the first did seem to be the leader type and wanted to see what was going to happen to Ariella before revealing that she was alert to her surroundings. About that time she heard Tibbs shouting "Hold it right there! No one is going anywhere until you tell us what in the hell is going on. I am an NCIS special agent and you have just kidnapped a government official. You have a lot of explaining to do young lady." She couldn’t help but to let a giggle escape her lips as thoughts of ‘Typical cop’ run through her mind. Cop … could this be … no … not their style of interrogation … and she is always careful to eliminate any witnesses when she does take out her targets.

She continues to lay where she is trying to make sense of what is happening and where she is, who are these other people, what weapons are available should one be needed. Soak in as much as possible before letting it be known I’m awake, that is the only sensible thing I can do for now runs through her mind.

Ru
03-09-2012, 03:32 AM
Wake up, Naomi… Please, wake up…
Fre’, you need’ta sleep. You’ve been watching her for days.
…I am sorry, Kitten… but I can’t sleep until I know she’s…
…Does she even know how much you love her?
…I… I just want to see her smile again… I want her to be okay…

The voices… were distant, though she recognized them barely. In a haze she attempted to recollect her memories and conclude who these tones belonged to only in vain as she was tossed around in the darkness of her nightmares. Lips parted in an attempt to scream; the words were lost in the agonizing silence. All she wanted was to escape, to sing, to stop being alone…

Naomi’s eyes parted into a small slit, hand covering her face from the blinding lights surrounding her in this foreign area. In all her years of living she had not yet set eyes on such a sight as she laid atop the cold marble freezing her bare back. Wearily she pushed herself into a seated position with her palm still protecting her eyes. Once she was up she noted the odd hospital gown lazily tied around her, though no longer as she angrily tore it off and threw it to the side. A scowl remained on her slender face as she gazed around the room in only her dark bra and matching panties until her eyes fell upon the demoness announcing their arrival, or something.

The creature next to her was quite peculiar, though she did not find it quite as ghastly as some of the others seemed to. Nightmares plagued her night after night for as long as she could possibly remember filled with horrific beasts far exceeding the horrific appearance of this seemingly kind, but oddly shaped man. Naomi forced herself onto her feet as her light eyes adjusted to her surroundings. After a few blinks or so she finally mustered up the energy to follow the rest of the group to where they were to dress for the occasion, whatever that may be.

Others spoke amongst each other, though she was unaware what about. Heck, she could care less what the fuck they were talking about. Naomi was too god damned tired to care for anything around her and it would remain this way until her high energy finally kicked in. This was a highly common situation for the rambunctious, headstrong, young woman; high bursts of energy throughout the day until she crashed late in the evening, awoke to breakfast like a zombie, and was back to running around at noon.

AngelicAsylum
03-09-2012, 04:54 AM
“Ivy!”

The voice seemed far away. Ivy barely twitched and tried to sink deeper into her already deep sleep, clearly still exhausted and not ready to greet the day.

“Ivy! Thank goodness you’re with me!”

Rosalyn? Of course she was with her. They lived in the same apartment. She murmured something and turned over, irritated by her little sister constantly pestering her in her sleep. Even since they were children, Rosalyn was the most needy, constantly climbing into HER bed and clinging to her uncomfortably all night. She strethced out her arm, as if to bat the nuisance away. That was when she noticed however, that she was not in her nice warm bed. Instead, Ivy felt a cold floor which was hurting her back.

“I shouldn’t have listened to you about that movie. You said it wasn’t scary, but it was! And I think we’re stuck in one of my nightmares.”

It wasn't scary. It was a psychological thriller, yes, but not something Ivy would call scary. At least not enough for nightmares. And what in the world was Rosalyn talking about? People didn't share nightmares, that was just ridiculous. But...then where was she?

Cautiously, Ivy opened her eyes and immediately felt a flood of panic wash over her. Where the hell were they? Her first instinct was that they were both drugged and kidnapped, though she had no idea how. Who would even do such a thing? But within moments she was sitting up, short hair a mess from several hours worth of sleep.

“Only, I don’t know these people.”

Though her eyes were still cloudy and adrenaline was pumping through her veins, she calmed down long enough to observe her surroundings. They weren't alone - and there was something that wanted them to follow it.

"Rosalyn," she said quietly. "Get behind me. Don't call attention to yourself for once."

Jacogos
03-09-2012, 05:14 AM
Kianna had always complained about Marcus being a heavy sleeper. "What if someone breaks in, hon? You'd never hear them until I beat you within an inch of your life yelling 'Wake up!!'" Marcus had always laughed her off, saying something about how he'd be able to get up when he needed to, that if the time necessitated action, he could be on his feet in seconds.

Apparently, he was right.

Though he was still one of the last one's to full wake up, Marcus was wide awake moments after he realized there were people talking. He sat up, his eyes quickly adjusting to the dim lighting before he realized something was wrong. He was in some sort of run-down chapel, cracks and dust everywhere, sunlight filtering in not just from the windows but from the holes in the roof. Unless he had woken up in one of the ghetto churches on the wrong side of town, he was dreaming...

Something else was wrong though. He distinctly remembered going to sleep, as well as the other dreams he had been having. Rules of dreaming stated that you never remembered the beginning of a dream (which this obviously was), nor did you think about previous dreams while you were in a current dream. Dreaming was very different form reality, if you payed attention... It was something he fascinated himself with when not perusing the Bible. He fancied himself a psychologist in another life, but of course, he was God's messenger in this life, and there was no diverting from that.

That train of thought brought him to another realization. Clutching frantically at his wife-beater (what a TERRIBLE name for a shirt!), Marcus failed to find his necklace, the one with the Lord's Prayer inside the jewel in the cross. He patted himself down, wondering if it had just slipped off in his sleep, then got up and checked the pew he had been sprawled out on. Now it was time to notice that he was not alone.

Peering about at the others, most were white folk also dressed up as well as he was. That is to say, all up in their PJ's. He felt a little underdressed in his boxers, though. Thank the Lord for his wife asserting the 'boxers or couch' rule. Well, this time. Father Williams noticed that some people were causing a commotion about something, he didn't catch what, while others were walking towards a set of doors with what appeared to be a-

"DEMON!!!!" Marcus shouted, immediately searching for the cross he kept on his neck that was no longer there. "DEMON! What the HELL is that doing here!? Where am I?" For a brief moment, he wondered if he had died and gone to hell. This certainly looked like one of those demons from Dante's machinations... But why? Why would he, a preacher of God's word, be sent to Hell?

Calming himself, he figured there must be some explanation for this... whatever it was. He looked around again, and noticed that there was a woman dressed up in a wedding dress and- she was a demon too. Marcus felt his stomach turn at the thought of being surrounded by so many demons. Nonetheless... Maybe there was a reason the others were following the weird dog-man demon... Momentarily losing his mind, Marcus decided that he would follow the demon-man dog, hoping beyond hope that he wasn't dead.

Yoruyonaka
03-09-2012, 09:45 AM
Luke Marcus remembered having a good night as he slept in dreamland. He had a date with a beautiful woman, he even remembered her name this time. Annie. She was sweet. He didn't know if she was the one, but he intended to actually care, rather than be a player. He had the annoying habit of it.

Anyways, he remembered falling asleep next to her after a great night, and dreaming about the beach. Seeing incredibly beautiful women all around him...and her. She appeared and brought a cloud of guilt. Storms shook the dream causing him to remember, how he broke up with her for getting to close. He needed to change.

The dream soon became black. Voices manifested as he slept. Many strange voices. Then, with a pop, everything became clearer. The voices seemed real, incredibly real. Some were panicked, some confused, one person yelled. Luke couldn't understand really what was going on until he opened his eyes. Blinking in the brightness, Luke found himself in a church. He couldn't imagine what to think as he looked around everywhere, his mouth half open, and his eyes swerving to every aspect of the room.

Then his eyes made their way down to himself.

"Shit, I am naked," He scratched his head as he spoke to himself.

Boy, this had to be a dream. He was strike naked except for the bed sheet covering his nether regions. He shook his head with a laugh and looked around at the strange people. They looked just like him; like they just got torn out of bed. It made him think. Was this real? Was he being punished?

Then he noticed the Woman in a bride's outfit. Horns stuck out of her head like a demon. He had to admit, this dream girl was beautiful. Before he could get around to ask the group something, this horrendous thing starts scuttling towards the group. Telling the 'humans' to follow him to get them ready or something. Some seemed to follow, others were reluctant.

"I guess I have no other choice," Luke said to the thing as he tied the sheet around him like a kilt. "I need something to cover my nakedness."

Wattz
03-09-2012, 09:51 AM
Gideon was surprised with how easily sleep had come that night. Usually he stayed up late in a battle with insomnia to get a good few hours in. More often than not he didn’t sleep at all, laying in bed with an anxious mind. But this particular night, he felt content to close his eyes, curl up in a ball, and drift off immediately.

But then he heard the voices all around him.

His eyes popped open. There was no pillow beneath his head, nothing but a hard floor and some debris sticking to his cheek. Gideon sat up slowly, an unsettling headache in his head and an anxious stirring in the pit of his stomach. Strangers. Strangers, strangers, so many strangers. He’d never felt so lucid in a dream as he had now, consciously able to stand, and still just as set on keeping his head down. A group of strangers standing in a chapel, and if this had been a dream, perhaps he would have spoken to one of them. But now, his words were paralyzed as usual.

And then…

He gave a yelp at the sight of the creature before them all, like a mutated, hellish imp with a gaping maw upon its back. Oh, what terrible creatures lurked within the mind’s darkest corners. Gideon silently reprimanded his imagination for letting such a thing lurk around in his thoughts. He backed up nonetheless, the air about them far too tangible, too real as he inhaled.

It beckoned them all to follow. He did not wish to do so. But some were already making their way forward, while others were more reluctant than himself, some more violently than others. Gideon stood still until he found the right amount of peer pressure to push him in one direction or another. Then again, he would be willing to follow the demon’s orders, if only to stop it from tearing him limb from limb.

Tune
03-09-2012, 11:31 AM
Matt believed in vivid dreams, that was true, but as he sat up, still in his pajamas from that night, the scenery before him was bland compared to the graphics he had seen for almost twelve hours. Groaning, he rubbed his eyes, and ruffled his bed head. Then it donned on him. The buzzing in his ears was from the numerous amounts of conversations and murmurs taking place around him.

"Great," he mumbled beneath his breath, dusting dust from his socks.

He leaned back in the pew, draping his arms across the back, watching the dozen or so people move and converse among themselves. There were a couple gingers in the bunch, and a few people with odd hair colors from what he could make out. They all seemed shocked or thrilled to be here. But where was here? A chapel from the looks of it. He hadn't been in a church in a few years, since his father got remarried to some broad he had met in Florida during Spring Break. What a man in his late fifties was doing in Florida on Spring Break, he hadn't the faintest of ideas. And he really didn't want to know.

A woman stood before an altar -if you could call her a woman. She had red hair, a low cut wedding dress from what he could make out from this far away, and horns sticking out of her head. A demon from the looks of her. He had worse dreams, and by far, she was the most tame that ever crossed his mind. Even the impish demon trotting down the aisle, calling for everyone to follow him. From over the shoulders of others, Matt squinted his green eyes to see the gaping mouth of a face on the back of the creature's well... back.

"Well, this sounds fun," he thought aloud.

He really thought against following after the hunched-back demon, but staying in here, among people he didn't know and an oddly depressed looking bride, he chose to follow the demon beckoning him away. Worst thing that could happen is being killed or tormented, then he'd wake up from his dream to return to his every day life. He couldn't exactly stay in his pajamas, as much as he wanted. His tank top was making his arms feel cold.

Matt ignored the loon that shouted about being an NCIS agent, and pushed past some of the people standing around, and followed after the others, his plaid pajama pants legs dragging upon the dusty stone floor. I need a bath, he thought, wrinkling his nose at all the dust. What kind of bride would hold her wedding in this run down place? Duh, a demon.

Kiall
03-09-2012, 08:46 PM
Justin groaned, hearing all the commotion. He hadn't want to get up, but dammit everyone was talking and shouting and acting ridiculous! He had been out at seeing preparing to be catapulted into the blow hole of the great white whale so he could eat its delicious chocolate insides, (of which it was made up of entirely…it was white chocolate) when he then found himself in some broken down chapel with a bunch of strangers. He had to assume he had switched dreams, that happened a lot.

Standing up he looked around the various voices all blurring together, he felt surprisingly drowsy considering for all he knew he was still dreaming. One hand tugged at his black boxers the yellow batman logo emblazoned on the back as his other scratched at his scraggy neck beard. He was still dreaming right? If he was couldn't he now fly? Focusing his will he tried only to be met with nothing, not even some nice hovering.

So was he not dreaming? or wait…maybe this was the kind of dream where he couldn't fly! "Very clever…own psyche!" He said to no one in particular. let's see who else was here…lady, lady, dude, lady, dude, ugh…weird looking lady, dude, dude…"Holy shit! mouth back!" He cried looking at the…thing. God! it looked like the chupacabra as written by H.P Lovecraft. Imphulhu apparently wanted them all to follow him, Justin tugged at his white undershirt.

Was this a nightmare? He looked like a nightmare creature, but if it was he'd be alone and there'd be that sense of fear like in all nightmares, and he couldn't say he was afraid, tired and needing to pee but not scared. "Pff, I ain't ever scurred," he said following the polite sin against god. He ignored the others, he figured most of them would probably fizzle out as his mind forgot to remember them, sure were a lot though.

CALYPSO
03-09-2012, 10:30 PM
"Rosalyn," she said quietly. "Get behind me. Don't call attention to yourself for once."

She calmly stood behind her sister, casually glancing over some of the people. A demon. That's what someone called it; so that's what they were. She honestly never gave it thought since she hated movies or stories about them. Yet here she was, surrounded with strangers and demons; why would she have a nightmare about this? She placed her hand on Ivy's shoulder, "For once?" She giggled, "You act like I do the silliest things."

She stepped forward, watching some of the crowd following Hindermost. "Hm, why don't we follow him?" She asked Ivy, "If we are attacked, the quicker we are to wake up from this, right?" She gave her an assuring smile with a small shrug. Rosalyn didn't know what was the best choice, to sit and wait like some or accompany the group that began to leave. Any type of action was bound to wake both of them up.

She walked as she attempted to fix her bed hair, wanting to be somewhat presentable other than pajamas. At least she wasn't half naked like that woman or the men. Taking a step closer, she glanced over the female demon; she was beautiful in a way and she definitely loved her dress. Rosalyn, in her mind, focused on the details of her dress, rather than the scary mouth face on the small demon's back. What total opposites, she thought.

Merry
03-10-2012, 04:48 AM
Camilla couldn’t believe it. They were at it again. Groaning she rubbed her eyes, mentally cursing the neighbors and their stupid fighting. Every night now, it was the same thing. Fighting, yelling, crashing noises, voices, murmuring… murmuring? Her eyes fluttered open, then widened as she realized something was wrong. Something was very wrong. This was not her room, at all. She quickly closed her eyes again, tightly. It’s a dream. It has to be. Keeping her eyes closed, she counted to ten, barely breathing in the process. Opening her eyes, slightly, just peeking through her long lashes to see that the nightmare she was in was still in full effect.

She quickly sat up, and looked around. There were groups of people milling about, some starting to move away. It came to a slight shock to her, as she looked down at herself to realize she was still in her night clothes. A thin, pearl colored, silky, lacy trimmed negligee. Looking at the people standing near her, it was a bit of a surprise to see everyone in some form of night wear, although on some level it did make her feel a little better, since she was in the same predicament.

Standing up, slowly, she started to ask someone, anyone, what was going on, really wondering if she was still dreaming. Before she could actually speak aloud, her eyes caught the form that some of the crowd was starting to follow. At first her mind refused to translate what it was. It wasn’t something she could comprehend. It was moving, and speaking, but it wasn’t… human. ”DEMON” someone yelled in the crowd and she felt the room start to spin. She remembered stories from her childhood, growing up in the rural hills of Brazil. They were awful, horrific stories, of people missing, and families torn apart. People possessed by evil spirits, and her mother and aunts sitting around the porch talking about malevolent monsters and… demons. Then the room went black, as she fell to the ground.

Lithiora
03-11-2012, 12:19 AM
Shay & Ben

A feminine voice whispered a greeting in his ear, and the human contact made him uneasy, awkward. He shied away and turned to look upon the stranger, weird Chapel Ben had received more womanly interest that he'd normally have in a month. She had nice straight white hair, she looked a little younger that he was, she was pretty.

"I see you've decided to foolishly follow that thing as well," he commented, wow Ben what a nice way to say hello. He gestured to the boy and girl ahead of himself, "Or perhaps wish to see what happens to that pair."

Hesitantly, he grudgingly added, "I'm Ben."

Shay's eyes lit up when he turned around. She hadn't expected much of a reaction to her at all, what with the freaky deformed thing in front of them. "I don't think of it as foolish at all... in fact I find it intriguing. It's only foolish if my death is the result of the choice I make." She beamed at him. "What happens to everyone else is of no concern to me. My name is Shay."

Ben smiled at her, "that is my view as well, just interested in seeing what happens them." He jerked his thumb at the pair near the face-back creature.

She stuck out her hand for him to shake and tilted her head to the side, staring at him until he shook her hand back. "That's quite a plain name there Benny." She teased him, tussling his already messy hair, "You've got a nice look to you. Like someone woke you from rolling down a cliff..." she giggled and then smiled at him once more, her eyes sparkling with delight.

Oh what the hell, might as well shake hands. More human contact than the last six months.

Oh mother of fuck now she was teasing him, screwing up his hair, what next. Wishing he had died from rolling down that cliff, he replied, "feels like that too. You are-" pretty, yeah, say that, "- better off than I it seems." Great response.

Shay giggled, her cheeks flushing at the thought. "I should be better off. I could swear though that I had been ruffied at the party I was just at... so... perhaps I should make the best of it." Even though she was not yet ready to admit that she may not have been drugged, she knew that it was not likely that she had been. "Where are you from Benny love? Obviously not where I'm from, since I'm sure I'd remember someone so... interesting."

Benny love? "Interesting, not really, just some small town," he said rather vaguely. Maybe some sense, he justified, handing out details like that to these Chapel people didn't seem like a smart idea. Rather roughly he added, "let's hurry and follow that thing."

Auki
03-11-2012, 10:53 PM
Idée Fixe watched her demon companion run off with a fond eye, expecting the humans to follow along obediently. Some did, others were more difficult. Taking her calm gaze off the exiting party, she took it upon herself to address those that spoke to her. They were guests, after all – She couldn’t be rude.

Some approached her directly while many merely lingered, unsure what to do.

“That’s a pretty dress…”

Taken back, she murmured a quick “Thank you.” Her head dipped into the gracious bow that courtesy demanded. Her hesitance abided slightly until another man came forth.

"Hold it right there! No one is going anywhere until you tell us what in the hell is going on. I am an NCIS special agent and you have just kidnapped a government official. You have a lot of explaining to do, young lady."

The term ‘NCIS’ did not mean anything to the poor demon. She blinked twice, confused as to his outburst. “I’m sorry if I’ve upset you, sir,” she stammered, “I only ask you attend this day as a favour, nothing more.” Her steps were light upon the dust-clad floor as she glided forward. She had no intention of letting them go home; it would be so rude of them to ask.

Roy glared at the girl, a look of both anger and confusion on his stern features. "I don't need any apologies," he said, never caring much for apologies. "What I need is an explanation. You ask, you say? Isn't much of a request as it is a demand when you give us no choice in the matter."

“It’s bad luck to have people shouting on your wedding day,” she muttered quietly, not liking the confrontation yet remembering her place above them. They were powerless here; no matter her distaste for violence, she couldn’t allow herself to be brought down by a lesser being. “You weren’t doing anything productive with your time; dreams are for frivolous minds.”

Stopping beside him, she met his gaze, “If I send you back, I send everyone back. I cannot allow that to happen. It would ruin everything.”

Roy shook his head. "Dreams are for...That is the dumbest damn thing I've ever heard. Many great things are inspired by dreams." He then waved a dismissive hand. "But that's beside the point. Answer my question. What is the point in all this?"

Humans have strange theories, she mused before answering.

“The ‘point’…” she said flatly, “is that without an audience for my wedding, the vows become null. Whether you want to be here or not, this would all be over faster if you followed our command.”

Elroy chuckled then. "A wedding? And you speak of dreams being frivolous thing? I've been married four times." He then snorted. "Marriage. Now there's a frivolous thing." He then sighed and shook his head. "Very well, the sooner we get this farce over with the better. Where can I find some clothes?"

She sighed audibly the moment he said ‘marriage’, ignoring the mockery of his tone as her mind turned to happier thoughts. “Love is a beautiful thing. You should be honoured to witness such a display of a couple’s affections.” Seemingly, one of the girls was so touched that she promptly fainted back to the floor. Idée was there beside her in the split of a second, quite literally, with the prowess of her demon kind.

“As for clothes, you really should follow Hindermost,” she mused between disjointed humming, her hands lying on the unconscious girl before. “He’s harmless, I can swear.” Her power sparked at her pale fingertips, seeping into the girl, revitalising her mind and forcing her to wake. It was dangerous for humans to sleep in a world not their own, enough of a risk that even Idée grew concerned.

A death on the day of her wedding would not bring good fortune.

“Do you think Hindermost knows not to dress them in white?” She asked the air, talking to herself more than anything.

“Perhaps you can go ask him?” Now she addressed the remaining humans, “It really won’t do for you to sit around in your nightwear anyway.”






~



He could have cried for all the insults thrown his way, but he couldn’t break down in front of poor Idée. A man shouted ‘Demon!’ like it was an insult – How mean of him. It was a shame that Hindermost had to be strong or else things might fall apart.

Luckily, one girl was kind, building his ever-waning confidence by the mere fact of approaching him.

"Umm, excuse me sir... er...thing... it.., but where are we? And, most of all how did I get here?"

“Call me Hindermost, milady. Everything else will be talked about…” His voice dropped to a low whisper, “…outside.”

With a small yelp, he scuttled further on, making sure that people were still following him. Not everyone did, but it was enough. He had accounted for the stubbornness of humans before he even looked behind to count the group that trailed. It will be fine, he assured himself, It will all be fine. The aged wood pressed splinters into his palms as he pushed open the chapel doors.





http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Angel-Of-Mist/Hillcopy.png

Revenant Hill

The location of the Chapel.

The grass is brittle to the touch, and the flowers display
thorns capable of drawing blood.

Multiple paths have been paved, leading down the hill
in different directions.




Finally trotting outside, he felt more at ease, escaping the presence of Idée for a few moments. The breeze filled his mouths with its chilled taste, refreshing after the dusty air of before. Brambles and thistles lined the paths that led away from the Chapel. He wondered if they could hurt the humans; they didn’t even scratch a demon’s skin. Bounding outside, he landed his rear across the ground, his hind leg reaching up to scratch the side of his head. They were out of earshot now.

“Gather round, peoples!” He said with an awkward gesture, indicating them to come closer. Both his jaws stretched into a toothy grin, “Hindy wants to help you guys!”

He expected insults and cynicism, so he didn’t give them time to speak before he rushed on loudly.

“Miss Idée has invited you all to see her wedding. She stole your souls – I’m sorry! I’m sorry! – and you can’t go back until she releases the spell.”

His foot came to a rest so he could lift himself into a crouch.

“Nice, easy, you think, yes? Just watch the wedding and you’ll be free.”

Their eyes were so piercing, he realised, not liking the way they could stare so intently.

“But see, groom will not be showing… Miss Idée has waited weeks for him to appear. Her mind has grown distraught; she doesn’t listen when Hindy tries to explain. She wants to have complete faith that her lover will come.”

Sadness and anxiety intermingled, coming forth strongly in his voice.

“If Miss Idée does not send you back soon, your souls will start to die in this world. You must be careful, you must.”

He pawed at the ground gently, unable to stay still as he threw endless information at them.

“Hindy tried to talk to the groom. He only lives at the hill’s bottom. Perhaps humans have more luck? Hindy will lead you, help you, but has no other ideas.”

V
03-12-2012, 07:59 AM
After he'd followed that thing called Hindermost out into the open air Ben looked out over the hill and down some of the paths leading away. The plant life looked quite inviting and not deadly at all. Why, maybe, he should roll down the hill - complete that look for Shay. He scowled at the stuff.

Ben kept to himself, wrapping his arms around his uncovered stomach. He watched Hindy dance and squirm about as it explained about the wedding. Oh great it wanted to help them talk the groom into attending.

Gee, couldn't "Miss Idée" have found a more worthy soul than his. She was completely mad, he was gonna die here now. Obviously this groom had the right idea and probably was the only sane one.

Ben sighed unhappily and said with sarcasm, "Why this sounds easy enough, convince this guy - who doesn't want to be here - to marry her and we all live happily ever after. Sure, I can see this going well."

SmileyCassandra
03-12-2012, 11:56 AM
Marie & Andy

"Why this sounds easy enough, convince this guy - who doesn't want to be here - to marry her and we all live happily ever after. Sure, I can see this going well."

Marie rolled her eyes at this. She could since there was sarcasm in the way he said it. That was exactly why she couldn't remain nice to people. They were sarcastic! Really? In this situation? While there is some type of thing, where their ass could freaking eat you? Wow. It took her a lot to hold her tongue, and say nothing in this situation, he said nothing to her so she shouldn't lash out on him.

She shook her head, and took a step forward. "As long as your butt does not eat me, I will gladly follow you" she said, her voice nice and friendly. Even if it was some type of creature, or demon, what ever it was she would do her best to be polite. It was all he was doing to them, he wasn't sicking his ass on them, so why be rude?

"You are Hindermost correct? I am Marie, and this is my brother Andy" she said, pulling Andy to stand next to her. She wanted to stay on this things good side, even if that meant not reacting to the fact he wasn't human. She smiled once more waiting for him to speak. Though he wouldn't have a chance, because Andy had to go and open his freaking mouth.

"Dude. You. Are. So. Freaking. Cool" he said, his voice sounding his amazement. He loved cool things like this, and figured it would be cool to hang out with some type of demon. "Do you use your butt to eat people? That would be so awesome! Such a great way to go out of the world" he said, his eyes shining in envy. Both he and Marie seem to not care about the whole dying situation. It was in their blood, they didn't really care. When the time came, it came.

"You are my new role-model" Andy said, taking a step closer to Hindermost. He loved this new place, his new surroundings. He decided to ignore the sarcastic dude completely. Even though he wanted to slap him silly for talking like that toward such cool thing like Hindermost. Andy smiled, a childish mischievous smile. And took on more step closer to the demon.

"Okay, I know you will probably want to kill me by the end of this adventure, but I need to ask. You are so freaking cool. Anyways about my question, after we help that beautiful woman get married, do you want to play some pranks on my sister?" he asked, grinning ear to ear. His voice was a whisper, so Marie couldn't hear him.

Honestly, it was his weird way of saying he would help. Even if it came across to make him look like a crazy person. He laughed slightly, and glanced back at Marie. Who was staring at him with curious eyes. Andy then turned back to Hindermost, and held out his hand. "It's nice to meet you" he said, his voice amazed by the creature before him.

Jacogos
03-13-2012, 12:21 AM
At the back of the pack following the dog-demon man, Marcus was slightly lost in thought, mourning the loss of his cross, the one thing that would be able to help him out right now. Not only was it fact that crosses were a demon's bane, but it was a comfort thing. He had gotten it from his wife on their first anniversary, and he had kept it close ever since. Damn, he missed Kianna right about now...

He was pulled from his musings as a bramble stuck him on the shin, causing him to yelp loudly in pain and surprise. Taking the moment to look around, Marcus noted that that wasn't nearly the only bramble bush on the hill. Wonderful. He peered around at the sky, getting a rather gloomy feeling from the looks of things. While it didn't REALLY look like they were in another world... Things just didn't feel right here. Hell, even that pin prick from the bramble didn't hurt like you'd think it would. Drawing his eyebrows together in thought, Marcus himself didn't even know what he meant by that.

"Man, I'm just tired..." He grumbled to himself, then realized that the others had moved on. Picking up the pace, the preacher made it within earshot of the man-demon dog as it began to speak. And then he caught something about their souls.

"She did WHAT?!" Marcus demanded of the oddball dog, trying to get a little closer through the rather small group of people. He didn't want to veer off and cut his legs open on the brambles, but he also didn't want to shove anyone. He paused, though, when the demon-dog man mentioned them dying here.

Marcus slowly looked down at the scratch on his leg. A single droplet of blood was trying to run down his leg, not very obvious against his black skin, but still there. He could feel it. It made his skin tingle. They were trapped in a demonic world, obviously Hell, and they were dying a slow death. And the only way out... Was to listen to this man-dog demon...

"Oh dear Lord, our Savior... Hear my plea for mercy if you can. Through you I shall fear no evil..." He said quietly, continuing to listen to Hindermost. It was obvious that their best bet was to talk to this man... Though one of the others put it rather sarcastically, mentioning how it was obvious that the demon groom wanted to be here as much as they did. Not at all.

"Sure... yeah... We can do that..." Marcus muttered. Lord, please help me, he thought. I need your strength now more than ever...

Lost Goddess
03-13-2012, 02:18 AM
Anahlie took in the information that the man/demon told her calmly and nodded in acknowledgement as he told her they would find out how and where they were, when they stepped outside of the great chapel. She followed Hindermost outside the chapel and stopped on a field that seemed teeming with lifelessness. That bothered her, but not as much as what Hindermost said about her soul slowly dying. She sighed and spoke to herself " Well, if i am to die here, better make the most of it."

She turned to Hindermost and said " Hindermost, how are we to change our clothing, and how are we to convince the demon groom to attend his wedding?" She asked these questions matter of factly, and meant no disrespect though her tone was full of slight discomfort. She would prefer not to die in this relam, but would anyway if that was to be the outcome for her and the group of strangers that were trapped here due to a spell cast by the demon woman.

AngelicAsylum
03-13-2012, 03:01 AM
"Well doing silly things is something you're pretty good at, Roselyn!" she scolded. It was no use, however. Her younger sister was off again, following that thing with all the trust of a young child. When was her sister going to grow up? How much longer would Ivy have to constantly take care of her? Immediately she sprinted after her, trying to make sure she kept Roselyn shielded from the creature as best as possible. "I don't think this is a dream!" she whispered harshly into her sister's ear. "I think we're in a whole lot of trouble if we don't get out of here soon..."

But they continued to follow the creature, Ivy unwilling to leave her sister to it's devices. Her mind was racing with possibilities. Was this some kind of cult? Some kind of weird science experiment? No... no then it would be unethical. But what else could explain the strange woman and that terrifying monster leading them away? The only thing Ivy was completely certain of was the extreme danger they were in.

This was not eased after their predicament was "explained" to them.

Now, she was certain this was some kind of sick cult, perhaps far too delusional to even realize the ridiculousness of their own beliefs. Ivy grabbed onto Roselyn's wrist, partially to keep her in her immediate grasp, and partially for her own comfort. She was terrified - not that her expression was give it away.

Tune
03-13-2012, 10:27 AM
Matt stood next to a couple that, after very little consideration to privacy, introduced themselves to the demon as 'brother and sister'. Odd thing to tell a demon, he thought, shifting around uncomfortably in the crowd. Marie and Andy were their names. He let the others speak around him, listening to a black preacher murmur religious prayers. He stepped closer to the preacher, and whispered in his ear.

"Don't you think saying prayers in Hell will cause backlash, Reverend?"

He didn't mean to sound patronizing, condescending... Hell, he wasn't even sure what word to describe himself with. Thank God there isn't a therapist around. He ruffled his hair, and yawned. Looking out over the hill side, Matt could make out the wary paths carved through bramble bushes, the spiked 'thorns', if you could call them thorns. He had regretted wearing pajama pants before, but after looking at the bramble bushes again, he now thanked his cold skin and responsibility. Imagine wearing boxers and walking through those things, he thought, trying not to snicker to himself.

They were up for a rude awakening. Matt nodded before speaking up, "They're right - how are we supposed to convince a demon to marry whatshername if he doesn't want to be here?"

If everything the demon, Hindermost, said was true, he doubted his mortal soul would be worth much, lest it wouldn't have been stolen by a demon in his sleep. He wandered off towards one of the paths, stopping before he got too far away from the group. He wasn't the 'take charge' type of person, but who would be? Perfect thing to be waking up to, he thought, wonder what the run-away groom's going to look like.

Lithiora
03-13-2012, 03:12 PM
Shay followed Hindermost outside and looked silently around as he spoke. She got down on her knees and touched one of the thorns lightly with her finger, wincing as immediately blood flowed from the wound. "We can still bleed here...." her voice sounded in both shock and fear. Now she was worried, if Hindermost was any indication of what things looked like here, the likelihood of her dying just doubled... "Fan-fucking-tastic...."

She stood, sucking on her finger to get the blood trickle to stop as she listened. "So... what if I think that my outfit is perfectly appropriate for a wedding? Everyone else looks like they got taken from their beds. I at least look semi-made up.... I don't think I should have to change..." she glared pointedly at Hindermost, almost daring him to say something. Inside though, she was yelling at herself to stop acting so tough in a place she obviously did not know of.

Ru
03-13-2012, 07:09 PM
A tinge of regret pecked at her brain each time her ankles were scratched by the rough texture of outside. Oh, how she should have worn pajamas instead of sleeping in her underwear, specifically the really soft pair with rubber duckies that had kick ass Mohawks a friend gave her for a birthday one year. Now that she thought about it… Naomi stopped in her tracks, watching the others continue to follow Hindermost a bit more before even the demon ceased leading. Wasn’t… I wearing them last time I went to sleep? she pondered this, but only for a moment before she darted back up towards the group until she was next to the demon and a pair of siblings with a brother who seemed to be unable to get over the demon’s appearance. Truthfully, she agreed with him, but she wasn’t going to shower him in compliments; she would feel terribly obnoxious.

“Ooo! A wedding?” Naomi chimed, clapping her hands together. “I can sing for her, if she’d like. I’m awful good,” she chuckled, knowing full well it was not the time to say such things, whether true or not. All she ever cared for back home was singing, even resorting to ditching school several times for gigs or simply to practice in secrecy. If it wasn’t for one of her closest friends insisting she continue her education it is likely she would have dropped out a long time ago, but he told her it was her ticket out of the hell hole she lived in. Even so, she loved finding any excuse to sing her heart out; surely the demoness had someone already in mind, but she still wanted to offer her services.

While others around her had on grim expressions upon the reveal of their souls being trapped she seemed to either not hear a lick of what he said on it or she chose to ignore it for her grin was still etched out upon her slender features. Naomi placed a fist on her jutted out hip with a snicker, “A’right. Talk to the groom, eh? I can do that. Sure.” Her freehand waved it off casually as if speaking to a strange demon came naturally to her.

Naomi shot a glance over her shoulder, shooting the previously waving hand up into the air. “Anyone else want outta here? Let’s go!” whether anyone else followed her she could care less. The barely clothed redhead pressed on in the direction Hindermost indicated, ignoring the bleeding of her bare ankles and calves.

Isis
03-13-2012, 08:40 PM
Well, alright then. They had been kidnapped by a jilted demoness. If they didn't make some guy marry a crazy woman, they were going to die - or their souls were? What exactly did that mean for their bodies? And mainly, Zaire really, really had to pee.

"Hey. Hey you." Futilely, she poked at her belly, mock glowering at the thing. "Hey. Get off my bladder."

Naturally, the fetus made no response.

"You're heavy," Zaire complained, ignoring the odd looks she was getting from the other trapped humans. "And I can't play a negotiator if you're distracting me by being heavy." It made no sense, really, this teenage girl talking to her stomach as though it could answer. She paused.

"Fine, then. I'm just going to go, and if I pee in front of the demon, then it'll be your own fault if you don't get born." The brunette crossed her arms across her chest, glowering for a moment. Then, as abruptly as she'd begun talking to herself, she stopped. She didn't explain this part to the onlookers, but her bleeding and scratched legs hurt like bitches and the fetus clearly wasn't budging on this subject. Might as well just get it over, get back to her body and maybe not miss the ultrasound appointment that was supposed to happen today... tomorrow. Whenever.

"Okay, I vote for a rear guard," Zaire addressed the group. "I'll go ahead with her, and then if whoever this is tries to eat us or the negotiation goes badly, someone else can try." With a shrug - they could follow her directions or not, but Zaire didn't want to just be left behind on this one - she turned and began mincing down the hill, careful to avoid embedded rocks or any other such unfortunate thing. Easy enough, just watch the ground and if she glanced up occasionally, the red hair of the girl in front of her was as good as a guiding beacon.

Kiall
03-14-2012, 05:34 PM
Justin stood listening to the crazy imp and his explanation for why they were here. Man this was some crazy lucid dreaming! What a surprisingly detailed plot. Looking down at his feet he hissed, he was getting cut up from all the brambles, he wish he could materialize some shoes.

He looked up only to hear one of the girls announce she was leaving to find this demon husband type. “Yeah! I like her enthusiasm!” he said to no one in particular before following after her. “ow..ow! jesus! Fuck!” He cried out as he felt the brambles and thorns cut his feet. “Hey! Do either of us know anything about healthy relationships!?” He called out to the girl. “Cause I sure don’t and that might be a problem!”

Merry
03-14-2012, 11:02 PM
As the others all seem to be awake and some have wandered off with the hideous looking thing, she slowly sits up looking more in Idee’s direction. She focuses more upon the man who had identified himself as a NCIS agent. Could this just be happenstance or somehow were they already aware that he current target was a high ranking Marine holding up approval of a multi-billion dollar defense contract. Her current employer paid for this job up front knowing that a hit of this magnitude would have heat on everything that moved for months. Now here she was in what she still has not come to terms with … and one of the people in this … situation … was an Agent with NCIS. Devon finally stands from the cold dusty floor taking a moment to dust off her purple training pants and white pull over.

Thoughts of Time to find out what makes these people tick run through her mind as she slowly makes her way toward Elroy. Her tone soft and a smile graces her lips “You are a Federal Agent? I feel safe already in this hell we seem to be in.” extending her hand “My name is Kim … real pleasure to meet you … although would be better under different circumstances.” while casting a gave over toward the attractive woman Idee is hovering over.

Tibbs started to go help the woman who fainted, but paused when the Idee woman rushed over to help her. "This is all sorts of madness," he said to himself as another woman approached him, introducing herself as 'Kim'. Somehow, he thought 'Kim' to be awfully simplistic to be her real name, but he'd been wrong before so he didn't think much of it. "Name's Tibbs," he said simply as he took her hand in a firm grip. "I am really hoping this is just a really vivid dream, but I have a sinking feeling there are forces at work we can't even begin to understand."
Camilla’s eyes fluttered open once more, and with a small squeak of alarm, that she quickly suppressed, she scuttled herself back away from the demon, Idee, shaking in fear, looking about her surroundings, again. “what..what did you do to me” she whispered under her breath, her face portraying her fear as her mind raced at the thoughts of what had transpired when she had passed out.

As Camilla backs away, she takes that opening to portray herself as a concerned woman, mostly for Tibbs' benefit. Although never meeting the agent, the name did sound familiar …. Yes … that agent was present when NCIS took out Lee Kai. Devon having been hired to eliminate the rouge assassin was in town the day Kai was killed. Although never being on scene, her employer kept her well informed when they cancelled the contract NCIS did for free.
Devon moves quickly toward Camilla offering a soft “Stay with us, you should be safe” nodding in Tibbs' direction “..he’s a Federal Agent. My name is Kim, Kim Prescott” offering her hand to Camilla. Yes, she will use her alias she set up for her current job though in their current situation, gaining some idea what is happening seems more important. “We do seem to be in some odd predicament” offering back to Tibbs “And as odd as this is, this is no dream … no one ever thinks they dream when actually dreaming.”

As Roy knelt down to help the girl to her feet, he shot a look at the demon. "Hey, why don't you let us be for a moment. Your presence here isn't exactly comforting to her," he said bluntly, though there wasn't any anger in his voice this time. Whoever...whatever this woman was, after studying her a bit, Gibbs concluded that maybe she wasn't a bad guy, not intentionally, anyways. If anything, she had an innocence about, a child like ignorance that didn't understand the consequences of her action. It was endearing, in a way. But in another way, it made Tibbs extremely wary. Whatever abilities this creature might have, it didn't comfort Tibbs much that she might be mentally unstable.

Tibbs turned his attention to Camilla then, rubbing her shoulder softly with one hands while grabbing her hand with the other. "Hey there. Everything's fine. Can you tell me your name? Where you're from?" He spoke softly, not a hint of fear in his voice as he tried the soothe the girl's nerves. Without taking her eyes off off Idee, Camilla responded, her voice crackling a little with her nerves. “I’m Camilla, and I’m from Manhattan, downtown” clinging to his fingers, as though it were a life line to her sanity. “I was asleep and now….” She trailed off. “I just want to go home, everything is Not Fine.” she wept softly, moving to slide her body closer towards Tibbs, while keeping her eyes glued to Idee.

co-post w/ merry, edynol, storm

CALYPSO
03-15-2012, 01:01 AM
“Well, how are we supposed to get out of here?” She asked Ivy, “I think it’s best we just follow and go where we need to go,” she whispered back.

She was, however, baffled by their predicament. Out of all the people in the world, why was her soul stolen? As soon as she felt Ivy grab onto her wrist, Rosalyn caressed her hand to assure her that everything will be all right. She stared at her, “Let’s just do what we need to do and… hope for the best!”

A few people began to follow the half naked woman, but she didn’t want to wander off yet. The tiny thorns snagged at her pajama pants that she didn’t want to move just yet. Instead, she listened for a while. She listened to the witty remarks, the prayers, and the voice of concern. Rosalyn was pretty concerned too; after all she didn’t want her or her sister’s soul to die.

“How tragic that her groom does not wish to show up at their wedding,” she finally spoke up. “Miss Idee’s heart must be so broken. Poor thing,” she said genuinely. Rosalyn stepped forward and looked at the crowd before her, “Looks like we’re all stuck here, so it’s best to introduce ourselves and not be strangers. My name is Rosalyn.” She glanced at Ivy, “This is my sister, Ivy.”

Wattz
03-16-2012, 02:31 AM
Gideon’s hands were stuffed into the pockets in his pajama pants, head looking down at the hunched demon. He blinked, shifted a bit from one foot to the other, but only when the mentioning of his stolen soul came up did he stop fidgeting. He simply stared, blinking occasionally, but unsure if he should be dumbfounded or not. Something in his gut was telling him that the ordeal was not a simple dream. The air was too tangible. But since it was real… it meant he had no soul.

No soul, no soul, but he felt no different for it. Just watch the wedding, and he would be free. Just talk to the groom, convince him to marry the woman in the pretty dress. Oh dear, Gideon was lucky there were so many others here to do the talking. He had no idea what he’d do if he had to go alone, to convince him by his lonesome. His head sunk down a little lower at the thought.

So, so many people. He had to keep his head down to avoid looking at any of the more… scantily dressed ones. Gideon really did not wish to speak to the groom, but most people were heading in that direction anyways, if not all of them. Why stand out by staying behind? He followed along slowly (making sure to stay well out of Hindermost's sights), keeping himself busy by trying to see if he felt any different for lack of a soul.

Auki
03-16-2012, 09:11 PM
Few of the humans seemed eager to approach him, but thankfully, most listened to what he had to say. That alone made Hindermost happy, although he shied from their resulting attention, negative or otherwise. He tentatively shook the hand of a boy named Andy, but grew frightened when they addressed him with their words.

“I didn’t have any more ideas…” he found himself whispering quietly, their cynicism apparent. No matter their soft and colourful faces, humans were not as nice as they appeared. “He won’t tell me why he’s not attending the wedding – Says it’s none of Hindy’s business.”

A few of the humans had already taken action, walking down the southern path towards the groom’s house. With a nervous bout of energy, he bounded after them, tumbling shortly but managing to roll back to his feet. “It’s your business though, isn’t it? He might give you an answer!”

Skipping down the hill, the scenery was much the same as it had been before. Hindermost crunched upon the brambles as though they were only grass, the thorns pressing against his flesh but not breaking the skin.





http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Angel-Of-Mist/Hutcopy.png

The Pigeon Keeper’s Hut

Located on the edge of the sea,
the shack appears to be abandoned.

You can see many sharp weapons littered
on the water bed, most broken and ruined.

It smells strongly of burning around here.





"Court! It's Hindy if it pleases you!"

His voice was loud, booming. He waved his arms as though encouraging them all to introduce themselves the same way.

At a quieter volume, he added, “A woman must be the one to actually knock upon his door! Remember to be polite. He is temperamental nowadays.”

The demon smiled, blissful. It was fun to be useful.

Isis
03-16-2012, 11:30 PM
Behind, then in front of them, the demon-creature scampered down the hill so erratically that Zaire couldn't help wondering whether or not he had full control of his limbs. Where thorns punctured her feet - if she got blood poisoning, Zaire was going to be more than angry - he trampled over the unkind ground as easily as if it meant nothing.

As a result of her caution, and that of the other humans, 'Hindy' reached the bottom of the hill before they did. He reminded Zaire of someone on drugs or an unmedicated ADHD kid. "Court!" the demon called, his voice strong where it before had been antsy. "It's Hindy if it pleases you."

Like they were confidantes, the ass-faced demon murmured to the group; “A woman must be the one to actually knock upon his door! Remember to be polite. He is temperamental nowadays.”

Well, alright then. Polite, Zaire thought she could probably do - she had parents, didn't she, and there had to be a way to get by with them. Plus, there was crazy Grandma Corinne and she took some patience... though not necessarily politeness. Bad example. Temperamental, she understood. Politeness in the face of temperament, maybe yes, maybe no.

Oh, what the hell. She had a vagina. Baby bump to prove it. In Ancient Rome, a fifteen-year-old would count as a woman, even if she didn't in the real world. This wasn't the real world, though, it was a world of ass-faced demons.

"So, Hindy..." Zaire tried to smile, but it came off as a kind of half-grimace. "Uh, thanks, I guess." If they all had to be polite, she might as well start brushing up on it. Really, Zaire would have liked to do this alone. Maybe with the other girl, if she had to, but all these people just seemed designed to screw things up. She didn't want to die because someone else couldn't not eat his or her own foot. An ounce of prevention, and all.

"Funny, Fetus," she murmured to the baby, then took a step forward, running her knuckles across the door like the scale of a percussion instrument.

"Hello, uh, Court," the young woman called. What was it face-ass demon had said? "I'm Zaire... Um, if you're okay with that." Close enough, right? So she didn't have Elizabethan speak down. If someone smote her for that, they had problems. "Oh, and The Fetus. The Fetus hopes it pleases you too."

V
03-16-2012, 11:34 PM
Some of the group was wandering down the hill already, heading toward the groom's house. "I can see that being a success," he commented at their backs. He looked about at the other paths. Well, they couldn't lead somewhere worse, and even if they did he wouldn't have to put up with this group. Yes, facing potential unknown danger is better then interaction with others. Makes sense.

At least he wouldn't have to put with being called "Benny love." He eyed Shay, well that settled it.

“Looks like we’re all stuck here, so it’s best to introduce ourselves and not be strangers. My name is Rosalyn.” She glanced at Ivy, “This is my sister, Ivy.”

"I'm Ben, and I'm going over that way." He said abruptly without even bothering to look at the woman who was talking. He made a vague gesture about the location, one of the other paths. "Don't all have to be stuck together," he commented afterward, perhaps a little quieter.

Then off he was on his merrily lonesome way, skipping through the thorns onto whatever insanity awaited him. Hurray! Or, well, walking down a path.

Lithiora
03-16-2012, 11:52 PM
Shay watched silently as Ben walked down a different path from the rest of them. Interesting, he seemed to not want company. Whelp, that was too damn bad. She sped down the path he took and crept her way up behind him, lightly tapping his shoulder before going to stand in front of him. "Hello again Benny love. Do you wish to be alone with yourself? Honestly, I'd want to as well after seeing so many half-naked women around me if I was obviously a virgin." She snickered and stood next to him, humming to herself.

"I decided to follow the only person here that seems to not want this dream to end. Though, I do not know your thoughts, those are mine. My life sucks outside of here. How about yours Benny love?" She couldn't help but call him something she knew would bug him. She could tell by his posturing that she was an annoyance to him at this point. Oh well, it couldn't he helped.

"Don't you want to talk to me Benny love? I sure want to talk to you!" She tousled his messy hair for the second time so far before giggling and twirling in a circle, running ahead of him and then running back. Pretending to be hyper was loads of fun. She was probably driving him insane.

Auki
03-17-2012, 08:34 AM
To the Northeast





http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Angel-Of-Mist/DemonsShopcopy.png

Tall Story Shack

North of the Chapel,
surrounded by a field of flowers,
the Shack seems a more gentle place.

There are no brambles here
to slice your feet.

A small signs welcomes you inside.




The thorns that scratched your skin eventually withdrew from their proximity to the path, the road growing wider with each step you took forth. The stark of a yellow flower against the dull world seemed odd, but before long, the ground was layered in a sunshine bloom. Poking feebly between their petals was grass, dry and brittle, but you barely noticed between the blinding colour.

In the middle, a small house proudly sat, thatched roof and open windows emitting a welcoming aura.
A wooden sign is propped against its wall, reading ‘All Customers Welcome’.

You could hear the sound of birds singing, but none appeared to be in sight.

Lost Goddess
03-17-2012, 06:01 PM
Anahlie looked at the two groups leaving in different directions, with the main group going to the grooms home. She decided not to go to his home because it would be ineffective to her. If she were going to lose her life in this place, then she wanted to know her way around. So, she began walking towards the north western path, and paused not sure whether she wanted to continue or not.

But, of course she would have to. Anahlie told herself Grow up Anahlie, its just your soul at stake here. Your likely to never make it out of this place anyway, so better to just explore and find new things to do. She chuckled to herself as she had finally made up her mind to walk down the path hidden from her. So, far as she could tell, she would be going alone, and that was ok because she wasn't one who liked a whole lot of company. She took one last look behind her at the chapel, and began walking down her lonely path.

Kris
03-17-2012, 07:02 PM
This was rich... or rather poor, depending on how you wished to consider the humor of this situation to be...

Either way, Erebus felt he had just about enough. He waved the others goodbye, without actually saying a word as he stormed outside the cathedral and made himself his own path, so to say, leaving right after the fools who wished to leave for the groom, parting from the doors of the hall that was supposed to be the demonic wedding gathering place, aiming for the west as the misty road and the soft wind blew his hair and the poor clothing that hanged loosely over his body.

This was crazy and absurd; By all means, the lady should have taken the hint, then again most women in his life turned always to be such trusty creatures, just show enough confident and they'll believe every word to escape your lips, or even will not be upset with you should you explain the situation properly.

He shook his head in disbelief. Humans, demons... whatever... females were females always.

His steps seemed to be heavy and it turned out that once outside it was rather hard to breath. Was this place truly not fitted for someone like him? weak, frail bug in a world of fantasy and Epica?

He sighed the moment he realized he might have actually believed this whole deal to be true and real.

But...

He tried to calm himself somehow by thinking that even if it was, he just hoped that he would find some way to wake up from this dreadful dream...

...and when he does, he shall make sure to sleep in proper cloths next time...

SmileyCassandra
03-17-2012, 09:22 PM
Marie raised a brow at the pregnant girl talking to the groom. He seemed to be named Court. She clicked her tongue, and was now standing next to the girl. She said her name was Zaire, cute. She sighed, and knocked on the door as well. She didn't feel like having some crazy demon man putting his hands on a pregnant girl. She glanced at the door once more, and took a stop back. She is a girl, a woman at least. She may be childish at times, but she is still a woman.

Andy walked over to them, and he was about to knock. Marie choked as she coughed, and punched him in his arm. "Are you fucking stupid!?" she screamed, hitting him again. He winched, and pouted as he just walked away. "Go sit in a corner or something" Marie hissed, tapping her foot lightly. That was one of the only times she wasn't childish. When she had to take charge of Andy. Freaking dumbass.

"Mister Court guy, it's not nice to ignore people" Marie whispered, her voice polite as she looked at the door. She thought maybe Zaire would be pissed she knocked to, but hell that's how she was. She was nice. She didn't want someone knocking by themselves. Well, she didn't believe a pregnant woman to be weak, but she wanted to help in anyway possible.

Andy mocked her, and grinned. "Yeah, it's not polite to ignore people" he said, his voice girly as he did. Marie scowled, and punched him yet again. He muttered ow, and kicked her in her butt. She hissed, and kicked him square in his groin, glad they could feel things like that and weren't like ghosts or something. She grinned, and Andy scowled. "So mean" he groaned, and began walking the other way.

He stopped, and stood straight. He knew not to cross his sister, even if she was childish. Marie then turned her attention back to the door, and sighed. This was taking forever. She smiled to herself as she waited. Playing with her skirt. She glanced at Andy, and then to her feet. She was friendly. She had to admit she was kind of nervous. She didn't know what the groom would do, but she hoped he would be polite on the first meeting like she was. Andy said nothing, and just stared at the door.

Tune
03-17-2012, 11:33 PM
Matt, against all better judgement, allowed the feisty women to lead the group down the hill. He could see the demon, Hindy, bounding down the hill, tripping over his own feet at times. How the thing could walk was beyond him, but with their mortal souls on the line, it was nice having something to lighten the mood. Now if only the thorns wouldn't cut so deep, he thought, still as thankful as ever for his pants and socks, but the uneven ground still hurt his feet.

When they reached the bottom of the hill, Matt hung back, standing by Andy as the women made an attempt to stir the demon from his home. He shook his head. The chapel seemed like a good choice, but right now, the demon groom was their best luck of getting out of this place alive - for the most part. A young girl was among one of the first to knock upon the door. Matt tilted his head quizzically when she mentioned something about a 'fetus'.

Is she really pregnant? Matt sighed; he knew life wasn't easy, and bringing another person into the world wasn't as easy as others thought. Some people chose having a child for all the wrong reasons. He didn't know this... Zaire person, and he wasn't about to judge her, either. He doubted that the groom would even open the door.

Shifting on his feet, he spoke to Andy, "Do ya think the guy's even here?"

Jacogos
03-18-2012, 01:07 AM
Marcus heard a voice in his ear and jumped, swearing that it hadn't really been a voice for all two seconds it took him to realize there was someone next to him. A rather rumpled guy with brown hair and eyes had spoken, wearing tank top and plaid bottoms that said he lived in either a cold area or was used to the warmth. Marcus couldn't stand wearing that much clothing to bed. Caused him to leave sweat stains worse than Jacobi's bed-wetting stains. But that was beside the point.

What the man had said interested him. "You don't really think we're in Hell... Do you?" Marcus stared after the dog-demon man for a moment, then shook his head. "Hell, I don't even know. Beyond burning and suffering, God never said much about life in Hell. His message was more focused on AVOIDING it..." He shivered slightly. "But in any case, what the little dog-thing said makes me think its not Hell... But somewhere else..." He swallowed and looked back at the man, but realized that he was already moving on. Being one of the last ones to move again, Marcus was getting the feeling that he needed to get a hold of things before his soul simply gave up on him.

Heading south with the 'groom's' group, Marcus realized that the briers were still ripping into his legs. Swearing lightly, Father Williams began taking more careful steps as he brought up the rear, also taking notice that the women had already made it to the door. The dog-man demon had said something, but he missed it, though one girl was getting rather angsty with a boy that he presumed was her brother. He didn't quite know WHY she was getting upset, but something told him that no matter what he said, he could do nothing to stop it.

Which didn't stop him from trying.

"Hey, hey, hey you two, cut it out," he said, moving his way towards the two. They had already stopped by the time he got there, since he was taking his sweet time, but nevertheless he felt he should say something. "We have enough to worry about without two of us beating the crap out of each other. Cool it, at least until we figure out what in Hell this demon groom wants..." He sighed, looking at the door as well. The pregnant one and the angsty girl had already knocked, so for the moment he didn't feel there needed to be more pestering unless there was no results.

"Do ya think the guy's even here?"

"I hope so!" Marcus said. Turning to Hindermost, the Reverend gave him a look that said 'I don't want to talk to you but I have to'. "Is the groom even here, Hin... dermost." Great, now he was almost calling it that pet name it had for itself. Gave him the chills just looking at it... All spazzy and scratchy and... Marcus felt the tic in his eye twitch slightly.

Kiall
03-18-2012, 02:45 AM
Whaddaya mean only a woman can knock? What sort of sexist shit is that?” Justin would have gone and knocked just out of spite but his feet hurt too damn much. Instead he sat down on the dirt road and proceeded to begin pulling out the various thistles in his feet. He winced pulling a particularly long one from his shin. He shuddered as the bloody thing came out it was thin but very long, longer than his fingers even. Good god! That was in his foot?

“I’m going to throw up,” he muttered looking at what had been in his foot, before tossing the needle to the side. “Is he coming out!?” He yelled seeing no reason to stand up. “You think he’s hiding inside? Trying to avoid his…demon taxes or whatever?” Sighing he stood up limping a little now that he had a bunch of holes in his feet. He headed towards the shack moving towards one of the windows and placing his face hard against the glass.

“I can’t see anything, it’s really dark…” He tried focusing his eyes but to no avail. “Honestly this looks more like a place to make moonshine or something rather than a house, you think Hin..umm uhh,” he was drawing a blank on the demon’s name, crap! Why hadn’t he paid attention? “The back mouth demon…Roy I guess, you think he’s having us on?” he asked the two at the door.

Auki
03-18-2012, 09:49 AM
To the West





http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Angel-Of-Mist/Lake.png

Stand-off Point

West of the Chapel,
looking out over a beautiful lake,
other lands can be seen in the distance.

There is grass instead of brambles here,
but the ground is void of other life.

It smells strongly of burning.





The brambles that had sliced your feet no longer bothered you as you approached the lake’s bank. Knee-length grass instead became your burden, twisting your step and wrapping its grip around your ankles. The pool of water before you lay calm, untarnished by weather or fauna. Despite the scent in the air, its view was soothing.

To the left, amongst a small mound of rocks, you could see some items, shoved between the pebbles as though they had attempted to be hidden. Without moving closer, it would be impossible to make out details.

To the right, a demon (http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Angel-Of-Mist/Lakekeepercopy.png) sat, smiling peacefully at the sky. He noticed you, gave a small wave, and then returned to his meditating stance.

V
03-18-2012, 11:28 AM
Ben made a frustrated noise as Shay followed him down the path, couldn't she have just left him alone. Again with the horrible nickname, the touching of him, and the teasing. Could she get any more irritable. But there was a part of him that seemed to like that attention she gave him, maybe he just wasn't used to it. Perhaps he should bury those feelings under a mountain of hatred. Seemed like the proper way to deal.

He kept his mouth clamped shut as Shay pestered him with more questions. Tripping down the hill trying to remain rigid in his stride didn't seem to work out, instead Ben just kept his frown to show his annoyance. As they reached the bottom of the hill, a field of bright yellow flowers glared back at Ben. It did nothing to improve his mood. At the least the fear for thorns was gone.

"Don't you want to talk to me Benny love? I sure want to talk to you!"

He turned away from her hand making an annoyed face at her. She had too much energy for him. Which, he supposed, was not that hard to achieve.

"Well, glad I'm not the only one to come here from a shit life. But that doesn't mean I don't want to get out of here." Though, not even bothering to attempt to talk to the groom might have meant otherwise. Whatever. "I find you irritating, your attention to me is just bizarre which I can't understand. I'm not interesting at all. Your teasing and touching just make me uncomfortable."

Yeah, and you also seem to like it. Shut up Ben.

Ben looked away from her, feeling annoyed at himself now. All she wanted to do was talk to you, and you have to be an idiot about it all. Couldn't you just have some fun for once.

He eyed the door to the nearby thatched roofed house. He cleared his throat awkwardly and said afterward, "I'm going in there. Ummm, .... Would you like to join me?"

‘All Customers Welcome’. Ben watched the sign as he approached the door. He wondered briefly about what the house sold, before knocking several times on the door.

Auki
03-18-2012, 02:49 PM
To the Northwest:





http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Angel-Of-Mist/Cottagecopy.png

Pigeon’s Nest Cottage

Northwest of the Chapel,
in the clearing of a forest,
lies this cosy home.

Although it seems beautiful,
a thin layer of dust tarnishes such appearances.

A small sign bears warning
for those that approach.





The brambles did not withdraw as the path went on; instead, they hid between the sudden bushes and trees that forested the area. Some were decorated by budding flowers, not yet in bloom, but many appeared to be dying, the cause of fatality unknown.

A building came into view, bathed in the shadows of high branches and their leaves. The sun was thankfully bright, allowing you sight as it trickled through the gaps of the canopy. As you approached, you could see that the door was barred shut, tightly secured by metal planks and bolts. A small hole sat in the centre, fitted for a key that was nowhere in sight.

There was a sign hanging on the wall. Written with a genuine elegance, it read:



‘Someone has been breaking into my home. I’m tired of it.
The key is hidden beneath one of those pots.
Moving any of the rest will spring a trap.

Don’t try your luck. I will catch you out.

Show some respect and leave now.

- Idée Fixe’


As the words stated, five pots sat along the cottage’s length, each a different hue of the rainbow; yellow, green, blue, red and violet, they glinted under the sun’s rays.

Lithiora
03-18-2012, 03:42 PM
Shay was slightly irritated at the brightness of the flowers as they approached the house. The sign was also too welcoming for her. Something was up, she just didn't know what. She felt like she was walking into her death. Far too much happiness going on for her to get used to. Also, to top that off, Ben was exceptionally rude back to her. She usually got silence when she picked on others and acted as insane as she had been acting on the walk.

Instead, from Ben, she got nothing but attitude right back. Underneath all of it she sensed something else, but she could have easily been mistaken. She never took the time to get to know anyone so she honestly could care less. But Ben intrigued her. He matched her pace for pace with his own issues. Lovely, now she felt like she was in competition with him.

"Well, glad I'm not the only one to come here from a shit life. But that doesn't mean I don't want to get out of here. I find you irritating, your attention to me is just bizarre which I can't understand. I'm not interesting at all. Your teasing and touching just make me uncomfortable."

"Wow..." That was all she could manage to say to that. She never expected that kind of response. Maybe a rude one, but not that mean. It actually stung a little. She waited while he walked to the house. Even though he had tried to make up for the sting. She needed a moment to collect herself, and watched patiently as he approached the door and knocked a few times, her arms crossed.

CALYPSO
03-18-2012, 04:49 PM
They had no choice but to follow Hindy, making Ivy a paranoid wreck as usual. Rosalyn was always the calmer one in almost any situation. Talk to the groom and convince him to marry Idee—the task was simple. It reminded her of the wedding she attended; the groom had cold feet and never arrived. Rosalyn, as a maid of honor, made it her duty to find him and talk sense into him. Although the groom and bride were married, the dilemma here was entirely different. The crowd who surrounded her was very in tune with themselves or someone else, making it harder to work as a team. Everyone had the same thought, to leave this place and hell with the others.

“A woman must be the one to actually knock upon his door! Remember to be polite. He is temperamental nowadays.”

“Hmm,” she wondered what the demon looked like. Idee was beautiful in an unusual way perhaps her fiancé was handsome. Like she was trying to impress someone, Rosalyn began to fix her bed hair. She was already in pajamas; she wanted to at least be presentable to someone so significant (even if he was a demon). Naturally, her auburn hair fell into natural waves, but she put it up into a soft loose bun with some strands framing her face.

Maybe she would have the same mindset of “saving yourself” if she didn’t notice the pregnant girl who walked forward to knock on the door. Rosalyn felt torn that the poor young woman was dragged into the mess as well. She walked on ahead and stood quietly behind Zaire, already wanting to protect her like the way Ivy did with her.

After no response, another woman knocked on the door. "Mister Court guy, it's not nice to ignore people."

"Do ya think the guy's even here?"

"I hope so! Is the groom even here, Hin... dermost."

Everyone grew impatient, as there was no response from Court. Rosalyn took a deep breath and looked at her sister.

“Don’t you even think about it Rose,” Ivy snapped.

Rosalyn shrugged, “Well, three times the charm, right?” She gave a small laugh as her sister shook her head in disbelief. Rose passed by the two women and the man that spoke to them. “Last time, here we go.”

She gave three fierce knocks repeatedly as if she was back in the apartment, waking up her sister. “Excuse me, Mister Court?” She said louder, but respectfully, as she did not want to appear rude. “My name is Rosalyn. I’m here with a few others.” She paused for a moment, but continued, “I am sorry if we are disrupting any important matters of yours, but we would like to speak with you.” She knocked one last time.

At the doorstep, she waited. She waited for the impact, the moment where she was able to wake up from the nightmare. When nothing happened, Rosalyn turned away from the door, “Was worth a try…” She looked at Hindermost, “So what do we do now Hindy?”

Lost Goddess
03-18-2012, 05:12 PM
Anahlie sighed in content as she came upon a cottage that -as she read the sign- seemed to belong to the bride-to-be herself. As she read the sign she looked away from it briefly to the pots that were lined up and seemed to be different colors of the rainbow. She thought to herself Which one do i pick? If it is indeed safe to pick any at all. She shook her head and said more to herself than anything " Well, better safe than sorry i suppose." She sat down by the cottage doors and just leaned up against it. She closed her eyes and began to think back to the time before her soul was stolen.

--A couple of hours ago--
Anahlie had just walked into her friend Maria's house and directly back to the backyard where their seemed to be the large group of the people from her school. She stood in the back of the crowd by herself and watched as the others had fun. She smiled slightly as she saw people enjoying theirselves and drinking. Eventually, she found herself drinking as well, which was a first for her ever. She wasnt a very big drinker normally. But, this time she decided to let loose and have fun for once in her life. She didn't really remember all that happened after she started drinking, only that she ended up at her home in her bed in her underwear. That fact scared her because she didn't remember how she got there or how she came to be wearing what she was wearing. But, she didnt have a chance to wonder to long, because she had woken in a strange place that was for the most part lifeless.

Kris
03-18-2012, 08:31 PM
The thistles and thorns wounded the tissues of his feet, tearing right into the edges of his clothing. But marching ahead he kept, walking a long, unclear distance until to his ears reached the sound of throbbing bubbling water.

He blinked few times, trying not to let the beautiful sight of the lake overtake him, but it didn't stop him from feeling the burning wounds at the edges of his legs that were eager to be bathed and washed.

Few more steps and the easing sensation of the grass below his feet tickled and brought relieving sensation into his bleeding skin.

Sniff... sniff...

His eyes widen for the smell caught him by a surprise. Looking to his left and right he tried to locate the source of it, but found only buried goods and what appeared to be...

The good's guard?

Erebus bowed slightly to the imp's friendly gesture and moved forward for his direction, "Tell me, is there a way for me to pass this river?"

AngelicAsylum
03-19-2012, 07:01 PM
Ivy felt grateful that she was wearing socks - not that they did much against the thorns that tore into her ankles. Luckily, the damage was not as bad as she feared, though she did have to take a moment to pause and examine her legs. To remedy the problem, she shoved the bottom of her pants into her socks and kept moving.

However, this predicament they were in was still looking rather bleak to Ivy, and she desperately wished to look around. Maybe there was a way they could both escape, if only they could break away from the creature long enough...

Not that any of that would happen of course. Roselyn was already knocking on that stranger's door and Ivy absolutely refused to go anywhere without her. So far there was no answer. "It sounds like he has a good reason to hide," she said to her sister, not caring who heard. "I wouldn't answer the door to a bunch of strangers anyway." She tugged on Rose's wrist, silently pleading with her to come away from the door and figure out a way to escape before things got violent. How the others were so calm baffled her. Were they drugged?

Or maybe she was the only sane one in the group. As usual.

Yoruyonaka
03-20-2012, 03:27 AM
Luke held his hand on the sheets tied around his waist as the demon monster spoke awkwardly to everyone. It was a strange thing to see and made him ruffle his blond hair. Following the rest outside, it seemed somewhat drab in colors. The demon then told him they would die if their souls remained separate from their body....great. They would have to help get the groom of the demon woman to show up and marry her.

"Why marry the guy if he never shows up?" He muttered without noticing as the group separated and began to go on different paths. "Crap, they are leaving without me. Come on idiot."

He ran awkwardly after the group going to the groom, wondering if they were getting those "clothes" Hindermost the demon mentioned. Thorns seem to be around in bushes. Many winced and cried out as the thorns pricked their skin. Luke felt the unhappy pains as his bare feet ripped open from stray thorns on the path. His bare arms would once and a while hit a bush.

Once they reached the house, someone asked Hindermost if the groom was even there. He peered at the place and wondered if his Grandma was with him. God, it was like the lake house during the summer all over again.

"Can I just say, those clothes you promised look really good right now," Luke piped up. "The draft felt good after the first ten minutes. Then it got awkward."

Wattz
03-20-2012, 07:41 PM
“… Maybe he’s not home?” Gideon piped up tentatively, thinking that, since they’d garnered no response yet, that they should simply give up and turn around. He was too afraid to think of what could possibly lie behind the door. Hopefully nothing so terrifying as Hindermost. “We should just leave.” He doubted that anyone would listen, but if there was any hope of getting out of this potential bind, a little bit of his opinion couldn’t hurt… right?

He took a step back, though, just in case. Maybe they could find a way out some other way. He had seen some others go off in different directions. Maybe he shouldn’t have followed the crowd and instead should have tried to find a different route. There is strength in numbers, though. Gideon continued to battle with himself, trying to decide if he should turn around or stay with the group and wait for the groom who was hopefully not present.

Auki
03-20-2012, 09:46 PM
Idée watched the exchange between the trio with a mounting confusion. Still kneeling on the floor, she allowed her hands to fidget in her lap, absently twirling her thumbs around each other.

Camilla. Tibbs. Kim.

They introduced themselves to each other, ignoring her request to follow Hindermost. Maybe that was for the best; he tended to get so anxious in large groups, didn’t he? They would look so disgusting at her wedding in such garments, but she didn’t want to demand that they change. Her demon companion had called it their ‘nightwear’, but she wasn’t well versed on human culture. What if they had fallen asleep in their clothes and this was what they wore normally? She couldn’t be rude or forceful. Good qualities in a wife, they were not.

“My name is Idée,” she said when silence had restored, “I promise you, you’re safe here.”

As Idée spoke, a soft smile graced Devon’s lips as she put on her best good girl persona and friendly tone “Why hello Idée, what a lovely name…” offering her hand “…my name is Kim Prescott. It is good to know that we are safe here, but it would be also comforting perhaps if we knew where here was.” Devon keeps her gentle smile anticipating to formulate more as to where they were, what exactly was going on and by shaking Idée’s hand will determine this captures strength. If she had soft hands, Devon anticipates she would be easier to remove should the necessity arise. Idée too, if having any ability to read the soul before her, would also know that Kim were not her true name. Devon keeps her chocolate brown eyes gazing to Idée’s eyes looking for anything she might be able to use against this woman as the future moments tick on.

Tibbs blinks.

Camilla watched the exchange between Idée and Kim with some trepidation. Her body language tense and still leaning towards Tibbs. Still wondering how they had gotten here, and not truly convinced that something awful wasn't going to happen to her, happen to all of them. She also wondered why she was the only one that appeared to be alarmed by suddenly being pulled from their obvious beds, and deposited here, where ever here truly was. She had heard snippets of the speech about why they were here, but it just didn't seem possible, was it? Were they only here to be witnesses to a wedding? Her eyes focused on their hands as they shook, waiting for any signs of foul play, corruption or possession, cringing a little she watched.

Idée softly shook the hand of the one calling herself Kim, her gaze ever curious – It was strange that the girl had referred to herself by a different name whilst in her own dreams. The demon grasped to remember the details, but it was only a vague memory that had not seemed important at the time of gathering. Seeing as the female was the only one to speak, she gave her question an answer.

“You’re in a place between the world of dreams and that of nightmares. It is not a place any human can enter willingly – We demons only come here for festivities and to enjoy the scenery.”

She smiled warmly, slightly oblivious to the distress she might have been causing them with her actions, “I’m sure if you take the time to wander around, you’ll find it’s not as scary as it first seems. There’s a small task you can do for me if you’re willing.” Her light expression became strained, “It’s only small, but important. Complete it and I would be happy to let the three of you back into your own world.”

As Devon’s hand touches Idée’s, she realizes that this is no ordinary person before her. As she studies her eyes, it is also apparent that this … person … before her seems to see through her deception at which she quickly releases Idée’s,hand. As the word Demons drifts through the tense air, Devon’s expression does not change. As more is explained, she glances briefly toward Tibbs now somewhat happy that there is a NCIS agent to assist in the ‘small task’ that has not been spoken yet.

Her eyes glance toward Camilla offering her a soft reassuring smile while thoughts run through her mind that even she will be useful in whatever task is asked. After all, there may come a time to sacrifice one of the party to buy time for the others to strike out against any potential attackers. She offers a friendly nod toward Camilla since she will be the one that will be the shield thrown out if facing a surprise attack. Her tone remains soft while replying to Idée “While I cannot speak for the others, it would be good to know what small task you might ask of us?”. Thoughts filter through her mind if she should put on some kind of show of concern, as it is, all the hell she has gone through her life, all those she has betrayed … gotten close to … gained their trust … just to use it to get close to her marks, this for now is … comforting in an odd way.

Tibbs pondered for a moment before answering. A world of dreams? Sounded like something a cross between Stephen Spielberg and Freddy Kruger movie. That would be a Stephen King movie, according to DeNazzio. Tibbs suddenly felt like smacking someone on the back of the head. "Fine," he said finally. "What is it you want?" The sooner he got away from this place, the better.

Camilla suppressed a shudder at the words the demon spoke about festivities. Images that sprang to her mind, quickly repressed, as it would do her no good to dwell on them. She could only imagine that any type of festivities in a demon playground would not be something any sane person would want to participate in. As for her suggestion to wander about this place, it filled her with a new level of dread at what they might see or be in store for. She made up her mind that she was not letting these two people that had helped her out of her site, if she could help it.

With a small resigned sigh, she accepted they were here, and stuck it would seem, for the time being. She nodded in agreement with Tibbs, her eyes still locked on Idée. “and if we don’t complete this…task?” she replied quietly “what will happen to us then” not really wanting to hear the answer, but needing to know regardless.

Idée smiled, more pleased in the fact they were speaking so willingly than the content of their words. The emerald on her engagement ring glinted as she swept a hand through her hair, tidying an appearance that had wilted over the stressful weeks. Her voice still carried an innocent air,

“To answer your questions, I only wish for you to retrieve something from my home. There’s a small notebook left on my desk that I need. I’ll be happy to provide you with directions, but I cannot leave here in case my fiancé shows.

And Camilla, was it? If you don’t wish to do this task, you are fine to stay here with me. I only assumed that you would love the chance to escape from this world as swiftly as possible.”

Devon keeps her focus on Idée, her own tone gentle and friendly, her smile sweet “Idée, I am certain I could speak for my other companions when I say we would be ever so happy to bring your notebook, after all … you are our friend, are you not?” Devon steps slightly closer angling each step in a defensive fashion in the event this woman should make an aggressive lunge while moving her left hand up rubbing her right shoulder, fingers curled ready to block punches, her right hand slowly running her fingers through the side of her hair so as to get her elbow higher in the event she needs to strike with a knife hand strike or elbow blow. It was her nature to keep a defensive posture even in the most innocent of environments. Keeping her soft smile and her voice tone remains soft and friendly “… Camilla does bring an interesting yet unanswered question. Even though we will obtain your notebook for you … why did you not answer what would happen should we not?”

Tibbs raised a hand and shook his head at Devon's question. "Let's not open anymore doors than we have to," he said to the woman. "We have all agreed to go, so no point worrying about the 'what ifs'." Tibbs took a deep breath the let it out as he looked to Idée’s. "So where is this home of yours?"

While Camilla felt her blood run cold at Idée’s suggestion to remain behind, alone with the demon bride, she also was a little surprised that the woman Devon had actually moved closer to her, and didn’t seem to be afraid of what could happen to her. “I wouldn’t want to be trouble, and you must have other, things, you need to attend to” she stammered, her eyes still locked onto Idée’s like a frightened bird in the presence of a large snake.

“It’s probably best if I stay with them, and retrieve the book” she went on, feeling the need to clarify, and hearing it sound pitiful even to her own ears. Wrapping her arms around her waist, in a self-hug, “we should go, and get your book, so we can all get home” once again moving so that she was closer to Tibbs, not willing to push the issue as to what would happen if they failed to retrieve the object.

Taken aback, she found it in her best nature to ignore this ‘Kim’. After all, the question had been answered. The human was quite obviously in distress about her situation.

With her fingers, she drew a light map on the dusty floor, “My home is in the north-west of the island, up this path.” She pointed at a road in her hasty diagram, “You’ll know you’re getting close when you start to see the forest. The key inside is hidden under the yellow pot at the front.”

Kris
03-21-2012, 11:16 AM
"Tell me, is there a way for me to pass this river?"

The first words out the human’s mouth seemed to be of trivial matter, but Axiom was kind enough to humor him.

“There is for demons, my friend. For your kind, I wouldn’t try it.”

A nonchalant grin revealed glistening teeth and did little to soften his unusual face. His voice carried all the care of a breeze on a warm summer’s day,

“I can tell you everything about anyone on this island though. Some say it’s creepy, but I prefer well-informed.”

Demon sure liked to gossip, thought Erebus to himself. Never the less, he decided this young demon may be his only ticket out of this dream, "I'll start by asking your name if you wouldn't mind answering, kind sir, I rather know who stands before me".

“Axiom!” the demon replied with a flourish, standing and bowing with a gentleman’s grace, “The gatekeeper of realms, and the knower of all. A sympathiser,” he added carefully, “towards the human race. What can I do for you?”

Erebus nodded carefully looking back at the lake before him before returning his gaze at the demon once more, "I shall ask for information first then. What is this place? Who is the demoness who waits at the cathedral?"

Glad to help, Axiom replied, “Idée…? Or Idée Fixe to be precise. A lovely girl who has stolen more than one heart – Not my own though, thankfully.” His eyes darted to the pile of rocks across the bay from him before locking back on the human. “She has brought you to the world between dreams and nightmares, a lull in dimensions that only demons can enter safely. Any other creature is slowly torn apart by the warped fabric of its reality.”

He casually waved away the sombre topic, “Idée is supposed to be marrying a man called Court, but he has yet to show at the ceremony. The guests, myself included, gave up waiting, but she refuses to budge."

"Why is that?" Erebus smirked, "I was awestricken by her beauty. I'm sure she far excelling even the standards of your kind. Where is her groom? Why did he not appear for his own wedding?"

“Love is too much hard-work,” Axiom confessed before answering, “Court… an interesting case… Weak-willed, without supernatural ability, allergic to flowers of all things. Well, that man has walked himself into some trouble. The wedding cannot go through until the cost has been paid, and he doesn’t have the money.

Instead of telling Idée, he’s hiding in his house. Demons are not known for their bravery around here.” The end of the sentence was punctuated by a small laugh.

"Neither males of our kind", Erebus grinned, "I find this world fascinating now. What else can you tell me?"

Rubbing his chin, the demon thought. There was a plethora of information to share, but it was difficult to know what would be relevant. “As far as I see it…” he muttered, “…there are many ways to escape your time here. Should Idée find a husband, she will be content, but there are only so many willing contenders. Should one of the pair die, then your problem will be solved too. The money can be found within someone’s home, but it is tainted by sin and misfortune.

If you care about a happy ending though – and I don’t know the extent that humans do – I suggest you look over there.”

The demons finger pointed towards the pile of rocks and the items hidden between, “There are only two demons truly right for each other and without intervention, they will never find happiness in a society like ours.”

Erebus looked at the pile and slowly marched for it, bending over it and digging right into it, "Explain to me, what exactly should I do?"

Axiom delayed answering the question as the human’s hands revealed their treasures. Letters, covered in grime, were neatly folded to protect their scribbled faces. Pictures frames, twisted and broken in places, were wiped frequently to keep the pretty, female demon held inside clean and safe. An engagement ring, gold inlaid with sapphires, lay in the middle of the mess.

Opening the letters revealed words of confession and love towards the lady Idée, signed hastily with the simple name ‘Hindy’.

“There is no ‘right path’,” Axiom explained, “but each choice will have a consequence upon this island’s inhabitants and your human companions. You can do things simply and find way to murder one of the lovers… or you can try to mimic my dear friend, Cupid, and save these demons from their long-held misery."

Erebus smirked, "Who is this Hindy? Or where can I find leads to this guy?", he looked once again at the lake. Crossing it sounded still like a good plan to him.

“’Hindy’ is better known as Hindermost. He has a mouth of both sides of his face and a gait like a drunken fool. Unfortunately, he is still the strongest demon on this island and can’t marry Idée for that very reason. Should you humans find a way to best him, he might find love. Where he is, I cannot tell you – He scampers about, trying to help people, without much direction or sense.”

Sighing, Axiom lay back onto the ground and closed his eyes. The topic of conversation was not relaxing, and thus, it was not in his nature to enjoy it.

"So... He can be... anywhere...", Erebus eyes narrowed, "Even... over there...?", his eyes moved to horizon over the water's edges.

“Doubt it,” came a lazy reply, “He needs my help to travel across dimensions and I haven’t seen him in a while.”

“Feel free to try and swim across if you intend to be so damn persistent,” Axiom said. He liked humans, but not stupid ones. “I’ll try not to watch as you dissolve under the water’s bite.”

"Heavens!", Erebus chuckled, "There is no boat or other means to carry me to the other side?"

Despite the man’s light-hearted tone, the red-skinned figure was finding the repetitive conversation tedious. “There’s a beast that I can summon to carry demons across. It feeds on humans. Are you going to keep pushing this now?”

"...", Erebus hummed.

He took the letters and the picture in his hands and made his way back to Revenant Hill.

V
03-22-2012, 07:41 AM
The chatter outside and the rap of knuckles.

Envoy awoke from his slumber with a curse only made for demon’s ears. All eight eyes flickered open, taking in his dim shack of residence and finding bearing. It must have been early; he didn’t like the morning.

Be that as it may, however, business was business.

He rose from his bed with hesitance and threw clothes over his form. The voices that he heard were not recognized, an interesting fact in itself. As far he knew, every demon had dealt with him and he remembered them all.

Stretching his muscles out their sleep, he forced a beaming smile upon his face. A decent salesman knew how to act, and Envoy was no exception.

“Hello!” His voice boomed as he threw open the door, “Welcome to my shop!”

When he saw the humans staring back at him, he couldn’t keep the surprise from his expressions. He paused and looked at them curiously, “Oh? Now what might you be doing here?”

Shay's eyes widened as the demon stepped outside. She wasn't right in front of him like Ben was, but she was still close enough to note the size of him. The eyes were ridiculous. She was able to utter one word, "Cool..."

She always dreamed of meeting something that looked like the thing before her. Creepy, radiating power. Yeah. This place was awesome. She rushed forward shoving her hand at the demon. "Hi there! I'm Shay, Shay Lest! It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance." she beamed at the demon, her white hair waving in the slight breeze.

Yes, introduce yourself to the new demon creep with six chest eyes, he doesn't seem like a shady creature at all. She was as bad as the younger guy beforehand, rushing in eagerly to whatever awaited them inside this so called shop.

"We're guests from the wedding," Ben commented once Shay had finished introducing herself.

Envoy blinked a few times, all eight eyes showing surprise that lasted a few moments, “That would be Idée’s doing then, I take it?”

He nodded to himself, not needing an answer from the pair. “The poor girl seems to have finally snapped.” Stepping back a bit revealed the interior of his shop, all sorts of objects hanging upon the walls. His poise was still welcoming; he even waved a hand to invite them in. “I feel I should apologies for her; if I had the power to send you back myself, I would.” The only truth to his sentence was in the admission of weakness. “I am the one organizing the wedding and loaning her the chapel. Unfortunately, Idée and Court seem to be at a stalemate.”

He paused as if considering a notion, although he had already decided his next words in the split of the moment, “Idée does need my co-operation to hold this ceremony; she would probably do anything that I ask. Should you do me a favour…I could consider asking her to send the pair of you back…”

Shay shrugged, moving to stand next to Ben. "I don't mind doing favours for free in all honesty. I'd rather not go back just yet..." That was true. She really was already enjoying herself. This place was so much less depressing than where she was from. Whether a dream or a side effect from some crazy drug, she didn't know, and quite honestly could care less.

"What'd you have in mind?" Then she remembered, "Wait... we still didn't get your name? Don't you have one?" her eyebrows raised with the question. She wondered if he would have some creepy demon name or something boring and regular... like Ben... blegh.

"A favour? It certainly doesn't sound like you are going to use and then discard us. I can hear the sincerity in your words, how much you worry." Not that Ben really cared what so ever, after a moment he added, "sure, I'd love to."

“You can call me Envoy,” he told the girl foremost, smiling as he did so.

“My task is quite simple – It shouldn’t cause you trouble. I ask only that you pass on a message for me. If you could tell Court that he can pay for the wedding after the ceremony… Well, they could be married today if he isn’t so worried about money.” His grin grew slightly wider, “Take him some flowers from my garden as well… to congratulate him on his fortune.”

"Gladly Envoy! Should we return to you when the task is done?" Shay asked softly, her eyes glittering with excitement.

Ben scowled at Shay, where had she gotten 'we' from. Might as get this task over and done with, Ben had a whole bunch of exciting things to do once he was home, right.

"Surely we'll meet Envoy at the chapel for the wedding afterword," Ben said to Shay, beginning to walk away from the demon's home.

“The man has the right idea,” the demon chuckled, “I’ll meet you there in half-the-hour. Court lives on the Southern side of the island, straight opposite my own home. Have a safe trip!” The friendliness in his voice stayed true up until those last words, a grateful hand waving as they turned away. Quietly, he shut his door and thanked the higher demons that the nightmare would soon be over.

Storm
03-27-2012, 01:21 AM
Camilla nodded, to herself, more than any one in particular, watching as Idée drew the diagram in the dusty floor. She just knew that whatever happened she did not want to get left behind, left here in this decrepit little chapel. It was sad, this place, and it made her feel lost and forlorn. As afraid as she was of whatever was outside of this chapel, staying in here with just the demon for company, wasn’t even a consideration to her. “We should get started then” she said.

Tibbs nodded in agreement to the girl. "Sounds like a plan," was all he said before he started heading in the direction Idee gave them. But as he walked, he thought to himself that this sounded too simple, that there would be more to this...request...than meets the eye. The demon girl was almost impossible to read, other than she was clearly of questionable sanity, and that made more unpredictable than Tibbs liked.

Devon having scanned the rough sketch on the floor simply turns and heads toward the Chapel door figuring the other two would most likely follow. Once outside she makes her way toward the trail that was roughly sketched. She has already surmised that there has to me more to this request than simply recovering this other woman’s notebook. Her tone now more matter of factish “The quicker we get this bitch’s book, the faster we get out of here” more meant for herself but for the others too.

Camilla quickly hurried after the two of them without a backward glance. Glad to be moving away from the bride and that chapel. Absently she wondered what was going on with the rest of the "guests" from this little party. She vaguely recalled a number of other people in night clothes, when she first woke. Looking around as she struggled to keep up, observing the outside wasn’t much brighter than the inside, in this in world. It hardened her resolve to get that book retrieved and get out of here as soon as possible.

As the three make their way to the trail leading to Idee’s house, Tibbs quickens his pace passing by Devon, more by second nature offers her a slap on the back of her head as he offers in his typical lead tone “This way … do watch your step, don’t want anyone twisting ankles down this path.”

As Tibbs passes, Devon’s eyes widen slightly feeling the light tap on the back as her head as the agent passes heading down the trail. A slight smile forms as they continue down the trail. She knew the lead agent when Kai was killed was known to do those head taps, she is more comfortable realizing at least one extremely capable member was in this small group. As the trail flows into the field where the described house lies, Devon notes another young woman sitting in front of the Cottage. As they move closer to the cottage, she calls out in a friendly tone “Hi, have you gotten the notebook already?” hoping that this new woman has already been inside.

"Have you gotten the notebook already?" Anahlie looked up as three people approached her from the direction of the church. She was slightly confused as to what this person was talking about so she voiced with confusion evident in her tone " A notebook? I have heard nor seen nothing of a notebook." She eyes the pots but, still did not think to touch them or attempt to find the key. Perhaps this new group of people knew how to get into this cottage.

She waited until the group was nearly upon her before she spoke " Have you any idea of which pot contains the key hidden beneath it? I have not had the courage to test my luck and pick the wrong pot. So, i have waited for someone to come along, thankfully you guys did." She smiled slightly, and looked the group over. There were many different personalities here in this realm. Many people who had been brought together by the demoness. She kept the smile plastered on her face despite the nervousness roiling inside of her at the time.

Devon moved toward the flower pots which lay on the ground offering a gentle smile to Anahlie, her tone friendly “Well, the bitch up in the church said there was a key under the yellow pot and we were to fetch a notebook from inside” while making her way to the specific pot. Trusting Idee as far as she could throw the church, she crouched low gripping the yellow pot offering “you all might want to step back a bit … you know … just in case”. Devon scanned the ground for any signs that there might be a trip wire and ready to leap backwards at a moments notice before moving the flower pot to one side. “Oh yea, name’s Kim Prescott by the way…” still more focused on what lay on the ground than Anahlie.

Auki
03-27-2012, 12:21 PM
In the Northwest:

Under the yellow pot, there lay not a key but a simple note;





My sweetest Idée,
I fear that Envoy overheard where your hiding place is.
As such, I've moved it.

You can find it under the pot with the same colour
as the gem in your engagement ring.

Keep safe.

I love you.
Court.

V
03-28-2012, 01:20 PM
"Do you want to pick the flowers?" Asked Ben as he stared upon the garden. The bright flowers were giving him a headache, it would have been nicer if they were desolate like the rest of this place. He just wanted to get out of here.

He strolled through the garden thinking about their task, it seemed simple enough. Surely Ben you cannot screw this one up, surely not, but of course you will. And if not, you'll be out of this place in no time! Won't that be exciting, waking up in your own bed (presumably) ready for tomorrow. Of course you have nothing on tomorrow. Why do you want to leave again?

As they began to walk back up toward the chapel Ben said, "about what I said before," his voice stuttered and shook with uncertainty. Off to a good start here. "I, was a bit of a jerk. I'm always like that, always seem to fuck things up. I'm sorry, just not used to having anyone's attention - I don't do well with people."

"I miss your teasing, touching..... everything now," he babbled out, thoughts rushing out his mouth. Ben coughed, yes that makes sense to everything you've said before.

"Look, well, I suck alright..... Shay love?" He smiled, hopefully.

Lithiora
03-28-2012, 02:07 PM
Shay listened to him babble silently, her mind barely straying the entire time. When he finished with 'Shay love' she burst into tears, not from anything bad, but because she was silently laughing the whole time he spoke. "I'm sorry Benny love. I didn't mean to be insulting. It's just funny to me how much your opinions seem to change. I'm sure in 10 minutes you'll be mad at me again. It's cute. Frustrating as hell, but cute." She tousled his hair once more and kissed his cheek.

"And I don't think you're a jerk. I think you're an angry person that doesn't know how to handle attention because he rarely, if at all, gets any." she stopped and stood in front of him, holding onto his shoulders and looking up at him. "I don't often get people that want to stay around me this long anyway... so thank you for that..." her cheeks flushed and she kissed his lips softly before turning away. "It was just a thank you... so don't let it get to your head..."

Merry
03-28-2012, 11:58 PM
As Devon slowly opens the note from Court, her eyes glance toward the Green flower pot recalling the emerald ring in Idée’s finger. She rises taking a step back, tone sounds frustrated, she after all wants to put on a show for the others “Some ass named Court moved the freaking key, note says that it is under the pot the color of the bitches ring … anyone remember what color the bitches ring was?”.

Devon was curious to see how observant the other people in their little group were though she is certain that the NCIS guy most likely already knows it would be the green pot. She is hopeful that one of the other women would speak up before the agent does. Thoughts also run through her mind wondering if the agent will hold off also assessing the observations of the others before offering his input.

Tibbs rubs his chin idly as he looks intently at the green pot. Could it really be so simplistic? All anyone would have to do look in all the pots. Nah, nothing was ever that simple. Perhaps picking the wrong pot would poison you somehow or have an explosive device wired to it. Or if they do choose the green pot, it could possibly not have the notebook, but another clue leading to it. Or perhaps the notebook was there but the pot was still trapped or laced with something. Tibbs started thinking about Gabby for a small moment, she had told him about several types of chemicals that don't harm glass but can stay active for weeks and burn any flesh that touches it.

Finally, he looked around on the floor and found a small stone, a little bigger than a pebble. "No one touch it. I may be nothing, but something about this doesn't right. Get behind me." As he waited for everyone to get far enough back, he shot a glance at 'Kim', raising his eyebrows slightly as if to say, 'I hope I'm right', as he tossed the stone up and down in his hand.

“Her ring was a beautiful green color” Camilla said softly, coming up behind him and pointing towards the small pot of the same color. “I remember because she touched me with that hand, when she woke me up” shivering slightly at the memory. “you don’t think this is some type of trap, do you?” she said hesitatingly, suddenly a little nervous.

Anahlie read the note over Kim’s shoulder and slowly began to piece together the clues "Court, I believe is the demons groom that never showed, but who is the other mentioned in the note?" She instantly assumed that this is why the groom never showed up for the wedding because of this other person that had not yet been introduced to them. She was getting a little irritated with all of this mystery and said " Demons are always so complicated, can they not just tell what exactly they mean or need you to do? Must they always be so riddle-like?" Her tone reflected a hint of annoyance.

Anahlie stepped back with the rest of the group as she was told by the NCIS agent. She was instantly curious of the pots and the person who sent these three people on the quest to get the notebook. She couldn't understand why this woman would send three.. no four people to their demise so easily and without little effort. "Seems like this is all getting a lot more complicated than it needs to be. Damn demons" She was talking more to herself, but her eyes were focused intently on the pots.

Devon ensures her back is toward Tibbs as a smile forms impressed with this agent’s solution to the perplexing riddle before them. She too has not dismissed the possibility that Idée or perhaps this Court person might have set something other than a key under the green pot. As she steps slightly further back from the pot holding Court's note, offers in a friendly tone “Yea, damn Demons, they can’t do anything simple, can they?”

As she backs closer to Tibbs, tilts her head in his direction, a soft smile forms across her lips extending her hand in the direction of the green pot “Well, let’s get this over so we can get the hell out of here” all the while giving him a visual once over looking for any signs that this man might have a weapon of any kind. In a playful tone “The firing line is no longer clear, rock holder, commence fire.” She is also impressed that each of the others recalled the small details on the ring. Shame though, with everyone with such crisp attention to details, if she slips on her cover name even once, bad things would need happen.

When everyone was far enough back, Tibbs threw the small stone and the pot shattered. As soon as the glass broke, Tibbs hopped back a few feet, but nothing happened. No explosion, no poison, and thankfully nothing weird. "All right," Tibbs said in a level tone, "looks like we're safe for now. Better to be cautious than dead." He then walked over to the stand the pot was on. Where the pot had been lay a key amongst a few small shards of broken glass. Tibbs cautiously picked it up and looked at it. Then when he approached the door, he paused and looked back at everyone. "Anyone else want to take a risk this time and open the mysterious door?" The slightest hint of amusement touch the agent's lips, his stone-hard expression softening a bit.

Camilla glanced quickly at the people in their small group, feeling a little guilty for just following along, letting the rest of them take the brunt of this nightmare so far. She remembered the girl Kim, being kind and helpful to her when she first woke up, and made up her mind that instant. Ignoring the sinking feeling her stomach, “I’ll do it” she said.

Reaching out with trembling fingers, she stepped towards Tibbs and took the key from his outstretched hand. The weight of it feeling cold and alien in her grasp. She moved quickly, before she could change her mind or think about what was behind the door, shoving the key in the lock and turned it sharply. Hearing the mechanism make a loud clacking noise as the lock sprung open. “here goes nothing” she said under her breath, and pushed the door open wide.

co-post w/ Storm, Edynol, Lost Goddess, Merry

Auki
03-29-2012, 08:52 AM
Knock… knock, knock.

Silence followed. The people spoke - muttering, complaining – stirring the man within. He slid from his bed quietly, bare feet pressing against the splintered floorboards without feeling pain. His hands groped for something to cover his indecency. Was it Hindermost again? That demon had a habit of visiting to pester him from sleep. While he irritably mulled over the possibility, he heard multiple voices. Hindermost was there, but he wasn't alone.

For a while, he waited, wondering if he should brave the crowd outside. His ears recognized none of them; what could they possibly want with him anyway? They didn't sound interesting… but perhaps, he could be surprised.

Slowly, he opened the door to his house, cutting the frivolous talking short.

“I apologize for my tardiness. I am Court and-…”

When he noticed those standing before him, he couldn't help his shock. Humans; a great deal of them as well. He wanted to ask what they would be doing on his doorstep, but the answer was logical. A sigh displayed his feelings towards the situation.

“I can guess why you're here. It's only polite I listen to you, but I fear it will not have the outcome you wish.”

With the flick of his wrist, a dagger appeared. He inspected its edge with an absent interest.

“You can talk one at a time – anything more hurts my head in the early morn.

You…” he pointed towards Justin, “…can speak first.”

He jumped, looking behind himself “me?” Justin asked not sure if the half naked demon man was talking to him. “Uhhhhhh…” he said feeling uncomfortable with all the attention. “Well…we were all sent here by a demon woman, who’s really upset that you haven't shown up to marry her yet. She said she won't send us back unless there's a wedding so we were just…hoping you would…get on that.”

He coughed his eyes glancing at the night wondering why he had it and where he pulled it from considering he had no pants. “I mean I get it marriage is a big step and all, you probably got cold feet but you could at least talk to her, even to just call it off or something. Then we can all go back and get on with our lives. You can go back to making your moonshine and staying away from Uncle Sam. I can go back to writing about crap no one cares about, and she can go back to….doing whatever it is she does when she's not waiting for you to marry her.”

“But I love her…” Court replied back curtly, before softening his voice, “…and I do wish to marry her. I just cannot face her without the wealth to pay for the ceremony.” His eyes darted to one of the girls, weapon still dancing in his hands.

Rosalyn grew nervous at the sight of the dagger, but kept her composure by listening to Court. "Wouldn't it be better to tell her your dilemma rather than making her wait?" she asked curiously. She honestly found it rude that the demon was making his fiancée wait with grief. Yet if this was all real, she had no choice but to help them both. If it meant saving her and her sister's soul.

"How would you feel after spending months promising your love her dreams... just to find out you can't give them to her?" he muttered, "That woman will never let me hear the end of it. At least, this way, I don't have to speak to her." He now turned to Matt, looking for a reply.

"Wealth shouldn't mean that much in a wedding. It shouldn't mean that much to her, either." Matt shrugged, speaking again to the demon man, "In... our culture -most of our cultures- the woman pays for the wedding. Some women want a glamorous wedding, but neglect the love in it all."

He shifted again, unsure of what to add. "When you talk to as many girls as I do, you find out that all they usually want is your love. Do you think she'd bring us all here for nothing? Looks like she went to great lengths for somethin'. I suppose that something is you, walkin' down the aisle for her, showin' her how much you love her. Isn't that enough?"

“Perhaps,” Court replied, “But this situation is so dire that there won’t even be an aisle least I should find money. It may seem harsh but I suspect she’s having an affair as well. I’m not sure how to feel or act anymore.”
He looked to Marie and Andy, a pair he presumed to be related, “Do you two have anything to add?”

Andy and Marie looked at each other, and then back to the man talking. "Anything to add? Dude, don't assume the chick is having an affair! Ya gotta find out right? Take it from me, I've had chicks cheat on me since day one, and this girl watched her mom being cheated on since her eyes opened. Find out, and then figure out how to act. Seriously." Andy stated, and recieved a sharp slap to the face.

"Don't speak as if you know anything about this, and it's rude to speak like that among the first meeting. Anyways, do what you feel is right." Marie shrugged, smiling at court. "I mean, yes maybe you should find out if she is having an affair, but you really should talk to her. Go to her, talk to her about the money issues. You love her, and love is a great thing. Talking usually helps, but who am I? Just a human who's soul was taken from her body to come here to witness a wedding that you have to show up to or all of us petty humans will die." she breathed in after talking, that was a mouthful.

Andy pouted as he looked at Court, "What she said." he muttered, rubbing his now sore cheek. Marie smiled at Court, and glanced around at everyone. They all seemed to make a great point, as did the man that is supposed to be getting married. They sighed, and just stared.

The demon scowled, “And you tell me this while confessing to having an ulterior motive? Why should I trust you guys at all?” The pregnant girl now earned his glare, the dagger in hand coming to a sudden halt.

"Trust us?" Zaire rolled her eyes. "Why would you trust us? Frankly, I couldn't care less if you trust us. What we're asking is a straight exchange. We'll do what we can to help you face the demon woman honorably, you marry her so that we don't die. That's all. I mean..." She shrugged, focusing on the man's absurdly long hair instead of the dagger. He could have been a sister to his fiancee, not that she planned to mention that. It was not worth getting involved with whatever incest drama the two were in the middle of.

"Court, seriously, I just want to get older than fifteen. I know they" she waved her hand at the others, "all have said the pure stuff, that you should marry her no matter how much money you have if you really love her, she'll understand and all. I mean, there's a church. We're witnesses. It can't be that expensive. But if you want more money, here are my ideas: Break it off. Tell her you'll marry her but not until you get better off so you can provide for her or whatever. Do what you slash we can to get money quickly. Steal some. Kill her. But I've read the end of the book where you stay in this cabin and sulk. It sucks. We all die and she goes crazy." Zaire crossed her arms over the Fetus, willing the demon across from her to just do something. The last time she'd seen a case of apathy this bad, the person in question needed to go on antidepressants.

He replied thoughtfully, “Killing her does seem like a good idea… at least, compared to putting my pride on the line.”

Ivy had been silent the entire exchange, arms crossed over her chest, glaring angrily at the man in front of her. "This is ridiculous," she spoke up finally, deciding to put her foot down. "Listen to me. I'm not sure what exactly it is you're doing or why, but I've had just about enough."

With a harsh jerk she pulled Roselyn away from the man (and his dagger) and did her best to appear taller. Not that it would make much of a difference. "Frankly, if you love her you wouldn't be killing her. But I suppose you care more about your pride than her, hm?" Why was she even saying this? It's not like she cared about anything than preserving her life and the life of her sister's - but Roselyn seemed so interested in this strange cult's twisted storyline, that she was reluctant to alarm her by breaking through the charade.

Ivy threw up her hands. "I can't believe I'm about to be murdered by a coward." Hopefully if he stabbed her, Rose would have enough time to run away.

“Slightly judgmental, don’t you think?” Court mused to her disapproval, “Our culture is how it is; it is preferable to slaughter your wife in quick fashion than cause her suffering. Although whether I have the power to kill her is dubious.”

"I don't think..." Gideon said quietly from the back, keeping his head down, "that we can really convince him otherwise.... I mean... he is a demon... thing... I guess...." The knife was starting to look particularly... ominous to Gideon.

“It’s the only option... well, that or finding the money… hell, even securing her another man worthy of her excellence would be better than this,” Court sighed.

Marcus had been listening quietly up to this point, but with the momentary lapse in speech, he decided to step up to the plate. The demon and his dagger were slightly off-putting, that weapon easily being able to send any of them to oblivion. Marcus offered up a quick prayer to his Lord and Savior before his vocal chords rung out in his best preacher-voice.

"Son, I have a question for you. What the HELL do you need the money for? You have the chapel, you have the guests! I highly doubt any of us would live long enough to attend a reception, so what is it? If you need a priest-" Marcus paused for a moment, long enough to swallow as he thought about what he just suggested.

"Lord help me, I'll be your damned priest if it gets you two married. Assuming you do love her, as we've yet to decide. In any case, what is it you need the money for?"

“Contrary to what it seems, the Chapel has not been paid for. Idée should not even be there right now, but she never was keen on following rules.” Court explained fondly. With those words, he realised there were only two humans left silent. His eyes darted between the both of them, the dagger performing a final dance in his restless hands. “Anything to add?”

Luke watched as everyone tried to convince this demon to be with the woman, not with the woman, find money, and kill her even. God, this is getting to be like a Soap Oprah. Then, the demon Court points his annoying dagger at Luke, and all he really wants is some fucking clothes.

After listening to everyone else, Luke thought carefully before replying. He felt like talking to an alien.

"Okay, so the first thing, I know you don't know what your rules are in this world, dimension, realm? Whatever. Anyways, if you really love a woman do you really want to lose that?" Luke began holding his sheet kilt. "I made the mistake of breaking off with the woman I cared deeply about because I was afraid of being hurt, abandoned, or not being enough for her. Now she is engaged to someone else and getting married soon..."

Luke rubbed the sweat from his forehead and closed his eyes as he saw her again. He shook his blond hair and looked at Court again.

"What I mean is pretty boy, whether you decide to leave her or kill her, you might truly regret a life without her," Luke said. "And if its help you need, I will gladly help you if it means you or your demon fiancé will send us home. We were forced to be here against our will. So please, take our human advice, it might work."

The demon paused, considering the words of the lesser beasts, pondering on their offers.

“Envoy is the only demon around here with any substantial money. If we were to steal from him, we could afford the wedding. We could kill him even and then payment wouldn’t be an issue.” Holding his head with his free hand, he muttered, “Why must things always be so complicated?”

He hesitated, paused.

“No, let’s go,” he spoke forcefully to the air, commanding his mind to hold on to the decision.

He marched forward, up the path towards Revenant Hill, indicating for the humans to follow. The thorns caught at his skin, leaving small cuts in their wake but drawing no blood. When the Chapel came into view, he felt his steps slowing – Should he go in? How would she react? – but still pressing forward.

He was determined until he noticed two humans making their way towards him from the direction of Envoy’s shop.

Auki
03-29-2012, 10:22 AM
In the Northwest:

As the door creaked open, a low melody could be heard, a lament that tore the heart apart with forlorn and desperation. As you entered the room, you found its source to be a phoenix, caged in the corner. It looked at you with saddened eyes and continued its song undeterred, trembling under your presence. Words would do nothing to soothe it. A small key sat in the lock of its confinement, ready to release it.

Around the perimeter of the front room, there were many doors, all locked and bolted in a similar fashion to the first. There seemed to be no hint as how to open them, however.

Against the opposite wall stood a writing desk. Inside its drawers, there were only stationary and other useless items. On its top, there lay a small red notebook, bound by a black ribbon. Next to it was a large pouch that jingled with the sound of coins when it was shook.

Propped against a different wall, there were a variety of weapons – three daggers, two hammers and a wicked axe – that seemed to glimmer even in the faded light. Although they look heavy, if you were to pick them up, you would find them lighter than if they were made of air.




Between the trees of the forest, it hid in silence. Walls and wood meant nothing to its eyes; it saw through them without hindrance, watching the humans as they entered the room.

It was tempting to wait for them to leave, but it could not risk them touching its goal. With silent footfalls, it began to approach, ever so slowly. Despite its caution, stealth was not an issue; after all, its form was invisible to the naked eye while it paced through the dappled shadows.

V
03-29-2012, 10:46 AM
"Ugh," Ben groaned as she laughed at him, should have kept your mouth shut, despite that he smiled. Then she tousled his hair again, oh great, and kiss his cheek... Well that was a little better, well until her lips were on his own. He reached out to hold her hand as she turned away, "Sure, that's what it was, if only it weren't for the thorns on the path. And well those people coming toward us..."

The others from the chapel earlier where coming back as they were. At the front they were lead by a stranger, at least it wasn't that Hindermost character. The figure looked oddly similar to the woman earlier in the chapel, the groom he assumed. How observant Ben, didn't Hindy say they were to meet up with him earlier?

Right, well, here we go. Ben stalked over to whatever his name was.

"That creep with six eyes in his chest said we should deliver a message," he said, "'just get married and pay for it later' he told us."

Ben jerked the flowers out in front of them, they were still irritating his eyes, "he wanted you to have these as a gift. Don't really care if you want them or not."

Well that was done, now his attention could go back to that annoying woman. Damn, his opinions were changing as quick as she said.

Auki
03-29-2012, 11:31 AM
The pair consisted of one male and one female. Finally finding himself to be truly awake, he couldn’t help but notice the beauty of the girl. Not that she was anything compared to Idée, of course… just impressive for a human.

"That creep with six eyes in his chest said we should deliver a message. 'Just get married and pay for it later' he told us."

Foolishly, Court felt his hopes leap before common sense could invade upon his bliss. When one had wished for something for so long, it was allowed that the mind would jump for the opportunity to see it obtained. Whether the excuse was true or not – or if, perhaps, the demon groom was merely simple in the head – it did not matter. He felt his lips curl into a smile.

“That’s wonderful! That’s-…”

The words died in his mouth as his throat contracted, suffocating him of breath. He froze, knowing what was coming next.

"He wanted you to have these as a gift. Don't really care if you want them or not."

No! Court wished to scream but all that escaped his lips was an angry hiss. He tried to push the yellow flowers away, feeling their poisonous gaze with every passing second. His attempts failed, dexterity choked by his body’s reaction, his claws slicing across Ben’s cheek instead.

Struggling to stand, he felt himself trembling, falling to his knees as the minute ticked by.
He was dead before he hit the ground.




Inside the Chapel, there was a whisper of bad fate upon the air.

Idée breathed deeply.

She couldn’t make assumptions. No.

Her hands clenched slowly and relaxed.

A small part of her mentality…

snapped.




Outside, Idée’s neurosis was having an effect on the world.

Hindermost shook his head with concern as storm clouds brewed in the black-stained sky. “Hindy doesn’t like this. It must mean she’s sad.”

Lightning sparked, joining the earth to the sky, catching three people in its light. Once it faded, those humans collapsed to the ground, small burns scarring their form.

Hindermost blinked, “Oh…”

He had forgotten how fragile non-demons could be.

“Oh my! Dear humans! You must save yourselves!”

As he spoke, lightning struck him, but he shook it off without a thought. Idée was not a strong demon; this was nothing to him.

He waved his hands to get the humans moving, but the brambles had started to twist and turn, taking the form of serpents that slid across the ground with a thirsting bite. He stomped upon one, crushing it with his unusual strength, but there were numerous more across the hill arising.

Lithiora
03-29-2012, 02:29 PM
Shay watched the man she assumed to be Court as his eyes widened and he seemed to know exactly what those flowers were. "Ben!" She tried to pull him away from Court and knock the flowers away, but it was too late. He fell to the ground, dead. "Oh crap..." she mumbled. Lovely that she should take part in what she assumed to be an assassination. "What the hell was on those flowers Ben?!" Shit shit shit!" she hadn't cursed this much in a few days.

A deeper panic began to set in as the sky changed and the thing, calling itself Hindermost, pointed out the sky. She watched as lighting lit up three people in it's path, their bodies hitting the ground with a thud, scars forming upon their skin. "Oh my god... what the hell is happening!" she grabbed Ben's arm and held onto it tight, her fingernails digging into his arms. "We need to go Ben... please..."

Isis
03-29-2012, 09:50 PM
"Shit!" Zaire jumped back, staring at the demon on the ground. "You killed him!" She rounded on the two - a couple, apparently - practically breathing fire. "You fucking assassinated our best hope! Why the fuck would you do that? You -"

But she did not get to finish, for storm clouds rolled in, lightning striking twice in quick succession. Once hitting three people, the second time hitting the ass-faced demon. While the electricity didn't seem to impact the demon at all, the three people fell. Zaire assumed they had died, if you could die in this world.

“Oh my! Dear humans! You must save yourselves!”

About to snap back at the demon, something along the lines of "and where do you suggest we go?", Zaire instead screamed. The brambles that had scratched her, punctured her feet, had come alive. As snakes. She bit her lip ferociously, trying to prevent herself from shrieking again. A few deep breaths, and the girl thought she had regained her composure. However, when she spoke, her voice was still a few octaves higher than normal.

"What do we do?" Zaire demanded. "There are snakes and there's lightning and he's dead, and I'd marry that damn demoness if it meant I could get out of here, but I don't have a penis, so somebody else has to volunteer!" As if to punctuate her statement, or perhaps just responding to Zaire's stress, the Fetus kicked, but Zaire barely felt it through her adrenaline. She laid a hand on top of her pregnancy, hissing "I'll deal with you later."

Kris
03-29-2012, 10:07 PM
Bloody hell.

He was a respected manager, not some delivery boy for Christ sake.

And if that demon thought him to be some kind of a cupid, well... The name Erebus should have hinted something else completely...

But it was amusing to say the least.

As far as he concerned this world and the demonic inhabited citizens of it, were nothing but a pain down the... well, the area where the sun don't shine, god have mercy on those poor souls with such a wretch dirty minds to even ponder on the exact location.

...

Then again he was the one to talk...

Anyway, carrying up the things and returning upon the way he just came from was rather absurd and ridiculous, but the task had to be done.

...

Or has it?

It was the best ticket home, so it was worth the shot...

Grinning he wondered how simple the imps' world turned out to be. Powers and magical Hocus Pocus, or whatever, social classes and ranks still were supreme. Hell, like in the real world, beauty meant nothing if you don't have the cash, or in this world, skills or some kind of power.

Something... felt weird...

He smelled it....

The weather seemed to be taken a turn for the worst...

Storms, lighting... you know... the good stuff...

Amazed, he tried his best not to be blown away with his own gown, keeping a steady track back.

V
03-30-2012, 11:17 PM
"What the hell was on those flowers Ben?!" Ben was stunned and didn't reply. Well, that sucks, Ben Demon Slayer, killer of the evil groom. Oh how the people will rejoice after they hear that the one who has tormented them for so is dead. A hero they shall call you. But who shall marry the insane one now.

Ben was holding his cheek, he felt blood swelling up from the claw wound. He dapped at it with his hand having nothing else to wipe it with.

"Oh why yes, of course we wanted to kill him, we quietly joked about it picking those from the garden below," snarled Ben toward the pregnant girl, "what makes you think we had any idea he was allergic to flowers? Fuck off bitch."

Then there was lightning, people dying, thorny plants turning into serpents. You know the general shit you see every day.

"Oh my god... what the hell is happening!" she grabbed Ben's arm and held onto it tight, her fingernails digging into his arms. "We need to go Ben... please..."

"Oh right, sure, let's go," Ben mumbled in response to her, "the chapel's the closest." He pointed out. But if what Hindermost had sad was true about her, should they rush into the chapel with her.

What Ben really wanted was the head back down the hill to pay that Envoy another visit. He don't supposed that creep had a pathetic weakness too.

Storm
03-31-2012, 02:14 AM
As the group made their way into the cottage, Devon cast her gaze about taking in all the room. The bird was of no concern to her as she did not give it a second thought however her eyes did fall upon the weapons. She had already resolved that this was no ordinary place and tempting as it were to gain access to a weapon, she abandoned the thought as quickly as she pondered it. She made her way toward the desk and the small red notebook again pondering for a moment rather to open it to try and find some useful information about their ‘host’.

The room momentarily was illuminated as a streak of ground strike lightening touched close to the cottage. Softly she shakes her head “Just freaking great, now a freaking storm rolls in…” looking to the notebook and back to the open door of the Cottage. “Think we should wait till the storm rolls through, the bitch can wait for her book, I do not have ‘get caught out in a storm’ on my to do list today” as she reaches for the notebook figuring since going to wait the storm out, may as well give it a read. She slides her fingers to move the binding ribbon so as to open the notebook.

Tune
03-31-2012, 02:47 AM
Matt tried to gather everything that happened around him as coherently as possible. They had somehow convinced Court to at least talk to his bride-to-be before two other humans approached them with flowers, killing Court dead in his tracks. He imagined fire and brimstone falling from the sky, but instead, lightning crackled to the ground, striking three people dead, even striking Hindermost. The bramble bushes were turning into snake-like entities, and there only way out of this hell was laying dead on the ground.

"Standing in the open during a lightning storm is fucking retarded," shouted Matt, over the bickering of the group. Whether they heard him or not, he really didn't care. He wasn't keen on dying.

He cleared his voice, "So, unless you all want to stand around like dumbstruck cattle, best thing to do is to get a move on - and get as far away from the chapel as we can."

He hated to admit it, but with Court dead, sticking around one way or another would get them killed. There wasn't much to do, and he doubted they could save their own lives, let alone the demon groom who already keeled over from flowers. Flowers. Even demons had their own kryptonite, but flowers? Irony be damned.

Auki
03-31-2012, 08:15 AM
In the Northwest:

Inside the notebook, each page consisted of two columns.

The first described acts of explicit nature, behaviours usually saved for moments between the bedsheets.
The second listed varying quantities of money.

On the first page, in the margin, there was a small note.



'I know Court is poor so I will gather the money myself.
Fate have mercy on me for what I am about to do.'

Kiall
03-31-2012, 08:57 AM
“Nooooo!” Justin cried kneeling besides Court. “The big galoot’s gone and got himself moidalized!” He said shaking his fist at the sky before turning to the man who had held the flower. “Youuu dipshit!” He accused, “we’re all gonna die her because of you!” Though he doubted anyone had heard him over the cries of surprise and anger. Well they were all fucked, couldn’t get married with a dead groom.

Hmm maybe it wouldn’t be so bad. After all aside from the thorns, it seemed really peaceful, and Hindmost was nice! Then lightning struck, he screamed as three people were incinerated instantly. He stumbled to a standing position as another struck Hindmost, though he seemed okay somehow. His eyes widened in horror though as the brambles became snakes. Above all things, Justin was terrified of snakes. He shrieked an embarrassingly high pitched thing as he began to run. His arms flailing as he took off not bothering to see where he was going or what the rest of the group was doing. He just knew he had to get away from the terrible slithering monsters!

He ran headlong into the only shelter he saw, the chapel. Bursting in he pushed the heavy wooden doors closed, sliding down it once they were shut panting. His eyes then flickered to Idee. “Oh man! There’s brambles’ turning into snakes out there!” He shuddered at the very concept. It then occurred to him things might get awkward, considering he knew her fiancée was dead and she was probably wondering about her. “I’m just..gonna move some stuff, block the door, snakes and all that you know.” Standing up he began to grab the various furniture dragging it to the door barricading himself inside.

Storm
03-31-2012, 09:43 PM
As the door creaks open, Elroy enters behind Devon at the same time quirking a brow at the quick pace she entered the cottage adding to the presumption that there was more to the woman than she was letting on. He keeps the door open so the others could enter while giving the interior a cursory glance from back to front working what he sees as though he were visually processing a crime scene. As Devon makes her way to the desk, he focuses on the weapons and her slight pause upon seeing them again storing her actions away in a mental note.

As Devon picks up the bound notebook, he moves closer to her to get a closer look at the book also pondering if the contents should be analyzed giving them a glimpse of who their host really was. As he is about to suggest the book looked at, a flash of light illuminates the room followed by a clap of thunder. The cottage shutters slightly indicating a close lightening strike.

As Devon suggests they all stay inside during the approaching storm, he glances over her shoulder reading the journal entries and price list along with the inscription on page one’s margin offers quietly more meant for Devon “I see why the gal would want her book, perhaps we should close it and not mention to freaky it was looked at.” Offering in a louder tone meant for the others too “Yea, Kim is right, don’t really want to get caught out in a storm like this.”

Years as a Federal Agent and in the Marine Special Forces already has those hairs raise giving him perception that there is yet another watching them. He need not see the other, he has that odd feeling which never lies to him while casually strolling in the direction of the daggers.

Jacogos
04-01-2012, 01:56 AM
Marcus was lost in thought about what had been happening to them when he realized that others were approaching the rather large group. Court had been leading them towards the Chapel, and while half of the Father's mind had been on the task at hand, the other half was deftly avoiding the thorns that littered the path. Swearing to himself, Reverend Williams looked up the hill at the approaching humans, others that had split off from the main group near the beginning.

There was a short exchange from the man, and suddenly Court reacted rather oddly to the display of flowers. Why, it almost seemed as if...

"Sweet Lord Jesus, you killed him!" Marcus shouted as he watched the demon man drop to the ground.

KAPOW!!! Lightning struck behind him, instantly frying three of the others he had almost forgotten about. Now seeing their bodies lying there, eyes staring sightlessly, he felt his stomach heave.

"Oh... Oh my... Dear Lord preserve us..." He whispered a quick prayer for the deceased, though he knew not their denomination, so he had no idea what to expect for them. He then noticed something else. He thought his vision was blurring, playing tricks on his mind, but no... The bushes really WERE coming to life! Brambles became snakes, and Marcus didn't like it one bit. He wasn't Moses. There was no turning snakes into staves here.

While he had the chance, though, the Reverend quickly moved to the side of the man who had approached Court with the flowers. "Did you just say that you didn't know the flowers would kill him? Then where did you get the flowers? What made you think to give them to him?!" He wished he had heard the exchange before Court had fallen over dead. That might have helped him out a lot here.

Merry
04-01-2012, 11:58 PM
Camilla moved away from the others and their fascination with the book. Comfortable in the knowledge that they would be determined to bring it back with them, it being the reason they were here an all.

She found herself instead drawn to the bird in the corner. Her eyes widening as she got a little closer. The site of it was remarkable to her, it was something out of a myth and she was spellbound. The bird had long golden plumes, cascading across its small frame. They rippled as it sang in a way that it appeared to be made of fire. Feathers so bright and vibrant it hurt her eyes to stare at it. It was so completely out of place in this drab interior. It was as if someone had tried to cage the sun.

She moved closer, finding herself listening to the song and getting lost in its melody. The song was so sad, and pitiful that it cut through her heart like a knife. She couldn’t have stopped herself if she wanted to, and calmly reached her hand out as soon as she was close to the cage.

“You’re stuck here too, just like we are, aren’t you?” she whispered to the creature, feeling its eyes locked on hers, staring at her, staring into her soul. "Trapped somewhere you don't belong" she sighed softly.

Her fingers grasped the key in the lock, and turning it slowly so as to not upset the bird, she opened the cage to set it free.

SmileyCassandra
04-02-2012, 04:50 PM
Marie stood there shocked, one minute she was following the man, and the next he was laying on the ground dead. How could this be? How could a demon of all things die because of flowers? What the hell was that? This was seriously getting weirder and weirder with every passing minute. She was going to die, yet she could care less. This was way to crazy to be reality. She was set on it only being a dream.

She remain silent, and jumped as lightening zapped down. She was tackled to the ground by Andy, he saved her from being hit. "Thanks." she mumbled, standing up and brushing herself off. She scrapped her knee and elbow, and felt just like a little kid that fell off her bike. Reality was setting in. If this was a dream, it wouldn't hurt- but it did. She was growing scared, and looked around.

Three others were dead, and she felt a lump in her throat. "No!" she cracked out, her body shaking. This wasn't something she could take, she was still only a kid at heart. "What are we supposed to do now?! Die?" she asked, looking at Hindermost. He told them to run away, or something along them lines. Marie didn't really know what to do. Maybe she could go to the demon witch that brought them here in the first place. She had no right, and Marie would let be heard.

Andy watched as Marie began to run away, and chased after her. Seeing those three people fall dead, simple as that, they just died. Andy had a horrible feeling it wasn't just the storm, someone caused this. It wasn't the work of nature. He hid his emotions well, it almost seemed that the death of the person that would save them didn't matter.

Once he caught up with Marie he grabbed her. "You know I hate being serious Mars, but we need to think rationally, and decide on things together. Do you think someone will just give answers? Think with your head, you're being selfish right now! I know what you're gonna try and do, and it could get all of us killed, just like the three that remain dead now." Andy stated, acting as if he were the older brother. In a way he is, he can be much more serious then his childish step-sister.

Marie said nothing, only stared at her brother. Andy sighed, and let go of her. "If you die it isn't going to be on me. I'm serious Marie, I wont fucking protect all of your stupid young life!" he yelled, turning to look around. He didn't want to be rude to his sister, but he had to. He wanted to live, and she wasn't going to ruin that for him, ever. He didn't know where to go, and he noticed a hand slip to his. He looked to find Marie looking just as confused as he was. He knew they needed to stick together, the only question was were to go to do just that.

Auki
04-03-2012, 03:58 PM
In the NorthWest:

The bird hopped out of its cage tentatively, perching on the edge of the open door. It was obvious that the creature was not used to being free, its pitiful song halting in its shock.

Carefully, it flew itself onto Camilla's shoulder, investigating the human with insatiable curiosity. Although one might have expected its feathers to burn, they only produced a comfortable warmth at their touch, the kind animal not wishing to cause anyone harm.

It studied her before unfolding its wings once more and gliding down to the floor. For a few minutes, it pecked the ground with innocent demeanour. It seemed, however, as though the carpet was not offered the same luxury and protection as humans.

There was little warning as the floor around the phoenix' tail burst into flame, spreading with a relative speed. The creature that watched from outside hissed with anger at the sight, wondering how stupid a person had to be to unleash a fire-bird into the room.

Kiall
04-03-2012, 08:59 PM
Her vision was swimming as the storm drained her energy, tearing her of life with every passing minute. She wanted to stop it, but her body refused to listen to her will. Internally, she was a battlefield. Only on her exterior did she retain composure.

The scraping of furniture reached her in her tortured cocoon, dragging her to force attention upon the sound.

“Court…” she called out feebly, turning her head towards the door. There was someone there. Irrationality told her that it could only be her lover.

Her eyes fluttered open and shut faster than was normal. Her prayers called out to the skies for mercy, nausea rising as the room spun.

“Court, please help me.”

“Hm?” Justin said looking back up from the chair he had pushed onto the dooralong with several other pieces of furniture he could find. It was the first time he had heard her speak since he came in. He looked back then noticed her start to wobble. “Hey! Easy! Easy!” He called out running towards, gripping her shoulders to keep her up.

It only partially succeeded as they both slowly went to the ground, him propping her up somewhat. Wow this was awkward, not just for the obvious. He wasn’t entirely sure what was wrong, did she somehow know what happened to Court? That seemed the most likely but he wasn’t going to risk it by asking.

Should he get some water? A clean towel? A blanket? He didn’t know how to handle this considering that if flowers could kill one of em who knows what else could. “There, there…” he said patting her back, “everything’s…everything’s going to be okay,” he said weakly not sure how to comfort her.

She squeezed her eyes closed and pressed against his chest, delirious in herpain, “Court… the skies are burning, aren’t they?”

Her entire body trembled violently, rocking against his as she fought the pain that wracked her. The voice that left her lips was a melodic husk of its former joy, “It hurts so much. I don’t know why-… I don’t… know….”

“It’s…storming out yeah, there’s some lightning but we’re safe in here,” he said softly, his arms slowly wrapped around her comfortingly as she pressed into his chest. He hadn’t missed what she had called him. She was obviously delirious he doubted she would register it if he corrected her, and it was probably unwise even if he could.

If thinking it was Court holding her instead of dumb ol’ Justin made her feel better than he could live with that. “I know it hurts,” he said sadly glancing down at her, his hand running through her hair. He slowly rocked back and forth trying to comfort her. “But it’ll pass soon, pain like this always does. Things look bad now but there are other people that love and care about you, Hindermost does you’re all he ever talks about…And I guess... I...care about you,” that came off a little weird.

He barely knew this woman of course, the conversations they had together could be counted on one finger, and the ones where she didn’t think of him as Court was zero. But it was still such an awful thing to see someone in that much pain and sadness. Reaching out was the only thing he could think to do.

“Hindermost? No… no… he doesn’t like me…” she murmured distantly, “And… you guess? Why must you always be like this, Court?”

She felt tears rolling down her cheeks, hot against her skin, “Can’t you say you love me just once? Can’t you forgive me still?”

Justin stammered realizing his mistake. “Of course he!... I loved…love! love you,” Jesus Christ how did he get into this situation. “And I wanted to marry you,really I did. But I wanted a lavish wedding, something to show you how much you meant to me, but I couldn’t afford it…” Justin’s eyes began to blur, he hated to trick her like this but he was going to hate himself even more for what he was going to do next.

“Idee…I’m sorry but I can’t marry you, not anymore,” he said his forehead touchinghers, his own tears coming down as he closed his eyes. “I’m a ghost, something you made in your head to deal with the grief, but my feelings are real! And Ilove you so very very much, and I’m sorry that it is only now that I can say it. You have to let me go now, please. Because there is no Court now, only a bearded oaf named Justin, he told me how he felt about you, but he’s dead now,I’m so so sorry.” He sighed clenching his eyes tightly ready for whatever came next, be it to kill him on the spot or yell and scream at him.

She only whimpered a soft moan.

“No, Court.Don’t say that. It’s not funny.” Her trembling grew more volatile, “We promised her that we would marry. How could you… why would you…”

Crying into his chest, she didn’t want to let go, “I don’t know who this Justin is. You’re Court. You’re mine. Please…”

As her desperation grew, her fist pummeled against his shirt, but it did little damage in her frail state, “I didn’t want to bed with him. That monster forced me! We needed the money - He’s the only one with coin… I was trying to help us, I swear.”

The lightning sparked overhead, threatening to snake through the broken roof as itgrew in ferocity. Her hair fell over her face, hiding her contorted features from view as she drew back, “I can’t be alone… I just can’t.”

He winced ather words, he had guessed right. Her delusion was too strong for him to break.Sighing he leaned back up. He grew nervous as her trembling became more violent as she accused him. He grew slightly offended at her next words.

She had dragged him from his world, put him in the middle of all this and yet she didn’t even recognize his name. Hell she wouldn’t have given him a second glance if she wasn’t currently all delirious. His eyes widened as she pummeled his shirt working herself up. He yelped as the lightning struck, shaking the roof. Oh god! She was gonna make the whole place come apart.

“Idee! Listen to me!” he cried, gripping her shoulders, trying to find her eyes through her hair. “Court loved you! He didn’t care about all that stuff! And neither do I! You’re not alone, Idee! I’m here! And I’m not going to go anywhere!”

Oh god...what should he do? What should he do!? He had to do something to break her out of this mood. His mind a whirlwind of thoughts he gripped her shoulders, leaning in brushing past her hair and planted his lips against hers in a long soft kiss.

She resisted but only for a second, leaning into the embrace thereafter.

Her mind was too torn to recognize the difference between her lover and a stranger; she just needed someone there.

The storm did not die with the kiss, but it weakened. The snakes began to thrash without aim as she was distracted.

She felt electricity running down her nerves, sending her hair on end – It was wrong… so wrong… - as pleasure from his touch flooded her.


The world outside had become a distant memory

Lost Goddess
04-04-2012, 03:00 AM
Anahlie felt the hairs on her neck stand on end as if someone or something was watching her. She turned quickly and walked swiftly to the door and looked at the sky, then her eyes followed a shout in the distance and she saw someone whom she assumed to be a member of the original group fall over and did not get back up. She felt tears stinging her eyes and she said " We have lost one, and apparently that has had a negative effect on our lives here in this realm."

She had not been one who would break down and cry, but she no longer knew what to do, it seemed as if she could feel her soul slowly being drained away to oblivion by the spell that the demoness had cast to get them here in the first place. She was shivering from her tears and as the temperature had seemed to drop dramatically to her. She called out but only loud enough for herself to hear " Please, someone help me, I dont want to die here. I didn't even get to say goodbye to my family." She began sobbing silently and sat against the door ignoring the blazing heat from the fire that was spreading in the room.

Auki
04-04-2012, 03:45 PM
On Revenant Hill:

The snakes began to thrash more wildly as Idée's lips were kept occupied, trying to take bites out the humans' skin but missing more often than not.

The lightning crackled with a higher intensity albeit less frequently, brightening the sky in bursts of energy, striking the ground without mercy or reason.

Court's corpse carried little of interest other than his dagger and a small bag of torn-up paper.

Kris
04-04-2012, 05:45 PM
Erebus fought against the wind as it caught his gown and whipped past him with tempered rage. The lightning illuminated the scene; the man that walked, the red-faced demon that followed silently behind.

One might not have noticed Axiom’s presence if he had kept his mouth closed. Such a feat with an improbability from the start however. “You’re so much nicer to be around when you’re not obsessing over lakes, ya know?”

Very amusing. Erebus just pressed onward.

The demon skipped to catch up, happy grin plastered on his crimson features, “It’s pleasant to be able to enjoy such weather together, beautiful in a way.”

"Lovely", he hissed, "What is all this storm about anyway?!"

“Hm?” Axiom looked up at the clouds and back down, wondering why the man would find bitterness in the face of glory, “Oh, this. Whenever demons get emotional, it tends to affect the environment. I guess it’s a nuisance for weak-skinned humans like you, but we barely notice them.”

His smile stretched from ear to ear, “I promise you, lightning tickles when it can’t kill you.”

"Charming", Erebus sighed, "You sure are filled with energy, young man, I'm sure you don't need those nasty lightning too". He was sure that even if Axiom would understand this as sarcasm that this remark would not defile his good mood. He carried on, "So... you came to make sure I bring the young demon queen her letters?"

“Hardly,” the demon piped back, “I thought I would come to guard you against the storm!”

Now that he was walking, gathering a perspective other than the lake he had watched for the last few days, he felt his mood soar. “Plus, I think you humans will be heading back pretty soon… or dying. I want to be able to spend time with you all for as long as possible either way.”

To that remark he just shifted his eyes and looked somewhat annoyed. How nice....

"Suppose, yes, only in theory, I mean, why wouldn't I possibly enjoy a good DEATH, huh? but suppose I want to come out of this world, alive not that I have anything against crazy wenches that are dying to merry demons and killing storms and whatnot, but suppose I want to go back, what do I do?"

Axiom looked at him blankly, “Isn’t it obvious? Take Court’s dagger and stab Hindermost in the rear-mouth.” He rolled his eyes and muttered with a chuckle, “Humans really don’t see what’s right in front of them, huh?”

It was not THAT obvious..., Erebus sighed, "And court is in the Chapel I gather?", Erebus continued onward, "I really thought all I have to do was just hand the things over to the mistress..."

“Didn’t I explain to you about demon society? She can’t just choose him. You’ve got to…” The demon gave a sigh and stopped his lips from repeating the same lecture, “Court should be near the Chapel now. If we keep going forward, we’ll reach him.”

"Fine, fine", Erebus said, "You're coming along then?"

“Obviously!” Axiom exclaimed.

Great...

Little did the little imp knew that Erebus' offer was only a gesture. He was sure he was going to regret it.

Storm
04-04-2012, 06:50 PM
Elroy flickers his focus between Devon and Camilla. As Camilla moves to free the bird, starts to advise against it yet the young woman releases the caged bird before his words leave his mouth. As the bird eventually rested a top Camilla, he gazed through the desk which the notebook rested dismissing the random papers inside. He surmised that their host would eventually send them back for the bag with coin inside so he grabs the bag “may as bring it now to save a trip back.”

Devon completes skimming through the book before closing it and sliding the binding back around the cover about the time the bird lands on Camilla’s shoulder. A soft smile forms across her lips as she whispers more to herself “The bird should peck miss touchie feelie’s eyes out…” before offering in a louder tone “…That is so cute, I think it likes you.” Her eyes flick toward the door and windows having the odd sense that there is another set of eyes still upon the group.

Both Elroy and Devon watch as the bird drops to the floor and begins pecking. Elroy makes his way toward the door to assess the severity of the storm at which the floor around the bird erupts into flame. Not missing a step, hastens his movement for the door raising his arm across chest level now in a full run toward Camilla so as to strike her chest level intending on his momentum to stagger her backward out the door. His focus is also on Anahlie who should also get caught up in the human wave heading toward her. Tibbs is also ready to grab out for the her top with his free hand should they not knock her out of the cabin, either way, she will be knocked or drug out of the now flaming cabin.

Meanwhile the moment Devon noticed the flames erupt around the bird which rapidly spreads, she immediately tucked the notebook under her arm rushing to the wall where the weapons were. As she reaches the wall simultaneously spins into a thrust kick at the cross pane of a window so as to catch the wood holding the glass with her stocking feet while grasping one of the daggers mid spin. As her foot connects with the pane, pulls the kick back allowing the centrifugal force to shatter the window mostly outward minimizing the lacerations to her socks and feet. As the sea of flames race toward her, she leaps through the shattered window so as to tuck into a forward roll once hitting the ground outside the cabin. Slowly she visually scans the area as the storm rages looking for anyone whom might approach while holding the dagger to her side remaining in a low defensive crouch. She is somewhat surprised that a dagger of its size seems to have no weight to it. Not having seen Elroy, a soft smile forms on her lips as thoughts drift through her mind of Camilla being burned alive which slowly are dismissed having not heard any agonizing screams from inside.

Merry
04-06-2012, 12:34 AM
Camilla was in a thrilled amazement as the bird landed on her shoulder. She barely dared to breathe let alone move for fear of dislodging him from his new perch. It was incredible that this creature had come so close to her. She couldn’t believe it was real. Then again, the thought formed, this entire place was unreal so what was this small addition?

She felt a small twinge of grief when he moved down to the floor, but she let him go, glad that he was free. Free from the constraints of the cage. She watched bemused as he, and she was sure it was a he, for some reason, started to peck the floor. Her lips began to form the sound of a delighted “awww…” at his actions, when the floor suddenly erupted, shocking her in its unexpectedness. Why hadn't it caught her on fire?

As smoke rapidly began to fill the room, she began coughing, her eyes stinging and watering almost instantly at the acrid smoke. She turned away from the bird to find the door, and found herself almost leveled by Elroy. Colliding fully with him in his attempt to help her out of the room. His momentum knocked her flat on her butt onto the floor by the doorway. “Oopmpfh” she exclaimed as she landed, still coughing.

Lithiora
04-12-2012, 02:02 PM
Shay's eyes widened. Everything was going wrong it seemed. Not only had she and Ben killed the guy that was supposed to get that out of there, but now everyone else was running around like a bunch of electrocuted ants. Everything was wrong. "I'm scared..." she was scared that she could even admit she was scared... though she had whispered it, it was likely that some had heard her.

She turned and began walking back the direction she and Ben had come. She was basically well... for lack of a better word, fucked. Mumbling to herself she put her hair up in a ponytail and prepared to go and take out her frustration on the demon responsible. She would likely die... perhaps she could find something better to do along the way.

Auki
04-14-2012, 12:53 PM
Once he noticed that the pouch of money had been taken, stealth was no longer beneficial. A quick massacre would do much better, the thought causing the creature to hiss with innocent delight. His master had not fed him in so long. He grew weak, thin.

How pleasant it would be to finally feast.

The creature dropped his camouflage, as he approached the group of humans.

The moment that the phoenix ‘Sweet Pea’ caught sight of the approaching hunter, it flew towards the canopy. Hiding between the branches, the bird did not seem to notice as the forest began to turn to flames around it.

On the ground, Flit only laughed at the sight before turning back towards his true prey.

“I’m going to need that pouch,” he growled to them, “The notebook would be nice too.”

As Devon looks toward Flit, thoughts of ’these things just keep getting uglier’ drift through her mind as she notices the ground about the tree the bird landed in erupt in flames. “Out freaking standing” is all she initially utters

Her eyes focus intensely on Flit while keeping the dagger concealed behind herself putting on her best frightened girl face. She holds the notebook with her left hand making sure to give the appearance of trembling, in the same rehearsed tone of fear offers “Please don’t hurt me, if it is the book you want, please take it … just don’t hurt me…”

She steps leaning forward on her left foot planting her right, extending the book so this new … thing … would need get close to obtain it all the while formulating the most effective way she would try to decapitate this thing should it take the bait.

As Devon speaks to Flit, Elroy uses the distraction to begin to move around to position himself between Flit and Devon so the new beast is in the middle. In a command tone “I’m a Federal Officer, suppose you tell me just why you think these coins are your property?”

As he continues to position himself, his eyes are scanning the landscape for any form of weapon should this new arrival elect to become hostile. Thoughts filter through his mind that the Axe in the cabin could come in handy about now.

Camilla had quickly scrambled out of the cabin, coughing and wheezing in the smoke, her eyes streaming tears. She moved slowly, heading toward the others, suddenly realizing they are not alone. She held herself back, unsure of what was going on, just knowing she didn’t want to be in the way of what appeared to be a robbery. “oh great…” she muttered glancing up at the now burning trees. "this is all my fault" she wailed softly.

Anahlie quickly turned and gathered the weapons hanging on the wall, surprised at how light they were. She kept the dagger in her left hand, and the axe in her right. She stumbled out the front door to see a demon facing Devon and Elroy. She was tired of these damn demons always thinking they could walk all over the humans in their realm. She took the dagger in her hand and threw the axe on the ground, she had ran quickly up behind the demon and stabbed him in the back the blade sinking in all the way to the hilt of the dagger.

Anahlie stumbled backwards and tripped over her legs, she was surprised at what she had done. She had just stabbed a demon in the back. While it bothered her, it gave her a new found confidence, and she smiled slightly.. Still keeping her eyes on the demon warily, unsure of what his reaction was going to be.

As the dagger made contact, a faint hissing sound could be heard and colour seemed to start draining from the creature. He did not just become pale but stripped of all hue, slowly fading into a grey-scale version of himself.

Flit twisted his neck to retrieve the dagger, the effort failing as his strength was slowly sapped. With a squawk of fury, he tried to dive towards the girl who’d attacked him, intent on plucking out her eyes.

Sweet Pea was there in an instant, catching the creature’s head with its tail and engulfing it with flame. Flit did not seem to be harmed by the fire but, at least, it was distraction from his original desires.

Eventually, his plumage was drained of colour entirely and the creature fell limp. He still breathed, but he could not move.

“Just you wait… I will get you…” he managed to snarl.

The dagger continued to hiss, the hidden blade upon it now forged from a rainbow-touched metal.

Lost Goddess
04-14-2012, 02:45 PM
Anahlie covered her face as the creature came diving for her, then when she felt nothing come near her, she uncovered her eyes slowly to find the creature on the ground and it had just threatened her. She walked up to the creature slowly, but still kept her distance. " Why, do you want to attack us, we are just trying to leave this place before we die. If you want to kill me so bad, then do so, but at least let the others leave this horrible place." In truth Anahlie felt sorry for the creature that she had stabbed in the back. But, she wasn't stupid enough to get anywhere near it.

" Wonder what'll happen if i take the dagger out of your back?" She pondered this for a few second and sat down where she was tears staining her dirt covered face. She looked up at the sky and said " I won't be coming home mother, i'll miss you." She decided she was going to pull the dagger out, but she wasn't going to do it with so many people around that could have the potential to be harmed, because the creature was furious with her.

AngelicAsylum
04-15-2012, 07:16 AM
Copost with Luth and myself!

She never liked thunderstorms and she never liked snakes. The two worse fears of her life combined made her body tremble. Now with Idee’s fiancé dead, hope was lost. Rose did not like the thought of dying so young. As lightning cackled, she quickly glanced over at Court’s body; no one seemed to particularly care, but if her and Ivy were going to run off for safety, they might as well be prepared.

Rosalyn took Court’s dagger and looked at Ivy, “We gotta get outta here!"

FINALLY Rosalyn said something Ivy could agree with. "Yes yes lets go!" Though she would never admit it out loud, she was impressed with her sister's insight to take the dagger. Any kind of weapon would be helpful against the cult members. And at least Rose wasn't so naive to not understand when it was too dangerous to stick around.

Ivy was never afraid of thunderstorms OR snakes - but this had a certain surreal quality to it that she was not prepared for. Maybe there was some kind of black curse put upon them and this wasn't all the result of crazed kidnappers. Either way, she had no time to think about it as she grabbed her sister's hand. "Just try to stay on your feet!" she shouted as they tried to get out of the open space. They were in trouble - there was no where to go, and Ivy didn't know the area well enough to make a decision.

"I'm trying! I'm trying!" She spoke as loud as she can, though she doubt her sister heard her. They sprinted away from the crowd and soon from the chapel, completely clueless on the direction they were facing. Awkwardly, she held onto Court's dagger tightly, swinging it wildly with each quick step. She never held one or used one for that matter and she hoped she didn't have too. Yet with the snakes thrashing about, that chance was slim. Rose panicked, "Ivy, what are we gonna do!? Where are we gonna go!?" As the lightning roared and split the sky, she screamed.

"I don't know, we should find shelter!" Not that there was any. The road they took was too full of thorns and not good running material - and she wanted to avoid anywhere with trees. Hearing Rose scream made her jump into action, however. "It'll be okay, calm down!" Ivy leaned back to avoid a slash from the dagger. "And watch where you're pointing that thing!"

With a frustrated breath, she randomly picked a direction and dragged her sister towards it. And it turned out to be the lake. Damnit.

Auki
04-15-2012, 12:59 PM
To the NorthWest:

"Why, do you want to attack us, we are just trying to leave this place before we die. If you want to kill me so bad, then do so, but at least let the others leave this horrible place."

"I am hungry," Flit growled simply. His chest laboured to rise and fall, but he watched her with eager eyes, "A predator always has a right to its prey." Unblinking, he kept her eyes on her even as she cried.

With the danger seemingly gone, the others kept hold of the notebook and pouch, cautious of other threats that might be around. Once it was confirmed that they were safe, it became obvious that they should continue to finish their mission, hopeful that it would lead to their escape.

Devon and Elroy led the way, stances ready to defend against anyone else that dared cross their path.

Camilla followed, trailed by the phoenix Sweet Pea that was learning better than to land upon the grass.

[Should Anahlie choose to remove the dagger, Flit will fall unconscious and the weapon's rainbow-hued blade will be revealed.]

Wattz
04-16-2012, 05:55 AM
Gideon had been quite far back in the group when it had happened, but he was at least tall enough to see it. Court dropped dead with the simplest of things, a bouquet of flowers. Gideon was stunned, and he had hardly any time to react before the tension in the air grew strong, lighting falling from the skies and the flora coming to life all around. It was her: the demoness. Her presence was strong, inescapable, though they all tried to run and Gideon followed suit. He’d never been much for stamina though, and found himself slowing down significantly, though his wide strides helped him cover some ground.

He ran back towards the church, the only other place he knew around with any sort of cover. Nowhere else to go in this ridiculous hell-hole.

But then the tension loosened just enough that he found himself coming to a complete stop, doubled over with his hands on his knees, gasping for air. There was someone else there, though, one of his fellow humans. The man named Ben. The one with the flowers.

Well some idiot had beat them all to the chapel, barring himself inside with the demon lady. Ben found himself rubbing the cut on his cheek as he broke away from Shay and the others. Great, which would he prefer being killed by the snakes or the the lightening on this mad place? But before Ben could come to a decision the lightning storm seemed to weaken and the snakes merely seemed wild and less deadly.

"Well Ben, now all we have to wonder is whether or not these things are poisonous, that will make our day."

“What-“ Gideon struggled to speak, but managed to choke out a response. “Why- what did you do?!”

"Oh, another come to lay accusations at me," Ben shot back at the stuttering man. But his voice was less intent then it had once been before. He rubbed his wounded cheek. Ben glanced down to where Shay had walked, toward Envoy's home. If they were going down there once more, Ben wanted something to defend himself with. And Shay too.

"N-no, really, what did you do? This... this is... ridiculous! All of it! It can't be real!" Still in denial, still too sure of the dream-like state. He gripped his hair with his hands, mussing up his ponytail and nearly ripping out a chunk of hair. "I mean... what- how?!"

That was the problem of it all: no logic, at least it seemed that way. A demon lay dead at the slightest reveal of flowers, and somehow it seemed the least logical thing that had happened so far.

Ben was having great trouble following the man's panicky speech, is that anything new. "We were used, to deliver those flowers. As for the rest, fuck knows." Well, way to be helpful Ben, surely that will ease the man's mind and he'll be forever grateful. Right.

"But... but where are we supposed to go? Where are you going?" It wasn't what Gideon had wanted to say, but he could think of nothing else. The right response was there, somewhere, just hidden from him. "We can't stay here, we have to find a way out!"

Ben waved down the path toward Envoy's house. "Down there," he didn't bother to reply to rest of the man's words. Because finding a way back to his life was a high priority, he had important things to do.

"But... but..." Gideon continued to stutter as he followed Ben. He ducked as lightning pierced the sky once more, but also struggled to divide his attention between the clouds and the snakes upon the ground. "We need to find shelter soon!" Gideon did not know of Envoy's house, and could only assume that he would be leading them both towards some form of protection soon.

Auki
04-16-2012, 08:55 AM
To the Northeast:

Envoy travelled the path towards the Chapel with an unusual spring in his step, humming a pleasant tune as he prepared to finish the events that had led up to that hour.

Court was, presumably, dead.

Flit would have collected the bride-whore’s money and diary by then as well.

With no groom to protect her and no money to pay what she owed, Idée would be eternally in his debt.

There was the issue of Hindermost – Should Envoy threaten the woman in front of him, the nervous demon might pluck the courage to show his power. From what he had learned though, the dagger that Court carried would provide some sort of defence – If the information was true, he would hold reign over them both, two bodyguards to protect his endeavours.

There was Axiom, of course, but he rarely fiddled in business not his own.

Everything was undoubtedly in place; the humans could be killed off now they had served their use.

Surprisingly, as he thought those words, he noticed three people making their way towards him. One female at the front, two males behind.

He continued to hum his melody, all eight eyes glinting dangerously in the flash of lightning.

V
04-16-2012, 09:46 AM
Ah, there he was - Envoy with his six chest eyes, nothing creepy about looking at them or nothing - marching up toward them. The Demon looked please, and why the fuck shouldn't he be. His merry pair of assassin's had done their job admirably, oh sure one had been wounded and then abused by the other humans but like he would care. He was humming.

Courage, Ben, to shout curses at the demon. It was such a smart idea, who knew what the demon was capable of. Let's all poke the savage bear with a stick .... it won't attack back or nothing. Ben was grinding his teeth loud enough he was sure the man beside him could hear it. Not that he cared or nothing, hell he might be able to shield himself with the idiot. Oh so he's the idiot, Ben?

Ignoring lightning strikes nearby he carried onward. Annoyed, he just about screamed, his voice carrying down the hillside path over Shay to the demon. "Oi! You there! How nice of you to allow us to deliver that message. Why, I believe he was quite happy to receive it!

"Do you have any other important tasks for us? Someone else you wish for us to kill - oh I mean take a message to!"

Auki
04-17-2012, 09:08 PM
In the near West:

"We’re here!” Axiom cried with all the joy of a child, skipping between the falling bolts of lightning in his excitement. The top of Revenant Hill, and the humans trapped upon it, lay stretched before them in the near distance, a scene of mayhem.

After him, with bated breath, and not much air in his lungs Erebus stumbled weakly as he tried to catch up with high spirit, and high speed of the imp. "Great", he uttered between coughs and gasps of air. He wanted to shoot the guy.

Seemingly, the demon was oblivious to the man’s bitterness, taking the opportunity to cartwheel. His hands crushed a few bramble-twisted snakes as he frolicked, but he barely seemed to notice.

“I say that we-…”

He cut his words off as a flash from the sky struck only a meter from Erebus’ position.

"GAH!" Erebus barely dodged it, "What in all seven hells-", he remembered who was beside him, "Amm... Mind the pun..."

“No need for apologies,” Axiom said, mid-backflip, with a nonchalant wave of his hands, “It reminds me of a good joke Hindermost once-… Oh wait.”

Suddenly, he stopped still, facing the man with a curious gaze, “Do you not like this weather? I can change it if you like.”

Erebus narrowed his eyes. If he could have done it sooner...

WHY?!!?!?!

That's it. He was sure he was doing this on purpose just to annoy him.

"Please...do...", he said with gritted teeth and a fake smile.

“No problemo, mi amigo!” came the demon’s reply. His positive energy radiated forth, twisting the reality of the hilltop. Darkened clouds turned white, sunlight streamed through in weakened bouts. The snakes still thrashed, but Axiom thought they were too cute to harm.

Everywhere else on the island still suffered the female’s wrath, but he didn’t think it important enough to change. Lightning was pretty whether Erebus appreciated it or not.

“I’m sure your human friends will be happy to see you now!”

"They are not my friends", he said once he was fully standing on both feet, "Now please, can we do the whole dagger thing I need to do?"

The other laughed, “You with the dagger? Of course not! I said that’s what needed to be done, not that you should do it. Didn’t I? I forget.”

Axiom resisted the urge to skip as they reached their destination, “Only pure-hearted females can hold the dagger; it causes pain for anyone else. Court forged the dagger but not for himself – Gripping it puts him through agony and he’s a demon!”

"Any female?!", Erebus asked, "Or... demonic female?", this time he wasn't going to let anything escape him.

“Any female!” Axiom replied, “Or at least… I think. Court used to give it to his pet to play with, and she handled it fine.” With a pause to fix a confident smile upon his face, he said, “I’m 98% sure that any female will do.”

Great, as if Erebus was going to trust a yuppie, happy go lucky fiend with 2% precious percent, "His pet?!", he asked, "What kind of pet he had?"

“Hm? Oh, a succubus that he named ‘Hook’. She’s a dashing figure if I can say so.” Axiom felt like there were more important things to be discussing but took joy in the flow of words, “They say that her tears can make any person become irresistible. “

He had tried to control himself, but he couldn’t. He skipped a couple steps for the sheer bliss of it, “She’s feisty. Whenever a man knocks upon Court’s door, she’ll run around – full pelt - to greet them.”

Erebus narrowed his eyes, "Say... call me whatever... but... is succubus not... by any chance... demonic female?!"

“Nah,” the demon told him, “Hook is so ditzy that she can barely keep herself from drooling everywhere. She’s a beast, nothing more.”

"...", Erebus hummed, "Fine, let's go find lovely female to do whatever that is needed to be done."

Axiom nodded, turning around, and—

“Oh. Look! Females!” he exclaimed with excitement, pointing towards two figures approaching them from the hilltop.

Ru
04-17-2012, 11:18 PM
Success! They have managed to convinced the demonic groom to join them in returning him to his bride. The lovebirds could be reunited, all would return to blissfulness, and then her dream would end! Before anything fantastic was allowed to happen a couple of people who had parted from their group prior to them venturing to Court’s cottage returned, baring the gift of goldenrod flowers. At first she was excited and almost reached out for them herself, until the demon man convulsed and collapsed. Peculiarly she stared at his corpse with a curious eye.

Suddenly the sky twisted in dark colors; a storm was brewing from seemingly nowhere. Snakes lashed out towards her group and, for whatever reason, she remained unfazed. Naomi had grown so accustomed to nightmares it took quite a bit to actually startle her. The others panicking struck up a few sharp chords, but otherwise she remained calm. Luckily she had turned her head down towards the body as opposed to watching three companions bodies fry under the sporadic lightning.

She knelt down beside him, pressing her fingers to where she assumed she’d feel a pulse on his wrist to confirm he was actually dead. Once this was confirmed her heart sank. “She… will be so heartbroken…” A soft sigh slipped through her lips as the red haired female lingered crouched by his side until an idea crossed over her mind.

Naomi knelt down close to Court, feeling on his person for something — anything. All she managed to find was a small bag of torn up paper, but she hoped it was enough to return to the grieving bride; maybe receiving what was left on her groom’s person may ease the blow at least a smidge.

Wattz
04-18-2012, 05:59 AM
Six eyes on his chest, a portly frame, a volatile stare. Though Hindermost was more grotesque and bent, this demon held more fire in his eyes. Gideon now sorely wished that he had stayed behind… but where? Another crack of lightning; he flinched. He didn’t know the area well enough to go off on is own. He found it hard to sink any further into his slump than he already had.

The intensity at which Ben had approached this unfamiliar demon made Gideon’s heart skip in his chest. His eyes grew wide, looking from one to the other, afraid of what would happen next. Gideon instinctively placed a hand on Ben’s shoulder and tried to pull him back, worried that the demon would advance on the lot of them if he didn't calm down soon.

“What are you doing?!” Gideon half-whispered in desperation. But it would do none of them any good. Their souls were lost, every last one of them, at the full mercy of the demons. One little slip up and it was all done.

Lithiora
04-18-2012, 02:04 PM
Shay turned long enough to see that two forms had decided to follow her. One of them was Ben. She did her best not to cry. What would be the point? He probably only came down this path with her so they could confront Envoy. Oh well.. be that as it may, she had the same idea as well.

She stood next to Ben and pointed to Envoy, as menacing of a point as she could manage. So not very... "What he said! This is insane! If you wanted us to kill him you could have just said so... then at least I could have sat back and not done something stupid. As per usual. You're not only ugly, but stupid too. You know this is gonna come back to bite you on the ass?" She shook her head and sighed in disgust.

Lost Goddess
04-18-2012, 09:03 PM
Anahlie knelt next to the creature and spoke softly laying one hand on the ground next to the creatures mouth. " I'm sorry i stabbed you in the back Flit, i reacted hastily because you were going to hurt my friends. But, perhaps i can make up for hurting you so badly." She took the axe she had taken from the house off the ground, and very carefully cut her arm, her blood now pouring out.

"Take some of my blood Flit, i know its not much, but its all i can offer you, aside from my life" She closed her eyes to avoid seeing the demon feed off of her blood.

The creature looked quizzical, lifting its head weakly to gaze at the wound. He suspected a trap foremost, but what human was clever enough to do such? He tried to growl, but it only emerged as a feeble whimper as the dagger sapped him further.

His skull-like mouth clamped around the girl’s forearm, canines digging into her skin but not strong enough to pierce it… despite his wishes to do so. Her blood drained into his throat, providing the sustenance that he had been denied by his master.

His green tongue licked the cut once it began to clot, but he paused momentarily to sprout the words, “Why be kind?”

"Because you do not deserved the life that you are forced to live. All creatures should be able to choose freely on what they do" She said with a smiled and sat down next to the creature. She knew this move was dangerous but, she wasn't afraid anymore. She was dying in the real world anyway. " Besides, I have no reason to leave this place, this place i feel healthy and strong, I have not told anyone here this, but i am not going to live much longer in the world from which i come. I have cancer, if you know what that is." She had tears coming down her face steadily, but they weren't of fear, but of sadness and longing. " I do not want to die so soon, but if i must.. Let it be here."

She looked down at Flit and pulled him gently closer to her and said " Feed as you want Flit, i don't have much to lose." A smile framed her face as she said those words and she realized that it would be better to die here, as if in her sleep rather than in the real world in pain.

The creature’s tongue froze from licking the bloody wound, looking at the human with curious eyes. It was less… fun when prey did not resist, but it would make it easier for his starved, soul-drained form. He was hungry. The scent of flesh called to him.

With a sudden wicked smile, his fangs opened wide, finding the last of his strength to bite deeply into her arm. He felt a surge of guilt as he did so, but she had offered, hadn’t she?

A lust for feasting culled all sense of restriction, causing him to try desperately to chew deeper into her skin. A malicious hiss escaped his throat as he did so.

Anahlie cringed in pain when the creature began to greedily chew deeper into her skin. She placed her hand on the dagger on Flits back, and said softly " I'm truly sorry Flit" She yanked the dagger out in a fluid movement, and marveled at the beauty of the blade. It was rainbow hued on the metal now, and it was the most beautiful blade she had ever seen. She stuck the blade in a hidden pocket in her gown and turned towards revenant hill. She sighed inwardly and began the trek up the hill again.

She was fully aware of her surroundings, but it felt as if she was walking on air and everything was muffled. She faintly noticed the blood running down her arm in thick streams and dripped steadily on the ground. She also noticed the snakes writhing around up ahead, but she made no attempt to deflect the bites or anything. She seemed to hardly notice them as she made her way unconciously towards the spot where Court lay dead.

Kiall
04-19-2012, 07:47 PM
An enormous amount of relief washed over Justin when she didn’t immediately backhand him for being so forward. In fact she seemed to be leaning into it, he couldn’t deny that her lips felt…wonderful against his. She was very beautiful, too beautiful for someone like him to be kissing. Take that! Handsome dudes who were also sent here!

But this did leave him in an awkward position… What should he do now? Slip her some tongue? No, that’d be too much even for her, besides his intention hadn’t been to take advantage of her…only to shock her out of destroying the chapel, which seemed to have worked!

He opened his eyes a crack then fully when he realised hers were closed. For a time he stared at her beautiful face as he kissed her, his eyes darting about, not wanting to go any further but too nervous to break it off. He really had no idea what was going through her head, did she still think he was Court? He had to break it off, and he only knew one way to do that…awkwardly.

Gripping her shoulders he gently but firmly pushed her away breaking the kiss. His cheeks were red as he looked back at her, “so umm…that was…great, really really great…” he said awkwardly his eyes moving trying to keep his gaze anywhere but at hers. “Are you…feeling better?” He asked unsure how to broach the subject except bluntly.

She pouted instantly, not entirely sure why she did so.

The blissful ignorance of the moment, her saviour in a time of irrational despair, had been crushed. How desperately she wanted it back, the gift of not needing to think.

She swatted away the arms on her shoulders, leaning in closer once again.

Was he Court? What—no, wait…

It must be him. Who else would kiss her so sweetly?

From her lips escaped a soft moan, laced with disappointment, “Don’t pull away…”

Justin couldn’t help but pull back as she suddenly leaned in. He had to admit the temptation to lean in and kiss those lips again was great. She was very beautiful, and her moan had sent a shiver down his spine. She still thought of him as Court, but why should that stop him? It certainly didn’t matter to her… But… but…

It mattered to him

“I won’t” he said softly, his face inches from hers. “If you say my name, and it’s not Court.” He hated this, not being good enough, not being smart enough! Someone else could have snapped her out of this, someone else could have made her feel the way she needed to feel. Everyone could have done a better job than Justin!

“I’ll be the comforter you want, the support you can lean on if that makes you happy, but you have to ask me! The real me! Not the hallucination your grief created!” His hands wrapped around her face his thumbs stroking her cheek as he held her gaze to his. “I can’t be Court, Idee!” he said his eyes misty, “ I can never be Court! As much as I would love to I can’t be a substitute for the one you love! I can only be…me...”

She only leant her cheek into his palm, enjoying the warmth of another.

“I just need… someone,” she murmured, swallowed by the pain of the world crashing around her.

Justin merely blinked his hand still on her cheek. Well that was progress…kind of. She no longer thought of him as Court and was in fact openly admitting her desire simply for a warm body. He didn’t want to be here, he couldn’t help but feel like some sort of sleaze, taking advantage of her like this even though he hadn’t planned any of this.

But if he left…she’d probably snap she was on the verge of it now. “Okay,” he whispered, his hand running across her cheek and through her hair. “Okay fair enough,” he said before kissing her again. His kiss was firmer less uncertain as his arms wrapped around her waist pressing her against him.

If what she needed was a crutch that’s fine, he could be that. He had absolutely no idea how to help her otherwise. He just hoped his decision wouldn’t bite him in the ass…though it probably would.

Idée accepted his actions, falling back into bliss, ignoring the interruption as though it was a distant memory.

Unbeknownst to either of them, the man’s skin began to turn a slight translucent, the first hint to a soul losing its connection with the physical world.

SmileyCassandra
04-19-2012, 09:51 PM
If Hindermost could have shed tears, he would have been crying.

“Miss Idée…”

He could see the humans try to enter the Chapel, realising it had been barred. How he wished it were not so. She needed someone - perhaps not him, but someone who cared. The anxious demon would have been there in moments had she wanted his presence… but his nerves kept him at a distance.

The humans had split into panicked groups and he found himself with no knowledge what to do. Slapping his bald head with his palms, he shouted to the electric air, “Think, Hindy, Think!”

His face was a look of concentration, but it quickly dissolved into dry sobs. He whined to the people closest to him, “Why must you humans make so much noise?”

Marie and Andy looked at Hindy in confusion. "From the sound of it, you're the one making noise." Andy muttered, his eyes narrowing at the creature before him. Marie sighed roughly, and yanked Andy back.

"Hindy, what do we do? I wish to help in anyway I can, and you haven't harmed me. Honestly Hindy, what are we going to do?" Marie asked, she talked gently. That made Andy scowl.

"Yeah Hindy, what my sister said. How can we even trust you?" he asked, and Marie sighed in annoyance.

"Andy, if you don't shut up, I'll kill you my damn self!" she yelled, showing her other side. It annoyed her when Andy acted like that; she just wanted to slap his face skin off.

Andy's face turned serious, and he stood next to Hindermost. "I see that trusting you is our only option, now how do we help you to help ourselfs?" Andy asked, grinning as he did so. He was back to his childish self, knowing Marie was threatening him; she was promising him.

Marie smiled, and nodded in agreement. She was surprisingly calm; for someone whom could die at any given moment.

Hindermost gripped his head more vigorously as the pair argued amongst themselves, struggling to keep hold of the conversation over the clash of thunder.

Noise. Noise. Noise.

“Hindy doesn’t know…” he wailed, stamping his feet against the ground, “Only knows that humans shouldn’t be splitting up.”

Marie sighed, and ran a hand through her hair. "Is there any way we could trick the woman to come out? Any way at all?" she asked, she just wanted to get out of there and back to her life. Even if it meant being serious, and keeping her brother in line.

Andy looked at his sister, and only remembered on time she was that serious. He smiled at the thought, wishing they could go back home. He loved his sister; that much as clear, just by looking at his eyes.

Marie and Andy waited patiently, they would do anything Hindy said, just to keep the other alive.

“There are… ways to get inside,” Hindermost murmured. As he spoke, the sky returned to its former beauty, lightning disappearing from the sky. He could only assume it was the work of Axiom, the single demon other than himself that was stronger than Idée.

“But they are dangerous!” he continued, pitch rising, only momentarily distracted by the change, “Miss Idée brought you two through for a reason; Hindy can’t risk letting you die!”

Marie noticed the change in weather, and put her hand in Andy's. "We came here to see the wedding right? I wish to console that poor woman, no one should go through such pain." Marie murmured, a gentle frown appearing on her face.

"Hindy, you're really not that bad. We can be strong, tell us what to do, and well help. I may seem childish, but I'll help you I can be strong." Andy stated, smiling a bright smile. "What other reason would we have, if their will be no wedding?" he and Marie asked at the same time, their faces now confused.

"It doesn't matter really. How exactly would we avoid dying? I'll follow you any where." Marie said, looking at Hindy with a curious stare. Andy's face was serious. He didn't know what to do, but for some odd reason he wanted to help Idée. As did Marie. Even though it seemed the storm had calmed. They wondered what happened.

Hindermost shook his head vigorously, “If the others die, it’s sad, but wedding still happens. If you two die, no wedding - nothing.”

With hand gestures to amplify his refusal, he turned his back to them, “Hindy insists!”

Auki
04-21-2012, 10:27 AM
"Do you have any other important tasks for us? Someone else you wish for us to kill - oh I mean take a message to!"

“What are you doing?!”

"What he said! This is insane! If you wanted us to kill him you could have just said so... then at least I could have sat back and not done something stupid. As per usual. You're not only ugly, but stupid too. You know this is gonna come back to bite you on the ass?"

He looked at the humans with varying depths of disinterest. His voice was a bored hiss, “Surely the women from which you spawned warned you not to trust strangers?” Almost immediately, he thought about killing them off – It would be a simple task considering their fragile nature – but the effort to slaughter them individually did not appeal to him. The more he could fell in one blow, the better.

Pushing past them with a sneer, Revenant Hill came into view. He marched straight for the Chapel, wheezing in his rush. The doors were pummelled by his fists, holding against his limited demon strength despite only furniture blocking their open. With a grunt of annoyance, he continued to try and break through.

Axiom, who had been happily practising his handstands, soon noticed the distant action. “You’ll have to excuse me,” he murmured nonchalantly to his human companion. Within the blink of an eye, he was gone, reappearing at Envoy’s side. The two stared at each other for a moment, one with a look of death, the other with a joyous grin.

“So… what ya’ up to, Envoy?” Axiom asked to break the ice.
“What does it look like?” came the reply.
“Well… it looks like you’re trying to smash down those doors. You’ll give Miss Idée a fright!”
“And?”
“And that’s not very nice,” the red-faced demon said, his smile fading as the other’s cruel stubbornness became apparent, “I police this island and I won’t allow you to bully the poor woman. She’s… been through a lot.”

It was an irksome law to Axiom, that he could not punish demons for murdering one of their own. Survival of the fittest was an ideal for their race that he scorned for its stupidity. Harassment without competitive purpose, thankfully, was less tolerated.

“You shouldn’t hassle a woman on her wedding day,” he continued.
“She isn’t going to get married today or any other day, you fool.” Envoy said.
“You can’t know that for sure! These humans are trying to organise it.”

Perhaps a stretch of the truth, but it was honest to say that they had motives for helping the bride-to-be.

“Oh, really?” the many-eyed demon replied. He turned to face the panicked group of people scattered across the hilltop, his voice booming, “Apparently, you have all been trying to help the wench Idée.” He took a few steps away from the door, his stance and tone a sarcastic challenge, “I can only assume you have everything prepared for a ceremony then.”

He held up his hand, four chubby fingers and thumb counting down the list of five items, “Firstly, you’ll need a qualified minister because I refuse to partake in this monstrosity. Secondly, the ring-bearers need to be two people who share the blood of family. Thirdly, the soul of a beast is needed to enchant the rings and make them eternally binding.”

His smile showed rows of dirtied teeth, a sinister expression as he continued, “The rent of the Chapel still needs to be paid for, and most importantly, I have yet to see a groom… a living one, that is.”

Axiom rubbed his chin thoughtfully, admitting that the other demon had a point.

The humans would be trapped in their world until their death unless Idée was joined to another in a valid matrimony.

Tune
04-21-2012, 06:35 PM
Matt had been listening to everything intently, even as people split up and darted off in different directions. There was a lot of noise from the lightning crackling up above, and the chattering of people around him. A demon with many eyes made its way to the chapel, and banged on the door. To Matt, it seemed like the demon was trying to break the door down. He wasn't going to lie, even in his own mind, that entering the chapel -at the risk of being killed by the bride- was a lot less menacing then standing around till he was struck by lightning.

The sky up ahead began to clear, returning to its former state. There was no more lightning, but the thought of death still lingered in the air. Or was it the aura of Court's dead body that caused him to feel sick to his stomach? One thing was certain, he'd never forget what has happened today - even if it seemed like a horrible dream.

“Apparently, you have all been trying to help the wench Idée.”

It was the demon with many eyes shouting, addressing everyone on the hill near the chapel.

“I can only assume you have everything prepared for a ceremony then.”

The demon began to count off things on his chubby fingers, "Firstly, you’ll need a qualified minister because I refuse to partake in this monstrosity. Secondly, the ring-bearers need to be two people who share the blood of family. Thirdly, the soul of a beast is needed to enchant the rings and make them eternally binding.”

Fuck.

“The rent of the Chapel still needs to be paid for, and most importantly, I have yet to see a groom… a living one, that is.”

The helplessness of the situation was growing. Wait, wasn't there a priest standing next to me? He stroked the stubble on his chin, pondering for a moment. He needed to do something, something instead of standing around like a fool without a plan. He turned to face the demon, squaring his shoulders.

"We have a minister. A preacher - a human preacher."

"And... And if Hindermost can't marry the woman, then... then we might have someone to marry her, too." Great, he was talking out of his ass again. For one, he wasn't sure if a human preacher was qualified to perform the ceremony, and secondly - if all the other demons were ruled out - would a human be able to marry the demoness? That brought up another dilemma - what human in their right mind would want to marry a demoness and be stuck around all these monsters for an eternity?

His head hurt just thinking about it.

"Where's the preacher? Reverend - priest - whatever the hell he is, where is he?" shouted Max, looking around the hilltop for the sight of the black man.

Matt turned back to Hindermost, frowning. "If we can find a minister, how do we get inside the chapel again? I don't care about the risks, some of us are going to die anyways. And... I'm tired of doing nothing. What can I do to help?"

Jacogos
04-22-2012, 05:16 PM
There was so much going on that for a moment, Marcus was unsure of what to focus on. Vaguely, he became aware that the storm had stopped, but the snakes were still attempting to eat them. He kicked one of the serpents away, then tried to focus on one of the important conversations.

This was made unnecessary when a rather large and brute-like looking demon with six eyes began to speak from the Chapel doors. He was talking about what they needed in order to have the wedding continue, and to Father Williams's ears, they seemed to be shit out of luck. He heard one youth call out for the 'preacher' and Marcus became aware that, as he had mentioned to Court before the demon-man's untimely death, he WAS the only minister present.

Moving forward, he kept back from the six-eyed demon as best he could while still presenting himself for the group.

"If you demons allow it, I am a certified minister," he said quickly. He wasn't sure how legal that would be in this upside-down world, a human overseeing the marriage of a demon and... there was a good point there. No groom... Obviously Six-eye wouldn't marry her, and the only other demon he had met today that wasn't dead was Hindermost.

"What, can't you marry her?" Marcus asked, turning to face the grotesque dog-demon man.

Auki
04-22-2012, 08:16 PM
On Revenant Hill:

"If we can find a minister, how do we get inside the chapel again? I don't care about the risks, some of us are going to die anyways. And... I'm tired of doing nothing. What can I do to help?"

"What, can't you marry her?"

The humans were talking again. He gave a small whine at their voices, addressing the older man first.

“He would… By the heavens, Hindy would. Too powerful though; her mother would never allow it, and neither would she.”

The younger human was still frowning at him, and Hindermost felt compelled to answer, “There is a door around the back, hidden in the brambles. Hindy would help, but he worries about Master Envoy.”

His skin managed to turn even paler as he thought of the poor woman inside the Chapel, her pain a stab of sadness at his own heart.

CALYPSO
04-22-2012, 09:07 PM
"And watch where you're pointing that thing!"

“Sorry,” she responded in worrisome. Rosalyn held Court’s dagger carefully as though it was her last string of life. Unable to tell it was reality still, she only hoped she woke up from the nightmare and go back to her typical happy days. Yet being entrapped and talking to her dear sister, it was the only time they truly bonded; even if they were running away from a dangerous storm and snakes.

As they reached the hilltop, the storm came to an end and they encountered Erebus and a demon whom vanished before them. They slowed down and Rosalyn looked behind her in despair. The sky was somewhat clear, with a few others scattering about trying to find security much like her and Ivy. One snake hissed, about to bite, which she quickly kicked it aside. “Ugh! Get away from me!”

She faced Erebus, “I’m sorry. We don’t know each other, but my sister and I don’t know which way to go.” Rosalyn turned back and stared at the chapel, “Or do anything it seems. Now with Court gone, I can only imagine the grief Miss Idée is suffering with,” she said remorsefully.

Kris
04-24-2012, 09:39 PM
Erebus looked rather annoyed. He held with all his might the anger that wished to burst from him for the pride of losing control, but this was getting ridiculous and annoying.

Humming with frustration he just moved ahead, not caring much rather she followed or not, desperately trying to cover the distance that the demon Axiom could so easily move at in order to reach the top of the hill.

"Lass", he hissed while the two were advancing, "I'm seriously about to lose it", he warned her so simply. He was furious and just wanted her to get the fucking dagger to do whatever that was needed to be done with and go home.

They marched some more, his skin and torn rag, that used to be his night gown, were wounded and damaged, "Apparently, according to our friendly neighborhood Imp", the sarcasm in his voice seemed to be increasing with each step they took, "We... as in you, or any other willing member of the prettier sex, are supposed to stab our demon butler, Hindermost, for him to be approved as wanted groom", he grinned as he looked back at her, "Did you know the little bastard been over his head with her".

It wasn't an important note, but this bitter joke was somehow his way to retrieve some of his lost mood and decency.

Lost Goddess
04-24-2012, 11:58 PM
Anahlie wandered up the hill her wounds still dripping blood, but it seemed to be lessening for reasons unknown to her. She wandered past the group and walked directly up to her Hindermost and said bluntly " Hindermost what does this dagger do, or what is it used for" She showed hindermost the dagger and turned to look Envoy directly in the face. " Your little slave Flit, is no longer able to do your bidding. Quite frankly you should be ashamed for allowing him to starve so long without blood, and if it were my choice. I would take this dagger and stab it through your throat." She glared at him and turned back towarrds hindermost awaiting an answer.

Auki
04-25-2012, 12:46 PM
On Revenant Hill:

"Hindermost what does this dagger do, or what is it used for."

He knew this answer! Joy be praised, he could help with confidence.

“That belongs to Miss Idée, it does. She had many, many weapons that Court would give her on their anniversary.”

Although it was not like Hindermost to show judgement, he couldn’t help the ounce of confusion he felt over such brutal items being given as gifts of love.

“It does… It does…”

Curses, but it was hard to remember each one.

“Hindy thinks it is the dagger that springs ice at each hit… or the one that drains souls from whomever it strikes… or something.”

His confidence was surpassed by a baffled expression, followed by the surprised statement,

“Hindy thinks you’re hurt.”

Storm
04-25-2012, 03:34 PM
As Devon speculates the creature has been dispatched she resumes the sweet girl ruse as she looks back toward Camilla and Tibbs, in a well rehearsed tone of fright and relief “I am certainly that horrid creature is no longer a threat, I was sooo frightened.”;

Holding the notebook under her left arm and the dagger in her right hand; carefully makes her way to the trail that would lead to the Chapel. In a soft tone offers “I certainly hope that our guest keeps her end of the bargain when we give her this book” taking a quick glance back mainly looking for any other things that might spring out at them.

Camilla followed along try to keep close to the other two travelers as they move quickly across the landscape. Truth be told she was a little stunned that the demon had been dispatched so easily by the seemingly quiet girl Anahlie. “Do you think she will be ok?” she said casting a glance back. She noticed that the phoenix was still in tow, and that brought a small smile to her face. “I feel bad leaving her behind, she did, save us?” she said wondering how they could just walk with such ease over the bleak landscape. She struggled to keep up, flinching as the lighting crackled across the sky, her bare feet being torn and abused by the graveled path.

As they make their way farther up the path, Devon slows her pace slightly allowing for Camilla to maintain a more comfortable pace. Devon’s stocking feet able to absorb the debris a little easier as in her profession, even in sleep she has to be ready to spring up with no warning and navigate hostile terrain. Glancing back she offers an out of character genuine “How are you holding up? And I wish that freaking bird would just get the freak out of here. The damn thing is the cause of those fires in case you were not tuned into the same station I was.”;

“I’ll be fine once we get out of this place” Camilla replied “I just wanted it to be free, when I let it out. I didn’t know it would cause all that trouble. How could I have known!!? Besides, nothing that beautiful should be in a cage” she said watching the bird flying above them for a moment, its brilliant golden plumes bright against the darkened sky. She could tell the other girl was aggravated with her about the whole situation and felt the need to attempt to smooth things over. “Look, I am sorry that it caused so much trouble, but I’m not sorry that it’s free.” Seeing it stop on Tibb's shoulder up head of them for a few seconds, miraculously not burning his flesh to a cinder, she still wondered what it was doing here in the first place.

A rare gentle smile forms across Devon’s lips glancing for a moment toward Camilla “No sweat, suppose I don’t really take the time to look at things through better eyes. That was … nice … that you did let the bird free.” She looks back to the path before them, she after all did not want to get attached to anyone or anything. Her last friendship ended badly when she had to kill the guy.

As they make their way back to the field where the Chapel stands, she heads toward the front entrance at a quick pace not waiting to see if the others follow. As she gets closer looking upon the two at the door, she steps back rolling her eyes, tone low and blunt “Just freaking great, how are we going to give that bitch her book with these freaking things in the way!?” As she gets closer, addresses Envoy and Axiom “Let me guess, you … boys … are here to add more crap to what that Idee girl wants, right?”

Tibbs steps up shouldering his way past the girls heading toward the chapel door. “Let me try… a little muscle, I suggest you two others step aside and not interfere with a Federal Officer” grinning at them, looking down his nose at them in that way men had that said “I’m in charge” even when they really weren’t.

He moved forward to grab at the door handles, but never gained the chance. With a casual flick of his fingers, Envoy sent the man up in flames, leaving him to scream and claw at his smouldering flesh. Perhaps it was his own fault for getting close to two creatures far more powerful than himself. The red-faced demon couldn't help but deem it a consequence of idiocy.

Still, it upset him.

"That..." Axiom pointed out with a disapproving shake of the head, "...is animal cruelty."

As Devon watches as Tibbs is engulfed in flames, she reevaluates speaking aggressively to the creatures in front of the Chapel. It may seem odd to others that Devon shows no emotion in watching Tibbs transformed to cinders before her own eyes, she has seen far worse. The coin sack Tibbs once held falls to Envoy and Axiom’s feet. With a smile upon her lips, Devon offers in a friendly tone “Perhaps we got off on the wrong foot … boys … it is hard to tell about you guys. Is Miss Idee still in need of her book?”

Lost Goddess
04-25-2012, 09:12 PM
Anahlie nodded at Hindy, and then said " Hindy is correct." She turned just as tibbs was burst into flames by the demon called Envoy. She looked at him with hatred and said " You idiot!, you just killed a Federal Agent."She was shaking now, her breath becoming even more ragged as her blood continued to drip down her arm now, landing on her white gown staining it in red. She held the rainbow dagger tightly to her and just wished she could get up and stabbed that creature through one of his eyes. She now regretted ever stabbing Flit, she wished it would have been this guy instead.

But, her choice had already been acted upon, therefore rendering her wishes useless. She would have to figure out another way to get this dagger anywhere near Envoy. Although in the back of her mind, she wondered if she should just give the dagger to Idee instead, and just fade to oblivion as she seemed to be doing slowly at this moment anway.

Tune
04-27-2012, 04:43 AM
Matt nodded after Hindermost answered his question. There was a way into the Chapel, even if two demons stood in front of the main doors, blocking his original path. Front door's out, looks like we gotta go through the brambles if we want to get inside.

Matt cleared his throat, and looked over at the Preacher and the red headed woman kneeling at Court's side. He knew the Priest-preacher-pastor-newly appointed demon minister would follow him, but would anyone else decide to follow? He shrugged; if they did, they did. He needed to get out of this hell - or whatever it was called. If he could save the lives of others, that would be bonus points.

"You coming with us?" said Matt, addressing Naomi.

He turned to the Preacher, and nervously rubbed the side of his neck, "Sorry... uh... if you go to Hell for marrying a demon to someone. You know... if we aren't in Hell already."

That was a good question, were they in Hell? Or was this some strange realm out of a Stephen King book? Did Stephen King even write books about demons? Matt shrugged off his thoughts and glanced over at Hindermost. The demon wasn't as bad looking as the multi-eyed creature standing before the Chapel doors.

He put his own discomfort to the side, and making a wide circle around Court's body -and as far away from the demons, he made his way around the side of the Chapel, kicking and stomping on snakes as they struck out to bite them. After this, he wouldn't like snakes - no matter what they were. He didn't really wait to see if the others followed him - if he did, he'd probably think twice about entering a church were his demoness captor awaited.

It didn't take long before he reached the back of the chapel. Just like Hindermost said, there was a large bramble bush in the way of what looked like a door. He cursed and kicked a snake. He didn't know if the door was unlocked or not, but he figured it was worth a shot. As he got closer to the door, he could see the bramble bush squirming and lashing about, but not like the bramble bushes that were all around the Chapel.

"Fuck - err- sorry," said Matt, having forgotten a preacher was around, "Looks like we're going to have some problems getting in. Anyone with sleeves wanna get the door?" It was an odd time to make a joke, but if he was going to die, he'd at least want to have a little laugh before he kicked the bucket.

AngelicAsylum
04-28-2012, 07:01 PM
Ivy moved her way in front of her sister, wary of the attitude this individual was giving them. If he was really "about to lose it", he'd have her to contend with - not that she could actually do anything. But at least it would give her sister a chance to run. Her protective instincts were quickly stamped out, however, once he mentioned Hindermost.

"Hm. That's the odd creature we had to follow, correct?" Ivy used the word odd as an act of mercy. Frankly, he was terrifying and hideous. But with how short of a fuse the man seemed to have at the moment, she didn't want to use more words than necessary. "I'm afraid I don't understand. Wouldn't stabbing him simply kill him?" And if he thought that she would let Rosalyn stab ANYONE, he had another thing coming. The last thing she needed in her life was to commit some kind of atrocity.

Ru
04-28-2012, 08:14 PM
After returning to a standing position she bobbed her head at Matt with a soft smile, holding the parcel of papers close to her bosom by pressing her fingertips against it. She scurried after him, eager to give these to the anguished demoness whose love had been accidentally stolen from her. Though a grin was still bore across her light skin inside all that swirled about her mind was how much pain this woman must be going through and placed herself in her position. Imagine losing the love of your life before getting the chance to be wed; before getting the chance to start a true life together. Oh, how terrible it must feel to wait so long to finally have the groom go to the chapel only for pathetic flowers to be his end. Would this be the end to this nightmarish love story?

In the undergarments she arrived in she darted behind Matt, whether or not the preacher chose to come along — though she was certain he was bound to follow. Each snake was swiftly dodged lest she get her exposed skin bitten by mistake. Sadly there was brambles and junk in the way, so they were presented with yet another obstacle.

She chuckled at Matt’s comment and nodded. “Oh, totally! My sleeves are see-through,” Naomi held out her wrists to him with a giggle.

V
05-01-2012, 06:48 AM
This isn't the first time someone has ever treated you like merely an annoying fly, don't cry or be angry Ben. He watched the demon pass by without saying a word. After a moment he swung about and stalked back up the hillside. Might as well buzz about.

Once he arrived, like it was some long journey, he was exhausted and fell asleep instantly - not waking up for days. He even required a feast afterward. Once he arrived Envoy was talking to some other demon about the wedding.

Cough, us two never set out to help get this wedding going. Hell, we fucked it up nicely. High five Shay.

Once they had spoken, Ben turned to the others beside him on the hill, that man and Shay, "Couldn't someone just say the words, then the happy pair consummate the marriage by fucking in the brambles. Is that not good enough."

"That's kind of... um... extreme, you know," Gideon said slowly. He had followed the two back up the hill again, though by now he was getting a bit irritated by following people around without any real results. "Besides, I don't even think there really... is another part to the happy pair, right? Court is... I think... well, you know." He suddenly became sick at the thought of Court's dead body lying just at the entrance to his house. Gideon's face twisted with visible disgust, swallowing the vomit that had risen in his throat.

"So I mean, all we can do is talk to her... or something...."

Ben waved his hands wildly, "what that Envoy was saying was extreme, I'd say I'm being quite reserved." He gestured the man onward, to follow those to the other entrance, "sure if you want, those people all have the same idea. One more will surely help in that conference."

"I just... I'm sorry! I don't know! Let's just... I don't know, follow them or something!"

Shay just crossed her arms and rolled her eyes. "When you two are done being children, lets get going with the rest of them. There doesn't appear to be much else to do does there Benny love?" Her voice held a hint of fear, though most would have assumed it was irritation.

She was terrified that things were about to either get a whole hell of a lot worse, or better. Either way, in this place, she wasn't sure what the result of them would be. Shit, if demons were happy here, did the sky fall? Did the ground turn into a black hole and swallow you up?

Ben threw his hands up, "oh fine then, let's go."

Auki
05-01-2012, 11:46 AM
“Perhaps we got off on the wrong foot … boys … it is hard to tell about you guys. Is Miss Idée still in need of her book?”

“What?” Envoy answered irritably, glancing at the black-bound volume in the woman’s hand, “As if I care about that.”

Axiom took the opportunity of distraction to snatch the coin pouch from between their feet. He knew who is belonged to; he had even learned the stories behind how such money was received. Not his place to judge; he had distanced himself from such findings – While Miss Idée could do what she liked with her body, it was her breaking soul that worried him.

Money in hand, he threw the bag between his palms, enjoying the gentle clink of metal.

His wide mouth broke into a smile as he said, “It seems we have the coin to pay for the Chapel. We even have a minister amongst the human rabble.”

Envoy could not argue. His five raised fingers reduced to three.

The shouts and glares of a particular woman caught his attention. Although he knew the other demon would not be best pleased should he hurt her, he settled for a steely glare at her loud tongue. Gaze flickered towards the dagger in her hand – The weapon had stolen a soul… Stabbed Flit, did she say? – and back towards her face. His voice, an amused hiss.

“Wound me if you like, girl. You’d be doing me a favour.”

Kiall
05-02-2012, 08:03 AM
Justin still couldn’t shake the feeling that this was going to end horribly. Though part of him didn’t really care, her lips felt amazing against his. He was really gonna do it, gonna go all the way with a sexy demon woman. What a crazy story that’ll be, he just hoped the morning after wasn’t to awkward…it probably would be.

His eyes opened briefly then he gasped seeing his body becoming translucent. He jumped breaking the kiss and the embrace. “My body’s fading…” he said in disbelief, looking down. “My body’s fading! What! Why? How!?” He cried frantically touching the parts of him that were fading, they felt solid to him. “Idee..what’s going on?” he said looking up at her desperate for answers.

“I-…I don’t know,” she said, her voice faltering, breaking free from his grasp. She could see the rubble on the floor behind him, straight through flesh that should have blocked her vision.
“I don’t understand.”

Her inability to tell him what was wrong only made Justin’s panic worse. He clutched at his forehead starting to hyperventilate. Was he being Mcfly’d? or Connor’d? Had someone travelled back from the past to kill his mom or something? Flux capacitor…He needed a Flux Capacitor! No..but wait..for some reason his mind turned to something Hindmost had said...

"If Miss Idée does not send you back soon, your souls will start to die in this world. You must be careful, you must.”

So that was it, he had been on a timer this whole time and now it was close to zero. He scooted his legs up resting his head on his knees. It didn’t help he was becoming see through enough so that light was filtering through his legs. “Idee..” he said softly as he looked up a look of utter defeat on his face. He was going to die, not just eventually but in a few seconds, poof gone! He would never see his family again, or his friends, he’d never find out if this whole thing with Idee had just been some emotional roller coaster stuff or if he..actually…loved her. “I don’t think I’m gonna be around much longer. I think my soul’s reached its limit…”

“No…” The reply was instant. Her hands reached out to hold him, but grew fearful before they grew close. He was like a ghost, a mirage. Was he even real? Her mind a haze of trauma and emotion, she could not make sense of the scene folding out before her. “Please don’t go,” she whispered.

“I’m sorry…” Justin said sadly reaching his hand out to clasp Idee’s. “I wish we could have had a chance to know each other better, just…Just, try and find something to be happy about, it sucks seeing you so miserable,” not the best advice, but he couldn’t think of a smart way to say it.

He sat there, thinking of nothing his thumb stroking Idee’s hand, he was glad he could still do that at least. “Last night I had the strangest dream…” he started his voice so monotone it was almost like he was talking instead of singing, but as it went on he found the rhythm of the song.

“I sailed away to China, little row boat to find ya.. And you said you had to get your laundry cleaned. Didn’t want no-one to hold you, what does that mean? And you said..”

He smiled a big stupid grin despite everything, his voice only breaking slightly as he continued. “Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride. Nobody’s gonna slow me down…oh-no, I got to keep on movin…”

He stood up slightly unsteady, before gripping both of Idee’s arms and hauling her up. Once they were both standing he pulled her into a tight hug, his smile blissful.

“Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride. I’m running and I won’t touch..ground. Oh-no, I’ve got to keep on movin....”

She gave a small laugh, but the sound felt hollow and quickly died in the despair of the scene. “Humans are strange.” She wasn’t sure what else to say, wrapping her arms around the back of his neck and leaning closer.

Her heart wrenched and broke within its fragile cage – She had no idea why she felt so sad, her mind stubbornly oblivious to the dealings of the outside world. It all felt surreal, a dream. How desperate she was to wake from it. Unless…

Here this man was, fading before her with his wistful smile and gentle lullaby. Was he too part of a hopeful imagination? She closed her eyes and tried to focus, to keep him there alive with her, but his touch grew ever fainter though, slipping away, a footprint in the sand.

His heart leaped at the sound of her laughter even though it only lasted a second, it was beautiful to him. He sighed, his chin resting on her shoulder. It was over, he was ready for..whatever was waiting for him on the other side. He knew he had only seconds left, he could feel it. “Take care of yourself Idee,” he said his voice a soft whisper, “I love you…” and then he was gone, blinked out of existence with not even a breeze to mark his passing.

Kris
05-04-2012, 02:49 PM
"Hm. That's the odd creature we had to follow, correct?" Ivy used the word odd as an act of mercy. Frankly, he was terrifying and hideous. But with how short of a fuse the man seemed to have at the moment, she didn't want to use more words than necessary. "I'm afraid I don't understand. Wouldn't stabbing him simply kill him?"

"Maybe", Erebus said with annoyed tune. He stopped for a moment to turn around and sighed as he looked at Ivy, "Look, I don't make the rules here, I just follow what I've been told... It's not like the demon world will miss one ugly beast now would it? I think we may even be doing it a favor", he couldn't help but chuckle, "Alas, my dear, unless you come up with some other better, brilliant idea to get us all out of here, I say we continue with the stabbing plan".

They moved onward, spotting Hindermost at the far distance. Axiom and other demons along with their fellow humans, were there as well.

"Okay, girl", he said to Rosalyn, but couldn't help to drive his gaze away from her, to her sister, adding somewhat sinister expression to his words, "Go... Take your best shot...", he grinned, "By the way... You need to aim for the back...", the grin grew bigger, "The lower back...".

CALYPSO
05-11-2012, 02:00 AM
Murder? She had to commit…murder. The idea frightened her so much she remained frozen in place, clutching the dagger closely to her heart. It couldn't be the only solution to escape the terrifying nightmare. It just couldn't! Hindermost was a gentle creature even if he was awkward and worrisome. The demon didn't deserve death; and even so, why couldn't the other demons perform the act. Rosalyn shook her head in shock, "I can't. I can't do this," she muttered softly to herself.

She observed the unfamiliar demons and the humans as Erebus spoke. "Okay, girl", he said to Rosalyn, but couldn't help to drive his gaze away from her, to her sister, adding somewhat sinister expression to his words, "Go... Take your best shot...", he grinned, "By the way... You need to aim for the back...", the grin grew bigger, "The lower back..."

Rose turned to her sister in hopes she would say something, but maybe she was just in shock as well. "I can't. I won't commit murder on a creature whose innocent!" She held the dagger out and pointed the handle towards him, "Why don't you do it? Or…" She turned to her sister, "Ivy? You're a lot braver than I am." She began to rub her head, "Why can't the demons kill Hindy? There must be another way to get out of here."

AngelicAsylum
05-11-2012, 02:07 AM
There was no way in the world she would ever let her sister commit murder. But, as apathetic and cold Ivy could be, she also knew that she probably wouldn't be able to pull a dagger on someone - even a terrifying monster - herself. Unless of course, she had no other choice.

Slowly, she reached out to take the dagger from Rosalyn and felt it's weight in her hand before looking up at Erebus. "She's not going to be stabbing anyone." Ivy sighed and looked around. She still had no idea where she was or why they were there. The only thing that mattered was getting home. "I don't want to kill him either. All I care about is getting us out of here. Do you have any idea how to do that?" If she had to kill Hindermost to be free, then so be it. Even if it would just get Rosalyn to safety. She could find her own way out if worst came to worst.

But first, of course, she would do anything in power that didn't involve dangerous weapons.

She looked at Rosalyn and nodded slightly, as if to tell her that everything would be alright. The last thing she needed was Rose getting in a panic and not being able to focus. Remaining calm was the key.

Kris
05-14-2012, 04:59 PM
For fuck's sake.

"Listen now Girlie!", Erebus tried his best to maintain his voice low, but he was so eager to just yell at the two that it was rather obvious how much he was upset, "If I had a womanly tools I'd be the one to stab the damn thing, trust me, if it is my way to get home, I'll do it without blinking", his fangs landed at his lower lips, aware of his shameful words and snapping at children, girls no less, but he just wanted this nightmare to end already, be it one way or another.

"Now... I assure you...", he tried to smile, "Mammy and Daddy won't be upset over sweet little dear hurting a demon. Hell, I think some communities will see you as redeemer or saint. Beside... I'm sure no judge will actually take it against you over this case...".

He eyed her sister before gripping Rosalyn's shoulders, making sure they both looked at each other, "We... are... going... to.... leave... here... Yes?", he nodded at her, barely stopping himself from shaking her, "All we have to do... is one small stab at his... ass face thingy.... yes?... Simple, very simple... Right... angel?"

Tune
05-24-2012, 08:25 PM
Matt sighed, but faked a coy grin as he looked over at Naomi. She was right; she didn't have sleeves to make the job easier, either. The preacher, more likely than not, might not want to help. And if what was said about their souls dying the longer they were here in this realm, keeping the priest alive till they could find someone else to marry Idee was ideal.

He sucked in a shallow breath as he reached out towards the twitching brambles. The thorns cut his skin, drawing some blood, but nothing he couldn't handle. It wasn't until thorns started to dig into his hands as he started tearing away the bramble bush from in front of the door. He grimaced more than once, the slow building pain eventually getting to him. Blood dripped down his arms; from his finger tips, hands and palms. He didn't stop till he was able to rip some of the bramble bush away from the door knob, and peeled back one side of the bush.

A small group of others appeared at the back of the chapel. It was good to see them. He flashed a weak smile, and jerked his head towards the door, still holding the thorny vines out of the way.

"After you," he said, meaning no one in particular.

He was feeling weak and a little tired, but he wanted to see things to the end.

Jacogos
05-26-2012, 03:05 PM
The Reverend had followed the young man named Matt and the girl he thought was named Naomi to the rear side of the chapel where another door was located. A bramble patch large enough to consume the entire door blocked their path, though, and obviously was tormented by the same curse that everything else was. Marcus shuddered at the thought of this black magic running amok in the area, but there was nothing he could do about it, sadly.

He heard the young man apologize for something, and it took him a moment to realize what he meant. "Son, if saying 'fuck' sent you to Hell, there'd be a lot more people than just us.... If we even are in Hell," he murmured the last. This place wasn't what was described in the Holy Book, but then where else could they be?

That was all inconsequential though, and Matt seemed bent on getting them inside. The boy moved towards the brambly door and began to try removing some of the stickers so they could get to the knob easier. Marcus stepped up behind him to help, and miraculously the brambles seemed to calm a little as he approached. The Lord works through me... he thought to himself as the two of them removed the bush from the door. Or rather, pushed it aside.

Matt opened the door, and Marcus was all to happy to enter the Chapel again. The Reverend again marveled at what would have been a beautiful building had it been in any state of repair. Sadly, it would not be, but then would he truly want such a beautiful building in this place?

And there was the bride. Marcus blinked. She was alone? What happened to the other man, who barred the door?

Ru
06-04-2012, 07:32 AM
Momentarily her gaze fell upon her person for some sort of garment to rip apart and wrap around Matt’s wounds to help in some sort, but it again dawned on her she appeared here in less than desired clothing. However, the longer she gazed at herself the more she thought on just what exactly her attire meant.

Naomi was keen to sleeping in her birthday suit, preferring to throw on more covers if the weather permitted it. Seldom did she add more clothing onto her body unless it was time to head outside or if her buddy Horu came over, since the naked body sent him into a blushing tizzy. With him aside, she loved roaming around with nothing lingering on her graceful form, allowing herself to move however she pleased without the constraint of clothes. Even when she spent the night at a friend’s house she found a way to sleep in an area where she could sleep how she pleased. So, why, of all reasons, was she wearing any sort of underwear in this place? Did the demons wish to censor her?

The latter could not be the case. She had seen some people appear in less than desirable states and they were provided with means to cover themselves afterwards. Naomi had appeared in what seemed like a hospital gown with undergarments beneath it… Did that mean….

She shook the thoughts out of her mind and pushed on towards the chapel, smiling over at Matt while continuing to hold the parchment close to her. A tack was placed in the back of her mind to remind herself to get him so sort of help for his wounds after she fulfilled her — what she liked to call — mission. “Thanks, man!” Naomi chimed to Matt for the time being, then headed inside.

“Madam Idee!” the young redhead chimed then headed towards the disheveled woman; she avoided using “Miss” or “Mrs.” lest she say the wrong term and spark up any negative feelings. The possibility of the demonic woman harming her had yet to cross over her innocent mind, which insisted there was some sort of good in everyone when she was in a positive state. “I have a delivery for you! This—” she held up the parchment. “—and a hug, if you’ll let me. Ya look like yer in an awful need of one.”

Wattz
06-17-2012, 11:24 PM
Gideon sat back, twiddling his thumbs. He had fully, wholeheartedly convinced himself useless in the entire exchange. For the moment he was still wrestling in his mind whether or not he should speak up about the poor, pathetic demon named Hindermost. Was it right to kill him if there was any possibility it would help them? The poor girl Rosalyn seemed stuck within the argument, and Gideon could not even imagine being in her situation. His muscles twitched as if physically trying to resist the urge to say anything. Perhaps if he just said a little, tiny something, no harm would be done.

"I think-"

But he stopped. A chill ran up his spine, and Gideon felt strangely cold.

Please.

It was the impression of a thought, little more than a dream’s whisper, a footprint of dread that ran down the man’s soul.

Please. Help her.

Beyond his will, Gideon’s hands began to twitch, stilled from their fumbling and seeming to grab desperately at the air.

Desperation. Desperation and the terror of lacking control. It was more than a simple need, or even desire, but he felt that there was nothing, absolutely nothing more important than taking that knife away from Rosalyn. But at the same time, he fought it, if only for the moment. Was this his own will?

Stab him.

The voice murmured again, void of malice, filled only with plea.

Court.

The man’s feet shifted upon the ground, jerking forward without co-ordination. His lips parted awkwardly as a different presence tried to control their use.

In Gideon’s mind, there was the flash of another, a man with hair of red and pale skin.

Gideon gasped, his back arching in a quick spasm that quickly receded into his shoulders slumping. The man held his head, nearly pulling hair, but his body was no longer his own. He could still see, but even his panic could not release him from the hollowed shell.

His eyes seemed to glow, if only faintly. The body's expressions were empty, cold, and he bent down to look Rosalyn straight in her eyes.

"Kill him," he snarled with a heavy breath.

Rosalyn took a step back and covered her mouth with her hand to suppress a whimper. The man looked frightening, like he was possessed, and his message was just as daunting. Ivy growled low in her throat. "Get. Away. From her." Rosalyn backed up a few feet, not sure of what to do. Should she run? She she do as he said? This little adventure was getting more and more stressful, and all she wanted to do now was go home. No one ever told her she'd have to kill someone. "I don't know Ivy... maybe this is just what we have to do."

Ivy had enough. "You're not going to KILL anyone! I don't care what's fate or necessary or whatever the hell you're all going on about!" She reached out for her sister's hand. "Come on. We'll find some other way out of this if it's the last thing we do." If worst came to worst, she would do the deed herself. Rosalyn was way too innocent and naive to be tainted in such a manner.

But Gideon lunged forward, grabbed hold of Rosalyn's other hand, the one holding the knife. His enormous fingers engulfed her tiny wrist. Somehow he knew not to actually touch the thing. Images of searing pain flashed through his mind, as if the knife repelled his very spirit.

"Kill him!" Gideon insisted, his voice nearing a roar. He bent down and grabbed the skin on the back of Hindermost's neck, picking him up so he hovered into the air. His muscles would normally have protested under the strain, but all of his inhibitions were gone. Gideon continued to watch through his hollowed form, unable to resist Court's possession; he shifted his hold on Hindermost so his back faced the knife, still in Rosalyn's hands, and then plunged the creature onto the blade. Blood spilled down onto both of their hands.

Merry
06-18-2012, 01:35 AM
Camilla’s screams just came rolling off her lips, high and shrill as she watched the knife plunged into the demon Hindermost. “No! No! No!” she found herself screaming, over and over again. It was an endless chain of sound as she screamed again and again. Her eyes riveted to the blood in horror as the participants were quickly bathed in his blood. The blood is what finally stopped the screams. It was all over them, and quickly covering the ground. So much blood. She felt the contents of her stomach, what little there was, start to roll in protest, and she knew that if she didn’t stop screaming, its contents would soon be emptied in a rapid fashion.

It wasn’t that she was overly attached to Hindermost, she had hardly had any interaction with him at all. It was just the swift violence of the situation that caught her so completely off guard. It was just so unexpected, she was still reeling after the all too recent demise of Tibbs. Suddenly everything seemed too bright, too loud, and just too horrific in the moment, her eyes were still focused on the blood, bright and splattered everywhere.

With a small whimpering sound, she covered her eyes hoping to remove the images from her mind, knowing she would never be able to erase them.

Auki
06-18-2012, 09:31 AM
On Revenant Hill:



As Gideon loosed his grip on the body, Hindermost fell limply to the floor. The dagger stayed wedged into his back, clearly seen between the eyes that lay on that half of his form. While his main head was still, eye closed and pained, the face on his rear became only more animated. Teeth clawed at the sky, tongue gasped to gain breath. Eyes turned bloodshot, wide with horror.


“No… No!” The howled words came from the jaw on his back, previously silent before that moment.
“Damn you, Court!
It held none of the same compassion that Hindermost had shown before, none of the nerves that had wracked his tone with fear. It was deeper, more aggressive, as though there was a completely different being beyond the voice.


And it would seem that way because it was.


While the majority of the demon lay still upon the ground, the ghastly visage on his rear – splattered with its own blood – began to melt from the body, separating from the rest of Hindermost.


The one form became two.





http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Angel-Of-Mist/Hinder_Most.png





“Hinder and Most…” The words came from Axiom, who approached the remaining group of humans, dragging Envoy in tow for the sake of keeping him under eye. “He always spoke to me as though he was being haunted; I never realised what he meant. It must have been an age-old partnership, before even I had reached the island.”

Even Envoy seemed intrigued for a moment, “The face on Hindermost’s back was a Parasite Demon?” Whereas Axiom seemed concerned, the many-eyed shopkeeper laughed at the situation, “No wonder the bastard always seemed on edge.”

“He carried a monster on his back and didn’t think to bother us with it. Typical,” the red-faced demon replied, sighing. “I guess-…” He smiled widely, “-…at least it’s over for him now.”

The macabre face – bloody, strewn across the grass – had fallen quiet in its ranting, slowly losing life under the magic of Court’s dagger.

The rest of Hindermost’s body remained intact – unharmed - finally stirring after the shock of the attack. His round eyes flickered open, still darting but less nervous. His skin seemed less pale, his cheeks less gaunt. His back was no longer marred by face or wound, only unbroken flesh strapped across his bone.

He twitched, regaining a feel for his muscles, before standing. Not crouched or hunched, no; he rose to his full height, swaying as he tried to keep his balance. Axiom moved to help him, a hand on the shoulder to steady the anxious demon.

“Hindy is alone,” the wavering man whispered, “Most is gone.”
His gaze darted over the face that used to reside on his back, a mixture of loneliness and disgust, “Hindy’s lost his powers...”

It was clear that he was struggling with the change, “...Why?”

Axiom’s grin grew ever wider as he realised, “For that exact reason, I think, mi amigo. The weaker you are, the happier this day will be.”

“He’ll be able to marry Idée,” Envoy hissed behind, coming to the same conclusion.




In the Chapel:



Idée Fixe took the pieces of paper from the human girl, confused by their presence. At first, it seemed impossible to slot the puzzle together, but her mind enjoyed the distraction and curiosity overtook her. A moment of fiddling, and a message came into view.


My sweetest Idée,

Our mother is still insisting that you marry me, but I know it’s not what you want.
Your heart belongs to Hindermost with whom I cannot compete.

I have recently discovered a way to permanently weaken the demon (and to help him also),
so that the two of you might be together.

Take this dagger. Stab him in the back.

It may seem a strange gift, but it is the greatest one I can give to you.

Keep safe.

I love you.
Court.


Soft tears rolled down her cheeks as she read, her voice a mumble, “We need to go outside.”

Auki
06-18-2012, 10:21 AM
On Revenant Hill:



Unable to help her tears, Idée summoned the power behind her angst and used it to blow open the door. The furniture that had blocked them shattered to dust, the path was cleared and her feet carried her forward. It had been months since she had seen the outside; the hilltop was nothing like she remembered it.

Black patches of soil blemished the land, swathes of brambles carved the grass. The once-peaceful air buzzed with the feel of electricity, causing hairs to dance with static energy. She had no recollection of her actions, no idea that she had caused the mess, but she knew in her heart –deep down- what had happened to Court. Her fiancé rested cold upon the ground, his eyes blind to the chaos of the world. Her husband-to-be, her half-brother, and a man who had cared for her since they were young. The loss of him pained her greatly. Tears flowed down her face for what seemed like an eternity.

From across the hill’s crest, her admirer whispered, “Hindy wants to be next to her.”

Axiom nodded gently, carefully helping the demon to reach his long-wanted love.

And although Idée was surprised by his change in appearance, by the new confidence with which he held himself, she found herself falling into the arms of Hindermost instantly.

“He loved me,” she cried.
“Hindy knows. We both do.”





With a grin, Axiom turned from them and walked back towards the group of humans, “It seems we have a groom. Well done!”

Envoy tried to cut him short -“That’s not all you-…”- but the red-faced demon spoke over him,
“I’m afraid that is all we need, dear Envoy. You see…”

He pointed to Roselyn and Ivy, “…Here would be sisters, family members to present the rings…”

His finger turned to Anahlie, “…and this girl’s dagger contains the soul of your pet, Flit.”

Sometimes it was forgotten to Axiom was all-knowing, for rarely did he feel appropriate to flaunt it.

Envoy could only snarl at the sight of two lovers united, as the humans regrouped and talks of a wedding were made, followed swiftly by a promise to return them to their home-world. With language foul enough to curdle the air, he skulked back into the shadows, whispering his own vows that told of eventual revenge.

Auki
06-18-2012, 11:01 AM
In the Chapel:


The Wedding of Idée Fixe and Hindermost:



With the help of a powerful demon like Axiom, the Chapel was tidied within the space of a few hours. The rubble was gone, the pews turned right-side-up. The marble pillars glistened as though freshly polished.

And, at the altar, stood the happiest couple the Demon isle had ever seen.

Idée Fixe, a woman who’s fickle heart had finally stopped its indecision, who’s mind was finally calmed from disarray.

Hindermost, a man who gave up half his soul to stand there by her side, who loved her even when she wouldn’t look his way.

Through stress and trauma, they still managed to smile, knowing that they were finally gaining inner bliss.

Idée knew that both Court and Justin would be watching her, and prayed for them to offer their blessing over the time-wanted reunion.

Marcus acted as their priest, reading the script that Axiom had thankfully constructed for him. Out of respect, all demonic references were removed; they kept it simple, care-free, how it should be.

“We come together to witness the joining of Idée and Hinder, to share their joy and celebrate their love.

The gift of marriage brings husband and wife together in the delight and tenderness of sexual union and joyful commitment to the end of their lives.

Hinder, will you take Idée to be your wife? Will you love her, comfort her, honour and protect her, and, forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall live?"

“I will,” the demon replied tenderly.

"And Idée, will you take Hinder to be your husband? Will you love him, comfort him, honour and protect him, and, forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long as you both shall live?"

“I will,” she answered in the same loving manner.

Time was slowly running short for their human audience, the ceremony quickened through the need for urgency. Marcus received the rings - one from Roselyn, one from Ivy - and presented them to the couple.

“By the blessing of enchantment, let these rings be to Hinder and Idée a symbol of unending love and faithfulness, to remind them of the vow and covenant which they may have made this day. Amen."

They slipped the gold bands onto each other’s fingers, feeling a rush as the enchantment bound them together.

“Now, they have declared their marriage by the joining of hands and by the giving and receiving of rings. I therefore proclaim that they are husband and wife."

With a squeal of happiness, Axiom clapped wholeheartedly for the newly-wed couple, as they shared their first kiss and smiled joyfully henceforth.

V
06-18-2012, 11:58 AM
You know, everything seemed to be going to well up until creepy face began to scream and melt away from Hindermost. Or as he was now called Hinder, whatever. Even after he'd become the demon slayer, destroying Court, the demon had come back to help stab Hindermost. Wow Ben you sound like the bad guy in you own head, you need to develop an evil laugh and become in league with Envoy. Terrorize the shit out of people.

Oh hey look, that demon you never really bothered to listen to is explaining things. "Oh congratulations, I can barely contain my excitement for you." He said to himself more then anyone.

Ben sort of did about nothing as the chapel was cleaned up by that demon guy. Perhaps he owns a cleaning business, must get a lot of clients looking like a serial killer and all that.

Having done about fuck all, nothing new Ben, he decided to barely pay attention to the wedding. Glimpsing a sight of the kiss due to the excited clapping of what's his face. Gee, he really wanted to see ex-face-on-his-back's tongue crawling down the demon chick's throat.

Yes, because you're sure that happened, I'd roll my eyes if I wasn't just your thoughts Ben. Besides that's just your desires for Shay-love talking. Fuck, now I'm calling her that in my head.

Ben coughed then, checked his invisible watch and said quite loudly, "I do believe I have next to nothing to do out of here, but well that could probably be attended to."

Tune
06-18-2012, 06:03 PM
With wedding between Idee and Hindermost was one that relieved Matt to extraordinary levels. The shock of Hindermost's sudden change was one that still had Matt's head spinning. Or was it from his soul being sucked out of his body? That sort of damage could possibly never be reversed. He wasn't a scholar on religion or anything. If they made it out alive, he thought about making his way to church one Sunday, and talking to a priest for confession. Though if he even mentioned half of what went on today to another human, he'd more of less be locked up in a mental ward.

Matt looked down to his hands, now transparent from his soul's slow departure. It was an odd, tingly sensation - one that he wasn't fond of reliving for maybe the next sixty years of his life. If he lived that long. Now that Idee and Hindermost were pronounced man and wife, he leaned back in the pews. He'd be happy to get out of this nightmare of a place, but somehow his mind kept drifting back to Naomi. She was a pretty woman and redheads were kind of his thing. He didn't have a chance to properly get to know her, and once he was back in the real world, he'd probably never get to see her again.

Were there any rules about getting a girl's phone number in this place? He would have asked if he knew whether or not he'd remember it when he woke up. It was a lost cause anyways. She probably had a boyfriend back at home.

"Excuse me," he said, raising a hand from one of the pews. The light shining through it was very concerning. "This was a beautiful ceremony and I'm glad you two are finally together, but... The 'humans' are going to die if we aren't sent home very soon."

Okay, that was a very rude thing to say after a wedding ceremony. Even if it was a demonic one. If Hindermost wasn't the groom, he wondered, who would have filled in as groom to free their souls from this place?

Kris
06-19-2012, 06:14 PM
To this quick and fantastic turns of events even Erebus had to smile to himself. He never imagined such results and this sure was a lovely ending to a weird love story he was dragged against his will.

But a good ending was still one, and who was he to ruin such?

Hell, if real life can't grant him one, He would sure try to enjoy the sight of one another happiness.

"You dog", he sneered at Axiom, "So you knew all along...", Erebus shook his head to the grin giving by the red demon.

For the first time since meeting the fiend he felt like he could actually turn to like this imp.

But that mood swiftly changed.

"So... as some asked before me, when can we go back?", he said with annoyed voice, but the smile was still kept upon his lips.

In a sense it was acceptance of happiness from Erebus side, which was a rare gesture he saved for certain people, so that sure meant a lot. But happiness or not, he was sure eager to leave this place already.

Ru
06-19-2012, 07:48 PM
Even after all the wild, crazy, and fantastical events it still did now dawn on the ambitious redhead even in the slightest this could be a part of reality. To her this was a beautiful dream she would eventually dissect the meaning of upon her wake. Maybe it was an expression of her subconscious desire to finally settle down and let go of her rock singer lifestyle, or maybe her imagination just wanted to present her with a good show. Whatever the case was she was thoroughly enjoying it and almost regretted the thought of leaving all of the “fun.”

In an inappropriate manner Naomi had jumped up to the balls of her feet, clapping frantically with a gigantic grin plastered on her mug. She was entirely too stoked for the demons’ union and sincerely happy the two of them could finally be together in the end. This rapid motion only stopped once the boy known as Matt rose his hand.

Die? How can you die in a dream? This isn’t some Freddy Krueger bullshit. The girl rolled her eyes, then her disposition softened. Or… is it? She gazed over at the remaining humans, then back to the demonic couple in a questioning manner. Either way she was still overwhelming excited for them, but the thought of dying in her sleep did not sound appealing. What was she missing in her waking life while she experienced all of this?

She couldn’t remember the last thing she was doing.

Naomi’s head cocked to the side and she returned to a seated position in the pew, awaiting whatever may happen next as she attempted to recall what had been going on in the waking world. There was the big performance with her band mates, then the brief celebration at the bar, and last she went home… Well, not to her home; she didn’t exactly have a “home,” or a place of residence, really. She went back to Fre’drick’s house where she slept a lot. Anyway, she was playing a MMO… and that was all she could remember. No recollection of turning the game off and slipping into bed, or anything like that. Possibly she drank more than she thought, but it still bothered her… Why couldn’t she remember?

Eyes closed and pressed against her palms, she awaited the responses from the demons and had become eager to return home.

Jacogos
06-20-2012, 04:15 AM
As a man of God, you should be prepared to face some nasty things that Satan throws at you for dedicating your life to serving Jesus, but never in his life had Marcus believed that one of those challenges would be to serve as a pastor to two true living breathing demons.

What was weirder than that, though, was that Father Williams actually was happy to be their minister. The two demon's love for each other was touching... As Marcus witnessed the two share their first kiss, he realized that these demons were not that far different from humans, beyond appearance of course... And otherworldly powers... Those aside... It was quite sobering.

Nevertheless, Marcus permitted himself to smile. Though the blasphemy of this day may come back to haunt him later, he would allow himself to enjoy this seeming sin while he could. The Lord forgave many things, though there was the fact that He never forbade humans to oversee the marriage of two demons... Then again, why would there be the need to expressively forbid that? Marcus chuckled lightly at himself. He was overthinking this far too much.

What mattered was what everyone else was clamoring about. Would they get home? He certainly hoped so. Maybe this all would turn out to be some weird dream... Marcus smiled a little. He'd probably convince himself that it was after a while. Strange... Oh well.

Storm
06-20-2012, 06:14 PM
As the violence subsides, Devon watches completely un phased as the preparations commence for the wedding between Hinder and Idée. As the guests assemble within the chapel, she hangs toward the back keeping close watch on the other forced wedding witnesses. The fewer people she now interacts with, the quicker she can eliminate those she had come in direct contact with and get on with her job at hand when she is returned to a state of normality. As the ceremony commences, a soft smile and tender expression graces her facial features. By outward appearance it could be mistaken for pleasure taken by the tender vows exchanged by bride and groom; all the while her thoughts drift back on how violently Tibbs perished as he were burned alive. Her soft smile formed recalling the pain and agony that Tibbs endured in his elimination and formulates how she will dispose of this Camilla woman. Her smile broadens as the thought crosses her mind that one of these unnatural beings still might eliminate Camilla before all is done … can always hope.

As the ceremony concluded with the joyful squeal, she made her way toward the happy couple to offer well wishes so it would seem. As she makes her way along Axiom, her head nods in Camilla’s direction, her tone low intended for Axiom alone
“Such a joyous event, shame the girl there shall destroy all when she awakens…like that Tibbs being tried to do.”

With the fuel spilled, with any luck these beings will save her the trouble and either destroy Camilla or hold her in whatever place this was. She continues toward Idée and Hinder offering in her best attempt at a sincere sounding tone

“You make a lovely couple, best wishes for a long live together” with her best fake smile she was capable of offering.

Now that this pathetic wedding is concluded, she moves away to await return to her home. After all, she has places to go and people to kill.

Wattz
06-21-2012, 07:10 AM
Gideon was not his own. After years of forcing himself into the background, after years of avoiding society, he found himself wanting to cry out, to wave his arms, to let somebody, anybody know that he was trapped. Perhaps it had been quite apparent. Perhaps they already knew that he was no longer Gideon, but rather some part of Court. His body was a hollow shell now covered in the blood of the one called Most. There was nothing left for him.

He was hunched over, body trembling, as everyone made their way to the chapel to celebrate the good news. At least his weakness had served some form of good. Perhaps Idée would let them all go. Yes, Gideon would like that very much. He was sure that all of these strangers were quite tired, having been ripped from their beds and into this ghastly mess. He hoped that they would find peace in their slumbers, and that they would make it to a comfortable place.

His body took a slow step forward. Court was trying to make his way to the chapel. But with every step, a little piece of Court floated away. Gideon thought this would bring relief, bring his old body back. Never before had he felt such desire for control; he had always been one to take a step back for the sake of passivity. In fact, Gideon felt every muscle slowly begin to degenerate.

Wait….

Another step.

Wait! Stop!

Step. Gideon resisted enough to twitch his hand.

Please, I don’t want to die!

The body fell down on the ground, his fingers stretching as far as they could, just barely at the chapel’s entrance. Court was free, but Gideon would not be going home.

Merry
06-23-2012, 01:34 AM
Relief. It was a welcomed feeling after the events of the past few days. Warm and comforting in the realization that this could be over. The past few days? Could she really believe that? The jury was still out after all on just how much time had been spent in this part of, well hell. It seemed like an awfully long time had passed, when the reality was that it had only been a few hours, at best. Scolding herself, she recognized it was probably best not to think about it too hard.

There was still a part of her that was hopeful that this was all some bizarre nightmare brought upon by too much spicy food before bed, or her mother’s favorite, too much stress. The alternative thought process of course, being that this was actually real, and happening was still too much to handle. It was much easier to think this was all a stress induced dream, or episode like that, than to truly believe the alternative.

Sitting there on the cold stone pew, she watched the now Hinder and Idee get married, while she continued mulling over the recent events. It brought another shudder to her frame recalling the blood from what she thought was a murder at the time. She never wanted to see that again as long as she should live.

She found herself reflecting about Tibbs as well, she couldn’t help it. It was still a bit shocking how his life had been snuffed out. Burnt like a piece of dry tinder. She was sick with the knowledge that it could have been any of them turned to ash in that moment and that quickly brought a small grimace to her lips.

As she glanced about the church, it occurred to her that their group appeared to be a little smaller, but she couldn’t be sure, and so she quickly focused back on the ceremony. Soon, soon, soon… she whispered to herself. Soon she would be back in her bed, and this would all be a nightmare best forgotten.

A small wistful smile crossed her features when the actual wedding ceremony was complete, the realization that they could in fact love each other still seemed bizarre to her. What could these creatures know of love? But seeing them there, it was undeniable. Even though they were hideous to her human eyes, they unquestionably belonged together. It was as they say, meant to be.

She just hoped for about the millionth time today, that it was enough, that this would end it, and that they would all be released back to their lives before anything else horrible could happen. She idly wondered what would happen to the Phoenix, if, when she corrected herself she did get to leave. She knew this is where it belonged, but couldn't help the wistful thinking that it was so beautiful to be trapped here, amongst all this ugliness. With a resigned sigh, she put it out of her mind, and went back to praying silently to just go home.

CALYPSO
06-24-2012, 06:16 AM
If only she knew stabbing Hindy was for the greater good. She gave the couple a loving smile as her and Ivy handed them their wedding bands. It was a moment to cherish, even with blood stained hands that will forever scar her. Though through the nightmare, Rosalyn was grateful for the happy ending. “Much like a romantic movie,” she said softly, “A bit of chaos, but in the end, there is always love.”

The others were a bit impatient; already wanting to go home after the ceremony was over. She certainly didn’t blame them, as she was ready to wake up in her own bed and go about her life. Their task was complete and now it was time for Idee to send them back.

She looked at Ivy, “All that worry for nothing, huh Ivy?” She laughed, “We can finally go home. How about we get some coffee first thing in the morning?”

AngelicAsylum
06-24-2012, 06:23 AM
Ivy presented the wedding band with a completely blank face, not showing happiness or anger towards the happy couple. The things she had seen and been through in that short time was enough to give her nightmares and added cynicism for the rest of her life. However, even she knew better than to show such rudeness to a happy couple. Therefore, she opted on a neutral expression and a calm, yet toneless voice. All of her built up anger and fear could be let out when she was back home, alone.

If she ever got home, that is.

"Coffee and a huge breakfast. Something greasy. Like a bad hangover," she mumbled to her sister, rubbing her temples slightly. Perhaps if she treated it like a drinking binge, that's all it would become to her memory. Or perhaps their "generous hostess" would be kind enough to erase all recollection of this disaster. "...I'm glad you made it out of this alive and unharmed. You nitwit." Ivy risked a small smile and elbowed her sister in the ribs. As long as they could go home together, then maybe it would be alright.

Auki
06-24-2012, 01:51 PM
“They could at least feign interest,” Idée murmured softly, and received a chuckle of sympathy,
“Hindy thinks they have been patient of your whims for long enough.”
She was defiant in expression, but followed with a sigh soon after, “I guess you're right.” As her mind was slowly laced with clarity, her sanity restored, guilt wormed its way around her gut relentless. The poor animals must have been so frightened, taken from their dreams into a world beyond reality.

It was a shame that they could not have had a more caring audience, or even one who would stay beyond the vows announced. Their island would be so quiet once the humans had been allowed to flee. Tempted was she to bend to selfishness, entrap them there, but it was not the demon way.

“Let’s get on-…”

Axiom appeared by her side, causing pause, touching her gently on the arm to draw her attention. He seemed unusually serious, whispering into her ear without his characteristic grin. She listened to him patiently, but shook her head with a muttered “It’s not our place,” when he had finished. A few more quiet words exchanged and she was forced to give in to his reason.

“Let’s get on with this,” she said again, a little more disheartened than the last time.

To each person, she approached. Touched them on the cheek, told them her gratitude, and they were gone. Each time, the air sighed as the souls returned to their rightful bodies.

Eight females. Sweet Pea sung its mournful song as Camilla left, a melody that played on chords the humans had forgotten.
Eight males. Axiom forced his arms around Erebus in a surprise embrace, ensuring that his soul had left before the man had a chance to respond.
Five had died while trapped within their world.

And after that, there was only one left. Devon Chin.

“I still don’t know why this is our business,” Idée said, free to speak loudly with the other people gone.
“The least we can do-” Axiom replied kindly, “after you put them through so much - is to protect the ones who deserve it.”
She nodded hesitantly and he continued, “Envoy! Come here.”

The many-eyed demon had been content within the shadows, unseen by the wedding’s audience. Coming forth, he did so only with a string of profanities and curses. There was much about the day that did not please him, many things that did not go as he had planned. Perhaps – just maybe – it was for the best. The coin pouch turned within his hands, soothing any anger he was prone to feel.

Axiom slapped a friendly hand against the other’s shoulder, “Think you could take this girl for us? She's a threat to one of the humans we care for.”

Envoy nodded, not bothering to argue with authority for once. His hand came to grab the human’s face, dragging her backwards and out the chapel. Flailing limbs did nothing to save her; the island would never hear from her again.

Idée offered a prayer for her soul, but knew it would not reach her where she was being taken.

The bride's fingers twisted in her hair, agitated.

“What’s wrong?” her husband asked, concerned by her obvious pain. Black clouds had marked the sky, telling her emotions to the world.

“It’s just…” she began, “if we are interfering…”

Axiom gave a gentle nod, already knowing what she wished for, “Let me take care of it, Mrs Idée, and enjoy your time with the man you love.”

He waved farewell, revelling in their grateful smiles.




To the West:

He whistled to the air, calling forth his pet from the waters it resided. A hydra (http://rpg.blackwand.net/Data/Monsters/Monsters/Gray_Hydra/Pic1.jpg), far bigger than any other creature on the island.

“Spot!” Axiom exclaimed lovingly, hugging one of its scaly necks before climbing aboard his back.

Together, they swam across the lake, each powerful stroke pulling them into clearer water. He was glad he had detered Erebus from this place; its secrets were not for mortal eyes to see. The demon glanced into the waves, staring at the billion souls that swam below them.

“There’s only one that she wanted, but I figure we should save all the ones involved,” he told his pet, getting a primitive roar in response.

His hands dipped into the lake with precision, stealing from it five of the souls it harboured.
Felix, Gretal, Ariella… unfairly killed by lightning.
Elroy Tibbs… set in flames by an angered demon.
Justin Davidson… the cause for Idée’s worry, murdered by intimacy to a broken heart.

Their ethereal bodies lay unconscious upon Spot’s back.

And yes, he should have left them, their souls damned to swim in nothingness for all eternity, for it was not their business to interfere.

But Idée couldn’t stand to let her actions have such ghastly consequences, and he did not wish to see her cry after all this time.

“I’m taking you across the lake,” Axiom told them, smiling foolishly as he did so, “I doubt you’ll know the place…

…but I believe you humans call it ‘heaven’.”