Creation

Creation

Book Two: The Balance of Life and Death

 

Disclaimer: Legacy of Kain belongs to Edios and Crystal Dynamics not me. I am making £0.00 out of this fic, it is written purely because I have a burning need to create. Although I would like to own Vorador then he’d be mine.

Warning: this fic eventually contains YAOI (GuyXGuy) and a lemon, if this offends or upsets you do not read this, it that simple.

Rating: NC-17

Pairing: Raziel/Kain

Setting: post all games 

Summery: The Wars are over, Nosgoth has been saved. But a newer or perhaps older enemy rears its head.

Italics mean either flashbacks or thoughts

 

* / * / * / * / *

 

Chapter Two

 

It was an oppressive place where they choose to gather. Pitch dark, the men and women stood blind. The air hung limp and humid, thick with the incense they burned to cover the stench of death. Breathing in this blind place was a challenge. The chamber was crammed tight with bodies making it hot and rank. Surprisingly it was silent. The silence was almost palpable, everyone breathing heavily but each trying to do so quieter than the man next to him. It was an awful place, a place filled with fear. Which was the reason why their God chose to live here.

 

The air changed, the oppressive nature no longer being caused by heat, silence and smell but by power. It coiled thick and alive through the chamber. The silence ceased to be and was instead replaced by low rumbling words. It spread like disease and soon every man woman and child in the chamber were uttering the words.

 

Praise be to God.

Raise him up.

Break the barrier.

 

*^*^*^*

 

The journey back to the mansion was tense. No one seemed able to find their words which was almost unheard of after a return. Raziel had only been privy to two returns previously and they were not like this. Getting everyone to shut up their excited clamouring was usually the difficulty. Everyone wanted to talk to the newly returned, to enlighten them to the new situation, and to welcome them back to life. No one was doing that now. Fortunately Kain didn’t seem to notice. Walking next to Vorador he was too busy watching his surroundings to notice just how tense everyone else was. Raziel used the opportunity to study his fledgling Sire. Kain had not lost any of his height, he was narrower though, having lost much of the bulk that evolution had armed him with. His hands were not yet clawed and his movements were jerky and human, not yet the smooth predator he would one day become. His Sire appeared newly raised. It was unsettling to see him as such. Kain had always been the stronger, the more durable of them both and here he was looking as vulnerable as any vampire fledgling had ever been. Raziel had the urge to take his hand but managed to control himself. They approached the edge of the swamp where Vorador stopped them.

 

“Vorador?” Melchiah asked after a moment. The elder was staring at his home land with apprehension.

 

“I’m considering how best to proceed.” Vorador admitted, gesturing to Kain. Raziel looked out at the swamp. The rains had ended only the day before and the swamp was filled to bursting. Fledglings would not be able to leave the mansion for the next week or so while the swamp drained to its usual level. Even older vampires would have to step carefully and wear protection from the lethal element. Raziel glanced at his own clothes. He no longer feared water and had dressed as he usually did. The others were dressed more appropriately, long boots treated with fats, gloves and leather coats with high collars to protect themselves. Kain however was ‘clothed’ only in his shroud, held in place by his death grip on the tattered cloth. It had become torn and filthy in his journey from the graveyard and would offer no protection in the swamp. Raziel looked to where his Sire stood to see an empty space. His breath caught in his throat and he rubber necked searching the area. But Kain stood only a little way away, apparently bored with the conversation he had found interest elsewhere.

 

“We could teleport.” Melchiah said snapping Raziel’s eyes back to the matter at hand.

 

“Risky,” Janos mused. “It could panic him.” Raziel had witnessed reborn vampires who panicked in the past, it was usually nothing to concern himself with but Kain was lethal even at this age.

 

“You could carry him and fly.” Melchiah suggested to Janos. Janos gave Melchiah an unpleasant look.

 

“I think we will have to walk.” Vorador said. “We will just have to take care.” He looked around at the group and sighed. “Anyone who wishes to teleport may.” No one spoke up. Vorador nodded and looked to Kain who had wandered further away. “Are we boring you?” he called, Kain looked up and walked to join them.

 

“A little.” He admitted smirking. Raziel rolled his eyes. His Sire was an ass.

 

“Forgive us.” Vorador clipped the fledgling on the head and pushed him forwards. “That way child.”

 

The journey forwards did not last long. They made it only meters into the swamp before it became clear it would be impassable. Ground that seemed solid enough to the eye was in fact not. Plants tangled in the legs of those who walked past and falling branches were common and caused unpleasantly large splashes. Tensions rose fast and it did not take long before the smell of burnt skin filled the air.

 

“This is where you live?” Kain asked as they stopped. Vorador turned to answer, his movements sharp and irritated. But his expression changed to one of shock when the ground beneath Kain shook and fell way. The fall would have dropped Kain into over a meter of deep water. But Vorador was used to fledglings and their regular need to be suddenly rescued. He grabbed Kain and yanked him forwards, away from the collapsing ground. The ground fell into the water and did so with speed and ferocity that it caused the water to splash highly. Kain’s left side burned as the splash struck him and he cursed.

 

“Yes we live here.” Vorador breathed, looking at the fledgling’s burnt side. He made soft clicking sounds with his tongue as he looked over the burn. His eyes wandered to Kain’s legs which were for the most part bare and burnt. His feet to were exposed to the elements and were blistering. “Although you will not for long unless we do something.” With that said he lifted him despite said fledgling’s huff of indignation and verbal protests. The group travelled forward at a much faster pace now that the most fragile was taken care of.

 

Even so the trail was dangerous and the going was slower than usual. Raziel smiled at the constant but quiet complaints of his Sire. Melchiah walked beside him and shared his smile. They walked through the swamp together quiet but for the grumblings. It was incredible to be hearing Kain’s voice again, after so long with only his overactive imagination and one sided conversations. To physically have Kain here was enough to make him wobble in his steps. With little thought he reached forward a shaking hand and brushed talons over Kain’s shoulder. Kain stopped grumbling for a moment and looked at him. Raziel swallowed hard and tried to speak. But it was impossible with such a stare on him. Kain raised an eyebrow and watched him for a moment before turning his attention back to his complaints. Raziel shook himself and tried to get his heart to slow. To distract himself he looked around at the group and noted that Janos was walking with them. Normally the ancient vampire would take to the wing on such journeys. His movements on the ground were slow and clumsy. But on the wing he was in his element and moved smoothly, like the predator he was. Because of this it was rare for Janos to walk unless indoors. Janos caught him watching and moved closer. A wing bumped Raziel’s shoulder and the ancient looked apologetic. Raziel managed a kind expression.

 

“The prophecy.” Janos said “Spoke of a return.” Raziel felt his stomach turn to ice. His throat closed and his vision blurred. For a moment he thought he would fall but managed to keep his footing and his dignity. Janos and Melchiah both noticed his waver and looked concerned.

 

“Raziel?” Melchiah reached out to touch his brother. Raziel shook him off and turned to Janos.

 

“Are you serious?” he asked. “You think this is prophecy?”

 

“Yes,” Janos sighed, noting Raziel’s agitation.  They fell silent as they leapt a pool that had become a lake. They were getting close to the house.

 

“Have you memorised that damn prophecy!” Raziel asked incredulous when they were able to speak again. “We are not even to the mansion and already you have designs.”

 

“They are not my designs Raziel.” Janos pressed, Raziel glared, his anger flaring.

 

“I suppose it is too much to ask that we have a single afternoon to reacquaint ourselves.” Raziel growled. He had hoped that he would have time now. Time that had been taken from them before, when he had been young and Kain preoccupied with the future. Janos’ words stung him.

 

“No one is trying to steal from you child. I am only sating what I see and I see prophecy.”  

 

“Can you at least not carry me into the house?” Kain’s voice broke the tension. It was already defeated, as if he knew he would be ignored but felt he had to make the complaint regardless.

 

“The ground is still treacherous.” Vorador sounded far too smug for Raziel’s tastes.

 

“Indoors?” Kain asked disbelieving. Vorador continued to look smug and nodded. Raziel snarled as they approached the house and Vorador turned to him.

 

“I am taking him to be cleaned unless you would rather leave him looking like a homeless waif.” Raziel swallowed his protest and nodded. He supposed Kain would need clothes and possibly less mud and grime in his hair. He followed them into the mansion ignoring the gawking vampires who were trying too hard to be nonchalant to not be looking. He stopped when Melchiah grabbed his arm and pulled him into one of the smaller sitting rooms. Vorador continued on with his burden and Raziel watched him leave.

 

“Where did the others go?” he asked entering the small room and realising that it was only Melchiah and Janos in the room with him.

 

“To spread the word,” Melchiah grinned. “The rumour mill will be running full steam.” He fell silent and simply grinned at his older brother. Raziel could see the excitement on his face and waited for him to speak again. He did not have to wait long. “Can you believe it!” Melchiah burst after only moments. “Sire has returned just like you said he would. But so different! I can’t think why he would come back like this?”

 

“He did not know me.” Raziel slumped down into one of the soft chairs that littered the room. Melchiah lost his excitement and swallowed.

 

“It will pass I am sure.” Janos soothed. “He is not the first to return with fragments missing.”

 

“But me!” Raziel tilted his head back and covered his face with his hands. “He didn’t know me and don’t think I cannot see the irony in this.”

 

“I said nothing.” Janos put his hands up. “Raziel be calm, being agitated will not help things.” Raziel opened his mouth to bark an answer but Melchiah cut him off.

 

“We’re going to have to tell the Guardians.” Melchiah spoke up. His point an unwelcome distraction.

 

“No. We do not.” Raziel snapped. “They can find out on their damned own.”

 

“Raziel.” Janos scolded. “We all know of your dislike but even you cannot suggest hiding this from them.”

 

“I can and I am. At least until he knows who he is.” Raziel snapped. “They would use him and using Kain is a bloody foolish thing to do.”

 

“So I have heard.” Janos nodded. “But they would not use him and his presence would reassure many after the rather ambiguous prophecy.”

 

“I do not care if it would solve all our problems right now.” Raziel growled. “I am not handing him over to them.”

 

“No one said to hand him over.” Janos pinched the bridge of his nose. “Only alert them to his return.”

 

“Our Sire was rather unpredictable.” Melchiah said before Raziel could snap at Janos again. It was unsettling to see him be so rude to one he held such respect for. “I think exposing him to the Guardians now would be unwise.”

 

“It would be an unmitigated disaster but one I cannot see a way to stop.” Vorador said in an amused tone as he entered the room. To Raziel’s searching expression he smiled. “I left him with some of my older women, they are taking care of him and will come call you when they are done.”

 

“Good.” Raziel was fidgeting. Unable to sit still but unable to go, he felt as if he were being torn apart. Rationality said that Vorador’s actions were reasonable and judicious but his heart said hang them all, he had waited fifty years and any longer might destroy him.

 

“We will inform the Guardians.” Vorador said slowly. “But we will also instruct them that we are to be left alone here until we feel that it is time to make any formal introduction.”

 

“You think they will swallow that?” Raziel laughed unkindly. “I certainly do not. You know as well as I that they will wait only a moment before demanding he be sent out to cull the demons.”

 

“He cannot fight Demons as he is now.” Vorador said firmly and Raziel nodded. “It would be death to any fledgling to do such.”

 

“But we cannot hide from them!” Janos said appalled at what he was hearing. “You cannot consider hiding!”

 

“I will consider what I need to in order to protect my home and those in it. Even if one of those in my home is bastard Kain.” Janos snorted his anger, his wings twitching with agitation. For a moment he looked as if he would storm out of the small room but he did not. Instead he took a deep breath and calmed. After a few moments he spoke, changing the subject slightly. “Has anyone else realised yet that Kain was the Balance Guardian and our Guardians are one short.”

 

“I rather take pleasure in reminding them.” Raziel admitted.

 

“But what do you think their reaction would be to him considering that.” Vorador mused aloud. “They would rope him into taking up the pillar again?” Before any could answer there was a quiet knock and a small woman older than she looked entered the room and nodded to Raziel before leaving. Raziel stood and looked to Vorador.

 

“I am not handing him over.” He said firmly and left the room.

 

Walking down the corridor behind the small woman he grumbled to himself. Let Vorador and Janos argue it as much as they liked, it mattered little what they decided in the end. He would not allow the pretender Guardians to sink their claws into his too young Sire. At least until he was sure the Kain was well able to break those claws himself.

 

The woman led him deep into the mansion to where the private bedrooms were housed. He was a little surprised. He had thought to be lead to the communal chambers that were used to board new arrivals. Apparently Vorador thought the Scion deserved his own room. Raziel was a little disappointed. He had planned to find Kain in a communal area, throw a small outraged tantrum that would have been purely for show and take his Sire into his own rooms. He huffed as that plan went up in smoke. The woman leading him stopped outside a room that was a little too close to Vorador’s for Raziel’s liking and gestured to the door. She turned silently and left. Her silence was not an unusual trait. The women had not always been so with him but after fifty years of rejection they had grown tired of chasing him and were now only polite.

 

Ignoring her Raziel pushed the door open and entered. The room was a lot smaller than he had expected. It was also less ornate than he had expected. But the room was not the focus of his attention for long. The bed caught his eye quickly, or rather the covered form on the bed did. Walking over he felt a sense of relief washing through him and he swallowed hard feeling a lump form in his throat. He reached the bed and paused, leaning over and pressing his weight on the edge of the mattress, trying to get a better look. Kain rolled over suddenly and looked at him through half closed semi gold eyes. Raziel took a moment to notice that he had been cleaned and fed, and he looked better for it. Kain yawned widely and watched him through half closed eyes.

 

“Hello.” Raziel managed, feeling foolish. Kain blinked at him half hidden under thick furs and sheets, and seemed content to remain quiet. “Are you alright?” Raziel asked slowly, crushing down the feeling of grief that whelmed up inside of him when his Sire continued to look at him. The soft look that Kain had always had for him had gone. Something was missing from his eyes. There was no recognition. His Sire didn’t know him at all. He had no memory of any of the time they had spent together. Raziel felt grief take a strangle hold of him. Fate was a cruel creature to give him back the one thing he had hungered and longed for above all else, but robbed of all memory, all knowledge of what they had shared. Kain nodded before speaking.

 

“I am alright.” He yawned again and made to sit up. Raziel put a hand on his shoulder and pressed slightly keeping him down.

 

“You should sleep.” Raziel nodded firmly and moved back to sit in the chair beside the bed. “Are you hungry?” he added, Kain shook his head. “You don’t remember me do you?” He spoke, Kain shook his head again.

 

“No I don’t.” he stretched under the furs covering the bed and nearly disappeared under them.

 

“I was your firstborn.” Raziel forced a smile. “My name is Raziel.” Outside it started to rain again as Raziel told their story.

 

Raziel was not sure when he fell asleep but when he woke up he was alone. He jumped to his feet and span on the spot looking all around the room. Panic gripped him making his throat close tight and his heart race inside his chest. He had told Kain much of what had occurred from his own birth to the time Kain had cast him into the abyss. He had not gone much further than that both because Kain fell asleep and because he knew he had already said too much. It was a well enforced rule that those without memories are left to recover what they will alone. The first few returns had had little memory, Vorador had informed them of what they did not recall and the knowledge drove them to death again. Raziel felt his panic grow stronger, what if Kain had not been ready to hear of their empire? What if he had fled him for fear of what had been? Raziel’s heart felt like it would burst. His chest tightened and it hurt to breathe. Then he caught the scent of his Sire in the air and closed his eyes. Concentrating he managed to slow his heart and let his mind work. He touched the bed and felt relief wash through him, it as cooling but still held some warmth. Kain had not been gone long. Vampire’s did not make much in the way of body heat and it never took long for beds to cool. That this one still had some heat was very reassuring. He took a deep breath through his nose and holding that scent walked from the room. Kain had apparently forgotten his way around the mansion as his trail doubled back on itself more than once. Raziel half expected to turn the next corner and run into his back.

 

But he did not and the trail continued until apparently Kain had become exasperated and had made his escape through a window. Following Raziel felt fear creeping back into his chest. The swamp was still flooded. If Kain had walked out alone it could be very dangerous. Reaching the edge of the gardens Raziel started to run. The swamps were deadly to fledglings and Kain knew this having come through them only yesterday. Why would he go there again? Unless he ... Raziel couldn’t finish that thought. He was running full out when he hit the swamp. He panicked when the scent disappeared and spent a few moments running in circles trying to find it again. It was only when frustration took hold and he hit a tree causing a branch to fall that he found it again. The fallen branch smelled like his Sire. Raziel grinned and looked up. Kain may have lost his memory but not his wits apparently. He had taken to the skies. Clearly he remembered his bat form.

 

Raziel clambered up the sodden tree and tried to discover what direction Kain had flown off in. The top of the tree was not very high from the ground but it was high enough to give Raziel a view of the swamp and of the pillars, rising into the sky. He snapped his fingers and after jumping down took off at a run for the pillars. During his telling last night Kain had asked a few questions about them, more so than anything else. It made sense that he would go there. It did not take him long to traverse the swamp, thick skin, a gift of evolution and his immunity to water meant that the pools and plants held no danger for him. He bolted through the swamp like it was an open field.

 

He caught up with Kain at the edge of the swamp where the land became forest. He spotted a flash of white and grinned feeling his legs go shaky for only a moment. He paused watching his fledgling Sire clamber through the forest and decided to remain downwind until he had calmed himself. It was obvious where Kain was going but still a little subterfuge could prove interesting. Kain paused suddenly and sniffed the air, Raziel froze. He cursed himself silently thinking he must have made too much noise or missed a change in the wind or some other trivial thing that would give away his presence. Kain turned and looked right at him before sighing and moving onwards. Raziel knew that his Sire knew he was there but for some reason he wasn’t calling him out. This confused him and so wrapped up was he in his confusion that he failed to notice the set of tracks in the sodden leaf litter.

 

They continued moving westward and Raziel paused. Technically Kain was a Guardian. He was still the Balance Guardian. He made the eight ancient Guardians into nine. Raziel nearly laughed wondering what the ancient Guardians would think of that. No doubt the image conscious Guardians would be worried that Kain didn’t match them. They would want to paint him blue and glue paper wings to him. Raziel nearly sniggered aloud but a loud snap to the left grabbed his full attention. Kain to must have heard it but he kept walking straight. Raziel opened his mouth to shout a warning but was a second too late. The great black creature leapt. Raziel shouted as he watched Kain tense himself for the blow. Before he had formulated a plan of any sort he leapt and collided heavily with the creature sending them both to the left missing his Sire and landing in a briar. A hand gripped his collar and pulled hard, drawing him out of the briar and off the Demon which was also getting to its feet.

 

“Why are you following me?” Kain demanded.

 

Before Raziel could answer the Demon charged making both vampires leap to the sides to avoid being impaled on long horns. Raziel slashed the creature across the eyes with his claws while his Sire shifted into mist to avoid being clawed by the Demon. Blinded the demon howled and turned, lashing out wildly. Raziel smiled when he saw Kain become solid a good distance from the flailing demon. He leapt forward toward the demon glyph magic at hand and fire erupted over the Demon as he struck it. Using the Demon as a spring board he jumped again and landed close to his Sire.

 

“Little vampire.” The demon snarled. The glyph flames fading quickly, too quickly to do much damage to such thick hide. “You think you can keep us out?”

 

“It can speak.” Kain frowned. Raziel nodded. “I’ve fought these before.” Kain mused more to himself than to Raziel. But Raziel nodded anyway.

 

“You speak false demon.” He called catching the blinded demon’s attention. The huge creature laughed.

 

“Do I?”  It chortled “I think not. There are always men who will call us over from home and there are always those who will sustain us once we are here.”

 

“Sustain.” Kain muttered again more to himself than anyone else. “They need help to live here?”

 

“Apparently.” Raziel rolled his shoulders and moved forwards. He was tired of listening and slashed at thick skin while dodging giant claws. The Demon’s flames caught his clothes at one point but did not cause him injury. The demon tired quickly and fell soon after.

 

“I’ve fought such creatures before.” Kain stated again. Raziel nodded again.

 

“Yes you have, they shouldn’t be here any longer after what you ... after the land was purified but for some reason they remain.” He shrugged. “We do not know why or where they are coming from but we will soon.”

 

“Oh.” Kain mumbled and turned to walk away.

 

 “You’re heading to the pillars?” Raziel called after him. Kain didn’t turn around when he answered.  

 

“Yes.” He answered simply. Raziel fidgeted and then sighed annoyed at himself. He was centuries old, he had been a clan lord of Nosgoth, he had battled Gods and Demons, travelled through time and he was reduced to a fidgeting fledgling by a man he had once known better than he knew himself. It was embarrassing. Kain stopped walking and turned. He looked confused and a little uncomfortable but when he spoke his words were smooth and confident. “You may join me if you wish.” Raziel smiled. Only weeks old and already his Sire sounded like he had when he had ruled Nosgoth for centuries.

 

Raziel followed him silently for a while noting all the changes in his Sire. Smaller, weaker but no less arrogant. Absently Raziel place a hand on his Sire’s arm. Kain glanced at him as they walked and frowned but said nothing. Raziel smiled and forced himself to take his hand back and look away, wondering what it must be like to have someone you know nothing of stare at you as he was staring at his Sire.  

 

“You want to see the pillars?” Raziel asked when walking in silence became to difficult, talking gave him an excuse to look. “They are white now,” he mumbled.

 

“Yes.” Kain said quietly. “You say I did that.” His statement was not a question but it sounded unsure.

 

“You did.” Raziel confirmed “Do you remember that?” Kain made a non committal gesture.

 

“Yes.” He said after a few moments. “I remember them being black and somehow it was as if I was the cause. So I corrected this.” He smiled a little. “Although why it was so important or how I managed it I cannot say.”

 

“How did you know you would be able to heal them?” Raziel asked. It was a question he had wanted to know the answer to for the last fifty years. He had often imagined a time when he would ask it. Funnily enough none of his imaginings were like the current situation.

 

“I did not know for sure.” Kain answered honestly, Raziel blinked. It was unlike his Sire to openly admit weakness to anyone, even him. “But I trusted myself,” Kain continued. “It was the only thing I have ever been sure about in my life, I could not be wrong.” Again he made another non committal gesture. “Although why I was so sure, again I cannot say.”

 

The woods grew thinner as they approached and Raziel found himself wondering just what Kain had meant when he said that restoring the pillars was the only thing he had ever been sure of in his life. His Sire had always looked so sure about everything he did. But Raziel had learned a while ago that Kain’s self confidence was mostly a mask put in place to hide a weakness. When the land had first been healed he’d spent much time with Vorador as well as Janos and Vorador had told him a great deal about his Sire when he was younger. It had shocked Raziel to discover that Kain had had so little faith in himself and even less in those around him. But Raziel liked to think he understood why.

 

The pillars clearing was just ahead and Kain was smiling a strange sort of smile, one Raziel had rarely seen. They entered the clearing and Raziel felt the tension and confusion melt away from his Sire. The pillars stood whole and pristine, great pillars of white Marble. Raziel wondered what it must be like to look at them and see living things rather than just stone. But his thoughts were interrupted as Kain stepped up onto the marble base and the symbols carved into the ground glowed with power. Both Kain and Raziel froze, Raziel panicked but Kain seemed relieved.

 

 “That has never happened before.” Raziel said freezing in place.

 

“This is what happened the first time I came here.” Kain answered quietly. “My Sire brought me to see them. But he pulled me back before I could touch them. He took me home and told me to never tell anyone what had happened. After a time I think I forgot it had happened at all.” He turned back from Raziel to the pillars.

 

“But?” Raziel stumbled over his words, blinded suddenly as Kain touched the Balance pillar and the light from the symbols intensified. He watched as the light moved up into the pillar and down Kain’s arm into him. Kain stayed that way for a moment before drawing back. “That does not happen when the other Guardian’s touch the pillars!” Raziel snapped as Kain walked back and sat on the edge of the marble base, the light dying down to a comfortable glow now. Kain sighed and looked confused again.

 

“I don’t know,” he breathed after a moment.

 

“You don’t know what?” Raziel asked sitting next to him. Kain looked at him for a moment before answering.  

 

“I don’t know,” Kain answered again. “But I think I should know. I feel that part of me is screaming at myself but I won’t listen.”

 

“It will sort itself out.” Raziel mumbled, repeating Janos’ words and hoping they were true. Again his hand found his Sire’s shoulder.

 

“I don’t remember you.” Kain snapped suddenly, jerking away. Raziel flinched and looked down. “With your strange looks and overly familiar gestures.” Raziel swallowed hard feeling his throat tighten. Kain sighed. “But the things you said last night make me think that I should.”

 

“It doesn’t matter that you don’t remember me.” Raziel interrupted, managing to speak around the lump in his throat. “It doesn’t matter.” Kain looked confused and shook his head as if fed up.

 

“Kain?” Raziel breathed. It felt so strange to say his name to him.  Kain didn’t answer and looked back to the pillars now glowing faintly. “Come.” Raziel stood “Vorador will worry.” Kain glanced at him

 

“I would rather remain here.” Raziel smirked and offered Kain his hand.

 

“That I can believe. This was your home once.” He explained. “You built it around the pillars.”

 

“That sounds like something I would do.” Kain muttered taking Raziel’s hand and allowing the physically older to pull him to his feet. “They speak to me.” He did not follow Raziel towards the edge of the clearing. Instead remained on the marble base.

 

“Not words surely?” Raziel asked, turning back to face his Sire. Kain shook his head.

 

“Not in any language no. But they speak none the less.” Kain walked back to the Balance pillar and Raziel sighed.

 

“We cannot remain, Vorador will do horrible things.” Raziel pressed. “When he realises we are gone he will send out armies to find you.”

 

“I doubt that.” Kain snorted Raziel raised an eyebrow.

 

“You do not know Vorador then.” He said softly

 

“I do not need to know him to know that such foolishness would not happen.” Kain growled. Raziel laughed at the arrogant tone. Kain snarled at the laughter which only made it worse.

 

 “I have missed you.” Raziel said after a few moments when he could speak without laughing or otherwise embarrassing himself.

 

“So you said.” Kain muttered anger leaving him. “How long could I have possibly been gone for you to miss me so firstborn?” Raziel swallowed at the question.

 

“You’ve been dead a mortal lifetime. But we fought for a long time before that and then I was gone an age before that. So it’s been over a millennium since we last had a proper conversation.” He trailed off remembering the last time he had really spoken to his Sire without the hate clouding his mind. He had been dying and time had been running away from them rapidly. He hadn’t said half of what he wanted to. “I never got to tell you.”  

 

“Tell me what?” Kain frowned glancing at Raziel as they walked.

 

“I never got to tell you how sorry I am.”  Raziel breathed. Kain looked like he would say nothing, but shook his head and spoke.  

 

“You apologize for something I have no knowledge of. You are a strange creature. But I think your apology is not for me. Why apologize to one who has no idea why you should be sorry. You apologize to yourself I think.” Raziel took a moment to digest that before snorting and walking to his Sire.

 

“You are the same even now.” He snapped. “But I suppose I should not hate you for it.”

 

“I am glad to hear it.” Kain muttered. Raziel sighed looked around for something to change the subject. Fortunately a Demon screeched in the distance and offered him his diversion. Kain was looking at the Balance pillar again as if it were the one speaking and not Raziel. Raziel coughed to get his attention.

 

“You realize the other Guardians will want to meet you.” He said, Kain looked at him. “But you should refuse to do so.”

 

“Why should I do that?” Kain folded his arms across his chest. It was a familiar gesture and made Raziel smile.

 

“They are pretenders and fools. They would demand much of you.”

 

“I fail to see why that means I should hide from them.” Kain muttered.

 

“Not hide.” Raziel sighed. “But perhaps avoid for a time. They would send you to solve the Demon problem.”

 

“You think they would harm me if I refused?” Kain asked Raziel shook his head. “Then why shield me from them?”

 

“Because,” Raziel swallowed. “They do not deserve...” he trailed off, again unable to find the words. Kain moved away from the pillar and closer to his child. He placed a hand on the slightly shorter vampire’s head, fingers threading through his hair. Raziel had to consciously stop the noise he would have made.

 

“But you do deserve.” It was not a question but Raziel felt himself start to nod. The sound of wing beats stopped him however. Instead he looked up dislodging the hand on his head. Kain snarled at the disturbance but Raziel recognized it. “Hello Janos.” He said without turning.

 

“Vorador sent me.” Janos said by way of greeting. “Good morning Scion.” He dipped his head to Kain who smirked and gave a small acknowledging nod. Raziel smiled, Kain had no idea what Scion even was let alone who he really was. It was another example of his arrogance that he encouraged Janos’ respectful gesture despite not knowing the cause.

 

“I am not surprised. We were coming back.” Raziel looked away from the carcass and looked to Janos.

 

“I am to bring you back.” Janos pressed “Vorador has enlisted the services of Maria. She has agreed to look at your Sire and try to ascertain how badly the memory loss is and whether it is something that will heal or fates hand in play.”

 

“I do not wish to be prodded.” Kain said his voice darkening. “I am not cattle.”

 

“It’s a healer not an executioner.” Raziel said firmly. He turned to Janos who was walking closer to them keeping a calm eye on Kain who was tense. “Come Janos we will note bite you.” Janos ruffled his feather indignantly. Raziel smiled and took his Sire’s hand pulling him closer to Janos, amused at the wary look the fledgling gave the ancient. Janos close wings about them both and they vanished in the light of teleportation.

 

Back at the mansion Raziel watched as his Sire suffered through the attentions of Maria. She was a competent healer. She had been an assistant to a physician in Willendorf when she had been changed and had a wide range of knowledge herself. Raziel often suspected that she was the true mind behind her physician, unfortunately for her women could not be physicians. She examined his Sire as thoroughly as any new born she had seen and after a few moments of hums declared him fit. She could find no reason for his memory lapse and so put it down to fates medaling. Raziel’s heart sunk when she said this. For those who had been tampered with by fate often remained as they were. Very few remembered what they should not remember. He excused himself after the verdict and waited in the hallway for the others to stop fussing. Janos followed him into the hall.

 

“It will be alright.” Janos said softly.

 

“What will be alright?” he asked, Janos gestured to the room they were waiting outside of.

 

“You and him.”  He said. “Even if your Sire never recovers his memory he still watches you all the time. You do not watch someone constantly for no reason.”

 

“Your advice is noted, please stop.” Raziel shifted awkward. Janos smiled and waved to Melchiah when he exited the room.

 

“Kain’s going to kill her.” Melchiah said calmly as he leaned back against the wall. “Maria pulled his hair and he nearly gave her a black eye.” He laughed then noticing Raziel’s expression stopped. “Are you alright?” he asked.

 

“I’m just peachy.” Raziel snapped, then shook his head and apologized to his younger brother.

 

“You realise.” Melchiah started “That even if Kain doesn’t get his memory back that you can still be as you were.”

 

“That was very delicately put.” Raziel muttered then sighed. “Are you suggesting that if Kain does not retrieve his memory then I’m supposed to just, what, force myself into his affections, beg my way into his bed. I think not.”

 

“You can start over.” Melchiah pressed. Raziel Laughed

 

“You are a fool Melchiah.” He snarled “How can I start over? Everything has changed, he is no longer the man he was. He is slight and does not know me or anything that we have done.”

 

“It is your only option.” Melchiah growled.  “Either you hope his memory comes back or you start the relationship a new.”

 

“You always bring me good news Melchiah.” Raziel grumbled and went back to waiting. They waited together sniggering occasionally at the odd shout of “stay still!”

 

“We were attacked.” Raziel said suddenly. “On the way to the pillars. By a black demon. It spoke of men calling it and others sustaining it.”

 

“I feared this.” Janos admitted. “The worshipers will fall. But fall where I wonder and why. ”

 

“Not again.” Raziel groaned “Enough with that, it will not help us. They never have before. All prophecies do is beguile and mislead!” Janos opened his mouth to argue but Kain choose that moment to escape his captors and with as much dignity as possible work his way into their group until he was standing behind Raziel. “What are you doing.” Raziel couldn’t help but smile.

 

“Nothing.” Kain gestured to Maria who was now emerging into the hallway. “I have simply chosen to remove myself.” Melchiah laughed aloud and did not stop despite the glares from his Sire.

 

“Maria.” Melchiah stepped forwards before the healer started chasing his Sire down the hallway. “I must beg your forgiveness but my breatherin are eager to become reacquainted and I had come to collect my Sire. I know you’ll understand.” Maria had a soft spot for Melchiah, it was well known and she sighed before nodding.

 

“Brute was too much hassle anyway. If he does get sick don’t bring him to me.” She huffed returning to her chamber.

 

“Come before she changes her mind.” Melchiah tugged at his Sire’s arm and lead them down the hallway. Janos watched them go.

 

“You are useful.” Kain conceded after they were a safe distance away. Melchiah smirked.

 

“I am.” he agreed. “Far more useful than Raziel. Handsomer as well. I am your last born.”

 

“First dead if you are not careful.” Raziel grumbled. Kain smirked at him before turning his attention back to Melchiah.

 

“Raziel tells me I have six children.” Melchiah nodded

 

“You do but I was favored.” Melchiah grinned avoiding Raziel’s claws. “You saved the best for last.” Again he dodged claws. “Now now Raziel no need for jealousy, it is common for the youngest to be favored so I hear.”

 

“Zephon’s going to become very popular in a moment then.” Raziel swiped for his brother again but couldn’t help but smile. Melchiah had a talent for lifting his moods. It was one of the reasons he had become close to his youngest brother. Kain watched them seemingly amused by their bickering. Eventually Melchiah conceded defeat.

 

“Alright.” he held his hands up. “You win. I admit I was jesting. Raziel was favored, not I.” He smirked at Kain. Raziel felt his stomach twist into knots. Hearing Melchiah profess the truth to his Sire was worse than the jesting had been.

 

“I will make up my own mind.” Kain snorted.

 

“I have no doubt you will.” Raziel smirked. He recognized that tone of voice and hope flashed through him. Perhaps Melchiah and Janos were right. Kain did not remember him but perhaps a new beginning was needed, one that would not hold the memory of past mistakes over them like a shroud.

 

“Come Zephon has called a game in the north Library.” Melchiah continued to lead them to the rest of his siblings. “I did not lie to Maria when I told her they want to meet you again.”

 

So the afternoon was spent around a table with cards in hand. Raziel had never lost as many games in fifty years as he did that night. Though it was his own lack of attention that caused the loss and not Kain’s cheating. As usual Turel walked away with the most winning hands but after the fourth win they stopped keeping track. Conversation was relaxed as each told stories of past exploits to their Sire. Raziel couldn’t help but feel like things were becoming as they were before. Each of his brothers trying to impress their Sire with tales of great deeds and incredible wit, but Kain only half listening. Towards the dawn when his Melchiah took his leave shortly followed by Zephon, Rahab showed his Sire the library, pulling books from shelves in an effort to find his favorite which he was determined was housed here. Raziel watched amused as Rahab usually so demure became more enthusiastic than he had in many a long year. It was entertaining to watch. Eventually the book was found and Rahab took to reading passages. Dumah snored on one of the larger couches while the others listened to Rahab. Raziel fell asleep next to his Sire thinking again that Janos and Melchiah could be right.

 

Raziel awoke suddenly the following afternoon. The first thing he noticed was that his pillow was gone, Kain had left him sleeping. The second thing he noticed was that his back was killing him from a day spent sleeping half curled up on a damned couch. Despite his contentment of drifting off while leaning comfortably on his Sire’s shoulder his body was still going to protest. The final thing he noticed was that Kain and Vorador were trying to kill each other. 

 

 “NO!” Kain yelled loud enough to make the glass in the windows shake. Raziel winced half expecting to see cracks in the glass.

 

“Why not?”  Vorador yelled back, not quite as loud but still impressive even by vampiric standards.

 

“Because.” Kain huffed, his throat too raw to continue the yelling just yet.

 

“Why not?” Vorador asked again getting desperate. His voice almost pleading but too angry to be truly begging. 

 

“Because.”

 

“Why not?”

 

“Because.”

 

“I hate to interrupt your heated and if I dare say sophisticated debate but we will have to leave soon.” Janos stuck his head around the door.

 

Confused Raziel clambered from the couch and edged around the room to Rahab who was quiet contentedly watching the argument from his chair on the other side of the room. Sitting on the arm of the chair Raziel glanced at Rahab, then back at Kain and Vorador who were currently stomping around beside the window yelling at each other as if contesting who had the loudest voice.

 

“Vorador came in about half an hour ago.” Rahab explained. “They’ve been at it since then. I’m amazed you have only just woken.” Vorador was currently following Kain around the room still yelling while the fledgling stormed in circles. “He didn’t like being woken up.” Rahab grinned. “Seemed quite comfortable with you slumped like a sack of potatoes over him.”

 

“I wasn’t slumping.” Raziel grumbled.

 

“Drooling as well.” Rahab grinned.

 

“NO! VORADOR!!” Janos edged into the room and managed to get across to them without interrupting the argument.

 

“They will have to reach a conclusion very soon.” He mused.

 

“What are they fighting about?” Raziel asked.

 

“Someone sent word to the Guardians.” Rahab said not looking at anyone. “They sent a messenger today stating they wanted to meet him. They are arranging some kind of gathering at the pillars.”

 

“Someone.” Raziel repeated grinding his teeth.

 

“Someone else must have put the idea in his head that the Guardians are a bad idea.” Janos grumbled glaring at Raziel as Raziel glared at him. 

 

“WHY NOT!”

 

“Maybe someone did.” Raziel huffed. “Rightly so I think.”

 

“Raziel!” Janos growled “You fool! You’re corrupting a relationship that is necessary!”

 

“Don’t growl at him! He can corrupt what he likes.” Kain snapped from across the room then turned back to Vorador “I said NO!”

 

“How can he have two conversations?” Janos mused anger fading being replaced by confusion.

 

“Highly skilled.” Raziel muttered.

 

“He did it a lot during the empire. Growl at four of us at once for entirely different reasons.” Rahab explained “He’s had a lot of practice even if he doesn’t remember it.”

 

“You still haven’t said why you won’t go!” Vorador snarled through gritted teeth. The lower volume of his voice getting everyone’s attention far more effectively than the shouting had. Raziel got to his feet, he did not like that tone, or the way Vorador’s hands were shaking with frustration. 

 

“I have no desire to be paraded before anyone, let alone a group of near useless pretenders.” Kain snapped at Vorador looking like he was about to strike at the ancient, his arms also shaking in effort to hold back.

 

“He’s got a point.” Raziel smiled.

 

“He’s parroting your words!” Vorador snarled. “Stop making it worse!”

 

“He can make it worse if he wants to!” Kain shouted. Raziel almost laughed with delight, it was amusing to watch the childish bickering but it was wonderful to be defended by his Sire once again. Even if said defence sounded like a spoilt child not getting his way.  

 

“Argumentative isn’t he.” Janos breathed, Raziel nodded and smirked. “Raziel they aren’t going to judge him, or take him from the mansion.” Janos chided. “They will simply talk to him. They just want to meet him. It is a great honour for them to be able to talk with him.” Raziel laughed but stopped suddenly when three vases exploded simultaneously, Kain was getting very angry.

 

Raziel had never believed his Sire when he was young and Kain told him that he hadn’t always had control over his magic. Kain had told him that when he was a fledgling his magic had been too much for him to control and usually when his temper flared so did his magic. Raziel had never believed him. Kain had always been in perfect control when he had seen him. He had witnessed his Sire bending the magic inside him as easily as he lifted a sword. It had obeyed his every whim and like all circle members he could fire off numerous spells without breaking a sweat. Now apparently things were different. The large mirror above the fireplace started to wobble on its hooks and Vorador sighed.

 

“Kain please.” Vorador said keeping his voice low “I like that mirror.” He placed a taloned hand on Kain’s shoulder and Raziel watched him wince as energy crackled across his skin. “They just want to talk to you.” A small crack appeared in the mirror but did not get any bigger as Kain sighed swallowing the magic as it reached out to wrap around Vorador. A small slash opened above the elders eye. Janos jerked and walked forwards, Raziel followed. Only Vorador seemed calm. “Just talk once. Then you can ignore them all you want.”

 

“There isn’t a way out of it?” Kain sighed. Vorador shook his head slowly as Kain reached forwards to wipe the blood away from the already healed slash. A bloody finger disappeared inside Kain’s mouth as he nodded. “Alright.” He conceded. “Let’s get this over with.” The tension in the air broke and the magic died.

 

“We’ll wait for you in the front hall.” Vorador nodded and left, Janos following.

 

“That was tense.” Rahab admitted when the elders had gone. “I’ve never seen you do that before.” Kain shrugged.

 

“It is not something I try to do often.” He held up a hand, Raziel watched as a light formed between his fingers, the light condensed into a ball. “It has unpleasant and unintended consequences.” He flicked the ball of power towards one of the larger houseplants and Raziel and Rahab watched as the plant crumbled to dust.  “As I said unpleasant.”

 

“Your control improves with your age.” Raziel said softly. Rahab kicked him, knowing the rules for not sharing information with those who do not remember it themselves. Raziel glared at his brother before continuing. “You are a force to be reckoned with. Those who tamper with it deserve the consequences.”

 

“Raziel.” Rahab sighed. “Come they will be waiting.”

 

Raziel glared hatefully at everyone as they walked down to the front hall where the group who would be attending were waiting to teleport to the pillars. This was not going to be pretty and he half hoped that the Guardians would say something, hoped they would anger his Sire so Kain could lash out and put them in their place.  Despite his Sires youth he was still capable of great power and it would be enough to shock the Guardians. Besides if Kain lashed out it meant he could help and he wanted that very much. He glanced at his Sire walking beside him looking irritated and a little worried. As was becoming habit he reached out and laid a taloned hand on Kain’s shoulder. Kain glanced at him.

 

“You touch me a lot.” Kain said unexpectedly, Raziel jerked his hand back. “I wasn’t complaining, simply stating a fact.”

 

“Oh.” Raziel felt himself burn.

 

“Very few have ever done so with me.” Kain smirked. “Casual touch is not something I seem to inspire. Even in those I am close to.” Raziel laughed.

 

“Well I am not like everyone else.” He breathed. The smile his Sire gave him in return made him burn again and he looked away.

 

“Yes. I can see that.” Kain mused. “You spoke a lot before of a future that happened a long time ago. Your details were somewhat hazy but I am not a fool.”

 

“No.” Raziel agreed.

 

“How long did we last?” Kain asked. Raziel glad his vampiric disposition made blushing really difficult, swallowed hard.

 

“Near to a millennium.” He admitted. Kain raised his eyebrows. Raziel turned away as they approached the group waiting for them.

 

“Sire.” Melchiah greeted walking over, his head got rubbed in return, he tried to dodge away and tumbled into Zephon.

 

“Raziel.” Dumah purred. “Are you alright brother, you seem somewhat stiff this morning.” he grinned widely and glanced at his Sire who ignored him.

 

“I’m fine Dumah thank you for your kind concern.” Raziel hissed through clenched teeth. He did not need teasing on a day like today.

 

“I would have thought you would be a little sore today, sleeping as you did.” Dumah smirked wider. Raziel rolled his eyes.

 

“Your subtlety as always is a wonder to behold Dumah.” He praised.

 

“Kain.” Vorador called across from the hall where a few of his own childe were gathering around him. Kain nodded and walked to the elder, his own childe following.

 

“This is going to be awful.” Raziel muttered as Vorador pulled one group in close and Janos another.

 

“It won’t be that bad.” Melchiah smiled. “You can be such a drama queen Raziel.” Raziel went to answer but was cut off by the surge in energy as Vorador teleported them out of the mansion and to the pillars. They teleported to an area close to the pillars and started walking the remaining distance. Vorador and Janos walked ahead a little way. Kain started to slow.

 

“You needn’t worry.” Turel offered. “The Guardians are pompous but that is pretty much all they are.”

 

“I am not worried.” Kain snapped. “I am thinking.” Turel leaned back at the snap. “From what I am told I was somewhat neglectful of my duties previously. I do not wish to do so again, yet I if what I am told is true these ‘Guardians’ will ask much of me.”

 

“You should not always listen to Raziel. You may have noticed he hates the Guardians.” Turel grinned at his older brother as he spoke.

 

“Hatred does not come without reason.” Kain said quietly.

 

“Raziel hates them because they are not you.” Turel continued. “It is unfair of him.”

 

“Shut up Turel.” Raziel snarled. Turel laughed and stepped back as they entered the clearing which housed the pillars. Vorador having arrived before them was already in conversation with the new Guardians.

 

“Did you bring him?” Mind was asking Vorador as he walked across the base of the pillars, wings gleaming in the sunlight, obviously recently treated with oils and perfumes. Raziel half wondered if the Guardian’s still took to the sky or remained land bound so as to not mess up their feathers.  Vorador was standing on the grass surrounding the pillars. None could step onto the marble base when the Guardians were in residence.

 

“I am here.” Kain answered walking up behind Vorador, also remaining on the grass. Mind and the other Guardian’s turned and stared for a few moments silently. Kain glared at Vorador who had promised that this type of staring would not occur, the emerald skinned vampire looked apologetic. 

 

 “I thought you would be older, more evolved perhaps. Not quite so young.” Mind said eventually. At this Kain snorted.

 

“You are the Guardian of Mind?” Kain asked, the Guardian nodded. “Well I would expect one of your position to be able to look past skin.” Kain smirked and folded his arms across his chest. “But if you cannot bring yourself to do so then I will take my leave.”  Vorador rolled his eyes.

 

“We did not call you here to argue with you, Kain.” Mind spoke calmly. “You are one of us and it matters little what we say or think. This is the way the future has been written and so it shall be.” Kain raised his eyebrows at the passive answer.

 

“I told you this would happen.” Raziel leaned over and spoke to Melchiah.

 

“Fifty silver says he hits someone.” Turel leaned forward and whispered.  

 

“I am not deaf.” Kain turned to them looking displeased. The three looked down and Kain turned back to Mind “Why did you call me here?”

 

“We wish to meet you.” Mind said, Kain simply stared until Mind was forced to elaborate. “We also have a dilemma left over from your actions years ago.” States stepped forwards and continued.

 

“Demons still roam our fair land. Clearly you did not finish your duty.” Raziel felt his teeth grind together in anger and saw Kain blink in surprise. Kain had not expected to be blamed for the actions of the Demons.

 

“You found yourself incapable of controlling a few rouge daemons?” Kain sneered. “I was lead to believe that you were warriors. Your temples and tombs all celebrate your violence and power.” The look of disgust he received in return made the fledgling scion blink in confusion.

 

“We had great warriors, but none have returned. We Guardians will not fight these Demons it is not our place.” States snapped.

 

“Actually I think it is.” Kain would have continued but for Mind.

 

“And nor is it yours Balance you shall not be the one to do this.” Mind spoke. Raziel raised his eyebrows, he had been certain they would lay this job at his Sire’s feet. “For you are a Guardian and this is not a worthy task for you despite it being your failing that brought them here.” Kain blinked, speechless. Had he not also been shocked Raziel would have commented on someone managing to render Kain without words.

 

“You do not belong in battle Balance, you belong with us.” Dimension stepped forward “But we did not call you here to debate your duty.” She looked behind her at the pillars.

 

“Now that there are Nine of us we can call Fate and ask her guidance for the future.” Dimension spoke up, stepping backwards.

 

“Why not just open the time stream?” Kain asked. The Guardian’s looked appalled. “I am lead to believe it is a lot easier to understand than Fate.”

 

“The time stream is fragile and must not be tampered with!” Time spoke staying behind Dimension and Mind, almost as if cowering. “It is not our place to tamper with it!”

 

“I am beginning to see why Raziel has become so frustrated with you. You are rather idle.” Kain sighed. “At least your mortal Guardian’s got their hands dirty.” 

 

“We are the Guardians not the soldiers.” Came the reply, Kain almost baulked as he saw that it was Conflict who gave this reply.

 

“Nonsense give you a stick and some rocks to throw and you’ll be well away.” Kain laughed. “The Demons will be running for cover.” The Guardians looked to each other then to Kain and after a few moments of silence in which the Guardians seemed to have a staring contest with the scion they moved away.

 

“That went well.” Raziel grinned.

 

“Raziel be still!” Vorador snapped as Kain walked back to them.

 

“They are a bit wet.” He muttered, “But I cannot see why you get so angry with them, I think they could be rather fun.” Kain sniggered. “They certainly cower easily.”

 

“You’d get bored quickly.” Raziel shrugged. “They don’t argue properly, they just stare and do what they want regardless.” Raziel turned to look at the Guardians who had after disregarding their conversational efforts had moved to their pillars. Each Guardian had taken position at the foot of their pillar and slowly called their magic to them. A few more moments went by in silence as the Guardian’s built up their power pitifully slowly.  Kain started to fidget.

 

“Is this a mime? Are they actually doing anything or is it theatre?” Kain asked Raziel snorted along with Vorador who tried to pretend he hadn’t.

 

“No.” Janos snapped, he had not been amused. “It takes time, to build up a reasonable amount of magic, this is only the beginning.”

 

 “Not only do they refuse to fix the problem caused by their messing with the demonic worlds but they can’t even call up a mediocre amount of power between them.”  Raziel breathed. “Come back Moebius all is forgiven.” Raziel whispered hoping no one heard him. Kain looked to his child strangely. “Moebius was a weedy old man,” Raziel explained “but he had more power in his fingernail than this lot. He held you and I at bay for thousands of years and destroyed the ancient vampire race. This lot couldn’t fight their way out of a paper bag.” They watched for a further few minutes before it became painful.

 

“I suppose I should help.” Kain muttered and stepped up onto the marble. As Raziel had expected the symbols flared to life, burning with purifying flame, much like the Reaver had so long ago. The Guardian’s cried out in shock at the sudden outpouring of raw magical power. They stopped their calling and watched as Kain walked over to the Balance pillar and touched it setting it alight so the pillar to blazed as if made from white fire.

 

“What are you doing,” Nature asked

 

“I have other things to do today.” Kain snapped. “I don’t want to be here all damn day.” The flame from the Balance pillar moved into those behind it alighting the pillars two by two until all nine were blazing. Nature slowly reached forwards and touched his own pillar with the tips of his talons, Kain smirked at his wonder.

 

“You have power.” Nature whispered

 

“But little direction.” Vorador walked up onto the marble base and stood beside Kain. Kain glared at him.

 

“Fear not.” Nature smiled softly “Direction I have in abundance, I can guide your strength if you would allow me.” Kain continued to glare for a few moments, disliking having his shortcomings thrust in his face so. Eventually however he nodded and Nature smiled wider. “Thank you Scion.” The light around the pillars grew suddenly, no longer merely lighting the sky but blinding the earth and sky both. The light burned brighter than then sun and whiter than the moon and blinded all in the clearing but did not last long. When it cleared fate lay in the circle of the pillars. She blinked and stood, moving towards the edge of the circle to find she could not leave, she was bound as Arial had once been.

 

“Why have you summoned me?” she asked at last, slowly Mind stepped up. 

 

“We wish for guidance.” he spoke clearly and slowly as if to a child.

 

“I have given you the prophecy.” Fate answered. “That is all the help I may give you.”

 

“Could you re-word it then?” Raziel snapped stepping up beside his Sire and Vorador. The Guardian’s glared at him. Fate smiled at Raziel.

 

“I cannot reword it but I can make it clearer as far as I am allowed.” She took a few steps forwards.

 

“Please speak plainly.” Raziel asked looking frustrated. Fate’s smile widened at him and for a moment she was beautiful to him, for that single moment Raziel forgot why he hated her and wondered if there was a way to keep her. But the moment died and Raziel resurfaced in his own mind.

 

“Acena is mad in his lust for power.” She began. “He is forcing me aside.”

 

“Who’s Acena.” Raziel interrupted, again he was glared at by the Guardian’s, Kain hissed at them quietly and surprisingly they backed down.

 

“Acena is disorder.” Janos said softly, “Fate gives us purpose he robs us of it.”

 

“Acena is that which keeps me Balanced.” Fate corrected. “He is chaos while I am order. He is destiny while I am fate.” She answered. “One of us cannot exist without the other, but we must be Balanced to survive. By starving me of my purpose he is in effect killing us both and your world with us.”

 

“He’s breaking the system, creating chaos where there was order. It is as he is supposed to do.” Kain muttered

 

“And you must do as you should do Balance.” Fate turned and looked at Kain. “We must be Balanced or all will end.”

 

“Since when is it my job to baby sit you.” Kain snapped earning a hiss from Mind.

 

“You are fated to do so.” Fate spoke to Kain. Kain’s expression fell. “You have been reborn as the prophecy said, you have made the nine sing once more.”

 

“You lie spirit.” Kain snapped anger clear in his voice

 

“I do not lie Balance. I cannot lie.” Fate came close to the edge of the circle and placed her hand on the barrier “You have been called back by Nosgoth to keep it safe once again. You have no choice, you will save the land once again or it will perish. Non other can do this task. But you are not alone this time.”

 

“Kain.” Vorador spoke quietly, Kain’s head snapped up and he glared then turned to walk away.

 

“Wait.” Fate called, Kain kept walking. “Acena has touched you. He has placed something inside you. It is something I can remove.” Kain stopped and turned back “Acena has altered your mind Balance, you yourself are unBalanced as you were before. You cannot heal Nosgoth if you yourself are contaminated. This was shown to you before by your child.”

 

“My name isn’t Balance.” Kain snapped walking back towards the barrier and stepping over it like it was nothing more than stuffy air. He stood nose to nose with the spirit called Fate and snarled.

 

“Very well. Kain.” Fate said and placing small hands on his shoulders reached up and kissed his forehead, then she was gone.

 

“I’m getting really sick of this.” Raziel snapped after a few moments of awkward silence.

 

“How dare you talk to the Fate!” Mind walked over to them. “How dare you address her! She who gives us purpose! How dare you! how . . .,” he was interrupted as Kain walked through him, knocking him to the ground and snarling at him briefly.

 

“Kain.” Vorador called as Kain made to walk away. Kain turned to him his face frighteningly blank and without looking at any of them he spoke 

 

“I’m going back now.” he said simply before erupting in a fleet of silver winged bats that spiralled up skywards and flew towards the mansion.