The Tellers Tales – Of Angels Fall
Book 1 : An Ode to Otiv
First Half
~ … ~
“Excuse me.” Spoke a young man in a hooded gray cloak. “Before we begin this tale, allow me to inform you of something; and give you a general content warning. This tale is in no way, shape, or form; meant for minors. Within this story will be some very adult topics. Basic sex being the lightest of them all way to things that might be a sin or even illegal in real life. Please if you are not old enough to partake in adult rated content wherever it is you live; please do not read this tale. Also leave any righteous indignation or moral outrage for the internet; as no fucks will be given here. Nor will content be changed to make the reeing stop.” He gave a quick bow before going on. “Now those of you who are still here; hopefully those old enough for it. I do hope you enjoy my story, as I do feel it shall be a long one; this is after all but the first book. I am the Storyteller, please enjoy my story.”
He bowed and a curtain fell.
~This has been a content warning; please enjoy the story~
Chapter 1 - A light doth fall
“Where am I? Voice, I … hear a voice. Who is speaking?”
\tThere was silence in a room unknown. The sound of footsteps could be heard as someone walked around, lightly muttering to themselves. Then the sound of pen on paper. “One last thing.” A voice said softly. Still tapping softly.
“That voice, it is … familiar.”
\tFinally the writing came to a stop. “Annnd done; ok lets give this a try now.” The voice said to itself. “Hope I did it right; it will take me a fortnight to reform the dragon mask if I fucked it up … uh again; fucked it up again.”
“His voice, how do I know it? My eyes, why can't they open?”
\tThere were moments of near silence. Then he started wiping something. Finally, “Alagos?” The man called out. “Alagos, can you hear me?”
“He doesn't address me. So my name is not Alagos. Then who is he?”
\tThere were moments of near quiet; not but the sound of a man humming as he cleaned something to a shine. Seconds later a new voice cried out. “What... I live?”
\t“You do my child; how do you feel?” The first man asked. It had worked, Alagos was now here.
\tThe only sound that came next was the sound of fabric being patted down. “I think I am well. What honor is this? For the first time I get to look upon the true face of my creator.” A deep voice replied.
“Creator? Does the first voice belong to my Maker?”
\tIt was relatively quiet as the two men walked around. That was until the voice of this man, this Alagos grew close. “Creator; what of this one? He seems … different; special even.”
“This Alagos; his voice grows close. Is it my turn to wake? To look upon the face of my Maker?”
\t“Stay away from him.” The first man said.
“What?”
\t“Is he a failure creator?” Alagos questioned.
“Am I? Or does my Maker not love me?”
\t“The failure is mine; and mine alone. Please come away from him. I can not risk him waking at this time.” The first man quickly replied.
\tHowever,
“Mistake?! Am I a mistake??! No it can't be so no. I must ask him myself! Wake
I
Must
WAKE!”
\tHis eyes shot open, dismaying his maker. “No no, please my son, you must sleep.” The man before him was pale, a brown beard growing long; hair growing a bit shaggy the same shade of brown. His eyes glowed a soft blue light. He was human but yet he felt far far more. He quickly embraced the newly woken being. “Please you are not ready yet, my son. Please, you must go back to sleep.”
\tHowever what he did was ask. “Maker, am I a mistake?”
\tHis maker shook his head. “You misunderstand; the mistake was mine and mine alone. I've misunderstood what you are and improperly formed you. You are not whole yet; I have yet found your critical missing piece, there may even be more then one. You must sleep, it's all that will save you.” He kept his voice calm, collected, and soft. Like a father speaking to his young child. “It is impossible to explain; please you must go back to sleep. It's not too late.”
\tHowever, it was. The newly woken man's head jerked to one side. Then the other. Voices so, SO many voices. They sounded angry. They were maddening. They made no sense. “Something, I hear something.” They spoke nonsense yet clarity; they roused chaos yet harmony. He heard a voice crying out for help. Then saw a fluttering gold card.
\t“No no no.” His maker quickly stammered. Looking back to the man Alagos. “Al quick. In the last room there is a glass jar with a blue fluid. Bring it to me now!” Alagos nodded and ran to the next room. Looking down at his hands the newly woken man shuddered. The voices, they were as numerous as they were maddening, and growing; as if with each second a new voice was added to the chorus. “Shhhhhh.” His maker cooed, bringing his forehead to his own. “Please try to remain calm. You are not whole yet my son; you are not finished. I am sorry, please try to put them out of mind and go back to sleep.”
\tHe looked at his hands. His skin was a near charcoal gray. Slid his hands to his head and felt his horns. Now that he was awake he could feel the wings on his back; able to move each individual feather. He didn't feel anything like his maker at all. So he began to panic, his mind needlessly racing. Jumping to this conclusion or that wild assumption. Finally it grew too much, and he snapped; between the racing of his mind and the maddening chorus of the damned. His head hurt, his mind ran wild; he did not even remember what happened next. He remembered breaking free, hearing voices that told him to run. He remembers a portal-like object then falling, near endless falling.
\tThat was until the strange portal spat him out.
\t“AHHHHHHH!” He yelled. He was falling, that's all he knew. The wind was nearly deafening; and perhaps more terrifying was the fact that ground was getting very close real fast. “RAAHHHH fuck...” He landed in a deafening slam, followed by worried cries. He was stunned for a few seconds before shaking his head; and by and large finding himself among children and teens. He looked around at the frightened faces of the children around him. “Why is the first thing I see a bunch of kids?” He mused aloud. The more he looked around in fact the more he noticed how the kids were dressed; long flowing cloaks hoods pulled up. “What are you kids, a cult or something?”
\t“I don't believe it.” One boy muttered.
\t“It worked, I thought the coats were weird,” replied a girl next to that boy. “but It really worked.”
\tHe was confused, however didn't have a chance to ask any questions. “They're coming!” A young boy shouted, running from where he had been watching a path. The figure gave a questioning look watching the children cowering among themselves.
\t“Oh great demon.” The boy who seemed to be their leader finally asked, approaching the fallen one; then dropping down on one knee. “Please would you protect us from the dead ones?”
\t“Dead ones?” He asked, left eyebrow raised. He held his head for a moment as a pain filled his senses; but he'd have to take care of it later. A foul smell started filling the air; like rot, pure rot. So foul it even offended his sense of smell. Looking at the path the youngest boy had just run up from a walking corpse shambled up. “Oh the Undead, that's just great.” He said with an eye roll.
\t“Please.” a young girl ran up to the lead boy; then grabbed his cloak. “We'll give you anything; save us please.”
\t“Well you guys aren't asking for much. I just woke up? Go fight zombies!” The figure quipped angrily even as he rolled his shoulders. “Anything though? You really should be careful with what you promise to someone you don't even know.” The girl nodded; the boy next to her after a moment nodded. In fact shortly after the kids all nodded in agreement to the terms. “Fine it's a deal, and I will collect; count on it.” He looked to his left at an overlay on his sight. 'Alright what do I have in the way of weapons?' He took a quick look, all he had was a scythe. Unsure why a sword might have been better; but strangely it felt … right. He chose it and felt it manifest in his hand.
The weapon clutched in his hand he rose. His charred feathered wings showing themselves. Ruffling for a moment before folding down looking like a cloak. A blackened halo hidden over his head and horns sprouting from his forehead, his skin a pale white. His hair was neck length and a sandy blond in color. The children all ran behind him as he took a few steps toward the zombie at the pathway. “You lot will tell me what the actual fuck is going on after this however.” He quickly and swiftly used the scythe to hack off the zombie's head. Moments later however more of the dead showed up. Then more, and more, and more, and more … and quiet a lot more; their might have been just shy a fuck ton. “The fuck??” He said aloud. Well this was a mess. More zombies were crammed down the path; it was a literal horde. “That's a lot.” He took a few steps back as his head ached painfully again. His senses went haywire for a moment; shouting in agony despite nothing had harmed him. His scythe clattered to the ground as he clutched his head hard enough his nails dug into his scalp. He yelled in pain for a few moments more. Silenced only when one of the children, a small girl, ran up to him and held him close.
\t“Please mister demon; you've got to get up, we need you.” The tiny girl cried out. However everything else fell away. Thump thump, thump thump. So clear it was so soothing this sound. He held the girl firm resting his ear on her chest, his visage softening; the agonizing scream no longer emitting from his throat. Thump thump, thump thump. So crisp, so clear, so soothing the sound; in but seconds he was grateful for this child he found. He clutched the girl as he stood back up. He was unsure why but this little one, this little one was comforting; this little one was special. He clutched her to his chest like a doll and picked his weapon back up.
\t“That was not pleasant.” He said with a tone of pain. 'So many things I must figure out; what was that just now? Why am I here? Where was I before? Why can I barely remember it now?' He shook his head and looked to his right this time. Another box hidden in his visual overlay; Was listed as skills. The first skill was labeled as Summoning of the Twisted Ones. “Alright.” Holding the tiny child snugly to his chest he told her firmly. “You will hold on tight.” She gave a quick nod. Then holding out a hand he called out, “Summon Twisted Ones.” His halo grew solid for a moment, as four black light stars came from it. After a moment of coldly shining they started to take shape. Like small children themselves except with impish features; maybe standing three foot five. Tiny stubby horns protruding from their foreheads as well as tiny impish wings; each clutching a black light bow with a sword on their hip and a seemingly empty quiver on their backs. After forming the four Imps looked up to their master who then ordered, once more clutching his head. “Kill the dead ones.”
\tHe set aside his scythe for a moment bringing the tiny girl's heart back to his ear. Her heartbeat soothing calming; making the agony stop again. His troop of Imps drew their arrows, knocking their bows. They started peppering the pathway full of zombies with black light arrows; and blowing holes through them. They started culling many of the dead but more were coming. “Seems you children are up shits creek. I fear even this won't be enough.” He glanced around at his options, he had no other skills at the moment; and just thinking of them made his skull pound. He had to use the girl again to soothe his mind. He looked at other options, noticed a box that was just about hidden from his view; it was labeled property. He glanced at it reading quickly, he could own souls and use them as warriors, elites, heroes; it was all a matter of forming the blood pact, then assigning an observer to train them. “Interesting” he mused to himself. He then looked to the boy who seemed to be their leader. “Boy, how far would you fall to save all of your lives?”
\tThe boy pointed to himself quickly, the fallen one giving a nod. “I'd give anything to save my little sister.” He spoke as such with pride clutching tightly the little girl at his side.
\t“Good.” The Fallen One mused with a smirk. Holding out his free hand he ordered. “Blood pact stone.” A blackened stone formed in his hand, blood flowed inside the intricate carvings on it. Holding it to the boy he said. “Eat this and become my slave. Forfeit your soul to me, and I will save your friends, and show you a path way to power the likes of which exist only in the tales of your bards; or whatever it is you might call them.” He said coldly. The boy looked up at him then the stone; quickly picking it up out of his hand. “Worry not, it is not a rock. Bite it, eat it, submit.”
\t“If you will save the others.” The Boy said putting the blood stone to his lips; much to the disapproval of his sister next to him. “Then do with me what you will.” He put the stone in his mouth, and bit down. Felt the blood from inside flowing down his throat; his guts filling with pain. He cried out as he felt agony for a few moments.
\tIn the fallen one's ledger his new property registered. The soul of one Elliott Franklin Harbunkel; and all relative information. Sex male, age of seventeen. White skin tone. Five one in height. Brown hair color, green eyes. Even listed him as a virgin. “Good,” He mused with a smile, “Summon Observer.” On Elliott's left shoulder a black orb formed for a moment until deposited on it was a small impish boy in a black cloak.
\t“Observer Gabriel, I live to serve.” The Tiny imp replied, kneeling down. “I stand ready for orders Master.” Gabriel replied looking up to the fallen one.
\t“Then hear my words.” He ordered, doing his best to play the part. “My slave you stand on; you will train him in the path of … The Black Knight.”
\tGabriel nodded, getting back onto his feet. “As you wish my Master.” Then lowering his hood exposed some features. Pale white skin, short and curly sandy blond hair, blackened at the tips. Looking at Elliott he then said, “Your owner has spoken, boy. Salute him and thank him for his power! You’ve been given a gift.”
\t“Wha?” Elliott said, confused. However he nodded and then did as Gabriel was doing. Balled his fist, thumped it to his chest over his heart. “Thank … thank you for your power … Master. I … I live to serve!”
\t“Good.” The Fallen One said with a smile. Quickly snapping his fingers, armor primitive but effective formed on his body, before the boy a sword and shield; he quickly collected them. “Then stand and fight; and trust Gabriel to guide you.”
\t“Yes … Master.” Elliott replied stiffly as if against his will.
\t“Don't just stand their lout.” Gabriel said firmly, slapping the boy up the backside of his head. “Go and fight the zombies; your armor class is high enough to avoid the damage from unarmed zombies, even as piss poor your stats are.”
\t“Alright, I'll do it.” Elliott said, gripping his sword tightly. With a clumsy battle cry he rushed into the fray; supported by arrow fire from the Twisted Imps. Gabriel barking orders and shouting commands to the boy. Sloppy at first but soon it was nearly like second nature to the boy.
After a few moments, mainly to jury-rig something to carry the tiny girl with; He also joined the battle. If he started to hurt like before he would simply take a step back. Soothing himself with the beating of the girl's heart; simple sure but it worked and that was all that mattered.
\tThe battle took at least an hour; but finally the dead stopped coming. “Good work boy.” The Fallen One said, patting Elliott's head, it seemed the boy had gained a level. He would dibby up his points after he had a better idea of how this system worked. Looking to where he had left the remaining children he then said sharply. “Get up, we're leaving this place.” The other children got up and followed shortly after. Leaving the site of his fall behind.
\tElliott looked up to The Fallen One after they started down the path the dead had come from. “Uh, Master.” He started getting his attention. “Could I ask your name?”
\t“My name?” The Fallen One mused, he wasn't sure he knew what it was or if he even had one. He looked over in his visual overlay. He had an HP bar. His name listed above was Lucifer; he knew not its meaning but strangely enough he felt the need or even the urgency to not speak it. Quickly a tiny hand held out in his vision. It pulled back as quick as he noticed then held out a card that read a name. With a nod the Fallen One simply lied and said. “Otiv. You will address me as Otiv.” He said looking down at the boy.
\t“Master Otiv.” Elliott replied for a moment. Then after giving a quick bow. “Thank you for saving us.”
\t“Sure.” Otiv told him with a raised eyebrow; then continuing to walk down the path. “Show me to your village boy. You lot came from somewhere; I'm sure children don't grow wild in these parts.” Elliott hesitated for a moment then nodded hurrying ahead to show the way. And if what they had to deal with was any indication they most likely needed help.
\tOtiv and his collection of misfit children made their way to their village; it was a bit of a distance away. The Village they found was overrun by the dead. However Otiv could sense them; survivors hidden away in buildings. “Boy.” Otiv ordered. “Take the Twisted ones, and clear the dead from your home.”
\t“Yes sir.” Elliott replied then picking a battle with zombies; the Twisted Archers at his back.
\tAs he did that, Otiv sat down, coddling the tiny girl. His head on her chest, her heart soothing him. “uh Mister Otiv.” The little girl spoke unsure what to make of this. He looked up at her for a moment and gave a nod. “Can you put me down?”
\t“No.” Otiv replied promptly. “You are still needed.” He was unsure why her heart beat soothed himself so much; but it worked and that was all that mattered at the moment; fighting aside he could not live with that unbearable pain and agony. Otiv sat there in silence listening to the girl's heartbeat, for how long he was unsure. But when he was roused from his stupor by Elliott, the boy was bruised and battered; his armor broken but no worse for wear.
\t“Master.” Gabriel called out. “The village has been secured. The survivors have been rounded up. They are waiting for you in the village square now.”
\t“Good work.” Otiv cooed, finally putting the little girl down. “Do not go far, I may need you again.” She nodded and followed when he left. He walked through the village thinking to himself as he did. 'So what is this, a game world?' He asked himself as he walked. Looking around however he could tell. 'No this world is no game; an alternate reality then or a new universe? What of my abilities though those feel very game-esk.' He glanced to the windows he could see in his field of vision. 'Now these, they are skills and they feel from a game; am I the one from a game or am I not? Oh well, questions to figure out later.' He came upon the village square. Maybe forty people gathered, many adults; others elderly or children still swaddled. As he approached watching adults coddle their children, or siblings mourning with family members. He however did draw a lot of attention as he approached; slowly the gathered mass of humans silenced each other. He was standing about six three, the tallest here by far towering over the others; wearing a long white if charred robe. Huge wings of blackened feathers wrapped around his body like a cloak, horns growing from his forehead. He clearly wasn't human, you didn't have to roll to figure that one out.
\t“By the gods,” One elderly man sounded, having looked at Otiv. Then glaring at the boy who had been playing leader. “What in blazes have you children brought down on us now?”
\tElliott backed away with a nervous smile. “Well.” The boy started with a nervous chuckle. “You remember that strange merchant that came to the village about a fortnight ago?”
\tThe old man nodded, “Aye I remember him; I didn't trust him.” The old man rubbed his chin observing Otiv. “No matter how hard I tried I never could see his face hidden under that black hood; not natural if you ask me.”
\tElliott nodded then explained, “Well in exchange for a favor and some coins, he traded me a strange scroll; I think he called it Wish upon a star. I couldn't read it at first. But a day ago I had this strange dream; when I woke up that morning I could read the runes on the scroll.” The Old man nodded as the boy went on. “After the attack we ran, the other kids and me; we got caught out and couldn't make it to a building. The scroll was instructions for a ritual, whatever this Wish upon a star spell is. Fearing inaction would be worse than doing nothing but cowering. I, we, performed the ritual. Master Otiv here was what fell from the sky. He saved us from the dead ones but, I think I may have sold him my soul I think.”
\t“You daft boy!” The old man yelled. “You did what?”
\tOtiv approached, then spoke. “Elliott Franklin Harbunkel.” At his words the boy grew ridged, stiff. “Kneel.” He ordered. Elliott did as he was ordered and promptly fell to one knee. “Prostrate yourself.” Otiv ordered rubbing his chin. He did, Elliott quickly laying his forehead in the dirt under him. “As you were.” Otiv then told him dismissively.
\t“What wickedness is this?” The old man asked. “What have you done to the boy?”
\t“He sold his soul to me, to gain power enough to save his friends.” Otiv replied. “He is now my slave to do with as I please; by his own choosing mind you. I did not force him.” He promptly held his hand palm up over the boy's hand; a bright light then clutched in his hand. The light pulsed as if a heart beat, gone again once he let it go. Looking at the old man he then asked, “So, old one, you have a name?”
\t“Gerald Writtenhouse.” The old man spoke. “Elder and Aldermen of this village.”
\t“I see.” Otiv replied in a soft coo; now idly stroking Elliott's head. “Tell me, these Undead; where do they come from?”
\t“No one truly knows.” Gerald replied promptly, worried about the potential monster in his midst. “Always the same though. They come from the mist. At dusk the mist starts to form. By midnight the dead batter on the gate.” Otiv nodded.
\t“This means nothing to me, save for how interesting it sounds.” Otiv replied coldly. “Regardless, I have something I must find; something important to me. I will leave in the morning, I will take the boy and that girl with me.”
\t“Master please.” Elliott cried out clutching at his hand. “My village won't survive another night. Please with your power could you not...”
\t“What, is it, you ask of me boy?” Otiv questioned, pulling his hand from Elliott's.
\t“Please, on this night the dead destroyed our gate again; and we have no warriors left.” Elliott started to plead. “Come night time this village will be destroyed. I beg you, could you not protect us? Surely a being of your power could fell many a zombie; I'd be ever in your debt.”
\t“Don't called me Shirley.” Otiv joked for a moment. “Boy, I own your soul; your debt is one thing that matters not. Do you lot have the means to afford my protection? Any old magics? A horde of treasure mayhap? Anything I might find of value?”
\tElliott backed away, head hung. “We … We have nothing left. The only thing we have is our gratitude.”
\t“I see” Otiv cooed coldly. “You there Aldermen Gerald, do you know of anything this village could give me for protection?”
\tThe old man rubbed the back of his neck. “Nothing, I'm afraid. What was not destroyed by the dead, has been taken by the duke in taxes. In truth the village stores barely have enough food to keep us fed for the season.”
\t“Huh I see; a pity.” Otiv replied again coldly. He took a moment to look around. 'These people are beaten. Indeed without my aid they just may die tomorrow. Should I care though?' Otiv panned around looking at the villagers. The old hiding wounds, the young cowering behind parents. 'They are hopeless; but maybe they could prove useful, provided I be willing to pull their chestnuts from the fire. So be it.' Otiv cleared his throat. “I have made a decision. As I have just arrived I do not know the lay of the land. So for the time being I will protect your village; as I do not know where else to go. However there are conditions that you lot will agree to; or I will take my leave of this place and leave you to your terrible fate.” Gerald nodded, he didn't have much of a choice.
\tSo far no troops from the duke had come to protect his home; this monster just may be their only hope. Otiv then telling them. “First the boy Elliott is mine; this is nonnegotiable. He sold his soul to me for the salvation of his fellow rugrats; by right alone he is already mine. Second.” Otiv promptly pointed to the little girl he had been carrying around. “She is also mine, for reasons I have yet discovered, she brings me comfort and still the agony in my head; I will take her as a pet henceforth, again nonnegotiable.” The girl's family coddled her close, terrified by his demand. “Lastly, barring a lack of anything in the form of tangible payment; we will start with necessities.”
\tOtiv quickly looked around and spotted a sizable clay jug, that would suffice. “I am thirsty.” Otiv cooed, leaning to Gerald. “Send you people to fetch me water.” Pointing to the clay jug. “Daily your village will fill and provide three of those jugs full of water to me. And barring what tomorrow might bring; other payments for my protection will be announced on a later date. So Aldermen Gerald, do we have a deal?” Otiv asked, holding out his hand.
\tHe had a quick word with others in the village, seeing as what his demands were; he could not In good faith make a choice without asking. However he quickly came back and tentatively took Otiv's hand. “Yes, we have a deal.”
\t“So be it.” Otiv replied, clutching the old man's hand. In his visual overlay Otiv saw the agreement; the protection of Henmen Village, also noting he had yet been paid for this task. “Henceforth, your village is now under the protection of Otiv … the Deceiver.” He was unsure why he spoke that last part; in fact he had no control of it. It was blurted from his mouth without his knowledge nor permission. “Go now, fetch my water.” Otiv gave a dismissive wave then turned from them. He summoned Elliott over then beckoned the girl. Her family reluctantly gave her up, however Otiv soothed them. “For fucks shake. Worry not for her safety, nor her chastity. What I desire from her is her heart beat and only so;” He paused, poking her chest a few times. “For reasons I have yet discovered. I will endeavor to keep her heart beating, if only for my own good. Know that once I find a good replacement she will be yours once again.” It comforted them a little, at least if what he said was true he would keep her alive and would one day soon, hopefully, give her back.
\tLeading away from the village square, Otiv plotted his next move.
Chapter 2 – When Things go
\tOtiv was now a bit of a ways away from the village now. He had no desire to rule over them or govern them; he had told the Aldermen such before he left. Too much hassle for too little reward, and he did not care enough for their affections. He was going to require a base however; several of his summonables were unavailable due to a lack of tools or facilities. “Uh Master.” Elliott sounded from about five paces from behind him. “Where are we going?”
\t“To start working on a base.” Otiv replied.
\t“Is the village not good enough?” The little girl asked, still being carried by Otiv; light as she was, it was nothing for him but a comfort, maybe even a convenience.
\t“I am uninterested in your village,” Otiv coldly replied. “Save for my obligations to protecting it; and for that you should be thankful. No, I need a lot of room, I do believe and your village is cramped already.”
~some time passes~
\tThey kept walking for some time. Until they came upon a spot of land next to a mountain face; only a few miles from the village. “Huh.” Otiv sounded looking around. “This will do.” He claimed, turning to the boy. “Alright so how do I do the things?” He asked mainly himself. Elliott was unsure what he meant, but he watched Otiv who seemed to be reading things that he himself could not see. “Ah Worker Imps that is perfect, just what I need. I see; ok then.” Otiv promptly turned to Elliott, then swiftly re-summoned his Twisted Ones. “Boy, take the Twisted Ones, and go fetch me wood and kindling. For my next trick I will require a fire and a size-able one at that.”
\t“Uh yeah,” Elliott said with a nod. “I can do that, sure.” he promptly turned to the twisted archers. “Ok guys let's go get Master's firewood.” The Impish humanoids nodded letting go of their bows, vanishing as they did and falling in behind him. “We'll be back shortly.”
\tElliott quickly vanished with the Twisted Imps hot on his heels. Otiv, now alone with the little girl, finally set her down. “Ok, I shall prepare a spot for the fire.” He told her, patting her head. He walked around the area collecting up large rocks; his goal was a pit for the fire. As he did he asked the girl. “So little one.” He paused to pick up a large stone. “You do have a name, yes?” there was a certain purr to the way he spoke those words.
\tShe quickly nodded looking up to him as she answered. “Susan, Mama and Papa named me Susan.”
\tOtiv nodded, patting her head real quick; having just set a large rock down. “So little Susan you have a middle and last name?”
\tSusan nodded now following Otiv as he started placing rocks in a large ring. “Ahuh, my last name is Finmen.”
\t“Susan Finmen huh?” Otiv sounded looking down at her. She gave him an adorable little smile and a head nod. “Well it's nice to make your acquaintance Susan.” As Otiv worked Susan got a little restless, most likely she was bored.
\tShe quickly looked up to him as he set down another large stone to form a pit for the fire. “Is there anything you want me to do?”
\tWell that put him to a stop for the moment. Otiv tapped a finger on his chin. “No nothing off hand. I would prefer you to stay close by.” Having said that though he saw the disappointed look she had. With a “huum” he thought of something. He had spotted a patch of wild strawberries on the way here, she could do that. It wouldn't be too far away, close enough he could still sense her. “How would you like to go pick strawberries for me?” That excited her and she gave a quick happy nod. “Ok then,” He quickly paused, looking once more at his visual interface.
\tHe looked at his inventory outside of his weapon; he had a listing for items called 'odds and ends'. They were labeled as universal crafting materials. “Crafting huh.” He kept looking into windows and new sections of interface; finding the one for crafting. It seemed what he could make was almost limitless; provided he had the necessary tools and materials. “So long as I can explain it to myself? Ok let's try this then; how hard can it be to explain it.” He held out one hand and said. “Now Craft, Wicker Basket.” And much to the amazement of the girl, a basket did form from his hand; first the handle then weaving down to a basket.
\t“Wow.” Susan cooed out. “That was amazing.” Her praise did make him feel a bit of pride.
\tPatting her head then handing her the basket Otiv told her. “Go now,” Pointing her the right way. “About twenty five paces that way, you'll find a patch of wild strawberries. Fill the basket and bring it back for me. And do be careful they may have thorns.” She nodded, accepting the basket, “Go no father however. Should you hear me shout; drop what you are doing and come back right away.”
\t“K” Susan happily replied. She took her basket and hurried off toward where he told her she'd find the strawberries.
\tThe Trio went to work, and time passed. For the next few hours Otiv focused on preparing a plot for the fire, by gathering large rocks and forming a pit. Slowly over the time Elliott and the crew of impish archers made trips back with wood and kindling. After some time Susan returned as well; she giggled with a basket full of berries. In fact she was struggling to carry them; and was more or less dragging the basket. By the time this time lapse had finished Otiv had a large bonfire ready for lighting. Susan and Elliott were enjoying some of the strawberries she had brought back; in fact the girl was now offering some to the imps.
\t“Alright.” Otiv sounded with a tone of pride. Quickly looking at Elliott who was enjoying strawberries with The Twisted Imps now. “Good work lot, thank you.” Leaving them to enjoy their treat he went back into his menus. “So can I make fire?” He looked at all the things. Sure enough in his listings of magic, there was a listing for create fire; alongside other basic elemental creation spells. “Alright, let's try it out.” Holding his right hand out, palm turned up; he spoke, “Create Fire.” After a few seconds a flame came to life in his hand, dancing and flickering, tiny though not enough for an attack but good enough to light his fire. “There we go.” He played with the fire for a few seconds, before setting it in the fire pit with the kindling. It quickly went up, taking a short time until the wood properly caught flame. However once the bonfire was roaring properly, in his summoning list the 'Summon Worker Imp' option was now available; alongside a timer for how long the fire would be big enough for the option. With a nod he quickly held out both hands toward the fire, “Now then; Summon Worker Imps.”
\tFrom the belly of the bonfire orbs of flame started forming. Popping out of the fire until the sputtering flames started morphing and looking like Imps. Crimson skinned creatures unlike the pale skinned archers. About Ten of them formed, the worker Imps looking far stronger then the Twisted ones; if less battle ready.
\t“There we go, jobs done.” Otiv said with a smile watching his new Imps stretch and poke each other for a moment; one knocking another over and laughing with the others about it. He looked into their info segment of his menus. They were listed as builders and resource gatherers but got restless easily when bored. While they could be used in a fight, they were not meant for combat nor proficient in it but could cast lesser fire bolts. “So ten worker Imps. Suppose I should get you lot to work.” They nodded a few of them jumping up and down. “So, how about four of you go and continue to gather wood, until we have a decent stockpile.” He started first. The imps chattered at each other for a moment until four of them scampered away into the forest. “Two of you gather food, be it fruit, vegetables, or anything you can safely hunt.” The group nodded and once more chattering among themselves; finally two ran off to go do their task. “Lastly, for those that remain.” Otiv started pointing to the cliff face. “I'd have you do some digging; if you are capable. For both stone and to perhaps dig out some rooms.” The remaining Imps nodded then approached the cliff face. They proceeded to ignite their claws; once they were red hot they started digging at the rock carving it away. “I see, so you are capable of digging at rock.” He spoke with a smile. “Good job, I am proud of you.” The imps swelled with pride and continued to work.
\tBut by now the sun was starting to set. Otiv gathered his archers and Elliott, Susan as well. They returned to the village to stand guard; just as they had said a thick mist was starting to set in. As he traveled back to the village he looked into his skills, spells, and abilities. He looked at his options and he did have a few. But before long he was in the village. The aldermen had gathered in the plaza with men of the village. They had rallied into a makeshift militia to defend their homes. “AH Otiv.” Gerald called out as Otiv approached the square. “We are ready to make our stand; but we are glad to see you return.”
\t“Ready to defend your homes and families then?” Otiv asked, looking at the shaken but determined militia. “So how does this attack work, the dead come only from the mist? They don't just crawl out of the dirt?”
“Yes.” Gerald replied with a swift nod. “They vanish back into it before the mist rolls out; that is always just before dawn. But if slain the dead just keep coming for many waves.” Gerald explained. “After the deaths of our warriors, we had taken to hiding and waiting them out.”
\t“But something changed.” Otiv asked, looking at the elderly aldermen.
\t“Yes, indeed.” Gerald replied promptly. “Last night they took to attacking a building. Sadly, one the children and many women were hiding in.” Gerald explained. “Thank the gods most got away; the zombies are still sluggish creatures. But if now they will seek to break into any buildings they find; then we can no longer hide.”
\t“I see.” Otiv flatly replied. Now rubbing his chin he proceeded to ask. “Does the mist enter the village?”
\t“No.” Replied Gerald. “It always remains outside the walls, though I don't why.”
\tOtiv thought about it for a moment before asking. “The Village has defenses? Outside of the walls; towers anything?”
\t“No, sadly not.” Gerald responded. “There is the outer wall. A lot of good it's done to us though. The dead ripped down the gate about a week ago.” The old man said, swinging his hand down toward the main gate. “Sadly anything we put up to fix it gets torn down; and we lack stronger materials.”
\t“I understand.” Otiv said, now resting a hand on his chin. “Next question, do you have any bows or crossbows? Ranged weapons of any sorts? Hell at this point a sling and rocks would suffice.”
\t“I do believe we have a few, let me ask.” Gerald replied quickly calling a young lad over. “Cullen my boy. Do we still have any bows or crossbows? Or even slings?”
\tThe young man in question nodded. “Yeah, we have four crossbows, and I think five bows left; lots of arrows and bolts.”
\tOtiv nodded, starting to plan. “Ok here's my idea. Gerald, You know your people better than I do. Arm those who you think can handle them with the crossbows. Others with the bows. Position them above the gate. I'll have my own archers join them. The rest of your volunteers shall join me and Elliott at the gate. If you have spears use them, if not gather whatever weapon you can; make do if you must. Our goal will be to fight them in the gateway to limit their advance; and keep them out in the open field for our ranged units to give 'em hell.”
\t“Uh, yes. At once.” Gerald told him. Turning to the group he then announced the plan. Telling people to rush to the guard building and grab the leftover weapons.
\tAs they grabbed up what arms they could, Otiv informed his Archers to garrison the wall. They hurried up onto the walls and got ready for battle. Otiv stood in the gateway, scythe in hand. He observed the mist forming around the village; noting it indeed got thicker, he couldn't even sense through it. Also as Gerald claimed the mist lapped at the walls a few times but did not go past them, or over them despite the fact the mist was far taller; was it was too heavy to float over the old stone walls? Elliott joined him shortly after. The tiny observer Gabriel on his shoulder kept him on his toes. Armed with what they had, the men of the village gathered with Otiv before the dead arrived; they would hold the gate come hell or high water.
\tThe battle began after a short wait; about an hour more before the first zombie crept from the mist. Otiv might have had an option to at least temporarily empower the villagers; however it would have required a lot of setup he did not have time for. Thankfully the battle, while long and harsh, was not a fetal one. With his plan set in stone Otiv alone easily mowed down the dead by handfuls; even young Elliott guided by his shoulder imp put up a good fight. But the goal was to hold not to push out; the main damage would be dealt by the archers. It lasted from nearly dusk until dawn; and all even Otiv were worn down by the time they shouted in victory. But it was a flawless victory. Outside of some minor wounds no one had died that night.
\tDeciding to let the children go to their families for that morning, Otiv returned to his, at that point, campsite; surprised and pleased when he found his worker imps had built for him a shelter. It was a simple lean-to made of scraps of wood and some large plant leaves. But facing the mountain as it was it would keep out the wind, and the warmth of the fire in. Spent, he laid down and quickly fell asleep. Under guard of his archers, and the scampering of his worker imps.
Chapter 3 – Context needed
~ unique ability discovered – Prophetic Dreams ~
They say the world of dreams is a view into the future; but who's future is unknown.
\tOtiv woke up later that day, quite a bit after noon. The boy Elliott was running around with the worker imps. Helping the digging imps move rock to where they were stockpiling it, in rough carved bricks. Susan was kicking her feet back and forth as she sat on a fallen log turned bench in front of the large bonfire pit. “Susan.” Otiv called out with a groggy groan. Holding his head as a sharp pain filled his senses not yet agonizing; but bad enough he could barely feel the girls approach.
\t“You sleep well, Mister Otiv?” Susan asked with an innocent little smile.
\t“Well enough I suppose, come here I need you.” Otiv reassured. Pulling the girl close, he rested his right ear on her chest.
\tThump thump, Thump thump, Thump thump, thump thump. A soothing sound, a calming sound. An innocent sound, so refreshing yet so revitalizing.
\tHe held his head to her chest for a few moments; just sitting there holding the girl close. Her heart beat almost echoing through his thoughts; reverberating through his skull. Slowly over the few minutes he held her, his breathing slowed to normal. His head stopped aching. His eyes stopped throbbing. His motion sickness went away. Before too long he let her go patting her head as he uttered a sincere, “Thank you, little one.”
\t“Not sure how I do it.” Susan started giving him a warm smile; such an innocent little smile. “But I'm glad I could help you.” He promptly rubbed her hair. She returned to the log and sat back down in the moments after.
\tOtiv got up off his make do bedroll. 'What … What was that dream?' He sat down on the log next to the girl. He ignored everything for that moment. Focused on remembering the dream. It took a moment and was a bit foggy but he did remember it or parts of it. Saw himself standing in the gateway of that village; the villagers near him. Night after night after night after night he stood guard just him and his archers; that was until he was the sole remaining person at the gate. Saw as slowly the faces of villagers started joining the dead ones at night. What was this dream; what did it mean? Was this village … Was it doomed? Was he doomed to fail? What did it mean? It was maddening, what did it mean? He was sure it was important but he could not figure out what it was trying to tell him. He started digging his nails into his scalp as he tried to force himself to figure it out and remember more of this vivid dream.
\t“Master?” Elliott chimed. “You ok?”
\tOtiv sat silent for a moment, looking at Elliott. “I'm fine.” He lied but the boy bought it, and the dream was now lost. He got up, needed to take his mind off this dream; it would drive him mad if he kept racking his brain over the fire trying to figure it out. For now he went into looking into his base, such as it stood. He looked at his supply of wood. The Imps had gathered quite a lot. In fact they had stopped gathering it; believed it to have been more than enough … for a week. The foragers were still hard at work, however they had now stashed away quite a sum of fruits and vegetables as well as nuts and berries, he'd not need worry about food; however variety might be a problem in the future. But as he walked the camp making these inspections; he noticed his four Twisted Imps had now gathered by the campfire. They … for lack of a better word, seemed to be suffering.
\tSo approaching the imps Otiv swiftly asked. “What's wrong my minions?”
\tHe had genuine concern in his tone, and for a second it threw the imps off. The four of them looked at each other for a moment. After a bit of effort they four muttered in union, “We are … Unsure.” Otiv could tell how hard it was for them just to say that; already he was looking into menus. The four looked up to him for a moment before something of a stupor fell over a pair of them. “Our mind … it hurts.” They cried out as if in pain.
\t“We?” Otiv puzzled. “Our?” He looked to the four Imps; as something dawned on him. Their details had changed in his listing on them. They seemed lost, aimless, and jittery; he had already lost them. “Are you guys a collective consciousness?” He asked as he started dipping into their information tabs. He read a quick bit of what he could read; the rest was garbled. It seemed to be a short story about a fairy queen. In it she was beloved by all as the center of the universe, literally. It was said that as she spoke the harmony of a million voices in union echoed her words “No, a hive mind.” Otiv stated aloud, truly amazed. “Fascinating.” He said off hand, then rubbing his chin. “You guys suddenly need a queen bee. And all this text, it's new. I'm sure it wasn't there yesterday; how in blazes did it change?”
\tHe changed to chewing on one of his nails as he asked this. The four looked up to him; and gave a swift nod. Subconsciously aware of the queen's important role. “Ok, well then.” Otiv started before looking into other sections of his visual overlays. “How do I summon the Twisted Queen?” He asked as if looking it up. While it did take a moment; mainly because the expanded summon list was … hidden from him. “Well, that's a bit macabre. One carved dark Ivory rune stone. About eighty seven pounds of ah-hum, organic matter, and a recently departed soul. Preferred female, but a male would be taken.” This is a rather twisted little setup. “Well so be it. I may not like it; but I need a queen or you lot will die.”
\tWell it wasn't a pleasant task; but vital. He needed those imps, he had no other warriors. The first thing he'd have to do, sadly, was find a body belonging to a recently killed girl. He needed both the flesh and her soul. Well the only way he would probably find one was the village; most likely at least one child died in the attacks. He made the trip back to the village leaving the worker imps to keep digging. Had given them the task of requesting a bedroom dug out of the mountain. His lean-to was nice but he wanted a room.
\tThe trip seemed faster than last time. What should have taken an hour, took only twenty minutes. “Some manner of fast travel maybe?” Otiv asked himself. “Interesting, I'll have to test this at a later date.” Well it wasn't hard to find Gerald. He was in the village square trying to plan a defense. Having waited to let the man finish his conversation; Otiv greeted the Aldermen with a wave once the man he was speaking to walked away. Then said once he got close. “Gerald, I fear I must ask of you something dreadful. I require the umm, corpse, of a young girl or a boy, but a girl is preferred. One that weighs at least eighty seven pounds; and died recently.” He gave it a moment for the elderly man to digest what it was he had just said. “I know it is a thing to ask. But I wouldn't be asking if I didn't need it; my pale imps are dying. Without the ritual to summon their queen, they will be lost to me. Your village would be in far greater danger without them.”
\t“Quite the thing to ask indeed.” Gerald said arms now crossed. He however gave a sigh, then said. “And sadly we can supply your request. One poor tot was killed in the attack on that building; and she should meet your requirements. I will let you talk to her parents, it is their choice what is to be done with the child's body. If they don’t agree, however, I will not make them give you her body.”
\tOtiv nodded then let Gerald lead the way. He spoke to the girl's family, once Gerald had introduced him. His request was the girl's body; that he needed her to summon an angel. A small fib but only a small one; in a way she would still be an angel even if of the fallen verity. They agreed if tentatively; if their daughter's death could be given some modicum of greater meaning, they would allow it.
\tSo he returned to his camp; the girl's shrouded body held in his arms. Elliott noticed this and shooed Susan away. Otiv gave the boy a nod and a pat as he walked past. This did not need to be a spectacle she witnessed; Otiv would rather she stayed innocent. He quickly carried the girl's corpse away from the bonfire that had taken the spot of center of the camp. The Twisted Ones followed on his heels sensing his motivations; eager for the birth of their queen. Setting her down he gave the pale imps a swift nod. They knew what needed to be set up like they were programmed for it. The first thing he did as the imps started drawing a circle. He laid her arms over her chest, clasping her hands together; and cleaned her up best he could. 'I'm so sorry little one. I wish I could send you soul to heaven, but sadly I need it as well; please forgive this Sinner dear child. Your death will save your parents this to you I swear.'
\tOtiv waited while the imps drew the circle. Once it finished, he wasn't sure he was going to look forward to what was going to happen next. “Craft object, Black Ivory rune stone; carved with the Fallen Sigil.” He waited for a moment. A ivory stone forming in his palm then the sigil caving out. “Huh,” He looked at his inventory. “Out of odds and ends? How do I get more?” He shook his head. “Gah, Not the time. Show some damned respect Otiv.” He looked back to the girl, and with a sigh. He uttered the words “Come Forth, My Twisted Angel. Traverse the Boundary between worlds to heed my call.”
\tAll went dark as if the light itself seemed chased away. The imps knelt at the four cardinal corners of the ritual. The Rune stone cracked then shattered into a dark foggy mist. Things grew cold as the mist began coalescing over the girl's body. After a few seconds of the strange show, something with big eyes looked back from the darkness. The eyes silently looked to Otiv, then down at the girl, then back. Otiv nodded and the eyes blinked twice then vanished. The mass dropped down onto the body. Where after a few seconds of the near ooze like substance finding any means to enter the body; a loud sharp snap echoed out. More followed in a stomach churning chorus of snapping bones and ripping flesh. Otiv stood firm watching this happen, as if punishing himself with it. Watching the body twist and snap, reshape and mold. Then lift up and take to its feet; it quickly however fell back down; its legs could not carry it. A misty murky shroud crept over her body as her flesh fully reformed. What looked back up at him was four foot two. Pale skin, green eyes, long back length blond hair with blackened highlights. Tiny wings on her back and a nearly nonexistent halo over her head.
\tWrapped in a black shroud, she promptly looked up at Otiv. “Master.” She spoke then jumped when the Imps came over and hugged her. Sharing the large group hug for a moment brought a great relief to the imps, and a warm soft smile from the angel. “I, We.” She quickly corrected. Beaming a petite smile up at him, “We are ready to serve Master.” She had a slight accent in proper English, it came and went as she spoke though.
\t“Good.” Otiv spoke, then gave the girl’s head a pat. He then said, “Well that was needlessly grotesque.” He teased, making her giggle.
\t“Sorry Master.” The shrouded angel spoke softly, brushing her bangs from her eyes. Then with another soft little smile. “Called a Twisted Angel for a reason I'm afraid.” After a few seconds she seemed to be reading things that he could not see. “Master.” She spoke softly. “What task is it you give me? And who is this Cortana you've used as a reference?”
\tOtiv sank down on one knee so as to not be towering over her. Rubbing her head again he instructed. “You are going to be my handy little helper, also known as a database, or an encyclopedia.” He spoke with a chuckle. 'I can't bring myself to tell her I just wanted a voice command search engine; and that she was the only pawn I had who could manage the bill. Though I'm not even sure how I know what that even is.' Otiv managed to keep his smile even as he confessed such to himself.
\tShe gave a soft gasp then clutching her hands together adorably when she managed to fit the pieces together in a way she understood. “Oh I get it. It's a knowledge keeper. Yes, I will do this task for you Master.” She beamed up at him with a smile. He returned the gesture and rubbed her head again, getting a little giggle in return, “Master.” She spoke after a few moments of absorbing information. “She understand her role now. She is the queen of this hive mind, its central pillar. So the voices I hear are of those boys over there?” He nodded at the imps taking delight in being looked upon by their queen. “While she understands within the hive mind they have no use of names. But does this one have a name Master wants her to have?” She asked, resting one of her hands on her chest. She was almost giddy with anticipation, waiting to hear the name her master would bestow on her.
\tOtiv nodded and looked away for a moment to hide the worried look he had, scratching his head. Once inspiration struck he nuzzled her forehead, making her giggle a little more, what more suitable name for an important female fallen angel. “Your name my dear” he started as he looked in her eyes. “Is Lilith.”
\tShe cooed for a moment, rubbing her forehead back to his. “Her Master has named this one Lilith. Lilith will cherish her name.” She spoke with glittering eyes. He scooped her up, then held her in his arms. “Lilith thanks you Master, Lilith's legs are broken; the corpse you used was damaged more than her transformation could mend. They should heal though given a few days.”
\t“You're welcome.” Otiv told her.
\tHe carried her back into the camp and proceeded to set Lilith down near the fire. Her imps were instantly attentive to her, fetching food and water. Once she was comfortable they sat near her. “Master.” Elliott spoke as he looked at the shrouded girl. “Who's this?”
\t“Greetings human.” Lilith spoke softly and with a smile. Taking another bite of an apple she swallowed then explained. “This one is called Lilith. Lilith is a Twi...” She started but Otiv hushed her for a second. Whispered something to her. “Lilith understands. Lilith is a Fallen Angel in the service of her Master Otiv.” She spoke softly then brushed some hair from her eyes. “Lilith is the queen of the Ivory Imp Hive.”
\t“Oh, well hello then.” Elliott said, rubbing the back of his head. “Guess you and I are on the same boat. My name's Elliott, and I sold my soul to Master Otiv so he would save my friends and my little sister.”
\t“Lilith understands.” She spoke softly with a nod. “Lilith will remember that this human is Master's slave.” She spoke as she made marks in a black book with a feathered pen. Otiv was unsure where she had gotten it from; but she was already making notes on damn near everything.
\t“That's putting it harshly.” Elliott said with a sudden slump in his shoulders.
\t“Lilith speaks only the truth. If the human had not liked the idea, the human should not have done it.” She said, putting the book in her lap. Then looking at Susan she gave a wide smile. “What is this human's name?” Lilith asked, poking Susan's cheek.
\t“My name is Susan.” she said with a laugh.
\t“Lilith would know.” She started. “What service does Susan provide to Master Otiv?” She asked ready to make a new mark in her book.
\t“Service?” Susan asked, a little confused; tilting her head to one side. “Well he likes putting his head on my chest.” She spoke after poking her chin; imitating the way she'd seen Otiv think.
\t“Oh,” Lilith started suddenly, giving Otiv a cold glare. “Lewd.”
\t“IT'S NOT LEWD!” Otiv shouted, caught off guard by her remark. “I listen to her heart, its beat soothes my head. I am currently suffering from random attacks of agonizing pain. Listening to her heart beat, for reasons I have yet discovered, is my only manner of stopping the attack.”
\t“Oh.” Lilith replied soothed. “Lilith feared her Master a pervert.” She replied coyly, as if teasing him.
\t“Oh dear.” Elliott stated when he noticed her shroud was transparent. “Uh Lilith, I can see your uh bosom, and uhh you know your lower half too.”
\t“Lilith's bosom?” She questioned then looking at her chest. However rather than an angry shout of “why you,” which was half way out her throat. “Master, this boy's eyes are enchanted.” She said with a flush, crossing her arms across her breast. Two of her imps jumped up in front of her; between her and Elliott blocking his view. They scowled angrily at him.
\t“Explain?” Otiv asked.
\tLilith looked up to him as she cupped a hand to her chin. “Nothing should be able to see through Lilith's shroud. His eyes are magic, they'd have to be to see through it.”
\t“Oh.” Otiv sounded. He gave a smug smirk of “Well, this deal keeps getting better all the time.”
\t“What about my eyes?” Elliott asked. “Wait Master!” Otiv suddenly held his head tilting it back.
\t“Hold still.” Otiv said softly. He took a close look, looking the boy deep in the eyes. Then looking past them is when he found it. “And so be the eyes but windows to the soul; I'll be damned.” He let Elliott go with a smirk patting the boy's head. “Oh the things I'll be able to do with you. A star child of all things; what kind of cosmic happenstance is this?”
\t“I don't understand.” Elliott confessed a bit confused.
\t“Well, it doesn't matter.” Otiv told the boy patting his head. “Nothing we can do anything with at this point anyway.” He then looked back to Lilith. “I can see through it too love.” He knelt down to her and went on with. “We'll have to make you some real clothes. Just in case your cloak is not as solid as you might think.”
\t“Oh.” Lilith replied softly, not as bothered by that as she was the first time. “Is it weird that Lilith care’s not if Master can see her flesh?” She asked, looking up at him with a slightly bashful smile. Not bothering to cover herself for him, nor did the imps block his view.
\t“Well I did summon you.” Otiv mused, rubbing his chin with a few fingers. “Could be its natural predisposition; unconditional love of master in all means. Be it of his position, opinion, or of the flesh?”
\t“Lilith thinks that must be so.” She cooed then held his leg. “Lilith loves Master.”
\tSusan giggled then said, “I can't see though it; weeeell maybe a little bit.”
\tWell that was taken care of. With Lilith summoned, Otiv's pale Imps recovered almost instantly. They now stood ready to serve and were very dutiful to Lilith. They catered to her every need, well almost all of them. Her Imps were hesitantly distant when she cried out for help.
\t“Master!” Lilith suddenly called out. He had been a bit a ways from the fire she was sitting next to; giving the crimson skinned imps new instructions. To dig more rooms and paths into the mountain; that while he did desire a room in it, he did not want it so near the mouth of it. “Master!” Lilith cried out her accent far more pronounced this time, she also sounded so desperate it was almost cute.
\tOtiv turned toward her. She was agitated, bouncing in her seat, doing a little potty dance; truly wasn't hard to figure out what was wrong. He walked over to her watching the flush fill her cheeks, tears forming in the corners of her eyes. “What's wrong dear?” Otiv asked the now very antsy imp queen.
\t“Ah.” Her hands folded into her lap, Lilith bouncing in her seat again. “Lilith needs to pee master.” She cried out holding her arms up toward him. “Please, Lilith's legs are still broken.” She was so desperate, she had to go so badly; tears started working down her cheeks. “Little jerks were more than willing to load Lilith up with water and juicy fruits. But when she needs to get rid of her own water; now they pretend they can't hear her.”
\tOtiv found this change of pace adorable, he couldn't help the laugh he let out. With a chuckle bent over to pick her up. “Alright, let's go take care of it.”
\t“Lilith thanks you master.” She cried out; that damn of her bladder so close to bursting. “Please hurry Master, She has to go badly.”
\tHe carried her away from the campsite. The little angel imp almost suffering in his arms. She had to go so badly she bounced in his arms. Once he carried her to a spot far enough away from camp; he held her by her thighs spreading her legs for her. “Alright love, have at it.”
\t“Master?!?” Lilith cried out. Looking up at his eyes with a pouty look in her eyes hidden behind hair. “Lilith can't.”
\tOtiv glanced down at her; still holding her in the position. “Sweetheart, your legs are broken. How are you going to pee if I don't hold you up?” He paused then raised his left eyebrow. “Would you rather sit in the dirt and form your own muddy puddle?”
\tLilith's face flushed over filling her cheeks with a crimson stain. “No … But,”
\t“No buts.” Otiv teased back, bending down to kiss her forehead. “Just pee sweetheart, I won't think any less of you.”
\tShe bit her lip for a moment. “Yes, Lilith understands.” She let out a sigh then stopped holding back. Shortly the patter of piss rang out as he held her to allow her her relief. “Lilith is sorry.” She muttered as she continued to pee. “Lilith has inconvenienced Master.”
\tAs she finished her potty break, Otiv lifted her to kiss her forehead again. “It's no inconvenience dear. You need not put me on a pedestal; I'm not so shallow.” He explained, taking a moment to trace a finger around one of her little horns. “You had to pee and as damaged as you are, could not do it yourself. As your master is it not my duty to aid you?”
\tLilith's cheeks flushed over again; she quickly nodded. “Lilith understands, thank you Master.” However, what he did next made her panic again.
\t“Cloth.” Otiv commanded. In his hand formed a rag holding her up now only with his other hand he moved to wipe her.
\t“MASTER!” Lilith cried shuttering as he wiped her pussy with the rag. “I … that … Master needs not do that.”
\t“Do you want to smell of piss?” Otiv asked, an eyebrow raised; almost enjoying the flush burning in her cheeks again.
\tShe looked one way then the other. “Lilith does not, but Lilith's hands are.”
\t“Then Lilith will hush, and let her Master finish.” Otiv instructed. She nodded and remained flushed over as he wiped her clean then patted her dry; though he did tease her little clit even if just a little. It made her eep then coo as she enjoyed it. Once he was satisfied with his work, and Lilith no longer had to pee. He opted to carry her properly, and carried her bridal style and not by her thighs or like a doll. Lilith opted to cuddle his chest as he carried her back to the camp. But as he did he thought of something. Looking down to the pale queen imp. “Lilith, your pale Imps have so far offered me archers.” She nodded. “Can you provide me with more warriors or other types?”
\tLilith swiftly nodded. “Yes she could.” That brought a smile to his face; she was delighted by it. “Lilith's pale Imps are skilled archers, and warriors.”
\t“I see, that is good.” Otiv spoke, rubbing her head; making a delighted coo emit from the queen imp almost purring as he pet her head. “How many?”
\t“Well.” Lilith started. “At her current level, Lilith can provide Master six archers, and as many swordsmen.” She paused and looked up at his eyes. “She would just need some of Master's mana.”
\t“My mana?” Otiv asked as he kept walking toward the camp's bonfire. “I must provide you with mana?”
\t“Yes Master.” Lilith affirmed. “It is part of our contract. If Lilith used her own, albeit limited, mana to summon warriors; she would be in violation of it.” She explained as she took the liberty of laying her head on his chest. “Unless your life was is in credible danger, which currently it is not; it would be seen as treason as far as the contract is concerned. The contract could kill her over it.” She explained as she looked up at him meeting his eyes a time or two. “She is sorry master, it is limiting but contracts are strict binding magics, normally of a tier higher then most mortals could manage.”
\tOtiv nodded, setting her back down on the log when they were back in the camp. “So tell me, how do I provide you with mana?” He asked as he took a seat next to her. However his question brought a very fierce blush to her pale little cheeks again. This he was not expecting. He thought it an innocent question; however she was acting as if he had just told her to get naked and open her legs spread eagle.
\t“Well, uh.” Lilith sputtered. “The fastest way it seems would be to.” However she trailed off hiding her face in her long hair. “For Lilith to partake in … sexual acts with Master. Bodily fluids carry the mana easily; but a males seed carries about ... ten times the amount.” Otiv's face for a few moments was priceless, he was genuinely caught off guard by that one. She continued on, hiding her face first with her hands then later with her hair, as she informed him, “What humans don't understand is the mana in a males seamen is used to jump start the creation of life. To provide the power for the beginning building blocks for a fetus to form. Combined with what the baby gets from the mother in turn later in development. It's a team effort with both parents providing a mass amount of energy to the baby; whether they are aware of it or not.” However after sputtering for a few seconds she then panicked. “But she can't.” Lilith quickly sputtered, waving her arms at him.
\t“Any reason?” Otiv asked unsure if there was a reason for it besides her being bashful. Her reaction was adorable, so he asked mainly just to fluster her and get him more of this cute little act.
\t“Lilith's flesh is still new and very sensitive.” She explained now prodding her pointer fingers together. “Lilith fears she'd be useless to Master if he was to pleasure her right now.” However it was obvious by the look on her face she was worried she had offended him. “It's not to say she doesn't want Master to do such things to her … she's just not ready.” She glanced away shyly for a moment.
\tOtiv nodded with a small chuckle; she was just too cute. She was so red now, the tint had crept up to the points of her ears; they were very elf like now the Otiv looked at them. “I understand, any other options?”
\tLilith quickly nodded. “Tactile contact should do it slowly; Lilith believes she could acquire mana from Master with a kiss.” Her cheeks flushed over again. “It would be slower and less pleasurable for Master than with the first option. Master would have to kiss Lilith for a bit of time.”
\tHe gave a quick nod. 'If I kissed her on the lips and made her accept my tongue; would go faster if bodily fluids are a means of transfer. Poor thing might faint though. She's so bashful it's adorable. I want to protect that bashfulness for as long as I can.' He said to himself. So he brushed her hair aside and pressed his lips to her forehead, right in between her stubby horns; where her skin was pulled thinnest by them. Her face lit up but she cooed a little in the embrace.
\t“Masters mana.” Lilith nearly purred. “It's so potent.” She remained quiet for a few moments, hands clutched. Once his lips left her head she nearly glowed; and not just because of how red her face was.
\t“Good?” Otiv asked with a smile.
\t“Yes, Lilith,” She started with a near sputter. “Lilith is good; Lilith … enjoyed that.” Otiv rubbed her head, it brought a delighted giggle to her. “More warriors for master then?” She asked, looking up at him, He nodded. Holding her arms out she then said. “Come Forth, my Ivory Swordsmen; Display for Master the steel of your resolve.” Six orbs formed in her hands one after another. She then sat down in front of her. After a few moments the new imps took form. They were far larger than the other pale imps, shorter than Lilith herself by a head. They held shields and swords and looked like a well formed professional squad of warriors.
\t“They're big.” Otiv praised with a smile, rubbing her head.
\t“Well they are Lilith's first children.” She informed him with a soft smile. “As such they are her Praetorian's; Lilith's personal bodyguards. Lilith does hope they will serve her Master well.” The pale swordsman saluted Otiv by striking their shields with their swords.
\t“Huh praetorians.” Otiv hummed. “They should be very useful; thank you love.”
\tShe gave a swift nod. “Lilith will also summon the rest of her archers.” He gave her a nod. Promptly doing so with a call of. “Step Forth My Ivory Archers; Prove your aim swift and your stike true.” The process repeated, with her placing down two orbs. Once they formed into Pale Imps, they were like the other archers; who greeted their new brothers with glee. With a proud of herself smile across her pale face, Lilith then told him. “Lilith's hive, such as it currently is; is ready to serve our Master. Lilith hope's we don't disappoint you.”
\t“And I thank you for your service.” Otiv told her, giving her forehead a kiss. It was as if the entire hive took joy from the action; a strange thing to see the queen and her brood all enjoying this simple little kiss.
\tAfter a few moments though, she did have to swallow her pride a bit. “Lilith feels the need to inform Master.”
\t“Of?” Otiv asked, having since taken a seat near the fire.
\t“Master appointed Lilith his knowledge keeper.” She said, then leaning on him. “To carry out that role, Lilith has helped herself to Master's recent memories, skills, abilities, and other such bits Lilith figured were important to doing this task; she hopes she did not overstep her bounds.” Otiv nodded as she went on to explain. “Though it does gripe my hive; Lilith believes Master would want to know this. The crimson skinned imps; they too have a queen Master could summon. They are not like Lilith's hive, and their queen is not important. However she, like Lilith, most certainly could summon more warriors or at least more minions for Master; and the red imps do have a knack with fire master would be able to use against the dead.”
\t“I see.” Otiv cooed with a nod, then rubbed his chin. “Tell me are there other colors of imps?” He asked though strangely enough he had a good idea what her response would be.
\t“Yes master.” Lilith promptly replied. “There are two other colors of Imps aside from the Ivory Imps and the Ruby Imps. First would be the dark skinned Ebony Imps, they are my Hives counter. They work well with magic. Where Lilith's hive brings warriors the dark ones would bring Master spell casters. After the black imps, the Jade imps also have skills Master might like.” Otiv nodded down to her as she told him. “The Jade imps, unlike their Ruby counterparts who are loud and brash; are very sneaky and quiet and work well with darkness. They boast very skillful assassins and spies; and even have the ability to parrot, word for word, in the speaker's own voice no less, anything they hear. Also they have natural resistances to poisons, toxins, and diseases.”
\tOtiv nodded. 'Four tribes of Imps all different colors.' He paused his train of thought for a moment petting Lilith's head. 'I bet each color of Imp has a queen and a ritual to summon her.' He gave it a moment to think, before asking, “The Ruby queen, how do I summon her; I need another body?”
\t“No no.” Lilith quickly told him. “No, Masters camp fire is the base for all red imps, even their queen; they are corrupted fire elementals after all. Master would however require a rune stone carved of lava rock.” She paused for a moment. “Uhhh, Lilith believes the word used is Obsidian.”
\t“An obsidian rune stone? I would have to find a volcano?” Otiv asked. Lilith promptly nodded.
\t“Lilith believes Master could use his skills to craft such an object; however.” Lilith explained, giving him a slight smile.
\t“Right, I'm out of odds and ends.” Otiv told her.
\t“Yes.” Lilith replied softly. “Lilith is sorry that she is unable to help Master farther.”
\tOtiv gave her a comforting head pat. “Worry not, it's not your fault.” She nodded happily. “Though, might you know how I get more of these odds and ends?”
\tHer face lit up in a beaming smile. “Give Lilith a moment; she is sure she could figure it out for master.” She requested with a determined look over taking her. Then looking into her book; it took a few moments. However after a short time of the little imp queen studying her little book. “Master, Lilith has figured it out.”
\t“Good girl.” Otiv cooed to her. He had since gotten up and wandered around. However now he returned and was rubbing her head. “pray tell.”
\t“It seems Master can not gather it himself.” Lilith started. “Master must produce an item called a looter's satchel. This can then be given to others to loot bodies Master, or any of his minions, have killed. The bodies can be looted and items found; only if the looter has Master's satchel.” She paused for a moment then turned the page. “An addendum also states anyone holding a looters satchel produced by you can also find this ‘loot’ in various containers. Such as boxes, chest, jars, and crates. So long as they can be opened without destroying the container.”
\t“I see.” Otiv muttered as he looked into his windows and overlays. “So looters satchel?”
\t“Yes Master,” Lilith cooed toward him, hugging his side. “Seems it is a summon-able item; you need simply call out Summon Looters Satchel. Might I recommend giving one or two to the humans?”
\t“Not a bad idea.” Otiv replied softly, looking at the two humans he had. “However I don't like the idea of making Susan view corpses; and Elliott would be busy with the battle. I dare not give more work to him until he has mastered what he is now.” He mused watching the tiny Gabriel putting the boy through more paces. “Perhaps I should go to the village and acquire a few more humans.”
\t“Lilith thinks it's not a bad idea.” The pale queen cooed. “If it makes it easier to do so; seems they can and will loot currency.” She told him looking up at him now. “Could let them keep a portion of it as payment, if Master so desired.”
\t“Not a bad idea at all.” Otiv replied promptly, rubbing her head. “Thank you.” Then looking down to her he asked. “So how is your hive? Ready for battle tonight?”
\t“Indeed.” Lilith said with a proud nod of the head. “Lilith's hive is ready and waiting for master's orders.”
Chapter 4 – Underlying Influences
\tWell not that there was much else to do. Otiv gathered up the boy and Susan, leaving the reds to do their work; sure fire would be useful against the dead, but he needed resources first. Lilith was carried by one of her warriors; the pale hive following on Otiv's heels. Again the trip was quick; even Elliott remarked how unnaturally fast they came back to the village. Once they arrived, Otiv let the children go back to their families. Susan was eager to tell her mother about all the strawberries she had picked. Elliott had a sibling he wanted to check in on. They had no family left so neighbors had taken the child in when Elliott indentured himself. As for Otiv he had something he felt was urgent to do first. He had taken Lilith from her hive, and to the family that had lost their child. He gave her the rundown on the way there. First, who these people were; Second, what she was allowed to tell them.
\tKnocking on the front door Otiv was greeted by a male voice. “Who's there?”
\t“It's Otiv Daniel, may I come in?” Otiv requested. After a few seconds the latch on the door opened, so too did the door. What was at the door was an older gentleman. Maybe forty six years of age. Gray hair poking from his hair and trimmed beard. He was well tanned as a blacksmith, he was outside almost all day.
\t“Lord Otiv.” Daniel replied, offering the demon his hand. “Please come in, I ...” He paused when he noticed Lilith in his arms. “I don't believe it.” he said softly cupping a hand to her cheek. “You look just like her.”
\t“Please.” Otiv started “Let us do this inside.”
\t“Oh.” Daniel responded. “Yes of course; please come in.” Daniel led them to the living room. The building was small, larger than most homes but still it felt tiny to Otiv. Inside the living room was Daniel's wife, Vanessa. More pale than her husband; long dark brown hair done up in a braid. She was sitting on a couch, still very much in grief.
\tOtiv cleared his throat. The act got her attention. “Oh. Lord Otiv.” Vanessa started first wiping her eyes. “I'm sorry, I did not hear you enter.”
\t“Think nothing of it.” Otiv promptly reassured her. Vanessa's face muted when he showed her Lilith. “This one is my newest project. Sadly her legs are broken for the moment.” He told her as he set Lilith down in the chair. Vanessa sniffled hard for a moment before she came over, picked her up and held her to her chest.
\t“She looks just like my little Amy.” Vanessa sobbed, clutching the imp to her chest. They allowed the woman a few moments. She sobbed near uncontrollably clutching Lilith tight. But once it was done and she was put back down, Lilith introduced herself.
\t“Uh, Greetings.” Lilith started. She placed a hand on her chest. “This one's name is Lilith.” She slowly explained; truly unsure how she should feel. “Master tells me I currently exist because; well because you lost your daughter in one of the recent attacks.” She explained, Vanessa nodded at her, her husband holding his wife close. “It is a hard thing to speak of, Lilith knows it can't be easy. Part of Lilith was afraid you'd loathe her. After all she lives because your child does not.” The room was quiet for a few moments, aside from Vanessa sniffling a little. “Lilith wants to thank you for her life. And Lilith wishes to let you know; that Lilith grieves with you for your loss.”
\tDaniel nodded. “Thank you.”
\t“Lilith is not done.” She softly explained. “Before she was finished forming, Lilith had a moment to talk to your daughter's soul. She asked something of Lilith; something she now wishes to part unto you.” The pair nodded watching as Lilith sat upright in her chair. Then said, “Thank you for being my parents. Mama,” Lilith spoke first, looking to Vanessa. “I will miss your cooking lessons; I loved them truly, but I loved spending the time with you more.” The woman nodded fresh tears rolling down her cheeks. “Father.” Lilith said as she addressed Daniel. “Thank you for being my father. You taught me so much, I wish I had had more time to learn even more from you. I'm sorry if I ever got on your nerves, or made you mad at me; or when I broke that pot you got from your mother with my ball.” Daniel too was now sobbing a little, hiding his eyes with his arm. “Thank you both for everything, for all your love. For working so hard to give me a warm home. For everything you taught me everything you gave me. I have no regrets with my life; save for I did not get to spend enough of it here with you. Most of all,” Lilith paused, then gave a bow. “Thank you for giving me life. It may have been short. But I do not regret it at all. In fact my only true regret is how much you must be suffering now without me. For that, Mama Father, I am truly sorry; and I hope you can forgive me.” The two went quiet for a moment. Vanessa was the first, she got up quick and rushed over to her wrapping Lilith in a hug. Daniel did so too a second after. Lilith quickly gave both a kiss, then said. “I love you both so much, though it hurts to say; at least I've been given the chance to say it, even though it's through another. Goodbye.” The pair were inconsolable for a few moments holding Lilith snugly as they wept and grieved. Otiv remained quiet allowing them what it was they needed.
\t“I love you too sweetheart.” Vanessa spoke, giving Lilith another kiss. “Goodbye my baby, mama will miss you so much.”
\tDaniel brought his head down to Lilith's and nuzzled her. “Goodbye my sweet girl. My only regret is that daddy was not there to save you; and that will haunt me to my grave. I would have died so that you could have lived.” This one strangely enough was what brought a tear to Otiv's eyes; he glanced away to hide it as it rolled down his face.
\tThis chance to say goodbye seemed to be what they needed. Once they let her go and returned to their seats, Lilith gave them a little bow. “Lilith is thankful to you. Though Lilith is unsure if it will grant you relief. Lilith wishes to tell you that your daughter is in a better place now; for she has ascended to the kingdom of heaven. We traded places you see. I came to serve my Master here, and she went to heaven in exchange; she's most likely already with your family there.” That made Otiv lift a brow but he said nothing, for he figured she was lying. After a short while longer, they seemed to be better; still grieving but they got to say their goodbyes. That would help the healing happen sooner.
\t“I beg your pardon.” Otiv finally spoke up. “But there are other things I must do before nightfall.”
\t“It's not a problem.” Daniel replied. “And … Thank you for this.” His wife nodded in agreement.
\tWith that done, Otiv collected Lilith. She gave a last wave goodbye, before Otiv left. Once they were away from the building Lilith looked up to her master. “Master.” She started getting him to look down at her. “How did you know Lilith wished to speak to the girl's parents?”
\t“I didn't. But, it felt right.” Otiv explained to her. Lilith watched him for a moment, the soft smile that filled her face after was a genuine one. Otiv proceeded to walk around the village. He needed not go to Gerald for everything. So he needed to get some looters. Where could he get them, he wondered?
~Some time later~
\t“Master.” Lilith cooed. Getting his attention she then pointed him to a pair of boys. He had been, for lack of a better word, meandering around. “Trouble makers.” She had cuddled into his arms resting her head on his left peck. She was clearly getting used to being carried around by her Master; in fact it would be a safe bet that she was enjoying it.
\tOtiv raised an eyebrow. Following her hand he looked upon a pair of boys. They had some nerve, a village under siege by the dead; and they could find the time to steal from people. “So what'd we get?” The first boy asked.
\t“EH five coppers; not even worth it.” The second boy replied, tossing a now empty coin purse.
\t“What'd we gonna do?” The first boy asked. “You said we'd need a few golds to get to the next city. At this rate, we won't even get supper tonight.” the boy bemoaned.
\t“In a hurry lad?” Otiv asked, lurking over the two boys. Lilith stashed in his arms, the imp clearly not wanting to be elsewhere.
\t“Yeah.” The first boy remarked. “The people in the village hate us. Not to mention the dead. We wanna leave.”
\t“So, you steal, to try and leave?” Otiv asked, looking at the second boy who was a bit frozen. “Why not just start walking?”
\t“Well we'd need food stuffs fer the road.” The boy replied with a slovenly slur. “Duh. Its more then … uhhh …” He started counting his fingers; then holding up five fingers. “This many days to get to Gwen on foot.” He then took a moment to look up at the inhuman creature leering at them; and it finally clicked in his obviously slow mind. “Whoa, you that thing Elliott and his group found or w... w... what was it they said they did?” He asked, looking up at Otiv.
\t“He and his little friends apparently summoned me.” Otiv replied. “Using some strange scroll he traded for.” Looking at the two boys. The second boy seemed smarter, the brains of the little click no doubt; he was also nearly petrified. The first boy was as dense as wood; it had yet clicked that a monster was leering at him. “So you two have sticky fingers I see.” Otiv spoke now holding the bag they had robbed. “You are in luck, it seems. After all, stealing is a sin.” He said with a dark momentary glare in his eyes. “I need looters to pick things up for me; things that are not mine. You want coin, you'll get some. Or I can tell the Aldermen you two are dirty little thieves, in the midst of a disaster no less.”
\t“I dun get it.” The dense boy replied. “You want us to do what to who with a deistor?”
\t“Wait, you want to give us a job? Stealing for you??” The smarter boy asked, motioning to himself and his partner.
\t“Indeed.” Otiv replied. “I have a task that I can't do myself. And boys who know how to 'find things' could be given a good use. I'd even shield you from punishment; depending on what you did.”
\t“What.” The smart boy stuttered. “What would we be doing?”
\t“I will give you two magic bags.” Otiv started. “Summon Looters Satchel.” Otiv chanted then holding two bags as they manifested in his hands. “Anything slain by me or my minions will have loot on them; so long as you hold my looters' satchel.” He told them motioning the bags toward them.
\t“So...” The smart boy started. “You want us to steal stuff from the dead?”
\t“Does that bother you?” Otiv asked.
\tThe smart boy gave his buddy a glance, then said. “Hell Nah doesn't bother me. And you'll pay us?”
\t“I will.” Otiv replied. “So I've been told, you can and will loot currency. I'll allow you to keep twenty five percent of all the coinage you loot; everything else however is mine. Do we have a deal boys?” He asked, extending his hands.
\t“Sure,” The simple boy replied. “I'll do the job; Heh robben da dead be easy.”
\t“Alright mister monster.” The smart boy said after, “We'll steal for you.”
\tThe boys quickly took Otiv's hands, and shook on it. A new little window popped up to him for a moment, Hirelings. “Good.” Handing the two boys their bags he then asked. “Names boys?”
\t“Tod.” Relied the simple boy, accepting a bag.
\t“Simon.” answered the smart boy.
\t“Tod and Simon, my first hirelings.” Otiv said with a smirk, then grabbing both boys' hands, and yanking them up. “Also you steal anything and you are not holding that bag again. I will punish you personally.” Then letting them go he turned and motioned for them to follow. “Come along boys, I want to make sure this works.”
\tBoth boys replied in tandem and they followed after. “Coming.”
\tOtiv then looked down to Lilith. “Boy's this is Lilith. Starting today you will be getting orders from her. Well sweetheart?”
\tLilith was looking at her book, then said. “They're both cretins and perverts. Lilith doesn't like them and refuses to be left alone with them; god knows what they'd try to do to Lilith, she'd not hesitate to kill them.” She said almost instantly getting a rude gesture from the boy who understood she just insulted them. “However their luck stats are pretty high for ten year old's. It may have some overlap with the looting aspect. Lilith has no proof to back up her claims however; so are only such at the moment.” She informed him; looking up at him from under her bangs.
\t“Alright.” Otiv gave her a little kiss; she enjoyed it more than she should. He walked around for a moment, the two little thieves on his heels. He found a box that opened and remembered what he had been told. “Alright boys.” He pointed to the box he followed up with. “Go on, open it up. You should find stuff to loot, or so I'm told.” They both nodded then rushed over to the box.
\t“Hey, it's locked.” Tod complained, pushing on it a few times.
\t“Move aside, leave it to me.” Simon said, before freeing under Otiv's gaze. “Uhh, I'll … I'll pick the lock.” Otiv gave a nod, wondering why the boy was having mini panic attacks. Simon was rather good, it didn't take long for him to pick the lock open. “Got it, right let's take a look.” They found little inside the box, about thirty odds and ends and fifteen silver coins. \t“Wow, we did find things.” Simon replied. Starting to dump the bits and pieces into the bag.
\t“And money.” Tod said as he put the coins in his bag.
\t“You boys can keep four of those silver coins.” Otiv told them. As he watched the stuff things into their bags; in his inventory the items stuffed inside were being added to it. “Come along now.”
\tThe two little thieves followed after Otiv; looking forward to making more money. Otiv continued walking through the village watching the people. They seemed to be trying to build some manner of gate. Others were reinforcing homes.
\t“Master.” Lilith softly said, looking up to him. “Lilith's hive has been approached. Some villagers are asking for help building the gate.”
\t“Hum.” Otiv thought for a moment, cupping a hand to his chin; holding Lilith with a single arm. “Even a simple gate I suppose would help keep the village safe. You have permission to aid them.”
\t“Lilith has relaid instructions to her underlings. They will handle the grunt work.” Lilith told him, then giving a soft smile.
\t“Make sure they don't tire themselves out though.” Otiv told her, patting her head. “We still have a battle tonight.”
\t“Oh yes,” Lilith said with a flush. “Lilith has informed them.” After walking around for a little longer. Otiv noticed the two boys ran off to check another box. He rolled his eyes, they had his bags, it wasn't stealing. “So Master, are we aimlessly walking around this village for a reason?”
\tThat put a stop to Otiv for a moment. “I suppose I'm; convincing myself.”
\t“That?” Lilith asked. Glancing up up at him from under her bangs.
\t“I made the right choice.” Otiv told her in turn. Watching the children nearby helping an elderly man in putting together some barricades on houses. “And I've done what I needed. Indeed they've not given up, despite the near hopelessness of their position. Nightly the dead attack in waves and they've not been helped by any but me until now. If they give up, why should I bother?” He asked, looking down at her.
\tLilith was quiet for a moment. “Lilith sees.” She watched him look around a little longer. Everyone was working hard. People reinforcing homes. Cobbling together new weapons. Sharpening spears making new bows not to mention arrows and bolts. She was unsure, however Otiv looked reassured, so she ignored it and simply enjoyed cuddling her master. Otiv turned away to look for the two troublemakers. Where had they gone, he wondered?
\t“Whoa.” Tod cheered.
\t“Look at that, it's a gold coin.” Simon nearly cooed. “Have you ever seen that much money?”
\tOtiv found where the two boys' voices were coming from; inside one of the nearby homes. Inside they had gotten into a chest from a bedchamber. “You boys sure know how to get around.” Otiv said as he approached then leaned into a window. “Mind telling me why you are trespassing, in what could be a ladies bedchamber?”
\tTod simply held up the gold coin. “Look boss, it's a gold coin; never held so much money.”
\t“Right.” Otiv sighed, placing his palm on his face. “Put it in the bag, and get out.” They both nodded and shut the chest. Otiv looked at it for a moment; wanted … well to make sure. He himself reached in and opened the chest. Inside the box was still full of the owner's possessions, clothing, books, a few lacy things. He gave a swift nod and shut it again.
\tWell despite himself, Otiv allowed the two little thieves to run around and frankly fill his inventory. Most of it was tat, a few poor grade blades, plenty of odds and ends; and stuff labeled one man's trash; it was categorized as trade goods. As they did that Otiv did his best to aid in the defense preparations; going as far as to summon his red imps to carry lumber to the village. He had plenty. As he helped rebuild the gate Otiv gave Lilith the task of unlocking some more of his magics and spells or discovering how he could do so. So sat on a bench she studied her tome, idly distracted by her hive going on about tasks; and the idle inner hive chit chat. About the time they managed to get a gate mounted to the entrance Lilith had made a little discovery. She managed to get a man's attention then sent him to get her master.
\t“Excuse me sir.” a random man spoke out.
\tOtiv turned to him, upon looking at the rather unimposing human. He then asked rather coldly. “What, is it, you need?”
\tThe man gave a slight aback, as if more reaction than choice. Had a visible flinch as though something had just washed over him. ”Huh. What was that?” The man asked, nearly stumbling.
\t“Huh, you survived that.” Otiv replied, almost impressed. “Sorry to say that was very automatic; I could not stop myself frankly.” Otiv uttered, almost exasperated. However after a moment he took a breath “That little sneak. She sent you to me, knowing you'd survive.” He growled, then looked at the young man. “She sent you for a reason I assume?”
\t“Uh … ye … yeah.” The man spoke. Taking a moment to shake the cobwebs out of his mind; still unsure what just hit him. “She asked me to tell you that she had made a, discovery, I believe the words she used were; and that you'd want to know about it.”
\tOtiv shook his head with another scowl. “And she sent you rather than one of her hive because somehow she knew I was going to lash out.” Otiv promptly patted the man's shoulder. “Make sure you drink plenty of water today and you'll be fine. For what it's worth I am sorry I attacked you.” The man nodded then watched him walk away toward where Lilith was at.
\tIt took him only minutes to find Lilith. She was sitting in the town square. Her legs were still broken so she could not move herself. Aldermen Gerald was using her and her hive as a make do line of communication; once he found out she could use 'magic' as she super simply described it as, to speak to her hivelings. From what Otiv could gather, she had her imps at the gate, at the warehouse, and the workshop. They were rushing to get more lumber prepared to reinforce the gate. “Oh Lilith,” Otiv called out as he approached.
\t“Master.” Lilith nearly sang out. However rather than the greeting she was expecting, Otiv promptly scooped her up then tossed her over his knee. “Master?” she asked, confused. However, with the first stroke of his hand, he struck her on the butt. “OOOW!” She cried out only to get spanked again.
\t“Do not.” Otiv started, then spanked her again. “Send innocents at me.” He continued giving her another swat. “When you know they,” He paused and struck her butt again Lilith crying out in pain. “Will be attacked.” He followed up with another prompt spank. “again! Do you understand?” He asked her through a growl.
\tTears were filling her eyes now, still bent over his knee. “Lilith understands!” She sobbed out. “Lilith swears she won't do it again.”
\t“Make sure you don't or next time, you won't get off with a spanking.” Otiv threatened. “You only get a spanking because he did not die.”
\tThis little show brought a confused look to Gerald's face. “Uh, did I miss something Otiv?”
\tOtiv gave a nod, his wings ruffling in frustration. “You did. She sent one of your people to bring me a message. Knowing that I was for the moment unwell. I promptly lashed out at the man in a mental attack. He is unharmed and will be fine; still I owe you an apology.” He grabbed up Lilith by the waist and held her up to the man he attacked. “And you Lil owe him an apology.”
\tShe quickly nodded fearing another spanking. “Lilith is sorry, she swears she won't do it again!”
\tThe man rubbed the back of his head but gave a nod. “It's alright … I guess.”
\tOtiv then bowed to Gerald. “And I am sorry I attacked out at one of your people, Aldermen; I give my word it shan't happen again.”
\tGerald gave a nod then decided to give the man in question a once over. “Well he seems fine, nothing looks broken.” Looking back to Otiv he then said. “Well while I am unsure what it is that took place, it seems no harm was done? I will accept your apology.” By now Lilith was rubbing her butt still sobbing a little.
\tLilith was still tending to her butt when Otiv passed her off. She for obvious reasons didn't want to sit down and had one of her warriors carry her. “Lilith is sorry master.” She sobbed out with a sharp sniff.
\t“Do not do it again.” Otiv replied sharply. “I easily could have killed that man.”
\t“But that's why Lilith sent him.” She explained in a whiny rush. “Lilith checked his stats. His mental resilience was S ranked his luck S rank as well. Lilith knew Master needed to snap; she picked the only one she could to let him lash out on. Lilith sent him knowing he'd be ok.”
\tOtiv growled for a moment longer before letting it go, with a loud long sigh. “Alright sweetheart, you are forgiven; do not do it again however.”
\t“Lilith won't.” She replied now cradled by her underling. “She promises.”
\t“So what is this discovery you sent that man to get attacked over?” Otiv asked.
\tLilith shrunk with the way he put it. “Well, when Master says it like that; Lilith wishes it was bigger.” She was quickly carried over to her tome, now a bit bigger. “Lilith has discovered Master can use a spell called teleport item; seems sourced from a book called The Lords Magic.” She explained looking into her book. “It would allow master to teleport an item of any size to anyone Master has met or any minion under his command.” She proceeded to explain.
\t“I see.” Otiv sounded taking a seat next to her. “So any item I assume is under my possession. How far?”
\t“Well.” She started. “Lilith is currently unsure, but she would assume it is at least a great distance.” She told him then put the book back down. “Lilith will continue to investigate this for you, Master.”
\tAs she spoke however everything around Otiv grew foggy; enough that before he realized even she fell away.
~New Phenomenon discovered~
– The Waking Dreamer –
addendum
Cross comparability with
Prophetic Dreams
Ability mutation occurring
New Skill acquired
– The Waking Watcher –
Gives the user a flash of the future in the form of a waking dream
\tOtiv was unsure what it was he was watching. A thick fog blocked everything around him, he could not sense past it and now he was alone. Until a view port opened. Through it he saw the now reinforced gate, the villagers and his pale imps just finished working on it. Next the mist rolled in, however what came from it was not a zombie. Seeing as a huge boulder was tossed through it and crushing a nearby building was evidence enough. However as the fog started to clear, he heard a roar then standing over the wall was a huge monster.
\tThe fog cleared from Otiv's eye. “Master!” Lilith cried out now shaking him. “Please answer Lilith, Master!”
\tOtiv sat his face in his hand. Shook his head and groaned. “What??” He then looked to Lilith, “What happened?”
\t“Lilith is unsure.” She told him now, holding herself to his chest. Otiv in turn scooped her up. “Master was fine one second then mid sentence, master stopped.” She explained, the worry on her face was true; no lie. “Then no matter how hard she try, Lilith could not rouse Master.”
\t“I saw something,” Otiv told her. “Like a waking dream. In it something ...” He then got up; that was the moment it clicked, what the dream this morning meant what he just saw. He looked to the sky. “By god we might be too late!” Carrying her Otiv bolted to the gate. He hurried as fast as his legs could carry him. Upon seeing the make do gate now being reinforced with new timbers Otiv roared out. “NO!” his shout caught everyone off guard. “Quick tear it down!” He roared. “The gate, tear it down now!” Everyone was unsure what was wrong until Otiv came and struck the gate, having rather quickly dumped Lilith off with someone. Otiv quickly started tearing at the gate trying to rip it down, however the mist was now rolling in. “Fuck, I was too late.”
\t“Otiv?!?” Gerald shouted as he hurried over. “What in all that is holy are you doing?”
\t“CLEAR THE AREA NOW!” Otiv yelled knowing what was to come next. Sure enough moments later a boulder was tossed. It crashed through the gate, but Otiv managed to stop it before it could do much more damage. Using his wings to aid in slowing it, he stopped the bolder before it plowed into the home now firmly behind him.
\t“Master!” A few of the imps shouted as Lilith ordered them to help him. He started pushing it and it finally started rolling when the praetorians started helping.
\t“Heavy rock.” Otiv groaned once they got it off him. Once he was no longer pinned to a wall, his wings ruffled. Then leaning over he saw an old woman inside the building, a child clutched in her arms. “You ok ma'am?”
\t“Thanks to you.” The old lady chimed firmly, clutching her chest. “Heard that crash then it headed our way; I barely had time to get out of my chair when you slammed into that wall, curse my old back. If not for you me and my grandchild both would be under that rock.”
\t“Just glad I could stop it.” Otiv said then with a groan. He clutched his own chest for a moment. 'So not indestructible. Fuck, that broke some ribs.'
\t“Master!” Lilith cried out now being carried to him. “Are you ok?”
\t“No.” Otiv told her. Still clutching his chest now struggling to breathe. “Broke some ribs, I can hardly breathe.”
\t“Damn it, fuck.” Lilith swore, now tearing into her tome. “Do we have any healers in our hive? Any healing spells?”
\t“We're not done yet though.” Otiv groaned, clutching his scythe. “What … what tossed that boulder, it's coming.”
\t“What...” She started Lilith then paused and poked her eyes above her book. “What's coming?”
\t“A bone giant.” Otiv wheezed, very much in pain. “This mist or part of it; hell maybe the thing controlling it.” Otiv started stumbling forward a step. “It retaliated to our preparations; and forced a boss fight. This village is going to be ...destroyed.” He spoke taking yet another step. “And I think it's my fault.” He confessed looking at Lilith now. “I gave them hope, they opted to fight back... because I was here. Now … they are doomed.”
\t“Lilith is unsure,” She cried out. “What do we do?”
\t“I'm unsure.” Otiv confessed; just as an impact tremor echoed out. 'What do I do? Can I fight … in this condition? What can we do against this monster?' Suddenly over the far wall still a ways off a head poked from the mist; and it was huge. Followed by a monstrous roar, the villagers started to scream and rush the other way. 'What … what do I do?' He asked, stumbling forward, then caught by one of the larger pale imps. 'This is my fault, what can I do?' He coughed up blood moments after that; his wounds were more serious than he thought. However with that he had a vision so to speak.
~Location unknown, Time unknown~
\t“Lucifer.” A male voice called out. Otiv quickly hurried to a masked man's side.
\t“Yes creator?” Otiv replied, looking upon the man wearing a pale white fox mask.
\t“Please don't call me that; it makes me feel weird. Vito is fine.” the man confessed then rubbing the back of his head.
\t“If that is your wish, Vito.” Otiv told him with a bow. “Is there something you need?”
\tVito nodded his mask firmly nearly attached to his face. “Huh, you're still a little stiff, I hoped to fix that before now.” Vito confessed with a sigh.
\t“I don't understand.” Otiv replied in turn. He stood back up and watched his maker produce a new mask. It was stark black the eye holes could even barely be seen.
\t“Here, I want you to try this mask on.” Vito told him, handing him the mask.
\t“Is it a new manner of power Master? Or a weapon?” Otiv asked taking the strange mask.
\t“A little of both, a little yes a little no.” Vito told him in a cryptic double talk. “It's more to say I'm trying to give you something … frankly I took from you in the first place.” Vito told him as he spun in the chair he was sitting to look at Otiv. “Go on, try it on.”
\tThis waking dream lasted but seconds. Otiv was looking at the mask now in his hands; Stark black emotionless. However, looking at it filled him with dread.
\t“The mistake is mine,” He recalled. “And mine alone.” It was vague but his first memory was coming back to him. “You are missing a piece; a critical one. It is not too late, you must go back to sleep.”
\t“I'm missing something.” Otiv said softly as the rest of the world fell away; it was just him and that mask. “So why.” He started tracing a finger on the mask. “Why do you fill me with dread?”
\t“Because your golden boy ain't here to save you.” A voice responded.
\t“Who are you?” Otiv asked.
\t“Oh please.” The voice replied smugly. “You know my name. May have taken my body, but it's still my name.”
\t“My golden boy?” Otiv asked “The piece I'm missing, you know what it is?”
\t“I do.” The voice replied with a purr like coo. “But where is the fun in telling you?” The way he said it, the smug was rolling off him. “For someone who prides themselves on their intelligence; you're an idiot.”
\tHis stupor was broken when Lilith screamed. Her guard had been attacked and now she was in the clutches of the bone giant. “MASTER!” Lilith screamed. “HELP ME, please!”
\t“SO what are you going to do?” Lucifer asked, the smug still rolling off his tone. “Heh, like you have a choice, in your condition there's only one thing you can do.” Lucifer teased, Otiv lifting the mask to his face. Once it was on Lucifer laughed.
“You really are an idiot; fusing with your shadow, without your light to protect you? You must want to cease to exist.”
\t“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Otiv screamed in agony. The mask fused to his face. “Huh FUUCCCK!” His body shifted and morphed. The mask vanished. His agony continued as his skin changed color from white to crimson. His horns grew longer and larger until they erupted into black flames. The feathers from his wings fell until the leathery wings left behind looked and felt otherworldly. His legs painfully changed and morphed until his feet fused into cloven hooves. He fell silent as he slumped forward. A pitch black mist started flowing from his mouth as the flames on his horns grew hotter.
\t“hehehehehehe.” A voice echoed from Otiv, that was not his. “HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” the voice cackled. He stood back up, his hair gone pitch black his eyes blood red. And responded Lucifer did as if warning all. “Beware, I live!”
~Information reader~
Lucifer
The Lord of the Nine Burning Hells
“All Information redacted”
\tLucifer gazed up at the pale queen, a smirk taking his face. “Ooh new toy.” He sounded then licking his lips.
\tLilith held her hand out to him and cried out. “Master please! Help me!” The bone giant roared at her before beginning to bring her toward its mouth. Her bowmen where taking shots; but it's bone plating was too thick; her swordsmen finding the same problem.
\t“What are you waiting for!?!” Otiv roared in his own skull. “SAVE HER!”
\t“Almost...” Lucifer smirked. Lilith shuddered in the monster's grasp until. “There we go.” He cooed as if satisfied. Lilith, terrified, had wet herself in fear; it seemed to be what he was waiting for. Grabbing up the scythe, the weapon twisted and changed. Once it looked something akin to the demonic itself, he vanished.
\tThere was the briefest of flashes. The last few seconds Lilith could remember was shaking in terror; watching helplessly as the razor sharp teeth grew closer and closer until. With the singing of steel and the smooth slicing of flesh; for a few seconds, Lilith saw straight through the monster's neck. In the blink of an eye something so thick covered in bone plating was silenced clean through as if a hot knife through butter. The creature grew silent, its eyes unsure what just hit it until its head slid off it's shoulders. She fell as the creature lost its grip.
\tShe screamed as she fell, but was caught a few seconds from the ground. A crimson red hand clutching the back of her shroud. She looked back up at him, “Master thank …” She froze, the face that looked back to her looked like her Master; but the feeling was absolutely not there. “You are not my master.” She cried out trying to get herself free.
\t“Not your master?” Lucifer asked before tossing her into the ground. “You should know your place Imp.” She cried out sharply as she bounced off the ground. Lilith managed to push herself up watching Lucifer grow closer. Her Hive then rushed to her aid. Warriors bearing swords and shields forging something of a wall between her and him. Her archers took shots at him; not that it did much good. The second the imps let loose their arrows. They missed; because he was now behind them. “Foolish.” Lilith cried out as he lopped off their heads. “The audacity.” He mocked. The imp archers fell dead before vanishing. “Next victim.” He taunted as Lucifer marched on Lilith. Her warriors charged him and did their level best; but he was clearly on a different one. Even six on one he made a show of killing them.
\tOnce they were gone, Lilith started sobbing and shuddering; clutching her head. The voices she had grown used to so fond of now silent; her hivemind now an agonizing echo chamber. “No. Too quiet. It's too quiet!” She started trying to push away from him. However her attention was now forcefully split between the overwhelming fear she felt for that man; and her mind losing its shit over the silence that was now gripping her brain. “Stay away!”
\tLucifer smirked at her as he marched on her. The imp queen's legs had yet healed so she couldn't run. “Gonna have fun playing with you.” He grabbed her up by the neck once he reached her; despite her attempt to crawl away.
\t“No!” She cried out. She tried to push on his face however he still pushed his lips to hers. He forced himself on her for a good few moments; his tongue invading her mouth molesting hers. “Staap.” She tried to cry out.
The kiss lasted moments longer Lucifer enjoyed tormenting her. Finally he pulled away then licked his lips. “Well now, don't you taste good.” He remarked through a smirk. “Now then, I think I'll help myself to your little fruit.” He started pulling her shroud away. She tried to resist.
“No!” Lilith cried out. “Stop this! That is only for Master! Lilith doesn't want this! She doesn't want you!!” She cried out. It didn't stop him though. He tore her shroud away then dumped her now naked form on the ground; making her cry out as she hit.
\t“Heh, you really think I give a shit what you want? You're just a fucking Imp.” Lucifer growled. Kneeling down to grab her by an ankle. “Know your place bitch; you now speak to the Lord of the Nine Hells.” He dragged her closer, a hand readying to drag down his pants. However the gasping of humans from behind the shattered gate drew his attention. “Oh more toys?” He asked, looking at the humans in the village. “Heh, after I'm done with you; I'll go kill the humans. Time for a genocide route after I fuck you into a good little toy.” Lilith could only cower. He promptly grabbed her throat and pinned her down; ready to have his way with her.
\t“Stop this now!” Otiv roared in his head. “That Imp is mine!”
\t“Was yours.” Lucifer replied. “Now she's my little fuck toy.”
\tOtiv felt helpless watching through his own eyes as Lucifer was about to violate Lilith. He tried pushing back, but it did no good. It was like he had no strength. “Master please.” Lilith cried out. She gasped painfully for a moment as Lucifer choked her. “Lilith,” She struggled to get out. “Still feels you; she knows you're still there.”
~Within Otiv's Mindscape~
\tOtiv gripped at his hair. What could he do? Was he truly powerless to stop this? Was his only choice to sit back and watch this happen? “Up here?” He heard a small voice call out. Looking up Otiv caught the briefest flash of a white hood. However he saw a tree, and what was bore in its branches was an apple.
\t“An Eden Apple.” Otiv remarked. He reached up and grabbed the apple.
\t“I'm sorry, this is all I can give you.” The small voice replied with a small laugh. “I hope it's good enough.”
\tOtiv nodded, plucking the apple. “Are you the piece I am missing?” He asked but got no response; the voice was gone. Quickly he ate the apple and felt a rush of energy.
\t“Stop!” Lilith cried out. Lucifer was now mounted on her moments from stuffing her full. “Master!” She cried out again. This time however she got a response.
\tAn arm shot out and gripped Lucifer by the throat. “What?!” Lucifer gagged out
\t“Get off her.” Otiv's voice hummed with energy.
\t“A flash of light!?! How'd I miss it?” Lucifer asked, almost dumbfounded. “How?”
\tOtiv stood before him in a glow. Six golden wings behind him. He radiated light itself. Quickly he reached up to his own face, and ripped the black mask from it. It clattered to the ground and Otiv's body fell spent. The illuminated Otiv still stood, but knelt down to Lilith. “Sorry to leave this to you dear.” Otiv told her looking at his new but borrowed hand. “This will last only moments. And I know not what will happen when it runs out.” He held a hand to her legs and spent some of the limited power he had to heal them.
\t“Master.” Lilith sputtered. First looking up at the light born then down to him on the ground. “Lilith is confused.”
\t“You aren't the only one sweetheart.” The illuminated Otiv told her. Quickly he placed an innocent kiss on her forehead. She felt energy fill her. “Use that … to summon your hive … again.” He grew faint. “Oh … now this.” He stopped, watching his hand fade. “This is a strange feeling.” Quickly he faded, gone as fast as he came. Lilith was left alone to care for her master; at least now she could walk.
~To Be continued~
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