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The Awakening Ch. 1

By: Gracie



Chapter I: Dirty Little Secrets


t was late afternoon. Thankfully her shift was almost over. It had been a long week. She had been admiring the new manager all day. Actually it was more like all month. From the moment he walked through the door she found herself drawn to him. She couldn't put her finger on it. Perhaps he had been an acquaintance from a past life; or maybe he was just one of those people who simply possessed a strong aura. Whatever the reason be, she found herself thinking about him, a lot! She had been lost in a delicious daydream most of the afternoon, loosing all track of time.

Now, the other employees were already washed up and had starting to leave. Soon she would be the only one left at work. The only one that is, besides him. Being her supervisor, he would have to be the last one out to make sure everything was locked up for the weekend. She could see him sitting in his office, through the large plate glass window. She sensed that he might even be aware of that she was watching him, but could not help herself. There was just something about him that attracted her so severely. Every time he would come near her, her stomach would start to quiver in a way that she could not conceal. She felt that he might already have noticed the outward signs of her obvious discomfort with his presence. It seemed to her that he might even be playing upon it; sort of toying with her. Sneaking up behind her, lingering a bit too long near her; and when he looked at her, he did not so much look 'at' her; but instead seemed to be examining her. Head to toe, every curve, each subtle quiver. She felt that he could see right through her; read her thoughts. She dreaded being alone with him!

Quickly finishing her work, She was just about to turn off the computer when she felt a presence behind her. She could feel him drawing nearer. She froze! He leaned in against her, allowing his body to make contact with hers and whispered in a low commanding voice, "Do you need any help?"

Terror and want raged through her. "No I am fine thank you." She offered shyly in response.

"Are you?" he said softly, leaning into her more. Her mind raced to keep up with her pulse. She wanted to reply but she had no voice. She just stood there, motionless. "You're trembling," he added after a few more moments. She could feel his breath upon her neck. Her fear and desire were mounting, causing her to shake openly. "Do I make you nervous?" he said softly into her ear, his lips lightly grazing her lobe.

"Yes," she whispered reluctantly.

"Does this excite you?" he demanded, but in almost a whisper. His words cut through her like an icy cold November wind.

"Yes", she obediently replied. She heard a soft low grunt of approval behind her, then he turned and walked away.

She started to shake violently. She felt violated, as if she had just been raped. Her stomach was in knots as she fought back nervous tears of tension. Hurrying to the bathroom she shut herself in and locked the door. Inside the safety of the small room she gave in to the torrent raging inside of her; welling up deep and low in a place that was almost unfamiliar to her. A slave to her own desire, she masturbated herself to a wild orgasm. She came almost upon the contact of her small slender fingers upon her harden clit... all the while reliving the past few moments in her mind... and imagining his hands upon her breasts, her clit.

When she finally emerged from the ladies room, he was back in his office. She could see him working at something at his desk. He did not look up as she passed his window on her way to sign out. All she wanted to do was get the hell out of there. Reaching the clock, she tore her time card out of its' slot and was about to punch out when she noticed a small piece of paper fall to the floor. 'Could this have fallen from my card... had it been attached there?' she wondered. She bent over and picked it up. It was not addressed to her, nor anyone for that matter. The carefully folded note contained only three words... no addressee, no signature. It simply read, "beach/10:00 tonight". She jammed to note into her pocket and hurried to her car, totally forgetting to punch out. Driving home she was so upset that she thought she might even vomit.

The time was now 9:15 PM. She held the note in her right hand and stared off into space with a blank but nervous expression. What did it mean? Who was it intended for? Was she to meet someone at the beach tonight? And if so... then who? Why? Fear and logic tempted her to lock her door and go to bed, but curiosity and desire kept her from it. The delicate balance between the two rocked precariously back and forth inside her mind. Her fear weighed heavily. Yet fear was a turn on for her. She watched the clock inch forward.

If curiosity killed the cat, then she was to meet with certain death. She pulled into the parking lot above the public beach and turned the motor off. His car was parked across the street, which meant that 'He' was already down there, somewhere, waiting for her... and she was terrified! Summoning strength from her now limp legs, she forced herself out of the car and headed slowly down to the waters' edge. The air was warm and fresh and the sound of the waves gently breaking upon the shore was seducing and tranquil.

It was an ironic contrast to the chaos that was surging inside of her. In a moment of reason, she turned to make her escape, but it was too late! There, just off in the shadow, she saw him... standing motionless. He had been watching her all along. Against her better judgement she walked around the gate that separated the public from the private beaches, and headed towards him. Drawn to him with some weird, almost magnetic force. Stopping a few steps short of him, she waited for him to say something... anything!

He stood quiet for a moment, then stated firmly; "You're late!" "I wasn't sure if I was coming. I wasn't sure who wrote the note or if it was intended for me", she offered in her defense. "Yes you were!" he responded confidently.

He turned and started to head further up the private beach. She walked behind him silently, studying the movement of his body as he walked. They walked into the darkness for quite some time without either of them saying a word. He came to a stop when they arrived in front of a large older home. The place was immaculate! Finely landscaped with regal gardens and a winding flagstone staircase that emptied onto the beachfront. A formal wrought iron fence encircled the property, ending in a magnificent and exquisitely detailed gate at the base of the staircase. The place, like everything else that night was dark and quiet.

Turning towards her, he studied her for a moment then asked her to remove her shirt and bra so that he could get a look at her breasts. Apprehension turned to fear as she searched his face for signs that he was joking. There were none! "I'm not sure that I want to", she answered shyly, hoping that he would slow things down a little. "Then why are you here?" he said, more in the form of a statement than a question.

She remained still for a moment, as if to test his intent, then with trembling hands she began to undress. He watched her carefully, mapping out every curve of her breasts with his eyes. Her nipples, hard and erect, seemed to call out for his caress. She tried to speak but he quickly silenced her by putting a finger to her lips and whispering a gentle, "shhh!" He let his long slender finger trail off of her lips and down her chin to her neck. From there he dragged it across her chest and encircled her left breast once... his thumb lightly grazing her nipple, as her body tensed. He stood back and smiled. He loved to tease and was enjoying this sense of power immensely.

"Now your jeans!" his voice broke the silence as it pierced her heart.

"I am not ready to go this far!" she pleaded with him. "I can't", she added in subtle refusal.

"Then I shall do it for you", he paused, "but I would much rather watch you undress yourself." He stepped towards her and she took one step back. Her knees were weak and unstable. He respected her space momentarily, then repeated his request with more authority. "Undress, Now!" Her body began to burn. She seemed to totally lose control of her own actions. Defying all common sense and practically every thing she stood for, she started to slip out of her jeans. He leaned forward and tore her panties off of her hips, allowing them to fall to the ground with the jeans. There she stood, scared, naked and totally vulnerable to him. The rush was intense. He stood quietly and smiled with satisfaction.

He stared at her naked form for what seemed like hours without saying a word. Then he turned his glance to the majestic gate at the base of the flagstone stairway. Following his lead, she also looked toward the gate. Four thick leather straps hung strategically from its cold steel corners. Her body began to shake more violently than it had earlier when he had managed to sneak up behind her. Her legs buckled and she started to collapse. He reached forward and grabbed her by the wrists, pulling her to her feet.

"Can I bind you?" he asked her, holding tighter to her wrists.

"NO!" she almost screamed in defiance. "I don't want this... this has gone too far! 'You' have gone too far!' she blurted out in panic. She began to cry.

"You don't want this?" he questioned. "Of course you want this! No one made you come out here tonight, in the dark, alone. No one made you follow a total stranger far away from shelter. You came here willingly to a place that's deserted. The summer residents have not yet arrived. There is no one here to hear you if you call for help. Are you to have me believe you were not aware of this?" he added, holding tighter to her wrists, "Oh you want this alright! This excites the Hell out of you!" he declared confidently... and he led her to the gate. She stood paralyzed as he fastened her wrists to the cold wrought iron. Then he secured each leg in spread eagle fashion.

She was delirious with fear and lust. How had he read her so completely? What more of her did he possess? Buckling the final strap he started to run his hand up the inside of her leg, along her thigh to the back of her ass, then let it trail down its crack, parting her swollen lips en route to her clitoris. He watched her ample breasts fall and heave with her deep breathing. Gently rubbing her clit in small circular motions, he alternated from one side to the other, being careful not to irritate the hypersensitive tip. He was well informed in the art of female arousal.

He watched her body shudder and jerk at his command. It seemed to please him immensely. He brought her to the edge of orgasm several times, then would remove his touch and leave her to hang unsatisfied and wanting. The frustration was maddening! She had never been so totally consumed in lust before! Straining against her bonds she squirmed is sexual agony. She needed release.

He stood back and leered at her aroused flesh. She could not remain still... wriggling about in a state of frantic lust. He smiled, and said, "Do you want me?" "Do you want to feel the rigid warmth of my cock deep inside of you, slowly sliding in and out of your hot wet pussy?"

"Do you want me to caress that part of you that is screaming for release?" he demanded with a stare that almost devoured her. He saw a shiver travel through her body as she whispered her reply, "yes".

"Not yet!" he shot back quickly. First you must satisfy my needs whore, and what I need right now is to fuck you right up your tight little ass!" He announced arrogantly.

"Oh no, God no... please don't you will hurt me", she began pleading frantically. She was filled with fear. She had never been entered through that avenue before but felt sure that it must be painful! Her lust began to subside, giving way to the horror that now consumed her.

"OK, to show you that I am a merciful master and that you are indeed my whore, I will make you a deal." he stated calmly. "I won't jam my hard cock up your virgin ass unless you beg me too," he added with a strange Cheshire Cat like grin. "However, I will consider your orgasm as just that", he added wryly.

"I don't understand?" she interrupted fearfully. "It's like this, by coming here tonight of your own free will, you have in essence demonstrated that you have given yourself to me. I now own you! You understand your submissive nature and need for control and guidance. I accept the position of mentor that you have so obviously offered me. As such, it is then necessary for me to set certain rules and limitations; for discipline, without first defining the boundaries, is cruel. It is not my intent to be cruel. The first rule then is that you are no longer allowed to have an orgasm without obtaining my consent... and tonight, I do not give it. If you disobey me, I will consider it as a request for discipline. Knowing that you long to be obedient, you would then welcome any punishment that I deemed necessary. Your punishment will be a good ass fucking", he stated firmly. He then began to stimulate her clit once again. Only this time he was also kissing her neck and shoulders with his sensual lips. She pleaded with him to stop, straining to block the pleasure that was cursing through her veins. Waves of passion and lust rushed through her as she tried desperately to focus her attention elsewhere.

Determine to have his way, he let his free hand wander down body and slid one of his fingers deep inside of her. Her body rose as far as the leather straps would allow. His fingers worked her from within as she wiggled and squirmed in defiance. Her flesh began to surrender to his control and she began to jerk and moan forcefully, as wave after wave of massive orgasm over took her. He had won!

Before her orgasm had shown any sign of subsiding, he removed his fingers, grabbed her by the hips, raised her legs as far as the bonds would allow and drove his erect penis deep inside her hot wet vaginal walls. A few deep strokes gave him the lubrication that he needed, so he pulled out and drove his cock mercilessly up her submissive ass. He heard her call out in pain, but did not care. He was caught up in his own selfish lust. Moving slow at first, the desire began to overwhelm him. He drove into her deeper and harder with each stroke. He enjoyed this 'new found' power and wanted to control her totally. A few strokes more and the hot rush of semen over came him. He thrust his throbbing cock into her until his balls slapped hard against the soft flesh of her ass. She cried out in a mixture of pain and unbridled lust. She felt his cock jerk and the semen gush within her as his hands dug into her flesh. And now it was 'He' who stood frozen, near collapse. He clung to her for support, her wrists straining at the leather straps under his weight of his body.

Ten or fifteen minutes passed before he pulled out. His pants still hung around his ankles making it difficult to walk. He kicked them off and headed to the waters' edge. She watched him wash off as the semen trailed from within her, running down her thighs. He returned to her and surveyed her for a long time without speaking. He raised his hands to her breasts and rolled her hypersensitive nipples between his fingers. They rose and hardened with his touch. She said nothing.

"You women think that you are in control of yourselves." he started saying. "You do not know how wrong you are. You deny your inner need for direction" he went on. He began to rub her clit once again and she lurched forward. "See how your body responds to my touch" he remarked. "You did not want to cum, but you did anyway. You could not use your feeble mind to prevent what I, and your own body wanted. You are here to serve my every sexual whim. Your body knows and responds to that... why don't you?" he added. "Your mind may think differently, but your mind was not in control was it?" "You secretly long for our dominance; my dominance! You will come to realize this with my guidance" he smiled.

He dressed himself without saying another word. Then he undid the straps from around her wrists and walked off towards her clothes. "You won't be needing these anymore," he instructed her as he bent down and took her bra and panties. "Do hang on to the straps for me won't you?" he smiled. Then he walked away and left her there.

She watched him walk away in disbelief. She undid the rest of her bonds and staggered toward her clothes. She should have gone to the water to clean off but she just wanted to get the Hell out of there fast. Her jeans clung to the sticky aftermath of his domination over her and the coarse seam rubbed uncomfortably against her still swollen clit. She trudged to her car and drove home, reliving the past events in her mind over and over. Once back in the safety of her home, she washed him from her body and crawled under the welcoming sheets of her bed. But she did not sleep!

To Be Continued...

The Awakening Ch. 1



"There is a meeting today in the evening, Reshma, in DeeCee Manor. I would like you to take the assignment and come with me. Dr. Roshan and his wife will be waiting for us in the restaurant."

I nodded my accent and sighed. Anthony was a man and the GM of the software concern I was working as a consultant. He would naturally assume that it will be alright for a junior employee to accompany him in the evening to a hotel, but Mrs.Bhargavi Sudarshan, my darling mother, will shoot me right in the heart if I ever inform her that I'm going to a meeting in a hotel with an unmarried man at 7 in the evening. Bracing myself, I picked up the phone and informed my mom that I will be going to Sangeetha's place after office to discuss about a site and come home around 9 pm. Yet another lie, I realized, but there was no other way.

Being a thin, average looking female, I never had any admirers or intimate boyfriends, more so because south Indian girls are brought up to be an innocent virgin till her parents select a suitable groom for her and any affairs before marriage usually will brand her as a slut. I myself had absolutely no intentions of casual sex or the idea of experiment-till-the-right-find because I planned to marry the perfect man and live my whole life with him and him only. Brought up as a traditional Hindu-turned-rebellious modernist, I can't quite shrug off my cultural ethics and codes. I was traditional enough to wait for my man (actually, I am saving myself for him, to quote the olden days) but I was the millennium woman who will only marry for love (much to the rage and sorrow of my parents).

India, in the 21st century, is the most confusing of its moods. It was advancing not only on its technological front, but in social and cultural too. Its children were finally waking up, practically in all aspects from their ambitions to sex. For a country who had coughed up a ruby called the Kamasutra thousands of years ago, people here rarely said the word more than a few times in their entire lives. 

But the older generations are not one to give up so soon. There were just compromises. A teenager might be allowed to go abroad for his higher studies, but it is entirely his responsibility to support his parents till they die. If it is a girl, she is married off once she finishes her studies. In most cases, she would leave the country after getting engaged, possibly to an Indian settle abroad, or wherever she is going. Even 15 years ago, women were not allowed to go to jobs or stay out after 6 in the evening. And they were married once they turned 18 or at the most, 21. Or else, here market value would come down, and for a girl above 23 or 24 yrs of age will get offers only frm 30+ brooms who would demand the earth as a dowry. 

Only in the recent years, where the IT boom changed the middle class income to an unbelievable rise, people started to realize that they couldn't forever lock us women inside. I mean, two salaries are better than once, right? Men here were jerks enough to restrict their wives, but daughters...were another matter. Provided that she leaves in a decent attire to a reputed job and comes back early, the masters of the family magnanimously agreed to let them out of their immediate sight.

My parents had made the great mistake of encouraging me too much to go to libraries and bookshops. As a result of this, I was now a romantic dreamer who was waiting for a dashing man to come and lay down his life for her. I hate the whole idea of arranged marriages and long for a man who would love me for what I am and marry me for love. But time was running out, since a girl is, in these times, married off when she reaches 23 or 25, and I will 23 next week. 

And I was still looking for the right person to come along. Contrary to popular fairy tales, the guys out here turned out to be either jerks ("I want you, but not as my wife/lover/gf, a tumble in the hay is fine by me") or wimps ("im not sure we will get along well... my parents would like somebody of my own caste") or plain bores. I let out another sigh and this time it did not escape Anthony's attention.

"Is there any problem?"

"Uh, no, sir, I was just...

"It's ok. Did you finish the report?"

I nodded and switched on the printer to take a fresh copy. I did not know why, but conversing with Anthony always turned me into a blubbering fool. I usually envision my Prince Charming as a slight-bodied, innocent faced man. Someone like Michael Biehn (actually, I was 10 when I saw the TERMINATOR, And I was all set to marry him once I turned 18, then I read that he had three sons, for god's sake, and cried for a whole week)... some one soft and caring who would not crush my body with a swat of his arm and would die to save me. So it was most surprising, for myself that is, that I should feel attracted to some one exact opposite my dream lover.

Anthony was not gorgeous or even striking, but he was intelligent with a capital I. And so reserved. Deep inside, I knew I was deliberately trying to act helpless and confused around him to get his attention. That usually helps. If you play strong and throw your weight around these kinds of people, they will clam up before you say shoot. Be a nervous, unsure loser in front of them, and they will finally come to the conclusion that you need their help and open the lock in their mouth. Quiet and brainy guys attract me so much; I used to wonder whether I have a kink out of teasing them out of their inhibition. Maybe it gave me a sense of power to change a man's natural character all by myself.

I dislike tall men because they, at least in my part of the world, generally are cocky and arrogant, with no respect for those who are shorter than them. Though I was taller than the average Indian woman, about 5'6", I felt shaky every time Anthony stood next to me. He was around 6'4" and built like a tree trunk. But there was no harshness or bulky strength visible. It was a fine medley of supple muscles and mellow softness. And I positively hated mustaches. He had such a thick upper that only his bottom lip was visible. It was like he had a black caterpillar below his nose, perfectly complemented by bushy, menacing brows. How come such an unlikely character can attract me so much?

The end of the sheet I had fixed inside the printer had a slight tear and naturally, it tore as the printer head reached it. I was jolted out of my musings and looked in to Anthony's unsmiling face. He was looking slightly irritated and said, "is it all ready? We have to leave in 10 minutes. Ask Ramlal to take the car out. I have to make a call. If you can wait near the café, I will pick you up".

I forgot about the printout and gazed at him stupidly. We? I can't go with him, alone in his car! In India if you go in your boss' car after 6pm, it means only one thing and that thing it was not. Lord help me if Sangeetha, Vikas or any of the other employees see that...they will rag me till I bleed through my eyes. "Sir, I have my Honda. I can come in it." 

"But, what is the point? I will drop you home. It will probably be late once the meeting gets over and I don't want you to drive alone in ____Colony". True, no good woman will walk alone after 9 in the place where I live. It was the breeding place of rowdy hoodlums and the local mafia. My mother had begged my father not to buy a plot in this area to live but as usual he did not allow a mere female to interfere with his decisions.

Vexed, I chewed my upper lip and forgot to remove the torn sheet from the printer and it started to make a funny humming noise. Anthony leaned over and took the sheet, brushing the side of my left breast in the process. I almost jumped 2 feet back. Anthony himself was flustered and faced me. He mumbled a sorry, but to my greatest astonishment, did not leave the place. He was actually looking at my stunned form in an intense, harsh manner.

I was stupefied. I had been in this situation before but usually, the guy falls over his face in making a rocket-speed apology and disappear, or if he is a jerk who did it deliberately, I freeze him off with a Siberian look or at the very worst, have a showdown with him. But this one here was attacking me with a smoldering look and I was simply gawking at him!

We stayed like that for a few breathless seconds and I was the first one to turn and pick up my folder. I risked a peek at Anthony and flushed to the roots of my hair on seeing him still staring at my back. What's got into him? I wondered. Then he abruptly turned and left the room. 

I mechanically took another copy of the report and waited for him in the ground floor. My throat felt as if it was sunbathing in the Kalahari. I smiled at the waitress in the café and picked up a Diet Coke. I was still in the dark about what went up there. For a minute, Anthony looked as if he would like to push me on the floor and trample me flat. I was beginning to sweat a little. Maybe he knew somehow about my attraction for him? Drat that dumbo Sangeetha, she must have sung it to Vikas (her husband) and maybe he had told Anthony...

I remembered Sangeetha saying that Anthony was a loner and had very few friends. May be he thinks that im just a horny broad interested in making out with a rich guy... he sure knows that im a from a middle class family... and he must have had ideas about utilizing what is offered readily...oh, I was going seriously crazy. Some where in the corner of my mind I realized that I was over-reacting, but I could not stop my vivid imagination.

"Can we leave now?"

I whipped my head up to see Anthony's tensed face and stood up with out answering. We walked in silence to the parking lot. I climbed in and he eased the vehicle out of the street. We drove in silence for next twenty minutes. I just looked up the files for the discussion and he concentrated on driving. Slowly the traffic thinned and the refreshing smell of salty air touched my face. DeeCee manor was a seaside resort, quite far away from the office. The beach loomed before us and the calm, blue evening soothed my nerves a bit. 

Suddenly the car turned into a smaller lane in the left and stopped. I looked up. We had stopped in a deserted stretch of road, with the blue shore bang opposite to me. Anthony was staring straight ahead, his arms tightly grasping the steering wheel. "I did not do it on purpose"

I felt a little angered. He did not have to take the topic again! It could have remained unsaid, and both of us would have let it fade from our memories. I replied a bit tightly; "No problem. I did not think so"

He finally turned at me. For the first time since I joined his firm 2 months ago, he was directly looking at my eyes and talking. His hands clenched and he ground out in a low voice, "you don't have to pretend. I know you hated me touching. I am apologizing because of that"

God, this is embarrassing, I thought. "I think there is no...

"Yes, there is", he burst out suddenly. "I know I repel you. Every time I come near you run a mile. You cringe, Reshma. You think I can't notice that?"

"NO!!" I was conscious of a vague feeling that this was a dream, I must have fell asleep after I had that Coke...me and him could not possibly be having a conversation like this. "What are you talking about, Anthony?" Unknowingly, I used his Christian name for the first time. In India, employers had all the right to call their juniors anything, but the employees usually called them sir or ma'am. "Nothing like that..."

He again faced away from me and gazed out of the window. I saw the bitter shaking of his head. Then he suddenly asked, "if you really mean that, will you touch me now?'

I felt like I just got a smack on my solar plexus by Tyson. I stared at him, with my mouth hanging open more than a little wide. Now I became surer that I was dreaming. Anthony, member of the rich and the elite, was asking me to touch him? Did he dare think that I would oblige him? Was I a slut to touch a man, a stranger, who was not even my lover?

All of a sudden I felt very tired. Who I was I trying to fool here? Whatever I say, what ever I do, there is only one thing which is gonna happen. Either I will remain a spinster or forced to marry a stranger (yes, approved by my parents and possibly a rich fellow), but stranger he will be. This society will never allow me to remain unmarried because for one thing, it is unheard of and another, the other moms will get frightened that I will become a sort of example or an idol for their girls and they will try their level best to pack me off. All my dreams and visions of a loving man is pure bullshit. Four years from now, I will surely be hassling a busy husband who has no time for me, indifferents who would harp about me to their neighbors and a bawling baby which will surely make me give up my job. I didn't want to wait anymore; I didn't want to remain chaste and pure for that mythical figure which does not exist anywhere in the near future.

Suddenly something in me broke free. All the dreams I had in my teens, and all the vanishing hopes I am having now, flashed like a fast forward scene before my mind's eye. My throat ached at the thought of a hurting man reaching towards me. Normally, I would have thought that he was just putting on an act to get in to my knickers, but the expression in his face was not lustful or even desirable. It was plain hunger and need, for which I had an answer, because I had also experienced those, but only I curbed it constantly in my search for the perfect man, so much so that, I no longer felt like a healthy female.

He did not love me or even wanted me, but his hungry senses wanted something immediately. So did mine. There was something hurting inside him, I did not even know what it was, but I was seized by the normal human desire to ease away a person's sorrow. I was so damned tired and frustrated and disappointed of waiting forever. I wanted a hard and fast loving, of my mind, my body, of my whole sorry self. Every atom of my body was in a supreme agitation. For the first time in my life, I threw all my beliefs in the wind and silently, without taking of my eyes on him, I placed a shaking hand on his fingers.

He looked at me disbelievingly. Probably he had thought that I would scream RAPE, HELPPP MEEE or at least slap him hard. Then he went very quiet, his eyes focused on my fingers. I nearly came undone at the intensity of feelings of his face, on looking at the path my hand was traveling. I was now restless. I felt unstoppable. I picked up his index finger and slowly circled it with mine. I stroked all his fingers and squeezed his palm. Then I climbed a bit higher to his wrist and measured his pulse. It was racing. I slowly took my fingers up his arm. Through his shirt I felt the muscles going up and down on contacting my fingers. Through dazed eyes, I saw my own hand travel up his neck, chin and finally his lips. I suddenly realized that I always wanted to find out where exactly his upper lip was. I moved closer to Anthony and leaned over his face. His eyes were looking at my face with such an intense fervor that I felt breathless. My whole body went hot and cold alternatively. Without planning, I raised my head to his lower head and whispered, " I always wanted to touch your upper lip" and lifter his moustache hair up and stroked his upper lip. 

Without a word, Anthony Picked me like a leaf and placed me on his lap, facing him. I breathed in sharply. This was the first time a guy touched me and it was exactly like I had read in Anne Mather books. Hot. Exciting. Tingly. My head almost hit the upholstery but the Qualis was a mammoth of a car. I was sitting on him fully, my legs hanging on each side, and my bottom sitting flat on his crotch. And then I realized it. There was a HUGE bulge over which I was sitting. I went pale and then hot. All my nightmares about THE THING and the whispered girls talk about how it would tear you apart returned. Not to mention the one dirty porno flick I saw with Sangeetha before her wedding night and puked on her toilet. I could not meet him in the eye and all my newfound confidence deserted me. I stared at him stupidly, wondering whether I am still dreaming, hoping it was all a dream.

Anthony must have realized my inner turmoil, because he shifted his position a bit, so that the area under me became more or less a flat one. He then bent forward and buried his face into my neck. I felt dizzy. His moustache was tickling me, but not resulting in the usual squirming. I rather felt like returning his nuzzles and boldly caught his hair. I felt his teeth sinking into the tender skin on my nape but strangely it did not hurt. I almost welcomed the sensation in an otherwise impossible situation.

Desperate to change my numbed status, I slid my hand into his straight locks. Anthony had such straight silky hair till his nape and I felt a wild urge to yank it hard. I felt his belt buckle digging into my belly, and lowered my arms to push it away. Anthony used this moment to put his arms around me and bite my shoulder more hardly. I could feel the hardness of his arms through the silk shirt I was wearing. Thank god, I didn't wear my sari today, I thought in a daze. My trousers were creased now by all the climbing on hi and I dimly thought what I would explain to my mom about it.

As he crushed my body into a massive hug, I once again felt his erection and I felt his body shudder at our contact with one another. My whole body hurt by his rock-hard embrace, but not in an unpleasant way. Not at all. "aaa...aahh" I moaned, not without some pain, but I did not complain too much and found myself murmuring " hold me tighter, more, still more...yesss, like that...mmmmm". By this time, I felt like my bones were crumbling into chips and finally unable to bear the pain, I freed my hand out of his iron lock and put my arms around him, hugging him like how he did.

I finally understood why woman tolerated so much from men. So this was why spinsters and unmarried woman are so bitter and empty. This was why even a successful, intelligent female falls for a deep shit and lives with him for the rest of her life. Like Sangeetha. Like my mother. Because of this mind and body which swoons in ecstasy at the solid loving touch of a male, and because of the fact that once you taste this forbidden pleasure, you are forever enslaved. Not only for physical pleasure, but also for the fulfillment and warmth another soul imparts from his core to yours.

I knew at that moment that I would be Anthony's girl forever. Even if I never see him again, he will always be in my mind, in a deep corner, forever reminding of my first taste of life. Whomever I marry or sleep with, I will recollect his ravaged face and this absolute pleasure on being part of another life's essence. I suddenly felt like crying because I finally understood that I had crossed the point of no return. There was no way to go back being the waiting angel now. Yes I will be waiting still, but this will be a different kind of wait, one that has the power to make or break me...

To be continued...



The Awakening Ch. 1



She woke from a fitful sleep, at first not knowing what had caused the noise. Slipping silently out of bed, leaving the lights out, she walked to the balcony of the bedroom. Pulling apart the drapes, she stepped into the darkness, feeling the cool night air on her bare skin. Looking down into the neighbor's yard, she smiled. Now she knew what had awaked her. Her new neighbors were out in their hot tub, thinking that no one could see them, unaware that her bedroom over-looked the backyard. That was one of the reasons that Faith loved living in the country, no one to bother you if you wanted to be naked.

Standing in the moonlight, Faith felt the first stirrings of excitement as she watched Jim and Lisa soaking in the spa. She had been outside that morning, doing some of the weeding in her garden, wanting to do it early so that she would have the rest of the day free. As she lived at the end of the cul-de-sac, she had dressed in what was for her normal attire, very short blue jean shorts that showed off her firm behind, and a red silk scarf wrapped around her generous breasts and tied at the neck. She dressed that way because, for one she had a drop-dead gorgeous body that drove men wild with desire, as well as a few women. For another reason, each home sat on five or more acres of land, giving each homeowner a sense of freedom in the large city. She loved her house, and felt safe in the gated community.

As she worked in the garden, she watched the moving van pull up to the house right next to her own, and following that a brand new Jaguar convertible. Faith watched as the passenger door opened and out stepped one of the most striking women that she had ever seen. The woman had long fire red hair, as well as a figure that stunned Faith as she watched. As Faith looked at the vision standing there, the woman turned and looked her in the eyes, catching Faith staring at her, mouth agape. Smiling, the woman nodded as if they were old friends and lovers, the green of her eyes touching something deep inside of Faith. Standing up, and blushing at being caught watching the woman, Faith decided to make the best of it and introduce herself.

Walking over to the car, Faith got a chance to observe the woman more closely, seeing the way she dressed and drooling inside. The woman was wearing hip-hugging jeans that clung to her like a second skin and a white loose weave cotton blouse tied up under her breasts, showing off a taunt belly. It was obvious that she did not bother with underwear, making Faith smile, as she too hated the confinement of them. The sandals had to be hand made in Italy, Faith decided and everything about her screamed out wealth. It took one to know one, she decided as she neared the car. Holding out her hand, Faith introduced herself. The woman seemed to hold her hand longer then needed, as it to send a silent message to Faith. 

Although Faith had never felt attracted to women before, she could feel herself getting wet at the touch of the woman. "Hi," she said, "I'm Faith McDowell, your next door neighbor." Still holding Faith's hand, the woman returned the smile, and introduced herself. "Hi," she told her, "I am Lisa Adams, and this is my husband Tim." For the first time Faith saw the driver of the Jaguar. His very looks turned her into mush, and when they shook hands with him, Faith could feel the tremors of an orgasm hitting her like a bolt of lightening. Blushing furiously, she did her best to hide the effects these two were having on her. She made the two of them promise to come over for dinner, after the movers had gone, and with a smile, Lisa told her that they would be delighted.

Faith had no idea why she was feeling the way she was. After all, even though she was single again, it was not as if she was doing without sex, but something was different, as she had never felt the raw sexuality of another woman like this before. Faith walked into her bedroom, stripping out of her clothes on the way to the shower, needing one after the short encounter. As the water beat down on her, the possibilities filled her mind and she soon found herself caressing her body. The soft lather felt as good as anything she had ever felt before, she slowly ran her hands over the hard flesh of her nipples, palms moving in slow circles as she thought about Lisa. The feelings were new to her, not that other women had not expressed an interest in her. She had just never thought about it before today when she shook Lisa's hand.

Faith allowed her hands to caress her body, her long slender fingers moving from her hard nipples towards her throbbing clit. Between the warmth of the water, the soft lather of the soap and her fingers touching her body, Faith soon found herself cumming, the intensity of it catching her by surprise. Thankfully, there was a seat built into the shower, otherwise she knew that her legs would not have held her up. Slowly Faith recovered, but vowed to discover if she was correct about the two new neighbors. She so wanted to be right. Forcing herself to shut off the water, Faith stepped out of the shower and grabbed a thick towel to pat her flushed body dry. Finishing her bath, Faith walked naked into her bedroom. Thinking about the evening to come, she pulled out a pair of skintight black cotton pants, so tight you could see she wore no underwear under them. She picked out a low-scooped neck gold and black silk top, and pulled it over her head. The feel of the material brushing against her nipples as she moved around was a constant reminder of her arousal and needs.

She spent the early afternoon preparing dinner for Lisa and Tim, wanting it to be just right. Just as the meal was finished, the doorbell rang. Nervously, she walked across the spotless living room and opened the door. It was Lisa, who was carrying a bottle of wine, but no Tim. Seeing the puzzled look on Faith's face, Lisa laughed and told her that Tim sent his apologize but his office had called and needed him to come into work. Blushing furiously at the thoughts that popped into her mind, Faith took her hand and lead Lisa into the house. She could feel the pressure of her warm hand in hers as the two of them walked towards the kitchen. Lisa was wearing the opposite of Faith, white instead of black, but very expensive as well. Somehow, Faith felt like she was on a first date, as she chatted on and on, knowing she was sounding like an idiot, but unable to help herself. Seeing how nervous she was, Lisa reached across the table and took her hand. Faith found herself growing wet just from the touch of this woman's hand, not believing what she was feeling, wondering if it was just a dream or real. Faith saw the warmth in Lisa's eyes and relaxed as the two women enjoyed themselves over dinner and several glasses of wine. The sun was just starting its decent as Faith once more filled their glasses, and offered to show Lisa what she had done with the huge backyard. Opening the patio doors and stepping outdoors, Faith heard Lisa's gasp of surprise. It was like stepping out into a tropical paradise, with a pool nestled among the plants, bushes and trees. A free-flowing waterfall cascaded into the water, allowing one to shower, surrounded by complete privacy. Mesmerized by the setting, Lisa could only dream about having such a back yard. Enjoying the look in her eyes, Faith told her that she and Tim could use her pool anytime.

"Well, I don't know about Tim," Lisa said with a smile, "but after today, I could sure use a swim." Without another word, she pulled her top off, showing off her beautiful breasts and Faith could not see a tan line as she watched her neighbor. Sliding out of her white pants, Lisa gave her a look that spoke volumes and mesmerized, Faith matched her new neighbor's movements until the two of them stood naked in the setting sun. Grabbing Faith's hand, Lisa ran to the pool and jumped in. Laughing as they surfaced the two women found them standing face-to-face. Lisa reached out and pulled Faith closer, kissing her tender lips, something she had been dying to do ever since she had seen her neighbor. To her surprise, Faith found the kiss exciting, and if it had not been for the water, she knew that the wetness of her pussy would have soaked her clothes. 

Soon Faith found herself responding to the kisses and caresses and returning them with equal, growing passion. This was Faith's first time with a woman, and she found herself enjoying every moment of it. There was just something about the way that Lisa was kissing her. Maybe it was true what they say about how a woman knows how to kiss another, because that is the way she wanted kisses to be. Faith, caught up in the moment, so much so that she barely felt Lisa's hands moving over her body, until she felt her hands moving between her trembling legs. Faith had played with herself plenty, and even shaved her pussy bare, enjoying the feel under her fingers. This was something else, even more exciting, knowing that it was Lisa's hand this time, fingers sliding over her swollen, excited clit. Faith gave into the hidden moans and released them as she felt what magic Lisa was doing to her.

Reluctantly breaking the kiss, Faith whispered to Lisa, telling her how good it felt to her, begging her not to stop. Holding her closely, Faith could not see the smile on Lisa's face. Tim had been so right, and knowing him, he was in their new bedroom watching them right now. Lisa had always been into women as well as men, and had been honest with Tim right from the start of their relationship. Tim had noticed the effect that she had on Faith, and suggested that just she go to dinner without him. He had asked Lisa to see if what he had felt was real or not. Lisa had noticed Faith's reaction as well. Never in all of her experiences had she felt such a strong bond and was eager to find out more about their beautiful neighbor. Most of the time she willingly shared her female friends with her husband, but not all of them were willing, so Lisa was going to take this one slowly. As she left their house, she warned Tim to save her some of his cum for her for when she returned.

Taking Faith's hand in her own, Lisa led her to the shallow end of the pool, sitting her down so that she could continue making love to her. Kneeling between Faith's wide spread legs, Lisa knelt before her, and lowered her head, keeping her eyes locked on Faith the entire time. At first, she just blew warm air across her wide-open swollen pussy, seeing the look on Faith's face. She was experienced enough to enjoy the look of ecstasy washing over her, and as she lowered her mouth even further, felt Faith's body tremble in anticipation. Slowly, she sucked the clit into her mouth, moving her tongue softly around the entire clit, hearing Faith moaning as it grew louder as she slowly ravished her. The feelings running through Faith were like nothing she had ever known before. Before she knew it, Faith found herself cumming, a hard and fast release that filled Lisa's mouth as she drank in as much as possible

"Thank you, thank you..." was all Faith could get out as she slowly recovered from that massive orgasm. Lisa brought her face up next to her so that Faith could see that she had not been able to swallow all of her juices. She was thrilled as Lisa brought her sweet lips back to her own, allowing Faith to taste her own cum for the first time from a woman's mouth. She hugged Lisa tightly, and hungrily returned the kiss. She pulled Lisa out of the warm water and sat her close as they snuggled tightly. "God," she told the woman, "I hope that Tim doesn't mind sharing you." Arms around each other, Lisa told her that she would have to ask him herself. Seeing the puzzled look on Faith's face, Lisa pointed over to their new home. Faith looked over and saw that Tim, rather then being at work was standing on the balcony, naked except for the binoculars around his neck. The light was such, that Faith could see his very hard cock waving in the breeze. Laughing in the afterglow of her orgasm, Faith waved at him, motioning that he was to come over...She knew that her life would not be lonely any longer. 

(I would like to thank all of the people who responded with feedback on my first story, "She Greets Me." I hope you enjoy this story, and by your votes, will let me know that you want more.)



The Awakening Ch. 11-20



Thank you all for the wonderful reviews in the edited entry of the first 10 chapters of this story. I read all your comments and felt a little confused with some of them.

In my mind, the fact that in the first delivery the names of each character are put in front of their dialogues, like it or not, did not felt like such a strong reason for either love or hate the story. So after some thought, I decided to not consider those as critics, it is just as a way of preference.

That being said, I went thru the next 10 chapters and modified the dialogue style, so now is up to you to tell me which one is more comfortable for you to read in your comments bellow. I take everything you give me as a constructive criticism!

Of course, writing in this new way takes me longer so I am sorry I took long to bring you this. The next 10 chapters (from 21 to 30) are already finished, but in the old style, so it would depend on your opinions for either have the next part reviewed before posting (which makes me take longer) or not.

Enjoy!

*****

Chapter 11

--

It was almost 4 in the morning, but Magna was wearing a business suit and was more awake than anyone else. Elaine walked into the living room first, followed by Caliope and Amra holding hands. Pronab left to his apartment a few floors below.

"There is a reason why I live in a tall building, Caliope... I don't like creatures crawling on my window... Magna, is everything ready?"

"Yes Madame, the guest's room is ready... how long will Miss Woodward stay?"

"Indefinitely" said Amra without even looking at her.

Magna was visibly not happy, but she nodded and picked up Elaine's bag, then offered to lead Caliope to her room. Amra just shook his head and motioned to Magma.

"Thank you for your kindness but I will take care of her now Mag."

"I told you not to call me like that..."

"And I told you both to stop acting like children... Magna, thank you, let's get things ready to go to work earlier today, I don't feel like resting, and we better take care of business" Elaine's voice raised above theirs.

"Yes Madame, I will have everything ready for you. Coffee?"

"Yes please."

As Magna disappeared into the next room, Caliope turned to Elaine and asked nervously:

"Does Magna know who you all are?"

"She does, she is very valuable to me Caliope dear, she is a fallen Angel, bound to my service, and has been with me over 50 years..."

"...and that is why she doesn't like Amra?"

"She doesn't like him much, it's true, and I am sorry, but they need to stay far from each other in order to be in peace, Amrafel please, don't provoke her like that."

"I do not care... much... just keep her far from me..."

"Funny... I hired Caliope for that..." finished Elaine with a chuckle.

Caliope sighed and nodded, she got why Magna was important to her. The reason why Magna respected Elaine so much and not Amra was still unknown for her but they worked well together. Amra lifted her chin to make her look at him, she smiled shyly and quickly relaxed. The tall building, surrounded by steel and glass, made her feel safer. Being with her Angel made her feel she had nothing to fear.

Amra took her to the guest's room; soft lights made her feel calm. Caliope put her bag on top of one of the chairs and sat on the edge of the bed. Amra kneeled next to her and rubbed her hands with his.

"Don't worry about anything, we will take this slowly... now rest some, I already have stolen too many hours of your precious sleep..."

"I am supposed to come to work in a few hours..."

"There is no need, I won't be too far, just rest, I will see you when you wake up..."

Caliope was in no position to argue, she was visibly tired, and the bed was so comfortable it drew her to rest. Amra kissed the top of her head and walked out, closing the door behind him. She glimpsed around the room then crawled to the center of the bed, nodding off.

Her dreams were chaotic with wars, darkness, and crawling creatures searching for her. When she opened her eyes she was sweating and agitated, she sat on her bed, gasping and regaining control.

"I should have prevented that, I am sorry..."

Caliope searched around the room and found Elaine sitting in a corner. She was looking at her with sadness in her eyes.

"I am sorry, I did not meant to scare you... I promised Amra I would be taking care of you..."

"Did I slept much?"

"It is 7pm, I would say you slept quite a bit..." she nodded then smiled "nothing to worry, being with Amra is not easy, but you are adjusting quite well, and he is controlling himself amazingly..."

"For a moment I thought... you were going to try to tell me to stay away from him..."

"Oh no! Of course not Caliope... I only want the best for him and you... love for us is not a choice, when it happens, it happens only that time... I would never take away that from him, or you..."

"Thank you, it is nice to know that... and you answering all my questions, you have been too kind to me..." finally she smiled at her, feeling more relaxed.

"I enjoy my life in this Earth so much, this new situation has Us all uncomfortable..."

"...is Amra... ok?"

"Since he got here he has been dormant... he was filled with apathy to the situation itself, it is not easy to draw the attention of an Ancient one, they think different, they act different from the rest of Us, including the Archangels... We are all more used to dealing with humans, while they aren't, they are the last resource... And since he met you, well, he has been changing a lot."

"How did he changed?"

"The first day you met him, he came to my study and asked me how were the investigations going, he never did that before, he was always in his room, meditating... we rarely spoke much unless I needed to ask permissions to do something radical... He is the authority here now... You woke up his interest and I did not thought it well then, but I knew it was something in you... he never was interested in controlling how his presence affects others around him, the time standing still or moving too fast, that is all natural for him, and it took me a while to understand what was happening to me when I was around him... Suddenly he was out of his room during night, near me and Magna, watching Us, making Us quite nervous actually" she admitted chuckling "and what he was really doing was learning his effect on Us and controlling it..."

"...and he did all that for me?" Caliope was wrapping herself up in her real place now as being Amra's love interest.

"Yes, he was not interested in doing much until he met you, and I don't think he knew well he caused a certain effect on people around him... you have to understand, he has been here for over 20 years, and he never did anything... I tried to take him out, show him the earth and learn to love it as we love it... trust me, I was quite excited after he started to show interest..."

Caliope was now smiling and blushing "I feel flattered and overwhelmed... I don't know how but I felt drawn to him since I met him..."

Elaine nodded "and he felt drawn to you as well, he has heard about 'love' but never felt it, of course, he was never down to any Earth long enough... if something happened that required him to be there, only his presence was enough for many things to be solved... but things are not the same now, whatever the dark Angels had made to erase any trace of our Archangel is giving them enough courage to continue with their plans... Amra is now actually worried, because he has you here now, and he can't afford to lose this battle..."

"How can I help? I wish I could in some way..."

"You are helping by just being with him, and that is something you both want anyway... You are the one that gave him a reason to want things done, to move, search, find... he is not down here to just find out what has happened and prevent something bad is set loose, he is now here to make sure that nothing happens because if it does, he can lose you..."

"I feel so small in all of this... situation..."

"Don't you understand how important is your role? You are the force that drives him... without you who knows how long I would have to be waiting for him to get involved, and who knows how much I would have to be fighting to know what is going on really... always without his real interest..."

Caliope smiled "and that is exactly the overwhelming part... but I understand... and I take this serious too... trust me... I might not be fully aware of the magnitude of things but I get an idea and I want to help any way I can..."

"And you can count on me for anything you need..."

"I wanted to ask you, why is that you put me dealing with certain tasks that I thought you would deal more personally? Choosing charity actions seemed very unlike to what an assistant would be doing..."

"Because I noticed you have a fresh mind and the way you think things is very reasonable... it also makes my job easier, as I deal with Magna the other things, our researches around the earth, the reports of other Angels, plans, the generals who want to know what Amra thinks and what he wants Us to do... they did not know he was not doing much... I am happy he is taking this more serious... Any other question before we get some dinner?" she finished with a grin.

"Just one more thing... at home, he called me a name... is the first time I heard that word... He called me 'my Asteria'... I felt that was different... special... but I never heard of it before..."

Elaine smiled and nodded slowly, getting up from her chair and walking close to Caliope, without taking her eyes from her "Asteria is the name used in ancient times to call a special person fallen from the skies, an important creature that would only make greatness by inspiring... you are his inspiration... that is so adorable!"

Caliope was now blushing "thank you..."

"Now take a shower, and we will wait for you at the dinner table... no more salads for you both, there are other delights to taste in this world!"

Caliope chuckled and nodded as Elaine leaned to kiss the top of her head and leave. She got up and went to the bathroom with new found confidence in herself, she was important to Amra and it was what she needed to hear. The warm water warmed her quickly, different from her own shower at home. She filled the hot tub and dropped some oil essences in the water. She was aware she needed to hurry but it felt so tempting she had to enjoy it some. Her body was relaxing and filled with perfume by the time she got out of the tub. After getting dressed she walked out of the room and into the kitchen. Magna was cooking something delicious by the smell of it, Elaine was sitting on the chair talking to her.

"If we let the General do what he wants, we won't be able to control him later..."

"And they won't be happy either, they might take some revenge, it won't be easy to hide the offensive in a small city..."

Magna turned her head and nodded at Caliope as she walked inside the room. Elaine turned her head and smiled warmly, pointing a chair at her side. Caliope silently took the place hoping to not interrupt. Her stomach growled and she noticed she was hungry. 

"I think we should put together a meeting, it is about time they all face each other and it will silence some rumors... let's say, in a month... we need to start moving and showing a more active front."

"If you think he will be ready, I will set a meeting, any place in particular you like?"

"I prefer we communicate the place last, just make sure they all know it will take them 1 day to get there, we will share the location in due time..."

"Will he be ready?"

"He is going to be ready... I have an idea... Caliope, would you like to do some traveling?"

"Traveling? Where? For what?"

Amra and Pronab walked into the room as Caliope finished her question. Amra smiled as he walked towards her and kissed her forehead, holding his arms around her from behind. She looked up at him and rested her head on his stomach.

"Traveling plans?" he finally spoke.

"We need to start making some actions, after the last attempt on their side, there has been rumors spreading and we need to show a united front."

"Are the generals scared?" Pronab said not putting much interest into the implications.

"They are nervous, and they want action... several of them have been captured or being surprised by some of the dark Angels attacking or trying something on them... I think we need to silence one of the strongest rumors, you Amrafel..."

Amra chuckled "I am a rumor?"

"Since the announcement of your arrival they have only heard about you, but never seen you, nor heard of any action or order from you... I think you need to meet some of them..."

"...and your idea is?"

"We will be gathering some more information on the latest attacks, Magna will summon all of them for a meeting in a month... you can go visit a few of them and make it official, it will help a lot to give them some peace of mind, and the dark ones will start to back off... I thought it would be a nice idea if you and Caliope travel to meet them... Pronab could go with you... either him or Magna" she said with a grin.

Amra frowned and shook his head and Magna dropped her wooden spoon. They both knew Elaine was joking but it was nothing funny for them. As Amra was still standing behind Caliope and holding her from her shoulders, he thought about it for some time, then looked down at her.

"Would you mind coming with me?"

"I would really love that..."

It was true, the only thing that tied her to the city was her job, and her job had just changed dramatically since the last day's events.

Amra nodded and smiled "then it is done, we will go meet the generals..." and then he smirked looking at Elaine "you have been wanting this since the day I arrived..."

Elaine chuckled and invited all to join the table for the meal. Before eating, they all held silence shortly, Caliope understood it was their way of saying thank you, a prayer perhaps. The dinner went quiet, a few jokes here and there, Amra smiled every time he could to Caliope, and even Pronab was more cheerful.

The next couple of days Magna was on the phone making calls and talking in different languages. Occasionally, Elaine would take the phone and proclaim that Magna was telling the truth. As Caliope learned, all the generals knew about Magna's origin. She was a fallen Angel who was forced at first to serve Elaine. But after decades, she grew to like and respect Elaine, admire her job, and help her with diligence.

"As Angels can love only once in their existence, they can also curse once as well... something no one takes lightly... a powerful weapon but one that most don't even use... I cursed Magna, to save her... her loved one made her bow to help me always, serve me until I released her... and many of her pairs wanted to kill her... as all her powers and her knowledge of how they act, would then die with her... so I cursed her, any dark Angel or fallen one, who dared to kill her or even harm her, would become human and only able to do good... they have not bothered her since..."

Elaine told Caliope while they were both taking a break from planning their trip. Caliope nodded and understood how important Magna's role was in the way everything was unfolding. Before Elaine gave an order, she consulted Magna to know the possible ways her kind would react.

By Friday, Amra was aware of the people they would met, only 5 key destinations and no more, the 5 main generals would meet and review Elaine's last orders to be given on Sunday. Reports of a period of silence were alarming everyone, the dark Angels had been holding back and hiding from everyone. They knew there was something much more dangerous about to come but no one could know how or when, or even what was going to happen.

"What is the difference between a dark Angel and a fallen one?" Caliope asked finally.

"Dark Angels are dark by nature, the opposite of Us... yet the fallen Angels were once like Us, but felt in decadence... they live human lives, or work with the dark Angels... tainted, corrupted..."

Amra added "scum..."

"Don't say that please, I beg you, they still have part of Us in them..." Elaine pleaded.

Caliope squeezed Amra's hand and he sighed. It was understandable, that for someone in such a high rank, it would be deplorable to abandon his or her kind. He did not like Magna because she abandoned her nature as an Angel, but he did nothing against her as she was working for them now.

--

Chapter 12

--

The day was beautiful. Caliope could see the sun shining and the sky clear. She was still cuddling on the bed wrapped in the warm sheets and the scent still perfuming the room. That night she had only good dreams, calming and soothing ones. Before going to sleep after dinner, Elaine made something she still couldn't understand, but it helped her to clear her mind and forget any bad dreams or thoughts.

Someone knocked on the door and she turned her head as it opened. Amra was standing at the entrance with a kind smile.

"Would you like to have some breakfast before we leave to the airport?"

"I can't eat... I am too excited, nervous, anxious..."

"Would you like me to ask Elaine to calm you?"

"Oh no please! I like to be me! I do appreciate her soothing me to sleep, but that is about all I wish to be manipulated, thank you..."

"Then let's get moving, you will eat something in the air..."

Caliope quickly stood up and settled herself on the entrance with her bags. She was ready for the first part of their trip. Elaine accompanied them to the airport and Magna went to the office instead of her. There were four people waiting for them once they got to the main entrance. Some people were standing observing, but in the everyday movement of the airport it wasn't a big enough event to alter the rhythm of passengers. Amra was calmed and focused on Caliope, who was more nervous, as she never did really enjoy flying. That, of course, was the least of her worries; she didn't share the ones that were terrifying her. She was going to meet the generals that guard the earth, angels who were motivated and living only to serve the higher powers, and nothing else. She was the daughter of something they hated, and she knew it would play an important role in how they would treat her.

"My Asteria... it will all be ok... but we can turn back now if you don't want to go, we could postpone the trip..."

"Please, there is no need, I will be ok, I always felt scared to fly, but what is there to fear if I fly with my personal Angel?" Caliope admitted while smiling at him.

She confirmed her more obvious fear, and managed to convince him that she was ready. Pronab joined them when they were about to board the plane. He was a little tense but nothing that would worry either Elaine or Amra. Before entering, Elaine held Caliope tight and kissed her forehead. That nestled tension in her heart suddenly was disappearing, in fractions of seconds she felt as if she was just happy and nothing else, no worries, no anxiety, and no nervousness. Elaine had as one of her gifts the ability of soothing minds and bodies. Caliope looked at her and shook her head, but she couldn't be upset, she was too happy.

"There was no need for you to do that, I was fine..."

"There is one higher force that would not have forgiven me if I didn't calm you at least a little... please, do not hold it against him... he cares too much, that is his only flaw..."

"Thank you, will you be in constant communication? Do I have to do something in particular? It is starting to sound like some weird big vacations..."

Elaine chuckled and shook her head "well, that is a way of looking at it... follow your heart, I know it is with Amra... remember our mission and keep him focused, and whatever you do, please remember, your role in this, is bigger than any of the generals, do not let them intimidate you..."




The Awakening Ch. 11-20



It was as if Elaine could sense some of where her worries were, and although it was not accurate enough, Caliope closed her eyes and nodded in understanding to her words. She was the force that was driving the powerful arcane Angel that came to save the earth, after all. She giggled and squeezed Elaine tight then let her go.

Amra leaned to give a kiss on Elaine's cheek and then took Caliope's hand leading her to the boarding gate. Elaine smiled surprised by the kiss and waved even happier at them as they departed. The flight attendant led them to their seats in first class. Caliope sat next to the window, Amra right next to her, and Pronab sat behind them. The voices signaling their departure, the guidance in case of emergency, everything in general, vanished as soon as Amra held her hand and caressed her face holding their eye contact.

"Now is the time for you to tell me what is worrying you... I know I asked Elaine to ease your mind, make you calmer... but I feel as if I am taking you against your will..."

She had him looking at her soul with his eyes, she was nervous but she knew she was going to be a big weight on his shoulders if she didn't come clean to him now. He was right, this was the time, before all the meetings start, the plans and plots, the war.

"There are many things going on in my mind, we are going to meet important people..."

"You are important..."

"I know I am, there is no doubt about this... But I still feel that I need to prepare myself for how they will react meeting -me-"

"They should feel lucky..."

Caliope smiled at him and replied "I mean, what I am, beyond your..."

He drew a smile and nodded "You know what you are to me, I guess it is my fault that I am not being very, formal..." grabbing her hand and kissing it "Caly, would you be my companion?"

Caliope gasped and blushed. He was smiling at her keeping her hand on his, pressed to his lips. She felt overjoyed with his question and after some seconds, she nodded.

"I would be honored..."

Amra smiled and kissed her hand again "now that we have that solved... you are worried they would not like you? I don't care if they do or not... you are worried of what they may say of you because you are a descendant of a dark Angel? Is that what really worries you?"

Caliope nodded "yes..."

"They know already, and it keeps them nervous, but they are more worried about other things, like a missing Archangel... you might be a descendant of a dark Angel, but even that dark Angel had to feel love to have you... you are product of love, an almost impossible love... and we don't get to choose parameters when we fall in love, that is why, we respect the loved ones..."

Caliope suddenly felt silly. That was true, the generals would be more focused on the reason why Amra was in earth in the first place. There was nothing else that would worry them more.

The plane took off and the flight was long but easy. Caliope slept through most of it. She kept waking up hoping to be there, but found herself in the air still. Amra chuckled every time she asked how long until they arrive. The view of the sky was beautiful, both Amra and her agreed. When they arrived at their first destination, Amra woke her. She looked at him first, then outside the window. The sun was just rising.

"Welcome to Santorini, Greece..."

She was wide awake with his words, and grabbed his hand as he led her outside the plane. Pronab was in a horrible mood, but he remained polite; spoke a fluent Greek to the airport officers, and led Amra and Caliope to the diplomatic area, where two embassy representatives were waiting for them.

"Sorry, the flight was too long, is everything in order?"

"Yes Sir, this is my partner Johnathan and we are going to take you to your residence" a suited woman replied.

"Thank you Sarah, these people are coming with me, it's better you don't know who they are, makes things easier..."

Pronab was being very cryptic, Amra was letting him do and say what he needed, and he seemed not worried or bothered by any of it. He kept holding Caliope's hand and led her to where they were being taken. As they walked outside the Airport, a car was waiting for them. Johnathan sat on the driver's side and Sarah next to him. Amra guided her to the middle and he took the side. As they were heading to their destination, Pronab only spoke a few words.

"We are staying in a house I bought a decade ago in the outsides of Fira, we are about to enter there now. After we all get some rest, we will start having meetings tomorrow.

A few minutes later, the beautiful town of Fira was welcoming them quietly. The car rarely accelerated, they did not want to draw anyone's attention. Twenty minutes later, they arrived at a simple, elegant, well preserved loft located away from other houses. Sarah and Johnathan helped put the bags inside on the entrance and once there Pronab asked them to leave, with instructions to return early in the morning.

Amra was looking outside the window and Caliope was picking up her bags and looking for a room. The house was made entirely of wood with metal decorations. Four similar bedrooms, each with their own bathroom. She dragged her bags to each room and once she found the fourth room Amra took the bags from her hand.

"All of these rooms are the same, this one though, well, I like it best..."

Caliope was chuckling and nodding "yes Sir... this will do then... I don't know why I care; honestly, we won't be here long to enjoy much, right?"

"I will make sure we have some time for you to enjoy whatever humans enjoy..."

Caliope smirked and looked at him almost with amusement. She was really in Greece, on some paid vacation, with someone who in such short time became the center of her life. Everything was magical.

Amra left her to arrange the room; Caliope took a deep breath and smiled without any worries. She opened one of her bags and took out some clothes to change into, walked into the bathroom, and was surprised to find fine decorative touches. Somehow, she never thought of Pronab as someone who would care much about decorations. She knew he was well educated, polite, but something in him made her keep her distance.

She slowly started to get undressed and by the time she turned the water on, she stepped into the hot tub and yelped. The water was cold. It would have been just as in her own apartment before, but she became too spoiled while staying in Elaine's residence and forgot to check before getting in. When she turned her head Amra was there concerned at the door.

"Are you ok...?"

Caliope blushed and stood still. With a tight grip she was still holding herself from the bathroom curtains.

"I am... sorry... the water is cold... I didn't... check..."

Amra frowned a little then smiled at her softly. Only then she realized she was completely naked in front of him. His eyes though, never dropped on her body, they remained locked on hers, reading her emotions. He walked inside the bathroom and closed the door behind him. She started to breath heavier, nervous. He kept looking at her eyes with a soft smile, and slowly removed his shoes; his shirt already half unbuttoned easily felt to the floor. She held the shower's curtain tighter and almost felt like she was going to faint. He removed his pants and walked closer to her. When his underwear was gone and his body stood naked in front of her, she could feel the warmth from his body touch her.

A leg in, then the other, and he was now letting his arms hold her, pulling her towards him. She closed her eyes feeling dizzy, her heart was pounding fast, and he nestled her on his arms pulling her slowly under the shower. The water now was warm and caressed her body with such delicacy. She felt his body, his skin, so tight against her. Goosebumps were now covering her as he lifted her chin up making her look up at him. She felt him in every way, one of his arms was holding her, and the other was resting on her lower body. She found his gaze and something inside her simply changed. She lifted herself on her tiptoes and locked her lips on his, the kiss intense and passionate. He gasped, and she blushed at his reaction. A simple mortal could make such a magnificent creature gasp, she felt addicted to this new world opening up to her, a world of the most intimate touches, caresses, a world he did not know anything about, a world he was experiencing for the first time, and was abandoning himself to her. Her hands now caressing his body, slowly she showed him every sensation. He closed his eyes and she kissed his neck, his chest. He moaned as she caressed him intimately. Finally they became one, and she felt the earth shake. It was beyond kissing an angel, beyond feeling the touches of a mythic creature, it was a new world opening up for her, her body was connected to his and they were glowing. Their lips were locked, she fed him with her breath, and in return, he breathed into her soul.

--

Chapter 13

--

Her eyes were still closed but she could hear them whispering. The bed sheets covered her comfortably. She knew Amra was still next to her, and someone at a distance was talking to him. After regaining her consciousness she noticed it was Pronab. It would be easy for her to wake up completely now but she was taking her time.

"...and you want me not to tell Elaine?"

"Let her have some privacy; let her have something to herself... she would not want to have her private life shared for public knowledge..."

"As you wish, I rescheduled the meeting for tomorrow, they are not happy, but they are not concerned either, as you are already here. Try to avoid any more... situations like this, please."

Caliope was more awake now with eyes closed, and didn't dare to even move, she wanted to hear it all, and she was concerned about this situation Pronab was talking about. Amra was a moment in silence, and then he added:

"Whatever we do... will concern just us... for now, please leave us alone, we will see you for dinner."

After a few more seconds, she heard the doors closing. It was not a very gentle sound. Amra brushed his fingers on her face smoothly and kissed her head.

"You don't have to fake sleeping anymore..."

She blushed and slowly opened her eyes, founding his gaze on her and a very tender smile. She melted in his arms as she crawled up to his embrace. He kissed her lips and smiled, caressing her. They were looking at each other smiling, giggling some, and without words coming out of their mouths. Both were in full bliss, until he finally spoke.

"...how are you feeling? Did you sleep well?"

"I am still floating... I slept really well, how much did I slept by the way?"

"...that is what was worrying Pronab, you had been sleeping for a full day..."

Caliope gasped "what?! I missed the meeting?!"

"Relax, you didn't, we postponed it for tomorrow."

"This... has to do with your abilities?"

Amra nodded "in part yes, I was carried away and did not control much of anything..."

Caliope sighed and closed her eyes, but Amra held her face up and forced her to open them again.

"It was not just that... you fell asleep for over 24 hours... I was worried... he was worried too..."

"I slept that much? I don't understand..."

"...neither do I, and perhaps, we need to be more careful in the future..."

"You mean... we shouldn't have...?"

"No, I mean, next time, we might need to make sure, there are no other meetings the next day..." he added with a wink.

She smiled and chuckled, he squeezed her tight to him and took a deep breath, he was also unsure what happened or why, he was concerned about her, but he obviously did not want to worry her either. She took a deep breath and whispered.

"I know it is taking time for me to adjust to you, but I have never felt so safe, so secure and complete in my life, as I now feel with you..."

And just like that he felt no fear anymore, he smiled at her and kissed her forehead, and everything between them went calm and relaxed.

"Let's get something to eat before you get some more rest, Pronab is waiting for us to have dinner. The embassy officers are here too."

"Have they been here all day? We should hurry and not make them wait longer!"

"I don't know how long they have been here; I was here with you..."

"You never left the room?"

"Pronab walked in to find you naked on the bed, I was not very happy with that sight, he actually blushed though, is the most human response I had ever seen him show..."

Caliope gasped "he saw me naked?! How did that happened?!"

Amra frowned "yes he did, and he regrets it now..."

"What... happened?"

"Don't worry... I think he got mortified about it, so I am not saying a word... unless you want me to?"

"No! Please... let's, just forget about it... shall we get ready?"

He chuckled and then nodded, the complete scene in the morning was nothing he found as a big offense, Pronab knocked on the door several times and then found no one in Amra's room, after no dinner the night before he thought it was strange, he went to check on Caliope but he found no answer in her room as well. He got worried and walked in, to find her naked sideways on the bed, and Amra resting next to her. He was embarrassed and after seeing the anger on Amra's face, he assured him that it was not going to happen again. That was all there was on that story. Even though Amra thought it would be quite amusing to remind him of it when he had the chance.

When both walked to the dinner table, Pronab avoided eye contact possible to Caliope, but he was polite and greeted them both. Sarah was talking about the new plans for the next day, and she was more than interested on knowing about Amra and Caliope, as Pronab insisted not to introduce them. The truth was that Caliope did not know how much Sarah and her companion knew about the true nature of their trip, and anything at all about Angels. But the way Sarah was looking at Amra made Caliope very uncomfortable, she could see in her some interest beyond curiosity, and she was feeling a hint of jealousy every time Sarah looked back at her.

"We will leave early in the morning, our first stop is the most important... we will probably be spending quite a long time there, so make sure you and your company stay back. I will call you when you can get back to pick us up, only then we will head to the embassy and finally if we still have time, we will head to the other places I pointed out to you in the agenda."

Sarah nervously replied "are you sure you want us to leave you alone at that place? I could stay, just in case you need a translator or... any help at all."

"I appreciate your concern and your help but we are going to do things this way, there is nothing else to be said about it."

"Very well, we will see you tomorrow morning then. Sir, Miss, have a good night."

Sarah left with his partner quite upset, she obviously wanted to know more but Pronab was adamant about how much information he was going to release and how much presence he wanted near them.

Dinner went quietly between them, but the food was delicious. Neither of them knew Pronab was an avid cook. When they finished, a fine bottle of wine was already empty.

"Pronab, this was so tasty, amazing even, thank you..."

"Your welcome, I will try to prepare something different tomorrow... any preference?"

Amra looked up "pasta!"

"I do think we can save that for when we go to Rome?" Pronab chuckled.

Amra sighed "I have no knowledge of Greek food..."

"...then I will surprise you both, with the food I mean..."

Amra and Caliope both looked at Pronab and after a short silence, they burst out laughing. Pronab was blushing and quickly picked up the plates and headed to the kitchen.

"Goodnight to you both..."

Amra chuckled then guided Caliope back to her room. She was hoping he would join her but he refused.

"I need you to rest without my interference; I will be right in the next room though..."

"Goodnight then, please wake me up in time to prepare before we go?"

"I will, now rest... I will see you in the morning my Asteria..."

He kissed her softly and then left to his room. Caliope closed the door and still smiling she laid on the bed, and quickly fell asleep.

The next morning, quite early, she felt soft kisses on her face that pulled her back from her sleep. It was Amra who was waking her up and he smelled like aftershave and cologne. She smiled at him and kissed him softly.

After a quick breakfast, Sarah interrupted them to remind them that they had to get going in order to be on time for their meeting. Pronab sat next to her in the car this time, and Johnathan followed them in another car alone. They drove through the town and then over a very unique country sight, with scattered houses and residences every few miles.

They finally arrived to gates that lead them into a long path surrounded by trees. Amra was tense, Pronab even more, something was happening that Caliope couldn't see yet. Far in the distance, a very old house standing alone. The structured building was four stories tall and the size of a shopping mall. At the entrance, five men were dressed in elegant suits, all of them serious and nervous. 

As the car reached to a stop, Sarah walked out of the door and so did Pronab. Caliope could feel her breath so heavy, she turned her gaze to Amra and he grabbed her hand to squeeze it. Amra's side door opened, he walked out and gently pulled Caliope out behind him. The five men looked curiously at both, she could read in their faces that they knew exactly who both were.

"Welcome brother, it has been a long time."

Pronab nodded at the only one who was talking to them "Thank you Howard, indeed it has. You already know Sarah, and her companion. And you also know who comes with me."

Howard nodded "Sarah, that will be all for now, thank you. Please follow us, they are waiting for your arrival."

Howard nodded towards Amra and Caliope. They walked behind him and headed into the luxurious house as Sarah frowned while being left behind. The house was as beautiful in the inside as it was on the outside; most of the decoration was made with marble sculptures and the finest stones. Caliope took a quick glance around then focused on her feet, looking down she put one in front of the other, she was afraid of stumbling into something or someone and look like a fool.

After a few passages and rooms, they arrived to a big and dark living room. There were close to twenty people inside, all of them in high etiquette. As Howard walked in followed by the expected guests, everyone turned around to look at them. Pronab followed Howard to the center of the room, took a seat on one of the chairs and Howard guided Amra and Caliope to the chairs on a side.

One of the oldest men in the room bowed his head at them and smiled; the first one to show a sign of kindness.

"Welcome! my name is Heptanius. I am the General of the Fourth Pillar. Welcome Sir Amrafel, your arrival has been long expected by many."

Amra nodded at the old man and he continued.

"This lovely lady must be your loved one. What a delight to meet you Miss Caliope Woodward."

"thank you, Sir Heptanius."

"Lord Heptanius to you..."

Everyone turned around to watch Howard address to Caliope and correct her. Amra turned his gaze in growing anger at him. Heptanius smiled gently and with a hand gesture made Howard sit back. Howard lowered his head with discomfort but also a visible embarrassment.

"Please excuse Howard, we had to deal with many fallen ones, filled with disrespect, and he simply had too much of that, he reacted by instinct."

Finally Amra looked back at the old man and spoke with conviction and fierceness.

"I understand the circumstances aren't pleasant for any of you. But I will not allow another insult from anyone towards her. Now, there are more important things to discuss than bothering who addresses who and how."




The Awakening Ch. 11-20



Every man and woman in the room gasped. Caliope blushed and lowered her gaze. Even Heptanius hesitated before continuing to speak. When he finally did, his voice was as soft and tender as the one of a father talking to his children.

"Your Asteria is safe, and any one present in this room would rather die than let anything happen to her."

Amra nodded at him and allowed his words to settle his mind in peace. Both took a sit and Heptanius continued on the speech.

"...my brothers... my blood and soul belong to the cause... we have at our side the most powerful weapon ever created by our great sacred father, there is no way we will lose this fight... ease your minds, sit and relax, as we all begin to discuss our next course of actions."

The rest of the reunion continued on what Caliope already had expected. They talked about some past events, dark angels taking risks to do more public appearances, some were captured and resisted the hardest interrogatories by the toughest soldiers from the Generals, and some even had tried to manipulate them with their gifts. But no one managed to get anything from them. Last two weeks everything went silent, dark angels did not show publicly nor was any event registered worldwide. This had everyone tense and they only had two more dark angels in custody, they were afraid they were running out of options on how to test them.

Heraclius looked down and sighed "my brother is right, he has done everything he can to lead as a General and he never failed to protect what he had under his command, but this situation has exceeded everyone's expectations or predictions, we just do not know how to do this, or even what to do."

Someone identified before as Rednius raised his voice and added "Heraclius is right, I can put my hand on the fire for him, he has been a great leader and he hasn't done anything wrong."

"No one is accusing Heptanius of doing a bad job, Rednius and Heraclius, we are all in awe about these last actions from them and no one has ever imagined they would dare to do as much" Pronab finally cleared.

Another one who had been quiet before yet remained close to Heptanius expressed his concern "we are afraid there is a big hit prepared and we know nothing about this! We can't make them talk!"

Caliope raised her hand and quickly all turned their heads at her. Some reflected annoyance, some curiosity. Amra looked at her and she was a little nervous, but he squeezed her hand encouraging her to speak her mind.

"Speak child, please do not be afraid..."

"Thank you, Lord Heptanius... I am unaware of what techniques you have used to interview the dark Angels you have caught, and even though I am in complete shock that none has worked in your favor, I might have a suggestion..."

Amra nodded, as if he could read her mind, he could see what she was about to suggest. Heptanius was even more curious now, with a hand gesture he encouraged her to continue.

"Some weeks ago, a dark creature, I was told he was one of them, was caught outside my window spying on me..."

Everyone in the room looked at her frightened by the news on this event.

"Amra was able to hold him down, as we waited for Miss Clark and Pronab to arrive after I called them. He revealed a lot of information, perhaps useless to you all now, but the combination of Amra and Pronab was simply amazing, they made him talk, he just couldn't stop giving information. Maybe, if you would like to try, they could do it again."

"Such a brilliant child you are, Caliope! I was never told of this event, I could not have guessed! Pronab, why was I not informed of this?!"

Pronab tried to change the subject "she is right, that scum talked his guts out, we could try it again now with the ones you have... there is nothing more to lose anyway..."

"But why wasn't I informed of this?"

"It was personal, I decided it this way, now let's see your two locked prisoners..." Amra declared.

Heptanius was not happy but he could not express more than that, he was aware of the situation now and he was the first one to lead the gathering to the west of the residence. After walking down some stairs and passing thru some guards, they arrived to a big dungeon-like room. The darkness only covered the emptiness inside. Some fires were lit and the void was obvious.

Heptanius whispered to his side "brother, bring one down..."

--

Chapter 14

--

The thick wooden door on the end of the room opened and Heraclius pushed in what it look like a hooded man. Rednius and Keltop set side to side in front of Heptanius protectively. The hooded creature kept his head low until Heraclius located him on the center. The rest of the group kept its distance in a mix of curiosity with anxiety.

Once the hood was removed, Caliope gasped. He looked like a young man, normal, mid 30's at the most. The man looked around showing no sign of surprise to the gathering, but when his eyes met Caliope, he started to get uncomfortable.

"Take me away, I don't want to be here, I have nothing to say, take me back to the jails."

Heptanius looked in surprise and amusement at the same time. Observing how the man looked at Caliope then back to the doors expecting to be taken back. Heraclius squeezed his shoulder and held him tight. He showed a clear discomfort and a low growl.

"I am quite surprised, since we caught you, no word came out of your mouth that was not insults towards me, and curses as well, of course... and now, you seem, a bit scared!"

"I do not want to be here... take me back!"

"Let me introduce you to the new personalities in the room, I am sure that you will soon change your mind about not speaking to us... This is Amrafel..."

He stood there watching the man not move a muscle after hearing the name. This made him uncomfortable, but not as much as it caused him disgust. He continued.

"This is Pronab, one of the highest ranks in hierarchy in this earth..."

Same response, a growing discomfort on his face as the man did not even blink.

"...and this is Caliope..."

"She should not be here..."

Amra stood next to Caliope with a face that did not change. Pronab grew worried and walked towards the man.

"Whatever you have to say to us, it will be only the truth from now on..."

"And why would I talk to you?"

"You might be the most ignorant of all in this room, you might know who she is, but you are not aware of who she is with... which tells me your lack of knowledge in the higher ranks of the higher powers...

"I am not afraid of another Arch... we got rid of one, we can get rid of another one... She is a piece of a bigger puzzle to us, she should not exist..."

Everyone in the room became uncomfortable and serious; visibly upset as the man showed pleasure on the reaction he was provoking on them. Pronab kept his gaze on him shaking his head and growing a smirk. Amra squeezed Caliope's hand sensing her sadness at his words.

"And you just proved me right... you are an ignorant besides being an idiot... he is not an Archangel; he is an Arcane Angel..."

The man frowned, struggling on his locked place and looking with fear at Amra who seemed more concerned on putting himself between Caliope and him.

"It can't be... is not possible...!"

"We should stop wasting time, please Amrafel, let's start this questioning in our own way."

Pronab looked at Amra who nodded without taking his eyes on the man who was growing more afraid by the second. Heptanius enjoyed this new change of events as he was obviously upset with the lack of respect and cooperation from his prisoner. Amra then finally broke the eye contact and looked around to each and every person in the room. Everyone was paying attention.

"I will ask you all to relax... do not speak... only Heptanius, Pronab and myself will be doing the talking, besides our guest."

Some people nodded, some others kept quiet and still. Heptanius stepped closer and so did Amra and Caliope, who tried to let his hand go without success. He wanted her there safe, right next to him.

Suddenly the room felt heavy, Caliope took a deep breath as this sensation was something now familiar for her. The people in the room reacted in different ways, but Amra was now focused on the man who yelped. Pronab held his hand in front of him, palms up, and briefly that glowing chain Caliope saw once in her room was materializing in his hands. Heptanius stepped even closer, excited beyond belief. Pronab laid the chains around the man and he started to whimper and twist his body painfully.

"This are the Chains of Truth... in case you haven't heard about them before, let me tell you what it does... every time you tell a lie, it tightens around you... when you say the truth, it loosens some... I do not tell the Chains what to do, they are in contact with your core nature and they will know if what you say is true or not... I do not have to tell you what happens when the chains tighten too much... and something tells me no one will miss you once you are gone..."

Amra started with the interrogatory "what is your name..."

"You can't be an Arcane Angel! It's impossible!"

The chains tightened around him and he growled loudly.

"Avoiding the answer will be the same as lying, so you better save yourself troubles and start to speak up..."

"...my name is Buer..."

As predicted, the chains loosened a little on his body and this caused him relief. He relaxed some but grew worried.

"You know who she is... how?"

Buer frowned "we all know who she is... she should have never existed but we can't harm her..."

The chains tightened around him some and he yelped again, looking up at Pronab with concern.

"He asked how..."

"We have seen her grow, we have seen her before... we kept a distance, she did not awake... she is the daughter of our fallen leader Beleth..."

Heptanius looked at Caliope in shock, he was surprised and all that excitement from before was now gone. Amra closed his eyes briefly, and then opened them again to look at Pronab who nodded in response.

Pronab warned "she is now taken... she belongs to us..."

"She could never belong to you all!"

"She is now an Asteria... Amrafel's Asteria..."

Buer growled and frowned at this news, he was disgusted and in horror, as if this new relationship could ruin any plan or thought he had. After some long seconds of silence Heptanius spoke, not amused and with lack of any joy left in his voice.

"What happened to our Archangel? Where is he?"

Buer smirked "I do not know..."

The chains loosened some and this took everyone by surprise. Heptanius was now more worried, but much worse, he was out of words. All he could have thought to ask was now useless if he really did not know.

"Your orders, what were your orders?"

"I had to kidnap one of your soldiers and lead him back to the safe house... a place outside of the city where they would take him to another location that I did not know..."

"...our other prisoner knows you?"

"What other prisoner?"

Pronab turned his head to look at Heptanius, he nodded slowly.

"We caught someone who came before you, I assume each of them are told only what is necessary then send out without major knowledge... preventing the case of any of them being caught... The girl though, seemed to really be voiceless, not much we can take out of her like that."

"What happened to my father?"

Everyone in the room now turned their attention to Caliope, and Amra squeezed her hand tighter, shaking his head. She felt there was something there that they all knew but were not telling her. She was curious, but Amra's reaction now made her stand back and go quiet. But the question was made, and now Buer had to answer. He smirked again as he looked back at Caliope.

"Your new family killed him..."

Caliope gasped, the chains loosened another knot, and she closed her eyes biting her lip. A long silence took over the room; the thickness grew in the environment, making it visibly harder to breath for everyone. Caliope noticed this and gently pulled Amra's hand as she opened her eyes again searching for his, he turned his head to look at her, she smiled softly and the environment went lighter a tiny bit. In their eye contact she showed him she was ok, and this helped him focus back on the prisoner.

"What do you know about the way our Archangel was taken down?"

Buer frowned "all I know is that my people found a weapon, created with parts of ancient pieces from other creatures... something like your chains, but more powerful... they bound him, took him down, away. He is not in this realm anymore..."

Heptanius finally spoke "Since you do not know where he is... you will tell us where your people are..."

Buer smirked "don't you get it? They must be gone by now... we are soldiers, spendable soldiers... what we know is only what we need to know... if one gets caught, the others leave and move on..."

"How did you communicated with your superior?"

Buer frowned "I met him once a week in a Hotel..."

Heptanius continued "what day, what time, what hotel..."

Buer growled "Tuesdays at noon... Hotel Andronis..."

Heptanius finally smiled, now they had something to work with, a possibility of meeting someone else that had a higher rank, someone who could know more, give more information as well. Before anyone asked anything else, Buer locked his eyes on Caliope who was reflecting a sad gaze upon him. Buer was upset.

"...do not look at me like that..."

Caliope blinked in surprise, and Heptanius perked a brow as curiosity took over him again. Amra closed his eyes and then stepped aside letting Caliope face directly at Buer. By instinct she gave a step closer. Buer tried to back away.

"Stay away..."

Amra drew a grin in his face and finally spoke.

"Whatever she is, it is scaring you... and you should be scared... she will choose your fate... I am going to let her decide if we let you go or not..."

Caliope looked at Amra with curiosity, he was giving her so much power, and no one in the room seemed to object to his words. They were all afraid of him, but for something beyond belief, Buer was only afraid of her. The fact that she was surrounded by angels and her very own protector armed her in courage and she stepped some more towards him. Now there was only Pronab between them, and he stepped aside as well. Caliope looked back at Amra one more time, just to be sure. He nodded.

"Just do whatever you feel like doing... what your curiosity tells you..."

"Anything?"

"Everything..."

Heptanius now was visibly expectant. He stepped closer and watched Caliope look at Buer as she carefully walked in front of him. Then suddenly a voice echoed in her mind, a whisper, something soft but very clear.

""He is afraid of you... you have powers you never... we never imagined... let your curiosity guide you my Asteria...""

She looked back at him in shock, he nodded at her. She now remembered the first time she saw him, so long ago. She thought he was speaking to her without moving his lips, now he was confirming this. She swallowed hard and turned her gaze at Buer one more time, and started to wonder. Walking around him she thought to herself "What should I do?" and almost instantly a reply in her mind came from Amra.

""Do what you feel like doing... just be you...""

She took a deep breath and did exactly what she would do. She stretched her arm and with her fingertips she touched him. The room went dark, void spinning around her making her dizzy. She gasped and felt as she was falling from a never ending cliff. Her body was heavy as the endless fall continued, she started to panic. Desperately trying to find Amra she kept looking around but all she found was darkness. Then she hit bottom; the room went light just as fast, and she was now in a blurry scene, a restaurant, or a café. The place and people seemed unaware of her presence, as if she was an invisible creature. She turned her head to a side and saw Buer in a suit shaking hands of an older man, the face as clear as day. She felt as fear crawled up in her body, as the face of the person was one she had seen before, in the same house where all the angels gathered.

--

Chapter 15

--

Slowly he laid her on the king size bed. He was aware that she was pale and with low vital signs, but she was alive. Behind him Heraclius and Heptanius were discussing what to do with Buer with their trusted man while Pronab was on the phone talking to Elaine.

"Whatever you decide to do, it must be now, and we have already lost a large amount of time."

Heraclius nodded "brother, please decide now, let's put an end to this. Let me do it."

"In times of war, some lives must be taken..." another one spoke.

Heptanius nodded slowly to each of his advisors but his gaze was set on Amra, who sat next to Caliope. Their greatest hope was now under the influence of piece of a puzzle that no one prevented. He was unsure of their whole future and everyone now was looking at him for some light in their uncertainty.

Amra finally spoke "He will be taken down to the prisons until Caliope wakes up, something happened and it is of great importance that we know what first... if you just get QUIET... and leave us alone... please..."

The anger in his tone of voice made everyone rush out. As they started to leave the room, Amra stood up and signaled Pronab and Heptanius.

"I need you both to stay..."

They nodded and stood inside, Pronab made sure the door was closed before he walked towards the center of the room. Amra closed his eyes and sighed.

"I was hoping never have to influence in her with my powers, I promised her I would never do anything to interrupt the normal cycle of things... but this is something that requires a new approach... please hold on to something..."

As he mentioned these words, Pronab and Heptanius looked at each other confused. A couple of seconds later, as Amra continued with his eyes closed, he lifted both arms and a large tremble shook them all in the room. It was as if something had moved the very structures of the residence. Amra was glowing, a thin light that irradiated warmth. He rested a hand on Caliope's head and the glow expanded to her as well. Another tremble shook the floor again, and they could hear the others knocking on the door with alarm. They were not imagining this, it was happening.

"Wake up, my Asteria..."

Amra's words were more a plead. Slowly, the glow banished, and Caliope started to blink, opening her eyes. Pronab and Heptanius walked almost next to them.

Her sight was a little blurry, but she knew Amra was in front of her, and he was worried; a sad face as he was looking down at her. That sad face made her heart shrink with sorrow; she felt it was somehow her fault that he was suffering.

"I am sorry..."

Amra smiled and sat quickly next to her. The door opened with a slam but both Amra and Caliope were lost in their world as they gazed upon each other. Rednius, followed by a handful of men came inside.

"We have no idea what that was! My General! We are under attack!"

Pronab turned around and frowned at the intrusion, and Heptanius walked towards them trying to calm them down. He put a hand on Rednius shoulder excited and spoke to him lowly in order not to interrupt Amra and Caliope.

"It was just Amrafel's powers, there is no imminent danger my warrior, do not be afraid..."

He calmed down and felt embarrassed, apologizing with his eyes on Pronab. Amra took Caliope's hand and kissed her knuckles softly, watching her blush. It was his Caliope again, the one who blushed at his touch, and whose smile made him feel as if the world was in peace.

"You had us all worried, my Asteria... are you ok?"

Caliope nodded "I am well, I really am... I am very sorry I worried you..."

Pronab walked closer and smiled at Caliope, who turned her head towards him and smiled back.




The Awakening Ch. 11-20



"I am sorry I made you all worried..."

"That is ok, I am glad you are back with us."

"What happened there Miss Caliope? What happened when you touched Buer?"

Amra frowned at Heptanius and he lowered his head instantly. Rednius witnessed this and felt angry, it was not easy for him to observe his great general lower his head towards anyone, like he did now. Caliope bit her lips and felt something squeeze her heart after hearing that question.

"She will talk when she feels ready..."

Caliope took his hand and squeezed it. He looked back at her and smiled, releasing a sigh, and nodding.

Caliope stared at Amra while sighing "I am not a paper doll... I am stronger than you think... I am ok now..." and she smiled at the others "I do not know well what happened, it was so fast, and took me by surprise... Best way I can describe is, like a dream... I was falling into darkness, I couldn't find anyone, or anything around me... I was just falling and falling, I could not see the end... then it was light! And I could see everything around me... I was at some restaurant... and I saw Buer meeting..."

Caliope frowned; she shook her head and tightened her hands into fists, lifting her head with horror at Pronab. She had just woken up and did not have time to think about all of this for a second.

"He was meeting some one! It was the Hotel he mentioned, it must have been! I saw his past! How can this be?!"

She realized that the information she had was even more important, she saw the face of the higher rank Buer met, and it was someone inside the residence; but how much could she trust those in the room was still unsure. Her eyes pleaded for some help as she turned to look at Amra. She remembered how he spoke in her mind and read what she thought as well.

"That is amazing! It must be what he feared, somehow you are connected with the dark Angels and you could see them!"

Caliope was not paying attention at the overjoyed Heptanius; she was now focused on trying to speak in Amra's mind. She looked at his eyes with desperation, and squeezed his hands as she started to think ""please, please tell me you can hear me now... I need you to hear me now!"" Amra smiled softly at her and caressed her face with his free hand.

"Do not worry; you are safe now, calm down..."

He was not speaking to her mind, those were spoken words that everyone heard. She used all her strength to squeeze his hand tighter, making him now alarmed at her reaction. And then she heard him in her mind.

""My Asteria... what is wrong?""

She nodded calmer now that his attention was where she needed it. She did not know how it worked, she only knew he could hear her thoughts right now so all she did was to think about what she wanted to express ""I saw the man Buer encountered, is one of the people in the meeting! I do not know how many of them we can trust!"" She did not have to wonder if he heard her, his face now was as hard as a rock, anger in his eyes. He turned his head at Pronab.

"I want this room empty... now... only us 4, no one else!"

Pronab nodded and turned to escort the others out. Heptanius looked puzzled but nodded as the others looked back at him before finally leaving the room. Quickly Pronab locked the door and returned to them; he was worried as he knew something had happened that he was not aware of.

Amra looked at Caliope and nodded, encouraging her to speak now that it was only them in the room. She turned her gaze at Heptanius.

"I saw the person with whom Buer was shaking hands to, it was Keltop!"

Heptanius dropped his jaw open and gasped; Pronab frowned and turned his head at him.

"How long have you had him in your army?"

"It can't be, it's not possible, he has been with me since the beginning! You must be mistaken child!"

Heptanius gave a step closer, causing Caliope to gasp in fear. Amra turned his gaze in anger at him. Pronab held him still surprised after watching Heptanius defy Amra. He did not put resistance but was still in shock.

"You won't get a step closer to her, unless you wish to cease to exist..."

Heptanius watched Amra in horror, his worst nightmare would never come close to what he was now facing. Caliope had a hand in her chest pressed as she used her other hand to pull on Amra.

"Please Amra... stop!"

He turned his head at her still in anger. She pleaded to him with her eyes and her mind ""please be more reasonable, he doesn't know me! And yet he knows him from all his existence! He is surprised and scared! Calm down!"". Amra closed his eyes and shook his head. After some impossible seconds, he finally opened them and looked back at Pronab, signaling him to release Heptanius. Once he was released, his face now showed pain and suffering. Amra locked his eyes on his as he spoke softly and calmly.

"Will you trust it if you see it with your own eyes?"

Heptanius hesitated at first, but then he nodded. Amra gestured him to come closer, and though he was hesitant at first, he walked next to him.

"Pronab, grab her hand."

Caliope extended her hand to Pronab. She trusted him ten thousand times more than Heptanius. Caliope stood up from the bed and they formed a circle. Amra spoke to her slowly.

"Close your eyes and re live all that vision in your head, step by step, the more details the better..."

She nodded and took a deep breath. Her eyes closed and only then, Amra closed his eyes as well. Pronab and Heptanius were shaken by the tremor that ran thru their bodies. They had their eyes opened but they did not see things clearly, it was a dark twister around them that was swallowing them. Heptanius whimpered and almost slipped out of Amra's grip, but he did not let him go. The dark vortex was endless and it seemed to consume the light around them, they could feel each other but thru their eyes it was another world they were seeing.

Caliope was breathing heavy, as she was reliving the nightmare of that experience. She would have wished to forget all about it, but not now, it was important for them to see what she saw. Later there would be time to forget all about it.

The vortex ended as suddenly as it came, the light almost made them blind. The restaurant was filled with faces of strangers. Pronab wanted to look around to familiarize with the place but he was forced to only look one way. It was as if he was not in control of where he was going and how. He was seen things how Caliope was remembering. Right there he saw Keltop shaking hands with Buer, the vision so clear it was undeniable. The vision continued for a couple of more seconds and then everything stopped.

"We will make an example out of him... gather an urgent meeting now."

Heptanius was appalled, but he did not offer resistance anymore, he was shaken by the betrayal of one of his best soldiers. He walked to the door, unlocked it, and ordered an emergency meeting.

Caliope sat down on the bed as she was rubbing her eyes. Amra kneeled next to her and caressed her knees softly, allowing her some time to recover.

--

Chapter 16

--

"There is something I do not understand..." said Pronab pensive.

Amra looked at him "There are many things I do not understand, but tell me which is bothering you."

"If Keltop was in the room when Buer was questioned, why didn't he point him out?"

"Perhaps we just didn't make the right questions..."

Pronab nodded "perhaps, you were something unexpected for him, and he did not have the time to look around for other faces, or us to see their reactions..."

"Let's run another interrogation now... and ask the right questions..."

"I like the sound of that... what will you do once he reveals the traitor?"

"I will make an example out of him, just as promised."

Caliope was walking besides Amra as they kept talking. She was quiet, going thru her mind all the last events. Heptanius went from a glorious general, an ally, a friendly face, to a shadowed creature as fear, anger, disappointment and regret all mixed in his face. All because of what she saw.

"What if it was a silly dream? What if we are going to hang an innocent man?"

Amra stopped walking and turned his head to look at her. Pronab stopped two steps later. Amra's hand cupped Caliope's face as he leaned down to kiss her lips softly. She melted; the warmth, the touch, the sensation of her heart pounding fast. Almost as the first time.

"This world of conspiracies and danger is far from the dream fantasy I would have chosen for you to live in, my Asteria... I am sorry... I want you to be happy... not concerned and doubting about yourself... I promise you this is not all there is... I promise you we will give you a dream of calm and peace..."

His words took her by surprise, she thought there was a chance of them punishing an innocent man but he was more concerned on how she was enjoying her traveling experience.

"We will use my chains to make Buer reveal the traitor... there won't be mistakes Caliope... after we finish this, Amra has already asked me some days free for you two to look around and visit places... he is more concerned with you than you think."

And she nodded, reality hitting her again. They could only fall in love once in their long and eternal existence; that entire obsession would be justified now that she remembered how important she was for him. She squeezed his hand and lift herself in tip toes to kiss him softly, feeling goosebumps on her skin as she did.

"I am going to enjoy that time with you... all of it... thank you..."

He smiled; squeezed her hand back and together they continued walking to the gathering room. Once they arrived to the door, Heptanius walked in followed by Pronab. Amra stood and turned to look at Caliope with some concern.

"What is wrong? You do not want me there?"

"I want you with me all the time, but I need you to understand, whatever happens there, justice will be served..."

"I understand that, and I trust you..."

"I need... I need to know; you won't turn around and leave me, no matter what you see in there..."

Caliope perked a brow and looked at him now somewhat concerned. Amra noticed this and as the people were waiting on the room, he closed his eyes with a sigh.

"I might become something you won't like much when the time comes... will you love the beast that will be unleashed?"

She blushed. Pronab came towards them as they were taking too long. Amra stopped him with a hand sign. What he said made her head spin, why didn't she say that before? He was asking something else, but the word he used resonated in her mind. It was in a different context, but made it obvious how strongly she felt for him. Locking his eyes on hers he smiled softly.

"...my Asteria..."

"Amra... I love you..."

Amra blinked in surprise, a glow around his body and his smile bright. His body was almost shining, with warmth that could light up both rooms. He kissed her deeply and passionately, taking away her breath. She wrapped her arms around him and felt the intensity of his emotions. She felt tears fall from her eyes.

He took her hand and walked into the room. Amra's glow starting to vanish but everyone was in awe after they saw him shine. In her mind, Caliope heard him whisper.

""I love you my Asteria... and when this is over, I will make you mine for eternity...""

She felt her heart race, faster and stronger than ever before. She was blushing so deep she lowered her head trying to hide her joy in this moment of darkness.

As they reached to the center of the room, Buer was sitting on a chair and Pronab was putting the chains around him once more. Heptanius had a hollowed face. Near him his three men of trust standing. Heraclius, Rednius and Keltop looked at him but he did not look back, making them nervous.

Buer saw them come in and growled "this is getting annoying, leave me alone!"

"As I predicted, she has chosen your fate... after a few more questions, you will be set free... be grateful to her now unless you wish to end your life instead of the freedom you are given."

Buer frowned and looked at Caliope with disconcert. He was hesitant, looking back and ford at them both, unsure of what he just heard.

"Time has been wasted too much; you need to decide..."

"Thank you, Miss... for giving me back my freedom..."

Still unsure of how to react he looked back at Pronab who smiled back at him.

"Good choice, now let's get into those last questions..."

Amra started "what is the name of your contact?"

Buer frowned "he prefers me to call him -One-... nothing more..."

"Take a look around the people gathered here; tell me if you recognize his face."

The people summoned reacted with surprise and rage. But Buer chuckled as he started to look around to watch their reactions. He nodded towards one of them and the chains tightened quickly around him.

"Keep trying that, and we won't need to set you free after all..."

That was all it took for Buer to take the situation serious. He started to look one by one the faces of each until he saw everyone in the room. He rested his eyes on the three men near Heptanius and frowned. Shook his head then stared at them again. Pronab, Amra, Caliope and now Heptanius were looking at the three men. Upset, Heptanius walked between Buer and his men.

"Speak now!"

"I... don't understand..."

Calmly Amra asked "what is that you do not understand?"

"I... can't see them... but they are there, right?"

He was obviously confused and the chains loosened a little more. Heptanius grew in rage as he gave Buer his back and faced the three of them.

"When I was told you betrayed me, I couldn't believe it... I was angry at them, almost in shock... but I have seen it myself... and this is the final proof..."

Heraclius gasped "brother! What are you talking about?!"

"My General!" was all that Rednius could say.

Keltop looked at them both and then at Heraclius when he added "with what lies have they poisoned your mind my General?!"

Amra walked towards them determined "the time of your judgment has come..."

"Finish this charade! I know your gift Keltop; you are clouding your surroundings so he can't see you because he knows you!" the rage in Heptanius voice was clear evidence of his anger.

Caliope gasped. Everything happened so fast. Keltop drew out a dagger and jumped on Heptanius as he pushed both Heraclius and Rednius to the sides. But He got only inches from Heptanius, as Amra lifted his hand and the frozen figure of Keltop stood still in the air. Everyone in the room screamed and panicked. Heptanius gave a jump backwards and observed in horror the figure of his longtime friend and warrior inches from trying to murder him. He then looked at Amra who had his hand open and glowing. His hand started to close into a fist, and Keltop screamed loudly in pain, moving in the air where he was held floating.

Pronab gave a step back shaking his head "traitor..."

Amra looked straight at his eyes "speak now... who do you serve?!"

"You will all come down and perish, this world is lost, and soon, all the others will be ours as well..."

Buer was shocked watching the scene. Pronab pulled out the chains from around him and threw it fast on Keltop, who yelled loud. The chains glowed red as it held him tight.

Amra raised his voice "who do you serve?!"

"Your mother!"

The chains squeezed him tight, he growled. People in the room yelled and gasped.

"You know what will happen if you only give us lies... where are your people located in this continent?"

Keltop grinned "just around the corner!"

The chains locked tighter around him and he screamed. Heptanius shook his head and finally spoke.

"He won't speak, he will rather die than give us any information at all... we have nothing..."

"We have something... one traitor less in this world... a piece in their game knocked down... so, die he will..."

After finishing these words, Amra's hand turned into a complete fist, light came from inside Keltop's body and exploded in the room, bathing every corner with its intensity. After some seconds of light and chaos, the room started to go back to normal. The people now came close to Heptanius and Keltop was no were to be seen.

Amra had his hand still tight in a fist, his eyes closed and teeth gritting. Caliope was staring at a vision he warned her, he was scary. He became the one everyone was hoping he would be, the savior, that hand of justice. A beast of justice.

"Bring the other prisoner now..."

Heptanius signaled his brother and he rushed out through the doors. Pronab walked closer to Amra and Caliope, and extended a hand towards her. She was shaking a little, unable or afraid to move. Amra held his eyes closed tight as Caliope grabbed what Pronab was handling her, a handkerchief. Only then she noticed that she was in tears.

The doors opened and Heraclius walked in rushing, he brought with him a girl that was so young it could have been almost a child. Caliope was even more shocked, the girl looked scared and afraid, it made her want to rush to help her. In the sea of faces, the girl found Caliope's eyes and locked them there, pleading for help with tears.

She was forced to sit near but not next to Buer. Pronab rushed to pick up the chains from the floor and held around the frightened girl, avoiding to look at her as much as possible. But Caliope was just staring at her as she stared back. Amra opened his eyes and took a look at the scene, anger growing as he snapped his fingers and the girl jumped on the chair scared.

"You should know better than to mess with her... it is time for you to confess..."

But the girl opened her mouth, and with horror Caliope saw the girl had no tongue.

--

Chapter 17

--

""Pity, that is what she wants you to feel for her, feel sorry for her, run to her rescue... do not fall for it... she is a dangerous creature...""

Amra's words echoed in Caliope's head as he spoke to her mind while watching the girl whimper with the chains embracing her. Buer watched uncomfortable the scene as the girl continued to twist in pain on the chair.

"I don't need to see this... you said I was going to be released, are you failing to your word?!"

"No, we aren't failing to our word; you will be released, soon."

Caliope closed her eyes and that terrible pain she was feeling in her heart from the scene she was witnessing slowly started to go away. Yet in the darkness she was able to still hear. More whimpers, even screams, pain and tears. This was not her world; this was a new world, filled of darkness, deceit and treason. She tried to remember the last time something normal happened to her, something that was not related to a heavenly power. She remembered her day out at Central Park with Vanessa and she smiled. -Yes, that was completely natural and pleasant, I wonder how she is, and I might need to give her a call- She thought at the same time she was taking mental notes. A scream pulled her out of the memories; she squeezed her eyes tighter, determined not to see any of the tortures they might be doing to the girl. More memories was what she needed. This time, she tried to remember simply something that made her happy, and she became flooded with images of Amra. The night she was crying desperate and alone, not understanding why she was missing him so much when they barely knew each other, and him coming to her, holding her, and revealing to her what was then unexplainable, he couldn't be without her, and the feeling was mutual. Their first kiss, feeling powerless to what her body felt when he touched her face. She felt her heart pace faster as she blushed.

"Wake up my Asteria... please... wake up..."

Caliope heard Amra's voice inside her head and out, he was speaking to her out loud, asking her to wake up, but she wasn't asleep, was she?

"Caly! Come back to me!"




The Awakening Ch. 11-20



This time it sounded so strong she opened her eyes and found Amra kneeled next to her with sorrow. He was worried, in pain, suffering. She rubbed her eyes and noticed she was on the floor. How did she get there? She was sweating and her sight blurred.

"I am here... what... what happened?"

"I still do not know, but you had me scared!"

"We have to move now, this place isn't safe anymore."

"Safe? I don't understand..."

"Take my hand, get up slowly, we are leaving the residence to a safer place. I will explain to you on the way, I promise."

Caliope took his hand and started to get up when she felt how everything around was spinning. No, not everything, her head was spinning. She closed her eyes and felt a sharp pain drill her head as everything moved and she could not get any balance on her body.

"I will carry you my love..."

His words made her feel some relief, he took her in his arms and she could notice they were moving. She held herself tight to him with all her strength as they rushed, while she was trying to understand what had happened. She had her eyes closed and distracted her mind from the torture that was being held in the room. That poor girl kept crying, moaning, and she worked her best to think on other things to avoid the scene. Good memories that made her in fact, forget momentarily what was happening. But then she was on the floor being asked to wake up by Amra, and chaos was all around them.

"The car is waiting for us, they will take us to the house and Heptanius will join with his crew" she heard Pronab said.

What could have happened that made them all scattered and afraid? Slowly Caliope started to open her eyes and feel as she was recovering sense of directionality and stability on her body. They were heading out of the big residence and many others were heading in different directions in silent yet in a rush.

"You know you have to start being more careful with your powers around her, she is still half human, and might not survive if you make full use of your powers..."

"I am going to change that soon."

"I hope you know what you are doing..."

That made Caliope focus her attention. And now she had an idea of what had happened. Amra's powers made something that changed things, but not just things around, he changed the people. They were scared, afraid, avoiding him. It was a silent chaos and she was unsure of what made it happen.

Once outside, they got in the car and Sarah took them towards the house. Amra kept an arm around Caliope who was resting on his lap with her head on his shoulder. She pulled apart to look at him.

"Are you going to explain to me what happened?"

"I will, just not now."

She frowned and looked at Pronab who was worried and avoiding her eyes.

"Will you please tell me what happened?"

He looked at her then shook his head, turning his eyes to the window. Only then she heard Amra speak in her mind.

""I will talk to you as promised, I will let you know all, with details, but not here, not now, when we have people who don't know about us, and who we do not fully trust.""

Caliope nodded and blushed; of course they did not know much about them, and the last treason act made all aware that the people least expected could be traitors. She snuggled back in his arms and continued the rest of the road ride in silence.

Once they arrived to the house, Heptanius was already there with his entourage. Howard had just arrived as well and got together with Pronab, who ordered Sarah to leave and then guided the rest inside, while Amra took Caliope's hand and walked with her to the garden. The sun was setting as Amra sat on one of the wooden chairs and pulled her on his lap. Once there, he gave out a sigh and closed his eyes. She waited in silence, unsure of how to react, or even what to do. What happened was still unsure for her; there was a gap in her memory and the current situation did not help her feel safe.

""I am sorry you got hurt my Asteria, I am sorry everything got out of control...""

She heard him speak to her mind and her heart pounded faster, she closed her eyes and rested her forehead against his, with her arms around him. ""I am here, with you, I am not going anywhere... but I need to know what happened... please?"" she pleaded to him. He nodded slowly, brushing his hand on her arm.

""the girl was starting to affect everyone in the room, her laments were a disguise for her powers, she was putting everyone in a trance, and we started to see people falling to the floor, fainting. I did not care until I saw you shivering, and I lost control of how I was handling things... I am so sorry my Asteria...""

She shook her head and held his face in her hands, both still had their eyes closed. Inside the house, Heptanius was looking through the window at the scene while Pronab approached him.

"They are having a catch up..."

"A catch up? What do you mean?"

"He is filling her on what happened, he is letting me hear part of their conversation..."

"How?! They are not speaking!"

"They are communicating in a different way, but they are speaking to each other... he reaches directly to her mind, and she replies to him in the same way..."

"He can read minds? Why am I surprised, he can do anything he wants, so much power in just one..."

"He still has to follow the laws of our Father, and he has been doing that all along... do not be afraid, he will get the job done..."

"After all this years in a trance, he decides to act now?"

Pronab nodded "that is where she comes, he only got motivated to fight this war after he met her, and how they met was a complete coincidence... she is going to play a major part in our war, and she doesn't even know it..."

"I still am hesitant, she seems... so... human... so fragile..."

"Do not be mistaken, she is a lot stronger than you might think, I am grateful for this... she has a mind that is unique, assimilating all that she sees and hears fast... she is not scared... she is not afraid... she is aware of what is going on and when she doesn't understand she searches for answers... she is not a cliché in this story I can attest to that... she is what we could expect of someone with such importance and more..."

Heptanius perked a brow "it sounds almost as if you have admiration for her."

"It is my job to keep an eye on everyone that might play an important role in our fight, I have been very aware of her role, just as I have been aware of yours and all the other Generals... I have done my homework Heptanius, enough to know you have great power that has not been used in centuries either..."

Heptanius blinked in surprise at Pronab's words, and looked to the window once more, avoiding getting into the subject. Outside, Caliope was holding Amra tight as he was caressing her face. A love scene to witness.

""that is why I forced her to break her silence, she left her human form and transformed into a different creature, I was so afraid for your safety, I did not gave her chance to do anything, I vanished her...""

Caliope nodded slowly and pondered for long in silence. Amra respected her silence and then started to get restless ""speak to me please, do not leave me... helpless... I want to know what you are thinking...""

She opened her eyes and perked a brow ""I thought were reading my mind.""

""I can read everything I want from you... but I refuse to enter your mind when I am not invited... it is not the same when you think words to speak to me, and when you think things through... imagine it as a switch I can turn on and off, to me is that simple to read you, but the hard part is to avoid doing it so, I want you to have your own world, your privacy... I want you to trust in me and share what you want with me...""

After hearing his words she smiled and kissed him. Their lips met like magnets, and locked for a long period. Only when she started to lose breath she backed off and blushed. ""Thank you, for all of this... I am not going to leave you helpless, and I was only wondering how she could do all of that, I regret having my eyes closed all that time. But for what you have told me, I perhaps did the best... why was everyone so scared?""

""It was quite the sight, and my powers also altered many of them... they are not used to see real powers in action in front of people, many of them have smaller powers, gifts that are more subtle. There is a small chaos, but Heptanius ordered them all to return to their places as we regrouped to think of new strategies... we do not know if that place was safe anymore, we had to leave and fast...""

She sighed and nodded, it was clear that none of them was prepared for what they had witnessed, and she was not prepared for all that she had lived. She was worried about her true nature and powers, whatever they were, but decided to postpone those questions for later. ""I think you did the right thing, it is better to prevent rather than to be sorry later. She could have killed someone, or attack, I don't know, there are so many possibilities, I am glad you kept us all safe.""

""I can be in peace now hearing that.""

He smiled and held her tight, enjoying the last rays of light from the sunset.

--

Chapter 18

--

Caliope was taking a walk in the garden as everyone else was in the living room discussing new courses of action. While she walked, she lifted her hands and stared at them wondering what kind of powers she would have, how she was never aware of any of it, and who her father was. He was someone she never met or heard about and now she found out he was someone of great importance for the dark Angels, who apparently hated her, feared her, and were confused by her sole existence.

""It was nothing personal, he felt during a fight that was very important for both sides""

She smiled and answered to him ""I thought you were in an important meeting...""

""I am becoming addicted to you... that is the honest truth.""

Caliope turned her head towards the house, blushing and with her heart pounding fast. Through the windows she could see them all sitting in the living room while Heptanius walked nervous from one side to the other. Amra was looking at them listening. ""Is everything ok there?""

""Come with me, you have nothing to be afraid of...""

She hesitated for a second but her feet were already heading towards the house. She was drawn to him in such way it was so simple for her to decide. Once she came in, Heptanius frowned slightly but then smiled politely. Howard offered her his chair that was next to Amra, and in return she smiled and whispered a 'thank you'.

"It is your choice Heptanius, Elaine has said she will support what you decide to do." Pronab was finishing.

"Either you or her are both of great influence but in the end we all depend on someone who is not playing by the same rules..."

"I guess you refer to me again." Amra said while pulling Caliope's chair closer.

Heptanius nodded nervously "I am not disrespecting you, please do not think that. I want you to understand what worries me the most is how your priorities are set quite differently than the ones of the rest of us."

"My priorities start with her and end with her."

Everyone in the room became tense and slightly disappointed. Caliope was feeling horrible and sad, guilty and honored at the same time.

"I don't think you all understand how I see things. She is alive, and keeping her alive is all I want. In order to keep her alive we have to make sure everything comes back to order. I will not rest until it does, no matter what it takes, we will recover the Archangel and make sure peace is settled."

They nodded, in silence. Amra had a way of seen things that might have not been conventional but ended in what they all wanted in the first place.

"I am satisfied with your explanation, and I can speak for my own people when I say we will all fight this together."

"Now that we got that solved, before we leave to our next destination, we need to make sure of what you are going to do."

"I will regroup with my soldiers and spread the news, we will keep things calm and report to you what happens, but if there is any new attack I will have to take measures. I do not want another 'Black Sun' arise."

"That is what we all want to avoid."

"When are you all leaving to your next destination?"

"We have a couple of days, there are rumors, not strong ones, about certain places that might have some of the fallen ones hiding... we want to take a look just to be sure, then we are parting. If we get suspicious about anything we will need your presence Heptanius."

Heptanius nodded "I will certainly be happy to help."

""...and this is why I like having Pronab around, he is a wonderful politician""

Caliope heard Amra speak in her mind, she turned her head towards him just to make sure as she replied ""I don't understand... what do you mean?"" as he kept his gaze on them.

""Pronab is giving an excuse for us to stay longer, those places we are supposed to investigate are really the places we will visit and where we will rest... he is even making Heptanius believe he will be consulted in case of danger... we are all going to be researching for the cause...""

She nodded as she returned to look at them, smiling softly at Heptanius in return as his gaze crossed hers momentary.

As everyone was exchanging last comments, Caliope excused herself to her room, she said goodbye to all and finally closed the doors enjoying some privacy. She went to her bathroom and turned up the water, giving it time to warm up as she started to get undressed. She was thinking about the last events and tried to push them aside, working hard on relaxing now, as that part of their trip was over. She wrapped herself in a towel and went close to the shower to test the temperature of the water, finding it warm and welcoming, she was about to let the towel fall when a figure started to appear in between the soft vapor. Her heart jumped. It was Heptanius and he made her a silent gesture.

"I am sorry, my dear... I did not mean to scare you... I have said goodbye to you but I feel that we both have yet much to talk about... At some moment we stopped being friendly with each other, and I don't want you to leave with that bad impression of me..."

"...instead, you want me to leave with an impression of you showing up to me in my bathroom?"

Heptanius frowned "of course not. I want you to know... that I don't mind your origin. I want you to know that I think you will do great things for our people... I hope you can understand that whatever 'he' does, it will be because of what he was created for, he was made for war... he will want to fight when the moment comes..."

Caliope started to feel annoyed by his words; she felt he was trying to disguise his good intentions with some darker ones. In his words she saw something different, she started to see lies, and this scared her.

"You should leave before they notice your absence..."

Heptanius grinned "they won't... I am still there..."

She frowned, upset by his pedantry. And watching him proudly smile at his apparent winning move, she continued speaking at the same time she tried to open a mental door to Amra. It was not easy, but his earlier words reminded her that all she had to do was wish for him to hear her. And so she did.

"You might be fooling them with your illusion, but Amra is connected to me, he will notice something is wrong. If you try to harm me..."

"I am not trying to harm you child! Of course not! I am just telling you that you have a hard road to walk through and I empathize with you... You will be..."

The image of him got quiet, and suddenly banished. She started to breath relieved, yet grew worried about what she might have caused. Quickly she rushed to turn the water off and get clothes back on, running out to the living room. A hand covered her mouth preventing her from screaming.

"What is stopping me to vanish you right now is only her presence. I don't want her to be clouded watching you die..."

Pronab was holding her gently, as she watched with horror Amra glowing and his hand lifted Heptanius from his neck; all his people trying in vain to reach to them, as an invisible wall kept them at distance. Her heart pounded fast, she started to cry, and tried to set herself free from Pronab's arms. She cried, and then closed her eyes. In her mind she screamed at him ""No! Stop!"". Amra turned his head and looked at Caliope fight the impossible locked in Pronab's arms, and he closed his eyes, angry and confused. Her eyes opened again, and she could see him having second thoughts. That was the time, now or never, she rushed to continue her only way of communicating with him ""let him go... please... don't hurt him more... he did something stupid, but nothing to deserve this... let him go... Amra please!... I... I need you... I need you to hold me... I can't stand this... please... come and hold me..."" she pleaded at last. He opened his eyes and walked towards her, letting Heptanius fall to the floor where his men rushed to help him.

"Let her go..."

He spoke to Pronab and he opened his arms letting Caliope run to him. As Amra wrapped his arms around her, she squeezed him tight sobbing and kissing him. She could feel him tense, filled with anger.

"What kind of treason is this?! Our own savior tries to kill one of his Generals?! This is unimaginable!" Heraclius screamed as he kneeled next to his brother.

Howard's words reflected the same surprise "What the hell is going on here Pronab?!"

Pronab was serious "is he ok? Can he breathe?"

"Barely! He almost killed him!"

"He will be ok, first things first, Howard call our medic."

He nodded and pulled out his cell phone to quickly dial a number. After a few words he put the phone down and looked back at Amra and Caliope, then at Pronab.

"The Doctor will be here shortly, but you still have things to clear here... what is going on?"

"When was the last time you saw Heptanius use his powers?" Pronab asked directly and Howard.

"What do you mean? What powers? Hmmm... I don't understand..."

"One of his powers is astral projection... I don't know why, you might ask him that later, but he projected himself to Caliope in her room.. In her bathroom to be more specific... while she was about to take a shower, Amra saw it and, you are aware of what happened."

"My brother wouldn't do such thing! He has always respected everyone!"

"It is true... he did..." Caliope said almost as a whisper.

"I think we all are a bit altered right now so let's avoid giving any kind of bad names or insults ok?"

"I think you are right brother... both of our leaders need some time and space... I am sorry Miss Caliope, this was wrong in so many ways..."

Caliope nodded as she held Amra who kept his eyes closed and slowly started to calm down. In her mind she tried to reach to him again ""are you ok?"" she whispered and he did not replied. She held him tighter and continued ""I love you..."" and he opened his eyes searching for her face.

"I love you..."

Caliope smiled "I love you... thank you..."

Amra did not looked at anyone but her "when the medic comes, and makes sure he is ok, I hope you all leave with him. I have had it with these kinds of incidents."

He was not expecting any reply from them as he walked towards his room and closed the door behind him. Caliope turned her head towards them and lowered her gaze.

"I am sorry, please forgive him... and above all, forgive me for causing this..."

"You have nothing to be sorry for..." Pronab shook his head as he spoke.

Howard agreed "Miss, I am sorry, I don't understand why he did that, but I know he shouldn't have."

"Thank you both, I am very sorry for your brother to get hurt Heraclius... please all be well..."




The Awakening Ch. 2



Chapter II: Let the Games Begin


Nothing can stop the coming of Monday mornings and for her, this particular Monday arrived much too quickly. She had gone over the events of Friday evening several times in her mind and could not understand how she had allowed herself to be lured into such a bizarre and potentially dangerous situation. Could he have been right, she thought for a moment? Could it be true that women secretly crave the dominance of a powerful man? Maybe not all women, but perhaps she did! She did go out to the beach following a total stranger after all. Was she out of her mind? What the hell was she thinking? She turned off the alarm and gathering her work clothes as she walked, headed downstairs for a shower.

The water was warm and comforting. She tried to put Friday evening out of her mind, but the events raced through her like the rush of the blood in her veins. All she could think of was 'Oh my God I have to face him today at work'! She briefly entertained the idea of calling in sick, but 'He' was her supervisor. He would know that she was not sick. Perhaps he would even gain satisfaction over her obvious fear. Or worse, dish out some more of that discipline that he seemed to enjoy so much.

No... she had to go, she knew that. She stepped out of the shower, dressed and poured a cup of coffee. She decided that the best line of defense was simply to waltz into work as if nothing had happened. To not let it show that it bothered her or that she even gave 'their sexual encounter' a second thought. She raised the cup to her mouth. Her hand shook so violently that she needed to steady it with the other hand just to get it to her mouth. Oh yeah, this is going to be a piece of cake, she thought to herself sarcastically.

Arriving at work, she immediately began to shake. She sat in the parking lot for what seemed an eternity before she could summon the strength to get out of the car. It was a warm morning and the big shipping doors were already open. As she walked toward them, she could see him standing just inside the building, talking to an employee. Mustering some courage she walked in and headed for her desk, passing him as she did. He said nothing! In fact, he did not even acknowledge that she was there. This should have been a great relief for her, yet it somehow left her feeling empty and used. As the day progressed, she did her best to avoid him.

The week crawled by, filled with more of the same. She avoided him and he totally ignored her. 'Perhaps he had already gotten from her all that he had wanted' she thought to herself. Perhaps the game was already played out to its pre-determined end; leaving him victorious. She became more and more confused. She felt violated! Thank God it was finally Friday! At least she would not have to deal with him again for quite some time. She had previously booked the next three weeks off.

4:00. She clocked out and walked swiftly to her car. Leaving the parking lot she felt free for the first time in a week. All she wanted to do was to go home, have a relaxing bath and lose herself in a good movie; but she could not. She had made previous arrangements with some friends to go out for the evening.

Once at home, she heated some left over pizza then jumped into a quick shower. The water felt cool and refreshing on her naked flesh. She found herself, (like so many times this week past), reflecting on the night at the beach. The thought of his hands on her breasts and the feel of his cum bursting inside of her rekindled her lust. Giving in to it, she reached for the bar of soap and ran it across her erect nipples. "Mmmm", she moaned softly. She started to run her hands along her stomach. Working the soap into a thick creamy lather, she began to fondle herself with her sudsy hands. She allowed her fingers to follow the path of the lather as it slid its' way gently down her stomach and disappeared over her public bone. Sliding one of her fingers' across her now swelling clit, she moaned softly... moving her hips in rhythm to the images in her mind.

She was beginning to lose herself in fantasy when she dropped the bar of soap. "Oh my God what am I thinking" she said aloud; when she realized the time. Her friends would be arriving soon and she was still in the shower. Quickly rinsing off, she wrapped a towel around herself and headed for her room to dress.

Just as she reached the living room, the front door swung open and the first of her friends walked in. "Oh baby, you started without me!" Scott announced with a grin. She had known him forever and they had found solace in each other's arms on more than one occasion. She smiled back at him and added, "I am sure you can catch up."

"No doubt," Scott shot back. "But if you don't get dressed soon I'll have to fuck you," he added with his big sexy grin.

"Not tonight hunny," she replied as she headed upstairs to dress. The rest of the group arrived as she was dressing. Scott played host and tended bar in her absence. She came downstairs to find them tossing around suggestions for the evenings' outing. It appeared that they had settled on a nice Italian Restaurant followed by a trip to the local bar for a few. One by one everyone rose to leave. Outside and about to turn the lock, she thought she heard a familiar noise, so she asked them to wait while she hurried back inside.

She grabbed for the receiver and answered abruptly. There was a pause, followed by a deep voice. "Are you naked?" the voice asked. ' Oh my God, it was him!' she thought to herself. How could he be calling her like this after ignoring her all week? She froze for a moment, unable to think; then answered in her most authoritative tone... "I am not alone! I have friends here and were are going out!"

"Do you have call display"? he asked. "Yes, but I am on my way..."

"No you are not!" he interrupted! "Get rid of them and call me back at this number. You have 10 minutes!" he demanded. Then the line went dead.

'Who the fuck did this jerk think he was!' she thought to herself angrily. Did he really think that she was going to drop everything and re arrange her life simply because he had a hard on? Was he fucking crazy? She walked out the door and slammed it behind her. Her rage grew inside of her as she fumbled to turn the key. Her hands were shaking; and she became aware of something growing deep within her. Something she did not understand.

She was becoming aroused. Very Aroused! Blood was pumping, nerves were tingling and her pussy was starting to throb. She began to think of how his fingers felt inside of her and of how her lust mounted as he bound her to the fence. Never before had she experienced such want. She made some apologies to her friends and said goodbye as she went back inside... locking the door behind her.

It took her three tries to dial the number correctly. He answered without saying hello. "Are you naked"? he repeated, without even knowing who the caller was. God this guy was arrogant!

"No" she replied truthfully. "What are you waiting for!" he shot back. Nervously and without knowing why, she set down the receiver and slid out of her clothing. She picked the phone up, drew the receiver to her quivering lips and murmured, "Yes".

"Yes what?" he questioned.

"Yes, I am naked," she replied meekly. He paused for a long time as if trying to visualize her. Goose bumps raced over her flesh.

"Is the door locked?" he asked her next. "Yes" came the response. "Then unlock it!" Fear and anticipation begin to take a hold of her. Her heart started to race as she stood silent in disbelief. "Go and get something to blindfold yourself with and then kneel naked in the front room near the door. Keep you hands behind your back as if bound and say absolutely nothing. Do not move until further instructed!" he continued. Then again the line was dead.

Panic overtook her as her head began to swim wildly. Was she actually going to comply to this madman's wishes? If she did, what would happen then? What would he expect of her tonight? This was obviously not a one-night thing. She knew that now. His voice echoed through her mind. "I own you"... "I accept the position of your mentor"..."you will come to understand this with my guidance"...

It was all there. He had no intention of it ever being a one-time thing. He was in it for the long run; and now so was she! Submissively she obeyed his request. Walking naked across her living room, she nervously unlocked the door. Next she found a long piece of fabric, and she tied it securely around her head, covering her eyes completely. She knelt by the door and placed her hands behind her back; wrists crossed as if bond together by those leather straps he had held her in compliance with the week before. Blood cursed within her as her natural juices started to flow.

She heard many cars passed by her house, each one caused her heart to jump and her muscles tense into knots. Twenty minutes passed before one of them pulled into her driveway. She was terrified! All she wanted to do was jump up and lock the door, then run for cover. What if it was not him? What if it was Scott returning to persuade her to join them? What if it was a family member? All of these things ran through her mind. Was she crazy? Did she really want to be discovered that way? She heard the engine shut off and a car door close, followed closely by the dreaded sounds of footsteps on the walkway. She started to shake. She felt her nipples shoot up to attention.

She fought to contain the fear... her growing need to flee. Then giving in to it, she started to rise, but it was too late! A hand was on the doorknob and she heard it turn slowly. No escaping now! She bit her lip to keep from calling out. As she heard the door being pushed open, she began to tremble uncontrollably. Who was here? How would she explain this? She was weak and almost faint with fear and lust. The thoughts of her own vulnerability excited her to a level that she had never known before! The door shut softly and she heard the lock turn. She was now truly at her visitor's mercy.

No words were spoken as the mysterious person walked slowly around her, surveying his prey. Obediently she remained in her submissive position; quietly awaiting what ever was to come next. Her nipples were so hard that they were almost sore. The soft flesh of her pussy pulsed wildly. She sensed the person move in close behind her and lower himself down to her level. Without her knowledge, he then slowly raised his arms and brought them around in front of her, directly in line with her breasts and their little buds of passion. Then simultaneously he let a finger lightly grazed each nipple. She jolted back away from his touch. Anticipating this, he grasped both nipples tightly and pulled her breasts forward again. "Don't pull away from me" he commanded. There was no longer any doubt. It was him! He released his grip and moved his hands back behind her. She heard a rustling noise, then felt a sensation that she remembered well.

"You left these behind the other night" he remarked as he strapped her wrists together. "You are still learning so I will forgive you this time... but you will not disappoint me again will you?" he continued.

"No" she answered sheepishly.

"NO WHAT!" he shot back in an angry tone that she had not heard from him before.

"No Sir" she replied in fear. "Good Girl, now stand up" he ordered in a softer tone. Taking her wrists in hand he helped her to her feet.

Still blindfolded, he led her to her dinning room table and pushed her torso face down across it. He took and rope and tied it to her wrist straps, then fastened the other end to the opposite table legs so that she could not get up. Then he placed the ankle straps on each leg and secured them to the closer table legs, one on each. He studied her for a minute before left the room. She was sure she had heard him head towards the bathroom. A few minutes later she heard him in the kitchen, filling something from the tap. He walked back toward her, pulled up a chair, positioned it near her exposed pussy, then sat down. He placed the water receptacle and assorted objects on the table beside her. Then his hand was on her hot lower lips, running slowly up and down in a petting motion.

"Next rule of Obedience", he started. "A good whore keeps her pussy clean and free of hair at all times. Men enjoy the female genitals immensely and do not wish to have to search for it under all of this unnecessary shit." "It should be there in the open, ready and willing, for whenever the mood strikes us." He instructed her. He took some shaving cream and lathered up her lush genitals. Then he proceeded to shave her.

Slowly he would drag the razor across her willing flesh, as the hair quickly fell away, exposing her hot pink lips. This was so incredibly erotic that it almost blew her mind. It was hard for her to remain still. Twice he had to tell her to stop wiggling about. Upon finishing, he washed the remaining cream away and stroked her newly bare flesh. She begged him to give her release but he told her that she would have to wait. Then he untied her and led her to the living room once again.

"Kneel" he commanded as he pushed down upon her shoulders. She complied. He removed his clothing and knelt down behind her. Placing a hand on the center of her back he pushed her face down into the carpet. Still in a semi kneeling position, he raised her hips and spread her legs apart. "Rule number three...This is how you are to offer yourself to me" he told her. "This is a proper sub presentation. If I give you the command to 'present' you will kneel in an act of submission and offer up your pussy to me in this way". "Do you understand!" he demanded.

"Yes" she replied.

"WHAT!" he shot back.

"Yes Sir" she corrected herself.

"Better! Why do you show me such disrespect? Does this not excite you? Am I not giving you all that your horny little body craves?" he questioned her. "Look how your pussy quivers at my touch... how your tight little nipples reach out for my caress. You want this don't you?" he went on. "See how your pussy swells and lubricates in anticipation of my cock" he went on as he spread her cream all over her engorged nude outer lips. "You want me to fuck you don't you... don't you!" he demanded.

"Yes Sir" she replied obediently. With that he drove his cock into her hot wet canal. She lurched forward from the force and moaned deeply.

"Is this what you wanted whore?" he demanded further.

"Yes Sir" she moaned.

"Do you want me to fuck you?" he asked her.

"Yes Sir" she replied lustfully.

"Then beg me" he stated firmly. "Beg me to fuck your submissive little pussy."

She began to beg him and with each word from her mouth he slammed his rock hard cock in and out of her, stroking her G spot with it's swollen head and driving her out of her mind. Soon they were both jerking wildly out of control and the fluids began to flow.

After he had regained his composure, he withdrew from her, stood up and dressed. Then he retrieved a damp cloth from the washroom and wiped his sperm from her inner and outer lips. He released her hands from their bondage and placed her in a sitting position. Then he knelt in front of her and took her face into his hands. "You have been a very good girl this evening and deserve my gratitude. I am well pleased with your progress" he commended her.

Then he drew her face up to meet his' and kissed her long and deep. "Until next time then" he added. He kneaded her breast for a moment, pinched both nipples then got up and left. She sat there in the middle of the room, to exhausted to get up and lock the door.

She listened to him drive away as she re-played the encounter in her mind. He was right! She did enjoy being dominated. How could he have seen that quality in her when she herself had missed it? Everything about him now intrigued her. She was truly under his spell.

To Be Continued...



The Awakening Ch. 2



The first night Daniel came to our house was etched in my memory. Throughout the days which followed, I found myself reliving every moment, over and over again. There were times when I'd be driving in the car and I'd think about Daniel holding me on His lap with His cock inside me like I was His possession or something, and suddenly I couldn't wait to get home, to masturbate to release from these wonderfully wicked, tormenting thoughts. One time I pulled over on the side of the road and pulled my skirt up, and slid my fingers into my wet pussy, bringing myself to a crashing orgasm at first touch. I was seriously affected by the experiences we'd had. Each day I asked Jeff when Daniel would return. He just smiled and told me soon. Then finally Daniel called, when I was in the middle of sun tanning on the back deck. The sound of His voice when He spoke made me feel funny in my stomach. It was difficult to sort my feelings out about Daniel, and even harder to think of where I wanted this to go. I was worried that I may become too enamored with Daniel and screw up a pretty good marriage with Jeff. But then, I'd only seen the man ONE time! 

His voice was low, and vibrant, and strong, and so damned in control. "Little one," He said. I swallowed. "Yes, Sir?"

"How are you, lovely one?" My mouth was dry. "Fine, Sir" I managed to squeak out. His laugh came softly and easily over the phone. "I want you to come to My house. Now." He gave me the address and made sure I repeated it back to Him. He asked me if I knew where it was and I told Him yes. I was shaking so hard I could barely talk. He told me it would take 25 minutes to get to His house, and to not keep Him waiting. I asked Him what I should wear. He told me to wear one of my husband's long sleeve shirts and absolutely nothing else. "And little one?" He said. "Yes, Sir."

"I'm going to fuck you. Then I'm going to make love to you. And I want to hold you beneath Me, with My cock buried in your lovely pussy, and watch your eyes as I cum inside you, as a kind of claiming. And then I want you to worship My cock with your mouth and tongue. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Sir," I whispered. I heard the click of the phone as He hung up. I could hardly breathe. I knew that whatever He wanted He would take. I realized that I wanted Him to do all those things He'd mentioned, and more. He made me want to be His whore, His slut. I showered and made my face and fixed my hair, all the while imaging what it would be like when I got there. My cunt was incredibly wet. I made sure my nails looked fresh, and donned a long sleeve black oxford cloth shirt of Jeff's. I looked at myself in the mirror. My face was flushed, and the shirt just covered my pussy. I felt wanton! I got in the car, barefoot, my pussy throbbing, the juices so copious, my thighs were wet.

The house was in a better part of town, a sprawling split level ranch style, and as I pulled into the drive, a young man dressed in a white jacket and jeans stepped out to help me out of the car. His eyes took in all of my dress but his face was expressionless. I slid one leg out of the car, and the shirt rode up past my pussy. I watched as he looked, and handed me out. He escorted me to the door without saying a word. He unlocked the door and nudged me inside. The door clicked behind me.

The floor was terrazzo and cool to my bare feet. The ceilings were higher than I'd have thought, and mirrors and paintings tastefully adorned the walls. I stepped forward, tentatively, and His voice came from behind me. "Welcome, lovely girl." I turned and there He was, smiling at me. Suddenly I felt like a small girl, not at all brazen, but more like a sacrificial virgin. I was acutely aware of my vulnerability, and how scantily I was dressed. He looked at me. He smiled, and His glance ran up and down my body. "This is for Me, precious one?" I nodded mutely. "All Mine?" I whispered "Yes, Sir." He smiled. "Then lovely one, perhaps you should show Me what all is Mine." I looked at Him dumbly. He wanted me to take the shirt off. My fingers went to the buttons as He watched closely. My trembling fingers unbuttoned them one by one, clumsily. When I'd unbuttoned the last one He said, "Stop." I looked at Him. "I am going to teach you how to kneel, darling, in what is known as a presentation kneel. In that way you will display all that you have to offer Me."

He took my hand and led me into a kind of study, where the carpet was thick and luxurious, and deep. The room seemed sound proof, and there was a calm air about the whole room. He sat me down on a loveseat and began talking to me. He told me that I would refer to Him as Master when I was certain that I wanted to serve Him. I said "Yes, Master." He smiled. He asked if I realized what I was giving to Him by being His, and serving Him. I'd read quite a lot in the past weeks. I nodded, smiling. Then He began to teach me the form to use in this presentation kneel. I knelt, back straight, with my head held high, proudly, but with my eyes lowered in respect to Him. My bare bottom rested lightly on my heels, and my thighs were spread, so that He could easily see my pussy. God, it was so hot. I wanted to have Him do anything He wanted to me. I didn't care what it was, as long as He wanted to have me, to use me, to own me, possess me as He said. My hands were on my thighs, palms up, in submission to Him. He made me feel like the most special person in the world, that what I was giving Him was indeed a gift. I felt like I was created for this moment, for this Dominant, as if I'd lived my entire life in preparation for Him. I craved for Him to partake of me.

He walked over to where I knelt, and placing a finger under my chin tilted my face up to His. He caressed my cheek lightly with the finger. He took the shirt, still unbuttoned, and slipped it down over my shoulders, helping me off with it. My nipples felt hard as rocks, almost hurting. I was completely naked now, kneeling before Him, offering myself to Him. I could feel the heat emanating from my pussy, and I was certain I could smell it in the air. I was heady from the feelings coursing through me, and He reached down, one finger gently touching the outer lips of my pussy, tracing them, then finally, just barely dipping inside me, so slippery wet, and then deeper, the finger sliding effortlessly inside me, and He withdrew it, holding the finger in front of my face. I looked at it. It was shiny with the juices from my cunt. "Taste this, darling." I closed my eyes and leaned forward, opening my mouth and took His finger inside it. The taste was electric, tangy yet sweet at the same time, and intermingled with the taste of His flesh as well. I sucked His finger, looking up to Him, and as I did, He moved it slowly in and out of my mouth. Then He slipped it out and placed His thumb inside my mouth, and as I licked it and sucked it, He slid it into the corner of my mouth, kind of holding it there, and began pulling up, until I rose from the kneel to stand before Him, the thumb still inside my mouth. He leaned forward and kissed me, and kept His thumb inside, and I nearly came from the intensity of the feelings it caused inside me.

Master took something from His pocket and I saw that it was a pair of black leather cuffs, soft, with a purple velvet lining. He pulled my hands behind my back, and fastened the cuffs. Then He went over to the loveseat and unbuckled His trousers, slipping them down and off. His thighs were chiseled with muscle, and He was tanned. He wore a pair of briefs and as I looked He slipped them down, stepping out of them. I looked at His cock. It was wonderfully shaped, with big, heavy balls. He sat down and beckoned me to come to Him. He reached out, placing His hands on my hips, and pulled me down on my knees before Him. Then He pulled me closer, between His legs, and He slipped first one then the other leg over my shoulders. His strong legs pulled me closer until my face was merely inches from His cock. I looked at it, and as I did, it began to grow. He took it in His hand, and began to rub the head over my face, touching my eyes, my nose, and my lips with it. All the time it was growing harder, and already there was a tiny drop of precum in the slit. I slipped my tongue out and tasted Him. The scent of Him was beautiful and so damned masculine. He reached out and placed a hand on the back of my head, and with no more encouragement I opened my mouth and sucked His gorgeous cock into my mouth. 

My hands behind me, His legs over my shoulders, He held my head in His hands and fucked my mouth. I didn't suck Him. He fucked my face. I loved it, but even if I had not I'd have had no choice in the matter, helpless in the position I was in. He was gentle, allowing me time to become used to the size of it, and soon He was pulling His cock all the way out, then pushing it all the way back in until my nose and lips were buried in His pubic hair. As He fucked me and I sucked Him, He became more aroused and sat up, so that when He slipped His cock back into my mouth, His balls slapped against my chin. The feelings running through me were wild and incredible. I loved it! I had never been in a position like this, where I was unable to control anything that happened.

 If I didn't slide my mouth all the way down on His cock, the next time He would kind of slam it into my throat, causing me to gag on it, until finally I became used to the head of it touching my throat, and I was eager to have Him slam that beautiful thing all the way inside my mouth. My lips felt stretched, and juices ran out of my mouth and down over my chin, and down onto His balls. He pulled my mouth off it, and I whimpered. I wanted His cock in my mouth. I wanted to service Him. He pulled me closer, leaning back and scooting forward so that His balls were in my face and I licked each one of them and sucked them inside my mouth, swirling my tongue all over them. I licked beneath His balls, that smooth little place beneath them, and realized suddenly that there was no hair on His balls. He lifted His balls with a finger and I snaked my tongue down to His crinkled little butt hole and pushed my tongue inside it. I was starved for this man! Then He gave me His cock again, and held my head up more, and fucked my mouth hard and fast until I could feel Him tensing in the muscles in His thighs and He held the back of My head and pulled most of His cock out of my mouth and erupted inside it, hot, sweet cum splashing the inside of my mouth. I moaned, and incredibly with no touching felt myself crashing through a delightful orgasm, moaning and jerking almost uncontrollably. I kept His lovely cock inside my mouth, face resting on His thighs, feeling it jerk, and slowly shrinking. I loved the subservient position I was in.

(To Be Continued)



The Awakening Ch. 2



(This is Part Two of The Awakening, and I want to thank all who have read, voted, and sent me feedback on my writing. Like so many have said before, voting and feedback are the ways writers have of knowing that their stories have an impactÿso enjoy the story, and vote if you like it.)

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Faith leaned against Lisa trying to look totally relaxed and gazed unabashedly as Tim walked over to the pool, completely naked as were both of them The feel of Lisa's hand on her breast, still heaving with the passion that this woman aroused within her. This had been the first time she had ever made love to a woman, and the feelings still amazed her as the two of them devoured the sight of Tim walking towards them. The heat of the dying sun made the sweat gleam on his taunt muscles as he moved. Faith felt Lisa's breath in her ear and heard her whisper, telling her that Tim had been spying on them the whole time. The very idea sent shivers of excitement running through her as she realized that Tim had been watching the two of them making love. Today was sure a day of firsts for Faith, discovering that she had enjoyed the way that Lisa had made love to her, and then to discover that she found the idea of being watched highly erotic as well. From the way Tim was smiling, he too had found it exciting as well.

As he came up to the pool, both women could see his rock hard cock jutting out, as if begging for attention. Faith stood in the shallow water and holding Lisa's hand walked over to the edge of the pool. As if they both shared the same brain, wordlessly they held out their free hands and pulled the naked man towards them both. The look on Tim's face was like that of a kid in a candy store, his eyes moving over both of their nude bodies. Although he shared their bed, he never before had been invited to share her desires to be with other women. She did tell him in detail about her encounters, which excited him to no end. When Lisa had told him about her plans for Faith, he could hardly contain his excitement. He had hidden in the shadows, watching his wife seduce their new neighbor. He had felt a stirring in his groin at the first sight of this beautiful woman, and Lisa had felt the same way, as he discovered once they were alone in there new home. Lisa had stripped as soon as the movers had gone, literally tearing her outfit off her body and almost raped him on the steps leading to their bedroom. He smiled at the two women, feeling no guilt at having watched his wife make love to Faith, only total excitement from the sight of Lisa and Faith, his wife still holding Faith's left breast in her hand. With a smile, Lisa invited him to join them in the pool, and holding out her hand, Faith smiled that same intriguing look on her face as she too nodded.

The two women giggled as they sandwiched Tim between them, each rubbing their bodies against him, as they used their hands to explore his body. Lisa whispered into his ear and smiling, he reached for Faith. Gathering her in his arms, pulling that body tight against him, Tim kissed her. She had never felt so much passion in a man's kiss before, and she almost forgot all about Lisa as she felt herself becoming aroused once again. Her nipples were as hard as she had ever felt them get, and between Tim's kiss and Lisa moving up close behind her, Faith knew that her legs would not hold her up much longer. Reluctantly, she broke the kiss, and taking both of their hands in hers, she pulled them both out of the pool, walking backwards up the shallow steps of the pool. Wordlessly, she led them into the house and up the stairs to her bedroom. Moving to a closet, she pulled out several thick towels and then taking one of them, started to pat the water off Lisa. Seeing what she was doing, Tim grabbed a towel as well and joined in, but using the towel on Faith. She smiled, both at the tender way he was drying her and at the soft moans coming from Lisa as the soft material slide over her body. This was so new to Faith, both her feeling as Lisa made love to her, and then to find herself being very naked with both of them. 

Faith thought about her ex-husband, thought about how their love life had been so pitiful. Of course, she had been way to young at the time to know that at the time. She had been 19 years old and had fallen for a man that was 10 years older then her. He had been handsome and richYand bought her so many beautiful gifts. It was only after they were married that she discovered he had only been after one thing. She had been a virgin when they had married and once he had taken her, it was as if he was a very different man. Sure, in public, he treated her like a trophy wife, to make others drool over something that he possessed and they could not have. He had always made sure that she got her clothes from the finest of fashion houses that she had the best of everything, but thinking about their love life, she knew that he sucked as a lover. 

Until that night when she came home and discovered him in bed with a young boy, just a teenager at that. After his sentencing for five years of prison, Faith had divorced him, and with the help of a good lawyer, had gotten just about everything from the marriage. Wise investments had allowed Faith to live well in her newfound freedom. Well taking a shower, and preparing herself for the dinner she was fixing for Lisa and Tim that day, she had taken inventory of herself. Although she was now in her early thirty's, Faith had always been careful to take the best of care of herself. As she had stepped from the shower, she had looked at her own body reflected in the mirror. The image she saw was that of a young woman who looked like she was no older then twenty-five years old, and she giggled thinking of the endless times she had been asked for ID when she tried to buy herself a drink.

Then tonight happened, and her mind was brought back to the present as she felt two mouths on her at once, feeling both sucking on a nipple as hands caressed her body. She opened her eyes to see both Tim and Lisa on their knees, both of them ravishing her body. The feeling caught her by total surprise, and with the previous encounter with Lisa, only made her hornier then she could remember in all of her life. Faith placed a hand on both of their heads, pulling mouths tighter against her breasts, feeling so wanted and so loved. Tim and Lisa had their hands moving over her, soft gentle caresses that met and entwined between Faith's wide spread legs. The sensation of having two different sets of hands touching her was a new and wonderful feeling to Faith, like the hands of a old lover, even though she had just meant the two of them this morning.

Lisa moved up towards Faith's head, bending down and kissing her open mouth while keeping a hand on her right breast. She was so obsessed with the kiss that she grasped when she felt Tim start to lick on her very swollen clit. Faith, so turned on by Lisa that she had almost forgotten him, but from the way he was lavishing attention on her wet pussy, she knew that she wanted him inside of her. Breaking the kiss with Lisa, she smiled up at her new best friend and whispered that she needed to feel Tim inside of her. Lisa gently squeezed her breast, telling her that she would have them both before the night was over. Faith reached out and tugged at Lisa's legs, bringing that sweet, wet pussy over her face. Faith would never have believed on good a woman tasted until Lisa had taken a chance and made the first move.

Settling down on Faith's face, Lisa tugged on her husband's hair, pulling his head away from his devouring of the treasure before him. Seeing the look on his wife's face as Faith was using her tongue on her made Tim back away, getting to his knee's and moving forward to kiss her lips. This in turn caused his rigid cock to brush against the opening of Faith's drenched pussy. If Faith had thought, she was in heaven before, now she was sure as Tim's cock slide easily into her, the sensation sending her body out of control. Her tongue drove deep inside of Lisa, setting off a chain reaction between the two women, both cumming with almost equal force. The sensual smell of the three of them filled Faith's mind, and she had never thought that she would ever feel the way both Tim and Lisa were making her feel.

Tim caught up in the moment, the feeling of his hard cock sliding in and out of their beautiful neighbor and the kiss his wife was sharing with him, that he did not know how long he could hold back from cumming. Lisa knew her husband well, and could see the strained look in his eyes as they kissed. Moving her soft lips back, she whispered to him that it was okay for him to fill Faith with his juices. "I love you Tim," she added in such a soft whisper in his ear, that the very thought of holding back no longer mattered to him. With a shout, Tim pushed hard inside of Faith, feeling his orgasm explode out of the tip of his cock. The suddenness of his cumming set-off a chain reaction of orgasms, as both women joined in. Faith had such a limited knowledge of men, that the amount of cum that filled her wet pussy surprised her, and set off yet another wave of pleasure deep inside of her. She found herself clamping down with both her inner muscles, trying to drain Tim completely as well as her teeth on Lisa's throbbing clit. Seeing the look in Tim's eyes and feeling Faith's teeth biting on her raw, swollen clit almost made her faint as her thick hot cum flooded Faith's mouth, so much that the extra was running down the sides of her face.

Bodies trembling, the trio collapsed onto the bed, exhausted and sated from the round of lovemaking. Faith found herself in the middle of her neighbors, and gave each of them a long slow kiss, thanking them for such a wonderful evening. She fell asleep feeling both of their hands softly caressing her. The last thoughts she had was that she was happy at last to have such good neighbors. Faith now knew that the adventures had just begun and with a smile, she drifted off to sleep. 

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Well, this is the end of Part Two of' The Awakening.' Please continue to vote and send me feedback as that is the only way for a writer to improve. Thank you 



The Awakening Ch. 21-30



Thank you very much to all those who commented and emailed me. I paid close attention to your opinions and some anonymous voices that were really wonderful giving advices.

I found out that editing the chapters I already wrote was a great job, especially since I started to modify each dialog and transform from the old style to the new. It is true, this new one gives room for more description and that is what I was lacking, so I did my best to fill the empty lines and manages to make things much better. I am very proud of my job on these ones! I am having a lot more fun than I was hoping I would.

I have chapters 31 to 40 ready, but it takes time to edit them from the old style to the new. So that being said, I hope you enjoy this part and please trust me I am getting better and better with each of your reviews and advices. I just hope you like the story as much as I do, and I push myself more and more with each chapter.

I beg you to keep giving me your thoughts on the characters and the story, I listen and try to please all!

Enjoy :)

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CHAPTER 21

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Amra leaned close to her and caressed her face softly as he whispered "We are landing now on Paralimni my love, it is the capital of Famagusta. Our first stop is here."

She smiled and blushed, he always had that effect on her "...and how long are we staying here?"

"Only a few hours probably, to do the proper paperwork according to Pronab; I have no idea why humans have laws for each part of the same earth, it would be so much simpler if all lands had the same."

She chuckled and nodded "I agree, I think that it would have been better, for us, but not for the human leaders and their pockets... the human world it is run by money, greed, power, among other things..."

"Greed for power is the main reason why we have problems in our world as well, my love, some people are never content with what they have, with what they were given..."

The airplane finally stopped and the stewardess in charge of giving indications started talking on the speaker. Amra squeezed Caliope's hand and smiled 'Let's wait for everyone else to get down first, ok?' he whispered in her mind, she nodded and rested her head on his shoulder, a place she learned to love and find comfort in. During the long trip she couldn't sleep much, her mind was busy with all of the things that had been happening.

Elaine was on the phone while they were getting down the plane. Pronab as always leaded their way, and found a committee of people ready to take them to their destination. One of them was a woman and she led the other man to take the bags with them.

"Hello Elaine, it is nice to see you again, thank you for coming yourself to greet us."

"Greetings Pronab, Lady Clark."

Elaine Clark nodded with a smile towards the woman with her same name "Hello, dear Elaine, I need to finish this call, so please excuse me a couple of minutes." The woman nodded kindly in response.

"Elaine, this is Caliope, and Amrafel." Pronab took initiative and proceeded to introduce them.

The woman smiled a kind and welcoming smile to both, she nodded at them, and Amra replied with another nod and a smile. Nothing else was said, and Caliope had the impression this was normal protocol when humans, who were not aware of angels, were around them.

Elaine finished her call and returned with the group. Then everyone left the airport and got in one of the three hummers waiting for them. As they were all in the car, the woman smiled again at Caliope, who seemed lost looking around through the window. "Paralimni is only around 26 kilometers from our final destination, but we need to make a stop first today, at one of the embassies. You will see the contrast between towns, there is a dramatic change yet beautiful at the same time." Caliope broke her lost gaze at the window and looked back at her, paying attention.

"I take the base is finished there, last time I was here it was not even nearly done." Pronab asked before she could continue.

She nodded at him "The base is finished, and we did several new sub bases around as well."

"Good, that is what I was looking forward." He replied with a satisfactory smile.

The car stopped at an old building, it looked normal as the rest of them, but a sign indicated it was something else. Both Elaine's stepped down the car as Pronab stayed with the rest of them there. While a song was playing on the radio, Pronab was talking on the different sights they would see with Amra, Caliope stared at the window, seemingly distracted by the everyday life on the people in the city. A vendor here and there, some people walking by, others driving. It was a busy day but overall normal in general. Normal was something she was starting to miss.

After half an hour, Caliope started to feel sleepy and her eyes were shutting down slowly. Her head leaned against the window as she caught two merchants arguing about something. Her eyes finally closed and she start dreaming.

A lake that was filled with dark waters, a desolated farm and endless fields of nothing. There was only one tall and dark scarecrow in the middle, and not even the crows around could be seen. A song that was being sang by a woman, who wasn't seen anywhere around. And the voice was sad, Caliope saw herself crying without knowing why. The song was in a strange language, but she understood each word of it as if it was her own.

"And he waits, for that one beloved soul to find him, in his endless solitude, he will only rise for the fallen ones... And he waits, for that one beloved soul to find him, and his endless solitude will then come to an end, as the fortuneteller once saw it coming, as the fate of him has been already set..."

She walked on a path that had no end, but right there, she felt she was not alone. The tall and dark scarecrow was near, she felt drawn to it for some strange reason. And as she got closer, a sadness grew inside her, and the voice continued singing.

"And he waits... oh he waits... for that one beloved soul to find him... and he waits... oh he will wait... he wants to end the madness... he waits and he will wait... as it is written in the stars... there will be one, that will come to find him..."

She walked closer and closer to the scarecrow and the tears kept falling. It was not the lyrics itself but the tone and the voice that were making her cry.

As she got closer to the tall and dark figure, she could feel there was something off in it. She moved slower, and as she got only some meters away, she could hear it breathe. It was alive!

"My love?" Amra broke her dream.

Caliope woke up sweating, and as she looked around, she found herself back in the car with Amra and Pronab, in front of that embassy building, on the same street. Everything was just a dream, except she felt it was real.

"Are you ok?"

"I think the weather here is affecting me a little, I felt asleep for a while but had a weird nightmare, are they going to take long?" She tried to sound normal.

"I do not know, but we can get out if you would like to take some fresh air."

Caliope shook her head and smiled at him "No, I will be ok..."

"I am sure they are about to return, it should not have taken them this long already." Pronab tried to assure Caliope, and as Pronab finished talking, both Elaine's walked out of the building and got into the car, both happy and chatting, ordering their return to the main road to head to their final destination.

The woman smiled at Amra and Caliope "The ambassador is an old friend of mine, he was happy to sign authorizations for all of you to stay in the country without limit of time, and you have all been granted with diplomatic immunity."

Pronab looked at her and replied "Thank you, but we won't get into too much troubles for sure... I hope..."

Elaine smiled kindly and added "I know you will not get into troubles, I will make sure of that." as she looked at Pronab.

They laughed and Pronab chuckled. Caliope smiled and took a deep breath, trying to forget the song that was now stuck in her head, the song of her dream.

As they moved towards Varosha, Caliope could notice the change on the city limits. A wide vast field before big and tall buildings arose; hallowed buildings with rust and dust at every side. A barrier was seen, that held several red signs. She could not understand any of what they said, but it gave her a sense of forbidden pass. The cars slowed down as they got closer to a big gate, guarded by officers.

The woman smiled "Turkish army forces, do not worry, we will get pass by them." winking at Caliope; then smirked as she looked back to the front "don't talk at all..." she asked as she began to lower her window.

Then everything was blurry, Caliope rubbed her eyes but could not see much around her. Amra whispered in her mind 'She is using her powers, do not speak a word my love...' and she felt him squeeze her hand. The cars stopped on the barrier, an officer approached to the window and spoke to Elaine in his language, she replied with a happy tone, and even though Caliope could not see what was happening, she felt some flirt tone in their strange and short conversation. The cars suddenly started moving again and after a few miles and some silence, Caliope recovered her sight. The woman smiled looking back to everyone.

"We are inside Varosha now, this city's access is very restricted, after a civil war in 1974, the Greeks and the Turkish army had a military confrontation here... people were ordered to leave immediately, expecting to return a few days if not weeks later, but until now that hasn't been possible... Turkish army fenced the surroundings, but it is really a no man's land." The woman explained as they drove thru.

Caliope nodded and continued to look around as their car moved towards the opposite side of the army base. She could see how nature took over most of the beach, old umbrellas now bringing shelter to sea turtles, and a few crabs were seen where rocks rested. Dilapidated hotels left abandoned, broken windows and ghostly curtains dancing.

The woman continued her introduction "There was an UN resolution in 1984 ruling that the city would only be resettled by the original inhabitants who lived there before the invasion, this prevented Turkey from re-opening the land for their own purposes but they never gave it back, holding it perhaps for maybe political uses in the future, as a bargaining tool. So now it is a ghost town, no people around unless the Turkish army and of course, our people."

Caliope felt curious and decided to ask "Any particular reason why you chose a ghost town to set your base?"

The woman looked straight at her eyes and smirked "Harder access and of course, less curious people around. If someone gets caught sneaking near our base, we know they are not there by coincidence."

They drove past the beach then entered deeper into the city, reaching to a huge facility she quickly realized it was the airport. At the distance, a rusted airplane was left in the middle of the field. The cars drove inside the airport's building, through a newly made entrance on a side, then stopped there. Everyone got down the cars and followed the woman through a corridor that lead them to a big elevator, right next to a huge hole seemingly endless. The woman turned around and smiled "There are two ways to get down, human way or "our" way, make your choice."

Caliope tilted her head and looked up at Amra, who shook his head and sighed. Pronab smirked and turned around to wink at Caliope "You should try this, if you think you can take a little bit of adrenaline."

After this, he walked closer to the hole in the ground and jumped. Caliope gasped as she was close to screaming. Elaine chuckled and walked towards the elevator "I will go down the slow way, Caliope you can come with me..."

The woman chuckled and nodded "Of course, I will come with you as well. Amrafel?"

"I am coming with her." He replied as he walked behind Caliope and held her hand firmly.

They all got inside the elevator and after punching a numeric code, it started to move downwards in a seemingly fast speed. After a couple of minutes, and what it felt as kilometers of emptiness, the elevator stopped and the doors opened to welcome them. An interior garden with trees and flowers, birds singing and a small stream of water that came from a cascade. Behind the garden, a big street and underground houses not taller than two floors each. The woman was the first to walk out and turn around smiling at them "Welcome to our base, my home..."

Pronab walked towards them smiling overjoyed, as if that jump made him reborn. His hair to the side and his eyes full of life. Caliope smiled and thought it was silly, but he winked at her again then smiled at Elaine as he struggled to put a serious face again. The woman led them through the garden and as they were walking, Caliope saw people resting in trees or in the grass; some reading, some meditating, some were talking to others and they were all smiling. The street was clean, simple and without signs. At the very end, a bigger building towards where they were heading. When she looked up, she saw the big dome in which they were in, metal and glass painted and illuminated to recreate the daily sun. Once they reached inside the big building, the woman ordered those guards who were following them to leave their guest's belongings at the reception and go back to the outside, and finally she led them to their meeting point. The building had modern design yet the quality of the materials was above the usual. Special marmol floors and walls with high quality and detailed paper illustrating angels and epic battles. Tall ceiling with nothing but tainted glass, and dark wood used for every furniture on each room.

As they walked inside what was supposed to be the meeting room, a small group of four woman and five men who were standing and talking, turned around and greeted them all politely. Elaine walked towards one of the oldest members and greeted him with three kisses on the cheeks, followed by a short exchange of words in another language. She smiled and finally turned around to introduce them all. It was obvious she already knew him.

"These are Pronab, Caliope and Amrafel... please meet Basil, he is the General of the Second Pillar and a dear friend of mine."

The older man bowed and with a soft and tender voice added "Enchanted to meet you all, and to finally meet you Amrafel, we have been waiting so long to receive your visit." Amra lowered his head slighting in reply, a small smile on his lips. He continued "Thank you Elaine, my friend, for coming as well."

She couldn't help but to smile at him "It was not in my plans at first, but I am here now and it is good to see all the amazing work you have done! The dome is amazing!"

"Thank you, it has been a hard work but we managed to finish it last month. My idea is to build more of them in the future, perhaps it would be a safer haven for our kind."

Basil's eye kept traveling from Amra to Caliope as occasionally he looked at Elaine. Amra's presence was something everyone was expecting, and he seemed almost unsure it was real. They all took a seat in a circle; Caliope sat next to Amra and he took her hand squeezing it slightly.

The woman cleared her voice and started the meeting "Well this is not the usual protocol, but we wanted to meet as soon as possible. Basil has to travel to the North tomorrow so here we are."

Elaine smiled "Thank you Basil, I am happy you made time to meet with us."

He kindly replied "I postponed my trip in order to be able to meet you all... I could not push it further away as it is the wedding of my dear daughter."

Elaine grinned and clapped "Congratulations! She surely has grown up so well!"

"Thank you... I am so emotional I could even cry tomorrow... but leave this old men with his silly emotions aside, you are not here to hear me babble about my daughter and her wedding. Amrafel, you coming out of your long state of meditation has brought so much courage and so much hope to our people." The old man's eyes were now focused on him.

Pronab knew Amra felt uncomfortable talking about his time before Caliope, so he interrupted "Words around the dark ones have been spread and that means something will happen soon."

The woman replied but Basil was distracted by his words as well "Unless they are truly scared and this will give us more time to act... I keep saying I have a theory about what could have happened."

"That is true, and her theory is very possible as well." Basil nodded with enthusiasm.

Elaine smiled at her and encouraged her to continue "Please do share with us what is your theory..."

The woman nodded and started explaining; conviction in her eyes "I believe that whatever they made to capture our Archangel, was nothing planned... I think that what they did was pure coincidence, or perhaps they did not realized what they were doing until it happened... this is why they are not doing anything so far, they do not know well what they did so they can't repeat the same... let's be honest, if they managed to discover a way to capture us they would have captured plenty more of us and we would all be at war now..."

Basil quickly added "...and we have not heard from them in any way, they had never reached to us for ransom or anything..."

Everyone went silent for some time, Pronab was the first to talk "That theory of yours Elaine, is very possible, I am inclined to believe in it more now that I came to think about it... this could give us plenty of advantages, it means we need to make known we do have a plan and we do have a way to take them down..."

Another member of Basil's company interrupted "pardon me, but do we?" and Basil proceeded to introduce him "Please meet Gard, he is my second in command and a trusted friend... and no Gard, I believe what Pronab is suggesting is to pretend we have one."

"That is what I suggest, we need to make the word spread, and this will keep them at distance and spread fear... they already know Amrafel is here, and they are scared."

Elaine Clark couldn't kept quiet anymore as she spoke "...if in fact, they have no plan at all, and what you say is true, this will cause them to back off those sporadic attacks we have been receiving lately, and the increase of nervousness on their higher ranks will make them fight amongst them..."

Gard spoke slowly "do we know if by any chance our Archangel is still alive? This has been troubling me... no words from them means there is nothing to bargain for..."

"He is alive, yes..." were Amra's simple but definitive words.

They turned their eyes towards him and a short silence took over the room for a moment. He kept his eyes on Caliope as he breathed slowly then continued speaking.

"Our Father has shared with me, he is alive."

Basil became excited for what he shared and exclaimed "you have contacted him?! This is a wonderful thing! Wonderful news!"

"I have gone to search for his guidance a couple of days ago, and he has revealed that to me."

Gard looked down at his hands as he spoke with some discomfort "Then let's do what we have to do in order to take back control of our Earth's balance. Let's just hope we do not end up killing our Archangel in the process, I am not sure how we could live with that weight in our backs..."

Amra finally turned away his eyes from Caliope to look at them and his face was empty, no emotions expressed. He made everyone uncomfortable and silent. Caliope felt strange, somehow she felt an intense pain but not in her, it was as if she could feel the pain of someone else. When she looked up at Amra and saw him stand up, a slow glow started to appear around him. Pronab stood up and walked towards Caliope. Everyone became aware that something started to happen, causing them to stand up and move slowly away from him. Just as Pronab pulled from Caliope's hands everything went black. She started to fall down in that never ending pool of darkness, the same void she already felt not long ago.




The Awakening Ch. 21-30



-

CHAPTER 22

-

When that vertigo sensation finally stopped; and with it also the darkness, Caliope found herself into a familiar environment. A big field, desolated and lonely; no one around the field, and the cabain standing almost identically as the one in her dream. The place was empty, no soul to be found anywhere, but unlike before, she was unable to move. She was inside of some one's body, reliving something; looking to the left, then to the right, a sudden spin and still no one around. Caliope was becoming more conscious of what was happening. The sad song was not around, nor the scarecrow; but everything else was like her dream. She started to move unwillingly, the person whose memories she was reliving was scared and agitated. It looked down and both hands with palms up reached to cover it's face. Manly hands, she could see, and they were filled with dirt and some cuts. The man gasped and then continued to move, still looking from side to side, trying to make sure no one was around. A few steps more and then something happened; the sharp pain that cut his breath, he felt down to his knees and shuddered. A scream came out of his mouth and then he crawled a few meters before trying to get up. He looked around and what Caliope saw was something she would never ever have seen nor dreamed before. Two winged creatures slowly flying down to him, one of them was older than the other, dark Angels.

"I believe you have something of my property..."

"You should pull it and make him watch his own blood before he passes out."

"You make this no fun at all..."

The older winged creature stepped closer to the fallen man who was offering Caliope the sight. Another scream and this time she could see a spear being pulled out of him. With horror and pain, the creature fell down to the floor and she could hear both dark Angels laugh.

"I think we gave him what he deserves Belial, lets return."

"As you wish my Great General Andras, thank you for allowing me to help you in this hunt."

Both creatures faded away with laughs and mockery. Caliope was crying inside the dying body of the men, feeling it as her own pain. He was close to lose consciousness when another creature walked towards him; he was not scared, he was sad.

"Sweet traitor... sweet traitor..." he shook his head.

"Are you the one who comes to finish me, Kuan?"

"Sweet traitor, you are not going to die... I am here to give you your freedom..."

"My freedom? why would you care if I die or not?"

"I was asked as last wish, to forgive you... so you will be forgiven... you will be able to leave... but your existance will be erased and your achievements will be forgotten... you will have to endure the solitude of the decades before you are set free... you will resign to your name 'Procel Naamah'... do you accept this?"

The pain was becoming stronger, and the man was starting to lose control over his own body. He looked up and spitted some blood to the side, blue blood.

"Yes... I accept my new fate..." he whispered.

"So you are now forgiven, sweet traitor..."

The winged creature lifted his arm and with it, the man floated up. With his other hand he signaled the house and with slight move of his fingers, two big pieces of wood were teared and came towards them; he made a cross and pushed the man against it. The pain started to fade, and the man moved slowly until he finally rested there, in his pose, head low and arms pulled tight to both ends of the new made cross; some chains locked around his wrists, chains that were very familiar to Caliope. A long and last sigh from the dark Angel who was punishing him.

"These chains are your gift, use them well... farewell sweet traitor, it is written that your future will be great... farewell, and remember this moment when we cross paths again."

The dark Angel flew away without looking back, and the man finally let his head down and all his body remained hanging from the chains.

Silence, and nothing moving, the slow breathing of the man was just quiet; she wanted to know why she was still there, why she could not leave this memory. It was not like the first time, a storm of sudden memories and then going back to reality. Caliope observed the grass grow, a sign that time was moving fast, accelerated by the memories itself; and then it hit her, the scarecrow. He was the scarecrow.

"I know you are there... you can hear me..."

Caliope was shocked, it was Pronab's voice and somehow, as she heard him talk, she just knew it was his memories. And he was talking to her.

"This is part of my past, a past it should have been erased, but it wasn't... I am sorry you had to see all this, but it was the only way..."

"The only way for what?"

"What do you remember before entering my memories?"

"We were in a meeting... the General was talking, you too, everyone was talking... then Amra... Amra was glowing again!"

"He is in rage, only you can stop him..."

"Rage?! why?! I do not understand what happened, why did you brought me here? why am I dreaming of you?!"

"Dreaming of me? you never told me that..."

"You did not know?!"

"I am about to bring you back, he is furious and we don't know why, but it is safer now for you to return... we will talk about this later..."

"Wait! Pronab!"

It was too late, the visions ended, there was darkness around her and suddenly light. A strong light that almost blinded her. She could hear people agitated and scared, and as her eyes adjusted, she saw Amra glowing as he was banishing someone.

"Amra...!"

It was all she could say before she fainted. Her only word managed to make him turn his head to look at her and the glow started to disappear. He rushed to her side and held her in his arms, lifting her with such tenderness. Elaine walked fast towards her and checked her signs.

"Amrafel you are going to kill her if you continue to do these kind of things without warning!"

She had tears in her eyes, and with a hand on Caliope's forehead, she tried to heal what ever was happening to her. Amra kneeled holding Caliope in his arms and waited for Elaine to work her way to heal her. After an uncomfortable pair of minutes, Caliope started to open her eyes and recover her consciousness.

"My Asteria..."

"Amra?... why?!" she sobbed.

"Why did you collapsed? why am I holding you? why are you like this? which one would you like me to reply..." he replied to her realizing at the same time how true it was. So many questions could come out of one single word, Caliope thought it best to ponder well and finally spoke realizing everyone was gathering to see her.

"Why would you use your power like this, knowing I am in the room, and that I am not as tough as you think?"

Amra sighed then slowly helped her to stand, with strong determination yet a tender voice he replied to her "If you would die, I would bring you back from the death... I will never, ever... let something harm you or take you away from me..."

Caliope bitted her lower lip and knew other ways to reply to his heroic sentence, but she did not enjoyed the scene they were making.

"We will continue to discuss about this later, but I am not happy with you letting me suffer through all this just because you know you can bring me back from the dead..."

He frowned but said nothing, everyone else lowered their heads and understood what she meant. Elaine held her hand and helped her sit back on a chair as the others continued to discuss the recent events. As she laid her back on the chair, she crossed eyes with Pronab who was quiet and observing, yet avoiding to look at her as much as possible. She was determined to know more about his past, but right then it was not time for her to spill all out.

Basil was frowning as he sighed and asked "I need some explanations..." he sat down on his chair and locked his eyes on his fisted hands. He was angry and yet trying to keep some calm. Amra sighed and closed his eyes for a moment, finally opening them to speak "When I saw our father, days ago... he told me I would find easily the traitor in this location... and the way I would know who he was, was by how he spoke and what he said... he whispered me his exact words..."

"Gard a traitor? we had a traitor among us all this time?!" Basil shook his head, finally looking up at Amra.

The woman sat down next to Basil and whispered "I would not have believed such thing if it wasn't coming from Amrafel itself... but this is horrible... was like this in your prior destination?"

Pronab was the one who spoke this time, as Elaine and Amra focused on Caliope "we had a traitor, in a very high rank as well..."

But Elaine turned her head towards Basil and added "I think we need to take some time and try to get some rest... from all these late events... please allow me to present my condolences Basil, for your lost... and give me time to think over all of this."

Basil nodded and sighed "Thank you, Lady Clark... I need some... time as well... Elaine, please take them to their home."

"I will do, my General..." the woman replied.

She lead them in return to the houses in the street, the ones they saw at their arrival. One of the first houses near the complex was designated to them; she lead them all inside, where their suitcases were already placed on the living room "Feel yourselfs at home, if you need me, please hit this button in red next to the light switch, I will be here as soon as possible... get some rest, I will pick you all up in the morning... The fridge has food for her, and for you all. Will she need a doctor?"

Caliope smiled at her and whispered "Thank you..."

Pronab didnt part his eyes from the door as he dismissed her "No, she won't need any doctor, but thank you..."

She nodded and left the house, visibly disturbed by what happened. Caliope sat on the living room and tried to take deep breaths, Elaine sat next to her as Amra slowly kneeled at her front, taking her hands gently.

"How are you feeling my dear?" Elaine's soothing voice already started to sink in her skin, a calmness was embracing her.

"Upset, a little uncomfortable, tired, hungry..." She sighed and looked at Amra "disappointed..."

"I am sorry... I have not an easy job to do here, and I keep putting your life at risk..." He closed his eyes and sat on the floor, not parting his eyes from her.

Caliope nodded, still upset, but looking at his humble and innocent look made her melt quickly and she leaned to kiss him. The very simple act took him by surprise, he did not pulled back, he lingered on her kiss.

"I won't step in your way to save our earth... but I beg you... please... unless it is strictly necessary, do not use your power in such way... at least until we figure a way for me to get safe..."

"There is a way..." he said before she could finish.

Elaine looked at him worried "Amra..."

Caliope stared at Elaine and noticed worry in her eyes, she was looking at Amra but he had his eyes only on her. When she lifted her eyes to find Pronab, she noticed him on the window, restless.

"What way?"

"I am not so sure about it Amra..."

"I am."

"Of what?" Caliope raised her voice.

Amra caressed her knee "I will claim you and transform you my Asteria..."

"Transform me into what?" she asked almost holding her breath.

Elaine looked back at Caliope "It is a symbolic transformation, my darling... He will claim you as his partner, a ceremony would be held, and a ritual to clean you and then transform you into one of us..."

"An angel? I can be transformed into an angel?!"

"Not like that, my dear... not an Angel but a real Asteria... someone blessed by specific Angels who can endure the great power manifested by Amra at any time... the darkness you have thanks to your origins, would be expelled..."

"Expelled..."

"Like an exorcism, it is not an easy thing, nor something commonly done..."

Caliope gasped, and then remained in silence. The idea of having a way to endure all the intense power Amra had without fainting or feeling sick each time he used them, was a very appealing idea. Yet it involved a type of ritual that was not often done, and that seemed to provoke certain fear in those who she trusted most.

"Please consider it, my love..."

"I will, I promise..."

Amra stood up and held a hand to help her get up, she took it and then walked to one of the rooms where she laid in bed and quickly fell asleep.

Hours later, when she opened her eyes, she found Pronab sitting next to her, watching her. She sat down on the bed quickly and looked around trying to see if someone else was there, but no one was to be found.

"Amra and Elaine are out, the other Elaine came to pick us all and give us a tour of the recent excavation, but since you were resting I told them I would be here to take care of you."

"A perfect excuse."

Pronab nodded "As you have not shared what you saw of my memories with anyone, I thought it was needed some time for us to talk and for you to get any answer you wanted."

"That is very thoughtful of you... I guess, the first question I have is, does Elaine know? Does Amra?"

"It is a little complicated, Amra does not care about my past, I am fighting at his side and that is all he cares... Elaine knows I have a past, she does not know specifics but she knows I was with them at one point... but for them it is quite simple Caliope, if we are now here, we do not get questioned, we are welcomed, and we show ourselves with our true intentions by our acts... My acts speak for me, and that is how I have earned my place."

Caliope nodded, she had already formed this idea slowly, but now he was confirming it. Angels were not so doubtful and distrusting as humans were, they were more simple, more humble, more pure and some times, too innocents. But Pronab had a past where he was dark, and capable of all other things.

"I dreamed about you... I was in that same place, but I saw no one... only a tall and dark figure resembling a scarecrow... but it was you. At first I thought it was a scarecrow, as nothing else in my mind would be alike but, you were there, it was you... I kept hearing a sad song all along... but the song was not there when I was in your memories."

Pronab started to whisper slowly "And he waits... oh he waits... for that one beloved soul to find him..."

"That is the song!"

He closed his eyes and stood up, shaking his head. Caliope was surprised and kept looking at him waiting for some explanation. She moved closer to the edge of the bed and tried to find her shoes in order to get up when he turned around.

"During decades I was there alone, I had to endure that punishment before I was completely forgiven... I had one visitor, she saw me there and tried to talk to me but I did not replied. She was persistent, stubborn. She returned a couple of times, and when I finally moved my head to see her, I found her sad, sitting close to me. I did not realize she was singing to me, she was singing that song to me..."

"Who was she?"

He closed his eyes one more time then slowly sat down next to her in the bed, looking at her with sadness.

"It was your mother."

-

CHAPTER 23

-

Caliope's eyes widened, she looked at Pronab and gasped "My mother?!"

"I didn't know until recently, that is why I never told you anything, nor mentioned it to Amra and Elaine."

"...but how? Why? I don't understand!"

"You must believe that we never planned you to meet Amra, we never planned anything when it comes to how you both met... We are still surprised how you came to our lives, Elaine followed her instinct hiring you to take care of Amra and the apartment... and then things just happened..."

"But how... what does that have to do with the fact that you met my mother? And when was this?!"

"You saw them hunt me..."

"Yes, two dark Angels were behind you, one of them hurt you with his spear..."

"That was your father... The Great General Andras..."

She gasped and put a hand towards her chest. She could not believe what she was hearing yet she wanted to hear more, and Pronab continued "...at first I did not understood why, but then it hit me... how would he know I was doing my time before I was finally set free? Kuan gives sentence but only the Great General would be the one to see the sentence being fulfilled. I was in one of his lands... and his loved one found me as she was visiting the field... By then they did not had met yet... He found her one day singing to me and felt in love of her... her voice was sad but beautiful... He should have punished her for being in that place but he didn't... He was curious as why she did not do anything to set me free, and why she was not scared of me or him. She said she witnessed when I got punished, and that made her believe there was a world she knew nothing about... she was scared at first but after months she got the courage to return to the same place... and then she found me... She even made up the song to try to make me company..."

Caliope started to cry and smile, hearing what Pronab was saying about her mother made her heart beat faster with joy.

"He told her I was being punished, but when my time was due, I would be set free. When she heard that, she smiled and hugged him, and he almost fell to his knees... I could see how it shocked him, he knew he found his Asteria. He made her promise not to visit me again or it would jeopardize her safety and my freedom. She nodded, kissing my cheek as a good bye... I never saw her again after that..."

"But that means this was not long ago!"

"That is why I could not believe you were her daughter until recently... Caly... my memories are over three thousand years old..."

Again another gasp, and this time she shook her head and closed her eyes, rubbing her tired and watered eyes.

"He must have claimed her the way Amra wants to claim you..."

Caliope smiled, this was one of her greatest fears. To know Amra was so eternal and she only a fraction of his existence made her sad in a way only she could understand, yet she pushed that thought many times aside. But now Pronab was telling her that her mother had over three thousand years old before she died, which meant that her transformation would give her the gift to endure the passing of time as well, and she would be with Amra until time stopped existing.

"Can I see my mother? In your memories..."

Pronab took a deep breath and held silence for a moment. Caliope was looking at him pleading with her eyes. He finally nodded and she slowly moved her hand towards him. He took her hand and she felt nothing. "You are too anxious, relax..." He squeezed her hand gently as she took a deep breath and nodded, and then everything went dark.

This time she was anxious and even enjoyed the dark void surrounding her; she knew that soon she would see the face of her mother. The darkness around her was slowly banishing when she found herself inside him again; he had his head low looking at the grass grow and dance with the wind. For a while there was only silence and the sound of the wind, then footsteps on the grass. She wanted to look up but she couldn't, she was not under control. A fainted music started to sound and she recognized the song, it was the song her mother was singing to him. For a little longer, he remained there waiting for time to pass by. Then silence again, and after a while, the song continued. Finally he started to move his head, and then he saw her; and she was beautiful, young, and so pure. She had a long braided hair to the side, and a rustic dress with no particular style. Her eyes were like honey and her smile was shy, kind and sad at the same time. Caliope was crying of joy inside Pronab's memories, she was looking at the most beautiful creature under her own eyes. Finally she saw from afar, the winged creature was coming to them; her father, she remembered. He landed right behind her, with a serious, dark angry look on his face, he walked from behind towards her, but the closer he got, the slower he moved; mesmerized by her song he stood there for a while hearing her. He had the face of a man who fought a thousand wars, but who felt under a spell. She then turned half ways to find him, and blushed smiling and lowering her head. He came to her side and looked at Pronab then back at her, asking her in some strange language what she was doing there. Just as Pronab told her, she explained how she got there and why she was there; she saw her father confused about what to do, and about her as well. Inside she smiled, it was touching to see them both.




The Awakening Ch. 21-30



Caliope gasped when she returned back to herself. Pronab had a hand in his chest and was breathing heavy.

"Thank you... thank you so much...! Are you... ok?"

"It just... hurts a little still..."

"What hurts?"

"The scar your father gave me with his spear... each time a certain power is used, it makes it hurt..."

"Powers? My powers?"

"No... Amra's... he must be close and using his powers again..."

"They need to know Pronab... you must tell them..."

"I was not supposed to remember that... I was supposed to forget my past and make a new life..."

The doors broke open and Amra walked into the room with a worried face, he stopped after watching Caliope leaning towards Pronab with tears in her eyes. She could not help but to smile at him and ran to his arms.

"I need you to see this with me!"

Amra held her, looking at Pronab as he got up and watched Elaine arrive behind Amra, a little breathless. When Caliope saw Elaine's face, she got serious and questioned Amra.

"What happened? why are you both like this?"

"We were reviewing the new location they are building when Amra started to run back here, I have no idea..."

"Amra?"

"Are you ok?"

"I am... I am overwhelmingly happy!"

He nodded, then looked again at Pronab who was still serious and quiet. Elaine walked into the room and exchanged looks between both before finally speaking "What is happening Amra?"

"I felt she was under a great deal of... something different... she was crying..."

"You sensed me?"

He simply nodded.

"And you assumed I was in danger?"

"...are you?"

Caliope followed his eyes and saw he was staring at Pronab. She pulled his arm and made him look back at her."

"I am not in any danger, and in fact, I am happy you both are here... Pronab has discovered something... will you share it with them? please..."

Pronab nodded slowly, he was not happy about this but he was beginning to think that the sooner they got over it, the better "I have realized that I met her mother a long time ago..."

"Caliope's mother? how?"

"Wouldn't be better if you all saw it for yourselves?"

"He showed it to me, in his memories... Elaine, I can enter people's memories!"

"If Amra can do what he did back in Greece... you could all see what she saw..."

Amra nodded and took Caliope's hand, squeezing it gently. She smiled at him and then took Elaine's hand as well "We should all hold each other's hands... right? like you made us do back then?" Amra nodded.

Pronab was obviously uncomfortable but he was playing along with them as he knew that sooner or later he would have to reveal his past to them. When they all held each other's hands, a strong drop on the atmospheric density and the clouded vision started. Elaine was disturbed but continued in silence waiting for some guidance, when Amra explained "We are all going to see now what she saw in his memories... relax, my Asteria..."

Caliope nodded and smiled, trying to calm down even though watching her mother again was something she greedily wanted. After the darkness around them disappeared, they were trapped inside her vision, and just as she was before, without control of the person itself. This time she could notice more details. Her mother was not only young and beautiful; she also had a birthmark on her shoulder. Her clothes were not the best quality, she came from a humble origin, and she probably chose to walk over those lands because they were desolated. Her father was strong, he had a strong will as well. They both were something else completely when they were standing in front of each other. She was shier than usual, yet attracted to them both; he was a power to behold, so strong and determined, yet completely humbled and powerless in front of her.

The vision of his father was more clear now, she was focused on her mother more than her father before but now she could see he was a man with darkness around him. At the distance, he had more winged man waiting, all of them eager to come closer. They looked at her mother with a sort of hunger or excitement; which made Caliope gasp, afraid of her. Then something changed, when he saw her and spoke to her, they all turned their heads and looked disappointed. He found his Asteria, and they knew it. She was safe.

After everyone opened their eyes, Caliope was smiling bright. She turned to look at Amra who smiled at her softly.

"Did you see her? did you see my mother? she was so beautiful!"

Amra nodded "She was indeed, a kind soul, my love... you have inherited from her quite a lot."

"So this was what happened? Pronab..."

Pronab frowned but nodded, he watched Caliope smile and Amra hug her, yet he avoided to look at him. Elaine was serious but kept quiet thinking over what it meant. It was only when Caliope saw Pronab and Elaine exchange serious looks that she finally burst her bubble.

"What is wrong Elaine?"

"My dear, nothing is wrong..."

"I can see that it isn't true..."

"It is just, I would have prefered to know about this first, and not "seen" it like we just did..."

"He did nothing wrong, he buried his past as he was told to and as he should have, but the reason he remembered it was because of me..."

"What do you mean my dear?"

Amra was now paying close attention to Caliope, and both Elaine and Pronab sat down to listen at her speak. She took a deep breath and tried to line up her thoughts. When Amra squeezed her hand before he sat on the edge of the bed near her, she nodded and started to talk "One of my deepest fears when I found out about Amra's real nature, was how long you all live, and how little my life is in comparison to all of yours... and it hurt me, because I feel such a deep connection to him, it sadden me to think about how little I would share before nature itself or something else could take me away..."

Amra tried to talk but she pleaded him with her eyes and a hand on his shoulder. He nodded and kept quiet.

"I might not know well about how or why many things happen in this new world I am discovering with you, but when Pronab shared his memories, he told me this was over 3 millenniums ago... to me it is a big deal! that means my mother survived all this long... and he said it was because my father claimed her as Amra wants to claim me... So you see, I am not only happy because I could see my mother, and father... but because I feel like a big relief knowing "time" itself won't be a problem... I do not have to worry anymore and it does make me quite happy, I feel like I really can enjoy myself with him..."

A little pause made Amra stand up and hold her, he lifted her chin up and smiled at her. A soft kiss made her blush and all her body was filled with goosebumps as he pressed his forehead on hers "Time will not take you away from me, I will claim you, and if you let me, make you mine for the rest of eternity... and beyond..."

She smiled wide, and Elaine chuckled a little before getting up and pulling Pronab from his hand towards the outside of the room. He quietly followed and Caliope turned around to look at them both.

"You are leaving?"

"It is time for Amra to do things properly, and so we need to leave you two alone."

And as Elaine winked at both of them, she and Pronab left, closing the doors behind them. Caliope smiled and turned around to look at Amra with questions on her mind. He was pensive but he took her hands and both sat on the bed "I am not sure of the proper procedure for this, but I really want you to be happy and to have all you wished for."

"I am happy, and for the first time I feel like I have nothing to fear..."

He closed his eyes and smiled, then took her hand towards his chest and held it tight. Slowly, a thin glow started to appear; her hand that was almost a fist, slowly gave up and started to open. She could feel something different, material, forcing her to open it.

Amra whispered "What I know of this world and mine, is that there is no point living if you do not have someone to live for... A mission is something to keep you focused, a partner of life, is something to keep you alive."

And with those words, she looked at her hand and saw something strange, it was like a piece of thin and soft silk that had a soft gold translucent color. She touched it and rubbed her fingers on it, lifting her chin up a little confused but smiling widely at him; there was something on that fabric that made her shiver. He opened his eyes and smiled at her.

"This is a part of me, an important one... a piece of my wings..."

Caliope gasped and blushed, the memories of his ethereal wings flashed on her head. She looked down at the piece of fabric and remembered how it looked like for her, and now she was touching it.

"It is a symbolic gesture, one I hope you accept... if you would marry me..."

-

CHAPTER 24

-

Caliope was holding the thin translucent fabric between her fingers and smiling, her cheeks were red. Amra cup her chin up and held it as he leaned close to kiss her lips. Her heart pounded fast and hard, and she tasted his kiss with a new found meaning "Now I want to hear your answer... I need to hear it from your own lips, my Asteria..."

She blushed even more and nodded; realizing her mouth was dry she gasped and finally whispered a firm "Yes..." and he kissed her with passion. He moved a finger over her hand and dragged the thin fabric as magnet towards her finger, he moved it in a circle and the fabric found its way to wrap around and it formed a knot. As simple as that, the fabric glowed and she felt her heart beat faster "You are all I want, you make me complete..."

The magic ring was as thin and soft as a water , but it was firm and the knot seemed impossible to break, it had a low glow but it was a true beauty beyond any mortal jewel. Caliope could not stop looking at it. He smiled watching at her oblivious self enchanted by the new present "Now my love, rest... our trip still holds necessary meetings and arrangements to make for the future."

She chuckled and perked a brow amused, looking at him "You expect me to sleep after such a present? I wont be able to sleep in days!"

He smiled at her gently, and caressed her face slowly, making her blush and lean her head on his hand "I need you resting, is the only way I can rest... I worry, you know..."

She sighed and smiled, shaking her head as she chuckled one more time before leaning on the bed next to him. Surprisingly, she yawned, finally giving up and falling asleep.

Elaine was pacing and when Amra walked in, she finally stopped. Pronab was leaning against the wall and he broke his pose as well. Amra walked straight to Pronab and once he stood in front of him, he embraced him. Pronab stood still, the action itself took him by surprise and he did not know how to react. After a few seconds, he finally let him go "I can't judge you for your past, but only for your present. I trust in you. Our father has his trust in you. Now it is time for you to let your pass go."

"I wish it was that easy..."

"Nothing is ever easy for those of your nature... you tend to think too much on consequences, and that in part is how we have you as an important part in our ranks, you think as we don't... and that is unvaluable..."

"I do not like uncertainties, and it was predicted much more for me... I don't want more, I want this war to be over, I want peace and routine..."

"No one wants this war... I wish Michael was here to help, he has experience in the three wars... but we want you to feel we trust in you, so at least, trust in us."

He nodded and finally smiled slightly, making Elaine hug him tight.

Hours later, Caliope woke up and found Amra sitting on a chair near her. He had his eyes closed and seemed resting. She slowly laid her head back on the pillow and smiled watching him and her magical ring over and over. After a while, he opened his eyes and smiled at her "You look beautiful."

She chuckled "You are biased."

"Let me remember what that means, then I will reply to you."

Caliope laughed "It means you love me, so you will always say I am beautiful even if I am not... you are inclined to be always on my side."

"Ok then..."

"Ok?"

"Yes, I am biased."

Caliope laughed and sat on the bed as he got up and walked next to her. He offered her his hand "Lets go to meet the General, he has mourned enough the loss of his second in command already."

Caliope took a shower first, and after that she put new clothes on, when she finally got together with the group, Amra looked immutable, she would have to still get used to seen him like that; as force on its own. They reunited all in the same building yet a different room, and before anyone spoke, Amra took Caliope's chair and pulled it closer to him.

Basil started the meeting "Thank you all for joining Us today. And thank you Elaine for giving me a day off."

"My pleasure Basil, it was a memorable event after all."

Caliope frowned, and then heard Amra in her mind 'Yes, you slept many hours, and over all, nothing much happened... dont worry...' She sighed and nodded, she leaned her head against his arm and continued to listen Basil talk.

"So I got in touch with the other Generals and we are aware of the meeting in a couple of weeks. As of now there is only one big question to answer. Are we preparing for a possible battle war?"

"Yes... we can not pretend the circumstances are not that important. Because they are... and we have to be ready for the worst outcome."

"I was afraid you would say that... I am not like my fellow Generals, I would prefer peace over war, but if it must happen, I will fight for our cause until I cease to exist."

"My dear General, it won't come to that... my friend."

"I really hope it doesn't, Elaine."

Amra interrupted them "It will not..."

Basil smiled and looked at him "Hearing you say that makes me more confident about it Amrafel, and I know you do not want war just as me..."

Amra nodded as he put an arm around Caliope's shoulder, making her smile and lean closer. After a few more words, the meeting was over. They programed another trip around the facilities and then a day off for them to spend as they wished.

When Caliope looked up in the big sky dome, she tried to figure out if it was really afternoon or night. She was aware that a couple of hours had passed, but she was not really sure what time of day was below all that fake sky.

"I find it fascinating how they created a village here and everyone seems to live happy." Elaine was admiring the dome.

Pronab shook his head "Angels were not meant to hide in order to live."

"If we want humans to survive and live without our interference, that is what we should do... they seem happy here."

The woman nodded "They are all happy, and they enjoy taking some time away from war. Outside nothing is certain... Basil wanted to create a haven below earth as sanctuary for our kind."

Pronab frowned "I would not be happy for a long time here, I need fresh air from time to time."

The woman chuckled "Everyone here is welcome to go outside whenever they want to..."

Pronab nodded and smiled, then continued to look around as the women showed them the side gardens, replica of the main one they saw at the entrance. Amra walked besides them, in silence most of the time.

"What time of the day is it? it feels like it is never late here..." Caliope finally asked, her curiosity was too strong.

"It is only ten past seven, but we enjoy our sky more like this, as a soft afternoon." the woman replied to her kindly.

"I am still half human, I am used to see the night and darkness to show me is late and I should sleep..." Caliope admitted smiling.

"Are you tired? do you want to go back to sleep?" Amra was now concerned. He would never stop feeling as if he was not protecting her enough.

"I was just curious, so I asked... but soon I will need the bed." she chuckled and squeezed his hand. Amra smiled at her and quickly lifted her up in his arms, she gasped and blushed, and all the others laughed.

Elained stepped aside as she started to laugh at Caliope's reaction "You should remember who you say those things my dear."

"I am going to take her to rest, we will see you all tomorrow."

Everyone said their good night wishes at them both as Amra walked to the house; they crossed paths with a couple of Angels who looked at them and smiled. Caliope felt a bit embarrassed and blushed more, trying to hide her face on his neck. Once inside the house, he laid her on the bed and smiled at her. She squealed "Quit spoiling me already!" chuckling non stop.

Amra smiled and leaned down to kiss her softly. He then started to walk outside the room and she erased that smile from her face "You are leaving?"

"I don't want you distracted, I prefer you sleeping and resting..."

"Distracted? I want to lay next to you."

"and... I..." he hesitated and seemed to have a hard time finding the words to express himself and she sat on the bed quickly, looking at him now worried "You are doing a good job scaring me. What is happening?"

"Nothing really."

"Can you please come sit with me?"

He nodded and slowly walked back next to her, and moving a bit sideways he sat in front of her. She quickly took his hands in hers and smiled "Talk to me, please?"

"I don't want to interfere in your sleep, my love."

"I thought you already learned to control that, is all ok?"

He seemed hesitant and she found that a bit strange. She squeezed his hands and he smiled at her "You promised to be honest with me, always..."

He sighed "I want to do more than sleep when I am near you..."

She blushed deeply at his confession, and giggled softly. He lowered his head and she smiled widely, feeling breathless at such simple human reactions coming from him "Let me tell you something... you don't need to ask permission for it... you don't need to schedule anything... I really... I really want to be with you too... it is just that, we women are better at hiding it."

He chuckled and leaned to kiss her softly. She returned the kiss with a bigger intensity and he quickly pushed away any self control he was practicing. He pulled her towards him firmly with an arm, as his lips locked around hers. She gasped and digged her fingers on his back tangling her tongue with his. It was more than just desire, it was need for the other. When they both laid naked on the bed, he felt her reply in every single form of love it was known to him. She closed her eyes and left herself go; her hands touched every part of him, exploring his shape and form, caressing his most sensitive spots. He found new ways of pleasure in her and she broke down in tears of joy when he took the time to touch her as he wanted to touch her from so long ago. He growled lowly, biting her shoulder as he sank into her, and she whimpered breathlessly when she felt his manhood throb and arouse her even more from inside. Briefly, she wondered why she held back from enjoying his touched more often. When they both collapsed gasping for air, he whispered to her "every time... it just gets more intense... and I am getting too addicted to you, my Asteria... I just want you more and more..." She smiled, snuggled in his arms and kissed him, closing her eyes to give in, worn out and tired.

When Caliope started to open her eyes, she found Amra standing naked in front of the bathroom door. He turned around to smile at her and walked back to bed "I am very proud of us..."

"You are? why?" she smiled at him while she stretched her arms and rubbed her eyes.

"It is morning, we did not slept more than just enough." She chuckled and pulled him closer to her in a hug. He caressed her face and leaned more to kiss her lips softly. Once they finally got up, Elaine and Pronab were both waiting for them at the door. Pronab chuckled as both walked out, and winked at Caliope with a smirk "What happened?" she asked curiously.




The Awakening Ch. 21-30



"Nothing... its just... well, havent seen you wake in the morning this early in a while..."

Elaine elbowed Pronab and he chuckled more, Caliope blushed and started laughing, making all of them laugh as well.

Once they reached to one of the interior gardens, Basil was waiting for them with a big picnic set. They all enjoyed their day hearing some music played by some of the Angels, sang in some language Caliope could not understand, but she could feel. Her skin was filled with goosebumps when the tones of the song changed. She was fascinated how they could manipulate emotions with their voices. Guitars were modified to emit the most soft yet strong melodies, while other string instruments played together. Basil was smiling proudly as the Angels were showing some of their talents to the visitors.

-

CHAPTER 25

-

As Basil walked with them towards the hangar's exit, he leaned close to Caliope and smiling he whispered to her "The ring suits you... congratulations sweet Caliope..."

She smiled and blushed, by instinct she looked down at her finger. The soft glow of the fabric ring was still there as if Amra had just put it seconds ago "Thank you... I feel it belongs there..."

"And it does! you belong to him as much as he belongs to you... my wife always felt fear for what was to come when she accepted to be mine, but once she was there, she felt it was everything she wanted... wish she was here to talk to you, but she is with our daughter."

"I believe you, and I am not afraid anymore, I feel safe... strange, with all this war ideas and suspicious people in every corner."

"Among all the Angels, you are with the most enigmatic and strongest of all, of course you are safe my dear."

"Enigmatic? what do you mean?"

"It is such a rare sight to see an ancient one, the others have been here and there on each earth throughout history, Amrafel came to Earth only, once... briefly... his presence only was strong enough for things to get solved. He did not need to do much but be here... and now, you are aware of all the things going on... and how he went from dormant to full awake, all because of you..."

She blushed and felt each word from him slowly slide down her body with a chill. Each time she heard people talk about Amra, it was almost as if they were talking of two different people. She felt flattered without doubt, and blushed smiling at Basil who chuckled and lowered his head "Oh I talk too much, my apologies dear... I do not want to overwhelm you."

"Thank you for your words, I really appreciate your warm welcoming and everything you have said to me, I really am." She leaned towards him and kissed his cheek. He took her hands in his, lifted them towards him and kissed them both "Enchanting... you have a safe trip now, we will see eachother again soon at the main meeting."

She smiled and nodded as Elaine reached them both and hugged Basil saying goodbye. Pronab was a little sad to leave the Haven so soon but he agreed to return at some point. Amra politely said goodbye to all and held Caliope's hand until they took the cars and headed towards their airplane.

As soon as they took their seats, Caliope smiled and leaned on her seat with a new found peace and serenity. It was only after the plane took off that she turned to see Amra and chuckling she asked him "Where is our next destination?"

"We are going to London, it is not going to be too long to get there."

She nodded and leaned back to her seat, smiling as the next stop was as exciting as the previous ones. And the trip was short, they arrived at London's airport a few hours later, and since Caliope nodded off part of the fly, she barely noticed the distance.

London was cold, and as soon as they left the main building and jump into the waiting cars, Caliope shivered and squeezed Amra's arms searching for warmth. He smiled at her and held her close. Elaine took a coat from her handbag and offered it to her.

"Thank you, Elaine... I guess I need to use some of the money I earned working, with some shopping."

"There is no better place to shop that London, well... except for Paris, of course..."

Pronab winked at Caliope "She can have my business credit card, I never use it..."

"And I don't know why... but yes, give it to her."

Caliope frowned "Business credit card?"

"Yes, from our organization, is generic, not under his name but of the organization, I should make one for you too but you are going to have his anyway."

Caliope shook her head "I don't need a credit card, I have enough money from what I have earned already."

Elaine Clark smiled kindly at her, noticing her reaction "You have never been to London, take the credit card just in case please... better be safe than sorry."

Even if she knew she had saved plenty of money on her time working for Elaine, she realized how true her words were. She never step foot outside her country so what could happen outside was now beyond any angelic motives. After some seconds of thought about it, she sighed and noded with a smile "Just for emergencies, ok... thank you both..."

Pronab held the credit card on his hand and handled it to Caliope, she took it and nodded with a smile. Amra chuckled as the cars started to head towards their hotel. On the road, Caliope admired the elegant buildings and felt the atmosphere was so different from their prior destinations. Even though the structures were similar, the air smelled different at London. Grey clouds covered the sky like a soft silked sheet, but everyone walked, drove, moved as no rain would ever come.

They arrived to their hotel, a tall and magnificent sky tower. Once inside Caliope could tell the opulence of which people talked so much; crystals and gold throned the reception desk, and as for the surroundings, it only became much more detailed and expensive. Caliope and Amra stood together close to the reception as Elaine and Pronab were presenting their papers and picking up the keys for their rooms.

Amra held an empty look as he glare towards them, Caliope on the other hand, was still surprised and amazed of the decoration and extravagance. She did not noticed a pair of eyes that stared so directly at her, but Amra did. He slowly turned his head and body towards the person who kept more than curious eyes on Caliope. She noticed the sudden change on him and turned her head to follow his eyes. She gasped.

The men smirked, and he got up from his comfortable chair on the waiting room and headed towards them. As he approached slowly, Caliope felt her heart pace faster, her breath became heavier, she was about to panic 'Who is he? does he know you?... you are going to have a heart attack my love...' Amra's voice echoed in her head, but she was so nervous, it took her long seconds to reply 'He... he is someone from my past... my ex boss... my ex lover...'

He took a protective arm around her as he reached to them. He was now smiling slightly and nodded his head at both, but kept his eyes only on her.

"Good evening... Caly, I am amazed to see you here, it has been a while..." His words were filled with intention.

Elaine turned her head and gasped, then left all the documentation at the desk and headed towards them. Caliope was still frozen and Amra was becoming restless. "Greetings Mister Rawer, what a strange and unusual sight to find you here." Elaine finally interfered.

He turned his head towards Elaine and nodded with a smile, then he looked back at Caliope. Amra's words echoed once more inside her 'I am here, nothing will happen, relax...' She swallowed hard and finally spoke "Hello, Derek."

"Oh you do speak! I was afraid you lost your voice somewhere..." He chuckled and she shivered, Amra could notice how much repulsion he caused on her. He took her hand and lifted it to her lips, kissing it softly. She finally looked up at him and smiled. Rawer changed his look and worked hard to keep a smile. "I am quite surprised to see you here Miss Clark, and I see you have Caliope with your entourage, are you working for her now Caly?"

Elaine rushed to reply "No, she doesnt. She is the fiance of my son, who is standing next to her."

And his face turned into a stone cold glare, with a nod he acknowledge the words and he finally looked at Amra with a defiance. He looked down to Caliope's hand and perked a brow at the sight of the peculiar ring. Amra frowned and looked at Elaine who shook her head signaling him to calm down.

Rawer barely opened his mouth to speak "A very unique women you found, don't let her go..."

"I do not need to, she won't leave... she is not running away from me."

Rawer frowned and Caliope blushed, pulling Amra's arm. The very uncomfortable scene broke when Pronab joined them with their respective keys for their rooms. Pronab nodded barely at Rawer then smiled at the others, handling one card-key to Caliope, one to Elaine and then signaling to the elevator. Amra turned around and guided Caliope, who dedicated some last words at his past "Good bye..." and Rawer made a move as if he was about to stop them, when Pronab stood between them and stared back. At the distance he saw both get into the elevator and away from his sight.

"Mister Derek Rawer, I am aware things did not end well between you and Caliope, but both have made your lives now in separate ways, so please I ask you to continue with whatever business you have here on your own, and forget about this encounter." Elaine's words were clear and direct; he looked at her with shock, probably not expecting such a direct approach to their past. Elaine smiled politely and headed to the elevator as well accompanied by Pronab.

Once the card-key smoothly slided on the security system, the door opened and Amra lead Caliope inside the sumptuous room. She was still a bit overwhelmed by the encounter and hardly paid attention to the decoration nor the guests gifts on the table. Amra dismissed the bag-handler who left their bags in the door entrance, then closed door behind him, turning and walking towards his loved one to embrace her.

She felt safe in his arms, and suddenly weak as well. Tears started to flow and her knees shaked. He squeezed her tight and then help her sat down "What did he do to you that broke you like this?"

"It was... I can't... is not just one thing..."

Amra nodded "Would you let me see?"

She lifted her eyes to look at him with surprise. He could see it if he wanted, he could see all her life if he wished, and yet he always asked first before he did anything. That is the man she always wanted at her side, someone who she could trust.

She laid on the couch and he sat on the floor next to her. She closed her eyes and squeezed his hand "Let them see as well."

As her eyes went close, darkness took over. She was not sure how she activated this strange -power- in her, but with Amra's guidance it seemed easy and safe. Her mind wandered through memories and they started to pass by in wild flashes; childhood memories, school memories, university, work. The first time she had a job interview with Rawer, the way he smiled at her and how he made her feel. The first time she had to stay at work late, and how he stayed with her. The first time he asked her out, and how nervous she was on their first date. The first time she was being polite and smiling to a client, and how he got so jealous he dismissed his meeting with him and got angry with her. The more she went deep into the memories of their relationship, she slower them down and let them show in detail. The gifts he made to her after each fight, how angry he became when she refused any of them. How jealous he became when they were out for dinner and the waiter smiled at her, putting up a big show at the restaurant and forcing the manager to fire the waiter. How he locked her in his apartment, leaving her there all day with no cellphone or any means of communication, and when he arrived late at night, he gave her a ring as present, with no apology. When she got a phone call from her former step mother, letting her know her fiance, the rich and handsome Mister Rawer, wanted to invite both of them for dinner. Her tears as her memories moved to when she was 15 and her stepfather touched her, how her stepmother accused her of telling lies.

Caliope broke down in tears as all these memories were flooding in her mind and a sudden light pulled her out of there. She opened her eyes and found Elaine in tears, Pronab was furious and then it was Amra. He was concerned, helping her sit, visibly worried for her.

Elaine sobbed and rushed to hug her tight, petting her head and trying to sooth her "If only I knew! I am so sorry my dear... such a horrible person!"

Caliope tried to speak but she was choked in tears. Amra brushed the tears away with a thumb and as Elaine let her go, he stood up and pulled her up with her, embracing her 'He won't hurt you, not now, not ever again...' he whispered to her in their private way of communication.

Pronab was furious, he had anger on his eyes and he was pacing through the room trying not to break anything. Elaine walked near him but did not interrupted either. She was frustrated as she saw so much pain in the room, but she couldn't do anything about it.

Caliope took some long seconds to relax, calming down more, and as she finally managed to draw a slight smile; she had learned back then to move the bad memories and experiences to a dark hidden corner of her head. When she saw Pronab, she walked towards him and he stopped his place, looking at her. He was still angry, but her eyes disarmed him "I am ok... I know I am safe now..."

He nodded slowly, and then walked the missing step to her and held her tight. Caliope stood surprised; the funny and puzzling Pronab never showed many intimate emotions, but he was now. She smiled and wrapped her arms around him returning the hug. Elaine walked next to Amra and smiled, relieved. When they finally let go of each other, Caliope turned around to see Amra and Elaine both smiling "Well now, you should both try to get some rest, and we will meet for dinner, if that is ok for you two?"

Amra nodded and mentioned "Yes, we shall do that, thank you... -Mom-..."

Elaine looked at Amra with surprise and chuckled, Caliope laughed as well taken by surprise. She walked to him and kissed his cheek while Pronab smirked and shook his head. Everyone found relieving that Amra was joking, as he rarely did.

After Elaine and Pronab left their room, Amra led Caliope to the bed where she easily felt asleep. When she opened her eyes again, it was dark outside. She looked around for Amra and called his name. Over the corner of another room he walked out and approached her naked with wet drops of water on his body. She blushed and smiled at him, biting her lower lip. He grinned and sat next to her in the bed "I like that..." He said as he rubbed his thumb on her lips, making her release the bite. She tilted her head to the side and looked at him confused "You like what?"

"I like seen how you react when you see me like this... because I can see you feel the same way I feel about you..."

She chuckled and pulled him to kiss his lips with passion. He held her tight as the phone rang and they broke their kiss catching air. She turned to find the phone and picked it up. After some words she smiled and hang up.

"It was your -Mom-... she wanted to make sure we were both coming down for dinner... They will be meeting us in half hour."

Amra sighed and chuckled "Ok, then we will return to that kiss when we finish dinner."

She blushed and nodded, as he got up from the bed and headed to get dressed, she went to the luxurious bathroom and took a shower as well. There were goosebumps all around her body, his proximity moving delicious feelings in her most intimate parts.

-

CHAPTER 26

-

As Caliope was slowly waking up, Amra was holding her and slowly caressing her arms. They were both naked and barely covered in sheets. She smiled and turned her head to find his lips and kiss him "Good morning love..." his voice was raspy and sexy, she felt herself shiver and she ventured to kiss his body making him lay on the bed and close his eyes. It was magic on its own, each inch where her lips rested brought a sigh or a moan out of his mouth.

Later, both walked to the Hotel's restaurant holding each other's hands, Pronab was waiting for them already at a table, and both looked as Elaine in the distance was talking to a manager. After they joined Pronab and ordered something light for breakfast, Caliope was tugging herself in the coat Elaine borrowed her when Pronab pointed out the weather outside "It is going to be very cold here the next couple of days, you should get some more suitable clothes, we are staying here at least three days."

Amra looked at him "We can go shopping before the meeting."

"They are already waiting for us but I do not see why you would care much, am I right?"

Amra smirked and nodded just as Elaine joined them, smiling and putting her phone on the table "Good morning my dear ones, how did you both sleep? Did you sleep?"

Caliope blushed "At some point we did..."

Elaine and Pronab chuckled then ordered something to take on the way. Amra put an arm around Caliope and she turned to look at him with a smile. He on the other hand was a bit more serious, but his eyes met hers and his face softened some more 'He is here, Rawer... He makes me want to do bad things to him...' he admitted. Caliope responded 'No... please don't... I noticed finally yesterday, I am truly safe... I have nothing to fear anymore... my initial reaction was only because I was caught by surprise, but I am safe! I do not fear him anymore... I have you...'

Amra smiled more and this time leaned to kiss her. At the distance, Rawer took a single table and frowned as he watched the scene.

"Would you like to go shopping today sweetie? You will need warmer clothes. I could go with you and we let the boys do the first meeting."

Pronab shook his head appalled "Me? And those cold noses? I take the shopping instead, unless you are there, I could hit the face of Falshore just as a greeting."

Elaine sighed and Amra perked a brow looking at Pronab; there were not many people who brought out that side of him, especially in public.

"Cold noses?" Caliope asked with intended curiosity.

Elaine Clark smiled at her "They are a bit... special..."

Pronab shook his head "Cold noses, they believe they are the elite..."

Amra chuckled and turned to Caliope holding her tight, while Elaine raised her hands giving up "Ok, you can go shopping with Caliope..."

"Caly... you all can call me Caly..." she added with a smile.

Elaine smiled back, unable to hold herself "Caly, adorable... well, you both can go shopping and then we meet for lunch, is that ok?"

"I am not fine with leaving her but I guess we have to do some sacrifices."

"There are only two other people in the earth, besides you, with whom I would feel safe enough and one of them is going shopping with me, so I will be fine!" she tried to assure him.

Amra looked in her eyes and gave her a smile "Ok, you convinced me..." Then he looked back at Elaine "But after lunch we are not taking separate routes again, I hope..." Elaine shook her head "No, there should not be any change of plans either."

Pronab looked at Amra and smirked as he took the glass of water from the table "I don't want to miss any good shows so please don't banish anyone until I am there... specially if it is Falshore."

Elaine frowned but the others laughed. After they stood up and headed to the Hotel's front door, Amra pulled Caliope to his arms and gave her a long and deep kiss. She blushed and gave into his embrace, snuggling in his arms she could be lost for countless hours.

Two cars headed separate ways; at the distance, only two blocks away, Elaine and Amra left their sight. Pronab was smiling as he sat next to Caliope and gave orders to the driver "Take us to any good shopping mall, we want to buy fancy and expensive stuff..."




The Awakening Ch. 21-30



Caliope chuckled and blushed as she looked at him. The driver got a bit confused at first but then headed towards a destination only he knew. Pronab pulled the separate window up giving them privacy. and then smiled at her "I hate shopping, but I hate cold noses even more."

"So is a male thing, not just for humans, but angels too..."

Pronab smirked "Perhaps it is, but we are very simple, we do not need to buy new things to show off."

"I see... well, will you let me buy you something?"

"What would you buy me?"

"I still don't know, but something... so I don't feel bad about buying just for me."

Pronab shrugged and nodded "Ok, I guess..."

Caliope smiled and squeezed the coat around her tightly as she looked some snow on the window. Suddenly a warm breath on her ear brought chills on her body.

"Just make sure it is something I can show off with..."

Pronab was whispering in her ear and she almost gasped; he smiled then caressed her cheek with the back of a finger. There was electricity on her body and she turned around to face him. He was also surprised. They both stared at each other.

"What... was that?" she asked confused. "I... don't know..." He replied as he turned his head to the window yet she kept staring at him in silence. That electricity was intense but harmless; each fiber of her body felt it, and it caused her all different types of sensations, good and wrong ones.

The car stopped at the entrance of an immense building; the driver opened the door for her and after that he opened the door for Pronab as well, who gave the driver a few orders and then signaled Caliope to walk inside. The building was by far one of the biggest she had ever seen before. For sure she would get lost easily if she was alone. "I would let you walk around and see more but the shops we are looking for are on the top floor." Pronab's words were cold as the snow outside. She lowered her head and walked to the elevator where he hit the top floor and the door closed. Once the doors opened again, they headed to several stores, in each she was amazed by both the designs and their prices. After seen the 4th store without buying anything, Pronab sighed and finally spoke "Money is nothing for us, use it... don't be afraid of it..."

She sighed as she looked at him, relieved he was speaking again, and also a bit more secure about wasting so much money. At the 5th store, she picked a pair of boots that were warmer and more comfortable, a set of wool and leather pants and a turtle neck shirt. On the next two stores she picked three coats and a warm hat that Pronab found funny.

She was happy he was being fun and easy again, enough for her to forget why they stopped talking an hour ago. She let him convince her that she needed one more pair of shoes before they headed back to the Hotel. Once they picked the right pair, they decided it was time to get back. Pronab was carrying the bags even though Caliope insisted on carrying some of them "I want to go to the ladies room before we return, please?"

"There is one over there, I will wait for you next to its entrance."

As she headed inside the bathroom, she walked by the male's bathroom entrance and then a big room made for babies care. She was staring at the mirror while the warm water washed her hands, she smiled when she remembered where she was. By far, a year ago, she wouldn't have dream of such changes in her life.

When she headed towards the exit of the bathroom area, right as she was passing by the babies care room, a hand pulled her violently inside. She gasped and before she could scream, a hand was covering her mouth. She could smell the whiskey stinging on her captor's breath.

"I couldn't believe my luck when I saw you pass the men's bathroom... its fate baby..."

He turned her around and released her as she hit her back against the wall. She put her hand on her mouth and he got angry.

"What do you think you are doing? You think I sting?"

She had no time to reply, she wasn't covering her mouth because of his breath, it was Pronab approaching behind him what scared her more, and every fiber in her body was shaking. The look in Pronab's eyes was of anger and pain at the same time.

"Talk to me damn it! you whore!"

She gasped again as Rawer raised his hand at her as if he was going to hit her, and she saw Pronab pull his chains in a final step, reaching to Rawer's throat, pulling him away from her. He yelped and kicked the air. His face reflected surprise, fear and anger at the same time. Slowly the kicks started to become weaker and his eyes went blank. Caliope looked up at Pronab and saw his eyes closed and a calm smile in him that made her shiver.

"Pronab, stop!"

He opened his eyes and looked at her, his hands lifted and the chains burned up and vanished in thin air. Rawer coughed and felt to the floor. Their eyes locked, Pronab was standing still, and Caliope watched him both in surprise and shock.

Just in time, two security officers rushed in. After watching the scene they questioned them both. Pronab lifted both arms and held them in sign of no resistance.

The first officer spoke slowly, as he approached Pronab "What happened here?"

Pronab was calm, and kept his hands in the air for them "This man was attacking her, I only stopped him."

The second officer looked at Caliope and observed her trembling hands and knees "Is that true Miss?"

She nodded, swallowing hard before she could speak "Yes... he is... he is my ex-boyfriend, officer... and he cornered me here, I think he is also drunk".

The second officer kneeled and took a sniff, then quickly stood up, nodding at his partner who replied "Are you ok Miss? Do you need to have a nurse check on you?"

Caliope shook her head "No officer, I am just shocked..."

Rawer growled at them both, screaming "Lies! I was only asking her how she was!" he coughed as he rubbed his throat "...and this guy attacked me with a weapon!"

The second Officer gave a step back and questioned them "A weapon? What weapon?"

Both officers were now looking at Pronab in a different way. He remained calm and even smirked "He is drunk, go ahead, search me... I have nothing to hide."

The first officer started to search quickly on him and found his passport; after reading it he gave it back to him and took a step back "If you had showed us your passport we would have asked less questions Sir."

Pronab smiled, finally lowering his hands "Like I said officer, I have nothing to hide."

The second officer pulled Rawer up in handcuffs as he proceeded to pull him away "We will take him down to the security room of the Mall, you can press charges directly there Miss, and he will be properly dealt with."

Caliope closed her eyes and shook her head "I just want to leave officers, thank you... just have him locked until the alcohol in his body is gone, I will be safe now."

She pointed at Pronab and both officers nodded, giving room for both of them to walk out of the room. As they did, he picked up again the bags of the things she bought, and in silence they headed towards the same place where the driver left them.

Only once they got up in the car, Caliope looked at Pronab and whispered "thank you..." He looked back at her, surprised and relieved, and replied with a nod. She chose not to go further, the image of Pronab so close to take Rawer's life was disturbing, unsettling but also of relief. She was hoping it would be enough to keep him far from her from now on, at least until they leave for the next destination.

When they arrived at the Hotel, Amra was waiting for them outside. Even with the snow, he seemed flawless standing like a guardian statue. He felt calm when Caliope walked down the car and as he opened his arms she ran to him. He squeezed her and kissed the top of her head "I am glad you are safe, you should have press charges on him."

Caliope closed her eyes and whispered "You knew?"

He nodded and looked at Pronab who nodded at him back and headed inside with the bags "As soon as I felt you were in danger... I saw through your eyes... I am glad you had Pronab there with you, I am sorry it wasn't me."

She lowered her head and shivered, she could still remember Pronab's face, his delight on taking away Rawer's life. Amra gently pulled her inside the Hotel and once they got into the restaurant, he sat next to her. They were alone, neither Elaine nor Pronab were anywhere near. Tables around them were empty as well, and she just knew it was by special request.

"I would have done the same, and perhaps would have not stopped as Pronab did."

Caliope turned her head and looked at Amra as he was staring at the menu without really paying attention to it. "Aren't you Angels supposed to guard human's lives?"

Amra looked at her "I am guarding a human life, much more important than his."

She blushed and looked down again, confused but touched at the same time. He sighed and dropped the menu on the table, half turning towards her. She was staring at her hands and he put an arm around her as a hand took hers "There are many laws on how to act and what to do for us... attempting to any human's life is against many, if not all our rules... but when it comes to our loved ones, it becomes the exception to any and all the rules... we are known to have fought wars in the name of our loved ones..."

She looked up at him and leaned her head on his arm, nodding slowly as his words made sense to her. He continued "Pronab did what I would have done... he was there to protect you..."

"You saw what I saw..."

"Are you worried because of the pleasure he was feeling when he was about to kill your ex-lover?"

Caliope nodded.

"He comes from a dark background, in the past he would have enjoyed it more, and perhaps, he would have not stopped... but he did, you made him stop, and he did not hesitated... I must admit, I wanted him to kill Rawer..."

Caliope gasped.

"I dont like him, besides your past history, he is creating new bad memories and moments for you... I see only sin in him... and he won't stop either, he wants you, he will try something else."

"How do you know that?"

"I know... I have saw it... he is trying to think of a way of getting you alone, and when he does, he will try to harm you... I will not allow it of course... but he is in rage, and he has money to buy his means to reach to you."

"What should I do? I feel like nothing I do is going to help in any way."

"Don't worry... he might try something, but you have to know, he might not live his next attempt to harm you..."

A tear ran down her cheek and he cached it with his thumb "Today's event were unfortunate and unplanned... the next one is wont be... and I will not allow that."

She nodded slowly at the truth of his words. She belonged to his world now, and in his rules, in his universe, Rawer was an inconvenient piece that needed to be eliminated. She leaned against him and he held her again, both waiting in silence until minutes later Elaine and Pronab both joined them.

-

CHAPTER 27

-

"How did your meeting go, by the way?"

Amra grabbed a bite from his plate and shrugged "It went ok... I guess..."

Elaine chuckled and added "It went well, but it was all just merely introductions... your friend Falshore asked about you too." smiling at Pronab; he grinned "Oh I bet he did."

Elaine giggled and continued eating, Pronab shook his head and Amra smiled at Caliope encouraging her to eat while he waited for her first bite, she had been staring at her food without eating for a while.

"There is nothing scheduled for this afternoon. General Maxwell though, has reserved dinner for just us and his close circle, which includes unfortunately Falshore, but I know you will be at your best Pronab."

"That means I will meet the cold noses ones?" Caliope asked shyly. Elaine gasped "Oh no! You too?!" and Pronab laughed. The mood of the table became much lighter, and as Caliope smiled and turned to look at Amra, he smiled back at her and squeezed her hand "They are a bit self centered, yes, but otherwise respectful... they are curious about you." She perked a brow "about me?"

Pronab interrupted "Just be careful not to have them asking too many questions, they tend to do that... manipulative bast..." Elaine raised a hand "Please stop, they are our peers..."

Caliope tried to calm the moods "Ok ok... I get it, they are manipulative cold noses who think they are superior to any of you but they aren't... I have nothing to worry about, I am with the coolest Angels on earth." she winked at Pronab and he he looking at her, so did Elaine and Amra. All the events of the morning now behind.

After finishing their plates, each went to rest at their rooms, and Caliope took with her some dessert to enjoy. As they got into the room, Amra chuckled watching all the shopping bags at the side and she blushed, finishing her piece of cake "You should not feel shame enjoying what is given to you..." she shook her head "It just feels too perfect... too good to be real... I am in-love with an Angel, traveling around the world, and buying anything I want? I am trying to keep myself as down to earth as possible..."

"True, we are down on earth."

"No, I mean..."

Amra smiled at her and shook his head "I know what you mean, my love... I was just joking..."

She chuckled and walked towards him to kiss her Angel. He wrapped his arms around her and caressed her back, she felt shivers run through her spine "You are cold..."

Caliope closed her eyes and replied "No, I just feel the magic with each kiss... I like how you make me shiver..."

He smiled and caressed her arms tenderly, she sighed and sat on the bed with him, taking his hands on hers "I am not sure I would ever get used to this... you seem to fit perfectly in this world but I am still a bit lost. I don't deny I am quite happy, the happiest I have ever been in a long time. But..."

"I thought I explained to you... Caly, I assimilate and learn from those around me... I do not become them, but I become a new me adjusted to how people think, live and breathe here. Am I that bad?"

"No! Please don't say that! I only meant you are doing it better than me... and it should not be a surprise, you are the most perfect creature I have met... I guess what I mean is... be patient with me?"

He slowly removed her coat and smiled, nodding as he kissed her again, this time deeper; he caressed her arms as their clothes started to land on the ground. Between kisses and heated breathing he caressed her face and whispered to her in a very soothing voice "I have eternity to wait..."

And she surrendered to him in body and soul, each kiss and each touch more intense and more passionate, this time with no regrets, she did not held back and let herself go with him in a tight desperate need for his warmth. He fed his need of her melting body with body, becoming one.

When the phone rang, Caliope opened her eyes and tried to find it. It was Amra who picked it up "We will be down in half an hour, or better yet, give us an hour."

As he hang up, he turned his head smiling at her. She sat on the bed hoping he would join her, but he walked towards the many bags and coats near the couch and lifted his; he pulled something out of the inside pocket then let the coat drop back on the side arm, finally returning to her as she looked at him with curiosity. He laid on the bed next to her still naked, and rested a small box on her lap. She looked down at the box and immediately felt chills "What is this?"

"Rawer made me notice I was not being conventional about this, so I made my own little shopping after the meeting was over. Elaine assisted. Go ahead, open it."

Caliope was blushing and after some hesitation, she finally opened the treasure box in front of her and found an engagement ring with diamonds embedded on it. She stared at it for a while, still not sure of what to do with it. Her heart was pacing fast and she tried hard not to let the tears come out "Do I have to make the question again? I will if you want me to."

She blushed and shook her head; this time she finally looked at him "No... you don't have to... I just... love my ring, it is unique, and it is part of you... I didn't need a new one... you didn't have to do this." He smiled at her, reaching to caress her arm "I kind of like being a little conventional about this, I want you to have the best of both worlds. So here, let me put it in your finger."

As he took her shaking hand and slid the ring slowly in its place, she was smiling and leaning down to kiss him "Silver?". He shook his head "its white gold, it is supposed to be the one of most value..."

She shook her head again and chuckled; of course it would be white gold, the most expensive thing he could get. She looked at her finger and saw both rings. The thin glow of Amra's wings and the opulent shine of the gold and diamond ring. Two small wings were placed on the sides of last one and she found it ideal. "Are you happy?" She nodded quickly "happier than I had ever been... thank you..."

He smiled and kissed her hand then look up at her for a moment more before he standed and held out his hand to help her stand "We should take a shower before joining them for dinner."

She nodded and stood up, blushing as she walked in the bathroom with him, she knew temptation would be strong enough for them to resist doing more than bathing.

When Caliope walked to the reception in hand with Amra, Elaine was smiling bright at the sight of the rings on her. Caliope was wearing a simple black long dress, high neck, long sleeves, and some simple earrings. Elaine rushed to hug her and kiss her cheek with excitement "I am so happy you decided to wear it..." She chuckled and sighed "When are you all going to stop spoiling me?"

"That is simple, when you join the family all of it will belong to you, and you will be able to spoil yourself alone."

And those words made her gasp. She realized it was true, legally on earth Amra was Elaine's son and all the fortune would be hers as well. She was just grasping the idea of having a free credit line for shopping but to own a fortune was a complete different level.

Outside, a big and fancy limousine was waiting for them sent by the General. Pronab smiled as he opened the door for her and Elaine to jump in. Once they were all inside, champagne was offered to them. Amra gently declined and so did the rest, who remained quiet but content during the road to the General's residence.

When they arrived to a large entrance surrounded by guards, the driver stopped. He gave a card that allowed them access to a smaller yard. They followed a road that ended on tall iron gates, where the driver went out of the car to be searched by more guards. Once the driver was clear, he went back inside and drove them through the main yard. A huge mansion rested on top of a small hill; different gardens on the sides as well as diving pools and different outdoor gaming areas. She looked at Pronab and he looked back at her nodding with a smirk, as he whispered "cold noses". She chuckled and quickly went through her head about how she would behave at this especially unusual encounter.

When the driver reached to the front of the mansion, he stepped out and was searched again by other security guards. Finally, he opened the car's doors and Pronab walked out first to help Elaine and Caliope. When Amra held Caliope's hand to head inside, the guards approached with the intention of searching them. Pronab quickly stopped them "is this really necessary?"

The first guard nodded "I am sorry Sir, we are following protocol, and we need to search anyone who comes into the house, human or not." Elaine put a hand on Pronab's shoulder and shook her head "it is ok, dear ones..." He frowned and added "it is insulting."




The Awakening Ch. 3



Chapter III: Going Public


The first week of her vacation proved to be quite an anticlimax after its' explosive start. She busied herself puttering about in the yard and visiting the local attractions, but it all seemed so empty to her now. Her mind would not let go of the unique sensations that she had experience under his command. And not knowing when and if he would call upon her again only seemed to heighten her desire. Each time the phone would ring her heart would skip a beat. Every passing car would up her pulse another notch. It was like an addiction to her. One, it seemed, that she could no longer live without. He was right! He did own her! Perhaps even before she had offered herself to him.

Each day she would awaken with the hope to feel his touch. She'd shower in the mornings and carefully shave her pussy the way he had requested. Her silk panties rubbing lightly against her barren flesh would cause her juices to flow. She was in a constant state of arousal. A sexual frenzy from which there was no escape. Masturbation was now a twice-daily event.

The first Friday evening finally arrived and she found herself literally on the edge of her seat. She felt certain that he would repeat the previous pattern and make contact with her at some point that evening. Again she refused an outing with the gang, complaining of a migraine and a desire to go to bed early. Anticipation mounted as the evening progress; but as midnight approached, she gave up all hopes of hearing from him. She went to bed feeling empty and rejected.

Tossing and turning all night, she awoke tired and irritated. As was routine, she headed downstairs to shower and shave, all the while wondering why she bothered to maintain herself in this way. But as she reached the foot of the stairs, there was a knock at the door. Closing her bathrobe, she opened the front door to find a cheerful young delivery boy holding a package addressed to her.

It was wrapped carefully in black high gloss paper and tied with a black silk ribbon. Signing for the parcel she offered to tip the lad, but he refused, stating that he had already been well compensated for his efforts. He politely tipped his hat and started off. Closing the door she turned the meticulously wrapped parcel over and over in her hands.

Then unable to stand the suspense any further, she tore into it. Inside she found a lovely summer sweater, a stylish silk skirt, stockings and a garter... all black. Along with the garments was a note. Dinner/9:00 tonight. She knew right away whom it was from. He was always so cryptic in his requests. The rest of the day was a total loss.

8:45. She was ready and sitting in her living room, counting the minutes. At exactly 9:00 he pulled into her driveway. She waited for him to knock, then hesitated a moment before opening the door. She did not want to appear to eager. He seemed pleased that she was wearing the gifts that he had sent her and pulled her close into a warm embrace. Running his hand down her back he crossed over the strap of her bra and pulled her away in dismay.

"Why do you insist on offending me in this way?" he announced with an annoyed tone.

"What do you mean?" she asked confused. He reached down the front of her sweater and grabbed her bra roughly in his right hand.

"What is this?" he asked as his left hand made its way up her thigh to her crotch and grabbed at her panties. "And this here" he added. "These were not a part of my gifts... take them off" he ordered.

"Yes Sir" she responded quite shocked. She turned to head upstairs and he grabbed her arm and pulled her back.

"Here" he stated firmly, "I like to watch you undress". She followed his command and removed the garments, placing them in his outstretched hand. He deposited both items in his breast pocket after she had finished dressing, then led her out the door.

"Wait, it is quite cool this evening. I need to grab a jacket" she pleaded.

"No you don't" he smiled and led her to a truck that he had borrowed from a friend. "Rule number four, You never touch a door handle" he stated as he opened the door and moved her toward it. Then he pulled her skirt up over her ass for the whole neighborhood to see and instructed her to get in. Embarrassed, she sat her bare ass on the cold vinyl seat. She nervously looked about to see if anyone had noticed. He secured the door, walked around to the drivers' side and climbed behind the wheel.

They drove to the restaurant in silence. He neither spoke to her nor did he touch her in any way. It was as if she was not there at all. Upon parking the truck he went around and opened the door for her as any gentleman would. He reached towards her in what she thought was a gesture to help her out of the high vehicle, but instead he raised her sweater and began kneading her breasts with cold fingertips. A pregnant woman and her husband walked by, gawking at them in total dismay. She was horrified at being seen that way, yet did not move.

"I love pregnant women," he said dreamily as he watched the couple pass, still fondling her breasts. "The symbol of a woman in her most perfect form. Totally submitting her body to the needs of another being... accepting the discomfort in perfect understanding and harmony with her place on this earth." He rambled on. "Do you know what I like best about pregnant women?" he asked, while continuing to play with her, moving his attention to her now hard buds... "Their nipples" he stated as he turned to look her in the eyes. "They are so hard and firm. Able to withstand the powerful suckling of their young and still stand up proud and eager to provide on demand" he announced as he watched carefully for her response. He smiled, pulled down her sweater and marveled at his accomplishments. Her little buds stood up hard and pert, straining at the fabric of his gift. "Now that's the way I like to see them," he insisted as he ran a finger over her yearning little buttons of lust. "Dinner is waiting, come" he beckoned as he led her out of the truck.

He had called ahead and reserved a table in the more secluded area of the VIP lounge. As they were seated, a waitress arrived to take their order. He, off course, ordered for both of them, not caring to ask if she approved. They made small talk till the food arrived. As soon as the waitress left however, he told her to move to the front edge of her chair. Then he slid his foot out of his shoe and removed his sock, and placed the ball of his foot against her pussy.

"Spread your lips so I can feel your clit" he whispered across the table to her. She complied and he began to massage her while she ate. "Now remember, no orgasm without consent" he reminded her as he felt her growing wetter and more engorged. It was maddening! She could barely sit still. He stomach was so tied in knots that she could hardly swallow. She was sure that someone would notice but he did not seem at all concerned. The waitress returned with a dessert menu in hand and asked if he would like to order anything further. "No thank you, just some coffee please and perhaps the check" he responded. "I seem to have all the dessert I need with me right here," he added as he drove his big toe deep into her hot vagina. She jumped slightly and the waitress gave her a strange look. Her embarrassment grew. The check was paid for and he withdrew his toe; replacing his sock and shoe in a most obvious fashion. He escorted her out of the restaurant, leaving her bra and panties on the floor beneath the table.

Approaching the truck he opened the door for her as before, but held her back for a moment. He reached into the glove box and extracted a small bottle of scented oil, and dumped its' contents onto the vinyl seat. Then he pulled up her skirt and motioned her to get in. He climbed in behind the wheel and drove off. Her hot snatch slid slightly on the cold wet vinyl, stimulating her and pushing her lust higher. He ordered her to spread her pussy open to allow her clit to fully contact the seat.

He watched her raise the front of her skirt and slide her fingers under her pubic bone in compliance. He took the skirt hem from her hand and tucked it into the waistband. "Spread your legs so I can see your beautiful cunt", he instructed her. As she did, he cautioned her again about orgasms, then started to alternate between accelerating and decelerating in quick jerking motions. She slid mercilessly back and forth along the vinyl seat. Within a few moments she was begging for permission to cum. He simply laughed at her. She tried to focus on something other than the ragging want that was building inside of her, but it was hopeless.

Before long she began to explode as a torrent of sexual desire ripped through her. She grabbed the dash for support, moaning loud and repeatedly as he slammed the truck to a halt at the side of the road. He got out and walked around to her side of the truck, flung open the door and demanded she get out. She was so weak that she could barely stand. Her legs collapsed underneath her and she fell to the ground. He grabbed her wrists and pulled her to her feet, demanding that she undress immediately.

"Undress, here."

She pleaded, "No please!"

"You have been disobedient and do not deserve the gifts that I offered you, now return them to me at once" he said sternly with his hand outstretched. Trembling and crying she stripped as he surveyed her every move. He tore the clothing from her hands and led her into the back of the truck. Inside the cap, attached to the cab, hung two leather straps. He secured both her wrists and snapped the hatch back shut; leaving her naked on the cold steel box bed. He drove for about fifteen minutes before parking in front of a small pub just off of the main drive. He locked the truck and went inside, leaving her bound in the back. Terrified and freezing she sat quietly hoping for his return; praying not to be discovered in that way. It was a good 30 minutes before she saw him again.

He went straight into the cab and proceeded to pull away without a word. He drove the vehicle onto a small deserted road, then turned the engine off. She started to tremble lightly. He flew open the tailgate and stared at her sternly. "Why do you do this? Why do you disobey me and force me to have to punish you?" he asked her. Her mind raced. She was beginning to think that she had gotten herself mixed up into something that she could not handle. Yet she was so incredibly horny.

More so than she had ever remembered in her entire life. He moved up into the back and pulled down his zipper, shoving his hardened cock into her face. He forced his tool into her mouth and ordered her to suck him, holding tight to her hair so she could not pull away. Scared and vulnerable, she slid her hot mouth along his shaft with increasing intensity as his rage was slowly replaced by lust. His hips were jerking wildly as she was sucking his long hard tool, stroking him with her warm tongue. He gave in to the pressure building within and shot his load into her mouth.

"Now swallow it!" he ordered as he watched to make sure that she complied. He shoved two fingers inside her cunt and started to work her from within. God she loved this. She was no longer afraid. He brought her to the edge of orgasm then stopped and stepped back from her. "You have already had your orgasm for this evening whore" he instructed her. He undid the straps and threw her clothing down beside her, then went back to the cab and got in behind the wheel. Quickly she dressed and walked to the passenger side of the vehicle. He reached over and swung the door open. She climbed in and they drove off. Barely saying a word to each other.

Arriving at her home he pulled into the drive and walked around to open her door. He escorted inside and lifted her sweater once again. He examined her breasts for a moment. "A woman's' breasts are an expertly designed gift from God, meant for two purposes. One is the nurturing of the young and the other is for the delight of the male of the species" he went on.

"I enjoy the site of your erect nipples and from now on I want to see them at all times" he demanded. He took two small black ribbons from his front pocket and presented them to her. Then he pinched both her nipples, pulling them forward into hard little knobs. He tied a ribbon around each one, snugging it down around their base. "This is my color and with this ribbon I claim these nipples as my own" he announced.

"From now on I want you to have them bound with ribbon whenever you are in my company" he commanded firmly. He kissed her on the cheek and left. She watched him drive away then started towards the shower as the phone rang. She answered it and was surprised to hear his voice again so soon. "Leave the ribbon on till morning" he requested firmly from his cell phone. "I want you to feel the tightness of its grasp and how your body submits to my will. I want you to imagine that it is my fingers squeezing them into an alert position" he insisted. "But I was going to take a shower" she replied. "Are you questioning me?" he shot back. "No Sir, of course you are right," she said obediently.

Screw the shower! She was still so excited that she went directly to her bed. She masturbated herself to orgasm two times before she was too tired to move any longer. She rolled over in exhaustion and tried to sleep. The sheets on her bed caressing her erect nipples.

To Be Continued...



The Awakening Ch. 3



Faith awoke the next morning, snuggling tightly under the covers, and then her eyes flew open as she remembered the events of the night before. She frowned at discovering that her bed was empty, thinking that maybe it had all been a dream. As Faith became more aware of the surroundings, she could hear the shower going, as well as smell of breakfast cooking downstairs. She through back the covers, and walked naked into the bathroom. She could see the outlines of Tim's body behind the glass door of the shower stall. Smiling, she pulled up the lid of the toilet, taking care of her bladder. For a minute, she had the wicked thought of pulling the handle, but held back as she had a better idea. She walked over to the shower, and sliding the door back, carefully stepping in. Tim was busy lathering his hair, and the first he was aware of anyone else being in the shower was when Faith slide her arms around his body, and lightly caressed his penis, remembering how hard it was last night. Her touch made Tim jump, and the two of them went down in a pile of naked wet bodies.

Faith laid there giggling as she held onto him, allowing the water to cascade over with them both. She found herself stroking him, feeling him growing harder by the second. Their lips met in a continuation of the night before, and both so wrapped up in the kiss until they heard Lisa laugh as she was pushing open the shower door, asking if there was room for one more. Laughing, the two of them pulled her into the shower with them. As they dried themselves and each other afterwards, Lisa remembered the reason she had been downstairs in the first place. Tugging on both of their hands, she led them back to the bed. Lisa had made them a hot breakfast; at least it had been hot when she had carried it back upstairs. Naked, the three of them crawled back into the bed, Lisa pushing Faith into the center. Lisa carefully uncovered the tray she had carried up to the bedroom, placing the tray on Faiths lap. 

There was a large bowl of whipped cream and a bowl of freshly washed strawberries. Tim fluffed up the pillows for them all as Lisa laughed at the look in Faith's eyes. She found that this kind of treatment was addicting, and knew that no one had treated this well in all of her life. Both of her neighbors took a strawberry and dipped it into the whipped cream, and after pulling back the sheets so that Faith was totally exposed to view, used the strawberries like paint brushes. Tim moved down and settled in between her legs, concentrating his talents on her damp pussy. Meanwhile, Lisa was putting her own talents to use on Faith's heaving breasts. To Faith, the feeling was almost indescribable, feeling her body respond to the twin touches.

Slowly, as the whipped cream moved from the strawberries to her body, both Tim and Lisa fed her the used body brushes, and picked up a fresh strawberry, covering each with more of the thick cream. Finally, Faith had to beg them to stop, as she could take no more. Lisa grinned at her husband, and nodded. The two of them switched places, proceeding to lick their artwork clean. The sensations of the night before was driving Faith well past the breaking point, as Lisa took her swollen clit into her mouth and sucked hard on it, hard enough that her body shook as she started to cum. Hands gripping the sheet of the bed, Faith found her spirit hovering over the three of them, a feeling that she welcomed as she watched her new neighbors lavish such devotion. She had never felt such a sight before, ever. So she watched very carefully, finding it exciting to see her body responding to both of them.

Faith watched as her body responded to both of them, and could feel every touch, every kiss, everything that they were doing to her. She could see how she looked as her orgasms washed over her, never realizing how beautiful she looked. If only she could capture that look on film. She was almost completely exhausted from all of the lovemaking and the amazing number of orgasms she had experienced since yesterday. With a snap, she found herself drawn back into her body as an orgasm hit her, the strongest one yet, so strong that she felt her vision blurring and she allowed herself the pleasure of falling into the soft clouds as she passed out.

When she awoke, she was alone in the bed, covers pulled up to her chin. At first, Faith thought it had only been a dream. A wonderful one to be sure, but nothing but a dream, until she notice a note on the pillow next to her head. Picking it up, she saw it was from Lisa and found her heart beating faster, both from her words and from the smell of her on the paper. Smiling as she read it, Faith found herself caressing her breast slowly, remembering how it had felt to have Lisa touch them.

'Darling,' the letter started, 'You were sleeping so soundly that Tim and I decided to allow you to rest. How does one give thanks for the gift you gave us, sharing yourself with us both other then to say thanks. Please call me when you wake up, so I know that you are all right. Our home number is 555-7399, or as Tim likes to say 555-SEXY. I can hardly wait to hear from you. All our love, Lisa and Tim.' Faith smiled and remembered the wild night of lovemaking they had all shared in. She decided that the only way so could repay them both was to throw a special party and she knew just the people to invite. With only a few phone calls, Faith had a proper mixture of people for the party for the next weekend. Sarah, her old college roommate had actually squealed in delight on hearing from Faith, telling her that she had such a crush on her in college. Faith actually blushed, thinking of all the times she had watched her friend walk around their room naked, wondering if her skin felt as wonderful as it looked. The two of them caught up with their lives and before the phone call ended, she got a promise to come to the party from Sarah, who would bring her boyfriend Steve. Faith could not count the number of times that she had laid in bed, hearing the two of them making love, while she pretended to be asleep. Sarah was definitely not a quiet lover.

A few more phone calls later, Faith had the party all planned and smiled thinking that Lisa and Tim would be getting a very warm welcome to the neighborhood. She had passed out the invitations carefully; making sure that only, those people she knew led an active love life and after thinking about had secretly lusted after. Bobbie and her husband had always flirted with her and she told Faith that she would bring a good selection of sensual clothing for the women to model at the party. There would be a good mixture of men and women at the dinner party, and although this would be the very first one she would be giving, Faith let everyone she called know that party would be 'special'. She could only thank God for making sure that Tim and Lisa moved in next door.

Faith dialed the number that Lisa had left, and she invited her over for a chance to get to know her better. Lisa told her that she needed to run a few errands but would be over within two hours. The two of them talked on the phone for almost an hour, and Lisa was surprised to learn that she had been Faith's first experience with a woman. By the time they hung up the phone, Faith was in such a state that she retreated to her bedroom and dug out her vibrator. Even after the wild night of sex she had with both of them, she found herself cumming hard as she replayed the events in her mind.

By the time Lisa made it over, it was early afternoon, and as soon as the front door closed, Faith wrapped Lisa in her arms, kissing those lips that had driven her so wild the night before. Without saying a word, Faith grabbed Lisa's hand and led her out to the sun-kissed pool. It was just so natural for the two of them to strip naked and work on their tans as well as continuing the kisses and caresses from the day before. Faith told her not to make any plans for the following weekend, as she was throwing them a 'welcome to the neighborhood' party. Lisa readily agreed and giggling she asked if she could invite Tim's sister, who would be spending the summer with them. She saw the look in Faith's eyes, told her that whenever Summer came to visit, that she shared their bed, and had been since she had introduced her to Tim. 'From the sound of it, she will fit right in.' That week was a very busy for Faith, but she and Lisa always made sure that they had time each day for themselves. Finally, the day of the party got there, and Faith woke from such a wonderful dream, just thinking of the new experiences ahead of her. After making sure that, the catering company had everything straight, and overseeing the decorations, Faith ran back into the house for another quick shower. Walking out of the Bathroom, toweling the last of the water off her body, she gave a whelp of surprise to find Sarah lying on her bed. 'Sarah,' she cried as she ran to the bed forgetting that she was completely naked. Faith ran and through herself bodily on her oldest and dearest friend, kissing her soundly on the open mouth, unmindful for the longest time that Sarah was caressing her naked body as they lay on the bed. 'God,' Sarah said as they broke the kiss, 'I have wanted to feel your lips and body like this.' Slapping away the exploring hands of Sarah, she looked at her friend and asked it she remembered the special catering date she had in college. Laughing, Sarah asked it she was asking what she thought she was asking. Seeing the look in her friend's eyes, she nodded, not knowing how the sight had excited Faith the first time she had seen one of her 'special' dinners. With a smile, Sarah agreed to the dinner plans. 

Pulling her up off the bed, Faith led her down to the kitchen, not bothering to get dressed. Sarah could not get over the new and exciting woman walking in front of her, that body that had not changed since college. Still holding her hand, Faith started to introduce her to the chef, who took one look at her and pulled her away to wrap is arms around Sarah, kissing her passionately. Standing there naked, Faith dryly asked if perchance they knew each other. Laughing, Sarah told her that Franz had been the family cook for years before she went to college, and had been her sponsor at the first dinner she had catered to make money in school.

Lisa and Tim were the first to make it over, and each gave Faith a very long, passionate kiss, which she returned with equal fervor, unsure of whose moans were the louder. Steve, Sarah's husband came in at that time, and smiling, he leaned against the doorway, enjoying the sight. Sarah had given him a call, telling him to expect to see a change in Faith, but this was better then he had imagined. Catching sight of him, she broke away from Tim and Lisa, and pulled him over to them. 'Steve,' she told him, 'this is Tim and Lisa, my new neighbors and the reason for the party.' The men shook hands, but both Faith and Lisa rubbed their bodies against him as he got a welcome kiss from the two of them. Soon everyone Faith had invited had arrived, and except for Sarah, who had mysteriously disappeared, Bobbie invited all the women upstairs, leaving the men to mill around.

With a big smile, Bobbie started to hand out boxes to each of the women in the room, each labeled with her name. Although Lisa was the only one that Bobbie did not know, from the description Faith had given her and had been able to select the correct size. Each of the outfits was identical and very revealing. Bobbie had added veils as well. Laughing, the women stripped off their clothing, and put on the see through harem outfits. From the collection of jewelry, each of them picked out something caught their eyes. With a smile, Faith and Bobbie went around adjusting a fold here and a fold there until they were satisfied. Earlier, Faith had instructed Tim to turn off all of the lights and light the candles she had laid out. As the women came walking down the stairs, the men in the room fell silent. The way the candles reflected off the exposed skin and the golden jewelry was intoxicating, and the men could only watch as they passed by, until they stood in front of a set of closed doors. Wordlessly, Faith beckoned to the stunned men and turning she ushered everyone into the room. 

When she heard the gasps of delight, Faith knew that her party was a success, even before it even started. The room was one that she had always dreamed of, straight out of the Arabian Nights. Instead of furniture, there were large pillows spread everywhere, sheer silk drapes hanging from the ceiling to give some areas of privacy. None of that was what drew the gasps of delight however; it was the sight of Sarah. On a low table set in the center of the room, was a platter, on which she laid in perfect stillness. Other then the food that covered her body, Sarah was very nude. From her neck to her upper thighs was different finger foods, all arranged artfully by Franz. Around her body, he had supplied small bowls, some filled with honey, others with chocolate sauce. Faith clapped her hands to get everyone's attention, telling all of them that they were to use only their fingers to eat the food, or so serve it to others. Other than that, she told them to enjoy the meal. 

Faith did her best to make sure that nobody wanted for anything during the feast. Bobbie had given her a stunning outfit to wear, one that was of very thin silk, and other then the gold chain mail short jacket, Faith was topless, the movement of the metal against her nipples keeping them very erect. Instead of finger bowls, she used her mouth to clean off fingers, slowly sucking the sticky sweet fluids off the hands of both the men and the women. As the meal continued, laughter filled the room as everyone took turns on feeding each other and if Faith was busy, the men used the closest woman's body to wipe their hands clean. As the food disappeared from Sarah's nude body, everyone used their mouths on her, making sure that the 'special' plate was able to enjoy the meal as well. Finally, Faith clapped her hands and Franz came out of the kitchen with his small staff, clearing away the remainder of the meal until only Sarah remained on the low table. With wine glasses full once again, small china bowls filled with chocolate placed in front of each guest. Grinning, Faith took her bowl and leaning over Sarah's nude body, she gave her that kiss that she wished she had done in college. At the same time, she dribbled a string of the warm chocolate over her breasts. Lisa stood up and without a word, stripped naked and climbed onto the low table, joining Sarah. That broke the ice as the other women joined in, either being naked on the table, or pouring the warm chocolate over the naked bodies. Not to be left out, the men threw off their clothing, exposing their hardness to all, and soon the room was a mass of intertwined naked bodies... 



The Awakening Ch. 31-40



Hello to all of those who still read my story. I submitted this over 2 weeks ago but on a file, since it had an image I wanted to be included, it never did so I am re submitting with a link to the image I wanted.

I had the most intense mix of emotions with this set, a lot of deep thought and fears all together. You need to understand there is a lot of personal beliefs in this story, mixed with fantasy and hope. 

I am a bit unsure if I keep posting them, anyone there still reads them?

There are a lot of amazing stories daily published... I just hope there are some who enjoy what I share. Special Thanks to WillowRequiem who has been a supporter from the start and who emailed me to share her ideas and thoughts, which I included on this set.

Until soon! 

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CHAPTER 31

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When they both headed to the breakfast room; which Caliope found out through Amra that it was not the same place where they had dinner, they met Wiltshire and Elaine smiling talking about old stories. "I am so happy to see you two up... everyone is outside, shall we join them?"

Caliope hugged Elaine and smiled "Good morning Elaine, Sir Wiltshire... we were hoping to get some breakfast first..."

Wiltshire seemed delighted with her cheerful mood "Good morning M'Lady... there is breakfast still on the table, most of it untouched, waiting for you..."

Amra nodded and thanked them, taking Caliope's hand. Wiltshire nodded at Amra and gave a step aside for Elaine to go first. Elaine kissed Caliope's cheek and they headed outside. The double sized gazebo was giving shelter to Maxwell and his crew "Good evening, it is a beautiful day, isn't it?" Pronab, who seemed to be immersed in a book, looked up and smiled "Good morning"

"Good morning, yes, as a matter of a fact, it is... a beautiful day." Amra replied as he took a chair and pulled Caliope on his lap, she blushed a little but enjoyed her seat "I hope you are all doing well?"

"There you go sweetie, there are fruits on the table, some coffee and milk, and you have to taste this bread and butter, with a twist of honey... it is delicious!" Elaine gestured a square table that had different plates with fruits, bread, milk, even some bacon and cheese. Amra looked curious at the table. She opted for the bread Elaine suggested, and as she spread butter on top of two pieces, she picked the honey and poured it evenly around. She gave it a bite, her eyes half closed and her cheeks blushed "This tastes amazingly!"

Amra smiled at her and she offered him to taste, he gave it a bite as well and nodded, smiling at her. Maxwell watched the scene entertained. Elaine entwined her fingers over her knees as she leaned a little and spoke with enthusiasm "Have you thought about anything special you want for your wedding?"

Caliope took a sip of her fresh juice and nodded, letting the drink slide her throat first, then she replied "well, my family; you and Pronab, are here... the groom, here... My new friends made during our journey, well, some are here, I will have to invite the others? And I just need to call my best friend and invite her here... which reminds me I need to find my phone." For the first time she remembered that she hadn't take a look at her phone in days. Pronab was the one who replied to her "it is at the residence, charging, I will bring it to you."

He lifted from the chair and walked inside as the others continued their talk. Maxwell advised some ideas he had, adornments he kept on his storage building, and Elaine agreed that they should keep it simple. Caliope was smiling from ear to ear, realizing there was more to it than she thought at first "I am a little overwhelmed by so much details, I never was a girl who dreamed with her perfect wedding, in fact, the word never crossed my mind..."

Elaine nodded as she laid back to her chair "that is understandable, so I would suggest we just stick to what things you like, and prepare the place with them... don't worry, we will go through the girly details later." she chuckled and winked at Caliope, who smiled and nodded as Amra caressed her hand. She looked at him and he was relaxed and happy, she remembered Elaine's words when she woke up the day before, and noticed how different Amra was when she was ok, when she was happy and without worries; he was relaxed and friendly, he smiled to her and everyone, a different person from the Arcane Angel he became when he had to save her or make justice. Pronab returned to them and threw Caliope her phone after a warning "catch it..."

She picked it up in time and chuckled, Pronab was back to his old playful behavior, and she was so happy to feel no more tension between them, at least for now. "Thank you... do you mind if I walk around while I try to explain my best friend, that I am getting married in less than a week?" she chuckled "if Sunday seems ok with you all... I need to make up a decent lie to tell her, at least until she gets here..."

Elaine sighed with a smile "of course darling..." and giggled a bit, it seemed almost like a mother's dream come true.

Maxwell pointed towards a side of the house "my gardens are to the left, and a communication tower is near, you will have best reception there." She beamed her head with a "thank you!" as she smiled at Amra and he nodded with a smile back, he kissed her softly and she walked slowly towards the left of the residence. As she approached the corner, she checked how many calls or messages were left; only 2 missing calls from her dear friend, and one text asking for her whereabouts. She dialed the international code and called her friend. As she turned around the residence, she gasped at the sight of Maxwell's garden, a field of flowers of all colors, symmetrically placed on squares, classified by their color. It took her a second or two to realize her friend was speaking to her on the phone.

"Caly? Baby you are ok?"

"Hiiiiii Nessa! Sorry, I just made a turn at this residence and found the most beautiful garden... you need to see this to believe it..."

"What garden? Where are you exactly?"

"I am traveling..." she smiled "just as you suggested... I am on a trip... and right now, at England... so I am close to you!"

"England?! What?! How?! Where?! Ok, you already told me England, but where exactly?!"

"So much has happened since you left... I am so happy!"

"I am glad to hear you are, are you planning to visit me?"

"Actually, I am kind of inviting you... to come visit me..."

"Is that so? Well, sure! I need to find my agenda, hold on... let me see... I know I put it here somewhere..." a sigh sounded on her end of the line "my new assistant is not being very helpful I tell you... hold on... 'Alo? Se, non e problema, ma voi necessitare il suo rapporto... si! Mi piace! Grazie... ciao!' sorry Caly, are you still there?"

Caliope chuckled "yes, I am..."

"Well, I can't find my agenda right now and my assistant is out for lunch, I can take note... but you should come visit me too... you know, since you are traveling... with whom by the way? Where are you staying?"

"It is a long story... one I plan to tell you in full details once you come... but the truth is, and please don't freak out... I am getting married..."

A loud noise was heard from Vanessa's side of the line, Caliope laughed and then immediately continued talking "hello? Are you still there?"

"Oh... my... God...! Caly?! Please... don't tell me is with... Rawer..."

Caliope frowned "Oh no! for heaven's sake... " she chuckled and sighed "for heaven's sake... is not him... his name is Amra, he is the son of the lady I was working for... and I am traveling with them right now, I just found this place that was so magical and perfect, I wanted to celebrate the wedding here, but I can't make it if you are not here...

"Aww sweetheart! Well, when is it? Next month?"

"Actually, is next weekend... Sunday will be ok for you? Can you take a week off?"

A short period of silence followed her question, and Caliope knew it was because the short time took her by surprise. She was still smiling but gave her a few more seconds to recover from the surprise.

"Are you pregnant?"

"What? No...! Vanessa! It hurts me you think of me like that!"

"I had to ask... such a sudden decision... how long have you been engaged?"

"A week and a half... almost..."

"Ok, what is going on? You never make such rush decisions... now I am worried... hold on... 'What? No, I am not hungry, I won't have lunch, bye' Ok... now you have to explain to me what is happening with you..."

"Nessa... I am the happiest girl on the planet... he is everything to me, his mother and best friend have become like family... as if we have known each other for all eternity... we are truly happy... and I want to share this special moment with you... please?"

"Ok... ok... I buy it for now... but as soon as I get there, I want the full story, and with all details... you got me?"

"I promise... I just hope you are ready for a roller-coaster ride..."

"I bet it will be! Oh God! My sweet soul sister is getting married! I am so happy for you!!!"

"Now THAT is the reaction I was looking for in the first place!"

"Well, passing the almost heart attack you gave me, yes... I am very happy for you... so ok, next Sunday, but I need to get there first to approve your dress and makeup... oh no, no one will touch that face but me, so I will do your makeup... and I need to buy myself a dress, hmmm good excuse to go shopping... and a bachelorette party!"

Caliope laughed, she realized how different and carefree was Vanessa and how much she missed her "Oh no, you can skip that! It would only be you, his mother and me!"

Vanessa and her both laughed on the phone, and after a while, they got quiet. It passed some seconds until one broke the silence.

"Are you really happy?"

"I am... so very, really, crazy happy... and I really want you to be here... on vacations this time, please?"

"I will try to be there by Friday at the latest, and we can have at least a night together to catch up and for you to tell me all... deal?"

"Deal... I will text you the exact address, we are on the residence of a friend of the family... you will love it here!"

"I look forward to it! Now I am hungry again, I guess after all I will make my assistant go buy me some lunch..."

"I already feel sorry for her!"

Vanessa laughed "you have no idea! Send me the address so my travel agent can book me a flight."

"I will... see you soon Nessa..."

"See you soon Caly..."

After they hang up, Caliope was smiling as she found herself in the middle of the colorful garden, with her phone pressed to her chest. The fact that her best and only friend was going to make it to her wedding, made her feel like it was going to be perfect. As she slowly walked through the garden on her way back to the others, she realized that her friend would be the only person not familiar to Angels and their reality in earth, and she knew this would become a problem if she did not ask first. Elaine broke her insight dialogue as she asked her "how did it go? Did she ask many questions?"

"Many is an understatement... she bombarded me with questions and I could only answer some, but she will come around before Friday, I need to send her the correct address for her to make plans."

Maxwell shook his head and chuckled "That won't be necessary, I will send someone to pick her up from the airport."

"Thank you General that is very kind of you..."

She smiled and sat next to Amra, who took her hand and kissed it softly, he was looking at her with tenderness 'Asks your questions now, is the best time for them to be asked...' he whispered in her mind. 'You mean... if I can tell Vanessa about you all? Do you mind if I do?'

Amra shook his head 'She is part of your life, she is your --soul sister- as she said... she deserves to know, they won't pretend much for more than a day, and it is not in their nature, especially in their own residence...' Caliope blushed 'you were hearing me while I was talking to her?' He offered her a guilty childish smile 'guilty? I can't let you walk away without knowing you are safe... and I was curious of your friend... forgive me?'

She smiled at him and leaned for a kiss, then Elaine handed her a glass of juice. She took the glass and drank it slowly, it felt fresh, a mix of fruits from the land surely. She took a deep breath and gave Amra a glare. 'Here goes nothing... I hope they say yes...' He chuckled 'oh, I have my way of convincing them if I have to.'

Caliope chuckled and worked hard on focusing. After a few minutes, she raised her voice to the others "Elaine, General... I have something to ask... I don't know much about your rules, I think that is quite obvious, but I wanted to know what are the rules for telling the truth about you all to humans... my friend will be here for more than a day, hopefully... and I don't believe you will all pretend to be normal for that long...."

Elaine was the first one to react, she tried to smile and make Caliope feel comfortable but she was being serious as well "oh... well... we are normal for most of the time, I guess... except every now and then..."

"Your friend won't be in any danger, if that is what you are afraid of..."

"No, I don't fear for her safety... I just... want to know how much information I can share with her... she is the only human I shared a bond with... she is like a sister to me, and I don't like lying to her..."

Maxwell and Elaine exchanged some looks, then they both turned to look at Amra who shrugged. Pronab chuckled "I don't think we have something to fear from her friend, that is, if she can keep appearances in front of other humans, for her own sake..."

Maxwell laid his back against the chair and nodded "I would like to hear what Amrafel thinks about this, he has been very quiet."

Caliope chuckled and smiled at Amra, he sighed and sat straight on the chair, looking at Maxwell directly "I am not used to talk much if I don't have anything important to add... I do not mind if she shares the information with her friend, she is part of her and I want her completely, soul sister included."

"Soul sister?"

Caliope chuckled "that is how she calls me, we are very close, even though she lives in a different country due to her job, we have always kept in touch and bonded as friends... we care about each other..."

Maxwell nodded again, this time smiling "interesting... all of this... I think that, as Pronab said, if she can keep appearances in front of others, respect our laws, she should be ok..." to what Elaine added "I agree... if she is going to come, she needs to know about us... I don't know her but, I trust Caliope will know how to handle the information to her."

"Thank you, all of you... I am so truly blessed... I couldn't be happier..."

She sighed and smiled, Amra put an arm around her and hugged her, as everyone smiled and shared the happiness of the moment. Hours later, Elaine had taken Caliope to the library and laid on a desk her personal computer, she was looking at different designs for her dress and wanted to share them. Caliope went through them and couldnt decide, as each was as beautiful as the next "It would help more if I knew what will be involved in the ceremony... that way I know the kind of dress I would like..."

"You are so curious about it... aren't you? it is ok... I will tell you this... most of the ceremony is just as any other wedding, it can be as personal as you like, or as impersonal... is up to you... but there is a part of the ceremony held in private, I will be there, so will be the Generals we invited, and a very unique moment will take place... the best way I can describe it to you is... your union will be blessed by our father... in a very special way..."

"Now I am nervous... and excited..."

"There is nothing to fear, my darling... you will see how wonderful it will be..."

"We are inviting other Generals?"

"I made this invitations, and I plan to invite the generals we have not introduced to you and Amra yet, there are only two more... and yes, we will invite those you have already met, it is the polite thing to do, but I wouldn't worry if I were you, the one you are thinking about won't come."

"I don't want to be watching out that day how Amra will feel about him, are you sure he won't come?"

"I am sure of it. Now tell me what you think of the wedding invitations? I made only three designs but I think we can make more if you do not like any of them."

Caliope took in her hands a handful of elegant cards made of thin silk paper, the writing was elegant, the design was exquisite, and their names together made her heart pace faster. The invitations were sophisticated and unique, so different from the ones she had seen all her life, but then again, they were different to everyone else. One design in particular drew her attention; at the top center their names, to the sides, Amra's wings. She smiled widely and looked at Elaine "Are these Amra's wings..."

Elaine nodded "yes, I know, he told me you saw them... he doesn't remember the last time he spread his wings, it must have been eons... only intense emotions and feelings bring out our wings..."

"This is the one... I want this one to be our invitation... it could not be more perfect... thank you so much Elaine!"

She jumped to hug her and Elaine blushed, smiling almost guiltily.

((There is a design of the wedding invitation I made here: http://tinyurl.com/qdqcf7b ))

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CHAPTER 32

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Caliope was pacing in circles, checking the middle clock in a wall of 10 different clocks marking hours in different countries; the announcement of a delay on Vanessa's fly had her a little upset. Falshore was half amused watching her walk around the VIP waiting room as he checked the stocks market on his cell phone every now and then.

Elaine Clark tried to calm her down as she sent her way some soothing energy "not all things are under our power, all we have to do is wait."

Falshore, with his eyes still stuck on his cellphone, shrugged "I don't see any rush anyway."

Elaine perked a brow and looked at him, she was starting to find his presence and comments annoying "that is because you are a guy and you never see weddings the same way as we do... the designer for the dress is waiting, and also is the Chef who is catering our food."

"I will figure it out when it is my turn..."

Pronab smirked "if ever..."

Falshore frowned and looked at Pronab who was sitting near Caliope reading a book. Pronab was hiding a grin but he knew he had touched his ego. Caliope chuckled and looked at Pronab shaking her head. He didn't look back, but smiled as well.

Announcer Speaker: Your attention please, passengers arriving from Flight Z0735H proceeding from Italy are arriving through Gate 7.

Caliope jumped excited after hearing the good news, the announcer repeated the message at the same time she was speeding towards the Gate. Pronab and Elaine were behind her, and Falshore with the other two members of their entourage were catching up after them. As soon as she reached the open doors of Gate 7, several passengers started to walk out, some together, others alone. Halfway through a group of tourists, Vanessa was walking as calm as she could towards the exit; she caught Caliope on the side and with a grin, rushed her pace towards her. They hugged and spinned in a comical embrace, they were both laughing.

"I am so happy to see you! I was getting worried... your flight was delayed for so long!"

"I am so tired! they delayed our departure because they lost some luggage from one of their 1st class customers. It was so strange, but here I am!"

Caliope hugged her friend again, and they smiled at eachother. After they slowed down, Vanessa tilted her head to the side to catch the group of people staring at them. Only then Caliope remembered she was not there alone, and turned around embarrassed on the situation.




The Awakening Ch. 31-40



"Nessa, these people are with me..." 

"Lets see, which of these handsome guys is your future husband?"

Caliope laughed and shook her head, picking one of Vanessa's bags away from her. She gave a step towards Elaine and turned around "Amra could not make it here, please excuse him, you will meet him at the residence."

"Not coming to greet his new sort-off-sister? minus 1 point on Amra..."

She drew an imaginary note and Pronab couldn't hold the laugh, Vanessa turned towards him and smiled. Caliope quickly tried to excuse him "is not like that, we don't have much time and I want to go do... you know... girly stuff... now that you are here... But let me introduce you, this is Elaine Clark, she is Amra's mother..."

"Oh! such a pleasure to meet you Miss Clark, I am sorry about the joke on your son, I am used to tease Caly like this... please forgive me." Vanessa had changed her tone and blushed, trying to excuse herself. Elaine smiled warmly at her and extended her hand, which Vanessa quickly reached and shook politely. "The pleasure, sweet Vanessa, is mine... Caly is like family to us now, and she only had good words towards you..."

"This is Pronab, he is like... Amra's cousin, not legally I guess, but yes, he is like the playful cousin of the family..." said Caliope chuckling, Pronab looked at her at first with amusement, but then with a kind smile. Vanessa had her eyes now on him "Pleased to meet you, Pronab..."

Caliope perked a brow and smiled, it was rare of Vanessa to say so little, especially after she handed her a good start for her punch line in her introduction. Pronab returned the kind smile at Vanessa "Welcome to England, Miss..."

He made a small head bow and Caliope almost gasped, they were both exchanging some very subtle yet obvious flirting gestures. This made her smile, but deep inside, something else moved, and she tried to blame it just to the excitement.

"And these are Falshore, Tom and Hank, they are our bodyguards, trusted men from Sir Caldwels"

Falshore bowed in a more artistic way than Pronab, and so did the other two, they smiled and offered to pick the bags and then lead them towards the cars. "Such an escort, baby... you have a lot of explaining to give..." She chuckled "you have no idea... but all in due time, we have to go see my dress, that is our first stop."

"Ok, I am hooked! I want to see your dress! lets go!"

They headed to the cars and Vanessa tried to behave as she spotted the luxury in which they were traveling. At her job, Vanessa was a classy lady with great manners, she was polite, refined and very well spoken; but whenever she had the chance to see Caliope, it was just so natural of her to be everything different from what she was at work. Now, she had some trouble adjusting her two different personalities into this new scenery; her friend who allowed her to be free and outspoken, and the people around her whose presence only aimed the best of any etiquette.

Once they arrived at the Mall, Vanessa trusted her luggage to bodyguards, who remained at the car, and followed Caliope. After a walk through two floors, they arrived to a small vintage store that only stood out due to its unusual look. Inside, an old lady smiled and welcomed Caliope with two kisses; one on each cheek, and spoke some words to Elaine in a language Vanessa did not understood. Pronab and Falshore both remained outside of the store and the old lady put a "closed" sign on the door. After a curtain was pulled to cover the windows, Elaine took a seat and pulled another one for Vanessa, who sat still waiting for more information on what they were doing "Nessa, this is Ariadne, she is making my dress... it is almost done, but I know you wanted to approve it first so we made reservation today for you to see it..."

"Oh wow... I thought you knew I was kidding... I mean... I would love to see it..."

"And you shall, Caly my darling, please put it on, I love seen you in that dress..."

Caliope giggled and walked towards the dressing room behind the store. After some minutes, and with the help of Ariadne, she finally had everything in place. As soon as she walked out, Vanessa's jaw dropped; a little theatrical for Caliope's taste, but she enjoyed her reaction "Oh my god Caly! you look like a princess!"

Caliope blushed "thank you... the final details will be done by saturday, just minor twitches I asked Ariadne and she is making them possible... I just can't believe it myself either, this is just so beautiful..."

Elaine released a big sigh and smiled "you are beautiful my dear, you look radiant and just... Angelic..."

Her choice of words made Caliope blush. Vanessa rushed to hug her friend and then looked around her for all the perfect details embedded in the dress "I don't see what else can be done, it is just perfect..."

"I have something else in mind to add and you will understand once you see it."

"Ok, I believe you, now I am thrilled to see what else you prepared..."

Ariadne timidly added "M'Lady will have her dream dress soon." Caliope thanked her and the old lady smiled at her, kissing her hands before leading her back to the dressing room. Once they left together, they saw Falshore and Pronab barely looked at each other, Caliope thought some day she would find out what was between them both to hate eachother so much.

Once in the cars, Caliope explained to Vanessa that the next person to see was the Chef who would do the food for the event. Elaine had put a lot of thought into the menu, and Caliope insisted on putting something in particular to make it more personal. Vanessa frowned "a salad? are you sure?"

Caliope chuckled "it is symbolic, it was our first meal together, he never tasted it before, and I teached him how to serve it..."

Elaine sighed "I wasnt aware it was that special... I feel bad now..."

"It is ok, really, I think that everything happened for a reason..."

"I am missing something here, I know I am..."

Caliope blushed "it is nothing, really..."

Elaine shook her head and explained "I interrupted them both, that is what happened..."

"Aw! I am sure it was not made on purpose... right?"

"At that time, it was... " Elaine admitted embarrassed, looking down a little sad, but Caliope smiled and gave her a hug, she blushed. Vanessa watched with a smile as well as she saw them both bonding. "Now, we should be arriving to the Chef's Restaurant in any minute, and I want my Caesar Salad on the menu!"

They all laughed and changed the mood of the day, as they arrived at the Restaurant where they would all meet the Chef, who was famous for cooking food with passion, and he never allowed anyone to make him change his ways only to adapt to people. Elaine made a little introduction while still in the car "he is very admired, and well... I had the pleasure of eating his creations before, you just can't have anyone else after you try his work of art..."

"A work of art?"

"Yes, you will taste it for yourself..."

Once they entered the Restaurant, they noticed that it was empty, Caliope thought it was because they were late or perhaps it was closed, until a young blond men dressed all in white came to greet them. As always, Elaine was the one who spoke first "Greetings, we are here to see Chef Remesch?"

"Yes, of course, he is expecting you, please choose any place in the Restaurant where you would like to seat, he will be coming out of the kitchen briefly. I am Victor, his Sous Chef."

"Thank you, Victor, we will wait for him."

Once the Sous Chef left the main room, Caliope chose the center of the perfectly circled dining room to wait, he leaned close to Elaine to whispered her a question "what are the Sous Chefs?"

"Oh, they are the assistants of the Chef, one Chef can have more than one Sous Chef, and they are very important, like their right hand on the kitchen."

Caliope nodded and looked around the room to see the details of the Restaurant; besides the perfect circle room that was the main dining area, there were two lateral wings that served as themed rooms, one was filled with sea decoration, the other one had a wildlife style, bamboo walls and tiki bars. The decoration on the main dining room was classic and elegant; she could tell why Elaine liked it so much. After only a few minutes, another young man came out of the kitchen, and this one had the top hat of the Chef. Caliope was impressed, he seemed younger than her.

"Lady Clark, I have heard so much about you, I am honored to meet you!"

"Thank you Chef, I am quite delighted to have booked you for this unique and special event... this is the bride, Caliope... and her best friend Vanessa."

"Oh! the bride! pleased to meet you both..."

Caliope smiled kindly "Thank you so much Chef, for taking us in such short notice... "

"This means a lot for her, thank you." Vanessa added, obviously impressed by his youth as well.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world, now let me tease your tongues with some of my favorite entries and we can start doing a selection... if that is ok with you?"

"Absolutely!" the tree woman exclaimed in choir.

The Chef went back to the kitchen with a grin on his face, Caliope was entertained. She continued to look around and found the curtains on the walls that gave the atmosphere a very vintage look; the chandeliers were also breath taking. Only when she focused on the windows, she noticed something strange; after she looked closer she thought there were strange shadows at a distance. She rubbed her eyes and started to get nervous, it had been days after she had any encounter with the dark ones, as she called them. The idea that they were being surrounded by them right then and there, having Vanessa close and uninformed, started to panic her. She focused her eyes on the windows again and gasped; there were more shadow figures now standing outside, just watching, she grabbed Elaine's hand squeezing it. Pronab caught Caliope's sudden mood change, he stood up and followed where she was looking then elbowed Falshore, who looked at him frowning first, but then immediately changed and got on guard as he caught there was a situation. When Vanessa looked at Caliope, she worried and went next to her, kneeling in her front.

"Are you ok baby? you look pale, like you are going to have a heart attack... don't get panicked now!"

"It is not that..."

Elaine tried to relax the mood "I think she is just nervous, maybe you can bring her a glass of water from the kitchen?" trying to distract Vanessa from what was really happening.

"Good idea, I will ask the cute Chef for one."

Vanessa stood up and walked towards the kitchen, and as soon as she crossed the doors, Pronab reached to Caliope and kneeled in front of her "What do you see? ghosts again?"

Caliope shook her head and squeezed Elaine's hand again, she put an arm around her and closed her eyes, trying to use her power to calm her down. Pronab was getting more irritated "can you talk? Caly start saying something please!"

"I see shadows... they are gathering on the windows... it was just one... now they are more, and more are coming by the second!"

Elaine gasped "You mean they can see you? see us? are they humans?"

"No, it is like the dark one on my window back then, remember? once outside the light of the room, it was just a shadow... they are just like that, but is in broad daylight! you can't see them?!"

She shook her head as Pronab turned around to the windows and saw nothing. He frowned and looked at Falshore who pulled out a small dagger. Vanessa walked back in the room with the glass of water and froze at the sight of the sharp weapon "Ok... what is going on?"

"We were hoping for a better time for you to learn all about this, I know Caly wanted to tell you personally, but it seems there is an inconvenience we need to deal with and... well... you my dear, whatever you see from now on, please try not to scream, it will only make things worst." Said Elaine as she stood up and looked around the windows. "I think you are making me more nervous now... Caly?"

She turned her head to see her friend and tried to take a deep breath and invite her to come closer "just come here with me please?"

Vanessa walked slowly and sat next to her. Elaine picked up her phone, then threw it to the table "Useless... they blocked all our signals Pronab... we will have to interfere..."

"I am more worried on what we can't see and why..."

Falshore stood next to them "they must be like the other ones at the residence."

"They were ghosts, impossible to control... for what we know, this ones are targeting us."

Vanessa gasped as she heard the words coming out of Elaine's mouth, she looked at Caliope and whispered. "What kind of friends you have? this is sounding like a bad joke Caly..."

She swallowed hard and looked at Vanessa's eyes, her face and body gesture reflecting the agony and fear she was going through "Anything you see here from now on is not product of your imagination Nessa... I wanted to tell you this with calm and time... they are Angels... real Angels... who are here in earth to protect us... and what they are talking about, is that of which we should fear and be scared... the opposite of Angels... the darkness and creeps behind every horror story... I am sorry my friend... they are here for me."

Elaine turned around and looked at Caliope "I am very sorry darling, but I need you to reach to him... we have no communication to the outside..." And she understood, in her own way, she knew it would come to this. She closed her eyes, crying out for Amra.

-

CHAPTER 33

-

The windows of the main dining room shattered and broke into millions of pieces; Caliope covered herself with an arm around her face as she was pulling the other arm around Vanessa and tried to cover her as well. Caliope heard some strange whispers and she knew this was going to be a definitive time for them, she could see them, while Elaine, Pronab and Falshore could not. She stood up and looked down at a very frightened Vanessa "Please remember, you are with the good guys... I mean it..."

Vanessa looked up at her and nodded, she was too shocked to say something but she understood. Caliope looked around and saw the shadows move slowly towards them; the doors from the kitchen opened and Chef Remesch dropped to the floor the food he was carrying with him. Caliope sighed, another person who she will have to either explain or see Elaine make him forget about what was going to happen; but to her surprise he shook his head and walked next to Elaine and Pronab on guard "Invisibles huh? I think they are playing with us... they must be playing between dimensions..."

Pronab nodded "Only Caly can see them, they have a connection and we need to see them before they get too close."

"Let me help you with that, I will open a safe portal for them two."

Elaine nodded quickly "Please do it... Caly, sweetheart, when you see the light, take Vanessa there with you..."

Caliope was still surprised with the revelation of the Chef being one of them, she nodded and pulled Vanessa's hand and made her stand. The Chef walked towards them and closed his eyes focusing on his hands that started to move in circles, as if forming and shaping an invisible ball. Suddenly, it started to glow. He was creating light with his hands and it started to grow bigger and wider. Caliope looked to the shadows and these started to move closer faster; they seemed drawn to the light the Chef was creating, but still having difficult time to move the way they have been doing it so.

"They are coming faster, but still slow... whatever they are doing for you to not see them must be consuming their energy too..."

Elaine nodded at her and smiled trying to comfort her, but Caliope was too nervous. The light took shape of an egg and it grew big enough to fit a person inside. The Chef gave a step back and showed them the way "Walk inside, both of you... I will close it once you are there, you will be safe..."

Without hesitation Caliope pulled Vanessa towards the light and jumped in. The light was blinding. Caliope covered her eyes with a hand, but with the other she kept a tight grip at Vanessa. After a while, she adjusted her sight and found herself floating on a bubble of light; there was nothing outside nor inside it but them both, silence was deafening; she could hear her own quick breathing and even Vanessa's accelerated heart beat. After she managed to hug her friend, she checked on her to see if she was hurt; Vanessa started to open her eyes and smiled with relief. "Are you ok? anything hurts?" Caliope rushed to question her. "No, I am ok, I didn't get hurt thankfully... where are we? what is this place?"

"I have never been in a place like this, I suppose it is like a safe bubble..."

"What a safe bubble! for what? for whom? good time to start explaining me what is going on Caly... Angels?!"

Caliope realized that there were no echoes in the place they were, she looked around again once more and finding the floating state a comfort, she sighed and decided to tell her story. Once she finished, Vanessa was quiet and this made her more nervous. She tried to hold silent for as long as she could but then she couldn't stand the sound of her own breathing.

"I would never have put all the weight of this on you if it wasn't because of the situation... you are too important for me, I was planning to have a full day out with long talks to let you hear this, and digest it slowly. Please say something?"

"I am still shocked Caly, but I guess... it makes sense... some of it... I mean, well, you know what I mean... these Angels and their world, it seems so... movie-like?"

"That is a good way of putting it, although this version has never been put on theaters."

Vanessa nodded, and silence took over again. Caliope was now more relaxed, and started to think about what could have been happening after they left. She was worried for her friends, even more knowing that neither of them could see the shadow people, but only she could. It terrified her the idea that one of them could get hurt. And all of this when Amra was not with her, it bothered her greatly that she could only be safe with him, it meant she could never be alone. She loved the idea of spending forever with him, but eternity without a space for herself, started to take a toll on her.

"So Amra is... the top Angel here? I mean, on earth... I mean... this Earth..." Vanessa cut her thoughts with a blast of questions.

"Yes, he had to be, the Archangel who guarded our earth was abducted and with no trace of him, he was sent."

"...by God? THE God?"

"Yes..."

"So you are marrying one of the biggest, most powerful, besides oldest people in the universe? that is way over the top Caly... or should I call you Mighty Goddess Caly now?"

Caliope laughed and hugged her tightly, it was a relief that her friend finally was accepting all of this. Having her at her side meant everything.

"You know, in a way, I am glad I found out about all of this, this way... if you would have sat with me and told me all of this while drinking coffee, I would have probably asked you when did you decided to become a movie writer..."

Caliope smiled "God works in mysterious ways?"

"Isn't that true!"

A hole started to open at a side of them, Caliope got in front of her friend protectively. After some seconds, a hand reached, followed by the arm and the rest of the body. Once they saw it was the Chef, they sighed with relief. "There you are girls, come out, is safe now..."

Caliope smiled and took his hand, and as he gently pulled them back through the hole, they followed happily. But as soon as they reached back to the dining room, the chaos was evidence of a fight that had not finished yet. Vanessa gasped as she saw the tables and chairs floating in different positions; some upside down, some sideways, others broken; a sight she already found recognizable. Caliope looked at the center of the room and saw Amra standing with arms spread and a thin glow around him, he was holding up a barrier between them and the shadows who seemed frozen in different painful poses. To see Amra there made her smile and she finally released Vanessa's hand only to walk towards him. Elaine smiled at her and nodded "he just got here, and claimed your presence... he can't see them either, but he can feel them..."




The Awakening Ch. 31-40



Caliope reached to Amra and put a hand on his back. He seemed to be lost in a trance, but as soon as her hand touched him, he opened his eyes and smiled 'Asteria... you are safe...' he reached to her mind. 'What can I do to help?'

'Let me use you again, please? I need to see them to vanish them... I need to use you to invoke their true shape...'

'Please remember my friend is here too, don't do anything that might harm her...'

'I promise...'

'I am yours... body and soul... use me...'

Amra smiled and moved his hand to her arm, guiding her towards the front of him. Chef Remesch put himself in front of Vanessa who was watching half curios and half afraid. Caliope stood in front of Amra and he rested both hands on her shoulders; the barrier around them started to dissipate and the shadows started to move again. Caliope felt her heart beat faster, she was scared but she knew he was going to protect her. 'Relax my love... let me in...'

He whispered in her mind and she started to feel her vision blurred, it was only seconds before he took over and started to speak through her. She could feel how strange she felt on her own body; it was as if she was a spectator in her own body. Then she heard herself speak "Dark creatures that hide behind the realms of the shadows, I command you to show your true nature!"

There was a strong earthquake and the building trembled, everyone gave a step back and double guarded. Caliope was sweating and shivering but she stood there without moving. The creatures stopped, holding their place as well. From the deepest corner in her mind she reached out to him again 'they stopped coming, they are not moving...' Amra held her tighter 'one more time love, hold on...'

"Creatures of the shadows, fallen ones, it is time to show yourselves and reveal your true form!"

Another earthquake and this time, the chandeliers threatened to fall down. Vanessa was visibly affected and was now worried on her own safety. Elaine rested a hand on her shoulder and started to calm her down. Caliope gasped and saw the dark shadows slowly take human shape, they were people that look like any other normal person she could walk pass by at the street. Amra now slowly started to leave her body, she could tell, as she was getting back in control of her senses and her vision as well.

"Pronab... " Amra called him as he slowly released Caliope, just in time for Pronab to catch her. She did not fainted this time, but she felt her body heavy just as much as her mind. She saw Amra now fading away and started to question her own sight. "He can see them now, he is merging into their dimension to vanish them..."

She nodded and finally closed her eyes. When she opened them again, she found herself in a couch with Vanessa sitting next to her, who smiled as she saw her wake up. "You had me so worried baby... that was quite the scene!"

"Where... where are we?"

"Still at the Restaurant, I went out to see the damage but from the outside is like nothing happened! that is crazy!"

"... where is Amra?"

'I am here...' he whispered to her mind quickly.

"He is talking to Elaine and Pronab in another room... they wanted to leave you to rest..."

She smiled and nodded. Hearing Amra in her head made things easier. Vanessa helped her sat on the couch and she noticed how tired she was.

"Here, have some water... want me to call your boyfriend?"

"Thank you, there is no need... I know he is here..."

"I have to admit this is overwhelming... you, sweet and smart Caly, a dark Angel?"

Caliope chuckled and shook her head "Oh no, please... I am only the daughter of one... a convenience towards our fight."

Amra's words echoed in her head 'you know you are more than that...'

"Baby, you are awesome! you should know that!"

'She is right... hmmm... I like her' this time she could sense Amra's humor.

Caliope laughed and then hugged her friend, who gave her a kiss on the cheek and that made Vanessa relaxed.

"Amra likes you, he likes that you are standing at my side..."

"He does? how do you know?"

"He can speak to my mind, and I can speak in his too..."

"Look at you! Miss Super Powers!"

They both laughed and hugged again, just in time as Amra was entering the room and walked towards them. Caliope smiled as he sat next to her, pulling her to his arms, she kissed him deeply, and he replied the kiss with the same passion. Behind him, Elaine and Pronab arrived, Chef Remesch and Falshore were still talking on the other room.

"This has been a very eventful evening... we will have to just let Chef surprise us, because I don't think we should stay here longer." Elaine was being pleasant but her tone gave a hint of how serious the situation was. Caliope finally released Amra and smiled nodding. Amra kept an arm around her and nodded as well.

"I am filled with questions but I guess it can all wait for another moment..." Vanessa added as she was standing up. 

"You are staying with us at the residence, everything is arranged." Caliope warned her friend with a smile, and she thanked her.

It was Pronab who gave the final first step for them to leave "Lets get going, General Maxwell has called every two minutes wondering about the outcome."

Falshore nodded "Yes, he is very upset and quite irritated towards this attack, we had been receiving calls of unexpected creatures like these last 24 hours."

Caliope was surprised "really? similar to this? and what did they do?"

"Unfortunately we do not have a half breed from them with each army to detect them, so they suffered some casualties, but at every trench we had a victory."

Pronab nodded "yes, we were lucky to have Caly with us."

Caliope blushed and lowered her head, she was now a person who they were considering of advantage at their side. The big stigma on her back that had been weighing for so long started to feel less heavy.

"We are going back to the residence and we will continue to make plans for next week, we are rushing the big meeting and it will be a crucial event... but you dont have to worry my dear, your wedding will be flawless, your union is going to be celebrated!"

Vanessa grinned "and I would really like some real -vacations- after this interesting day..."

"I am so sorry!" Caliope squealed.

"You should be!" she reprehended her with a hand.

Caliope laughed and Amra smiled at her; Elained sighed with relief and nodded, heading to the door and holding it open. "Ok you all need to get going, and I need to clean this place up..."

Chef Remesch interrupted her chuckling "Oh Lady Elaine, please, go ahead with your people, I will clean this up... my boyfriend knows what to do."

Vanessa looked surprised "...your boyfriend?"

"Yes, my Victor, he has experience."

Caliope smiled and together they all head out with the rest of the group. Once they got into the car, Caliope snuggled in Amra's arms and sat on his lap, he caressed her arms tenderly and allowed her to rest her head on his shoulder, she was so tired, the possession of Amra did not made her lose conscience this time but her body was stressed and in some pain. Vanessa was watching the scene with a smile.

"Once we get there, we will do the proper introductions and presentations, I am sorry you had to find out about us this way Vanessa." were Amra's kind words.

"At the contrary, I think that only this way would make it easier for me to believe in it... or I would have thought my friend was losing her mind."

"I think I would have been lost in my mind if it wasnt for her..." where Amra's last words before Caliope nodded and closed her eyes, falling asleep.

-

CHAPTER 34

-

"Men are made for greatness, to stand up and be men, defend their women and children, be strong supporters so people can look up to them... women are not made to be victims and helpless, they are made to be strong together with them, be worthy of their appreciation, to stand against oppression and be the hand on their back pushing them a bit further..."

"Ok Amra, you got my vote, when are you running for president?" Vanessa grinned.

Caliope laughed and shook her head. Amra smiled softly and caressed Caliope's hand gently as everyone else was enjoying a relaxing night in the library after dinner. Maxwell had to excuse himself as he had to manage last details for the wedding; he had promised Caliope a special and thoughtful gift, and he was doing it as a surprise.

Elaine sighed "I am going to excuse myself; I need to rest, tomorrow the twin Generals are arriving for the wedding, and they are always full of energy!"

"The twin Generals?" Caliope asked a little confused.

Pronab chuckled "Mengyi and Mengfei are twins, both are Generals located in Malaysia and as we did not had the chance yet to go there, they are coming to us."

"Ok... full of energy, is that a warning? what Angel has no energy?"

Elaine chuckled "Oh they are just playful and naughty, but they are fun and easygoing so you have nothing to worry about."

As she finished her sentence, Elaine gave Caliope a wink and headed towards the door, leaving a hint of new adventures for the next day. Vanessa was still gasping each time she found a new rare and valuable book in Maxwell's library, which was almost too often. Pronab kept reading his book and each time Vanessa made a silent comment on a new discovery, he smiled without keeping his eyes out of the pages.

Caliope stood up and walked next to her friend, a gentle squeeze on her shoulder brought Vanessa back to the library "Yes, they had time and resources to find all this rare books... I haven't seen you this excited about books before!"

"Caly, if I take only one of these books to the curators of the Museum, I am going to get a pay raise and new position." Vanessa chuckled as Caliope grinned "Oh! that rare?" She turned her head towards Pronab and smirked "Where does he get these books? can we get some for her?"

He lifted his eyes from his book for the first time in a while and looked at the one on Vanessa's hands. He pondered about it for a short time and then put his book aside and walked towards them "This book is from Europe, late 18th century, and is not a classic, he probably acquired it from Lord Marshall, he is a collector, human but aware of our existence, he is a very private person, he only allows to be contacted once every few months and does not always enjoy sharing some of his collections."

"Even if he is paid well? I am sure the Museum where I work would pay fortunes for rare good old treasures like this."

Pronab shrugged "I wouldn't know, last time I had contact with him didn't turn out very well..."

"Why? what happened?" Caliope was now interested. He gave her a grin "He said no."

"To give you something?" she continued, her grin as big as his. Pronab nodded and Caliope laughed "you are too special, you know that?"

He smiled at her and nodded again, returning to his chair and his book. Caliope smiled and looked at Vanessa shrugging "Maybe you need to talk to the General about it."

"I surely will! tomorrow at some point... isn't tomorrow your last day as a single lady? we need to throw you a bachelorette party!"

Caliope blushed and looked towards Amra who was quiet and smiling at her. He kept a very serene and undisturbing stance during the evening but now he was curious "What is that about? why do you do it?" he asked.

"You don't know?"

"I know very little, I haven't married before."

Caliope laughed and pinched Vanessa's arm as she returned to sit with him. Vanessa faked pain but smiled as well, and walked to finally take a seat with them "Is not a very religious thing to do I am sure, and to be honest I don't know when it started, but it has been something many do it, if not all, throughout the years." 

Amra put an arm around Caliope and kissed the top of her head as he pulled her close and tight. She smiled at him and snuggled in his arm, laying her head on his shoulder as she focused on Vanessa's explanation. "Since in theory, one is supposed to marry their true loved ones and only once, the bachelorette party is made as a symbol of the last day as a single woman, since after that she will be tied to one man only. Some only present funny gifts, and please don't ask me to detail you those... and some invite male strippers to make it more fun, again, it is supposed to be the last time she will be single and would be -ok- to see a naked man, other than her husband to be."

Amra frowned and perked a brow, Vanessa couldn't help but to laugh at his reaction. Pronab had already rested his book and was also chuckling at the detailed description.

"I don't think she should be seen any naked man to begin with... and she is dating someone already, so she is not available."

Vanessa sighed "Amra, is all literally speaking, I mean..."

Caliope decided to interrupt "It is an excuse for the female friends of the bride to go out alone with her, make fun of her, be silly, celebrate that is the last time her friend is going to be available to do that, and just have some fun, there is also the male version of it, is a very commercialized event."

Amra smiled "I can see that... I don't need one of those parties, thank you... but you should, if it is going to be your last time to enjoy it as you said, you can go do silly things with her."

"I don't want to... is going to be a very silly move considering what happened last time I was out without you... I don't want to make things worst being so close to our wedding..."

Vanessa sighed "I am sorry, I did not thought of that, you are right. We can still make some fun dinner all together."

"That I would like." Caliope nodded with a smile, Amra agreed.

Vanessa was happy and excited, and Caliope agreed to let her organize the event on her own. They all headed to bed and Caliope walked Vanessa to her room, close to hers. At the door, Vanessa smiled in silence and then gave her a tight hug "I wish I could have enjoyed more moments with you before this, but I am happy, honored, and extremely blessed to have been invited and allowed into this wonderful event, to be part of your new life, of this new truth and reality..."

"Awww my dearest friend, I couldn't have dream of marrying without you at my side, you know that... and this feels a little less heavy knowing you share the knowledge of it... I felt overwhelmed many times..."

"It will all be fine dear, don't worry... they will make things happen, I can see how determinate they are, and how powerful they are... it will all be ok..."

"I am nervous... about the wedding... but excited over all..."

"If you were not nervous I would worry, it is ok to be nervous, it is ok to fear a little to the unknown... but you my friend, you are in good hands, the best ones!"

They held each other tightly once more before Caliope headed back to her room. Vanessa sighed and closed the door, looking around her room and realizing she still was amazed by all the new world that just opened to her a few days ago.

The morning after was cold and grey, very unusual for what they were all expecting. Elaine was wearing a clean and simple suit and she was ready to head to the Airport and welcome their new guests. Caliope was curious and wanted to go as well but Elaine insisted her to stay, she did not put much fight. Instead, Vanessa made sure she kept her busy with many details for her wedding; she had to put some order in how she wanted the tables displayed on the yard, and how she wanted the altar build at the top of the hill. Caliope found out how complicated it turned out to be to work on a wedding. Amra smiled at her and offered some help, but he found out he felt useless deciding on things such as the display of flowers and location of decorative drapes "...and that is why this is a woman's job, or gays..." Vanessa grinned.

"I am really going to be tired tonight after all these preparations... you should have warned me!"

"Oh please! you are having it much easier than most!"

She laughed and nodded, continuing to work on the many other tasks she had before the night. After a break during lunch, she noticed Elaine had not returned yet and started to get worried.

"Pronab, why is Elaine taking so long?"

"She must be spoiling the twin Generals."

"Spoiling them? how? what do you mean?"

"They have particular tastes, we all do..."

The way he mentioned the last words made Caliope blink twice in surprise. She never thought about it before, but it was true; each General or Angel had some strange taste or fixation in something in particular, and Pronab had just admitted to have one as well. Vanessa was smiling at Pronab and dedicating him more attention than usual, a small hint of jealousy creeped up on her. She took a deep breath and repeated to herself mentally -just one more day- before she focused on her friend and the rest of the plans of the evening.

As she was walking by the main entrance, she saw a large bouquet of red roses with a card, she asked one of the servants who delivered them and all he knew was it was a young man who just left. She opened the envelope and read the card:

-I know you would have been much happier with me... but if this is what you want, so be it... I promise you, it will be one hell of a wedding!-

Amra sensed something wrong, even though he did not know where or how, he dropped the book on the floor and headed out of the library searching for Caliope. As soon as he found her, he saw her leaning against the wall, a hand on her chest and the other in a fist, gripping tight to a piece of paper; she was in tears. He rushed to clean her tears with his fingertips and kissed her forehead "What is bringing you this pain and tears?"

"I thought he would stop bothering me... but now, it seems that dark Angels are not the only threat against our perfect day..."

He closed his eyes and briefly after he shook his head. Once he sighed, he opened his eyes and cupped her chin to make her look at him, she tried to avoid his eyes, but she knew his will was too strong. "You realize I will have to end this... I can't have you suffering... not like this... "

"Why did he had to set his eyes on me?"

Amra suddenly smiled "Why wouldn't he? you are beautiful, smart, you would not imagine how many things you are, not just to me..."

"He is threatening to ruin my day, our day... I feel helpless, but if I had him in front of me I don't know what I would do, besides slap him on the face and kick him hard somewhere painful..."

"...and that is why he will have to die..."

"Do you have the power to decide who lives and who dies? isn't taking a human life against your natural law?"

Pronab was the one who replied her question, he spoke with almost glowing eyes "He will die, under his hands or mine... we both care about you, but he is jeopardizing more than just your wedding, he is putting at risk our existence to the world and he is playing with fire... he wants to set some vendetta towards Amra because he is with you... he is fool enough not to realize that he never really had you."

-

CHAPTER 35

-

Sunk in a couch, Caliope was silent as Maxwell and Falshore discussed new security measures for the wedding. Vanessa was bringing coffee to Caliope but she refused it, making it difficult for her to know how to help.

"You should have told me he tried to reach to you again... I would have come to be with you before..."

"You are sweet, Nessa... but you wouldn't have done much and you would have wasted valuable time best invested now for my wedding..."

Caliope tried to make her friend feel better, and it worked; Vanessa was smiling at her and nodding. They remained hugged in silence as both watched Amra nod with some advices he was getting from Maxwell.

An hour later, Elaine finally arrived at the residence accompanied by two men; both were dressed in long-sleeved shirts and trousers, they had their hands tattooed but only one had some silks wrapped in his head. Caliope couldn't help to notice how one was smiling and the other one was more serious, avoiding eye contact. They both bowed their heads to Maxwell and Falshore, and then turned towards the rest.




The Awakening Ch. 31-40



Elaine rushed to Caliope "What happened? We got here as soon as we could after Pronab's call, but signal was not very well down town..."

"We are trying to make some adjustments for tomorrow, most of all, security... I will make things simpler, we can't have any human here besides the bride and the bridesmaid." Maxwell's words were clear, and he didn't give a hint of a different choice to make.

Pronab walked next to Elaine and whispered to her ear, and she shook her head, sitting next to Caliope, she kissed her cheek and hugged her "It will be ok darling, he won't be able to ruin your day..."

Amra had been dead silent for a long time, but when he finally spoke, he said only "There are no questions about it... he won't."

They remained quiet for a moment until Falshore raised his voice "I have an idea..."

Maxwell sighed "I was hoping we wouldn't come to that..."

Amra looked at Falshore and invited him to speak more "what are your thoughts?"

"Let's play a hunting game..."

Pronab's eyes glittered "I hate to admit this but I like how you think."

Elaine shook her head "A hunting? You are taking things too far!"

The man with turban was now grinning, exchanging some eye contact with Falshore; probably there was something about hunting that appealed to them. Amra was pondering and quietly letting them discuss the many different options.

Caliope was squeezing Vanessa's hand still a little shocked with what she was hearing, and fear started to take over her once more; Elaine only caught this after Amra walked towards them, he kneeled and took Caliope's face in his hands, making her look up at him. Everyone in the room went quiet 'There is much about our world, their world, that you have yet to know... but trust me on this... no one will harm you, no one...' he whispered in her head. She swallowed and replied 'you are playing to be God... deciding on whose life is worth taking... I didn't know you could do such thing... you are no different from our tyrants and oppressors...' He shook his head 'We are very similar in many ways, but we are also completely different... I will let them explain this to you better...'

Elaine realized they were both talking to eachother in their private way, but the room was getting tense, so she decided to speak up "Caly, darling... what is troubling you?"

It was Amra who turned around and replied "we will talk about this soon Elaine, right now, please introduce us..."

Elaine blushed some and gave a step aside, looking at their guests. She nodded at them and then introduced them both. "I am sorry, my worries won this time... Amra, Caly, Pronab... these are The Meng Generals, Meng Yi and Meng Tian... they are the Twin Generals... Generals, this is Amrafel... his Asteria, Caliope... and Pronab, whom you have heard of as well."

Meng Yi, the one who seemed to be more outgoing, gave a step forward and bowed his head "thank you, Elaine... enchanted to meet you! we have heard so much about you, it is wonderful to finally see you in flesh, we owe you so much Star Princess..."

Caliope blushed as she noticed he was referring to her, and his eyes darting into her soul. She felt some strange shivers and forced herself to smile in return, bowing her head the best way she could. "Please, it is me the one who is pleased to meet you Generals..."

"This is my brother, excuse him if he is a bit shy at first, just give him time..."

The younger one sighed to his brother's words and bowed his head "Nice to meet you all..."

Caliope felt instantly comfortable with him "Welcome, I hope you had a good fly."

"Indeed we had, and now I can see we were missing much fun here..."

"I wouldn't call it fun, General... there has been some stressing situations in more personal levels than we expected." Elaine replied, working hard on keeping herself together while she addressed them.

Maxwell broke the introduction "Your chambers are ready, with everything you requested, as usual... you all can feel at home there."

"Thank you Maxwell." Tian's gentle tone was soothing for Caliope, she smiled at him. She also noticed how Tian was softer with Maxwell, he even smiled softly at him. Amra made her focus on the couch and then both sat together as the rest took the seat in the different chairs around. "Pronab, please explain what they mean by hunting." Amra was bringing back their attention to the immediate situation.

"It is quite simple, they are referring to hunt down your ex-boyfriend, Caly..."

"Hunt him down?! He is a person! A human being! What are you going to do with him?"

Falshore frowned "isn't it obvious? We will make sure he will never bother you again."

Pronab stepped in and became defensive, he didn't like Falshore, even tho his idea was something he enjoyed, his manners towards Caliope were unacceptable "is not obvious for her, and she is right to want to know more about this, she doesn't have a sick mind like yours."

"You liked my idea..."

"I do, but she is not like us."

Maxwell sighed "throughout the centuries, we have kept low profile and remained as only fantasy in people's minds... we can't jeopardize having our existence revealed to the world, they are neither prepared nor ready for this kind of exposure..."

Caliope almost sobbed "but he is after me, not you..."

Pronab looked at her and tried to smile "you are now part of our world, you are also half immortal... your life is now with us as well... and he is obsessed with you."

Meng Y laid against the wall as he spoke "We are familiar with obsessive people, every few centuries, if not less, there are humans who become famous for their obsession."

Elaine nodded "...it is sad, our own kind sometimes loses the path and fall into some obsession..."

Vanessa was curious, and even though she kept quiet most of the time, her curiosity was stronger this time, she sensed something was wrong "What does that have to do with hunting a human down?"

Pronab replied to her, his voice soft and gentle "when a human has proven to be a danger to us, and is someone ill minded, it is our duty to stop him, and this is one of those cases... the hunting is just a fun way to do this..."

"If he was a regular guy, we wouldn't have much to worry, we would stop him, and that would be the end of this. But he has money, power in the human's world... he has resources and contacts... he has protection and means to make it difficult to us to reach to him without showing ourselves to more humans." There was hate in Falshore's voice, but also a truth that Maxwell couldn't deny "To hunt him is to find out a way to reach to him and make sure he will never represent a threat to us anymore."

Caliope lowered her head "I am almost afraid to ask how you are going to do this..." but Pronab grinned "Mind games, Caly... General Yi is the best at it... General Tian is his perfect complement."

The General Yi grinned "we can make this a fun and entertaining game for the wedding visitors." Caliope frowned "with all due respect, General... I don't want to be worried about that in my special day, I don't find it entertaining..." but then she sighed, she couldn't deny that his ex lover represented now a bigger problem "I understand he doesn't only represent a threat to me with his obsession, but also to you all... He had been obsessed with me since a very long time, but seen me with another men must have pushed him to the limit. I am sad to be responsible for this in a way, so please excuse me if I don't want to participate in what you find entertaining." Amra took her hand and she turned towards him immediately "It is not a fun game for me. When it comes to you, I care little to nothing about anyone else. I could find him and bring him here in very little time, make him suffer and then vanish him. But I think their option is less drastic under your eyes." She nodded, there was no denying that if Amra took care of this, the ending would be much more dramatic. "Will he die? If they catch him?"

Pronab shook his head "We WILL catch him, and no... he won't die... but he will be removed from your life and our minds."

"What will you all do to him? What are these mind games?" Vanessa asked almost timidly.

"You have not seen this much yet but, each of us has a gift, powers you call them, and the Generals have a very unique one."

General Yi worked his best to smile kindly, but even then his demeanor was devilish "Once we get to him, I will lock him inside his own head, a virtual bubble only in his imagination..." he looked towards his brother, who broke his silence with a nod "We will lock him in a dark Closet, were his worst fears will drive him to insanity. That is our gift. I will paralyze him physically, and my brother will paralyze him mentally."

A moment of silence took over after this explanation, Caliope nodded slowly and realized how things reached to that point. A part of her still felt guilty, but another part of her was happy he would get a punishment. Vanessa was satisfied with the explanations and seemed to also be happy about the choice made as course of action, only Elaine seemed sad and put an arm around Caliope "Not everything we do is like what you read in the fairy tale stories..."

Later, as Caliope was slowly undressing to get in the shower, Amra was looking at her a little worried, he could sense her mood and her worrying mind, and he was attuned to her thoughts and feelings. In another moment and time, he would be more worried about the way he felt attracted to her, how each minute they were alone, he wanted to get closer and more intimate with her; but right now, all he could think of was her being ok "You tell me what you would like me to do to him, and I will... give me an option so I could make you happier."

She lifted her gaze to him and sighed "I wish I knew what to do, or how... but I guess what they are going to do is better than death. Please don't get me wrong, I am sad about the situation, but I think I finally understand how important this is, he needs to stop being something to worry about, to me or you..."

"Then change that face, I feel an urge to comfort you when I see you this sad."

"I want to, just give me some time to let this information go through me and then leave... I need a shower, but after that, I want us to just enjoy the dinner and be happy."

"I will be waiting then..."

An hour after, Caliope was powdering her cheeks with some makeup, courtesy of the Malaysian Generals. The exotic color and smell made her smile. Suddenly, what she was seen at the mirror became blurred, and as she looked around her she found herself being surrounded by a growing darkness. Panic started to take over her; the most secure place in the world and she was being under attack. The room went completely dark, she wasn't able to see even the walls and the roof. She opened her mouth and gasped as she realized she had no voice, only whimpers and heavy breathing; she wasn't even able to scream for help. She started to drop some tears as a cold wind caressed her skin; she was still wrapped in her towel. She kneeled, stretching her arms trying to find something near her, but not even her chair was close. She crawled a few meters but nothing was to be found. She hugged her legs and closed her eyes, burying her face between her knees. 'Amra! please! help me!' she tried to scream in her mind but heard nothing in return, she was completely alone.

She didn't know how long it had been since the darkness took over, all she knew was that it had been long, she felt the darkness was cold and the silence deafening. Her heart pounded erratically, sometimes faster, sometimes slower; she felt panic and numbness take over her in waves. Was this it? was this death? She started to feel relieved that this death came with no pain. Oh but there was pain; she felt her heart ache for Amra, she tried again to scream for him 'Amra...!' but her words felt empty, just as the space of nothingness surrounding her.

'Asteria...!'

She lifted her head as she heard Amra calling her, but all she could find was darkness around. Was it really him? was she imagining things? She knew that darkness and solitude could drive someone crazy, but she could swear that was him. She tried again to speak but it was pointless, no sound could come out of her mouth. She closed her eyes again and tried to reach to him.

'Can you hear me? Amra?!'

'I can... barely... I am coming for you...'

'I don't know where I am, or what happened... please... please hurry...'

'Something... something is making it hard for me to reach to you... but nothing will stop me... I will find you love...'

Then silence again, and Caliope started crying.

'Amra... don't stop... talk to me... I am losing my mind...'

But she did not heard any answer. She was starting to believe it was all just her imagination, that she imagined Amra talking to her, and she was still lost there, in the void of darkness. More time passed before she was able to actually stop crying, she could now only hear her own sobbings. Then a blinding light appeared, so strong and so intense she couldn't open her eyes. After a few seconds, she tried to see, and her eyes were begining to adjust to the new combination of colors; from the light that resembled to a tearing fabric, something came out of it, a hand and then a head and a body. She couldn't yet adjust her sight to whom it was, but she was happy she was not there alone anymore, in the silence and the darkness.

"I found you..."

Amra grabbed her and pulled her hard, so hard it actually hurt her, but she overlooked the pain as she was too happy to find him. She sobbed and then finally lost consciousness; she was safe now, she could give in.

It took her a while to finally open her eyes; the light was hurting her sight and she had to cover herself with her hands.

"Let me cover this for you, too much light? there, now the curtains are closed." She recognized Pronab's voice and sighed in relief. This time she could open her eyes without feeling them hurt; seen Pronab next to her, she smiled and sat on the bed where she woke up, she looked around to find Amra and Elaine also sitting near her. She opened her mouth and could not find her own voice again.

Elaine seemed to be lost in some deep emotion, she was worried to a point of exhaustion "you are safe now my dear..."

Amra got up and sat next to her, looking at her eyes as he caressed her arms "my love..."

She tried to speak but sound could not escape her lips, she started to cry again and Amra held her tighter "you are safe love, don't cry..."

'I can't talk... my voice... is gone... I don't know... what happened!' her panicked voice echoed in his head. He turned towards Elaine with anger and she stood up immediately "She can't speak... he left her voiceless..."

Elaine frowned "that bastard!"

"I think I can take care of that, if you allow me..." Pronab tried to sound as convincing as possible. Amra looked at him, trying hard to not let the rage consume him; he was about to lose the very little patience he had towards the person who did this to her "whatever you can do, do it please..."

Pronab gave a step closer to Caliope's bed and nodded "I will need you two to leave the room please, give me time and space to concentrate..."

Amra frowned slightly, but then nodded, leaning to kiss Caliope's forehead before letting her go. She nodded at him and watched them walk out. As soon as the door closed, she turned to look at Pronab, curious, hopping, anxious.

"Just relax, take deep breaths and let me do my job..."

She nodded again and tried to relax, taking a deep breath and then leaning against the cushions. He sat next to her, put a hand over her eyes, and another one on her long neck "Close your eyes..." he whispered.

She did, and felt a little uncomfortable as darkness was around her again when she did. But as only a couple of seconds had happened, she felt his heavy breathing close to her face. Now her uncomfortableness became was nervousness and she felt goosebumps on her skin. The time seemed to stop, as he pressed his lips on hers. She held her breath, and found that powerful electricity run over her body again; he kissed her harder.

Only then she realized what was happening, and pushed him back then slapped his face.

"Pronab!"

As soon as she said his name, he smiled and stood up, rubbing his cheek after the altercation, Elaine and Amra rushed back into the room and Caliope gasped.

"I... I can talk!"

-

CHAPTER 36

-

Amra sat next to her smiling, took her hand into his. Elaine was patting Pronab's shoulder and thanking him repeatedly. Only Caliope was a little disturbed, and worried. 'You can talk again, why are you sad?' Amra squeezed her hand. 'It is how he made me talk' she replied to him mentally. Amra nodded 'I know, I am not happy about it either, but he asked my permission... he said, he would reach to his dark side, and through the kiss, he would absorb what ever was holding your voice, he promised me it wouldn't be a deep kiss, I was not going to let him live if he did not fulfill his promise.'

She sighed and smiled, nodding and squeezing his hand tightly, then leaning to kiss his lips. She then turned around and smiled at Elaine and Pronab. Her real worries were not the kiss, which kept sending electricity through her body; her worries were how Amra would react to it.

"I am sorry, Pronab... for slapping you... thank you for bringing back my voice..."

He chuckled, still rubbing his cheek "It's ok, Caly... I can take a slap or two"

They all laughed and finally, she stood up and looked around the room "where is Vanessa?"

"She is doing a very important job, my dear." Elaine nodded.

Pronab noticed she didn't understood what Elaine meant, and knowing she probably was not aware who made the attack against her, he tried to explain "We caught the bastard of your ex... he was actually working with one of them, one of the dark Angels... that is why he could reach to us even with all our defenses up."

"Oh no! you caught him?! how far did he got in here? how many did he hurt?!"

Elaine shook her head, trying to calm her down "He was hiding inside the barn, and he was with a deception Angel, he was slowly numbing you... then he... he was trying to transport you to other dimensions." she sighed and Pronab continued for her "He was trying to kidnap you thru dimensions, but Amra got him."

She looked at Amra who was calm and steady. She smiled at him and he held her tighter, with an arm around her shoulders. She sighed and then shook her head, still surprised how far would his ex go to reach to her. "So you caught him, and what did you do to him?" she asked, almost too afraid to hear the answer.

Elaine chuckled "Eh Hmm... that is where Vanessa is..."

Caliope gasped "What?!"

Pronab chuckled, expecting that kind of reaction from her "I would not mind to put my hands on him and make him suffer as many times as I can... but I think Vanessa is doing a very good job. Humans punishing other humans is quite interesting and... sexy..."

Elaine shook her head at him "sexy? really?" as he was laughing and shrugging. Amra kissed the top of Caliope's head and rubbed her shoulders, calming her "The dark Angel is gone, we banished him... now, what to do with him, we are waiting for you to decide... if Vanessa hasn't already killed him."

"...if I know her a little, she would keep him alive and suffering for long. Can I see them?"

Elaine nodded and left the room to guide her, on their way to the dungeons she made sure to warn her "You missed quite the amazing spectacle... The Meng Generals worked with Amra to capture them both... right now, he is frozen, trapped in his own body, unless something changed while we were away... Do not worry if you see him this way, he can't move unless we release him. But you will see him sit and still, like a statue."




The Awakening Ch. 31-40



"I am really only worried about Vanessa now, Elaine."

"Oh darling, she is quite well. Trust me."

When they reached to a tall dark wood door, Maxwell was leaning against it, he smiled at the sight of them and stood up straight "Ahhh you are safe Caliope. Just a moment please."

He lifted a finger, made a half circle, and everyone heard the locks of the big door being unlocked. Caliope realized she never actually found out what his gifts were. The doors opened at an excruciating slow speed, and when a few inches were left to open fully, Caliope decided to just push the door and walk into the dark room. Amra tried to warn her 'wait!' but she was already inside the room. She saw Vanessa with her sleeves lifted up, sweating. Next to her a beaten Rawer was sitting in a chair; he had no ropes around him, anything that would show some kind of restraint, not even Pronab's chains. As soon as he saw her, he tried to move but he couldn't, he was immobilized in the chair. She looked around the dark room and at the corner, a grinning Meng Yi waved a few fingers. That made her understand what was going on; they were using their powers on him.

"Hey Caly, don't worry... I took care of him for you... how are you feeling?"

"Give me a minute and I will let you know."

She walked straight to him and raising a hand, finally slapping him hard. He growled at her and tried to move again but it was impossible for him. She gave a step back and took a deep breath, Amra walked next to her and rested his hands on her shoulders "I feel better now, thank you."

She was not smiling, but her body reflected a clear relief. Vanessa chuckled and walked to Pronab raising her hand and giving him a -high five-. Caliope frowned a bit to them but focused her attention back to Rawer. He had a black eye, broken lips and droplets of blood slid from the side of his forehead and lips; what ever Vanessa was doing to him clearly showed up to be painful and effective. "You really messed up big this time, you know? you couldn't just take a no for an answer, you had to do the most stupid things and try to get to me... you could have any girl you want! why the hell do you had to come for me!"

Rawer was furious and yet he couldn't move. He was also very quiet, which made her surprised. She looked back at Meng Yi and he stepped closer. "You are silencing him too?"

"His mind?, yes... Tian is locking his body... you want to hear him? he does not have good words to say."

"He already is immobilized, at least let him speak."

"As you wish, Asteria..."

He was clearly not happy but nor was he worried, he closed his eyes and only seconds after, Rawer was spitting on the floor "Stupid cunt! you should have never be allowed to live! you are just a gold digging slut!"

Amra walked a step closer, and with a hand he levitated him in the air, Caliope gasped and watched as the very own Rawer was panicking.

Elaine screamed "Amrafel stop! dont do something you will regret later!"

He turned his head and looked at her with determination "I wont regret this."

He looked back at Rawer and lifted his other hand, Caliope stood in front of them and Amra closed his eyes "what are you doing?"

"Stopping you from doing something you will regret later..."

"I wont..."

"...if you kill him, under my own eyes, you will lose me forever..."

He opened his eyes wide and stared at her. She had tears in her eyes but she was firm, determined. He kept Rawer's body suspended in the air but put his hands in her face "This is who I am, I warned you..."

"You can be a monster of justice to the universe, but to me, the thin line lays here... I don't care what means you take for an end... this is my choice... leave him alive."

No one added a word in favor nor objecting Caliope's words, but the fact was that everyone agreed with her. He closed his eyes one more time, then dropped Rawer's body in the chair, he growled in pain and tried to move, but Meng Tian was already immobilizing him. Amra rested his forehead on hers, and took a deep breath. She put her hands on his face and caressed him softly "This, what you did just now, is why I love you more."

He smiled, opening his eyes again and kissing her tenderly. She enjoyed his kiss, and the fact that it was in front of Rawer made it better, it seemed to be his own choice of torture. She turned around and looked at him.

"He has the power to end not just your life, but all of our lives in a blink of an eye... but you know what? he respects me and the choices I make... that is just one of the things that makes him different from you... better than you... Since you are familiar of their existence, there is nothing else to be said, you are a danger for everyone around you. General Maxwell, is there a prison for him to be locked in? One guarded by Angels. Any human prison or mental institution wont work.

Maxwell nodded "Our methods are different from yours, but we have a place for them. I can arrange for Falshore to take him now."

"Thank you, that is what I wish for him..."

"...fair enough, Asteria..."

Elaine walked close to her and smiled "are you ok sweetheart?"

Caliope smiled "I am, finally I am."

Vanessa sighed dramatically "I could have beaten him a few more times, but well, others will have fun instead of me now."

Pronab put an arm around Vanessa and nudged her head, she laughed as they all headed out of the dungeons and walked to a more illuminated area. Caliope was happy, she felt there was finally some closure to that chapter in her life that was Rawer. Also, the more evident signs of connection between Vanessa and Pronab didn't bother her so much anymore.

It was late for dinner, but Vanessa insisted on them to celebrate Caliope and Amra's last day being single "I know... I know... you were not practically single if you were already dating each other... but you know what I mean!"

The dinner was made in the dining room, the food was exquisite, and after some wine, Vanessa made them all play a game of guessing, with fun questions about the bride and groom. It was intended to be for the guests, to see how much they knew about them. Caliope laughed at how some questions were so simple yet so particularly tricky, and the answers were mostly funny. By the end of the evening, near midnight, almost everyone was gone to their bedrooms except Elaine, Vanessa, Caliope, Amra and Pronab.

"This was so much fun, it was a great idea Nessa, thank you so much."

"I knew you were a bit worried on what would I do but now you see you had nothing to fear."

"I still am scared of your surprises."

Vanessa laughed and winked at her, then yawned finally "Time for me to get into bed, I am tired, so many emotions in one day... are you used to all that?"

"Not at all, but I am getting there."

Pronab smirked "Is not that hard, leaving aside the war, we are very normal, we enjoy the routines just like you do."

"Who said we love routines?"

"What I mean is..."

Elaine shook her head "Ahhh no, lets not start arguing about that right now, we will never go to bed. I am going to sleep as well, and you two should too! is a big day tomorrow!"

Amra smiled "I am taking her to bed now, don't worry."

"See you all tomorrow, thank you again for such a wonderful dinner, and everything..."

Caliope was finally in bed, resting next to Amra, he had his eyes closed, breathing calmly. He could trick anyone to believe he was really sleeping, but if something she learned after all their time together, certainly, she knew he was never asleep. She caressed his arm slowly, and he tilted his head towards her, opening his eyes and smiling. Mentally she was patting herself for being right.

"Are you nervous?"

"...a little... but not so much anymore."

"Then why don't you sleep some?"

"Will I change after we marry? will I be different?"

"What do you mean?"

"You all talk about a change, I wont fear death anymore, that is a big change, I don't know what you mean about that, is it a physical change? a mental one? both?"

"I am not completely sure how to explain this to you, under our own laws, I can give you the gift of immortality only once we are married..."

"But... my mother is dead..."

"There are still ways to end immortality, my love... immortality makes you... above any mortal worries, any mortal danger... but as you have discovered, our universe is filled of things beyond the mortal world... half of her immortality was gone when your father died, the other half, she gave it and died on her own terms once she knew you were safe."

"How do you know that?"

"After you discovered about the past of Pronab and her, I was curious and asked a few people around."

"So she left herself die?"

"She chose that end, it was different times, there was persecution and I am not happy to admit Angels can be driven by obsession as well."

"She must have loved him deeply... to want to just die...

Amra nodded "We only know one way to love, and I can understand her choice... she knew they wanted her and you would never be safe... she did what she thought it was right."

"I understand in part, so it makes sense... I can't imagine my life now without you... but leaving me? why did she leave me behind?"

He leaned to her and kissed her deeply, his arms around her tightly. She gasped, surprised and taken by his love. He then parted his lips from hers and taking a deep breath, he tugged the sheets to cover her.

"I think she saw no other way out, but perhaps sometime in the future, we will know more about it... I firmly believe she didn't want to leave you, but she had to... now to sleep... you need to rest... tomorrow at this time, we will have eternity to be united."

-

CHAPTER 37

-

Her eyes were still closed when she started to wake up; a light of some sort was forcing her to keep her eyes closed. The sun probably. His arm was still wrapped around her tummy as she started to move slowly and he instantly reacted by squeezing her gently "Good morning my love."

"Good morning, my Angel."

He chuckled and kissed her ear softly, whispering very gently "What I would give to always have you like this, happy, safe..."

"I am willing to bet you will give up the world's safety."

"...and why is that such a bad thing?"

Caliope turned around to see him, she was frowning and his smile faded. He laid on the bed face up but closing his eyes sighing. He then held silence for a few seconds. Finally he spoke calmly "I could take you away from here, save you from all danger, we could spend together thousands of years before they would notice we are missing... or maybe I shouldn't ask, and just take you..."

She leaned on her side quickly, and put her hand on his chest, shaking him slightly until he opened his eyes and looked at her. "You wouldn't take me without asking... because it would make me unhappy... and you respect me, at least I hope you still do... and this world is so much bigger than me, filled with people who deserve to be saved, love stories to live, lives to forge... yes, wars and chaos are part of it, but only because you know of that danger is that you want to save me as well, isnt that true? if we don't know what we are afraid of, we don't know what to fear..." she sighed and closed her eyes, only after a few seconds he ran his fingers over her face "I am sorry..." she whispered.

"Why are you sorry?"

"All this time I thought I was the one having this heavy change to accept, when in fact, it was you as well... the world you knew is not the same now, funny... is not the same for me either... so is a big change for both of us... and there are many things that confuse me and you as well, I just know one thing for sure... I love you, no matter how crazy it is, I love you, and I want to be with you for as long as eternity will last... but what made me love you, what made me who I am, is this crazy world we are trying to save, so please do not lose hope, don't give up on them, don't give up on me..."

He sighed and smiled, leaning to kiss her lips softly. His hand holding her from behind her head as he locked his lips in hers for a long time. It was a soft and tender kiss, but also a long one, filled with deeper emotions. She caressed his chest and then his face, he broke the kiss and kept his forehead pressed on hers, with eyes closed, he was breathing slowly "I helped create universes, and shape worlds... I waited patiently for eons to move beside me... but only now I feel I am alive... love is a strange thing, I am happy I finally found you."

"I feel guilty, you waited for me so long, and for me this was relatively easy... short even..."

"You were born on the right time for me to find you, and now I am not going to let anyone or anything take you away..."

Someone knocked on the door and Amra chuckled, he rolled on the bed and faced up again, looking at the ceiling. 

"Who is it?" Caliope asked, her head facing towards the door.

Amra chuckled "Your bride's maid..."

Caliope jumped up from the bed and ran to the door, opening it barely as she smiled at Vanessa.

"Hi Nessa, sorry... I slept a bit too much..."

"No sorry, come on, we have tons of things to do! dont hide!" Vanessa tried to push the door open but Caliope giggled and held it only half way. "Don't come in, Amra is still in bed... give me some minutes and I will meet you in the dining room ok?

Vanessa rolled her eyes and grinned "Hey Amra! let her go already! you are making my job harder!... you got 15 minutes lady! or I am coming in with or without him there!"

She closed the door and laughed, looking at Amra chuckling from the bed, he smiled at her and sighed "That was a serious threat, you better get dressed."

"What are your plans?"

"No plans, I don't have much to do... show up and be on the right outfit?"

"It is representative, like you dress for the occasion... and you look stunningly beautiful and handsome in a suit."

"Yes, yes, I heard all about it... I dont need convincing you know? if that is the conventional way, we will have it, and I want you to be proud of me."

"I am already proud of you, every day you make me happy..."

He smiled at her and winked as she chuckled and blushed, he was more human than anyone she ever met, yet more perfect than the rest of mankind. She went to the bathroom and took a quick shower before getting on some jeans and a shirt as she heard Vanessa knocking at the door, she ran to meet her in the entrance.

After a light breakfast, Elaine joined them and together headed outside towards the area it was being prepared for the event. There were an unusual amount of servitude busy with moving chairs, tables, wonderful drapes and her favorite flowers, calla lilies and orchids. The people seemed in a trance, she wasn't sure if they were humans or Angels, and they never turned away to look at her or anyone else but what they were doing. Caliope was stunned with so many things being done at the same time, she kept looking at Elaine and Vanessa who were whispering between them and smiling back at her.

"What is all this?"

"I remember a few things you like, and Elaine helped me get them... you will have nothing to worry! we only wanted to show you things are on the way... now to the changing room, we asked Maxwell for a room with everything we need to prepare you..."

"You do trust us, dear... right?"

"Of course I trust you, but...

"No butts allowed, lets go... move it girl... we have things to do!"

Caliope giggled and Vanessa was grinning as she led her towards the residence again, Elaine was having a laugh as she followed them inside. On their way, they crossed paths with Amra who was accompanied by Pronab and Maxwell, he shrugged as soon as Pronab waved and lead him to another room.

"You are taking this quite serious I see. Dont you think it is a bit extreme?"

"Not at all, we have worked so hard to make this perfect for you both, I know all you like, and Elaine knows how to get it... you will love it."

"Ok, ok... I am in your hands..." Caliope sighed.

Finally they arrived to a wide room that had the curtains closed. The soft light gave hints of several chairs and someone else was moving in the room. When Vanessa finally opened the curtains, Caliope could see everything; a wide dress, her dress, wrapped by some special transparent cover, was hanging on a wall, Ariadne was smiling at her as she walked to hug her "M'Lady you will look like a princess!"

"Oh Ariadne! I am so happy to see you here, I was starting to worry about what time would I need to go pick up my dress! I wanted to hear all about your last details on it..."

"It was easy, nothing is hard when tis done by heart... but you need to prepare before wearing it, you will have to wait!"

"Prepare... what else do I need to do?"

"Ahh... leave that to me... come here, we will start with your bath..."

"...a bath?!"

But Vanessa was already pulling her to the other room, once she entered, a large hot tub was prepared and ready. The water was steaming, there were some rose petals floating amongst the soft bubbles and the air smell like spring flowers. Caliope was smiling from ear to ear.

"Now get in that tub while I prepare the oils you will use."

"...oils too?"

"Yes, go on... I am not even looking!"

She chuckled and slowly removed her jeans and shirt, looking at the side to catch Vanessa focused on a few small bottles of different colors. She found one big towel and dragged it with her to the edge of the hot tub, where the smell was even stronger. As she put a foot in, she noticed the water was hot, but not too much, it was the perfect temperature. When she finally sat inside, Vanessa dragged a chair and sat next to her, a small tray in her lap with some bottles. She picked a pink one, opened it and leaned to smell it, nodding as she made sure it was the one she wanted, and started to drop slowly the oil into the water.

"I figured we could use some time alone you and me, while you enjoy your bath... for us to just talk and you to clear your mind... I want to hear you speak..."

"Are you worried?"

"They are amazing, adorable, incredible... but I just met them, you on the other hand, I have known for years, and I want to hear what is in your mind..."

Caliope sighed with a smile "They did not brain washed me Nessa... I promise you..."

"Oh, no... I don't think they have, I know this is the real you... but you also have changed, and I want to know what is in your mind... today is a big day... you are getting married!"

"You are right... it is a big day... and yes, I am not the kind of girl who goes through life thinking and dreaming and planning on their wedding... I never was... I also changed in other ways too."

"What other ways? As she asked, she picked another small bottle and repeated the process, the blue drops released a few more bubbles into the water.

"I am not the hero or savior kind of girl."

"What do you mean?"

"Amra's mission is a big one, don't you agree?"

"Yes, it really is..."

"Well, sometimes, he loses focus and his mind wanders to, who knows where... this morning, he mentioned he would love to take me away from here and get lost... just the two of us... away from danger... "

"Kidnap you?"

"Well, something like that..."

"I will have to give him a talk soon..."

Caliope chuckled "That is the point, exactly... I already did..."

"Hmmm... ok, explain..."

"I found myself explaining him why he shouldn't do that... what it means saving the world... what his mission is... do you see me as someone who would be taking the job as this world's protector? I found myself in the strangest place ever... I never thought I would be saying the things I said to him for him to stay focused..."

Vanessa smiled "Caly, you were always one of the odd ones... you were never selfish, nor arrogant, you were smart enough, kind enough, and brave enough to stand aside from others, and yet you were also prudent enough to keep yourself at a safe distance from any spotlight. I think you are just being you... nothing wrong with that."




The Awakening Ch. 4



Chapter IV: An Invitation

The games continued along the same path all through the next two weeks. The visits increased and with each new session, there seemed to be more expected of her. There appeared to be no limits to his imagination, or his delight in her submission. Her body jumped to attention with his every command, as her need for his control came to a peak. But her vacation soon came to an end and they both had to return to the reality of earning a living and paying bills.

So off the work she went. She was no longer nervous about meeting him at work. She assumed from past experience that he would simply ignore her in that environment. He was an important man there and she was sure that he did not want his (or her), dirty little secret spread around. In the past they had always been careful to seek out places off the beaten track, where the chances of running into any one that either of them would know would be minimal. So, with this in mind, she waltzed confidently into work and began her day.

He did indeed avoid her for quite sometime. However, shortly before lunch he entered her office and sent person seated next to her on an errand. No sooner had the employee left, than he moved in behind her.

"Hello" he said softly behind her as she was filing some papers. She spun around with surprise and looked at him in disbelief. "How are you today?" he asked her, making small talk.

"I am fine thank you" she replied.

"Are you?" he questioned, "you don't look very fine to me."

"What do you mean?" she answered nervously, unsure of where this line of questioning was heading.

"You are not very obedient this morning. Are you trying my patience on purpose or are you simply forgetful?" he prompted. She looked at him with a confused look. "Did I not ask you to bind your nipples whenever you are in my presence? It doesn't seem like a difficult thing to ask of you."

"I didn't think that you meant here at work, in public!" she questioned him. "People will see"

"So let them see", he said. "That is why you are here, to please men. Let them take this small pleasure in you" he went on. "I want you to feel the pressure on them. I want you to imagine that it is my fingers pinching and kneading your flesh into submission," he said smiling. He handed her two more pieces of ribbon.

"Please no", she begged him. "I am so sore! You have had them tied up most of my vacation. I will do whatever you ask but please not here, not now! It hurts to touch them at all let alone tie things around them!" she went on pleading.

"Believe me, you will get used to it. Your nipples will toughen up. Remember the nursing mother? Trust me. I am doing you a favor" he smiled at her, and he pointed her in the direction of the bathroom. "Do this for me willingly, don't make me bind them here in front of everyone. It will not be pleasant for either of us I assure you" he stated.

Terrified that he may actually follow through on his threat, she went to the bathroom and closed the door behind her. She lifted her shirt and removed both breasts from her bra. Then she gently pinched each nipple in turn, till they pointed out sharply from her natural curve. Once again she bound them with her masters' color. Why was she doing this, she kept wondering? Why did she need to be subdued to feel fulfilled?

She carefully tucked each breast back into her bra and pulled down her shirt. Her nipples were so obvious they seemed to scream out for attention. She left the safety of the small locked room and headed back to her desk. It wasn't right away, but every one around her began to notice her condition. The men stared rudely at her and whispered amongst themselves. The few women that were employed there started to avoid her. She felt as if she was totally naked!

Near the end of the day he caught her alone in her corner once again, and moved in for the kill. "Very nice, now doesn't that feel better?" he sneered at her.

"No, I am very embarrassed... I don't like it at all" she shot back in defiance. He grabbed her by the waste of her pants and thrust his hand inside her panties and onto her moist genitals.

"You are mistaken darling, you're so wet it's surprising it doesn't show through your clothes. You loved being ogled by strange men. It excites the Hell out of you, admit it!" he smiled. She stood shocked and stared blankly at him. He turned and started to walk away, smiling to himself. "By the way, I thought a nice evening stroll would be in order tonight. Wear the sweater I bought for you. I will pick you up around 8:00." He added without turning around. Then he went to his office and closed the door.

She was happy to get out from under the leers of her fellow employees and drove home quickly. She showered, shaved then heated something quick for dinner. She took off the ribbons as soon as she got home and was not anxious to replace them. He was not coming till 8:00 and a few hours being left alone was a blessing for her. She relaxed on her couch and closed her eyes for a moment. Suddenly she was awakened by a loud noise.

She jolted upward and looked at the clock. 8:02. God it was him! She must have fallen asleep. How could she have let this happen? She wasn't ready. She jumped to the door and flung it open, blurting out apologies and begging for forgiveness. He said that it was ok, and he understood that he had been driving her a little hard the past few weeks. He explained that it was for her own good though and that he had only her best interests in mind. Then he smiled and asked if he could dress her this evening.

She was so relieved. He followed her upstairs and selected a wide legged pair of shorts and slipped them on her without panties. Then he pulled her sweater over her head and ran his fingers through her hair. His hands trailed down her neck to her chest and passed through her cleavage to encircle both her breasts. He reached into his back pocket and took out a small pointed pair of scissors, held them in one hand while pinching her right nipple through the sweater with the other.

"What are you going to do with that" she questioned apprehensively.

"Shhh!" he said softly as he raised the scissors near her mountain peak. Carefully he cut a small hole in the fabric and then pulled her little bud through it. Then he tied the black ribbon around it to keep it from pulling back through. Her juices started to flow. He repeated the procedure for her left one and tied it securely as well. "Now about that walk", he told her as he led her down the stairs.

"You can't do this" she protested. "You can't parade me around in public with my nipples hanging out like this."

"Why not? It is perfectly legal in this state for a woman to be totally bare breasted in public. Who will care if a few little hard ones peak out now and then?" he reminded her. "Besides, the way the teens dress today, I doubt anyone will even notice" he said in a reassuring tone. He escorted her to the car.

He drove to a public park in a small town about an hour away. People were literally everywhere; riding bikes, throwing Frisbees, playing with pets and just walking about. He took her by the arm and they started down a path. Her face flushed with embarrassment and her knees weakened, but he kept moving her along. Passers by would stare at her sweater in disbelief. Some stopped for a moment, others laughed or made rude comments but most seemed to pass by quickly, not wanting to get involved. As they approached a group of young males one of them shouted out, "Hey great fake nips, where can I get me a set?"

He stopped her and held her arms slightly to her side. "They are not fake I assure you my young friendm" he answered the teenager. "Touch them for yourself and see" he offered.

The teen looked to her for approval and all she could do was look was look at her master in dismay. He reached over and stroked one of the erect little mounds. She moaned and pulled away slightly.

"Now darling don't be rude" he said as he pulled her arms further behind her, forcing her breasts forward. The teen reached forward with both hands and kneaded her tender nipples with great eagerness.

"God they sure feel real. Why is she walking around like this and letting you treat her this way"? the teen asked, while continuing to fondle her.

"Are you kidding me? She lives for this! See how she enjoys your touch. See how her body responds not to her own will, but to your control. That's the mystery of women son. Embrace it" he instructed the young man. Then he told the teen it was time to be moving on, pulled her away, and led her further down the path. "How did that make you feel?" he asked after they had walked a short distance.

"Humiliated!" she shot back quickly. "And how does a good dose of humility make you feel?" he questioned further.

"It was lousy... is that what you want to hear? It was a rotten lousy thing to do and I hate this whole control thing you are trying to push on me! I don't think I want to play anymore!" she told him defiantly. He stopped her and shoved his hand up her shorts. Her pussy was hot, wet and throbbing lightly. He parted her lips with his slender finger and rubbed her juices along her swollen clit until she moaned.

"You are mistaken darling. This excites you," he said confidently. They walked on without speaking further. Her wide legged shorts allowed the cool evening air tickle her bare wet pussy and with every step her lubricated lips rubbed together, making her more and more aroused.

Soon after dark he decided that they had had enough fresh air, and should be getting back to her house. Upon arriving at her home he led her into the house and directly to the middle of the living room floor. "Remove your clothes" he directed her; just like he had that first evening on the beach. She complied and soon was standing naked before him. "Kneel whore" he commanded. He grabbed her shoulders and forced her to her knees. He moved around behind her and surveyed her nude form for a moment; then delivered his next command. "Present yourself to me" he demanded.

Slowly she lowered her face to the carpet, placing her hands behind her back to be bound and spreading her legs apart. He lifted her hips a bit more and told her to hold that pose. He fondled her lower lips for awhile in a way that drove her out of her mind. Then he moved to her clit and started again with his slow circular movements. "Why are you so wet?" he questioned her.

"To please you Sir" she obediently replied.

"And to whom does your flesh belong?" he went on.

"To you Sir" she told him. He dropped his pants and positioned himself behind her telling her that she was an obedient little whore tonight and he was going to reward her.

Then he mounted her like a dog and fucked her from behind. Her breasts swung in rhythm with his thrusts and his fingers tugged and teased her over-sensitive buds. He pounded his harden cock into to her eager hole until they both exploded into violent orgasm. They collapsed to the floor in a tangled mass and he held her for awhile kissing her shoulders and neck. Then got up, dressed and headed for the door.

"You had better lock this" he instructed her. "There is no telling what kind of sick-o might be lurking about." She forced herself up and joined him at the door. He cupped her breasts in his hand and kissed each one in turn. Then smiled and walked out... closing the door behind him.

To Be Continued...



The Awakening Ch. 41-45



Hello and thank you very much for your support on the last piece I submitted. I am happy to receive more feedback on it and glad to know you are hooked with the story as much as I am! 

Good news! I have a new editor! This requires more time since after I finish the chapters I need to send them to him and then wait for him to be over, his name is Hellraser. Talking about strict! He is so far great, as he also sends me tips on how to write better and avoid some grammar mistakes. I hope you can see some improvement on this part! 

I don't want to keep you all waiting long, so I am submitting only 5 chapters this time. Don't feel sad, the next 5 chapters are finished and only waiting for my editor to make the corrections if needed! So there won't be a long wait on the next set! 

Do you like the story? What is your favorite character? Who you hate? Share your thoughts on the comments! I love reading them, and also gives me ideas to work on! 

We are over half over on the story, I won't tell how far but know this, you have read more than half of it. 

Enjoy! 

***** 

CHAPTER 41 

"My love... please... wake up..." 

She could hear him whisper in her ear, and slowly started to recover some consciousness. Her body felt light, she could hear whispers near her and even though her eyes were not open yet, she could sense there were more people closer to her. 

"Can you hear me?" 

She could, and even though she wanted to reply, suddenly she felt cautious to do so. She rubbed her eyes, and realized she didn't really need to, there was nothing bothering her sight, she just hadn't open her eyes yet. 

'My love... please... say something...' Amra's plead was desperate, and she started to open her eyes. She found him right next to her, and the room was just as she left it before. She needed to ease Amra, but she wasn't sure yet what to say to the others. 'I am here... I need... time... this is... confusing...' 

"Do you want me to try and see if I can do something?" Elaine's words brought her attention to everyone else in the room. 

"No, she is here... she is just slowly waking up... give her some time..." 

She blinked a few more times and finally caught Elaine behind him, Pronab was not too far either. The room was still in the dark, but she could see everyone inside. Maxwell, Basil, Wiltshire, the Mengs. Some others she had not met yet, one new familiar face amongst them. Amra helped her sit; at some point she felt down to the floor and that is where she woke up. The candles near them seemed useless for her now, as strange as it was, she could see more than before. 

Elaine smiled at her "Take your time darling... let me know if you want some water, or anything at all..." Caliope smiled at her and nodded, but her attention was drawn to someone behind her. 

"I know you..." Her voice faint but clear, Amra turned to see who she was talking to, and so did the others. One of the generals she had not met yet was looking back at her. He gave a step closer. 

"You... you were inside his memories... are you...?" She frowned. 

"He is Metatron, one of the Generals of the far lands..." Elaine replied as she moved to the side. 

"How could you know me?" He replied, his voice firm and emotionless. 

Meng Tian broke the uncomfortable silence "Perhaps she saw you in her awakening dreams..." 

She heard Tian speak, and in her head, she asked herself the same question. Where those just dreams? She remembered her encounter, and suddenly she gasped as she recovered the last pieces. She met him in the field. In the field inside God's memories. She looked back at him and nodded. 

"You were the one next to Lucifer, in the field of ancient battles..." 

He was surprised, and everyone else in the room was as well. Amra held her tighter and felt her unease, she turned once more to look at him but he had his eyes set on the general. 

"Those are beyond ancient times, princess... and he is no longer with us..." Metatron's voice transmitted exactly what everyone else was feeling; confusion. 

"Did you dream about him, Caly?" Pronab encouraged her to talk. He sat next to her on the floor, protective just as was Amra. 

"No, it was more than just dreams... but... I need to rest, my head hurts... please?" It was just an excuse, she needed to put some order to her thoughts. She wasn't sure who to trust, she just woke up and felt the need to be careful around everyone. 

Amra ordered "Give us some room please..." They went quiet and kept a distance, ever watching. Elaine smiled kindly and kneeled next to her, cautiously moving a hand closer and showed her she wanted to help her ease the pain. Caliope took a deep breath and nodded. As soon as Elaine's hand touched her forehead, she closed her eyes and saw the void of darkness that now she recognized well; she got transported back to Elaine's building, and saw Metatron sitting in the living room tired and sad. She was inside her, watching him try to speak. 

"He is behind this, I know it... I can recognize the signs of his work... he and Nivel are behind this, but they have erased their tracks and I can't find them..." 

"We need to stop them, we can't let another war break loose now... and he... he is not ready... I have to find a way to wake him up... he is dormant..." 

"If he does not come to his senses, he is useless in our fight... we need him Eli..." 

The void brought her back to the room and she opened her eyes wide to see Elaine take away her hand from her. She was looking at her with a warm smile, as if she was not aware of anything. Her headache had suddenly gone. 

"I... I need to be alone please... can I stay here with just the three of you?" 

Maxwell smiled and nodded "Yes, of course... Gentleman, please follow me... let's leave her some rest with her family..." 

Not all of them were happy about it but none of them refused, they left the room and closed the door behind them. Caliope was taking some deep breaths and trying to calm down, but she was nervous as she watched Elaine carefully. After they were finally gone, Pronab looked at her with concern, and so did Elaine. "What is going on Caly?" 

"I don't know where to begin..." 

"...by first telling us if you are ok, my love." 

"I am more than ok... I think, I am beyond ok... I can hear better, see better... even feel more than before..." 

"That is wonderful darling, but what is troubling you?" 

"I... I am not sure I can share my experience... I mean... I am not sure I want to show you all what happened..." 

Amra seemed only concerned on her health "Do you remember it?" she nodded at him and smiled; her hero and saviour was always attentive of her, she could always count on that. "Yes, at first I was a little confused, but it didn't take long for me to remember it... I saw him..." 

They went silent, and she watched in each of them some hint of hope, happiness and anxiety all together. Elaine asked, almost afraid yet wanting the her to clarify "You saw... our Father?" 

She nodded, and smiled slowly. Amra sighed in relief and smiled brightly. He took one of her hands to his mouth and kissed it "It is a special encounter, and you don't have to share it with us in vision... but if you can tell us in words, we would like to hear that love." 

She nodded again and relaxed, moved slightly then looked at Amra with a shy smile. He was squeezing her hand gently, encouraging her. "The last thing I remember here was Elaine saying it was time... I heard you all say something, I didn't understand what, but I couldn't see any of you behind the candles. It must have been just then when I lost consciousness..." 

Elaine nodded "We were chanting my dear, praying and chanting for you, what we would call, a ritual..." 

"But I lost touch with everything around me... I blacked out... Then I woke up, or at least I started to remember I was who I was, in the middle of a thick jungle... there was a path, and it seemed endless... I heard a voice speaking senselessly and I tried to talk to him... at first he ignored me, but then he replied, he asked me who I was... he guided me to the end of the road, and it was the field... right then I knew it was familiar but couldn't remember where I was. He was a fallen Angel. He told me his name was Qemuel..." 

Elaine gasped and looked back at Pronab, who felt as if that name was a forbidden word. Caliope stopped talking for a while, and waited in silence for them to say something. Amra, in his kneeled pose next to her, put an arm around her waist and pulled her tightly to him. 

Pronab was pensative as he spoke "That was before my times... he was the first one... I remember the stories about him..." 

Elaine sighed "Qemuel was the first angel to doubt our Father and to question his decisions; he planted the seed of doubt, perhaps without willingly knowing, into Lucifer's mind..." 

"He was almost predicting his own end, I think... at first he was counting numbers, and I thought he was just insane... but then he mentioned "legion" and that warned me it was something more..." 

Pronab nodded and frowned "That is how Lucifer's army was called... is called." 

The door opened and Maxwell walked in cautiously. Amra nodded at him and with his free hand invited him to join them. "I invited him, and he is aware of all you had been saying till now. Go on, please love." The ability of Amra to make others aware of what was being said came handy now; it was so easy and natural for him; she still couldn't decipher what her abilities were. 

Caliope smiled at Maxwell and nodded, as he quietly sat next to Elaine. She leaned against Amra and sighed. "I saw a spear pass through him, he was in such pain... it was right in front me... right when he was warning me not to trust in Angels... and that is when I saw him, Lucifer... he landed right next to me and saw me... he was confused... behind him another one landed, and I recognized him here... it was Metatron... he never talked, and many more landed after them fast... but I recognized him when I saw him here as I woke up..." 

Maxwell nodded "Metatron was Lucifer's right hand, the second in command... He was also one of the first ones to point him out as well when he betrayed our Father." 

Elaine was still in shock "And he saw you, you said?" 

"He saw me, and he said I did not belong there... he said they should do something about me since I witnessed that... then pain... I felt a strong pain piercing through my skull... and when I opened my eyes again I was in some different place... surrounded by light... and I could hear him... talking directly to me..." 

"Our Father..." Amra nodded. 

"We spoke of a few things... but he was surprised... he said I went through his memories as well..." 

"Oh darling!" clapped Elaine excitedly. 

"He said he was expecting me... and that he was thinking about that field... about the events that happened there... and I went through those memories as well... but I could interact with them... it was very different... I was not inside someone, I was there as me... and I could talk and interact with them... he said he was not like any other living creature, his memories are different..." 

Maxwell was excited as well, he nodded as he smiled "That is extraordinary Caliope... you have amazing powers..." 

"He said something similar as well... he said I was a unique outcome of the many possibilities of my existence..." 

She looked at Amra and he nodded, smiling. She was now referring to something he knew well, something he could do as well. "The visions... I have them just like him... his gift to me..." 

"When he explained it to me I recognized your power as well... it is an amazing gift...!" 

He nodded and smiled again, pulling her hand to his lips to kiss it softly once more. She sighed and closed her eyes; so many things she talked with him, yet so many more questions left unspoken. She would have wished to have more time. "He said many personal things to me, some things I don't wish to share so openly..." 

"Yes, it is understandable darling... but you are ok my dear? You feel well?" 

"I... am not sure..." 

"What do you mean my dear?" 

"I can feel more... when you touched me; I went right through your memories Elaine... I saw you talking to Metatron back in your house, I don't know when that was but... you were talking about him, right? About Lucifer? And about Amra... being dormant... and he called you Eli..." 

Elaine gasped and nodded. She put a hand on her mouth. 

"I went in and out of your memories just as you touched me, and I didn't do anything to provoke it... it just happened... and I am not tired or drained as I was the times I did it before..." 

"Your powers have now awoken, just as you have... it is only the beginning love, we might need to figure out more about what you can do and it could take time." 

"...but I can't be going into a trance each time someone touches me! It is confusing and I feel like I am trespassing some personal territory..." 

"Perhaps... would you like to try?" Elaine finally regained her voice. 

"Try what?" 

"...if you can see through Pronab's memories maybe...?" 

Caliope looked at Pronab who felt uncomfortable about the suggestion. He was frowning but then took a deep breath and nodded. "If you want to try, I can try as well... my memories are not an easy field... even for me." 

"Chose some particular place... chose a memory... it seems she can go through the memories of what we are thinking or were thinking not long ago... chose one and let's see..." 

Pronab moved closer to Caliope, and took a deep breath. He looked around the room for a moment, trying to find something in particular to think about. He found something and looked at her nodding, extending his hand and leaving it close to her at range. She nodded at him and carefully rested her hand on his. Everything around her moved fast into a twisted void, a darkness that surrounded her first, only to disappear seconds later and leave her in a field. She was looking through his eyes as he was standing in a hill looking down a white path. At certain distance, she saw a woman dressed in white walking slowly towards him. She was smiling, but not at him. He moved his head and saw Amra in tears. She realized she was witnessing her own wedding; and the woman in white was her looking beautiful and in love. She blinked a few times and she was back in the darkness, and seconds later she was in the room with Amra holding her firmly from behind. She felt a little dizzy, but she was otherwise in perfect health. She smiled at Pronab and blushed. "My wedding... you were thinking of my wedding... I saw myself through your eyes, as I was walking to Amra... thank you Pronab... it was a beautiful moment..." 

He smiled at her and nodded, and Amra smiled at him as well. Elaine was grinning and exchanging looks with Maxwell, who was not as happy as her. "One more try my dear, this time, let's see if it only works with skin, or if it works through clothes as well... this will determine how careful we should be around you until we learn how you can control it... Maxwell?" 

"Ok... let me give you something interesting to see..." 

He approached her and offered her his arm, she looked at him a little curious but also excitedly. She grabbed his arm and saw the room go dark once more. Soon, she was inside Maxwell watching a scene in the yard. It was early in the morning, Vanessa was waking up; she was drinking a cup of coffee as she was watching the first workers move the chairs and tables like working ants. She could see Maxwell was inside the house, watching from a window, and Vanessa must have been outside while drinking. From one of the doors, Pronab walked out and walked towards Vanessa with a plate of sweets. She smiled at him and blushed, he did not even touch her but she was completely enchanted by him. He smiled shyly at her and then he left. When Caliope opened her eyes again, she looked at Maxwell and laughed. "Oh Maxwell... I like you each day more... thank you!" 

Maxwell chuckled "Trust me... it was my pleasure..." 

She giggled and looked back at Elaine; her smile faded as she saw in her eyes concern. "What is wrong Elaine?" 

"I was afraid of that... it seems... anyone who touches you... is in danger to make you lose yourself in their memories... I was really hoping it was just by direct touch... and now it seems it is not..." 

"But I am not inside Amra's memories, and we are holding each other's hands..." 

"I am not like them, my love... I have shielded myself to be protected from anything... and anyone. When I came to Earth, I was cautious to do this as I wasn't sure what to expect... it looks like it works for you as well...", She pouted, of course he would be shielded, he was the strong and mighty Arcane Angel who came to Earth to save all. She shook her head at herself; instantly unapproving her way of thinking. "That is not fair... what if I want to see your memories too?" 

"When you are ready, I will show them to you willingly..." 

She smiled softly at him and nodded. There was something deep inside her that knew any memories of Amra would be something completely different from what she saw before... and she was not ready to see it yet. Elaine's words sank into her, she now knew it would not be easy for her to walk amongst others if each touch meant a new memory to get lost in. "So now I have to stay at distance from you? All of you?" 

"For now, yes darling... until we figure out how to help you control it..." 

Pronab pondered before adding "...and if it is your only gift..." 

----- 

CHAPTER 42 

Vanessa screamed "Baby! I was so worried about you!" 

She ran towards Caliope, who was resting on her bed, then Pronab held her and stopped her just a few inches of reach. She was caught by surprise, and looked at him a little shocked. 

"Hold on please... and let her speak..." 

"Let me go..." 

"Nessa... is not safe... for now please... he is just trying to protect you..." 

Vanessa looked back at her then at Pronab once more, she nodded and once Pronab released her she sat next to her on the bed, locking her fingers together on her lap. 

"Thank you..." 

"Ok... what is going on? What happened? Are you ok?" 

"I am... I am very well... I just... remember when I told you that I would become something else after this ceremony...? It apparently changed some things in me..." 

"Those powers you were talking about... you can harm me?" 

"I had something resembling a power before the ceremony... I did not know how I activated it or how to make it work... not exactly... but now, it has become enhanced..." 

"So now you have a superpower, is that it?" 

Caliope chuckled, and Vanessa giggled with a smile. No matter what, they could always make each other laugh and relax. Pronab sat down close to them and Vanessa looked at him with a sincere smile. 

"I was able to go through people's memories and see what they saw, what they experienced... now I can do it with anyone who touches me, or whoever I touch... we don't know yet how I can control it... I heard Maxwell will do a few investigations towards this..." 

"And where did Amra go? He is rarely, if not ever, far from you... do you go through his memories as well?" 

"No, he is the only one I can't affect directly... he shielded himself from outside powers, and that included me... it is good... or else I would lose my mind without being able to rest in his arms... he is with Elaine excusing me to the other guests..." 

"Oh baby... I am so sorry... I wish I could hug you... but I am worried you would see everything inside my head... I am not so scared of you yet..." 




The Awakening Ch. 41-45



Caliope smiled "I am so glad to hear that! Hahaha..." 

"...is it the same? With humans and Angels?" 

"I don't know... we only tried it with them... by direct touch or through clothes... each time I could see everything... so we didn't want to risk it... Nessa...!" 

Before she could finish, Vanessa already gave a quick jump and hugged her friend. She squeezed her tight and suddenly started shaking. Caliope screamed as Pronab tried to pull them apart. When they finally did Vanessa had fainted, and Caliope was crying and sobbing. Shortly enough, Amra was rushing through the doors towards her. "My love!" 

She was crying with her eyes closed and as soon as she felt Amra's arms around her she held tightly to him. 

"Calm down my love... calm down... take a deep breath..." 

"Nessa... is she... alive?" 

Pronab was checking her pulse and nodded at her, he pulled her body to a couch on the side and laid her there slowly, with extreme care. Caliope looked at her and shook her head, then she looked at Amra and sobbed. "She is so stubborn... so stubborn!" 

"Oh no! What happened?!" Elaine was rushing into the room to face the scene, she headed to check on Vanessa and then turned to look at Caliope. 

"They were just talking, and Caly was telling her why they couldn't touch... when she asked her if we tested this with humans, Caly said no, and she rushed to hug her... after that..." 

"I saw her... I saw her! But it was not her memories... she was dead... oh god she was dead!" 

"How? When? my love... try to explain..." 

"I saw her plane crash... and she was dead... dark fog surrounding her and the airplane... did I saw her future?" 

"...it could be my dear... it could be... and she fainted... what a horrible way to find out what other powers you have... I am so sorry darling..." 

"Uh... what... what happened?" Everyone turned around to see Vanessa. Pronab kneeled beside her and gently took her hand. She looked at him and blushed, then looked back at Caliope as she tried to sit. "You are so stubborn! How can you be so careless!" 

"Wow... slow down baby... I was just trying to help you test your powers... with humans... did I faint?" 

Pronab squeezed her hand "You fainted and she had a shock." 

"Oh no baby... I am so sorry! Are you ok?" 

"If I am ok? I am furious at you! I could have killed you! I would never be able to live with myself if I did something to harm you!" 

And she started sobbing again, placing both hands on her face. Amra caressed her arms and shoulders slowly, as Vanessa looked down to her knees. "Good thing I am leaving tomorrow... I won't be able to interfere with your plans anymore..." 

"You are not going anywhere... I am officially kidnapping you..." 

Vanessa frowned and looked back at Caliope while she was staring back at her. She was determinate and angry, and Vanessa was not sure if she was being serious. 

Elaine stepped in "Let's just all calm down... Vanessa darling, is there any way you can change your plans and stay longer? At least a day or two more..." 

"I could... but I am not sure I want to right now..." 

Amra stood up and turned to face her. She took a deep breath and pulled back in her seat by instinct. Something in him made her scare, or unsure of what to do. 

"She saw you having an accident... and she wants you safe... if you can change your plans for now it would serve both well..." 

Vanessa nodded, and tried to stand up. Pronab helped her to slowly recover posture as Caliope turned around on the bed and continued to sob more. 

"I will have to make some calls..." 

"I will take you to Maxwell, he surely will aid you on that." 

Elaine nodded at Pronab as he took Vanessa away of the room. Amra sat back next to Caliope and Elaine approached her as well. 

"She is just your friend, and wanted to help... I am sure she meant nothing more darling." 

"I know... I just feel... helpless... frustrated... and hurt..." 

"Hurt?" 

"It shook me... I felt as if my hands and arms were burning... I thought I was burning her as well... but she just passed out?" 

Elaine nodded "It seems so... she didn't complain on any pain... but if you want, I can go check and make sure..." 

"Please... I don't want anything bad happening to her because of me..." 

"I will stay here with you love..." 

And he placed himself at her side, pulling her up into his lap and embracing her with his arms. She snuggled and sighed, trying to make some sense to what was going on. As she closed her eyes, the vision of her friend's remains amongst the airplane parts made her shiver. She opened her eyes once more. 

"We will figure it out, my love..." 

He held her tightly and she nodded, trying to rest on his arms as she watched time pass by. They stayed there for a while, slowly the sun came up at a distance, a sign that another day had started. Amra was quiet and still, and she was just happy she had someone to hold on to while everyone else was taking distance from her. 

"Perhaps this is a punishment..." 

"What do you mean?" 

"For thinking and believing everything was perfect and I would have my forever after..." 

"You will my love... and no one can punish you for that... you just need to learn to control yourself..." 

"How?" 

"We will find a way... I know we will... Maxwell is trying to investigate any precedent... any case similar to yours..." 

"No... how can you control it? I know I am not an angel itself... I am... something else... but you... you have powers... and you control them... you even shield yourself so other powers can't affect you... how can you do that?" 

"I don't know how to explain it... I just had to control myself... I didn't want to harm you... I had to control the time passing and moving around me... I started to focus on how it happened, how I made it move... what did I do to affect it... and once I figured that out, I could start to control it..." 

"But I am not doing anything... I just touch people... and the first time, with Elaine, I wasn't even touching her, she was touching me... I wasn't expecting anything yet..." 

"Yet...?" 

She gasped and covered her mouth. Amra tilted his head and lifted her chin up so their eyes could meet. "You were saying..." 

"I think... I know how it happened..." 

"You do?" 

"I was recovering from the ceremony... I felt dizzy, my head was hurting... yes... my head was hurting... and I was thinking... I was thinking I needed more information about what was going on... about Metatron... I was thinking I should ask later Elaine about him... and suddenly I was in her memories while she touched me... maybe that is why?" 

"That could very well be... and with Pronab and Maxwell, you were touching them to see if you could, so in a way, you were already prepared, expecting it... but what happened with Vanessa?" 

"I don't know... I have no idea... this is so frustrating!" 

"It isnt my love... you are in a good track... perhaps it was just the same principle... she wanted to see if you could see through her..." 

"She was asking me about it, and I was saying we did not tried it on humans... and... that is true! She jumped to hug me and everything happened then..." 

"So that is a very marked pattern love... you were setting your mind into that when it happened... maybe you should think of the opposite..." 

"You say it as if it was something easy..." 

"You have now awakened my love... you have transcended into an Asteria... half Angel itself... for us, our will is our power... think about this with conviction... and it will happen..." 

"I will... I will try... later... right now I just want to rest... I went inside too many places today..." 

"Of course my love... you already went through more than enough on this day... and you should perhaps rest... would you like me to leave you to rest some?" 

"No! Please don't go... I want to rest... but please stay with me..." 

He held her tightly and nodded, kissing the top of her head. She sighed and closed her eyes, and started to finally sleep. He closed his eyes and sighed as well, holding her tight. As she started to drift, she remembered Amra never sleep; yet she was so tired, she could hardly remain conscious. She would have to remember to ask him about this in the future, and just as she took that mental note, she felt completely asleep. 

----- 

CHAPTER 43 

After some knocks on the door, she opened her eyes wide, waking up. Looking at the window she realized it was still the morning, or perhaps the afternoon, so she couldn't have slept too long. Another few knocks on the door but she was not replying, she was searching for Amra, and he was nowhere to be found. A more insistent set of knocks on the doors made her take a deep breath and whispered a welcome. The doors opened and there was Amra with a large plate filled with different kinds of food. She smiled wide and sat on the bed. 

"I was looking for you..." 

"I am trying to play the traditional husband role... how am I doing so far?" 

"Hmm... it will depend on what you bring on the plate..." 

He smiled and sat next to her, resting the plate carefully. She looked at the content and felt her tummy growl. "When was the last time you ate?" Amra frowned. 

"I think... yesterday... yes, at our dinner..." 

"Too long, you need to eat some more..." 

Caliope smiled "I love you..." 

He leaned to kiss her and whispered "I love you" back. 

The living room was empty of people besides Maxwell, Pronab and Vanessa who was at the phone. She was quietly waiting for some responses after she requested a few more days off. 

"I understand Sir, I just need a couple more days... I promise I will work double time when I get back..." 

Maxwell frowned and shook his head, Pronab leaned close to him and whispered a few words before he extended his hand and asked Vanessa for the phone. She looked hesitant at first, but the look in his eyes was filled with determination, so she gave up and passed the phone. 

"Hello, am I talking to the direct boss of the lovely Lady Vanessa?" 

Vanessa felt nervous but after giving a look at Pronab, her nervousness transformed into curiosity. He was smirking. 

"I was hoping it would not come to this but, since I sense you are not giving her the time she needs... who am I? I am Sir Maxwell Caldwell. I am assisting her into acquiesce a rare collection she wished to surprise you with. Some old rare books from the 18th Century... Yes, that is correct... Good, I am glad you understand now... I do not know how long it will take, but she might convince me to give her my private collection if she keeps being so good at her job... Thank you. I will have my people make a first delivery to your office with a present for your good predisposition." 

He handed back the phone at Vanessa who was almost too shocked to continue speaking. She nodded and said just a few more words to her boss before hanging up. 

"For the moment I am staying at his residence, the Caldwell Abbey... Thank you Sir... I will be in touch. Bye." 

"That should give you enough time for whatever else you wish to do here..." 

"Thank you Maxwell, I mean, Sir Maxwell..." 

He shook his head. "You can still call me Maxwell, nothing has changed..." 

"I will make the best of the time here to find those promised books for him, for a start..." 

Pronab chuckled "There is no need." 

"What do you mean?" 

Maxwell grinned "I have the books, I will just give them to you, unless you want to acquire even more..." 

"But... they are of your own private collection..." 

"We collect things to preserve them... your Museum does the same, isn't that correct?" 

Vanessa nodded "Yes, it is true... but they cost a fortune..." 

"Pronab, you should try to explain to her how money means nothing to us... if it is going to a good cause, and a place that will take care of them, then there is nothing else to be said about it... You can pick any books you like from my library and take them to your boss when you return... just make sure not to take them all, that would give you reasons to return whenever you need to." He winked at her as he left the room, she was grinning and blushing all excited, she turned around to see Pronab and her grin faded into a smile. She lowered her head slightly. 

"Thank you Pronab, I know you have something to do with this..." 

"It is ok, I am glad we can do something for you... we can even go pay a visit to Lord Marshall, I will have a blast making him uncomfortable..." 

"I thought you Angels were always protecting the humans..." 

"I am not a common Angel... and what is wrong with having a little fun?" 

"You are making me curious..." 

He gave a few steps closer to her and she swallowed hard, she was breathing faster. He smirked and slid a finger to caress her cheek. She felt goosebumps on her body. 

"Nothing bad with being a little curious, I am sure you can handle it too..." 

"What... what do you mean?" 

"I wasn't born as a good Angel... I was a dark Angel in my origins..." 

She gasped and covered her mouth; she gave a step back and tried to look around for anyone else. He chuckled and stood there watching her. A couple of seconds later, Amra was walking in with Caliope next to him. Vanessa looked relieved at them both and Pronab gave a step back bowing his head slightly at them. 

"Nessa... I am glad to find you here... I owe you an apology..." 

"It's ok... really..." Vanessa whispered nervously. 

Amra looked at her then at a smirking Pronab "is there something wrong?" 

Vanessa looked at Pronab then back at them and Caliope perked a brow. Pronab started to laugh and leaned his back at one of the walls. Amra frowned at him and he tried to compose himself. "Sorry... it's my fault..." he chuckled "I think Vanessa is a little scared of me..." 

Caliope looked at them both "scared of you? Why?" 

"He... he said he was a dark Angel first... I think I heard enough about them to be a little scared, don't you think?" 

Amra sighed and shook his head, as Caliope chuckled and walked closer to them holding hands with Amra. She sat on a couch and he sat next to her. 

"There is no one in this new universe that I have now learned to know, who is worthy of my trust as much as Pronab... Besides Amra itself and Elaine that is, and of course, you Nessa..." 

Pronab looked down and smiled; he stopped smirking and was now holding silence. Amra nodded at Caliope's words, and he smiled kindly at Vanessa. 

"We Angels do not judge people for their pasts... if they are true to themselves and fight at our side, they are our allies as well... and Pronab is like family." 

"Tell me Nessa... leaving aside what he said to you... did you ever felt you should be careful of him? Or that you should not trust him? What did your guts tell you about him?" 

"My guts..." she blushed "I felt I could trust him..." 

She refused to say anything else, she was embarrassed and ashamed now of her reaction. Caliope smiled at her trying to encourage her. "Someone told me once... 'Why can't there be a tad bit of darkness inside the light? Or some light inside the darkness?'... I believe those questions answers themselves on its own... I know you would agree with me Nessa... after all, am I not half darkness as well?" 

Amra smiled "Such a smart comment... I owe to visit the source of your quote sometime soon, with you..." 

Caliope smiled at Amra as she stood up again and sighed, looking outside at the window as the sunset was setting. She smiled at Pronab and he nodded at her back with a smile before she turned back towards the door. 

"I still need to figure out how to control my abilities, but we understand it better now... so for the moment I am still going to have to avoid others... but while we are doing this, please try to enjoy your stay here Nessa..." 

"Thank you baby... let me know when you are feeling better please...?" 

"I will, I can't wait to hug you without burning either of us in the process..." 

"I like that idea too..." Vanessa smiled. 

Once both Caliope and Amra left the living room, she turned again to see Pronab, who was still leaning on the wall and slightly smiling. She sighed and walked closer to him. 

"I am sorry... I really am..." 

"It is ok... I usually don't go around telling about my origins to other people either... I think more would feel scared too if I did..." 

"I was not really scared... I was more taken by surprise..." 

He finally lifted his gaze and saw her standing close to him. He felt a little unease suddenly. 

"I heard and saw quite a lot of work from the dark Angels to be afraid of them... but I also know you are someone they trust... someone I can trust... so my reaction was more of surprise and confusion..." 

He perked a brow and then sighed, taking a deep breath. She sighed again and nodded, turning around as she headed to the door when his hand on her arm stopped her. She felt goosebumps all over her body again. He leaned to her neck and whispered. 

"There is something about you that makes me uncomfortable... unsettling me..." 

"And... what... what is that?" 

"Something... I don't know yet..." 

He released her and she felt as her breath was cut. She was scared of what his words could mean. She turned around to find him heading to the window and added. 

"I am confused too... but if you think I am easy to harm, you are dead wrong... I am much stronger than you think..." 

He chuckled and turned around to face her again, a low growl escaped his lips and she bite hers. Suddenly he was right in front of her in a blink of an eye, and grabbed a handful of her hair from the back of her head, pulling her towards him, stopping only inches from her face. 

"You are so... very... tempting... exactly because of that..." 

She gasped and breathe heavily, her throat pulsing as much as her heart. Against all she could have ever do or said in the past, before she was aware of this new world, before she met him; she imitated him by grabbing a handful of his hair from the back of his head and held him tight. 

"How... much... tempting... am I?" 

He crashed his lips on hers and kissed her with an urgent need. She moaned into his mouth as they both let go of each other's grip only to lock their arms around each other. She felt her throat burn, everything around her was moving, and she was gasping yet lingered on his mouth for more. For the first time he let himself go; he had been feeling attracted to her since he saw her, even when there was some strange connection with Caliope, he still felt attracted and protective of her. Now that any strange bond between him and Caliope broke after her awakening, and that Caliope herself encouraged him to follow his feelings; now that there was nothing else stopping him, he was hungry for her and she was not resisting. 

As Caliope was taking a seat on the chair outside in the garden, Amra grabbed another one and pulled it close to her. Elaine and Wiltshire were not far; both discussing something that kept them entertained while Maxwell waved at them both approaching to Amra and her. 

"I hope you are feeling better, Asteria..." 

"I am, yes... did everyone else left? I haven't seen many around today." 

"They did, we booked them on hotels close to the residence... I prefer you two feel comfortable before we introduce you to more questions and agitations from them." 

"Thank you, I think that is for the best... she has an idea now of how her powers work... but we are not close yet to how to control them..." 

"About that... I was thinking... there might be a way to help her... now that you mention she has an idea of how her powers work, it could really be something of use..." 

"What way is that?" 

"Metatron mentioned that Gusion was in town..." 




The Awakening Ch. 41-45



Amra frowned "And why would he know how to help?" 

"Who is Gusion?" 

"He was the Angel who could discern the past, present and future from the Oracle's premonitions... here in earth of course..." 

"There was such thing as Oracles? I thought they were a myth... hmm... of course anything that was a myth could be possible in this world..." she chuckled. 

"I still don't know how he could help." 

Maxwell smiled "He had the ability to discern... to understand... he has an understanding of our powers greater than some of us." 

"Something tells me by Amra's reaction that he is not a pleasant visit to expect..." 

Elaine sighed "He asked for time and space... and it has been a couple of years since he has been away from us while figuring what to do or if there was a side he should chose..." 

Both Elaine and Wiltshire had reached them and joined the conversation. Maxwell smiled at them as Wiltshire pulled a chair for Elaine and she thanked him for the kind gesture. 

Maxwell continued "He abandoned the fight, he did not joined their side nor stayed with us... he is his own side..." 

Wiltshire nodded "I sense he is here for a specific reason... he rarely left his secluded residence in Monaco..." 

Maxwell looked at him pondering "Do you think he might be working for them?" 

"No... not for them... if he was, we would know it by now... but... hmm..." 

"What is wrong?" 

"I think we will have the answers we are looking for sooner than we thought..." 

Maxwell turned towards the house as one of the servants approached them. He stood at a certain distance and lowered his head. 

"Sir, a Lord Gusion is at the entrance gates, requesting permission to see you..." 

----- 

CHAPTER 44 

Wiltshire stood up "I'll let him in... perhaps we should gather in the privacy of the living room for this reunion?" 

Maxwell nodded "Yes, let's..." 

As they headed towards the house, Caliope looked around and noticed neither Vanessa nor Pronab were to be seen. She remembered the last time she saw them was in the living room, and the tension between both was ready to ignite. As she was thinking about them, her vision blurred and she stopped walking; Amra immediately stopped too and turned to see her. A few steps further the rest did the same. 

"What is wrong love?" Amra's words echoed his worries. 

She was staring down to the grass, eyes wide open, yet she was watching a scene that did not belong there. She looked up and found herself in the living room, and watched Pronab devouring Vanessa in intimate kisses and touches. She shivered and extended her hand. "Amra!" 

"I am here love..." He grabbed her hand and stood still, he got immersed inside the living room as well, watching the same scene. He shook his head, uncomfortable of what they were seen, and tried to focus on what was happening. 

Elaine gave a step towards them "What is wrong?" 

"Let's stay here for now..." He managed to hold Caliope with his arms and closed his eyes. He focused on her only. She looked away from the scene and heard him speak into her mind. 'My love... thinking about them?' 

'I was just wondering where they were... how can this be happening?' 

'Your will love... remember I told you... your will...' 

'This is too much for me, I don't want this powers... I am intruding their privacy without even their knowledge... I feel disgusted!' 

'Relax... we are going to learn to control it... now let me help you... let me in...' 

Maxwell spoke to Elaine "Something is telling me she is having another experience with her powers... I will go bring them here." 

"Yes please, I beg you. Caly darling, can you hear me? Are you ok?" 

Caliope closed her eyes and tried to focus, tried to understand what Amra was telling her. Her will was moving her powers; so that had to mean whatever she wanted it to happen, it would. And she wanted this to stop; she wanted all this confusion and isolation to finally stop. She opened her eyes again, still in the living room, and looked around. She could even hear Wiltshire walking towards the door. She gasped and screamed. 

'No! Stop!' 

But instead of her vision stopping, she saw Pronab turning around and searching for her. He was so serious and surprised, he had to have heard her. Vanessa was confused and he made a gesture at her to wait, he grabbed her shirt and passed it to her, who still confused, managed to put it back on. Seconds later, Wiltshire was opening the door and walking in with a tall man dressed in an old suit. Just then, Wiltshire greeted both of them and Maxwell arrived behind them; he urged them both to follow him. As they started to head towards the outside, Caliope saw her vision blur and faint, becoming her real surrounding again. She looked directly into Elaine's eyes, and she smiled relieved. 

"Darling! Are you back? Are you ok?" 

Caliope nodded slowly and Amra started to let her go from his tight grip. He looked down at her caressing her face and trying to calm her down, as she was still breathing heavy and fast. Not long after, Maxwell was arriving, followed by Wiltshire, the suited man and Pronab with Vanessa. 

"Here they are... Caliope, are you ok?" Maxwell looked at her with concern. 

"I am... getting there... Gusion... that is who you are, right?" 

"Greetings, everyone... yes that is who I am." 

"It stopped now..." Amra said as he pulled her closer. 

"What happened? Who did you went thru now baby?" 

Caliope chuckled and shook her head, not wanting to see her friend directly in her eyes after what she witnessed. 

"I... I didn't had to go through anyone..." 

Maxwell was now curious "Then what happened?" 

"It is... a little more complicated... I need to slow down... can we make the meeting here? 

"Yes, yes... here, take a seat." 

He pointed out to the chairs near them, pulling one for her, and everyone sat down after. Pronab remained quiet, he knew that whatever was happening, he was part of it involuntarily. He had heard her so clearly, he was surprised Vanessa didn't. 

Maxwell proceeded "As you can see Gusion... this has become quite interesting for us... but she is confused, and isolating herself..." 

"I heard about the ceremony... when I was told about her uniqueness I saw this happening in the plans..." 

Caliope looked up and for the first time focused on the man "Plans? What do you mean?" 

After a moment of silence, Wiltshire was the one who decided to explain "Each life in this universe has a... sketch of how their lives would be... how they will become someone, what they will be... just a sketch, constantly changing, adapting, and moving... he calls them plans..." 

Amra spoke to her "The plans of life are meant to be seen only by the Oracles... and Gusion, one time ago..." 

Amra was hostile towards him, a traitor under his eyes, who in other circumstances would be banned from their presence. He was trying hard to control himself, only because of the possibility of answers for Caliope. Gusion looked at Amra a little angry, but quickly changed into sadness. "It is such a shame that you above all have to judge me that way... you don't mind humans to have free will, but you punish me for having mine..." 

"You had a privileged place with our Father, a place that most would die the final death just to be considered for..." 

"There lays my burden... it was... too much for me..." 

He lowered his eyes and sighed, and this time Amra held back, he felt the honesty in his words. Elaine took a deep breath and decided to interrupt. "Gusion, you are aware of her..." 

Gusion nodded "Yes, when I heard about her uniqueness I went to the Oracles to see her plan... it was erased... Someone with extremely powerful powers or influences had erased her plan, which means, she is drifting..." 

Maxwell frowned "How is it that our enemies keep getting one or two steps ahead of us...?" 

Wiltshire put an arm on his shoulder "Depends on how you see this, my fellow General..." 

Caliope looked at Wiltshire. This was the first time he referred to Maxwell as a General directly, but he was also leaving clear he was one as well. Just then, Falshore arrived and leaned to whisper in Maxwell's ears. He nodded at him and made him wait quietly just behind him. 

"Please, let us hear what you think my friend..." 

"If there is nothing written in her plan, she can make her own..." 

"How is there any chance of free will if we have 'plans' already written for our lives?" Caliope asked with evident confusion and frustration. 

"It is not as you think, my dear... the plans are just general things, nothing specific... just some basic traits and possibilities... a sketch that shows what you could pick between options A and B..." 

Gusion nodded at Elaine "It is a good forth sight tool to see your abilities and powers... your gifts... and how to control them..." 

Maxwell finished "A guide... of some sort..." 

"Oh great... so the only guide I had that could explain what is going on with me is suddenly erased... does that mean I am lost?" 

"It means you have strong powers they are afraid of, and it means you truly have free will." 

Caliope got lost in those last words, she remembered how in her encounter with God, he made reference to what side she could choose. He mentioned that most probably she would choose this side, but there was a chance she could end up pairing with them. She couldn't see the last happening easily, she was with Amra, and he was everything this side, the right side, the good side meant." 

"They want to force you to side with them... they are trying to isolate you from everyone, to make you desperate, to drive you to insanity... so the only way you could find relief is by taking whatever solution they could offer..." Gusion interrupted her thoughts. 

Amra shook his head "They will be disappointed... she is with me, I won't let her lose herself like that..." 

"But what if she asks you to let her go? What if she asks you to leave her alone...?" 

Amra held silent and looked at Caliope with a slight pain in this new possibility. When she realized this, she took his hand and squeezed it. "It won't be that easy... Amra and I are different... he is not like any of you... I can be with him with no fear..." 

Maxwell nodded "Amra is made of a different kind of fabric Gusion... they connected in such way much before she became an Asteria..." 

Elaine smiled "Amra shielded himself from any powers that could harm him, and this has helped him now, as they can touch without anything happening..." 

"That is your advantage, and I am sure they do not know that... is what will tip the balance again to your side..." 

"Why are you here? If you were supposed to be neutral, why did you came? 

Gusion turned around and for the first time saw Pronab. Needless to say everyone else was looking at him too as well. He was there, sitting, his sight not parting from Gusion, his hand, however, was holding Vanessa's hand. 

"I am here to help..." 

'Can you hear me...?' Caliope tried to talk to Pronab in his mind, just as she did with Amra. 

Pronab looked directly at her and nodded. Amra squeezed her hand as he expressed his discomfort at the situation. 

Elaine smiled kindly "We appreciate you coming to aid us Gusion, and your insight is very revealing..." 

'There is something strange in him... I can feel it... you can feel it too?' 

'Yes... I don't trust him...' 

Maxwell sighed "So what do we do now?" 

Amra answered defensively "I am helping her, slowly, to learn how to control it... or control them..." 

"Them?" Gusion asked confused. 

"She has had more than one power revealed... so far, we count three different and specific abilities... very powerful ones..." 

"Maybe I can help her..." 

"How?" Elaine asked now very interested. 

"I could try to make the connection... it won't be easy... I will have to dig deep inside her head and find that part of her that wills her powers out... when I find it, she will be able to access to it much more easily..." 

Amra looked at him with caution, he felt extremely protective of Caliope in his presence, aside from not trusting him. "And how would you try this?" 

"I need to get inside her head and read her..." 

"No." Amra's voice was clear and simple. 

Gusion lowered his head "It was just a suggestion..." 

'Maybe...' 

'No, my love... no one will enter your head... is not safe...' 

'But he doesn't know you are inside my head too... you can see what he does to me... I... I want to try...' 

'Are you sure?' 

'I want to try... but not for the reasons you think... I feel something strange with him... Pronab feels it too... there is something... off... with him... and the only way to find out about this is by pretending to let him in...' 

'If he is a traitor, I am going to punish him in ways he would never imagined...' 

'Let's see what happens...' she sighed and looked at Gusion "I want to try..." 

Gusion smiled slightly and nodded. Elaine was not convinced but she had to let her make her own choice. She watched Amra with curiosity as she saw him lean in the chair, then watched Pronab shift in his seat, changing his pose, aiming for a quick jump. She realized something else was about to happen. 

"I need to put my hands on your head... I will press my forehead on yours, and I will ask you to relax... close your eyes... and let me in..." 

"Ok... do you mind if I keep holding Amra's hand?" 

"It would be better if you had no attachments to anyone, I could be pushed out by his strong powers before I even get in..." 

"I see..." she nodded, slowly letting go of Amra's hand, but she spoke to him firmly 'This is not going to end well... he has bad intentions...' 

'And you still want to continue with this? I can vanish him right now' 

'Let me try this... you said I will my powers to happen... let me see if I can control this... please... trust me... if you see I can't handle it, you can save me...' 

Amra nodded, he looked at Elaine as she was looking back at him questioning. She already felt unease and the tension was growing. Gusion walked closer and kneeled in front of Caliope. She nodded her head at him and held her breath, just as he lifted both hands and prepared to start. 

"I take it that you are familiar to the dark void?" 

Caliope looked at him surprised "Yes..." 

"It will start in a similar way... so don't let that scare you... ok?" 

Caliope nodded. 

"Let's begin..." 

----- 

CHAPTER 45 

As he put his hands on Caliope's head, she felt the darkness surround them. However, this time it was different; she could feel him watching her through the darkness, she wasn't alone anymore. She was feeling him dig inside her head; it was as if he was searching for something specific. She felt confused and tried to communicate with him. 

'Gusion... what is happening?' 

'Relax... I am trying to put order on your head... it will help you later... just let me do my job... this will be over soon...' 

Moreover, she could see herself in different scenarios of her past; different memories of her, all flying pass through her. It was clear now that he was looking for something specific and she felt invaded for the first time. She knew he was going to find what he was looking for sooner or later, she didn't know what it was, but she was afraid of what he would do with that information once he found it. His hands moving as if he was passing pages of a book while he dig deeper. 

Suddenly she started to see some of her earlier memories, before she met Amra, Elaine and Pronab; she saw Gusion dig to her earlier years and as some of them passed in front of her, suddenly they were gone. She could see something from her past fly by then she forgot what she had seen, or even if she really saw something. She started to feel scared and confused, her head was spinning and she lifted both hands to cover her eyes; she heard Gusion grunt and become upset, he was in a rush and angrier by the second. 

'Don't block yourself! You are making it worst! Let me do my job and this will be over soon... I promise...' 

She could hear him clearly but she felt he was damaging her more than helping her; she started shaking her head and closing her eyes tighter as thorn ivies started to grow around her like protective walls and she opened her eyes to find Gusion angry trying to reach her. She felt more of her memories started to be erased, causing a sharp pain and she became angrier at him, The more he would erase, the bigger her rage grew and she started to become aware of what she was doing to him; she willed the thorns to grab him and squeeze him She watched in awe how they obeyed. He reflected panic at the sight of her powers. 

'Bad... bad... very bad... you are making it worst...' 

'What are you doing? Let me go! I am trying to help you!' 

She started to grow stronger as her anger grew against him; it became only more intense as he continued to dig in her memories and erased selected ones. The ivy thorns became a prison for him and he grew aware of the limitations of his own powers; she was taking over her own mind again and it was faster than what it took him to do something about it. Then the light surrounded them, Amra appeared and looked in shock the unrealistic scene, Caliope looked at him a little confused but did not react against him. 

'Love... what did you do to Gusion...?' 

'She has gone crazy! Save me!' 

'You... do I know you...?' 

'Love?' 

Caliope was looking at him and she felt he was familiar, but she hadn't recognized him. Gusion had erased memories of him as well. Amra looked at both back and forth and knew there was no much time left for Gusion before she completely trapped him down, the ivies were up to his throat and he was immobilized. 

'Leave me alone...!' She cried and the ivies started to squeeze Gusion tighter, he was screaming with desperation and Amra gave a step closer to her, trying cautiously not to make her even angrier, seen she was screaming at Gusion and not at him. She dropped to her knees and covered her shaking head. 

'You are going to kill him... and if he is dead, we have no way to find out how to make you better...' 

'Better? In comparison to what? Who are you?' 

'You might not remember me... but I am your husband...' 

'I... I have a husband...? I do... I think I do... I don't know... why should I trust you?' 

'Look at your hand... look at your finger... You have three rings to prove it...' 

She looked down at her hand and there they were, two metal rings that shined brightly, and a third one that glowed with intensity. She lowered her hands and stared at her rings blankly; she couldn't remember but she 'felt' he was right. 

'This is so confusing... I don't know... I don't understand... what is happening to me... what am I...? Why I don't remember anything...?' 

'Let me help you... please...' She looked up at him, who was now just a step away from her, hands spread and carefully approaching her. She didn't recognize him by face, but she felt her own body relax with his proximity. His voice was calm and gave her a little confidence. 

'Help me? How?' 

'Relax... and I will do the rest... just follow my voice... let me get to you...' 

At first she looked at him with hesitation, but there was something in her that encouraged her to trust him. She ended up nodding and he kneeled in front of her, taking her hands in his gently. 




The Awakening Ch. 41-45



'Let me wake you up...' 

'Is this a dream...?' 

'Something like that... but don't panic... when you wake up... you will see me and everyone else around you... all friends... except him... we will take care of him... don't worry...' 

She nodded slowly and then closed her eyes; Amra covered her in his arms and an explosion of light covered them. 

Elaine rushed to Caliope's side "Falshore, call the Meng Generals... we will need them..." 

"Right away Madam..." 

Vanessa looked at her friend and tried to reach her "Caly? Baby are you ok?" 

"Wait... something went wrong..." Pronab pulled Vanessa before she could reach her. 

Caliope started to open her eyes to find herself sitting in a chair and surrounded by people she felt familiar but did not recognize. When she adjusted her sight to the light, she looked around and found her hand held by Amra, who was looking at her with concern. She parted her lips and tried to talk but her mouth felt dry. 

Maxwell looked at them in concern "Amra what happened?" 

"What I was afraid of... he did something to her... she has forgotten a lot... including all of us." 

"I..." 

She gasped, surprised even to the sound of her own voice, she covered her mouth with a hand and looked around to see strangers. Amra leaned to her and caressed her hand slowly as his other hand caressed her face. He was kneeling next to her and she saw the worry in his eyes, her heart aching at the sadness and worry in him. She did not remember him but the sight of him worried made her feel guilty. 

Elaine urged Amra to explain more "Please tell us what happened!" 

Wiltshire frowned "He... did he tried to erase her memories...? He succeeded to a point, but something trunk his plans..." He was staring at Caliope with a concerned look, he was reading her somehow, and she stared back at him as he spoke. 

Amra surrounded Caliope in his arms, she hesitated at first, but then surrendered to him "Before she allowed him to enter her mind, she warned me she didn't trust him... Pronab?" 

Pronab nodded "She told me the same... she said there was something strange in him... so this is why she volunteered to let him in... to discover his true intentions." 

"When I stopped communicating with her I tried to reach her... and that is when I found out what was happening..." 

"And what exactly was happening?" said Maxwell as he stood up and looked angry. 

"Let's give her a little more time... he erased so many of her memories... she doesn't recognize even me..." 

"Oh darling!" Elaine sobbed 

Pronab growled angry "I will kill the bastard..." 

Maxwell gave him a serious look "It will take a lot to banish him Pronab... and I think we should be careful... we need to find out more about him... why he picked their side... why he erased her memories..." 

"You don't remember me baby? Caly?" Vanessa was sad and worried, she tried to get closer but Pronab wouldn't let her. She didn't resist, she knew he was protecting her. 

Caliope turned around to see Vanessa. She felt her familiar but couldn't remember who she was. 

"I... I don't know... what is happening? Who am I?" 

"Relax... I promised you that we would help you... just... be patient..." 

She nodded at him and leaned on the chair taking deep breaths, looking at each of them back as they stood and stared at her. 

"Where did you take him?" 

"Pronab and Falshore took him to my dungeons... Pronab's chains are the only thing that could keep him restrained... then they came back to us." 

"As soon as the Meng brothers arrive, bring him back here..." 

Caliope closed her eyes and tried to focus on her own breathings. They were talking about erasing memories and special chains, it felt surreal to her. She tried to focus on herself and tried to think what did she remember. She felt ok with being called Caly, so her name probably was that; she wasn't scared of what they were talking about, then it was the fact of her being married to this person next to her, someone who was so concerned about her that he wouldn't let her hand go, caressing her knuckles slowly. He meant something to her, but she didn't remember him, and trying to remember brought a sharp pain into her skull. She winced a little and he turned to look at her. Again the sadness and worry on his face made her heart ache. 

"My love... I am so sorry..." 

"Its ok... please... change that face?" 

Elaine looked at her and smiled, a hand on her chest as she sighed and almost sobbed a little. Amra smiled at her and then back at Elaine. Vanessa pacing back and forth as Pronab looked at her a little worried. Caliope shifted on her seat looking up at them a little uncomfortable. 

"Did I do something wrong?" 

Maxwell looked down at her in surprise "of course not... why would you think that?" 

"Am I some escaped convict?" 

Elaine snapped "Don't be ridiculous! You are far from it my dear!" 

"Then can you all please sit down? You are making me nervous... as if not remembering who you are is not confusing enough..." 

Wiltshire put his hand on Elaine's shoulder and nodded "She is right, let's just calm down and take a seat..." 

Elaine smiled and sat down next to Wiltshire, who moved his hand over hers pressing it slowly. Caliope focused on what maybe no one else was watching but she found interesting; the gentle and reassuring touch he gave her, much similar to the one the men who was supposedly her husband did. At the distance, two figures approached them followed by the one she remembered they called Falshore. The sun was on their backs, she could barely distinct their figures but knew they were men dressing in odd attires. 

Meng Yi bowed his head and looked around "We had a short version of the events on the way... where is he?" 

"In the dungeons, we took him there, we were waiting for you to arrive before bringing him out..." Pronab was still furious as he spoke. 

Meng Tian talked softly directly to Caliope "Princess... how are you feeling? Can you hold up a bit longer?" 

She stared at him as he was looking back at her kindly, his voice so soft and kind. She was surprised he was referring to her as a 'princess' and it took her too much in surprise. Amra looked at him and shook his head, he nodded back. 

Falshore sighed "We might as well bring him here or just go there where he is... if you don't think she is ready..." 

Pronab nodded "Probably a good idea... maybe we should let her and Nessa stay safe here and take over the dungeon..." 

"I agree." said Amra in resignation 

"No! I want to know... I want to understand what is happening..." 

Her voice determined but tired. Amra squeezed her hand and sighed. She looked at him with wet eyes and he nodded slowly, his other hand back up caressing her cheek. 

"Can't you all do something? Bring her memories back? Amra can you make her remember?" Vanessa asked in frustration. 

"It is not as easy as you make it sound... we have powers, but even to them, there are limits... he erased her memories... so many of them... I can't make up her memories, some, a lot even, were from before she met me, us..." 

"So that's it? We are now doomed!" 

Pronab put his hand on her shoulder "Relax, we will figure it out..." 

"Caly baby... please try to remember..." she tried for one last time. 

"I try... but my head hurts... and is all blank... I... I remember you... I think... Nessa you said?" 

She was looking at Pronab and he looked back at her nodding. She look at Vanessa back and she was now hopingly smiling. 

"I remember some... melted cake? Birthday melted cake?" 

"Oh baby! that was your 15'th birthday cake!" 

She tried to rush to her to hug her but Pronab gave a step and stopped her. She looked at him angry. He did not give up his fence. 

"I can't even hug my best friend? Are you out of your mind?" 

"She might not remember all but she is... still someone who can hurt you... I can't have that..." 

After a short moment of silent, he released her without moving from between them. 

"I am sure you don't want to see her more worried after she sees what she can do to you..." 

And that was enough for her to understand, she remembered how her hug, so simple and innocent, made her faint and Caliope damaged; now in her state, it could be worst. She nodded and gave a step back, sitting back on her chair again. 

"I hurt you?" 

"You might not remember, but it will all make sense... I promise... do you trust me?" Amra said a bit worried on how she would take so much information all at once. 

Caliope looked at him shockingly without giving a quick reply; she felt it was ok to be near him, she felt many things around him, she felt she could trust him, but did she really trusted him? 

"Please try..." he pleased, and she finally nodded.



The Awakening Ch. 46-50



Thank you for your comments and your support. I am so excited on how the story is coming and how it slowly reaches the end I have envisioned. I appreciate the comments, but please understand I am not a native English speaker, and I depend on what I have learned and the help I get from my patient editor HellRaser by going through each chapter. If you wish to help with advices, specific examples are the best for me. Just click on my profile and send me a message and I will give the proper time and dedication to make sure I please the readers. 

What do you all think of the story so far? I love reading your comments so please don't hold yourselves on them! 

Enjoy :) 

***** 

CHAPTER 46 

"Go ahead; wait for us in the house... I need some minutes with her alone before we continue... don't start without us..." 

Elaine was the first to stand up and nodded, everyone else followed towards the house. Caliope sat straight on the chair and looked everyone leave. She started to feel a little tense, but when they all entered the house; he sat on the grass next to her without releasing her hand. 

"I am going to give you a shock of reality information... but you need some of this before we can continue... even though you don't remember us and you don't understand what is happening, the fact that you feel you can trust me makes me feel there is hope..." 

"How do you know?" 

"...because I feel what you feel... but that won't make sense until I explain it to you... that crazy girl who is trying to hug you is your best friend from since your childhood... something tells me you already started to remember her..." 

She nodded and sighed. He smiled. 

"Do you believe in God...?" 

He looked at her carefully, she blinked with surprise at his question and a vague sense of Deja Vu came creeping through her. "Are you... are you going to tell me you are God?" 

He chuckled and gently pulled a strand of hair behind her ear. He shook his head and sighed. 

"No... but do you believe in him?" 

"I used to... I think... God... I don't think I was a devoted person... I want to believe." He smiled at her, a smile of hope. 

"Do you believe in heaven and hell? Do you believe in Angels?" 

"I... think... what are you trying to say? Why do I feel this is not the first time we are talking about this?" 

"We are all Angels... everyone but you and Vanessa... we had walked a long path to get here... it wasn't easy for you to cope with this but you did so well... if you can accept this, it will make everything else you see much easier..." 

She pulled back slightly and pondered. Since the moment she woke up in her own mind and saw what she saw, she knew there was no reasonable explanation for it. Furthermore, now seen and hearing what she did, it left her wondering on her own sanity. 

"I can't deny there are many things happening that make no sense... so... ok... I believe you... now what?" 

"The person who was in your mind is being held in a dungeon inside the house... we are going to see him and face him, question him about why he did this to you, about why he erased your memory. He was supposed to be a neutral Angel in Earth, yet by doing what he did to you, he had chosen the side of the Dark ones. I could have killed him, banished him, which is the final death. But, if I did, we would never know why he did this to you..." 

Caliope sighed and nodded, she knew that her body and part of her mind agreed to everything he said, but some part of her was scared and afraid. 

"There is something else..." 

She tilted her head and looked at him, holding herself for what he could say more. 

"You... also have powers..." 

"You said I am not an Angel... how is that possible?" 

"This all has a much better and longer explanation but... due to the circumstances; we can't go the long path..." 

Caliope nodded and took a deep breath. 

"You were never fully human. We didn't know at first but later we found out your father was a dark Angel, and his half gave you some abilities. Once we married, you became something else... we could never really figure out what but it is much stronger. You are much stronger... and so are your powers... you saw what you almost did to him" 

"So... I am... half of an Angel? A dark one... but I am with the good ones?" 

"You are my Asteria... my star... my love... my wife... I would destroy worlds if it pleased you..." She blushed at his words; there was no way of denying how it had an effect on her. She lowered her eyes but he lifted her chin up slightly, giving her a smile. His words felt true and so how she felt around him. "Why would I want you to destroy worlds?" 

He sighed and smiled with relief. "You have no idea how happy it makes me hear you say that... it is a good sign... are you ready to see what power looks like?" 

She nodded and he got up in one quick move, offering her his hand to help her up. As they both started to head back to the house, she looked around and sighed. 

"Such a beautiful place... is it ours?" 

"It can be if you want to... but it belongs to Maxwell, we had our marriage here not long ago... just a couple of days behind now." 

"I wish I could remember it... such an important event... erased..." 

"Don't say that... because I can barely hold myself from killing him as it is... you were so beautiful... you were so brave... you were amazing..." 

She blushed again with a smile as both walked in and headed towards the stairs, she followed his lead and they reached the arch that presented itself as an entrance. There, everyone was leaning against the walls waiting for them. Maxwell stood straight and nodded at Amra. "It is time then, let's see what we can see..." 

His words held a promise. With a swift of his finger, the locks on the door gave in and opened, Caliope opened her eyes wide at the first direct sign of what she would call 'magic'. Meng Yi and Meng Tian came after him and followed by Elaine, Wiltshire, Pronab, Vanessa and finally Amra with Caliope, leaving Falshore as the last one to go inside, closing the door behind him. Tian set himself at one side, Yi at the other facing the familiar face on the chair. 

"I don't think my chains are of much use with you two... but just in case, let it be there... it will be fun..." 

"You and your Angels are so cocky... you want to pretend you are the good ones when you enjoy hunting and torturing others..." Gusion spilled with anger. 

Maxwell gave a step towards him "Oh but we have nothing in comparison to what your new friends do, like kidnap and kill people... or just use them to their advantage..." 

Elaine buffed "I am so disappointed in you Gusion... by far you were one of the legendary ones, a proof and a promise that there was a chance to be here in peace without choosing a side. Why would you do this? Why would you pick a side and throw thousands of years away...?" 

"It was in my best interests..." 

Pronab's chains glowed softly and squeezed around Gusion a little; he gasped and looked down at the chains around him. 

"You see, we have our ways to know you are lying..." Pronab smirked. 

Amra frowned "Enough with playing games... why you erased her memories?" 

Gusion looked at Amra showing some fear for the first time; he did not expect to be approached by him directly, much less so soon. He swallowed hard and tried to compose himself. 

"She is just a pawn..." 

The chains embraced him tighter and he was now looking down at them worried. Caliope gave a step forward, placing herself next to Amra, gaining courage. 

"The chain doesn't obey my will, it simple reacts to the truth and the lies... each lie you say, the chains will squeeze tighter around you." 

Gusion seemed submerged in deep thoughts and Caliope frowned a little, upset for the lack of collaborations from him, Amra squeezed her hand as he looked at him. "I will ask you one more time, why did you erase her memories..." 

"I panicked..." 

Pronab perked a brow "Say that again?" 

He sighed and looked up at them, a deep regret and fear in his eyes. "I was asked to find a specific memory; it wasn't supposed to erase everything else..." 

Elaine stepped in "What wasn't supposed to be erased? Did they do something to you?" 

"They know I can get inside people's minds... see specific memories... but is the first time I had to look for something that was not being thought off... The Oracles saw the direct future in different forms, I would get inside their minds and interpreted them... they were thinking on it... you understand?" 

Amra nodded "Perfectly... we are familiar to that kind of power..." 

He perked a brow and looked at Amra with questions reflected in his eyes. However, Amra knew better than to spill any more information to someone who was in death sentence for him. 

"I... I just don't know what happened... to me it was a maze... I don't know what I was doing digging there... they asked me to find the first memories of her father... but she... she started to block herself, to defend herself... and I could see all the doors closing, and I started panicking and that is when the memories started to vanish..." 

"Thanks to your wonderful job, she lost so much... I could kill you right now..." 

"I would prefer that... I don't want to be alive anymore, I don't want to be here, I failed her... I failed them... it is over..." 

Elaine opened her eyes wide, almost afraid of the answer to the question she was about to ask, "What do you mean by 'her' and 'them'?" 

"They got my Asteria Elaine... if I don't have the answers they look for, they will kill her... and I can't live with that... I just found her! I can't... I can't have them take her away from me..." 

"That is not possible... no one messes with something so sacred...!" 

"They are obsessed and desperate Elaine... they are... not sure... I don't know if scared... but they are now more interested in her than ever before..." 

"This brings new issues to the table... we will have to schedule our gathering sooner and I am sorry to say the honeymoon is over for now..." 

"It is ok... I can't have a honeymoon until I make her feel normal again... and I definitely won't let anyone harm her anymore... from now on, no matter who they promise to be, no one will touch her..." Amra put an arm around her as he talked. 

"...is there any way for me to recover my memories? I feel so many Déjà vu's..." Caliope sighed. 

"I never expected them to be erased... and I am not sure they were... that was never supposed to happen... you are different..." 

"That she is... you are going to be set free Gusion... go back to them and tell them whatever they want... invent something, I am sure you can... and as soon as you know what they will do next, you will tell us." 

"Is not that easy Amrafel, they have so many good weapons at hand... they can see what I saw with an ancient gadget, I've never seen that before in my life... they can see in my head exactly what they want..." 

Maxwell sighed, "Falshore..." and he replied giving a step ahead "Yes my General..." 

Gusion looked curiously at them both and then focused his eyes on Falshore who approached him. He lifted his hands and placed them on his head. He tried to shake his head but they felt weak. 

Amra gave a step back and pulled Caliope with him "Whatever it takes..." 

Maxwell nodded "Stay still Gusion... Falshore will implant a memory in your mind..." 

"What? A memory?" 

"Yes... he will play this to our advantage... We need to stop walking behind them... I think it is time we start to walk ahead of them." 

-- 

CHAPTER 47 

She sat on the bed and sighed. Her hands were on her knees as she caressed her legs. When she turned her head to see the door close, she saw him standing and looking at her with a tender smile. "I will be here, don't worry... you need to rest... " 

He pulled a chair near her and sat there watching her. She lay on the bed not breaking their eye contact. "Go ahead... sleep a little... " 

"I am not tired, although I think I should be... I just... feel drained..." 

He nodded and she sighed again, closing her eyes trying to have some sleep. Under the darkness and silence, she focused on her own breathing and the almost undetectable heartbeat of Amra. There was so much to digest yet, and the more she thought about what she had forgotten, the more frustrated she would get. She opened her eyes again and looked back at him, he had not move an inch and was still staring at her. She felt goosebumps on her skin and blushed. "Everything ok?" 

She nodded and closed back her eyes. She heard him get up and felt him sitting next to her, causing her to open her eyes wide. "What is wrong? Tell me what worries you... I feel helpless like this... not knowing how I can help you." 

She sat on the bed; having him so close to her, just at her knees and a breath away, made her unease. "I just feel strange... " 

"What do you want me to do?" 

"Can you... lay next me?" 

He smiled and kicked his shoes off, crawling to her side and resting his head on his arm as he watched her slide back down onto the sheets. She smiled and closed her eyes again, this time she felt herself slowly drifting to sleep. 

In her dreams, she saw a young girl pouting as she watched her cake melt. Another girl was laughing and several more joining her, but only one walked to her and hugged her saying "we will just have to eat it fast, and get a new one tomorrow". As easy as that, her pout became a smile and both girls started to eat the cake and watch all the other girls look in surprise. 

She opened her eyes and rubbed them as she grew accustomed to the dim light of the moon and stars through the window. When she turned her head to the side of the bed, she saw Amra resting with his eyes closed. She frowned a bit and slowly sat on the bed; there was something, her instinct maybe, telling her that he was just pretending. 

"Why am I not convinced that you are sleeping at all?" 

He chuckled and opened his eyes to look at her. She blushed immediately. "I am just resting, but you are right, I do not sleep." 

"Oh... did I interrupt you? I am sorry... I am being inconsiderate with you..." She sighed, "I really thought you were just pretending to be asleep..." 

He shook his head and sat next to her, slightly turned to the side so he could face her. He took her hands in his and gently massaged them as he spoke. "I know it is hard for you to understand a lot of what is happening around you, even if you are trying to get it all in your system, don't... it will overwhelm you... you tried that once and it was too much for you, you almost had a breakdown. But do not worry about me... the only way for me to be harmed is by hurting you... and by all means I invite anyone to try... I am prepared to banish anything and anyone who wants to attempt such thing." 

"So... we really are married..." 

He closed his eyes and chuckled, then nodded and opened his eyes again giving her a smile. 

"It must be difficult for you to see me like this... unable to recognize you..." 

"It is hard, I miss many things... but the fact that you feel you can trust me, which allows me to be close to you and keep you safe... that is all I need for now." 

"Can you promise me that you will tell me if I am doing something wrong?" 

He lifted a hand and caressed her face making her shiver slightly. She blushed again and tried to look down, but he lifted her chin up and made her look at him. She was breathing heavy. 

"What can you possibly do wrong? I have such trust in you... I know you will never do something to harm me or those close to you." 

"But... I don't remember who are those close to me... how can you trust in me like that?" 

"I love you; I am blinded by that..." 

He closed his eyes and sighed, she felt her heart ache when he was reflecting the slightest sadness. She lifted her hand and tried to caress his face, making him open his eyes to look at her. 

"I do not remember you... but I feel how important you are to me..." 

"You mean so much to me..." 

"I guess I do... you are the only one I feel I am safe with..." 

"Thank you..." 

She took a deep breath and looked at him with a warning. 

"Stay still... please..." 

He nodded and did not move. She slid her thumb to his lips and caressed the contours slowly, he held his breath and his eyes grew wider. She looked at his reaction and continued to caress his face, his nose and then his forehead, getting familiar with him as she did. He was like a glowing statue under the light of the night sky. She kneeled on the bed and under this position reached closer to him, both of her hands now on his face as he was now looking up into her eyes. She was examining his face, the shape it took as he looked at her. When her thumb went back to his lips, he parted them and breathed heavy. 

"...are you ok?" 

He nodded and closed his eyes, she caressed his now open mouth as her other hand caressed his neck. "I want to... try something... can I?" 

"Yes..." he whispered without hesitation, and keeping his eyes closed he felt her getting closer. She wasn't really thinking on what she was doing, but she wanted to feel what it would be to be even closer to him. She closed her eyes and slowly brushed her cheek against his, her body reacting in a million ways, her pulse grew stronger, her skin slightly hotter, and her head dizzy with the sensation of his closeness. He was tense and became stiff as she parted away and looked at him worried. 

"You are not ok... you are suffering... I can feel that..." 

"I am..." he sighed, "You have no idea how much I am controlling myself..." 

He opened his eyes and looked at her only inches apart. She felt confused and sad. "Controlling yourself? From what?" 

"From scaring you..." 

"Why would you scare me?" 

"I could devour you right now..." 

She was red and shaking at his words, she didn't need any further explanation for what it was obvious now, his intentions were clear. She swallowed hard and kneeled closer to him. 

"I am not afraid... I don't know why... should I be afraid?" 

"I... honestly don't know how to answer that..." 

"Why...?" 

"Because I miss you too much to be unbiased with my answer..." 

She closed her eyes and leaned closer to him, resting the side of her face on his chest. He wrapped his arms around her tightly without hesitation and kissed the top of her head. She shivered as her body felt tingles all around, she gasped and pulled back to look at him. 

"One more time..." 

"One more time what?" 

"Let me try this... one more time..." 

He was not so sure but he nodded and watched her come closer to him, her hands both on his face holding him firmly. Then it happened; she closed her eyes and pressed her lips on his. He was still shocked but his arms reacted instantly, he was holding her tight, kissing her back with passion. She might have wanted to just test their lips together, but it was too late for that now; their lips felt like magnets, both strongly attracted to the other. She was parting her lips and her tongue was caressing his, her own body floating on a sea of sensations she felt both familiar and strange at the same time. His hands now were on her face holding her as she was holding him, their lips merged as she leaned more to him. He only pulled back when he realized she wasn't; they usually had to stop for a break for her to catch her breath. When he gently pulled her, she was blushing and looking at him with surprise. 

"Oh... I am so sorry... I do not know what came to me... I am..." 

"Stop... don't apologize... it is ok..." 

"Then... why...?" she asked ashamed. 

"Because I don't want to harm you... and before our wedding, I had to always be careful... not to harm you..." 




The Awakening Ch. 46-50



She looked down and pulled away, he panicked and tried to bring her back but she avoided him and got up from the bed, heading towards the bathroom. He watched her go in and close the door. During the endless minutes she was in there, he felt as if he couldn't breathe. 

Inside the bathroom, she watched herself in the mirror unable to recognize the face that was staring back at her; she turned the water on and looked down. What did she want to do? What could she do? Now more than ever she knew she felt her world turned around that person inside the other room; he was not only her husband, he was more to her. No, he did not reject her, he was genuinely concerned on her, so why did she leave his side? She was scared and now wanted more than anything to turn back the time and stay with him in the bed. He was both a stranger and the only thing that really felt familiar and safe; her body reacted in ways she didn't know she could feel when she was close to him, only her mind was stopping her now. She realized that she had to go back to him, and turning down the water she rushed to open the door and walked back to the room. 

He was standing facing towards the window, she gasped at the sight of his body naked shining between the moon and the shadows. He tilted his head slightly to the side only as a sign of recognition at her presence, and as she gave a step back, she felt the bathroom door closing and offering her a place to lean on. 

"If you really want to see me how I am, if you want all of me, I won't deny you that..." 

He closed his eyes as he looked towards the window again, lifted his chin and spread his arms only a few inches away from him. His back was in the dark, yet slowly a glow started to form in the upper center, illuminating vaguely his skin started to glow stronger. She put a hand up to cover her mouth as she watched a strange form of wings materialize under her own eyes. 

"This is me..." 

He dropped to his knees and his head now bowed as he remained in silence. She had tears in her eyes as she finally started to walk closer to him, staring at his strange wings. When she reached him, she felt the soft touch of his ethereal wings against her legs; the gentle caress made her blush as she walked around him to finally face him. She kneeled as well and took a deep breath before she closed her eyes and leaned closer to him, resting her head on his chest. As she was expecting, his arms locked around her immediately and she almost cried at the intensity of her own emotions. Her half-open eyes caught a glimpse of his wings waving a couple times more before disappearing again in the air, he crushed her tightly to him and she whimpered, making him quickly let her go and she shook her head. She climbed his chest up rushing her lips to his. The kiss became a life rope holding both together; she dug her fingers on his back and moaned as he lifted her whole body while standing up, her feet free on the air hanging as she held tightly to him, like if her life depended on it. He gave a step and leaned on the bed with her, lips never breaking apart, they devoured each other in kisses. There was a moment where she almost lost her breath but that moment never came. His kisses were a wave of heat to her body as well as a breath of life; she was shivering at his touch and he kissed every inch of her body, hearing new sounds from her, a new person or the same, she was everything to him and he was everything to her. There was an overwhelming sensation of completion in her, it scared her, and it thrilled her. 

At her room, Vanessa was waking up from a strange dream when she found Pronab breathing heavy and fast, his eyes closed as if he was dreaming, but by the state of him, it could very well be a nightmare. She laid a hand on his chest, worried, but he didn't move. They hadn't reach to a point of intimacy yet, that event on the living room was the closest they got, but he insisted on going to sleep together and she was getting infatuated by him, he was over-protecting her a little but feeling his arms around her as they both laid on the bed, with no other intention but to rest, was what finally won her. 

"Pronab? Are you... ok?" 

She gently moved her hand on his chest slowly, trying not to wake him up abruptly. She noticed he was sweating and as if in a trance. 

"You are scaring me... please..." 

She started to back down and was about to get up of bed when his hand grabbing her wrist tightly brought her back close to him; he had his eyes locked on her and still breathing heavy. They stared at each other silently. 

"I thought... you were having a nightmare or something..." 

He nodded slowly, not taking his eyes out of her. 

"Are you... ok now?" 

He nodded once more and closed his eyes, sighing. He didn't let her go and she was uncertain of what to do, so very slowly, she lay on his side and rested her other hand on his chest. There, sideways, looking at him, she started humming a song softly. He opened his eyes to look at her taken by surprise, but she had already closed her eyes and was caressing his chest slowly as she hummed the unfamiliar lullaby. It was a soothing melody, he slowly started to breath calmer, and the tension on his face and body reflected a newfound peace. After a while, he closed his eyes and softened his grip on her wrist. Finally, he could let out some words. 

"There are things... that should be left forgotten..." 

"You were reliving things from your past?" 

"Yes... things I was supposed to forget..." 

"...and why do you remember them now?" 

"Many things changed since Caly came into our lives, one of them was that... when I was casted away from my own kind, I was cursed to forget, and my story erased from the records... yet I had to remember... some things... like when I met Caly's parents, they met in front of me..." 

"So it was for a good reason... and that doesn't sound like a bad memory to have..." 

"I can't control the other memories that come back after... I was a bad Angel Nessa..." 

She got quiet and just caressed his chest slowly in silence. He slid his fingers to hers and closed their hands together, pulling them to his mouth to gently kiss the back of her soft hand. 

"...did you come to save me?" 

She blushed and smiled at him, shaking her head. 

"Perhaps I am not your savior... will you be happy if I was just... a companion?" 

His eyes enlightened with her words and he nodded. 

-- 

CHAPTER 48 

It was the first time Amra felt like he actually had some sleep. When he opened his eyes Caliope was gone from his side, and he sat quickly looking around for her but she wasn't anywhere to be found. How could he have lost track of time and things for so long? It was as if he closed his eyes and when he opened them back, a day had gone by without noticing. He waited in silence; half confused and half worried, expecting something else to happen. When he heard Caliope's laugh outside, he walked towards the window and saw her resting on a blanket in the garden, near her Pronab and Vanessa were sharing some laughs as well. 

He took a deep unnecessary breath and looked back inside the room. Everything was in order; the bed was a mess but everything else seemed to be just as any other room would be. He sat on the bed and remembered how passionate his last memories were, Caliope could not remember many things but she could feel their connection, and their bond was as strong as ever. Would that be enough? 

"Good morning..." 

He lifted his eyes and smiled at her as she walked through the door. She brought with her a glass of juice and gave it to him as she leaned down to kiss his forehead. 

"Good morning... how are you?" 

"I think I am good, definitely better than yesterday... and you?" 

"I am good now that I see you... it was nice hearing you laugh..." 

She sat next to him and smiled, took a hand of his in hers and looked at his knuckles as she felt a little nervous. "I started remembering things and it got me very excited." 

"What things do you remember?" 

"I remember more about Vanessa of course, and Pronab, and Elaine... I remember pieces of our trips? The places we visited before coming here... a sunset in a far land..." 

He smiled as he drank his juice and listened to her, nodding. She wrapped her arms around him as he put the empty glass on the side table, and he quickly put an arm around her. She smiled up at him. 

"I remember you... not everything, but I remember how we met, when I started working for Elaine... I remember us... I am so happy things are coming back... and I have to tell you something..." 

"Yes?" 

"Thank you..." 

He perked a brow at her. She giggled and blushed under his eyes. "...for what?" 

"For all the patience and courage you showed during this stressing situation... it hasn't been easy for me, but I didn't remember... you knew everything and you still were patient with me and caring..." 

Amra smiled "That is because I love you... I can't see you hurt, as it hurts me..." 

Caliope nodded "I know... I could feel that connection even if I didn't remember..." 

"So your memories are coming back... it means there was nothing lost..." 

"There is one more thing... but please promise me you will keep it just between us? 

He perked a brow looking at her "I will if that is what you want." 

"I don't know why but I feel it would be better if... just for now at least... we keep it as a secret... I mean... I trust them, all of them... Elaine feels like a mother to me... but..." 

"I understand my love, you don't need to explain further..." 

"Let me show you..." 

She took a deep breath and rested her hand over the end of the bed. Amra followed her with his eyes curious, and watched her take several more deep breaths. She started to move her fingers in a slight wiggle motion, and from the wooden corner, a small branch of ivy started to materialize and expand. Amra's eyes widened as she manipulated the ivy branch to a bigger size and then follow the trace her finger made. In thin air, the ivies grew on a path forming a shape, when Amra could get past the shock; he saw she was drawing a heart. She giggled nervously and he squeezed her hand. 

"My love...! Those are similar to..." 

"Yes, the ones I had somehow manipulated in my mind when Gusion invaded it... I just can't..." 

She sighed as the intricate work of natural art started drying and dropping to the floor. She rubbed her hands as she shook her head. 

"I can't hold it for long and... my hand hurts after doing it..." 

"It is amazing... and you are just starting to manipulate it... with practice you will be able to control it and make it last longer... I have no doubt you will." 

"I woke up feeling something weird in my legs, and when I sat down, I saw the ivies around me... at first I got scared, but then I noticed as I kicked them that they vanished easily, and when I tried to rub my legs I saw how my own hands drew more of them." 

"I understand why you want to keep it just between us, and I think it is wise to do it for now... it will become an advantage in the future... I am very proud of you my love." 

She smiled and hugged him tightly, he kissed her forehead and she sighed. He lifted her chin up and kissed her lips watching her arms drop to her sides and feeling her give in to him. He parted from her as he shook his head. 

"If we keep like this I might never leave the room..." 

"I wish I could remember more... it is getting frustrating how some of the things are clear and some others just dark and clouded... there is so much I want to remember, about us..." 

He caressed her cheek and she shivered, biting her lower lip. He shook his head and chuckled, making her look up at him once more. "In due time... for now, there is already much happening... stop biting your lip for one, it makes me want to take you..." 

She blushed deeply, was about to bite her lip then took a deep breath, and avoided it. He smiled leaving in evidence some disappointment. She chuckled. 

"Can I ask you some questions?" 

"Of course you can..." 

"As I remember a few things, I have some questions rushing to my mind... we were once at Greece?" 

"Yes, Santorini..." 

"I don't remember when or how, but I heard something like... a 'Black Sun'?" 

Amra looked surprised but he nodded slowly. "The first time Gaius had to engage directly into a fight was when a dark Angel interfered with humans in a more direct way. He tried to take control of a particular person, and this person influenced a world war." 

"Do I know the person you are referring to?" 

"A name... I believe Himmler." 

Caliope gasped and he got worried. 

"What is wrong?" 

"He was of great importance in history; I remember the class lessons in school. I guess that makes sense now..." 

"What else you wanted to ask?" 

"I think that is all for now, but as more comes back to me, I will want to ask you more..." 

"Do you remember how we used to communicate with each other in a room filled of people?" 

She perked a brow and looked at him shaking her head. He nodded and closed his eyes, almost immediately she heard him, this time his lips weren't moving. 'We managed to talk to each other directly in our minds... like this...' 

"How did you do that?" 

'Try to do it... focus in me... try to open your mind to just talking to me in thoughts and keep your lips closed.' 

She swallowed hard and nodded; closed her lips and looked into his eyes in silence. They had their eyes locked to one another. After some seconds, she sighed. 

"This is so frustrating!" 

'You will make it love... perhaps not now, maybe without noticing, you will do it again...' 

"You have such high trust in me, I feel terrible... I am disappointing myself..." 

"You are not, you in fact are making such progress it is very impressive... have a little faith in you, as we do." 

She sighed once more but managed to smile a little; he leaned over and gave her a small tender kiss on her forehead. He got up and offered his hand to her, which she took eagerly, and they both headed out the room. 

When Elaine saw Amra and Caliope walk in, she smiled widely. Caliope blushed a little but managed to smile and wave to all. 

"I am so happy to see you both! Caly, Vanessa tells me you are starting to remember?" 

Caliope nodded "Yes, I am, slowly, and not as much as I would have wished..." 

"It will come in time then, the good news is that you are remembering, so the most certain thing to say is that you willingly forgot as a defense mechanism, when you felt you were in danger." 

Pronab smiled "I think that makes perfect sense." 

"Yes it does, I guess..." Caliope shrugged shyly. 

"Good, because we will need you to be relaxed and easy for the next couple of days, we are rushing our return home, things need to be moved forward." 

Caliope nodded, still unsure of what going back would mean. Amra sensed her small hesitation and leaned closer to her, an arm tightly wrapped around her shoulder. 

'You will be safe, no matter where we go... I promise you...' 

She smiled and looked up at him, giving him a nod in return. She sighed and looked around until her eyes met Pronab, who replied with a warm smile. 

"Where is Nessa?" 

"Probably about to get some sleep, it is late and she was up for a long time worried about you." 

"I will have to talk to her tomorrow; will you please keep a look on her? I remember... you two have become closer... please watch over her." 

Pronab lowered his gaze and nodded smiling; there was no need for him to say another word, they both understood each other well. 

"Thank you." 

"Speaking of sleep, you should get something to eat then get some rest as well..." 

"I have one question, Elaine?" 

"Yes my dear?" 

"When do we get back?" 

"In two days, I want to give you a bit more time to recover the best you can... But we need to go back and rush the main meeting." 

"Who is 'we'? I mean, who else is coming besides us..." 

"I was hoping for at least Maxwell and Vanessa, she already said yes. You wanted someone else to come?" 

Caliope smiled and shook her head. "The most important ones are..." 

"I need to make a call, so if you all excuse me please, I will see you tomorrow." Pronab winked at her and got up to leave the room. 

"Good night! I could get something to eat before sleeping, I guess..." 

"That is good news, I want you rested." 

She sat on the table as Amra walked to the kitchen and returned minutes later with a plate. Elaine was smiling as she watched the scene; Caliope blushed as he sat next to her and started to feed her cuts of different cheeses and other delights. 

"Can we take one of the Meng Generals with us?" 

Elaine chuckled "Good luck proposing that to them!" 

"What do you mean?" 

"Why would you want 'at least' one of them?" 

"Because I remember how strong they are, how important their aid would be for us..." 

"It is almost impossible, for only one to come... they work together, it's not that they can't be without the other one, it's that they chose to be always together, and that is how they are stronger... they complement each other..." 

"Will they follow us then?" 

"I will ask them personally if that is what it takes, they are strong allies and we need them." Amra assured her as he brought a glass of juice and gave it to her. 

"They will come if you want to darling, I think they will need no further encouragement than the mere invite to go, they enjoy the danger." 

"I am trying not to feel afraid to that, they seem almost too eager for it..." 

Elaine smiled "They are, indeed... we might end up going all together if it comes to this." 

"And we will be all staying where?" 

"I will have to arrange some place for all of us while we proceed with details of our meeting, but our home can't be it... I want a place where we can all be together, without giving them invite to our private space..." 

Amra chuckled, "A hotel?" 

"After what happened in the last one we were in? I would rather seek something less obvious; don't worry, I will figure something out... You my dear ones, eat, rest, enjoy... I will take care of it." 

"Thank you Elaine, really..." 

Elaine smiled at her and nodded, blowing them both a kiss as she headed outside the room. Amra caressed Caliope's hair softly, and encouraged her to eat a few more bites before she felt full. 

"I think I am ready to get some sleep... will you sleep with me?" 

Amra was taken by surprise with her question, he nodded and smiled at her but could not forget now how he felt time slip away from him earlier. He knew that there was something else going on, something that had made him lose track of time. They laid together on the bed and he watched her quickly fall asleep, his tension grew and he felt extra tense even at the possibility of him losing time again. It wasn't the fact that he felt asleep what bothered him; no, it was the fact that he never sleep, and even when he was meditating and detached from worlds and time, he was always aware of things happening around him. This was a new situation he never went through, and he now decided to bring the subject to Elaine as soon as possible. 

-- 

CHAPTER 49 

"Did I own all of this when we started this trip?" Caliope frowned as she looked at all the things she had in the closet; the outfits, coats, boots, shoes. She was scratching her head as she touched each and every one of them. 

Amra chuckled as he leaned against the big couch and called her with his hand; she shrugged and walked towards him. "You went shopping over a week ago, Elaine and Pronab kind of forced you to get them." He pulled her to his lap and she nodded slowly as she snuggled in his arms; it had become a ritual for them to sit like this, she found peace in his arms every single time. 




The Awakening Ch. 46-50



"There is something troubling you... I can feel that... is that one of my powers?" she said almost casually as she kept looking at her empty bags. He sighed and leaned his forehead on her shoulder. She turned around to look at him; silence giving confirmation to her question. 

"I have something in my mind that makes me worried, not about you thought... but I will be ok, you keep me focused." 

"You keep me sane..." she whispered softly as she put her arm around his shoulder and he looked up at her; a tender smile made her lean close to kiss him. He wrapped his arms around her and made her gasp, taking her by surprise. His kiss was needy.  

A knock on the door pulled their lips apart, and he chuckled. "Your friend is here, she wants to see how you are, Pronab is with her." 

"They have been together long? I don't remember yet..." 

"No, not long... but time of dating is really of no concern to us... when we meet the one, it can happen in seconds..." 

Another knock on the door made Caliope smile. "Maybe I should take a walk with her, to talk and try to see if that brings back more memories." 

He nodded "I agree..." he got up effortless with her in his arms, she giggled and held tighter to him as he took her to the door and opened it. Vanessa's eyes widened and Pronab smirked. 

"Came to take her away from me?" Amra teased. 

"I... I just wanted to know how she was... how do you feel Caly?" Vanessa asked almost shyly. 

"I feel well, a bit surprised with the amount of clothing I have been forced to get apparently, I think I have to thank you Pronab for that... and Elaine when I see her." 

Pronab laughed and lifted his hands up in sign of surrender "I couldn't help it, back then was my only choice, to go with you shopping or come see Falshore... ugh!" 

Vanessa chuckled and Caliope laughed; she might not remember many things but she had felt the very well open discomfort relationship between them. Amra lowered himself to allow her to stand, she smiled up at him. 

"I would like to take a walk with you Nessa, just the two of us... I think it will help me remember more... Don't worry Pronab, I will keep my distance from her..." she smiled at him and he shrugged. 

"I am not worried about you; she is the trouble maker..." 

Vanessa frowned and looked at him "Me? Come on! That was only one time!" 

- 

It was noon when Caliope found herself walking in the gardens with Vanessa at a safe distance. They had been walking around and talking for over an hour, Caliope would mention something she vaguely remembered and Vanessa would fill the empty holes on the story; sometimes this brought more memories, sometimes it didn't. It was a great way to keep her mind busy, and most of the memories were funny stories so she never felt stressed. 

"Before my wedding, I was able to touch you, right?" 

"Yes, of course... we hugged, danced together, never a worry... " 

"So after my wedding that changed... I can't touch people because I see thru them?" 

"The way Pronab explained to me is; your dad was a very powerful dark Angel, and your mother was human, so when they had you, you had half of his blood which means half of the dark in you... this affected you by giving you powers, well they call them 'abilities'... and they were kind of dormant in you until you met them..." 

"And that is how I started to become a super human?" she couldn't hold the laugh and Vanessa laughed with her. 

"Yes, you could touch some of them, not all, and you would see some of their past, their memories... but not just any memory, Pronab said it was kind of specific; if they were thinking on a certain memory, you could see it as well... and that became more powerful when you married, you became more powerful, you had the ability of thinking on someone and then you would see where they were and such, but you didn't know how to control it." 

"But I don't understand how that makes me unable to touch anyone... including you." 

"Because before that, you didn't visit the memories of everyone you touched, only those who you wanted to... after, it was every single one... and with me it went weird, you saw my future, you saw I was going to have a plane crash and made me stop going back to work... but I fainted when you touched me..." 

Caliope stood silent for a moment and then looked up at her "so that means I really need to learn how to control myself, or I might end up hurting everyone..." 

"You have to find some kind of balance, the memories affect you, but didn't affect them, only me..." Vanessa sighed and then smiled "we will figure it out baby, I know we will..." 

"I am happy you have such faith in me..." 

"Because I know you, and you had always been the resilient kind of gal." she winked at her and smiled. 

Elaine walked towards them with a hand waving, both Caliope and Vanessa waved back and smiled. 

"Here you are young ladies, lunch is ready to be served, are you hungry at all?" 

"I really hadn't thought about food to be honest... weird..." 

Elaine chuckled "it is not really weird darling... you see, we do not depend on food so much as humans do, we depend on emotions and feelings... you will notice how some of those things have changed in you... when you woke up after your Awakening, you said you saw better, you felt better... it is because you have improved in many ways, your health won't be a problem anymore, unless you get attacked directly by an Angel or a dark Angel, a supernatural creature... it doesn't mean you don't have to eat... it just means you do not depend on it anymore..." 

And she nodded, some how it made sense; she wasn't hungry and everything around her was clearer than before, than any of her memories. She saw colors more vividly, and smell the different fragrances in each object or live creature. 

When they entered the dining room, Amra's eyes brightened as he saw Caliope smile. The table distribution felt unusual for her, as she walked towards him, she noticed her place was a little apart from the others. 

'It is only a little apart from them, but still next to me... they want to make you comfortable to be around them, but also make sure you don't get affected by what a small touch on them produces on you...' 

She nodded at him and sat at his side; Maxwell made a gesture and a wave of waiters flew in and quickly deposited plates in front of them. The food never smell so apetizedable to her, it woke a strange feeling inside, of wanting to taste everything displayed on the table. Everyone laughed and joked about different subjects and although she did not talked much, she enjoyed the sense of family surrounding them. It was so natural for her to hear them and see them interact together. 

'Are you ok love? we can go rest if you feel tired...' 

She sighed, tilting her head to look at him. "I am ok, I am enjoying this." 

He nodded and took her hand under the table, gently squeezing it. She ate a few bites and delighted herself in the flavors, she smiled wide. "Did this always tasted so good?" 

Vanessa looked at her and chuckled "No, not really, but I guess is one of the perks of being the new you, right?" and Caliope nodded, starting to eat more of what it was around her. 

During the afternoon, she sat on the bed and looked at her empty bags again; Amra leaned against the door and looked at her. "Something wrong? You were like that this morning as well..." 

She lifted her gaze and smiled at him "I am kind of lost, I guess..." she sighed and he walked towards her; he sat on the floor and took her hands on his. "I promise you that all will get better... missing pieces of your life can make you a little lost, but you have us with you..." 

Someone knocked on the door and Amra perked a brow, he looked at it and then back at her. 

"You asked Elaine to come?" 

"I did, yes... come in Elaine!" 

Elaine opened the door and smiled at them both, getting in as Amra got up and sat next to Caliope. "Thank you for coming Elaine, I really needed you to help us. Please take a seat." 

"Of course I would do anything to help you my dear ones..." 

As Elaine pulled a small chair near them, Amra was looking at Caliope expectantly. She felt a little nervous, but since the idea crossed her mind earlier that day, she wanted to give it a try. 

"So... what can I help you with darling?" 

"I know it sounds strange, but I wanted to try something, a theory I came up with..." 

"And what would that be sweetheart?" 

"I think I know how I can control my powers... but there is only one way to know for sure... and I can't test it on Amra, since he is immune to everything..." she looked up at him shily. He chuckled and leaned to kiss her forehead. "Not everything..." 

She smiled at him "Everything that is not me... is that better?" he smirked and nodded. 

"I am more than interested in hearing your theory darling!" Elaine said with excitement. 

"Well... it started with a strange dream I had last night... in it, everything seemed so clear... I think before I lost my memories, I had a suspicious idea about it... you always mention how our wills control our gifts, right?" 

"Yes, that is true... and although it sounds easy, it isn't at all... it took many of us quite a while to master our gifts..." 

"I think that is why I could stop Gusion from finding what ever he was looking inside me, under the danger, I saw the need to protect myself... and under those extreme circumstances, it became clearer how and what I had to do. That was what made me think of this... can I try it on you?" 

Elaine nodded and smiled "I would love to help you have a try... let me pick a memory for you..." 

Caliope let go of Amra's hand and walked close to her "I hope I don't hurt you..." 

"Go ahead, give it a try... it's ok sweetie, you won't hurt me unless it is your purpose, and I know it's not." 

Caliope took a deep breath; this was the moment she had been waiting for, she focused into what she wanted to do, how she wanted it to go, and rested her hand on Elaine's shoulder. What happened next took her by surprise; time seemed to stop and she saw how the room started to go dark slowly. Her heart beating fast, she knew she would be caught in darkness, but the way it happened was much smoother than expected. As the darkness embraced her, she felt calm, she saw a spot of light and walked towards it; the darkness seemed like a fabric, and the light a torn piece in it. She pulled the edges and could feel the strange texture of this darkened fabric, it reminded her to liquid latex. When she walked into the light, she saw herself into a living room, the place felt familiar but she couldn't remember from where. She seemed a little pale, but otherwise happy, a little anxious. At the side, a very elegant suited Elaine walked in and greeted her, an interview taking place. Suddenly she could remember; it was the job interview she had with Elaine to start working for her. As that memory became complete, she became excited and watched the room around them, she was not inside Elaine but outside as an expectator; and as such, she could walk and see everything she wanted. When she tried to walk out of the room it became impossible, and she felt being pushed away from the door. She tried again and some invisible force rejected her almost instantly. And then everything became still, the memory stopping or being put in pause for an indefinite time. She sighed, thinking it was the last of what Elaine picked to show her, and so she focused on how to come back. She closed her eyes and put together all her focus into coming back. A small dizziness took over her and she opened her eyes, finding stability as darkness surrounded her. This time the darkness remained for longer, and she walked around touching the fabric; it pulsed. She gasped and took her hand back at first, but then she slowly tried to touch the fabric again obtaining the same result; it felt alive. She giggled and began to run her fingers over it and it reacted with her, almost caressing her in return. She smiled. 

'This is amazing...' 

She said almost without thinking, and the fabric reacted by vibrating with an almost purring sound. It was alive. She breathed faster as she tried to communicate with it. 'Are you alive? can you understand me?' And the darkness vibrated again. She couldn't believe it, whatever it was, it responded to her and it didn't scare her, she could feel it was safe. Then it happened, a torn piece of light almost blinded her, and through it she could see Amra and Elaine waiting for her in their room at Maxwell's castle. For a moment she felt conflicted between staying or going back to them, but then she walked towards the light and saw the darkness fading. She wasn't sad, she knew it would be there anytime she wanted to find it. 

When she opened her eyes, she saw Amra holding her and Elaine breathing heavy. She was smiling but the smile was erased at the sight of their worries. 

"What happened? Elaine are you ok?" 

Amra held her gently "she will be ok, what did you saw? she said she felt like you were punching walls..." 

Caliope frowned "how...? I saw us the first day we met, I didnt remember but she made me remember... the job interview..." 

"What else happened? what did you see?" 

She paused for a moment, unsure of where to start, there was so much in her little experiment she wanted to tell them all but Elaine's situation was something completely different. 

"I... I don't understand what could have happened... it was so easy, so smooth..." 

"I felt like you were punching my head... not too hard, but was enough to shake me." Elaine was breathing fast and her face covered with perspiration. 

"When I touch you, the room went dark, but slowly, not like before... and I saw us meeting for the first time... at first I didn't know when or what it was but I remembered! and after that it was like it stopped... and I moved around, I could move around the room, like I was watching everything from outside me and you... and then... oh no! I am so sorry Elaine! it was my fault!" 

She let herself go from Amra's arms and walked to Elaine; without thinking she hugged her tightly and sobbed "It was my fault, so sorry... I tried to go further from your memories... I tried to push... I wasn't thinking... please forgive me Elaine, I am so sorry..." 

She felt Elaine gasp and after seconds of hesitation, her arms held her tight as well, she was sobbing "Oh darling!" 

"You made it love...! you took control." Amra pulled her from her state, she lift her head and looked at him not understanding completely, and only then she realized; she was hugging Elaine and nothing happened, she was there with them and not taken by any memory to some other place in her mind. "Oh wow..." was all she could mumble. 

-- 

CHAPTER 50 

"How did that happened?" Caliope was still surprised, and even after realizing what she did, she and Elaine continued to have contact physically. "Oh Elaine! I can touch you! Did you do anything?" 

"This is all you darling!" Elaine was just as excited as Caliope was. 

"Love, whatever you did, it worked..." 

"I still can't believe it..." she poked Elaine several times and started to giggle hysterically. Elaine laughed at her reaction and Amra came close smiling at her. "I am very proud of you my love." 

"It was like a realization switch turning itself on, the words only didn't mean much to me until I could experience this myself... I was able to do so much this time... I think the darkness in me is alive... and I can embrace it..." 

Amra perked a brow "What do you mean?" 

"When everything went dark, it was like I could feel the darkness, it was almost like a fabric, and when I saw the light, I could touch the darkness as if it was a wall, or a room for that matter... I don't know how to explain it, but it is harmless, it reacts to my will, which is how I am controlling things!" 

"I need you to promise me that you will be careful and let me... You know, if anything looks strange." 

Caliope nodded and finally let Elaine go, smiling at both and beaming her head with joy. It was hard to get worried when she felt so contagiously happy. Amra smiled at her and kissed her forehead. 

"I am glad I was able to help you darling, this is a huge step, something that has made everything better... now you can really enjoy the last day we have here before going back home... Any other theories you wanted to test before I leave?" 

"Oh no, it was just that!" she giggled and Amra chuckled. "Why don't you go and give Vanessa the good news? She has been depressed for not being able to give you a proper hug, my love." he encouraged her. 

Caliope nodded "Yes, you are right... and it will be an extra tight hug! Meet you both there?" 

"Yes darling, I will see you there." And as soon as Elaine said those words, she ran away through the door to find her friend. Elaine smiled and then looked back at Amra whose smile faded the moment she left the room. 

"And you... what is troubling you? I have felt you pensive and worried..." 

Amra nodded and silence took over for a while. Elaine sat and waited for Amra to give more information to her, she knew it was something important, otherwise he would have told her already. He walked a few steps without specific destination until he finally spoke. 

"Something happened... it is hard to explain..." 

"Do your best, and we will try to give an explanation to it... but tell me already, you are making me nervous..." 

"I lost track of time... and I don't know how..." 

Elaine's eyes widened; she stared at him waiting for more information, but the little he already said had a strong impact on her. Amra kept quiet a little longer, finding carefully which words to use. "We were together... intimately... and as she rested after, all I remember is closing my eyes, and the next time I opened them it was morning already... Elaine, I don't lose track of time..." 

Elaine took a deep breath and seemed to ponder each fact intensively. "I know you don't... but I think..." she stood up and walked around the room in the same way he did before. This time, it was him the one waiting for an answer. "She is something new, something different... she is the first Asteria to be half dark Angel... and her father was one of the strongest of his kind... she... she mentioned something, she embraced the darkness inside her... I think she found the legacy of her father inside... she says is harmless but we know better... it can be mischievous and deceiving... I am losing my head thinking about this... but perhaps, just perhaps, she found a way to absorb part of your power to recover herself... and that is why you lost track of time... in other words, you slept... or something else happened that you haven't told me?" 

"No, I feel the same, I am the same... nothing in me has changed... I just lost time and it has worried me since..." 

"Then perhaps that is the answer... she hasn't have enough time to rest and gather energy to function as one of us, as an Asteria... so maybe, she absorbed some of your essence perhaps? And used it to recover faster... she looks almost at the peak of her glory..." 

"She needs less and less rest, I can feel her body reaching slowly the peak of her transformation... once she reaches it, she will have enough power to do much more..." 

"Amra, she holds so much power, she is a new race on her own... be careful... I know you have your guard up but... you are vulnerable with her..." 

"I am not worried about her, Elaine... I have spread my senses for miles and I feel everything, if they try to do anything I will know it... While she is with us I will be ok, and she will be too..." 

"I have felt you push yourself and I am worried... perhaps you need to slow down until we know for sure that what happened was just her using you to recover herself..." 




The Awakening Ch. 46-50



"I can't let anyone reach to her until she finishes healing and gathering energy, I won't let anyone harm her..." 

"Be on guard then, but don't push it further... I will ask Pronab to go out tonight and scout before we leave tomorrow noon... and, don't take this the wrong way, but please, try to hold into any intimate activities for now... I know it is not in my place to ask such thing from your own wife, but I am concerned about you using your powers and her draining you at the same time..." 

Amra kept silence, he walked towards the window where he saw Caliope laughing with an arm around Vanessa and Pronab watching them from close. He sighed and turned to look at Elaine. He nodded. "I will be careful, that I can promise... tell Maxwell to activate the call to arms of the Illuminated ones, it is time we use their services, and to prepare them for what seems to be inevitable." 

Elaine sighed and lowered her head as she turn and head to the door "I will, thank you for considering this, it is time we prepare humanity for what could come, but more important, to be ready for the most extreme consequences..." And she walked away. 

Amra stayed at the window watching his Asteria; she had become a part of him, he closed his eyes and could feel her laugh and breathe her scent. He knew that whatever she would become, it would be strong and powerful, and he had to make sure no one interrupted her evolution until it was complete. He took a deep breath and focused; he saw the trees, the walls, the grass, the houses and souls of their inhabitant's miles around the residence. He pushed his will and power to the birds and all the other animals, sensing their movements and their actions. He looked for each pattern that could had been interrupted or anything strange in their behavior. He grunted as he pushed even further and reached to other states and valleys, and once he was sure nothing felt dangerous or suspicious, he let go. He breathed fast and felt his body tense; using his power like this was something he was only now starting to control. When he was not at earth, everything felt simpler. His power and will moved universes and shaped constellations, down at earth, he had to control how much power to use, and the consequences of each action he took. It was definitely harder than what he expected it to be. Like a volcano, all the power within him had to be focused and aimed to erupt through one place or it could destroy him and everything around him. 

Outside, Caliope was smiling at Pronab as she could see how soft he became for Vanessa. She was mostly herself with him, she rarely changed the way she talked or reacted in front of him; but there were little things, details, such as the way they looked at each other, and how each seemingly innocent touch would become a gently quick caress. Yes, her friend had changed, she was happier now. Suddenly she felt a small pressure in her chest; an almost too subtle thing that made her heart skip a beat, she turned her head to look towards the house, wondering where Amra was. The pressure felt a little heavier, and then suddenly gone. 

"So baby, where are we staying back home? I am used to booking hotels always; I can even recommend some..." 

"You won't need to, Elaine is going to take care of it. Most probably we will use our human network to find the proper place." Pronab nodded as he spoke, Caliope looked at him with curiosity, and whatever it was bothering her now was gone. "You have a human network? The people who picked us up at the airports... them?" 

Pronab nodded "They are the lowest ones on the rank, but yes we have people who work for us in ways that makes our intervention easier... to any outsider, we might be high executives or spoiled rich people, they guard our façade and make things move in other areas." 

"Oh yes, I can totally see you as the spoiled brat kind of guy, yep... you would fit right in." Vanessa grinned and Pronab smirked, an exchange of look that promised some retaliation in a private future. "Hmm... you have no idea..." confirmation on Pronab's words. Caliope laughed. 

Pronab looked towards the house and the girls followed his gaze, Caliope getting up smiling and walking towards Amra as he headed their way. She lift in tip toes and kissed him softly, letting his arms wrap around her. 

"Amra, nice for you to join us... Caly here was making fun of me... you need to control your wife more!" Vanessa teased, stealing another laugh from Caliope. Amra chuckled and looked down at his beloved one. "Is that true?" 

She giggled and nodded, he leaned to kiss her forehead, Vanessa pouting at the gesture, and Pronab putting an arm around her waist, making her lower her head slightly and smile quietly. She didn't have to admit it, the sole sight of how her body reacted to Pronab was evidence of their connection. 

"Have you finished packing? I noticed I didn't had much to pack this morning and it is ready. We are leaving tomorrow noon?" Vanessa asked in a much calmer tone of voice. 

"Hmm... I have been trying to pack, I think I will need to leave some stuff behind... I remember my apartment's closet is unable to safely keep half of what I have there." 

"You won't have to worry about that, darling... you are moving in with us, until we find you a proper place for your own of course..." Elaine caught them by surprise, she was joining them with Maxwell and Wiltshire at each side. Caliope noticed Elaine looking at Amra and nodding, and he replying the same way. She perked a brow but Maxwell looked at her and shook his head, giving her confirmation of something else going on. 

"Please take a seat, it is time for us to have a little talk..." 

Elaine gestured to the garden chairs and both Amra as well as Pronab lead the girls to seat with them. Elaine took a seat next to Wiltshire and Maxwell remained standing, he paced around not showing any emotions at all. Caliope became nervous. 

"Our trip will have a small change of plans; we are heading to a new destination. Accommodation in order, nothing to worry about. Before you begin with your questions, as I know you will, let me inform you about what are some of our plans and give you a little history lessons about our kind..." she smiled softly. She could sense some mix of emotions coming from Vanessa and Caliope, which she already was expecting, but in order to let them know everything that was going to happen, she needed them at their best. She pushed her will and soothed them both; with a quick look, she saw them both relax in their respective seats. 

"We had a small meeting and made some calls, we have activated what could be called as our safety net of contacts. There has been plenty of rumors and legends about them and I am sure you have heard about the Illuminati..." She paused measuring their reactions. 

Caliope's eyes widened, and Vanessa was gasping; they have heard about them many times, from history lessons to complot theories, one of the most global urban legends. 

"Many centuries ago, we decided we needed to have a group of humans that would prepare and guide a selective group of influential people in order to facilitate our moves in this Earth; it provided to be very useful, We gave them wisdom and tools to prepare them for something we always feared someday could come, but have fought to avoid it since... we'll... always... we call them the Illuminated ones, they called themselves as the Illuminati, in other words the same thing... Only the highest on their ranks have true information about us, the others have less or none at all, and through the centuries, they had been dispersed all around the globe. They had been moving politics and other areas trying to keep it under their influence." 

Vanessa was nodding, in her mind many things she read and heard made sense. Caliope was quietly listening and felt Amra's arm reach around her. She noticed how she felt surprised but at the same time calm, and wondered if it was the works of her private Angel or Elaine. 

"We haven't been talking much about this, but it has crossed our minds for a while now, and now, well... we need to make sure we are ready to move further in our plans and tip the balance. They had been one step ahead of us from the start; which is what is expected from the side that has started all this mess to begin with... this is our move to be a step ahead of what they are not expecting, which is, let the world know about us." 

"What?" Vanessa broke almost without thinking. Elaine could calm feelings but her powers ran short to prevent the outburst of an untamed soul like Vanessa. "You are going to let everyone know about you all? Are you sure? This will be epic! I mean..." 

"Shh... let her finish." Pronab's words interrupted her as he put his hand on top of hers, she almost broke her neck turning to look at him; he was calm and serious, she blushed and nodded. 

"I know you are surprised about this, but we are going to prepare them for what could be, as you said, an epic outcome. We are still leaving that as the ultimate last option, but we will prepare them. They are starting to move, the Illuminated ones are organizing and moving their people, and they know something big is going to happen. It is time we let the other ranks know about us, and prepare for that future. We are dealing this as a side action; we are also preparing ourselves for our own battle. Our main meeting will be held in three days at our new destination. There are many things at our plate, we have to be careful and also be prepared. I am personally tired to be caught by surprise, I think it is time we make them gasp for a change." Elaine finished as she stood up. 

Caliope, who remained silent during all of Elaine's talk, stood up as well. "I am with you Elaine; having felt myself in flesh their actions, I want to be ahead of things. I think what you are planning to do is brave, it is maddening brave, which is what they had been doing from the start." 

Elaine grinned and nodded at her. Caliope took a deep breath and then she continued. "I am eager to know our new destination, if you care to share that information with us?" 

"We are heading to Naypyidaw... a place you probably never heard of before. A city built for private purposes, a place ready for us." 

"A full city you say?" Vanessa asked, now calmer. 

"Naypyidaw is a city in Burma, We had been behind its construction and even organized the moving of their militia for a while, testing its capacity. Now it is almost desolated yet fully functional, it won't be like Famagusta... this city has everything but the people in it." 

Caliope nodded, the word of one of their previous destinations bringing now some memories of that visit. She took a deep breath and smiled. "So we are heading there tomorrow." 

Elaine looked at Maxwell first then at Wiltshire, both of them giving their consent. "Yes, we are all going there. The Meng Generals are already on their way in order to prepare our arrival. So enjoy your afternoon and finish your bags, tomorrow... tomorrow we will start a new chapter in this Earth's history."



The Awakening Ch. 5



Chapter V: Initiate


Several Months had past. He kept his hold on her both steadfast and discrete. Monday to Friday she was just another employee. Evenings and weekends she waited in eager anticipation of his next command. She had gotten used to the leers and rude remarks at work and tried to block out the offensive 'pet names' that the men were assigning her.

There were many more public appearances over the course of their 'relationship'. He had her wear short skirts without panties and positioned her in such a way that her snatch was clearly visible from the right angle. He dressed her in thin 'T' shirts without bras and would 'accidentally' spill water or clear soda on her just as other men would pass by. And he made sure that her nipples were kept pert and clearly visible at all times.

They revisited the park and he had her crawl into one of those six foot cylindrical tube slides that most playgrounds seemed to have now and suspend herself in it by holding onto the top opening of the tube. Then he crawled in from the bottom, unbuttoned her shirt and pull off her shorts. He teased and tormented her for a while; then climbed up inside and by holding on to the top edge himself, fucked her till he filled her with his power load. He had her in a state of constant arousal. It was like one long extended session of lust, from which there was no escape. Raw sex... sex like she had never thought existed.

It was 6:00 Friday evening and she was waiting for him to arrive. He had told her earlier at work that he planned on taking her to his cabin up north for the long weekend. She did not even realize that he had a cabin. They'd never spoken on such a personal level. She actually knew very little about him, but he would constantly assure her that they knew all that they needed to. Most of the time her lack of knowledge did not seem to bother her; although there were times, (she would have to confess), that she wondered where he was when he was not with her. Was there someone else? Did he have a willing sex toy lined up for everyday of the week? Out of her own need for security, she convinced herself that she was simply being paranoid.

6:05 and the familiar sound of his car approaching met her ears. 'That's odd' she thought to herself. 'He has never been late before'. She gathered her suitcase and greeted him at the door. He hugged her long and hard like he would never let her go, then pulled her back by her shoulders to examine her. Her nipples were obvious under the 'T' shirt and thin bra; just the way he liked them.

"You look nice this evening" he complimented her.

She smiled. "Have you eaten?" he asked politely. She nodded affirmatively. "Then let's get going," he urged. "We have a long drive ahead of us". She reached for her bag, but he took it from her hands and set it back onto the floor. "You won't be needing that," he smiled at her, as he led her out the door.

She must have fallen asleep during the drive. The feel of the car coming to a halt awakened her and she jolted up with curiosity. They seemed to be on a mud road in the middle of nowhere. There appeared to be no houses, cabins, no sign of life except that which you would expect to find in a forest setting. "Where are we?" she asked.

"My cabin is just over that hill. We'll have to walk from here" he answered her. He got out and walked around to open her door. Taking her by the hand he led her up the steep hill that lay before them. Once at the top, she could see the path that led to his cabin. "Just a short walk from here," he announced as he walked on ahead. She followed him, trying to keep pace. Through the clearing she thought she could see the small glimmer of water through the trees.

The cabin turned out to be small but quaint. It was nicely situated on a clear, quiet lake, nestled into a tiny private bay. She noticed a boathouse off to the left shore, with a long well kept dock running from it. A fifteen-foot fishing boat was tied half way up the dock. "It has been a long drive, I am sure that you need to freshen up a bit," he said as he escorted her into the cabin and directly to the bathroom.

She was happy to see that there was one; she was not fond of outhouses, or washing up in a cold lake. Although she'd showered before they had left, he insisted that she shower again. Not wanting to anger him this far from home, she quickly washed up and came out wrapped in a towel.

"I have no clothes," she explained as he watched her exit the small room.

"I purchased a few things for you ahead of time. Women always seem to over-pack," he smiled, as he handed her something to put on. She took the white silk shirt that he offered, placing the towel in his other outstretched hand. The shirttail fell just below the rounded cheeks of her tight little ass and the sides were tailored to cut high up her thighs. The fabric seemed to cling to every curve of her damp body, yet masking it just enough to let the imagination play.

"It doesn't cover much," she exclaimed as she slipped into it.

"You will have little need for coverage this weekend" he replied, "Now get some sleep." He pointed her towards a door-less room that was totally empty except for one small bed in the center of the floor. A single light sheet covered the bed.

"Am I supposed to sleep here?" she asked him surprised. "I thought I would be sleeping with you?"

"Try not to think!" he said firmly. He escorted her to the room and positioned her on the bed, covering her with the sheet. Then he went back to the living area and poured himself a drink. Pulling the sheet more snugly around herself, she lay quietly as he moved about the living area. From her room she could see him clearly, and assumed 'He' could see her as well. She watched him carefully for a while, then drifted off to sleep.

He stood in the doorway admiring the shape of her body under the thin sheet. Then he approached the side of the bed and gently peeled it back. The shirt had slid half way up her torso, exposing her firm ass and allowing him a nice glimpse of her freshly shaved pussy. He ran his hand between her legs and parted her lower lips. She moaned softly and rolled onto her back, but did not wake. Running his hand across her clit and up her stomach, he unfastened the buttons of her shirt and pulled it open to bring her breasts into full view. The sudden rush of cool air caused her nipples to harden and become erect. "Mmmmm!" he murmured softly to himself. Leaving her exposed, he headed for the living area, glancing back at her occasionally.

"What did you think?" he asked curiously, returning to the room.

"What do you mean?" the younger man asked playfully.

"I am neither blind nor stupid Patrick. I saw you checking her out... what did you think of her?" the older man asked again.

"Not bad", the younger replied.

"You approve then?" the elder questioned. Patrick nodded affirmatively.

"Good, now it's time you should leave. I do not want you to be here in the morning," the elder insisted sternly. The younger man said good night and made his exit.

At first light the birds began to sing. She woke to their sweet songs and pulled the sheet up over her nude flesh. She could hear him puttering about in the kitchen and could smell the aroma of fresh cooked bacon. Deciding to help him prepare breakfast, she got out of bed. She smiled as she noticed that her shirt was unbuttoned, and two black ribbons had been placed in the front pocket. She took the ribbons and tied them around her nipples, then fastened the buttons. She was about the push the last one through its' hole when she heard him enter the room. "How did you sleep?" he asked inquisitively.

"I was a little cold" she answered him. He reached over and grazed her nipple lightly with his fingertip. "You'll get use to it!" he smiled. "Come and eat... you will need your strength, we have a busy day ahead" he added. Walking by the front window, she noticed that the fishing boat was gone. Perhaps he put it in the boathouse, she reasoned to herself.

After the dishes had been cleared away, he took her by the hand and led her back to the room that she had spent the night in. "Let's get you out of this shirt and into something more functional," he told her as he carefully undid each button in turn. The shirt fell to the floor, leaving her wearing only the black ribbons. She was instructed to wait beside the bed and not to move while he left the room in search of more fitting attire.

She stood still and obediently, listening to the tranquil sounds of boaters passing by the little bay. When he returned, he placed the items on the bed. The first item was a white leather corset. He fitted it around her torso and laced it snugly up her back. The bottom of it came to a 'V' across the arch of her back, which ended at the crack of her ass. Two lace ribbons then passed down the crack like a 'G' string and parted to run on either side of her pelvic area, up over her pubic bone and fasten to the front of the corset. The lower front was cut in a 'U' shape that rested just above the pubic bone. The top cupped up under her breasts offering support, holding them high and together to form a nice cleavage, yet leaving them quite exposed. He then gathered up four thick white leather straps; two of which were fastened to her wrist. The other, and much wider two, he then fastened to her ankles.

All of the straps were embedded with heavy gold metal loops. Grabbing her wrists firmly, he positioned them behind her back, overlapping them. With a snap, he secured them to the gold latch that hung from the back of the corset. With a look of supreme satisfaction, he stood back to examine his prey.

"You won't be needing these anymore," he informed her as he untied the ribbon from her nipples. "I have a gift for you," he went on, and he reached into his pocket and pulled out a long heavy weight Italian Gold chain. It ended on either side with a tiny gold handcuff, about half and inch in diameter. He snapped a cuff down securely over each of her still erect buds, leaving the chain to dangled between her breasts. The weight of it pulling down gently on her nipples was surprisingly stimulating.

"Now you look like a proper Whore darling" he smiled at her... it's time to meet my son," he announced.

Horror overtook her! He must be joking, she thought to herself! She was so stunned that she could not speak. So incredibly terrified that she could not move. This can't be happening! She heard the soft purr of a small boat motor approached the dock, and within moments the front door of the cabin swing open. Ok, so he did allow strangers to get glimpses of her before, but he would never humiliate her in this way, she continued to try and convince herself. Not bound, vulnerable and for the most part totally exposed.

"No" she started to say, but he put a finger to her lips and said "Shhh!" as he moved behind her and took hold of her wrists. "Patrick!" she heard him call and then a long thin shadow began to grow towards her.

The son appeared in the doorway, pausing momentarily to survey his father's prize. Shear panic overtook her as she started to visibly tremble. He moved in closer and took the gold chain in his hand. He raised it just above her breasts, then let it fall, its' weight tugging at her nipples. He reached toward her nipples and she pulled back in defiance.

"No" she yelled! "I will not stand here and allow this asshole to have his way with me. This has gone too far! I gave myself to you not your son or anyone else" she shouted at the Father. "Who the fuck do you two think you are!" she continued.

The son raised his hand and swung it with great strength towards her face; shouting "You stupid little slut!" The Father intercepted his son's thrust inches from her face and held his arm firm. "Make no mistake, she is no slut son. A slut will fuck anyone and she clearly will not. She is however a whore who's purpose in life is to serve her master," he clarified. "A good whore is like a puppy son. Use force to make corrections and you will get a pet that both hates and fears you. But discipline your pet with patience and a gentle tone, and they will grow to respect your authority," he instructed his son. "You should never have to use more than the right tone of voice and 'Two Finger' pressure to command obedience... Observe!" he went on.

The father went to the bed and slid it to the far side of the room. Then he took her by the wrists and led her to the space that he had just cleared. She was in a state of nervous shock, possessing little control over herself. There were three gold latches on the floor, spaced apart in the shape of a large triangle. He led her into the middle of the golden triangle and turned her to face Patrick.

"Kneel before my son!" he told her firmly.

"No!" she shot back, regaining some of her wits. The father stepped around in front of her took the chain that dangled from her breasts with two fingers and pulled it firmly downward.

"Kneel before my son," he repeated firmly again. The chain pulled painfully at her nipples and she lowered herself to the floor in self-defense. "Good girl... see how easy that was!" he said wryly. She went to say something and he grabbed the chain tight and said, "Shhhh! Rule number five... never speak unless it is asked of you. Believe me, your nipples will pull clean off before this chain breaks," he said softly.

She knelt still, quiet and horrified! The son stepped forward and took the chain from his father. Then holding it taut, he began tweaking her nipples with his other hand. "You won't pull away from me now will you bitch?" he gloated. To her dismay, her body reacted to his touch. The touch of his fingers sent electrical impulses racing through her flesh. Her blood began to pump as her nervous system jumped to attention. The father took the chain from his son and moved him aside, placed two fingers around it and started to pull downwards once again.

"Present yourself to my son for inspection whore!" he commanded as he pulled her down and forward towards the first latch, forcing her face to the floor. He hooked the chain through the latch and placed a small cushion under her forehead. Then he moved around behind her and spread her legs wide, fastening the rings on her ankle bands to the remaining two latches. From another room he retrieved a small sawhorse and wedged it under her hips, to hold them into position.

The young man walked around behind her and began to stroke her soft bare pussy. She wiggled about in defiance, but could not escape his touch. He stood back and grunted in approval, then dropped his jeans, took out his huge hard cock and moved in close to plunge his eager tool into to her submissive hole.

"I am going to teach this whore a lesson!' he announced. "I am going to fuck you up th

e ass bitch. I'll teach you to address me with respect" he ranted on. "No son!" his father interrupted. "She is not ready. You will find if you stimulate her properly first, she will be much more receptive to your advances. She'll move with you, increasing your stimulation. Also, it will give her time to lubricate making the end result less abrasive for you" he informed him.

The son looked at his father with defiance. "Do as you wish son, she's your whore, but I think you will be sorry you don't listen to me" he replied in response to his son's obvious disapproval. The younger man decided to heed his father's advice and moved in to play with her pussy once again.

She found herself becoming extremely aroused and no matter how hard she tried... she could not block it out. She squirmed and jerked as he teased her clit and pulled on her swollen lips. He forced his thumb up her tight ass and drove his index finger into her hot wet pussy, working her from within. Her blood began to surge and pulse as waves of lust started to form deep in her pelvis. He extended his middle finger to her clit and let it drag over it with the motion of his hand as he finger fucked her.

His free hand grabbed frantically for her breasts, pulling and rolling her nipples in rhythm with the other hand. He was clumsy and awkward in his motions but she was so incredibly horny that it did not matter. Within minutes he had her bucking and jerking in violent orgasm. Immediately he withdrew his hands and mounted her from behind, jamming his cock deep into her yearning hole, to lubricate his tool. Then he withdrew, and forced himself into her tight unwilling ass.

He pounded his huge cock deep within her tight canal, delighting in its intense grip, as his own blood surged. It was the most amazing feeling that he had ever known; to totally control a woman in that way inflamed his soul. He felt powerful, virile and totally indestructible. Soon he was slamming her ass, out of control, completely at the mercy of his own raging lust. His balls bounced off of her wet pussy and taunted her clit. His lust mounted like a tidal wave. Within minutes, he reached his peak and exploded; his hot semen flooding into her like the breaking of some great dam as he moaned forcefully.

When his orgasm had ended, he dismounted and staggered out of the room, collapsing onto the couch. The father came in, released the chain from the latch on the floor and freed her ankles. He helped her to her feet and led her by the chain back to the bed, his sons' semen running slowly down her legs. Pushing her onto the bed and rolling her onto her side, he released her wrists from the latch on the corset and fastened them to the headboard.

"Why are you doing this to me?" she pleaded him. "Why are you letting someone else take me like this? Don't you want me anymore? Haven't I pleased you enough?" she begged.

"You were never for me, don't you understand?" the father informed her. "I have my own whore. I was simply training you for my son. You belong to him now," he told her.

She looked at him, totally stunned, mouth hanging slightly ajar. "No, you can't do this to me! I am not a possession that you can play with then simply give away when you grow tired of it" she argued with him.

"You are exactly that!" he corrected her. "Now, I trust you will serve my son with the same obedience and respect that you have shown me. Be patient with him, he is young. He will become a good master in time" he added. "It was fun being your mentor! You learned quickly. That's because you love the game," he added, then he leaned forward and kissed her on the forehead.

Then she watched him leave the room and join his son in the living area of the small cabin. The father gathered up his coat and shook his son's extended hand firmly, looked back at her once, then turned to leave. She never saw him again.

She remained in the cabin as Patrick's sex slave from then on. He kept her in bondage and used the gold chain to hold her in total compliance. She hated him at first but as he matured, he became more like his father.