Immortal Reborn: Choices of the Heart

Chapter 1

The last helicopter had just lifted off and turned away from Aeoferth Hall, the Nephilim’s home, which had been hidden away long ago before the western land in Northumberland was reserved as National Park Land. And though each moved out of view, Alexandria kept her hand in the air waving good-bye for several minutes. She finally lowered her fingers and held them to her lips, trying to stop the quiver that presented itself, even as she tried to will it away.

Dudley, one of her family’s yellow Labradors, had been left with Alex for comfort and companionship. He leaned into her leg, sensing her sadness as her family flew away from the castle she was now calling home. Her hand fell from her face and she ran her fingers mindlessly through his fur, feeling comfort from the contact. Finally, she turned and beckoned him with her as she walked in the direction of the estate’s immense, stone stables.

Her parents, brothers, and their butler, Jameason, who was really their adopted grandfather, had remained three full days after she finally decided to embrace immortality. They witnessed her transformation into the Nephilim she had been before all the others existed, and would now be again until the end of time. Their private time of support and communion had given Alexandria the grace period she needed to continue to heal from the transformation, and it bolstered her spirits in such a way as to help fortify her for the dark and challenging days ahead.

Why then did she feel so adrift, she wondered to herself. Perhaps because she had no real idea how she and the other immortals could fight the one who had stolen her life when she first walked the earth as Arianna. Rangor, a true Fallen angel, had tried twice more to kill her and her loved ones since she had become involved with the Nephilim. And now that she was fully reinstated with her complete array of abilities, aura, and power channeled directly from her angelic father, Ganymede, she knew it was only a matter of time before he came for her again.

Alex moved into the cavernous and regal stables, looking for the horse she had bonded the most with. A mare named Eimhir, who was descended from the horses Alexandria had ridden during her life centuries earlier, came to her door after she heard Alex’s silent mental call. She leaned her tall neck over the wood and nodded her head, seeking Alex’s touch.

Are you ready for an outing, my friend? Alex asked, laughing softly.

She could hear Eimhir pawing the straw in her stall and she unlatched the door to set her free. She saw to the tasks of checking her hooves and bridling her, but she omitted the saddle, preferring to ride without one. She and Eimhir had proved on many occasions that they could handle a ride lacking the encumbrance.

Eimhir turned her head and Alex looked into her large, soulful eye and sighed. She ran her hand down the horse’s flank and nodded slowly at her.

You can feel my sadness again, can’t you? I want to get away, but let’s not go too fast at first. Hmmm? Alex asked, and she could sense that the great animal understood. At that moment, Alex just needed comfort, not exhilaration.

She turned to Dudley and squatted in front of him, cupping his chin in her hand.

We’re going to go for quite a distance today, Dudley. So if you get tired, or if this is too much, you come back to the castle. Do you understand, old boy? She watched him, knowing he understood her as all of God’s creations responded to children of His angels. His tongue rolled out of the side of his mouth and his tail began to thump loudly. Alex laughed softly and scrubbed his head before willing the wind to lift her and seat her atop the mare.

Eimhir, let’s go, shall we? And with that question, the horse began a slow trot out and away from the stables heading in a different direction than the one Alex usually took with her. They turned right and started a trek that followed the fence behind the structure, and Alex closed her eyes letting the horse’s gait lull her into a state of calm.

Eventually, the mare picked up the pace, and Alex leaned forward as they jumped a gate and left the main grounds. She was looking through Eimhir’s eyes, seeing the world through her view, when she started to notice trees that appeared too familiar. Alex sat up abruptly and opened her eyes, glancing around.

No! she breathed quietly.

She felt panic rising up and Eimhir came to an immediate stop, sensing Alex’s fear. Alex lifted a leg over the mare’s neck and slid to the ground, holding one hand on the horse’s flank for support. Dudley felt it too, and he came around to stand on her left, so that she was between them both. Alex felt her knees shake as she finally found the willpower to walk ahead of the two animals by her side.

Dudley, Eimhir, stay here, she whispered, holding her hands out at her sides to signal her desire. She moved tentatively ahead, until she stood in the place where she had committed the most heinous of acts and crimes. On that spot she had taken a life, Aagon’s, when he came for her and tried to kill Jack in the process.

Oh, God, she pleaded softly to her true Heavenly Father, and she sank to her knees in the snow, letting her tears run unchecked.

She began to see the event replay in minute detail before her eyes, and she heard a cry escape her lips that traveled upward with such velocity and strength, that a boom sounded far above her in the clouds and atmosphere. Alex fell forward and braced her palms on the ground, shaking from the shame she still felt for killing another, even if he had been determined to destroy her and Jack.

Jack had told her later after she had healed him, that taking another’s life came with a steep price. They never left you and you never forgot the moment their life faded away before your eyes. And now, she knew, she was about to share the knowledge of Rangor’s involvement in everything with the Nephilim later that afternoon, and she would be leading them into battles where they would have to feel such pain and regret, again and again.

Dear God in Heaven, she breathed out, please forgive me for what I share with the others today. I know there will be more loss of life, but I cannot let the horde keep coming for the good and the righteous. Forgive us, as we defend ourselves from those who seek to destroy us, please, Alex cried softly, as she heard rapidly approaching hoof beats.

She could feel Rohan’s aura, so she knew she was in no danger, but Alex gradually rose back to her knees and brushed the snow off of her palms. She tried to regulate her breathing and still her tears, as he jumped from the large stallion he rode and ran to her side.

Alex, talk to me, he commanded, his voice laced with worry. Are you hurt in any way? He sank to his knees in front of her and touched her cheek to assess her physical condition. She slowly raised her eyes to look into his, and he narrowed them at her to understand what was causing her such distress.

Oh, Rohan, she said and leaned into his chest, spilling more tears on his jacket. He did not know what to do other than hold her and pat her back, so he did until she was finally able to pull away.

Alex, what has brought this grief on? he pressed, once she seemed more composed.

Aagon, she stated simply, and he exhaled loudly and shook his head in answer.

I was out riding Eimhir, with no clear destination, and she brought me here not knowing what this place is. In my lifetime as Alexandria, this is the place where I had to take a life. And though I know Arianna had to do so on more than one occasion, for me, the event is still so raw and painful, that I don’t want to feel this shame and regret ever again.

Rohan’s eyes squinted at the corners and he pursed his lips, wanting to help her understand the emotion that followed such an act.

Alex, listen to me carefully. Killing another is like walking through the fires of Hell. But the alternative of doing nothing, while they cut you and all of your loved ones down, is not an option. Sometimes it’s either kill or be killed; and the children of the Fallen rarely, if ever, give us the choice to turn away.

I know it tears at your heart and soul, but you did the right thing. You stopped him from getting to others here, and you saved Jackson. Two very good results, from an impossible situation. Come on, he said softly, as he stood and pulled her to her feet. He enfolded her in a hug to warm and reassure her, but he felt her shake her head against his chest.

What? he asked, leaning away and looking down at her.

"Rohan, when you told me that you were sorry for being late to Arianna’s last moments, I responded that had you been there, you wouldn’t have made it through. What I have to share with all the Nephilim after lunch today will put us all in such danger. My words will launch us into a battle that I’m not sure we’ll all make it out of. And I know that we will have to take many lives in the process of our quest. I don’t like being the one that has to sound the call to arms," she whispered the last of her confession.

Rohan shook his head slowly and rubbed her arms, still hoping to warm and comfort her.

No, Alex, you never did. You may be the most powerful of us all, but you don’t like battle one bit. You’ve always wanted to preserve all life, even when they don’t hold the same sentiment for you. But I have seen you rise to the challenge when there’s no other way out, and you’ve always reigned victorious. Until one day, he said, looking away from her for a moment.

Alex reached out and took one of Rohan’s large hands in hers, and waited until he looked back down at her before she spoke.

Rohan, you promised me that you would stand by my side and help defend me over a week ago, but I want a different pledge from you now. And I intend to hold you to it, until my last breath. She watched as his eyebrows rose high on his forehead, and he nodded once indicating he was ready to hear her new vow.

I don’t want you defending me with your life, I can’t ask for such a sacrifice. No, my friend. What I want is your solemn promise and pledge that you will fight by my side, along with Gaius and the others. That you will not go out on your own, or with your own small band, after you hear what I share today. You stay with me, so that we all have a chance of living through this.

I know you, and I know you do like to lead the charge and sound the battle cry. But not this time, Rohan. Promise me now, you’ll rein your anger in and not leave me, Gaius, or Jack in the dangerous days ahead.

She held her breath as she waited for his response, and watched as his eyes grew larger while he processed her impassioned words.

Rohan placed a hand over his heart and inclined his head towards her.

I promise on my life and honor, Alexandria, I will stay by your side and not leave you unprotected. Nor will I let rash actions cause you to be distracted when you need to be focused on the battle before you. You have my pledge, dear friend, he said softly, and Alex smiled and touched his shoulder, patting him gently.

Rohan, I love you just like I love Wallace and Conner, and I don’t intend to lose you. Thank you for your promise, and know that I meant what I said. I’m holding you to it until the end of my days, and this time, I’m not going to be taken away. I intend to live, she said, hearing the conviction she felt in her heart, ring true in her voice.

Yes, ma’am, he chuckled. Come on, Gaius is in a state. He knows something is very wrong, and I’m sure he was grabbing his sword before I told him I would check on you.

You overrode him? she breathed, astounded that Gaius let Rohan come before himself.

Not exactly, he shrugged. I was already in the stables when I heard the blast you unleashed. I gained a mount and headed this way, sending him the message I would intercept you first. But he should be here any second. No one can keep him back where you’re concerned anymore. And no one intends to try, Alex.

Rohan’s slow smile spread, making her shake her head at his suggestion that it was inevitable she and Gaius would once again be bound to one another. She chuckled softly and told him to ride back with her. She rose atop Eimhir with the wind, and called Dudley to return with them. As they moved away from the space that still haunted her, Gaius broke through the trees and came to a stop beside her.

She’s going to be fine, Rohan said, nodding at Gaius before he spurred his horse forward and left the two alone. Gaius nodded once in return and turned his gaze to Alexandria. He moved his horse forward a few steps and reached out to cup her face in his hand, gently stroking the skin with his thumb.

Alexandria, what happened? he asked her, still searching her eyes with his for an explanation.

She told him how she had come to that place of great shame and sadness, and how she had prayed for the Lord’s forgiveness for the deaths to come. She shook her head and looked down in regret that she was leading her loved ones into danger. Alex registered that Gaius turned his horse around to face in the same direction as hers, before he reached over and lifted her off of Eimhir’s back, settling her in front of himself.

He wrapped his strong arms around her and lowered his head to rest beside hers, hugging her to his chest. She closed her eyes and breathed with him, taking in the comfort and solace he offered.

Gaius turned his head and whispered close to her ear, So this is the place where Aagon attacked you and Jackson?

Yes, she replied quietly. She shook her head, not wanting to see the violence before her eyes again.

Gaius, we could lose so many in this struggle, and I’m not sure I’m ready yet. I still don’t feel completely settled in my body, and I certainly haven’t practiced anything over the last three days. I’ve just rested and spent time with my family. Hardly the behavior expected of one leading her friends to possible injury or peril.

She laid her hands atop his, and tried to weave her fingers in between his digits. She continued to look down, watching as their auras connected and played together despite her distress.

I’m just scared, Gaius. Really scared, when I should be brave, and I don’t know what to do, she whispered her confession.

Oh, sweetheart, he whispered in return, and kissed her neck before holding her to his chest again. You are expecting too much of yourself, once again. Every immortal here heard Ganymede tell them, in person, that he needed you to rest and work your way into immortality gradually. Do you think we won’t listen to your father’s instructions? Hmmm? he asked, lacing his fingers tightly with hers.

She shook her head in answer to his question.

Alex, don’t shake your head; talk to me, he gently corrected her.

No, I think everyone here respects Ganymede and they will do as he asks, she said, feeling the truth in her statement.

"Exactly, my love. Your entire body was just remade before our very eyes, and I felt your transition more than all the others, Alex. So, I do understand what a significant change occurred. When you stand before the assembly today, I will be right beside you, as will Jack. We will help you direct the others, because he and I have vast experience with this type of strategic planning. And you will find, that the other Nephilim do as well. We can handle this together. You are not alone, Alexandria."

And if we have to kill others? she breathed out the worry still present in her heart.

Then, God forgive us, we will do what we must. He didn’t give us these skills and abilities to wait for those who abhor Him, and all that is just, to wipe us from existence. We can, and we will defend ourselves and our loved ones. It is tragic, but sometimes it is what must be done.

That’s what Rohan said. She leaned her head back against his shoulder and exhaled. I made him promise me that no matter what he heard today, he had better stay by my side and not go charging out ahead of us all.

Gaius chuckled against her neck, sending shivers over her skin.

I’ll bet he loved that, he said, still laughing softly. He turned his head and started to kiss her skin again, and Alex felt her breathing change slightly.

She squeezed his fingers with hers and sighed loudly. She tried to turn to kiss him in return, but he tightened his hold on her, so that he could have full access to her neck and ear. When he reached her ear, she whispered his name, and he paused.

Shall we ride back for lunch? he asked softly in her ear, and she felt the frustration of not being able to reciprocate his play.

He slowly started to untwine his right hand from hers, and took up his horse’s reins. He called out to Eimhir and Dudley to follow them back, and kept Alex on his horse, as they started into a slow gallop in the direction of the stables. More than once along the way, she felt him caress her left hand with his, but he would not allow her to turn and look him in the face. She grew more frustrated with each passing minute, and finally she tried to pull her left hand from his.

You don’t want to hold my hand, Alexandria? he asked teasingly near her ear.

Gaius, I know what you’re doing, so stop, she admonished him, but she only received his light laughter in response.

And as much as she wanted to feel irritated by his ploy, she was glad to finally hear him laugh. He had been through so much anguish over the past weeks, watching her body die before his eyes, that his playfulness and light-hearted mood was a welcome sound.

As they made their way into the stables, he brought his horse to a stop with his mind and jumped down swiftly. He turned and held up his hands, waiting for her to dismount. She considered using the opposite side to show him two could play at his game, but turned instead and slid into his outstretched arms.

You decided on my side, I see, he said, grinning at her with the boyish smile she loved to see on his face.

She nodded her head, but he narrowed his eyes at her in return.

Don’t nod at me, Alex. Tell me what you want, he breathed, stepping closer to her.

He was forcing her to put voice to her desire, and it made her terribly uncomfortable. Alex hesitated and stared up into his eyes, and watched them turn a deeper shade of blue as he gazed at her.

Gaius observed the war in her eyes, and he thought she looked like a cornered and frightened foal, so skittish was she. He wanted to take her into his embrace, but he had decided he would let her begin to come to him. In her own time and on her own terms. He hoped she would begin to feel her desire for him by her side, and it would equal his need for her in his own life.

Finally, he saw her eyes soften, as she made her choice.

I want this, Gaius, she confessed, and ran her hand up into his hair, drawing him down until his lips met hers. She sighed against his lips and shivered as their auras held to one another, just as their own hands did.

As do I, Alexandria, he whispered against her lips, before he deepened their kiss.

Neither seemed willing to pull back and so he held her, giving her the contact they both needed until Dudley barked at them. When he was ignored, he barked again and Gaius felt him nudge his leg with his cold nose. He chuckled and looked down at the loyal animal.

I think he wants you all to himself, Alex, he said, looking back into her eyes, now an intense and bright shade of light blue. Gaius ran his hands through her hair and cupped her cheeks, before lightly kissing her. He pulled back slowly and whispered, I love you, Alexandria, watching her face closely.

Again, he saw the battle she was waging between her heart and her mind reflected in her eyes, and knew he was gaining ground. She drew in a deep breath as he stepped away, taking one of her hands in his, and turned them towards the doors of the stables. He smiled down at her and walked quietly by her side as they returned to the castle for the midday meal.

Alex’s mind was in chaos. She did not know how to handle the choice before her now, and she felt so out of her depth. She remembered thinking in Sudan that choosing between a mortal life and immortality would be easier than sorting out her heart, and she knew without a doubt that she had been right. Matters of the heart were fraught with intense emotions, and quite often someone was hurt.

She sighed and looked down at the ground again, knowing that no matter where she turned that day, she was causing someone possible injury. It was a feeling she did not like to shoulder and she pushed against the guilt with her aura, asking her angelic father, Ganymede, to help her assuage her aching heart.

A small wind picked up around her and she felt it caress her back and hair. She let her hand fall away from Gaius’, and stopped walking to breathe in deeply. She closed her eyes and asked her father to send her courage and the strength to do what she must.

Please, help me, she whispered in her mind, and a strong flow of aura traveled through her body until it was arcing out of her fingertips.

She smelled the salty sea and fresh cut grasses. Alex smiled slowly as her body felt made of molten gold, so strong and fortified was she becoming with his power stream ebbing and flowing throughout her. She thought of the water that had poured into her being during her transformation, and felt those waters living in her and moving under their own currents. In all that knowledge and power, there had to be a way to keep them all safe, she thought to herself. And she could bear it now, not succumb under the pressure.

Alexandria, open your eyes and look at me, please, she heard Gaius call to her.

She thanked Ganymede for blessing her and gradually opened her eyelids. A slow smile spread across her lips and she took his hand in hers.

What were you remembering? he asked, watching her eyes closely.

I asked Ganymede for strength and courage, and he was helping me. I’m ready to go in now, she replied, as she exhaled loudly.

After letting his eyes roam over her face once more, he finally nodded and turned beside her. She felt his hand on her lower back, as he used his other to open the door by the kitchen and hold it for her.

I’ll be right back, she said looking up at him, and moved away in the direction of her bedroom.

Alex ran up the stairs and made it to the third floor rapidly. She washed her face and hands and noticed the energy still surging from her body. Rainbows were playing off of the mirrors and tile in the watercloset, and she nodded to herself in the mirror that she could do this. With Ganymede and everyone’s help, she could keep them safe.

You had better protect them, she said to herself, watching the energy rolling around her now in waves. Keep them all alive, Alexandria, and let no one fall. She straightened her posture and nodded at herself once more in the mirror, before she turned and left the space. She headed below yet again for a meal, and the moment of truth the others were anticipating.

Chapter 2

When Alex entered the dining hall, the Nephilim who were already in the space turned quickly in her direction to see her power so fully on display. She was cascading energy, and several of them nodded their heads in deference to the mountain of aura she was sitting atop. Alex began to call it back inside her person, so that she felt the strength it offered, and so it would not overwhelm her friends.

As she rolled it within, she felt a hand on her back and glanced up to see Gaius looking down into her eyes. He nodded slowly that he was in agreement with her effort. He watched the edges of her face, and when he saw the last of the halo surrounding her form disappear, he began to gently stroke her between her shoulder blades.

That’s better, he said softly. I am glad Ganymede is with you, but you still have to ease into this. Be careful, Alexandria.

I will, she smiled to reassure him, and took her seat as he held it out for her.

Jack walked in moments later and came to sit on her left, as he did at every meal and gathering. She looked at him, and saw her memories of Aagon from earlier in the morning before she could stop them. He immediately noticed her distress and took her hand in his, furrowing his brow at her.

Alex, what’s the matter, sweetie? he asked, using his other hand to smooth her hair behind her ear.

Nothing, Jack. I’m just really glad you are here and safe. I want you safe, always, she answered, trying to smile at him.

I’m good, Alex. Stop the perpetual worrying. I don’t care if you are going to live forever, you can probably still give yourself grey hair. Just look at John, he laughed, and she felt herself relax more as she started to laugh with him.

He shook his head at her, and she saw his dimples appear with his wide grin. He squeezed her fingers, then released her so that they could turn and listen to Archimedes.

My dear and beloved friends, today is a very important day for us all, because some of us may have to part ways after our afternoon meeting. As Alexandria brings us into her knowledge of past events, the present and future may be set into a chain of events we cannot clearly foresee. But our paths will be made more secure, the more we work together and support one another.

I pray that we all remain safe in the days and weeks to come, and that we all return to gather here before too great a period has passed, to fellowship with one another once more. May God bless you all and this meal of which we are about to partake. Together, my friends, he said, lifting his glass high in the air.

Together, rang the response from one and all.

The food and conversations began to flow around the large table, and Alex watched them all. She felt herself connect once again to each individual’s aura, so that she would always know them and feel them, wherever they were. She heard Jack tell her to eat something, and she blinked to see him watching her closely.

Eat, Alex, he whispered again, and she began to comply.

For one of the first times in weeks, she did not feel hungry. There was too much swirling through her mind and heart to leave room for hunger. But she knew logically that she required more than most humans, so she cleaned her plate quickly and returned to committing her friends to memory, just as she had been before eating her portion.

She watched Rohan and Iain laughing at some joke Elrick had told at Benen’s expense, and Benen’s blush as he nodded that though the story was embarrassing, it was completely true. She observed Archimedes and Lattimer discussing new research taking place at the CERN supercollider, as modern scientists searched for the origins of the universe. And she heard Nikolaj and Heath discussing a new shipment of materials that they were going to deliver to Dibia for the Darfur refugees.

They were her family now too, and she felt such a fierce need to protect and keep them safe. She was beginning to understand why Arianna had reached out on her own to offer Kronis a way into the Light. She had hoped to sway their most powerful dark immortal to stop the ages of battle and bloodshed between them, because she did not want to lose anyone she loved. And by going alone, she had endangered no one but herself.

But this time, she could not do that. She knew she could not take Rangor on alone and live to tell the tale. He had come for everyone she cared about, and made the battle larger than just the two of them. And she had given her word to her human father and to Gaius, and she was not one to break her oath.

Alex felt her aura come forth to her unvoiced plea for strength and courage, and it began to, ever so lightly, stream from her fingertips again. Gaius’ hand returned to her back and he rubbed slow circles, trying to calm her. She laid her palms on the table and closed her eyes, taking in deep, cleansing breaths.

She heard Jack ask Gaius over her head what was happening, and Gaius’ response that she had too much power flowing out at the moment. She continued to breathe slowly until the stream returned inside and she opened her eyes to see Sabina grin at her from across the table.

Steady, Alexandria, she said. We’re all in this with you. You don’t need that much power today. She angled her head and smiled broadly at Alex, letting her know that all was well and that there was no imminent danger. Alex nodded her head and drew in Sabina’s calm and steady reassurance, and felt her mood shift to mimic her friend’s.

Alex stayed in her seat while the others finished, still watching and listening, committing it all to her memory. Eventually, Gaius stood beside her and tapped his glass with his fork, then asked for everyone to gather in the ballroom within the next fifteen minutes. Most were finished eating, so they began to clear their places and move towards the kitchen to deposit their plates, utensils, and glasses in the multiple dishwashing machines.

Slowly the ballroom filled, and Alex walked into the large space where she had so recently laid near death and transformed into the immortal she now was. Chairs had been moved into the space, and were turned in the direction of two large tables which had been placed at the end closest to the room’s two main entry doors. Alex thought it looked like a very comfortable classroom, and she shifted from one foot to the other, knowing she would have to stand at its head and tell them all of Rangor.

She walked over to the first table and noticed all of the maps lying on its surface, and the pads of paper and pens waiting to be used in the planning of what was to come. Laptops were stacked on the second table, and several printers sat there as well. Alex felt slightly ill, and she looked up to see Rohan moving in her direction.

When he stood directly in front of her, he placed his hands on his hips and narrowed his eyes at her. Stop this, he whispered, and she raised her eyebrows at his tone and censure.

I mean it, Alex. You look like you’re about to be sick, and I thought we left that behind when you transitioned. We’ve got you, so stand tall girl, and say what you’ve got to say. He nodded his head, and she found a slow smile begin to spread across her lips.

Thank you, Rohan, she said, and hugged him. He grunted at her, and lightly tapped her shoulder, before he took a seat in the middle of the group. She chuckled to herself, thinking he positioned himself there so that he could lay hands on anyone who tried to step out of line.

Are you ready to begin, Alexandria? Gaius asked her, coming to stand on her right. He placed his palm across her lower back as he liked to do, and lightly moved his fingers around, sending his aura directly into her.

Yes, I think so, she nodded.

I’m right here beside you, sweetheart, he smiled down at her, and she turned to face her friends.

Jack took a seat directly in front of her and smiled his encouragement, too. She watched him lean forward and brace his elbows on his knees as he so often did when he was in deep concentration or focus. She inclined her head in his direction, grateful that she had his eyes to connect with if she became too nervous.

The conversations scattered throughout the ornate room came to an end, and Archimedes rose, walking forward to stand on Alex’s left. She smiled as she watched him raise his hands to call them all to attention as he liked to do. Alex saw John roll his eyes, and she chuckled under her breath at the relationship between the two.

Alexandria, I know that I speak for us all, when I say we understand how difficult today is for you. It is no small thing to recount one’s own death, and the emotions that follow that event. If you still need more time, you have it, as we are on your timetable with this information, my dear, he said, placing a hand on her shoulder.

She slowly shook her head, and declined the offer to put off the inevitable. He hugged her, and then took his seat right behind Jack. Alex leaned slightly towards Gaius, and nodded her head before she began.

My friends, please let me begin by asking you all to hear me out completely before we start any discussions or questions. There are many facets to this information and I need you all to see the whole story, as I have experienced it, and then I think we’ll be ready to plan for the future. I know you’ve all pledged that we’re in this together, but I will say it now: I intend to hold you all to that pledge. Because once you understand the danger we’re all in, you will see why not one of us can go into this alone.

Alex watched the looks of surprise on some faces and the steel behind others’ glances as they prepared for impending danger.

We’re with you, Alexandria, Nikolaj called out, and she heard the others voice their agreement.

She breathed deeply and looked up at Gaius. He smiled gently and kept his hand on her back for support as she began.

She opened with the details of how she had initially met Kronis on the cliff and repeated their conversation word for word. Some in the assembly had not heard the full recounting as the council had, so many were rendered speechless that Kronis had reacted with regret and shame when he felt the weight of his sins for the first time.

Alex then told the immortals how Ganymede had taken her away briefly before their search in Arianna’s lake of memories, and how he had cautioned her about sharing what she learned, before she had thought through the ramifications of what such knowledge could do to them all. She explained that not even their angelic fathers knew how she had perished, so dangerous was the information. With that statement, Alex saw many lean forward in their seats, as they realized they did not know the truth of her passing either.

Then she moved into their effort to search within her memories, and how she had read the scroll Kronis had written inviting her to meet him, and how she then was pulled to Urr Parish Church to see her final moments. Alex felt more of Gaius’ aura surge as she repeated Kronis’ words that his father, Rangor, was angry that she had interfered with his plans for his son.

As I was reaching out to Kronis once more, she said, letting her eyes roam over the faces of the Nephilim, I felt a severe and unbearable pain in my chest, and I looked down to see the tip of a sword piercing my heart. I looked to Kronis, whose face mirrored the shock and horror I felt in the moment. I don’t believe that he expected, or had prior knowledge of what came to pass that day.

I could feel cold and oppressive evil, the likes of which I had never known before, surround me. And I began to see a face to my left, as a strong hand clamped down on my throat. It was Rangor, Kronis’ father, and he told me that I could not have his son, as he ran his sword completely through my chest, then crushed my airway, she said, her voice shaking against the cold she still felt in her chest from the memory.

Gaius moved his hand off of her lower back and placed his arm around her shoulders, drawing her into his side. She looked out at her friends’ faces and saw their shock and dismay over how Arianna had actually met her end. Alex made eye contact with Jack, and he pursed his lips and nodded as he experienced the sadness with her.

As you can now see, we are not fighting Kronis in this battle; rather we are being targeted by one of the Fallen. No one among us is strong enough to engage him or defeat him alone, and none of us should ever think about trying. I have learned that it has been Rangor instructing the children of the Fallen to attack us over these last weeks, hoping to kill me before I transitioned. And it is probably why I was feeling a dark immortal attempting to see into my mind, to learn whether or not I had changed yet.

Alexandria continued to explain how she interacted with Kronis through a dream while they were in their plane headed to Sudan, and how she had put the question to him, asking if he would allow his father to kill her once again or defend her. She told them of his torment, but that he had heard his father’s approach and warned her to leave. Alex looked at Rohan, and saw the knowledge of what had really happened on the plane register in his mind.

And finally, she began the retelling of what had transpired in Mayfair after their return from Africa. She told them all what she had already shared with Gaius, Jack, and her human family – that she had witnessed every one of them burn to death, and that Kronis had sounded the warning to her. Not a sound could be heard in the room, as she repeated Kronis’ words that he had given her what warning he could, and that her time had finally come to an end.

Alex said no more for a few minutes, letting all of what she had shared sink in. She drew in a final deep breath, and began to tell the immortals how Ganymede had pulled her spirit from her body, and helped her defeat those Rangor had most recently sent their way. She told them of the beauty and glory of her transformation, so that they could feel the goodness and peace that came about, after the turmoil and mental anguish she had experienced.

My friends and family, at each turn in this unfolding story, Ganymede has told me that the Lord is well pleased that Kronis has been offered forgiveness and redemption. If our own Lord and his son Jesus Christ have charged us with forgiving even our enemies, then I think as we move forward, we should also consider a plan which does not seek to annihilate Kronis, but give him one last chance to choose the Lord and a path of righteousness. If he does not choose this for himself, then his end will be of his own making. But I cannot, in good conscience, kill him outright without offering him the chance to save himself, when it was Kronis who allowed me to save all of you.

Alex did not know how her last statement would be taken, but she had thought long and hard over the last three days about his advance warning, and the time and opportunity it had won her. Her family and friends were alive because he dared to defy his father. She had to offer him her hand once more, and pray that he would take it.

After such a long and detailed accounting, every soul within the ballroom seemed lost to their own thoughts. And the fear and worry that Alex had been holding in, began to finally dissipate as she now shared the burden of information with her brethren. She felt her shoulders lower fractionally, unaware that she had been holding them so tightly before.

She looked up into Gaius’ eyes and saw such warm tenderness there, that it took her breath away for a moment.

I am very proud of you, Alexandria, he whispered, and kissed the top of her head, then turned to the assembly before them.

My friends, he began, there is still a bit more to share with you. Alexandria has told me all of this, as well as her human family, and Jackson. We have been closest to her during these past few weeks, so we were privy to her thoughts as events occurred. It was Jackson, who helped to question Alex regarding her dream of Kronis on the plane, while we were staying in Africa. And as we probed, she was able to uncover a name of the shop in which she conversed with him.

Jack and I have conducted some preliminary research, and discovered that the business has three locations. We hope that this will provide us with a path to start on, in hopes of pushing Kronis towards a declaration of his final intentions and possibly, help to draw his father out into the field of play. I do understand Alexandria’s thought process behind giving him a chance to save himself, and I think it is an option we should consider, if the Lord is telling her through Ganymede that this is the right path to follow. It won’t be the easiest, but then the right choices and paths are often the hardest to navigate.

She felt him squeeze her shoulders, as his words supported her desire to show mercy. Alex lifted her right arm and circled his waist, pulling him just a little closer, and sending her aura to thank him silently. He slowly patted her left shoulder and continued to gaze ahead of him.

As everyone continued to soak in the startling news that they would have to battle a Fallen angel, Archimedes found his voice and called out to Alex.

Alexandria, have you told Ganymede any of this yet? he asked her, and she shook her head.

Honestly, no, Archimedes. I wanted to confer with all of you first, before we bring our fathers into this battle. I know I need to at some point, because the story is his as well. He does need to know how I fell the first time, but I don’t know what their response will be. I hope that they’ll work with us, but I just wanted the group’s opinion, before we all start calling them to our sides, she said, watching his eyes intently to decipher if he agreed with her, or if he found her reasoning flawed.

To her relief, he began to stroke his chin and slowly nod his head.

Yes, I think you’re correct, my dear. At times, the angels can be a bit fearsome when they are seeking justice, but we will need them all I’m afraid before this is over. It is a good decision though for us to call them into play together, so we can think and plan this through logically, rather than letting emotion cloud our better judgment.

Alex smiled gratefully at him, and bit her bottom lip with her teeth. So far no one had berated her for withholding the information she had gleaned over the past few weeks, and no one was placing the blame for the recent attacks on her. They were actually listening, and she was so relieved.

All this time, we’ve all wanted Kronis’ head on a platter, said Rohan quietly, shaking his head in disgust. He looked up at Alex and she saw the look of dismay in his eyes. Alex, I had no idea that something as heinous as Rangor actually got his hands on you. Damn, he breathed out.

But he won’t get me again, Rohan, she answered back. And I don’t want him to touch a hair on anyone else’s head either. This is why I said initially we must stick together. He is powerful enough to fell many of us on his own. And since he seems very determined to direct other dark immortals into his plan to wipe us out, we can’t be out there by ourselves, just ripe for the picking. I’m sure he’d love nothing more, she said, shivering all over at the thought.

Gaius lowered his hand off of her shoulder and began to caress her back, trying to still her fears. She did not look up at him, but continued to gaze at her friends.

Rohan, I can understand why Arianna went alone, I really can now. And with that statement, she heard many sharp intakes of breath and felt Gaius’ arm encircle her shoulders once again like a vise. She shook her head and continued.

I can feel that she knew the danger lurking in her quest to save Kronis, and her love for all of you made her want to keep you safe and out of harm’s way. And though I can feel the emotion behind her decision, I can also see the failed judgment and planning behind it as well. She put herself in a position where she could not win, because she had no real support when she needed it most.

I, too, love you all with a fierceness that takes my breath away, and I will fight until my last breath to keep you safe. But I have learned, she told them, turning her eyes down to meet Jack’s, that if I knock down the pillars which are supporting me, I have no real chance to succeed at anything. Certainly not something as monumental and challenging as fighting a Fallen angel. If I can see across all the ages and history of this world, and know that we have to stick together, then that’s what we will plan for.

She smiled tenderly at Jack, and received a warm and reassuring smile from him in return. He winked at her as he sat back in his chair and mouthed, Well done. She nodded, then looked back into Gaius’ eyes and unfurled her ribbon towards him, so that only he could hear her words.

Gaius, I gave you my word and I will always hold to it. I will not seek danger, nor will I put myself in harm’s way alone, ever again. Do not fear.

She stared into his eyes, and watched as his nostrils flared and his jaw flexed. He nodded his head, and finally she saw his eyes soften. She patted his waist where her hand was still anchored, and continued to channel her aura towards him, so that he could feel her sincerity.

So, where are these locations Kronis might be hiding out in? asked Elrick. He and Iain rose from their seats and came to spread a map out on the first table. They moved paperweights to the four corners and waited for Gaius and Jack to start the process of planning. Their movement prompted more to rise, and soon most of the group was on its feet, moving chairs out of the way and centering the tables so that all could look on.

Alex tried to move back, but Gaius’ arm stayed her retreat and she remained by his side. Jack moved to her left and together, they began the process of charting out the course they would all follow over the next week. As Jack revealed that one of the bookshop’s locations was in New York, Alex’s head came up swiftly to look into his face. He noted her acute attention and nodded at her.

Alex, don’t be angry, but Gaius and I talked with your family yesterday about taking you to New York and allowing you the opportunity to close things out there. I know you’ve talked with them about it too, and this will be a perfect chance to take care of several needs with one trip. Are you alright with that decision? he asked, and she could feel everyone’s eyes on her.

She had indeed thought about traveling back to New York, and turning in a formal notice to the United Nations to terminate her career. A career which had just barely begun. Working as an interpreter had come so easily, but there was no way she could keep up the pretense that she was an ordinary mortal amongst so many. Eventually, they would all notice that she never aged, and it was too much exposure for the Nephilim.

Alex? said Gaius softly, prompting her to speak.

Yes, I do need to go and put an end to my life there. I just…, she trailed off and closed her eyes for a moment, willing the words to come out. I think it’s a good decision. Let’s make that a priority while we’re there. She exhaled and looked at the map, not wanting to meet anyone’s eyes. It was something she knew to be necessary, but it really brought home the choice she had made three days prior, and all that she had given up.

Jack patted her shoulder in a show of support and continued with the information he and Gaius had gained about the three shops. He knew their locations, had satellite images of the surrounding stores and streets, and complete histories on the properties. She listened and mentally recorded everything Jack shared.

Rohan, Benen, Nassor, Ahadi, Elrick, and Iain began to build plans for who would take which positions as they entered the buildings, and what time of day or night might be best to approach. Alex’s fear began to return, knowing how dangerous this was for her friends, and her aura responded by flowing freely around them.

Rohan looked up and shook his head, but she found it was not willing to be pulled back this time. Alex felt it starting to come from the pores on her face, and it briefly clouded her vision. She saw Gaius turn to face her in her peripheral vision, but she shook her head and stepped back.

She did not wait for it to return inside her body, she just turned from them and said, I’ll be right back, everyone, and she made a hasty retreat from the ballroom. She began to run in earnest once she had cleared the double doors, hoping to channel the power into her physical exertion, and tamp back the power herself. She made her way out of the front doors of Aeoferth and ran with all her might, feeling the waves around her still.

Alex closed her eyes and let her legs pump, until she felt a wave overtake her. She felt Gaius close by, and she began to slow her pace until she was walking. She finally stopped and bent over, placing her hands on her knees, trying to still her ragged breathing. He ran right up to her before he realized she had stopped, and reined his speed in at the last moment so that they did not collide with one another.

She had made it to the one, lone tree which grew on the side of the lake closest to the castle, and she leaned back against it for support. New powers or not, she was not accustomed to running, and she still searched to regulate her breathing.

Alex, what has happened? he breathed out at her. Are you alright, love? He moved forward and took her face in his hands.

She shook her head and felt tears prick her eyes, so stunned was she by her body’s desire to turn into an instant column of power at the first sign of her fear and apprehension for their safety. How was she going to function in public and not distract them all in a critical moment, she worried to herself.

I’m sorry, Gaius. I just wanted to stop the surge, and I couldn’t rein it in, in that moment. I can’t control it like I want to yet, and I just wanted to force myself into something other than my fear, she panted. I didn’t know I had made it so far.

Alex, he said, shaking his head, you must trust us to help you. Don’t run from me again, my love. I know how to help you through this, as do we all, if you’ll only let us. His eyes roamed over her face, taking in her distress.

We’ll start tonight, you and I. You’ve rested, and now it is time to teach you how to manage this. Okay? he said, nodding his head at her and stroking her cheeks with his thumbs gently.

Yes, okay, she nodded in return.

She smiled tentatively up at him and he chuckled softly at her. She watched his eyes turn a little bluer and knew what he was thinking. And in the moment, she was thinking that she needed him to hold her as well. The time her body had compelled her to stay by his side twenty-four hours a day had shown her how easily they could be together in one another’s presence. It felt comfortable and reassuring, and his nearness also set her heart aflame when he looked at her as he was currently.

No more running, she whispered, and ran her right hand up into his silky, chestnut brown hair. His eyes widened at her soft statement, as she pulled him down to meet her lips. Gaius bent and kissed her gently, and Alex clung to him for support. He leaned her into the tree trunk and she forgot to breathe, as he held her tighter.

Oh, Alex, he breathed against her lips.

I know, she responded. I feel it too, Gaius. I do.

They stayed with one another for several minutes, and Alex remembered the times he had held her in India and Africa, and how he had tried to hold himself back. She could feel a little of that slipping with her admission that she felt moved by his love and touch as well.

Her aura surged again and he felt it, causing him to finally pull back from her. He rested his forehead on hers and told her to try and calm herself if she could. His hands rested on her waist and he squeezed lightly, imploring her to dial her power back in.

Alex chuckled slightly, and Gaius leaned back to study her face. He angled his head at her and narrowed his eyes, trying to determine what she was thinking.

Rohan told me this morning that no one was going to hold you back from me anymore, she said, in answer to his silent inquiry. And I wonder if it will be you or me that will need holding back at this rate. She laughed again, and he with her.

I’ll never complain, so I don’t think you will find any resistance from this end, Alexandria. I have missed you, so much. He raised a hand to run it through her hair and let his eyes cascade over her face. She stared back, and saw the tenderness and affection which truly lay within him for her. If she only gave him the words he sought, it could be hers for an eternity.

He watched her internal debate once again, and let a thumb travel down to trace her lower lip while she pondered a life with him. Finally, he kissed Alex lovingly on her forehead, and told her they should head back to the ballroom. She nodded and took the hand he offered her, and returned for the planning which would hopefully keep them all alive.

Alex said little as they made their way back across the grounds, and used the time to begin to pray to Ganymede that he would help her sort out her heart, and choose the right partner to spend her days and nights with. The sooner, the better, she pleaded, because she hated hurting two who cared for her so much already. It was not fair and it was not honorable, in her opinion. She felt her chest warm slightly and smiled, knowing that her angelic father had heard her, and was at her side yet again.

Chapter 3

They all worked in the ballroom for another four hours, mulling over what might happen when they actually did face Rangor. It was agreed that their numbers and strength would have to be substantial, so wherever Alexandria went, she would need many with her, as she was still his main target. They did not reach a consensus regarding the best time to call upon their angelic fathers, so all agreed that not one among them would tell their fathers what they had learned just yet.

The group made their way into the kitchen and dining hall, setting up for an evening meal. Alex stayed in the castle’s large kitchen and helped prepare dinner, because she felt that such mundane tasks helped her to feel normal. Her life had been anything but for the last month, and she relaxed slightly as she