The Choice To Overcome

Chapter 1

The soft, pale pink and yellow rays of dawn began to streak across the sky as Alexandria watched the darkness give way to a new day at Aeoferth Hall. She could see the slight frost on the balcony’s French doors that cold November morning, gathering more so at the wooden muntins, which separated the individual panes of glass. Her eyes drifted over to the fireplace and then down to her rescued dog, Cara, who lay asleep on her bed near the dwindling flames.

Alex had been uncharacteristically awake for almost an hour, pondering all that had transpired in her life of late and what might lay before her. She, Gaius, and so many of her fellow Nephilim had recently cut their way through a deadly gauntlet devised by children of the Fallen angels. It had at first appeared to be a hunt for Alex’s head, one that would give a dark immortal power and position within their makeshift governing body.

But the battle soon gave way to the truth behind the game, and Alex and her brethren had fought to keep the secret of the Nephilim firmly behind the veil. Had their existence been revealed, no man, woman, or child would have ever been truly free again. It had been a war that none of them wanted but, once they knew the precise scheme of their enemy, none could turn away from.

And at the end of the final battle with Keres and Absollum, silence had eerily descended, though Alex and Gaius had both felt something more lurked just over the horizon. Their angelic fathers, Ganymede and Haniel, had confirmed that they also felt discord emanating from a source which they could not yet articulate. And for Alex, knowing that Ganymede could not yet see the encroaching danger meant only one thing – the Fallen were involved.

Obscured from those still living in the Lord’s Light and service, the Fallen were often in shadow until it was the Lord’s wish that His angels move against those they once loved dearly and called their brother. The Heavenly Host’s hearts and minds were protected from the willful debauchery their former brothers delighted in. For the Lord knew how much pain and hurt His loyal angels would suffer seeing those they love continuously turn their backs on all that was good and holy.

Alex glanced down at Gaius’ arm draped across her, as she rested with her back against his chest. His hand lay beside hers and she lightly touched his wedding ring, smiling over the promise that the simple piece of metal represented. She considered how much she relied on their bond to see her through the dark moments – the ones that still woke her up in the middle of the night and gave her pause when she was awake.

Gaius’ fingers closed around hers, and her smile grew as she felt him pull her a little closer. He kissed the back of her head and hummed softly. Alex waited to see if he was truly awake, or just responding to her touch while he still dreamed. He answered her unvoiced question by moving his head off of his pillow and laying it alongside hers.

Good morning, Gaius whispered, kissing her cheek and nuzzling her slightly.

Good morning, she whispered in return.

How long have you been awake? he asked, beginning to play with her wedding rings now.

For a while, Alex confessed.

Do you need to talk?

Not really, she sighed, watching his fingers move over hers in a delicate pattern.

Not really, Gaius chuckled, and she grinned at the gentle rumble she felt roll through his chest. Hmmm.

Let’s just do this for a while longer, Alex said softly, burrowing back against his body.

Okay, love, he agreed, keeping her safely cocooned in his arms, but saying no more.

Alex lay there for a time, soaking up his warmth and aura as she contemplated the council meeting which was scheduled to take place after breakfast. She and Gaius had talked late into the night, preparing for what they would share with the ten other immortals who helped them lead, guide, and protect all of the Nephilim of the Light. Much of what Alex planned to share were the emotional details from several of their recent battles, of which her brethren were not yet aware. And much was still unknown because the looming threat remained an enigma.

She sighed heavily as she mulled it all over. Gaius moved then, and his hand came to rest on her shoulder. He slowly rolled Alex over to face him as he settled his head back on his own pillow. Leisurely, he began to trail his fingers through her hair, studying her eyes all the while.

Talk to me, Alex. What has you awake far earlier than you should be? he asked gently.

What we talked about before we drifted off last night. Nothing new, Gaius. Just all that has been, and what might be. Alex sighed again, moving her hands to his chest and lightly caressing him as she spoke.

"Might. That is the key word, sweetheart. It all might come to be, but we do not yet know what challenges lie before us. So, leave the worry behind and focus on maintaining the calm we have been working toward the last few weeks. I am with you, as is your father and our brethren."

Gaius shivered slightly as her aura and fingers danced across his skin. Alex smiled, and he playfully narrowed his eyes at her. She chuckled, only to hear his teasing growl in response.

I know, Alex said as she felt a yawn work its way out before she could stop it.

She noted Gaius’ eyes tightening slightly in a look she knew well. It was one he displayed when he wanted to see her cared for or when he felt her heart or mind in a storm.

Come here, he said, pulling her forward so that she was snuggled against his chest. Alex, close your eyes and try to let this go for a little longer. Rest, my love, while you can.

I’ll try, she whispered, and then kissed his chest just above his heart.

She heard him sigh and she smiled, then closed her eyes as he had asked her to. With the sound of his heartbeat near and his steady, even breathing close to her ear, Alex began to feel very drowsy. She let go of it all, just as Gaius had requested, and drifted back under.

Gaius felt her body relax against his, as her hands fell away from his chest. He kissed the top of Alex’s head and then settled his chin atop her hair. He sent up his prayers for continued strength and support, then closed his eyes and succumbed to a few more hours of sleep.

Cara heard the sounds of immortals in the hallway before Gaius or Alex woke again. She rose from her bed and padded across the large bedroom, pausing at the door. She sniffed at its bottom, knowing the scents of auras which she had been surrounded by since she was first brought in out of the cold rain the day Alex had rescued her in New York. Cara sat and angled her head, as one Nephilim after another walked by the door that was keeping her inside.

Finally, she began to whine, waking Gaius in the process. He softly called her to his side, and she moved in the direction of his voice without hesitation. He patted the bed behind him and Cara jumped atop the mattress, happy for the invitation.

Alex began to chuckle while Cara walked across their legs to lay behind her. Gaius smiled at seeing where Cara had positioned herself, and he looked from their pet back to his wife. Alex was fully awake now and smiling at him in return.

Good morning, again. He grinned and began to trail his hand through her hair.

Good morning. How long did we sleep? she asked, yawning again.

Almost three hours, he said, glancing up at a clock on the mantel behind her. I’m glad you slept more; you needed it, sweetheart.

So did you, Alex countered cheekily, leaning in to kiss his neck. She moved over to his ear and whispered her love.

I love you, too, he said softly, wrapping both of his arms around her. We should get ready for breakfast now, love. We will be meeting with the others soon afterward. Gaius watched her eyes narrow a little at his mention of the council meeting.

I know, Alex sighed resignedly.

Come, sweetheart, he said, as he made the first move to leave the bed.

He rolled away, then stood and held out a hand for Alex. She scooted over to leave the warm cocoon on his side closest to the door. Cara bounded off of the bed, and the dog followed Alex as she placed her feet on the floor and rose for the day. Alex walked over and opened the bedroom door, letting Cara head downstairs to others who would let her venture outside the castle.

She heard the shower running, and made her way into the watercloset to bathe and prepare for the day. As they washed, Alex and Gaius talked quietly, using the moments of privacy to further ready themselves for the impending conversation with their brethren. But the time passed quickly, and soon she was slipping into jeans and a warm, black cashmere turtleneck.

When she stepped into her tall, well-worn black boots, Alex knew the solitude was almost at an end. She returned to the watercloset to secure her long, blonde tresses atop her head, staring at herself in the mirror momentarily as she placed her brush on the counter. Alex recalled standing in that exact same spot when she willed herself to be strong and not lose one of her brethren in the fight against Rangor. If she could stand against such a Fallen angel as him and survive, then she could do it again, Alex told herself.

Gaius came back in to stand behind her and settled his hands on Alex’s waist. He said nothing, only smiled slightly at her in the mirror.

I’m alright, Gaius, Alex said reassuringly. I am. And as long as I have you by my side, I will face whatever is coming with my head held high. It’s easier to bear the weight of it all with your help.

Gaius’ arms moved to encircle her, and he gently pulled her back against his chest. Alex, I am with you in all things and in all ways. Be strong with me, sweetheart, and know that you don’t have to face any danger alone. Let’s have breakfast with the others now, alright?

Yes, alright, she agreed.

He squeezed Alex and lightly kissed her neck before releasing her. Gaius gathered her hand in his and then led Alex downstairs and into the dining hall. There were over three hundred of their fellow Nephilim in the room, and many stepped forward to offer a greeting as they walked in. Gaius released Alex’s hand, so others could embrace her as they worked their way through the throng to their chairs by the fireplace.

Soon, they were seated and Alex smiled at Sabina and Rohan, who took their places just to her left. Sabina affectionately cupped Alex’s cheek and lightly patted her skin, sharing her aura for what was to come. Alex winked at her dear friend and then turned her attention to John while he offered their blessing.

While she ate, Alex listened to the conversations filling the large, ornate room more than she contributed to the dialog. It was moments like these which called her back to the days when she was but a child, trying to learn why she heard voices that others could not. Why she saw faces from millennia past that no other in the room could see. In times of great stress or uncertainty, Alex sometimes still felt like that child. Desperately wanting answers, and yet apprehensive of what the truth might bring.

She saw that Gaius was finished eating when she took her last bite of food, and Alex gently lifted his left hand and held it between hers. She smoothed her palms across his skin and slowly spun his wedding band around with her fingers. Alex watched as he lifted his right hand and settled it over the top of hers, caressing her as she was him. Her smile grew as she focused on their contact and not the meeting, now just minutes away.

Archimedes was the first of the council members to stand. He patted Noelle on the shoulder as he rose, finishing the last words of his conversation with her. He smiled, and seemed relaxed as he always did. Nikolaj was the next to lay his napkin beside his plate and stand, immediately followed by Benen.

Alex knew it was time for her to rise, and so she affectionately squeezed Gaius’ hand, then looked up into his blue and green eyes. She nodded once, and he responded in kind. He gave her a wink before standing and holding her chair back. They waited for the remainder of the council to stand before they headed for the hallway.

Aura after aura washed over them as they left the dining hall. Some of their brethren called out words of encouragement, while others lifted their glasses and inclined their heads. Alex paused just inside the doorway and turned back to the gathering before her. Gaius paused by her side and settled his hand on her lower back, waiting to see what she might say or do.

Alexandria’s aura leapt from her heart and enveloped the dining hall and all who were seated there. She thanked them for their support and love, as only an immortal could. On the currents of her power, she conveyed her appreciation and need for their support still, as the council contemplated what possibly lay ahead for them all.

We love you too, sweetie, Gaillard chuckled, raising his glass now in salute.

Hear, hear! Iain called, giving Alex his customary, flirtatious wink.

She laughed softly and gave them a slight bow, then turned to walk to the library with Gaius and the others. Gaius draped an arm around her shoulders and pulled Alex just a little closer, as they fell into step with Elrick. Elrick gave her his own devilish grin, one that she had come to love. He, like the others, seemed calm and at ease.

It was that constant, steady fortitude which Alex had come to rely on and so deeply appreciate when she was with her brethren. Patience and thoughtful judgment ruled their minds when danger came calling. That resilience had seen them through so many challenges since her return to the fold; and Alex knew that somehow, it would see them through yet again.

Chapter 2

Elrick stepped ahead and walked into the library in front of Alexandria and Gaius. His large frame momentarily blocked her view of the three-story repository that she so loved, but she immediately sensed her angelic father, Ganymede, in the room. Elrick moved to her left again and Alex furrowed her brow slightly at the changes in the room.

She and Gaius had arranged the library the night before with Heath and Iain’s help. They had placed twelve, supple leather chairs in a circle – the configuration the council always used when they met with one another. At the right side of the circle, they had erected a screen with a projector directed at its center. The laptop that Alex and Gaius had used to document their observations of past engagements with dark immortals, was connected to the projector.

Now, however, there were twenty-four chairs in the circle, and desks and tables that normally sat close to the area had been moved back to provide ample space for the meeting. Ganymede strode forward with his arms outstretched toward Alex. Her face relaxed a bit as she stepped away from Gaius to hug her angelic father.

Ganymede, Alex said softly, hearing his contented sigh as he pulled her into his arms.

Good morning, daughter, he said tenderly, kissing the top of her head before he drew away. I can see the added chairs have surprised you. His eyebrows rose playfully and he looked at her with such an expression of innocence, that Alex knew he was the one responsible for the change.

Father, she chuckled, shaking her head slightly.

Yes? Ganymede smiled and cupped her face.

Nothing. I like to see you like this. Playful and happy, Alex confessed, leaning into his palm.

I am with my child and her husband, the day is beautiful, and the other immortal children are all well and whole. There is no reason not to be happy this day.

You’re right, as always. We have much to be thankful for, Alex agreed, relaxing even more. Ganymede patted her, then stepped over to draw Gaius into his arms. Alex looked up at the two and felt such gentle strength flowing from their auras.

Good morning, Ganymede, Gaius said, stepping back from their hold. I assume you are bringing your brothers to the meeting today.

Indeed, I am, Ganymede said solemnly. The members of the council will be joined by their fathers, as we talk with one another this morning. This is for the best, son.

I understand. Gaius nodded, then took Alex’s hand back in his.

Come, let’s take our places, shall we? Ganymede asked, gesturing them forward.

Within the next moment, eleven angels stepped forward and made their presence known. Alex drew in a sharp breath as she felt the magnitude and depth of their power enveloping the room. She leaned closer to Gaius while she quietly surveyed the assembly. Gaius said no more, only led Alex to a chair to his left.

Welcome, everyone, Ganymede said graciously as he took his place next to Alex. Children, I have asked your fathers to be with us today as we discuss great and grave matters that will undoubtedly have a profound effect on all of you and your brethren. This council has been in existence for well over a thousand years. But for Alexandria, this governing body is still a group she is becoming a part of, as she assimilates herself into the life she has chosen.

Ganymede reached out and gently touched Alex’s arm as he smiled tenderly at her.

Daughter, you have previously met these brothers of mine when we battled Rangor and Orus, though those were brief encounters in our timeline together. They were, of course, with you the night you transitioned as well, part of the great Host who came to heal and bless you according to the Lord’s plan. But this day, and all days henceforth, I would ask that you know them by name, aura, and heart. Brothers? Ganymede asked, smiling at the angel to his left.

Good day, Alexandria. I am Uriel, Ahadi’s father, said a dark-haired angel with soft brown eyes. Alex could see where Ahadi’s luminous skin and eyes came from as she stared into the angel’s loving gaze.

I remember you, Alex said with a smile.

As I remember you, dear, he chuckled, taking Ahadi’s hand in his.

Alex, you know me well, Eremiel said, nodding his head at her.

Yes, sir. I do, she said, inclining her head at Rohan’s father in return. He radiated pure power, and Alex was glad to have him along for what was coming.

Alexandria, it is good to be with you this day, my dear, Selaphiel smiled, already holding Sabina’s hand in his. Her other was firmly in Rohan’s, and she was grinning at her father as he spoke to Alex.

Thank you, Selaphiel. It’s good to see you again, too, Alex answered him.

I am Israfil, Nassor’s father, said a tall, muscular angel, with silky black hair and startling gray eyes.

Yes, Alex said slowly, that is what some cultures call you. Yet others know you as Raphael, don’t they?

They do, he said simply, smiling at her as he gently inclined his head. Alex could feel the same patience and stoic authority radiating from him that she always sensed in Nassor.

And I am Jegudiel. Benen’s father, the next angel said. Alex looked at his pale complexion, clear blue eyes, and fiery red hair. Benen looked so like his father, and it made her smile grow to see the two of them together.

Good morning, sir, she said, only to hear him chuckle.

Alexandria, you need not be so formal with us. Remember what your friend Jackson has said about this? Jegudiel teased. Benen laughed softly under his breath and she heard many in the circle join in.

I’ll try to remember, Jegudiel. But my parents’ ingrained lessons are not easily put aside, Alex confessed, shrugging her shoulders apologetically.

Do not let him tease you, Alexandria. There is nothing wrong with speaking to one’s elders with respect, the next angel in the circle said.

You’re Barachiel, aren’t you? I remember you well, sir, Alex said, feeling her smile grow as she looked across the circle at Elrick’s father. He was so very beautiful, with his light brown hair cascading past his shoulders and his green eyes alight with humor and grace that he took Alex’s breath away momentarily.

Yes, I am Barachiel. And I am so glad to be with you and my son this day. Elrick’s heart has been much lighter since your return, Alexandria, so it is I who must thank you for coming back to the fold.

Well, I am blessed to have Elrick in my life, Barachiel, so it goes both ways, Alex said, winking at Elrick and watching him return the gesture.

Indeed. Well said, brother. I am Jophiel, Alexandria, Nikolaj’s father said, standing and walking over to her. She was slightly surprised, but she rose to step into the hug he was offering her. Ah, I have missed this, he said, propping his chin atop her head.

You have? she asked, clearly astonished at his words. She heard more laughter around her after her simple question.

Of course, dear, he said, pulling away a little but keeping his hands on her upper arms. We have all tried to give you the time and space you needed to settle into your new path. But, Alexandria, we have been a part of your soul’s life since the day you were born millennia ago. In fact, I do believe I was one of the first to bathe you when you were still an infant.

I’m sorry, I don’t remember that far back, she said apologetically, chuckling a bit herself now.

No, I would not think so. He grinned the same dazzling, handsome smile that she had witnessed on Nikolaj’s stunning face again and again. But, all jesting aside, it is very good to be with you again. Thank you, for coming back to the Lord’s own, and for keeping our children well-protected in moments of danger and great peril. You have already put the Lord’s newest gifts to wise and purposeful use when the enemy has sought you out.

You’re welcome, Alex whispered, feeling herself blush heavily from his praise. Jophiel patted her cheek, then released her so she could return to her chair. Alex looked up into Gaius’ eyes once she was settled, and he gave her a tender smile as his eyes roamed over her face. She laced her fingers through his and then looked at an angel she knew well.

Zadkiel, Alex said before he could utter a word.

Ah, I see she remembers. He smiled, nodding his head approvingly.

Of course, sir. You are all here in my memories and my heart. And I remember, at some point in my soul’s past, having teased Archimedes that his father looks younger than he does.

Yes, that is an interesting dilemma, is it not? Zadkiel chuckled, arching his eyebrows in the same way Archimedes so often did.

No more than what John and I experience, said one Alex recalled as Jerahmeel. She then spoke his name aloud and saw him incline his head toward her.

Yes, my dear, I am Jerahmeel. And I know that you have recently been through a great deal – all of you. But know that whatever lies ahead of us, you all have our support and strength, as always. You will never be alone in the challenges to come, he pledged, and she could feel the gravitas radiating from his words in waves from his body.

Thank you, sir. We’ve known much sadness over the last two years, but there have been many more bright and hopeful days than there have been moments of battle. So, we’ll make it through, just as you say, Alex said confidently, feeling the truth in her words.

Very good, dear one, Jerahmeel praised.

Alex saw John incline his head in her direction, giving her his approval as well.

Alexandria, I am Cassiel, Tomoko’s father, said a blond angel, who looked too fair to be her father. But Alex saw that his eyes were the same shape and honey-brown shade as her dear friend’s. While she studied him, she began to make out features which Tomoko shared with her father.

Sir, she said respectfully.

I, like my daughter, am a soul of few words. But I am most honored to be with her and you this day, Cassiel said, smiling gently at Alex.

Thank you, Alex said, and finally turned her eyes toward one whom she knew as well as Ganymede and loved just as much.

Hello, Haniel. Alex grinned and left her seat as he rose to meet her half way.

Hello, sweetheart, he said softly, and then gathered her close to his heart. I trust you are well rested today? he asked, seeing to her care as he so often did now.

As well as I can be, I think. We’ve only been back at Aeoferth for three days now. And I had lots on my mind last night, so I actually woke up before Gaius, she confessed, and he leaned back to stare down into her face.

Really? That is uncommon, isn’t it? He grinned, and they both chuckled at her admission. Come, let’s take our seats and begin. I know you and Gaius will be much less strained when you can share your burdens with your brethren. And the time has now arrived to share the knowledge you’ve gleaned of late, my dear.

Of course, Alex said quietly. She hugged Gaius’ father one last time, then resumed her seat. She paused, not knowing if she, Gaius, or Ganymede should speak next. Her father answered her unvoiced question and took the floor once more.

Immortal children, today’s meeting is unprecedented. Never before have all of your fathers sat with you while you convened thusly to discuss matters which greatly affect those of your kind. But as I have explained to my daughter and her husband, the time in which we live is vastly different from what Alexandria’s soul encountered when she first walked this earth.

"And such challenges as you have recently faced amidst this new landscape, beg for different ways of thinking and fresh strategies designed to keep all of the Lord’s Nephilim alive and well. Through our combined efforts over the last two years, all of you have survived the threats leveled at you, and you have been made stronger for it. The Lord is well pleased that you yet live, so that you may continue to bless and safeguard His peoples," Ganymede said confidently, smiling at each Nephilim in the circle in turn.

He reached over and closed his fingers around Alex’s hand, where it lay atop her chair’s armrest. He stared momentarily into her eyes, then offered her a smile before turning his face back to the circle.

There is much to share with you all today, and much that is still unknown, even to me and your fathers. I would like to begin by telling you that it was I who asked Alexandria and Gaius to call this meeting once you returned to Aeoferth Hall. And it was I who asked them both to begin working through past engagements and battles, to look for patterns and information we might all need in the days and weeks ahead, he said, pausing and angling his head at Rohan.

Rohan, you have a question? Ganymede asked, patiently waiting for him to speak.

I do, but it can wait, he said, only to see Ganymede shake his head.

No, please go ahead, son, he prompted Rohan.

Rohan drew in a deep breath, and glanced from Gaius back to Ganymede before he spoke again. My question is simple, Ganymede: just how many of the Fallen are coming for Alex this time? If the threat is unknown to you and our fathers, it’s got to involve them.

Ah, Ganymede murmured, slowly nodding his head. Daughter, perhaps this is the time for you and Gaius to share a bit of what took place in Rome and London before I answer Rohan’s insightful question. Rohan, if you can wait a few more minutes for us to delve into your question? he asked.

Of course, sir, Rohan said respectfully, inclining his head.

Yes, Rome, Alex sighed, nodding her head as she began. The first thing Gaius and I want to share with you all, is the conversation I had with Ganymede while we met in the kitchen of Sabina and Rohan’s home. I was preparing to look into the future so that we would know if it was safe to return to London or not. And though I wanted to look ahead, Ganymede told me not to.

But I thought you did, Elrick said before he could stop himself.

No, Ganymede told me it was the Lord’s desire that I not look, for we were all still too raw and at a heightened state of cautiousness after what we’d just lived through. Our wariness may have caused us to change events which had yet to transpire out of fear, rather than reason. My father told me that God was not abandoning us, and that he and his brothers would be with us as we healed from the game we had been forced to play, Alex admitted.

If you remember, Elrick, it was Ganymede who spoke at the table after Alex opened her eyes. And it was he who told us there were no more in the hunt, and that we could go home. Alex never said a word, Gaius said steadily.

Ah… now I see. Elrick nodded, looking from Gaius to Ganymede.

Honestly, Elrick, I begged Ganymede to let me look, but he helped me to understand the logic behind the Lord’s wish. And of course, they were right. But I also expressed a concern I had to my father that same morning as we stood in the largest of my mental courtyards. I said I had a feeling that something was still not right, and I needed to know when danger would come calling again, so I could better protect you all. Ganymede only told me to have faith and let go for a time, Alex said, looking up into Ganymede’s translucent blue eyes. He smiled gently at her before she turned her eyes to Gaius.

After Alex helped Emily through Grace’s birth, she fell asleep in the hospital, as you all know, Gaius said, moving them forward. I took her upstairs to sleep, and Ganymede had a private conversation with me before I rested with her.

I told him that I understood Alex’s trepidation about the abrupt end to the battle, for I also felt a sense of unease within myself that I could not identify or articulate. It greatly reminded me of the time at Elysium when Alex met me in her current life as Alexandria, and she told me one night that she felt her time for dealing with Kronis was drawing near. She had no information to fall back on, just a gut feeling that something was not right where he was concerned.

I understand completely, Nikolaj said, nodding at Gaius. I’ve felt the same way since the moment Keres fell in the Colosseum. It was like a wall of silence descended where there had been a storm just seconds before. I kept looking over my shoulder that night, thinking that there must be others around us to deal with. But there were none.

I felt it, too, Benen conceded. After I felled Moloch, I just knew there was a second wave that we were somehow unaware of. But like Nikolaj, I scanned the terrain and found no one.

Indeed, Gaius said. When I told Ganymede I felt what Alex did, I stated that she had pursued the memory of how Kronis felled Arianna, there at Elysium that night. She had sought answers in the past for the threat that loomed ahead of us, and then it dawned on me which path was still open to us.

Yes, Archimedes said slowly, I have been considering this as well. We have already proved the past can tell us much about what lies ahead. And after Alex’s comment the night she recounted our recent battles to her family, I have been looking back myself to see what future challenges are in store for us. Honestly, I’ve yet to find a specific threat.

Alex’s comment? Tomoko asked, angling her head.

We were just finishing the retelling of it all, Tomoko, when Conner said something that brought me up short and, honestly, terrified me. He said that he and Helen were going to remain with us for a few weeks because they could look at the past at any time. Conner said that he was much more interested in the present, and that’s when the feeling I had experienced in Rome came back with a vengeance, Alex said gravely.

I said that I was my father’s daughter, just as Kronis was Rangor’s son. Kronis studied my soul for millennia, trying to learn what he could about me, trying to figure out what my weaknesses were… but always in the present. And Rangor made no secret in his final letter to me that I had made an interesting study for him of late. If Kronis and Rangor shadowed me, then I knew certainly that it could be true of the others we have battled as well.

I knew it, Rohan said disgustedly, shaking his head. I just knew it. Sabina settled her hand on his shoulder and began to lightly stroke him with her aura in a bid to help calm his anger. It was too straightforward, the way it all ended.

I thought so too, Rohan. Alex nodded. When Gaius and I went upstairs that night at Wallace’s to talk with Ganymede and Haniel, I said that I could finally see what might be happening right under our noses. Anot sent Dennan to spy on us, Keres trailed behind Gaius and me as we strolled through Central Park, and even Kasimir told Araziel, Los, and the others that their intel showed I was nearing a point where I would have to leave the Groabans behind. They have all been watching.

But, Gaius qualified, they can see very little. Through our conversations with Ganymede and Haniel, Alex and I have come to learn that the Fallen were stripped of their sight into the world’s past and future moments. Of course, they have access to the past events which they lived through, but they do not have vaults containing memory upon memory to peruse at their leisure. Not as we and our fathers do.

No, they do not, Haniel said, leaning forward slightly in his chair. We believe they are studying Alexandria as much as they can, and our Fallen brothers are coming up wanting. It must be very frustrating for them, and perhaps that is why we are all sensing a current of discord that has yet to manifest itself.

We all know what Alex’s Light looks like when it surges forth, Gaius said, lacing his fingers back through hers. It is blinding when danger comes calling. It incinerates dark immortals, and it has caused two Fallen angels to writhe and wither under its influence. It obscures their view completely. And we have all witnessed how the power within her morphs and adapts to the changing landscape. The Lord gives us what we need, when we need it most.

You said that, Alex, at the last council meeting in London, Nassor said, looking at her thoughtfully. That the Lord gives the dark ones what they need, not what they want. Were you referring to your Light when you said that?

In a way – though I had yet to fully digest what was just occurring to me as I sat there at the table. I was thinking about how my aura had passed over Anot’s head as he lay dying beside me, about how it wiped all of his pain and suffering away. And I thought too, about how Ganymede’s aura had done the same for Kronis as he took his last few breaths. His Light was giving the lost souls what they needed at that moment.

When Gaius and I talked with Ganymede in Noelle’s solar, just before I shared with you all what Kasimir had in mind for me, I said that the dark immortals thought if they captured me, they could have my power to wield as their own. But I also said, she qualified, that I realized the Lord would never allow such a thing to come to pass, Nassor. For even if they did take me, my vast Light is a gift from Him, and it adapts according to His will, not mine. I’m just the vessel. The unfathomable power I have been granted could never be used for evil purposes. Never.

No, it could not, Ganymede agreed, his voice radiating power and authority.

Yet, the children of the Fallen did not believe that, John said quietly. No, Ganymede. They specifically said time and again that they wanted to take Alex, mold her, break her even, until she bent to their will and dictates. They had a very specific goal in mind throughout this last war. And not one among them was shy about detailing how they hoped to use her.

We know, son, Jerahmeel said regretfully. Appalling words were uttered from those you engaged in battle. And we are sorry that your hearts had to bear that.

Hmmm, well, John murmured, pursing his lips, it was Alex and Gaius who had to bear the brunt of it. And if we’re thinking now that their fathers have been watching and waiting for just the right opening to do what Anot and the rest of them dared, then I can only imagine what is poised to come at us.

No one said anything for a moment as John’s words hung in the air between them. Alex swallowed past her fear and cleared her throat. She lightly squeezed Gaius and Ganymede’s hands, then broke through the silence.

John, there is a childhood saying you know well about sticks and stones, and the harm they can cause. But it adds that words shall never hurt us. The depraved words hurled at Gaius and me, only made us pull together and become stronger as a couple. And words from the past will also not harm us either, but strengthen us.

There is something causing this unease that our fathers and many of us feel, and if we can look into the world’s past, follow the vibration coming from the future out far enough in the past’s waves, we won’t be taken unaware. We won’t be forced to play another game on our enemy’s terms as we were this last time. No, we can be proactive, and we can safeguard all of our loved ones in the process, Alex said, hoping to reassure him that there was a way to prepare and glean answers.

Just as we did when we learned how Arianna perished, hmmm? John conceded, a look of acceptance settling into his features.

Yes, John. As I told Alexandria and Gaius in London – there is a moment, a choice, which has caused this ripple. And it is flowing from the past, to the present’s waves, and upon the future’s shores. Somewhere, there is something very wrong, Ganymede said solemnly. And working together, we will determine what danger lies ahead and then plan accordingly.

Okay, so is that one of the reasons our fathers are here with us today? One of you will go back into the ocean of memories to see what the Fallen are planning, as Alex did before, and then relay your findings to us? Elrick asked, looking to Ganymede and then to his own father, Barachiel.

No, son, Barachiel said sadly. We cannot.

Elrick’s forehead creased significantly, and he began to slowly shake his head. "Oh, no. You want her to go there again and look for the Fallen? Alex almost died last time!"

Elrick, last time Alex was mortal, Gaius interjected quietly. Now, she has been purposefully rebuilt in every fiber of her being to withstand the power of us all flowing through her. I know what you’re thinking, brother, and I understand your trepidation completely. For in the early morning when all of this came to light for Alex and me, I felt it tenfold. I even needed Ganymede to repeat the Lord’s promise that Alex would never fall, before I could breathe again, Gaius said, smiling sadly at his dear friend.

I understand that, Gaius, but… Ah, Elrick sighed, running a hand through his thick hair in worry.

I know, Elrick, Alex said quietly. She rose and walked over to him, extending her hand. He took it and she gently pulled him to his feet to embrace him. It’s going to be alright. It will, she whispered against his heart.

Alex, I swear, we cannot lose you again, sweetie. We can’t, Elrick breathed, feeling his eyes cloud over.

I am not going anywhere. If Rangor, Orus, Keres, Za’Un, and the whole lot of them couldn’t take me, then no other will either. I am here, and I will never leave you all again, I swear it, Alex vowed, leaning away from his chest and cupping his face in her left palm.

I will never willingly run out into danger alone, my dear, dear friend. I’m taking my direction from Ganymede, Haniel, and their brothers right now. And I promise you, on all I hold dear, that I will stay close to their side, Gaius’, and our brethren’s through it all. Through it all, Elrick.

Elrick nodded slightly, then pulled her back into his arms. He closed his eyes momentarily against the pain they all still felt when they remembered the one hundred and twenty-one years they had lived without her soul by their sides. It had been a void none of them could fill, least of all Gaius.

He finally drew strength from the confidence and calm flowing from Alex and Gaius in the moment, and it was just enough to bolster Elrick so he could release her. He kissed her cheek and nodded again that he was in a better place before he reclaimed his seat. Barachiel laid a hand on his son’s back, sharing his aura and reassurance with him, as Elrick quieted the storm in his heart.

Gaius, you just mentioned the morning this all came to light. When was this? Archimedes asked, hoping to move them forward again.

While we were in London, just after Grace’s birth. It was actually the same morning we had our last meeting, when Alex and I told you of Ganymede’s request that we rest for a time and then come here to Aeoferth Hall, Gaius answered.

And you said that morning, that Ganymede had come to Alex as she faced a struggle? Archimedes questioned, glad to finally have more information flowing.

Yes, Archimedes, I did, Gaius said a little more quietly, turning his eyes down to Alex momentarily before he said anything else.

I had what I thought initially was a very bad dream, Archimedes, Alex said, turning from Gaius to face her dear friend. I was completely trapped, weighed down by what felt like thick, suffocating tar. I couldn’t breathe, I couldn’t move, and no matter how hard I fought, I couldn’t break free of it. As the need to draw air into my lungs became more insistent, my alarm and fright escalated.

When I was sure that I would meet my end there, I called on Ganymede with everything I had to deliver me from that place. And he did, she said heavily. It took him several minutes but, eventually, he was able to help me push the darkness back and come home again.

Where were you, Alex? Archimedes asked softly. In another memory you have of a Fallen angel?

Not exactly. I was in a place that I actually visited only once before. A place Ganymede took my mind to when I was but eight, living in Egypt with my parents, brothers, and Jameason, Alex said, letting her words sink in.

Alex, Ahadi whispered, shaking her head. You have told us all of how Ganymede visited you and halted your abilities, until you were older and ready for the choice you had to make. You described it as a beach. Ahadi pressed her lips together firmly, not liking the direction this discussion was taking at all. Her father, Uriel, gently glided his hand over her hair to reassure her.

Yes, Ahadi, I did. I met Ganymede there along that stretch of beach when I was a child. It was night and so quiet, so serene. But I know now, that the waves I looked out across that night under the moonlight were not my oceans of power. They were our fathers’. As Ganymede has since explained – the ocean that all others flow from, said Alex honestly.

And you were there, in that deep water? In those memories? Nikolaj asked in a hushed voice.

Indeed I was, Nikolaj. Though I did not realize it at the time, and I did not deliberately send my spirit there searching for answers. No, it went of its own accord, looking and, I think, trying to determine where the discord we were all sensing was coming from. It was a place that I told Gaius afterward, I just didn’t want to go back to, Alex admitted.

But, that was selfish of me, and I have since listened to reason. I understand now, that if the Lord is granting me access to these deeper waters, I will from time to time have to seek knowledge there. Ganymede explained that because I now channel power from all of our fathers, I can go to this place to acquire the knowledge of how to wield the Light and command it to fulfill His purposes. I can travel into their waters now, just as I can my own.

And you have to go there, to look in on the Fallen’s plans? Rohan asked, his jaw flexing as he quietly voiced his thoughts.

I think so, Rohan, Alex said truthfully.

He slowly shook his head as he looked from her to Gaius.

I know, Rohan. Believe me, I know, Gaius said, just as levelly.

Ganymede, Rohan said, turning his attention to the most powerful angel in the room, I will not sit here and pretend that this makes me feel anything other than sheer dread. Elrick’s right, when he says we cannot lose her again. But, more than just our heartache, I have been there for all the years Gaius lived without Alex’s soul. I have picked him up, cleaned him up, and cared for my brother when he could not do so for himself. And as much as it would hurt us to see Alex ended, it would destroy Gaius this time. She cannot fall.

And she will not, Rohan. So sayeth the Lord, Ganymede vowed seriously. Think you that I would risk my own child, one whom I lost once too, to gain answers and knowledge?

No, sir. I don’t think you would deliberately sacrifice Alex or put her in harm’s way, he said without delay, for he knew this with all certainty.

Of course I would not, Rohan. Though I was not by your side every day for the time her soul was not here with you all, I grieved her loss. Most deeply, Ganymede said with raw emotion resounding in his voice, and his eyes clouding with unshed tears. And like Gaius, I would put myself before her to take the full breadth of whatever danger was encroaching. That is why I and your fathers are here this day. We will work together to see this through, and we will not lose one of you to our misguided and lost brothers. Not one of you, he declared.

I understand, sir, Rohan sighed.

Rohan, I know this is hard for you and all of the other immortal children, Ganymede said a bit more gently. Do not think that I or your fathers are flippant about what is building here. Far from it, son. We feel the unease and trepidation, just as you do. But, we know that we are far greater than any other entity that draws breath. The Fallen are but shadows of what they once were, what your fathers still are: the Lord’s own Host.

"And because we channel His power, His Light, and His grace, we shall overcome. Never doubt the Lord or what He wills into being. He made Alexandria just as she is for whatever purposes He might have need of her. And therefore, she will survive and continue to serve as the Nephilim’s guardian and protector for the rest of time. We are all learning from the mistakes of the past."

Rohan, I’m not going to take any risks or make any decisions without all of you by my side, Alex said quietly. And I am never, ever going to leave Gaius. Never.

Rohan smiled sadly and nodded his head at her. He coughed to clear the emotion he did not want coming forth, though his heart betrayed his mind. His jaw flexed a few more times as he worked diligently with Sabina’s help to rein it in.

Why don’t Gaius and I tell you everything we’ve been mulling over these last few weeks, Alex offered, sensing that they all needed something of purpose and logic to focus on for a time. Let’s look over a few facts, and talk it through. Okay?

Yes, let’s do that, Gaius said, exhaling at length and running a hand through his hair.

Alex took in a deep breath herself, and asked the Lord for courage and the fortitude she would need to lead her brethren through the heaviness she could feel settling over them. She prayed for His Light to come and roll back the storm clouds, part them as He had the Red Sea for Moses. And she asked that she could be brave, when He needed her to be the most.

Not my will, but Thine, Alex whispered in her heart, and felt a warmth spreading there that reassured her, all was indeed well in hand.

Chapter 3

Alex stood and walked over to the laptop, and turned both it and the projector on. As they warmed up, she stepped over to where Rohan sat. She bent and hugged him tightly, whispering in his ear that she loved him. When she tried to straighten away, Rohan just held on, and Alex began to chuckle from his reluctance to let her go.

You have to turn loose, she giggled.

No I don’t, he countered, finally laughing with her a bit. They heard others in the circle chuckling with them.

Oh, Rohan. You forget, I’ve known you a long time. And therefore, I know exactly which spot makes you flinch, she said mischievously, as her fingers tickled him just under his left shoulder blade. Rohan did jump, and Alex stood up as his arms fell away from her.

Gotcha, she smirked, and raised and then lowered her eyebrows playfully.

Don’t think I don’t know who you learned that little gesture from, he said gruffly.

I’m a good student, she countered, ruffling his hair and winking at Sabina. Alex moved over and sat down at the small table bearing the laptop.

Alright, Gaius said, shaking his head at the two of them and rising from his leather chair. He walked over to where Alex sat and lightly settled his hand on her shoulder while she opened the documents they had created. Each file detailed the encounters they had experienced with dark immortals and the Fallen since Alex’s return.

Ganymede and my father asked us if we would begin looking to the past for patterns, observations if you will, of all the battles Alex has lived through in her current lifetime. Over the last few weeks, we have done just that, and we know that you’ve noticed us mentally conversing with one another, Gaius said, looking around the circle. He saw the council members nod their heads in silent agreement, and so he continued.

At first, Alex and I created individual documents for each dark one. We replayed the words they spoke, leaving no memory untouched. Then, we began to group the encounters into specific time periods. And when we did that, a distinct pattern began to emerge. Sweetheart? he prompted and stepped to the side of the table so all could see the screen.

We looked first at the words Bertrand and Aagon used, because they were the first to assail me, Alex said, gesturing to a flow chart she and Gaius had created. Both called me Arianna, and both asked me how I was here. They saw me not as Alexandria, but as the one whom my soul was before. Yet they seemed to sense I was still human, and they counted on that weakness and my hesitation so they could act decisively against me and then Jack.

Chronologically, Kronis was the next dark immortal I talked with, though I was doing so through my aura the night he and his troops descended on Aeoferth. He also called me Arianna initially, but, she added, he quickly corrected himself and used my name. We feel he did so, because he alone at that time knew the truth about how Arianna died, and he understood I was not quite the same as I was before. With a deeper understanding of what was, Kronis related to me differently.

Then came the night Rangor sent troops to end all of you and my human family. When I was so weak, failing, and all my defenses were down, Alex sighed, seeing clearly back into the vision Kronis had given her. Kronis held me firmly to his body in the dream he sent into my mind, and he called me Alexandria without hesitation. He saw me for who I was, and he tried to give me what little window of time he could without his father realizing what he was doing. Still, he alone addressed me as Alex.

Throughout the moments we entered the Cadman bookshops, one after another referred to Alex as Arianna, Gaius said, settling his hands on his waist. Hauras called her Arianna as well, and referred to me as her husband still. And the four who came for Alex on her rooftop terrace also told her they wanted to make her husband very jealous by what they planned to do to her.

At that time, Alex had been well shielded and cocooned by us. She had been protected by all of us, from the moment we learned that Bertrand had found her. Only the night we traveled to Urr Parish Church to face Rangor did we hear her referred to as Alexandria. Of course, the demon knew who she was, for it was Rangor’s sin that brought about the change for her soul, Gaius said evenly.

When we battled those whom Orus sent, Alex continued, Patronne actually called me Sabina’s fair-haired relation who existed, but should not. They were beginning to understand at that point that I was no longer Arianna, but they were still thinking of me in terms of what was. Only Orus used my name, though, calling me Alexandria as soon as we stood facing one another on the battlefield.

But, Alex qualified, that is all he could do. Just call me Alex, for he was not seeing me either. Not really. I asked Ganymede in London, after he helped pull me back from our fathers’ ocean of memories, what the Fallen could see – the past, present, or future. He said the past and future had been stripped away, but that they could see the present. I’ve come to learn it is why Orus had no knowledge of how we used my Light and aura to hide us all away on the field of battle when we faced Rangor. He never saw it coming when we used the same strategy with him that morning.

Yes, interjected Archimedes. I have mulled these two battles over in my mind extensively of late. For Orus to have not witnessed what happened to his brother, is very telling indeed. He should have had some knowledge of how strong you had grown and of what a formidable opponent you are now, Alex. But he was just as blind to your talents and abilities as was Rangor.

Ah, and that’s the key to it all, Archimedes, said Alex confidently, nodding her head and smiling broadly now. "They have been blind to it all, and for very good reason. What does my aura, my Light, look like when it rises? Hmmm? In moments of great peril or danger, what does it do now, that it never did before in my soul’s past?"

It is blinding, as I said before, Gaius said assuredly, letting his eyes roam over the council. So much so, that no matter how hard the Fallen or their children try, they cannot see past it. When Alex goes about her daily life, she appears very human, normal if you will, he chuckled. But when she or her loved ones are threatened, Alex turns into a column of Celestial Light, and it completely obscures their view.

They can no more see her, than I can stare into the sun for a prolonged period of time and tell you of the waves of gasses and flares which exist there, he explained. "And through conversations with Ganymede and Haniel, Alex and I have learned that this is all part of His design and plan. We are indeed learning from the mistakes of the past. And in doing so, our Lord created Alex’s immortal body to keep all enemies at bay – the children of the Fallen and their fathers this time. For when Rangor took Arianna, he changed the landscape forever."

In the most recent battles we lived through, the dialog changed – drastically, Alex said distastefully. I was no longer Arianna to the dark immortals. No, I was most assuredly Alexandria, and they were studying me in earnest.

"Herrick specifically said that Arianna was always weakened by her human half and that I was not her. He said I could choose a different path if I joined him and left all of you. He knew of the Groabans, and knew that I cared enough about them to keep the battle from encroaching on them. And he explicitly said that I had Arianna’s power now in me, and that I was new enough