Akaicia had enough of the rain by now - the hellfire was more her climate, but there just wasn't as many victims down in Hell as there was on the surface of Earth. An umbrella guarded the fiery-haired vixen's cascading curls from the persistent downpour as her leather-soled boots splashed lightly through the forming puddles. Her direction of travel? Towards the cathedral to see what exactly all the talk was about. Not that she could enter, but she was certain she could lure a kind soul or two out from its belly. The entrance of the quaint building soon come into view, and those brilliant emerald eyes took a moment to take it in. She then wrapped an arm around her torso and began to shiver, huddling into herself to continued forward until she was underneath the protection of one of the buildings eaves. Conveniently, by a broken window. A series of coughs broke out from her lungs, causing the petite red-headed woman to bend over, was she ill? She paused only for a breath before another series of coughs shook her body. She used the back of a hand to wipe her ruby-red lips before clearing her throat of whatever hoarseness the spasm had inflicted. She continued to shiver, leaning back against the stone wall.
Higanbana had taken to sticking around the piano more and more lately. She seemed to be at peace when her fingers were dancing across the pale keys. The music often had a melancholy note to it, yet was beautifully sweet. She was not playing the keys today but staring at them with a strange emptiness while black tresses dangled alongside her face. It was not until she heard the coughing that she became animate. Her head tilted sideways and turned just enough that she could glance from the corners of her eyes. Someone was out there...And they were not well...? Biyu stepped softly down from the bench, her bare feet making not a sound as she made her way towards the broken window to peer out. Her gaze was vague, as if she was looking through the woman, rather than at her. Dark brows pulled in to a fine pinch, then she tilted her head. "Little lost ill one..." she whispered while brushing her fingers against the smooth part of the broken glass. "Why...do you stand in the rain...?"
Samuel Leo was keeping a close eye on the people who had taken to calling this well stocked place a home. He too, heard the cough, but Higan was the first curious soul to walk forward, Samuel not far behind her as he eyed the woman curiously. "Hello." he greeted, offering a bright warm smile of greeting to the woman as Biyu asked her such questions. Samuel glanced over at Higan, and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Not lost, anymore." was assured to Higan, smiling at her. "Luke 15:32. `But we had to celebrate and be glad because this brother of yours was dead and is alive. He was lost and is found.`" was said warmly, smiling over to the woman. "Hello, do you need some clothes, food water? We have all of the above ma'am, and some room still for shelter, if you are seeking it." Bright blue eyes shimmering with inner joy. And that insane calm in the end days for a human. Samuel Leo still peacefully exuded from him as he smiled over at both ladies. "Unless you are unsure, it's completely understandable if you are. Ask any questions you like."
Akaicia had a knack for predicting the instincts of the human race. She'd been at it for a very, very long time. They never seemed to falter in their predictability. She heard the echoing footsteps approaching, and then soon enough she could hear that vulnerable heart beating from within the building, just behind her now. Then came the voice. Then came another human, a man this time. She straightened herself as much as an ill woman would have been able - her porcelain features portrayed her fragile state perfectly. Tears overcame her emerald eyes and her lower lip began to tremble, "I can't find him! I have to find him!" She wept quietly as the hand that hand been clutching her side came up to weakly cover her face. Both of the humans were still indoors, where she could not go - holy grounds, she simply could not enter. "I've lost my friend and I have not seen him." Her petite body trembled with another series of shivers as she stepped back out into the rain, her hand falling from her face, and her teary eyes searching the sodden land longingly. "I cannot rest until I've found him, he's so weak and there's so much evil... I fear what might have happened to him, I pray I am not too late." She spun on a heal, coughing, and let her gaze rest upon Samuel and woman next to him. "Can you help me, please...?"
Higanbana's head inclined to one side before Samuel made his approach. She tuned in to his thoughts like turning a switch on a radio. It was the familiar hum of ideas and intentions. The hand upon her shoulder was a familiar weight and warmth that she accepted without trouble. Her black eyes were fixed still upon the woman, however and her thin fingers pressed harder into the glass before sliding down to the sill. The words flowing from the woman's lips brought a faint frown to her own. At last, her gaze slipped past the red head to search the world outside. The heavy rainfall did allow for much to be seen. She did not utter a peep this time but eventually her disquieting gaze locked upon the woman again.
Samuel Leo soon as she started to cry and panic, Samuel frowned. "Ma'am, have you ever considered that perhaps, he has been called to live with Christ, forever?" was asked. So many married couples that had been split when this started. Samuel could not fully comprehend the total number all across America. But his own church members, full on in tears that during the sermon. They were just suddenly gone in a flash. Samuel had tried to console them, begged them to stay and learn about Jesus. But they turned away from him, hardened by the sheer proof that God would take those who were for him, all for him and only those. The tears that streamed so down freely on her face, caused Samuels heart to ache. He believed her act, and his full heart bursting with over flowing love and concern, it was beating heavily in his chest, compelling him to step outside and if not stopped, wrapping his arms around the woman without hesitation to give her comfort. "I am sorry you have lost your friend. But you have been blessed today, to run across this building, Ma'am. And although there may be evil, and it may have taken him. This...is holy. And nothing here, that is evil, can enter here. There is still hope, you have to believe that." Smiling at her as she said pray. "You are a Christian?" was asked. Truly, this guy...had too much love and care.
Akaicia's act wasn't entirely false - she was actively seeking out a man she loved dearly. She had heard that he'd died a long time ago - but this place wore his scent, and a girl with features resembling his own had crossed the woman's path twice now. She funneled this act from that spot in her mind. Where the hell was he?! He had to be alive. For a moment she regarded Higanbana's troubled gaze, her eyes flickering between the woman and the man before her, now silently begging for their help. "I have not considered it, because it is not true!" She snapped passionately. "He is still alive. I can feel it in my bones." She sobbed again, and a trembling hand rose to point out into the woods, "He must be out there somewhere, I cannot find him here in town. I have searched every building." She implied now that he must be lost in Purgatory. "He must have taken a wrong turn. But he is not dead. I do not believe that." Her words came from a place of true meaning, a place that she truly felt passion for the survival of her dearest friend. Perhaps that's why she was able to put on such a good show. When Samuel exited the building and approaching her, embraced her, she fell into him sobbing. Her head lay upon his shoulder, and her arms shakily surrounded his waist as she accepted his embrace. "Can you please help me look for him? I need help to find him." Her body shook with her sobs, as her tears wet his shoulder, her umbrella had now fallen to the ground as her hands gripped his waist. "I have not been shown the way." She answered his question of Christianity.
Higanbana's mind was being overwhelmed. Her natural vision seemed to go grey while the thoughts and feelings of others knocked around the insides of her brain. For a moment, she forgot who she even was, lost her sense of self. She became them, if only at a distance. Her head bowed forward and her small body swayed. The girl was delayed in following Samuel out with uneven, unsteady steps. Her hand reached out to grab ahold of Samuel's shirt from the side while she forced her eyes to raise towards the distressed woman. Biyu's lips began to move in their soundless way as her face contorted with confusion. Head shaking, she looked off in the direction that Akaicia pointed. "All shall be...be lost..." She gripped the shirt tighter. "Lost forever. Lost to them." A quiet sound that was half crackle, half whimper scratched in her throat.
Samuel Leo the way she snapped those words, like she didn't want to believe it's possible, had Samuel smiling in a full-hearted compassionate way. "Mark 13:32-37 - But of that day and [that] hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. " A pause as Samuel thought over another verse and spoke it. "Revelation 3:10 - Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth." Head tilted at her as he smiled still, still allowing her in his arms if she sought physical comfort. "The Lord does not lie. It is truth. He is truth." Her insistence he was still alive had Samuel frowning once more. Most of those who WERE alive were no longer human. The few that DID and HAD survived were either in his church or at the sanctuary. Blue eyes shifting to the woods she pointed at. But seeing her absolute passion that her friend was still here on earth, had Samuel nodding. "If you really wish to find him, then. Perhaps on top of the trip I already planned for one of the survivors who wishes to know the fate of her people...can be planned to seek out your friend as well. I also know a man that could possibly tell you his where abouts. His name is Richard. If you want immediate scouting, he'd the man to turn to. I'm afraid I cannot leave my flock right away to find the lost sheep." Samuel knew he could off a few noxsine, but a whole herd? Nah. He'd die. And although he wasn't afraid of death, it was suicide which was against the bible. So he simply wouldn't do it. He was a tad surprised at her grabby nature, of course. But Samuel simply accepted it as a overemotional reaction, patting her lightly on the shoulder as she clung to him. "I can show you the way, if you and your friend are ever interested. I can." Samuel Leo spoken softly in hushed tones. :Biyu spoke up and Samuel glanced over at her, curiously. Grabbing at his shirt didn't seem to bother him however, from her. Nor was her standing so close behind him. He was often used to this from Biyu now. She often liked to at least touch him and he was certain it had something to do with the Holy Spirit in him. Smiling at him as she gripped it tighter, Sameul soon was turning to try face both women, one hand lifting to grasp Biyus hand. "What is it?" he asked her quietly. She didn't often tighten her grip, after all. That was new.
Akaicia's voice caught in her throat as she tried to speak, her eyes rising to rest on Higanbana as she too exited the church and began to speak. "Lost to who...?" She whispered despairingly, "Those monsters that come out during the night?" Of course, she meant the Noxsine. Something inside of her told her that her game was quickly coming to an end. There were many dead ends in this twisted tale - many people knew her face, she'd been lucky to stumble across these two that did not. She sniffled and brought a hand up to daintily wipe the tears from her eyes. "I would greatly appreciate that," she sighed shakily, "I would be in debt to you and this Richard," of course, that name, she knew it. She'd run into the man on numerous occasions. Samuel spoke of Riddick. He would know her face instantly. Well, game over. "Can you please? I need guidance. I need help." Her words were but whispers as they slid through her trembling lips. She feigned exhaustion, while still leaning on the man. "I'm so grateful to both of you," her voice was but a hushed whisper now, and she'd become very still. Her ruby-red lips pulled upwards into a wicked smile and in that same instant the hand that hand been wiping her tears gripped the man tightly by the throat, her head turned and ivory teeth aimed to sink deep into his neck and she'd hastily begin to drink. Her other hand? Would quickly seize Higan's wrist if her reflexes weren't swift enough, keeping her from running away. Maybe she'd get lucky enough to have two feedings in a row.
Higanbana's face was slapped by strands of her own wet hair for how hard she was shaking her head. She could not convey what she was trying to get across. Her mind was a shattered thing and the pieces did not always connect. "Them," she said again. "Them, them." Samuel's question earned a despairing stare, her eyes widened as her breath grew quicker. "Snake in the grass," she hissed. "Slithering close...pretty snake. One of them..." But it was too late. The violence of the biting happened and her own wrist was taken. Biyu was always rather easy to move around. She was frail and, more often than not, unsteady. A wide-eyed gaze fixed upon them while her face remained otherwise blank. Her pulse raised and her frame trembled. "No...no....nonononono," she rasped. Her head jerked downward and her fingers curled in towards her palms. Loose pebbles and stones began to tremble on the ground to the same frequency of her body. Biyu's teeth grit and the stones shook harder.
Samuel Leo furrowed his eyebrows as she spoke. Akaicia wasn't wrong, the game was ending steadily fast due to Biyus ability. The way she was shaking her head no, how she kept repeating them, had Samuel furrowing his brows and gazing at Biyu more so then Akaicia, and that was his mistake. Snake in the grass however, any Christian could understand. Samuel turned his blue eyes to Aka, to explain that he needed to leave. Because how frantic Biyu was acting, he was certain that it was not safe for them outside here anymore. Pretty snake, however, had Samuel freezing, muscles tensing as blue eyes narrowed on Akaicia. And although he might have led her to Riddicks place of living, he was stopped by how still the woman became. Her grip wouldn't let go as his free hand lifted to try and pry her hands off of him. Before he knew it. Samuel Leo felt hands launching and gripping his neck, causing Samuel to react by gripping her own hands and crying out to God for his guidance and help against the wicked. Not let them harm your servant oh mighty Lord. Just as he finished, those teeth sunk in and Samuel closed those blue eyes tightly, gritting his own teeth in pain as he resisted the noise that was dying to come out. Pain laced his entire body and Samuel was pleading for God to end his pain in the next instant. Blue eyes slowly opened, helpless in the grip of the vampiress, to gaze at Biyu peacefully. Even Akaicia would notice, despite the surprise of her attack and the pain...that heart wasn't pounding any faster. There was no fear in him, he simply accepted what was happening. In fact...as Biyu could hear...Samuel was rejoicing. That it had been him and not Biyu that had been bitten. His hand released her, and shoved her even, to keep her from the initial threat. "Go to the sanctuary, Biyu." was whispered. "The Lord your God waits for you there." was pleaded to her in a soft silent plea, blue eyes closing as he struggled, yet still somewhat spoke, with rattled breathing. "Revelation 21:4 - And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Romans 8:18 - For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with the glory which shall be revealed in us." Was he still, spouting bible verses and being so assured in his pain? He wasn't even fighting her grip, simply letting it happen. Not even aware, that he was making it easier on himself as he did so.
Akaicia had two pretty little presents now, one firmly secured in each hand. Samuel's blood drained down the back of her throat with ease, and her pupils dilated as the coppery flavor engulfed her taste buds. It had been a good long while since she'd last had a proper feeding. She truthfully was beginning to lose some of her strength. Biyu was pulled in closer as she began to fret - Akaicia was as pretty snake, indeed. Her vision was obscured, the closeness between Samuel and herself didn't allow much, but the sounds... she could hear the vibrations, the stones clattering against the ground in tune with the sound of Biyu's fearfully pulsating heart. Her eyes narrowed with annoyance as Samuel began to speak - spewing his Christian filth and praying to his God. Once upon a time she'd believed in such things. But look at what she'd become, she'd overpowered such beliefs long ago. Samuel's effort to shove Biyu away would only be successful if Biyu managed to maneuver herself just so and twist out from the vampire's grasp. She continued to drink, and soon Samuel would be feeling very weak, depleted of most of his blood. But no, she wouldn't drink every last drop. She needed to be careful about who she killed - or how many she killed - in a post apocalyptic world like this. If she wasn't careful, she'd run out of food. She retracted her fangs from his neck, pulling away, and shoved him out of her grasp. Mascara streamed down the vampires cheeks now, soiled by her feigned tears and the rain. "Your God cannot save you from the demons that now walk the surface of this Earth," she scoffed, "where was your God when Hell rose from the darkness and took over the land your Father held in such high esteem?" She mused lightly, sure that he would have a response. She knew his type. Her hair hung wet against her jacket, but she still managed to look just as stunning - it was in her nature, she was an apex predator of supreme beauty and intelligence. Rain could not spoil that. She'd pull Biyu in even closer now, one hand holding the fragile woman's wrist firmly while her other hand rose up to caress the smooth skin of her neck. "My, my, aren't you terrified, little one." She practically purred. "If you cooperate with me I can ensure that it doesn't hurt. Be mind, little doll, and I will protect you better than this preacher ever could."
Higanbana swung backward from the shoving and pressed her feet down hard into the pavement to keep from slipping. While one hand twisted, the other scratched at the woman's wrist. Her words no longer were english, but in rapid, disjointed Chinese. If she heard the praying, she did not seem to give indication. The girl had gone into an animal's frenzied mode that knew only the sense of survival. Her own teeth were next while the stones clattered into a roll towards them. Some bounced off of her own feet or hit Samuel in the shin but these 'attacks' were erratic and varying in intensity...That is...until her direct attention was brought to Akaicia. She stared at the woman, eyes wider yet as her lips parted. Hair clung to her skin while the rain continued to wash away what dirt had been upon her. The stones, large and small, all began to steadily raise from the ground at the same time and circle them. The glaze that began to form in her eyes may have hinted that her mind had gone somewhere else. "Gone..." she said. "Perished, flesh and spirits all."
Samuel Leo could see how her anger at his verses was getting to her. Samuel could not care less though, the Jesus freak, simply would not stop. As Biyu tried to fight, Samuel frowned. "Proverbs 3:31 Do not envy a man of violence And do not choose any of his ways." was spouted out even as Akaicia kept her iron grip on Biyu, blue eyes gazed to her as she spat her anger and hatred towards God, throwing the human male and easily causing him to crumple to the ground, falling flat on his back as he laughed, spreading his hands wide as the rain poured onto the earth, the holy spirit...although faint usually, was feeling a bit more alive in him as he kept rejoicing over his pain. Slowly, he'd stand. "Don't you get it by now? You disbeliever. This is his plan. The earth was never his throne, never his city. It was ours, when we bit the fruit of knowledge. It separated us from Gods holy city. He is simply testing us, and will take those who pass it, to be with him forever." Although he was pelted by the random rock or stick, he still, staggeringly leaning against the wall, bleeding stood and spoke. "To be where there is no pain, no evil, no unholy abominations such as yourself, Ma'am. You claim hell has conquered, but you yet have seen the end of this battle. I know who wins. It is Yahweh, Lion of Judah that will destroy the wicked and show his power when his time has come." head tilted up as he smiled brightly at her, as if he knew that he was on the winning side no matter what. "My God has saved me from the demons that roam this earth. You do not believe it because of my appearance. But there is more than meets the eye, and you will always be blinded due to your wicked path you have foolishly chosen." Eyeing Biyu being almost bit, had Samuel frowning and his cries to God was clear as he fell on his knees. Raising out his hands up to the sky as he cried out. "Jehovah! Spare your wandering child that has returned home. Lord! Please. Hear my plea." was cried out, staring up at the raining sky as his sight waivered. Blue eyes flickered over to Akaicia. "I offer her peace, something your kind can never offer nor can keep the promise. You will perish in the Glory of God. She can withstand, if she chooses right. That is what I offer her. Miss. Eternal life in heaven with God." Head tilted up. Yeah, try to offer her that Akaicia. Blue eyes flicked back up to the sky, closing his eyes as he fervently quietly prayed.
Derick had been watching her for weeks. He knew she was looking for her but his own daughter had been roaming freely and his hatred for Addalyn was far larger than his want to meet with Akaicia again. But alas, now the woman is getting reckless.. Derick is no longer a mere vampire like he was in the past. After his own daughter had him killed, it was his hatred that brought him back into the high-ranking demon that he is, today. Despite the hatred for his daughter, he could never bring himself to harm her. She's damaged and broken in way that no one could even imagine and he blames himself for part of that. So perhaps he deserved what he had gotten in terms of death so many years ago. When Akaicia made her appearance in the city of souls, he instantly began following her but keeping his distance within the shadows. He wasn't too far from where the woman was, crying and playing a game he knew all too well. Whether or not she meant to draw Derick out or not, she may have just received her wish. He sighed and rolled his eyes before growling. The ridiculous speed that he once had as a vampire wasn't quite as fast, but fast enough. "Leave them be, Akaicia." He demanded as he walked out in the usual, fancy suit he wore. His eyes, a black and a neutral look. His eyes glanced towards the preacher who's hymns only annoyed him, giving him a slight headache. "You," He walked over, moving to grab at his arm if he didn't push Derick away, before shoving him back towards the doors of the church, "Go the fuck back inside and stay there. Or your 'God' will do little to stop me from taking your life." He hissed. He believes in no God. For as many millennia he's lived, he's saw no grace from a 'God.' Had Akaicia not let the girl go, he would've growled in a warning. He's not the same gentle man he once was, and that would be made very clear to everyone, here. If she did, he would motion for the girl to "shoo" back into the grace of the 'church' while he talked to the vampire.
[#] Weather Alert: The rain begins to let up and it left nothing but the cold and darkness. The noxsine once again, begin to stir around the night. Get inside while you can, ladies and gents.
Akaicia's alluring smile was plastered wide across her porcelain features now. She was not angry, she was really quite amused, despite the fact that she'd dropped her umbrella - her black jeans clung to her flesh, and her white blouse beneath her unzipped leather blazer was now transparent. For those who didn't know who she was - what she was - she looked like nothing more than a young woman lost out in the rain, soaked through, and cold. But that look burning behind emerald eyes spoke of something entirely different. "He's not listening to you, preacher, you shouldn't waste your breath." she dismissed Samuel then, baring her fangs and jaw spread, about to bite into the trembling Chinese woman's neck, but something stopped her. Her nostrils flared as she inhaled and every muscle in her body froze. It was him. Not that watered down scent belonging to Addalyn. But him. Derick. She straightened her posture and searched the waterlogged terrain, but he stepped out soon enough. He'd never truly approved of the games she played. But truly believed him to be dead. She hadn't been trying to lure him out of the shadows. She'd merely been tryin to get the story out of the one that resembled him. Normally, she wasn't so obedient. But she was taken aback by his appearance. She released Biyu, shoving her off towards the building without another word. She then stood there frozen. Her eyes on the man in the suit. Her eyes teared again, but for real this time, and anger flared across her face as her temperature rose. The rain that had soaked her through was beginning to evaporate, rising in wisps of steam. "You're dead." She hissed from behind clenched teeth. "You have no right to be telling me what to do right now." Betrayal? Could that be what she was feeling right now? Perhaps. But there were a hell of a lot of feelings bubbling to the surface right now. Danger!
Higanbana brought the ring of stones towards them but, before they could strike either woman, they dropped from the air and cracked upon the ground. Biyu did not need to be told twice to leave such a situation. She eyed the two warily as she began to utter a long string of incomprehensible words under her breath. Quick steps brought her closer to Samuel whose arm she grabbed with both hands. Black eyes remained fixed upon the pair but she was trying to help him stand so that they could go within the safe haven the stone walls provided. "They approach," she said to him. "Riding on a lonely shadow...hungry...so hungry..."
Samuel Leo couldn't push him away, it was surprising he was still awake. Samuel was alive, and breathing. Akaicias adamant disbelief had Samuel laughing, clapping in pure glee that he was witnessing to the dead that wouldn't hear. "He hears me, alright." was whispered, chest rising and falling rapidly as he kept smiling that bright smile, that he really shouldn't be doing so. But he was so adamantly solid in his faith in God at this moment, that he didn't doubt one bit...he would answer Samuels prayer. One way or another. And as the demon stepped in, Samuel almost wanted to sigh. God had jokes, alright. "Samuel." came his response, smiling as he cussed him out and told him that God would do little to save him. No doubt, this little human was packing something that Derick would recognize. That holy spirit was bright in him, although weak, clearly still seen in his chest, right over his heart. Luke 10:19 Look, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." came his reply to Derick, even as he shoved Samuel succesfully into the door, Samuel would simply crumple back to his knees right outside the door line, falling onto his knees and praying. Akaicia returning Biyu safetly into him, had his arms wrapping around Biyu, even as she ran her tongue in a different language he didn't know. But then both hands were grabbing his arm, and Samuel nodded solmenly, staring at them both. "Matthew 12:43-45 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth [it] empty, swept, and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last [state] of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation." the last of scriptures barely raspedly and raggedly spoken through rattly breathing as he leaned heavily on Biyu, allowing her to lead him into the safe haven, away from the beautiful snake and the trees. "Let us rest in the Lords house." was whispered to Biyu, walking slowly away and being sure to place himself in front of her, in case Akaicia or the demon try some kind of trickery.
Higanbana had taken to sticking around the piano more and more lately. She seemed to be at peace when her fingers were dancing across the pale keys. The music often had a melancholy note to it, yet was beautifully sweet. She was not playing the keys today but staring at them with a strange emptiness while black tresses dangled alongside her face. It was not until she heard the coughing that she became animate. Her head tilted sideways and turned just enough that she could glance from the corners of her eyes. Someone was out there...And they were not well...? Biyu stepped softly down from the bench, her bare feet making not a sound as she made her way towards the broken window to peer out. Her gaze was vague, as if she was looking through the woman, rather than at her. Dark brows pulled in to a fine pinch, then she tilted her head. "Little lost ill one..." she whispered while brushing her fingers against the smooth part of the broken glass. "Why...do you stand in the rain...?"
Samuel Leo was keeping a close eye on the people who had taken to calling this well stocked place a home. He too, heard the cough, but Higan was the first curious soul to walk forward, Samuel not far behind her as he eyed the woman curiously. "Hello." he greeted, offering a bright warm smile of greeting to the woman as Biyu asked her such questions. Samuel glanced over at Higan, and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Not lost, anymore." was assured to Higan, smiling at her. "Luke 15:32. `But we had to celebrate and be glad because this brother of yours was dead and is alive. He was lost and is found.`" was said warmly, smiling over to the woman. "Hello, do you need some clothes, food water? We have all of the above ma'am, and some room still for shelter, if you are seeking it." Bright blue eyes shimmering with inner joy. And that insane calm in the end days for a human. Samuel Leo still peacefully exuded from him as he smiled over at both ladies. "Unless you are unsure, it's completely understandable if you are. Ask any questions you like."
Akaicia had a knack for predicting the instincts of the human race. She'd been at it for a very, very long time. They never seemed to falter in their predictability. She heard the echoing footsteps approaching, and then soon enough she could hear that vulnerable heart beating from within the building, just behind her now. Then came the voice. Then came another human, a man this time. She straightened herself as much as an ill woman would have been able - her porcelain features portrayed her fragile state perfectly. Tears overcame her emerald eyes and her lower lip began to tremble, "I can't find him! I have to find him!" She wept quietly as the hand that hand been clutching her side came up to weakly cover her face. Both of the humans were still indoors, where she could not go - holy grounds, she simply could not enter. "I've lost my friend and I have not seen him." Her petite body trembled with another series of shivers as she stepped back out into the rain, her hand falling from her face, and her teary eyes searching the sodden land longingly. "I cannot rest until I've found him, he's so weak and there's so much evil... I fear what might have happened to him, I pray I am not too late." She spun on a heal, coughing, and let her gaze rest upon Samuel and woman next to him. "Can you help me, please...?"
Higanbana's head inclined to one side before Samuel made his approach. She tuned in to his thoughts like turning a switch on a radio. It was the familiar hum of ideas and intentions. The hand upon her shoulder was a familiar weight and warmth that she accepted without trouble. Her black eyes were fixed still upon the woman, however and her thin fingers pressed harder into the glass before sliding down to the sill. The words flowing from the woman's lips brought a faint frown to her own. At last, her gaze slipped past the red head to search the world outside. The heavy rainfall did allow for much to be seen. She did not utter a peep this time but eventually her disquieting gaze locked upon the woman again.
Samuel Leo soon as she started to cry and panic, Samuel frowned. "Ma'am, have you ever considered that perhaps, he has been called to live with Christ, forever?" was asked. So many married couples that had been split when this started. Samuel could not fully comprehend the total number all across America. But his own church members, full on in tears that during the sermon. They were just suddenly gone in a flash. Samuel had tried to console them, begged them to stay and learn about Jesus. But they turned away from him, hardened by the sheer proof that God would take those who were for him, all for him and only those. The tears that streamed so down freely on her face, caused Samuels heart to ache. He believed her act, and his full heart bursting with over flowing love and concern, it was beating heavily in his chest, compelling him to step outside and if not stopped, wrapping his arms around the woman without hesitation to give her comfort. "I am sorry you have lost your friend. But you have been blessed today, to run across this building, Ma'am. And although there may be evil, and it may have taken him. This...is holy. And nothing here, that is evil, can enter here. There is still hope, you have to believe that." Smiling at her as she said pray. "You are a Christian?" was asked. Truly, this guy...had too much love and care.
Akaicia's act wasn't entirely false - she was actively seeking out a man she loved dearly. She had heard that he'd died a long time ago - but this place wore his scent, and a girl with features resembling his own had crossed the woman's path twice now. She funneled this act from that spot in her mind. Where the hell was he?! He had to be alive. For a moment she regarded Higanbana's troubled gaze, her eyes flickering between the woman and the man before her, now silently begging for their help. "I have not considered it, because it is not true!" She snapped passionately. "He is still alive. I can feel it in my bones." She sobbed again, and a trembling hand rose to point out into the woods, "He must be out there somewhere, I cannot find him here in town. I have searched every building." She implied now that he must be lost in Purgatory. "He must have taken a wrong turn. But he is not dead. I do not believe that." Her words came from a place of true meaning, a place that she truly felt passion for the survival of her dearest friend. Perhaps that's why she was able to put on such a good show. When Samuel exited the building and approaching her, embraced her, she fell into him sobbing. Her head lay upon his shoulder, and her arms shakily surrounded his waist as she accepted his embrace. "Can you please help me look for him? I need help to find him." Her body shook with her sobs, as her tears wet his shoulder, her umbrella had now fallen to the ground as her hands gripped his waist. "I have not been shown the way." She answered his question of Christianity.
Higanbana's mind was being overwhelmed. Her natural vision seemed to go grey while the thoughts and feelings of others knocked around the insides of her brain. For a moment, she forgot who she even was, lost her sense of self. She became them, if only at a distance. Her head bowed forward and her small body swayed. The girl was delayed in following Samuel out with uneven, unsteady steps. Her hand reached out to grab ahold of Samuel's shirt from the side while she forced her eyes to raise towards the distressed woman. Biyu's lips began to move in their soundless way as her face contorted with confusion. Head shaking, she looked off in the direction that Akaicia pointed. "All shall be...be lost..." She gripped the shirt tighter. "Lost forever. Lost to them." A quiet sound that was half crackle, half whimper scratched in her throat.
Samuel Leo the way she snapped those words, like she didn't want to believe it's possible, had Samuel smiling in a full-hearted compassionate way. "Mark 13:32-37 - But of that day and [that] hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. " A pause as Samuel thought over another verse and spoke it. "Revelation 3:10 - Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth." Head tilted at her as he smiled still, still allowing her in his arms if she sought physical comfort. "The Lord does not lie. It is truth. He is truth." Her insistence he was still alive had Samuel frowning once more. Most of those who WERE alive were no longer human. The few that DID and HAD survived were either in his church or at the sanctuary. Blue eyes shifting to the woods she pointed at. But seeing her absolute passion that her friend was still here on earth, had Samuel nodding. "If you really wish to find him, then. Perhaps on top of the trip I already planned for one of the survivors who wishes to know the fate of her people...can be planned to seek out your friend as well. I also know a man that could possibly tell you his where abouts. His name is Richard. If you want immediate scouting, he'd the man to turn to. I'm afraid I cannot leave my flock right away to find the lost sheep." Samuel knew he could off a few noxsine, but a whole herd? Nah. He'd die. And although he wasn't afraid of death, it was suicide which was against the bible. So he simply wouldn't do it. He was a tad surprised at her grabby nature, of course. But Samuel simply accepted it as a overemotional reaction, patting her lightly on the shoulder as she clung to him. "I can show you the way, if you and your friend are ever interested. I can." Samuel Leo spoken softly in hushed tones. :Biyu spoke up and Samuel glanced over at her, curiously. Grabbing at his shirt didn't seem to bother him however, from her. Nor was her standing so close behind him. He was often used to this from Biyu now. She often liked to at least touch him and he was certain it had something to do with the Holy Spirit in him. Smiling at him as she gripped it tighter, Sameul soon was turning to try face both women, one hand lifting to grasp Biyus hand. "What is it?" he asked her quietly. She didn't often tighten her grip, after all. That was new.
Akaicia's voice caught in her throat as she tried to speak, her eyes rising to rest on Higanbana as she too exited the church and began to speak. "Lost to who...?" She whispered despairingly, "Those monsters that come out during the night?" Of course, she meant the Noxsine. Something inside of her told her that her game was quickly coming to an end. There were many dead ends in this twisted tale - many people knew her face, she'd been lucky to stumble across these two that did not. She sniffled and brought a hand up to daintily wipe the tears from her eyes. "I would greatly appreciate that," she sighed shakily, "I would be in debt to you and this Richard," of course, that name, she knew it. She'd run into the man on numerous occasions. Samuel spoke of Riddick. He would know her face instantly. Well, game over. "Can you please? I need guidance. I need help." Her words were but whispers as they slid through her trembling lips. She feigned exhaustion, while still leaning on the man. "I'm so grateful to both of you," her voice was but a hushed whisper now, and she'd become very still. Her ruby-red lips pulled upwards into a wicked smile and in that same instant the hand that hand been wiping her tears gripped the man tightly by the throat, her head turned and ivory teeth aimed to sink deep into his neck and she'd hastily begin to drink. Her other hand? Would quickly seize Higan's wrist if her reflexes weren't swift enough, keeping her from running away. Maybe she'd get lucky enough to have two feedings in a row.
Higanbana's face was slapped by strands of her own wet hair for how hard she was shaking her head. She could not convey what she was trying to get across. Her mind was a shattered thing and the pieces did not always connect. "Them," she said again. "Them, them." Samuel's question earned a despairing stare, her eyes widened as her breath grew quicker. "Snake in the grass," she hissed. "Slithering close...pretty snake. One of them..." But it was too late. The violence of the biting happened and her own wrist was taken. Biyu was always rather easy to move around. She was frail and, more often than not, unsteady. A wide-eyed gaze fixed upon them while her face remained otherwise blank. Her pulse raised and her frame trembled. "No...no....nonononono," she rasped. Her head jerked downward and her fingers curled in towards her palms. Loose pebbles and stones began to tremble on the ground to the same frequency of her body. Biyu's teeth grit and the stones shook harder.
Samuel Leo furrowed his eyebrows as she spoke. Akaicia wasn't wrong, the game was ending steadily fast due to Biyus ability. The way she was shaking her head no, how she kept repeating them, had Samuel furrowing his brows and gazing at Biyu more so then Akaicia, and that was his mistake. Snake in the grass however, any Christian could understand. Samuel turned his blue eyes to Aka, to explain that he needed to leave. Because how frantic Biyu was acting, he was certain that it was not safe for them outside here anymore. Pretty snake, however, had Samuel freezing, muscles tensing as blue eyes narrowed on Akaicia. And although he might have led her to Riddicks place of living, he was stopped by how still the woman became. Her grip wouldn't let go as his free hand lifted to try and pry her hands off of him. Before he knew it. Samuel Leo felt hands launching and gripping his neck, causing Samuel to react by gripping her own hands and crying out to God for his guidance and help against the wicked. Not let them harm your servant oh mighty Lord. Just as he finished, those teeth sunk in and Samuel closed those blue eyes tightly, gritting his own teeth in pain as he resisted the noise that was dying to come out. Pain laced his entire body and Samuel was pleading for God to end his pain in the next instant. Blue eyes slowly opened, helpless in the grip of the vampiress, to gaze at Biyu peacefully. Even Akaicia would notice, despite the surprise of her attack and the pain...that heart wasn't pounding any faster. There was no fear in him, he simply accepted what was happening. In fact...as Biyu could hear...Samuel was rejoicing. That it had been him and not Biyu that had been bitten. His hand released her, and shoved her even, to keep her from the initial threat. "Go to the sanctuary, Biyu." was whispered. "The Lord your God waits for you there." was pleaded to her in a soft silent plea, blue eyes closing as he struggled, yet still somewhat spoke, with rattled breathing. "Revelation 21:4 - And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Romans 8:18 - For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with the glory which shall be revealed in us." Was he still, spouting bible verses and being so assured in his pain? He wasn't even fighting her grip, simply letting it happen. Not even aware, that he was making it easier on himself as he did so.
Akaicia had two pretty little presents now, one firmly secured in each hand. Samuel's blood drained down the back of her throat with ease, and her pupils dilated as the coppery flavor engulfed her taste buds. It had been a good long while since she'd last had a proper feeding. She truthfully was beginning to lose some of her strength. Biyu was pulled in closer as she began to fret - Akaicia was as pretty snake, indeed. Her vision was obscured, the closeness between Samuel and herself didn't allow much, but the sounds... she could hear the vibrations, the stones clattering against the ground in tune with the sound of Biyu's fearfully pulsating heart. Her eyes narrowed with annoyance as Samuel began to speak - spewing his Christian filth and praying to his God. Once upon a time she'd believed in such things. But look at what she'd become, she'd overpowered such beliefs long ago. Samuel's effort to shove Biyu away would only be successful if Biyu managed to maneuver herself just so and twist out from the vampire's grasp. She continued to drink, and soon Samuel would be feeling very weak, depleted of most of his blood. But no, she wouldn't drink every last drop. She needed to be careful about who she killed - or how many she killed - in a post apocalyptic world like this. If she wasn't careful, she'd run out of food. She retracted her fangs from his neck, pulling away, and shoved him out of her grasp. Mascara streamed down the vampires cheeks now, soiled by her feigned tears and the rain. "Your God cannot save you from the demons that now walk the surface of this Earth," she scoffed, "where was your God when Hell rose from the darkness and took over the land your Father held in such high esteem?" She mused lightly, sure that he would have a response. She knew his type. Her hair hung wet against her jacket, but she still managed to look just as stunning - it was in her nature, she was an apex predator of supreme beauty and intelligence. Rain could not spoil that. She'd pull Biyu in even closer now, one hand holding the fragile woman's wrist firmly while her other hand rose up to caress the smooth skin of her neck. "My, my, aren't you terrified, little one." She practically purred. "If you cooperate with me I can ensure that it doesn't hurt. Be mind, little doll, and I will protect you better than this preacher ever could."
Higanbana swung backward from the shoving and pressed her feet down hard into the pavement to keep from slipping. While one hand twisted, the other scratched at the woman's wrist. Her words no longer were english, but in rapid, disjointed Chinese. If she heard the praying, she did not seem to give indication. The girl had gone into an animal's frenzied mode that knew only the sense of survival. Her own teeth were next while the stones clattered into a roll towards them. Some bounced off of her own feet or hit Samuel in the shin but these 'attacks' were erratic and varying in intensity...That is...until her direct attention was brought to Akaicia. She stared at the woman, eyes wider yet as her lips parted. Hair clung to her skin while the rain continued to wash away what dirt had been upon her. The stones, large and small, all began to steadily raise from the ground at the same time and circle them. The glaze that began to form in her eyes may have hinted that her mind had gone somewhere else. "Gone..." she said. "Perished, flesh and spirits all."
Samuel Leo could see how her anger at his verses was getting to her. Samuel could not care less though, the Jesus freak, simply would not stop. As Biyu tried to fight, Samuel frowned. "Proverbs 3:31 Do not envy a man of violence And do not choose any of his ways." was spouted out even as Akaicia kept her iron grip on Biyu, blue eyes gazed to her as she spat her anger and hatred towards God, throwing the human male and easily causing him to crumple to the ground, falling flat on his back as he laughed, spreading his hands wide as the rain poured onto the earth, the holy spirit...although faint usually, was feeling a bit more alive in him as he kept rejoicing over his pain. Slowly, he'd stand. "Don't you get it by now? You disbeliever. This is his plan. The earth was never his throne, never his city. It was ours, when we bit the fruit of knowledge. It separated us from Gods holy city. He is simply testing us, and will take those who pass it, to be with him forever." Although he was pelted by the random rock or stick, he still, staggeringly leaning against the wall, bleeding stood and spoke. "To be where there is no pain, no evil, no unholy abominations such as yourself, Ma'am. You claim hell has conquered, but you yet have seen the end of this battle. I know who wins. It is Yahweh, Lion of Judah that will destroy the wicked and show his power when his time has come." head tilted up as he smiled brightly at her, as if he knew that he was on the winning side no matter what. "My God has saved me from the demons that roam this earth. You do not believe it because of my appearance. But there is more than meets the eye, and you will always be blinded due to your wicked path you have foolishly chosen." Eyeing Biyu being almost bit, had Samuel frowning and his cries to God was clear as he fell on his knees. Raising out his hands up to the sky as he cried out. "Jehovah! Spare your wandering child that has returned home. Lord! Please. Hear my plea." was cried out, staring up at the raining sky as his sight waivered. Blue eyes flickered over to Akaicia. "I offer her peace, something your kind can never offer nor can keep the promise. You will perish in the Glory of God. She can withstand, if she chooses right. That is what I offer her. Miss. Eternal life in heaven with God." Head tilted up. Yeah, try to offer her that Akaicia. Blue eyes flicked back up to the sky, closing his eyes as he fervently quietly prayed.
Derick had been watching her for weeks. He knew she was looking for her but his own daughter had been roaming freely and his hatred for Addalyn was far larger than his want to meet with Akaicia again. But alas, now the woman is getting reckless.. Derick is no longer a mere vampire like he was in the past. After his own daughter had him killed, it was his hatred that brought him back into the high-ranking demon that he is, today. Despite the hatred for his daughter, he could never bring himself to harm her. She's damaged and broken in way that no one could even imagine and he blames himself for part of that. So perhaps he deserved what he had gotten in terms of death so many years ago. When Akaicia made her appearance in the city of souls, he instantly began following her but keeping his distance within the shadows. He wasn't too far from where the woman was, crying and playing a game he knew all too well. Whether or not she meant to draw Derick out or not, she may have just received her wish. He sighed and rolled his eyes before growling. The ridiculous speed that he once had as a vampire wasn't quite as fast, but fast enough. "Leave them be, Akaicia." He demanded as he walked out in the usual, fancy suit he wore. His eyes, a black and a neutral look. His eyes glanced towards the preacher who's hymns only annoyed him, giving him a slight headache. "You," He walked over, moving to grab at his arm if he didn't push Derick away, before shoving him back towards the doors of the church, "Go the fuck back inside and stay there. Or your 'God' will do little to stop me from taking your life." He hissed. He believes in no God. For as many millennia he's lived, he's saw no grace from a 'God.' Had Akaicia not let the girl go, he would've growled in a warning. He's not the same gentle man he once was, and that would be made very clear to everyone, here. If she did, he would motion for the girl to "shoo" back into the grace of the 'church' while he talked to the vampire.
[#] Weather Alert: The rain begins to let up and it left nothing but the cold and darkness. The noxsine once again, begin to stir around the night. Get inside while you can, ladies and gents.
Akaicia's alluring smile was plastered wide across her porcelain features now. She was not angry, she was really quite amused, despite the fact that she'd dropped her umbrella - her black jeans clung to her flesh, and her white blouse beneath her unzipped leather blazer was now transparent. For those who didn't know who she was - what she was - she looked like nothing more than a young woman lost out in the rain, soaked through, and cold. But that look burning behind emerald eyes spoke of something entirely different. "He's not listening to you, preacher, you shouldn't waste your breath." she dismissed Samuel then, baring her fangs and jaw spread, about to bite into the trembling Chinese woman's neck, but something stopped her. Her nostrils flared as she inhaled and every muscle in her body froze. It was him. Not that watered down scent belonging to Addalyn. But him. Derick. She straightened her posture and searched the waterlogged terrain, but he stepped out soon enough. He'd never truly approved of the games she played. But truly believed him to be dead. She hadn't been trying to lure him out of the shadows. She'd merely been tryin to get the story out of the one that resembled him. Normally, she wasn't so obedient. But she was taken aback by his appearance. She released Biyu, shoving her off towards the building without another word. She then stood there frozen. Her eyes on the man in the suit. Her eyes teared again, but for real this time, and anger flared across her face as her temperature rose. The rain that had soaked her through was beginning to evaporate, rising in wisps of steam. "You're dead." She hissed from behind clenched teeth. "You have no right to be telling me what to do right now." Betrayal? Could that be what she was feeling right now? Perhaps. But there were a hell of a lot of feelings bubbling to the surface right now. Danger!
Higanbana brought the ring of stones towards them but, before they could strike either woman, they dropped from the air and cracked upon the ground. Biyu did not need to be told twice to leave such a situation. She eyed the two warily as she began to utter a long string of incomprehensible words under her breath. Quick steps brought her closer to Samuel whose arm she grabbed with both hands. Black eyes remained fixed upon the pair but she was trying to help him stand so that they could go within the safe haven the stone walls provided. "They approach," she said to him. "Riding on a lonely shadow...hungry...so hungry..."
Samuel Leo couldn't push him away, it was surprising he was still awake. Samuel was alive, and breathing. Akaicias adamant disbelief had Samuel laughing, clapping in pure glee that he was witnessing to the dead that wouldn't hear. "He hears me, alright." was whispered, chest rising and falling rapidly as he kept smiling that bright smile, that he really shouldn't be doing so. But he was so adamantly solid in his faith in God at this moment, that he didn't doubt one bit...he would answer Samuels prayer. One way or another. And as the demon stepped in, Samuel almost wanted to sigh. God had jokes, alright. "Samuel." came his response, smiling as he cussed him out and told him that God would do little to save him. No doubt, this little human was packing something that Derick would recognize. That holy spirit was bright in him, although weak, clearly still seen in his chest, right over his heart. Luke 10:19 Look, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." came his reply to Derick, even as he shoved Samuel succesfully into the door, Samuel would simply crumple back to his knees right outside the door line, falling onto his knees and praying. Akaicia returning Biyu safetly into him, had his arms wrapping around Biyu, even as she ran her tongue in a different language he didn't know. But then both hands were grabbing his arm, and Samuel nodded solmenly, staring at them both. "Matthew 12:43-45 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth [it] empty, swept, and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last [state] of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation." the last of scriptures barely raspedly and raggedly spoken through rattly breathing as he leaned heavily on Biyu, allowing her to lead him into the safe haven, away from the beautiful snake and the trees. "Let us rest in the Lords house." was whispered to Biyu, walking slowly away and being sure to place himself in front of her, in case Akaicia or the demon try some kind of trickery.
(Cont in Church)
Higanbana left Samuel on a bench and wandered away to find a first aid kit. She returned soon enough with one of the small packaged cookies. Blood loss would require something to help make up for it. A little cookie was not much, but the sugar would be good for him. She was quiet and dripping water while she opened up a small packet of sterilizing wipes to clean the bite wound. Occasionally, she glanced towards the doors but the dominant portion of her focus went to patching him up.
Samuel Leo"Ecclesiates 8:15 So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun." was said to her as he bled out rapidly, soon enough stumbling on, only to feel Biyu settle him on a bench. His sight wavered when he finally felt that Biyu would be safe. Hand lifted to his neck, wincing in pain as he felt the pain surprisingly dull. He wasn't sure if it was because of God or what, but he also could feel his vision getting worse...light headedness as he furrowed his eyebrows. "First aid...." he mumbled, pointing a bloody hand to where the pile behind the piano was at. He had hid it underneath it, but he tried his best to convey this next, by opening his hand up as he smiled while Biyu walked past him to start up a bowl of water. He knew what she was doing, and Samuel allowed it, leaning his bloody hands on >Samuel Leo the bench as it gripped it. "Psalm 57. Biyu." he said as he drug out his battered bloody stained bible cover, opening it to that exact verse and placing it beside him, still struggling to remain awake. "Read it...you can read, can't you Biyu?" Although Samuel could say it all outloud, he chose not to. His mind simply said it to himself, so even if she could not read it, she could hear Samuel praising God. No doubt it was surprising, for her to hear someone being happy, that they were suffering and being rejected. But Samuel kept it up, knowing that this was a Christians walk. And he didn't regret his choice...not one bit, evident by him still praising.
Higanbana glanced down at the book while she tended to the wound with gentle care. She did not respond as to whether she could read or not. Instead, she simply began to read the passage to him, half leaning to see the words while she placed a patch over the bite holes. "Have mercy on me, my God..." she began, her voice clear but softly spoken. "For in you I take refuge...I will take refuge in the shadow of your...your wings...until the disaster has passed." She eyed Samuel while his inner praisings continued then placed the cookie into his hand. "Eat," she insisted. The mess left from the aid kit needed cleaning, so it was this task she tossed herself into next. With all of these varying things to focus on, she did not drift so much.
Lucifuge jumped from the balcony, and the reaper's force glowed before Lucifuge's feet, lowering him down in a floating state, running to Samuel. "You're hurt!" He growled. "Damn that Akaicia bitch. I'll kill her if it's the last thing I do." He floated a small, red, first aid kit over to his hands, and looked at everyone. "Stand back, he's bleeding out. A few more minutes and this man will be with the God he praises. Sorry to say, pal, but you ain't done on Earth yet." He looked at the bitemark, and his nose curled up. "Can't smell the scent of a demon. That means I don't have to do any removal procedures. Be grateful. It would have hurt like fuck." He pulled out a gauze container, some stitches, and a needle. He then took the gauze out of the container, throwing it toward the lectern of the church, and pulled the black, spiky ball to the container. Suddenly, the plastic melted in his hand. He looked at Samuel. "The pain's dull now, but this is going to hurt like fuck, buddy." He >>
Lucifuge: << structured the plastic into small, plastic squares, and a tube, till glowing slightly red. "You best hold still. I'm going to do a makeshift saphenous artery and skin graft to stop the blood flow." He took the reddish translucent tube, and made a little slice with his sharp fingernail, opening the skin between the bite mark to connect it into one wound..and HISSSSS. The burning hot tube wrapped around the jugular artery in Samuel's neck, with a searing screech, filling the church's air with a painful wheeze of crackling oxygen. "Stay calm. I'll implement the grafts next, and then stitch up the wound."
Samuel Leo nodded as Biyu read the words. "Mean it, Biyu...mean each and every word you speak, and watch how the Lord moves into your heart, gives you the peace you feel within me. The joy you have felt before. All you have to do, is mean it." was said to her softly, blue eyes closing as he could feel himself slipping more and more. Biyus eyes on him, her dark black eyes...didn't seem to be noticed. But her mention of eating had Samuel nodding groggily, hand lifting to grasp the cookie with bloody hands and placing it into his mouth to chew on. Lucifuges adrupt entrance and rush to his aid had Samuel raising a hand. "A vampire. It is not a big deal...." was whispered faintly, smiling as Lucifuge started to spit violence. "Not in the church of God you certainly will not." was reminded to him, blue eyes narrowing while he munched away on his cookie in a merry manner. The demons mention that he wasn't done on earth had Samuel snorting in amusement. "What do you know of Gods >Samuel Leo will?" Watching the blurry hands and faces lean in close, Samuel was getting pretty close to out of it. His bloody hand went to grasp Biyus. "Ask for his forgiveness, Biyu. Ask him to move into your heart...and you will have what I have." was assured to her, staring at her in such a sincere manner. Normally, Samuel didn't pressure people like this, but he felt as if she should know. She too, could have what he had. All it took was praying to God fervently and meaning each word. He could baptize her...soon. Lucifuges mention of saving his life...it was all ignored. He already knew whether he'd live or die, God had his back. He wasn't one bit worried about himself. But he was worried about Biyu, about Mae, about Samantha. But Lucifuges pressing the hot block onto his skin had Samuel screaming out in pain, blue eyes widening as fists gripped the bench, while if Biyu was still holding the preachers hand, would feel his hand crushing hers weakly, likely not even >Samuel Leo damaging her bones, as soon enough, blue eyes fluttered and he slumped forward, passing straight out from the pain.
Higanbana flinched at the abrupt arrival of the demon, then fluttered back to Samuel's side. The creature was eyed warily, yet the preacher seemed to be accepting of the demon in their presence. Her attention was drawn away by Samuel's words. Her hand was in his and her eyes on him. Words did not come from her and her brows furrowed. She tilted her head slightly, then covered their joined hands with her other one. Though there was not much at all she could do for him, she kept here and tried to prop him up when he began to slip away from the pain. The frown intensified while her lips pressed hard together until they turned as white as her pale skin.
Lucifuge took a deep and heavy sigh, and looked at Biyu. "Okay, since I don't have any human technology to monitor him, I need you to do me a favor, human." He growled. "On the other side of his neck, is his other artery. Hold it to his neck. It should pulse, albeit slowly. If you lose that pulse, tell me. It's very important. Dammit, human pain tolerance was pathetic. Not like he could convince the preacher to drink enough church wine before suddenly performing a makeshift complicated surgery that would take most doctors years of medical school to perfect. He then took the small, plastic squares, and started placing them around the tube, on the affected areas of the bite, fusing with the preacher's skin. He then pulled out the needle, looking at Biyu again. "Bad timing is always an asshole, but if you've got any cosmetics, now would be the time to give them to me, human."
Samuel Leo"Peace be with you." was his last words he could manage to say to Biyu, squeezing her hand. He could feel her stare on him, her hands in his own and pressing it over his own until he slumped. It was then that the world was black amidst his pained scream, chest rising and falling steadily as Lucifuge worked whilst Biyu held him up. Easily could she prop the preacher up...if she had the strength? Otherwise, it was likely Samuel would simply overwhelm with his weight that was lighter than usual, to land her bodily beneath him. Let's hope Samuel doesn't wake up like this, talk about most awkward thing for a preacher to wake up to. Still breathing in and out steadily, still pulsing. Likely a good proof that God truly didn't want him to go to heaven today.
Higanbana's eyes seemed sad when he uttered those words but she was a quiet thing when she was not babbling incoherencies and strange phrases. She began to struggle with the brunt of his weight and wobbled to try laying him down on the bench. The end result was one arm becoming trapped under his shoulders. She did not have the opportunity to move it with Lucifuge's fussing. She was obedient in placing her hand against the artery mentioned but when he brought up cosmetics, he would only receive a blank stare from the girl. Her hair was normally pretty wild and not at all kept and her white dress was in tatters at the bottom and around the collar and sleeves. Probably not a Maybelline girl.
Lucifuge grunted. "Fuck me." He looked at Samuel. "You ain't done yet, preacher. You've still got to break my bonds. You ain't going to heaven til' that's done." He thought for a moment. "There's gotta be a bag of makeup." He used his reaper's force to locate and identify around the area, and found some foundation that was considerably darker than Samuel's skin tone. Better than nothing, he supposed. It would be "Well, guess you're gonna have to get used to a small dark spot on your neck." He smeared the foundation with his fingers across the burning grafts, not wincing once. He laid a final burning graft, far thinner than the others, over the foundation, and began to stitch the wound shut. Damn that vampire. Granted, he could kill her in a heartbeat, but she was more elusive than a Noxsine on crack. And with a few quick movements, the bite on Samuel's neck was shut, with the blood completely closed off. "Preacher's blood should have returned to his face at this point, and his breathing >> Lucifuge: << should go back to normal. The blood flow will take a bit to adjust." He looked at Biyu. "Up the stairs, there are some bottles of water. Please fetch me some. We need to rehydrate the preacher. He's lost a lot of blood."
Samuel Leo could at least be thankful that she managed to evade, for the most part, being captured RIGHT underneath him. The artery was pulsing faintly, but still pulsing. It's heavy pauses would have one wondering if he was indeed, still alive. But when Lucifuge fixed it, the result was evident by the sudden less paused beating pulses in his jugular. Whence he finished, Samuel remained pretty much...still. Though he did shift in his sleep, rolling over to open his arms and mumbled a prayer. His dreams consisted of a peaceful walk with Christ, as Biyu could likely see. And Samuels joy and peace...indeterminable on the amount. He was truly too happy, blindingly so. Indeed his face flushed with some color, and his breathing shifted to normal after a few breaths, grunting as he rolled about, and if not stopped or caught. Likely would roll right off that bench.
Higanbana wrestled her arm out from beneath Samuel once he had been set right by the creature. She took a moment to look the preacher over for anything else that might be amiss, but there was nothing except his attempt to fall onto his face. She nudged him back on and tried to keep him there. Her attention was drawn away afterward by Lucifuge. She offered him a quick bow of the head then hurried to the stairs to make the climb and collect the requested bottles of water. She carried an armful back down and then stood a few feet away from the one currently 'in charge' with a questioning stare. By the way she kept her distance she was certainly wary of him, but she was at least not speaking in code at him. That a good sign...possibly.
Lucifuge grinned with a malicious scowl. "I am grateful, human." He noticed Sam slipping and shook his head. "Guess this preacher still don't learn." The black ball caused Sam to start floating in the midair before his fall, a dark purple aura surrounding the pastor, and gently placing him back on the bench. "Hm." Lucifuge moved Sam's limbs a bit until he was sturdily in the Bacchus position. "When he comes to, I'll have him drink. He hasn't lost so much blood that I'll have to do rectal rehydration." Lucifuge's face twisted in disgust at the thought. He snapped his fingers, and the reaper's force faded. Looking at Biyu, he breathed heavily. "Thank you. We are to make sure that his stable condition is maintained. I ask that you watch his movements." He knelt down, speaking to the preacher. "Ironic how a demon is saving a man, moreover a man of God. It speaks to the change this world has suffered."
Samuel Leo when she nudged him back on, Samuel responded by gripping her tightly. "Thank you God." was said with such heavy passion and feverish tones of love. A man that passionate about God, it left a curiosity in some mind possibly, on how effective and passionate he could be to others. Lucifuge placing him back onto the bench, putting him into a bacchus position, had him simply jerking briefly, steadfastly falling to sleep until quite suddenly, when Lucifuge kneeled and said those last words, he jerked awake. A loud gasping noises sounded while a hand lifted to his neck, blue eyes wide as he gazed between Biyu and Lucifuge. "I...I saw God.." was whispered, rubbing his face. "Walked beside him...he told me...told me..." was muttered, shaking his head as he slumped his shoulders. "That I'm not done." was...there were tears in those blue eyes. And although Samuel was a bit depressed, it was more out of joy then anything else. Samuel staring sadly at Lucifuge. "This world will be conquered and Lords glory will fill it when those evil doers least expect it. He will win." blue eyes shifted to Biyu. "Did you hear me?" was asked to her, flipping the bible. Turning it for her to read while he read it in his head. Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. "Biyu, don't you want what you cling to me every day to have? Don't you want that, for your self?" was asked to her quietly, staring at her curiously. He looked tired, truly tried and exhausted, but he simply kept going. Not halting one bit on his calling that he was here for. "I can help you get it, don't you want this? This light inside of me that you can see...you too can have."
Higanbana's eyes lingered on Lucifuge a moment longer before she tiptoed her way back to the bench that the preacher was resting on. She set the bottles of water down in a row while she cast glances up to the speaking demon. "More shall come," she whispered to him. This was the warning she so often uttered, mostly to Samuel. Few likely listened or induldged her. She was startled from her kneeling position and nearly stood up when Samuel gasped awake. Carefully, she lowered again and grabbed a bottled water to hold out to him while he was explaining what he had seen. Her gaze was searching, brows forming a slight furrow. Then he addressed her directly. Her breathing quickened and the grip she had on the plastic tightened slightly. What he spoke of was not necessarily confusing but left her inwardly chaotic. She looked towards the piano and the demon, then back to Samuel. "Drink...?" she offered gently.
Lucifuge sighed. "Almost dying hasn't changed a grain in your firmament, preacher. But for now, drink." He lowered Biyu's hand that held the bottle of water, and held it close to the preacher's mouth. "You are still a man of flesh, and since you remain that way, you will need to drink. A lot. You've lost more than a liter of blood. You'll be lightheaded. Move slowly, if you want to stay conscious. Though, I can't blame you for wanting to speak to your savior and all again." When Samuel mentioned the fact that God told him he wasn't done. "Like hell you're done, preacher. You've got a lot of people to save. You've got a much larger goal, I'd say. You're one of the last men of faith on the planet. And you've still gotta free me." Lucifuge sensed a faint light in Samuel. Was God really on his side in saving this man? Did he really have a shot at being redeemed, and his purpose to create order among chaos re-established?
Samuel Leo when she whispered to him that more would come, Samuel wouldn't disagree likely, if he had been awake. Biyus searching gaze had Samuels blue eyes landing on her more so then Lucifuges, still brightly glimmering in joy, even if they also had those heavy bag of lack of sleep under them. Glancing down at the offered bottle of water. "John 4:14 - But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." was said softly, hand lifting to touch the bottle and touch hers as he prayed to God to open her heart, open her ears. The crunching of the bottle, the question. It had Samuel smiling. He could see she was uncertain. He almost could understand her situation as she darted her eyes around and looked so uncertain. "You know what it is like, to live this life. Biyu. You have followed me like a disciple." was said softly. Samuel Leo shaking his head as he chuckled when he finally took the bottle from her hands, uncapping it. "But it is not I you follow and are drawn to. This you know." nodding to her. "You can meet him, I can show you how. Do you want to tonight?" was asked to her softly, blue eyes shifting to Lucifuge soon enough after he finished, glancing over to him momentarily while those blue eyes shifted to stare into Biyus eyes searchingly, fervently praying that same prayer over her repeatedly. Nodding as Lucifuge stated that all. "I am always lightheaded, Lucifuge. I do not sleep well, I do not get enough food in me, because it is necessary at times more often than not, to do my fasting so that I may preserve in my faith in Lord Jesus. I do not move slowly, because there is not enough time for the battle I fight for the Lord my God. But still yet, I prevail." A small soft smile as Lucifuge stated all that he had to do, nodding. Samuel Leo"Yes, that is true. A demon turning to God. It is unheard of, but perhaps Gods will is bigger then my knowledge of the Word of God. For who knows better the Word of God, then Yahweh himself? I have not questioned it, and I have been thinking of ways already, Lucifuge. Have patience." Blue eyes that remained on Biyu had head tilting. "Will you choose yet Biyu? Or do you yet need more time to witness?" Hand lifted to her, while other hand chugged that water down like a good patient.
Higanbana's gaze darted upward towards Lucifuge when her hand was moved. She seemed unsettled but the talk of freeing him held her attention enough that she did not respond beyond the sharp glance. Her eyes were drawn back to Samuel soon after. His thoughts were forever echoing in her head, so she was not surprised by the prayers that were beginning to roll now that he was conscious again. With the bottle out of her hands, she brought them in closer to her chest and curled her fingers into part of the fabric. Talk of a meeting made an already pale face become the color of milk and her heart to skip several times. To be fearful was only natural, of course. She shook her head quickly then looked down at his hand. One of her own untangled from her dress to tentatively reach out. Her fingertips touched his but drew back. "Not...not yet," she said. Her hands clasped again and her shoulders curved inward. "Not yet," she repeated in a near inaudible tone.
Lucifuge sighed. "If it were so easy to follow the path of God, even I would do it. Many factors bar me from doing so. I cannot serve what I am not made to." He sat, silently. Turning over his shoulder, he looked at Samuel. "I've been reading the bible in my spare time. When you sleep. It's incredibly painful with every verse I read. Yet, I do it still. I have some memorized." He had a feeling of aching in his face. "I do not feel inclined to follow God, even though my logical conclusions determine that it would be the best way to accomplish my purpose of creation. Regardless of my instinct, I cannot feel that inclination, due to the contract that binds me to the master I serve. However, I am not barred from helping others in need, in the face of chaos. Hebrews, 1:1-4. In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made >>Lucifuge: << the universe. The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs." He paused, gasping for air after reciting it, like a fire had gone off in his stomach. "Samuel. We are due for the final testament. I feel it in my bones.
Samuel Leo would never stop. And nor would his belief that soon Biyu would be choosing God. He had huge faith in this, due to her choices. So far, she had chosen to stick to Samuel like glue since following him. She left her heart around him open, her eyes hardly straying from him when he spoke his verses, and her ears heard them. Her hands reaching out for him consistently, shadowing him like a disciple might, would undoubtedly be the true show of her need for Christ in her life. Although she was beyond repair mentally, Samuel was certain of something. God could still save her and use her like he wanted. His blue eyes and her dark black stared back and forth so intensely, but Samuels stare, it was full of love. His motions and patience saw in that interaction of waiting for her to choose. Nodding as she made her final decision. "He is still waiting for you Biyu, and he will always be right outside that door. It is up to you open that door, to receive him." he could see the >Samuel Leo fear, truthfully he knew she was right to fear him. fear, truthfully he knew she was right to fear God. He too himself, feared God. But he'd quote a bible verse anyway, assuring her that when she chose. "Romans 8:31 "What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?" A pause as he'd let her consider those words, blue eyes still searching her as her finger tips slipped away from his own and clenched to herself, respecting her space as his own hands went back to his own space. "You have nothing to fear, should you choose to give yourself fully to God. For he will stay and be honest to you. So long as you are too, nothing shall stop you with God in you." was assured to her, blue eyes glancing to Lucifuge nodding as he said that first bit. "It is not impossible, but God did not promise ease of the path. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. `We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed but not in despair; persecuted >Samuel Leo but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed." Head tilted as Lucifuge stated the obvious. "But God can work in mysterious ways." was reminded to the Demon. "You must believe this, if you ever hoping breaking those chains that which bind you." When he admitted to sleeping the bible, it had Samuel brightening his smile, nodding as he lifted himself off the pew. Stepping over to the piano, Samuel soon enough pulled out a bible, grasping it strongly and tucking it to his chest, before offering it to Biyu. "One of the few that survived the fire...take it, Biyu. Read it and learn more of the Lion of Judah." blue eyes shifted to Lucifuge as he spoke his verse, blue eyes listening intently and smiling as he said those words. His intent was clear, he truly did want to know God, and Samuel wouldn't stop him. Nodding. "We are due but it will not be any time soon, I fear. Not after my meetin with God. The four horsemen, have not even come yet. When they do, it is near >that time then for sure, that Jesus will return to claim the last that claim him as Lord and Savior of their life." Blue eyes shifted to Biyu, hand holding out that bible as the other continued guzzling that water. His steps were shaky, even uneven but he refused to let her "Find it." No he'd give it to her, as he should as a Preacher.
Higanbana watched Lucifuge with a sense of distant fascination as he spoke of his predicament. The struggle to speak the verses and the cause it had on him made her lower a hand to her own stomach. It was a pain she could not feel, yet knew to be present. Her gaze shifted from him to Samuel the moment he began to speak to her. "Fire...?" She accepted the bible from him and looked down at its cover. Though she said nothing else, she hugged the book to her chest and raised to her feet. Her eyes lowered to the floor and her head tilted forward for her hair to slide along her face. She nodded to both of them, the demon and the preacher, then made her way to ascend the stairs where she could read the book in a quiet, secluded corner...and eventually fall asleep.
Higanbana left Samuel on a bench and wandered away to find a first aid kit. She returned soon enough with one of the small packaged cookies. Blood loss would require something to help make up for it. A little cookie was not much, but the sugar would be good for him. She was quiet and dripping water while she opened up a small packet of sterilizing wipes to clean the bite wound. Occasionally, she glanced towards the doors but the dominant portion of her focus went to patching him up.
Samuel Leo"Ecclesiates 8:15 So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun." was said to her as he bled out rapidly, soon enough stumbling on, only to feel Biyu settle him on a bench. His sight wavered when he finally felt that Biyu would be safe. Hand lifted to his neck, wincing in pain as he felt the pain surprisingly dull. He wasn't sure if it was because of God or what, but he also could feel his vision getting worse...light headedness as he furrowed his eyebrows. "First aid...." he mumbled, pointing a bloody hand to where the pile behind the piano was at. He had hid it underneath it, but he tried his best to convey this next, by opening his hand up as he smiled while Biyu walked past him to start up a bowl of water. He knew what she was doing, and Samuel allowed it, leaning his bloody hands on >Samuel Leo the bench as it gripped it. "Psalm 57. Biyu." he said as he drug out his battered bloody stained bible cover, opening it to that exact verse and placing it beside him, still struggling to remain awake. "Read it...you can read, can't you Biyu?" Although Samuel could say it all outloud, he chose not to. His mind simply said it to himself, so even if she could not read it, she could hear Samuel praising God. No doubt it was surprising, for her to hear someone being happy, that they were suffering and being rejected. But Samuel kept it up, knowing that this was a Christians walk. And he didn't regret his choice...not one bit, evident by him still praising.
Higanbana glanced down at the book while she tended to the wound with gentle care. She did not respond as to whether she could read or not. Instead, she simply began to read the passage to him, half leaning to see the words while she placed a patch over the bite holes. "Have mercy on me, my God..." she began, her voice clear but softly spoken. "For in you I take refuge...I will take refuge in the shadow of your...your wings...until the disaster has passed." She eyed Samuel while his inner praisings continued then placed the cookie into his hand. "Eat," she insisted. The mess left from the aid kit needed cleaning, so it was this task she tossed herself into next. With all of these varying things to focus on, she did not drift so much.
Lucifuge jumped from the balcony, and the reaper's force glowed before Lucifuge's feet, lowering him down in a floating state, running to Samuel. "You're hurt!" He growled. "Damn that Akaicia bitch. I'll kill her if it's the last thing I do." He floated a small, red, first aid kit over to his hands, and looked at everyone. "Stand back, he's bleeding out. A few more minutes and this man will be with the God he praises. Sorry to say, pal, but you ain't done on Earth yet." He looked at the bitemark, and his nose curled up. "Can't smell the scent of a demon. That means I don't have to do any removal procedures. Be grateful. It would have hurt like fuck." He pulled out a gauze container, some stitches, and a needle. He then took the gauze out of the container, throwing it toward the lectern of the church, and pulled the black, spiky ball to the container. Suddenly, the plastic melted in his hand. He looked at Samuel. "The pain's dull now, but this is going to hurt like fuck, buddy." He >>
Lucifuge: << structured the plastic into small, plastic squares, and a tube, till glowing slightly red. "You best hold still. I'm going to do a makeshift saphenous artery and skin graft to stop the blood flow." He took the reddish translucent tube, and made a little slice with his sharp fingernail, opening the skin between the bite mark to connect it into one wound..and HISSSSS. The burning hot tube wrapped around the jugular artery in Samuel's neck, with a searing screech, filling the church's air with a painful wheeze of crackling oxygen. "Stay calm. I'll implement the grafts next, and then stitch up the wound."
Samuel Leo nodded as Biyu read the words. "Mean it, Biyu...mean each and every word you speak, and watch how the Lord moves into your heart, gives you the peace you feel within me. The joy you have felt before. All you have to do, is mean it." was said to her softly, blue eyes closing as he could feel himself slipping more and more. Biyus eyes on him, her dark black eyes...didn't seem to be noticed. But her mention of eating had Samuel nodding groggily, hand lifting to grasp the cookie with bloody hands and placing it into his mouth to chew on. Lucifuges adrupt entrance and rush to his aid had Samuel raising a hand. "A vampire. It is not a big deal...." was whispered faintly, smiling as Lucifuge started to spit violence. "Not in the church of God you certainly will not." was reminded to him, blue eyes narrowing while he munched away on his cookie in a merry manner. The demons mention that he wasn't done on earth had Samuel snorting in amusement. "What do you know of Gods >Samuel Leo will?" Watching the blurry hands and faces lean in close, Samuel was getting pretty close to out of it. His bloody hand went to grasp Biyus. "Ask for his forgiveness, Biyu. Ask him to move into your heart...and you will have what I have." was assured to her, staring at her in such a sincere manner. Normally, Samuel didn't pressure people like this, but he felt as if she should know. She too, could have what he had. All it took was praying to God fervently and meaning each word. He could baptize her...soon. Lucifuges mention of saving his life...it was all ignored. He already knew whether he'd live or die, God had his back. He wasn't one bit worried about himself. But he was worried about Biyu, about Mae, about Samantha. But Lucifuges pressing the hot block onto his skin had Samuel screaming out in pain, blue eyes widening as fists gripped the bench, while if Biyu was still holding the preachers hand, would feel his hand crushing hers weakly, likely not even >Samuel Leo damaging her bones, as soon enough, blue eyes fluttered and he slumped forward, passing straight out from the pain.
Higanbana flinched at the abrupt arrival of the demon, then fluttered back to Samuel's side. The creature was eyed warily, yet the preacher seemed to be accepting of the demon in their presence. Her attention was drawn away by Samuel's words. Her hand was in his and her eyes on him. Words did not come from her and her brows furrowed. She tilted her head slightly, then covered their joined hands with her other one. Though there was not much at all she could do for him, she kept here and tried to prop him up when he began to slip away from the pain. The frown intensified while her lips pressed hard together until they turned as white as her pale skin.
Lucifuge took a deep and heavy sigh, and looked at Biyu. "Okay, since I don't have any human technology to monitor him, I need you to do me a favor, human." He growled. "On the other side of his neck, is his other artery. Hold it to his neck. It should pulse, albeit slowly. If you lose that pulse, tell me. It's very important. Dammit, human pain tolerance was pathetic. Not like he could convince the preacher to drink enough church wine before suddenly performing a makeshift complicated surgery that would take most doctors years of medical school to perfect. He then took the small, plastic squares, and started placing them around the tube, on the affected areas of the bite, fusing with the preacher's skin. He then pulled out the needle, looking at Biyu again. "Bad timing is always an asshole, but if you've got any cosmetics, now would be the time to give them to me, human."
Samuel Leo"Peace be with you." was his last words he could manage to say to Biyu, squeezing her hand. He could feel her stare on him, her hands in his own and pressing it over his own until he slumped. It was then that the world was black amidst his pained scream, chest rising and falling steadily as Lucifuge worked whilst Biyu held him up. Easily could she prop the preacher up...if she had the strength? Otherwise, it was likely Samuel would simply overwhelm with his weight that was lighter than usual, to land her bodily beneath him. Let's hope Samuel doesn't wake up like this, talk about most awkward thing for a preacher to wake up to. Still breathing in and out steadily, still pulsing. Likely a good proof that God truly didn't want him to go to heaven today.
Higanbana's eyes seemed sad when he uttered those words but she was a quiet thing when she was not babbling incoherencies and strange phrases. She began to struggle with the brunt of his weight and wobbled to try laying him down on the bench. The end result was one arm becoming trapped under his shoulders. She did not have the opportunity to move it with Lucifuge's fussing. She was obedient in placing her hand against the artery mentioned but when he brought up cosmetics, he would only receive a blank stare from the girl. Her hair was normally pretty wild and not at all kept and her white dress was in tatters at the bottom and around the collar and sleeves. Probably not a Maybelline girl.
Lucifuge grunted. "Fuck me." He looked at Samuel. "You ain't done yet, preacher. You've still got to break my bonds. You ain't going to heaven til' that's done." He thought for a moment. "There's gotta be a bag of makeup." He used his reaper's force to locate and identify around the area, and found some foundation that was considerably darker than Samuel's skin tone. Better than nothing, he supposed. It would be "Well, guess you're gonna have to get used to a small dark spot on your neck." He smeared the foundation with his fingers across the burning grafts, not wincing once. He laid a final burning graft, far thinner than the others, over the foundation, and began to stitch the wound shut. Damn that vampire. Granted, he could kill her in a heartbeat, but she was more elusive than a Noxsine on crack. And with a few quick movements, the bite on Samuel's neck was shut, with the blood completely closed off. "Preacher's blood should have returned to his face at this point, and his breathing >> Lucifuge: << should go back to normal. The blood flow will take a bit to adjust." He looked at Biyu. "Up the stairs, there are some bottles of water. Please fetch me some. We need to rehydrate the preacher. He's lost a lot of blood."
Samuel Leo could at least be thankful that she managed to evade, for the most part, being captured RIGHT underneath him. The artery was pulsing faintly, but still pulsing. It's heavy pauses would have one wondering if he was indeed, still alive. But when Lucifuge fixed it, the result was evident by the sudden less paused beating pulses in his jugular. Whence he finished, Samuel remained pretty much...still. Though he did shift in his sleep, rolling over to open his arms and mumbled a prayer. His dreams consisted of a peaceful walk with Christ, as Biyu could likely see. And Samuels joy and peace...indeterminable on the amount. He was truly too happy, blindingly so. Indeed his face flushed with some color, and his breathing shifted to normal after a few breaths, grunting as he rolled about, and if not stopped or caught. Likely would roll right off that bench.
Higanbana wrestled her arm out from beneath Samuel once he had been set right by the creature. She took a moment to look the preacher over for anything else that might be amiss, but there was nothing except his attempt to fall onto his face. She nudged him back on and tried to keep him there. Her attention was drawn away afterward by Lucifuge. She offered him a quick bow of the head then hurried to the stairs to make the climb and collect the requested bottles of water. She carried an armful back down and then stood a few feet away from the one currently 'in charge' with a questioning stare. By the way she kept her distance she was certainly wary of him, but she was at least not speaking in code at him. That a good sign...possibly.
Lucifuge grinned with a malicious scowl. "I am grateful, human." He noticed Sam slipping and shook his head. "Guess this preacher still don't learn." The black ball caused Sam to start floating in the midair before his fall, a dark purple aura surrounding the pastor, and gently placing him back on the bench. "Hm." Lucifuge moved Sam's limbs a bit until he was sturdily in the Bacchus position. "When he comes to, I'll have him drink. He hasn't lost so much blood that I'll have to do rectal rehydration." Lucifuge's face twisted in disgust at the thought. He snapped his fingers, and the reaper's force faded. Looking at Biyu, he breathed heavily. "Thank you. We are to make sure that his stable condition is maintained. I ask that you watch his movements." He knelt down, speaking to the preacher. "Ironic how a demon is saving a man, moreover a man of God. It speaks to the change this world has suffered."
Samuel Leo when she nudged him back on, Samuel responded by gripping her tightly. "Thank you God." was said with such heavy passion and feverish tones of love. A man that passionate about God, it left a curiosity in some mind possibly, on how effective and passionate he could be to others. Lucifuge placing him back onto the bench, putting him into a bacchus position, had him simply jerking briefly, steadfastly falling to sleep until quite suddenly, when Lucifuge kneeled and said those last words, he jerked awake. A loud gasping noises sounded while a hand lifted to his neck, blue eyes wide as he gazed between Biyu and Lucifuge. "I...I saw God.." was whispered, rubbing his face. "Walked beside him...he told me...told me..." was muttered, shaking his head as he slumped his shoulders. "That I'm not done." was...there were tears in those blue eyes. And although Samuel was a bit depressed, it was more out of joy then anything else. Samuel staring sadly at Lucifuge. "This world will be conquered and Lords glory will fill it when those evil doers least expect it. He will win." blue eyes shifted to Biyu. "Did you hear me?" was asked to her, flipping the bible. Turning it for her to read while he read it in his head. Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. "Biyu, don't you want what you cling to me every day to have? Don't you want that, for your self?" was asked to her quietly, staring at her curiously. He looked tired, truly tried and exhausted, but he simply kept going. Not halting one bit on his calling that he was here for. "I can help you get it, don't you want this? This light inside of me that you can see...you too can have."
Higanbana's eyes lingered on Lucifuge a moment longer before she tiptoed her way back to the bench that the preacher was resting on. She set the bottles of water down in a row while she cast glances up to the speaking demon. "More shall come," she whispered to him. This was the warning she so often uttered, mostly to Samuel. Few likely listened or induldged her. She was startled from her kneeling position and nearly stood up when Samuel gasped awake. Carefully, she lowered again and grabbed a bottled water to hold out to him while he was explaining what he had seen. Her gaze was searching, brows forming a slight furrow. Then he addressed her directly. Her breathing quickened and the grip she had on the plastic tightened slightly. What he spoke of was not necessarily confusing but left her inwardly chaotic. She looked towards the piano and the demon, then back to Samuel. "Drink...?" she offered gently.
Lucifuge sighed. "Almost dying hasn't changed a grain in your firmament, preacher. But for now, drink." He lowered Biyu's hand that held the bottle of water, and held it close to the preacher's mouth. "You are still a man of flesh, and since you remain that way, you will need to drink. A lot. You've lost more than a liter of blood. You'll be lightheaded. Move slowly, if you want to stay conscious. Though, I can't blame you for wanting to speak to your savior and all again." When Samuel mentioned the fact that God told him he wasn't done. "Like hell you're done, preacher. You've got a lot of people to save. You've got a much larger goal, I'd say. You're one of the last men of faith on the planet. And you've still gotta free me." Lucifuge sensed a faint light in Samuel. Was God really on his side in saving this man? Did he really have a shot at being redeemed, and his purpose to create order among chaos re-established?
Samuel Leo when she whispered to him that more would come, Samuel wouldn't disagree likely, if he had been awake. Biyus searching gaze had Samuels blue eyes landing on her more so then Lucifuges, still brightly glimmering in joy, even if they also had those heavy bag of lack of sleep under them. Glancing down at the offered bottle of water. "John 4:14 - But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." was said softly, hand lifting to touch the bottle and touch hers as he prayed to God to open her heart, open her ears. The crunching of the bottle, the question. It had Samuel smiling. He could see she was uncertain. He almost could understand her situation as she darted her eyes around and looked so uncertain. "You know what it is like, to live this life. Biyu. You have followed me like a disciple." was said softly. Samuel Leo shaking his head as he chuckled when he finally took the bottle from her hands, uncapping it. "But it is not I you follow and are drawn to. This you know." nodding to her. "You can meet him, I can show you how. Do you want to tonight?" was asked to her softly, blue eyes shifting to Lucifuge soon enough after he finished, glancing over to him momentarily while those blue eyes shifted to stare into Biyus eyes searchingly, fervently praying that same prayer over her repeatedly. Nodding as Lucifuge stated that all. "I am always lightheaded, Lucifuge. I do not sleep well, I do not get enough food in me, because it is necessary at times more often than not, to do my fasting so that I may preserve in my faith in Lord Jesus. I do not move slowly, because there is not enough time for the battle I fight for the Lord my God. But still yet, I prevail." A small soft smile as Lucifuge stated all that he had to do, nodding. Samuel Leo"Yes, that is true. A demon turning to God. It is unheard of, but perhaps Gods will is bigger then my knowledge of the Word of God. For who knows better the Word of God, then Yahweh himself? I have not questioned it, and I have been thinking of ways already, Lucifuge. Have patience." Blue eyes that remained on Biyu had head tilting. "Will you choose yet Biyu? Or do you yet need more time to witness?" Hand lifted to her, while other hand chugged that water down like a good patient.
Higanbana's gaze darted upward towards Lucifuge when her hand was moved. She seemed unsettled but the talk of freeing him held her attention enough that she did not respond beyond the sharp glance. Her eyes were drawn back to Samuel soon after. His thoughts were forever echoing in her head, so she was not surprised by the prayers that were beginning to roll now that he was conscious again. With the bottle out of her hands, she brought them in closer to her chest and curled her fingers into part of the fabric. Talk of a meeting made an already pale face become the color of milk and her heart to skip several times. To be fearful was only natural, of course. She shook her head quickly then looked down at his hand. One of her own untangled from her dress to tentatively reach out. Her fingertips touched his but drew back. "Not...not yet," she said. Her hands clasped again and her shoulders curved inward. "Not yet," she repeated in a near inaudible tone.
Lucifuge sighed. "If it were so easy to follow the path of God, even I would do it. Many factors bar me from doing so. I cannot serve what I am not made to." He sat, silently. Turning over his shoulder, he looked at Samuel. "I've been reading the bible in my spare time. When you sleep. It's incredibly painful with every verse I read. Yet, I do it still. I have some memorized." He had a feeling of aching in his face. "I do not feel inclined to follow God, even though my logical conclusions determine that it would be the best way to accomplish my purpose of creation. Regardless of my instinct, I cannot feel that inclination, due to the contract that binds me to the master I serve. However, I am not barred from helping others in need, in the face of chaos. Hebrews, 1:1-4. In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made >>Lucifuge: << the universe. The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs." He paused, gasping for air after reciting it, like a fire had gone off in his stomach. "Samuel. We are due for the final testament. I feel it in my bones.
Samuel Leo would never stop. And nor would his belief that soon Biyu would be choosing God. He had huge faith in this, due to her choices. So far, she had chosen to stick to Samuel like glue since following him. She left her heart around him open, her eyes hardly straying from him when he spoke his verses, and her ears heard them. Her hands reaching out for him consistently, shadowing him like a disciple might, would undoubtedly be the true show of her need for Christ in her life. Although she was beyond repair mentally, Samuel was certain of something. God could still save her and use her like he wanted. His blue eyes and her dark black stared back and forth so intensely, but Samuels stare, it was full of love. His motions and patience saw in that interaction of waiting for her to choose. Nodding as she made her final decision. "He is still waiting for you Biyu, and he will always be right outside that door. It is up to you open that door, to receive him." he could see the >Samuel Leo fear, truthfully he knew she was right to fear him. fear, truthfully he knew she was right to fear God. He too himself, feared God. But he'd quote a bible verse anyway, assuring her that when she chose. "Romans 8:31 "What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?" A pause as he'd let her consider those words, blue eyes still searching her as her finger tips slipped away from his own and clenched to herself, respecting her space as his own hands went back to his own space. "You have nothing to fear, should you choose to give yourself fully to God. For he will stay and be honest to you. So long as you are too, nothing shall stop you with God in you." was assured to her, blue eyes glancing to Lucifuge nodding as he said that first bit. "It is not impossible, but God did not promise ease of the path. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. `We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed but not in despair; persecuted >Samuel Leo but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed." Head tilted as Lucifuge stated the obvious. "But God can work in mysterious ways." was reminded to the Demon. "You must believe this, if you ever hoping breaking those chains that which bind you." When he admitted to sleeping the bible, it had Samuel brightening his smile, nodding as he lifted himself off the pew. Stepping over to the piano, Samuel soon enough pulled out a bible, grasping it strongly and tucking it to his chest, before offering it to Biyu. "One of the few that survived the fire...take it, Biyu. Read it and learn more of the Lion of Judah." blue eyes shifted to Lucifuge as he spoke his verse, blue eyes listening intently and smiling as he said those words. His intent was clear, he truly did want to know God, and Samuel wouldn't stop him. Nodding. "We are due but it will not be any time soon, I fear. Not after my meetin with God. The four horsemen, have not even come yet. When they do, it is near >that time then for sure, that Jesus will return to claim the last that claim him as Lord and Savior of their life." Blue eyes shifted to Biyu, hand holding out that bible as the other continued guzzling that water. His steps were shaky, even uneven but he refused to let her "Find it." No he'd give it to her, as he should as a Preacher.
Higanbana watched Lucifuge with a sense of distant fascination as he spoke of his predicament. The struggle to speak the verses and the cause it had on him made her lower a hand to her own stomach. It was a pain she could not feel, yet knew to be present. Her gaze shifted from him to Samuel the moment he began to speak to her. "Fire...?" She accepted the bible from him and looked down at its cover. Though she said nothing else, she hugged the book to her chest and raised to her feet. Her eyes lowered to the floor and her head tilted forward for her hair to slide along her face. She nodded to both of them, the demon and the preacher, then made her way to ascend the stairs where she could read the book in a quiet, secluded corner...and eventually fall asleep.