Pursuit of the Zodiacs

by Walsh, Nathan

  Daniel and Goliath went outside; and to their surprise, they saw the bodies of their fallen comrades being carried from the craft. “My God, what’s happened here?” Goliath asked.

  Without a word, Abdeen walked past them, very upset. He took the misfortune the hardest. “Betrayal. Bishop and his Kingdom are planning a move against God,” Natenal said.

  Daniel inquired, “The Mover of Suns? I don’t understand. How could this happen?”

  Levi answered, “No one knows his reasons. And quite honestly, I do not care. He must be eliminated.”

  Natenal stated, “The situation has significance, but it is not our affair. We must focus on our task first, and disregard the questioning of his treachery. Sabrina is on her way to forward the message to our Father himself. I assure you he will take care of it.”

  Abdeen returned and said, “They didn’t even give him an honorable death! They crucified him upside down to make it look as if Devils were responsible.”

  “What would be the point of framing Devils if they’d left the Bookkeeper alive to give his testimony?” Daniel argued.

  Natenal answered, “Arrogance and certainty. I doubt framing Devils was the motive at all. They must know something we don’t. Who knows how many of Bishop’s men are already positioned in the house of our Father.”

  Zodeen shifted the focus to Daniel and Goliath. “My apologies for straying from the matter, but I believe Daniel and Goliath have a report of their own to tell us, considering that they bear the mark of something not of our Covenant.”

  Attention shifted to the two novice Vampeers. They had completely forgotten about Zodeen’s remarkable gift.

  They surrounded the two of them. Natenal approached. “Is this true, Daniel? What happened since our departure?”

  Daniel confessed, “After our fight with members of the Chinese Zodiac, I suffered a severe injury. On my way to certain death, by luck, we met a Vampeer during our excursion through a Dimension. He was very powerful, more powerful than the two of us combined. In order for me to survive the night, I had no choice but to partake of his blood, and I stand here before you as the result. Goliath wanted no part of it, and I am deeply burdened that I inflicted this curse upon him as well after my teeth met with his flesh. We both contain monsters within and unparalleled gifts in addition to our own. We have no knowledge of our capabilities. At times, the Vampeer returns to us through our reflections as if we are his pawns. We haven’t the slightest idea about what to do. My apologies, my Lord.”

  Levi did his own examination of his two colleagues. “Hmm, nothing appears different about them. How is this so?”

  Adam interjected, “I’ve encountered many Vampeers in my old days while in search of my family. They are most certainly a species not to take lightly. But not all is bad. Give these two a chance.”

  Natenal replied, “That is not your decision to make, Traveler.”

  Abdeen nodded to Adam, indicating that it would be best to remove himself from the situation. Adam wisely complied and left.

  Natenal continued, “You two do not seem much different than before. I assume we’ll find out as time goes on. Is there a cure for this atrocity?”

  Levi added, “With all due respect, my Lord, this can be more good than immoral depending on how their new gifts are implemented. They give no indication of betrayal, and they have returned in good conduct.”

  Zodeen replied, “Who’s to say they are not acting under orders as we speak? They weren’t going to mention a word of it until I noted their mark. It troubles me to say this, but they should be confined until we figure out a way to rid them of this abomination.”

  Both Daniel and Goliath cooperated with the others. Daniel first accepted the ruling. “Whatever it will take for our Brethren to be at peace and this campaign to move forward. I humbly accept penance for my actions.”

  Goliath concurred, “And so must I.”

  They arrived at another safehouse just across town from the last one. “You will be safe here,” Crusix instructed that they wait there until further notice.

  Scorpio remarked, “Not fit for royalty. But, considering the circumstances, it’ll will have to do for now.”

  Virgo spoke, “Thank you, Crusix. We are indebted to you. I will make sure our Lord hears of your contribution when this war is over.”

  Crusix responded, “No need for the acknowledgement. I am only following protocol. I must take my leave and report the reoccurring dangers.”

  Virgo said, “Please inform him the Vampeers are trying to breed a new Super Species. A never before seen mixture between their blood, the blood of Angels, and that of Zodiacs. Only they have the power to manufacture such an abomination.”

  Crusix assured, “I will report this news. But this comes as no surprise. The Vampeers have been trying to combine the bloodlines for centuries, and they will fail again.”

  After Crusix departed, Scorpio and Virgo had few things to do but wait. Scorpio hit the couch and turned on the television.

  “In today’s news, another science lab suspected of practicing what most would call a weapon of mass destruction, HAARP, has been destroyed. The number of casualties thus far during the explosion is estimated to be at least six scientists, with more reportedly missing. The mercenaries involved in this crime have yet to be identified. They left no evidence or even a trace that would assist the police in leading them to a potential suspect. The suspected HAARP weapon has been known for being able to manipulate weather and destroy entire countries without the use of an atomic bomb or nuclear missile. It’s evident that the masses are tired of scientists playing God and have taken it upon themselves to negotiate their own terms, instead of letting their arguments fall, as they would claim, upon the “deaf ears” of corrupt politicians. Those same politicians are accused of being responsible for funding the use of HAARP, the same weapon they’ve supposedly set out to destroy. The Revolution has begun, and may God be with you all. This is Seven-Seven news reporting live from New York City. Our eyes are open, and we are aware.”

  Scorpio spoke, “I’m guessing the people here have decided to elect themselves to rule without the aid of a government. Let’s see how that turns out.”

  Virgo added, “Yes, we are losing the war. The illusion is broken.”

  “May God be praised. What good deeds have we done to earn the right to such an unexpected visit?” a Pastor uttered while embracing a supernatural colleague.

  Michael’s name alone could clear Lucifer’s front line. He visited a secret church on Venus. His appearance caused the Moon and Sun to share the same air. He, along with seven Archangels, exchanged Scrolls with Bishops and Pastors belonging to twenty other churches in the region.

  “Don’t you dare tarnish the purity of that Scroll with the touch of your disloyal hands!” Michael pointed in the traitor’s direction. Shocked into silence, the whole room honed in on one of the Bishops in the congregation.

  “I beg your pardon?” replied the Bishop.

  Michael said, “This Mortal is a traitor, and I am well aware that he has already sent word of my arrival.”

  After making a poor escape, they apprehended the traitor, brought him into a secluded area of the tabernacle and executed him.

  Michael spoke, “Despite his death, he has served his purpose nonetheless. I’m sure Devils already share the same air. Get your men prepared for combat.”

  A short time after Michael’s warning, Angels posted outside saw a Dimension forming on the grounds of a garden down the road. The church bell in the tower sounded, and innocent bystanders fled the streets. Bishops brought out laser-powered weapons.

  Dozens of Demons from the Underworld seeped from the pillars of Venus. Both sides armed with laser weapons and Super Swords sharp enough to cut through the finest of armor. Following their orders, snipers perched in the towers, targeting and shooting the Demons. The numbers of Demons passing through the Dimension increased rapidly, twice as many replaced the dead.

  Lucifer had wante
d Michael’s head on a platter since the dawn of his expulsion from Heaven.

  Demons pummeled the walls of the tabernacle with lasers.

  “Hold that door, and watch the rear!”

  Michael knelt down to pray before his exchange. “Dear Father, it is me once again in the service of your word. Once more, I ask that you grant us the strength to defeat the enemy. In your name, Amen!” Michael took out a communications device from his inventory and sounded it. Hundreds of Archangels came out of hiding and met the Demons outside the church. Michael commanded, “Open that door, and let’s join our Brethren!”

  They arrived just in time to a war-infected town. “I suppose we weren’t the only ones informed of Michael’s whereabouts, my Lords,” Ezra declared while gazing through her binoculars.

  Exodus, Genesis, Leviticus, Ezra and Amos looked on at a distance, hidden from the eyes of the opposing parties. They continued watching the battle unsure whether or not to intervene.

  Ezra passed her binoculars to Genesis. “We must devise a strategy. What’s our move?”

  Leviticus answered, “Hmmm, we wait for the numbers of Devils to decrease, and then we join Michael’s campaign against them. After we’ve gained his trust, when he and his men least expect it, we’ll kill them all and part his head from his body. Bishop will be most pleased.”

  Amos replied, “Indeed. So, it’s settled. We shall wait.”

  “Jacob, Jacob, wake up. Wake up, Jacob!” Lucille shook a tired and defeated spy from his sleep. “We are here.”

  Jacob asked, rather unsteadily, “Already?”

  Lucille answered, “Yes, get yourself together.”

  Jacob, still half asleep, said, “But, why Rome?” He rolled over and sat up.

  Lucille continued, “There’s been word that certain events will take place here. We’re not sure what exactly, and that’s where your expertise comes into play. We’ve provided you with a safehouse and the technology you’ll need so our questions are met.”

  Jacob replied, “So I work for the Dark Graduates?”

  Lucille said, “Please be advised that you do not have much of a choice, Jacob. Consider yourself very lucky. Your work will not go without consideration. You will be so rich, you’ll have Immortals as neighbors.”

  Jacob spoke, “What’s the point if I’m not one myself? But since I don’t have a choice in this, I owe it to Mileck to complete this mission, nonetheless. So far though, you haven’t answered my questions about everything that is happening.”

  Lucille said, “You’re not the only one waiting for answers here, I assure you. But, you’ll be safe here for as long as you stay under the radar. I will return in a few days.”

  As she exited, Jacob asked, “But, but, wait. Where are you going?”

  Lucille answered, “There’re still some people who need to be silenced. If you understand my meaning.”

  Jacob protested, “More executions? Just who the Hell does the Dark Graduates think they are?”

  Lucille replied, “I’d shut my mouth if I were you. Everybody agreed to the terms in the Hall. The Dark Graduates will not be disrespected! I strongly suggest that you worry about your new assignment.”

  She exited his safehouse. The shuttle taking her away barely made a sound.

  Jacob thought to himself, “There you have it. I stand as a pawn for another corrupt organization.”

  Jacob walked through the safehouse and inspected all the windows, trying to discover landmarks to tell him where exactly in Rome he resided. The answer to his question came after seeing the Vatican in the distance. “Hmm, I see, of course. What are you up to, Pope?”

  “He has arrived!”

  Dracuul had left his Nephew Ecor in charge for over a decade during this important campaign. From the castle window, Ecor saw his Uncle stepping out of the transport with an accomplished grin on his face. If he wanted to keep himself alive, Ecor knew it would be most imperative for him to do everything in his power to make sure that grin remained intact. “Fuck! He’s arrived a year before schedule! Hand me my robe.”

  One of Ecor’s servants went to greet his Uncle to buy him some time. “My Lord, welcome back. Hopefully your excursion brought forth everything you desired.”

  Dracuul answered, “Yes, my good friend, and more.”

  Everyone gathered outside the castle gates to hear Dracuul speak. Each and every last one of his family and acquaintances stood by, ready to humbly greet their Lord. Ecor prepared himself very nervously. He counted the seconds before his Uncle would call his name.

  “Now, where is my handsome Nephew, Ecor?”

  Ecor left his chambers and walked down the stairs with an accomplished grin of his own. He hugged his Uncle, who commented, “I see you’ve gained a little weight. Been eating well since I’ve been gone?”

  Ecor answered, “Yes I have, Uncle. Excuse me.”

  Dracuul responded, “Don’t worry about that. This could mean one of two things: either success, or lack of work. I’m confident it falls under success. What is your report?”

  Unable to obtain Zodiac blood, he confirmed his failure.

  Dracuul’s familial hug and pleasantries devolved into anger. “What? What the fuck have you been doing over the past decade, boy!”

  His shouting not only embarrassed Ecor, but it cleared the Hall. No one wanted to be collateral damage to Ecor’s failure. Only a few stayed behind, including Fidor and Dynamo.

  Fidor and Dynamo waited until Dracuul’s outburst had abated before entering the hall. Fidor greeted Dracuul on one knee, and introduced his newest affiliate.

  Ecor interrupted Fidor. “Fidor, unless you’ve brought good news, then this is not a good time.”

  Dracuul added, “I couldn’t agree more.”

  Fidor motioned to Dynamo, who took out a small container of blood and handed it over to Dracuul.

  Fidor explained. “What you have in your possession, my Lord, is none other than a blood sample of the Zodiac who goes by the name Scorpio.”

  Dracuul nearly dropped the container. Those important enough remained in the room in awe. He passed it to one of his trustworthy engineers, and they took it to their lab to analyze it.

  Ecor felt reprieved and wanted to make certain that he got credit for the Zodiac blood. “See, my Lord, I just needed a bit more …”

  “Silence!” Dracuul shouted. “Don’t you dare take credit for the hard-earned accomplishments of these two. You cowered away in this castle stuffing your face and bedding with whores. I highly doubt you’ve left this place at all to see if your assignment was being handled accordingly. This mission should’ve been completed years ago. Do you know how long it will take me to even see my plan in its entirety? Ecor, you have failed me.”

  Angered, Ecor watched as Dracuul turned his back on him, and yelled, “What have you done! What news do you bring?”

  The room became dead silent. Shocked that someone would talk to him in that fashion, Dracuul walked up to his Nephew. “What? What did you say to me?”

  Before Ecor could answer, Dracuul grabbed him by the throat and lifted him up with one arm. Ecor’s arms flailed helplessly. He pulled at his Uncle’s suffocating clutch, but Dracuul’s grip remained. He felt his own life draining from his body. His legs dangled powerlessly a few feet above the floor. Dracuul threw his Nephew in his absent throne, which capsized. Ecor scrambled around on the floor, desperately searching for air. He caught enough of his breath to use the overturned throne as leverage to pick himself up. But he was still too weak to stand and fell right back down.

  “I hope you enjoyed touching that throne, boy, because that’s the last time you’ll ever set eyes upon it.” Dracuul motioned to two guards, “Take him out of here!”

  The guards escorted Ecor out of the castle.

  As the guards left with Ecor, a messenger ran in. “Sir, my apologies, but Victoria has arrived.”

  Victoria III was Queen and a very intelligent and powerful Vampeer, more powerful than Dracuul himself. Word of Drac
uul’s return had traveled fast.

  Her carriage, accompanied by a retinue of seventeen other carriages, arrived outside the Hall. Dracuul yelled out to everyone, “Not a word of what happened here, or else I will have all of your heads.”

  Dracuul wondered, “Hmmm, what’d been going on in my absence?” Despite their intimate past, she came to see him on business. He wondered if Ecor might have made some costly decisions without his consent … decisions he would be responsible for and that might be punishable by death.

  As she entered the Hall, Dracuul spoke to his guards. “Men, be on the alert.”

  Dracuul sat down on his throne and waited for the Queen. His guards stood at the corners of his throne, laser weapons equipped and ready. But, in the meantime, they looked ceremonial.

  And for a little added strength, one of his serving maids gave him a glass of fresh blood, which he sipped. Thus fortified, he commanded, “Let the Queen in.”

  With her wings fatigued from flying, Sabrina came across a familiar face. “Zacharia, what brings you here?”

  Zacharia, a Gaurdian Angel from Heaven, accompanied by two soldiers, stopped Sabrina in a secret Dimension, approximately one hour away from Heaven’s Gates. They’d been waiting on her return, and many more had been dispatched to other Dimensions, anticipating her arrival as well.

  Sabrina asked again, “Why are you not at your posts?”

  Zacharia again ignored her question. “What news do you bring, Sister?”

  Sabrina said, “My apologies, but under strict orders from Natenal himself, no one but the Father is to hear this update.”

  Zacharia and the other two Guardian Angels moved uncomfortably close to her, causing her to back away.

  “What is this? Who was worth the betrayal of our Father, Ruler of Heaven and the Earth, and everything in between? Was it Lucifer, Bishop or another source of false hope?”

  Zacharia answered, “Yes, ruler of Heaven and Earth only. He has lost everything else. So, you know of Bishop’s plan? It doesn’t matter. You will not live to forward the message.”