Sunlight filtered through the sapphire blue curtains of Alexander’s room. He groaned as he shifted under the covers of his bed. Why did it have to be morning so soon? Regardless, he couldn’t afford to be late. Today was the day, after all. Kicking off his blanket, he stumbled through his morning routine, getting dressed for the day ahead. Today was the day he could finally do what he’d always wanted.

He was going to become a soldier of Puritas. 

His parents weren’t home. Figures, they were probably getting everything ready for the Divinator Ceremony. It astonished him how hard they worked, even though they’d retired. Ever since he was a kid, all he’d wanted to do was be like them. Be as graceful as his mother. As hard-working and inspiring as his father. So he’d made up his mind early on. He wanted to be just like them. Live up to their example.

Leaping out of the window after getting dressed, Alexander flipped himself off the rim and onto the roof of his house. He stretched. 

Ardencroft was a beautiful, quaint town. He’d spent his entire life here, after all, so he knew everyone who lived here personally by this point. Over the horizon however, a red tinge was visible. No matter how beautiful their town was, there was always that looming sense of dread. They were one of the last few bastions left that were untainted by Infernal influence. Which is why he wanted to become a soldier. He wanted to fight on the frontlines and protect people from those demons. 

He never really understood why they existed. Or how they came to be. All he’d be told since he was a kid is that Infernals would come out of nowhere and completely take over cities and towns. Civilizations fell, humanity regressed from what it once used to be, and the skies began to develop a red tint. Now, across the entire planet, only a few countries and towns remained. All living in suspense. Their peace wouldn’t last for long.

But Puritas existed to keep that peace. The organisation took the fight to the Infernals. And he was going to as well. To keep his home safe.

“You’re up early.”

Alexander whirled around, only to see his childhood friend: Liam Dray. The blond stood on a rooftop adjacent to him. They were childhood friends, so it was only natural they had the same mannerisms.

“Yeah, yeah. No need to rub it in. I was just about to get going.” Alexander smirked. “Race you there.”

Liam grinned. “Oh you’re on.”

Thus began their race to the main amphitheatre. Running across Ardencroft’s bustling rooftop was a hobby of theirs, as they dodged and weaved through the bustling town. Alex jumped off one roof, grabbing onto the railing of the balcony and using it as leverage to swing onto the next house. 

The two sprinted across the tiles, causing a nuisance to the poor people living inside as they yelled at them from their balconies. 

“Damn brat! I just got those tiles fixed!”

“Sorry Mr. Lucien! We’re late!” Liam yelled back.

“Heh. Old geezer always has something to complain about.” Alexander snickered.

“And who was the one who destroyed his roof the last time?”

“...Listen, I slipped okay?”

The two snickered as they leapt off the rooftops and down to the ground, rolling to reduce the strain as they got back into a sprint. 

“Say what you will Corwin, but I’ve always been faster than you!” Liam yelled.

“Maybe you were like, four years ago!” Alex bit back.

As they ran towards their destination, they were joined by another friend of theirs: Ethan Hale. 

“Ethan!” 

The burly brunet looked at them with disdain. “You two are so stupid. Who the hell risks getting injured on the day of the Divinator ceremony?”

“C’mon.” Alexander grinned. “Always good to warm up!”

“Stop being all cocky. You’re already getting all this ceremony on your damn birthday. As if your parents couldn’t be any more obvious.” Ethan grunted.

“Hey man. That’s not cool. Alex works just as hard as the rest of us.” Liam interjected.

“As hard as you maybe. I work the hardest!” Ethan yelled.

“Then prove it musclehead! Outrun us!” Alex smiled.

Hale rolled his eyes, but nodded. The three raced to the large building, each one taking the lead at different points, until they finally reached the front door. They each panted and wiped the sweat off their brows. 

“Who… Who was first?” Liam asked.

Ethan looked at the two, then pointed to himself. “Me, obviously.”

Alexander glared at him incredulously. “Huh?! No way! It was me!”

“I don’t know guys, I’m pretty sure I was ahead of the two of you at the end there.”

“As if!”

The three bickered amongst each other.

“Oh yeah, well… Sofia, what do you think?” Liam asked a girl who had walked up to them. 

“S-Sofia!” Alexander blushed as he looked at her. He’d known her for a long time, and had feelings for her, which was common knowledge to everyone except her. 

The black haired girl paled as the three looked at her for answers. “I dunno! Why’re you guys crying about it anyway? Not like it matters.”

Ethan scoffed. “‘Course it matters. It was a test of skill.”

“Then you don’t need a test. I’m the most skilled out of the lot of you.” Sofia smirked.

“Why you-!”

“Anyway~” she crossed her arms. “You guys are late. The ceremony starts in like, half an hour.”

As more and more people from their town filled in, Alexander couldn’t help but glance back at the crowd over and over again.

“Stressed?”

He turned to face Sofia, who noticed his jitters.

“A bit,” he managed. “Feels like I should be out there fighting, rather than having a whole song and dance made about it.”

She rolled her eyes. “You won’t be able to do anything without a Divinator. Plus, this is the first time we’re seeing a Caelus in person! I’ve heard tales about them, and they all sound so cool!”

“They’re just angels. I’d like ‘em more if they actually fought alongside us.” 

“You know how it is! Infernals and Caeli are both the antithesis of each other. If they came along with humans, they’d be at far more risk of getting adversely affected by the Infernal magic.”

“Yeah, yeah. I paid attention in class.” Alexander crossed his arms. 

“Who do you think will get the coolest Divinator?” Liam asked.

“Such things don’t matter.” Ethan noted. “This isn’t some game. This is life or death. We’re going to be sent to the battlefield to fight for our lives.”

“Tch. Buzzkill.”

“Well… My parents are alive. They came back from the battlefield, and retired to live a happy life. If they can do it, I can do the same.” Alex explained.

“Overconfident as ever.” Ethan scoffed.

“Already thinking about retirement huh?” Liam smirked. “Who would you wanna settle down with?” 

Liam’s eyes wandered towards Sofia, with Alexander blushing and shutting him down. “W-We’ll see when it comes to that!”

Sofia blinked, confused as to what was going on. She then changed the topic. “Do you think your sister will be here? It’s been ages since I saw Erika.”

Alexander’s expression darkened. “As if. Last time I saw her I was what? Ten years ago? I know one thing, once I make it into Puritas, I’m not going to be as much of a deadbeat as she is.”

“Maybe she’s just busy.” Liam proposed.

“Too busy to meet her parents? Too busy to spare a single day and visit her little brother?”

“She’s doing something far more important.” Ethan said. “Quit whining.”

“Her brother’s joining Puritas. She could at least show up for that.” he muttered.

The event officially began however, as Alexander’s parents made it out on stage. 

“Wow, Elena looks so pretty!” Sofia exclaimed. “Your mom’s so amazing Alex!”

“Did your dad work out or something? I swear he wasn’t this jacked.” Liam asked.

“You should’ve seen him trying to get back in shape. It was hilarious!” Alex snickered.

Joining Elena and Marcus Corwin on stage were two others. Right off the bat, they were clearly not human. Their bodies were almost too perfect, blue lines etched across their skin as if they were made, not born. Attached to their back were two sets of wings, made not out of feathers, but of a white, glowing energy. 

This same energy permeated throughout their musculature, their eyes glowing a resplendent blue. They looked almost like a next stage in humanity’s evolution. Both wore bright white robes, though one left his right side free, his robe only covering half his body. This same one had shaggy white hair, and had a bit of an arrogant smirk on his face. His blue eyes scanned the audience. Alexander could sense no hostility from him, just a sense of confidence. It seemed like he could take on anything. It both comforted and scared him.

The other seemed far less personable, with a distant gaze plastered at something unseen. They had long hair and a porcelain-like face. 

“Greetings, everyone who joined us today! We know we’re on borrowed time here, considering all of you have lives to return to, but we are gathered here today to celebrate the next generation of Puritas!” Elena spoke, addressing the audience.

Marcus continued. “When my wife and I retired from the organisation, the goal was always to cultivate the strongest fighters to join the ranks. The sole reason for Ardencroft’s existence is not only to act as a safe haven from the Infernals, but a breeding ground for the strongest soldiers humanity has known!”

“And, to that extent, please welcome the Caeli who will be supervising the ceremony, and imbuing the Divinators with the power to kill those damned Infernals!”

The audience clapped as the two angelic beings responded to the reception.

“Now, now. No need to clap for us, the real ones to celebrate are the fresh meat!” one of the Caelus said.

The other three looked at him awkwardly. He paused.

“Is… Is that inappropriate to say? I thought that was a normal human phrase?”

Marcus cleared his throat “Well, no but… Don’t phrase it like that Michael.”

The other Caelus bowed. “Pleased to meet all of you. We are Caeli, beings created by the Divine One to aid humanity in their war against the Infernals. I am one known as Hadraniel. And this is the Divine General: Michael.”

Michael laughed off the wording. “No need to get all official. I’m just here to join my good friend Marcus in the bestowing of Divinators to our children!!”

“We’re eighteen. No longer are we kids to coddle.” Ethan interrupted. All eyes immediately turned to him, as Michael laughed.

“Oh boy. Some of you have bite!”

As murmurs spread across the hall, Elena quickly got everyone’s attention again. “Moving on to the ceremony itself, each recruit will be brought up on stage and granted their Divinator, signifying their official induction into Puritas. The organisation has existed since time immemorial, so please applaud every promising young one ready to make a difference in humanity’s fight for survival!”

Alexander tapped his foot as they talked about other, unimportant things. He was ready to bounce out of his chair, feeling like electricity was surging through his veins. Clearly he wasn’t the only one too. He could see Ethan flexing his hands, seemingly ready to have his name called and get all the glory. 

Liam flashed him a grin, clearly excited, if not a little trepidatious. Sofia was clutching her dress, out of nervousness or excitement he wasn’t sure. The other few people who’d assembled all had similar reactions, each excited to serve. 

He put an arm on Sofia’s shoulder. “Getting nervous?”

It was a leap of faith, most definitely. He prayed she couldn’t see him blushing.

“...A little. I’ve never been in front of so many people like this before…”

“Relax. It’s not like you’ll be up there talking.”

“God, I sure hope not.” she paled. “Still, this is the next step in our lives huh? Everything’s gonna change from here.”

Alex went quiet. “...Maybe. But I hope some things stay the same.”

“Without further ado, we’ll call everyone forward one by one. Receive your Divinator from Hadraniel, and follow his instructions carefully!” Marcus announced. “First up: Liam Dray!”

The blond jumped out of his chair, bursting with energy. “First up is me!”

He ran up onto the stage, as Hadraniel’s body began to glow. Opening his palm, he created a sphere of light, a glowing ball of incandescent white that floated ethereally. “Take it.”

Liam looked up at the angelic being. “Like… Just grab it?”

Hadraniel nodded. 

As Liam put his hand on the sphere, it suddenly leapt towards his hand, latching onto it and getting absorbed. His body began to glow the same brilliant white.

“Agh! W-What the-!”

“Calm yourself.” Hadraniel spoke. Quietly and calmly, he explained the process to Liam. “Divinators are a Puritas soldier’s only weapon against Infernals. They bond to a human’s soul, taking in its special shapes and contours, almost like a mould. Reveal your true self to its power, and it shall respond in kind. Breathe. And be still.”

Liam did as he was asked, as the light began to lessen. Then, his hand began to glow, blue runes etching themselves onto his arm. “T-This burns a little!”

“It shall, but only for a moment.”

As the process stopped, Liam doubled over, panting. He stared at his arm. Blue lines ran across it in a special type of pattern. It was similar to the ones Alexander’s parents had, but not exactly. 

“That,” Hadraniel stepped closed, holding Liam’s hand up. “Is your Divinator.”

“Whoa…”

“To summon it, you merely need to call on its power. Either mentally, or out loud. Whichever you’re most comfortable with.” 

Liam looked at his palm, his brow furrowed with concentration. Then, in a flash, a weapon appeared in his hand. A dagger. “Whoa!”

He played with his new weapon, which had a white and gold colour. Its handle was made to fit his hand perfectly, the blade curved in an odd, yet aesthetically pleasing way. Blue magic flowed through the creases along its design. 

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The audience clapped at this, as Liam hit poses with his weapon. “Amazing…” he gawked at it some more. 

“A dagger.” Michael placed a hand on his chin. “Not a bad weapon. Not bad at all.”

More and more people were called up on stage one by one, with the same process being repeated. 

“Sofia Ardell.”

“Good luck.” Alex patted her on the back as she went up on stage. She skittishly looked around as Hadraniel offered her a Divinator. She grabbed the orb of light, the magic runes engraving themselves on her arm. She summoned her weapon: a crossbow.

“A nice weapon. Good ranged option.” Michael said. “Pretty sure Elena has a bow too right?”

Alex’s mother smiled. Manifesting her Divinator, a longbow, she compared it to Sofia’s. “Bows are very unique. But, don’t assume you’re solely a ranged fighter just because you have a bow, alright? Divinators can be used in any way you so choose. So don’t hesitate to smack things around with it.” Elena winked.

Sofia looked at her weapon in awe, then nodded. 

“Next up.” Marcus scanned the audience. “Ethan Hale!”

Ethan grumbled as he got up. “Took ‘em long enough.”

He glared at Alex. “And of course they saved the ‘best’ for last.”

“Just shut up and go up there already.” Alex rolled his eyes.

Ethan sauntered over to Hadraniel, swiftly grabbing his Divinator and watching as the runes were engraved on his arm. He summoned his weapon, which took the form of two sickles. He grinned as he looked over them. The audience all cheered as he hefted his new Divinator.

“Sickles! How cool!” Michael exclaimed. “Quite rare too! Only the most promising soldiers get this kind of weapon.”

Ethan grinned. “I knew I was destined for greatness.”

As Alexander walked up to the stage and waited for his name to be called however, Hadraniel stopped his parents with a hand. “Something is off.”

The group talked quietly. Due to Alexander being close, he could pick up on their conversation.

Michael tilted his head. “Hmm… Shouldn’t be a huge deal. Wanna go investigate?”

“You stay here. Provide the remaining ones their Divinator.” Hadraniel said. “I shall go locate the source of the disturbance.”

Marcus looked at the two of them. “What’s wrong?”

“Infernal activity.” Michael explained.

Elena and Marcus paled as they heard this. “But that’s impossible! Ardencroft has been Infernal free for aeons.”

“It’s nothing. I’ll deal with it post-haste. Knowing this place’s history, there are likely only a few grunts.” Hadraniel headed off-stage and flew off.

Michael sighed. “Just… let’s finish this quickly.”

Marcus cleared his throat. “Last, but certainly not least. Our very own son: Alexander Corwin!”

The audience applauded as Alexander walked up to them. He took in the praise, a wide grin plastered across his face. Though, a part of his mind was still thinking about their discussion. He looked at his parents.

“What’s going on? Infernals? Here?” he muttered.

“Don’t worry. It’ll work out.” Elena assured. “Let’s just focus on the ceremony right now.”

Michael concentrated, creating a small sphere of light. “One minute. Bear with me. I don’t usually do this kind of thing.”

The energy snapped and crackled, the ball of light unstable as it fizzled. 

“Is it… supposed to look like that?”

His father put a hand on his shoulder. “Alex. It’s been a dream of mine, to see my children walk in our family’s footsteps. I felt the same way when your sister left… And I feel the same way now. I’m immensely proud of you. Both of us are.”

“Speaking of sis. Did she even…”

Marcus sighed. “I’m sorry son. We did extend an invite but there was no response.”

“In any case. I’m sure she’ll be just as proud of you as us.” Elena smiled warmly. “You can meet her once you move over to the Citadel.”

Alexander laughed to himself. “Yeah.”

“Alright kiddo.” Michael held out his hand. “It should be safe to take now.”

Alexander grabbed the ball of light, and immediately regretted doing so. He clenched his teeth as the magic sparked upon contact with his skin, almost like lightning coursing through him. His arm burned, like his skin was splitting asunder. 

“Agh! Gh!” He grabbed his arm. 

“Calm down! You got this!” Michael grabbed him. “Take deep breaths!”

The feeling in his body spread, as he stumbled on the stage. He had to bare his soul to this energy. Give it all of him. Only then would the pain stop. 

His breath slowed down as the light dissipated. Engraved on his right arm were marks akin to bolts of lightning. It was over. He closed his eyes, visualising the drawing of his weapon, and his arm suddenly felt heavier as a stunned silence overtook the audience. 

In his hand was a perfectly shaped greatsword, gleaming silver as blue mist spilled from the guard. The hilt was a brilliant blue, with golden, lightning like patterns engraved on it. But the most noticeable trait was the crackling red trails of fabric billowing from the pommel. 

“...A sword?”

Michael gasped. “You got one. A sword!”

His parents hugged him in happiness. 

“W-Wait what does that mean?”

Michael grinned. “Swords are exceedingly rare. It is said that those who receive a sword, have the highest potential. You might just be a tide-turner in this war, boy.”

One by one, the bystanders in the audience clapped, as Alex’s pride swelled along with the sound of applause. 

“Alex, I can’t believe it! My own son, a sword bearer!” his father blubbered.

As the audience all cheered however, one voice rang out. “You can’t be serious! Are you kidding me?!”

Alex turned to look at the source of the noise, who was Ethan, glaring at him. 

“Every time. Every damn time. It’s always about you. Never about anyone else.” Ethan spat.

Alexander’s parents let go of him as they turned to face Ethan.

“Now please, Hale. We aren’t trying to-!”

“Shut up! Both of you! Today wasn’t about any of us. It wasn’t about the ‘next generation’. It was just about your stupid son!” 

“Ethan! Enough!” Alex stepped forward. “You think I had a choice in which weapon I got?”

“Oh yeah. Of course. The universe ‘chose’ you huh? You’re the ‘chosen one’ who’s going to save all of us, is that right?” Ethan yelled angrily.

“Ethan what are you doing?” Liam got up to stop him. “Can’t you just be happy for him?”

“You’re just jealous that your spotlight was stolen.” Sofia joined in.

“Me? Jealous? It’s not just about me. It’s about you two as well. Do you think anyone will care about us once we join Puritas? Huh? Are we anyone of importance?” Ethan asked furiously. “This man’s been born lucky, he’s lived his entire life lucky, and now, he’s been lucky again with the Divinator he’s been given.”

“It’s not luck, I-”

“Oh I’m sure you worked real hard Corwin. I’m sure you think you got here through the miracle of hard work. But the truth is, even if you were a stupid, talentless hack, you’d be here regardless. ‘Cuz your mum and pop are national heroes, so you might as well be one too!”

“Ethan Hale. Quiet!” Elena spoke. “We are not stupid enough to send our son to die just because he’s our child. I, in good faith, would not even think of doing any of this with him had he not been prepared for it.”

“She’s right.” Alex steps up. “And plus, so what if I’m the chosen one? So what if I got a sword? Not all of us can be successful. All I hear is excuses upon excuses Ethan! Maybe my parents are partial to me, because I actually have talent!”

“There it is. There’s your true colours. Just ‘cuz you were born into a special bloodline. Just because you grew up with a silver spoon in your mouth. You think you’re better than all of us!” Ethan screamed. “You were probably too busy living in fantasy land, too busy drowning in that delusion of yours. Do you know how much Ardencroft is struggling? Do you know that we’re the only civilization left on this side of the planet? The world is ending, yet all you care about is your own personal scorecard!”

“Of course I know all that! I want to protect my home!” 

“Then stop acting like you’re above all of this!” Ethan argued. “The truth is Alexander, you’re a damn nepo baby. And I’ve hated you, all this time!”

The ground shook. Violently. A feeling of dread overtook the hearts of everyone present in the building. 

The wall of the building exploded, as Hadraniel was sent flying through. A massive, red spear pinned the Caelus to a wall, his entire torso impaled by its sharp end, blue blood bursting from the gaping hole.

“Hadraniel!” Michael shouted.

Sheer pandemonium ensued as every human there began to scream and scatter. But this was only the beginning. As they tried to run out, numerous waves of monsters charged in, leaping onto the unsuspecting civilians and tearing them apart.

Their blood red skin, horns and orange runes spreading across their body made it clear who they were. Infernals.

Marcus and Elena summoned their Divinators, Elena firing her bow at the monsters as Marcus charged in with a huge warhammer. 

“All of you! Run! Get help!” Michael yelled as he grabbed Hadraniel’s corpse and flew off. 

Alexander paled as he saw the chaos ensue in front of him. This wasn’t how it was supposed to go. He always wanted to fight but… Not like this. All he saw was senseless violence. People being ripped to shreds while still alive. His parents did their best but… They couldn’t save everyone.

This was hell. Was this war?

“Alex!”

He turned to the sound of the voice.

“ALEXANDER!” Liam screamed. “We need to run!” 

“Y-Yeah-!” 

The four ran out from another exit, only to be faced with the grim reality: Ardencroft was doomed. The red sky was here. And that signalled the end. 

“N-no!” Sofia covered her mouth. “The red sky… They’ve fully taken over.”

“What about the barrier?” Ethan looked around. “Surely they couldn’t have broken through…”

“That barrier wouldn’t have been broken without… Sufficient force. But how? Ardencroft has been hidden for centuries! How did they find us?” Sofia exclaimed tearfully.

Liam fell to his knees. “What… What do we do? They asked us to get help but… How?”

“There’s an alarm to call for Puritas, right? In the main tower!” Alexander pointed. “We need to get there!” 

A massive explosion of red flame enveloped the tower, destroying it in a brilliant explosion. 

No one was coming. 

“Mortals. Sinners!” a voice boomed from the sky, as a single being looked upon the entire town. “Prepare for your day of reckoning! How safe you must have felt, sitting in your little haven!” 

Noticing them, he crashed in front of them, and all four were immediately paralyzed in their places. Not due to anything the Infernal had done. No. It was the simple fact that they were looking a primordial being in the eyes.

This Infernal was different. He was humanoid. Blood red armour covered his muscular body, with equally red hair framing his manic visage. His eyes glowed with murderous intent, a grin stretching across the scarlet mask that was his face. It looked almost pasted on, like his skin didn’t quite fit right with his face, so it needed to be stretched and stitched where needed. Sharp teeth filled his maw far past any human’s jaw would end, and five horns jutted from his head, almost resembling a crown. 

“What’s wrong? You’re soldiers aren’t you?” He asked. His voice had an edge to it. There was an air of sophistication, but it felt mocking. Like this thing was playing with them. He beckoned them to fight. “C’mon. Bring out your weapons. At least die fighting.”

Alexander’s throat felt dry. Like someone was choking him. He couldn’t speak. He could barely even move. 

“W-W…We aren’t soldiers.” Liam managed. “We’re just… New recruits.”

“New recruits? I don’t understand. You have Divinators don’t you?” the Infernal tilted his head.

Tears streamed down Liam’s face. “We don’t know h-how to use them.”

“Draw your weapon.”

“But-”

“Draw it.”

Liam manifested his dagger. “We mean no harm… Just have mercy!”

The demonic being looked at the weapon and snorted. “That’s it? Pfft!” He laughed, doubling over as he seemed to find this genuinely amusing. 

“Well human. You are at least more daring than your friends.” He put his arm around Liam. “Why are they all so still? Why don’t you ask them?”

“Guys…” Liam looked helplessly at them. 

“They look shy. C’mon. Tell them. I like them. I’ll keep them around as jesters. You’re a funny guy, aren’t you?” The Infernal shook Liam around a little.

Liam only nodded. And then in the blink of an eye…

His head was gone. 

Blood splattered on the floor, as his lifeless body fell down. 

“Heh. That was funny.” The Infernal laughed. 

“...Liam?” Alexander looked at his friend’s body. This wasn’t real. This couldn’t be real, right? It was all a dream. That’s it. A nightmare. He just had to wake up.

“Oh. Now this one talked.” The Infernal knelt down in front of Alex. “What was that? Was your buddy called Liam?”

Alexander met this thing’s eyes. Hollow. Despite them glowing, there was nothing behind them. No humanity. Nothing. As if he was staring into the abyss.

“I… Am Vexor.” He put his hand on his chest. “The manifestation of hatred. And I smelled that delicious aroma here. Was it one of you? It still emanates from one of you. Which one? Tell me! C’mon. Don’t hide it from me.” 

Alexander cradled Liam’s body in his arms. “I…I’m sorry…”

Vexor rolled his eyes. “On with it now. Wah, wah. My friends are dead. I-!” 

An arrow lodged itself in his neck. He looked at Sofia, who’s hands shook as she held her crossbow. 

“Now, girl. That was ballsy.” 

Before he could do much more, a huge blast of light enveloped him. “Agh! Dammit!”  

Vexor groaned as his skin steamed. Michael landed in front of them. He regarded Liam’s corpse, and sighed despondently.

“I… I should’ve been here sooner. You three. Please. Run. Don’t look back. You must live.”

The three took off. As fast as they could, as their town burned down around them. Buildings crumbled as numerous Infernals took notice. They did their best to avoid them, even taking out a few. But they were gripped by fear.

“It’ll be okay. It’ll be okay.” Alexander muttered to himself. “You can do this. You’ve trained for this.” 

“Alex… What do we do?” Sofia looked at him. She needed some solace. Some comfort. Something he couldn’t give her. 

“Just run. There’s nothing else we can do.” 

Just as they made it to the outskirts however, what looked like a meteor of blue and red crashed down near them. As the smoke cleared, Vexor stood over Michael.

“This is the Divine General? How many times will we do this? You Caeli keep trying again and again to stop us. To slow our takeover of this planet. But we’re already one step closer, and your numbers dwindle further and further. Give up. Your god will not save you. But ours… As the days pass, he comes closer to awakening. Closer to granting us a world of our own!” Vexor cackled, and his face took on a more serious tone.

“How pathetic. Half of my forces were wiped out by you, and yet… You are the reason we are here. It is entirely your fault.” Vexor noticed them as they tried to sneak away. “Well… You and… Them.” 

He leapt at Alexander, but he was pushed out of the way by Ethan, who swung his sickles at the Infernal. Vexor leapt over them and landed a small distance away.

“You two! Run!” He yelled.

“Ethan! What are you doing?!” 

A small sigh escaped Ethan’s lips. “I’m sorry, Alex. If I didn’t blow up at you… Maybe we’d all be enjoying drinks together right now. Run. I don’t deserve a place by your side.” 

Vexor leapt at Ethan, who tried to fight him off, but was quickly disarmed and grabbed by the neck. He looked at the two pleadingly. “Go! Now!” 

“ETHAN!”

Sofia grabbed his arm and the two ran again, as Alexander heard more blasts behind him. They were coming. Ethan wasn’t going to hold them back for long. But the two tripped over themselves and fell to the ground. 

“What are we doing?!” Alexander hit the ground in frustration. “We’re running away while everyone dies? Without helping?”

Sofia didn’t say anything.

“I…I say all those things about wanting to fight. About wanting to represent my family. But… I’m terrified. I don’t want to fight anymore. Not if it’s like this.” Alexander trembled. “And yet… People have died to save me. I need to do something. Anything.”

“You want to fight back?” Sofia asked.

“What separates us from them? Why should we live, while they don’t?” Alexander asked her. “I’m not leaving them. I’m not ditching my home.” 

Sofia smiled. “You’re so stubborn.”

“I am. And I’ll die stubborn too.” 

Vexor landed in front of them. “You stopped running? I wanted to keep playing.” 

Alexander drew his blade, Sofia hefted her crossbow. He charged at Vexor, who easily caught the blade with his hands. Alex ducked as Sofia fired a volley of arrows at Vexor, but he caught them in his free hand. 

Using this as a distraction, Alexander swung his sword low, trying to cut the Infernal’s legs, but he flipped over him and lunged for Sofia. This was stopped mid leap by Marcus, who slammed the demon with his hammer. 

“Agh!” Vexor crashed into a tree. 

“Dad?!” Alex gasped.

“Son. Why are you still here? You can’t take him on!” Marcus said. “Your mom and I will handle him. You go!” 

“No! I’m not running! I’m not leaving you!” 

The older man sighed. “Stubborn brat. Just like your old man.” 

Vexor got to his feet, but was shot full of holes by Elena, who stood perched on top of a run down building. “He’s down, kill him!” 

Marcus and Alex leapt at him with their weapons, but like a red blur, he avoided their attacks. He swung down his fist at Alex, but Marcus protected his son with the handle of his hammer. Smacking the Infernal in the face with it, he went for another swing, but wasn’t so lucky.

Vexor jumped back and belched a gout of pure fire, but an arrow struck the ground in front of the men and generated a bright blue barrier. 

“Now, Sofia!” Elena yelled. 

The younger woman fired more crossbow bolts into Vexor’s back, impaling him as he hunched forward. His hammer crackling with blue energy, Marcus slammed it into Vexor, the Infernal crumpling into the ground as a large crater formed.

“Now! Kill him!” 

Alex jumped at Vexor with his sword. He’d pay. He’d pay for killing Liam. For killing Ethan. For destroying his town. He hated him. For everything he’d done, he was going to-!

His confidence faltered as he noticed a wild smile plastered across Vexor’s face. With ease, escaped his pinned predicament under Marcus’ hammer, and punched a hole through his gut. Grabbing Alexander’s sword, he flung him into the building Elena was standing atop, the entire structure collapsing.

Alexander coughed as he came to. He saw his mother, blood trickling down the side of her face. 

“Thank god. You’re alive.” 

“Mom?” 

She coughed, clutching her side, which also bled. “Listen. It’s only the two of us now. And I can’t, in good conscience, let you fight anymore.” 

He looked around. They were inside the broken building. It was only a matter of time before Vexor found them. 

“N-No… You can’t!”

“I know. Marcus and Sofia… I don’t think they made it.” Elena managed, her voice stricken with grief. “But… I’m a parent. And it’s our job to ensure the best for our children. No matter what.” 

“Mom… No…”

“If you manage to escape. Please… Find Erika. Don’t push her away. She’s… She loves you. She loves us. She’ll blame herself. And I want you to be there for her.” 

“Dammit! No!” Alexander tried to get up, but his leg buckled. It was broken. 

Vexor’s muffled voice could be heard from the other side. “Mortals?! Weren’t there four of you? I can only find two! Come on out!” 

Elena took a deep breath. “I love you, Alex.”

His mother jumped out of the debris, firing numerous volleys at Vexor, who merely laughed with glee. Alexander crawled out behind her, willing himself to get up. He had to get up. He had to…

His father’s body lay a small distance away, a hole through his abdomen. Sofia lay unmoving, her body limp, lying against a building. Blood pooled from her head. She wasn’t breathing.

Run. He had to run. He tried to hobble away, but a shockwave floored him. Vexor stood over his mother, his armour dripping with blood. He’d lost her too. 

“Now, we’re down to one.” Vexor smirked. “Do you hate me, mortal? Do you despise me for doing this to you? Good. Feed me more. Give me all of it.”

Alex stood up, leaning on his sword. “What… What ARE YOU!?” 

His question was not answered, as another figure appeared in front of them. Michael. Again. 

“For all your big talk… You keep running from me, damned cockroach.” Michael spat. 

Vexor frowned. “You always ruin my fun.” 

He manifested a blood red sword. He looked at it. “Just a sword huh? It’s not enough. You need more hate in your body boy. Make me stronger.” 

“Alexander.” Michael spoke. “Pay no heed to the poison that spews from his mouth. You’re safe now. Stay there.” 

Alexander watched as the two fought, Michael firing beams of light as Vexor lunged at him, like a wild animal. Numerous circular runes formed from Michael’s fingertips, blue light flying from them like bolts of lightning. His body lit up with the designs, with Vexor’s body doing the same. Only difference was that one was blue, the other orange. 

He wasn’t going to just stay put. He needed to help. He had to kill him. Not just because he wanted it to. But because it was necessary. 

Vexor cut through another bolt, with Michael pointing at the ground, a large circle forming beneath Vexor’s feet. Then, a column of light erupted from the ground, encircling Vexor in divine magic. The Infernal wailed as his skin burned, staggering out of the attack. Michael charged up another beam, but Vexor blocked it with his sword. 

Now was his chance. 

Alex hobbled, and leapt at Vexor’s back with his good leg. 

“Ghk!”  Vexor looked down at his chest, a sword erupting from it. “You… Brat!” 

“Shoot him Michael! Take me down too!” Alexander yelled at the Caelus. 

“NO!” Vexor grabbed the sword, as it began to crack and splinter with his grip. The Infernal’s crimson blood poured down Alex’s left arm, as Michael hesitated.

“DO IT!” Alex yelled.

Michael sighed. “Sorry kid.” 

He put his arm up, a circular seal forming in front of his hand, before a blast of light enveloped both of them. Alex closed his eyes. It was over.

And yet…

It wasn’t. Immense pain covered every inch of his body, as he heard the splintering of his Divinator. But… The pain began to change. His body felt numb. But his arms…

His arms screamed. Every inch of them felt like they were on fire, like he’d dipped them in the sun. His nerves felt like they were going to explode. It was a searing, unending pain. Was this what death felt like?

Was he even dead? 

No. His eyes were just closed. It was just quiet. Eerily quiet. 

His eyes fluttered open. No one was moving. Vexor’s burnt, broken body sat in front of him, but the Infernal didn’t move. Neither did Michael. His ears picked up no sound. The surroundings were dull. He screamed. Screamed to the heavens for doing this to him. For leaving him alive. Tears streamed down his face. He felt raw. Hollow. Like nothing mattered anymore. The pain in his arms didn’t end. Was this punishment? No.

Something was there with him. He wasn’t alone. His body twitched as he felt a presence. Turning to the right, he saw it. 

A figure, clad in black. Its cloak stretched down and covered its entire body, trailing behind it. It almost felt like it walked out of someone’s shadow, it had the same translucent consistency as one. Yet, if he focused on it, the creature became opaque. 

It had long arms. Too long, almost comical. They seemed to be wrapped around its own body, the tendrils sitting around its frame. Clawed hands flexed as it held them in front of Sofia’s body. He couldn’t see its head, only that it was hooded. It was trying to do something to Sofia.

“...No. Stop.” He muttered. The creature stopped, then straightened. It turned slightly, to regard him. 

“Whatever you are… Don’t touch her! Please…” He grimaced, his arms feeling like they were going to fall off. “AGH!” 

“Fvb jhu zll tl?”

It spoke. But what had it just said?

“What?”

“Uv vul ohz lcly... Doha hyl fvb?”

Alexander panted, and then closed his eyes, trying to move his arms up. The muscles burned, and it felt like an eternity, but he gazed upon them. They weren’t burning. They seemed… Normal?

The lightning runes still existed on his right arm, but they were wilder now. Almost more… Unstable. But the bigger surprise was his left. It also had runes. They weren’t blue, they were orange. 

“What is..” He tried to speak, but his whole body felt like it was burning now. “Happening to me?”

“Pa zlltz fvb kv uva buklyzahuk tl fla.  Fvby hytz hyl aolf rlf. H ofiypk…”

Alexander looked at the creature, but it suddenly disappeared from his view. It reappeared, and it was now in front of him. 

“Wlyohwz P dpss zovd fvb.”

It knelt down in front of him, and a single eye opened in the abyss that was its face. He looked into it…

Images flashed into his mind. Sounds, smells, sights… Everything, all at once. He saw things he did not, and could not understand. What was all this? Who were these beings? Was that… His planet? 

He saw demonic and angelic entities fighting, their shapes constantly changing and evolving, yet never once being discernable. He heard roars and voices, all in a language foreign to him. He saw a void that at once seemed to contain something, but at the same time was empty. 

He clutched his temples as even the pain in his arms felt numb. More and more information ploughed its way into his mind, memories that weren’t his own flowing into his brain unbidden. Yet he understood nothing. But then… he began to see what looked like humans.

“You’ve got it from here, Corwin.” 

A black haired boy with blue eyes, smiling at him. He seemed injured, blood running down his face. Did he just say his last name?

“I’m sorry, Alex. I had to…”

A brunette with amber eyes, also bloodied, stood close to him, staring into his eyes. She wore scuffed white armour, a gaping hole in her chest. She was crying. Why was she crying? 

“Alex! Take my hand!” 

Erika? She’d changed since he last saw her but… She had the same blue eyes as him. His sister… He didn’t remember this. When was this?

“ALEX!”

“H mhpsbyl. Uv thaaly. Spcl dlss, Hslehukly Jvydpu. Zv P thf vujl hnhpu zwlhr av fvb.”

He awoke with a jolt, letting out a yell as he rose up. He was on a bed. His arms felt heavy, and as he looked at them, he noticed they were in some sort of covering. Like a shackle. His body no longer hurt. But he felt different.

His body was heavier. He felt stronger, but at the same time more fragile. Like if he made any movement, his bones would shatter. 

Was he healing, or had he just gotten used to it? He wasn’t sure.

“You’re awake.” 

Michael. He’d survived.

“Alexander Corwin. You are an anomaly. A threat to the natural order of things. Something that should not exist.” The Caelus spoke. “You must be exterminated.”

Alex’s eyes widened.

“...Is what I would say. If the higher-ups had their way with you. But no, Alexander Corwin. You are an asset. An important one. One we cannot let slip through our hands.” Michael grinned. 

“Welcome to Puritas.”