(AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES: At long last here's part two of thirty four I never thought it come ^^ My editor just sent this to me I've re-read it over and now it's time for everyone else to read it and send in their thoughts. We've only got nowFIVEchapters left and then we'll be done TBWC for good. I do not mean to say it negative way but I look forward to what next writing project everyone who's voted on to have us do. Chapter 34 looks to be another four part chapter, we have two more chapters to go to which my editor promises to have the next part sent to be hopefully by this weekend since we have been keeping many of you waiting long enough for new reading material.

** Just remember for everyone whom is knew or just added me or the story to their alerts to add your vote on my currant poll on my profile page or on my Deviantart poll if you have an account there I'm under the same name as the one I used here you cannot missed it. That along with seeing what arts have been done for TBWC by me and others that have commissioned arts for the story ^^. Now onto part two enjoy everyone.


(*) As always many special thanks to my editor and co-partner in helping finally get this story off the ground and back burner dragonwriter24cmf. So far we have been getting by with this fan fiction by bit by bit with story and with you guy the fans that love reading each new chapter that comes out. Thanks to everyone, I appreciate your support through this 100% everyone. Keep the constructive criticisms, outgoing comments and reviews coming in.

DISCLAIMER: All rights to Trinity Blood was created and © by late Yoshida Sunao, the anime directed by Tomohiro Hirata and produced by the studio GONZO, as well as a manga drawn by Yoshida Sunao's friend Kiyo Kyoujou. All © rights revered by their respective owners. I own nothing except © to this story, it's plot and it's OC's that will eventually show within later chapters.

Warning:This fan fiction is rated (M) AKA Lemon. This story is ABSOULTLY NOT suitable for children or teens below the age of 16 [So if you're under the age limit turn back now, come back when you old enough to read this. I'd rather not get flamed nor sued by parents whom are just looking for trouble in places their underage children should not be looking nor reading for that matter.

This story contains strong explicit adult themes and sexual ones such slight foreplay - as in hand sex, one-sided love, Attempted Rape, Explicit Sex or anything else mild to hard core kinky for that matter!, references to violence, and strong coarse language. If this disturbs you, do not read any further.

Notice: Trinity Blood War Continuum takes place one month after the events from the anime's finale episode 24 along with some elements, characters and things that will be used and taken from both manga's Rage against the Moons (RAM), Reborn on the Mars (ROM). In addition to some spoilers from stories untold notes left by Yoshida Sunao which he intended to finish off the manga series supposedly. Basically 50/50 will be used on both the anime and manga to those whom are more familiar with manga then others will see this implants as the story develops. Trinity Blood is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the Roman Catholic Church/the Vatican is portrayed as a military and spiritual power. The series also strongly implies major and controversial changes in the Church of present reality, such as women being bishops, cardinals as well as romantic relationships and marriages between members of the clergy. If this disturbs you of form or shape of or on imagination then do not read this story.


Trinity Blood: War Continuum - Chapter Thirty-FourPart Two: Long Lost Love, Descent into Battle

The next few days were chaotic ones. Lilith informed the refugees of the bargain they'd made that very night. The rest of the evening, and the next day, was spent in planning and organizing. Technicians and computer experts went over every scrap of data from the ship's computer, copying what they thought they'd be able to use, storing the things they weren't sure about. Esther even saw a few of them examining the ship's master code, debating in low tones about things that she had to admit she couldn't really comprehend.

Lilith spent the day attending to the new Lord Walsh. She'd informed her people of the transition in leadership, to make sure it went smoothly. Fortunately, her other lieutenants had all witnessed the exchange, and agreed to it, and their words and actions soothed any unrest the rest of them might have felt. When night fell, and Alexander came forward to lead them to their new home, Lilith at his side, Esther saw nothing but kind words and supportive gestures from his people.

That night, the entire group moved into the Underground. Esther had expected it to be chaotic, noisy, and busy, but watching them, she understood how Lilith had gotten them out of the ARK as quickly as she had. Even with the children that were in their midst, the group was extremely efficient, and organized. Within the first half of the night, everything that could be safely transported was underground, and groups were dividing up to accomplish their planned missions. Technical groups led by Alexander and Lilith began working with the decades old computers, finding ways to bring them online and gather information on their new home. Other groups began working on getting power, water, and so forth, while planning groups looked for ways to compensate for things that would be difficult to obtain.

Exploratory groups and those less technically minded, searched the Underground for living spaces, and began to make the places they found comfortable. Portable lights, small heating and cooling units, cots and makeshift furniture frames sprung up in abandoned rooms. Others unpacked traveling rations and began to plan meals, including one select group for the newly appointed Lord, and for Lilith.

Once they arrived, Lilith kept busy helping revive the Underground, helping sort out where technological centers should go, living spaces, and how everything worked. Her password was essential in several places for assisting in opening the sealed areas of the old labs.

Esther acted as a general assistant. At times, she ran messages between the groups of workers, using her familiarity with the place, though Lilith gave her a map. At other times, she helped with cleaning, or arranging things, relying on her memory of visits to the Underground to make careful suggestions. She knew the population was going to increase by her time, and likely there would be plenty of changes made, but she also knew it didn't hurt as a starting point.

Four nights after their entrance to the Underground, a message came from the Palace. It was short and to the point, requesting a status report on the movement underground, as well as a messenger to relay plans for Lord Walsh's upcoming entrance into the court. Esther volunteered to go. Lilith was working on the computers, and some formulas to make living in hiding easier on the Methuselah. In particular, she was working on a formula for Alexander to use when attending court functions, to help him blend in with the Terrans. Alexander Walsh was working with the other leaders of the refugee group, alternating between work on the technological systems, and ideas on how to form a stable society, what rules needed to be in place and so forth. Both leaders gave their blessings, and Walsh gave her a list the things they'd come up with so far, requesting that she present it to the queen and ask for her input. Esther agreed, tucked the sheaf of papers under her arm, and left.

It was odd, walking through the tunnels alone. She missed the presence of Virgil at her side, even with all the time she'd had to get used to his absence. She missed Vanessa, and Abel. Her heart clenched at that last thought, remembering. In this time period, Abel was currently her enemy. His presence would mean the destruction of this place, and all its inhabitants. She shook the thoughts away, and continued down the passageway, to emerge from a secret exit only a twenty minute walk from the palace.

The guards at the gate recognized her, and the senior one nodded when she told them of her business, so they'd been informed. That was at least slightly comforting. One of them led her inside, then handed her off to another, repeating her statement of her errand. Esther followed quietly as he led her through the Palace, concentrating on not showing just how familiar she was with the corridors.

Finally, they stopped at a guarded door, which Esther recognized as being an antechamber in her own day. She stayed a respectful distance away from the door as the guard escorting her spoke to the others. After a moment, the door guard nodded, and turned his attention to her. "You may enter, my lady. Her Majesty is expecting you." With that he turned, knocked politely, then opened the door and stood aside for her.

Esther entered to find the queen seated in a padded chair, the casual cousin to a throne, behind a desk. She took three steps into the room, then lowered herself in a respectful curtsey. "Majesty."

The queen looked up, and a small smile touched her face. "Esther Blanchett. Our diplomat from the Methuselah. Come. Sit." She gestured to a smaller chair facing the desk. "I have some things I need to discuss with you, and messages for you to return to my soon-to-be lord, and his lady."

"Of course. Thank you." Esther moved to take a seat, reminded of all the times she'd reported to Lady Caterina in this fashion.

The queen studied the paper in her hand for a moment, then set it aside. "And how are our new tenants settling in?"

Esther smiled. "I think it's going quite well, Majesty. Lady Lilith and Lord Walsh think they can have the main computers set up and running within a week. He said he'll start setting up equipment and production lines as soon as he's sure they're fully functional, and not attracting any unwanted attention. He did have a few questions he wished me to ask you."

"You may ask." The queen nodded to the papers Esther pulled from the folder under her arm.

"Thank you, Majesty." She looked at the list, to see what Alexander's first item had been, when the queen spoke.

"Vivian will do." Esther looked up, surprised. The queen offered her a small smile. "In private only, of course. But I dislike formalities when they aren't needed, and you are not a subject of my kingdom. More like a business partner. So here, alone, you may address me by my name. And tell that red-haired lady of yours the same."

"Thank you, Your- Lady Vivian." Esther smiled. "I appreciate it." It was uncomfortable, sitting in a room she'd worked out of, calling a stranger Majesty. Particularly when she was on such informal terms with so many powerful individuals back in her own time.

"It's nothing. So then, what are these things that Lord Walsh wishes to discuss with me?"

Esther looked at the list. "Well, he'd like your permission to tap into the city power grid, at least for the sector they're living under. He says he'll reinforce it, and of course, he'll pay city and crown for its usage, but it's easier than building a separate network."

"Granted." Vivian nodded, writing something briefly on a piece of paper.

Esther nodded, turned to the next item. "He asked me to speak to you, regarding the autonomy of the Underground. It's still a part of Albion kingdom of course, and subject to your laws, but given the differences between the regular inhabitants of the Londinium and his group, and the fact that they must remain hidden for the moment, he thought there might need to be some additional rules in place. Also, there will be some interaction with the surface, for some necessary supplies, and for the health of the people. He asked me to hear your opinions on the matter, and what steps should be taken if something goes wrong."

"Of course. I suspect, in majority, he'll have to police his own. We cannot have the general public spooked by vampires in the city. And certainly, we can't afford to haul them in for public judgment, if their presence is to be kept secret." Vivian frowned. "Does he have any suggestions?"

"He does." Esther produced the list Walsh had given her. "He sent this with me, to ask for your approval, and any corrections or demands you wish to make."

The queen made a soft, noncommittal noise, and drew the list to her. "Very well. Let us see..."

They spent the next hour or so going over Alexander's proposed government solutions, with Esther taking notes on what the queen approved, disapproved, or made slight changes to. At some points, she offered clarification for a condition the Methuselah had requested, applying the knowledge she'd received from Abel, Seth, Ion and Virgil.

They finished finally, an hour past midnight. Esther gathered the paperwork together, carefully making sure it was all in order for Alexander to go through when she returned. Once it was stacked, she tucked it firmly into her folder, and looked up. To her surprise, the queen was watching her, a disconcerting expression of concern on her face. "Lady Vivian?"

"I find it odd." The queen met her eyes. "Only a few months since these...vampires, or Methuselah as they call themselves, have arrived. But you speak of them as if you have known them far longer. To trust your savior is not unreasonable, but that is not the way you speak." The look in her eyes sharpened. "You told me you were raised in the church, and beginning to be trained in diplomacy and politics when this happened. But you're no beginner, Esther Blanchett."

Esther swallowed, realizing her mistake. She'd gotten so used to negotiating and debating things during her year or so as queen, that it felt natural. Surrounded by people like Seth, Caterina, Virgil and Mary, she had been the youngest and least experienced of the group. But...she remembered how she'd felt on her first assignment, the nervousness and the fear. Or her fumbling and mistakes when she'd first encountered Ion. Despite her inexperience, her reactions now were still much different than the ones she'd had then.

"Well?" Vivian was still frowning at her. "Explain this to me. How comes a child to be so experienced? And to know so much of a race only newly come to this world?" Her hand moved out, faster than Esther would have expected, and caught her jaw. "Why are you lying to me?"

Esther swallowed hard, as the queen released her. "It's not...I'm not trying to lie to you, Majesty. But it's very complicated. I...when I was in the church..." She searched for and found a measure of the truth. "The Bishop who raised me was killed, in an attack by terrorists. The Father who found me agreed to be my guardian and mentor. He...he was friends with a Cardinal, and he...he taught me a lot. He was the one who suggested I get formal training. But I was with him, on several assignments, and I learned a great deal, watching him."

One eyebrow rose, an expression of polite skepticism on the queen's face. "I'm surprised such a conscientious guardian isn't here now."

"No. The Father...he was killed in one of the first attacks." Esther swallowed, not having to fake her sorrow at the memory of Abel, lying motionless on the floor as blood pooled around his wounded body.

"I see. My condolences." There was just the faintest bit of softening in the severe lines of the queen's expression. "But your knowledge of the Methuselah..."

"Well, I've been living with them for a few days. And Lady Lilith explained some things to me. But...well, I honestly don't understand everything either. And the Father...he taught me, if I didn't understand, then I should ask more questions." Abel hadn't ever actually said anything of the sort, but she'd learned after the Carthage incident, and the endless months of trying to figure him out. "So I, well, I'm trying to understand everything properly, Majesty."

"I see." There was a faint shimmer of amusement in the serene, regal, gaze. "Trying to understand. Well, I don't envy you, Esther Blanchett. And I fear, in this war-time, your efforts shall gain you nothing. But I have other concerns." She met Esther's gaze again, and the humor died. "I know you are still hiding something. However...I find no danger in your words, so I will leave it be. But a fair warning...be cautious in how you speak. In these times, there are those who will kill you, for seeking...understanding. Bury your feelings, or stick close to Lady Lilith."

Esther nodded. She knew the queen was right. "I'll be very sure to heed your advice, Majesty." She swallowed. "Did you have any more messages for me?"

"I did." Vivian transferred her gaze to her desk, then lifted a small stack of three or four sheets of paper. "The ceremony for Lord Walsh's ennoblement and his introduction to court shall take place in a fortnight. I've made it evening, for his sake, on grounds that I need his assistance, and this was the only time we both had free. But I can't make exceptions frequently, so he'd better find an alternative quickly." She held out the sheets of paper. "These will tell him what he needs to know. Dress formally, as well as he can. Silks and fine linen, or velvet. Whatever you can muster. Neutral colors, as I'll be bestowing him a noble's colors and crest when I make him a lord, and I hate clashing colors in the court. The details of the ceremony, his expected responses and so forth, are in there. And this..." She withdrew another two sheets. "This is what he needs to know of the title and lands I'll present to him. It wouldn't do for him to display ignorance. And this..." Yet another sheaf of papers. "This gives the names and brief descriptions of the major lords and councilmen within my court. He'll have to deal with them, so he'd best know beforehand who he's dealing with. This situation is too precarious for much adjustment time. Tell him he needs to have a plausible story in place for his presence, one that does not involve the Methuselah. And tell him he's permitted an honor guard of four, at his discretion." Vivian flicked her fingers. "That will be all."

"Yes, Majesty. I'll be sure to tell Lord Walsh everything you've told me." She moved to the door, then stopped and dropped a curtsey, appropriate to the moment. "I wish you a very good evening, Majesty." The queen offered only another shooing motion, and Esther left.

Back in the Underground, Esther located Alexander Walsh and presented him with Queen Vivian's alterations to his documentation, as well as the announcement of his impending knighthood. He accepted both with a smile, eyes brightening as he scanned the rules and requests. "I thank you, Lady Esther. In truth, I had not hoped for half of these concessions. You have done well by us." He inclined his head.

Esther flushed. "It's really nothing. After all, if you hadn't agreed to take me with you, who knows what might have happened. And really, I'm just glad to be able to help."

Alexander frowned, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. Esther recognized the look. Virgil wore it often. "You were under Lady Lilith's protection. But...I am surprised. Very few, even so rescued, would wish to aid us. Not when our former leaders are currently your people's worst enemies."

"I know." Esther let a small, sad smile touch her lips. "But...I wasn't raised to think like that. And besides...I promised someone very important to me..." She stopped, then shook her head. "I understand it might seem strange, but that's really all I can say." She looked into the blue eyes, so like the man she knew in her own time.

As if he'd caught her thought, Alexander frowned. "You...you seem..." He shook his head. "Never mind."

Esther blinked. "Is there something wrong?"

He shook his head again. "Only...when Lady Lilith first introduced you, you were a stranger to me. But now...I feel as if I know you. Not just you...but as if I could find you...anywhere in the Underground. Much as I feel with Her Majesty, now. It is very faint with you, but...Her Majesty is the only individual I have ever taken the bond with."

Esther swallowed. Virgil had known her from her grandmother's blood. She shook her head, forcing a lighthearted shrug. "That's rather strange. Still...I'm sure you must have heard by now that I was raised by the church. Maybe one of my parents or grandparents was related to the royal line. I've read...don't a lot of royal lines wind up having half-cousins sometimes? Or maybe an ancestor of mine?" She shrugged again. "I really can't explain it."

She saw his shoulders relax. "Nor can I. However, Her majesty..."

Esther shook her head again. "No. It really isn't necessary to speak with her. Even if that's true...it's not really fair of me to try and claim royal favor now. Especially with all this going on. Besides...I already have a place."

He met her eyes for a moment, then nodded. "As you will." he inclined his head. "Thank you for your assistance this evening. If I may...I should like to request one more favor, Lady Blanchett."

"Of course. You have only to ask."

"In light of Her Majesty's request, I had thought to have two female, and two male escorts for the evening of my knighting. I should like for you to accompany Lady Lilith, in recognition of all the good you have done for my people."

Esther took a deep breath. She wasn't sure she wanted to be recognized. Still, she knew it would be almost insulting to refuse. Besides...she'd only be an attendant. As far as she could remember, the only thing remembered by her time, or even Virgil's, was that Queen Vivian had made a pact with the Methuselah. There had been no names mentioned that she remembered. The matter had been deliberately kept vague. She nodded. "Of course. I'd be honored...Lord Walsh."

A brief smile flashed across his features, startling her once more with the similarity to the man who would be his grandson or great-grandson. "My gratitude, Lady Esther." His hand moved to the papers she'd brought him. "I fear you must excuse me. There is much to be done, if we are to be prepared and presentable within the fortnight." Esther nodded and took her leave, her mind feeling uncomfortable with its contradicting thoughts.

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The next two weeks were, if anything, busier than the preceding days had been. Alexander, Esther, and the two lieutenants all had to be fitted with new clothing. Even Lilith consented to new garments, though she insisted on retaining the style of her eastern clothing. She said she preferred it, and that it also emphasized their refugee status. The rest of them chose to outfit themselves in Albion robes. Esther had been worried about the selection of fabric, but Lilith had proven indispensable. The saris she habitually wore were yards of fabric, most of them fine linen and silk, and as soon as she heard the news, she donated some of the darker ones to the cause. More than that, the dress uniforms that everyone had changed out of were also fine linen. With five tailors, some creative use of limited amounts of dye, and clever insets of fabric, Esther had to admit she was impressed. None of them looked like rich lords, but they did look competent, well dressed and fashionable, in a practical sort of way. Exactly the image Lord Walsh needed.

In addition, they finished making the Underground reasonably habitable, and began bringing the computers online, and arranging the production facilities. Alexander spent his time making sure the rules for their haven were understood, and preparing himself for the ceremony to make him knight, lord and councilor. Esther often found herself closeted with him, quizzing him on the things he was supposed to know, like the names of the council lords, or watching as Lilith helped him rehearse his responses to the Albion queen. Fortunately, Alexander was as quick to pick up information as his descendant, and possessed of the natural grace and manners that he'd displayed their first evening.

Two days prior to the ceremony, Lilith finally found a formula for a silver nitrate solution that she thought would work. Alexander tested it that very evening, and pronounced it reasonably comfortable. Esther, watching from the side of the office, noticed his expression wasn't nearly as pain-filled as it had been. He even stepped out, very cautiously, into the early light of dawn. He withdrew very quickly, with slight sunburn, but that was far better than it could have been. He and Lilith made notes, and Esther went to bed with a sigh of relief.

Finally, the night of the ceremony arrived. Esther was too nervous to rest, or sit still. She changed into her clothing, a uniform that had been modified into a pretty dress, and dyed blue, then went in search of Lilith.

She found the older woman in her own rooms, also dressed for the evening. To her surprise, Lilith looked pensive, uncertain. For a moment, Esther wasn't even sure she'd registered her presence, but then Lilith looked up. "Esther." A small smile graced her face. "You look lovely in that."

"Thank you. You look very nice as well." And she did. A deep midnight-blue top, with white and blue fabric, highlighted her coloring and her hair. A tasteful amount of jewelry emphasized her darker skin as well as the long red hair. She looked beautiful, stunning even. Esther felt a small sigh of relief. Compared to Lilith, no one was likely to even notice she was there. Then she saw the uncertain, unhappy expression cross Lilith's face again. "Is something wrong?"

Lilith sighed. "I feel it is unfair of me, to ask Alexander to take this burden. I know I have no other choice, not if I am to leave my people protected, but still...I ask a great deal of him."

"I'm sure he understands. After all, he did offer." Esther smiled. "I think Lord Walsh understands you have other things you have to do."

Lilith sighed. "I know. But...it concerns me. Almost three weeks, and we've heard nothing of Abel and the others. It is a blessed reprieve, I know...but I dislike the silence. And when I think of what they may be doing..." She sighed again.

Esther bit her lip. She'd had the same thoughts lately. A part of her wanted to rush out and find Abel. A part of her was terrified, afraid to see what he'd done. What kind of person Abel was in this time period. Even though he'd warned her, more than once, it had still been a terrible shock. Much like seeing his Crusnik form for the first time. She shook her head. "I think it might be best if we don't dwell on that for now. At least, I don't think I really want to. And...if there's nothing we can do, then it really doesn't help, does it?"

A small, warm smile touched Lilith's mouth. "Those were my thoughts as well. But it is good to hear them from someone else." She rose, straightening the folds of the outfit she wore. "In the meantime, I believe we both have a ceremony to attend." Esther returned the smile, and saw Lilith relax, just a fraction. Then the older woman held out her hand. "Shall we?" Esther nodded, and the two of them left to join the rest of their party.

Despite Esther's concerns, the ceremony went well. The Queen received Alexander before her court and Council, made a brief speech as to why she had chosen him. Esther could see some disbelief on a few faces, as Queen Vivian spun a story of family inheritance of old technology and developmental sciences to build a new future for Albion, but no one protested. Within an hour, Alexander was brought before the court, and officially dubbed Lord Walsh, Count of Manchester, and Overseer of Albion's Underground Technological Center. Afterward, he and the rest of their party mingled with the council and nobility.

Esther tried to stay out of the way. After everything she'd experienced, she wasn't particularly shy, but she didn't want these people to remember her too well. Instead, she stayed to one side, watching Alexander circulate and get to know his new colleagues. The man of his honor guard joined others who were obviously escorts, relaxing and forming connections in their own way. Lilith...

Esther watched as Lilith made her own circuit of the group. She was far enough away from Alexander that she wasn't influencing his discussion overmuch, but close enough to be clear they were partners and friends. Esther watched, amazed by the smoothness with which Lilith transferred from one person to the next. Her smile seemed to set people at ease on sight, and Esther could see how the various nobles reacted, relaxing around her, chatting with her in an amiable fashion. Her appearance and the dignified presence she seemed to radiate commanded attention, but her kindness, gentleness and courtesy softened the blow, made her approachable. Even the women of the court, whom Esther half-expected to be jealous, relaxed and seemed to enjoy speaking with her. She even saw Lilith and Queen Vivian engaged in conversation at one point, as the evening wore down.

Finally, well past midnight, the queen released the gathering. Alexander and his men stayed behind, to offer a private farewell and gratitude to their new monarch. Esther waited, then joined Lilith as the older woman departed.

Lilith waited until they were into the tunnels underground, then sighed and stretched, revealing how tense she'd been. "I'd forgotten how difficult it was."

Esther blinked, surprised by the statement. "But you handled everything so well. I mean, you looked so comfortable out there." She felt a small, wistful smile crease one corner of her mouth. "I don't think I'll ever be able to be like that."

Lilith made a soft sound, like a tired laugh that couldn't quite get started. "You've your own charm and grace, Esther Blanchett, and don't underestimate it. And that...I wish ..." Lilith sighed. "I had hoped..." She sighed again. "What you saw tonight, is what I used to do on Abel's behalf. I have spent the last eighty-five years moving amongst people, coaxing, calming, trying to protect him. And, of course, trying to soothe him." A brief smile touched her face, then vanished into melancholy. "I am grateful, of course, that it has come to have a better use, but I wish..." She sighed again, then spoke more softly, her eyes sad as they gazed down the corridor. "I wish with all my heart, that it were unnecessary. Both for Alexander...and for Abel."

Esther looked into the older face, seeing the sadness there. "It isn't just that, is it?"

Lilith shook her head. "I spoke to Her Majesty this evening. According to her information, several cities have been destroyed. By ships. And by..." She bit her lip. "By Abel's hand."

Esther winced, feeling her stomach clench. "You're sure?"

"I am. They described him perfectly." Lilith's eyes were hurt. Not angry, as Esther half-expected. More desolate. They reminded her of Abel's eyes, just after she'd seen him in Carthage, though without the self-loathing she'd seen. "I had hoped, when I left...I'd hoped he would turn from this path. But now...there is only one way." Pain crossed the beautiful face, and anguish.

Esther felt her own eyes burn with tears. "No." She swallowed, looking for words to say, looking for anything that might turn her mind from the thought of fighting Abel. Of watching Lilith and Abel fight. After a moment, Lilith began walking again, and Esther moved with her, both of them wrapped in silent memories and grief.

Their path took them through a ruined chamber, haphazard pillars and broken stone lying everywhere. Esther blinked, startled out of her thoughts by the familiarity of the place. For a moment, she couldn't place it. Then she remembered. It was where Dietrich had trapped her, bound her. It was where he'd told her that he was going to destroy the Underground and Albion with it. And here...Abel had come here. He'd rescued her from some Death Hunters

She crossed the broken room, mentally identifying the spot where Dietrich had caught her. A part of her was relieved, to be distracted from her thoughts of Abel. The rest of her was remembering. Remembering the auburn-haired boy who had betrayed her so many times. She had, in part, left Istvan for that. She had been more interested in Abel than anything, but...she had wanted answers. She had hated Dietrich for his betrayal of her, hadn't wanted to believe he was as evil as he really was. In her anger at the events in Istvan, she'd lashed out at others. Not the Vatican, of course, since she'd been sheltered by the church, but she'd hated Methuselah, and been wary even of Abel.

Esther frowned. It had been a long time since she'd thought of those events. But still...she remembered. And she remembered how Abel had spoken of his feelings during the war.

Lilith stopped, and Esther blinked, startled out of her thoughts. They were standing outside the door to her rooms. She blushed. "Sorry. I sort of got lost in thought for a while."

Lilith nodded. "It's all right."

Esther heard the sadness in the other woman's voice. She looked up. Lilith's eyes were still filled with sorrow. Despite her youthful countenance, the expression made her look older, and weary.

Esther looked back at her door, gathering her thoughts, then spoke slowly. "You know...when you're hurt, or angry, sometimes...sometimes, it can be very difficult to stop yourself. Even when you know what you're doing is wrong. Even if..." She swallowed. "Even if you don't really want to do it. Sometimes...it's very difficult to know what you want, even." She took a deep breath. "I remember...when the bishop who raised me died...I did some very reckless things. I knew I shouldn't have done them, but...I think everyone does foolish things, things they don't mean to, when they're really angry or hurt." She blinked, remembering how she'd said the exact same thing to Abel, after he told her about his past.

"That...is very true." Lilith's voice was equally soft, equally slow. There was silence a few moments, then she spoke again. "But this..."

"I don't think you should give up on him quite yet. Even with what he's doing..." She looked up into those golden eyes. "You told the queen that you thought Abel still loved this world."

"I do. Even after this." Lilith sighed.

"And...didn't you say..." She paused. "I think he told me once, that you said he loved, and so he felt betrayed, and so he made the world his enemy."

"That's true as well." Lilith nodded.

"Then...well...what do you think we should do? If that's true..." Esther paused. She wanted to do for Abel what he had done for her. But she didn't know how.

"I cannot let him continue to rage and destroy. However..." Lilith's voice firmed, determination overlaying sadness. "I will not give up on him. Not yet." She looked down, and to Esther's surprise, a faint smile warmed her eyes. "Thank you, Esther."

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They were working in the control room two days later, putting together the first of the production labs, when a high pitched note shrilled from the communications console. Alexander and Lilith had set up a connection to the Albion guard and to the Palace, by dint of removing three of the shipboard computers from their transport vehicles and placing them in the appropriate locations. Alexander moved to the console immediately and switched it on. The queen's face appeared, and Alexander immediately stiffened. "Majesty."

The queen nodded, her expression tight. "I have words for Lady Lilith."

"Of course." Alexander turned to where Lilith was already straightening. "Lady..."

"Yes." Lilith crossed to the screen, and met the queen's eyes with a grave expression. "They're coming, then?"

Queen Vivian nodded. "My guard called me only moments ago. The ships of the World's Enemy, of the Methuselah you fled are on course here."

Lilith nodded. "They are undoubtedly headed for Londinium. For this place." She sighed, sadness in her features. Then determination replaced the sorrow and resignation. "Majesty, may I have your permission, to take the field?"

"Of course." The queen snorted. "At present, Albion does not have enough fire-power to stop them. And no allies we can call on." She raised a hand, as if in benediction. "My guard will be standing by to assist you, and they have orders to obey you as they would their own command, or my personal orders. Do what you can for us. Lord Walsh."

Alexander moved, coming back to stand in the field of view for the screen. "Majesty?"

"You have a safe haven for your people, and for the court, as I requested?"

"I have. There is a section of the Underground, directly beneath the Palace." he inclined his head. "Shall I come to escort you, Majesty?"

The Queen shook her head. "Monitor the situation with my general for now. When you agree that it is too unsafe to remain, then come to find me."

"As you will." Alexander nodded. "I will be on standby." The connection clicked off, and Walsh turned to Lilith. "My lady, do you need any assistance?"

Lilith shook her head. "No. I will face them. Keep our people safe."

Lilith turned to leave, and Esther stepped forward. "If it's not too much trouble, I'd like to come along." Lilith looked at her, and Esther met her eyes. "I know I might not be much help, but it's always good to have someone to watch your back. At least, I'll be able to yell out a warning or something. And I do have a little combat training."

Lilith stared at her for a long moment. Esther met her gaze squarely. I have to go with her. What's happening to Abel...is my fault. I...I could have stopped this. Besides...I swore...I promised I'd help. And I...even if it's not my place, even if it risks my future...I can't leave things like this. I can't just sit by and watch everything happen.

Finally, Lilith nodded. "As you wish." She gestured. "We need to go. They'll be here soon."

Esther nodded and followed her out into the corridor. They stopped briefly in their rooms, changing from the work clothing to battle outfits. Esther wore a heavy-weight shirt and leggings, and a skirt. At Alexander's suggestion, she'd gone through the scant armory in the Underground, and come away with two knives and a gun, though she only had one clip of ammo for it. She strapped all three weapons on, within easy reach, then joined her companion.

Lilith, with her powers, wore a plain, loose sari, and no jewelry, except for earrings. The skirt was cut wide, to give her legs freedom of movement, and the outfit left her back open. Esther remembered the wings the other three had manifested and wondered what Lilith's would look like. Then she shook her head, forcing her thoughts to focus.

The journey to the landing area was silent, both women lost in their thoughts. Esther felt her stomach twinge a little as they approached Lilith's personal combat craft. She'd seen it before, in the Underground. She remembered. Abel had used it to transport Lilith's body, after his own was lost in the ocean. She wondered, briefly, if she'd see that battle. Then she locked the thought away, and climbed in, seating herself in the co-pilot's seat. Quickly, she strapped in, and put on the headset that Lilith held out to her.

Lilith powered up the craft, then flicked on the communications. "Lord Walsh...can you hear me?"

"Yes, lady. The Albion guard is standing by on channel two. Shall I connect you?" Esther noted hazily that Alexander's voice sounded different, higher pitched or something. She couldn't remember if Virgil's had ever sounded that way, when she'd spoken with him over a communications system. Or Abel's. She swallowed, knowing her random thoughts were a symptom of her nerves.

"Please do. Standby for further orders. You have a secondary channel for contacting the enemy fleet?"

"Ready for them to arrive in range."

Lilith nodded. "Estimated time of arrival?"

"Within the half-hour, lady." Walsh's voice sounded tense, even through the connection.

"Very well. I will be launching momentarily. Please connect me to the Albion fleet commander, immediately."

There was a soft acknowledgment, then a click. "Albion Fleet Commander. We're standing by for your orders, as per Her Majesty's request."

"Thank you. Please assemble the fleet in a stand-by defensive formation, behind me. I will engage the enemy alone, for first contact. I would request that you not engage unless they attack Londinium. And Commander..." Lilith hesitated, then spoke firmly. "There is one enemy craft whose specifications match mine. Under no account are you to target that craft. Leave that pilot to me."

"As you command, Lady." There was a pause, then a note of question. "Have you any advice on firing targets?"

"Aim for the engines and weapons housing. Get behind them if you can. They'll be heavily shielded both forward and below. Watch the heat and electrical signatures. They'll surge just before firing, and you cannot afford to get caught in the blast. Most likely, they'll be using plasma or electro-magnetic bursts. They'll shred your ships if you get caught."

"Understood. We'll do our best. Thank you for the information." Another pause. "Best of luck to you, lady. Fly well."

There was a trace of sadness in Lilith's eyes. "You as well, Commander."

Lilith clicked the visual communication off, leaving the audio channel on standby, and resumed powering up the craft. Esther remained quiet, trying not to show her discomfort, and the fear that was churning in her gut.

She'd been in combat before, but never aerial. Like most AX members, she'd learned enough to put a ship on the ground if necessary. Kate had given her an overview of the systems, and she thought she recognized which switches performed which functions. But...this wasn't the Iron Maiden, and everything looked enough different to make her nervous. The switches were labeled, in short, abbreviated notations, and Esther focused on those, trying to still the pounding of her heart. But the concept of being hundreds of feet in the air, surrounded only by the structure of the airplane, made her stomach twist. She swallowed hard, fisting her hands as Lilith completed the launch procedures.

With a low roar of sound, the ship launched. Esther swallowed against the pressure, and a renewed surge of fear. It was hardly the first take-off she'd experienced, but...everything felt different. She took a deep breath, focusing on the view screen.

Abel was out there. Soon, she'd be flying combat with Lilith. Soon...she'd be fighting him. Fighting against Abel, the person who meant so much to her. She felt sick, less from nerves about the battle than the feeling she was betraying him. She bit her lip, then forced her focus back to the panels in front of her. She trusted Lilith, and knew she'd been trained with this craft, but she knew enough to try to be prepared for anything that might happen. It was a battle, after all. She ran her gaze over the controls, trying to identify what she could from her lessons with Kate and the Professor.

Let's see. The steering column...I wonder what it's called on a ship like this...that's fairly obvious. And I think that might be the throttle. But if it is...then are these the engine controls? And these...ALT...altitude? I think that's how Kate had it abbreviated. So then...HOR...horizontal, maybe? If so, then VERT is probably vertical, and REV might be reverse. And these...they might control the airspeed. At least, I think so. And these gauges...they look the same as the ones Sister Kate had me study. Fuel, altitude, speed...I think that one is distance traveled. And...let's see...emergency controls for evacuation and crash procedures...

"Esther?" Lilith's voice broke her concentration, startling her out of her thoughts. She blinked, to realize the ground resembled more of a darkened shapeless mass below her, punctuated by the glow of Londinium, and outlying towns and homes.

"Yes?" She forced her thoughts back to the matter at hand.

"Do you know how to fly a ship?" Lilith's voice was soft, but there was an undercurrent of tension to it.

"A little, I think. A..a friend of mine taught me a few things. But I...I haven't had much practice. And that ship was much different from this one." Esther swallowed. "I...I've never flown in combat before."

A small, warm smile touched Lilith's face, gentle and soothing. "It's all right. I don't expect you to fly during the fighting, if we engage. Though...if you wouldn't mind keeping an eye on the sensors for me."

Esther nodded. That, at least, she knew how to do. "All right."

That faint smile widened, then disappeared into shadows. Esther swallowed. She'd seen Abel do the same thing, preparing for battle. Watched as the gentleness in him was subsumed by coldness. Then Lilith spoke. "Abel will be here soon, with his ships. I'll try to talk him out of this assault, but since he's come this far..." She shook her head. "If I am forced to leave the ship, to combat him, can you land this vessel?"

Esther swallowed hard, looking back at the controls. "I think so. I should be able to at least get it on the ground in one piece." She took a deep breath, trying to still her nerves. "I'm not entirely sure, to be honest, but the controls do look somewhat familiar."

Lilith nodded. "Use the steering column, and these switches..." She pointed to the ones Esther had been studying earlier. "If I should leave the ship, I want you to bring it to the ground, and get to safety. Understood? Try to make it back to the Palace, or the Underground."

Esther nodded. Her throat felt too tight to speak. It felt wrong, being asked to abandon her comrade. And yet, if Lilith was forced to leave the ship, it was likely because she'd transformed into her Crusnik aspect. She'd seen enough of Abel and Cain to know she'd only be in the way if she tried to help. The memory of Abel falling in the Underground rose in her mind, and she pushed it away.

A thin beep sounded from one of the panels. Esther blinked at it, then saw the small dots entering the upper edge of the screen. In the pilot's seat, Lilith stiffened, her shoulders straightening and her hands clenching ever so slightly on her own steering column. "They're here. Please, leave the talking to me."

Esther nodded. "Of course."

Within minutes, she spotted the lights on the horizon. Lights of ships. Esther swallowed. She hadn't thought there would be so many. She knew that each ship had more than one set of lights, often three or four, but still, there were far too many. She was suddenly very aware of the single ship she rode in, and the fact that the rest of the Albion fleet was behind them, in standby. Even ready as they were, if their opponents attacked, she and Lilith would weather the first assault alone. Her stomach clenched, feeling as if it were being tied into knots.

Lilith's face was calm, but her eyes weren't. Esther saw the concern, and the conflict in them. Then Lilith seemed to shake it away, focusing on the task at hand. She watched the ships approach, then reached out and flicked a switch on the console. "Attention. This is Albion Airspace. Be advised, you are trespassing."

Esther hadn't expected the simple warning, but it made sense. Even knowing these were hostile forces, it didn't make sense to start the fighting. Better to be neutral until forced to fight.

The speaker in the cockpit crackled. Then, a single voice replied. "Lilith?"

Esther felt her breath freeze in her throat at the sound of that voice, so familiar to her. In the pilot's chair, Lilith's hands tightened on the controls.

There was a pause, then Abel spoke again. "Lilith, what are you doing here?"

"I told you Abel." Lilith's voice was calm, but Esther could see the rigidity of her posture. "I warned you, I would no longer abide this senseless bloodshed. Those of our people who agree with me have chosen to seek refuge in Albion. So...I have sworn to protect them." There was a moment's pause in her words. "And you, Abel? Why have you come to Albion? Why have you brought the fleet?"

"You know why. That place..." Abel's voice cut off, then spoke again. "Lilith...get out of the way. I don't wish to fight you, but..."

"I will not. I have no wish to fight you either. However, I have said I will not permit you to do this, and I meant those words. Besides...Abel, that place has become a refuge for our people. Do you still intend to destroy it?"

"That place...it cannot be allowed to exist. I will not..." The words broke off again.

Lilith sighed, and Esther saw the sorrow in her eyes. "Then I have no choice, Abel. I will prevent you from destroying this refuge, and this city. Even if it costs me my life."

"Lilith, wait..." Abel's voice sharpened.

"I'm sorry. However, if you insist on continuing this course of action...then this is how it must be. Fare well...Lieutenant Colonel." Ester flinched as Lilith abruptly cut the connection. She understood why the other woman had done as she did, but at the same time...it felt wrong. Addressing Abel in such a manner...she couldn't wrap her mind around it. The title didn't suit the man she knew at all.

She was jolted out of her thoughts by Lilith speaking again. "Commander. I regret to say opening contact has not dissuaded our attackers. Please stand by for battle. The enemy will be in range in moments."

There was an affirmative response, and the connection clicked again. Esther bit her lip, watching the approaching ships. Her stomach knotted with dread and conflicting emotions. She found herself clenching her hands on the steering mechanism in a mirror of Lilith's, and forced herself to let go. Lilith was piloting, after all. She didn't need to be jerking on the wheel herself.

The lights grew brighter in the forward viewport, resolving into the shadowy outlines of ships of varying sizes. Then, abruptly, one of them moved. Esther saw an odd glow forming about the lower section, lighting the vessel. Then she was jolted in her seat as Lilith jerked the ship to one side, forward and to the left, accelerating as she did so. In seconds, they were among the battleships. Esther swallowed back nausea and terror as Lilith spun the ship in a tight turn. She saw, from the corner of her eye, as Lilith reached to flick a switch. There was an odd humming from beneath her feet, then a shiver went through the vessel, and light flared from just beneath her range of vision, streaking toward the enemy ship, just as another streak of light shot toward them. Lilith twisted the controls again, sending them spiraling out of the way, then flicked yet another switch. Another light glanced off a barrier that Esther couldn't quite see, sending a shudder through the ship, and then they were flying again, spinning through the maze of enemy ships.

The next several minutes were some of the most terrifying of Esther's life. She didn't bother to keep track of who they shot at, or how often, or even much of anything else. She focused on the gauges, and on not being sick, as Lilith maneuvered them through the air. It was nothing like flying on the Iron Maiden. Nor any other ship she'd ever been on. Even Cain's ship, when he'd attacked the Empire, hadn't been like this. Several times, she bit her lip to keep from crying out, as this or that maneuver set her stomach heaving, or when shots came too close. She couldn't think, couldn't keep track of anything in the chaos, and wasn't sure she wanted to. The little she could see was a scene out of a nightmare.

Lilith, on the other hand, looked completely calm. Not relaxed, but Esther didn't see any signs of the terror she felt on that beautiful face. She was torn between jealousy, and a desperate wish to know how the woman could remain so calm. She listened as Lilith periodically gave orders, watched as she controlled the craft, and tried not to think too much. She wondered, briefly, how Mary could have managed this sort of thing. Then she forced the thought away.

A sharp flash caught her eye, and she bit her lip again. She knew what that meant. Another ship had gone down. She couldn't tell whose ship, not amidst all the confusion and the night sky, but she heard Lilith utter an exclamation from the pilot's chair that could have been a curse from anyone else.

The communication panel crackled, and Lilith tapped it. "Commander."

"We're losing too many, Lady. We can't hold them. At this rate..." There was weariness and desperation in the man's voice.

"I understand." Lilith seemed to sigh. "Tell your men to hold defensive positions a few minutes longer, then disperse and come in for a landing when they see the yellow flare from the ground. I will handle the situation from there."

"If you say so, Lady."

Lilith smiled softly, sadly. "Thank you, Commander."

Esther felt a fresh thrill of unease go through her as Lilith swerved and turned out of the battle, dropping toward the ground. She had a good guess what the other woman planned to do. She swallowed hard against the knots in her stomach, and the tension in her shoulders, as the craft came to a landing. Lilith released herself, then turned to look at her with those golden eyes. "Esther...it's best if you stay out of the way from here on. I don't know if it's safe for you to try and head for the Palace, so you'll have to do the best you can."

"I understand." Esther nodded, then watched as Lilith strode to the open hatch, and out into the night. She considered for a few seconds, then took a deep breath, unsnapped her own restraints, and followed, stopping in the doorway.

Lilith had landed the ship in Trafalgar Square. Esther watched as the other woman moved to the center of the square, then looked up. She heard the sounds of battle, saw the streaks of light shooting in all directions, but it all seemed so far away, almost unreal. Then she heard the clang as Lilith removed her earrings. Then, as if in a dream she heard the other woman speak. "Nanomachine, Crusnik 04. Power output...eighty percent."

Esther watched, wide eyed. She hadn't been sure what to expect, but...this wasn't it. As she watched, a triple set of wings unfurled themselves from Lilith's shoulders, but they weren't white. Instead, they appeared to have an iridescent, rainbow sheen to them, color flickering through the feathers. She saw, just barely, the delicate fangs extending from Lilith's jaw, the red glow overtaking the amber in her eyes. The dark red hair seemed to frame her face, like a crimson halo. Then Lilith extended both hands outward, down and to the side. Esther watched, fascinated, as red-black liquid erupted from her palms. It streamed forth, not onto the ground, but out and slightly down, in its own pattern. Then it solidified into a pair of thin swords, somewhat like sabers, with wrist guards, one for each hand. As the weapons settled, they almost appeared to bleach, taking on a hard, cool polish that reminded Esther more of bone or horn than metal.

Esther stifled a gasp. She'd never actually witnessed Abel summoning his weapon. He did it so quickly and easily, she'd never had a chance. But it was...eerie. She knew Abel had mentioned that the scythe he bore was a part of him, but she'd never actually thought about what that might mean. What it was made of.

She watched as Lilith shifted stance and posture, like a soldier testing her balance and weapons just before battle. Then both hands tightened. Golden light gathered around her hands, around the blades clenched in both fists. Then, without warning, the red-haired Crusnik whipped both hands upward in a violent slicing motion. The light flared, then shot skyward, shattering the darkness.

At once, several of the distant lights broke free, heading towards the Palace. Esther watched, her heart in her throat.

Lilith swung her hands skyward again, in another arcing motion. More light blasted from the twin blades, this time cutting between the fleeing ships and their opponents, preventing them from being followed. Almost simultaneously, her wings unfurled, expanding to their full breadth. Esther saw them flex, once...twice...then Lilith was rising into the air, shining with that beautiful, terrible golden glow. Esther watched, her hands clenched into fists.

One of the glowing lights flared brighter, in what Esther recognized as an attack. But Lilith was far, far faster, just as Abel had been. She accelerated, all but launching herself through the air. Esther couldn't see what happened, but there was another surge of golden light, and then the ship flared, and second later, she heard and felt the distant concussion of the explosion, like thunder in the cloudless sky.

She kept her eyes on the distant battlefield, and saw Lilith's glittering light plunge into the midst of the ships. Her stomach felt twisted up, and there was a lump in her throat. Her hands tightened helplessly into fists. She wanted to help, to fly upward and assist the other woman. Or to look away. But there was nothing she could do, save watch and pray.

Once, twice...three more ships vanished in flares of golden light and strange, electrical fire. Then, without warning, blue fire shattered through the battleground, crashing against the gold. Esther felt her breath freeze in her throat. Abel. Even as far away as she was, she knew what had happened. Abel had transformed and entered the combat.

In the distant night sky, a glowing sapphire spark appeared, then surged brightly, to be met with a halo of sun-bright fire. The lights of the ships withdrew, leaving two glowing forms darting about the sky in a terrible dance.

Esther's stomach heaved, remembering Abel's combat with Cain, just after his resurrection. Only the color of the plasma-lit bursts had changed. She wondered, suddenly, if he had remembered this battle, on that night. The night he'd been fused to his other half, and faced his brother in the terrible haze of madness that accompanied his transformation. She sank to her knees, her chest aching with sorrow, her stomach twisting in knots. Oh, Father...Abel...

There was another surge of mingled gold and blue lightning. Then, suddenly, she became aware that both lights were getting brighter, larger. She scrambled to her feet, remembering how Abel and Cain had fallen from the sky, praying she wasn't about to witness a similar scene. Bad as it had been to see the two brothers, she didn't want to see the same happen to Lilith and Abel now.

Lilith settled to the ground a few yards away, still glowing with power. Esther took a deep breath of relief. She didn't look as if she'd been harmed. The wrap from shoulder to hip was gone, and her skirt looked worse for wear, but Lilith herself looked untouched by the violence of the fight. Esther swallowed back a second sigh, then looked beyond Lilith's shoulder.

Across the square, Abel was settling to the ground. He looked to her just as he always had when he transformed, save that the clothing that covered him was white, not black. But his skin was still that same dusky color, his eyes still gleaming red, his black wings half furled over his shoulders. He still held his red-black scythe in one hand. Like Lilith, his clothing looked battered, but he himself looked none the worse for the wear. Esther felt something inside her relax at that. No matter that he was an enemy right now, she hadn't wanted to see him wounded.

Lilith spoke, breaking the tense silence between them. "Abel. Will you truly continue this?" Her voice, like Seth's, had taken on a slightly metallic, echoing edge. It was still far less of a shock than the way Abel's dropped half an octave.

"I must. That place..." Abel's rough growl brought Esther's attention back to him. Her heart ached. That voice sounded so familiar. She remembered the low growl of it, as he stood over her, protecting her with his own body.

"Will you truly destroy every soul in this city, merely for a secret no one alive even understands? Has Cain's madness possessed you so far?" Through the harsh echo of the voice, Esther heard disbelief and anger in Lilith's voice. "Or do you still believe you hate Terrans so much?"

"Must you ask me that?" Abel's...the Crusnik 02's voice hardened. "They attacked us! Simply because we were different. Nothing...nothing has changed from the first time I walked these streets." In the dancing, flickering light of his lightning and Lilith's fire, Esther saw his hand tighten on the scythe. "Knowing that..."

"Will you not even try, Abel?" Esther saw Lilith's hands tighten around her own blades, wings shifting slightly, as if she was preparing to attack.

"I must...protect our people. For all our sakes. For Cain, and Seth...and the others." Abel's low voice was hesitant though.

"Your people, some of them, now live here. Under the city, where you once lived. By choice. They wish to be left alone. Will you destroy them, Abel? Simply because they do not believe in your cause?" Lilith faced him squarely.

There was a long moment of silence. Then abruptly, Lilith relaxed. The light around her faded, her wings withdrawing into her frame, swords dissolving. Within seconds, she was human again, and moving across the square.

Abel didn't move, didn't even release the scythe. He looked rigid, unbending, outlined in the glow of pale electrical fire that shimmered about him.

Lilith strode up to him, and watched him for a long moment. Then, gently, she reached forward, through the lightning that snapped around him, and laid one hand softly on his jaw. "Abel...I know you're angry, and hurt. I know...I know you've forced yourself to believe you hate the Terrans. But still...is it truly worth it? Are you so determined to destroy them that you'll take the lives of your own people in the process?"

"I...they betrayed us. And I...I cannot..." Abel shuddered, crimson eyes closing for a moment. He looked into Lilith's eyes, and Esther saw the scythe vanish from his hands. Every so slowly, the lightning that played over his form died down.

"They came because I led them. Because I told them I wished to seek a new home, away from the conflict. Surely you understand. They betrayed no one, Abel. I...perhaps you feel I betrayed you, for leaving. So then, Abel...do you hate me?"

Abel shuddered again, an expression Esther recognized as Anguish crossing his face. "Lilith...I..." He shuddered again, then drew back abruptly from her touch, as though he'd been burned. Then he turned away, his posture radiating a sort of pain-filled rage that had Esther's heart in her throat. "I...tried. But I...I can't. Lilith...I..."

"I know, Abel." she reached out, touched his shoulder. "I know your heart, Abel. You know, even now, that this is madness." She held him for a moment. "You must end this."

"I...can't. Cain..."

"Then at least leave this place alone. Leave our people in peace."

"I...that place. You know I cannot." Abel turned back to her. Even in the dim light, Esther could see the strain etched in his inhuman features.

"That place is safe. You have my word. Our people are protecting it, and I will seal it for you. No one will ever go there, not even its current guardians." She paused, then spoke again. "Albion is now allied with the Methuselah Underground. You remember my lieutenant, Alexander Walsh? He is now lord of the Underground. I will seal that place you fear so much, so not even he can enter it."

"And if...the seal is broken?" There were so many terrible emotions in that altered voice that Esther couldn't even begin to sort them out.

"It will not be, save by you or Cain. Besides...I will ask Alexander to guard it for me, to make sure that no one ever enters those tunnels. Not even his own kin." She met his eyes, standing straight and tall. "It will be safe. Safer even than destroying it will make it. But...I will only do this if you leave. Leave now. Leave Albion, and those who have settled here, in peace."

"Walsh is...a...good man." Abel's face was tense. For a long moment, he stared at her. Then, suddenly, his transformation melted away, leaving Abel in human form, standing on the stones. "You swear it, Lilith? That not even your own people will breach that place?"

"I said I would. You have my word, unless...do you no longer consider my honor good enough?" Lilith's voice was sharp.

"I..." Abel turned away once again. "Lilith...it's not that." He spun again, terrible hope and anguish in his eyes. "Come back. Cain...he's furious, but...I think...I can ask..."

"No." Lilith shook her head. "I will not participate in this madness."

"I see." Abel regarded her a moment longer. Then, silently, he took her hand and raised it, then pressed a brief kiss to it. Then, without a word, he turned, and began walking towards the edge of the square.

"Abel." Lilith's voice stopped him. He didn't turn, but Esther could see the tension in the set of his shoulders. "Abel...I've made my choice. If you and the others continue this, then I will side with the Terrans. Continue to bring war to them, and I will fight you, with everything I know. All the strength I have. Even if I must ally myself to the Vatican, I will continue. Until I am killed, or you end this senseless violence."

"Then...we are enemies." Abel's voice was heavy, so quiet Esther barely heard him, and so pain-filled it brought tears to her eyes. But he said nothing further, only stepped away. Moments later, he vanished into the shadows.

Lilith remained where she was. The two women stood together in the square for a long time. Then Esther saw a light, too bright and close to be a comet, shoot into the sky. She knew, instinctively, what it was. Abel's ship. She saw Lilith's head move, eyes following the track of the vessel. Then, the whispered words reached her. "Goodbye, Abel. I'm sorry." Then Lilith turned and entered the vessel, settling into the pilot's seat. Esther followed, silent tears of grief staining her cheeks as she wept for the two of them.

888888888

The return trip to the Underground was made in silence. There, Esther and Lilith disembarked. Both took a quick moment to clean up and change clothing, then presented themselves in the main computer room. Lord Walsh was already there, and speaking to the queen on the monitor. Both looked up as Lilith entered the room. Then Alexander bowed. "My Lady."

"Lady Lilith." The queen's voice was neutral. "My compliments on a job well done. I've received the report from my commander. Half a dozen ships downed in combat, and then...whatever you did. I'm afraid my commander wasn't very specific on what happened after you ordered him from the fray. I've reports of bright golden lightning, and one or two of some angel of God ascending to attack the enemy. Perhaps, you'd care to explain."

"A gift, Majesty. A power I possess. One shared by those who command the attacking forces. I know you are aware of the attacks on the mainland. You've heard some of the reports. I believe you know of what I speak."

"You're referring to the reports of the Black Angel, the Destroyer. And...the others?"

"Indeed. There are only four of us, majesty, but...I fear...the three that remain will be formidable opponents."

"Quite. So far, Albion is the first I've heard of to repel an attack even of their ships, let alone...that." The queen sighed. "It will take a while for the rumors to get back to the mainland, but I suspect we'll see emissaries from the Vatican, and half a dozen others within a fortnight. When that happens..."

"I will go to the Vatican, Majesty. I have made my decision. I will ally with their troops. As for the rest..."

"We will be prepared. My engineers are already beginning to disassemble and blueprint the primary components for ships and weapons systems, Majesty." Alexander spoke up, his voice strong with reassurance and competence. "We'll have the blueprints within two days at the longest. As for new parts...as soon as we can get the equipment and set it up, we'll begin production. You need only tell us what you require."

"Start with upgrading the weapons and the defenses of every ship Albion has, land and sea based." Vivian sighed. "I can appreciate your will to ally with the Vatican, lady Lilith, but I confess..." A small smile touched her face, more sardonic than amused. "I'll regret not having you to defend us. Without you, we'll be sorely pressed if they attack again."

"They will not." Lilith spoke softly. "That, I have achieved. I spoke with their commander, and he has agreed to leave Albion in peace and intact, as much as his own control of the situation will permit, for the sake of those of us who have found shelter here. However...there is a price attached."

"What price?" The queen's eyes hardened. "There are some things I cannot grant, and some I will not, lady Lilith."

"I am aware, Majesty." Lilith inclined her head. "However...it is not such a great one. There is a section of the Underground, which I will seal. That place...no one is to enter it. No one is to approach it. Nor attempt to breach the security I will place around it. And...it is my request that the Lords of the Underground be placed in guard of it, until the rightful resident of that place returns, if such should happen."

Queen Vivian considered a moment, then nodded. "You are correct. That price, we can afford. Lord Walsh, will you accept the guardianship of this place?"

"I will. And you have my word, Lady Lilith. Neither I, nor any of mine, shall attempt to enter into the bounds you declare forbidden." Lilith nodded.

"In that case..." The queen spoke. "I believe we have a great deal of work to do. Lord Walsh, I shall expect to hear regular reports from you on your progress. Lady Lilith...I will send a messenger to you when we receive message, or visitors, from the Vatican, or other interested powers. I bid you good evening." Then the connection clicked shut.

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The next several days were restless ones for Esther. Alexander Walsh was busy getting the computers and the production labs up and running, as well as solidifying the tentative government in their new home. Lilith was busy keeping her promise to Abel, sealing the Underground Genetics Lab. Esther was left to fend for herself. She ran messages for Lord Walsh, and assisted with repairing and furnishing the living facilities, but it still left her with far too much time to herself, and her thoughts.

It was distressing, being Abel's enemy. Thinking of him that way, the way she thought of Cain in her own time made her feel confused, upset. And it wasn't the only thing bothering her.

She couldn't get the image of Abel, standing in the square, out of her head. Nor the sounds, the tone of voice in which he'd spoken to Lilith. The same tone he'd used when speaking to her, in her own time. When he'd told her of his past, apologized after the battle in the garden. She recognized that tone, and the love in it. Love and despair.

She'd never before thought of herself as being the jealous type. And she'd known before, that Abel loved Lilith, in this time period. But it was one thing to know about it, quite another to watch the two of them interacting. Watching them, thinking about it, made her stomach twist uncomfortably. She couldn't help feeling envious of Lilith, for being his first love, even as her heart ached with sorrow for what the two of them were suffering through. And she couldn't help feeling the sharp sting of inadequacy.

Lilith was...beautiful. Stunning even. She was also smart, strong, independent. Compassionate. She was an amazing woman. And she'd known Abel since he was a teen, and throughout all of his adult life. Working beside her, Esther couldn't help but be aware of how little she knew him by comparison. Nor could she help comparing Lilith's elegance to her own rather tomboyish appearance. To say nothing of their differences in skill and personality. It reminded her of when she'd first seen Abel with Caterina, and realized the two of them shared ten years of friendship that she would never understand. Or the first time she'd seen Abel beside Astha, and recognized the relaxed informality, almost intimacy, that they shared, and the fact that Astha was both beautiful and a noblewoman. Both situations had around in her that uncomfortable heaviness in her gut, the sharp sting in her mind, that she didn't want to admit was envy.

But this was different. With Caterina, she'd realized that their relationship as leader and subordinate was only possible if they were friends. The way they teased each other, the way Abel yielded to the Cardinal and accepted her leadership; it wasn't a balance they could have achieved as lovers. Not when he was so obviously stronger than she was. And with Astha...well, she'd only had to see them together once to recognize that half-amused, half-exasperated behavior on Astha's part. She treated Abel like a cross between good friend and irritating sibling. And he responded much the same way, though with more humor and teasing, and less violence. But this...

Abel did love Lilith. And she loved him back. Despite their position on opposite sides of the war...she'd heard the love in both their voices. And despite the fact that she'd known it was true, that she'd seen how deeply Abel had cared for the other woman, it still hurt, like being hit in the stomach, or slapped across the face. Not that she doubted Abel's love for her in her own time, but that somehow made it worse, in a way she couldn't explain.

Esther tried not to think about it, but...it was hard. When she was working on setting up rooms, and shops and other things like that, it was easier to avoid thinking, but she couldn't help replaying everything in her mind when she was alone. She finally settled for trying to stay as busy as possible, occupying her mind with cleaning and planning. Plans for what to do when she and Lilith were called to the Vatican. What she'd do if she were faced with another battle. Trying to remember anything and everything she'd ever heard or read about this time. She also spent time looking through records, with Alexander and Lilith's permission, for anything pertaining to a way for her to return home. She knew the time/space travel she'd undergone had been an official experiment for the Mars Program. To her disappointment, there were few records. Apparently, the lack of evidence for success had caused the project to be abandoned just after her own transport. It was depressing, but hardly surprising. After all, she knew they'd sent the colonists to Mars only two years later, and she was well acquainted with the concept of limited funding.

She was in the middle of assisting in setting up a kitchen area six days after Abel's attack when Lilith appeared in the doorway. "Esther."

"Yes?" She saw the serious look on Lilith's face, and immediately set down the pots she was holding. "Has something happened?"

"The Vatican representatives are here. Her Majesty sent me a message, requesting our presence."

"I see." Esther swallowed, feeling a tense knot in her stomach. "Then I'd best change into something more appropriate."

"Of course. I need to change as well." Lilith was wearing one of her more informal saris, dark blue and brown. "Meet me by the Palace entrance, within the hour."

"I will."

Back in her own rooms, Esther located the dress she usually used for audiences and slipped into it. Her own mind was whirling. She had, after all, been claiming to be a member of the Vatican. It wasn't a lie, but...it wasn't the truth for this time period, either. She'd been careful to avoid giving names for any of her mentors, but she wasn't sure how good the records were. And she doubted there were any 'Esther Blanchetts' listed. Worse, she wasn't sure how far the church's reach had been, nor how frequent travel was, so she couldn't simply claim to have been from some place that had been destroyed. She bit her lip, then took a deep breath. The best she could do was tell the truth, if she was asked, and hope not to come under too much scrutiny. She smoothed her dress one last time, then left.

Lilith met her at the Palace entrance. The other woman was wearing an outfit similar to her usual sari, but much more elaborate. The top was short, as usual, but instead of the usual dark sleeveless design she favored, it was cream colored, with a high white collar, somewhat similar to a nun's, and short sleeves that came to mid bicep. The center was pinned by a pale red jewel, cut as an octagon. Wide silver bracelets encircled her wrists, along with the narrower ones she usually favored. The skirt was a pale off-white, a few shades lighter than the top, and looked to be a fine silk or linen. Her over-wrap was dark brown and tasseled, also silk. Her flame red hair had been pulled back into its usual style, a single ponytail, with two locks framing her face, but over that she'd placed a small silver tiara, shaped as at three pointed crown. And over the sari, she wore the ornate rosary, from which her crucifix hung. The effect was striking. The style of her clothing hinted at her refugee status, while it's quality and the jewelry displayed her position of authority. And the crucifix made an open statement about where she'd chosen to place her loyalty. The combination was both subtle and impressive.

Esther swallowed, conscious of her relatively plain attire. She'd chosen blue and white, one because the colors mirrored those she'd worn as a Sister in the Vatican, and two because she knew they complimented her. But she felt suddenly like a drab servant, compared to Lilith. Of course, that meant she was far more likely to be overlooked. But it also reminded her of the turmoil she'd been experiencing over the past few days. She wasn't sure whether she felt more relieved or embarrassed. Then she pushed the thoughts away and followed Lilith into the Palace. There were more important things to worry about.

A guardsman met them at the entrance and escorted them to the throne room, before gesturing them inside. Lilith led Esther into the room, then paused and swept a graceful curtsey. "Your Majesty. You requested my presence?"

"I did. I have some visitors who would like to meet you. Come here." Queen Vivian smiled, gesturing with her hand. Lilith and Esther both nodded once, then rose. Esther swallowed, her gaze turning to the two men who stood beside the throne.

They were both older gentlemen, dressed in black robes, trimmed in red. Esther studied them. She couldn't remember if the modes of dress for different ranks was the same as in her time. But if it was, then these were either senior arch-bishops, or else lower level cardinals. There was nothing about their headgear to suggest which, and they were both wearing signet rings, which she knew were issued to arch-bishops and higher. She couldn't see any signs of secular rank of status, but that didn't mean anything. She swallowed.

"My lady." the older of the two, a stocky man with graying hair that had hints of brown still in it, stepped forward to meet Lilith. "I am arch-bishop Devon. My companion is Arch-bishop Santiago. We've come from the Vatican to speak to you."

Lilith inclined her head gracefully. "I wish you good evening, Arch-bishops. I am Lilith Sahl." She gestured. "This is my assistant, Esther."

Esther blinked, used to introducing herself, then kept quiet. She knew most people didn't notice assistants, and avoiding direct notice was high on her list of priorities. Especially now. She didn't know enough to be sure of not changing the time-line, and she certainly didn't want to do anything that would get her written about.

The other arch-bishop, Santiago, stepped forward, studying Lilith's cross. "You're a Christian? A Catholic?"

Lilith shifted her weight slightly, as if uncomfortable. "I have faith. However, I was not baptized, nor have I attended church."

"Well...faith is what's important. Of course, one must follow the proper way. However, that is not what we were sent here to speak of." Devon brushed the topic away. "We heard that Albion successfully repelled an attack by the Enemy of the World, and that you had a hand in it. In fact, there are rumors that you, personally, drove them away single-handed."

"The rumors are exaggerated, arch-bishop. I had the help of the Albion fleet. Though...I will admit to having special advantages."

"They say you've provided Albion with new technology, to defeat the invaders."

"I have. If you wish use of it, I'm sure that Her Majesty would be willing to negotiate with you." Lilith nodded slightly to where Vivian sat, watching the proceedings from her throne.

"Of course." The queen's expression was smooth, relaxed and professional, but Esther saw the mingled amusement and satisfaction in her eyes. "I'm quite willing to negotiate with the Vatican, for sale of arms and other technology, as soon as out Technological Center is up and running."

"That is a matter for the Foreign Affairs Department, Majesty. However, we will be glad to relay your words to His Holiness." Devon waved the matter away, then turned back to Lilith. "You say you have special advantages. Rumor has it you possess unique knowledge of Old Technology, lost in Armageddon. And equally unique knowledge of the enemy's tactics and motivations, and his skills."

"That is true." Standing just behind Lilith, she saw the other woman's shoulders tense. "And I will share that knowledge. I am prepared to come to the Vatican, and give my assistance to you. However...I would make a request."

"If your information and skills are as good as rumors claim, then I'm sure His Holiness will be glad to grant it." Devon bowed. "Will you come with us?"

"I will. If my assistant may come as well?"

"Naturally. Given the urgency of the situation, we would prefer to leave at dawn, so that we may reach the Vatican before tomorrow evening."

"Of course. I understand perfectly. You have a ship?"

Santiago nodded. "Our lightweight combat ship is docked at the nearest airfield."

Lilith nodded. "We will meet you there in my airship, as dawn breaks." She bowed her head. "If you will excuse me, I must make preparations for the journey, and I suspect both of you would like some rest."

Santiago nodded. "Dawn then." Both Arch-bishops turned, bowed to the queen, and ushered themselves out.

Lilith waited until the two priests were gone before she turned back to the throne. "It seems the time has come for me to bid you farewell, Majesty."

"Indeed." The queen sighed. "I wish you would reconsider. You are the best protection Albion has. Still...I understand well what a sense of duty may demand, so I will not ask. Your Lord Walsh will soon have our ships fitted with new weapons and shields, and with the technology to barter, Albion will thrive. It is a better fate than I hoped for, even two months ago. More than I dreamed, when your little red-haired messenger appeared in my audience chamber." Vivian flashed Esther a quick, amused smile, then returned her attention to Lilith. "You need not be concerned. I will keep our bargain, and give your refugees safe haven."

"And they shall keep theirs." Lilith bowed her head again.

"I know." The queen made a gesture of dismissal. "The two of you have a journey ahead of you, and only a few hours to prepare. Go well, Lady Lilith. Perhaps we'll meet again, if this war is ever ended." She turned, met Esther's gaze. "You as well, Lady Esther."

Esther managed a nod, a lump in her throat. "Yes, Majesty." Then the queen looked away, and she and Lilith were escorted from the chamber.

Packing took Esther less than an hour. She'd nothing save a few changes of clothing, and some equipment, and it all went easily into a small bag that Alexander provided. She gave Lilith some assistance, and spent the rest of the time saying her goodbyes. It surprised her, how many people she'd come to know. Alexander Walsh, the four lieutenants who served him as advisers and aides, and several of the others whom she'd worked with, setting up homes in the Underground. By the time she joined Lilith at the ship, her heart was aching.

Alexander met them there as well, his expression solemn. He gave Esther a nod, then went to Lilith. "My Lady." he bowed his head. "Thank you."

Lilith's return smile was laced with sadness. "Take care, Lord Walsh. I'm sure you'll do well, here. Take care of our people for me."

Alexander looked up, into her eyes. "I shall, lady." He took her hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it, then turned and disappeared back into the Underground.

Lilith watched him go, then turned to look at the faint light rising behind her ship, through the opening to her landing area. "Come...it's time to go." Esther nodded, and the two of them stepped into the ship. Ten minutes later, they were rising into the sky over Londinium. Another ship, this one decorated with a cross to mark it as the Vatican's, rose into the air as well.

Esther heard the exchange of directions without really listening. Her eyes were on the city below her, so like and yet unlike the one she knew. Her heart was heavy with the knowledge of those she left behind, and what she was going to. She looked out, to the horizon, imagining she could see the ocean. Soon, within the next twenty four hours, she'd be in the Vatican. Soon, she and Lilith would truly enter the battlefield, as Abel's enemies. Esther swallowed back the lump of mingled fear and grief in her throat, remembering what she knew was about to happen and wondering, once again, if she should stop it.


AN (smcandy): Now to answer some small quiz questions I left for you guys in the blue about in the last chapter update.

* FACT The queen that has been introduced from part one to this part was in fact a small minor manga cannon character queen Vivian. She was the ruling Albion Queen at the time from the manga she was mentioned by Mary Spencer in chapter 30 of volume 13 of the English 's was just flash back silhouette shown of her, so went what she might have looked like seeing there was a lot of red heads in the family if you consider whom in so far presently. Looking at Queen Brigitte II in her younger days she looked an awful lot like ester physically, her son Prince Gilbert we can see had dark hair in the manga so it's good to assume Esther got the red hair from him then her mother. We assume that's a trait in the family of seeing one or more red head generation show up in the royal line.

* FICTION Alexander Walsh is an OC (Original Character) he's Virgil and Vanessa ancestor and co-founder of the Ghetto Underground. If fan whom have read chapter 30 of volume 13 of the English manga it tell a small bit of how that Albion ghetto was founded. We used that tidbit of info to out advantage and made another Oc that might have more depth explanation later on in TBAS or possible at the end of TBWC. It's not certain nor official yet but I think now some of you get the idea.

Now onto Lilith's Crusnick/Krusnick form; we went by some very vague and foggy idea of what we for her blood crystal weapons of choise she uses when then she goes into her C. form along with what the novel and cannon says about her powers. Here's what the fact and fiction from what we've used for those whom are nor that familiar with her form both versions

* FACT Lilith Sahl was the prototype for Cain, Abel, and Seth thus makes the oldest of the RMP (Red Mars Project) babies by three years older than them. Created for the Mars Colonization Project by United Nations Scientists. She also had the lowest rank of the four of them. When Lilith went against her fellow siblings or RMP brethren at the time of the Armageddon war she along with most of some of her people whim shared the same idea and disgust of attacking and going against humanity went with her down to earth to help fight off the bad returners being Cain, Abel and Seth's groups.

These Methuselah are/were considered the good returners form what I have read about cannon spoilers from the 900-1000 year old war. Lilith sided with humanity and the Vatican to save humanity from the Methuselah, while the three Nightroad siblings joined the Methuselah. The anime series never shows Lilith's Crusnik form or her powers. The novels show her to a powerful combatant and strategist, protecting humanity from Cain, Seth, Abel, and the Methuselah during the post-Armageddon Human-Vampire War. Along with her Crusnik form the novel it says that it various on the degree of percentage she wants activated Lilith is shown to have six blue wings while in 80% activation, and four white wings during 40%. Most of us have seen the novel or thores picture of her at 80% activation with those blue wings you can find that picture online to view for those whom have yet to see Lilith in her other form. A rare treat indeed.

* POSSIBLEFICTION From what we hear as rumors to which have yet to be shown official ; According to her release, Lilith gains a different number of wings and changes color (because neither the author or the artist agreed on the number and the color). Her basic release consists in two white wings, her 40% one in four multicolored wings and, finally, 80% six blue ones. Her long nails and a bone curved sword (made of the same material of Abel's scythe, Cain's spear and Seth's tridents) as attacks and slim membrane around her hands as defense. Both channel UV and plasma to disintegrate matter. She can regenerate every wound almost at scratch, except the beheading. This not certain on how true it is for the cannon but with what little we had we went with this info canon or not to help us a little.

* FICTION Why Lilith emits a golden or yellow hue to when she attacks is the same as to when Cain & Abel both at 100% have been shown to have their own theme colors of blue lightening even when Abel was 40%-80% form and red blasts for Cain when he is always at 100%. We've also noticed this on their old RMP uniforms having each a different color piping or lining even in their present cloths after the way two out of the four of them still wear their trade theme colors. We will continue to use then for when their powers evolve later on in the sequel and maybe at the end of the story. Since the theme colors suit them well it make it easy to tell apart and distinguish to when and who's battle or aura is being shown and described in the story.