I have killed Mephisto. That bastard was more annoying than anything. I
was just standing in this one place and apparently he couldn't see me so he
didn't launch any of his lightning attacks. I stood there and fired a lot
of Bone Spears before the bastard would finally just die. Overall, I'm
very happy. Of course, this also does kind of suck for me since I have to
now fight in Hell. Oh, and keep this in mind. This chapter is very dark
and will involve the destruction of many things. You can thank Mephisto
for the inspiration for this chapter. Oh, and if you have a weak stomach,
stop reading right now. This chapter is rated R for excessive blood, and I
do mean excessive.
Chapter 8: Reborn the Monster
Legions upon legions of demons poured into Sanctuary. The young Worldstone had been unable to prevent the invasion from Hell, but it did provide a place of safety. No demons dared enter its area of influence, and that was the only true Sanctuary left.
Goatmen charged the monastery gates and smashed it down. Dozens poured in and attacked the Rogues inside. Akara weaved powerful spells in an attempt to stop the beasts but an arrow pierced her chest and dropped her. Two Rogues picked her up and carried her away, but they were fighting a losing battle. More Rogues appeared and attacked with whatever weapon they had. Kashya and Charsi led the defense, both wielding powerful melee weapons. Unfortunately, this time they did not have anyone as powerful as Marko, or even close. The demons slew dozens of Rogues before pushing the others down into the jails. The remaining Rogues, approximately fifty, waited down in the lowest level of the jail and waited for the demons to attack again. Charsi had been taken prisoner and there was no hope of saving her. Akara was dead and the only thing Kashya could do was make the demons pay a bloody price for their assault on the monastery. Suddenly, a blue portal opened in the center of the room. All of the Rogues raised their weapons and prepared to open fire. However, an Angel exited it.
"If you wish to live, come with me," it said, "The forces of Hell may yet be turned back but this is not the place to do it."
"This is our home," said Kashya, "We have already abandoned it once. I will not do so again."
"You do not understand," said the Angel, "You are facing the Master of Darkness and he prepares to destroy the High Heavens. However, he may yet be defeated. Come with me. You must."
Kashya considered it, and finally nodded. The Rogues then all ran into the portal and soon only Kashya, the Angel, and a few other Rogues remained.
"I will not leave my home," said Kashya, "I will remain and do what I can."
The Angel nodded, knowing it was useless to try to convince her. Suddenly a red portal appeared and a tentacle shot out and grabbed Kashya's waist. She slashed at it but was unable to cut it. The Angel charged into battle and hacked the tentacle and severed it. More shot out from the portal and one punched right through the Angel. It fell, its body catching fire and exploding in a blue blaze. The other Rogues fired arrows into the portal and edged towards the blue portal. Kashya screamed and charged at the tentacles, trying to buy some time. Most of the other Rogues managed to escape and soon it was just Kashya and one other. The creature had grabbed Kashya and just as the other Rogue was jumping another tentacle shot out and grabbed her, pulling her away. The portal closed, sealing the two Rogues to their fate. One was smashed into pieces by the crushing force of the tentacles, while Kashya was dragged into Hell. Demons poured out of the portal and moved upwards to join their brethren. After so long, the Rogue Monastery was theirs once again. A standard was raised over the monastery, with the emblem of the Master of Darkness on it, a blood red pentagram.
Lut Gholein had been laid under siege by demons again. This time the massive army of creatures could not be stopped. They hacked through the guards with incredible ease and quickly approached the palace. Under the palace, demons poured through from some sort of tear and assaulted the guards. The troops Greiz had left behind were no match for the demons as they were slaughtered before the demons' advance. The walls already Lut Gholein were torn down as massive creatures moved into the city. Jerhyn watched helplessly as his city was overrun by the demons. Shara stood at his side, ready to see everything to the end by her husband's side. Jerhyn walked over to the wall and took down the massive sword that hung there.
"It has been a long time since I've had to use this," he said.
Shara walked with him as he exited his chambers and prepared to join in the defense of his city. Husband and wife walked out of the palace and faced the demons. Shara summoned a powerful fireball and it smashed into the ranks of the front demons. However, they were not fazed. The remaining defenders of the city had gathered at the palace, everyone else was dead. They charged one last time against the demons. In the end, all were ripped to pieces and the red pentagram was raised to the top of the palace. The legions of Hell had secured another major victory.
Kurast was not a stranger from destruction and desolation. However, its defenders had already been wearied from the long battle against the demons that had attacked so soon before. The armies of paladins fought on bravely and had soaked the ground with the blood of demons. Bones from skeleton warriors were strung all about and the tattered flesh of slain creatures covered the fields. The mighty walls of Kurast still stood, and a powerful shield of magic kept the demons from attacking with too much ease. However, the casualties on the side of the paladins were heavy. However, the arrival of dozens of mage clans strengthened the defenders' ranks. Now they merely waited for the next assault.
They did not have to wait for long, for a massive assault was soon under way. Catapults launched powerful blasts of magic and pounded the shield that protected the city, weakening it. Suddenly Soul Burners flew down from the sky and clawed at the defenders. Many were dropped by the powerful spells casted by the mages, while others found their mark and killed their target. However, this was not the worst. Blood Knights appeared from the thick forest and charged. Archers and mages fired upon the creatures, slaughtering them. However, wave upon wave of them kept pressing against the walls and the defenders were running out of arrows. Suddenly a powerful beam of red energy struck the shield, shattering it completely. The demons leapt up onto the walls and attacked the defenders. The warriors fell back, unable to keep the Blood Knights from driving them back. They were killed in the scores but still the Blood Knights came. Finally the survivors were driven to the docks, barely keeping the demons from pushing them into the waters. The paladins and mages fought a brave rearguard, trying to buy time for the civilians to be evacuated on boats. However, one final push by the Blood Knights shattered their lines and chaos erupted. The few surviving paladins continued to fight, not giving in no matter the odds. Within minutes only three mortals were alive, continuing the fight and trying to avenge their comrades. Finally, they too were struck down by the blades of the Blood Knights.
Kurast was in ruins. The massive city had been broken and the few boats that had not been able to get away in time lay burning in the harbor. Another flag was raised high above Kurast.
The defenders of Harrogath were particularly stubborn. Assault after assault had failed, and the warriors had even launched a counterattack that drove back the demon armies nearly out of the Highlands. Dozens of barbarian tribes had come together and were now on the verge of completely destroying the demon armies that had dared invade their homeland. The forces of Hell had a new name for the Barbarian Highlands, the Dying Grounds. Five more armies of demons had been summoned from Hell and were barely enough to keep their foothold in the Highlands. Soon, the Master of Darkness was forced to resort to more extreme measures. The Ancients had still not finished cleansing the corruption from the Worldstone Chamber. The Master drew on the powers of the abyss and launched a massive attack from there. A massive rift was opened and to the horror of the Ancients powerful demon-mages stepped out. The mages destroyed each of the Ancients with one blow, annihilating their spirits forever. At the foothold, more demon-mages had been sent and they by themselves turned back the barbarian tribes. Their spells caused the bodies of the attacking barbarians to explode and shatter. Every attempt at physical and magical attack failed and even the druids were helpless. With their armies shattered, the Highlands were open once again to invasion.
The demon-mages that had stepped through into the Worldstone Chamber exited it and began their assault on the city. Its defenders immediately attacked the creatures but to no avail. The first wave did not even reach the demons when their flash exploded and their bones were shattered. Others tried to use crossbows or bows against them, but their shots merely bounced off the armor of the creatures. They were then killed by a single blow from the demons. Anya ran out and tried to fight back against the demons but a powerful spell destroyed her strength and she laid crumbled on the ground. She was still alive, but didn't have the strength to continue fighting. She was forced to watch as more demon-mages appeared and slowly turned the city to ruins. Within minutes the rest of the inhabitants were dead and the legion of Hell had secured Harrogath. A red pentagram flag was raised high above the Citadel. Two large demons approached Anya and picked her up. They then carried her to the portal in the Worldstone Chamber leading down to Hell and took her through it.
The followers of Rathma had completely destroyed the demon army that had tried to attack them. The blood and flesh of eight armies were spread all around their fortress city. The Priests of Rathma had prepared for this day and now prepared to travel to the site of the new Worldstone. It was there that the salvation of humanity could begin. They left behind a massive army of golems and skeletons, hoping that they would buy them enough time to get to the home of the Mage Slayers. When the demons attacked again, they were repulsed with heavy losses. The golems and skeletons had fought fanatically, not giving any ground. However, after five more assaults, all failing, the reserves of the golems and skeletons were exhausted. The demons finally broke through, but it had cost them over nine hundred thousand warriors to do so. Another hundred thousand demons quickly took up residence in the underground city, making sure that it was secured for their master. However, just as they were preparing to open the gate to Hell, the entire city clasped on top of them, killing all of the demons. Of all of the resistors, the barbarians and the necromancers had done the most damage to the demons.
Kashya, Charsi, and Anya were all tied up so they could not resist. The three were tied to bloodstained crosses and were being paraded through hell, their armor and clothes in tattered pieces. The three women screamed as they tried to get free of their bonds, but to no avail. They were forced to look upon the horrors of Hell. Damned souls floated about, most of them screaming. Condemned souls tried to reach out and grab the demons, but were kicked back into the pool of souls. The three women weren't sure how long they could stand being subjugated to seeing all these horrors. Totems of dead demons and humans lined the path leading down to a massive Black Palace. There, statues of powerful demons that had caused so much pain and destruction guarded the entrance. The Prime Evils and the Lesser Evils were all present, and a new statue made of human bones and painted red with human blood was up. It was of Marko, the Master of Darkness. The three gasped when they recognized the face. However, they were unwilling to face the reality of their situation and refused to believe that Marko was behind all of this.
As the three were carried into the palace, scavengers appeared and drooled at the three. However, the larger demon-mages kicked the scavengers out of the palace. The three were then brought to a chamber that had three large round pools of blood in a triangular order. The pools were connected to its adjacent one and in the center was a black platform. To the horror of the three, the crosses were implanted into the pools of blood. Their feet were barely above the blood, and some splashed up as the crosses were secured. Once that was done, the demon-mages took up positions all around the chamber and all turned to stone. That was when Marko walked in and finally it hit them who he was.
"You're the one that ordered the invasion of Sanctuary," said Charsi, "Why Marko, why did you do this?"
She was close to tears from the pain of her trust being destroyed so utterly. Marko merely smiled coldly at her.
"What have you done to Falvie!" Kashya demanded.
"And Qual-Kehk!" Anya added.
"They are fine," Marko finally spoke, "The High Heavens is using them to assist in their defense. Right now, you should be more worried what's going to happen to you."
A sinking feeling started to build up in all of them. Marko waved a hand and a blue fire started burning on the black platform.
"As you know, the Prime Evils and the Lesser Evils were destroyed, all seven of them. They were banished to the abyss by me, and I personally destroyed the Soulstones of Baal, Diablo, and Mephisto. However, what is done can be undone."
There was a clank and the three crosses slowly started going down. The three started struggling again, trying in vain to keep out of the blood. When it was at their waist, the crosses stopped descending. The warm blood made all of them feel numb and cold inside. The blood was pure, but the crosses were tainted. The blue flame grew brighter and slowly something appeared.
"Arise, Andariel, Maiden of Anguish. Be reborn."
The three women screamed as power seemed to cruise through their body. A form stood up in the flames and walked out. It was indeed Andariel, and Charsi and Kashya could only look upon the demon in horror. Andariel had corrupted many of their sisters and had desecrated their monastery. Now, she was back. Andariel knelt down before Marko. Of course, considering that Andariel was far larger than Marko, it did look strange. However, when she stood, the two looked more menacing than ever. A blue symbol suddenly became imprinted in Andariel's forehead. The demon ignored it and walked to the side. Another form was appearing in the flame.
"Arise, Duriel, arise the Lord of Pain."
The three had heard of Duriel, and also knew that Marko had killed him. Duriel looked like a large worm and it was a stranger sight to see him bowing down to Marko. A blue symbol was also imprinted on his forehead, this one different from that of Andariel's. It wasn't long before a third form took shape.
"Arise, Azmodan, return to us, Lord of Cruelty."
This time the creature was smaller, though it still looked hideous. The demon had head like that of a human, but arcane symbols were etched all over its face. However, the creature did not walk. It floated down to Marko and knelt to him. And so another leader of Hell had sworn fealty to the Master of Darkness. Finally the last of the Lesser Evils appeared.
"Arise, Belial, I summon you, Lady of Torment."
Another female figure walked out of the flames, but this demon was not hideous like Andariel. In reality, she looked much like any human woman, beautiful and alluring. With her swearing, the Lesser Evils were bound to the Master of Darkness.
The three were lowered even further into the blood and all three begged to be released. The crosses stopped again when the blood was at neck level. Now most of their body was soaked in blood. The energy within them was slowly being drained, but they still had plenty of fight within themselves. It was there that they felt another surge of energy cruise through the blood and their bodies. A familiar form was taking shape in the flames. When it walked out, the three women could only stare in horror.
"Mephisto, Lord of Hatred, welcome back to the Burning Hell."
Mephisto looked at Marko and nodded to him. With that acknowledgement, a red symbol was etched onto his forehead. The three women were rather sure who else would return. A massive creature with a gigantic tail appeared and stomped down the platform.
"Diablo, Lord of Terror."
Diablo glared at Marko but also knelt. Like Mephisto, a red symbol appeared on his face. Finally, the last of the Prime Evils appeared.
"Baal, Lord of Destruction, my right hand."
Baal was an imposing being when he stood up, but he knelt down in front of Marko and his tentacles were lowered. A red symbol also glowed on his forehead. Marko then walked away from Baal and looked down at the three women still in the blood.
"I have brought all of you back because I have need of you. Understand this. I will not tolerate disloyalty, and I can easily kill any of you again. Understand?"
All of the demons nodded.
"Good. Most of Sanctuary is ours, and our forces are preparing it as our staging ground for the invasion of the High Heavens."
Marko turned and faced them again.
"Ironic is it not, that it took the man that defeated all of in order to bring about the final victory? No matter. Andariel, you are to return to the Rogue Monastery and raise an army there. Duriel, you are to go to Harrogath and plant a corrupt Worldstone. Use that Worldstone to bring in more of our forces into the realm of the mortals. Also, use it to create more demon-mages. Belial, the Mage Slayers in Kejhistan guard the Worldstone. You are to lead your forces against them and either destroy or corrupt that Worldstone. Do not fail. The priests of Rathma have allied with the Mage Slayers and they are far more powerful than any of us had realized. Azmodan, the Amazons have made their home islands virtual fortresses. Penetrate them and bring the Amazons into line. I do not need them disturbing our plans."
All of the Lesser Evils acknowledged their orders. Finally, at least some of them would be doing something more than sitting around and waiting.
"Mephisto, you are to summon Hephasto and have him create another demonblade. Then you will return to Kurast and reestablish the Zakarum faith. Ensure that the surviving mortals follow your commands."
Mephisto nodded upon hearing his orders.
"Diablo, you are to return to the Western Kingdoms and bring them under our rule. Even though the Highlands are ours, we must have most of not all of Sanctuary under our rule."
Diablo nodded as well.
"Baal. You will remain here with me. There is something that requires your powers."
Baal understood the order quite well. Out of the three brothers, he was the most powerful. It would most likely involve something very important and dangerous.
"However, once Belial secures the second Worldstone, you are to go and corrupt it if she doesn't destroy it."
That was another understandable order. Only the three Prime Evils and Marko had the power to corrupt a Worldstone. The Lesser Evils were not that powerful.
"However, there is one more thing to take care of before you embark on your missions."
Marko turned to the three women still in the pools of blood.
"Their bodies will be used to host three special beings that I have obtained. Break their spirits to ensure they cause no problems when they are implanted with the souls of the creatures the beings also feel their hopelessness."
Marko left the room, his black cape almost touching the ground. His back was turned to the three women, and they could only gap as the three Prime Evils and the four Lesser Evils prepared to torture them. Looks of despair were on their faces, and that soon turned to fear.
Marko entered his private chamber and looked down upon the Burning Hell that he ruled. The abyss was close by and he could feel its power. He drew upon it, knowing that he was the only being to ever draw their power directly from the abyss. The dragon was resting at the edge of the abyss, not because it needed to, but because currently there was nothing for it to do. Occasionally it would eat a demon that was passing by but otherwise it did nothing but lay there. He then turned his gaze to three Soulstones. The High Heavens was not the only ones that could make Soulstones. Within the three had the spirits of three immensely powerful creatures slept. They had been captured by the Burning Hell during the first attempted siege of the High Heavens and had been imprisoned in the Soulstones for eons. After he had become corrupted he became aware of the three, but lacking proper hosts he simply left them in the Soulstones. However, now he had three perfect subjects for the hosts. He felt no remorse regarding what he was doing to people that were his friends. If he ever confronted his wife, he would most likely use her to house another spirit for his own amusement.
Marko could almost hear the screams echoing through the palace from beneath him. The demons were truly enjoying inflicting pain upon the three women. Well, soon enough their spirits would be broken. A human in a black cloak similar to his appeared from the shadows.
"My lord."
Marko didn't turn to face him, but merely spoke.
"What is it?"
"The Pandemonium Fortress has been secured and the two blacksmiths of the Heavens have been killed."
"Good. What of the link between it and the High Heavens?"
"The Host severed it once the Fortress fell. We will not be able to utilize it."
"No matter. We will break through soon. Dismissed."
The man bowed before disappearing into the shadows again, but Marko didn't even pay any notice. A cup of red crystal appeared on the table and Marko picked it up. Blood was in it and he drank it all down in one gulp. Thoughts of his future plans ran through his head. Once the High Heavens was destroyed, Armageddon would soon follow. However, Armageddon would not come if the other world still remained. He would have to handle that once the Crystal Arch was destroyed, however.
Kashya screamed out once again as another stinger pierced her skin. Belial was living up to her title as she tortured Kashya. She and Duriel were handling Kashya and the Rogue wasn't sure how much longer she could hold out.
"Perhaps we should carve that symbol onto her body," Duriel suggested.
A Kris appeared in Belial's hand and she smiled.
"Yes, we should."
The cross was lifted out of the blood and exposed all of Kashya's body. Belial cut through the armor and fabric, breaking through to Kashya's skin. The demon continued carving, not disturbed by Kashya's screams and her jerky movements. Finally, the demon stopped and the cross was lowered back into the blood. However, when the blood touched the cuts, pain exploded all over again. Kashya screamed, giving up completely. She continued screaming until she was completely out of fight. She only whimpered as the pain grew worse, but could do nothing more.
"My, what a disappointment," said Belial, "I thought these Rogues would stand up better to torture."
"A pity," said Duriel, "We had not even gotten to the more interesting mutilations."
"Ah well. So how are the other two standing up to their torture?"
Andariel and Azmodan were occupied with Charsi, and they were not letting up. The blacksmith's entire body was on fire and she withered in pain. While Azmodan kept the fire going, Andariel had started stabbing Charsi with knives. Two were in the Rogue's breasts and another had been driven into her neck. Finally, she collapsed as well.
"Well, she lasted longer than this one," Duriel noted.
"Still, this isn't much fun," said Azmodan, "They gave in too quickly."
"These mortals are weak," said Baal, "This one is giving up far too easily."
A massive blade was in Anya's chest and the three Prime Evils were taking turns inflicting pain on her. Within seconds, she had been broken as well.
A small Imp appeared and walked up to Mephisto.
"Inform Lord Lyther that the hosts are ready," he said to the Imp.
The Imp nodded and disappeared again.
Marko didn't expect it to take too long and wasn't surprised when the Imp appeared moments later. He dismissed it with a wave of his hand and vanished in a burst of flames. The demons were waiting for him down in the Chamber of Summoning. The three Soulstones floated at his side, glowing brightly as the souls prepared to be implanted. The Lesser and Prime Evils recoiled at the sight of the three Soulstones.
"You are mad!" said Diablo, "Unleashing them will seal our doom!"
"I don't think so," said Marko.
He raised his arm so that it would was level with the ground and the three Soulstones shot to their host. Each struck the heart and pierced their way in. The three women screamed, feeling the pure power within the Soulstones burn through their bodies. The demons all shielded themselves from the intense light, but Marko simply stood there, the light energy merely sliding off of him. Finally, it receded and much of the chamber was in ruins. The black platform at the center had been demolished and three beings were now present. Each was still tied to the cross, but they were no longer the mortals they had been.
"Welcome to the Burning Hell, Sisters of the Light."
The three Archangels kept their heads down as they slowly adjusted to their new bodies. They could feel the pain that their hosts felt, and tried to sooth them. However, their spirits had been broken and the Archangels could not bring them out of despair. Everything looked hopeless.
The demons were all agitated, being in the presence of three of the most powerful Archangels of all time. The three sisters were the counterpart to the three Prime Evils, known as the Sisters of the Light. It had taken all of Hell and the full power of the Abyss to defeat them the first time, and seal them within Soulstones. This time, the demons were not sure if they could manage again. Marko had just brought their worst enemies into the heart of Hell.
"The Ladies of Hope, Courage, and Prosperity, the opposites of the three Prime Evils. It is indeed an honor to meet you."
"You are nothing but an animal," the Archangel inhabiting Charsi's body said. The voice was different, stronger and melodious. It had definitely succeeded.
"Perhaps. So, you are Serenity, the Lady of Prosperity. Hmm. You indeed possess great strength, but you are still no match for me."
"Your strength is not from within," the Archangel in Kashya's body said, "The power of the Abyss will end up destroying you."
"That is where you are wrong," Marko replied, "I am a true immortal. Nothing can destroy me, nothing can contain me. I will remain until the end of time. So who are you? No, let me guess. Charity, the Lady of Hope."
The other demons stayed away from the three crosses, but Marko walked between them as if he didn't even feel the righteous energy emanating from them.
"And of course, Victoria, the Lady of Courage. I must say, I had thought your combined strength might actually be a threat to me, but apparently I am wrong. No, even with your combined might you are nowhere near strong enough to oppose me."
"So why have you brought us here?" Victoria asked, using Anya's voice.
"I have my reasons. One of them is to let you watch the High Heavens fall, of course, and the other is to bind you to me so I can draw on your powers."
Theoretically this was possible, but few demons ever dared attempt something like this. Marko turned to face the Council of Hell.
"You are to carry out your missions now," he said, "Leave us."
The demons filed out and all but Baal and Mephisto left Hell. Baal was to remain and Mephisto still had to order Hephasto to create a new demonblade. Marko then turned his attention back to the three Archangels. The wounds that the Prime and Lesser Evils had inflicted had been healed, and the weapons they had used had fallen out. Marko waved his hand and the crosses started lowering into the pools of blood again. This time the crosses were submerged completely with the three Archangels still strapped on.
"Have a nice drink," Marko said before disappearing in a blaze of fire.
Marko reappeared by the Hellforge. Hephasto was creating a massive sword using metals that had been brought up from the Abyss itself. The absolute power of the Abyss would be embedded into the sword once it was completed. A dozen other dark mages were creating powerful arcane runes to be merged with the sword. Slowly the blade was being shaped into a recognizable weapon. The sword was about the size of a crystal sword, and also looked like one. However, instead of the cool blue color the weapon was a fiery red. When Hephasto struck it again, the blade exploded into fire and threw the smith back. The surrounding demons were all knocked back by the sheer power of the weapon. Hephasto got back onto his feet and went to work again, this time being more careful. He left four grooves for the four arcane runes to be placed in. The dark mages had finished making the first and were now concentrating on the second. Marko walked over and examined the first rune. It had the symbol of fire on it. With this rune, it was possible to set afire an entire nation and destroy everything in it. The other runes would be equally powerful and would contribute to the final product. Marko turned his attention back to Hephasto and noticed that the red sword had black veins running through it. It was almost finished. What had once taken thousands of years to make, was now being created in a matter of minutes. The power of the Abyss fueled the construction of the mighty weapon. Nothing would be able to stand up to the power of the new demonblade, not even the Dragon of the Abyss. Hephasto pounded on it one more time before the sword was completed. Marko took the first rune and placed it in the first spot. Red energy streamed through the veins and the rune fused into the sword. The red metal then melted over the rune and covered it. Another dark mage approached him and gave him the second rune. This one had the symbol for ice on it. Fire and ice was a powerful combination, but they also created absolute light. However, it was a risk Marko was willing to take. He placed the second rune in and blue energy cruised through the veins. The demonblade seemed to shake at first but settled down. A second mage came up to him and gave him the third rune. This one had the symbol of shadows on it. Shadow could blanket light and make it darkness, and in that way the strength of the light within this sword would be turned to darkness. The veins became gray as the power of the rune was added to the sword. The fourth and final rune had the symbol of lightning on it. Marko placed the final rune in and white light streamed through it before finally the weapon was complete.
"The Darkscythe," said Marko, "This is the new demonblade. This weapon cannot be destroyed."
And there, the Master of Darkness gained his true powers. Marko felt the shadows and darkness envelope him and turn him into a being of pure energy. With Darkscythe, he was unstoppable.
End of Chapter 8
I'm rather surprised this was so long. Well, here's another twist.
Z98
Chapter 8: Reborn the Monster
Legions upon legions of demons poured into Sanctuary. The young Worldstone had been unable to prevent the invasion from Hell, but it did provide a place of safety. No demons dared enter its area of influence, and that was the only true Sanctuary left.
Goatmen charged the monastery gates and smashed it down. Dozens poured in and attacked the Rogues inside. Akara weaved powerful spells in an attempt to stop the beasts but an arrow pierced her chest and dropped her. Two Rogues picked her up and carried her away, but they were fighting a losing battle. More Rogues appeared and attacked with whatever weapon they had. Kashya and Charsi led the defense, both wielding powerful melee weapons. Unfortunately, this time they did not have anyone as powerful as Marko, or even close. The demons slew dozens of Rogues before pushing the others down into the jails. The remaining Rogues, approximately fifty, waited down in the lowest level of the jail and waited for the demons to attack again. Charsi had been taken prisoner and there was no hope of saving her. Akara was dead and the only thing Kashya could do was make the demons pay a bloody price for their assault on the monastery. Suddenly, a blue portal opened in the center of the room. All of the Rogues raised their weapons and prepared to open fire. However, an Angel exited it.
"If you wish to live, come with me," it said, "The forces of Hell may yet be turned back but this is not the place to do it."
"This is our home," said Kashya, "We have already abandoned it once. I will not do so again."
"You do not understand," said the Angel, "You are facing the Master of Darkness and he prepares to destroy the High Heavens. However, he may yet be defeated. Come with me. You must."
Kashya considered it, and finally nodded. The Rogues then all ran into the portal and soon only Kashya, the Angel, and a few other Rogues remained.
"I will not leave my home," said Kashya, "I will remain and do what I can."
The Angel nodded, knowing it was useless to try to convince her. Suddenly a red portal appeared and a tentacle shot out and grabbed Kashya's waist. She slashed at it but was unable to cut it. The Angel charged into battle and hacked the tentacle and severed it. More shot out from the portal and one punched right through the Angel. It fell, its body catching fire and exploding in a blue blaze. The other Rogues fired arrows into the portal and edged towards the blue portal. Kashya screamed and charged at the tentacles, trying to buy some time. Most of the other Rogues managed to escape and soon it was just Kashya and one other. The creature had grabbed Kashya and just as the other Rogue was jumping another tentacle shot out and grabbed her, pulling her away. The portal closed, sealing the two Rogues to their fate. One was smashed into pieces by the crushing force of the tentacles, while Kashya was dragged into Hell. Demons poured out of the portal and moved upwards to join their brethren. After so long, the Rogue Monastery was theirs once again. A standard was raised over the monastery, with the emblem of the Master of Darkness on it, a blood red pentagram.
Lut Gholein had been laid under siege by demons again. This time the massive army of creatures could not be stopped. They hacked through the guards with incredible ease and quickly approached the palace. Under the palace, demons poured through from some sort of tear and assaulted the guards. The troops Greiz had left behind were no match for the demons as they were slaughtered before the demons' advance. The walls already Lut Gholein were torn down as massive creatures moved into the city. Jerhyn watched helplessly as his city was overrun by the demons. Shara stood at his side, ready to see everything to the end by her husband's side. Jerhyn walked over to the wall and took down the massive sword that hung there.
"It has been a long time since I've had to use this," he said.
Shara walked with him as he exited his chambers and prepared to join in the defense of his city. Husband and wife walked out of the palace and faced the demons. Shara summoned a powerful fireball and it smashed into the ranks of the front demons. However, they were not fazed. The remaining defenders of the city had gathered at the palace, everyone else was dead. They charged one last time against the demons. In the end, all were ripped to pieces and the red pentagram was raised to the top of the palace. The legions of Hell had secured another major victory.
Kurast was not a stranger from destruction and desolation. However, its defenders had already been wearied from the long battle against the demons that had attacked so soon before. The armies of paladins fought on bravely and had soaked the ground with the blood of demons. Bones from skeleton warriors were strung all about and the tattered flesh of slain creatures covered the fields. The mighty walls of Kurast still stood, and a powerful shield of magic kept the demons from attacking with too much ease. However, the casualties on the side of the paladins were heavy. However, the arrival of dozens of mage clans strengthened the defenders' ranks. Now they merely waited for the next assault.
They did not have to wait for long, for a massive assault was soon under way. Catapults launched powerful blasts of magic and pounded the shield that protected the city, weakening it. Suddenly Soul Burners flew down from the sky and clawed at the defenders. Many were dropped by the powerful spells casted by the mages, while others found their mark and killed their target. However, this was not the worst. Blood Knights appeared from the thick forest and charged. Archers and mages fired upon the creatures, slaughtering them. However, wave upon wave of them kept pressing against the walls and the defenders were running out of arrows. Suddenly a powerful beam of red energy struck the shield, shattering it completely. The demons leapt up onto the walls and attacked the defenders. The warriors fell back, unable to keep the Blood Knights from driving them back. They were killed in the scores but still the Blood Knights came. Finally the survivors were driven to the docks, barely keeping the demons from pushing them into the waters. The paladins and mages fought a brave rearguard, trying to buy time for the civilians to be evacuated on boats. However, one final push by the Blood Knights shattered their lines and chaos erupted. The few surviving paladins continued to fight, not giving in no matter the odds. Within minutes only three mortals were alive, continuing the fight and trying to avenge their comrades. Finally, they too were struck down by the blades of the Blood Knights.
Kurast was in ruins. The massive city had been broken and the few boats that had not been able to get away in time lay burning in the harbor. Another flag was raised high above Kurast.
The defenders of Harrogath were particularly stubborn. Assault after assault had failed, and the warriors had even launched a counterattack that drove back the demon armies nearly out of the Highlands. Dozens of barbarian tribes had come together and were now on the verge of completely destroying the demon armies that had dared invade their homeland. The forces of Hell had a new name for the Barbarian Highlands, the Dying Grounds. Five more armies of demons had been summoned from Hell and were barely enough to keep their foothold in the Highlands. Soon, the Master of Darkness was forced to resort to more extreme measures. The Ancients had still not finished cleansing the corruption from the Worldstone Chamber. The Master drew on the powers of the abyss and launched a massive attack from there. A massive rift was opened and to the horror of the Ancients powerful demon-mages stepped out. The mages destroyed each of the Ancients with one blow, annihilating their spirits forever. At the foothold, more demon-mages had been sent and they by themselves turned back the barbarian tribes. Their spells caused the bodies of the attacking barbarians to explode and shatter. Every attempt at physical and magical attack failed and even the druids were helpless. With their armies shattered, the Highlands were open once again to invasion.
The demon-mages that had stepped through into the Worldstone Chamber exited it and began their assault on the city. Its defenders immediately attacked the creatures but to no avail. The first wave did not even reach the demons when their flash exploded and their bones were shattered. Others tried to use crossbows or bows against them, but their shots merely bounced off the armor of the creatures. They were then killed by a single blow from the demons. Anya ran out and tried to fight back against the demons but a powerful spell destroyed her strength and she laid crumbled on the ground. She was still alive, but didn't have the strength to continue fighting. She was forced to watch as more demon-mages appeared and slowly turned the city to ruins. Within minutes the rest of the inhabitants were dead and the legion of Hell had secured Harrogath. A red pentagram flag was raised high above the Citadel. Two large demons approached Anya and picked her up. They then carried her to the portal in the Worldstone Chamber leading down to Hell and took her through it.
The followers of Rathma had completely destroyed the demon army that had tried to attack them. The blood and flesh of eight armies were spread all around their fortress city. The Priests of Rathma had prepared for this day and now prepared to travel to the site of the new Worldstone. It was there that the salvation of humanity could begin. They left behind a massive army of golems and skeletons, hoping that they would buy them enough time to get to the home of the Mage Slayers. When the demons attacked again, they were repulsed with heavy losses. The golems and skeletons had fought fanatically, not giving any ground. However, after five more assaults, all failing, the reserves of the golems and skeletons were exhausted. The demons finally broke through, but it had cost them over nine hundred thousand warriors to do so. Another hundred thousand demons quickly took up residence in the underground city, making sure that it was secured for their master. However, just as they were preparing to open the gate to Hell, the entire city clasped on top of them, killing all of the demons. Of all of the resistors, the barbarians and the necromancers had done the most damage to the demons.
Kashya, Charsi, and Anya were all tied up so they could not resist. The three were tied to bloodstained crosses and were being paraded through hell, their armor and clothes in tattered pieces. The three women screamed as they tried to get free of their bonds, but to no avail. They were forced to look upon the horrors of Hell. Damned souls floated about, most of them screaming. Condemned souls tried to reach out and grab the demons, but were kicked back into the pool of souls. The three women weren't sure how long they could stand being subjugated to seeing all these horrors. Totems of dead demons and humans lined the path leading down to a massive Black Palace. There, statues of powerful demons that had caused so much pain and destruction guarded the entrance. The Prime Evils and the Lesser Evils were all present, and a new statue made of human bones and painted red with human blood was up. It was of Marko, the Master of Darkness. The three gasped when they recognized the face. However, they were unwilling to face the reality of their situation and refused to believe that Marko was behind all of this.
As the three were carried into the palace, scavengers appeared and drooled at the three. However, the larger demon-mages kicked the scavengers out of the palace. The three were then brought to a chamber that had three large round pools of blood in a triangular order. The pools were connected to its adjacent one and in the center was a black platform. To the horror of the three, the crosses were implanted into the pools of blood. Their feet were barely above the blood, and some splashed up as the crosses were secured. Once that was done, the demon-mages took up positions all around the chamber and all turned to stone. That was when Marko walked in and finally it hit them who he was.
"You're the one that ordered the invasion of Sanctuary," said Charsi, "Why Marko, why did you do this?"
She was close to tears from the pain of her trust being destroyed so utterly. Marko merely smiled coldly at her.
"What have you done to Falvie!" Kashya demanded.
"And Qual-Kehk!" Anya added.
"They are fine," Marko finally spoke, "The High Heavens is using them to assist in their defense. Right now, you should be more worried what's going to happen to you."
A sinking feeling started to build up in all of them. Marko waved a hand and a blue fire started burning on the black platform.
"As you know, the Prime Evils and the Lesser Evils were destroyed, all seven of them. They were banished to the abyss by me, and I personally destroyed the Soulstones of Baal, Diablo, and Mephisto. However, what is done can be undone."
There was a clank and the three crosses slowly started going down. The three started struggling again, trying in vain to keep out of the blood. When it was at their waist, the crosses stopped descending. The warm blood made all of them feel numb and cold inside. The blood was pure, but the crosses were tainted. The blue flame grew brighter and slowly something appeared.
"Arise, Andariel, Maiden of Anguish. Be reborn."
The three women screamed as power seemed to cruise through their body. A form stood up in the flames and walked out. It was indeed Andariel, and Charsi and Kashya could only look upon the demon in horror. Andariel had corrupted many of their sisters and had desecrated their monastery. Now, she was back. Andariel knelt down before Marko. Of course, considering that Andariel was far larger than Marko, it did look strange. However, when she stood, the two looked more menacing than ever. A blue symbol suddenly became imprinted in Andariel's forehead. The demon ignored it and walked to the side. Another form was appearing in the flame.
"Arise, Duriel, arise the Lord of Pain."
The three had heard of Duriel, and also knew that Marko had killed him. Duriel looked like a large worm and it was a stranger sight to see him bowing down to Marko. A blue symbol was also imprinted on his forehead, this one different from that of Andariel's. It wasn't long before a third form took shape.
"Arise, Azmodan, return to us, Lord of Cruelty."
This time the creature was smaller, though it still looked hideous. The demon had head like that of a human, but arcane symbols were etched all over its face. However, the creature did not walk. It floated down to Marko and knelt to him. And so another leader of Hell had sworn fealty to the Master of Darkness. Finally the last of the Lesser Evils appeared.
"Arise, Belial, I summon you, Lady of Torment."
Another female figure walked out of the flames, but this demon was not hideous like Andariel. In reality, she looked much like any human woman, beautiful and alluring. With her swearing, the Lesser Evils were bound to the Master of Darkness.
The three were lowered even further into the blood and all three begged to be released. The crosses stopped again when the blood was at neck level. Now most of their body was soaked in blood. The energy within them was slowly being drained, but they still had plenty of fight within themselves. It was there that they felt another surge of energy cruise through the blood and their bodies. A familiar form was taking shape in the flames. When it walked out, the three women could only stare in horror.
"Mephisto, Lord of Hatred, welcome back to the Burning Hell."
Mephisto looked at Marko and nodded to him. With that acknowledgement, a red symbol was etched onto his forehead. The three women were rather sure who else would return. A massive creature with a gigantic tail appeared and stomped down the platform.
"Diablo, Lord of Terror."
Diablo glared at Marko but also knelt. Like Mephisto, a red symbol appeared on his face. Finally, the last of the Prime Evils appeared.
"Baal, Lord of Destruction, my right hand."
Baal was an imposing being when he stood up, but he knelt down in front of Marko and his tentacles were lowered. A red symbol also glowed on his forehead. Marko then walked away from Baal and looked down at the three women still in the blood.
"I have brought all of you back because I have need of you. Understand this. I will not tolerate disloyalty, and I can easily kill any of you again. Understand?"
All of the demons nodded.
"Good. Most of Sanctuary is ours, and our forces are preparing it as our staging ground for the invasion of the High Heavens."
Marko turned and faced them again.
"Ironic is it not, that it took the man that defeated all of in order to bring about the final victory? No matter. Andariel, you are to return to the Rogue Monastery and raise an army there. Duriel, you are to go to Harrogath and plant a corrupt Worldstone. Use that Worldstone to bring in more of our forces into the realm of the mortals. Also, use it to create more demon-mages. Belial, the Mage Slayers in Kejhistan guard the Worldstone. You are to lead your forces against them and either destroy or corrupt that Worldstone. Do not fail. The priests of Rathma have allied with the Mage Slayers and they are far more powerful than any of us had realized. Azmodan, the Amazons have made their home islands virtual fortresses. Penetrate them and bring the Amazons into line. I do not need them disturbing our plans."
All of the Lesser Evils acknowledged their orders. Finally, at least some of them would be doing something more than sitting around and waiting.
"Mephisto, you are to summon Hephasto and have him create another demonblade. Then you will return to Kurast and reestablish the Zakarum faith. Ensure that the surviving mortals follow your commands."
Mephisto nodded upon hearing his orders.
"Diablo, you are to return to the Western Kingdoms and bring them under our rule. Even though the Highlands are ours, we must have most of not all of Sanctuary under our rule."
Diablo nodded as well.
"Baal. You will remain here with me. There is something that requires your powers."
Baal understood the order quite well. Out of the three brothers, he was the most powerful. It would most likely involve something very important and dangerous.
"However, once Belial secures the second Worldstone, you are to go and corrupt it if she doesn't destroy it."
That was another understandable order. Only the three Prime Evils and Marko had the power to corrupt a Worldstone. The Lesser Evils were not that powerful.
"However, there is one more thing to take care of before you embark on your missions."
Marko turned to the three women still in the pools of blood.
"Their bodies will be used to host three special beings that I have obtained. Break their spirits to ensure they cause no problems when they are implanted with the souls of the creatures the beings also feel their hopelessness."
Marko left the room, his black cape almost touching the ground. His back was turned to the three women, and they could only gap as the three Prime Evils and the four Lesser Evils prepared to torture them. Looks of despair were on their faces, and that soon turned to fear.
Marko entered his private chamber and looked down upon the Burning Hell that he ruled. The abyss was close by and he could feel its power. He drew upon it, knowing that he was the only being to ever draw their power directly from the abyss. The dragon was resting at the edge of the abyss, not because it needed to, but because currently there was nothing for it to do. Occasionally it would eat a demon that was passing by but otherwise it did nothing but lay there. He then turned his gaze to three Soulstones. The High Heavens was not the only ones that could make Soulstones. Within the three had the spirits of three immensely powerful creatures slept. They had been captured by the Burning Hell during the first attempted siege of the High Heavens and had been imprisoned in the Soulstones for eons. After he had become corrupted he became aware of the three, but lacking proper hosts he simply left them in the Soulstones. However, now he had three perfect subjects for the hosts. He felt no remorse regarding what he was doing to people that were his friends. If he ever confronted his wife, he would most likely use her to house another spirit for his own amusement.
Marko could almost hear the screams echoing through the palace from beneath him. The demons were truly enjoying inflicting pain upon the three women. Well, soon enough their spirits would be broken. A human in a black cloak similar to his appeared from the shadows.
"My lord."
Marko didn't turn to face him, but merely spoke.
"What is it?"
"The Pandemonium Fortress has been secured and the two blacksmiths of the Heavens have been killed."
"Good. What of the link between it and the High Heavens?"
"The Host severed it once the Fortress fell. We will not be able to utilize it."
"No matter. We will break through soon. Dismissed."
The man bowed before disappearing into the shadows again, but Marko didn't even pay any notice. A cup of red crystal appeared on the table and Marko picked it up. Blood was in it and he drank it all down in one gulp. Thoughts of his future plans ran through his head. Once the High Heavens was destroyed, Armageddon would soon follow. However, Armageddon would not come if the other world still remained. He would have to handle that once the Crystal Arch was destroyed, however.
Kashya screamed out once again as another stinger pierced her skin. Belial was living up to her title as she tortured Kashya. She and Duriel were handling Kashya and the Rogue wasn't sure how much longer she could hold out.
"Perhaps we should carve that symbol onto her body," Duriel suggested.
A Kris appeared in Belial's hand and she smiled.
"Yes, we should."
The cross was lifted out of the blood and exposed all of Kashya's body. Belial cut through the armor and fabric, breaking through to Kashya's skin. The demon continued carving, not disturbed by Kashya's screams and her jerky movements. Finally, the demon stopped and the cross was lowered back into the blood. However, when the blood touched the cuts, pain exploded all over again. Kashya screamed, giving up completely. She continued screaming until she was completely out of fight. She only whimpered as the pain grew worse, but could do nothing more.
"My, what a disappointment," said Belial, "I thought these Rogues would stand up better to torture."
"A pity," said Duriel, "We had not even gotten to the more interesting mutilations."
"Ah well. So how are the other two standing up to their torture?"
Andariel and Azmodan were occupied with Charsi, and they were not letting up. The blacksmith's entire body was on fire and she withered in pain. While Azmodan kept the fire going, Andariel had started stabbing Charsi with knives. Two were in the Rogue's breasts and another had been driven into her neck. Finally, she collapsed as well.
"Well, she lasted longer than this one," Duriel noted.
"Still, this isn't much fun," said Azmodan, "They gave in too quickly."
"These mortals are weak," said Baal, "This one is giving up far too easily."
A massive blade was in Anya's chest and the three Prime Evils were taking turns inflicting pain on her. Within seconds, she had been broken as well.
A small Imp appeared and walked up to Mephisto.
"Inform Lord Lyther that the hosts are ready," he said to the Imp.
The Imp nodded and disappeared again.
Marko didn't expect it to take too long and wasn't surprised when the Imp appeared moments later. He dismissed it with a wave of his hand and vanished in a burst of flames. The demons were waiting for him down in the Chamber of Summoning. The three Soulstones floated at his side, glowing brightly as the souls prepared to be implanted. The Lesser and Prime Evils recoiled at the sight of the three Soulstones.
"You are mad!" said Diablo, "Unleashing them will seal our doom!"
"I don't think so," said Marko.
He raised his arm so that it would was level with the ground and the three Soulstones shot to their host. Each struck the heart and pierced their way in. The three women screamed, feeling the pure power within the Soulstones burn through their bodies. The demons all shielded themselves from the intense light, but Marko simply stood there, the light energy merely sliding off of him. Finally, it receded and much of the chamber was in ruins. The black platform at the center had been demolished and three beings were now present. Each was still tied to the cross, but they were no longer the mortals they had been.
"Welcome to the Burning Hell, Sisters of the Light."
The three Archangels kept their heads down as they slowly adjusted to their new bodies. They could feel the pain that their hosts felt, and tried to sooth them. However, their spirits had been broken and the Archangels could not bring them out of despair. Everything looked hopeless.
The demons were all agitated, being in the presence of three of the most powerful Archangels of all time. The three sisters were the counterpart to the three Prime Evils, known as the Sisters of the Light. It had taken all of Hell and the full power of the Abyss to defeat them the first time, and seal them within Soulstones. This time, the demons were not sure if they could manage again. Marko had just brought their worst enemies into the heart of Hell.
"The Ladies of Hope, Courage, and Prosperity, the opposites of the three Prime Evils. It is indeed an honor to meet you."
"You are nothing but an animal," the Archangel inhabiting Charsi's body said. The voice was different, stronger and melodious. It had definitely succeeded.
"Perhaps. So, you are Serenity, the Lady of Prosperity. Hmm. You indeed possess great strength, but you are still no match for me."
"Your strength is not from within," the Archangel in Kashya's body said, "The power of the Abyss will end up destroying you."
"That is where you are wrong," Marko replied, "I am a true immortal. Nothing can destroy me, nothing can contain me. I will remain until the end of time. So who are you? No, let me guess. Charity, the Lady of Hope."
The other demons stayed away from the three crosses, but Marko walked between them as if he didn't even feel the righteous energy emanating from them.
"And of course, Victoria, the Lady of Courage. I must say, I had thought your combined strength might actually be a threat to me, but apparently I am wrong. No, even with your combined might you are nowhere near strong enough to oppose me."
"So why have you brought us here?" Victoria asked, using Anya's voice.
"I have my reasons. One of them is to let you watch the High Heavens fall, of course, and the other is to bind you to me so I can draw on your powers."
Theoretically this was possible, but few demons ever dared attempt something like this. Marko turned to face the Council of Hell.
"You are to carry out your missions now," he said, "Leave us."
The demons filed out and all but Baal and Mephisto left Hell. Baal was to remain and Mephisto still had to order Hephasto to create a new demonblade. Marko then turned his attention back to the three Archangels. The wounds that the Prime and Lesser Evils had inflicted had been healed, and the weapons they had used had fallen out. Marko waved his hand and the crosses started lowering into the pools of blood again. This time the crosses were submerged completely with the three Archangels still strapped on.
"Have a nice drink," Marko said before disappearing in a blaze of fire.
Marko reappeared by the Hellforge. Hephasto was creating a massive sword using metals that had been brought up from the Abyss itself. The absolute power of the Abyss would be embedded into the sword once it was completed. A dozen other dark mages were creating powerful arcane runes to be merged with the sword. Slowly the blade was being shaped into a recognizable weapon. The sword was about the size of a crystal sword, and also looked like one. However, instead of the cool blue color the weapon was a fiery red. When Hephasto struck it again, the blade exploded into fire and threw the smith back. The surrounding demons were all knocked back by the sheer power of the weapon. Hephasto got back onto his feet and went to work again, this time being more careful. He left four grooves for the four arcane runes to be placed in. The dark mages had finished making the first and were now concentrating on the second. Marko walked over and examined the first rune. It had the symbol of fire on it. With this rune, it was possible to set afire an entire nation and destroy everything in it. The other runes would be equally powerful and would contribute to the final product. Marko turned his attention back to Hephasto and noticed that the red sword had black veins running through it. It was almost finished. What had once taken thousands of years to make, was now being created in a matter of minutes. The power of the Abyss fueled the construction of the mighty weapon. Nothing would be able to stand up to the power of the new demonblade, not even the Dragon of the Abyss. Hephasto pounded on it one more time before the sword was completed. Marko took the first rune and placed it in the first spot. Red energy streamed through the veins and the rune fused into the sword. The red metal then melted over the rune and covered it. Another dark mage approached him and gave him the second rune. This one had the symbol for ice on it. Fire and ice was a powerful combination, but they also created absolute light. However, it was a risk Marko was willing to take. He placed the second rune in and blue energy cruised through the veins. The demonblade seemed to shake at first but settled down. A second mage came up to him and gave him the third rune. This one had the symbol of shadows on it. Shadow could blanket light and make it darkness, and in that way the strength of the light within this sword would be turned to darkness. The veins became gray as the power of the rune was added to the sword. The fourth and final rune had the symbol of lightning on it. Marko placed the final rune in and white light streamed through it before finally the weapon was complete.
"The Darkscythe," said Marko, "This is the new demonblade. This weapon cannot be destroyed."
And there, the Master of Darkness gained his true powers. Marko felt the shadows and darkness envelope him and turn him into a being of pure energy. With Darkscythe, he was unstoppable.
End of Chapter 8
I'm rather surprised this was so long. Well, here's another twist.
Z98