ICE MELT

"These have no hope of death... mercy and justice disdain them. Let us not speak of them, but do thou look and pass on." -from Dante's Inferno

Elysian High Council Chambers

"Aristotle, I beseech you to dismiss Milo Rambaldi's request. After all, it's just as unethical as his prophecy..."

"I've said it before and I'll say it again, Paris of Troy...the culmination of my actions five years ago resulted in the safety of the world we once lived in. Is this a discussion that is really necessary...again?"

"Yes, and we'll keep having this discussion until you admit that your methods were both unethical and unconventional for..."

"My methods were for the best interests of the people on not just earth, but on this plane of existence! And besides...who ever said I was conventional?"

SLAM! SLAM! SLAM! goes a gavel at the head of the table.

The five members of the Elysian High Council are gathered in their chamber room and sit at a large, blue marble round table. The walls of the room are white stone, and a bright sun cuts in through the tall, vaulted window behind the man with the biggest chair in the room.

And right now, you can cut the tension between Rambaldi and Paris with a knife.

The man at the head of the table angrily slams his gavel down a few times more on the table and stands up and matches Rambaldi's and Paris's irritated look with an even more irritated look of his own.

The older man at the head chair is a well-fed robed man with blinding white hair and a bushy white beard...a look that both reflects his intelligence as well as his command for respect. He appears to be growing irritated at this squabble that appears to have festered between Rambaldi and Paris. He yells at them both "Milo, Paris, that is enough! Sit down, the both of you! We will have order!"

Rambaldi and Paris each change irritated glances before reluctantly sitting down at the order of Aristotle, the Head Councilman of the Elysian High Council, the governing body of Elysium.

Rambaldi sits to Aristotle's left, at about 2 o'clock. He's in his off-white robe that we saw him wear in Project Nadia. His hair is short and black with small flecks of silver in it. A couple of wrinkles line his clean shaven face, but he looks neither young nor elderly. His face is long, and some would say he comes off a little...odd. (Note: A perfect visual reference would be Ray McKinnon, who played Lincoln Potter in Sons of Anarchy and Reverend H.W. Smith in Deadwood)

Meanwhile, Paris of Troy sits directly to Aristotle's right at about 10 o'clock at the table, in a regal-looking silk-white robe of his own, which does not contain a hood like Rambaldi or Aristotle's robes. Unlike Rambaldi, Paris keeps a much younger appearance. He's a smaller, yet handsome man with well defined cheekbones and twinkling green eyes. His hair is light brown and somewhat curly and might be confused for a mullet nowadays. However, his look was a popular one from his time as a prince of Troy in ancient times. (Note: It's ok, you can picture Orlando Bloom, who played Paris in the movie Troy...)

To Paris's right is an older man with wild white hair and a very nerdy appearance. His face is unmistakeable to anyone who has lived in modern times...well, at least it should be, anyway. Albert Einstein is a part of the Elysian High Council and he sports a simple white shirt and white khakis.

And rounding out the table is a stocky man who looks like the oldest person of the council. He is in a similar white robe to what Paris is wearing. His hair is shoulder length, thin, and white. He sports a bushy white goatee and generally carries a calm, relaxed demeanor. Some would say he's looks unflappable. Unflappable would be an accurate description on how this man, former Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, lived his life. (Note: You can use the Marcus Aurelius from the movie Gladiator for a visual reference)

And now, this group of thinkers has to come down from yet another bickering session between Milo Rambaldi and Paris of Troy.

Aristotle, still standing and looking irritated, says "Paris, we have discussed Rambaldi's actions time and time again at this table. You are the only man that still has a bone to pick with him. Enough is enough, the issue is long settled, it will not be brought up again!" Rambaldi then snarkily says "If this man dislikes me so much, maybe you should ask for his seat."

Aristotle flashes Rambaldi an angry glare and says "We will be having none of that, Milo! This issue does not come close to qualifying for impeachment. In fact, one of the first bylaws of this council is: 'Let he who feels shame step down himself.'" Aristotle then looks back at Paris. "Remember that line? After all, this council was your idea." Paris nods and says "I do remember that line well. And I feel no shame at the moment, because I have done nothing wrong. I only ask if Milo feels any yet. I don't want him to forget that he violated..."

Marcus Aurelius slams his hand on the table. "What did the Head Councilman just say, Paris? I'm growing quite tired of these pointless outbursts!" As Paris flashes Marcus an irritated glare, Einstein just sits there and remains quiet. He usually stays quiet at these meetings and wears a kind smile while listening intently. He's a smart man...smart enough to know when to stay out of infighting.

Paris just sinks in his chair and sulks. Aristotle eases up and sits down in his chair as well. "Now that peace has been achieved in these chambers once again...I do have to agree with Paris. I do not think it is in the best interests of the people of Elysium to let them know of their own mortality." Rambaldi looks at Aristotle funny at that. "While we're on the subject of unethical, how is keeping mortality a secret..."

Aristotle holds up his hand and says "Milo, we have all worked hard to create a peaceful, violence-free society here in Elysium. It was the dream of myself, Paris, and Marcus...the three original members of this council. And it is also a dream that you and Albert share, and for that we are grateful. It is the goal of this council to make the people we serve understand that they are up for a long and happy life here, a life that never has to see any death or any aging if they so choose."

Marcus then says "Milo, you know that most people that arrive to the afterlife are coming off the realization that they are dead. But yet, in the aftermath of their own death...there is life. They can take physical shape, they can converse with people...they can live their lives still, with distance no longer being a barrier to the places they know and sicknesses greater than the common cold no longer being something to fear. We have a very selective process with the people we allow into Elysium, Milo. You know that. We pick the people that can best represent our values. The people we serve must feel this place is a blessing...that they've been given a second chance to do it right, to live a happy and peaceful life. And as long as we encourage our message of peace, we must not inform people of the propensity of death via violence. We don't need to create unnecessary fear or temptation."

Einstein chimes in. "I agree with everyone else at the table. As long as the people do not know that an appropriate force to the brain, like a gunshot for instance, can be fatal, peace will reign. People no longer have to fear where they go when they die, because they're already there. Elysium has the potential to be so good for so many, but it can also be cruel if they are taken from it and thrown into nothingness...which is my best guess on where people go when they die in Elysium."

As he looks around the table, Aristotle says "Then it is settled, 4 to 1, death remains a secret." Aristotle then slams down the gavel, causing Rambaldi to shake his head. Aristotle then looks at Rambaldi and says "Don't take our decision personally. I think we all understand where you are coming from. But like Marcus said, there is no need to create unnecessary fear or temptation."

Rambaldi concedingly nods and says "I understand, and I hold no ill will towards the council for this. In fact, I am still thankful that you all have allowed the L'Andres, the non-treacherous Derevkos and their family and friends into Elysium. A lot of good has been done since Tom and Nadia arrived." Aristotle nods and he puts on his reading glasses and looks at a piece of paper. "Ah yes, speaking of which...our agenda does call for a yearly update on the counseling and orphanage programs you have instilled. What do you have for us?"

Rambaldi leans forward and folds his hands. "I am happy to report that the counseling program for new arrivals is going very well. Since being installed as the North American Region Head Counselor, Tom Falk has overseen the counseling of new arrivals in their regional and local hubs. He runs a very tight ship, keeps a good staff, and his actions have helped bring certainty and peace of mind those that are both angry and confused over their roles in Elysium upon arrival." Paris then folds his arms and says "I find it interesting that a man who caused so much pain and bloodshed in his life can turn into such a great provider of peace."

Rambaldi gives Paris an incredulous glare, picking up on the snideness of Paris's remark. "I would not have given him the position had I felt he would not be up to the task, Paris. For all the bad he did in life, he was also charitable in his duties in the Anti-Cartel. Sometimes, his charity would even lead the detriment of whatever task he was set out on, but he felt it was his duty to brighten the lives of the unfortunate as much as it was to shut down the wicked. And since his arrival here, he has grown to embody the gentle, peaceful mentality that we encourage in the High Council. In fact, he embraced the mentality with open arms and was more than happy to shed his...'evil' label." Marcus nods and says "I concur with everything Milo says. I hear good reports from his territory and the good job he does heading it." Einstein also nods and says "I also have heard good things, but not just in his territory. Worldwide, your program seems to be working, Milo...better in some areas than others, but in general, it works." Paris smirks and says "Well, there's one thing we can agree on, then. I do applaud Milo for his idea and it's success. We've been trying to figure out how to ease a man or woman's transition to Elysium for centuries, but it would seem we're on our way to solving that problem." Aristotle cracks a smile and says "Glad to hear that, and I'm glad the counseling appears to be having a positive effect. Now, what about the orphanages?"

Rambaldi smiles and says "That area is not without its challenges, but Nadia Falk seems to have that pretty good grip on things in the North American Region. She was looked up to as a leader at her orphanage in Argentina growing up, and that has made her into an ideal leader for this role. Her leadership and compassion has led her to make some good personnel moves at our regional and local orphanages. She knows the importance of having compassionate people taking care of the children who don't have their parents or who's family is still all on Earth. Like Tom, I think her addition to Elysium has been a huge benefit."

With a calm smile, Aristotle then says "I also understand that Tom and Nadia's 5 year old daughter plays a bit of a role in their orphanage in San Felipe." Rambaldi chuckles a bit and says "She's a friendly face in a sea of confusion." Einstein asks "Didn't you tell me that you you sent your assistant to find the girl when Nadia perished?" Paris forms a scowl at the mention of Rambaldi's assistant for some reason. Rambaldi, not paying him any mind, replies "Yes. Maria was still a fetus when Nadia died, but far enough long to have made it to the afterlife. I know my assistant feels rewarded every time he sees her, knowing the lengths he went to find her."

Marcus then asks "What are we doing about the overcrowding problems at some of these places?" Rambaldi replies "Nadia is working to create more hubs and find more orphanage locations, but the bigger problem she is having is that she's finding both the volunteers and adoptive parents a little lacking." Paris asks "Maybe we should market these places better. Perhaps, even encourage people without children of their own to adopt."

Aristotle shakes his head and says "That means that we'd be forcing parenthood on them, in a sense. It is not our job to invade personal lives." Paris shakes his head and says "You misunderstand me, sir. Kind deeds are the way to earn currency in Elysium. In fact, I know Tom and Nadia are rather well off because of their roles in Rambaldi's programs..." Rambaldi then asks "Do you have a problem with this?"

As Paris glares at him, Aristotle angrily says "That will be enough, Milo! Paris meant no ill-will in his comment!" Rambaldi holds up his hands and says "Very well, sir. I apologize for speaking out of turn. Please continue, prick...er, Paris."

As Aristotle buries his face in his palm at Rambaldi's profane statement, Paris unflinchingly continues "As I was saying...why can't we consider adoption a kind deed? Why can't we make it worth people's whiles to bring an orphaned child into their lives? Forget just getting enough money to feed and clothe the child, why not kick in extra to not just have the child survive, but thrive in his new environment? I understand children are a large burden for many people, but this measure might deflate our overcrowding problem."

Einstein shakes his head. "It's a fair idea, but this might cause a boom in adoptions, which, in turn, will cause us to have to saturate the currency in circulation. We should be more cautious with how we distribute currency." Marcus quickly replies "My question isn't so much the currency, but the willingness of people to participate in this program. Some people won't take all the money in the world to adopt. Unfortunately, one psychological drawback to the utopia-like environment we're preaching is complacency in people's lifestyles. You do the same thing for decades and centuries...it's hard to break a habit."

Aristotle leans back and says "All valid arguments, but overall, I think Paris is on to a good idea here..." Rambaldi nods and says "In spite of my feelings on the man, I concur. The foundation is fair, we just need to perfect it." Aristotle then says "I propose a work session on this one week from today, same time, in these chambers. Any objections?"

The rest of the table shakes their head, apparently agreeing to the meeting. Aristotle then slams his gavel and says "This concludes our meeting. Farewell, gentlemen. Paris, Milo...meet me in the hallway." Everyone else exchanges their quick goodbyes and leaves the council table.

Aristotle, Paris, and Rambaldi stand in the hallway outside of the council chambers. We see the hallway also features stone white walls and floors and appears to be almost something out of Medieval times, like a castle.

Aristotle tells Rambaldi and Paris "This infighting between you two has to stop. We're High Councilmen, NOT CHILDREN!" Rambaldi calmly replies "I harbor no ill thoughts about Paris." Paris angrily says "That's a lie!"

Aristotle thrusts up his hand and says "Listen, I'm the Head Councilor of the Elysian High Counsel. That does not make me your babysitter! You two settle this like men, and be the men that this council calls for. The little snide comments, Rambaldi, and the challenges, Paris...it all stops." Paris then asks "And what if it doesn't?"

Aristotle looks at him offended. "Excuse me?" Paris flatly replies "What's to stop me, or anyone else on the council from insubordination? Where is the line drawn?" Aristotle gets in Paris's face and says "Are you willing to find that out for yourself?" Rambaldi chimes in "No, he won't go there. He's too much of a coward to do such a brave thing."

Aristotle turns to Rambaldi angrily, then steps back to he can glare at both Rambaldi and Paris angrily. "Keep this squabble up, and you both will trip over that line before you know it. My patience is wearing thin. Settle this." Aristotle then storms off angrily, then disappears...literally.

Paris sighs as he turns to Rambaldi and says "You talk about cowards? When you infected your seedbearers with the fruits of your research, you doomed the lives of Nadia Santos and Tom Falk 500 years before they were born." Rambaldi replies "I made a mistake with my research and used the tools I knew how to use to protect Earth. What tools do you know how to use? Whining? Shooting your little bow and arrow? Without being able to fight from afar instead of like a man, you were useless to the world. At least I knew early on that I was no warrior. And the fact that history views you as a wuss still angers you."

Paris gets in Ramabldi's face and says "You have no idea what angers me nowadays. And I know this will hurt your ego, but it's not you that makes my nights sleepless." Rambaldi smirks and says "Maybe if you were able to sleep better, you wouldn't act like the spoiled brat that you are. Maybe."

Paris smirks back and says "I don't know how YOU sleep at night, knowing what you did to the lives that you effected with your prophecy. So many are dead in the name of you, including Tom and Nadia, the very people you entrusted with your latest scheme." Rambaldi's smirk disappears and says "A scheme that, you just admitted in the chambers, is working. And you question why they're so well off financially...and you say their lives were lost over me...knowing those two things, do you really need me to tell you why I choose to compensate them well? To go through the lengths I sent my associate on to find their daughter? Is compassion a word you even know?"

Paris shrugs and says "I know it's a word your 'associate' doesn't know. I did some digging into Laurent L'Andre...I know the man he was before he went into your employ in real life. There is so much blood on his hands, he could start a blood bank with it all." Rambaldi cracks a sinister smirk and asks "Is Laurent why you're so sleepless at night? Are you afraid of the shadows, knowing he could be standing in them? Well, get some sleep, because you're not worth the effort. You're just annoying."

Paris goes to say something, but thinks better of it and storms off in huff. Eventually, just like Aristotle did, he disappears into thin air, too.

Rambaldi then walks a couple steps forward and then enters an office room to the right.

In there, a man of above-average height stands up from a chair in front of Rambaldi's desk. He's in an off-white robe like Rambaldi is in. He lowers his hood and we see he has short blonde hair. He turns and we see a man with a mid 30's face, dark blue eyes, a thin blonde goatee, and a blank, intimidating expression.

In a flat tone, and with a very noticeable French accent, he asks "I heard the conversation. Is Paris going to be a problem?" Rambaldi waves his hand as he walks over to the desk and says "No, Laurent. He's just a mild inconvenience."

Laurent tersely says "I did not like his tone." Rambaldi sighs as he sits in his seat behind his desk. "He got a little upset at today's meeting, but he's a wuss. I'm not worried. Like I said out there...don't worry about him unless he comes at me with a bow and arrow."

Laurent fires back "But, he is a coward. And cowards use other help. There is a danger here." Rambaldi folds his hands and curiously asks "You really think he's going to try something? We're in Elysium, Laurent. Our message of peace has permeated throughout our world. Hitmen don't exist in Elysium because no one can make it worth their while to stray from their peaceful lives."

Laurent thinks for a bit, then nods. "You are probably right. Forgive me...old habits." Rambaldi smiles and says "It's quite alright. Your training has made you keen to suspicion. That's why I appreciate bouncing things off of you and having you around as my aide."

Laurent, still standing, leans on the chair and asks "Is there anything more you need from me?" Rambaldi thinks about that for a bit, then shakes his head. "Nothing that pressing at the moment. Paris did have a good idea to our overcrowding problem at the orphanages, I have to digest that a bit still. Go home to your family and have a merry Christmas, Laurent. Tell your wife and son hello for me."

Laurent gives him a quick headnod and says "Will do. Merry Christmas." Laurent then closes his eyes and disappears into thin air.

Rambaldi then leans back in his office chair. Internally, he is a little concerned about Paris. And if Laurent suspects something...he can't just ignore it.

Then he remembers that he's in Elysium...a peaceful society that he has helped shape into what it is today. He realizes that he also must have some old habits that he can't shake either, and ceases his worrying.

For now.

Tom and Nadia's home, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico (Elysium)

A day after the events in the Elysian High Council, we discover that it's a bright, sunny day in this version of San Felipe.

This means it must be a bright, sunny day in the real version of San Felipe on Earth. Elysium is modeled to be a carbon copy of Earth. All of the buildings, trees, deserts, seas, oceans, houses, roads, apartments...any structure that is on Earth is in Elysium. And if it's in the process of being built on Earth, it's also in the process of being built in Elysium, right before it's people's eyes. If it's raining at your location on Earth, it's raining at the same location in Elysium. If it's sunny...well, you get the idea.

That also means that any item or luxury that's on Earth is also in Elysium. People in Elysium can keep up with pop culture and trends in Elysium just like their counterparts on Earth can via TV or the internet.

Tom and Nadia Falk continue to live in the 4 bedroom beach home they picked out during the week of their wedding in real life about 5 and a half years ago.

Inside their house, we see quite a few gifts under the Christmas tree in their living room. We also see a TV, blu-ray player, and other electronics in their entertainment center. The rest of the living room features nice, leather furniture and looks very nice and downright posh.

Down the hallway, we see two of their bedrooms have been converted to home offices. Each room has a computer along with a desk and various files and folders. One room has various posters of baseball, football, and hockey teams and looks like part man cave, part office. The other room has nice paintings in it and looks nice and airy.

Further down the hallway is the room of Maria Falk, Tom and Nadia's daughter. She is now 5 years old and is sleeping under the covers in her bed. The walls are pink in her room and the room is a tad on the messy side, with a few toys on the floor.

And then, we go into the master bedroom, where Tom and Nadia Falk sleep peacefully in their king size bed, on top of their aqua blue silk sheets. Both have decided to keep their looks the same as they were when they died and they don't look like they've aged a bit. Nadia remains at 27 while Tom is still 35.

Nadia's long, black hair cascades down her right shoulder as she lies on her left side, facing Tom. Her right arm is draped over Tom's chest as he lies on his back. Nadia looks like she's in terrific shape as she lies in her white nightgown.

Also in pretty good shape himself is Tom, who, if you read Project Nadia, started off that story a tad on the stocky side, but lost weight and got in shape while he was in prison and Nadia was in her coma. He too looks like how he did when he died, with very short blonde hair with a widows peak and looking almost identical to Laurent L'Andre, minus the goatee. (Note: For a visual reference on Tom Falk, the short-haired version of Jax Teller in Sons of Anarchy pretty much nailed what I had visioned for him, minus the facial hair and with a widow's peak. Imagine Jax's head on Vic Mackey of The Shield's body and viola! You finally can picture what he looks like!)

The first of these two lovebirds to open their eyes this Christmas morning is Nadia. She slowly opens up her brown eyes and spots Tom sleeping peacefully on his back next to her. She slowly starts rubbing Tom's chest as she leans in and lightly whispers "Merry Christmas, handsome" in his right ear. Nadia then gives Tom a soft kiss below his ear on his neck.

He smiles wide at the feeling of the kiss and, with his eyes still closed, says "That never gets old." Nadia giggles lightly and says "Seeing you next to me every morning never gets old for me, either!"

Tom opens his dark blue eyes and looks over at his smiling wife of over 5 years. In his usual move, he brushes away some of her long black hair that has fallen over her face so he can lean in and give her a tender kiss on the lips. When he's done, he happily says "Merry Christmas, beautiful."

As Tom shifts his body to face her, Nadia asks "Did you sleep ok?" Tom nods and says "Yeah, I did. How did you sleep? You've been having trouble lately."

Nadia sighs and says "Oh, I did ok. It's just this whole overcrowding thing at the orphanages has me worried. I really wish we could find more volunteers, then we could find more facilities to put these orphans in." Tom rubs Nadia's side a bit in an attempt to console her worries a bit and says "I don't think the lack of volunteers or facilities are the problem. We need more people willing to adopt. I know I'm comparing apples and oranges here, but without any pets in Elysium...I dunno, I'd think some people would WANT something to love and take care of. And don't take that the wrong way...I don't think of orphans as dogs or cats."

Nadia reassuringly smiles and says "No, I see what you're saying. And I agree with it." Tom exhales and says "Phew, that's good! You can get awfully defensive sometimes when I talk about the orphans! Which is good, because these kids need more people like you..."

Nadia quickly says "...and Julieta. She's done such a good job with the orphanage here in town. We need more people like her, too." Tom smiles and says "Yeah, she's really taken those kids under her wing. Before we got here, she was practically alone at the San Marcos orphanage in Argentina for over a decade...I'm happy that she's found a purpose in life with these kids."

Nadia smiles wide and says "And so am I. Oh, that reminds me, Julieta told me the other day that your brother Eddie seems so nervous around her. I never noticed that, did you?" Tom shrugs and says "No, and that doesn't really seem like Eddie, either. He's usually extremely confident around anyone, including women."

Nadia laughs and says "I know, right? But I think he's so confident because he's just happy to have his brother around." Tom smiles and says "And I'm happy he and everyone else in my family is around. And it still makes me so happy to see you getting along with everyone like family, too. How's the church choir with Mom and Grandma going?"

Nadia replies "Good! As a matter of fact, we have rehearsal later today. Don't forget, our weekly chats with Sydney and Karen are this afternoon, too." Tom snickers and says "Like I can forget our weekly trip to Earth!"

"IT'S CHRISTMAS! IT'S CHRISTMAS!"

The sounds of a young girl yelling those words are immediately followed by the sound of footsteps running towards the bedroom. Tom and Nadia smile at each other and sit up just in time to see a giddy Maria Falk running into the room, still shouting "IT'S CHRISTMAS! IT'S CHRISTMAS! YAAAAY!"

Maria, still in her jammies, has long, straight black hair. She looks a lot like her mother, but a closer look at her face tells us that her dark blue eyes and nose match her father's. Physically, she looks like a normal, healthy 5 year old girl. In short, she's the picture of adorable as she jubilantly hops around on the floor next to Nadia.

With a wide smile, Nadia says "Merry Christmas, sweetheart! Are you ready to open your presents?" Maria giddily replies "YEAH!" Nadia then says "Well, when we all get dressed, we'll open our presents together, ok?" Maria yells "OK, MOMMY!" Tom then asks Maria "Why are you yelling?" Maria then arches her back and screams into the air "BECAUSE I'M SO EXCIIIIIIIITEEEEEED!"

A still excited Maria then runs out of the room before her parents can say anything else. Tom looks over at Nadia and deadpans "You think she's excited?" Nadia giggles and says "I think she's excited."

Tom and Nadia then both get out of bed. As they do, Tom then says "I hope you're excited over what I got for you this year. You're going to LOVE it!" Nadia grins as she walks over to the closet and says "And you had better be excited over what I got you! I threw away the receipts this year, so you can't return them!"

Tom shakes his head and says "I'm sure what you got me is fine. But I'm telling you...I spared little expense for your gift. It's going to look so good on you." Nadia stops what she's doing and turns to Tom with a funny look. "You didn't buy me lingerie, did you?"

Tom laughs and says "Nah, something more special. Trust me. Besides...you know it's not Valentine's Day yet." Nadia seductively smiles and says "I know...that's when you like to take me to Victoria's Secret." Tom smirks and says "You know it, babe. After all, I like having you model all the outfits in front of me...I mean, so I don't get you the wrong thing or anything..." With a wide, playful smile, Nadia sarcastically says "Yeah, THAT'S the reason! Ok!"

Nadia then grabs a sweater out of the closet and throws it at Tom. "Here, I want you to wear that." Tom looks at the sweater and sees it's your typical ugly Christmas sweater. Tom groans and says "Seriously?" Nadia insistently says "Yes! Your grandmother knitted that for you, and she's coming over later. It'd be nice if you wore that for her." Tom sighs and says "Look, just because you tell one person in this household what to wear doesn't mean you tell EVERYONE in the household what to wear!"

Nadia then smirks and says "If you're not going to wear that sweater, then I'm not going to wear one of your Christmas gifts later tonight." Tom's face turns blank. "Wear one of my...what did you buy?" Nadia turns to Tom and temptingly says "Oh, it's nice. But you'll never get to...'unwrap' it if you don't wear that sweater."

Tom quickly throws the sweater on over his tank top. Nadia laughs and says "There, was that so hard?" Tom replies "After making that threat...piece of cake." Nadia then throws a pair of light fleece sweatpants at Tom and says "Come on, let's finish getting dressed. We don't want to keep Maria waiting." Tom smiles and says "Yes ma'am" as he slips on his sweats.

Nadia smiles as she starts sorting through the closet. She always knows what buttons to push with Tom to get him to cooperate. Tom knows this too, but he doesn't mind. Whatever makes her happy.

Siberian forest (Elysium)

Paris of Troy walks around the deep Siberian forest. It's nighttime where he's at, and he has a torch lit for light. That, the full moon, and the bright, white snow on the ground help him see his way through the deep forest.

He appears to be searching for something as he weaves between the trees. It looks like no one has come to this remote place of Elysium ever. No one would ever find him...and that's the point.

"PARIS!"

Paris looks left at a clearing and sees a woman who looks very, very rough. Her blonde hair is matted to her skull and she is covered in dirt and soot. Her once regal clothes are tattered, and her once beautiful face is now covered in dirt and various cuts and bruises.

In short, she looks like a nightmare.

And behind her is a portal into what looks like another plane of existence. We see through the portal that it's not a very welcoming place, with an orangish-red light shining off the sharp rocks behind her.

Paris, noticing her ragged appearance, runs over to her and says "Helen! Are you alright?" Helen of Troy replies "I'm fine. I've had these wounds for some time, you knew that."

Paris embraces Helen tightly as a look of sadness washes over his face. With his voice trembling, he says "It just seems that every time I see you, you look worse and worse." Helen, hugging Paris back, just says "I'm ok."

Paris releases the hug and cracks a wide smile, trying to comfort her. He says "I can still see your beauty through the despair. I can't wait until you're by my side again." Helen cracks a small smile, which is hard for her to do nowadays because she's in a constant state of depression and pain. "Has there been any progress on getting me a pardon?"

Paris hangs his head despondently. "No. The council still will not allow you into Elysium. My relationship with Milo Rambaldi has reached a point of no return, and Aristotle continues to refuse to take my side when it comes to him. Einstein won't take sides either, and I know Rambaldi and Marcus Aurelius are close allies. It seems I have no other way to help you without doing this."

Paris then looks back up and says "I think it's time we enacted the Final Ultimatum. I think it's time we risk the portal into Hell." Helen's jaw drops a bit and she says "You think it's time Rambaldi and Aristotle are assassinated?"

Paris nods. "I can no longer think of another way. If Rambaldi and Aristotle are eliminated, then I can claim the Head Counselor seat for my own, by virtue of being the most senior member there. I should have just taken the seat for myself, but I once trusted Aristotle..." Helen rubs Paris's shoulder a bit and says "I know. You thought he'd be merciful towards me."

Paris, gnashing his teeth, says "And yet, he still allows Rambaldi to remain on the council despite the horror he launched on Earth with his prophecy. He has to go, too. You said you had some people in the Ninth Circle of Hell willing to do the job?" Helen nods and says "They've been anxiously awaiting to see whether you're going to go ahead with this or not."

Paris then intently says "They have to know that Aristotle and Rambaldi are the only targets here! They will also have a vendetta against Tom and Nadia, but they are not to be harmed! Make sure they know that." Helen nods again, but sullenly says "I'll relay the message, but I have my doubts on whether they can be controlled. Their hate has been brooding for over 5 years now, and they've been on ice, unable to do anything since they arrived besides let that hate fester."

Paris sighs and says "Well, at least let them know that Aristotle and Rambaldi are the priorities. After that...I don't care what they do." Helen smiles and says "I think they'll be willing to do that at least."

Paris grabs Helen by the shoulders and says "You will be beautiful again, and you will be by my side again. I miss you and I still love you." Helen gives Paris a peck on the cheek and says "I love you, too. We will be together again!"

Helen then starts backing off and says "I have to get back before they realize I'm gone. Goodbye, Paris." Paris forces a smile on his face, but is stewing internally as he sees Helen walking away from him again. "Goodbye, love."

Helen turns and then walks through the portal into Hell. The portal then closes up behind her.

Paris closes his eyes tightly and balls up his fist. With a low, gravely voice, he mumbles "We will be together again..."

Tom and Nadia's home

"WOW! I GOT A WII!"

Maria's face beams with excitement as she looks back at the Nintendo Wii box staring back at her. All around her are other gifts, ranging from toys to clothes, along with the carnage of wrapping paper in her wake as she sits at the Christmas tree. Nadia and Tom look on happily from the couch. Tom's in his horrible Christmas sweater while Nadia has a nice, red sweater on with green lounge pants. Tom has his arm wrapped around Nadia's shoulders as she leans up against him and her feet curled up behind her on the couch. Their various gifts for each other sit to either side of them.

Maria looks back at her parents on the couch and asks "Can I play it now?" Tom says "I'll hook it up for you after our family leaves!" Maria groans and says "But I want to play now!" Nadia firmly tells Maria "We won't have time to get it set up before they get here! We'll set it up as soon as they leave."

Maria pleadingly says "You promise, mommy?" Nadia smiles and says "I promise, sweetheart!"

Maria then turns back and grabs one final gift, a small box. She looks at he label and says "Mommy, this is from daddy!" Maria gets up and hands the box to Nadia. Nadia looks down at her other gifts from Tom and says "Is this the big one, Tom?" Tom playfully says "If I told you, it'd ruin the surprise!"

Maria walks over next to her mother, curious over what her father got for her. Nadia rips open the wrapping paper and sees a jewelry box. Her eyebrows raise a bit in anticipation, wondering what's inside.

She opens the box and discovers two glistening heart-shaped diamond earrings.

The beauty of the earrings causes her to gasp and grab her chest. As she stares at the earrings in all Nadia exclaims "Tom! They're beautiful!" As Maria cranes her neck up to look at the earrings, Tom kisses Nadia on the left side of her forehead and says "I've been looking for something to match that heart-shaped diamond pendant I bought for you on the week of our wedding. I think I finally found it."

Nadia rubs her thumb over the diamond earrings and says "I think you did, too!" Nadia then looks at Tom with a touched look on her face and says "This is amazing!" Tom cracks a wide smile and says "And so are you. They're going to look so beautiful on you." Nadia looks back at Tom smiling wide and says "Thank you so much!"

And then, Nadia plants a big kiss on Tom's lips. Maria giggles as her parents kiss, then asks "Why do you two kiss all the time?" Nadia releases the kiss and says "Because I love your father!" Tom pulls Nadia in closer and says "And I kiss your mommy because I love her, too! When two people love each other, they kiss as a way of showing and sharing that love!"

Maria, suddenly realizing something, goes "Oh! So, that's why you kiss me!" Nadia bends over and kisses Maria on the forehead and says "Yes, because we love you!" Maria giggles, then hops up between Tom and Nadia. She gives Nadia a kiss on the cheek and Tom a kiss on the cheek. As Tom and Nadia look back at her touched at her cute gesture, Maria says "I love you, mommy and daddy!" She then gives them both a hug...a hug that is returned by both of her parents. Tom and Nadia both say "We love you, too!" They then both give Maria kisses on both cheeks, which causes her to giggle more.

Life couldn't be any better for the three of them if they tried.

Ninth Circle of Hell, Cocytus Lake

Helen treads carefully around the spiral ring that leads down to Cocytus Lake, the frozen lake where the treacherous are buried in. She's also being wary of anyone spotting her with the giant bag of salt that's in her arms.

She reaches the edge of the lake and starts walking on the ice. She walks carefully along the lake, passing the heads of other treacherous men and women who are buried up to either their neck or waists with ice. A further look in the lake reveals some others that are completely buried under the ice.

This is definitely a different looking Hell than some have envisioned. There's no fires burning around them, and the only burn people feel down here is from the icy cold wind that blows on their face.

Finally, Helen reaches the northwest corner of the lake and stops in front of three heads: Arvin Sloane, Irina Derevko, and Elena Derevko. All three of them have various levels of frost on their face, and their faces all look purple from the cold as well as the lack of circulation in their bodies.

All three of them look up at Helen with looks of hope. Helen smiles wide and says "Ready to get your revenge on Rambaldi?" All three of them say "Yes!" with strained voices.

Helen then seriously says "Good. Let me know who else you want to tag along with you. In a few hours, you'll go through the portal into Elysium. You'll be in Elysium's version of Siberia. No one is to know you're there, so you'll have to learn how to get around yourselves." Sloane, his voice tight from the ice constraining his neck, says "We'll manage."

Helen then says "Your contact will be my husband Paris, but don't try to contact him, he'll find you. He's on the High Council and can't be seen with you or anyone else you bring. And he also wanted me to reiterate that Aristotle and Rambaldi are the targets, NOT Tom and Nadia." A seething Sloane says "When we get up there, we don't intend on coming back. What we do after we kill the two men on his lists is our business."

Helen nods and says "Very well. Let's get going." Helen then starts pouring the salt so the ice can be melted around Sloane, Irina, and Elena.

END OF CHAPTER

Author note: Merry Christmas everyone!