Trinity Blood: War Continuum

by smcandy

Taking place one month after the anime's finale from Ep. 24 with additional materials from the manga. A/E main pairing to semi major love triangle or more with one-sided love.

18. Fourteen: History

(AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES: Well here it is folks chapter 14 and more or less on time the delaine for my editor giving this to me was yesterday and by Joe did she deliver ^^.

I also wanna thank all the new comers and watchers of the this story, for faving and alerting TBWC to their accounts you're just in time now for a new update the next one will be on it way for Halloween and what perfect timing that will be too. Also thanks to you guys whom have reviewed chapter 13. I really appreciate all fo your comments so far with the fictions progress. Again this is another dresses in here that U can view on my DEviantart page just go to my profile page an you'll find two new links there that will take you the gallery where all the outfits Esther wears will be shown.

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

Special thanks to one my editor and co-partner in helping finally get this story off the ground and back burner dragonwriter24cmf check her own TB stories on which are awesome. Currently right now dragonwriter24cmf is helping with the current chapters and drafts for the stories plot and outline.

Warning:This fan fiction is rated (M) AKA Lemon. This story is ABSOULTLY NOT suitable for children or teens below the age of 16 [So if you're under the age limit turn back now, come back when you old enough to read this. I'd rather not get flamed nor sued by parents whom are just looking for trouble in places their underage children should not be looking nor reading for that matter. This story contains strong explicit adult themes and sexual ones such slight foreplay - as in hand sex, one-sided yuri, bisexuality, Attempted Rape, Explicit Sex or anything else mild to hard core kinky for that matter!, references to violence, and strong coarse language. If this disturbs you, do not read any further.

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

Trinity Blood: War Continuum - Chapter Fourteen - History

"Damn." The softly muttered word broke Petros' concentration. He looked up from his desk, to the computer console he'd had set up in his office.

Abel was sitting at the desk staring at the screen, and his eyes were dark with anger and frustration. Petros knew how he felt. Despite all the agents out in the field, so far they'd come up with nothing. There was simply too much ground to search, and they hadn't had enough time. He knew Caterina had spoken to Antonio, and her own agents, but so far no one had found anything of note. With a snarl of frustration, and not a little exhaustion, Petros set the papers he was looking through to one side, and studied the man before him.

Abel had gone straight from his prison cell to the Iron Maiden, waiting in the Vatican dock. He'd spent hours working with Father Tres, studying the satellite information. Petros had watched him working at the computer on board the ship. He wasn't very fluent in computer technology, no more than he had to be, but even he'd known that some of the things Abel was looking at were far beyond normal protocols. Even the sister in charge of the ship, Sister Kate, had been startled by some of the things Abel had done with her computer. But it hadn't made a difference. He'd left the ship, his lower lip caught between his teeth, and an expression of mixed anger and pain on his face. He stopped at the bottom of the ramp. "Brother Petros…"

Petros growled and took the man's shoulder. "I have work to do. I've had Paula set up a desk for you in my office. She will supply you with the information my knights have gathered on the Order of Rosenkreutz to date. You will work there."

Abel nodded. Petros whipped his head around. "Father Tres. Inform Cardinal Sforza that Father Nightroad will be assisting me in my offices, until I say otherwise."

"Positive. Further information from the AX Department will be copied to your files." Tres turned to Abel. "Father Nightroad. At this time, you should begin analyzing the movements of the Order. There may be a pattern we have not identified."

"I will." Abel shifted his weight. "Brother Petros….If we could go, please."

Petros bit back another growl. They'd been in his office ever since that conversation. He was used to going short on sleep, but Abel had been working non-stop for over twelve hours. He understood the other man's desperation. The young Queen of Albion had, after all, been his protégé and partner for over a year. But still…he looked over at the desk, where Abel was once more hunched over the screen, working furiously. A normal man should have collapsed by now. Petros wasn't sure which he wanted more, a good fight, or a shower and a few hours sleep.

There was a knock on the door. Petros looked up, but Abel didn't even move. "Enter."

One of Caterina's agents, the man who'd identified himself as Professor Wordsworth, stepped through the door. "Ah, Brother Petros. I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

"No. What do you need?"

"Hmm. Well, I came down with the latest reports from Father Hugue and Sister Kaya." He waved two sets of paper at Petros. "But since I'm down here, I thought I'd go ahead and take a look at Abel, if you don't mind."

That got the silver-haired priest's attention. "Professor, I'm fine."

"Hmmm. Well, I can certainly believe you want to think that. However, Abel…" He sighed. "It's not good for even you to push yourself too hard."

"I'm all right." Abel's eyes were dark with mixed emotions.

"Well, I won't push it too far, if you're that insistent. However…" He looked into Abel's face, and his eyes were concerned. "When was the last time you slept properly, my friend?"

"I'm not tired."

"Well, you can say that all you like, but you look exhausted. And when was the last time you ate or drank anything?" William stuck his pipe between his teeth, and frowned at his comrade. The other man flushed and looked away. "You haven't, have you? I'd be surprised if they gave you much while you were in that cell, but you haven't eaten since you got out, either, have you?" He turned to Petros, and Petros nodded slightly, confirming his words. "Abel, you can't afford to be so reckless. You're body needs nourishment, even if it's just that wretched tea you insist on drinking." He smiled lightly, but then the smile vanished. "Honestly, my friend. You know you can't afford to take risks. It's bad enough if one of us gets into trouble. With your condition…"

"My condition isn't a problem, Professor." Abel's face was darkened with anger, or something close to it. "I can't afford…."

"You can't afford to get into trouble if your system goes too far out of balance." The Professor sighed, then set his pipe down on the desk. "I understand you're worried about Esther. We all are. But if you push yourself into a dangerous state, then we can't help you." He looked into Abel's face, then sighed. "At least let me check your blood sugar, and allow Kate to send you some tea." He held up his hands. "I promise, I won't drug it. I'll even put the sugar in for you. But you have to allow us that much, Abel."

For a moment, Petros thought the other man might refuse. But then his hands came up, and he roughly removed his outer cassock, and unfastened the right sleeve. "Very well. Let's get this over with." He pushed the sleeve up and extended one pale wrist.

"Thank you." Wordsworth pulled a set of needles and tubes from a pocket of his own uniform, and with a quick, deft movement, slipped the needle into his fellow AX member's wrist. Abel flinched slightly, but made no sound. Petros had a feeling he was watching a scene that had occurred before. He recalled that Caterina had mentioned Abel was under observation, and wondered how often the man had been submitted to this procedure.

William drew a vial of blood, then a smaller syringe full. He capped the vial and slipped it into a pocket, then pulled another device from his robes and dripped the contents of the syringe on it. The device beeped a few moments, then lit up. He frowned. "I was right. Your blood sugar is slipping, Abel. If it were anyone else, I'd ask why you aren't unconscious right now."

"I…" The Professor held up a hand, silencing whatever Abel had been about to say.

"You need food. I realize you're upset, but…it's not as if you're incapable of eating and working at the same time. Particularly if it's only desk work." He laid a gentle hand on the other man's shoulder. "I'll get Kate to send some tea and sandwiches. I won't ask anything more of you, but at least eat those."

"If you insist." Abel nodded. Then he turned back to his desk. "If you'll excuse me, William, I have work to do."

There was concern in the brown eyes, but the other man didn't press him. Instead he turned to Petros and offered him a brief grin. "Sorry to interrupt you, Brother Petros, but…may I have a word with you?"

"Yes." Petros rose from his seat, slightly glad of the distraction. He followed the Professor out into the hallway. "What is it? Speak quickly."

"Well, it's nothing major. However, I was wondering if this was interfering with your other duties." William stuck the pipe between his teeth, and stared down the hall.

"My primary assignment at this time is to assist with the search for the Queen of Albion, and to watch over Father Nightroad." Petros let a bit of a growl seep into his words.

"Yes, yes, I'm well aware of that. But even so, you still have your duties for His Holiness, and you are still a Bureau Director for the Inquisition, correct?" Dark brown eyes met his.

"I am. However…"

"I understand. However…" The Professor's stare turned grave. "I've seen Abel like this once or twice before. It doesn't happen often, but when it does…he'll drive himself to insanity or self destruction in this mood. Which is why I'm concerned."

Petros stared at him for a moment, then glared down the hall. "You wish me to use my other duties as an excuse to force him to rest?"

"No. Nothing like that. However, if you should happen to be needed elsewhere and decide to leave Abel in our custody, properly monitored of course, then Caterina and I will do what we can. It's not much, but we can at least keep a closer eye on him. And Caterina may be able to force him to rest."

"I see." Petros frowned. "Is his condition that serious?"

Wordsworth shrugged. "To be honest, I'm not entirely certain yet. I won't know until I've had a chance to analyze Abel's blood." He tapped the pocket where he'd stored the vial. "It will tell me if his body has begun to change yet, and how." He fixed Petros with another stare. "However, I do need to ask you a question. When Abel was confined…what happened?"

"What do you mean?" Petros was taken aback.

"Well…what I want to know is how severe the conditions were. Caterina told me there was an incident, but I'm afraid I don't have the details. Without them, I'll have more trouble predicting Abel's condition. That's why I asked you to join me."

"I see. What do you need to know?" Petros shifted to lean against the wall.

"Did he eat or drink anything during that time?"

"I gave him some bread and water during his initial confinement." Petros shifted slightly. "However, for the past three days, I did not visit his cell. The orders given to the guards were only to make sure he remained alive, and in the cell."

"So they may not have given him anything." The Professor frowned. "And his physical condition? What sort of stress was he under?"

Petros thought. "For the initial imprisonment, I had him chained to a shackle-bolt at shoulder height. He could sit or stand, though uncomfortably. However, when he was questioned, he was chained in a standing position, spread-eagled."

"Ah. That would place a greater strain on his body." The man chewed his pipe for a moment. "And what of the wounds themselves?"

Petros frowned again. "Deep bruising over his face, arms and body, I would guess it was all above the belt. And perhaps a dozen…two dozen light cuts, the product of a whip that one of the Cardinal's men used. And one wrist was torn, and did not heal until after his release."

"Hmm…that's troubling." William frowned. "You said he was beaten and whipped? More than once?"

Petros growled. "Not to my knowledge. I instructed my men to leave him alone. There were no marks of any further wounds when Cardinal Sforza and I released him."

"I see." He inclined his head. "I appreciate your time. This information will certainly help." He turned to go.

Petros caught one arm. "Is he a danger to the Vatican?"

"I doubt it. In that kind of condition…" He considered a moment, then shook his head. "Abel's dealt with far worse and been all right. On a purely physical level, I suspect he's far from his threshold."

"But you do have some concerns."

"Yes. I do." The brown eyes were troubled. "On a purely physical level, I'm inclined to say it's all right. On an emotional and mental one, however…well, I can't be nearly as certain. You've seen for yourself the state he's in." Petros nodded. "In that condition, there's really no telling how it affects him. And after his revival in Albion…his body has changed, and I'm afraid I don't really have a good measure of how those changes work yet. We'll have to play it by ear for a while."

"I see." He released the AX operative, and settled back against the wall. "In that case, I will take your request under consideration."

William offered him a grin. "I do appreciate it." The smile turned rueful. "I apologize for taking up your time. Tell you what. As a token of my gratitude, I'll make sure Kate sends you some tea and sandwiches as well."

He almost refused by reflex. But the thought of tea sounded good, and he could feel a slight ache in his stomach, reminding him that he hadn't eaten in half a day or more. Not since he'd released Abel. He nodded, then turned without further words and stepped back into his office.

Half an hour later, there was another knock at the door and a young novice entered, pushing a cart with two plates and two cups. Petros was startled to note that while one was a proper tea cup, the other looked more like a mug. He glanced into it, and frowned at the contents. "What is this?"

"It's from Sister Kate Scott." The young novice bowed. "She said to give you this as a token of appreciation for all your hard work on Sister Esther's behalf, and Father Nightroad's." She bowed once more, then lifted a plate of sandwiches and the teacup. "Here you are, Sir."

"Thank you." He gestured for her to set them down on the corner of his desk. Then he lifted the mug. "And this?"

"Oh. That's for Father Nightroad." The novice looked at it, coloring a little. "I really don't understand, but Father Wordsworth came in while the Sister and I were preparing things, and he put the Father's tea in that. There's a lot of sugar in it, sir." She made a face.

He remembered what Wordsworth had said to Abel, regarding the tea, and set the mug back down. "Very well. You may give it to him." He pointed to the silver-haired man sitting at the other desk, staring at the screen.

Abel didn't even look up as the novice walked over. She smiled gently and set the tea on his desk. "Father Nightroad, I have something for you, from Father Wordsworth and Sister Kate."

Abel blinked, then looked up. "Ah, yes. Thank you." He reached out and took the tea mug, then stared at the contents.

The young girl placed the plate of sandwiches on the desk, then looked up at him. "I hope you'll forgive me for being rude, but Father Wordsworth said to tell you the sugar was already added, and that he wanted you to drink it all. He said for me to make sure you did."

"I see." Abel's face was impassive. After a moment, he turned back to his computer, but Petros was relieved to see him lift the mug to his lips and take a long swallow. The novice relaxed visibly, watching as he took several more sips of the viscous liquid. Finally, he tilted the mug back, took one more long gulp, and set it back on the surface in front of him. "There. You can tell Father Wordsworth that I've been taken care of." His voice was cold and stern, and yet still gentle somehow.

"Thank you Father. And the sandwiches?"

"I'll eat them later." He turned his gaze back to his work.

After a moment, the girl took the empty mug, and turned back to Petros. "Is there anything else I can get for you?"

"Not at this time." Petros shook his head. The girl bowed and stepped out of his office. He watched the door for a moment, then reached across to take his own teacup, still steaming. He sniffed, smelling the gentle scents of herbs and…it smelled like lemon…then took a cautious sip.

Warmth suffused him, flowing through his tired body. His stomach quit growling almost immediately, and his muscles relaxed slightly. He blinked at the cup, then took a second, longer drink. The second rush of warmth relaxed him further, and cleared his mind a little. He set the cup down, with more than a tinge of appreciation, then picked up a sandwich from the plate, and went back to sifting through the reports on his desk.

He was halfway through the plate of sandwiches when the door flew open. He scowled and looked up, ready to give the intruder a piece of his mind, then rose quickly from his seat. "Cardinal Borgias."

"Hey there, Petros." The young man in Cardinal's robes grinned at him and offered him a quick mock salute. "Hope I'm not interrupting anything." Petros didn't have time to answer before he turned to Abel's desk. "Hey Abel. How are you doing?" he moved over. "I heard you got in trouble, but you look okay to me."

Abel blinked. "Antonio?" He stood abruptly. "Did you find something?"

Antonio Borgia grinned and tapped a finger to the side of his face. "What, no greeting? Honestly Abel, where did your manners go? That's really no way to talk to an old friend, or someone you've been partnered with so many times. Come on, you could at least be polite and say hello."

Abel stiffened. His mouth closed and for a moment, he looked as if he wanted to strike the younger man. Then a sheepish, pained smile touched his face. "Good Evening, Antonio. I do apologize, but…" The smile faded. "There's a lot on my mind."

"Hmmm…well you do have a point there. You are attempting to rescue a damsel in distress." Petros saw the flash of pain across Abel's face, but Antonio didn't seem to notice. He simply grinned at the AX priest. "I have to say…you look pretty cool when you get all determined like this. It's one of the things that makes me enjoy working with you." He settled himself against the desk. "Caterina asked me a while back to look into a few things. I haven't heard much since she spoke to me…but you didn't give me much time." He shook his head in mock sadness. "You've really got to learn to pace these things Abel."

"There's no time." Abel sighed. "Antonio…if you have something...please…"

"All right." Antonio grinned and pulled a folder from his robes. "I've actually had a few people looking into this since we met that one girl on the search for D'Este. I was curios about who such a gorgeous woman could be working for." He flashed Abel a smile and a tilt of his head. "There's nothing concrete so far, but there's some very interesting reading material here. I'll let you borrow it, okay? Just remember, you owe me a favor."

"I understand." Abel stretched one hand out, and took the file. "Please…if you do find anything else…"

"For the sake of a pretty girl? Sure." Antonio shrugged, then pushed off the desk and strode over to Petros. "Here you are, Petros. I made a copy for you as well." He grinned and dropped the folder on his desk, then leaned in closer. "To be honest, I don't mind. Having that sweetheart Caterina actually talking to me was good enough for now. I'll let you have this one for free. Only don't tell Abel, okay?" The grin widened into a smirk. "I wanna see what he does. As the Vatican's Public Relations Minister, I always need a good story, and I think Abel is hot material right now." He shot a glance over at the other man.

Petros fought the urge to grind his teeth, or clench his fists. "I'm afraid I don't understand you, Your Excellency."

"No? Well, never mind then. But keep me posted, okay?" Antonio straightened, and carefully resettles his Cardinal's robes and head gear. "I've gotta run. There might be a pretty little sister waiting for me." He gave Petros a second mock salute, then turned and strode out the door.

Petros ground his teeth and fought back a growl. That man…is infuriating. He shoved the thought aside, and looked at the folder on his desk. It was nearly an inch thick. He flipped it open to find a report written in Antonio's neat, flowing hand. He implied that there is information in here worth using. He pulled the sheet closer, and began to read.

Esther woke slowly. She blinked, struggling to adjust her vision to her surroundings, but everything seemed a little fuzzy. She felt weak and sick, shaky, as she had on occasion after severe illness or injury. She blinked twice more, then tried to push herself into sitting position.

It was a mistake. Pain shot up her left arm, and the world spun and tilted violently. She felt nauseous and dizzy, and the sharp stabbing feeling in her arm made her feel faint. She gasped and fell sideways. Then strong hands caught her and pushed her back into the pillows. She lay for a moment with her eyes closed, waiting for her stomach to settle, then opened them cautiously.

Sieglind stood over her. "Mistress." Her impassive gaze studied Esther for a moment, then she reached to one side and picked up a glass, full of some liquid she couldn't identify. "Master said you must drink this."

Her throat was bone dry. Esther reached for the glass, but her hand was shaking. Instantly, Sieglind took her hand and pressed it back to the bed. "Master instructed me that you are not permitted to move too much. I will assist you."

The Doll's hand slid under her shoulders and levered her upright. Esther fought the nausea as Sieglind brought the glass to her lips. She clenched her jaw for a moment, waiting for it to pass, then took a drink. The liquid was cool, tangy, with overtones of both salt and sugar. It went down easily, and Esther felt her rebellious stomach settle a bit. She drank slowly, savoring the taste and the feel of the liquid easing her parched throat. Finally, it was gone. Sieglind put the cup to one side, and lowered Esther back to the bed. "Master insisted you sleep. Do you need assistance?"

She already felt drowsy, so she shook her head. "No."

"Then I will leave you." The doll disappeared, and Esther fell asleep once more. She woke again, better but still weak, and Sieglind repeated the process. She couldn't even stay awake long enough to ask how long she'd been unconscious.

The third time Esther woke, she felt much stronger. She blinked, relieved to see that the ceiling was clear and stationary once more, then carefully pushed herself upright. This time there was no nausea, no blurred vision and dizziness. Her arms were shaking a little, but not nearly as badly. She stretched cautiously, then winced at the ache in her wrist. She looked at it.

A clean white bandage wound across her left arm, from the heel of her hand to midway up her forearm. Esther shuddered, remembering the vampires, the Order members, licking her wound and the obscene joy in their faces. Another shudder hit her as she remembered who had saved her. The Contra Mundi…he…he rescued me? But why? And why didn't he stop it sooner? She remembered Cain's hand on her arm, his fingers bringing her blood to his lips, and the amused and interested expression on his face. He…he drank my blood too…but it didn't seem to have the same effect on him. But why…if he's like Father Nightroad…then why did he seem so interested? Father…he told me, he only drinks a vampire's blood. So why…?

The creak of the door interrupted her thoughts. She looked up, and stiffened as Isaac strode into the room. He stopped, and offered her a quick nod of the head. "Lady Esther. Sieglind informed me you'd awoken, but I was honestly expecting you to be unconscious when I arrived."

Esther clenched her hands in the sheets to stop them from shaking. "What do you want?"

Kampfer made a soft, exasperated noise. "Oh, do calm down. I'm not planning on hurting you. Mein Herr was quite specific that no further damage be done to you." He moved into the room. "My job at the moment is simply to monitor your health and let him know when you've recovered. I assure you, that's all I intend to do."

Before she could move, cold impersonal hands took her arm, and touched the pulse point. She stiffened, but couldn't find the strength to even attempt to move. Isaac stood for a moment, then released her wrist. "Well, it seems your heart is beating properly again, at least." He took her left arm, and unwound the bandage roughly. Esther fought back a wince at the sight of the long gash, surrounded by sporadic puncture marks where they'd bitten her, and two long rakes were Helga's nails had ripped across the cut. "It seems this is healing as well. A pity about that. You did have such interesting blood." He chuckled.

Esther stiffened, and pulled her arm away from his lax grip. "Leave me alone."

Isaac chuckled again. "Well, I can hardly do that, given Mein Herr's orders. However, I assure you, I have no intention of taking any more of your blood. After all, that would get me into trouble. Mein Herr isn't always so tolerant of such things." He stood, raking his hair back away from his face in a languid motion. "It appears you're doing better. I'll let him know. If I were you, I'd expect a summons from him, so you should probably rest up a little more while you have the chance." He disappeared.

Esther settled back against the pillows, shaking. She bit her lip, trying to control her emotions. To see him again…

She was grateful to Cain for saving her from the others, and stopping the bleeding. But the memory of his tongue across her wound sent cold chills through her. The visions of someone who looked so like Abel doing that, and the tone of his words, had frightened her. She didn't know which worried her more, the fact that he'd saved her, or the fact that he'd let her be attacked, and done nothing. She clenched her hands into fists, trying to think more rationally about it. The Contra Mundi…he wants me alive, because of Father Nightroad. There's a chance I can use that to my advantage. If…after this…if he really is concerned about my health as that man says…I can use that. I might be able to walk around a little more.

The thought steadied her a little. She had no idea if it would work, but the chance at freedom was a comforting one. She allowed herself to relax against the pillows, settling into the softness at her back with a sigh. Even the small confrontation with Kampfer had made her tired. She allowed her eyes to close, and fell into darkness once more.

She awoke to the sound of Sieglind pushing back the curtains on the bed. She blinked at the Doll, slightly confused. At her movement, Sieglind turned. "Master wishes to see you, once you are ready. I will get your breakfast."

Esther didn't bother to argue with that. Her stomach was growling furiously, and the mere thought of food made her mouth start to water. She moved carefully to the edge of the bed, and slipped her robe over her nightgown, watching as Sieglind laid out the plates and cups. As soon as the table was set, she settled into a chair and began eating. The food was delicious as always, and revived her.

After she'd eaten as much as she could stand, Sieglind took the plate. "Your bath is ready, Mistress. I will lay out your clothing."

For an instant, Esther was tempted to protest, but then she remembered her resolve, before she'd dropped off. "All right. Thank you." She turned and went into the bathroom.

The hot water eased her stiff muscles, but it stung in her wrist. Esther stared at the unwrapped wound. It had scabbed over, and the angry red she usually associated with newly healing wounds had faded. It was still sore to the touch, but not nearly as much as she'd expected. If it's healed this much…was I out for a few days, then? She'd never been unconscious for so long, but then, she'd never had her blood drained to the extent that she passed out, either. She remembered how she'd woken partially. I wonder how long I was asleep. The thought of being unconscious and tended by Kampfer for a few days was unnerving, but she clenched her jaw and set it aside. She had more important things to think about. After a few minutes, she finished her bath, and left the tub, moving to the other room where Sieglind waited for her, another dress laid out on the dresser. Esther stepped into the outfit without comment, her mind only half on the task of dressing. The rest of her thoughts were occupied with how to ask the Contra Mundi to give her some freedom. It was only as she felt Sieglind attach something to her hair that she shook herself out of her daze.

The dress this time was dark purple, a few shades lighter than what was called 'royal purple' by some. It was a simple one-piece design, close-fitting to the hips before falling in a flowing skirt to the floor. The skirt swirled around her, loose and free, and stopped just short of brushing the floor. A delicate silvery braid, studded with small glittering gems, separated the upper half from the lower, circling Esther's back before dropping in the front to a shallow V-curve that mirrored the dress top. The top of the dress went just over her chest, the neckline cut to curve just over her breasts, like the dress she'd worn for her last meeting with the Order members. There were no sleeves to this one either, but to Esther's relief, spaghetti straps went over both shoulders. Though the whole thing still exposed far more of her chest and throat than she liked, at least she didn't feel like the whole thing would fall off if she breathed wrong. She would have preferred wider straps, but it was far better than nothing.

Beyond that, what appeared to be a delicate star brooch, the same color as the braid at her hips settled at the center of her chest, right between her breasts. Esther blinked, realizing then that it was actually sewn into the top as a decoration. The six-leaf star pattern had been sewn in primarily silver thread, with blue and gold and purple highlights shot through it. She shifted slightly to look better at it, and felt something swirl around her. She blinked, then turned slightly.

The straps of the dress were actually a few shades darker than the rest of the dress. In the front, they simply attached to the bodice. In the back, they expanded slightly, before vanishing into a sort of cloak of the same color. As Esther turned, the cloak swirled out around her like a train, or a second skirt.

"Your jewelry, Mistress." Sieglind finished attaching a large royal purple bow to her hair, though how she'd done it despite Esther's movements, she had no idea. The Doll turned to the dresser, then returned with a dark wine colored choker, sporting a lavender pendant. Esther accepted both gratefully. Despite Cain's orders, she was still nervous about having her neck exposed. She let Sieglind fasten the collar, and turned back to the mirror, considering the whole outfit.

"Well, I wouldn't have said purple was your color, but I have to admit…that really does look rather good on you." Dietrich's cold drawling voice startled her. She whirled, her heart suddenly racing.

He was standing by the door, and a smirk crossed his face. "You know, you really ought to pay more attention to your surroundings, Esther. This is a dangerous place." He arched an eyebrow. "You clean up so pretty, much better than that dreary habit you used to wear…although it did bring out the color of your eyes. I suppose that's something I've always liked about you, that you look good in almost anything." He shrugged.

"What do you want, Dietrich?" She clenched her hand into a fist, though whether to avoid striking him or to hide how badly he'd startled her she didn't know.

"Well, it's really rather simple, you know?" He pushed himself off the wall with a lazy movement. "The Contra Mundi wants to see you, and for some reason, he doesn't trust Isaac to be your escort right at the moment. So I'm supposed to take you to him." He shrugged again. "We should probably get going…after all, he's not known to be incredibly patient about such things. And you've already been unconscious for almost four days, so he's getting a little upset."

Esther flinched. She'd guessed she'd been out a while, but still. "Four days?"

"What, you hadn't realized?" Dietrich gave her another smirk. "Isaac and the others really did a number on you."

Esther flushed, this time with anger. "Bastard. Don't act like you had nothing to do with it. You were the one who held me."

He shrugged. "Well, I will confess to helping the process out a bit, but I didn't really think they'd go that far. But…well, what can I say?" He grinned. "I was a little bored, standing around and watching everyone talk, so I thought I'd have a little amusement. And really, it was quite entertaining. You've got such a temper Esther, and you react so well…I really do love that about you."

"Shut up." Esther bit her lip. "You…"

"Hmmm…well, if you're feeling antagonistic again, I suppose we ought to go then. I wouldn't mind waiting around and talking, but Mein Herr wants to see you." He turned, and waved. "You'd better come along, unless you need some assistance."

She knew what he meant, and her spine stiffened. "I don't need any of your help, thank you." She stepped through the door past him, trying to ignore his dark chuckle.

Walking with Dietrich through those dark halls was unnerving. Though he said nothing more, she could feel his gaze on her, and it was uncomfortable. It was almost a relief when they arrived at Cain's rooms. Dietrich knocked lightly, once, and then opened the door and offered her a mocking bow. "I haven't been invited this time, so I can't go with you, but…have fun, Esther."

She ignored his sneer and stepped into the room, trying to ignore the fear that touched her when the door shut behind her.

Cain was standing by a window, his back turned to her. He was wearing his simple white robes with red trim again. His golden hair fell down to the center of his back, worn loose. She blinked, wondering how she'd failed to notice before that his hair was as long as Abel's, though somewhat messier. Then he turned, and a smile touched his face. "Hello, Esther."

She stiffened, trying not to notice how much his voice was like Abel's. "Dietrich said you wanted to see me."

"Well yes. After what happened with Isaac and the others, I did want to make sure you were all right. After all, if you die, I won't find out what you mean to Abel, now will I?" He moved suddenly, took her arm in one hand. "Well, it appears you're healing all right." Genuine interest touched his face, and one cool finger brushed along the line of the sealed wound.

Esther shuddered. Cain blinked. "Did that hurt?"

"It's fine." Esther forced herself to meet his eyes. "You…what do you want from me?"

He chuckled lightly, and released her arm. "I've already told you, my dear. I want to know what your connection is to Abel."

She bit her lip. "Father Nightroad and I…we worked together. He was my instructor in the Vatican, and he…he saved my life once or twice. But I'm afraid that's all." She tried to swallow back the rush of hurt those words caused her. "I'm afraid I'm really not that important to him."

"You know, I really don't think that's the case." She blinked, looking up at him in surprise. "Abel…he's calmed down quite a lot, but…" The amused smile widened. He put one finger under chin, looking into her eyes. "Abel…he has such a temper but recently, he's quieted down. But then…when you were there…I haven't seen Abel like that in quite a while."

"That's because he's not that kind of man." Esther clenched her fists, forcing herself not to back away from that disturbing presence. "Father Nightroad, he would never become violent, unless you threatened someone."

He laughed again. "Well, you really don't know him all that well yet, do you? But I suppose it's not a surprise. Abel…he's a little shy about things like that." He turned away from her, moved over to a small desk, and opened a drawer in an off-hand manner. "But he really is quite violent. Here, see for yourself." With one lazy movement, he threw a small card to land at her feet.

Esther stared. Lying before her was a photograph, so old it had yellowed around the edges. But that wasn't what caught her attention. Four people stood framed within the image. The one on the far right, she recognized as Cain, though the smile seemed somehow more genuine in the picture. Beside him, the red-haired woman she'd seen in the tomb beneath the Vatican, and then Seth, wearing a uniform that almost exactly matched Cain's. But the fourth person…

It was Abel, but not as she knew him. His hair was shorter, and he was wearing a uniform like the others. The only difference from Cain's was that blue edged the collar, not red. But what startled her was the expression on his face. She'd seen him angry before, and she'd seen him as a Crusnik, but this…. It wasn't just anger she saw in his face, but bitterness. There was a twist to his lips that missed being a sneer only because there was no amusement in the expression. The eyes were dark and hard. She'd seen rage in him before, but always overlaid with protectiveness. When he'd fought Radu, when he'd fought Dietrich…all the battles, she'd seen concern mixed with his fury. But there was no concern, no protectiveness in those eyes. Only anger, trapped and simmering in his gaze. They were the eyes of a man who'd willingly kill everyone there, and only his own unwilling decision held him back. Esther shivered. The last time she'd seen eyes like that, she'd been facing the enraged Duke of Tigris in the Empire.

"See. He used to look like that all the time." Esther jumped. She hadn't heard him move, but Cain was standing right next to her shoulder. "Abel and I really are a lot alike." A faint ghost of amusement touched his voice as he leaned down and took the photograph from the floor. "He used to be so temperamental…but then…he changed a bit, talking to her." His eyes met Esther's. "You do know about her, right? About Lilith? Abel's old love?"

The words hurt. Hearing him speak of Abel's former lover made her flinch inside, but she held his gaze. "You killed her."

"Hmmm…I did." He looked at the photograph absentmindedly. "But then…she should have known better than to try and take Abel from my side. To try and tamper with something I really want…well, she shouldn't have taken Abel from me. To take Abel away…I couldn't have that."

Esther felt a cold rush of fear through her body. "Is that why you wanted to kill me too?"

"Well, partially. But now…I don't think so." He looked up. "Abel…he's still rather furious with me for taking Lilith away from him. It's rather tiresome. But it was amusing, my dear, to see him regain his old spark like that. To see how he reacted when you were by his side." He moved forward again, and one firm hand caught her chin. "That's why I spoke to you, in that church. I was surprised. Abel would never lose his focus like that, unless your opinion mattered to him. Unless he didn't want you to see him kill. I was really rather surprised. Even though Dietrich told me. That's why I want to know…exactly what are you to Abel?"

Esther gritted her teeth. "I told you. I worked with Father Nightroad for a while, but I…" She looked away, anger and hurt warring in her heart. "I don't know anything about him."

"Well, my dear, I can fix that." He made a soft sound of amusement and released her. "I'll tell you about my dear brother, and you can tell me exactly what you and Abel mean to each other."

Esther clenched her fist. She could feel herself trembling, in mingled fear and hurt and anger. She bit her lip, uncertain what to say.

Cain turned, and his eyes drifted over her. "Hmmm…you still don't look very well. But Isaac did say you had recovered."

Esther spotted the opening in his words. "I…well I would be recovered by now, normally, but I'm not used to being so inactive all the time." She drew herself up straight, and met his gaze. "You never even let me walk around the halls. And maybe I'm just a Terran to you and the others, but I need things like sunlight and fresh air and exercise. You can't expect me to do well locked in my rooms all the time."

He laughed. "You really do sound like 02. Abel used to say the exact same thing. He wasn't very fond of being in closed spaces either." The empty smile on his lips held a touch of warmth for a moment, and then it disappeared. "Still, I can't have you running away."

"As if you didn't have guards watching my every move." Esther bit her lip, this time in genuine frustration. "You have that Doll supervise me everywhere I go, unless it's with Dietrich. I can't even choose my own clothing in the morning."

"That is true." He regarded her for a moment more, then moved lazily to the door. "Dietrich."

"Mein Herr." The young man snapped to attention. "Did you need something?"

"Inform Melchior. It appears Lady Esther is tired of her rooms. Tell him I said she may be allowed into the main halls, and up to the northern tower, as long as she has an escort."

"Yes sir. Is there anything else you needed?" Dietrich had relaxed a little.

"No. Well, tell Isaac I sent for him." He tilted his head. "I want him to check a few things for me." He shut the door. "There. Is that better, my dear?"

"Yes. I…thank you." She bit her lip. She didn't want to talk to this man, but talking to him was better than standing there in silence. "You and Father Nightroad. You…you took his life but then…when we were in that chapel, you…"

"Abel got in my way. He should know better than that." His tone was casual. For all the emotion he showed, he could have been speaking of a simple verbal disagreement with a stranger. "But then, I thought I'd join with 02. And really, it might have been easier. Abel could have rest, and I could have what I need. But Abel…he woke up again." That cool smile touched his lips again. "That really was rather fast. He's never died before…it took me three days to manage it the first time, even with 03's help. But then…perhaps it was because of you." He looked at her again. "Abel really does seem to be fond of you."

Esther bit her lip. "You're wrong. Father Nightroad…he doesn't…I'm sure he really thinks of me more as a burden than anything else." She knew that wasn't quite true, but she couldn't think of anything else to say. The hurt of Abel's rejection was still too strong.

"Well then, what do you think of 02?" The question caught her off guard, and she looked up at him in surprise. He was regarding her with amused consideration. "You did follow me into the Underground, after all. And you stopped me from getting to Abel's body before he woke. So you must have some interest in him."

"I…" She stopped, uncertain how to answer. "I…Father Nightroad has always protected me. I wanted…I wanted to know who he was, but…he never tells me anything. I can't…I can't get near him. Even though…" She stopped. She didn't want to tell this man that Abel had promised to stand beside her.

"Well then. I'll tell you everything you want to know about 02. And you can tell me what Abel's been up to these past few years. Isaac told me a little but…Isaac's rather unobservant unless something interests him." He shrugged. "Speaking of Isaac…"

The door opened in a whisper of sound, and Kampfer slid into the room. He bowed. "Dietrich said you asked to see me, Mein Herr."

"I did." The Contra Mundi looked down at one thin, pale hand. "It's been holding up rather well, these past few days, but it's starting to get a little loose again Isaac. I thought you'd done something about it."

He bowed again. "I'm afraid I'm still fine-tuning the process, my lord. While I do have some ideas about what allowed this current stability, I'm afraid I'll have to do some more tests to pin it down. In the meantime, I fear there's not much I can do. However, if you'd like me to re-adjust your tank, I'd be more than willing."

"No. I suppose it's all right for now." He waved his hand. "I'll have to ask you to take Esther away for today though. Did Melchior get my message?"

"I'm not sure, but I assume Dietrich delivered it." Isaac nodded. "If you wish, I'll check it myself."

"Never mind." Cain turned back to Esther. "We'll talk later, my dear." Without another word, he turned and vanished into the inner rooms.

Esther stared after him, until a strong hand landed on her shoulder. She looked up, and Isaac gave her a slow smile. "Come now, it really is rude for a woman to stay in a man's chamber when he's retired. Unless, of course, you planned to give my lord some special comfort. Though if you were thinking that, you really ought to have said something. I'm sure he'd be more than willing to accommodate you."

Esther felt her cheeks burning, and knew she must be crimson with fury. "As if I'd ever do such a thing."

"Well, then, we should probably be going. Since Puppet Master is busy, I'll escort you back to your rooms."

She wanted to refuse, but there was no way she could. She shook herself free of his grip, then turned and strode to the door. She heard a soft laugh from behind her, but she didn't turn to look. Instead, she turned down the hall toward her rooms. A part of her suggested this was an ideal time to try and escape, but she already knew Kampfer was far faster than she would ever be. She settled for striding ahead of him to the rooms, then shutting the door in his face.

Sieglind wasn't there, but behind her, she heard a lock click into place. She took a deep breath, trying to quell her nerves, then moved to the couch and settled onto it. Her mind was spinning.

The Contra Mundi's attitude was disconcerting, at best. His continued assertions of Abel's violent nature upset her. They sounded…genuine. Worse still was the casual way he'd spoken of killing his own brother, and his brother's lover.

Esther stared at the ground. She couldn't get the image of the photo out of her mind. The image of Abel's face, dark with anger and hatred. It was so different from the man she knew. And yet…with the image came the memory of his words. Father…is this…is this part of what you didn't want to tell me? Does this man…does he really know the truth about your past? Is this…is this what you wanted to protect me from? This situation, or the things he might say about you? She shivered. She still believed in Abel, in his generosity, and in his kindness, but now…she knew she was confronting the darkness of his past, and it frightened her more than she wanted to admit. Father…I'm so sorry. She bowed her head, fighting back tears. I…with everything I said…you were…you were just trying to protect me again, weren't you. Even though…even though I don't like it…you were trying to protect us both from this. And now….

She stood, moving restlessly, and strode to the dresser to remove the choker Sieglind had put on her. As she leaned over the table, her hand brushed something. She looked down to see her rosary, lying neatly draped over one corner. She clenched her hand over it, and brought it to her chest, inhaling slightly. Dear Lord…please protect me…and Father Nightroad too. And help me keep my faith in him.

Hours later, there was a click in the lock, and Esther looked up. She'd managed to change out of her dress into a more comfortable one, and had settled down to read a book. She set the book aside as Sieglind entered the room.

Sieglind took three steps into the room, and studied her. "Mistress, do you wish to walk now?"

Esther blinked, and hope filled her chest. "Am I…am I allowed?"

"Master says you are to be permitted access to certain areas of the compound, to walk. If you wish, I will escort you now."

Esther stood, and straightened the dress. "Yes. I would appreciate that. Do I…need anything?"

"If you wish to ascend the North Tower, I will fetch you a cloak."

"Thank you. If it's possible, I would like to go out, just for a bit." Esther nodded, and moved to the closet.

Without a word, Sieglind moved past her, and removed a pair of shoes from the closet. Though not something she'd wear for serious walking, they were certainly sturdier and better made than what she was usually given. She allowed Sieglind to slip them on her feet, then waited while the Doll obtained a cloak from a back corner and draped it over her shoulders. She turned, and moved toward the door, still half expecting her guard to come and stop her. but as she laid her hand on the door, nothing happened. She opened it, stepped out into the hall. Sieglind followed, but made no move to stop her even as she turned down the hall in the opposite direction of the Contra Mundi's quarters.

Reassured, Esther straightened her back, and began to walk down the corridor. The lifeless eyes of the Autojagers still unnerved her, but the knowledge of Sieglind at her back was oddly steadying. The Killing Doll had indicated she had orders to see to Esther's needs and health, so it was likely that she wouldn't let anything attack her. Esther strode to the first hallway junction, then turned left. She saw rooms, several of them, but didn't bother to go into them. What she wanted now was something much more specific.

She took a set of stairs downward, to another floor, then another. When the stairs ended, she smiled softly to herself. So then…I'm on the third floor. It was useful information. She spotted a door, directly in front of her, and moved toward it.

Instantly, Sieglind was between her and the opening. One hand had moved up to her sword, a clear warning. "Mistress, you may not go this direction."

"All right." Esther stopped. "May I ask why?"

The Doll's expression was still. "It leads to the lower labs. My Master von Neumann, and my lord von Kampfer will not permit you there."

"I see. I understand." Esther turned away from the door, down an adjacent hallway. It was a short one, opening into another large room, with a huge wood and iron door at the far side. Esther started toward it.

Again, Sieglind was in front of her. "This area is also not permitted to you. This door leads to the front courtyard. Master has given no instructions that you be permitted to go there."

Esther stopped obediently. "I was told I would be allowed outside, for a breath of fresh air."

"You are to be permitted access to the North Tower Garden. If you wish, I will guide you there." Sieglind shifted.

Esther nodded. "I would appreciate it." As she turned and followed the Doll back up the hallway and the staircases, she bit her lip to conceal a small smile of triumph. She knew where the door to the outside was. Even if she couldn't yet go through it, she at least knew what she was looking for, and where to go.

Sieglind led her silently up the stairs, past the third floor and up to a forth. There she turned right, and took a small passageway. Esther followed close behind, trying to memorize the route. Finally, the doll stopped at a small door, and shoved it open, to reveal a winding staircase. "Up here, Mistress."

Esther took the stairs up, feeling carefully for unevenness in the stone. However, the steps were worn and quite smooth, and set with perfect exactness. She felt the spiral turn one complete rotation, and found herself at another door. She hesitated a moment, then pushed it open before her. Cool air, startlingly fresh, brushed past her cheeks. She took a deep breath, and stepped outside, then caught her breath in wonder.

She was standing in a small garden. Bushes though the tower was stone as the rest of the building, someone had gone to a great deal of trouble to make it look like a landscape. A carefully marked path showed between rows of huge potted plants. Corners were heaped high with dirt, to form a small patch of ground. She spotted several rosebushes, though none of them were blooming at the moment. There were also some small flowering plants, and sculpted stones. One or two bushes had even been allowed to grow so that they formed miniature trees. Esther took a deep breath, inhaling the scent of cool earth and the subtle perfume of the roses.

For a few moments, she let herself relax, lost herself in the scent of the plants. Half entranced, she walked out onto the path, following the twisting narrow walkway through the foliage. Her hands reached out, brushing across the leaves of the plants. "This place…"

"It was made by the Masters." Sielgind's emotionless tone came from behind her. "Master Balthasar wanted it."

The words slipped Esther from her daze. Beautiful as the garden was, this was still a part of the Order's stronghold, still a part of her prison. Though she loved the plants, the garden, it still wasn't safe. She forced the smile back to her lips. "This is…it's very beautiful. May I look around?"

"If you wish."

Esther spent a few minutes strolling around the garden aimlessly, then allowed herself to drift to one wall. As if in idle curiosity, she gazed down over the battlements. The ground was easily a hundred feet or more below her. She'd chosen the northward side, hoping to get a good view, but what she saw was somewhat disappointing. She'd hoped to see a town, or city lights. Instead, what greeted her eyes was desolation.

Beyond the dark walls of the Order, nothing existed that she could see but ruins and a broad plain, with minimal plant life. There were no signs of human habitation, and from this angle, no real signs of a road leading away. She thought she could see where the ground was folded into rolling hills, but even that was difficult to tell in the wake of cracked earth. She stared out over the land, trying to spot significant landmarks.

Her concentration was abruptly broken by Sieglind's voice behind her. "Mistress, you should return to your rooms. It is nearly meal time."

She wanted to protest, to ask to be allowed to stay a little longer, but thought better of it. For one, her stomach was already growling. More importantly, she knew the Order members might become suspicious of her if she tried to stay out too long. She forced herself to nod, and follow her guide back down the stairs. Back in her room, she shed her cloak and settled into a chair, watching absently as the Doll laid out the plates. Her mind was churning with hope and fear.

She'd found the doorway out. And she now had access to a place where she could see the landscape around her. She even knew where some of the Order members worked and lived. Though she knew she could do nothing with the knowledge yet, it still made her hopeful. After all, it was at least a start.

Caterina frowned, and massaged her forehead with one hand, looking at the report before her. She read through it, then looked back up at the silent man standing before her. "You're sure this is accurate?"

Professor Wordsworth nodded, his hand clenching around his pipe. "I've double checked the results, and I'm certain of them." He looked away from her, his face troubled. "There's no doubt that Abel's body is beginning to change. While it doesn't seem to be a problem as of yet, I thought you should be aware of it."

Caterina nodded, and folded her hands. "Have you any idea how this will affect him?"

He frowned. "Well, you can already see the short term results. He seems to require less sleep than normal, and less food. I don't know where he's getting the energy from, but I'd estimate his stamina has already increased to double his usual reserves. However, what the long term cost will be…I'm not entirely certain." He frowned. "At the moment, Kate and I are attempting to make sure he eats at least a little every day, and we've enlisted Brother Petro's assistance in making sure he rests every now and then. But still…."

"Do you think he'll lose control?" She hated to ask the question, but knew it had to be said.

"I don't think we're in any danger of losing him at this time. At the moment, Abel seems to be perfectly capable of handling the situation." William frowned. "To be honest, it rather resembles what he did when Sister Noelle died. I found traces of this transformation in his blood at the conclusion of the Silent Noise incident. However, the concentration of the Crusnik is much higher."

Caterina sighed. "So we really have no way of knowing what the outcome will be. Abel may manage just fine. Or he may have the same problem he had at the end of that incident." Abel had fought Kampfer, but his wounds had taken days, rather than hours to heal. The stress on his body had depleted him to the point where his healing had been diminished. "Or, he may have a reaction similar to his response in Carthage." She remembered that as well.

"Yes. Although, unless he's exposed to the Methuselah, I estimate that the third outcome is the least likely. He'll only suffer from a feeding urge if he continues this way and comes into contact with them after he's been depleted. But in this state, I'm not sure how long it will take. And if there's a confrontation…well, all bets are off." William smiled sardonically, and stuck his pipe in his mouth. "I'm sorry, I can't give you any better data than that."

"Very well. We'll simply have to continue to monitor him." Caterina sighed once more, then set the report to one side. "Have we heard any further news on the Queen of Albion?"

William shook his head. "I'm not certain. You'd have to ask Abel or Petros. But judging from the way Abel's been acting, I suspect not."

"I see." Caterina considered. "The Empire should be calling in a few minutes. Please tell Father Nightroad and Brother Petros I'd like them to attend me here."

"As you wish." William gave her a small salute with the pipe, then disappeared through the door.

Caterina watched as he shut the door behind him, then dropped her gaze to the papers that littered her desk. Over three weeks, and we've still found nothing definite. Albion has nothing…I'm fairly certain the Order is no longer within their borders. But away from that island, there's simply too much ground to search efficiently. And there are too many foreign powers to deal with to make it easy for us. We must tread carefully, but…we may be running out of time. Particularly where Abel is concerned. She'd seen little of her subordinate over the past week, bound as he was to Brother Petros. What she had seen of him hadn't been reassuring. Abel had withdrawn almost completely into himself. He'd lost weight, a frightening prospect considering how little he had to spare, and how deeply his powers would cut into his reserves, if he was forced to activate them. But worse were the shadows under his eyes, the way he'd taken to responding to everything in clipped short sentences. The way there was no longer even a shadow of laughter or smiles in his face. He simply worked with non-stop intensity. If forced to stop, he rarely ever slept, simply roamed the halls, or stood at a window, staring into the night or daylight with an anguished expression.

It reminded her too much of the way he'd been when she first met him. He'd still been weeping over Lilith's death then. It had taken weeks, over a month before she'd coaxed the first real smile from him, longer still before he'd remembered how to laugh for her. Though his clumsy, off-handed manner sometimes irritated her she was reminded, as she had been with Noelle's death, of how much she preferred it to the tormented shell of a man he became when immersed in grief or guilt. Or, God save him, both.

Even Antonio has noticed the change in him. Dropping off his latest reports, the young Cardinal had commented on Abel's change in demeanor. She remembered his words. 'Abel, well, I'd be the first to say he could be a little better. I mean…he's such a klutz normally, and no fashion sense or anything. But still, you know, I think…I think I liked him better the way he as before. He's just…well, he might be a little cooler, but he's no fun this way. You can't even talk to him.'

Abel. Caterina chewed the inside of one cheek lightly. Does it truly grieve you this much? Do you really feel that guilty that Esther was taken, or is there something else? She recalled his words, about how it was his fault, but knew he'd feel that way regardless. She feared there was something else involved, but she also knew there was very little chance Abel would tell her.

The creak of the door drew her from her thoughts. She looked up as Abel and Petros entered, assessing the two men. Petros looked irritable, and she noticed the deep circles under his eyes. She made a mental note to find some way to thank the man. After all, he'd put his own career on the line to shelter Abel, and had given his assistance wholeheartedly. Abel barely seemed to acknowledge him, but Caterina was aware of the effort the Inquisitor was making on their behalf, and she silently blessed him for it.

Abel was silent, as he always was, his eyes dark and haunted. She could almost feel him drawing away from them, locked into a shell of numbing misery that she couldn't seem to be able to break through. She took a deep breath. "The Empire will be calling in a few minutes, gentleman. I'd like to know whatever we've found so far."

Petros growled, and folded his arms roughly. From the look on his face, she guessed he was doing that to avoid slamming a hand or fist into her desk. "At the present time, we have no definitive leads."

"No definitive leads?" Caterina lifted an eyebrow. "I wasn't asking for definitive leads gentlemen." She looked between them. "It's been almost a month since the Order took Her Majesty. At this point, I'll settle for vague ideas. Surely, you have at least some of those." She let a light touch of acid tinge her voice, hoping to get a rise out of Abel.

Petros frowned. "We've had several reports of disturbances, possibly connected to the Order of Rosenkreutz, or terrorists who work for them. However, they're spread out across all major countries. And even without the delays in receiving permission to search, I simply haven't the manpower to conduct an investigation of that magnitude. Not without leaving his Holiness in danger."

"I see. Is that everything?" She let her eyebrow rise a fraction higher. "I know we've had support from His Excellency the Cardinal Borgias as well. I was given to understand that he'd managed to supply us with some information."

"Yes." Abel spoke quietly. He moved forward, though he didn't look her in the eyes. "We have received information from the Cardinal on the matter of our search. However, the information is…inconclusive." An expression of pain crossed his face, before he bowed his head. "We've uncovered pockets of Order disturbance in Germanicus, the Franc Kingdom, Amsterdam, and even in Hispania and Italy itself, though none directly in Rome. We also have rumors that they may attempt to reach into the Empire, if they haven't already. However…." He was looking at the floor, and his voice dropped to a whisper.

Petros snorted, interrupting him. "There is no doubt that some of these disturbances are feints, to draw our attention away from their true motives. Even so, there is also no doubt that some of these movements may be definite threats, and we cannot afford to ignore them."

"That may be true. However, that is not my primary concern. My concern, gentlemen, is whether we've made any headway in locating the Queen of Albion."

"No." Abel's voice was soft, anguished. "I…there's been no report of her. Even with Antonio's information…" he paused. "There's no record anywhere, in any of the reported disturbances, of von Kampfer, or von Lohengrin. And no mention of Esther."

"What of the Contra Mundi?" Caterina folded her hands once more. "Has there been any sign of him? We can assume, given the lack of a body, along with Father Nightroad's observations, that she was taken to him for some reason. Have we located that individual?"

Abel went pale. "No."

"Well then, we need to form a plan for searching these areas of disturbance, and eliminating the possibility that Esther is there." She considered both men. "Our contact in the Empire will be coming online shortly. I pray she has better news."

Only a few minutes later, a light blinked on her console. She pressed a button, and Seth's face shimmered into view. The young girl smiled wanly. "Hello, Lady Caterina. Her gaze shifted. "Hello, Abel."

Abel shifted stance slightly, his eyes rising to meet the young woman's. "Seth." He swallowed hard. "Have you…?"

She shook her head. "No. I'm afraid I haven't uncovered any leads yet. I have Astharoshe, and Ion, and as many other agents as I can afford to send looking into it, but I'm afraid I have nothing."

"I see." Pain crossed Abel's face. "Then…we still have no leads."

"Abel." Seth reached out, an involuntary gesture. "We'll find her. You know him. If he hasn't taken her life already, then…she's probably safe for the time being. At least, she's alive. He probably wants her for something, and you've seen for yourself how resourceful Esther is."

Abel's fist clenched. "We don't know how long that can last. Besides…" His tone was bleak. "Do you…do you truly think that could be a good thing? That Esther is in his hands?"

Seth flinched and bit her lip. "No. But as long as she's alive... Abel…you can't give up hope. You have to believe in her. We'll find a way to bring her back, and I'm sure Esther will find a way to stay alive long enough for that to happen."

Abel shuddered once. "I only pray you're right." He turned toward the door. "If there's nothing further…I have to go."

Caterina winced at his cold dismissal. She was about to protest, but Seth spoke before she could. "Abel, wait."

He stopped, but didn't turn. "I have to continue searching."

"I know. But I think I've got an idea. I don't have any definite leads as of yet, but I do have a thought, and one I think we ought to look into."

Abel turned slowly back to the image of the young girl. "Yes?"

Seth shifted. "Cain, he's not in very good shape yet, is he?" She looked away from her brother's gaze. "I know what he did to you in Londinium, and I'm not discounting that, but Esther mentioned he might be having trouble. And the way things turned out…" She bit her lip. "He has his tank, his container, I'm sure of that. I saw it for myself, that one time. But even so…the fact that he hasn't fully regenerated yet, that he still needs that tank…it means he doesn't have everything he needs. You said it yourself, he tried to merge with you, didn't he?"

Caterina stiffened. She hadn't heard much about that. But Abel nodded. "Yes."

"Well then, that means he doesn't have what he needs to force things along by himself. Even with the Crusnik…if the initial DNA was damaged in the fall…even he would have more trouble and if that's the case, don't you think…?" Seth trailed off and met his eyes. "Isn't it logical to assume he'd be looking for that information?"

Petros frowned and stepped forward. "What exactly are you referring to?"

Abel spoke softly, without turning to him. "Long ago, pre-Armageddon, there was a group of scientists that were experimenting with human genetic manipulation. Rumor has it there was a specific file…the genetic blueprint they followed to supposedly create the ultimate human being."

"The Template of the Gods." Seth spoke softly. "If he's trying to heal…Abel…isn't it only logical he'd be looking for that?"

"It is…but then…" Abel leaned forward, his gaunt face intent in the glow of the console. "Are you suggesting…"

"We need to check those places. It's highly likely that he'll will be there." Seth nodded.

Caterina sat forward. "I hope you'll forgive me for being rude, but I'd appreciate an explanation."

Seth nodded. "There were four main labs where the genetic manipulations experiments were carried out. It's a long shot, but the Contra Mundi might be at one of those locations." She pursed her lips. "Actually, I know for sure I can rule out one. There's one location here in the Empire, but it's sealed up tight. I've been monitoring it regularly since that last round of trouble we had, and so far, there's been no attempts to enter it." She glanced at the silver haired man before her. "And yours, Abel?"

Abel nodded. "The one in Londinium is sealed." He took a deep breath. "I locked it down before I left. Only Lord Walsh or his sister can even access the levels to get to it, and I've made sure that no one can get through those doors, aside from me."

"Well then, that really leaves just two places."

"Not completely. There is…there is that." Something like fear and longing mixed together touched Abel's voice. "If he could get there…"

Seth shook her head. "Well, it might be possible, but I don't think we have to worry right now. After all…" Her voice dropped to where Caterina could barely hear it, and she saw Petros move closer. "After all, that place…he can't get it active by himself. And you did damage it."

"That might not stop him." Abel's eyes were haunted.

"I know. But before I left, I made sure to lock that place down tight. I couldn't destroy it, but I did shut it down completely. Even you might have trouble breaking through the encryption I placed on it."

"Enough." Petros growled out the words and took another step forward. "Explain."

"The ARK. It's very old, an artifact left over from Armageddon." Abel's voice was soft. "It's best if you don't concern yourself with it right now." He shook his head. "That thing…the less that is known about it, the better. Forgive me, Brother Petros, but I'd prefer it if you didn't delve any further into the matter." He turned back to the projection. "You're sure?"

Seth nodded. "Even if he could get there, we'll have plenty of warning, Abel."

He took a deep breath. "Then that leaves…his lab, or yours."

Seth nodded, an unhappy expression on her face. "I'd like to examine them, but…his lab is deep in Terran territory. And as for the other…."

"I understand." Abel nodded one, then turned to Caterina. "Lady Caterina, I…I'm afraid I need to borrow Sister Kate for a while, and I need to make a request of Father Hugue."

"I see." Caterina favored him with an ironic look. "I'm afraid I'll need more of an explanation before I can authorize that."

Abel nodded, and took a deep breath. "Of the four genetic research labs, two are accounted for. That leaves two more. One of those…is in Berlin."

Caterina frowned. "We already have agents in Berlin. Besides, surely you don't think they'd fail to take notice of something like the Order."

"Not in Berlin, now." He took another breath. "I meant Old Berlin." He moved over to an antique globe, resting on a shelf. She'd inherited it from her family, and kept it as an heirloom, even knowing it was no longer accurate. Abel's finger traced the line of the map. "Here."

Petros snorted. "There's nothing in Old Berlin but a wasteland."

"I know." Abel's voice was soft. "But deep within the ruins of the city, there's a lab. The Contra Mundi….he would know how to find that place. Even after all this time…he knew it better than any of us."

"I see." Caterina nodded. "And I suppose you want me to ask Father Huge de Watteau to see if he can investigate?" Abel nodded. Caterina frowned thoughtfully. "It has merit. He's already in the area, and he's fully capable of conducting such a search. Very well. I'll send a message to him at once." She looked up at her subordinate. "I believe you had another request for me."

"Yes. I need to investigate the other lab. But to get there, I'll need Kate to give me a lift."

"And where, exactly, were you planning to go?"

Abel spun the globe softly, letting it slide a quarter turn. His fingers brushed lightly across the continent depicted, then upward. Then he stopped, and his blue eyes came up to meet Seth's green ones. "It was here, wasn't it?

Seth made a face. "I'm pretty sure it was near there. But then…you probably still recall the exact coordinates, don't you Abel?" Her voice was soft, and Caterina sensed true regret in her words, as if she reminded the AX priest of something she'd much rather leave alone.

"Yes. I remember." Abel's hand fell away, and he turned to Caterina. "I need Kate to take me to what was known as the North American continent."

"Ridiculous." Petros snorted. "There's been nothing there for a thousand years."

A ghost of grim humor touched Abel's face. "Well, that is true. However, the fact still remains…there was a lab there. And if it's like the others, it probably had an underground component. Whether he's been there or not…do you really want to risk it?"

Petros growled, deep in the back of his throat. "Even if it's true, and even if Sister Kate can transport us there…I cannot afford to leave his Holiness unattended. In this sort of situation, I can't risk going off like this."

"I know." Abel spoke gently. "I…I won't ask you to. But Petros…."

"You are in my charge. I was ordered to keep an eye on you." Petros glared at him. "I cannot afford to go on such a journey, nor is there a knight that I can send with you." He folded his arms.

"I…" Abel bit his lip. "You can place a tracking and monitoring device on me, if you must. Even if…even if you must embed it in my body…" One hand rose to his chest, but his eyes were firm and resolute.

Caterina winced at the thought of such a procedure. "Abel…"

"We can't afford to take the chance that he's hiding there." Abel turned to her, the pale light of madness in his eyes. "If I must…I'll make my own arrangements, but…"

"That's not necessary." Caterina frowned, then looked at Seth's image. "How likely is it that the Contra Mundi would be hiding at that lab?"

Seth shrugged. "It's isolated. It's a good place to hide and recover. Personally, I'd say he's more likely to be in Berlin, but still…I think Abel's right. There's a decent chance."

"Very well." Caterina took a moment to think. "Here's my suggestion. Brother Petros…I'd like you to give Father Nightroad a monitoring device to wear. Father Nightroad…you are to keep that device on at all times. Failure to comply will have severe penalties."

Abel nodded. "I…I understand."

"Good. Then I hope you'll understand this as well." Caterina's hand rose to touch the communicator in her ear. "Sister Kate." A second later, Kate's image shimmered into view. "I want you to make preparations for a long trip. Father Nightroad will give you the details for provisioning and such. However, there are two conditions. First of all, you will hardwire a line to the Inquisitorial department before leaving. Second, Father Wordsworth will accompany you. You are all three to make regular reports." She fixed Abel with a steely look. "I don't care if it's a simple three word sentence. I don't care if all you do is appear on the screen and walk away. Understood?"

"Yes." Abel's eyes were dark.

"Very well. Give Kate your information."

Abel nodded. "Kate…we'll need a months worth of fuel, long-distance, and food for that long as well, if you would. And I believe we'll need gear for rough terrain, and computer access, as well as several data cubes."

"Roger." Kate gave him a quick nod. "How soon are we leaving?"

"As soon as possible." Abel's eyes were dark. "We haven't much time."

"Understood." Kate shimmered again and disappeared.

"Well, since we seem to have a plan…" Caterina looked the two men over. "Brother Petros…if you wouldn't mind informing His Holiness and the Council of this, I'd like a moment alone with Father Nightroad."

Petros nodded. "I will inform them." One hand rose to point at Abel's chest. "After you're through here, come see me. I'll have your monitoring device ready." Before Abel could reply, he was gone. As though his departure had been a cue, Seth gave Caterina one quick look, then vanished from the screen.

Caterina took a deep breath, then rose from her seat and moved to stand beside her friend of over ten years. She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Abel. Please understand, it's not that I don't trust you…"

"You need to soothe the Papal Council, and this is the only way." The silver head bowed. "I understand, Lady Caterina."

Her hand tightened. "Please believe me. I'm sorry Abel…if there were another way…"

"It's all right." his voice was low, pained, but one hand came up very lightly, to touch hers. "I'll…I'll manage."

"Then you'll let William come with you? And you'll let him monitor your condition?" She felt him tense. "I won't order him to report it Abel…nor anything you find, but we need to keep an eye on you."

"I know." He gave her a quick ghost of his old smile. Then it faded into anguish once more. "I was hoping, actually, that you could send William with me. If the lab's still there, whether he's been there or not…it needs to be taken care of. Father Wordsworth is the best capable of helping me with that. I won't refuse his help." He bowed his head again. "And I will…I'll let him keep an eye on me too."

"Thank you, Abel." She held him for a moment longer in silent companionship, trying to offer comfort and reassurance as he'd so often done for her. Then she allowed her hand to drop back to her side. "You should go. I'm sure there's a great deal you need to do to prepare."

"Yes." Abel reached out, brushed one hand gently across hers as if in benediction, the tenderness of the gesture contrasting with the tension in his eyes. Then he turned and was gone.