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.

52. Thirty four Pt 04: Turning Point

(AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES: Hey the good news everyone; one- as you can and two it's gonan be a double updater and two partner yes chapter 34's last part was very long then we around six hundred some odd words I think. We decided to split the last part into two more parts so I'm sure this gonna make allot of your readers happy to read.

(AN) dragonwriter24cmf: Sorry for the delay. I've noted that this has caused a bit of trouble. Unfortunately, one of my family members was in a rather severe auto accident, and I've been spending time helping out there. Also, stress triggers migraines, and as you all can probably imagine, I've been a bit...stressed, lately, with accidents and the possible onset of carpal tunnel syndrome.

That aside, these were tough to write, and I got so caught up in the flow of it that I didn't realize it needed to be two chapters, not one, until I finished the section. Otherwise, we would have updated about...two or three weeks ago. Sorry to everyone for making you wait needlessly. So...my apologies, though I know some of you are rather tired of hearing them. I won't say that I hope this makes up for the nuisance of waiting, but I will say I hope you find it enjoyable, and worth the read, possibly worth the wait. Though I give you fair warning...lots of angst and such in these chapters. Anyway, please read, and let me know what you think. And yes, this does mark the end of Esther's time travel arc, and when we get back, it will be the Abel we all know and love, and everyone else in the usual cast. With plenty of action to go around!

---

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

Trinity Blood: War Continuum - ChapterThirty-Four: Part Four -Turning Point

Esther and Lilith returned to the Vatican three weeks later. Esther felt tired, but encouraged. The peace between the Terrans and Methuselah of the Four Cities seemed to be working out. At Lilith's suggestion, Bishop Laurence and the nobles had accepted the four Methuselah captains into their own ranks as counts. Though not high ranking nobility, it did give them some camouflage. There was still a great deal of uneasy wariness on both sides, but things were slowly calming down.

Karl de Watteau had settled into his role as well as Alexander Walsh had settled into his. Esther found the parallel both interesting and heartening. Despite the difficulty they'd had, she felt in better spirits than she had since they'd joined the Vatican. By the time she and Lilith left, she felt cautiously hopeful that their truce would survive the war.

Archbishop Santiago was waiting for them, along with another member of the clergy, when the ship landed. Both men bowed low as they emerged, and the younger man moved forward to take Lilith's bags. Lilith relinquished them, then turned. "Archbishop?"

Santiago inclined his head. "His Holiness has requested a meeting with you, over some recent developments in the war front. Brother Andrew will help your assistant return your belongings to your rooms." He paused. "I apologize on behalf of the Vatican for rushing you, but the situation, if not urgent, is extremely disconcerting."

Lilith nodded. "I understand." She turned. "Esther, please go with Brother Andrew. I'll bring you up to date when I'm finished reporting to His Holiness."

Esther nodded. She watched the tall slender form disappear into the Vatican, then picked up her suitcase and followed her escort inside.

The unpacking and settling, not to mention going over notes and adding additional information she remembered, helped occupy her time. Still, she couldn't help glancing at the clock every few minutes, and she sighed in relief when the door finally opened to admit her companion.

Lilith strode in and settled into a chair with a sigh. Her eyes were tired. Esther waited, then stood and got a cup of water to hand to her. "Was it bad news?"

Lilith sighed again, her eyes focused somewhere in the distance. "Not yet. But it could be." She took a sip of water. "The Eastern front has stabilized tremendously over the past few months. Matthias and Devon are doing an excellent job of holding the northeastern border, and protecting the towns. However, our southeastern border is more vulnerable. There have been indications that Cain may make a serious attempt to break through in that region."

Southeastern. Esther though for a moment. She wasn't entirely sure of the geography for this time, but she remembered her own. Southeastern lay Macedonian territory, Moroccan territory, and...she felt something cold settle in her gut. Carthage. Carthage was in the southeastern area.

She took a breath and made herself relax. "Are you needed there?"

Lilith shook her head. "Not yet. But if Cain makes a serious effort, we may be sent at any time. His Holiness wished to inform me of the situation and ask for my advice. He also wished to warn me that we may be summoned to the battlefield at any time. The situation is both extremely volatile and extremely fragile." There was worry in the golden eyes. "If Cain breaks through, the Vatican would be directly in his line of fire, or very nearly. Added to that, the region has a wealth of natural resources."

Esther nodded. Even in her own time, there had been tension over Carthage. The Free City, home to everyone, perhaps the only completely neutral territory in existence. "I understand. I'll be sure to be prepared."

Lilith smiled. A faint, half-hearted smile, but genuine. "That's good." She drank the rest of the water, then rose from her seat. "We should rest, if we wish to be fully prepared for an emergency summons." Esther nodded. She could feel the strain of the trip catching up to her, now that her concerns had been addressed. She set aside the journal she was holding, and the two women retired to their rooms.

The next few days were filled with the tension of waiting. Esther read, relaxed, and tried not to think about the small, half-packed travel bag in one corner of her rooms. Instead, she occupied her time with reading, writing in her journal, or long walks. She and Lilith had been given freedom to roam the Vatican at will, and she'd found the gardens in this time to be just as pleasant as the ones she remembered.

Sometimes, Lilith would accompany her. The older woman was often occupied in meetings, but when she wasn't she often followed Esther out into the gardens, both of them enjoying the sights and smells of the plants. It felt almost surreal to Esther, as if the past and her own time had somehow come together. Some days, standing in the silence, she felt as if she half expected Abel, her Abel, and the rest of the AX to come strolling along one of the paths, smiling and laughing amongst themselves. The thought brought an ache to her heart.

Ten days after they'd returned, their lunch was interrupted by a novice, carrying a message. "His Holiness would like to see both of you, now please." It was a testament to the seriousness of the message that the youngster's face was flushed with running.

Lilith rose at once, Esther only a step behind her. The older woman smoothed her robes out, then smiled at the panting novice. "Thank you for telling me. Please, feel free to have a drink before you leave." She indicated the pitcher of water and the glasses.

The novice flushed. "Thank you, Holy One." He shuffled uncertainly, then held the door for them, bowing awkwardly. Lilith gave him another smile, then swept out the door. Esther followed.

They arrived at the Council Chamber to find not only the Pope, but the Head of the Inquisition, his lieutenant, half a dozen cardinals, and two of the more senior members of the Department of Foreign Affairs. All of them looked worried. Lilith's entrance froze the talk in the room, and brought relief to several faces.

Lilith strode forward until she was halfway to the Pope's throne, then curtseyed gracefully. "Holiness, you summoned me?"

"I have, Nia Sancta." He inclined his head in acknowledgment. "A situation has arisen." He flicked a finger at the Inquisition head, and one of the members of the foreign affairs department. "Explain it."

The older of the two men, dressed in the robes of a traveling priest, cleared his throat. "We've been keeping an eye on the southeastern border as you recommended, my lady. We didn't think there was much to worry about, but...we thought we might be detecting some strange readings, out in the desert. It's difficult to tell, with the sand, and the spillover from the destruction further east."

Lilith nodded. "I understand. Please continue."

The man shifted his weight nervously. "We finally sent someone out to check, a local contact we've established a good relationship with. When he came back...well, it's like this." He tapped a button on the free-standing computer system, and an image came up.

It was rough, shaky, and blurred by sand, but the three or four Methuselah ships sitting there were still visible. Huge ships. Transport ships. The video clicked, stabilized, this time with a night view, and Esther swallowed hard. Hundreds of Methuselah were gathered, and from the light armor they sported, they weren't there for simple relaxation. Or even reconnaissance.

The messenger continued. "We don't know how many troops there are, but it's a sizable force. Bigger than we've seen before. By your numbers, we've never faced more than one, maybe two battalions. There's at least five that we've recorded. We've seen no sign of a commanding officer, and they don't look prepared to attack, but this is a huge concern. From our analysis, they're most likely planning to take Carthage. With a force of this size, they may not only plan to take the city, but sweep west."

Lilith's eyes were dark with concern. "Of course. Is there any defense in place?"

"Of course there is." The Head Inquisitor spoke, his voice rough. "I've units all across the eastern border. Carthage is in the hands of one of my best. First Lieutenant Cheraiet." He scowled at the display, and the map on the table beside the computer. "I could send her backup within a day, hours even, if I re-stationed the desert troops. But if I do that, we'll leave a gaping hole in our defenses." He scowled at the map. "It would be best if we sent reinforcements from the Vatican."

"Of course." Lilith's fingers tapped the strategic map, tracing the line of troop deployments. "Any openings in the line of defense and the Enemy of the World will slip through them. And we cannot permit them to hold the fields of Tunis, especially not when we depend so highly on the oil produced there."

The Pope nodded. "That is precisely why I am requesting your presence at Carthage. That is where we believe the enemy will strike. You, and a full support battalion, will assist First Lieutenant Cheraiet in holding the city. Even if you must destroy it, the enemy cannot get their hands on that town."

Lilith nodded. "You are correct, Holiness." She bowed her head. "When do you wish me to depart?"

"You will leave with the troops tomorrow. The commander will provide you with all the information he can before your departure. Hopefully, you will arrive before the Methuselah forces are gathered to attack." He inclined his head, a gesture of dismissal.

"With God's Grace, Holiness." Lilith offered him another bow of respect, then turned and left the chamber.

Esther followed, feeling as if lead bricks had settled in her stomach. Carthage.Thatwas...accordingtoFather...thatwasthedecisivebattle.Theonebefore... She felt a twinge of nausea race through her. Memories flashed through her mind. Ion. The Ibilis sandstorm. The tomb beneath the city. Abel, bleeding onto the street. Abel, out of control, then returning to himself, begging her to understand. His exhausted, haunted eyes.

She knew what came of this battle. After the incident, she'd read the legend of Saint Elissa of Carthage for herself. But she also remembered Abel's confession. If she'd heard him right, understood him properly...

We'll fight here. Abel will fight there, against us. Somehow, the invading Methuselah will be stopped, so the Ibilis won't beactivated. And then...after this...isn't this just before...before Cain...before he kills...

Esther's mind stuttered to a halt. Bad enough when it had been an abstract concept, like the deaths of thousands of other warriors. Or when she'd realized how much Lilith meant to Abel, and to Seth. But this...she felt sick. She wanted to scream. She wanted to run back and tell the Pope that Lilith couldn't be sent to Carthage, that the result would be the road that led to her death.

"Esther?" Lilith's soft question snapped her out of her thoughts. She realized they'd reached their rooms, and she was standing in the corridor, shaking slightly, a hand covering her mouth. Lilith was regarding her with gentle concern. "Esther, are you all right?"

Esther swallowed. She felt the urge to speak, to tell Lilith not to go, so overwhelming it nearly stifled her. But...if she spoke...

Without Lilith, Carthage might fall. Certainly, the Ibilis wouldn't be there as a deterrent. And how many would die, who hadn't in her version of history? In her time, Carthage was known as the Free City, the only city never ruled by a conquering power. Lilith's absence might change that. More than that, it could turn the whole tide of the war, if they were right about its strategic significance.

"Esther?" The concern in Lilith's eyes deepened.

Esther shook her head to force the thoughts away. "I'm sorry. It's just...I suppose I'm more tired than I thought. And the idea of facing so many opponents at once...well, I've never been in a battle that might get that big. It's a little daunting." She forced up a small, sheepish smile.

Lilith nodded. "You're right. It is a little daunting. But it will be all right." She smiled and held the door open for her. Esther followed the older woman inside, her gut churning with apprehension, and knowledge of what was to come.

8888888888888

The feeling didn't lessen any over the next day, as they packed and boarded the Inquisition ship. Nor over the next few days after, en route to their destination. The sight of all the soldiers, grim-faced and going over their weaponry, didn't really ease her heart any. No matter what she did, writing or meditating, reading or even practicing her fighting skills, her heart remained heavy.

Lilith sought her out the night before they landed in Carthage. Esther was sitting in one of the small command lounges when the door opened, and Lilith stepped inside. "Esther. I thought I might find you here."

Esther jerked her head up. She'd been going over what she remembered in her mind. "Ah. I'm sorry. I didn't realize you were looking for me."

Lilith shook her head, settling gracefully into a seat across from her. "It's all right. It's nothing serious. It's just that I noticed...you've been upset, these past few days, since we were assigned to Carthage." She paused a moment, then spoke, her voice soft and gentle. "I know you said it was the situation but...it seems like more than that. I was wondering...is there something you know?"

Esther swallowed hard. "Yes."

"Ah." Lilith exhaled, understanding in the golden eyes. She hesitated a moment. "Is there anything you feel you can tell me?"

Esther bit her lip. There were so many things she wanted to tell Lilith but she knew most of them would result in an alteration of her future. Finally, she exhaled softly. "It's not much but...I don't think...it might be that now, I think maybe Abel might understand, just a little. I...I think he'll come, and if he does...please don't forget that. And...don't let him forget it either." She swallowed. It seemed like a terribly inadequate thing to say, in the face of everything she knew, but it was as much as she could manage.

"I see. You think Abel is finally beginning to understand the truth about this world?" Lilith's eyes were thoughtful.

Esther swallowed again. "I'm not sure. But...it might be possible."

"I understand." Lilith rose, and paced gentle hands on her shoulders. "Thank you, Esther." She sighed, and enclosed Esther in a gentle embrace. "I'm sorry. I know this burden is hard for you to bear. I pray you won't be forced to carry it much longer."

Esther relaxed, warmed by the other woman's regard. "It's all right. I'm sure I'll manage somehow." She stood and stretched. "I think though, that I'd better get some rest. After all, we'll be in Carthage tomorrow, and I'm sure we'll be very busy."

Lilith nodded. "Of course. Get some rest." She stood aside. Esther left the room quickly, feeling the mingled relief at speaking, and guilt at how little she'd revealed.

They docked the next afternoon, behind the main cathedral. Esther stood quietly, two steps behind Lilith, watching in apprehension as their chosen escort formed an honor guard around them. Then the doors opened, and they were escorted down the ramp, into the city of Carthage.

They were met at the foot of the cathedral stairs by a woman, a line of guards behind her. Esther studied the lady carefully. She looked only thirty or so, Lilith's apparent age or slightly younger. Her hair was shoulder length, a sun-streaked gold, and styled in a no-nonsense cut, the front pulled back and out of her face, while the back flowed over her shoulders. She was slender, with deep clear eyes, of a shade that seemed to shift between hazel and green. She wore the dress uniform of a soldier of the Catholic church, with the modification of a long robe, to ward off the heat of the desert. Her face was sun-browned, roughened by wind and stern, but there was an open, forthright quality about her gaze that Esther instinctively liked. As they approached, she bowed. "Welcome to Carthage, Lady." She met Lilith's gaze. "You are the one they call the Nia Sancta?"

Lilith inclined her head in a nod of respect. "I am."

The young woman saluted. "I am First Lieutenant Elissa dar Cheraiet. It is my honor to serve with you in defense of the city, Holy One."

Esther felt as if she'd been punched in the stomach. She knew the legend of Saint Elissa, the one who had guarded Carthage in the Dark Times. The lady who had defended the city, then bravely sacrificed herself to stop the invaders. But this... Father spoke of her. First Lieutenant Cheraiet. Is it possible... she and Saint Elissa are the same person? But then...this person... her stomach clenched painfully, and she ground her teeth together to keep from saying something she shouldn't.

Some of her discomfort must have shown on her face, because the lieutenant frowned, then bowed again. "My apologies. Please, come inside." She gave Esther a professional, but friendly smile. "The desert heat does take some getting used to." Her gaze shifted to Lilith's garb. "You look as if you've come well prepared, my lady, but we'll be sure to provide some more comfortable attire for your assistant while your here."

Esther swallowed hard and forced up a smile. "Thank you. I appreciate the concern, but you needn't trouble yourself on my account."

The smile warmed a fraction. "It's no trouble at all. Actually, a bit of business will keep the local merchants happy. We've been restricting departures and such, what with the threat of an attack, and some of them aren't too pleased. Helping out the soldiers gives them something to do, and makes them feel less imposed upon, and less like they're losing money. It keeps the peace better than martial law."

"I see." Esther nodded. "Then I'd be quite happy to pick up a new wardrobe, and perhaps a few other things."

Elissa laughed. "Well said." She stepped aside, gesturing up the stairs. "Please, come. I'll have refreshments provided and explain the situation in the comfort of a cooler atmosphere." Her gaze slipped past the two of them to the soldiers on the ship. "In the meantime, my senior officers can get your extra troops settled in and provisioned."

"That sounds like an excellent idea." Lilith gave her another nod, then gestured to the leader of their guards to fall out. She waited until the orders were given to disembark, then turned and followed Lieutenant Cheraiet. into the building.

The room the lieutenant led them to was a moderately sized room, an office or a council chamber for the church officials who had resided there. The large table in the center of the room was covered in maps and reports. An aide was waiting with tea and food. Cheraiet. handed Lilith and Esther a cup and plate each, then took one for herself and gestured to the table. "This is what we know of the situation, from the information we've managed to gather from the natives who have come in, and from our own spies." She pointed to the red markers. "Each marker is about five hundred Methuselah. I'd estimate troop strength at a minimum of some three thousand. And I doubt it's that low. That's just the ones we know for certain we've seen. But they have at least five ships, and I suspect most of their soldiers are staying on board them, at least during daylight hours." Her face was grim. "Since we've observed them in daylight, we know at least some of them are UV protected, whether by the silver nitrate solution I've heard mentioned, or by UV gel. I suspect the gel, given that we know silver reduces their strength. But in conditions like this...it's possible they've sent two completely different forces, one for a daylight offensive, and one for night attacks. If they have, it could be bad. With the addition of your troops, we have matching numbers, but we don't have enough to handle a constant rotating assault like that."

Elissa paused to take a sip of her tea, then sighed. "At present, they've made no move away from their camp around their ships. Nor have we spotted any obvious leader." She frowned. "It's strange actually. For an assault of this magnitude, I would have expected at least one of their three commanders to oversee it."

Lilith nodded. "Abel Nightroad. The one they call the Destroyer. He's the most likely choice. But in normal cases, he would have showed himself by now." She frowned at the notes, and the map. "Either he is not here, or he has chosen to be invisible, for the moment. But that would be an unusual tactic for him to choose." She considered. "Have there been any lone scouts from their camp, or any unusual individuals?"

Elissa frowned, then began to leaf through her notes. "We've checked all traders and other personnel coming into or out of the city. There's no one recorded with the features described. And we've taken into account his other powers, and kept watch on the sky, with at least two ground-to-air weapons pointed upward, in case." She paused, looking at a report. "Ah. We did see a stranger surveying the bounds, a few days ago, out near the old wells outside the city. No one got a good look at the guy, though. Whoever it was, they were robed, like a local. We thought they might be trying to get water or shelter without coming into the city, to avoid the conflict."

"No. That would have been him." Lilith's face was troubled. "He knows how to scout, and he does his own work. He was trained for such things. Still...that he should take the time and trouble...he generally prefers a straightforward strategy."

Elissa frowned as well, and set aside her tea. "Is it possible it's not the Destroyer? That it's the others? The girl, or this mysterious Contra Mundi?"

"You wouldn't have seen the girl, not unless she wished to be seen. As for the Contra Mundi...no. If he had come, then the city would already be under attack, if not destroyed." Lilith shook her head. She considered the map. "These outlying wells...they were in settlements?"

Elissa nodded. "Each had a guard settlement at the least, and some were church bound."

Lilith nodded. "Way there a way to enter the city from there, without crossing the desert?"

Elissa frowned, then moved over to another stack of notes. She studied them for a moment, then cursed loudly. "Damn! It's right here. Underground waterways and passages, in case of siege or other problems." She turned to her aide, hovering in the background. "Tell the unit sub-commander. We need units sent to the following locations." She scribbled out a few names, then handed it off. "I want round the clock guards, and double it at night."

The aide saluted, then took off. Elissa sighed. "Damn. I didn't even see that. How did he know?" She looked up at Lilith. "How did you know?"

"I knew because I came to Carthage once or twice, as a child. He would have known...because he's very thorough about such things. He grew up Underground, and he's very knowledgeable about such places." Lilith traced the diagram Elissa had laid down. "He's unlikely to use the tunnels, except as a last resort, because it limits his fighting space and how many troops he can bring to bear. However, the fact that he's taking the time to scout, that he's been careful to avoid drawing attention to himself...he's serious this time." Lilith's eyes were dark. "I fear, lieutenant, that this will be a difficult battle."

Elissa nodded. "Even if our numbers are matched...they have greater strength and stamina on their side." She frowned. "How well can you counter the Destroyer's power?"

Lilith shook her head. "Thus far, it's been an even battle. However...he has more offensive strength than I do. My defensive abilities are equal, or slightly greater than his, but he has more combat experience. In pitched battle, it would depend on whether or not I can break his concentration. In the previous battles, I've been able to do so. But if he's truly intent on taking this city...I can't be sure."

"We do have some advantages, in that we're behind defenses. But it'll be a siege, and we...if what I think is accurate, about the doubled attack force, then we're badly outmatched. I have to plan for a worst case scenario." Elissa bit her lip. Then, very quietly... "I can think of a few strategies that might hold them. And I'm sure you have a great deal of knowledge of your own. But...in a situation like this...we can't afford to lose this city. It's bad if it gets destroyed, but under no circumstance can we allow it to be occupied, and become a military base. Therefore...is it possible to rig a final strike weapon?"

Esther's gut clenched. She felt as if ice water had been poured over her. The Ibilis.

Lilith's expression was grave. "A final weapon. You mean a final trap, if we are overrun."

Elissa nodded. "We have a rather large arsenal. But also...beneath the cathedral here is a control computer. We think it's the remnants of the old technology, similar to what Albion has revived. I'd like you to inspect it, and see what it's use is, and if we can utilize it in our defense."

"Of course." Lilith nodded. "Do you wish to do so today?"

Elissa shook her head. "No. There's been no sign of activity, so I think we're safe for tonight, at least." She straightened. "You and your assistant should get some rest. You've had a long journey to reach Carthage and, as you say, this battle is likely to be fierce. You'll need to conserve your energy. Tomorrow, we'll plan our combat strategy, and I'll take you down to see the computer." She gestured, and one of the aides came over. "Sergeant, please escort Our Lady and her aide to their rooms." She turned back to Lilith. "We change shifts around 6am, and breakfast is at 7am, if that's not too early."

"Of course not." Lilith shook her head. "I look forward to working with you, Lieutenant. I only pray this turns out well, and that your fears are unfounded."

"Indeed." The two women shared a final glance, then Lilith turned and followed the waiting soldier, Esther right behind her.

The rooms they were led to were modest, but comfortable, and the beds were far better than Esther remembered from her other trip, in her own time. But despite the comfort, she couldn't sleep. Her mind was spinning with everything she knew. The Ibilis. Saint Elissa. First Lieutenant dar Cheraiet. The upcoming battle.

Her mind went back to the first time she'd heard of the battle for Carthage. How she'd been sitting on a balcony, talking to Abel. He'd mentioned Elissa, by name. She knew he hadn't meant to, from the way he brushed it off and changed the subject. For the first time, she wondered if he'd actually known the lieutenant, or simply known of her, through Lilith. Esther sighed, then turned over and buried her head in the pillow. Eventually, exhaustion caught up with her, and she slept.

The next two days were busy ones. The Methuselah force, as near as they could tell, didn't move an inch. However, Elissa was far from complacent, or idle. She and Lilith, along with her staff, made a detailed inspection of the defenses, looking for every possible way to shore them up. For the underground tunnels, they posted guards, and rigged ways to collapse the tunnels if need be. Walls were fortified in weak points. Citizens were moved to safe zones deep in the city, with evacuation routes planned and practiced. When night fell, the two women sat long hours, discussing the weak and strong points of various soldiers, and how to adapt strategy for that.

Lilith also spent long hours working at the control computer. Esther didn't understand everything the other woman was doing, only that involved a high powered computer network, and a relay satellite that was in orbit above the city. Lilith described it as a weather control project, meant to stabilize the local ecosystem, and still maximize its potential for human life support. By reprogramming, Lilith could force it to have the opposite effect, a devastating storm that would wipe out everything in its path.

It was hard work, and seemed extremely complicated. Esther didn't understand much of it, but Elissa did, and showed grim approval. Watching the two women as they worked, Esther felt agitated. After all, she didn't need to understand all the technical terms to know what they were creating. She'd seen it, after all, a thousand years later. A giant sandstorm. The Ibilis, avenging angel of the desert. Even knowing it wouldn't be used, at least not for nine hundred years, made her feel no better.

By the end of the second day, even Esther could tell there wasn't much more strategizing they could do, nor much more preparation. Lilith was still inputting the final programming for the Ibilis, but for the rest, all they could do was wait. The thought made her edgy, restless.

Apparently, Elissa felt the same way. "Damn it." She sighed. "They haven't moved for almost a week. I don't know if they're trying to simply intimidate us or gather more information, or what. But if I thought I could do it and leave the city adequately defended...I'd launch an attack against them now."

Lilith shook her head. "Too dangerous. At best, you'd force their commander to show his hand, and his strength. At worst, they'd simply destroy you. Either way, to charge them head on, or even from the tunnels would likely be a massacre."

Elissa snarled, a sound of frustration. "I know. But waiting like this..." She picked up her drink and swallowed it. "It gets on my nerves."

Lilith nodded. "I understand. But you should enjoy the rest. Abel will come... tomorrow or the day after, I believe." She met the other woman's eyes. "He doesn't like to wait either."

Elissa nodded. "I'll keep watch." Then she finished her drink and left the room. Esther and Lilith shared a glance, finished their tea, and retired as well.

Esther woke to the feel of a hand on her shoulder. She blinked, then looked up into Lilith's eyes. The older woman looked somber. She waited until Esther sat up, then spoke softly. "Elissa sent a messenger from the walls, only a few minutes ago."

Esther swallowed hard, her muscles tensing involuntarily. "Something's happened?"

Lilith shook her head. "I don't know. With the size of this town, and our backs to the sea...I'd hear an attack if it occurred. It's been quiet. But obviously, the first lieutenant is worried about something. Do you wish to come with me?"

Esther nodded. "Of course." She flung back the covers, glad she'd left her clothing laid out over the nearby chair. "I'll be ready in a moment."

Ten minutes later, they were both striding out of the cathedral. Lilith turned left, toward the eastern rampart. Both door guards saluted them as they passed, and there was a car waiting for them. The driver jumped out as they approached, and held open the door. "Lady."

Lilith stepped in, Esther right behind her, and the car took off. If the speed of the driver was any indication, then it wasn't an emergency. Still, Esther couldn't help feeling apprehensive as they pulled up by the steps leading to the main city wall. Lilith, for her part, seemed calm as they made their way to the top, followed by the guard who had driven them.

Elissa was waiting at the top, a set of binoculars in her hand. Her expression was tight. As Lilith came up beside her, she pointed. "There. Tell me what you see, and what you make of it." She handed Lilith the binoculars.

Esther squinted, and a soldier tapped her arm and handed over another pair of them. She held them up, then blinked. Ofcourse.Thenightvisiongoggles.I'veheardofthese,butIhadn'tactuallyusedthem,notwhileIwasintheAX. She adjusted them, then set them to her eyes and turned toward the desert.

A single figure stood, surrounded by sand, about a hundred yards from the gate. Esther felt her shoulders stiffen. Even allowing for the distance, and the side effects of the night vision, she knew who it was. Beside her, she heard Lilith speak very softly. "Abel."

Elissa's voice was calm and professional. "He's been there for at least half an hour. He hasn't moved, and there have been no signs of others. In another situation, I'd consider the possibility of him trying to claim a truce, but there's been no message. He hasn't even put up a white flag. I thought he might be trying to memorize our defenses and figure them out, but there's no way he'd be able to do that, standing still like that for so long." One hand clenched. "I can't tell what the bastard is planning."

"He's thinking." Lilith's voice was soft, but under it was a note that Esther couldn't quite define. She couldn't tell if it was hope or concern that colored Lilith's voice. "When Abel is concerned, or upset, or confused, he stands alone in the silence with his thoughts. It's the way he's always done things."

"Huh." Elissa frowned. "If he's alone...is there any chance we could mount an attack, and injure or take him hostage? That would head off the battle. It could even prevent a fight, if we could take him."

Lilith shook her head. "No. He'd see it coming. More than that...with his past, such a tactic would only arouse his true fury. As he is, Abel will fight with the best in mind, for himself and his troops. And the caution makes him less dangerous. But believe me, you do not wish to see him lose control."

Elissa frowned. Her next words were quiet. "That man...he's more than your opponent. You've known him a long time. And not in a state of conflict."

Lilith nodded, ever so slightly, and her words were equally soft. "Yes. Abel is very dear to me. To fight him breaks my heart. But we have both chosen our paths, he and I. And no matter how hard it is, I will not abandon my resolve. I will protect this world, even against him."

Elissa nodded. "I trust your word, Lady." They stood watching the solitary figure a few moments longer, then she spoke again. "What should we do? Leaving him there will only agitate my soldiers."

Lilith stared across the sand a moment, and Esther saw her eyes harden. "I will go speak to him." She turned away from the wall. "Esther, will you come, or stay with Lieutenant Cheraiet?"

"Of course I'm coming." She felt as if there were rocks in her stomach, but she wasn't going to back down.

Elissa looked worried. "Lady, you shouldn't go. It could be a trap. If they know you've arrived..."

Lilith shook her head. "You said there were no others visible, or on the radar. If it's only Abel...I can handle him long enough for a retreat, at least."

The lieutenant's mouth tightened into a thin line. "At least let me prepare an escort."

Lilith shook her head again. "No. You will only arouse his temper. All an escort will gain is the possible loss of your troops, and we cannot afford that, not now. However, Esther and I alone should be able to at least speak with him, and gauge his true intentions. We may even gather valuable intelligence." She looked up, golden eyes meeting hazel. "I apologize for not listening to your commands, lieutenant, but I would ask that you permit me to take this chance."

A corner of Elissa's mouth turned up in a grim smile. "Even if I command Carthage for the moment, Holy One, I know you outrank me by Vatican standards. Besides...when it comes down to it, we're more equals and comrades, you and I." She straightened and gave Lilith a salute. "God go with you, Lady Lilith. And you'd better know, my men and I will keep watch. If things go awry, I will not hesitate to shoot, rather than tell my superiors I stood and watched as the Nia Sancta was destroyed."

Lilith smiled as well. "Thank you for your concern, lieutenant. Esther and I will be very careful." Then she turned and descended the steps. Esther followed two steps behind, her mind churning.

She hadn't heard anything about a meeting before the battle. Certainly not a discussion of truce, or anything of that nature. It wasn't in any history she'd read or heard. Of course, in her time the whole incident was almost more legend than history. Abel had never mentioned it either. But she'd gotten the impression, from what little he had said, that this was a painful memory for him. She brushed the thoughts away, and followed Lilith out into the desert sand.

Abel obviously saw them coming, but he didn't move. He simply stood there, silent and still under the starlight, as they approached. In the darkness, his expression was nearly unreadable, but Esther recognized his stance. He was troubled.

Lilith stopped a yard away, close enough to speak, not close enough for Abel to touch her. "Abel."

"Lilith." His voice was soft, almost emotionless, but with an undercurrent of pain. His head tilted back, looking up at the starlight, the light of the double moons. "I saw the ship come in three days ago. I thought the Vatican might have sent you. I'd hoped not, but..."

"I know." Lilith's own voice was equally soft, her words more to acknowledge his emotion rather than his words. There was silence between them for a few moments, then Lilith spoke again. "Cain has sent you to take Carthage and Tunis?"

"Yes." Abel didn't move, didn't say anything beyond that one simple word.

Lilith stared at him a long moment, then spoke again. "And you intend to attack the city, simply for his order? After everything..."

"I must!" Abel's voice roughened sharply on the last word. Esther saw a shudder go through the lean frame.

"Why, Abel?" Lilith took a half step forward. "Does Cain's madness and hatred still possess you so much?"

Abel shuddered again. "It's not..." He flinched, biting his lip for a moment. "You cannot understand. It isn't just Cain's madness anymore." For the first time, his eyes met Lilith's. Esther winced, seeing the sharp pain and desperation in those eyes. "With the losses we've taken...Cain is not the only one who seeks vengeance. But more than that...We've been on the ARK all this time, all our people. On that ship, with no way to escape. It's not like the station, where we could return to the surface if we wished. Not like Mars, where we felt the ground beneath our feet, even if we were surrounded by walls. We're trapped. Eventually, even on the ARK, supplies will run low. And even before that..." Terrible anguish filled his eyes. "We can't remain in a place like that. Even Methuselah...even with the size of the ARK..." The words faltered to a stop.

"And so you would choose conquest, and build your homes over the fallen? You who once despaired over having your freedom ripped away?" Lilith's tone was neutral, but the words were sharp enough to draw blood, and Abel flinched again.

"There is no other way. Even if we chose to settle the uninhabitable area, to revive it as we did Mars, the humans will attack us the minute they perceive a weakness. You know it. There would still be conflict."

"It doesn't have to be that way." Lilith's voice sharpened. "You've seen for yourself. In Albion, they work side by side. And surely Seth brought you news of the events in Amsterdam!"

Abel shook his head. "Even so...some of our people would not accept such conditions. You know it's true. And those who have lost loved ones in the conflict..." He shook his head again.

"You could still choose to inhabit the darkened areas. Surely, if you cannot co-exist peacefully, they could accept being left alone. Did you not once wish for that?" Lilith's body was taunt, her voice strained. "Abel..."

"Even if we could..." Abel's voice and posture was the mirror of hers. "Even if we could, for the majority of Methuselah, I can't."

Lilith's hand clenched. "Why, Abel? Why, even knowing what you do, must you choose this conflict?"

Abel's eyes were dark and haunted. "Even if the Terrans could accept the majority of us...the majority of Methuselah...Cain and Seth and I. We are the Contra Mundi." His eyes met Lilith's once again, dark and burning with both pain and anger. "I know what the Vatican calls me. We're the stuff of nightmares to them!" His shoulders stiffened. "Even if we could somehow negotiate a truce for most of our people, Cain and Seth and I...we're monsters to them." He looked away. "Even if I could turn Cain from this choice, even if I believed I had reason to try...it has gone too far. Whatever we did, the three of us will always be demons in the eyes of the Terrans. You know what they would do to us."

Abel's hands were clenched in fists, his body rigid. Even in the dim light of the moons, the lines of his face were drawn tight.

Lilith exhaled softly. "Abel...you don't know...it might not..." But there was no conviction in her voice. Esther swallowed. She knew why Lilith denied it, but she also knew what they were both thinking. Abel was most likely right. Even if they offered truce or surrender, even if the Vatican was willing to leave the majority of the Methuselah in peace, the three siblings would, most likely, be imprisoned or destroyed.

"I can't take the chance. For my own sake..." Abel's words stopped. "Cain and Seth...I will not see them suffer at Terran hands." His eyes hardened. "This is the only way left to us." He turned away, turning back towards where his troops were camped.

"Abel." The slender figure stopped at Lilith's words. Lilith regarded him silently a moment, then spoke. "You've been scouting the city of Carthage, all this time." Abel remained still. "You...you truly intend to fight us with your full strength?"

There was silence for a long moment, and Abel didn't turn around. Then he spoke, his voice barely above a whisper, but firm. "Yes."

"Then why...if you intend such a thing...why are you here, tonight?" There was tension in Lilith's voice.

Abel stiffened again. Then he spoke, his words low and hesitant. "I...if it were possible...I would have liked...not to fight you again. I...I can't..." His tone roughened and broke. "I can't even hate...what you've done. But I...cannot go back, either. So I must..."

His words broke again, a tremor passing through his body. Then he turned partially, and tilted his head up to look once more at the stars. "I...just this once, before we have to fight...I hoped I could...speak to you, just once more, without enmity. Tomorrow...we'll fight as enemies, but just now...I wished..." He shook his head, his face sorrowful in the starlight. "I'm...I'm sorry."

Lilith's own expression was sad as well. "I know." She bowed her head. "I am sorry too, Abel, but my path is as set as yours." She moved forward, then touched his face gently with one hand. Abel flinched, and his eyes closed, but he didn't draw away from the contact. "I truly think that you are wrong, that there is still hope for you, and for this world. Please, don't forget that." Abel shuddered under her words, but he didn't deny them. Lilith held him a moment longer, then leaned up and forward to plant a gentle kiss upon his cheek. "I'm sorry, Abel."

Abel exhaled explosively. "I know." Blue eyes met gold for a moment, love and pain and resolve passing between the two. Then he turned and walked away into the night.

Lilith stared after him for a long moment, then turned away. "Come." Esther nodded and followed her back toward the city, her heart aching.

Elissa met them at the gate, a full troop behind her. "Lady? Are you unharmed?"

Lilith nodded. "I am." She paused and met the Lieutenant's eyes. "I must speak with you privately. I have information."

Elissa nodded and led them to a waiting vehicle. Within ten minutes, they were back at the cathedral that served as the main base. Lilith waited until the door shut, then spoke. "They will attack tomorrow. From their position, they may not attack with the dawn, and the sun in their eyes, but I would not count on that factor. Abel knows as well as we do what the sensible course is."

Elissa nodded. "We expected the blow to fall soon." She sighed. "Is there anything further you can tell me?"

Lilith hesitated a moment, then nodded. "This will be a violent battle, Lieutenant. Every war report you have had of the Dark Destroyer in battle...you should take them all into account, and then some. He intends to come at us with all the strength of his army, and all of his own power." She considered. "Your only advantage, slim as it is, is that he will try to take the city relatively intact."

Elissa exhaled sharply. "Well, that means the citizens will be slightly better protected. Unfortunately, my soldiers will still be at risk."

"That is true." Lilith was still considering. "Given what I know...I would strongly recommend you leave the airships we have grounded unless you see absolutely no other alternative. If Abel fights on his own, he'll destroy them in the sky."

"Would you be able to protect them?" Elissa frowned.

"Not adequately. I can protect one, perhaps two. But if he fights at his full strength...as I mentioned during our briefings, Abel's power is electrical in nature. I don't know his exact radius of control, but even a close range blast of the lightning he commands would short the systems on the ship. And the concussive effects would be debilitating as well."

"Understood. We'll leave the ships grounded unless we have no other choice." Elissa ran a hand through her hair. "Damn." She studied the map, then looked back at Lilith. "I can't do anything more to prepare for this. If it's going to be as bad as you say...you've almost finished the weapon below the city, right?"

Lilith nodded. "One more day, perhaps, before it is ready."

Elissa sighed. "I'll do my best to give you that day, but you'd better hurry."

Lilith inclined her head once more. "I understand. I've had a few hours of rest. If someone can be spared to escort Esther, then I'll return to work right away."

Elissa nodded. "I'll have a sergeant assigned to guide her."

Esther swallowed. "Thank you, but it really isn't necessary. I can find my own way around."

Elissa actually smiled slightly. "I'm sure you can. But as of this moment, we're in combat readiness. You and the Nia Sancta are persons of primary importance, under my care. And while I can't be certain this is the case, given the time and energy the enemy has spent in scouting us, there may be traitors in the city. Also, if the conflict becomes as violent as we fear, there may be citizens who decide that kidnapping one of you as a bargaining chip to escape is a viable alternative. I'm confident none of my men will choose that route, however, many people within the walls are simple traders and desert dwellers. As commander, I must take every proper precaution to ensure your safety. I realize it is an inconvenience, but please, do not attempt to avoid or ignore your escort."

Esther nodded. "Of course not." She understood the rules.

Lilith spoke up again. "You should return to your rooms to rest for a little longer Esther. There probably won't be an attack for a few hours more. But when it begins, we'll need to be alert and ready. I'll send someone to you if the situation changes, all right?" She offered Esther a small smile.

Esther returned it, then bowed to both women. Elissa gestured, and a man stepped forward to salute her, then held the door open for her. She felt too unsettled to calm as she followed her escort down the corridors, but as soon as her body hit the bed, a feeling of lassitude settled over her. She was asleep in moments.

Esther woke to the sunlight of early morning shining into her room. She lay for a moment, clearing her head of the cobwebs, then rose and dressed, her mind going over the events of the past evening, and what they meant.

They'd almost certainly be in battle by nightfall, if not before. The thought made the muscles of her back tense, and a cold feeling settled in the pit of her stomach. She felt suddenly restless, desperate to know what was going on. She threw on the desert cloak Elissa had sent someone to purchase for her, then opened the door, to find a guard standing in the hall. It wasn't her escort of the night before, but from the way the young man came to attention and saluted her, he was clearly waiting for her. "Lady Esther?"

"Yes?" She checked one final time to make sure her weapons were secured in their proper places.

The young man bowed, very briefly. "If you're ready, I have orders to escort you to breakfast in the main hall, then First Lieutenant Cheraiet wishes to see you."

"Thank you." Esther swallowed. She didn't really feel like eating, but she knew if she didn't eat, she'd only feel sick and shaky later. And she knew from experience that a good hot meal would help settle her roiling emotions a little. Her gaze slipped to the door just down the hall from hers. "If it's not too much trouble, do you know if the Nia Sancta is in her rooms? I'd like to speak with her."

The soldier shook his head. "I don't know, Lady. I only came on watch an hour ago. However, the lieutenant will know." Esther nodded, then turned and headed toward the main dining hall, her escort right behind her.

Breakfast was a simple meal, dried meat, a sort of porridge, and goats milk and water. Esther ate as quickly as she could without forgetting her manners. It only took a few minutes to finish, then wash up. Within half an hour, she found herself knocking on the doors to the strategic council room.

Elissa was there, with two of her second lieutenants. She looked up when Esther entered, then smiled. "Lady Esther." She glanced at the clock hanging on one side of the wall. "Just past eight. Excellent. The Nia Sancta recommended I let you rest as much as you were able, but I have to admit I'm pleased that you rose relatively early."

Esther blushed. "Actually...I'm quite used to rising much earlier. I appreciate Lady Lilith's concern, but...well, where I was raised, we were frequently up at four and five in the morning, to tend to chores."

Elissa smiled again, a brief chuckle exiting her mouth. "Well, I shouldn't worry about it. Besides..." Her eyes turned to the map, and her expression turned grim. "Just as well you got plenty of rest now. I've a feeling we won't get much in the coming days."

Esther swallowed. "I hadn't had time to find out about the situation this morning."

Elissa shook her head. "Nothing's happened yet. The Nia Sancta is down below the city, working on the defenses I asked of her. I've one of my men and a radio unit down there, if something happens. For the rest, we've seen no sign of the enemy. I'd considered sending long range scouts to try and spy on the camp, but the last ones I sent out reported there was a lot of activity. And if they really are moving, then they'll be twice as cautious, and I can't afford to risk my men carelessly. All my best lookouts are on the walls. We'll have to hope that's enough."

Esther nodded. Elissa turned back to look at her. "I know your primary duty is to assist the Nia Sancta. However...I'd prefer not to spend extra troops where I don't need to. Therefore, I'd appreciate it if you remained with me, until something happens. Once the fighting starts, she'll be joining my team, so you'll be with her then. Is that acceptable?"

Esther nodded. "Of course it is." She swallowed. "I'm not sure how much use I'll be during a battle, but I can shoot and fight, and I do have some skill in treating wounds."

Elissa smiled. "You do your best. I have a feeling we'll need all the help we can get. But remember...your first duty is to protect your lady, and yourself. No matter what. Those are your orders, however this conflict goes. Understood, Lady Esther?"

Esther drew herself up to her full height, even short as she was. "I understand you completely, First Lieutenant."

Elissa nodded. "Excellent." She turned back to the map. "Now then...I understand you've combat experience with the Lady, but you aren't military-trained." She gestured. "I'd like to know if you see anything from a civilian's point of view, or from your past experience." Esther blinked, and Elissa gave her another small smile. "We don't always have the luxury of getting extra viewpoints in battle, but I'd be a fool to waste the opportunity. Not to mention, we'll have to deal with the locals who are trapped here, and it's not uncommon to have problems in such a situation, particularly when they get frightened. Talking with you will help prepare me for them, and if all else fails and you can be spared, I'll use you to explain things."

Esther nodded. "I understand. I had a similar assignment during our first mission in Istvan." She also remembered Virgil, pulling her to her feet. 'You are the rightful heir to the Albion throne. Come Sister Esther... no, Your Royal Highness Crown Princess Esther Blanchett.We need you.'

"Excellent." Elissa gestured to the map. "Feel free to ask me any questions you like."

They were engaged in detailed discussion of the defenses an hour later when a soldier came racing in. "First Lieutenant! We've spotted movement by the south wall."

A grim smile creased Elissa's face. "The south wall. Cunning bastard. With the sun over the ocean in the east, I'd hoped it would delay an attack until afternoon or evening, even with the UV protection. But south...it's the next best location to attack from." She looked up at the soldier manning the communications board. "Tell all units to stand by. Call down and inform the Holy Lady that the enemy is attacking, and request that she join me at the south wall." The man nodded and immediately turned to his console, setting his earpiece to his ear as he flipped switches.

A soldier came forward with a set of light-weight plate armor, and deftly fastened Elissa into it, securing the breastplate, shoulder guards and forearm guards with practiced moves. Esther spotted Elissa's blade and guns lying nearby, and picked them up. She waited until the aide was done, then held them out to the lieutenant. Elissa smiled. "Thank you." She cast a measuring eye over Esther's frame. "I'm afraid there's no armor here that could fit you, but if you wish, we can at least rig up something a little more solid. Good leather, or at least a breastplate."

Esther shook her head. "Thank you, but it isn't necessary. After all, I'm not likely to do much fighting. And anyway, I'm not used to wearing the armor. I'm afraid it would just slow me down, or make me careless."

"Fair enough." Another grin appeared briefly on Elissa's face. "Sounds about like what The Lady said." Her gaze turned to the door. "We'd best get to the wall, fast as possible." Esther nodded and followed her outside, to where a car was waiting for both of them.

Lilith met them at the wall, already wearing the simpler sari that she most often wore to battle. She was standing at the base of the wall, listening, and when she turned to them, her eyes were grave. Elissa strode up to her. "Have you been up to the lookout post?"

Lilith shook her head. "I only arrived a moment ago."

Elissa nodded, then took the stairs to the rampart two at a time, her stride just short of running. Lilith was right behind them. Esther followed more slowly, her stomach churning with anticipation. She'd been in several battles already, but usually the majority of the fight was in the air, or they arrived after the initial attack. She wasn't sure she actually wanted to see the attack, but she forced her feet to follow Lilith. Finally, she arrived at the wall. She took a deep breath, to relax, then looked out over the rampart.

Out on the sand a huge group of people were striding toward them. The heat haze and sun glinting off of the figures made it difficult to tell how many there were, or their speed. She thought they might be armored, but she couldn't really tell.

Elissa growled. "Looks like at least two battalions. But he's an arrogant bastard, just marching up like that." Her hand flicked out in a signal to the soldiers waiting there. "As soon as they're in range, we'll give them a good shot."

Lilith frowned. "Before you do, may I borrow your binoculars?" Elissa nodded and handed over a pair. Lilith lifted them to her face, and her mouth tensed in a grim line. "Lieutenant, you cannot fire on them."

Elissa blinked. "What?"

Lilith lowered the lenses from her eyes. "I thought it too early for there to be so much haze, especially in the south. And that pace...he's using the Aegis shield. The entire front line is commanding it. Anything you bombard them with will be useless, and may well be reflected back at you and your men."

Elissa cursed. "What do we do then?"

"You'll have to wait for them to arrive at the walls. At this range, it's nearly impossible to destroy the balls that produce the field. The only other option is to wait for the attack. They'll have to drop the shields then."

Elissa cursed again, but gave another signal. Then she tapped her earpiece. "Enemy on the approach. I want everyone on standby. They're shielded, so no one is to make the first move, but be prepared to attack the instant there's an opening."

Esther heard the crackle of the affirmative response. All along the wall, soldiers settled into watchful readiness. Elissa drew her own weapons, setting them alongside her at the wall, where they'd be within easy reach. Lilith looked fairly relaxed, but Esther saw the tension in her frame. She swallowed hard, then loosened her own knife in it's scabbard, and drew the guns she'd been issued, checking automatically to see that her ammunition pouch was open and ready for quick access.

She thought actual combat was awful, but waiting as the army crawled ever closer made her gut tense and her nerves knot. She almost wanted to shoot something, just to move. Even knowing the shot wouldn't do any good didn't help. All down the line, she could see soldiers shifting in place, hands moving restlessly on their weaponry, and she knew she wasn't the only one being affected.

Elissa's hand twitched on her own weapons. "Damn. He's taking his time." A grim smile touched the corner of her mouth. "He really is a smart one."

Lilith nodded. "Protected from the sun, they have no fear of the time. And Abel...the Destroyer...patience is not his usual nature, but that does not mean it is impossible for him."

Another grim smile twitched Elissa's mouth. "I'd prefer if he'd chosen a better time to develop it."

There really wasn't much humor to the statement, but Esther found herself smiling nonetheless, and relaxing just a fraction. Beside her, Lilith did the same.

The attacking army made a steady advance until they were about fifty yards out, close enough for even Esther to see the small devices producing the Aegis shield flitting over the heads of the front line. Then they stopped, coming to a standstill. Elissa frowned. "What the hell?"

A single figure strode out from the front lines, stepping into cleared space between the walls and the advancing army. Esther heard Lilith inhale sharply beside her, and knew the other woman recognized the silver hair and white jacket with its blue trim just as she did.

Abel stood still a moment, the sand and wind playing about his frame. Then his body tensed, one hand extending from his shoulder. Esther felt the crackle of static across her clothing, hand and hair as the air began to take on a charge. Comprehension hit her with the force of a bullet. She was so used to Abel removing his glasses and his hair tie when he changed, but he had neither in this time.

The air around them snapped. The figure out on the sand threw back his head. He was too far away for his words to be distinguished, but Esther saw his skin darken as the transformation overtook him, changing pale skin to dusky, blue eyes to red.

She watched in shock as the black wings and scythe exploded from his body. She'd never seen him transform in the sunlight before. In the harsh light of day, surrounded by golden sand, his appearance was even more striking, and terrifying, than it had ever been to her before. He stood, enfolded in in his wings, like darkness incarnate, a storm come to earth. She watched as the black wings extended, then rose above his shoulders.

Lightning flickered over his form, and she felt her heart leap into her throat as she realized what he was about to do. She spun around.

Lilith, fortunately, saw the danger as soon as she did. "Lieutenant, get your men off the wall now. Leave the spears standing upright, and the guns if you must, but get your men off the wall! He's going to strike!"

Elissa didn't hesitate. "Everyone, below the battlements! Now! Spears and swords, where they stand!" The soldiers leaped to obey. There wasn't anything disorganized about the retreat, but they certainly moved quickly.

Lightning gathered the air crackling about them with static. Elissa watched the last of the soldiers run down the stairs, just as lightning exploded from the figure standing in the desert, racing toward the walls. The lieutenant didn't hesitate. In one smooth motion, she grabbed Esther and Lilith's arms and shoved them in front of her, then all but jumped down the stairs, carrying them with her. She wasn't a moment too soon. They were barely halfway down when the electricity slammed into the parapet, scorching the stone and turning the spears still there to slag.

Everyone ducked instinctively, covering their ears against the boom of thunder and the explosion of overheated stone. Elissa cursed. "Damn. That man...is he trying to destroy the wall?"

Lilith shook her head. "They need the city intact, for it to be any use as an invasion base, or a settlement to bring supplies for their ships."

"Then what..." Elissa stopped, then cursed again. "Of course. Drive us from the walls, so there's no defense, and crack the stone so they can get ladders and grapple ropes set. By the time we get back up there...bloody monster." She tapped her earpiece, then ripped it free and threw it in disgust. "And the communications units are all out, overloaded by the charge." She bit her lip, then turned to her second in command. "Pass word down the line. Prepare for hand-to-hand combat, repel invaders. All weapons at the ready. We move as soon as the lightning breaks. Even if the heat melts your boots, you move."

The man nodded and shouted over his shoulder. Two others, both wearing the light armor common to runners, broke free and ran the lengths of the wall. Elissa watched them go, then turned back. "I hate to ask it of you, Holy One, but if you can break the lightning strike before they get to our walls, we'll need it. Even a second or two will do."

Lilith nodded and rose to her feet. Golden light, counter to Abel's, began to glow around her as her triple wings unfolded. She stepped away from the walls, hands brandishing the twin swords that she'd called to her. Atmospheric pressure built around her, making Esther's ears pop. Then she swung her hands up and out in an arc. Power slashed from her, crashing into the lightning with a resonant boom that made the walls shake.

Elissa was up and moving even before the noise faded. "Positions! Now!" She was halfway up the stairs before Esther even got to her feet, leading the way. "For His Holiness, and humanity!"

The men took up the cry, roaring their defiance as they surged to their feet and up the stone steps. Esther followed, ears ringing and her gun held tight in her hands.

Even as quick as they moved, there were already ladders at the wall, with Methuselah securing them so they couldn't be knocked over easily. Esther made the top of the wall just as Elissa executed a quick strike that wiped out two Methuselah, then slammed her shoulder into the heavy ladder, jostling it free. Two of her soldiers rammed the other side, and the ladder creaked, swayed, and fell back. Esther swallowed hard as she heard the screams of surprise and pain from below.

These weren't Auto-Jagers, for whom a second death was a welcome release, or at least, no worse than turning off a machine. They weren't really terrorists either, like the hardliners who'd caused Seth so much trouble. They reminded her more of Shera, or of Ion, or even Brother Petros. Warriors doing their lord's bidding. Pawns in a battle.

"Watch out!" Elissa's words snapped her out of her daze, just as a Methuselah lunged for her. Her body reacted automatically, pulling her gun up and firing two point-blank shots into her attacker. The Methuselah went down with a choked cry, convulsing in the combination of mortal wound and silver. Esther dodged back as the blood splattered over her.

Thatwasstupid. She bit her lip in consternation. This was far from her first hand to hand combat, serving at Lilith's side. It doesn't matter what role they play, or who they are really. If they're here to cause me harm, or harm my allies and friends, then I can't just sit back and do nothing. I learned that from Lady Caterina. Even Father Nightroad... even if it's a dear friend, I must fight.So why did I...?

Her gaze shifted to a black, lightning cloaked form, and to the stone walls. Of course. These were Abel's men, and Carthage...she'd learned to set aside blind hate here, made her first true Methuselah friend here, seen Radu and Ion's conflicting loyalties between love and duty. She hadn't thought about it, not really, but she remembered it.

Esther ducked another attack, then drew her gun up and fired again. No matter what, I swore I would return to them. To Ion, and Virgil, and Lady Caterina. To all my friends and family. And to...to him. Father Nightroad. Abel. No matter what I feel, or what I remember, I can't let it affect me.I will survive and go home to them! She took a deep breath, feeling her hands steady, then plunged back into the battle.

She had no idea, afterward, how long the battle lasted. Everything quickly became a haze of noise, gunfire, blades and blood. After the first few minutes, it was all she could do to keep firing, to reload and shoot, find a target, shoot again. Eventually, her bullets ran out, and she joined the soldiers wielding blades. She wasn't strong enough for head to head confrontations, but she could, and did, provide back-up. She used her relatively small frame to catch enemy soldiers off guard while they were engaged with Vatican soldiers, to deliver glancing blows to distract, or fatal ones when the opportunity presented itself. She used the angles, all the tricks she'd learned from Mary and Seth, Vanessa and Abel himself, using agility and speed as her weapons, rather than strength.

At one point, she found herself fighting practically back-to-back with Elissa. The lieutenant had discarded conventional weapons for a long spear, nearly her own height, that she used like a quarterstaff. The two of them worked together, throwing down another ladder, the fourth or fifth Esther thought she'd seen. Then the tide of battle separated them once more.

She was ducking, engaged in a two-on-one against a Methuselah with a longer blade when fire exploded in the sky. Everyone, Terran and Methuselah alike, ducked as blue and gold lightning erupted above them. Esther found herself huddling against the walls, shielding her eyes at the burst of light. She bit her lip, then glanced up.

Two figures, dark and light, shimmered above the wall, disappearing and reappearing in a haze of brightly colored fire, and the glare of the sun. Then, without warning, the dark figure broke free and plunged down, aiming straight for the walls. Soldiers scattered to both sides, and Esther saw several Methuselah form a crude wall, creating a cleared space atop the wall as their leader came in for a landing, right in front of one of the few remaining ladders.

She was too far away to hear what Abel said, but a shout went up among the Methuselah ranks. The ones nearest to Abel promptly turned and made for the ladders. Then, all across the wall, the Methuselah broke off, turning for the ladders, going back over the wall in a clear retreat. Some of the Vatican soldiers attempted to pursue, only to be met by blue lightning, and the slash of a red-black whip. Seconds later, Lilith's voice rang out over the noise of battle and retreat. "Hold!"

The Vatican soldiers paused, just as the last of the Methuselah reached the ladders. Esther watched as Abel's wings flared, then ducked as blue lightning slashed across the parapet, forming a barrier between the ladders and the Vatican personnel. Then Abel launched himself into the sky. As the last of the Methuselah warriors reached the ground, Esther saw orbs shoot into the air all along the lines, signaling the reactivation of the Aegis shield. Seconds later, blue lightning exploded once more from Abel's form, destroying the ladders, turning them into piles of debris. Esther ducked, protecting her face against the dust and flying shards of wall and ladder. When she looked up, Abel was gone.

Silence descended on the wall, broken seconds later by a single word. "Damn."

Esther turned, to see Elissa rising from a crouch a few feet away. The First Lieutenant was covered in dust and blood, some of it her own. She had a slash on one side of her face, and red trickled from under one sleeve of her armor, but she still appeared relatively unharmed.

Seconds later, Lilith came to alight on the wall beside her. Her wings flared, then folded down and vanished, as Lilith reigned in her power. Once human, the older woman stepped forward. "Lieutenant, are you all right?"

Elissa finished straightening, then waved the question away. "I'm well enough, Holy One." She glanced around, and her eyes met Esther's. "Lady Esther, are you all right?"

Esther nodded. "I'm fine." She could feel sweat and dried blood sticking her clothing to her, and a few aches and minor cuts, but nothing serious. Her hands were sore from all the shooting she'd done, and her ears ached from the noise and the lightning, but she knew from experience that those would pass, like the muscle aches from the combat. "I didn't receive any serious injuries."

Elissa nodded, then surveyed the wall, her gaze traveling over her men. Several of them were already moving, and four of her subordinates had already arrived, waiting for orders. Elissa gave each of them a quick once-over, as if checking to see they were still fit for duty, then turned back to the wall and began issuing orders. "Clear the wounded and dead off the wall. Tell the unit leaders, everyone is to take roll on their unit. List the missing, and report back to me. I'll send the lists to the medical teams, and let them sort the wounded and the dead." She looked at the number of moving and unmoving soldiers, and her lips compressed. "Pass word. Anyone who can move has to carry their own weight for now. We'll start the convoys, and get a runner to alert the medical teams and the hospital. Tell them to send assistance."

Three of the men nodded and dashed off, two going across the wall, one racing down the stairs and into the heart of the city. Elissa gestured to a fourth. "Take word to the barracks, I want a fresh unit here, on the double, to take over the wall. Then run messages to the others. I want a full report, and warn them to be on the alert."

The runner dashed off. Elissa sighed, and some of the tension left her shoulders. Then she glanced back along the wall. "We need to move our wounded to better ground as soon as possible." Lilith stepped forward and Elissa glanced up. She looked surprised, as if she'd briefly forgotten the other woman was there. "Holy One, I'll see to things here." She straightened again. "If you and your assistant like, there's a temporary command post at the base of the wall. Feel free to sit and refresh yourselves, until I can arrange some transportation."

Lilith shook her head. "No, Lieutenant. We will help you."

Esther nodded. Then a thought occurred to her. "Your command post...isn't there water and food stored there?" Elissa nodded. Esther smiled. "In that case, why don't I bring some up and begin distributing it to the men? It might not be much, but it's bound to make them feel better."

Relief lit Elissa's eyes. "That's true. It would help. There's also medical supplies, to treat minor wounds."

Lilith nodded. "Esther and I will go and gather supplies." Elissa looked as if she was going to protest, but Lilith held up a hand. "See to your men, lieutenant."

Elissa nodded, sudden relaxation and relief showing in her expression. "Thank you, Holy One." Then her gaze moved to Esther. She straightened, then offered a small bow. "Thank you both." Esther returned the gesture, then hurried down the stairs to begin collecting equipment. There was a lot of work to be done.

888888888888888

The next few hours were as exhausting as the battle, if not more so. Esther worked with Lilith, attending to the wounded who hadn't yet been moved to the medical area. She passed out water and food, then bandaged injuries and helped those who needed it down to wait for the convoy transporting those who were unable to leave. The food and drink they had was only stale water and dried rations, jerky and the like, but even that the soldiers accepted gratefully.

The medical teams and the new squadron arrived fairly early on. Elissa set half the soldiers to watching for a renewed attack. The rest helped with clean-up, and provided assistance in moving people. They also brought more substantial food, sandwiches and fresher water, and some fruit and vegetables. Some of them also worked on repairing the communications panel Abel's lightning had shorted out. It took them over an hour, but they finally re-established communications.

Elissa immediately took over the task of getting a status report. Afterward, She, Lilith, Esther, and her Sergeants gathered back at the cathedral command post for a conference.

Elissa had managed to get cleaned up, and her cuts were bandaged, but her expression was grim. "There was a skirmish at the north wall, the same time the south was attacked. It wasn't as fierce, but they got at least three ladders up before they were stopped and retreated." Air hissed through her teeth in frustration. "The numbers of dead versus wounded are still being sorted out in the Medic area, but all told, we've registered about a 30 percent loss, out of the active troops on both walls." One fist clenched. "There's no telling how many of them we wounded, but based on the numbers of the dead we've seen...perhaps 10 percent of theirs are out of action. 10 percent of the troops we're certain of."

There were murmurs all around the group, and Esther winced. True, they hadn't lost 30 percent of the total Carthage troops, but then...if Lilith and Elissa's assumptions were correct, Abel hadn't really lost 10 percent of his troops either. It was a 3-to-1 loss rate.

Elissa let the murmurs run a moment, then smacked the table to get their attention once more. "It can't be helped. We'll have to manage as we can." her gaze slipped to Lilith, and she bowed deferentially. "I would hear your thoughts on this, Holy One."

Lilith nodded, her expression grave. "These are serious attacks, however, he's also testing us. They're looking for weaknesses they can exploit. However, even so...these attacks weren't made lightly. They're taking the battle very seriously." She glanced at the strategy map one of the aides had hung on the wall. "It's my guess there will be an attack on the west wall. Later, when the sun is in our eyes."

Elissa nodded. "We'll have extra units ready for defense. Although...any leader worth their position would expect this. Are you sure he'll make such an obvious move?"

Lilith nodded. "He's always been a rather straightforward opponent. This is the only wall he hasn't yet attacked and measured the strength of. He has a great deal of power on his side, and therefore, not much need for subtlety."

Elissa made another noise of frustration. "Is there any way for us to counter?"

Lilith nodded. "One." There was a noise of surprise from one of the aides. "Based on today's attack, and how it transpired, their troops are certainly using UV gel. In that case, we can use the ocean against them."

There were more murmurs of surprise, and one of the sub-commanders spoke up. "Use the ocean against them?"

Lilith nodded. "The UV gel is water soluble. In the desert, there is little fresh water, but the salt water will do well enough." She met Elissa's eyes. "I believe that is why they chose to retreat when they did. Methuselah do not perspire easily, but they do perspire. In such a fierce battle...they were becoming vulnerable."

Elissa's eyes widened, fierce hope replacing the tiredness that showed there. "If we can dissolve their UV gel and guard the underground tunnels, we can prevent daylight attacks, by anyone save the Destroyer himself." She considered. "They'll guess our plans if we move too openly, but there are houses with subterranean passages to the sea. We can send a unit, and perhaps some civilian volunteers to bring up gallons of the sea water. Her eyes drifted over her men, and then she indicated one. "See to it." The aide saluted smartly, then left.

Lilith spoke. "They may switch to using silver nitrate solution. However, even that will weaken them. And if they use stronger armor, then it will slow them down."

Elissa nodded. "Either path still gives us slightly better odds. Any advantage we can gain is needed." She sighed, looking back at the strategy board. "Aside from keeping watch, and our water gathering detail, there's little we can do save wait and patch our wounds." She looked at her subordinates. "Any man not on duty should be sure to get a full meal, and make sure they're all adequately hydrated. I want the men on the walls to remain fully alert, and call me at the first breath of trouble." She glanced around once more. "I'll be in the Infirmary area. Runners should report there, or to this Command Center."

The men nodded and dispersed. Elissa took a deep breath, letting her shoulders relax. Esther thought she looked tired, she remembered how she'd seen a similar expression on Caterina's face, and on her own, once or twice. She wished there was something she could say, but she couldn't think of anything, at least, not anything that wouldn't raise more questions than she could answer. Then the lieutenant turned to them. "I need to go over to the Infirmary and collect the reports, to find just how much damage we've taken. Holy One, you and your assistant..."

"I will accompany you." Lilith smiled. "I was trained as a healer, when I was younger. I believe I can be of assistance."

Esther nodded. "I haven't had any training, but I'm sure I could at least wind bandages, and help clean up or deliver medicine."

Elissa smiled. "Thank you both. I'm sure our men will appreciate it, knowing the Nia Sancta is caring so well for them. At the very least...it'll boost our morale, and we need it." She sighed again, then met Lilith's eyes. "However, should you feel the least bit tired, both of you should take time to rest. This is only the beginning of the battles we'll face. And if you're correct, we should all save some energy for this evening, and probably for the night as well." She turned to gaze out the window. "If they're strong and brave enough to attack during the day, then I doubt they'll let their advantage in the night go to waste."

Lilith nodded. "I fear you are correct. However...for now, we shall do what we can." She gestured. "If you'll lead the way to the Infirmary, I shall help you tend to our wounded." Elissa nodded, and the three of them made their way to the Infirmary.

Esther spent the next two or three hours placing bandages, cleaning out wounds with antiseptic, offering comfort and aid wherever the doctors directed. Lilith worked in the emergency and intensive care section, with the more serious wounds. Elissa supervised, but Esther saw her going down the rows of resting soldiers, offering handshakes and encouragement.

After three hours, Esther was beginning to feel faint. She would have kept going, but Elissa noticed. She looked up to find the lieutenant at her elbow, smiling grimly. "You're exhausted, my lady. There's an empty office with a cot in it. Take some rest. I'll tell the Nia Sancta where you've gone."

Esther swallowed. "I'm not the only one who needs rest."

Elissa shook her head. "I've been ordered to take my own rest, as soon as they finish typing up my reports." She laid a hand on Esther's shoulder, and squeezed with rough affection. "We're the last three from the fights this morning that are still standing, so you needn't be embarrassed. I've left notice that they're to notify me here first if anything happens. So just rest. We'll get plenty of warning if battle comes to us again. And I've already been informed that the water collection is going well." She squeezed Esther's shoulder again, then released her with a light push on the back. "Go rest, Lady Esther. It's an order."

Esther nodded. "All right." She made her way to the room Elissa had indicated, and stepped inside, then collapsed gratefully on the cot. She didn't even have time to think of kicking off her shoes before she was fast asleep.

She awakened to the feeling of a hand on her shoulder, and opened her eyes to find Elissa standing over her. Alarm washed through her at the grim expression on the lieutenant's face. She sat up immediately. "What's happened?"

"The west wall's being attacked. I've already informed the Nia Sancta. She said to inform you, and give you the choice of remaining here, or going to the wall."

Esther was already rubbing the sleep from her eyes. "I'm coming."

Elissa nodded. "Hurry." Then she turned and disappeared through the doorway.

Esther splashed water on her face, checked her weapons, then dashed out after the lieutenant. Lilith was already waiting as she raced through the doors, she and Elissa, settled in a car. Esther jumped in, then held on tight as Elissa gunned the engine.

Within less than ten minutes, they were at the wall. One of the aides standing at the base was opening the door before Elissa even shut off the car. The lieutenant flung herself out. "Report."

"They moved fast. With the sun behind them, and the armor they're wearing... we didn't see them until they got too close."

"Right. Have you deployed the water teams?"

The aide shook his head. "Not yet. The enemy forces are at the base of the wall."

Elissa nodded. "All right. Tell all soldiers to grab their buckets and stand ready. When I give the signal, soak them."

The aide turned and raced up the stairs. Elissa, Esther and Lilith followed behind. Esther winced as the late afternoon sun caught her square in the eyes. She flung up a hand to protect her vision, then moved forward and glanced cautiously over the wall. Then she jerked backward as a grappling hook came sailing over it, latching onto the stone.

Similar hooks flew up all over the wall. Each one had been bound, not to rope, but a sturdy metallic cable, the kind Esther had seen used to secure landing ships, here and in her own time. It was almost impossible to cut through it. She heard one soldier curse as he tried, and only succeeded in dulling the edge of his blade.

Elissa motioned, and soldiers came forward with buckets of water. She waited until they were within a foot of the parapet, then held up her hand in a 'cease' gesture and shook her head. "Wait until they start climbing. I want as many as possible on the ropes before we counter-attack."

Esther swallowed hard. The walls were at least 30 feet up, she thought they might be higher than that, even. She knew that most Methuselah could easily handle such a fall, but if it were combined with the sun's burning...she met Lilith's eyes for a brief moment, and saw the same understanding there, of how terrible it could be. But even so...

This was a battle. These were enemies. However she felt, these people were trying to conquer and kill them. Esther took a deep breath and forced herself to focus, gripping the gun Elissa had given her new ammunition for. She couldn't let her sympathies get the better of her. She focused on her memories of fighting Rosenkreutz in the garden of the Palace, of Death Hunters in Byzantium, and felt her hands and nerves steady.

A few feet away, grapnels clinked as Methuselah began climbing, putting tension on the lines. Elissa tensed, coming up in a half crouch. Esther could see the adrenalin, calculation and anticipation in her eyes. Putting a hand to the wall, Esther could feel the faint vibrations of feet in stone, hear the near-silent breathing of the climbers, and the soft noises of friction in cloth and ropes and armor as they climbed. She dared a quick peek over the wall, then ducked as someone on a secondary guard line fired at her.

The quick peek had been enough to see that the first Methuselah were already halfway up, and several ropes supported a second or even a third climber. Esther swallowed and looked at Elissa. The blond lieutenant shook her head. "Wait...wait a little..."

Esther swallowed, listening to the climbers. Her heart was pounding in her chest. The strain of waiting was driving her nearly mad.

The grapnels clinked as the first Methuselah came within arm's length of the wall top. Elissa moved suddenly, her hand and staff flashing down in a signal as her shout reverberated the length of the wall. "Now!"

Almost as one, the soldiers erupted from their positions and dumped their buckets over the side. Esther felt her stomach twist as blood-curdling screams rose from the other side, all along the parapet. Most of the attacking force had worn lighter armor, to aid in climbing and maneuverability, and it made the counter-attack all the more devastating. The Methuselah closest to Esther howled as sunlight burned suddenly across his exposed face and arms, then toppled backward, writhing as he fell.

Elissa signaled again, and a second wave of soldiers dumped water over the side, drenching those who'd still been on the ground, or lower on the ropes. More screams echoed from the base of the wall, and Esther could smell the searing flesh.

Then something black, like storm-clouds and midnight, flashed across the wall, racing the length of the Methuselah line. Several soldiers gasped and jerked back in shock as the darkness blew past them. Esther caught a brief flash of black and white and crimson, and the faintest edge of blue. It was barely a glimpse, but she didn't need more to know who it was. Abel.

In his wake, Methuselah fell to their knees, toppling to the ground. The screams of pain stopped, leaving both armies frozen in shock. For a long moment, there was silence, broken only by the rough breathing of the Vatican soldiers, and the muted groaning of the Methuselah nursing injuries.

Then, from the desert, lightning flashed, bright enough to rival the setting sun, followed by a thunderclap so intense it shook the walls of the city, and left Esther's ears ringing. Several soldiers fell to their knees.

"Merciful God..." Esther looked up from where she'd crouched to see Elissa, staring out at the desert with her face gone absolutely white. Hesitantly, she stood and followed the other woman's gaze.

Abel hung suspended in mid-air, surrounded by a corona of pulsating blue power. He was several yards from the wall, but even at that distance, Esther could see that the top half of his uniform had disintegrated. His wings were spread to full extension, his scythe in his hands. As Esther stared, the power pulsed, and a scream echoed over the desert, a long, terrible cry of mingled pain, fury, and raw power.

Esther felt her blood freeze. She knew that sound, knew that scream. Abel had screamed that way when he'd confronted Radu. When the Crusnik had overwhelmed his conscious mind, driven him nearly mad with power.

"What in hell is he doing?" Elissa's voice was tense. She'd taken a pair of binoculars and slipped a pair of light protection lenses over them. Her face was pale, and her voice held only a shadow of it's previous commanding tone. "There's...something...it looks like he's absorbing something...but what in the Holy Father's name...?" Esther felt another chill sweep through her. She looked over the wall.

Under the glare of the sun, a red-black pool...almost a river, had formed, snaking across the desert toward the figure outlined in blue fire. Esther quickly took a pair of glasses from a nearby soldier. Against the glare of the sun, a dark column flowed upward around Abel. Esther clapped a hand to her mouth. She didn't have to see it to know the liquid was being absorbed into Abel's wings, his body. She didn't have to touch it, or see any closer, to know what it was. It'sblood.He's...he'sabsorbingalltheirblood.Likehedidthatonetime,withIon. She could feel her hand starting to shake. She'd heard of his powers, and the Professor had explained it, but she'd never seen him do anything like this.

"Abel, what are you thinking?" Lilith's quiet voice snapped her out of her impending panic. The older woman had moved to the wall, her eyes dark and her expression tense with anxiety. She followed Esther's gaze, and held out her hand for the glasses. She looked for a moment, then dropped them, her eyes widening with trepidation and a flash of fear. "Abel...you couldn't think to..."

"Holy One." Elissa came to stand beside them, concern written over her face, though she still managed to keep a somewhat calm demeanor and tone. "What is this? In all the reports I've read...I've seen no mention of anything like this. That liquid...can you tell me what the Destroyer is doing?"

Lilith's voice was steady, but Esther could hear the faint note of alarm in it. "He's absorbing their blood. The blood of the wounded Methuselah. It grants him greater power...and other things. It is how a being such as him obtains greater strength." Lilith's hands clenched where they rested on the stone wall. "But at this rate...in conditions like this..."

Abel screamed again, a howl of pure, violent madness. Lilith paled. "He's lost control of his powers." She stepped back, her gaze sweeping the wall as she pushed Elissa away from her. "Give me room, Lieutenant, and get your soldiers off the wall and into shelter quickly!"

Elissa hesitated. "Holy One..."

"Go!" Lilith's voice snapped with commanding authority. The air around her began to charge, her eyes changing from gold to blood red. Power gathered around her, wings and sword flaring into existence. "You must get out of the way!" Crimson eyes found Esther's for a moment. "Esther, help her."

Esther nodded and took two steps sideways, seizing Elissa's hand as Lilith launched herself off the wall. "Please, come with me. We need to get the soldiers to safety."

Elissa didn't move. "To abandon my position..."

Esther nodded. "I understand. But if you stay here, you will only die, and your men with you. Please...come with me." There was another thunderclap of power, and she looked out over the desert to see gold and blue, framed in crimson. She knew why Elissa didn't want to leave her post, she'd felt the same way so often. But still... "You must have faith in the Nia Sancta, and her ability to handle this."

Elissa stared at her a moment, then motioned an aide over. "Sound the retreat. Tell the soldiers to descend to the base of the wall and await further orders. Make sure you post lookouts on some of the buildings across the way, in case of a disaster." The aide saluted and began delivering orders. Elissa turned back to Esther. "I hear your words. However, I will remain to guard the Nia Sancta's back. That is my sacred duty, as an officer of the Church, and commander of this city."

Esther nodded. She really couldn't find any argument against that, and she didn't really want to, anyway. As the soldiers filed past them in an orderly descent, the two women turned to watch the sky.

The red light of the sun was fading, but silhouetted against it were orbs of gold and blue fire, faintly surrounded by a red-black haze. Even with the binoculars, Esther couldn't tell if the haze was the after-image of Abel's scythe, or the blood he'd drawn to him in his feeding. But it was the least of her concerns. Even with both of them several yards out, she could feel the energy radiating from the battle, and saw patches of sand melted to glass by the fierce heat of the combat.

Movement caught her eyes. Below, the Methuselah who were least hurt had thrown up an Aegis shield. Those Methuselah who hadn't gotten soaked or injured falling were wrapping make-shift covers over their companions, while others organized a retreat. Moments later, they began moving, their path angled away from both the walls of Carthage and the fighting pair. Esther and Elissa shared a glance. In other circumstances, particularly as outnumbered as they were, it would have been a good opportunity to reduce the enemy numbers further. But even setting aside honor for strategy, they couldn't penetrate the Aegis shield, and there were more pressing matters to worry about. Her gaze turned once more to the figures in the sky.

The pulsing light was darting about the sky, careening all over the place as the two fought. It was too distant for Esther to make out what was happening, even if the corona of power surrounding both of them hadn't been too bright. But what little she did see made her heart sink.

The movements of the light kept going back and forth, but always the blue sphere, Abel's energy, was moving forward. It was as if Lilith were on the defensive, dodging, but not attacking. And the fire about Abel was far brighter. She couldn't tell if it was because Lilith was restraining her powers, or because this time, having taken blood from his soldiers, Abel was the stronger.

There was another thunderclap of power. A deep sapphire bolt of energy struck the gold, sending it hurtling backward, towards the wall. Elissa caught Esther's hand. "Move!"

Both women dodged aside. Seconds later, Lilith slammed into the wall with a crunch of broken stone and worse. Esther saw her cough blood. Even knowing that the Crusnik would heal any internal injuries almost immediately, the sight made her gasp.

With another inhuman scream, Abel attacked. Lilith managed to push off, then get enough lift to vault over the wall. The stone between them checked his advance, forcing him to redirect his strike. Then they were both on the parapet, swords and scythe locked in a deadly conflict as power sparked around them. Esther swallowed hard. Even squinting against the glare, she could see that Lilith was on the defensive, and that the impact with the wall wasn't the first serious blow she'd taken. She was fighting well, and almost holding her own, but she wasn't a match for the madness that possessed Abel.

"Shit!" With a sudden curse, Elissa broke from her stance. "Damn monster!" She reached out, seized a spear that had been left on the wall, then threw it full force at Abel.

He'd started to turn at the sound of their voices, and Esther knew he saw the weapon coming. But still, it caught him hard in the chest, slamming deep into his body. Abel staggered, the red eyes widening at the impact. One hand released the scythe to grasp the spear shaft. He seemed...almost startled. He straightened, slowly, then pulled the spear from his body. Blood pooled, then was reabsorbed, leaving him completely whole once more. Crimson eyes turned to face the two women.

Esther's heart was pounding in her chest. She'd almost forgotten, how terrified she'd been to see Abel when he lost control. But this...That is... that is not... that is not the Father. The words repeated in her mind, threatening to send her into a panic.

Elissa backed up a step, pushing Esther with her, and snatched another spear from the wall. "You bloody...monster..." She sounded strong, but Esther sensed the same fear she battled in the undercurrents of the lieutenant's voice.

Abel turned fully to face them. "You...you are..." He took a step toward them, fangs and wings glittering as blood-red as his eyes in the last rays of the sunlight.

"They are human." Esther didn't see how, but Lilith was suddenly between them and the advancing Crusnik, her own eyes glowing. The wounds and blood from the impact had healed on her as well.

Abel jerked back, his scythe coming up in a defensive stance. Aggression flared in the red eyes, madness and predatory instinct recognizing another predator. Lilith's swords came up into guard position, just blocking a swipe from the whip end of the weapon.

With a snarl, Elissa leaped forward, knocking the weapon away. "Damn monster!"

Abel blocked the blow of the staff, then snapped his arm around, claws outstretched. But Lilith caught him, not with a weapon, but with her own hand. "Enough!Abel!" Her tone was one Esther recognized, from the station. Love and anger mixed, and a healthy dose of command. It was the tone Lilith had used to stop fights between the two brothers.

Abel blinked, startled. For the first time, a measure of sanity came back to his eyes. "You...I...Lilith?" His body relaxed, just the slightest bit, and Esther found she could breathe again. Abel blinked again, genuinely confused. "What...what am I..." His gaze went to Lilith again, and his eyes widened at the bloodstains and rents in her clothing. "I didn't... Lilith... did I...?"

Elissa shoved herself between them, spear at the ready. "Don't play ignorant, Destroyer." Her eyes blazed with anger, and contempt. "A monster who feeds on his own soldiers...don't act as if you don't know what you did, hunting your own men and attacking the Nia Sancta." She struck his hand away from where Lilith held it. "I will not let you touch her again. Filth like you isn't even worth the honor of combat with the Lady."

Abel actually staggered, as if she'd done far more than knock his hand away. Crimson eyes sought Lilith's, a kind of desperation in them. "I... the soldiers... Lilith... I didn't... did I...this..." His eyes drifted over her frame once more, and Esther saw something akin to horror in them. "I...did this?"

"You didn't kill them Abel. But you could have. Your own people. Or do you still hold the world in that much contempt?" Lilith's voice was level, even, stern as stone.

"No.I...Ididn't..." Abel backed away, his eyes dark with a mix of emotions. Anger, shock, pain, horror. His gaze fixed on Lilith for a long moment, then he turned and leaped off the wall, soaring back over the desert.

Lilith watched him go, then sighed and released her own transformation. Elissa was at her side in an instant. "Holy One? Should I call a doctor? That impact..."

"No. I am...I am all right." Lilith smiled reassuringly. "I heal quickly from such things, lieutenant. There's no need to worry."

Elissa sighed. "If you are certain. But that monster..."

"Not a monster." Lilith looked over the desert. Abel had already disappeared into the twilight. "That is...perhaps the most human Abel has been in a long time."

Elissa made a noise of disgust. "He drank the blood of his own men."

"So he did." Lilith was still gazing over the sand. "But...how many would have died, had he not?"

Esther and Elissa blinked. Esther spoke softly. "I'm sorry. I don't...I don't understand."

A small smile curved Lilith's lips. "Sunlight activates the Bascillus to unheard of levels. They go berserk and destroy the host from within. To drink their blood was to weaken them, but Abel also absorbed all the extra power that would have burned them to death in their own skin. A small act of mercy, and a double-edged one, but it was a deliberate act of care. Had it not been for their numbers, had Abel himself been stronger, he might have managed. And in the end, the madness burned out of him in combat."

Elissa snorted. "More likely, you weakened him, and he realized he didn't have a chance, three on one." Her hand tightened on her staff. "I know now, the Destroyer can be wounded..." She sighed, and Esther saw a flicker of fear in her eyes. "But the way he healed...he really is a monster."

"True. But...there is humanity in him still."

Elissa shook her head. "I doubt it. He might have been startled, or concerned about losing too many of his troops, but I do not think he cares for more than that. All I saw in his eyes was hunger and destruction."

The small smile widened. "Hmmm...interesting. Are you willing to wager on that?" Lilith looked at the lieutenant. "You asked me to create a doomsday weapon, if the city is overtaken."

"I did." Elissa nodded. "I fear we'll need it."

Lilith tapped a finger to her lips thoughtfully. "A wager then, on the Destroyer's humanity. I will modify the Doomsday weapon. The Ibilis, my sandstorm. If Abel is human enough to spare the inhabitants, even if he defeats us, then the weapon can be stopped. If he destroys every living thing here, he will in turn be destroyed."

Elissa hesitated. "What you ask..." Then a grim smile curved her mouth. "Well, it doesn't matter anyway. By the time it becomes a question, we'll be dead." She met Lilith's eyes. "I'll take your wager, Holy One. After all..." She turned to face the city, bathed in twilight. "My first duty is to protect this city and it's people. I won't surrender quietly to the invaders, but I'd rather not condemn them to die if there's any chance."

Lilith nodded. Elissa looked over the sand. "It'll take time to for them to regroup and cleanse their wounds. There will likely be a night attack, but I doubt it'll be for several hours. There's time for you to rest, Nia Sancta. You and Lady Esther should take advantage of that."

Lilith shook her head. "I think I will return to the Ibilis. It will only take a few hours to program what I need. And that will mean it is finished and ready for use."

Elissa nodded. "And you, Lady Esther?"

Esther swallowed. "Well, if it isn't too much trouble, I think I'd like to go with Lady Lilith. If you don't think I'll be in the way." She looked up at her protector.

Lilith smiled. "No. You won't be." She glanced at the sky. "But we should probably get busy." She inclined her head. "Lieutenant, you will call me if my presence is needed?"

"I will." Elissa turned. "I need to see to my men now. I'll speak with you later, Holy One."

Lilith gave the other a slight nod, then descended the stairs. Esther followed her.

It took them about half an hour to reach the cathedral. They stopped to wash up and change clothes, then Esther followed as Lilith led her down into the lower city tunnels and catacombs. She felt exhausted but, more than that, she was curious. She knew, during the Ibilis incident of her own time, that Abel had encountered something. Something that had been directing his actions when she'd joined him. After all, he'd told her exactly what to do, but also that she was the only one who could do it. She wanted to know if the wager she'd just heard had anything to do with it.

Lilith made her way to the computer and spent the next several minutes typing in a series of commands. At one point, she stopped, stepping backwards into a circle of light that Esther recognized as a 3-D image scanner. Then she typed a few more commands. After twenty minutes of typing, she stepped back and activated the holographic scanner once more. She stood a long moment, then spoke. "Hello Abel."

There was a pause, while the computer flashed rapidly through a series of codes. Lilith waited, until the prompt screen came up. Then she spoke again, her eyes sad and thoughtful. "It's a pity, isn't it? If you're viewing this file, then they've surrendered Tunis. I wonder...was Elissa able to evacuate safely?"

A sad smile crossed her lips, then she sighed. "Ibilis. Our demon of the desert. I did not create it by choice. After all, Elissa and I rebuilt this town with our own hands. But...if it's to become yours...better to destroy it with our own hands."

She sighed again, sadness overwhelming her gaze for a moment. Then a spark of life entered her eyes. "Ah, but Elissa and I made a bet, Abel, that perhaps you...still retained a human soul. And so...if you are the one to take the city, to capture Tunis...I would leave the halt code for you, on one condition."

A sad smile crossed her face, and she held up one finger. "You might have...must have rescued at least one of this town's inhabitants. A Terran. If you've already annihilated them all...Elissa wins the bet. You and the Methuselah who attacked this town shall drown in a sea of sand. But save one...just one person...A Terran..."

She smiled again. "If you spared even one Terran, one of the people you hate, then I win the bet." She held up her hand, palm outward. "Bring that fortunate Terran here, to do a palm print authentication. Then you shall have the halt command for Ibilis."

She shook her head. "By yourself, you are useless. Crusnik or Methuselah...you will never be able to activate the halt code. Only the Terran, the people you hate, can save you."

Infinite sadness and love entered her eyes, a warm tenderness that made Esther's heart ache. "Abel...I know...you love this world." She spread her arms, as if trying to encompass everything within sight, or as if to embrace someone in front of her. "You've made this world your enemy, but that is simply the proof of your love. You love...and you believe...you were so hurt...when you thought you'd been betrayed, so you made the world your enemy."

Esther felt tears sliding down her face at the words, and the emotion in them. Up on the dais, Lilith raised her eyes in a sad, sweet smile, full of gentle warmth. "Even so, Abel...I know your soul, and you still love this planet. This world...is not your enemy. And...you can start over, any time. Never, ever forget that." She held the recording a few more moments, a soft, gentle smile of farewell on her face, then gestured to cut it off.

The holographic light cut off. Lilith stepped forward and typed in a few more commands. Esther watched, tears sliding down her face, both for the woman before her, recording such gentle words, and for the man she knew had received them, nine hundred years later. She swallowed back more tears and the lump in her throat as Lilith turned away from the console. "It's done." The red-haired Crusnik came down the steps, then stopped beside her. "Esther, are you all right?"

Esther nodded. "Yes. I'm fine. I was just...thinking about the Father, that's all."

Lilith nodded. "I understand." She glanced back at the dais. "We should get some rest."

The aches of battle, exhaustion, and emotional shock were making themselves known. Esther simply nodded silently, and followed Lilith from the chamber.

88888888888888

Esther got some sleep in her rooms. She was woken about midnight, to the news that there was another attack coming, and that Lilith and Elissa had asked for her to stay in the communications center and assist with passing on information. The attack appeared to be on all three land-side walls, and since Elissa and Lilith couldn't possible cover all of them, it was vital that they be kept up to date. Esther did as she was asked, and spent the next several hours running messages, preparing supplies and helping load them, and doing her best to support them. Like everyone else, she heaved a sigh when dawn finally signaled the end of the fighting, for a little while.

The next two days were much the same. Every so often, Abel would attack. He never went the same way twice, never used the same tactics. The only consistent factor was that his troops employed the Aegis shield in every assault, making long-range weaponry nearly useless. And he had, apparently, had troops on a silver nitrate solution. It wasn't as effective as Lord Walsh's, but it worked well enough for them to mount daylight attacks. And despite the Methuselah's reduced strength and speed, their numbers and equipment made up for it. And two or three times, Abel made attacks using the tunnels, and once from the sea, the second night. Esther helped where she could. Sometimes she accompanied Lilith. Sometimes she stayed at the communications center, and sometimes, particularly as the battles wore on, she served in the infirmary wing, helping bandage wounds and tend to the soldiers, or passing out food and water rations to the men.

Elissa did attempt to use the combat ships. Unfortunately, between the Aegis shield and Abel's own counter-attack, the results were just as dismal as Lilith had feared they would be.

It was a terrible, grueling ordeal. Esther felt her nerves were being scrapped raw, and she was exhausted from the strain of always being on guard. She could see, in the faces of the soldiers, that they were facing the same plight.

There was limited food inside the walls, and even thought they still had plenty, Elissa had started rationing the first day of the siege, to ensure their supplies lasted as long as possible. None of them were getting enough sleep, being constantly on guard. Esther managed brief naps every so often, but they were fitful, restless, a part of her still listening for the next call to arms. Some soldiers, right after a battle, were so exhausted they simply collapsed, but the rest of them, she knew, slept the same way. Elissa slept even more fitfully than she did, and she wasn't sure Lilith even slept at all.

Even more disheartening than the strain was the number of wounded. Every attack brought more men to the infirmary. Some wounds were easy to treat, but far too many were in severe or critical condition. Esther and Lilith did what they could, as did the medical officers, but there were so many. They didn't even really have enough equipment to deal with all the patients by the end of the second day of fighting. The formal priests from the cathedral were an almost constant presence. They offered comfort, but far too often, Esther heard their voices rise in the prayers for the dead. The sound broke her heart, and when she slept, she dreamed far too often of the funerals she had attended. Bishop Laura's. Abel Nightroad's. And sometimes, she dreamed of Lilith's death, and of standing beside a silver-haired figure who choked the prayers past the tears in his voice. She woke from those dreams unwilling to return to sleep.

Despite the conflict, she couldn't help worrying about Abel. She knew from Lilith that he was still leading the troops, and she suspected he was getting as little rest as she and Lilith were, if not less. More than once, she'd seen the electric blue fire, the lightning from the ground that indicated Abel was actively fighting in his Crusnik, form, and almost always, it was joined by Lilith's gold. The second attempt through the tunnels had actually resulted in a partial collapse, when the two of them clashed. However, for most of the combats, he seemed content to remain in his human form. She wondered if he was saving his strength, or being cautious of his soldiers.

Sunset of the third day found her joining Elissa and Lilith in the strategy room. The First Lieutenant looked haggard, pale. Her uniform was wrinkled, stained with dust and worse, and Esther suspected it was the cleanest uniform she had. Her expression was haggard, and her eyes haunted. Esther knew she didn't look much better. At the very least, the clothing she was wearing she'd changed into over 24 hours ago, and slept in at least once. Lilith looked better than both of them, but she was still slightly disheveled, and her face was drawn with exhaustion and grief.

Elissa sighed, the sound too loud in the mostly empty room. They'd sustained enough casualties over the past days that her aides and second-in-command were already with their root units, filling in gaps where other commanding officers had fallen. Esther knew there were other units where hasty promotions had been made, so the men wouldn't be left without a leader.

Elissa's eyes flickered over the map, and her mouth tightened. "Nearly sixty percent casualties, in just three days. And their force was at least twice what we estimated." She cursed. "How...how the hell...I'd hoped that at least they'd begin collapsing from lack of food out there." She sighed. "The reports all say that they need blood. We've kept the civilians safe, and the soldiers as best we can...so..."

Lilith sighed. "Those on the battlefield have plenty of opportunity. Beyond that...it is possible to create an artificial supply that will work well enough. I thought I'd taken that information with me, but it possible that someone remembered how to create it. If so..."

"Damn!" Elissa slammed a hand into the table. "At this rate...we'll barely hold them one more day." She snarled again, frustration and anger in her eyes. "If we could at least defeat their leaders...but it's hard to even tell who the commanders are, apart from the Destroyer, and nothing we do to himhas any affect." She snarled again. "If there were only some way to eliminate that monster from the field..."

Lilith shook her head. "I've done my best, Lieutenant, but he is not an easy foe, and I fear I don't have the training he does. Indeed, the only person I ever knew who could match him...will not raise a hand against him."

Elissa blinked. "Who? Perhaps...if we made it clear..."

Lilith shook her head again. "His brother. The Contra Mundi, Enemy of the World...the one for whom he fights."

"God in Heaven...two such monsters...in the same command..." Elissa sagged at the table. "Even if we win this one..." She trailed off.

There was silence between them, broken by the shuffle of frantic steps. Seconds later, a communication officer raced into the room. "First Lieutenant! There's an attack on the south wall! They're using a steel ram this time!"

"Shit!" Elissa grabbed the staff she'd begun carrying after the first day. "Holy One..."

Lilith nodded. "I will keep watch from the sky."

Elissa was buckling on her officer's blade, and the light armor she'd been wearing, since it was easier to get into, and faster. "Lady Esther..."

"I'll stand by in communications and tell the Infirmary to prepare." Elissa nodded, then raced out the door, following the officer. Esther and Lilith were only a step behind.

The fight was brutal, lasted several hours, and took a heavy toll. They'd had to stop the ram from breaching the wall, but the soldiers forced to do so were easy targets for Methuselah weapons. Elissa finally sent a small battalion out a side gate to attack from the rear. They were successful in their mission, but three-quarters of the battalion died in the assault, and several more were transported to the infirmary with severe wounds. Two of them were critical from shrapnel where they'd blown the ram to smithereens, and been unable to avoid the blast in the midst of battle. Esther helped attend their wounds as well as she could, but she could feel her heart sinking.

Elissa and Lilith arrived an hour after the wounded soldiers. The lieutenant was limping, her face cut and at least three gashes in her armor. She gazed around the hospital room, her face grim. "Three battalions worth, or nearly, that we lost, and three more who will be wounded for days. Damn it."

"Lieutenant..." The call was weak, barely audible, but they all heard it. Elissa turned. The speaker was one of the severely injured from the battalion. He'd taken a bad cut from a Methuselah sword, shoulder to hip, while defending his comrades. The Methuselah in question had probably gotten inside his range, then struck him. It was hard to say. Esther felt tears sting her eyes. His comrades had brought him back, and the doctors had done their best for him, but the wounds and blood loss were severe, and his chances weren't high.

Elissa immediately moved to the bed. "Rest solider." She put a comforting hand on his unwounded shoulder.

"Lieutenant...did we succeed? The ram...I didn't see it..."

"You did well, soldier. You protected your comrades, and the enemy's weapon is in pieces. You did well." Elissa squeezed his shoulder, comfort and command in one. "Expect a commendation in your file, soldier. In fact, I'll take your name to the Pope himself."

The soldier managed a weak smile. "Thank you, Lieutenant. God...bless..." His voice trailed off, and he sank back, in a faint, his breathing shallow.

Elissa nodded, and made a quick sign of the cross over the man. "God bless, soldier." The three of them watched silently, as the man faded away. Two minutes later he exhaled, and his chest didn't rise again. Elissa bent and pulled the sheet gently over his face. "You fought well. God willing, I pray you find peace, and a safe journey." Then she turned away and gestured a doctor over. The doctor nodded, and Elissa left without another word.

Esther and Lilith remained behind, tending to the wounded. It took several hours, and it was heartbreaking work, but Esther couldn't leave them. After that, she took rations to the men coming off duty, and going on. Finally, everyone was cared for, and she returned to her rooms, to collapse in exhaustion.

She woke with Lilith shaking her shoulder. She blinked, surprised at being disturbed, then saw the expression on the older woman's face. "What's wrong?"

"The First Lieutenant. Elissa. I was informed by her men a few minutes ago that she hasn't been seen for some time. She's not in the conference room. She's not in her quarters, and the report is that she came out to the wall, some hours ago, but no one has seen her since. Nor has she returned to visit the wounded. A nurse took her the reports of the wounded and dead, but she wasn't in her office."

Esther felt her heart plummet. Abruptly, she remembered the end of her history lessons, regarding Carthage, and the end of the story Abel had told her, regarding the Ibilis. After three days and nights of defending the city against vampire attacks, the Queen sacrificed herself to defeat them. "Oh no."

She scrambled out of bed. "We have to find her."

They emerged in the main hallway, and nearly ran over a frantic soldier. The man stopped, stumbled, then drew himself up into attention stance. "Holy One! I was seeking you!" He swallowed hard. "The enemy commander...the one they call the Destroyer...he's out by the west wall. Looks like he's in full battle mode."

Lilith bit her lip. "Abel..." Then she nodded. "I will come with you." The soldier nodded and spun back around, moving at a run. Lilith and Esther followed him, racing through the narrow streets to the wall. Out on the sands, a figure stood, outlined within the light of dawn, and black wings. Lilith looked, then turned to the most senior officer on the wall. "Guard the wall, and send runners to search the city, for First Lieutenant Cheriaet. I will go to meet him." She stepped up to the wall, her own wings unfurling.

Esther caught her hand. "Wait. I'll come with you."

Lilith hesitated a moment, then nodded and pulled her up. Esther held on tight as they leaped from the wall, trying not to squeeze as she felt them both falling, felt Lilith's wings trap the air. As their descent leveled out, she cracked her eyes open and realized Lilith had planned a flight path to land directly in front of Abel. Seconds later, they settled to the ground.

Abel didn't move as they approached. He simply remained, his wings folded about him. It was odd: Esther had rarely ever seen him take such a protective stance. Crimson eyes tracked them as they landed. After a moment, Lilith released her transformation and stepped forward. "What have you come for?"

Abel's eyes flickered, inexplicable emotion in them. Then he took a deep breath. "I...I am...sorry." Then his own transformation melted away, and Esther gasped, tears stinging her eyes.

Abel's arms cradled Elissa's still body. She was smeared with blood, the staff in her hand broken and cracked. Esther felt tears streaking her cheeks. There was no way, with those wounds, that Elissa could still be alive. Beside her, Lilith went rigid. "Abel..."

"She attacked me. I don't know how she even got into camp. She must have taken one of the uniforms...we found a dead perimeter guard missing a jacket. But in the dawn...it's difficult. She came right for me." For the first time, Esther saw the slashes in Abel's own uniform, the dried blood that stained the edges. "So fast...and I wasn't expecting it." A bitter smile crossed his face. "If I weren't what I am...the...monster...that I am...she would have succeeded. I didn't intend...but I was so startled...I just...the Crusnik...once first blood was drawn...I simply..."

"Give her to me." Lilith held out her arms.

Abel stepped forward, and laid the lieutenant's body gently in Lilith's grasp. His face was drawn, hollow, and tired in the early morning light. "She didn't even...I didn't get time to ask her name even. It was over so fast..."

"Her name is First Lieutenant Elissa dar Cheraiet. Commander of the city of Carthage, in service to His Holiness, and the Vatican."

Abel nodded. "First Lieutenant Elissa dar Cheraiet." He gazed at her. "I remember, when I went mad, two days ago. She threw a spear at me." His hand touched the place where he had been wounded. His gaze came up, blue eyes meeting golden. "She was protecting you. Saving you...from me."

Lilith nodded. "She did." her eyes held his. "Will you attack this city, knowing it's commander is dead?"

"No." Abel shook his head. "She is right...I am a monster. But...no." He shook his head. "If we'd succeeded with the ram last night...I would have. But after that..." He shook his head. "I..."

His head tilted back to look at the vanishing stars and the red and gold of sunrise. His voice was barely a whisper when he spoke. "I don't wish to fight you. But, even if I can put my feelings for you aside...we've sustained heavy losses. The men under my command...they're demoralized, weary, and we're running low on blood supply, even with the heat of battle. It's been three days, and we haven't even breached the walls. And after this...a Terran who was bold enough to attack me, and even succeeded in landing a blow..." The bitter, weary smile returned. "You could say, she truly did defeat me after all."

Lilith gazed at him a moment. "What will you tell Cain?"

"The truth. And also..." He hesitated. "Her last breath, Lieutenant Cheraeit told me there was a doomsday weapon hidden under the city."

Lilith nodded. "A sandstorm. Only a handful of people have the activation code."

Abel nodded. "I will tell him of that. We can't fight a sandstorm."

Lilith relaxed. "You should go. I must take the lieutenant to her people. They will wish to see her buried with the honor she deserves."

Abel exhaled. "Yes. I would...I would wish that too." He gazed at Elissa's form. "I...I couldn't like her. We were enemies. But I...I did respect her. She was...a good warrior. And..." Bitterness and something like kindness seemed to mix in his face for a moment. "She was a good friend to you. I am glad...she was there to protect you." His gaze lifted to the walls. They were too far away for the soldiers to make them out, or for him to see them. He sighed. "I cannot...properly apologize to her. But I...tell them...tell them, her men, that she won the fight. You can tell them she defeated me if you like. And..." His voice went hoarse. "When you bury her...bury her underground. Far underground." His eyes met Lilith's once more. "If you don't...Cain may...Cain may attempt to destroy her grave, or her monument, to demoralize you. To hurt you. Bury her and seal the path. She deserves that much respect of me, at least."

Lilith nodded. "I will bury her with with the Ibilis, near the weapon she asked of me, under the city."

Abel held her gaze for a long moment, then nodded grimly. He stopped once more to look at Elissa's face, and Esther saw his hand move in a salute. Then he turned and walked away, disappearing into the dunes. Lilith watched him go, then turned back to the city and strode toward it, carrying Elissa gently in her arms. Esther followed behind, like an honor guard.

Elissa's second-in-command was waiting at the gates, two armed battalions behind him. "Holy One, we couldn't find the First Lieutenant..." His voice trailed off, face going white. "God in Heaven, have mercy."

Esther thought for a moment he'd collapse, but then he snapped straight. "Attention!" The order was loud enough to reverberate off the walls. He turned back around. "Form Up! Honor Guard Positions!"

The two battalions moved as one, separating to leave a clear aisle from the door. The soldiers were all standing at attention, but Esther could see hands making the sign of the cross, and heard the whispers and prayers going through the ranks. The the second-in-command moved forward, stepping slowly and solemnly through the gates. Lilith followed behind, moving gracefully. Just before the doors, Esther saw two white wings unfold from her back. Lilith's forty percent activation. It looked eerie, but she knew why Lilith had done it. The soldiers would see it as a sign of regard, of God's favor for their lieutenant. She heard the murmurs, saw the faces of the men as she walked behind as their honor guard.

At the end of the line, the Second signaled to the men standing there. "Form up. We will bring the First Lieutenant to the cathedral, with honor. And you..." He pointed to the runners. "Go tell the other commanders what has happened." Both men saluted and took off running.

Silently, the troops formed up behind them. The men were silent, grim-faced. By the time they'd gone halfway, soldiers who were off duty and civilians were coming out, lining the road. Many were weeping. There were no flowers to throw, but soldiers bowed their heads and laid down their arms, even kneeling in some cases. The non-combatants laid out cloaks, poured small amounts of water to lay the dust, and also bowed their heads. The precession to the cathedral took over half an hour, at the pace they made.

The clergy who remained in the city met them at the base of the steps, all dressed in formal attire. The head Bishop stepped forward as the new city commander and Lilith came up the steps. "Come. We have arranged a place before the altar for her. We will tend to her."

Lilith bowed her head slightly and followed. In the main sanctuary area, the priest had set up an enormous table, something Esther thought might be a communion table, draped with dark cloth. The soldiers fell back respectfully, and Lilith strode forward and laid Elissa's body gently on the surface, folding her hands over her chest. She paused a moment, tenderly stroking the younger woman's face, a sad smile on her lips. "Goodbye, my friend." Then the light of her transformation faded, the wings disappeared, and she stepped back, looking at the Bishop as she did so. "Tend her well, Your Grace."

He bowed. "I shall, Holy One."

Lilith nodded, then turned back to the waiting soldiers, to the man who had been Elissa's second-in-command.

The man saluted her. "Thank you, Holy One." He glanced at the still figure, offered one last salute, then turned away with a heavy sigh. "I would rather not ask this, not here and now, but...we should probably be prepared for an attack."

"No." Lilith shook her head. "She won, lieutenant. First Lieutenant Elissa dar Hitcher won."

The man's eyes widened. "She..won? But the Destroyer..."

"She struck him. She wounded him, and in doing so demoralized his troops past the hope of battle, and forced him to use his strength in recovery. She proved the strength of a human spirit, with her last breath. He swore it to me, they will not attack again. They cannot."

He nodded. His gaze fixed on the silent figure on the dais, and the priests around her, gently beginning the preparations for burial. "She deserves a medal. She deserves...far more than that."

Lilith turned and met his eyes, then bowed her head. "I will see to it, Commander. I will take her name to the Pope myself, and a full accounting of her actions. I shall nominate her for sainthood myself."

Esther stepped forward. "I'll second the nomination."

Relief and pride lit his eyes. "Then there's not anything more a soldier of God could ask." He bowed. "Thank you, Holy One."

She nodded, and smiled warmly, tenderly at him. "Let your men rest. See to the wounded, and tend to your people. Let them prepare, and mourn for her, as they will."

He took a deep breath, tension easing from his shoulders. "Have you any other advice for me, Holy One?"

Lilith took a breath. "Only one suggestion. You know of the Ibilis?" He nodded. "I had thought to bury her there. If the Enemy of the World makes another attempt someday, or should enemies of the church come, I would bury her in a place where they cannot touch her, cannot defile her tomb."

Grim resolution hardened his features. "I'll begin preparations at once." He glanced back at the dais. "We can't fit all the soldier down there. I'll have the sergeants tell the troops to make their farewell's here. We'll get the Bishop to have a ceremony, then myself and the other officers will take her to her rest." he glanced back at Lilith. "Holy One..."

"I will attend, Lady Esther and I both." She smiled. "It's a wise idea. I will help you."

He nodded, saluted the dais one more time, then turned and left. Lilith went behind him. Esther stayed a moment, gazing at the still, serene figure. You fought well. I pray you find peace, and a safe journey, First Lieutenant.

8888888888

They buried Elissa two days later. The priests had washed and cleaned her body, and dressed her in a flowing gown, donated by the citizens of the city. It looked a little odd, seeing her in jewels, and with her rank and medals attached to the garment, but somehow, it wasn't inappropriate. And since even her dress uniform had been stained in battle, it was far better than anything else.

The soldiers started coming to pay their respects at dawn. There was a steady stream of them, all dressed in formal uniforms or armor. Several were wounded, and Esther saw more of them supporting still wounded soldiers, as men who weren't cleared to leave the Infirmary were helped up the steps by their comrades, to pay their last respects as well. Some simply prayed. Some left tokens, trinkets, medals or notes. Despite their hardened demeanors, some of them were even crying.

At noon, the officers appeared, Lilith with them. Lilith was dressed in her best sari, primarily white with gold and brown tracing, wearing her gold collar and her cross shining brightly on the front. The officers wore their armor, repaired as best as it could be, and polished to mirror brightness. The men surrounded the coffin, and offered a salute then, as one, gently lifted it and bore it away, toward the passage to the underground console. Lilith led the procession, Esther took up a position at the back, walking beside the Bishop, who would say the final prayers to lay Elissa's soul to rest.

The journey took nearly half an hour, traveling in a rambling, ever descending path until they reached the tomb. Several of the soldiers had been hard at work, carving into the computer dais to form a chamber for her to lie in. It was back-breaking work, but there had been no shortage of volunteers. In fact, there had almost been fights over who would have the honor, until the commanding officers made the decree that everyone would get to work at least one four hour shift on the tomb. The result had been a spacious chamber, with a raised stone block to lay the casket on. Even the walls had been smoothed, giving it a sense of care.

The men entered, moving to each side of the raised stone. Then they faced each other and, again in unison, lowered the body to the stone. Four men moved carefully to remove the coffin lid, which they'd placed on before they began to move her. Lilith came forward, and gently laid a white mantle over Elissa's face. Esther came forward and laid a small rosary, the one she'd found in Elissa's quarters, over the folded hands. Then the soldiers replaced the lid and stood at attention by the walls, and the Bishop began to recite the prayers for the departed.

Esther hardly listened. All she could think of was Elissa's dying, the memory of that still, serene face, covered in blood. Abel, holding the body of his enemy in his arms. Lilith, holding the body of her friend. Tears streaked down her cheeks, tears of grief for all of them. And tears of remorse. I'm sorry. I knew what was going to happen. I should have...I should have stopped you.There should have been another way. I couldn't...I couldn't do anything. I am...so sorry.

Finally, the service was over. The Bishop intoned one final blessing, and left. The men offered one final salute, then marched out of the tomb. Esther and Lilith followed, and the officers turned and, worked together to shove the stone door of the tomb closed. Elissa's second in command an Esther applied a coat of sealant to the door, to close it forever, then stepped back. There was silence for a moment, then he turned to Lilith. "Holy One..."

"I will remain, a little longer. Please, escort His Grace back, and Esther if she wishes."

Esther shook her head. "No. I think I'll remain as well." After a moment, he nodded, and the men vanished back up the passageway, leaving the two women alone in the light of the lamps.

There was another long silence, as the wound of their boots faded away, then Lilith looked up. "Abel."

Esther started as a figure melted from the shadows. She hadn't seen him, because he'd removed his white uniform jacket, and was wearing only the black undershirt and pants. His face was pale, drawn in the light. He moved forward to stand beside Lilith. "I...I sent the troops off, yesterday. My ship is in a cave down the coast. But I...once you told me...I came...I've been wandering down here since mid-afternoon, yesterday, I think."

Lilith smiled, a sad smile, but warm. "It was good of you."

Abel shook his head. "I just...wished to pay my respects, I suppose. She was...very strong." He reached out, brushed one hand against the stone. "Cain won't accept this easily. I thought...you intend to seal the tunnels?"

Lilith nodded. "I will. I've already received the permission of the city's new commander, to seal all of them that lead here."

Abel echoed the nod. "I would...it isn't much, but may I help you?"

The smile widened, just a fraction, and Esther saw a small measure of pride in it. "Of course." She held his gaze a moment, then turned. "Esther, please go tell the commander that I've decided to go ahead and seal the tunnels now. I'll be up to report to him in a while."

Esther swallowed. There was a part of her that didn't want to leave them there, whether from a lingering spark of jealousy, or for fear that Abel might do something. But...she looked at the two of them, standing in the darkness together. They... they look right together, right now. And if this... if this is what they need... She nodded. "All right." Then she turned and left, before she could talk herself out of it.

---

* (Quote) - "She was the Queen of Cartago during the Dark Ages.. And fought for three days and three nights with the vampire invaders of the city. Finally she sacrificed her life to wipe out the vampires and rescued Cartago. But….There are more to that story".

* FACT – Saint Elissa AKA lieutenant Elissa dar Cheriat. In legend, they called her Queen of Carthage, and buried her in the Queens Tomb. She was mentioned in manga volume 5, chapter 17 on pages 39 and 40. And as many of us know from the manga Saint Elissa was the one to have made a bet with Lilith on stopping the Ibelis seeing weather or not Abel still had any human conscience left in him to do so in saving humans within the area. This was mentioned in manga Volume 5 chapter 19, pages 28 through 33.

---

[+] In both mine and my editors POV from what we gather so little about her in the cannon, Saint Elisa was Member of the Vatican forces, one assumes, probably and obviously Lilith's friend. Her name suggests she was probably French, or thereabouts. Elisa knew Abel, and they at least talked to one another, once or twice, considering she called him a monster. Get the feeling he admired her, however begrudgingly. Lieutenant means she wasn't a Sister or Inquisitor or anything like that, but more a civilian ally.

Maybe from the army of the Franc Kingdom. We never do hear how they figured into the battle, but they were most likely on the Vatican side. Not high up, I guess, but she must have been an extremely good soldier, had powerful family connections, or Abel and his army killed off the entire command down to her rather quickly. With a running three-day battle, that's not unreasonable. Then again, considering she took over the entire city, she obviously had natural leadership skills. She may have simply been a very young recruit who hadn't had time to go up the ladder. Although calling Abel a monster, being stubborn enough to oppose him, and pulling a kamikaze to finally halt him...they do rather sound like the kinds of things a younger officer would pull, or a fanatic. But she wouldn't have been a fanatic if she agreed to face Lilith's bet. So my guess would be young, gifted, and naturally strong.