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srs2012_r1Summary: The war between angels and Leviathans is over for now. With the Leviathan Michael held as a captive, God has put his best soldier, Adam, in charge of guarding him. But the Leviathan are a manipulative, cunning breed, and Michael will do anything to twist Adam over to his side.
Word Count: 4,072 (I sent an email ahead of time about the word count issue)
Characters: Adam Milligan, Michael, God, Jo, Garth, Bobby, Ellen, mentions of Sam and Dean.
Pairings: Adam/Michael
Tags: Character death, possible cannibalism
God watched his children enter the throne room. They were tired but content with the results of the past few days. As the last of the angels trickled in, he rose from his seat and headed to the podium at the front of the room. Clearing his throat to gain their attention, he smiled as all eyes fell on him.
“You’ve done it.” He raised his hands, gesturing to the crowd. “My children, you’ve fought hard and, because of it, the Leviathans are diminished and humankind is safe. I am proud of you all.”
Some smiled at his words, but many still looked unhappy.
A voice rang out over the crowd. “Not to protest, Father, but not all Leviathans are gone.”
God smiled down at his son. “Yes, Adam, but the Leviathans are more potent in numbers. I don’t believe one will be an issue.”
Adam stepped slowly through the crowd. “Still, no threat should be taken lightly.” He turned to address the other angels. “We must take every measure to ensure they can’t cause further harm.”
God smiled as his son turned back towards him. “What do you have in mind, Adam?”
Adam bowed on his knee. “I fear we haven’t the strength to banish him back to Purgatory with his brothers. I don’t wish to see any more of my siblings killed because of these monsters.” He stood. “If you’ll permit me, Father, I have a plan.” God motioned for him to continue. “My men and I have forged a cage that will hold the creature; its bars are laced with the deadliest poison. If he so much as touches them, the poison on the cage will slowly eat away at his vessel.”
God nodded. “Splendid job, Adam, but Leviathans are not sane; they do not fear injury or death. These countermeasures won't dissuade him from attempting escape.”
Adam held his ground, with his shoulders pushed back and his head held high. “That is why, Father, if you will permit it, I volunteer to guard him. Joanna has already offered to take my place leading Heaven’s army.”
God stared hard at him. “You realize that you would never be able to stray far from the beast. He will try to manipulate you.”
Adam gave a short nod. “I do, but I do not fear isolation or manipulation. You have trained my mind and body so that I might not fall for such persuasions. Please have faith in me.”
“You have really thought about this.” Adam nodded again. “I suppose I have no choice but to agree. I trust you know what you are getting into.”
Adam let out a sigh of relief. “Thank you, Father, I will do you proud.” He turned to leave.
“Move the creature to Adam’s chambers.”
Adam froze and turned back. “Father, not to doubt your authority, but I wish for the creature to be far away from me.”
God shook his head. “Nonsense, Adam, you are very capable; as you asked, I have complete faith in you.”
Adam frowned, but consented. “As you wish, Father.”
God smiled and rose to dismiss their audience. “As for the rest of you, it is time to rest; tomorrow we return to normalcy.”
Adam watched his siblings vanish to their chambers. He was soon left alone with the few close siblings he had. They stepped forward nervously.
Adam raised an eyebrow. “What has you all so frazzled?”
His siblings exchanged looks, then spoke as one in a jumbled mess.
Adam sighed in annoyance. “I cannot understand you, speak one at a time.” He turned towards his sister Jo. “Joanna, you speak first.”
“We’re worried about you, brother; I understand you have much power, but the Leviathans are tricky.” Jo laid a hand on his shoulder. “We do not wish to see you fall to the monster’s mind games.”
Adam regarded his sister. “I will be fine. Father has brought us up to be strong. I have trained with him in all subjects. I know every monster’s weakness, and can destroy them if prompted.”
His younger brother Garth, the keeper of records, said, “The Leviathans have tricked those wiser than you, kid.”
Kevin, head of Heaven’s knowledge, added, “He’s right; they took down Linda, and she knew far more than you.”
Ellen, fly trainer and like a mother to Adam, stepped up and took his face in her hands. “We just want you to be careful; you’re our brother and we care about you.”
Adam smiled at them. “I’ll be fine. Now do as Father said and rest.”
They sighed in defeat. Nodding, his siblings hugged him close before flying to their chambers.
Adam shook his head at their concern and left for his room. As he approached, he noticed a figure at the door. He pulled out his blade and zeroed in on his prey. A voice stopped him as he prepared to strike.
“If you’re gonna try to kill me, you might try to be quieter, ya idjit.”
Adam stopped and lowered his weapon. “What’re you doing here, Bobby?”
The elder messenger gave him an annoyed look. “What d’you think I’m doing? I was the only one brave enough to deliver your monster.”
Adam froze, staring at his door. “He’s in there?”
Bobby rolled his eyes “No, he’s in Purgatory. Of course he’s in there.”
Adam glared.
“I was told this is where he belongs, and so here I am.”
Adam rubbed his tired eyes. “You have no sense of danger, Bobby. Why didn’t you get help?”
Bobby returned his glare, but sighed, eyes closing. “I told you: everyone else was too scared.”
Adam grabbed his shoulders. “Don’t give me that bullshit, there’s plenty of strong angels.” Bobby continued to avoid his gaze. Slowly, Adam released him. “Are you really that eager for death?”
“Are you surprised? You know how attached I was to her and those bastards took her.” Bobby turned away, hesitating. “Father said I couldn’t kill it, so I thought I could pursue it to kill me. It didn’t work, so stop worrying about me and start worrying about the creature you have to babysit.” With that, the old angel vanished to his chamber.
Adam glared after him. “Crazy bastard.”
Adam entered his chamber and an odd odor assaulted him. It seemed to invade every inch of his grace. Adam shuddered, but pushed his way in to search the familiar surroundings for the monster and its cage. At first seeing nothing, Adam advanced slowly. His eyes were soon drawn to the large, ominous structure next to his bed, and the being inside. Its bars were still glossy from the poison placed on them, shining even in the dim light of the room. Its base took up most of the floor around Adam’s bed and the bars stretched almost to the ceiling. The cage seemed small compared to the shadowy figure encased within it. Adam stood tall and approached his prisoner.
“Listen, creature. I will be watching you. And I need no sleep, so you will not be able to escape.”
The Leviathan released a sharp laugh. “As you wish, angel. It’s not as if I have a choice.”
Adam finally came face-to-face with the Leviathan. Most of the creature was shaded in darkness, but Adam could make out the broad shoulders of the body barely taller than his own. “I wouldn’t touch the bars if I were you. You’ll burn faster than you think.”
The Leviathan walked into the light. He had a handsome face with brown eyes and short, curly brown hair. He flashed a charming smile. “You took down my brothers. You’re very strong.” Adam stared at the beauty of this horrible creature. God had always taught him the Leviathans were gruesome-looking.
Pushing the confusion from his mind, Adam glared at him. “Don’t patronize me, creature.”
Michael shook his head and let out a small laugh. “My form is known as Michael and I would never patronize God’s most cherished son.”
Adam scoffed. “I don’t to need know your name. And my father loves all equally.”
“Of course he does, and as we know Daddy’s views are never wrong.”
“Quiet, beast. You will say no more.”
Michael’s smile was unflinching. “As you wish, Master, but all this silence is going to get to you eventually.” Michael smirked at the angel’s annoyance, and his eyes followed Adam as he settled at the desk beside the cage and reached for his pile of death reports.
Just because the war was over didn’t mean his work was.
“A lot of work for you. Doesn’t Daddy let you rest?”
Adam’s shoulders stiffened, but he ignored the comment.
“Then again, who else will note down all your dead brothers and sisters?” Smiling at Adam’s discomfort, Michael continued, “Must be hard, having to see all those names again.” He sighed and sat on the cold floor of the cage. “Seeing all the people you couldn’t save, or rather didn’t wish to; it’s your brothers all over again, isn’t it?”
Adam froze, his memory drawn back to the final fight between him and his brothers.
“Sam and Dean disobeyed, hadn’t they?”
Adam’s mind raced as he tried to push his guilt away. Sam and Dean had too much free will, a dangerous thing. God had demanded they be destroyed.
Dean and Sam tried to run, hiding on earth in a town called Lawrence. Sam masked their powers and they acted like normal humans, remaining hidden for a human year before Adam found them. He hadn’t wanted to kill his brothers. He had begged them to apologize, telling them there would be very little punishment if they just went home. Father would forgive them and they could be a family again. Despite his plea, Sam and Dean refused to go back. Adam had no choice but to execute his father’s command and banish his brothers to the cage constructed in Hell.
“Yes, they had to be punished, because your father said so and he’s always right.”
Adam slammed his fists on the table. “I told you to shut up, monster!” Adam turned, glaring hard at the beast. “You know nothing of my family. You cannot speak of what happened.”
Michael laughed. “Can’t I? Don’t forget, Adam, Leviathans and angels were created by the same being. I knew your brothers because, for a time, they were my brothers as well.”
Adam stared. The Leviathan had to be lying. For as long as he had known the Leviathans have been an enemy. His father had told him so. Adam glared hard and returned to his work.
“Didn’t mean to hit a nerve, your brothers were fine angels.” Adam closed his eyes and tried to block out the memories that came back. “I am not the enemy, Adam; I lost a brother by the hands of God, too.”
Adam clenched his eyes and teeth tightly. Michael’s words were spoken so honestly, Adam was finding it hard not to believe him.
“He was my only real family, but Father had deemed him too dangerous. He killed him and banished the rest of us to the wasteland known as Purgatory.”
Adam turned to the cage. “My father would never be so cruel!”
“Wouldn’t he? Trust me Adam, he is not the loving being you believe him to be. If he feels something is a threat to his power, he will destroy it. He did it with Sam, Dean and my brothers and sisters.”
“No, my father had his reasons. Your siblings and my brothers were a danger to the other angels and humanity.”
“Why? Because they tried to think differently? Because they did something for themselves and not for his benefit?”
“He has to take care of Heaven. He needs to protect it and earth.”
“He’s protecting himself; he’s taking down all those who oppose him and brainwashing anyone who doesn’t already know that. If anyone is a monster, it’s him!”
Adam whirled around. “You will not say another word unless you want to spend the rest of your captivity with severe injuries.”
Michael grinned at the threat, but held his tongue. Sighing, Adam returned to his work, marking down the many names of his fallen siblings. His father had given him the assignment because he feared it might scar Garth to see the names of all those who had died.
It was many more days before Michael spoke again. Adam tried, again, to block him out, but found it difficult.
“You know, you’re a rather large threat to Heaven.” Michael paced his prison. “After all, you know all of Heaven’s weaknesses.” He paused, turning towards the angel. “You could probably topple the Kingdom without even trying.”
Adam rolled his eyes. “Flattery will get you nowhere, beast.” Setting down his work he turned to face Michael. “My strength will only be used towards monsters like you; I will never hurt my family.”
Michael quirked an eyebrow, “You mean like you would never hurt and Dean.”
Adam stiffened but did not back down. “That’s different. They needed to be punished.”
Michael shook his head. “You keep saying that, but we both know it isn’t true. You need to stop being hypnotized; didn’t anyone ever teach you to think for yourself? Though, you are an angel so I’m not surprised you’re so robotic. Dad has programmed you well.”
Adam straightened his papers. “I’m a soldier; we don’t need emotions. It’s not a part of the job description.”
Michael smirked at the joke.
Adam stood and held his papers close to his chest. “Now if you'll excuse me, my subordinate will be here soon to collect my papers.”
A knock rang through the room. With a final look at Michael, Adam approached the door and opened it, greeted by the sight of Jo. “Hello Adam. Father sent me to receive the reports.”
Adam smiled and set the papers in her outstretched hand. “There you go, sister.”
He moved to close the door, but was stopped by Jo’s foot. She pushed her way into the room and sat down in the sitting area. “It’s been a while; sit with me, brother?”
Adam sighed. “I really must be getting back to work. Plus, you need to train the troops. We don’t need them getting lazy.”
Jo smiled up at him. “The troops can wait; I have not talked to you in a week.” She motioned to the chair. “Sit with me?”
Realizing he wasn’t going to win, he took the offered seat. “What is it you wish to talk about?”
She rolled her eyes at his directness. “I just wish to know how you are.”
Adam stared at her, confused. “I’m fine; I’ve been busy with work.” He glanced back to the cage.
Michael watched the pair, smiling and winking at Adam before receiving a glare. Not taking his eyes off Michael, Adam addressed his sister. “How have you been?”
Jo stared nervously between Adam and Michael. “I’ve been fine; the troops have been very well-behaved for me.”
Adam smiled. “That’s good; I won’t have to punish them when I return.” He moved his eyes back to his sister.
“When exactly are you coming back, brother?”
Adam thought about the question and shrugged. “Whenever Father finds a way to send that beast back. Hopefully, it will be sooner rather than later.”
His eyes moved back to Michael; the Leviathan had not moved. “Well, if that’s all, I must get back to work.”
Jo smiled sadly. “Yes, of course.”
They rose and walked to the door. Jo hugged Adam tight. “Stay safe please, brother.”
Adam closed the door after her exit and turned back to his room, sitting back at his desk and moving his chair to face the cage.
“She’s a sweet girl; too bad she couldn’t guard me.” Michael smirked. “We could have fun.”
Adam glared as Michael laughed. “Oh, don’t get mad, I was only joking.” Rolling his eyes, Adam turned his chair and searched his desk for more paperwork. “I wish I had a loving sibling like her, makes me miss my brother.”
Getting no response, Michael continued, “I wonder if you miss yours just as much.” Adam remained silent. “They were probably as loving as her; Sam taught you all about angel history and Dean about fighting, didn’t they?” Michael stared at the back Adam’s head. “They were good siblings, weren’t they?”
Adam turned back to Michael. “What are you getting at?”
Michael smiled. “I’m just trying to prove to you, you are a robot.”
Adam rolled his eyes. “I know what my father is doing.”
“Sure you do. Daddy knows best.”
“What do you have against my father?”
“He killed more than any monster. What wouldn’t I have against him?”
Adam stood and approached the cage. “He killed for good reasons, I assure you.”
Michael raised his eyebrows and reached his hand through the bars, lightly caressing Adam’s cheek.
Adam reeled back as if slapped. “You will not touch me.”
Michael smiled. “I’m not going to hurt you, Adam.”
Adam glared. “I’m not worried about you harming me. Father says I cannot let a monster touch me.”
Michael reached his hand out again, his skin brushing the cage. The poison took effect immediately: the back of his hand turned a dark blue and bits of flesh fell off, fingers grazing Adam’s cheek.
“Why would you hurt yourself just to touch me?”
Michael lips quirked slightly. “You’re too beautiful not to touch.”
Adam moved back, allowing Michael’s hand to fall back inside the cage. “I must visit my father; you will stay here and behave.”
Michael smiled. “As you wish. I will await your return, Adam.”
Adam frowned and pushed back the smile that threatened to take over. “Shut up, beast.” He wiped at his cheek. “My father has hopefully found a way to send you back to Purgatory. You will not be polluting Heaven any longer.” He turned to leave the room, slamming the door on his exit.
He walked down the hall to his father’s throne room, approaching the door and knocking before pushing it open.
God smiled at his son. “Ah, Adam, how are you?”
Adam returned the smile and approached his desk. “I’m fine. And you, Father?”
“I’m well. I take it your assignment is going well.”
Adam nodded. “Yes, he’s been behaving.”
God looked surprised, but nodded. “The beast must have been tamed.”
“Yes. I have been wondering, Father, when will he be sent back? I wish to resume my position with my troops.”
God stared, concerned. “What do you mean? He will not be going back.” He moved to store his documents away. “We need to keep it here, in case the Leviathans escape.”
Adam looked confused. “I thought he would be going back soon. You promised.”
God shook his head. “I said no such thing. Don’t be unreasonable. We would lose more people trying to get him back.”
Adam stared. “I don’t understand, what use is it to keep him?”
God folded his hands in his lap. “He needs to be punished. Returning him to his family is no punishment.”
“Not everyone needs to be punished, Father.”
God shook his head. “Just follow me, my son, we will be fine.”
Adam paused before standing. “Yes, Father. I will do all I can to keep Heaven safe.”
God nodded. “Thank you, Adam. ”
Adam turned to leave.
“Adam, you’re a perfect soldier. I know you’ll do well.”
Adam turned the knob. “Thank you, Father.”
Adam then hurried back to his room. He entered and slammed the door before racing to the cage and pounding the bars in anger, startling Michael. “I was wrong. He’s a monster. He doesn’t care about anything but his power.”
Michael reached through the cage to caress Adam’s cheek.
“He’s using me and not letting you go.” Adam’s hand held Michael’s. “He feels we need punishment, just like my brothers.” Adam looked down. “I can’t believe I was such a fool.”
“You free me, Adam, and we can destroy him.”
Adam looked up at Michael, who smiled back reassuringly. After a while, he nodded. “Stand back.”
Michael smiled and obeyed. Adam gathered his power and slammed it into the cage, breaking the bars. Michael stepped out and pulled Adam forward into a hug, kissing his head. “Thank you, Adam. Now, if you heal me, I can help you.”
“What’re you going to do?”
Michael smiled and Adam grabbed his hand softly, healing him. “Punish them, of course.” His hand healed completely and Adam kissed it. “But I need your help. They’ll suspect me, but not you.”
Adam stared at the floor before nodding. “What do you want me to do?”
Michael smiled. “I just want you to use your wonderful powers to take down Heaven.” Adam nodded. “Let’s start from the top.”
Adam smiled and zapped his way to God’s room. He knocked gently and heard a soft “enter.”
God was standing with his back to Adam, staring out at his kingdom, a soft smile on his lips. Hearing the door open he turned. A look of surprise overtook his face.
“Adam, what are you doing back?”
“Father, you’ve gone too far in these punishments.”
God looked confused. “What do you mean, my son?”
“Don’t play stupid; you have killed my brothers and sisters and now you want to encase me in my room with Michael, treating me like I am dead.”
God glared at his son. “I have my reasons, Adam.”
Adam scoffed. “You have no reasons; you just want to keep your power!”
God rose, looking confused, before approaching his son. “Adam, keep calm. You’re my best soldier. Just think about what you’re doing.”
Adam raised his hand. “I will not keep calm, Father. You need to be stopped.” Adam hand glowed a blinding white and radiated heat. He raised it and shot at his father, injuring him. “You will go down.” He shot again. “I will avenge my brothers.” Bringing his arm together he threw all his power forward. The light slammed into God. His body shattered and disappeared into nothingness.
Adam huffed as he heard clapping. “Very good Adam. I’m very proud.” Michael stepped inside and hugged Adam from behind, kissing his head. “Now, we take down your siblings.”
Adam pulled away from Michael. “Why? They did nothing wrong.”
Michael shook his head. “Adam, they followed your father. If he told them to kill you they wouldn’t think twice.”
He reached forward to pull Adam back to him, but the angel resisted. “I won’t kill my siblings.”
Michael shook his head as footsteps were heard outside the door. He hid as Jo and Garth entered the room.
“Father? Adam, do you know where Father is?”
Adam looked nervous as their gazes fell on the remains of their father. Jo gasped and hid her head in Garth’s shoulder, who looked at his brother with concern. “Adam, what did you do?”
Adam looked at them, unflinching. “I had to stop him. He was out of control.”
Garth glared and raised his hand. “You are out of control.”
Garth shot at Adam. Adam jumped out of the way and shot back, destroying his brother. “If you try to stop me, I will stop you.”
Adam shot at Jo, destroying her. “I will stop you all.”
Michael clapped. “Adam, you are a joy to work with.”
Adam turned back to the Leviathan. “You are the best fool and with your help I will have Heaven.” He stepped forward, skin bubbling and glowing an eerie blue. Adam’s eyes widened as Michael’s form shrunk and morphed into a doppelganger of him, morphed into Adam’s form. “Thank you, Adam.” Michael kissed Adam deep, devouring him whole.
[ fanmix w/ art ]
Word Count: 4,072 (I sent an email ahead of time about the word count issue)
Characters: Adam Milligan, Michael, God, Jo, Garth, Bobby, Ellen, mentions of Sam and Dean.
Pairings: Adam/Michael
Tags: Character death, possible cannibalism
God watched his children enter the throne room. They were tired but content with the results of the past few days. As the last of the angels trickled in, he rose from his seat and headed to the podium at the front of the room. Clearing his throat to gain their attention, he smiled as all eyes fell on him.
“You’ve done it.” He raised his hands, gesturing to the crowd. “My children, you’ve fought hard and, because of it, the Leviathans are diminished and humankind is safe. I am proud of you all.”
Some smiled at his words, but many still looked unhappy.
A voice rang out over the crowd. “Not to protest, Father, but not all Leviathans are gone.”
God smiled down at his son. “Yes, Adam, but the Leviathans are more potent in numbers. I don’t believe one will be an issue.”
Adam stepped slowly through the crowd. “Still, no threat should be taken lightly.” He turned to address the other angels. “We must take every measure to ensure they can’t cause further harm.”
God smiled as his son turned back towards him. “What do you have in mind, Adam?”
Adam bowed on his knee. “I fear we haven’t the strength to banish him back to Purgatory with his brothers. I don’t wish to see any more of my siblings killed because of these monsters.” He stood. “If you’ll permit me, Father, I have a plan.” God motioned for him to continue. “My men and I have forged a cage that will hold the creature; its bars are laced with the deadliest poison. If he so much as touches them, the poison on the cage will slowly eat away at his vessel.”
God nodded. “Splendid job, Adam, but Leviathans are not sane; they do not fear injury or death. These countermeasures won't dissuade him from attempting escape.”
Adam held his ground, with his shoulders pushed back and his head held high. “That is why, Father, if you will permit it, I volunteer to guard him. Joanna has already offered to take my place leading Heaven’s army.”
God stared hard at him. “You realize that you would never be able to stray far from the beast. He will try to manipulate you.”
Adam gave a short nod. “I do, but I do not fear isolation or manipulation. You have trained my mind and body so that I might not fall for such persuasions. Please have faith in me.”
“You have really thought about this.” Adam nodded again. “I suppose I have no choice but to agree. I trust you know what you are getting into.”
Adam let out a sigh of relief. “Thank you, Father, I will do you proud.” He turned to leave.
“Move the creature to Adam’s chambers.”
Adam froze and turned back. “Father, not to doubt your authority, but I wish for the creature to be far away from me.”
God shook his head. “Nonsense, Adam, you are very capable; as you asked, I have complete faith in you.”
Adam frowned, but consented. “As you wish, Father.”
God smiled and rose to dismiss their audience. “As for the rest of you, it is time to rest; tomorrow we return to normalcy.”
Adam watched his siblings vanish to their chambers. He was soon left alone with the few close siblings he had. They stepped forward nervously.
Adam raised an eyebrow. “What has you all so frazzled?”
His siblings exchanged looks, then spoke as one in a jumbled mess.
Adam sighed in annoyance. “I cannot understand you, speak one at a time.” He turned towards his sister Jo. “Joanna, you speak first.”
“We’re worried about you, brother; I understand you have much power, but the Leviathans are tricky.” Jo laid a hand on his shoulder. “We do not wish to see you fall to the monster’s mind games.”
Adam regarded his sister. “I will be fine. Father has brought us up to be strong. I have trained with him in all subjects. I know every monster’s weakness, and can destroy them if prompted.”
His younger brother Garth, the keeper of records, said, “The Leviathans have tricked those wiser than you, kid.”
Kevin, head of Heaven’s knowledge, added, “He’s right; they took down Linda, and she knew far more than you.”
Ellen, fly trainer and like a mother to Adam, stepped up and took his face in her hands. “We just want you to be careful; you’re our brother and we care about you.”
Adam smiled at them. “I’ll be fine. Now do as Father said and rest.”
They sighed in defeat. Nodding, his siblings hugged him close before flying to their chambers.
Adam shook his head at their concern and left for his room. As he approached, he noticed a figure at the door. He pulled out his blade and zeroed in on his prey. A voice stopped him as he prepared to strike.
“If you’re gonna try to kill me, you might try to be quieter, ya idjit.”
Adam stopped and lowered his weapon. “What’re you doing here, Bobby?”
The elder messenger gave him an annoyed look. “What d’you think I’m doing? I was the only one brave enough to deliver your monster.”
Adam froze, staring at his door. “He’s in there?”
Bobby rolled his eyes “No, he’s in Purgatory. Of course he’s in there.”
Adam glared.
“I was told this is where he belongs, and so here I am.”
Adam rubbed his tired eyes. “You have no sense of danger, Bobby. Why didn’t you get help?”
Bobby returned his glare, but sighed, eyes closing. “I told you: everyone else was too scared.”
Adam grabbed his shoulders. “Don’t give me that bullshit, there’s plenty of strong angels.” Bobby continued to avoid his gaze. Slowly, Adam released him. “Are you really that eager for death?”
“Are you surprised? You know how attached I was to her and those bastards took her.” Bobby turned away, hesitating. “Father said I couldn’t kill it, so I thought I could pursue it to kill me. It didn’t work, so stop worrying about me and start worrying about the creature you have to babysit.” With that, the old angel vanished to his chamber.
Adam glared after him. “Crazy bastard.”
Adam entered his chamber and an odd odor assaulted him. It seemed to invade every inch of his grace. Adam shuddered, but pushed his way in to search the familiar surroundings for the monster and its cage. At first seeing nothing, Adam advanced slowly. His eyes were soon drawn to the large, ominous structure next to his bed, and the being inside. Its bars were still glossy from the poison placed on them, shining even in the dim light of the room. Its base took up most of the floor around Adam’s bed and the bars stretched almost to the ceiling. The cage seemed small compared to the shadowy figure encased within it. Adam stood tall and approached his prisoner.
“Listen, creature. I will be watching you. And I need no sleep, so you will not be able to escape.”
The Leviathan released a sharp laugh. “As you wish, angel. It’s not as if I have a choice.”
Adam finally came face-to-face with the Leviathan. Most of the creature was shaded in darkness, but Adam could make out the broad shoulders of the body barely taller than his own. “I wouldn’t touch the bars if I were you. You’ll burn faster than you think.”
The Leviathan walked into the light. He had a handsome face with brown eyes and short, curly brown hair. He flashed a charming smile. “You took down my brothers. You’re very strong.” Adam stared at the beauty of this horrible creature. God had always taught him the Leviathans were gruesome-looking.
Pushing the confusion from his mind, Adam glared at him. “Don’t patronize me, creature.”
Michael shook his head and let out a small laugh. “My form is known as Michael and I would never patronize God’s most cherished son.”
Adam scoffed. “I don’t to need know your name. And my father loves all equally.”
“Of course he does, and as we know Daddy’s views are never wrong.”
“Quiet, beast. You will say no more.”
Michael’s smile was unflinching. “As you wish, Master, but all this silence is going to get to you eventually.” Michael smirked at the angel’s annoyance, and his eyes followed Adam as he settled at the desk beside the cage and reached for his pile of death reports.
Just because the war was over didn’t mean his work was.
“A lot of work for you. Doesn’t Daddy let you rest?”
Adam’s shoulders stiffened, but he ignored the comment.
“Then again, who else will note down all your dead brothers and sisters?” Smiling at Adam’s discomfort, Michael continued, “Must be hard, having to see all those names again.” He sighed and sat on the cold floor of the cage. “Seeing all the people you couldn’t save, or rather didn’t wish to; it’s your brothers all over again, isn’t it?”
Adam froze, his memory drawn back to the final fight between him and his brothers.
“Sam and Dean disobeyed, hadn’t they?”
Adam’s mind raced as he tried to push his guilt away. Sam and Dean had too much free will, a dangerous thing. God had demanded they be destroyed.
Dean and Sam tried to run, hiding on earth in a town called Lawrence. Sam masked their powers and they acted like normal humans, remaining hidden for a human year before Adam found them. He hadn’t wanted to kill his brothers. He had begged them to apologize, telling them there would be very little punishment if they just went home. Father would forgive them and they could be a family again. Despite his plea, Sam and Dean refused to go back. Adam had no choice but to execute his father’s command and banish his brothers to the cage constructed in Hell.
“Yes, they had to be punished, because your father said so and he’s always right.”
Adam slammed his fists on the table. “I told you to shut up, monster!” Adam turned, glaring hard at the beast. “You know nothing of my family. You cannot speak of what happened.”
Michael laughed. “Can’t I? Don’t forget, Adam, Leviathans and angels were created by the same being. I knew your brothers because, for a time, they were my brothers as well.”
Adam stared. The Leviathan had to be lying. For as long as he had known the Leviathans have been an enemy. His father had told him so. Adam glared hard and returned to his work.
“Didn’t mean to hit a nerve, your brothers were fine angels.” Adam closed his eyes and tried to block out the memories that came back. “I am not the enemy, Adam; I lost a brother by the hands of God, too.”
Adam clenched his eyes and teeth tightly. Michael’s words were spoken so honestly, Adam was finding it hard not to believe him.
“He was my only real family, but Father had deemed him too dangerous. He killed him and banished the rest of us to the wasteland known as Purgatory.”
Adam turned to the cage. “My father would never be so cruel!”
“Wouldn’t he? Trust me Adam, he is not the loving being you believe him to be. If he feels something is a threat to his power, he will destroy it. He did it with Sam, Dean and my brothers and sisters.”
“No, my father had his reasons. Your siblings and my brothers were a danger to the other angels and humanity.”
“Why? Because they tried to think differently? Because they did something for themselves and not for his benefit?”
“He has to take care of Heaven. He needs to protect it and earth.”
“He’s protecting himself; he’s taking down all those who oppose him and brainwashing anyone who doesn’t already know that. If anyone is a monster, it’s him!”
Adam whirled around. “You will not say another word unless you want to spend the rest of your captivity with severe injuries.”
Michael grinned at the threat, but held his tongue. Sighing, Adam returned to his work, marking down the many names of his fallen siblings. His father had given him the assignment because he feared it might scar Garth to see the names of all those who had died.
It was many more days before Michael spoke again. Adam tried, again, to block him out, but found it difficult.
“You know, you’re a rather large threat to Heaven.” Michael paced his prison. “After all, you know all of Heaven’s weaknesses.” He paused, turning towards the angel. “You could probably topple the Kingdom without even trying.”
Adam rolled his eyes. “Flattery will get you nowhere, beast.” Setting down his work he turned to face Michael. “My strength will only be used towards monsters like you; I will never hurt my family.”
Michael quirked an eyebrow, “You mean like you would never hurt and Dean.”
Adam stiffened but did not back down. “That’s different. They needed to be punished.”
Michael shook his head. “You keep saying that, but we both know it isn’t true. You need to stop being hypnotized; didn’t anyone ever teach you to think for yourself? Though, you are an angel so I’m not surprised you’re so robotic. Dad has programmed you well.”
Adam straightened his papers. “I’m a soldier; we don’t need emotions. It’s not a part of the job description.”
Michael smirked at the joke.
Adam stood and held his papers close to his chest. “Now if you'll excuse me, my subordinate will be here soon to collect my papers.”
A knock rang through the room. With a final look at Michael, Adam approached the door and opened it, greeted by the sight of Jo. “Hello Adam. Father sent me to receive the reports.”
Adam smiled and set the papers in her outstretched hand. “There you go, sister.”
He moved to close the door, but was stopped by Jo’s foot. She pushed her way into the room and sat down in the sitting area. “It’s been a while; sit with me, brother?”
Adam sighed. “I really must be getting back to work. Plus, you need to train the troops. We don’t need them getting lazy.”
Jo smiled up at him. “The troops can wait; I have not talked to you in a week.” She motioned to the chair. “Sit with me?”
Realizing he wasn’t going to win, he took the offered seat. “What is it you wish to talk about?”
She rolled her eyes at his directness. “I just wish to know how you are.”
Adam stared at her, confused. “I’m fine; I’ve been busy with work.” He glanced back to the cage.
Michael watched the pair, smiling and winking at Adam before receiving a glare. Not taking his eyes off Michael, Adam addressed his sister. “How have you been?”
Jo stared nervously between Adam and Michael. “I’ve been fine; the troops have been very well-behaved for me.”
Adam smiled. “That’s good; I won’t have to punish them when I return.” He moved his eyes back to his sister.
“When exactly are you coming back, brother?”
Adam thought about the question and shrugged. “Whenever Father finds a way to send that beast back. Hopefully, it will be sooner rather than later.”
His eyes moved back to Michael; the Leviathan had not moved. “Well, if that’s all, I must get back to work.”
Jo smiled sadly. “Yes, of course.”
They rose and walked to the door. Jo hugged Adam tight. “Stay safe please, brother.”
Adam closed the door after her exit and turned back to his room, sitting back at his desk and moving his chair to face the cage.
“She’s a sweet girl; too bad she couldn’t guard me.” Michael smirked. “We could have fun.”
Adam glared as Michael laughed. “Oh, don’t get mad, I was only joking.” Rolling his eyes, Adam turned his chair and searched his desk for more paperwork. “I wish I had a loving sibling like her, makes me miss my brother.”
Getting no response, Michael continued, “I wonder if you miss yours just as much.” Adam remained silent. “They were probably as loving as her; Sam taught you all about angel history and Dean about fighting, didn’t they?” Michael stared at the back Adam’s head. “They were good siblings, weren’t they?”
Adam turned back to Michael. “What are you getting at?”
Michael smiled. “I’m just trying to prove to you, you are a robot.”
Adam rolled his eyes. “I know what my father is doing.”
“Sure you do. Daddy knows best.”
“What do you have against my father?”
“He killed more than any monster. What wouldn’t I have against him?”
Adam stood and approached the cage. “He killed for good reasons, I assure you.”
Michael raised his eyebrows and reached his hand through the bars, lightly caressing Adam’s cheek.
Adam reeled back as if slapped. “You will not touch me.”
Michael smiled. “I’m not going to hurt you, Adam.”
Adam glared. “I’m not worried about you harming me. Father says I cannot let a monster touch me.”
Michael reached his hand out again, his skin brushing the cage. The poison took effect immediately: the back of his hand turned a dark blue and bits of flesh fell off, fingers grazing Adam’s cheek.
“Why would you hurt yourself just to touch me?”
Michael lips quirked slightly. “You’re too beautiful not to touch.”
Adam moved back, allowing Michael’s hand to fall back inside the cage. “I must visit my father; you will stay here and behave.”
Michael smiled. “As you wish. I will await your return, Adam.”
Adam frowned and pushed back the smile that threatened to take over. “Shut up, beast.” He wiped at his cheek. “My father has hopefully found a way to send you back to Purgatory. You will not be polluting Heaven any longer.” He turned to leave the room, slamming the door on his exit.
He walked down the hall to his father’s throne room, approaching the door and knocking before pushing it open.
God smiled at his son. “Ah, Adam, how are you?”
Adam returned the smile and approached his desk. “I’m fine. And you, Father?”
“I’m well. I take it your assignment is going well.”
Adam nodded. “Yes, he’s been behaving.”
God looked surprised, but nodded. “The beast must have been tamed.”
“Yes. I have been wondering, Father, when will he be sent back? I wish to resume my position with my troops.”
God stared, concerned. “What do you mean? He will not be going back.” He moved to store his documents away. “We need to keep it here, in case the Leviathans escape.”
Adam looked confused. “I thought he would be going back soon. You promised.”
God shook his head. “I said no such thing. Don’t be unreasonable. We would lose more people trying to get him back.”
Adam stared. “I don’t understand, what use is it to keep him?”
God folded his hands in his lap. “He needs to be punished. Returning him to his family is no punishment.”
“Not everyone needs to be punished, Father.”
God shook his head. “Just follow me, my son, we will be fine.”
Adam paused before standing. “Yes, Father. I will do all I can to keep Heaven safe.”
God nodded. “Thank you, Adam. ”
Adam turned to leave.
“Adam, you’re a perfect soldier. I know you’ll do well.”
Adam turned the knob. “Thank you, Father.”
Adam then hurried back to his room. He entered and slammed the door before racing to the cage and pounding the bars in anger, startling Michael. “I was wrong. He’s a monster. He doesn’t care about anything but his power.”
Michael reached through the cage to caress Adam’s cheek.
“He’s using me and not letting you go.” Adam’s hand held Michael’s. “He feels we need punishment, just like my brothers.” Adam looked down. “I can’t believe I was such a fool.”
“You free me, Adam, and we can destroy him.”
Adam looked up at Michael, who smiled back reassuringly. After a while, he nodded. “Stand back.”
Michael smiled and obeyed. Adam gathered his power and slammed it into the cage, breaking the bars. Michael stepped out and pulled Adam forward into a hug, kissing his head. “Thank you, Adam. Now, if you heal me, I can help you.”
“What’re you going to do?”
Michael smiled and Adam grabbed his hand softly, healing him. “Punish them, of course.” His hand healed completely and Adam kissed it. “But I need your help. They’ll suspect me, but not you.”
Adam stared at the floor before nodding. “What do you want me to do?”
Michael smiled. “I just want you to use your wonderful powers to take down Heaven.” Adam nodded. “Let’s start from the top.”
Adam smiled and zapped his way to God’s room. He knocked gently and heard a soft “enter.”
God was standing with his back to Adam, staring out at his kingdom, a soft smile on his lips. Hearing the door open he turned. A look of surprise overtook his face.
“Adam, what are you doing back?”
“Father, you’ve gone too far in these punishments.”
God looked confused. “What do you mean, my son?”
“Don’t play stupid; you have killed my brothers and sisters and now you want to encase me in my room with Michael, treating me like I am dead.”
God glared at his son. “I have my reasons, Adam.”
Adam scoffed. “You have no reasons; you just want to keep your power!”
God rose, looking confused, before approaching his son. “Adam, keep calm. You’re my best soldier. Just think about what you’re doing.”
Adam raised his hand. “I will not keep calm, Father. You need to be stopped.” Adam hand glowed a blinding white and radiated heat. He raised it and shot at his father, injuring him. “You will go down.” He shot again. “I will avenge my brothers.” Bringing his arm together he threw all his power forward. The light slammed into God. His body shattered and disappeared into nothingness.
Adam huffed as he heard clapping. “Very good Adam. I’m very proud.” Michael stepped inside and hugged Adam from behind, kissing his head. “Now, we take down your siblings.”
Adam pulled away from Michael. “Why? They did nothing wrong.”
Michael shook his head. “Adam, they followed your father. If he told them to kill you they wouldn’t think twice.”
He reached forward to pull Adam back to him, but the angel resisted. “I won’t kill my siblings.”
Michael shook his head as footsteps were heard outside the door. He hid as Jo and Garth entered the room.
“Father? Adam, do you know where Father is?”
Adam looked nervous as their gazes fell on the remains of their father. Jo gasped and hid her head in Garth’s shoulder, who looked at his brother with concern. “Adam, what did you do?”
Adam looked at them, unflinching. “I had to stop him. He was out of control.”
Garth glared and raised his hand. “You are out of control.”
Garth shot at Adam. Adam jumped out of the way and shot back, destroying his brother. “If you try to stop me, I will stop you.”
Adam shot at Jo, destroying her. “I will stop you all.”
Michael clapped. “Adam, you are a joy to work with.”
Adam turned back to the Leviathan. “You are the best fool and with your help I will have Heaven.” He stepped forward, skin bubbling and glowing an eerie blue. Adam’s eyes widened as Michael’s form shrunk and morphed into a doppelganger of him, morphed into Adam’s form. “Thank you, Adam.” Michael kissed Adam deep, devouring him whole.
[ fanmix w/ art ]
