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With Ciaran

Luthor was running full out, away from Vampy's office and toward the front door of the Labs, hoping that he was going to be able to catch up with his friend before he got to far ahead. He would leave the grounds if needed but he hoped that he could find him before that since he didn't exactly have the best sense of direction when it came to leaving this place. Anywhere in the Labs he could find with his eyes closed, walking backwards but put himself outside the gate and he was instantly lost... it was a true pain. He slid around a corner, grumbling about tile and bare feet not going very well together before he was once more running. His eyes widened as he spotted the one he was looking for and he pushed himself a bit harder so he could catch him before he got out the front door.

The guy reached a hand out to catch hold of his arm, "Ciaran!" He gasped out, glad that he'd gotten to him in time.

Ciaran had found this class interesting amount of information and some of it just not to his liking. But he did like that he had taken the class with his friend. He knew from looking at Luthor that something was bugging him but he wasn't going to pry if he didn't want to say. Ciaran was a little sad when the class was over and Luthor was called somewhere, as he wanted to talk with his friend about somethings that were on his mind. Walking from the classroom deep in thought and he didn't even hide as he walked to the front of the labs to go home.

He was almost to the front door when he felt a hand reach for his arm and a familiar voice attached to it. Turning to see Luthor there a little out of breath and he smiled. "Hi, Luthor." he answered with his tail wagging behind him a little.

"You... why did..." He paused for a moment, tilting his head back to work on catching breath before he tried again, "You are... going with Vampy? Why would you go on a trip with him?" He demanded, his tone filled with worry and a bit of fear. He couldn't let him go, he didn't trust Vampy any farther then he could throw the guy which he was sure wouldn't be that far were he to try.

Ciaran was defiantly very caught off guard at the question his friend had asked him and was a little stumped for words as he tried to come up with an answer. He also grew nervous as his tail stopped wagging behind him as he tried to answer the question. "I wanted to test myself to the limits of what my magic could do." he said as Ciaran couldn't look Luthor in the face right now. "I don't like the idea that Vampy is taking us, but I wanted to know what I could do without hurting those I care for. I'm not really strong enough to be a physical fighter all I have is my magic and I want to use it to be able to protect those I care for. I have very little control over my magic right now and I can feel that it has the potential to be strong. Also I would like to at least see hell once too, not many will be able to say that they have," he added not really knowing what to else to say. Ciaran cared for Luthor and he didn't want to accidentally hurt him if his own magic decided to back fire.

"Ciaran..." His hand tightened for a moment on Ciaran's arm, he didn't want for him to go, "You can't go Ciaran... you don't know what could happen." He whispered, "Going with Vampy, its dangerous... he isn't a good person, you must know that!" He wanted to go for the sake of his magic? To test himself? He took a step back and seemed to be floudering, his little wings flapping rapidly behind him. He wanted to talk him out of it, to figure out a way to get him to agree not to go along but his friend seemed so set to go despite the fact that they were going to be led to Hell...

Ciaran felt Luthor tighten his grip and felt that he didn't want him to go and Ciaran knew he had every right to try and stop him. "I know I shouldn't, Luthor. But sometimes in my dreams another me keep on taunting me on how things could happen if I don't except what I am, a spawn of the demon of Envy. To always want something that I don't have, to not always be happy with what I have and to not to always be happy about myself." he said looking at Luthor sadly. "Ever since I was little I coveted to maybe one day I would get wings, like those I have seen in those I have met. That is one of the big reasons I went insane and hurt myself, that I would never get wings...I need to know if I can work my magic to were I won't be envious of those who can." he said as he watched Luthor take a back and saw that Luthor might fall he quickly braced Luthor and have him a quick hug too. "I know its also dangerous, but its also dangerous outside of the labs too even if it doesn't look it. Also its not like I'm going alone with him I saw that there were others that signed up as well." he added kept a hold on Luthor.

Luthor's eyes widened a little as he spoke and he closed his wings tightly against his back and felt a little guilty, he'd never wanted wings, never really considered that he might end up with them... and yet he had. Then there was Ciaran who wanted them so badly but couldn't get them despite his desires. He felt a bit bad at the strange irony in it. He felt a bit of camaraderie with him though as it seemed both of them were struggling with the magical aspect of their being. He blinked, a little surprised when he found himself suddenly getting pulled into Ciaran's arms, "Ciaran... I just... don't want to see you get hurt." He murmured before he took a step closer to his friend and wrapped his arms around him, clinging to him in a manner that was normal for him and the fact that he often forgot about personal space when it came to his friends.

"There... is there... no way to keep you from going?" He murmured quietly, his head resting on his friend's feathery shoulder so that he didn't risk poking him with his horn.

Ciaran relaxed a little as Luthor rested his head on his shoulder as he started to pet his wings. "I don't want to get hurt either, but it is a part of life. Even if I didn't go some day I would get hurt and trust me my magic does like to backfire, I have shocked myself a few times because of it." he said softly back as Ciaran didn't have a concept of personal space and like be close with his friends. "No there isn't, I'm sorry Luthor. I want to know what I can do and I think the people in town wont like it very much if I accidentally blow something up with my magic," he replied back as he held onto Luthor tighter as Ciaran always felt safer with his friend around as he rested his own head on top of Luthor's.

The sensation of having his wings pet by Ciaran had him relaxing a bit and he let his light blue eyes sink closed and he tilted his head so that he could listen to the sound of his friend's breathing before he gave a little nod of his head, "If... there is no way to talk you out of it..." He murmured, then he drew back to look at Ciaran, "If you insist on going then I am going too." He was a little ticked off as he was sure that Vampy would be laughing his a** off when Luthor went along despite his wanting nothing more then to let the guy go himself to wander about in Hell where he belonged.

A part of him didn't want this moment to end it was so nice and peaceful. He listened to what Luthor said. "You don't have to go if you don't want to. I don't want to make you go," he answered as he also looked around and saw a few techs that were watching and then trying to look busy when Ciaran spotted them. "Also is there a more private place were we can continue on talking? I see we have a few very noisy techs around," he said with a smile that he would shock them to leave.

Luthor gave a little growl when he realized those techs were about, bastards... they were no doubt going to go back to report to Vampy with the information they were gathering he thought to himself before nodding, "Yeah, we can go to the rooms I share with my Dad and Pepper." He said, turning to lead the way. He wanted to keep talking with his friend but if there were spies about the only place they wouldn't go was in his room. It was a short walk between the area near the front door to the rooms that they shared, it was rather simple and only had a large bed off to one side and a table with some chairs at the other. It was sparse but it was home, once Ciaran came inside he closed and locked the door after him.

Ciaran had a very good look at those techs and sometime later he would give them a shock for being noisy as in his mind they all deserve it. "Ok," he answered and followed Luthor to the rooms. "Don't worry about the techs, sometime I will give them there just deserts." he said to Luthor in a hushed voice with a smile added to it. Ciaran thought the room was very cute and very practical. "Don't worry about me being envious of your wings, for the most part I'm over it and find that your wings look best on you and some of my other friends." he said once they were in the room.

He looked over at his friend before walking over to sit down on the bed before he gave his friend a little smile, "They deserve it. I kind of miss chasing them with Pepper but he's been a bit out of sorts of late." He murmured, wings giving a little flutter as they became the target of conversation. He shrugged, "I... am glad, I wouldn't want to possess something that bothered you." He told Ciaran then motioned to him to come and sit down with him.

"When ever I come to the labs I make sure I shock a few of them as you are very right about that," he said as he thought of what Pepper had told him and for what they didn't do to help him and for the fact he also hid in the shadow when he did it too. "It might have when I was young, but I had a lot of thinking time when I was insane. Its something you very much don't want to ever happen," he said as he came and sat down next to his friend.

Luthor leaned against his friend and then gave him a smile, his hand petting over the pretty blue feathers that Ciaran had on his shoulder, "Your feathers are very pretty." He told his friend not thinking that Ciaran was in need of wings at all. Though as he thought on the comment it made him flush a little, "Or should I call them handsome?" He wasn't sure exactly, he didn't know if Ciaran wanted to be called pretty. He let his eyes close as he nuzzled against the feathers. He didn't look forward to the journey tomorrow, not in the least, many factors of it put him off but... he would go to look after Ciaran. He wasn't going for Vampy and he sure hoped the guy knew as much.

Ciaran purred a little as Luthor petted his feathers as it was defiantly something new feeling as his shoulder feather were still very new for him too. "Thanks," he said as he blushed a little. "Pretty or handsome is all the same thing to me, just say what your more comfortable in saying. Anyways your wings are pretty too. They are colored like your hair and your eyes," he said as his tail tip gave a small wag and not moving much as his friend nuzzled his feather. "If you want I could stay the night."

He lifted his head from Ciaran's shoulder, gazing up at him, "Would you?" He murmured, sounding a bit surprised by the offer, he did kind of like the idea, "I would like that Ciaran." It would make him better, to have a calm moment before the unknown of the journey to Hell with Vampy at the lead.

Ciaran warmly smiled back. "Yes I would." he answered back as he got closer to Luthor. "I would too, as I have yet to tell Sokan about it and I know he won't be too happy about it either." Ciaran added as he thought a quick run home to get some things and tell Sokan as Ciaran knew that Sokan wouldn't stop him but still want to wish him well. Ciaran also wanted some calm too to were his dreams wouldn't bug him.

He gave a happy smile as he relaxed against him once more, "It sounds nice... I really would like it if you stayed." He told him, wrapping his arms around one of Ciaran's arms before he let his eyes closed, "I am so exhausted... I always end up so on edge whenever I have to deal with Vampy. When I am done dealing with him I am always left looking at myself and him... and I have the things he sees and points out, things he says we have in common." He gave a sighing sound, he didn't want to be anything like Vampy but to have the guy seemed at the moment to want to make him the same.

Ciaran half closed his eyes and purred a little. "I will stay, so don't worry," he murmured to Luthor. "I bet, I don't think that I have met him, but I bet you wish that he won't point those out and just leave you alone. "Just because you might have things in common doesn't mean you the same and there is nothing he can do to change that. I like you the way you are, so kind and considerate," he said as Ciaran just wanted to make sure to comfort Luthor and to protect him too.

"That is nice of you to say, so different from what he said about me." He murmured, not liking at all that Vampy was getting to him in such a way. The guy seemed a master of mind games. He gave a smile before he let himself lay down on the bed, hands still holding onto Ciaran's arm in manner that was somewhat innocent and childish. Luthor was a bit uncertain about a lot of things and there was still a lot that he didn't understand despite his age, "I am sorry for being so grouchy with you earlier Ciaran... I shouldn't have come straight to seeing you after dealing with Vampy." Though he was glad he had as the end result was him having a friend sleep over.

Ciaran smiled at the comment. "Well maybe its because he just wants to see what he wants and not the whole picture. He might think he know you, but he is very wrong only those that are close to you know what you are truly like," he said as his tail tip continued to wag. "No worries you were only concerned. You don't want to see Sokan grumpy, he looks like he would talk your face off if you said something wrong to him." he replied with a little giggle smile. "I'm very glad that you are my friend, Luthor."

The white haired spawn relaxed a bit more and his little wings gave a small flutter behind him as his friend assured him that it was alright, he relaxed further, "I am glad we are friends too, Ciaran." He murmured, one of his two friends and one of three people he truly cared about. It scared him a little at times because he knew and cared for so few people he wanted so badly to take care of them, to push himself and do anything and everything possible to do so.

Ciaran smiled as his tail gave a full wag. He was so very happy as there weren't very many others that he deeply cared for and would do anything for them, Luthor was very much one of them along with a few others. "Well since we talk about magic, the element that I can wield very badly at is lighting," he said as he took his other hand that Luthor wasn't hold onto and made a little amount arc in his hand.

Luthor opened up his eyes to gaze at the arc of energy in Ciaran's and he pushed himself up so that he could better look at it, "Neat... my... magic, its kind of odd. I don't know exactly what it is called..." He murmured, reaching up to take the pen from behind his ear and looked it over, "This is the item that I channel the power through." He showed it to Ciaran and there was a faint, purple glow that wrapped first around the item and then the rest of Luthor, making his hair look as though it were lifting and floating up in the air slightly.

Holding the lighting for a little longer for Luthor to look at before he let it fizzle away as he didn't want it to get a mind of it own and shock Luthor. Ciaran looked the pen over and found it cool and a nifty way of using magic and then seeing the glow and hair lifting up and Ciaran thought that was very cool. "I think that is very nifty." he said as he poked at Luthor's floating hair. "Mine if used in larger quantities has a very good chance of backfiring and I shock myself too," he added.

Luthor tucked it behind his ear again before he nodded, "Yeah, same with mine. Magic sees a bit difficult at times, doesn't it?" He murmured, laying down once more before he reached a hand out to pet the feathery poof at the end of Ciaran's tail. As he relaxed and after the pen was put away the purple glow faded away and his hair settled again, "Have you hurt yourself badly with the power?" He sounded worried again.

"It does, but that just might be because we are still youngish and need more practice or we just have difficult magic that likes to stump us," he replied as it was one word that Sokan had used when he had shown his water weaving to Ciaran. Ciaran moved his tail to where Luthor could pet it when he was laying down. "No I haven't, the most it been like a stronger version of static electricity, it stings for a sec and then its over with," he replied not really telling the whole truth as there were a few times it had really hurt, but that was because he had open wounds, but he didn't want to worry Luthor about it. "I haven't used it to the amount to were it could potential hurt me. Just little doses."

"Heh, yeah. I would almost believe that magic is meant to stump people a little." He said, his hand moving over the pen in a gentle manner as though he were trying to sooth the magic in some manner. He gave a smile when Ciaran's tail got closer to him and he pet it more, "I am glad to hear that your magics hasn't hurt you to much." He said, he was rather lucky himself that his magic hadn't punished him for some of the wishes that he'd granted but it would seem that so long as he did right by his powers instead of walking a darker path like Vampy did he would be alright. Not that he wanted to push his luck...

He held his arms out to Ciaran, "Lay down and rest with me? Who knows how earlier Vampy will want us to be up to get on our way."

Ciaran knew that it would be a lot of work to get his raging beast of magic to calm down and to behave the way it should. "I am too, I wouldn't want to blow things up, but I have left a few char marks in floors," he said as he remember the first time he had used it and blew up a tree, the poor tree but it was neat to see it do it anyways.

Seeing Luthor hold his hands out to him he purred as he knew it was a little selfish to feel wanted, but to him it was a lot better than being forgotten. "Okay and I think that you are right. I can see him being a really early riser and not letting others get there sleep," he replied back. Taking one of Luthor's hands in his as he laid down as close as he could next to his friend and not thinking on much as he like the closeness and the contact with his friend. He thought it was a little selfish to be very close with his friend, but to his mind it was a lot better than being forgotten.

Meanwhile, Back At the Labs: Part 1

Almas was looking as though he were half tempted to use the broom that he had been using to sweep up the hospital area where the cots, as well as Aden's desk, were set up to beat the doctor senseless, "I appreciate the... idea... but its not exactly my style, Doctor Boggs, thank you." He was saying, trying to keep his cool as he didn't like losing his temper. It seemed to be something that two people were good at bringing to the surface, the Doctor and Vampy. He turned away from Aden and set back to sweeping.

Aden gave a bit of a pout as he lowered the magazine to the desk, "I think you would look cute in something like this, course I am sure I'd end up having to figure out a million reasons to have you bend over if you were wearing it..." He looked down at the nurses outfit that was made for females and not really for a hospital setting as much as a bedroom setting.

"Aden... I will beat you with this broom." He said, turning to give the other the best one eyed glare that he could.

A smirk spread across the Doctor's face showing that the wording was completely wrong as it was something the man could turn into a perverse thought, "Promise?"

The Fallen gave a growl then turned away to continued to sweep in a loud manner.

Pepper had been skulking about trying to locate his best friend. It seemed ironic that now that he wanted to find Luthor he couldn't find the spawn anywhere, served him right he guessed for avoiding him so much. But he couldn't help it as he was over thinking a lot of things...he didn't want to hurt him. Not his best friend. So by avoiding him it helped somewhat. But also....made it worse. He felt like all his nerves were on end..he wanted to do things to Luthor...or was that just because of what the blue haired brat had told him? Was he being manipulated by that dangerous kid? He had a sneaky suspicion he was being messed with, but it didn't stop his brain from over thinking. He had tried to broach the subject with Vampy but was shot down and thus he went on a hunt for Almas. At the very least the fallen could help tell him where Luthor was if he couldn't help him with information.

Aden leaned back in his seat, patting one of his pockets and got out his pack of smokes and a lighter, "I am going to leave you in charge for a few minutes, I need one of these real bad. Gonna be alright? Or maybe I should stay here and keep you company?" He asked as he pushed to his feet.

"I am fine on my own, go and get your smoke." He said, not even looking over at the Doctor.

"I'm hurt... here I thought you might like me. Come on Almas, what do you say? Just a fun romp, you and me?" He said in a tempting manner, then squeaked, dodging backwards as the broom was swung at him, "Heh, aggressive little thing." He said, laughing as he headed out the door, moving to one of the emergency exits, using his keys to turn off the alarm so he could smoke but still be near to the hospital in case he was needed.

Pepper used his heightened sense of smell to locate the man he was looking for. Not sure why Almas was in the hospital wing he stood poised at the door entrance wondering in mild panic if Luthor was in here for god knows what reason and no one told him. Of course he didn't smell him so his fears were eased slightly and Almas was sweeping so that made him relax.

"Almas...?" he poised the man's name as a question as if he was wondering if he was bothering the man. He could say he had felt a bit ...left out as of late since Luthor had come back. Now that Almas's true son was back he didn't get nearly as much attention anymore. Not that he really wanted it....god his emotions were a mess.

Almas turned toward the door and a smile spread across the Fallen's lips, "Pepper." He murmured, seeming to relax and perk up seeing the boy standing there. He was a far better companion to keep compared to the Doctor he'd been dealing with all day since he'd gotten that letter from him via a Tech telling him that he needed a helper. Strange since he just seemed to be giving him busy work and propositions, surely the man was less in need of help and more in need of a companion, "Come on in, take a seat." Maybe if the boy were around Aden would lay off for a while.

Pepper glanced about the room and then stepped inside, his large feet padded into the room his claws clicking against the linoleum.

"You busy? If you are I can...ask later.." He stated feeling rather awkward against his vauge father figure. He looked up to the man, but knew deep down despite being basically raised by him...there just wasn't the same connection that was shared with Luthor and Almas.

Almas watched him for a long moment then reached a hand out to ruffle his hair, "Naw, I am just doing busy work and keeping a very bored Doctor company." He said, letting his broom against one of the cots before he moved to sit down on the one next to it, "Come on, you can ask me anything." He told him, wondering what had happened as he looked a little off. Perhaps he'd chased the wrong tech and was in trouble now?

His long ears seemed to wilt a bit a sure sign something was bothering him, he rubbed the back of his head giving a bit of a chuckle at the ruffled hair before he went back to looking plain awkward again.

"Hrrnn...I don't really know if you can help..." He started off quite honestly, "I ..I just want to know wel..more confirm something I was told.." He continued as he couldn't meet the fallen's gaze. He sure was getting tall, despite being only pre-teen he was...huge.

"I can try to help out where I can." He offered the boy, watching him closely. This seemed ot be more then just him getting himself in trouble if he were looking to ask him about some rumor he'd heard, "Just ask away."

Pepper hrmed and shifted his weight from foot to foot, his hand went to rest against the back of his neck and he looked very..weird. Like he was thinking too hard.

"Wh...well..what do you know about my DNA parents? If you know...even the slightest detail...could you tell me?" He started off half turning and beginning to pace a bit back and forth.

Almas tilted his head to the side in a thoughtful sort of manner, thinking about it, "From what I gather your demon father is a unique sort. I haven't met him and Vampy never spoke of him much but there is something between them that made Vampy a little... obsessed with him." He said, tilting his head to the side as he thought about it trying to recall if he knew much more then that, "You were named after him as well but aside from that I don't know as much as perhaps your file might."

Pepper seemed to look more disappointed and even inwardly flinched at the information at being named after the beast.

"...W..what about my other parent?" he inquired softly. though there was little about him the boasted angelic qualities...after what Melan had said.

He gave a shake of his head, "I don't know anything about a second parent." If things were to be believed there wasn't supposed to be one, he'd thought that there was only supposed to be the demon that he was born from. How he got the DNA was beyond him though, perhaps Vampy had ventured out to get it at some point or another, he wasn't around him as often anymore so he no longer was able to keep tabs on the Boss of this place.

Pepper scratched as his arm nervously, tempted to go get that file and yet not sure if he really wanted to know. Ignorance was bliss they often stated. But he knew it would eat away at him until it drove him to do something bad.

"I...I...was just told something so..I wanted a confirmation...I'm sorry to have bothered you.." He stated sounding rather subdued for the moment.

"D.do you know where Luthor is? I've looked for him everywhere.."

Almas looked a little saddened, "I am sorry I couldn't be of more help... your birth was something that Vampy was very secretive about until the day that you were born and he showed you to me." He murmured, wishing that he could be of more help to him. He tilted his head to the side then shook it, "Last I saw he and his friend were having a sleep over... though I am sure our rooms would be the first that you would check, huh?" He seemed to grow thoughtful for a moment... then slightly worried. Surely Luthor wouldn't up and leave again? Things seemed to have calmed down for the most place when it came to him aside from here and there when he came running as though to check up on Almas.

He nodded his head to confirm that he looked there first.

"yeah...I...just have a favor to ask of him... is all...and I can't locate him anywhere...do you know why all the white coats seem on edge? Is Vampy on a rampage or something?" he inquired sounding a bit on edge himself

"I... wouldn't know. He seems to be invisible where I am concerned these days. In fact I haven't even seen him at a distance since Luthor got home now that I really think on it." He said, giving a half shrug. He seemed to be trying to play it off as though it were nothing but he almost appeared hurt over Vampy avoiding him. He tilted his head to the side in a thoughtful manner, "I wonder what has them on edge... what is Vampy up to now." He murmured to himself.

Pepper nodded his head briefly though he had seen more of Vampy than he cared for with the classes he had been forced to take, suddenly that man seemed to have up and disappeared as well. He noted the look on Almas's face wondering...just what his relationship with the scary silver haired man was.

"I get the feeling...something is up.." he stated with a nod of his head.

He looked over at the door for a moment then gave a thoughtful sound, "I... wonder if he knows what's up." He murmured, pushing to his feet and walked toward the door to peek out for a moment before he walked over to the desk and started to dig around through the mess of papers that the Doctor had been look through today and found a pile of files, some papers covered in texts that he didn't understand but he would guess was some sort of medicinal code, and then a list with a bunch of names on it a few of which he knew... one of the names being that of his son, "What... is going on."

There was the sound of a clearing throat at the door, "Snooping doesn't really suit an angel, Almas." Aden said, walking over to him, taking the list out of his hand and seemed to have a look on his face that was different from his normal happy, flirtatious look.

Pepper had been watching as Almas moved and was curious mildly with what he was doing. His ears twitched as he noticed the doctor enter the room the look on Almas's face when he had read the papers was enough to put him back on edge. He frowned at the doctor and then took a step forward his gold eyes analyzing the man.

"Do you know what is going on?"

Aden folded the list over and tucked it into his pocket, "If I do its not something I can share, especially with the pair of you." Aden said, moving around Almas to take up his seat behind it.
Almas did feel a little foolish over being caught digging around through the stuff on Aden's desk red handed but the fact that he seemed to know what was going on made him rather curious... and a little worried. What was going on that could make Aden seem so very serious all of a sudden?

Unlike Almas who seemed a bit flustered Pepper was ticked, he took another step forward going to slam his hands on the desk, the doctor was just like every other white coat...so he'd treat him like he did the rest. With little respect and violence if needed.

"Don't even start this s**t with me..." he swore his eyes narrowing as he looked to where Aden had placed the folded peice of paper.

Aden lifted an eyebrow, "Oh?" He gave a bit of a smile, "Will you make me talk, Pepper?" He asked of the spawn as he turned his chair to face him head on. All those claws and sharp teeth were enough to intimidate a normal tech but he wasn't about to get cowed so easily. The last thing he wanted was to be mauled but he really didn't feel like revealing all of Vampy's plans so quickly, especially to these two who were so attached to one of the ones who'd gone on the trip with his Boss.

Pepper's frown turned into a growling sort of smile that indicated that if anything he'd get to let off some steam if he did rumble with the doctor.

"...You don't want me to try out my magic ...trust me..." He snarled though all his muscles seemed to bunch as if he was half contemplating vaulting over the desk to attack the man.

Aden couldn't help but to give a laugh as he got up to his feet, walking over to the fridge, "You wouldn't want me to use mine either, so we seem to be at an impasse." He said, sounding quite serious about, making it seem almost believable that he might actually have some sort of power... then he gave a chuckle which completely ruined it, "Look, kid. You don't need to know what is going on because your not old enough to know. If you were I am sure the Boss would have brought you along with him."

Pepper's look was that of being caught off guard, though the frown instantly was back. His ears twitched a growl issuing through his throat.

"Brought along? Where did he go? Did he take Luthor?" he asked the string of questions in a rush, mostly because that could make sense to WHY he couldn't find Luthor or Ciaran...

Aden gave a wince before he looked over toward Pepper for a moment then went back to looking in the fridge, "I have probably already said to much." He said, getting out a bottle of water and opened it up, taking a sip from it and looked over at Pepper, "He will be home soon enough and I am sure he will be fine." That last part he didn't seem exactly sure of and if anyone looked around the hospital ward was set up as though it were just waiting for someone to show up in need of care.

Pepper snarled as then in a couple of steps was at the doctor his long fingers wrapping around the water bottle crushing it along with the man's fingers. Where his claws hit plastic he punctured it the water squirting and dripping down his fingers.

His eyes looked wild, as if he could and would not hesitate, "Where...did..he...take him?" He hissed.

"I'd suggest highly that you don't injure my hand, I rather need if it anyone is sent back injured and need me to patch them back up." He told Pepper, his tone of voice quite serious as he looked down at the clawed hand that was attempting crush his hand, "You have one chance Pepper." He told him.

Almas stepped forward quickly, lifting his hands to bring them down to rest them on Pepper's shoulders, "Relax, Pepper..." He murmured then looked up at Aden, "Aden... where... where is my son?"

Aden looked between the pair then sighed, looking away, "Look... does it matter? Neither of you can follow."

Pepper's body was shaking, rather hard. As it the attempt to try and calm down was too much for him. He nearly threw Aden's hand down that was how angry he was,
"It matters you a*****e! Luthor is my best friend! I will go wherever it takes to make sure he is safe!" He spat, "Wait...anyone??? How many people did he take??"

Aden drew his hand back quickly, shaking it, then flexed it to make sure that it was still in working condition, "I can't be sure, a couple of them dropped out via phone calls, two just never showed up... so..." He paused a moment, seeming to count it over in his head, "Seven I think showed up and went with him."

Meanwhile, Back At the Labs: Part 3

Almas didn't really want to think on it, to consider where Vampy could have taken the group but the more he thought on it the more he started to understand exactly what was going on. It was because a piece of the puzzle was missing, wasn't it? He'd been able to replace Kerylia and Hyacinth with Torekane and Pagiel but Shar... Shar still hadn't been replaced. It was where he'd gone, wasn't it? He was going to replace the wrath demon and had taken help with him. It confused him as to why he'd heard not even a peep about it, it had always seemed as though every time Vampy came up with some crazy plan that he was the first one he came to so he could gloat about it.

The blond sighed softly, Vampy didn't need him any longer did he? He didn't even find any fun anymore in coming to gloat and poke fun at him or to order him about. He shouldn't be surprised it was a one sided relationship but a part of him had hoped that some day he would be needed again. The Fallen shook his head before he started down a darkened hallway, it looked as though the power in the area had been turned off, as though someone was trying to keep any company from coming down in this direction. He looked back and forth as he walked along before he paused in front of a door. He looked at the name on the name plate next to it and shook his head. This guy... he was loud and flashy, he was... strange and eccentric and Luthor told him about the classes he ran.

If anyone might have a clue as to exactly where Vampy had gone in search of a Wrath demon he might, he seemed to have a weird love of demons after all. The Fallen slowed down, walking more softly as he turned to peek into the classroom to see if he was in.

There was a distinct smell of burnt flesh, the warlock was facing a large mirror like globe that was rather large and shimmered in the air before him. But instead of showing his reflection it was like a strange window giving a peep into the world beyond it. The smell of flesh was due to some small forms laying in heaps very close to the opening. Some were no bigger than a cat others looking like small midgets shriveled and crisped. The older gentleman seemed to be muttering to himself and it was hard to tell if he was focusing on another spell or just speaking unintelligent words to himself.

His shoulders were sagging his weight on a cane as he continued to say on the alert. It felt like eons since they had gone in....though he highly doubted Vampy would get them all killed he still felt his worry on edge.

His duty was to guard the portal from outside beings. Demons...he chewed on his lower lip...he had hated to kill them. He wanted to trap them study them...but he had been given the strictest of orders. Besides the group Vampy had left with no one was to leave of enter the portal.

Almas lifted a hand up to cover his mouth and nose at the terrible scent that filled the air in the room, he looked at the small creatures and through the mirror... wait... surely not? He shook his head as he pushed the door open and headed into the room, walking toward the portal to get a better look at what was on the other side, "Oh... no..." He murmured, unable to help but stare. That was where Vampy had gone with those spawn, with his son? He went to the demon realm! That couldn't be right... why would he put them, put himself in danger like that? He felt the overwhelming urge to follow but then Aden's words made sense. That was why he said if Almas had gone that he would act like a neon sign...

Zyane didn't realize he had company for a couple of moments after the fallen's words had entered the air. He half turned in surprise flames springing into his hand though he lowered it as he recognized Almas he smothered the flame in his hand and then sighed as he leaned against his cane heavily. He shook his head as if it weighed down on him,

"You should not be here," He breathed with a sigh.

He swallowed hard as he starred into the portal, seeming to miss the fact that he was nearly set aflame by the man he was standing next to. He slowly turned to look over at Zyane, "W-When... did they go?" He murmured to the warlock who seemed to be keeping the portal open from this side, "Are they alright?" He was worried about them all but Luthor... his son was there and he couldn't breath... he felt as though he were suffocating... His son was in the most dangerous place possible and there was nothing he could do, someone like him could never go there.

Zyane only shook his head again his eyes glancing at the portal as he knew he had to have his full attention on it at all times...he couldn't risk letting something come through.

With a grunt he turned to face the portal again, "I'd reckon they've been in there a couple of hours now....as to if they are okay....The boss is with them." He stated with a half shrug. He looked back to the fallen before gesturing for the fallen to leave.

"This isn't a place for you to go M'lad. It best you go back to the medical ward."

"Not... for me...? Vampy brought my son in there!" He told him, feeling his annoyance rising as the other tried to get rid of him. He didn't want to leave, wanted to know what was going on, where they were, how they were... he wanted to know that his son was still in one piece. He felt a bit to shaky all over though his hands were clenched to keep his shakes from showing to the one that he was standing next to. He didn't want to go back to dealing with Aden and his flirting...

Zyane gave a grumbling sort of sound, "The boss has them all in his care, I do not doubt he will make sure no serious harm befalls them." He stated with a nod of his head, "Besides he took a full grown spawn with them and he gave them talismans that will transport them instantly to the medical ward if they need to." He continued,

"And unless you are going to help me guard the portal you are merely distracting me..."

Almas gritted his teeth, "I feel like I am the only one that was unaware of what he was plotting." He muttered, glaring at the portal in a displeased manner. It made sense though, didn't it? Of course he wasn't going to tell him what was going on since he'd decided to bring Luthor with him. He wanted to yell at Vampy, giving him a shake... or a punch... something. This was so damn frustrating! He lifted his hand up to scratch at the scars on his cheek as he watched the portal.

"What...? Guard the portal?" He looked at the things that were burnt to a crisp in front of it, "Mostly lesser demons." He murmured, drifting closer to the portal to look them over before peeking inside, "Has anything big approached yet? Or just these things?"

Zyane made a vague gesture at the poor creatures below his feet.

"Only small creatures, curious creatures more foolish than brave. I have a trap pentagram set up for anything larger..." he stated with a nod of his head,"I won't lie to you lad, I am a bit worried as each minute passes and they had yet not returned." He reached into his pocket to take out a claw that had been given to him, he ran his thumb along it crystalline surface slowly.

"I can only pray I am strong enough to hold anything back that tries to pass."

Almas gave a shifter at his words, "I... can't believe he is so eager to get a replacement for Shar that he'd do this." He murmured then shook his head, "I forget at times I suppose what he is really like." He was foolish, blinded by affection and some sort of strange desire for his Boss that he always forgot about what he was like, what his goals were, that he was what he was. He shook his head as he knelt down to give one of the charred creatures a poke before he looked forward and out of the portal, squinting his good eye in an attempt to see what was out there, to spot any sign of any one... and all he saw was a couple small, skittering critters here and there.

Zyane nodded his head, "An ambitious man if I ever met one..." He stated though by the way he said the word man it was as if he knew that Vampy wasn't truly one of mankind's children.

"Though despite everything...I am surprised the children went...I can tell non of them have...very much love for him or the facility..."

"No... why would Luthor go?" He asked, as though Zyane might have a clue even though he was just a worker in this place as well, "He holds no love in his heart for Vampy." Less so now that he knew how he and Vampy were tied together and how Almas and Vampy were. He gave a soft, sighing sound, "None of this makes sense to me."

He looked over at Zyane, "Did... did he say how long he would be in there with them?" He asked of them.

He gave another shrug of his weary shoulders, "As long as it takes I reckon. He seems the type of man he gets what he wants...I can only hope it is sooner rather than later..." He sounded dead tired, he wasn't in his prime any more casting spell after spell he kept using his more powerful ones...cause sometimes you never got a chance to get a second shot off...he rather be safe than sorry.

"As to why your son left...he seemed to have clung to another boy that went with as well." Zyane mused.

Almas glanced over at Zyane, watching him closely. That tone of voice... he sounded exhausted, "Are you going to be able to maintain this?" He asked quietly, quiet and subdued Zyane didn't even seem to be the same person anymore. It was as though that eccentric part of him had been all but erased as he was forced to stand here guarding the portal to the Demon Realm. He took a step away from the portal toward the warlock, as he did so the Fallen's shadow crossed over the surface of the portal and it gave a momentary tremble before flattening back out as though a stiff breeze had blown through.

"Another of the spawn?" Luthor had gone into the portal clinging to another member of the group? He was a little surprised, he didn't know there was anyone he was so attached to other then Pepper and that boy was still with Aden. He felt as if he'd missed a lot while Luthor was away from the Labs.

Zyane tilted his head eying the shadow briefly before he shook his head. The dim lights...he must be more tired than he originally thought. True the man was generally eccentric, but he was so worn out he was unable to draw the energy needed to have that sort of attitude.

"I will do my duty, I have spent my life dedicated to this art...don't underestimate your elders m'lad." He stated as he forced himself to stop leaning on his cane and to stand tall. He was a proud man and disliked showing weakness.

"There were approximately seven or so who accompanied the Boss. He placed a spell on them all ...to help mask their auras." he explained, "If you or I went beyond the portal...we would draw everything to us....the portal would be discovered and then the entire facility at risk.."

Almas gave a nod of his head, "I... see, afterward if your in need of rest you should visit the hospital ward." He murmured, he would be able to rest there and maybe all of Aden's enthusiasm would help to perk him up. He turned to look at the portal again, "Is there anything I can do to help you out?"

Zyane's eyebrows furrowed as he then raised his hand sending a blast of intense fiery heat at the portal, there was a screech the ended abruptly whatever it had been no longer existed and Zyane leaned on his can once again, sweat was starting to drip down his forehead. Reaching into his breast pocket he withdrew a cloth and dabbed his face before returning it.

"Do you know any destructive spells?" He inquired to the fallen with a raised eyebrow.

Almas lifted a hand to his forehead for a moment, scratching at the dull markings there before he lowered his gaze, "I... can't do much of anything anymore." He said, giving a hard swallow and then a bit of a smile, "My punishment for following after an ambitious man. It would be best if I left, wouldn't it?" It normally was.

Zyane only chuckled and shook his head,"You are still alive...don't count yourself as useless. Only the dead are useless...and even then...they have their own purposes.." He gave a wry smile, "Perhaps though...if you could get the doctor for me?" he inquired with a murmur.

He gave a nod of his head, "Sure." He murmured, turning to walk toward the door at a quickened pace, "I will send him your way." It meant that he would have a bit of time without Aden flirting with him if he were helping out the mage. As he stepped out of the classroom his shadow gave another shift, trembling, then a part of it seemed to break away and move off into the deeper shadows of the hallway. Almas, to busy with the quick walk back to the hospital ward, didn't seem to notice.

Meanwhile, Back At the Labs: Final

Pepper gave a sigh wishing he could believe what Almas was saying. He rubbed an arm feeling the muscles and wondering just how much different he appeared from the last time, he shook his head again the world was feeling not quite so heavy in his limbs and he tested out going to stand up again. Still wobbly he at least didn't instantly fall over this time.

"I...don't...t..think that is what it is..."

Almas watched him closely as he tried to get up to his feet, then slowly got up to his feet as well just in case he needed to watch after the boy and catch him once again, "Oh? Well it would be understandable, he was being a bit on the stubborn side..." Then again so were they in wanting to get the information from Aden about where everyone had gone. He gave a soft sound, "Careful Pepper... careful... I don't want to see you fall down and hurt yourself."

He took a deep breath as if trying to just get some air into his system. He felt the tingling cut on his forehead and looked down at his claws again. They...really were dangerous. He should be use to them...he had been so careful when he had been younger.

'Yeah...but .." he struggled to say the words...but he couldn't bring himself to admit that he felt like a dangerous person to be around.

"What if next time I can't be stopped? I don't...want to hurt people to that extreme..."

Almas gave him a smile, "Your a good boy, Pepper. I don't think your quite the sort to hurt anyone." He said, then blinked and gave a little chuckle, "Well... aside from you chasing and scaring techs but that is a little different, isn't it? Just a sort of game you and Luthor seemed to like to play together... Ahh... not that I know if boys your age really are the sort to play anymore." He was babbling, he knew that but he couldn't seem to help it. He seemed to just be realizing that both of the boys that he looked after since they were little were now grown... he found himself worrying a little if they would need him anymore...

"I am sure things will be alright, probably just need to work on keeping your emotions in check." He suggested.

Pepper gave Almas a long look. a rather studious look as he gave a half smile, that revealed his sharp teeth.

"...Thank you Almas...I ..I know that you only looked after me cause I ..didn't really have anyone..but your the best ..D..dad ever." He replied honestly, though there were times that he wanted to strangle the man he knew deep down he owed a lot to Almas and he did appreciate all his kindness and hard work.

He moved forward and went to wrap his arms around the fallen, only to realize just...how much bigger he was to the fallen now.

Almas flushed a bit at his words, "Pepper... That isn't why I looked after you but thank you, I did enjoy looking after you. You weren't any sort of burden, please never think about that... you were more like a second son to me. If you ever need anything just tell me." He murmured, sounding quite happy at the boy referring to him as 'Dad' even though he still called him Almas and thought he'd only looked after him because he had to. He wouldn't admit that he'd fought with Vampy to keep Pepper with him and Luthor as there was no real reason to do so.

He blinked as his arms slid around him in a hug. He gave a bright smile before he lifted his hands up and wrapped them around Pepper best that he could and hugged him back, snuggling him, "Mm, I love you Pepper." He murmured, the sort of love for a parent to their child mind you, not that sort of affection he had for Vampy... though at the moment that affection was masked by his being ticked off by him.

Pepper made a purring rumbling sound in his throat his eyes sliding half closed feeling for once...content. He didn't need his real DNA parents...did he? He had Almas and Luthor...he didn't need the connection of his real donors.

"Tha..thanks .Dad.." he murmured before he went to nibble the man's ear lightly. He had never nibbled on Almas before...keeping himself rather aloof of the man as he always felt like he was a burden to him. When he let go finally he gave a cough and rubbed the back of his head rather awkwardly.

Almas felt his eyes get a bit damp and he gave a soft sound in his throat, leaning his head against his chest to hide it for a moment to keep from letting the tears fall, "Your welcome." He murmured, trying to keep his voice from cracking. As the boy drew back he lifted a hand to rub at his eyes then smiled up at him happily, "So, what do you want to do now? Rest and wait for the others? Zyane is hoping that they return from their journey soon." He explained.

Pepper looked over his shoulders to where the good doctor had headed he gave a snort, his irritation stirring as he took a step or two in a pacing manner.

"Why is he with that old coot? What is that coot doing anyway?"

"He's looking after the door so that everyone has a way home... things are..." His eyes got wide, "Ah! You know, you could probably help him out... Zyane is getting really weak, really tired and is having a hard time in keeping the bad things out. Do you think you could help defend the door?"

Pepper looked to Almas like he had sprouted a third eye before he looked back over his shoulder. Could he help? Defend? He felt his irritation disappear something in his body wanted to...no demanded he help protect the portal.

"As long as the old man doesn't mind a couple blown up chairs..." He grinned.

Almas gave a happy sound, "Come on, best we can really do is try to help out on this side until they get back. When they do feel free to shake Luthor for me." As he'd be busy yelling out someone else... He reached out to take Pepper's hand and started to lead the way to where the portal was set up as well as where Zyane and Aden were currently located.

Pepper was lead a bit awkwardly by the smaller fallen having to shorten his strides to make sure he didn't accidentally step on the man's heels. His long claws clicked against the linoleum as he allowed himself to be led. Somehow he knew it was...important to Almas, something had passed between them that he was happy for.

As they approached the door to Zyanes class room he sniffed the air and felt his hackles raise.
He smelt death, he let a low growl escape his throat as they entered the room.

Zyane was having a hard time standing, he wasn't in his prime as he use to be...

"Zyane, I brought some help to guard the portal." He told the man, looking at him in a slightly worried manner. He gave Pepper's hand a squeeze before he realized him then walked over to look up at Zyane, "Do you need a chair?" He asked of him.

Aden looked at the pair as they came into the room before he gave a worried chuckle, "Ahh... I should probably get back to the hospital ward, just in case anyone is sent back that needs tending to." And because he wasn't sure if he wanted to be near to Pepper if the guy were in a pummeling mood...

Pepper gave a growl lip curling up to reveal his teeth at the 'good' doctor.

"Why don't you take the old man with you...be useful for once besides flirting.." he snarled as he went to look at Zyane with a more..compassionate expression though he didn't like him he neither disliked him.

"Need help?" He inquired though Zyane was giving Pepper a rather curious expression before he scoffed and shook his head.

"I am not dead yet.." He muttered as he used his cane to help himself along.

"Not yet, but you could still use the help." Almas told Zyane, "Come on, your about to fall over..." He looked around for a moment before he fetched a chair and brought over to the old warlock, "Here, sit."

Aden looked at Pepper and chuckled, "I'd take him with me if I thought he would come, I doubt he wants to give up watching after the portal and keeping it open to come and play with me." He gave Zyane a wink before he started for the door, "If you decide you needs rest after this venture you probably should come to the ward so I can look you over and check you out."

Zyane only snorted at the doctor before looking at the chair in a wary fashion before finally going to sit down. He pointed his cane tip to Pepper though he was casting a look at Almas.

"He is the help you brought? What can he do?" He inquired though Pepper only shook his head in annoyance and then went towards the portal...every inch of him wanted to go through it...

"DON'T Even think about it...I don't need you accidentally messing up the runes now you came back over here." Zyane snapped.

"I am guessing more then you at the moment, Zyane." He said, looking toward the boy and gave him a smile. He walked over to look out of the portal, again hoping to see something, anything that would show what was going on or sign of those that were were in there that he wanted to see come back in one piece. No sign at the moment though, "Just need to keep things from coming through, right?" He said to Zyane without looking his way. For the moment he didn't see anything so he hoped it would remain as such.

Pepper gave a snort and a pleased smile with Almas's response to the old man who only sighed and tried to not look worried.

"Yes yes.. protect the portal...which means stopping anything from coming in.." He explained with a murmur, "now move away from there...I don't want to see you get snatched by something...even if you don't see anything.."

Pepper alarmed at what Zyane said quickly moved over to Almas as if hoping his sheer presence would prevent the fallen from being surprise attacked

Almas starred at the portal for a moment before he took a couple steps back away the portal and closer to Pepper and he was quiet as he watched it, hoping that everyone would get back and in one piece soon. For now all he could do was wait and keep his eyes open. He considered praying for them for a moment but he had no idea how well that work given the situation.

Brothers: Part 2

Pepper raised an eyebrow at the comment about Ciaran...looked like he had another person he had to go lecture.

"So you went because Ciaran went..." He murmured, he shook his head and then look frustrated. "Why didn't you tell me?" he snapped looking pissed once more.

He gave a little shrug, "I was hoping that I could talk him out of it, I tried the whole night! In the morning we headed out and..." He trailed off, not wanting to tell Pepper why he'd not told him. He merely gave him a bit of a smile, "Please, lets not worry to much about me, alright? Others were hurt worse... I was lucky, the male demon didn't do much more then carry me about."

Pepper looked over to Luthor again his eyes taking in the other spawn before he looked away looking rather annoyed.

"Yes...lucky....while your off risking your neck I was stuck here worrying about you.." he sounded like he was sulking. Though his posture remained aloof his muscles seemed to be twitching as if he really did want to throttle Luthor.

Luthor looked him over before he reached a hand out to pat it against his arm, "I'm sorry, Pepper... but I am... glad that you were here, safe and away from that male demon. It was... for the best, believe me when I say this." He couldn't imagine what might have happened if Pepper had been there when they found that older, larger version of him. It would have gone worse if you asked him.

Pepper shrugged his friends hand off before he turned abruptly grabbing that said hand he had shrugged off and yanking Luthor at his chest. before wrapping his arms around him tightly. Even if it did hurt Luthor he didn't seem to care about that right this moment. He held onto Luthor tightly burrowing his face into his friends hair trying to believe him. "I could of done...something..." He agrued weakly.

Luthor gave a sound of surprised as he got himself pulled against Pepper's chest and then was wrapped up tightly into his arms. His wounds were set to aching but he didn't say anything or do anything, instead he gave Pepper a smile and wrapped his arms around him as best as he could though Pepper seemed a lot bigger, "I am sure you could have but... I am glad that you didn't go... glad you were safe." He said in a soothing way, "If it were possible I wouldn't have gone, I would have talked all the others out of going..."

Pepper understood though it felt like he was always the one being left behind. Luthor ran away from home without a word...and then went to hell. He was mildly terrified that one day Luthor would leave without a word...and never make it back.

"I can handle my own...." he rumbled as he released Luthor finally his thumb running over the scales carefully along the other necks.

Luthor let his eyes close, feeling relaxed at the moment despite his wounds aching. After where he'd been this sort of thing was a great way to make up for it, to balance it out, "I know, I know... especially now, huh? Look at you... you got huge while I was away." He murmured, lifting his gaze to look at him. Big but still not as scary as that other version of him down in Hell... now that the fear had passed he could see so many differences between the pair and felt foolish for having mistaken them for each other.

Pepper blinked his narrow gold eyes as he appraised the other. He gave a half shrug dismissing the size difference. "Shouldn't be that strange...I've been this big before.." he surmised though he didn't go into details with him wanting to kill the doctor thus forcing himself to grow. He didn't need to worry about that. "You...should tell dad though...about what happened and why...he was pretty upset you left again without saying anything..."

"I suppose so, though before I was so small you seemed like a giant." He gave a bit of a laugh, remembering the fun they'd had with him getting a piggy back ride from his friend while they went off scaring those idiot techs. While he was tempted to ask for another piggy back ride he decided against it, he was to sore for that sort of thing. He gave a little wince when Almas was mentioned, "I... yeah, I should talk with him... I mean I have a lot to talk with him about." He murmured, he didn't even want to think about all of that right now though.

Pepper nodded his head before be shook his head again trying to get the horrible thoughts out of his head.

"So tell me what it was like...I mean that is the LEAST you could do...you owe me." He stated looking at Luthor with rather determined eyes.

Luthor settled down on the bed again before letting himself lay down so he could rest his body and let his wounds work on healing, it was a shame was lacking in that increased healing some of the spawn had. It would be useful about now... he seemed to be thinking on it, "What it was like? It was rather hot there, dry, and the place was... rather intimidating to travel in. We didn't see to many demons though, some spell that was put on us to keep us safe." He lifted a hand to where the mark had been put on him.

Pepper looked a bit disappointed at the rather bland description. "yeah yeah whatever, you said there were more than one demon...tell me about them. What were they like? strong? cowards? " He implored for more detail.

"Heh, should I have lied? Said that it was full of lava pits and fiery rain?" He teased Pepper then thought about it, "Strong, yeah. Both of them were exceedingly so. The female, it took I think three people to deal with her and the male demon it was the rest of them plus Vampy to deal with what he was doing..." He looked thoughtful, "It was odd, he was really strong Pepper but he didn't seem interested in trying to kill me... I wonder why." He lifted his leg to glance toward the bandages there.

Pepper tilted his head looking at the leg wound once more. "I ...am guessing its pretty unusual for a demon to ..consider mercy...wouldn't it? " He replied with a roll of his head..."But he obviously meant you harm..I mean...that isn't a very ...harmless looking wound he gave you. Did anything happen that could of changed his actions?" he implored again..like a detective trying to piece clues together.

Luthor gave a little wince, "Ahh... not sure... I mean... I actually talked with him a little bit which was odd as well. I always thought that demons were either dangerous like the ones Vampy keeps locked up or annoying like that Pride demon that roams the halls, this one was neither." Then again he supposed that biased showing through, the fact that the demon had looked like Pepper and seemed to share a name with him as well... it colored Luthor's impression of him and he couldn't dislike him even if he'd injuried him.

"This wound wasn't so bad, sort of like he held on to tight I guess. I got worse wounds from someone on our side." He said, sounding a bit embarrassed, "I don't think I really held my own, maybe it will keep me from having to go on anymore adventures." He hoped.

The speechless look Pepper gave Luthor showed that he was skeptical at the information received. Talked with him? "What could you of possibly talked about?" He exclaimed finally, "Especially if he has you by the ankle of all things."

"Erm... well I thought it would help, to get him to leave... I mean Vampy was only after the female so there was no reason for us to battle it out with the male demon. He ended up taking my advice and left, he probably just didn't want to be caught. I doubt anyone really wants to be locked up though like the demons were." He explained.

".....yeah I guess...but you tried to reason with him..." He started again before shaking his head. This was making little sense. "I thought demons didn't...do that... I mean...that's why we have the ones here the dangerous ones locked up. I guess the guy was pretty weak if he just backed out..."

Luthor nodded, "Ahh... haha... maybe your right." He said, doing his best to keep from laughing. That he said a demon that looked similar to him was weak amused him like nothing else. He gave a smile, "Well either way we were lucky that he left and he only gave me a toss when he left instead of doing more. Was odd but... Vampy caught me when I got thrown. Well not physically but with his magic." He tilted his head to the side before shaking it, "The entire trip was just strange all around."

Pepper gave Luthor a strange look but then slowly nodded his head. "Yeah guess you were lucky.." He still couldn't figure why a demon would listen to advice from someone who looked as angelic as Luthor. Maybe the demon was pretty weak...

" It sounds like it....but I am guessing it was a success? I heard all sorts of ruckos when i left the classroom..."

He nodded, "They were able to fight with her long enough before they drugged her to knock her out." He said, glancing toward the door, "Its likely that they are tossing her down into the 'dungeon' as that part of this place has been dubbed." He shook his head, not really wanting to think about it, "I am just hoping that she doesn't get out like the last one. I think it would get really messy, really fast."

He looked to Luthor again wishing that he would stop teasing him with small bits of detail instead of just bluntly explaining.

"Well we knew Shar was dangerous...just how different can this new one be?" He inquired with a huff. Though he had to remind himself that the two gluttony demons looked...VERY different.

"Shes... fast, scary fast. It looked almost as if she weren't so much moving as just... vanishing and appearing in another place." He murmured, he was actually glad he'd only had to deal with the big male then with the female as she seemed far scarier. He looked over at Pepper for a moment, "I am sure they will figure out a way to slow her down, weights on her legs or something maybe? I have no idea... We have to hope those techs can be useful for more then something to startle for fun I guess."

Wow..The sheer idea of something being able to move THAT fast was a bit daunting. "And you say this other demon had been fighting her? Gods he was lucky you guys showed up I am sure...if he wasn't even willing to fight you guys he must of been loosing that battle something fierce!" he exclaimed. He couldn't believe that he had missed all this .

There was a soft chuckle from Luthor, "Yeah, he was lucky we showed up to save him." He agreed, not wanting to laugh over something like what had happened but it was funny that Pepper was saying all of this about that particular demon.

Pepper wasn't sure what was so funny but he had a feeling he was missing something. "Its a shame though...I mean...I grew so I could come help...but that damnable doctor drugged me with something...so I was really out of it..." he sulked as he went to lay on his side on the bed.

Luthor's eyes got wide, "He what?!" He squeaked, looking shocked over the fact that Aden had drugged Pepper, "Why would he do that?" He felt the urge to find the guy and kick him... though maybe he'd do it once he was feeling better and would actually be able to kick someone without hurting himself...

Pepper flinched at the exclamation though he rubbed the back of his head looking as if he was trying to find the right words.. Rolling so he was laying on his back his hands under his head he looked up at the ceiling a long moment before he finally replied.

"Ah...well...I was trying to hurt him..." He replied trying to sound rather non-nonchalant about it.

Luthor blinked then gave a sighing sound, "Ugh... He was hitting on you, wasn't he?" He muttered, feeling the desire to pummel that perverted Doctor that much more at the thought that he'd do something like that.

He shook his head, "No...actually he wasn't. " he muttered, "He was trying to pull something on our dad though...he didn't want him to go to the strange magic guy." He replied sounding a bit angry once again. Just recalling how angry Aden had made him was enough to make him want to go and pummel him something fierce.

He relaxed a little, "That's good at least, that guy seems to hit on most people... he deserves smacked for that." He was sure that Pepper likely felt the same.

"Wait... what?" He looked more then a little worried, "Is he alright? Dad I mean." Really he didn't care no where near as much for Aden as did for Almas. As such he didn't worry for him either, if he deserved getting a smack for messing with either Almas or Pepper he wouldn't say a word against it.

"Huh? oh...yeah he is fine." Course he didn't express the feeling of bitterness or sarcasm he truly wanted to express to his best friend. "I stopped the doc before he could do anything." He sounded quite proud about that.

"Good, I'm glad." He murmured, letting his eyes close as he rolled over onto his side, reaching a hand to to let it rest on Pepper's arm before he felt himself drifting a little, "Thank you, for protecting him... while I was gone, both times. I think your a far better son for him then me." He admitted, he seemed to only hurt Almas which worried him him greatly, maybe he was to much like the blood donor in that aspect.

Pepper only nodded his head slightly allowing the other to get some rest. He would lay for a while before he went in search of Almas. To check up on him and let him know Luthor was alright for the most part.

Father-Son Bonding Time: Part 1

Vampy didn't look up from his work the door shut behind Luthor as he came to sit down in front of his desk. The room...looked pretty much the same. A old scent of cinnamon lingered in the room, though papers were strewn about his desk his form flickering slightly from his son being so near.

"What is it?" he inquired though it didn't sound like he...was really up for receiving an answer.

Wonderful, he was in a mood he thought to himself with a bit of a sigh. He chewed on his lower lip as he thought about it, "How to ask this... Is there way not so much to end a contract with someone as you can sort of..." He made a motion with his hand, "Let it run out? I don't want to affect the results of the wish so much as I do the the way that it came about." He said. Wait... did that even make any sense? Hells he wasn't sure he was having a bit of a time focusing.

Vampy paused in his scowling of papers to then look up at Luthor his eyes hard. "Contracts are very..delicate. What exactly are you saying? Be clear." he snapped looking as if his foul mood was getting worse by each passing second.

He knew that this was going to be easy and having Vampy being in a bad mood was going to make this worse, "I need to end a contract that I made with someone..." He drew in a deep breath then snorted as a part of him said that this wasn't going to get any easier if he tried to explain it without really telling him what was going on. The less time with Vampy the better and there was a part of him that didn't want to be intimidated by the blood donor, "You know what, never mind... I am not going to dance around this. Adriel has a contract with me, he has had it for a while. It was one I foolishly made when I was little, before I had any clue how this power worked. It worked though a bit to well, I want to remove the ability he has to have kids but not harm the children that were born. How do I go about doing that?"

He listened though with each word he looked more and more unimpressed a finger came to tap on the desk.

"ahh...so YOUR the reason why that particular spawn can have kids despite lacking the right organs..." He stated looking as he then went to grab Adriel's file. He looked it over and then back to Luthor and sighed.

"Your lucky...if you abolished the contract or have it come to an end it shouldn't affect the kids he already has. Wait..." He stopped and then looked at his file. "Well you'd have to wait since Adriel is currently carrying another child at the moment. If you did it now it would kill the spawn within him."

He tilted his head to the side, "How could be be carrying another child already?" He asked, sounding a bit startled, did Adriel know? The way it had sounded he had two already and wanted to be done with having more them... he looked quite confused, "I just talked with him though..."

He raised an eyebrow and then looked back at his file. Flipping through it he discovered a sheet hastily put in the back.

"Ah...so he isn't...a girl this time...well then..that changes everything." he murmured as he then put the file away. "But ending contracts will reduce the power you have...do you understand? It isn't a lot...but.."

Luthor gave a sighing sound of relief, "Oh, good... I doubt he'd of been amused if he found out that he was having a third child." He said before he gave a little nod of his head, "Its alright, I made the contract so its my responsibility to wrapping it up now that its no longer needed." His wings gave a little flutter before he held up a hand and withdrew the contract. He looked it over then smiled, "So I do the same wit it that I did with Pepper's right?" So all he had to do was end it and Adriel would no longer have to worry about any more unexpected children. He gave a smile and let the contract dissolve away in his hands.

Vampy only nodded his head though he was now studying the boy across him in a very serious manner.

"Have you been dallying with much of your magic?" He asked finally, lowly. His own hair lifted and swirled around his head as his golden pen lifted from his breast pocket to float in the air before him.

Luthor shook his head, "No. It helped me out here and there but I haven't made any more new contracts if that is what your asking." He told him, leaning back in his seat to rest in it, wings fluttering a bit before he let his eyes sink half closed. He felt a bit tired now that he'd made the journey from the rooms he stayed in, breaking the contract added to it, and he found himself wanting to doze off right where he was despite not trusting the one he was near to.

"Give me just a moment and I will leave." He murmured, gathering his strength so that he could leave again though the purple seemed to be flickering around him again, making his form slightly blurry around the edges.

"No ...I think you should sit down..." He retorted as he gestured for the door to lock. "Though I applaud the fact you have resisted making more contracts I am surprised you haven't made any interest in letting your magic grow and mature." HE replied slowly, the golden pen twirled in the air before him slowly.

Luthor glanced toward the door as he heard to lock close and he turned to look over at Vampy, "Its not that I have no interest, its that I am being careful with what I use my magic for. I'd rather not push to far with it and get myself into trouble." He said, lifting a hand up to where his pen was tucked behind his ear then lowered it again to watch the way that Vampy was showing off his own prowess by spinning his pen in the air. He watched it for a moment before he sat back down for a moment, he was doing it because he needed to and not because Vampy had told him to sit he told himself.

"Scared of it?" He asked finally leaning back as his disguise shimmered again as Luthor returned to the chair. "There are many reasons to fear it. It is a powerful thing to wield." He stated as the pen liquefied and twisted in the air like a living creature, uttering even a hissing sound.

"You were less than impressive during our...field trip today. Wouldn't it of been nice to been of use?"

Luthor gave a nod of his head, "I know I wasn't, I didn't really think I would be any use going along but I went anyway." He said, wings fluttering again a bit more rapidly before he stretched them out, "It did help me out a little after the battle was done." Not that it was any help during the battle, "Besides I helped a bit... I distracted the demon by letting him swing me around like a toy." That had to count for something.

Vampy looked away from Luthor when that particular demon was brought up.

"Your lucky it was him of all demons...any others and you would probably of experienced far worse than claw marks on your ankle." He stated with annoyance. He was surprised actually that Luthor...or any other spawn hadn't asked him about that particular demon. But he wasn't about to bring it up if no one thought anything of him.

"Any other demon and I can't say I'd of gone running up to him." He said, looking down toward his ankle and starred at the bandages that were wrapped around it, "Is he what sort of demon Pepper is?" He asked after a moment, the pair had looked to similar and he found himself wondering why they shared a look as well as a name... it seemed just to convenient to him. He lifted his gaze to looking toward Vampy once more instead of at his wound, attempting to keep his gaze a steady one even though he was having a difficult time focusing.

"Touche." Vampy responded coolly, he rocked in his lazy man chair looking at Luthor as if contemplating answering his question.

"To say yes would be too simple. They are one and the same...and yet not. The Pepper you know is a failed experiment, but I have since discovered that the other is no longer a pure source anyway."

He gave a nod, "I figured. Its good that Pepper didn't go along on that trip since he isn't very sure about his DNA and his parents at the moment." He murmured then asked, "Why do they have the same name?" It was odd for Pepper to have been named the same thing as the one that he'd been created from, not very creative on the part of the one that had named him. He shook his head before he leaned forward, arms resting on his legs.
He felt himself prickle a little and he lifted his head to glare at Vampy, "Pepper isn't a failure in any way." He told him, feeling the desire to kick Vampy rising in him again.

"For his purpose...he was to be pure. He is tainted thanks to the blood donors foolishness..." he stated with annoyance. "As to the name you can thank my sister for that...she so generously gave your father the name to use..." He growled he then sighed and rolled his shoulders. "Not that you should care. The Pepper you know if a shadow of the real thing...before he corrupted himself he was cruel and conniving. He thrived off of violence and torturing people's minds..."

Luthor felt himself twitch and his anger rose up in him, "Your right, I don't really care. What you wanted to make failed but that doesn't mean that he is a failure." He muttered, his wings giving another flutter behind him as he felt that growing anger in him but he attempted to cap it. There was a flicker of the purple around him again and his wings seemed to stretch out a little more, for a moment looking like the wings that Almas used to have before he'd lost them to the hands of over zealous brothers. He drew in a deep breath before letting it out slowly, he doubted that there was anything that Vampy really saw as being worth while. He seemed to be a rather negative creature that enjoyed hurting those around him.

"What that other Pepper was... he sounds a bit like you."

Vampy snorted, "We are nothing alike. I want his power...the ability to manipulate the void...the dream world. I want passage..." He trailed off before he shook his head. He gave a tsking gesture, "You almost made me slip there..." He smirked and his eyes watched the wings stretch out. He choose his wording carefully, "I want you to think who the bigger and more badder wolf is..that Pepper would use you..and then kill you without a second thought..ive kept my promises to you...so think on it."

Luthor lifted an eyebrow as Vampy seemed to jump at defending himself against being compared with that demon they had run across... then seemed to slip up, giving him a slight insight of what it was that he was thinking all this time. So he was only after Pepper's power then? He would be certain to warn his friend, "I can't say that my loyalties lie with that demon, they don't really lie with you either though don't get me wrong. Its my Pepper that I worry for and care for, not the other one... he just threw me a little when I first saw him was all."

He lifted a hand up to rub it against his forehead, staving off a dizzy feeling before he felt a strange feeling, a bit like his muscles were twitching all over like he'd gotten electrocuted.

A Talk with Ciaran: Part 1

Eyes started to flutter open, but they really only opened half ways as Ciaran wasn't total all there right now. As he was still slightly insane and the effects of what he had been dreaming had calmed down his fury he had before he passed out. All that was on his mind right now was to get back to Sokan and nothing else despite his injuries. Sitting up in bed and swinging his legs to one side of the bed to where he could get up and walk. Also not caring if there were things plugged into him as they just ripped out as he stood up and started to walk from the bed in a slow swaying way towards to where the entrance of the labs were located, not caring if he was even bleeding, just kept on walking.

Aden was on his way back from having a quick smoke when he found himself walking toward the one that had been peacefully resting back in the medical ward. He blinked a couple times then went rushing forward, "Ciaran? You shouldn't be up." He scolded the teen, looking him over and sighed when he saw the damage that the spawn had done to himself in his escape from his bed, "Come on, let’s get you back so that I can look you over."

Looking up at Aden but really not understanding to what Aden had said to him as he just continued to walk forward the best he could to get to the goal in his mind. "Must get back to Sokan," he said softly and repeatedly with his eyes unfocused. "Must get back..safe...know that he might be worried," he also said as his tail also started to sway back and forth with feathers flared out.

Aden shook his head, "We can call the guy, but you’re not cleared to leave yet." He said, stepping so that he was in front of the spawn and held his hands out to either of his side to make himself seem bigger, "Now, turn around and bring your cute self back in the other direction." He told him, making a motion with one hand.

"No, no, no. Must get back he can’t watch here to many scary things here and too many white rooms. Don't want to go back to shattered places. No one in those places care. So I must get back," he said not really intimidated by Aden appearing to be bigger and continued to walk forward.

"Ahh... can't ever have an easy day, can I?" He complained to nobody in particular before he stepped forward to meet Ciaran, wrapping an arm around his midsection, "Come on Cutie, let’s go back. If your Sokan really cares about you he won't want you to strain yourself."

Ciaran struggled a little to get out of Aden’s grasp, but in reality he didn't have the strength to fight much. "I don't want to go back to that white room..." he was saying as he tried to use his magic but was still to weak for it to work and passes out in the effort.

Aden gave a little sound of surprise when the boy collapsed but he was able to catch him to keep him from hurting himself further. He gave a little shake of his head as he swept the boy up into his arms, "Silly little boy." He chided him as he headed back, "You really do need to learn to behave, the sooner you listen to me and rest the sooner you will be able to go home." He was saying as he walked back and laid Ciaran back down on the cot and set to searching him over, making sure he wasn't hurt again, taking care of what wounds he'd given himself.

It was a sometime had gone past and once more Ciarans eyes opened up slowly and he gave out a grow as his eyes came into focus as saw to were he was and wasn't all that happy and he still couldn't remember to why it hurt to breath as he sat up in the cot to get a better look around. That is when he saw that his arms were bandaged up. His eyes when wide as he started to freak out as he let out a loud meep as he then struggled to take the bandages off as it wasn't working all that well as he didn't have that much coronation to be effective.

It didn't take long for Aden to arrive, reaching out to catch hold of Ciaran's hands, "Easy there kid, relax... come on." He murmured, giving his hands a gentle squeeze as he worked on getting his hands untangled from the bandages. He gave him a smile, "There we go, relax now. I don't want you to open any of your wounds again."

Ciaran tried to take a deep breath to try and calm himself down just as Aden has said but it burned so bad to do so and took lots of shallow breaths with all his feathers that could fluffed out in his distress. It took a little but he did finally did calm down enough that he stopped to try to take off his bandages and to where he wouldn't make his wounds open again but was still a little agitated.

Aden soothed a hand over Ciaran's hair and gave him a smile, "There you go, that's much better. You see? You just need to try to stay calm; you’re safe here with me. There are no demons here, no battles, just me." He said in a reassuring manner, smiling at the boy as he seemed to be relaxing but wasn't there completely just yet.

Ciaran aquardly smiled as his tail tip swished back and forth. "It’s a little hard to stay calm when," he said as he motioned to his bandages. "As they remind me of the straight jacket I wore when I was younger," he said to Aden.

He gave him a smile as he lifted his hands up one at a time to give each a little squeeze, "But see? They are free, aren't they? I wouldn't tie you down... for any medical reason." He winked at Ciaran and then gave the backs of his hand each a kiss. He couldn't help but to tease him a little bit because well... he was a cutie and Aden had a weakness for cute people.

Ciaran had to giggle a little. "Yes they are but it’s not them being free it’s the feel of any type of fabric on my arms that freak me out." he said as blushed a little as he didn't know how to react to the kissing of the back of his hands. "That’s not what the Techs did when I came here the first time, I came here insane and I guess I tried killing myself in which I ended up in a white room to be forgotten," he added.

"I am not a tech though, am I? I am a Doctor." He murmured, giving Ciaran a smile before he drew back, "You need only to keep those bandages on long enough to let your wounds heal, it shouldn't take to long. Try to be strong, alright?"

"I know that, or I wouldn’t be here right now and back into the little white room once was in," Ciaran said smiling back and snorted a little too as he didn't want the bandages on, but kept them on. "Well you might have to live with me freaking out for the next few days as something I still don’t like and I will try, but I know things can change in a hurry,"

"I will do my best to keep a close eye on you to keep you safe and content while we wait for you to get in better shape." He assured him, wanting for Ciaran to know that he was safe here in his care unlike with the techs who cared more for their science then they did for the results which were the spawn...

Ciaran nodded as he did know he felt safe here with Aden around but he would feel a little safer if he could see if Luthor was all right. "Well don't worry too much about me as I'm not that important, but from the last thing I can remember is Luthor ok?"

He gave a nod of his head, "I dealt with his wounds and then... well his body dealt with them the rest of the way. He has a few scars that he will carry the rest of his life but they shouldn't plague him to much unless they are the sort that is affected by the weather." He assured the spawn, giving him a smile, "When you’re feeling up to a visit he’s been haunting the area, wanting to look in on you but I keep chasing him off telling him you need your rest."

Ciaran had to smile, but he did have to tell Luthor a few things that he remembered he was going to tell him that he had seen. As with his insanity most of the time he really doesn’t remember things all the way, just bits and pieces of what happened. "So how bad did I get hurt as I really don't remember all that much of what happened after my insanity kicked in and I'm up for a visit now if that is fine," he asked.

"Pretty bad I am afraid; you have some ribs that will take some time to knit together, scrapes and bruises all over, but your still young and strong so I am sure that you will be alright." He told him in an assuring manner, "Do you like to eat fish? Eating a lot of those is said to help with getting bones to knit back together. I can see about getting you some if you like."

Just smiling as that is why it hurt to breath and he wondered if he would have some scars too as he always found those interesting and as they always told a story to others that saw them. "Ah so being sore is a good thing then, also will I get some scars too," he asked quietly as was a little shy about it. Perking up when he heard the mention of food. "Yes I do in any form." he said as his stomach then growled its own reply and Ciaran just had to giggle and sheepishly grinned.

He gave a nod, "It’s possible that you will end up with some as well." He said, "Don't worry though, chicks dig scars. They make a guy look tough." He gave a chuckle as the boy's stomach responded to the idea of food and he pushed to his feet, "I will see about getting you some food brought in from our cafeteria." There should be plenty of fish to be had given it was what Torekane ate so much of.

Ciaran had to do a full blush at the comment about chicks digging scars as he was still scared of them and he scratched his face as he was a lost for words as well. "Ok. I guess I will stay here,"

"Promise?" He asked, "I can call for Luthor if you like, he can keep you company. That would allow me to go and get your food myself and make sure that I get you a lot of what you need." He offered. If Luthor were here he could keep an eye on Ciaran and keep the boy in bed where he would remain safe and sound.

He smiled and thought it would be nice to talk with Luthor. "Could you please? I will be very good," he said giving puppy eyes to Aden as it had been a very long time since he had done something like this and was going to see if it worked.

He nodded, rising up to his feet, "Just remember that means you have to behave, stay in bed, and not mess with your bandages." He reminded the boy before he headed to the hall, flagging down a tech and gave the order to go and find Luthor. The white coated man wasn't all that pleased at the order but he knew that he had to obey Aden without question, no matter how odd the orders might be. The Doctor patted down his own lab coat until he found what he was looking for; good he had his pack of smokes and lighter on him still he thought to himself. He was going to get another smoke before he fetched Ciaran's dinner, should be alright with Luthor watching after him.

It was a short time later the white haired spawn showed up, he was dressed in his normal dress of a pair of loose, sweat pants, and nothing much else. Aden didn't think that the boy quite understood what a temptation he really was looking the way he looked. He would have started flirting then and there but he had to get something for Ciaran, "I need you to look after my patient, cutie." He purred at Luthor, unable to resist a little bit of flirting before he headed out.

Luthor blinked, watching the guy go, feeling the desire to kick him then turned to head into the hospital ward and over to where Ciaran was.

Ciaran smiled and nodded. "Ok I can do that," he replied as he did grump to himself as he did think that he would try and fiddle with the bandages as he still didn't like them at all. But he said he would be good and he was good on his word as he did have some things to say to Luthor anyways.