06-23-2014, 06:14 AM
Repressed anger faded to irritation before turning to wry amusement. Nikolai's knowledge of the Atharim was not surprising. If they had targeted Michael, they would surely keep a closer eye on the man who owned half of the world.
That the great Nikolai Brandon had been one of them was an irony he appreciated far more than he should have. If it weren't for the gravity of the situation he would have barked a harsh laugh.
Instead, Michael simply nodded. It was strategically fundamental. Eliminate the enemy by creating an ally. He was reminded of the strange Atharim Aria and her doubt. Yes. The Atharim could be fractured and the heart of the murderers cut out. The remnant could be re-forged.
But first he wished to discover something. "I have encountered such monsters the Atharim hunt. The Rogarou, I believe they were called. Not a formidable foe, but dangerous to innocents. However, there was something I met outside Mecca."
The memory still gave him chills. "An assassin that could turn to mist. It was the most deadly creature I have ever met. I think it hunts people like us."
Michael shook himself out of the mood and addressed Nikolai's plan.
"Using the Atharim. A wise strategy, if it can be done. Many cannot be reasoned with, but I have met some who doubt their cause. I shall assist you in this as a strategist and God."
The latter term was used in scorn, but something told him Nikolai believed the Atharim's claims. Who but a God would have the audacity to conquer the world?
That the great Nikolai Brandon had been one of them was an irony he appreciated far more than he should have. If it weren't for the gravity of the situation he would have barked a harsh laugh.
Instead, Michael simply nodded. It was strategically fundamental. Eliminate the enemy by creating an ally. He was reminded of the strange Atharim Aria and her doubt. Yes. The Atharim could be fractured and the heart of the murderers cut out. The remnant could be re-forged.
But first he wished to discover something. "I have encountered such monsters the Atharim hunt. The Rogarou, I believe they were called. Not a formidable foe, but dangerous to innocents. However, there was something I met outside Mecca."
The memory still gave him chills. "An assassin that could turn to mist. It was the most deadly creature I have ever met. I think it hunts people like us."
Michael shook himself out of the mood and addressed Nikolai's plan.
"Using the Atharim. A wise strategy, if it can be done. Many cannot be reasoned with, but I have met some who doubt their cause. I shall assist you in this as a strategist and God."
The latter term was used in scorn, but something told him Nikolai believed the Atharim's claims. Who but a God would have the audacity to conquer the world?
"She saw a flaring halo around his head, radiant in gold and blue. It shouted of glory and power to come"
"No matter how fast light travels, it finds the darkness has always got there first, and is waiting for it."