Enmity

by Paul J Fowler

  “We have more armor packed on the horses if Seth orders it. Sword?” Mica asked. Jathan nodded affirmatively as he considered the options, which also included a mace or battle-ax.

  The sword was stout and relatively short, the blade just longer than a man’s forearm to fingers, straight and two-edged. Mica swung the sword a moment, appreciating its balance and workmanship. The razor-sharp blade was leaf-shaped, slightly thicker towards the end of its length, then tapering quickly towards a sharp point; it was brutally efficient for both chopping and stabbing. Micah sheathed it on Jathan’s shoulder. Mica then added a dagger to his leather belt.

  “Father says the design is perfect for its length,” Mica stated. “Expect them to be copied among men, he would say.”

  Jathan nodded in agreement as Mica sheathed his own sword over his shoulder.

  “Thorns. We will hide them in these slots,” Mica stated as he positioned one of the thin weapons in Jathan’s left bracer and hid one in his tunic. “And since we may encounter Nephilim, Adam wanted you to have this.”

  Mica handed Jathan a heavy, hand-weapon that looked like a thorn but was made of iron, thicker, and much more substantial. Like a thorn, it had no edge, only a sharp point. It had a leather loop to attach the weapon to his belt or chest armor.

  “You’ve never practiced with this; Seth or Adam will explain,” Mica said as he judged Jathan’s curious reaction to the weapon. “Here is your spear and shoulder bag.”

  Jathan accepted the weapon and slung the bag over one shoulder. The small bag contained a sealed water skin, a small cup, strips of cloth, food rations, oil, and a small flint and steel for starting fires.

  Adam’s youngest son had been trained with the arms that were standard issue for guards and infantry; the basic spear, javelin, sword, and shield. The spear slightly exceeded the average man’s height, was rigid, and not primarily used for throwing. The head of the weapon was bladed, and the rear of the shaft featured a short metal spike that aided in fixing the spear into the ground to resist charging opponents or large animals. Javelins were thinner than spears, lighter, and the shaft flexed lightly. The head of a javelin was also double-edged metal, but narrower than a spear to better penetrate flesh and armor when thrown.

  Jathan began walking to the center of the yard, where Seth had been joined by Loran and Lethan. Along the wall near the armory entrance, Jathan reviewed the large diagrams of men and giants that were painted onto the armory walls. Each shape was used to train guards and warriors where arteries, joints, and vital organs were located. Arrows were drawn next to the figures that delineated points of impact for attacks. He noticed that the giant’s diagram had arrows pointing to the temples.

  Jathan’s eyes returned to the yard, where Seth was now throwing javelins into man-shaped targets. The wooden frames were shaped like men, then bound with tightly packed straw and cloth. Every time Seth’s projectile hit the mark, the yard echoed with the sound of the impact.

  “Little Uncle! Come and join us. We don’t have much time,” Loran called to Jathan.

  Jathan moved quickly to join the warriors. As he did, Seth positioned himself in front of a group of three targets; the first ten paces away, the second at twenty, and the third at thirty.

  “Watch Lethan as he bears Seth’s shield,” Loran said while pointing towards the pair.

  Seth’s soldiers were trained with three different sized shields. The infantry shield, which shield bearers also used, was the largest shield design primarily used for creating a battle line both for offense or defense. When kneeling or crouching, a man could be almost wholly protected behind it. With this shield, disciplined soldiers could form a moving wall of armor to protect themselves while defending or advancing. A standard-sized shield, usually round, was employed for duels or swift military actions where the infantry shield would be too bulky. Finally, a small oval buckler was designed that allowed a warrior to employ a small shield while gripping a second weapon.

  Jathan had done the shield drills before but had never seen Seth practice with a shield bearer. Lethan now wore the sizeable rectangular shield on his back while holding spears in each hand. Based on his position relative to Seth, Lethan would also move the shield to protect their left or right side. The shield was rounded on the corners and featured a spear rest on the left and right sides, a semi-circular cut out to accommodate a spear. A spare sword could also be sheathed on the interior of the shield itself. As Seth moved, Lethan moved with him. Seth would give a command, and Lethan would change positions; to the right, the left or behind Seth. Suddenly Seth moved quickly towards the line that marked ten paces from the first target. As he reached the position, Seth switched his war club to his left hand. Immediately, Lethan provided a javelin, which Seth then hurled towards the farthest target, striking the center of the chest. They repeated the process again, hitting the target at twenty paces.

  “Close!” Seth yelled as he moved towards the final target.

  Seth practiced a parry with his war club while simultaneously drawing the sword from the shield. In one fluid motion, the weapon and sliced through the mid-section of the training target. The blade went through cloth, straw, and bit into the wooden frame underneath.

  “That’s not a practice blade father!” Loran said, laughing as Seth wrenched the sword out of the target.

  Seth smiled and laughed. A practice blade would be dulled for safety, consequently allowing the weapon to pass across the target.

  Seth’s laughter eased Jathan’s nerves as he replaced Lethan, pulling the shield onto his shoulder. Jathan felt inexperienced and out of place among these seasoned warriors. Nevertheless, he knew the practice would benefit him. Seth walked through the exercise slowly for the first time. Then again, at full speed. Jathan was not as masterful as Lethan but showed skill.

  Adam, Kenan, and Mahalalel exited the armory doors and stood in the yard. The Chief Captain of the Tower guards was also with them. Seth left the training targets to join them.

  “A champion is worth ten men in open battle,” Lethan explained to Jathan. “His bearer protects his flanks and enables him to engage multiple adversaries. This you have already been taught.”

  Jathan nodded in agreement.

  “Father Adam considers three to one odds against us a favorable fight, At least against men of Cain,” Lethan continued. “Seth will always attack their leader or champion first. When he falls, their ranks will usually break.”

  “Three to one against?” Jathan replied incredulously.

  “Different rules apply if we face Fallen or Nephilim,” Lethan said. “Just stay close to Seth, that is your job. Stay close, protect the flank he chooses, supply weapons, and watch his back.” Jathan nodded that he understood.

  “One last thing. If Seth says, ‘free fight,’ you are on your own. Defend yourself,” Lethan stated. Jathan’s face still displayed incredulity. “Peace! You’ll be fine, little uncle!” Lethan finished his encouragement with a mischievous grin.

  Jathan adjusted his clothing and weapons before leaving the yard and rejoining Mica near the gate. Dinak had arrived and was stroking the horse’s heads, speaking to them in low tones. He was equipped similarly to Jathan and Mica. Now fully clad in battle-gear, Dinak looked even more imposing than he had at the council. Jathan admitted to some jealousy within himself as he approached Dinak. While only a few years older, Dinak was experienced while he was not.

  Loran and Lethan joined the younger men as they waited with the horses. The twins were equipped with a bow and quiver instead of a spear. Each had a sword sheathed on their back as well as a standard shield. Everyone carried the same small supply bag over their shoulder that Jathan was issued.

  “We have not been sieged in a few years,” Kenan was overheard as the older men neared the gate.

  The younger men listened intently as their conversation became clear.

  “I am pleased. The fixed
bows are much improved,” Adam replied. “The heavy slings look the same. But I believe you have improved the ammunition for them.”

  “Yes, we began stockpiling the stones differently. We cataloged their weights better and have improved their shape. That improves ranging estimates and accuracy,” Kenan stated. “We will test fire them today. The fittings for the Hellfire Bellows have rotted out, the craftsmen are replicating them tonight. We will test the air pressure once they are finished.” Adam nodded in understanding to Kenan’s words.

  Jathan had only rarely seen his father in armor. It was evident that his father’s gear, though not ornate, had been custom made for him. Adam, like Seth, wore dark leggings reinforced with leather, as well as laced leather boots. Over a white, sleeveless, linen tunic, he wore chest armor similar to what the Lion’s wore. His father’s forearms also bore armored bracers; his hands were clad in leather gloves.

  Adam left the gates of the Armory, still talking with Kenan and Mahalalel about siege defense. Seth and his twin sons fell in behind them. Jathan joined Mica and Dinak, who each led one of the horses. To accommodate the horses, the group took sloped pathways through the city, instead of the central stairs.

  Jathan noticed Mahalalel now carried his personal, and exquisitely crafted, weapon. A battle staff had been reinforced with thin sheets of metal along its shaft, each end sporting razor-sharp spear points. The grips were wound with silk dyed a deep red hue. His father, Kenan, had crafted it for him. The weapon, like Adam’s staff, was distinctive and beautifully made. Jathan was reminded that the Mighty Men who composed the Lions often fought with arms customized to match their unique fighting styles.

  “Father,” Loran began. “Lethan confided in me, quite proudly I might add, that he slept little last night. Apparently, he kept his wife up nearly all evening.”

  Seth knew from the tone of his son’s voice that the jesting was starting. Even before the words were finished. Seth’s eyebrows lifted, and he shook his head in mock surprise.

  “To which I replied,” Loran continued, his tone becoming even more sarcastic. “My wife kept me up all evening. How went your evening, Father?”

  “That is our Mother you speak of...!” Lethan spoke with feigned indignation.

  “My evening is none of your concern. However, you were probably conceived on a night before a hunt,” Seth responded, smiling. “So, if your deeds match your words, I will welcome more grandchildren in nine months.” The three men laughed together.

  Jathan blushed.

  Enosh, Jerod, Ahavva, and Eve were waiting at the Fourth Gate when the group entered the courtyard. The Tower Captain had just opened the gate. The gear system effortlessly moved the massive wooden structure.

  A bark was heard as they drew closer to the Fourth Gate. Eve held Seepha on a lead which she released when Adam entered the courtyard. Seepha bounded across the grounds to greet Adam and his party. Her robust and agile frame quickened with excitement at the work to come.

  “Ready to hunt, girl?” Adam spoke as he released the lead and gave it to Jathan. “To me!”

  At Adam’s command, Seepha took her place at Adam’s side and walked next to him. Kenan and Mahalalel joined Enosh as they stood together outside the city walls.

  “My people are in wise and steady hands,” Adam said to the three men before drawing them close.

  His sincerity was evident by the warmth and pride his face displayed. The group began to voice their farewells. Words were spoken, hugs were exchanged, and some embraces lingered longer than others.

  Eve kissed Seth on the cheek, then encircled him in her arms. He returned her affection, warmly. She then framed his face in her hands.

  “My Seth, my appointed,” Eve spoke with emotion, her pride evident. “Keep yourself, my Son...”

  Eve glanced at Jathan and then Dinak.

  “They are so young,” Eve hesitated, dropping her eyes, sadness now marking her beautiful features. “To see the face of evil and be so brave...”

  “We will bring them home, Mother,” Seth assured Eve while nodding towards Adam. Eve embraced him again.

  Enosh grabbed his younger siblings, Loran and Lethan. Pulling their heads close to his, he playfully grabbed their hair.

  “My brothers, hunt well,” Enosh implored. “Protect yourselves and Father...” He wanted to say more, but suddenly could not. The twins returned his embrace.

  “My twins come to me,” Ahavva called to Loran and Lethan. “You will watch out for your father. You will not tease Jathan without mercy. Am I understood?”

  Though she looked up to address them, her tall warriors nodded affirmatively. Seth enjoyed watching their usual muscular bearing diminish as the twins became humble and child-like in Ahavva’s presence. Raising the rambunctious pair was not without challenges, but Ahavva adored the twins, and in return, and they loved and respected her profoundly. Like most offspring, Loran and Lethan gained a more profound respect for their parents as they began to raise their own families.

  “And you will come home. I will attend your wives and children while you are away. My sweet, brave boys...” As Ahavva spoke, her voice almost broke, but she recovered herself and hugged her sons.

  Seth joined their embrace and kept Ahavva in his arms as the twins rejoined the hunting party. Ahavva kissed her husband a final time. As she joined Enosh, her oldest son, he placed his arm protectively over her shoulder. Together they watched as Seth took his place at the head of the group.

  Kenan, usually reserved with his emotions, drew his son Mica close as he bid him farewell. Mahalalel waited for his turn to offer his younger brother Mica a farewell, seizing him in a playful and affectionate bear hug when Kenan finally released him. The Melchizedek and Mahalalel, his son, then stood by the gates as Mica took his position with the team.

  Adam had drawn Eve and Jathan aside. Eve held her last son a moment longer. Tenderly, she held his face in her hands, then looked intently at him as she charged Jathan with these words.

  “You are Adam’s son, my son, and a shepherd to God’s people. Hunt these arrogant Fallen down and kill them. Show them no mercy!” Eve’s eyes blazed with intensity as she spoke, every word searing into the very fabric of Jathan’s soul. Seth’s earlier recollections of their mother’s ferocity were stirred again in the back of Jathan’s mind.

  Jathan then rejoined Mica and Dinak. As he did, Adam drew Eve’s body close to his. They kissed deeply and lingered in each other’s arms. After six hundred years, their love had endured despite unbelievable pain and hardship. What they had built was being threatened again, and their enemy must be answered. Would this be their last embrace? Neither gave thought to such a possibility, but they also had no illusions about the difficulties that were before them. Eve stroked Adam’s smooth cheek a final time, and their embrace was broken by obligation once again.

  The fourth-hour chime was about to ring. The party had at least two hours until sunlight, perhaps a little more. Everyone was in place. Adam nodded to Kenan, who raised his hands in blessing over them.

  Seth assumed a quick pace. Soon they reached the crest of the plateau and headed downhill into the lower fields. They stopped only to let Seepha take the scent of the Fallen’s blood. As she took the smell, she became angry and agitated. Adam collected some dirt in a cloth, retaining the blood so he could offer her the scent again if needed.

  Once they forded the river, their pace increased. The city shrank behind them as Seth led his hunters in pursuit of the Serpent’s children.

  Thrones of the Watchers

  Enmity Part II

  Michael the Archangel Indicts the Watchers

  “You see what Azazel has done, teaching unrighteousness on earth and revealing the eternal secrets concealed in heaven. Semyaza and those he has authority over have taught sorcery. And they have defiled themselves by sleeping with the daughters of men and revealed to those women these k
inds of sins. These women have begotten giants, and by their children the whole earth has been filled with blood and unrighteousness.”

  Michael before the Throne

  Book of Enoch Chapter 9:6-9

  “Ahavva has just given birth to a son, Seth has named him Enosh. Eve is overjoyed, as am I. Seth has hunted the Earthbound for decades. Perhaps now my son will have rest from battle. Though I am troubled by dreams about darkness gathering on Mount Hermon.”

  The Testimony of Adam and Eve

  Recorded and stored in the Vault of Records in Har Shalem

  Chapter Eleven

  Hunting the Fallen

  The firmament above them was misty gray when the sun broke the sky in the east. The group had trekked for two hours before the sky began to brighten with the rising sun. Seth had led the group at a light run the entire time. The oxygen-rich air, beneath the vapor canopy high above them, enabled those properly conditioned to run great distances with ease.

  Seepha had found blood a few times. Each spot was flagged with a marker, a small shaft of wood with a white strip of cloth attached. They were easy to see on the plains and could be recollected on the return trip. As expected, the distance between the blood trail was increasing. Seth had anticipated this and widened the group. Adam and Seepha to his right, as he viewed the ground to the left. Seth was expecting to find a resting point for the injured pair. They had headed due east from their home, he expected the Fallen to turn northward toward the Hermon mountain range at some point.

  Springs were numerous in the plains. Water just trickled out of the earth periodically. Seth called the group to a halt as he neared a spring issuing water close to a collection of boulders.

  “They landed here,” Seth called to the group to reform.

  As the hunters came together, Adam and Seth inspected the spot for clues. Blood was evident, a collection of bloody handprints on the rocks. Sandaled footprints had made imprints in the dirt. Blood was mixed in the footprints, signifying the flow of blood from the leg wound had persisted. Knee prints were seen on the ground by the water. A strip of torn cloth indicated the Fallen had attempted to dress a wound as they rested.