Pursuit of the Zodiacs

by Walsh, Nathan

  “Look at the constellation in this section of the wall. ‘The people of light, one in particular led the group.’ He seems to have come from a Zodiac Constellation, and bore a mark on his forehead. The Egyptians had different names for their constellations. This one corresponds to what we know to be the constellation Cancer.”

  I recorded the translation in my records. Despite having hardcore evidence, the media rejected my submission, and the press wasted little time in publicly humiliating the explorers and me. It was evident that the ridicule was a concerted effort by secret societies, the same ones who controlled the media, doing whatever necessary to keep what we had found down in that Pyramid a secret. A few months following our public announcement, I was overwhelmed to hear about the mysterious deaths of Maria and Peter Solomon. I realized that everyone involved in that discovery was marked for death, so I found refuge from brave acquaintances that reached out after reading my report. Soon after, I tried contacting Atef to forewarn him of the dangers, and found out that he had disappeared. In fear for his life, Robert Callahan was forced to go against the discovery and stated that the findings were “false” or “made up”. Eventually it just became a quirky forgotten news story, and the forces succeeded in burying our discovery with mockery.

  Chapter 21

  PENALTY OF SIN

  “What is fashioned in the dark will always make its presence known in the light.”

  — LEVI

  Back at the New York City hideaway, Abdeel greeted his Brother on the rooftop of the building. Overjoyed, he questioned him about his whereabouts for the past several days. Abdeen explained his story along with the aid of his newly inducted comrade. They walked into a disorderly room where Abdeen saw familiar and unfamiliar faces.

  Abdeen spoke to Abdeel, “Seems like you’ve made some new friends as well, Brother.”

  Pharisees spoke, “We’re not sure of that yet, old friend.”

  Abdeel added, “Yes, we also have some explaining to do.”

  Abdeen greeted his companions and introduced Adam. Abdeen couldn’t help but sense an odd aura in the air as he gazed upon the Gemini and Cancer.

  Pharisees said to Abdeen, “The Gemini … they await judgment.”

  Abdeen inquired, “Any word on Natenal and the others?”

  They briefly explained the events that had occurred during the course of his absence. They locked the Gemini up until Natenal’s return. Their fate hung in the balance, but Cancer wanted some answers and requested time with his captive relatives.

  “I’ll accompany you,” Levi said. He ordered Pharisees and Irisan to open the cellar gates. They knew that in order to diminish the Gemini’s power, they must keep the inseparable duo apart. It defeats the chances of them combining their gifts and doubling their strength. Weakened, they no longer had the ability to teleport.

  Cancer spoke to the Gemini, “Cousins, it’s very unfortunate we meet under these circumstances, but you have chosen a path I myself find immoral. I have a few questions that are in need of answers.”

  One of the Geminis answered, “Continue, Cousin.”

  Cancer spoke, “I understand that our great Ancestors were among the Fallen, which explains the reasons for our gifts. But there were other Congresses of Fallen that had shared differences with God. The question is: From which generation did we originate?”

  Gemini thought for a moment. “We have been sent out to look for all of the Zodiacs by none other than Lucifer himself, with a Scroll written in his blood only the Zodiacs can read. It has unimaginable power. Once you look into it, you become one with your original Fallen Zodiac Ancestor. Cousin, your place of origin lies within the same blood written in that Scroll.”

  Cancer found the closest seat and sat down to reflect about his blood ties to Lucifer.

  Levi saw how disturbed Cancer had become. “Calm yourself, Brother. What is fashioned in the dark will always make its presence known in the light. You stand as the complete opposite of what these two Devils have become.”

  Gemini laughed. “What folly. We tried to do what was right, and look where it has landed us: in a cell stripped of our gifts and awaiting death.”

  Pharisees said, “Oh? What’s stopping you from breaking free and ridding yourselves of captivity? Not us. It’s quite clear the only reason you are here is because you’ve failed your mission, and you seek safe haven from Lucifer’s grasp. We should take these two to the roof and have Timius use his guillotine to send their heads to another Dimension.”

  Irisan added, “Yes, send their heads right outside Lucifer’s gate. The message will be clear.”

  Levi ordered, “That’s enough. It’s not up to us to declare their fate. Natenal will be here soon.”

  Despite facing execution, the Gemini’s curiosity about the man in charge of this Pursuit arose. Anxiously, they waited for Natenal and their time of judgment.

  “Damn! You scared the molecules out of me. Maybe if I were a young man, but even then it would’ve channeled the same reaction.” Uncle Charles took a seat and held his chest. He thought his beating heart had failed him.

  Sagittarius sat in the dark of Uncle Charles’ living room partaking of a morning cup of tea. He heated his cup with the flame emanating from his own hand. “My apologies, old friend.”

  Uncle Charles said, “There’s no need for apologies. I’m glad you’re here, nonetheless. I thought the carrier wouldn’t make it to you on time, but he succeeded.”

  Sagittarius said, “We don’t have much time. Moments after receiving your letter, I was ambushed by a group of assassins. I’m convinced they want us all eliminated. There’s no telling when or where they’ll strike next.”

  Uncle Charles replied, “What? Do you think you were you followed?”

  Sagittarius said, “What kind of question is that, old man? How long have we known each other?”

  Charles said, “My apologies. I know you wouldn’t intentionally bring danger here.” He changed the subject. “So, how did you manage to escape? I’m quite sure all transits are swarming with mercenaries out for Zodiac blood.”

  Sagittarius said, “I know New York like the back of my hand, and I have a lot of friends in high places who I’ve helped get there, if you understand my meaning. They had no problem escorting me out of the city securely. Where are my cousins? … Well, I’ll be…”

  Sagittarius saw Capricorn at the top of the stairs sitting down observing. Not too far from his side, Libra and Aquarius made their way down the stairs. Hesitant at first, Capricorn noticed Aquarius signaling him to follow, and he complied.

  Sagittarius stood up and respectfully introduced himself. Everyone took their seats.

  Sagittarius spoke about how they came from high beings side-by-side with God, which in return spawned the reasons for their great gifts handed down through their bloodline. “We are unique, and our lives should not be taken for granted. That’s why this alliance is so important. But there are dark forces that don’t want a group such as ours to have so much power. That’s why they are set on destroying our very existence. For centuries we’ve been executed, abducted, brainwashed, raped, used as weapons, lab rats, … the list goes on. So, in time, we’ve rebelled and escaped, hiding our identities and disappearing into unmarked corners of this Universe. Unfortunately, a lot of us forgot who we were and lived amongst the Mortals as if we were one of them. My personal belief is that doing so was an abomination in itself. We are a proud and unique race. The sooner we all comprehend it, the better.”

  Aquarius asked, “So, who are these people trying to destroy us?”

  Sagittarius answered, “They call themselves Mosqidou. In the Immortal tongue meaning, The Pursuers. It is inevitable that we will soon meet them. The Pursuers and countless others will feel our vengeance for the slaughter of our people throughout the years.”

  Sagittarius spoke more slowly. “It appears that I have more troubling news, Leo has fallen. If you’ve experienced a sharp pain accompanied by a pulsating glow from your lucky
Gem, that was the reason. Mosqidou made their mark, and they mean to destroy all Zodiacs.”

  Aquarius replied, “So, that explains the pain that forced us to pull over on the highway. It’s clear.”

  Capricorn added, “I don’t understand. Why do these people want to hurt us?”

  Sagittarius answered, “Capricorn, the fact that a group of people have so much power instills fear in all who cannot obtain it themselves. Envy is a Devil in itself.”

  Libra asked, “So, what must be done?”

  Sagittarius said, “You have a decision to make. Either wait for them to find you, or fight them. Their numbers are strong, and they are too well gifted for us to face on our own. I’m sorry, but these are the options in front of you right now. Uncle Charles has done enough for us, and I believe we’ve overstayed our welcome. We must depart and find the remaining Zodiacs if we are to survive this contract.”

  Halfway through the Gateway, Scorpio ignored the stares and continued to sharpen his lethal stinger while humming a tune.

  Karz snapped, “Shut your fucking mouth, boy.”

  Zodon added, “That would be wise.”

  Virgo interrupted, “That’s enough. He will pay for his actions in due time.”

  “I will answer to no one. Where are we going anyway?” Scorpio responded.

  Dynamo replied, “Fuck you, you little shit.”

  Scorpio said, “Driver, stop the car! I will not be disrespected by pure waste.”

  Virgo untied the knot and calmed everybody’s impudence. “Driver, keep driving. And nobody say another damn word to each other.”

  “We have company,” the driver announced.

  They saw an old fancy carriage with a masked driver and horse coming from the opposite direction. Occasionally this happened with Gateways, which could be very unpredictable. One never knew who or what occupied the same Gateway. Travelers would come from all parts and periods of the Universe. There’s a good chance they could meet someone or something from the past, present or future.

  They engaged as they slowly passed one another. The stranger in the 17th century carriage moved the drape aside, also curious to know who occupied that very same Gateway. Inside the carriage, they saw a coffin. The outer shell of the closed coffin carried a weird dialect and symbols. Next to the coffin lay a clear glass vase with blood in its core. The seasoned Vampeer was strong and powerful. With a keen stare, he analyzed their transport, trying to make out what time they inhabited. Ultimately, he lost interest and closed the curtain.

  Karz commented, “And that’s that.”

  Dynamo, also intrigued by the passing carriage, said, “Indeed.”

  Scorpio said, “I should flip that wagon on its back for the way that man just looked at me. As if I was anything less than royalty.”

  Virgo stated, “Boy, your conceit will bring you death. You wouldn’t have stood a chance against that seasoned Vampeer. I can still feel his power coursing from here.”

  Dynamo said, “Indeed. Let him try. The thought of his blood being depleted from his body is quite entertaining enough. Now seeing it in its entirety would be another delight.”

  Scorpio gave Dynamo a revolting stare.

  Virgo said, “Okay. That’s enough. Driver, let’s go.”

  They exited the Dimension and arrived in New York City.

  “Where are the Gatekeepers?” Virgo asked. They had expected two Gatekeepers, along with a Guide to close the Dimension upon their arrival.

  The quiet and emptiness grew discomforting. With their laser weapons drawn, Karz, Zodon, and Dynamo inspected the scene. “Virgo, you wait here with the bastard. We’ll check this place out.”

  Not a moment too soon, Dynamo whispered, “Over here.”

  A trail of blood in the corner of the alley led them to the two missing Gatekeepers, both dead. Judging from the pale discoloration of their skin and multiple puncture wounds, their blood had been completely drained from their corpses.

  Karz exclaimed, ”Vampeers!“

  They found their Guide. They walked in on the middle of a feeding frenzy, their Guide was the main course. Unsettled, they happily disturbed the Vampeers from their meal.

  “Pathetic bottom feeders!” Dynamo shouted.

  Virgo left the limousine to warn her colleagues. “Incoming!”

  Three other Vampeers appeared, soaring from the shadows. Three more snatched the driver from the vehicle. Fangs broke his flesh during their departure back through those same shadows.

  Scorpio wanted to go to his aid, but Virgo stopped him. “He is lost. Come, child. It’s time you put that gift of yours to the test.”

  Virgo drew her Virgin Sword. Blood never stained the steel after her victim was cut. One-by-one, she single-handedly cut through a group of Vampeers, piercing their hearts. Their hearts faded into dust but their bodies remained. “You are one with the Earth,” Virgo pronounced as she stood over her vanquished enemies.

  Scorpio unsheathed the stinger attached to his ponytail and initiated a barrage of elusive flips. Upon each contact with Vampeer flesh, a lethal injection of venom transferred from the stinger to his victim’s heart.

  The more Vampeers they killed or injured, more arose. In addition to their increasing numbers, the Vampeers made use of laser-powered weapons.

  Dynamo yelled, “Go, my Queen. We’ll hold them off!”

  Virgo deflected laser fire with her Virgin Light Force Field. She then armed herself with a laser weapon. After killing a Vampeer, Scorpio felt a tug on his arm, “Time to move!” Virgo yelled. He followed behind while she shot their way out of the Vampeer-infested alley.

  “Well, this explains the reason for our special guest in the Dimension,” Scorpio stated.

  Virgo said, “I hate to agree, but you are right.”

  Still sensing some animosity, Scorpio asked, “Are you still upset with me about your friend? Don’t worry. I’m quite sure your other friends are keeping him company. You don’t think they survived that, did you?”

  Virgo broke in, “Boy, I am this close to parting your tongue from its mouth. It would be wise for you to remain silent. Let’s keep moving.”

  HE’S RETURNED

  Accompanied by Grenad, Natenal returned. His presence restored faith in their mission. No longer without a leader, they give him a warm welcome.

  Natenal ordered a private meeting between his most trusted companions in the group. At the meeting, he announced Shiloh’s death and warned them not to mention the news to the rest until a later time. Devastation followed.

  “What is your report?” Natenal inquired of Levi.

  Levi brought him up to date with recent events.

  A stunned Natenal exclaimed, “They must be executed. I am disappointed to even think you needed my aid in issuing this judgment, Levi. The Gemini are too much of a threat to keep alive. They’re nothing more than opportunists. Their Air Sign is a curse, and their loyalty blows with the same wind it bears. We’ll take our chances with their descendants.”

  Levi replied, “Apologies, Natenal. I will make sure your judgment is carried out.”

  Natenal added, “Nevertheless, Cancer must be kept alive. I understand his loyalty might be questionable given the current circumstances, but we shall see. Adam is more than welcome to fight alongside us as Brothers despite his past with Lucifer. He could be the key to having Aries side with us due to his strong connection with her. But, Abdeen, may your eyes fail to wander.”

  Abdeen answered, “Yes, Natenal.”

  Pharisees inquired, “But, Natenal, how will Cancer take the news of us executing his own blood? Is it wise to antagonize him?”

  Natenal responded, “His true loyalty will be disclosed in time. But as of now, there must be balance. And what I’ve learned during my absence is this: that in order to defeat a Zodiac, it’s vital that we learn more about their species. Soon, even he will have to decide if he is willing to defile his own hands with the blood of his equals.”

  The Gemini said, “You are making a
huge mistake! You need us!”

  Natenal spoke to Ozias. “Ozias, you will stay behind and summon our Bookkeeper. I’m sure by now he is finished with his report. He should be safe under Ithiel’s watch. They await our call.”

  Ozias replied, “Yes, Natenal.”

  Timius opened up a Gateway to a disclosed area of the Universe for the Gemini’s execution. The mountaintop carried a strong wind, strong enough to assist them on their travel to the Afterlife. The tall grass complemented most parts of the field, while in some sections it stood a bit shy in length. The clouds darkened, and it was almost the closing of the evening.

  The Gemini spoke again in unison, “You fools need us. You stand no chance against the Dark Prince.”

  Helpless, the Gemini tried talking their way out of their situation. “Save your rhetoric,” Timius said while checking his state-of-the-art shackles that resisted any kind of Power or Gifts. His new invention was unique, and the Gemini had no answer to their confinement. Infuriated over their captivity, they locked eyes with a familiar face, Adam. They hadn’t seen him in decades.

  The Gemini spoke directly to him. “We know about you, Adam, Destroyer of Earths. You’ve committed enough corruption to earn your place here with us.”

  Adam responded, “Yes, I’ve made mistakes in my past, but I was brought into this misery as a child. You two signed up for your tyranny at a respectful age, which justifies the difference between our positions here this day, Devils.”