This story explains who the mysterious Powers That Be are and where they came from. There is a lot of history included in this one-shot. It's significantly longer than most of the others, but hopefully by the end, you'll have a much better understanding of Judas, the other Powers That Be, and the story of how a certain demonic assassin became what he is today.

HOW THE POWERS THAT BE CAME TO BE

Long before souls began incarnating to Earth, a hierarchy was established. The Light was run by Vishnu, the Darkness by Alestair, and all entities belonged to one or the other.

One day, Vishnu discovered that he could create entities from the very Light which he embodied. He eagerly began to create what would soon become the group known as the Powers That Be.

The first was Nathaniel. Although every Power That Be had a variety of magickal talents, each one had one specific area which they especially excelled in. Nathaniel was a master of Elemental magick. Andrea was gifted in manipulating and reading energy. Balthos had combat magick and a naturally protective energy. Jane was a powerful empath who could sense even the most hidden and guarded of emotions. James was a gifted Seer whose visions always came true, even if not always in the way he imagined. Justice kept Order and understood Chaos magick. Jonathan specialized in psychometry, picking up information about a person or place by reading the psychic impressions of objects connected to them. The youngest, Lou Anne, was born from the same thread of Light which created Balthos. She was a Light Sorceress and a powerful healer.

At the same moment that Lou Anne was created, a Demon of Darkness split off of the Darkness on her own. Her name was Carolyn. As a Dark Sorceress and necromancer, she perfectly balanced Lou Anne. The young demon was naturally rebellious and didn't like taking orders from Alestair despite being from the Darkness, so she set off on her own most days to explore the Universe.

Lou Anne and Carolyn were still children when they met. That day, Lou Anne was also exploring the Universe. The little girl was made of pure Light. Her skin was extremely pale, her eyes a soft grey-blue, her hair so pale blonde it was almost white. She radiated an innocent aura, making her an easy target for Alestair's more evil creations, but it was one of Vishnu's creations who came for her.

Lamashtu was a Goddess who belonged to the Mesopotamian pantheon. She enjoyed preying on children and expectant mothers. Seeing an innocent but unbelievably powerful young entity all alone was too tempting for her to resist.

"Hello, little one," Lamashtu hissed.

Lou Anne's eyes widened curiously as she looked at the unusual deity. "Hi," she replied shyly. "Who are you?"

The Goddess attacked instead of answering. She tried to pull Lou Anne closer to her so she could eat the child. Lou Anne let out a terrified scream. Suddenly, a rock was flung at Lamashtu's head.

The furious Goddess turned around to see who had dared to attack her and was met with another rock, this time to her face. As she cried out in rage and indignation, the little girl who'd attacked her said, "Do you want another one? Let her go, you ugly old hag!"

Carolyn radiated with dark magick and far too much rage for a child so young. Although she was as pale as Lou Anne, her hair and eyes were pure black. She picked up another rock. This time, she enchanted it with dark magick before throwing it at Lamashtu as the Goddess tried to slaughter her.

Lamashtu screamed as her skin burned. Smoke rose from her flesh. She lunged at Carolyn with a crazed look in her eyes. Much to Carolyn's surprise, Lou Anne kicked the Goddess hard in her shin.

"Don't you dare hurt her!" Lou Anne shouted.

Lamashtu cursed. "I despise children!" She screamed before trying to attack Lou Anne.

Carolyn flung a final rock at the Goddess. A spell burst from the rock, causing Lamashtu's body to become paralyzed.

"We've only got a few seconds," Carolyn said. She grabbed Lou Anne's arm and dove into a portal as Lou Anne clung to her for dear life.

They landed in a strange place and time. Curiosities surrounded them, and slowly, Lou Anne released Carolyn and started to look around. "Where are we?" She asked in wonder as she took in the tall structures and the people rushing around and completely ignoring them.

"New York," Carolyn replied. "It's the year 1989."

"What does that mean?"

"When souls start coming here, they'll measure moments by dates and years and stuff. We're not supposed to be here, but I don't listen to Alestair's rules. You probably listen to Vishnu's, though."

"Of course I do... You come from Alestair?"

"Seriously? Look at me," Carolyn replied, gesturing to her dark appearance.

"I'm Lou Anne," she said shyly.

"Carolyn," she replied.

"Thanks for saving me, Carolyn!" Lou Anne hugged her tightly. Carolyn tensed in confusion, ready to fight, but quickly realized that the hug was strangely comforting.

They explored New York and 1989 for a bit, and Lou Anne realized that Carolyn's accent matched that of the people there. "Did you learn their language here in New York?" She asked.

"I did. People like you and me can exist anywhere at any time we choose because of what we are. I like it here. New Yorkers are sarcastic and street smart, just like me. I have to be to survive in the Darkness," Carolyn explained. "You should spend more time here. You're too trusting. That Goddess almost killed you."

"No one's ever tried to hurt me before," Lou Anne replied. "Can you teach me to be strong like you?"

Carolyn laughed. "Maybe not like me, but I'm pretty sure there's a warrior inside of you," she said. "I mean, you kicked a crazy Goddess that tried to eat you to save a total stranger."

"She was going to hurt you," Lou Anne replied. "You're my friend."

"Am I? We just met."

"You saved me. You're my friend," Lou Anne replied firmly.

"I don't really do friends."

"You do now!" Lou Anne smiled at her brightly.

"You're stubborn, Lou Anne."

"Yep! So come on, Friend... Where are we going next?"

Carolyn shrugged. "Let's find a place that's not so dark, Sunshine," she replied. She took Lou Anne's hand and opened a portal. "This is Savannah, Georgia, in 1969, just slightly post-segregation."

"Segre-what?" Lou Anne asked.

"Segregation. White people weren't big on sharing spaces with Black people."

"That's dumb. What does skin color matter?"

"In our realm, it doesn't, but these incarnated souls make a pretty big deal out of it. Most of them were Black in other lives and don't even realize it. We're all everything, but people are stupid and want to make themselves feel more important than others just because they look different."

Music played nearby. Delighted by the sound, Lou Anne raced toward it. Carolyn chased after her. They watched as people danced and laughed at some sort of summer festival. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. Lou Anne watched a beautiful young woman perform on the stage and captivate the others. When she spoke, she had a strange accent that Lou Anne found charming. It put her at ease and made her smile as the woman referred to people as "Sugar" and "Darlin'."

Lou Anne imitated the accent as she picked up the strange dialect. One of the gifts the Powers That Be all shared was the ability to learn new languages in an instant. They were meant to communicate with entities from all backgrounds, so this was a necessary skill.

From that day on, Lou Anne would speak English with a delightful Southern drawl. It often made people underestimate her, but she found power and beauty in the whimsical accent.

Upon returning to their realm, the girls were immediately busted. Vincent Reaper, the brother of Jimmy and Lucifer, frowned at Carolyn as he gathered Lou Anne protectively in his arms. Jimmy ruled over Death and Lucifer helped Alestair rule the Darkness, but Vincent and Vishnu worked together to run the Light. He clearly didn't approve of the youngest Demon of Light running around with a Demon of Darkness.

"You must not go to the realm of the incarnated, Lou Anne," he scolded her gently. "You and your fellow Demons of Light aren't meant to interact with the incarnated directly. Your destiny is to guide them from afar, overseeing the souls who are meant to protect them." He shook his head as he watched Carolyn before adding, "Keep away from that one. She's dangerous."

Carolyn stuck her tongue out at Vincent in protest. "She's my friend," Lou Anne insisted. "She saved me from a very mean, very hungry Goddess."

"Come along, sweetheart," Vincent replied, ignoring her protests. "I'll bring you back to your brother." He guided her away from Carolyn and went straight to Balthos.

Balthos was a gentle soul whose official title was Guardian of the Light. He only used violence if left with absolutely no other choice when innocent lives were at risk. He loved others with his entire heart and was quick to protect the innocent from harm. His skin was tan, his long blonde hair was more golden than white, but his grey-blue eyes matched Lou Anne's perfectly. They sparkled with mild amusement as Vincent presented her to him.

"Lou Anne was on the Earthly plane, far in the future," Vincent explained. "She is still very young and curious, Balthos. Please keep an eye on her."

"Of course," Balthos replied stoically. As soon as Vincent left, he pulled Lou Anne into his arms and tickled her. "So, you went exploring the Universe? How exciting!" He said as she giggled.

Lou Anne kissed his cheek and snuggled against him. "It was fun, and I made a friend," she replied. "She's one of Alestair's, but I like her anyway."

"We should never judge someone purely based on where they come from. You're very wise, little sister."

Against all odds, Lou Anne and Carolyn remained close friends as they grew older. By the time the group of Demons of Light were fully mature, souls had begun incarnating to the Earth.

It was the eldest son of Vishnu who came up with the idea of forming an elite team of supernatural beings to protect the incarnated souls. The first two people he recruited were Vincent's daughter and Hecate's son, who helped him come up with the idea for the team. One of the original Oracles followed soon after. Finally, a fierce daughter of Durga agreed to join them if it meant protecting the innocent. These souls would eventually incarnate as Alexander Paxton, Aideen Phillips, Arnie Gelman, Spencer Connelly, and Cassandra Jones. Together, they approached Vishnu and asked for permission to enter into an incarnating cycle surrounding their mission.

Vishnu was delighted with the idea, but he knew they would need guidance from the Light. He selected his eight Powers That Be and tasked them with the role of supervising and guiding this group. Then, he made a surprising decision.

"We will also include Carolyn," he told Vincent. "She will become one of the official Powers That Be."

"Vishnu, she's one of Alestair's," Vincent protested nervously. "Can she be trusted?"

"Lou Anne and Carolyn's destinies are intertwined," Vishnu explained, "and she has never given me a reason to distrust her. I believe she is necessary, especially because some of these Lightworkers have darker magick. The dark ones can be Carolyn's responsibility."

"None of them are dark-"

"The team is not yet fully formed, but even if it were, you cannot tell me that your daughter does not have a dark side, Vincent. I adore her, but her magick is based in the Darkness. Carolyn will understand her better than the others."

Vishnu sent his son to recruit the others. Soon, a team of twelve was assembled. Lou Anne and Carolyn were tasked with creating talismans to protect and guide them. They would also help the Lightworkers recognize each other in each incarnation.

"Make a thirteenth," James said out of nowhere.

"Learn to count," Carolyn said. "There are only twelve of them."

"I have foreseen a thirteenth member joining them, most likely after they suffer a loss. Have it ready. It is Bastet's eldest son."

"Should it be a cat charm then?" Lou Anne asked.

Carolyn smirked and said, "Make it a gun. I've come across his future selves in the timeline, and he's always drawn to guns."

Lou Anne nodded and began to craft the talisman. Carolyn charged it with magick. When they were finished, James nodded. "Now, they are on the right path," he said.

With an official job to focus on, the Powers That Be sat down to determine the rules of the Silver Society's incarnation cycle. "They will constantly have at least one incarnated member," Justice said. "The moment the last one dies, the cycle will begin somewhere else. The guardian will immediately incarnate in their next location."

"How do we determine the right locations?" Jonathan asked.

"We will search through the timeline to see where they are needed the most every time the cycle restarts," James decided.

"How long should each cycle be?" Andrea asked.

"Every forty years," Nathaniel suggested.

"Forty? Is that long enough to let them live full lives?" Jane asked softly.

"The incarnated die quickly, Jane," Jonathan pointed out gently. "For us, it's the blink of an eye, but for them, it is a lifetime."

"Forty years should be a sufficient amount of time for them to accomplish their goal and save each location from evil," Andrea agreed practically.

"We're asking a lot of them," Lou Anne said. "I mean, if they constantly reincarnate, when do they ever get to rest and recover from their lives?"

"The first to return will always be Vishnu's boy," Nathaniel said. "We'll ensure his destined time comes at least a few years before the final death so he may recover accordingly."

"But it's still a lot of pressure-"

"They volunteered, Lou," Carolyn pointed out. "We're not forcing them to do this."

"I know... I just hate to see anyone suffer," Lou Anne replied.

"Suffering is inevitable when one incarnates," Justice pointed out. "That is the nature of life. Without sorrow, we would never appreciate joy. It is about balance, Lou Anne."

She didn't love the idea, but it was hard to argue with Justice. With a sigh, Lou Anne stopped protesting, and the rules became official.

For a time, everything went well. The Silver Society proved time and again that they were capable of completing their missions successfully. They saved many cities all over the world from evil. They worked well with the Powers That Be, and everything felt in perfect harmony. Then, they incarnated in Ancient Greece.

At first, it was a life like any other. It followed the usual pattern of Vishnu's eldest son incarnating and the others following him. They fully came together as teenagers, although they began to find each other as children. It wasn't until they were teenagers that something changed.

The Powers That Be, strictly speaking, didn't have much time for personal pursuits. They spent most of their time together, overseeing the Silver Society and a couple of other groups of Lightworkers. Still, they had their own interests, and they formed close relationships with each other.

Lou Anne and Carolyn were inseparable. As the two youngest Powers That Be, they did nearly everything together. They often ran off on their own to have adventures, although they finally stopped exploring the realm of the incarnated and stuck to their own plane of existence.

Nathaniel was stoic and stern most of the time, but Andrea brought out another side of him. She didn't put up with his tantrums and was unafraid to put him in his place. They argued often, but they almost seemed to enjoy it. She was the only entity who could get him to relax. When he smiled, it lit up his eyes and softened his features significantly.

"You know, you're sort of beautiful," Andrea informed him one day after she succeeded in making him smile.

He chuckled softly and replied, "Isn't the man supposed to say that to the woman?"

"Who's to say? Gender expectations change depending on which time we're in." She smiled at Nathaniel brightly before impulsively kissing his lips.

Nathaniel tensed at the unexpected physical contact, but soon enough, he kissed her back. His kiss was tentative at first, but Andrea deepened it, pulling him closer to her to encourage him.

That kiss was the first of many. Most of their arguments seemed to end with their lips meeting mid-sentence. This did not go unnoticed by Vishnu and Vincent. Vishnu seemed delighted by the development, but Vincent was mildly concerned.

"What if they become distracted from their duties?" Vincent asked.

"Oh, come now, Vincent," Vishnu replied. "Let them have some sort of lives outside of their duties. We have wives."

"Yes, but that's different," Vincent argued.

"I don't see how. I exist. You exist. The Powers That Be exist. We've all found love. It's a beautiful thing!"

Vincent sighed. "I suppose you're correct. They've given us no reason not to trust in their ability to remain focused."

"Exactly! Besides, they are not the only ones to pair off. Jonathan and Jane seem to be getting along quite well."

That was true. The two were nearly always together. Shy, gentle Jane had always been the quietest of the Powers That Be, but Jonathan had coaxed her out of her shell. She always looked  extremely happy when Jonathan was at her side. One day, Vishnu had watched Jonathan teach Jane to dance like the incarnated did on Earth. It had warmed his heart to see the timid girl open up and finally let someone into her world.

James and Justice tended to spend time with each other more than anyone else. That didn't escape Vishnu's notice, especially since they seemed to connect in a way that ran deeper than simply friendship, but he might just be making assumptions. He loved romance. It made him happy whenever his people found love.

That was why he did not initially feel too concerned when he noticed that Balthos seemed to have found a love of his own.

Her name was Callista. She was a gentle, beautiful young woman who lived in Ancient Greece just like the Silver Society. Balthos found himself watching her as she spent time near his charges. Her long brown hair and bright green eyes called to him. One day, Balthos decided that he had to meet her, even if only once. He broke the rules and manifest himself physically in the realm of the incarnated.

Callista spotted him immediately. Her eyes took in his appearance and the way he radiated light. She smiled at him, and it touched his heart.

"Are you a God?" She asked.

"Not quite," he replied, "but I am not of this world."

"Tell me your story," she said curiously.

He smiled and explained his history to the curious young woman. She listened with delight, amazed to have met an entity who was born purely of the Light. She reached out and gently touched his cheek. Balthos held her hand there for a moment, mesmerized by the way her hand felt against his flesh.

"I cannot stay," he finally admitted. "I only longed to meet you, just once..."

"Why stop at once?" She asked. "Visit me anytime. I enjoyed this conversation."

"I shouldn't... It is against the rules."

"What fun are rules?" She laughed. "I do not want you to get into trouble for me, but I wouldn't mind getting to know you, Balthos. You are unlike anyone I have ever met."

"Where does your soul come from, Callista? Do you know?"

"I am a demigoddess," she admitted. "My father is Hermes, and my mother was one of his priestesses. She left this incarnation when I was eight. My grandfather has tended to me ever since."

Something about her tone made Balthos pause. "Is he good to you?" He asked.

"Of course," she replied quickly.

Balthos was not convinced. "Perhaps I will visit you again soon, Callista," he said.

"I would like that," she replied.

Balthos began visiting the realm of the incarnated regularly after that. He soon learned that Callista's grandfather was a warlock. Balthos was horrified by the abuse Callista endured. He decided to ask for help on her behalf.

James stopped him before he could even try to approach the others. "I have seen how this ends, Balthos," he said gently. "You cannot interfere in this girl's fate."

"She's being mistreated, James," Balthos protested. "Her grandfather is a warlock, and he's using her for her power. I cannot leave her to suffer."

"You must, Balthos. It is the girl's destiny to experience this."

"He'll kill her if this keeps up!"

James remained silent for a moment. He looked at Balthos, holding his gaze before slowly nodding, trying to make Balthos understand.

"No," Balthos said, shaking his head.

"Balthos, you know we cannot change fate. It is forbidden. Only Justice can alter it slightly, and that's only if things veer too far off of the destined path. He can restore order and keep things from tipping too far into chaos."

"She's innocent, James... She doesn't deserve such a cruel destiny."

"I know, Balthos. I understand that you have feelings for her, but you cannot let them blind you now."

"If you won't help me, the others will," Balthos insisted. "I'll go straight to Vishnu if I have to."

"Vishnu lets the incarnated souls have free well. He won't interfere."

"Then Justice... Surely Justice will help her."

"He isn't meant to, Balthos. Please, listen to me. If you continue down this path, only pain will follow."

"Then I'll endure it! I won't let Callista be killed by her own kin just because it's supposedly fate, James. I can't."

James sighed. "I know, my friend... I just wish I could talk you out of this." He put a gentle hand on Balthos's shoulder.

Balthos went directly to Justice. "I need your help," he said.

"Of course, Balthos," Justice replied patiently. "What is it you need?"

"I wish to change the destiny of an incarnated demigoddess."

"Balthos, I cannot do that lightly."

"I know, but this path feels wrong, Justice. I believe she is meant for another fate."

"What is her name?"

"Callista, the beloved friend of the Silver Society. She often assists them with their mission. She has been instrumental in saving several lives."

"Ah, yes... The daughter of Hermes," Justice said with a nod. "She is, indeed, quite important to them."

"James has foreseen her death, Justice. Her grandfather will end her life. I can't allow that to be how her story ends."

Justice paused thoughtfully. "This was not always her destiny," he said after a moment. "Someone has altered Callista's fate."

"Can we change it back then?" Balthos asked hopefully.

"That remains unclear... I must find out how her fate was changed, and then I can attempt to set it back on track."

"Thank you, Justice... James seemed certain you wouldn't help."

"James may be precognitive, but he only sees some versions of the future. It changes based on free will. Sometimes, the ending surprises him."

Justice began looking into how Callista's destiny had changed. He did not ask for help because he sensed someone had intentionally set her on a new path, and whoever it was had bad intentions. He would have to do this alone while Balthos watched over her and protected her.

Balthos visited Callista daily. He fell deeper in love with her every moment they were together. She was pure of heart yet mischievous, as one might expect from a child of Hermes. Her laugh was the most beautiful sound in the universe. Balthos spent as much time with her as he could to try to keep her exposure to her grandfather to a minimum. He still wasn't certain it would be enough.

The last thing he expected was for Andrea to manifest in the realm of the incarnated while he was there. She came running toward Balthos with tears in her eyes. Andrea was one of the toughest members of the Powers That Be, so her distraught state naturally concerned Balthos. He hurried to her side.

"What's wrong, Andrea?" Balthos asked gently.

"I have to hide him," Andrea replied.

"Hide whom, exactly?" Balthos asked in confusion.

"Balthos, you can't tell anyone what I'm about to tell you," Andrea said firmly.

"I would never betray your trust, Andrea. You know that."

She nodded. Waving her hands, she pulled a shield of energy back into herself. A baby appeared in midair. She pulled the little boy into her arms and looked more determined than Balthos had ever seen her.

"Andrea... Is he yours?" Balthos asked in surprise.

"Yes," she replied. "And Nathaniel's. No one can know, Balthos."

"Does Nathaniel know?"

"I can't tell him... Not knowing that we can't keep our son."

"Why not? Technically, there is no rule that we can't have children, Andrea. Vishnu would celebrate a child born of love."

"His power levels are incredibly high. He won't be safe with us. He is destined to incarnate, and to help others. I brought him here because he'll be safer in Athens, with the Silver Society. I will age him and attach him to them, and that will guarantee he's part of their cycle. He'll follow them as he reincarnates. He's meant to help them."

"How do you know his fate, Andrea?" Balthos asked.

"Your sister told me. Lou Anne is very good with matters of childbirth. She sensed the truth about my condition and delivered my son... And when she did, he misfired. He has my powers, Balthos... He electrocuted Lou Anne, and she had a vision of his future when he did. If his existence is known, someone will hunt him. She didn't know who it was, but she believes the threat is very real. This is the only path we can take. If I don't do this, he'll be killed."

"He is the first child born of our kind," Balthos said. "And he's born from two of us. He'll be incredibly powerful. It will be difficult to hide him."

"Help me, Balthos. Please. I can cloak his energy, but the more he reincarnates, the stronger he will become."

Balthos took the boy into his arms, snuggling him and feeling oddly peaceful as he did. He bathed the boy in light, using it to shift some of the baby's energy so it would not be obvious where he'd come from.

"He is safe for now," Balthos promised.

Andrea nodded and began to age her son. He was soon a teenager, with the knowledge a boy his age should possess. The one thing Andrea withheld from him was where he had come from.

"You're a very special boy," she told him. "Find your name after I leave you. Balthos will bring you somewhere safe."

Balthos nodded. "I'll take him to the Silver Society," he promised. "They will protect him."

"Thank you," Andrea whispered. "Be strong, little one," she told her son. She kissed the top of his head before forcing herself to return to the Light.

Balthos kept his word, and Andrea's plan worked. Not only was the boy hidden, but he was linked to the Silver Society. Every couple of lives, he was born in the city they were destined to incarnate into, usually incarnating before them. By the time they reached Salem, he would be incarnated as a man named Oscar Berkely, better known as Shooter. His loyalty to the members of the Silver Society would only strengthen over time, and he never learned of his soul's true heritage.

Unfortunately, Andrea was cornered as soon as she returned to the Light. "Breaking the rules, I see," Balthos said. It wasn't actually Balthos. Andrea knew that from his energy. In fact, she knew exactly who he was despite his efforts to cloak his energy from her. Her gift was too strong for him to fool her.

"You," she whispered in shock as a sword went right through her chest. "You've betrayed us?"

"I'm sorry, my dear," he replied. "I had to."

Andrea struggled to survive. Demons of Light were extraordinarily difficult to kill, but if the right spell was used, they could be unmade and reverted back into pure energy. This sword had been crafted specifically to destroy their kind. She felt her energy pouring out of her and into her killer. Unwilling to give him that power boost, she took as much as she could back from him and screamed as she sent it directly into Vishnu.

The last sliver of her soul fell to the ground, shattering in a brilliant burst of light before vanishing completely. All that was left of her were a few strands of her hair and an echo of her final scream.

The entity who would take to calling himself Judas fled and reverted to his true form. A few minutes later, the Powers That Be ran to the site of Andrea's assassination.

Nathaniel knelt beside the strands of her hair. He grasped them in his hands and let out a furious scream. Carolyn's scream of rage echoed his scream of grief. James shook his head in horror. Jonathan began to cry. Lou Anne collapsed into Balthos's arms as she sobbed. Jane became overwhelmed by everyone else's emotions and began trembling. Jonathan quickly pulled her into his arms to comfort her.

Vishnu looked at Vincent and asked, "Who could have done this?"

"Whoever it was used a sword," James replied softly. "It was made of light and infused with magick meant to destroy Andrea..." He sighed. "I can't believe this."

"Did you see it happen, James?" Vincent asked.

"I had a vision, but I didn't see the killer," James replied. "I only saw the sword in her chest..."

"How could anyone have killed her?" Lou Anne demanded. "Everyone loved Andrea! She always made everyone laugh... I was just with her... This can't be real. It can't be!"

"Lou Anne, perhaps you should go rest," Vishnu suggested gently.

"Rest?! How can I rest when someone murdered my friend?" She couldn't seem to breathe as she grew more upset.

"Lou... Come on," Carolyn said. "Let's go."

"Carolyn, perhaps her brother should-" Vincent began.

"I've got her, Vincent," Carolyn replied firmly. The glare in her eyes dared him to challenge her.

"Very well," Vincent conceded. "Take her somewhere to recover from the shock."

The two youngest Powers That Be left in silence. Balthos knew perfectly well that Carolyn was taking Lou Anne to the realm of the incarnated, probably in a different time. They didn't really do it anymore, but his sister was in crisis, and Carolyn knew none of the others would follow them there.

"We will avenge you, Andrea," Nathaniel declared.

"I will see to it that the entity responsible for this faces the proper punishment," Vishnu promised. "All of you, please take some time to recover."

"I'd like to continue working, if that's alright," James said. "Our charges need us, after all."

"If that is what you need, go on," Vincent replied. "Would anyone else like to keep working?"

"I would," Justice said, immediately moving closer to James. "Andrea would want us to keep doing our jobs."

"He's right," Jonathan added sadly. "We can't stop working just because of this tragedy."

"Jane's in no condition to work right now," Balthos pointed out. "Take her somewhere safe and stay with her."

"Please," Jane added with fresh tears in her eyes. "Just for a little while, until I'm able to think straight again?"

Jonathan looked heartbroken as he held her. "Of course, my love. I'm here. We'll get through this together."

"We have a responsibility to the Silver Society. They require our supervision," Nathaniel said. "I will resume my duties."

"Nathaniel, no one expects you to just go back to work," Vishnu said gently. "We know how much you cared for her."

"We do not exist for ourselves," Nathaniel replied tonelessly. "Our purpose lies in guiding our charges and keeping the Universe in balance. I will return to work immediately."

No one argued. Jonathan led Jane to her home. He tucked her into her bed before curling up beside her and holding her protectively. "It's alright, love," he said soothingly. "I know the emotions of the others overwhelmed you. Just ground to me. I'll keep myself calm."

As Jane wept in Jonathan's arms, he gently stroked her hair and whispered soothing words to her. He allowed her to release not only her own emotions but those of everyone around her. As Jane's body shook with grief, he gently kissed away her tears.

James and Justice stole a few moments together as they watched over their charges from a distance. Surprisingly, it was Justice who broke down.

"Andrea's dead," he said softly.

"She is," James confirmed gently.

"She was murdered."

"She was."

"James..." Justice's voice cracked with emotion.

James automatically slid his hand over Justice's. He squeezed it gently, knowing Justice needed to feel him in that moment. Justice leaned closer until he was able to rest his head on James's shoulder. They stayed like that for a few minutes until Justice was calmer. When he moved away from James, neither man acknowledged the vulnerable moment.

"I have something I need to do," Justice said, breaking the silence. "It's important. Summon me if anything happens that I need to know."

"Of course," James replied. "Do you need any help?"

"Unfortunately, I can't share what I'm doing with you this time."

"Jus, we always share everything with each other," James said in surprise. "Is everything alright?"

"No, James," Justice admitted with a sigh. "I'm afraid that it's not."

"Talk to me, Justice. Let me help."

"There is a traitor amongst us," Justice said softly. "You can't tell anyone, James. I don't know who it is. I'm not sure who can be trusted."

"You can trust me."

"I do, Jay, but I have to be careful. Whoever did this is very good at fooling others."

"You think one of us killed Andrea," James realized.

"I also think they changed someone's destiny."

"But you're the only one who can do that, and only under specific circumstances."

"Exactly. Whoever did this somehow harnessed my powers." He hesitated before adding, "He or she would have had to get very close to me."

James stared at him. "Are you implying...?"

"I am not implying anything, Jay. I'm just stating that I need to be careful not to rule anyone out. My heart says it couldn't possibly be you, but I'm cursed with the ability to always remain incredibly objective. Logically, you're as good a suspect as anyone else... A better suspect, even, because I'd never see it coming. You get closer to me than anyone."

James sighed. "I understand, Justice," he replied. "Do what you must, but please be careful... I can't bear the thought of you ending up like Andrea. We have already lost too much today."

Justice set to work on looking into Callista's original destiny. He was startled to realize that she'd been meant to live a long life. "She should live well after the Silver Society moves on... Her path is one of healing others and keeping Athens safe from lesser evils once the Silver Society defeats the one they are meant to stop," Justice said aloud.

"Oh, Justice," a voice said softly. "I do wish you hadn't discovered that."

"Balthos?" Justice asked in confusion as the man approached him. He hesitated as he realized there was something very off about his friend. "No... You aren't Balthos, yet you wear his form."

"I'm simply borrowing this form for a bit," Judas replied. "Although he is rather handsome. I think it's the hair that really sells it." He laughed darkly as he ran his fingers through Balthos's long, luxurious locks.

"What have you done?" Justice demanded. "Why would you change Callista's destiny?"

"Regrettably, Callista is a necessary casualty of my journey. The girl must die."

"She is a threat to no one."

"You're wrong, Justice. She is a threat to me. The daughter of Hermes is stronger than you know, and she's clever. She would have ruined my plans in the end. She would have alerted Balthos to the truth. As gentle as he is, he's the protector of the Light. He would be forced to destroy me. I can't take that risk."

"So you would frame him for murder?" Justice demanded. "You killed Andrea! Why?"

"Andrea's gift enabled her to see through even the strongest of glamours. I shapeshift, borrowing the forms of others as needed, but her energy sensitivity was too strong. I knew I would be unable to fool her, so she had to be eliminated. It's tragic, really. I was rather attached to her."

"Reveal yourself, you coward! Face me as you are! Fight me with honor!"

Judas chuckled and replied, "I'd rather just end this quickly." He impaled Justice with the same sword he'd used on Andrea. Light rapidly began flowing out of Justice as he cried out in pain. He tried to fight, but Judas simply withdrew his blade and stabbed him again.

He stole as much of Justice's energy as he could. The additional power gave Judas the skill to alter destiny as he saw fit. He left behind just enough of Justice's life force to make it clear that he had been destroyed.

Once again, the Powers That Be rushed to the location of the murder soon after. No one dared to speak as Vishnu stared at the scene in horror. He gathered up the few fragments that remained of Justice and returned them to the Light.

"James," he said, "did you see anything?"

"It was the same weapon," James replied after a moment. "He didn't stand a chance once he was impaled, but he fought anyway."

"I think the rest of you need to be locked away for your safety," Vishnu decided.

"Not happening," Carolyn said. "You'd try to stick me in the Darkness, and I don't feel like shacking up with Alestair. Besides, I can take care of myself."

"Of course you can, but we can't take the risk," Vishnu replied. "You and Lou Anne can stay together. I know you'd never harm her."

"Vishnu, Carolyn belongs with her kind," Vincent protested.

"Carolyn and Balthos are Lou Anne's greatest protectors. The two girls should remain together, with Balthos. Jonathan can stay with Jane. Nathaniel and James will protect each other."

"I don't need a babysitter, Vishnu," Lou Anne protested. "Carolyn and I may be the youngest, but we can both protect ourselves just fine."

"Lou, please don't fight this," Balthos said softly. "Someone is killing our friends. Andrea and Justice were no pushovers, yet we lost them both. I won't risk losing you, too, little sister."

"It's safest if we stick together," Jonathan agreed softly. He clung to Jane protectively as she struggled not to have another empathic break down. It was clear he was terrified of losing her.

They agreed to the lockdown, remaining in their respective groups. "If anyone else dies, we'll know their companion is the guilty party," Vincent said.

"I hope it doesn't come to that," Vishnu replied softly. "I can't sit back and watch them die, Vincent. We need to solve this mystery and find the traitor."

For over a month, the Powers That Be remained safe. Then, things took a turn. Locked up or not, they were still watching over the realm of the incarnated, and Balthos realized that something was terribly wrong.

"She's in danger," he whispered in horror.

"Who is?" Lou Anne asked.

"Callista... I have to save her. This wasn't meant to be her destiny."

"Alright, so let's go," Carolyn said. "I'm bored anyway. I can't stand being cooped up."

"It's dangerous," Balthos replied. "You two should stay here."

"You love that girl with your whole soul, Balthos. You're my brother. Let me help you," Lou Anne said.

"I won't drag you into the middle of this, Lou. Just tell Vishnu and Vincent that you have no idea where I am if they come by." He hugged her tightly. "I love you."

"I love you, too," she replied. "Be safe."

"Keep her safe, Carolyn," Balthos said softly as he hugged her, too.

"I always do," Carolyn replied.

Balthos used a spell to escape from the room and head to the realm of the living. He found Callista in the woods with her grandfather. The warlock held a ritual dagger in his hands.

Balthos could feel the magick from the man's ritual. He pulled out his sword and slashed through the protective circle, shattering it.

"How dare you?" Callista's grandfather demanded.

"How dare you?" Balthos replied. "She is your granddaughter! You would sacrifice your own kin for power? You disgust me."

"Balthos!" Callista cried in terror as her grandfather raised the dagger again.

"I'm here, Callista," Balthos replied. "I won't let him harm you."

"You cannot stop me! I know your kind. You do not interfere," the old man insisted. He tried to stab Callista.

In an instant, Balthos slashed the man in two. The upper half of his body landed a few feet away from the lower half. He stared at the rest of his body in horror for a moment before rapidly bleeding out.

"My apologies, Callista," Balthos said gently. "He left me no choice."

Callista flung her arms around Balthos. "You saved me," she whispered. "Don't apologize for that."

With the blood of a powerful warlock spilled on the ground, the spell was complete. Balthos realized too late that evil was rising. Demons burst from the ground, and with the circle broken, nothing could contain them.

"I must stop this," Balthos said in horror. He put his hands up and surrounded the area with a blinding light. The demons, empowered by fresh blood, were not destroyed, but they hesitated. "I can't hold them here for long," Balthos realized. "Callista, run! Get to safety! I will call for help."

Callista kissed Balthos deeply, lending him strength. "Thank you for saving me, my love," she said softly. "Stay strong." She ran with the impossible speed only a child of Hermes could possess.

If I am destroyed today, it will be worth it because she is safe, Balthos thought.

The lesser demons attacked him. They were powerful, but they could only do so much to a Demon of Light as strong as Balthos. His sword was able to destroy them, and he slaughtered as many as he could. He hated violence, but innocent lives would be lost if he didn't stop them from escaping. Unfortunately, more kept coming. The death of Callista's grandfather during his ritual had unleashed chaos and destruction upon Athens.

Lou Anne sensed her brother's dire situation. "We have to help him," she said to Carolyn.

"You're right," Carolyn agreed. "We need to go after him before he gets himself killed."

They hurried to the realm of the incarnated. Realizing that Lou Anne and Carolyn had gone rogue again, Jonathan sighed.

"Janie, love, I need you to stay here," he said.

"Where are you going, Jonathan?" Jane asked.

"Balthos is in trouble. Lou Anne and Carolyn went after him. They're going to need my help."

"Should I come with you?"

"We might get in trouble for this, love. Vishnu and Vincent probably won't approve. It's best you stay here, safe."

She sighed before kissing him. "Be careful, Jon. Keep them safe, but keep yourself safe, too."

He kissed her deeply a final time before leaving to join the others. Lou Anne and Carolyn were struggling to help Balthos contain the demons. The Silver Society had joined the fight. Callista had returned with them.

"How can I assist?" Jonathan asked.

"Help Lou Anne and Callista heal the Silver Society," Carolyn said. "This is draining their energy too much. They're in trouble."

Sure enough, several members of the Silver Society looked close to death. Callista was doing better than they were, but had started to look weak. Jonathan raced to Lou Anne's side to help.

Thunder boomed overhead as Vincent's daughter was killed by an especially aggressive demon. Her empathic best friend and guardian went down with her.

Vincent immediately manifested in the middle of the chaos. Vishnu stood beside him. Vishnu's son had already been killed.

"Enough!" Vincent cried. His voice boomed powerfully, destroying the last of the demons in a burst of light.

Vishnu cradled his son in his arms and tried to comfort his granddaughter as she worked on resurrecting him.

"He'll be alright, sweetheart," Vishnu said gently. "It's not his time. It's not any of their times."

Vincent resurrected his daughter and her guardian at the same time. His daughter rubbed her neck to reassure herself that the gash in it had healed. "Dad?" She asked. "What are you doing here?"

"We do not interfere in incarnated affairs, but since someone took it upon himself to do just that, Vishnu and I had no choice but to involve ourselves," Vincent replied. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine. I'd have woken back up on my own, but thanks for saving me the trouble." She hugged him before hugging her guardian.

Vishnu sighed in relief as his son was resurrected. His granddaughter began to sob as she held her father in her arms.

"I'm alright, Kid," he said soothingly. "You did a good job."

"Thank goodness," Vishnu mumbled as he joined in the hug.

"Tonight was a disaster," Vincent said. "You are all lucky to be alive."

"At least now we know who the traitor is," Nathaniel said as he and James appeared. "You will pay for your crimes, Balthos!"

"Balthos? Are y'all insane?" Lou Anne demanded. "Sure, he snuck away to help someone, but he didn't kill Andrea and Justice. My brother is too gentle to harm an innocent!"

"Lou Anne, it's alright," Balthos said softly. He turned toward Nathaniel and added, "I could never harm our friends. You know I don't care for violence."

"The man you murdered today might argue," Nathaniel replied.

"He was trying to kill Callista. She is an innocent... I couldn't bear to let her die when I know this was not her original destiny."

"Balthos, I warned you nothing good would come of you interfering in this girl's time," James said. "Only Justice could have changed her destiny."

"Justice was trying to help me set her back on the right path. Why would I kill him?"

"We must return to the Light," Vishnu said softly. "We can discuss this there." He paused before adding, "Silver Society, thank you for coming to assist tonight. You have done well. Without you, I fear what would have become of Athens."

"Grandfather..." His granddaughter began cautiously.

"Yes, my dear?" He replied.

"What will become of Balthos?" She watched the Demon of Light with concern in her jade green eyes.

"We will work out the details soon. Do not worry yourself over such things, sweet girl." He kissed the top of her head affectionately.

"Father, wait," his son said. "Balthos is a kindhearted soul. I do not believe he is capable of murder, and he came here tonight to save an innocent woman... One we are all very fond of. Please don't punish him."

"He's right," Vincent's daughter added. "Balthos would never kill someone who didn't deserve it. That goes against everything he stands for."

"I promise you, we will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of this situation before we make any decisions," Vishnu said soothingly. "I am confident there is a perfectly good explanation for all of this."

The Powers That Be returned to the Light. Balthos was kept under a strict lockdown while Vishnu and Vincent investigated the accusations against him. The others were allowed to walk freely through their realm.

Back in the realm of the incarnated, Judas visited Callista. He took the form of Balthos. "Callista," he said softly.

"You're free!" She cried, running toward him and hugging him.

"Only briefly... I snuck away to give you something. It is a spiritual weapon and will attach to your soul once you take it. Keep it with you always. One day soon, you will need it."

"You seem different," Callista said as Judas gave her a knife.

"My situation is taking a lot out of me," Judas replied smoothly, doing a very good impression of Balthos. "Hermes pled on my behalf. He told them I was mad with love for you when I chose to save your life. He also insisted I'm not the type to murder my friends. I think Vishnu is listening to him, but Vincent remains skeptical. Hermes has begged them to spare my life because I was only trying to save his daughter."

"My father has always like you," Callista replied with a sad smile. "Surely they will listen to him."

"I hope so. Callista, remember what I said. Keep this weapon. It is vital that you have it with you. Promise me."

"I promise," she replied. She moved to kiss him, but Judas pulled away, worried she'd sense his deception if he dared to kiss her.

"I must return, Callista," he lied. "They will notice I'm missing shortly. Be safe." He gave her a hug before vanishing. Upon returning to the Light, he smiled. He knew everything would soon fall into place.

At first, the investigation seemed to work in Balthos's favor. Hermes had certainly given a compelling argument. Vincent confirmed that Callista's time had been changed by outside forces. They found research that proved Justice had been trying to help Balthos undo that change. There was no direct evidence to link him to the murders. Vishnu was confident that Balthos was innocent, and that his actions in Athens had been justified. Balthos was released from lockdown and allowed some freedom as the investigation began to wrap up.

That was when something else happened. Jane was walking through a garden in the Light when someone approached her. She looked up in confusion as he came closer.

"Balthos?" She asked softly. It didn't feel like Balthos. On the surface, everything fit. He looked the part and carried himself identically to Balthos, but the anger he was projecting was on a level that Jane knew Balthos was incapable of.

"Who are you?" Jane asked softly.

"I'm sorry, Jane," Judas replied. "You are so gentle and kindhearted... I had hoped to spare you. Unfortunately, if what I have foreseen is true, you're going to figure out my true identity in a few weeks, and I cannot allow that. Don't worry... I will make this quick."

The sword was shoved through Jane's chest before she could even attempt to flee. Her eyes widened in horror as she looked into her killer's. "You..." She whispered as light poured out of her.

"Me," Judas replied with a laugh. "I'm sorry, my friend, but this was necessary."

"Get away from her!" A powerful voice commanded.

"Goodbye, Jane," Judas said with a laugh before he smiled darkly at Ares and ran.

Ares chased after Judas as Apollo arrived and tried to heal Jane, but it was too late. He could not reverse the damage, although he managed to keep her physical form from shattering as she died.

Vishnu and Vincent tried to restore her life, but there was not enough of her energy left to resurrect her. As the other Powers That Be arrived, Lou Anne gasped in horror, burying her face in Balthos's chest. He clung to her protectively, shielding her eyes from the sight.

Carolyn cursed. Nathaniel punched a wall. James shook his head as he stared at the scene. No one spoke as Jonathan knelt beside Jane's corpse. He pulled her into his arms and let out a cry of grief as he began rocking her gently in his arms, sobbing and trembling in despair.

"Janie..." He whispered. "My love... My beautiful Janie..."

Hearing Jonathan break down, Lou Anne pulled herself together. She knelt beside him and hugged him from behind as he mourned his fallen lover. She tried to give him strength as he continued to weep.

After a few minutes, Ares returned. He glared at Balthos before drawing his sword.

"Ares, stand down," Vishnu said in alarm.

"Balthos murdered Jane in cold blood!" Ares declared.

"What?" Lou Anne demanded as she stood up. "That's impossible."

"I witnessed it with my own eyes, Vishnu! The bastard smiled as she died." Ares insisted.

"Apollo... Is this true?" Vishnu asked softly.

Apollo hesitated. "I only caught a flash of him as he fled," he replied. "It could have been Balthos, but... I mean..."

"You're a Seer, Apollo," Carolyn pointed out. "Can't you give us a definitive answer?"

"I didn't have a vision, Carolyn," he replied. "If I did, I would have arrived earlier to save her." He shook his head, his eyes full of sorrow. "I felt her pain as she died. I knew she needed a healer. That side of me overwhelmed all others."

"Look, I saw it," Ares said again. "And I didn't need a vision to do it, just my own two eyes! Balthos is a cold, calculating killer."

Vincent looked at Vishnu and said, "We cannot ignore an eye witness to the crime, Vishnu... Balthos did this."

"He did not!" Lou Anne insisted. "He couldn't have! There must be another explanation, and if y'all can't figure it out then I will!"

"Lou Anne, stop," Balthos cautioned her sadly. "It's not our place to question or challenge Vishnu and Vincent."

"You didn't do this, Balthos," she protested. "I know you didn't."

"You were with Balthos when he unleashed the chaos in Athens," Vincent said. "As his sister, it is understandable that you would be a co-conspirator in all of this. It's only natural you would stand with your brother, but-"

"You're dang right I'm standing with him!" Lou Anne declared.

"Lou Anne had no part in my actions that night," Balthos said firmly. "She is innocent. I made the decision to save Callista on my own. I will accept the consequences as you see fit."

"Balthos, no!" Lou Anne protested.

Balthos looked at Carolyn with desperation in his eyes. Stop her, he thought. Before it's too late for her, too.

"Lou... You have to stop," Carolyn said, understanding what was at stake. "They could charge you with treason against the Light. Balthos made his own choices. You didn't help him until after he risked the safety of everyone in Athens, and that was only to save our charges from certain death. You're not guilty of any crimes."

"He is my brother, Carolyn!"

"I know that. You can't help him, Lou. Not this time." Please, she added silently. We can't save him. Ares witnessed Jane's death. His testimony is going to convict him.

He didn't do this, Carolyn, Lou Anne thought.

I know that and you know that, but it doesn't matter now. Someone framed your brother, and they did a really good job of it.

"Balthos, you are charged with treason of the highest order against the Light," Vincent began. "You interfered in the realm of the incarnated without authorization. You slaughtered a man despite it not being his time and nearly destroyed Athens as a result. You murdered three of your own kind. Your crimes require the harshest possible punishment. You are facing de-"

"Mercy," Jonathan said softly.

Vincent frowned. "What was that?" He asked.

"Grant him mercy. He was driven mad by his love for Callista. The Balthos we know would never do these things..." Jonathan wiped tears from his eyes. "Balthos murdered our friends. He killed my beloved... But Jane hated bloodshed. She would not want her death to cause further harm to the Universe. Grant him mercy, for Jane's sake... And for the sake of Lou Anne."

Lou Anne hugged Jonathan tightly. "I'm so sorry about Janie, Sugar," she said. "She was the sweetest person I've ever met."

Slowly, Jonathan found the strength to release Jane's body. He hugged Lou Anne before turning toward Vishnu. "There must be a punishment other than death," he said.

"Yes," Vishnu replied softly. "We will take death off the table."

"Vishnu, surely you realize that Balthos is too dangerous to leave alive," Vincent protested.

"He will be strictly supervised at all times."

"He cannot continue in his duties to the Light."

"No," Vishnu agreed, "he cannot. I will make other arrangements to ensure that he is not a threat to the Light."

"What are y'all going to do?" Lou Anne asked nervously.

"Balthos will be stripped of his status as a Power That Be. He will also be stripped of his light. He will serve the Darkness."

"What? You can't do that, Vishnu!" Apollo said in shock. "Balthos is made of the purest Light, just like his sister. He, more than any of them, can't survive in the Darkness."

"I will arrange for Alestair to replace Balthos's energy with that of the Darkness. He will be weaker, but he'll survive. His existence will be bound in service to the Darkness."

"He must not be allowed any luxuries," Vincent said firmly. "He will be a slave to Alestair, my brothers, and their people. Not even the slightest luxury or comfort will be granted to him." He took a sword and, in one swift motion, cut off most of Balthos's hair.

"Stop it!" Lou Anne cried, running toward her brother. Carolyn grabbed her and stopped her before she could reach him.

"The rest will be shaved off," Vincent decided. "This will act as a physical reminder of your betrayal to the Light."

"I understand," Balthos replied softly as Ares placed enchanted shackles on his wrists. They were just tight enough to cause Balthos pain, something Ares undoubtedly did intentionally.

"And for your treason, I rule that one other action must be taken." Vincent said before he clapped his hands twice.

Callista's soul appeared in front of them. "Callista..." Balthos whispered in horror.

"Her life has come to an end, as it was meant to the night you interfered," Vincent explained. "It was quick and painless, which is a mercy, considering her role in your actions."

"Callista is innocent!" Balthos insisted. "Please, Vincent, punish me if you must, but spare Callista."

"Callista's fate is no longer your concern, Balthos," Vincent replied. "Ares, take Balthos to Lucifer."

"Vishnu, please," Balthos begged.

Vishnu sighed. "It was past her time, Balthos," he said gently. "I will escort her to healing before reincarnating her soul."

"Balthos, what happened to you?" Callista asked. "What have they done to you? Why are you shackled?"

"My love... I am so sorry," Balthos replied sadly.

"He is a murderer," Ares told Callista.

"That's impossible. Balthos is gentle and kind!" Callista protested. "He saved me."

"And that is part of the problem," Ares replied.

As Ares tried to drag Balthos away, Callista ran toward them. "This is a mistake!" She cried. "Let him go!" She beat her fists against Ares's chest furiously.

"You cannot harm me, you foolish girl," Ares said.

"Watch me!" She cried defiantly. She pulled out the blade that Judas had given to her.

"It's infused to kill a God," James said as he studied it.

Vincent quickly cast a smiting spell to protect Ares as the girl charged at him. Callista was instantly destroyed.

"No!" Balthos screamed. "Callista..." He sank onto his knees, weeping.

Ares pulled him up roughly, forcing Balthos back onto his feet. "You gave her that weapon," he said. "It has the same energy as the one you used to kill Jane and the others. Her fate is your fault, Balthos."

Balthos was devastated. He shut down, not saying a word as he was led away to a prison room. Lou Anne ran off on the others. Carolyn chased after her, knowing she needed her now more than ever.

Vishnu cautiously approached Alestair that night. "Alestair, there is something I must ask of you," he said softly.

"Do not ask," Alestair replied coldly. "The answer is most certainly no. Go away, Vishnu."

"Please hear me out... Balthos has been charged with high treason. His sentence is to serve the Darkness. He will be stripped of his Light and given to you."

"My half of the realm is not a dumping ground for your toys once you grow bored of them, Vishnu."

"Please, Alestair... I believe that Balthos may be innocent, but the evidence is too damning. It is either give him to you or kill him, and I cannot bring myself to sentence him to death."

"What is it you believe he did?" Alestair asked with mild cutiosity.

"He saved an incarnated girl from death. He unleashed complete chaos upon Athens when he killed her grandfather to save her."

"Ah, yes. I heard something about that."

"He is also accused of murdering Andrea, Justice, and Jane."

Alestair paused thoughtfully. "I hadn't heard about Jane," he replied.

"It only happened today. Ares witnessed it, but... I still struggle with believing that Balthos is the guilty party."

"Ares is a fool. Perhaps he was mistaken."

"I believe that he saw Balthos commit this crime... I simply do not understand how it is possible."

"This is all fascinating," Alestair replied dryly, "however, it is not my concern. I won't take your broken, discarded creations, Vishnu. That is not how we operate. We are enemies. I do not assist you unless it benefits me."

"He is a powerful ally, Alestair. He'll make an excellent servant for you."

Alestair sighed. "If I agree, will you go away?"

"Absolutely!" Vishnu agreed quickly.

"Fine. Send him to Lucifer once you strip away his Light." He focused, creating a dark talisman out of nothing and handing it to Vishnu. "Put this on him as you do it. The Darkness will replace enough of his Light to keep him alive. Now, off you go." He waved him off dismissively.

"Thank you, Alestair," Vishnu said before hurrying away.

The next morning, Ares shaved Balthos's head himself. He made sure to cut his scalp a few times for good measure. Then, Balthos faced the rest of his punishment.

Lou Anne sobbed in Carolyn's arms as Balthos was stripped of his Light. It was incredibly painful. He felt as if his soul was being shredded slowly. He'd never experienced such agony in his life. As the talisman replaced the missing Light with Darkness, it only made him feel empty and cold. He didn't scream, but he couldn't stop tears from streaming down his cheeks.

When the process was complete, Balthos was left weak. He was trembling from the overwhelming cold inside of him. He had stopped crying, unable to shed any more tears, but his eyes were still filled with deep sorrow. They were rapidly darkening from their original shade of grey-blue to something much hollower.

"Balthos, you are bound in eternal service to the Darkness," Vincent said. "You are to be denied all luxuries and given only the essentials to serve your new purpose. You are damned to walk the Earth for eternity, never to return to the Light. You are not to have any contact with the people of the Light unless given explicit orders from the Darkness. If you do, you will be executed immediately. This especially includes your sister, as we cannot risk you corrupting or harming her."

"He wouldn't hurt me!" Lou Anne cried out. "Don't do this! You can't take him!"

"Lou," Carolyn said softly.

"No! We can't let them do this to him! He's my brother!"

"Lou Anne..." Jonathan said gently. He knelt beside her as she fell onto her knees and pulled her into a hug. "I'm so incredibly sorry for your pain. I wish I could do more... I'm empathic, but not nearly as much so as Jane was. I would take your pain if I could, but perhaps I can at least help you process some of it."

"This is a kindness, Lou Anne," Nathaniel said. "One Balthos does not even deserve. They were going to kill him. At least this way, he will survive."

"It has to be this way, Lou Anne," James added.

"Then banish me, too!" Lou Anne cried out.

"You've done nothing to warrant that, Lou Anne," Vishnu replied sadly. He gently stroked her hair for a moment, trying to ease some of her distress before he turned to Jonathan. "Jonathan, please take Lou Anne to get some air. This has been incredibly traumatic for her."

"I don't need air! I need my brother!" Lou Anne snapped.

"Lou... I've got Balthos, alright?" Carolyn asked. "I'm a Demon of Darkness. I'll go with him to Alestair. I'll make sure he gets settled in."

Lou Anne broke down in fresh tears, but she stopped fighting and allowed Jonathan to comfort her and lead her away. I love you, she told Balthos telepathically.

I love you, too, Balthos replied.

Sensing their connection had somehow survived, Vincent shattered it. Balthos clutched his head in pain. Lou Anne let out a soft whimper before disappearing with Jonathan.

Lucifer escorted Balthos and Carolyn to Alestair. Lucifer looked entirely too smug, and Carolyn was temped to punch him in the face, but she forced herself to behave.

Balthos was trembling as he faced Alestair. He didn't speak.

Alestair smiled darkly. "Leave us, Lucifer... Carolyn," he said.

"I promised I'd help him get settled in," Carolyn replied firmly. "He doesn't know our ways."

Alestair nodded. "You may remain for now. Lucifer, go."

Lucifer frowned, but he didn't protest. When he left, Alestair looked at Balthos. "You're tall and muscular. You are built for battle, yet they say you are a gentle soul. You dislike violence and only resort to it to protect those who cannot protect themselves, correct?"

"Yes," Balthos replied in a whisper.

"You are to address me as Master, Balthos," Alestair said sharply.

"Yes, Master," Balthos replied quickly.

"Good. Now, listen to me very carefully. You are no longer the guardian of the Light. You serve me now. You must follow any order given to you by me or my people without question or protest. Your title shall be the Executioner, and you will be the top demonic assassin of the Darkness. Are we clear?"

Balthos was heartbroken, but he knew he could not refuse. "Yes, Master," he replied.

"You can't do that to him," Carolyn protested. "That's not who Balthos is!"

"Your opinion is insignificant, Carolyn," Alestair replied. "He is mine now, and I may put him to use in whatever way I deem fit."

"You're a real bastard, Alestair, do you know that?"

"Thank you, my dear. I appreciate the compliment. Now go run off and tell poor little Lou Anne what has become of her brother. Off you go." He waved his hand and sent Carolyn through a portal into the Light.

Balthos kept his head down. Alestair studied him before saying, "I will send you to the realm of the incarnated shortly. You will begin in Ancient Greece, where you will bury your lover. Her body is abandoned in the woods. Lay her to rest as you see fit. That shall be your last act of freedom. Immediately after, you will find Lucifer's followers and begin your servitude. They are expecting you."

"You... You will let me bury Callista?" Balthos asked in shock.

"Like Vishnu, I believe you are innocent of murder, despite the very compelling evidence which was used to convict you. It doesn't much matter to me one way or the other, but granting you this closure goes against what Vishnu and Vincent have decreed, and since I do not like being told what I may and may not do, I am happy to defy them. Make your peace with your loss, Balthos, and then your eternal sentence will begin."

Balthos was grateful for the unexpectedly kind act from the Ultimate Darkness. He did not question it. As soon as he was sent to the realm of the incarnated, he found Callista's lifeless body. He kissed her forehead before slowly digging a grave beneath a strong, beautiful tree.

"I love you, Callista," he whispered. "I am so sorry..."

He gently placed her body in the grave before piling the dirt on top of her. When he finished, he walked away, forcing himself not to look back. His life as a Power That Be had ended. Now, he was simply Balthos, the Executioner. As he found a cult of Lucifer's earliest followers, he began his new destiny of darkness and pain.