|  Author | Topic: In The Company Of Angels (Read 483 times) |
Jordyn G. Hawthorne
Administrator
member is offline
![[avatar]](http://www.nanowrimo.org/sites/all/themes/nanowrimo/wordcount/nano_08_winner_100x100.gif)
Galadriel, Lady of the Galadhrim
Joined: Nov 2007
Gender: Female 
Posts: 480
Location: Grobania...where else?
|  | In The Company Of Angels
« Thread Started on Dec 28, 2007, 4:09am » | |
Prologue
In this world, many believe guardian angels are sent to help us light the way in our journey through life. This story tells of the lives of three very different angels – Celeste, Joshua and Salena. The latter two being highly experienced in the ways an angel of particular station was to behave, having been created nearly four thousand years ago. Celeste, however, was considered a Cherubim and very much naive in the ways of the humans.
The younger one had never made any sort of contact with the mortals or their world. However, she knew – as did most of Heaven – about a young woman named Sage and the trouble she was headed for in her later years. Joshua, taking pity on the girl and her bleak future, takes it upon himself to try and save her...without permission.
|
The fics:
In the Company of Angels
Keep Me Awake
Don't Look Back |
|
Jordyn G. Hawthorne
Administrator
member is offline
Galadriel, Lady of the Galadhrim
Joined: Nov 2007
Gender: Female
Posts: 480
Location: Grobania...where else?
| | Re: In The Company Of Angels
« Reply #1 on Dec 28, 2007, 4:10am » | |
Chapter One
Sitting on a park bench in sunny California, a young man by the name of Joshua stared contemplatively out across the wide open expanse of grass, still gently kissed by early morning fog. Sitting there alone, in dark wash jeans, a black graphic tee with the words "This Too Shall Pass" written on it and feet clad in black Converse, he appeared to be an ordinary twenty-six year old, but he was far from it.
He was suddenly pulled from his thoughts by a woman that appeared to be not much older than him, but he knew better. She sat there, dressed more conservatively in black dress pants, a silk shirt the color of a deep and rich red wine and heels, which completed her ensemble. Her long black hair flowed down her back, but the breeze caused her to pull it back with a soft groan of frustration. Finally, the younger one looked over at her with a smile. "Salena," he greeted with a nod.
"Hello, Joshua. I take it you' re in one of your contemplative moods today," she said and he opened his mouth to speak but she interrupted. "Don't hide it from me, angel boy. I know the ins and outs of your existence." Joshua's benevolent smile turned to a blank stare. "Don't 'angel boy' me, Salena. You know we're exactly the same age, so don't go all matriarchal on me, okay?" he said with a slight huff.
"Well, fine. I guess I take being a few days older way to seriously. Anyway, you should know that there is no need for you to hide your feelings. We know each other well enough that we can tell each other anything," Salena replied. Just then, another woman that appeared slightly younger than the two sitting on the bench came bounding towards them.
Joshua offered her a smile. "Good morning, Celeste. I wasn't expecting you to join us," he said. Dressed in a white flowing sun dress and her long golden blond curls flowing carelessly in the warm breeze, Celeste joined them while offering a smile that was as bright as the sun. "Good morning Joshua," she greeted in return as she crossed her bare feet under her dress. "Hello, angel girl. Are you ready to face the day as Joshua's new assistant?" Salena asked.
"Um, I think I am. What if the people at the studio don't like me?" Celeste asked nervously. "They will," Josh spoke up. "How could they not?" Celeste bit her lip and shrugged. "I don't know," she spoke softly. "I just worry about fitting in here, I guess." Josh shook his head with a smile. "Don't worry about that," he insisted. "We will both be there to guide you as you take your first steps into this time of your life. Joshua and I remember our first time and yes, it was hard and we were shaky, but it made us stronger in the end," Salena told her with a reassuring hug. At this point only the older of the two knew what their real purpose for being there was, but Celeste remained naive.
The trio stood and Josh, along with Celeste, made their way to the studio of producer David Foster. Joshua Winslow Groban was a 26 year old singing sensation. Having started his career at the age of 19 with his debut album, he was almost immediately dubbed "the Angel of Music" by many adoring fans, who had no idea how true that statement really was. Salena Jane Morgan was Joshua's partner in all things, for she had known him since high school, graduating along side him at the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. They both had majored in theater and vocal performance. She was more of an 'older sister' type to him than anything, even though she was only 1 week older. Now, Celeste Anne Thomson was 22 years old and had just recently graduated from college at UCLA. She too had attended the same high school, graduating in 2003.
They had been like family since Salena and Josh were six and Celeste was two. What puzzled most folks in the Los Angeles area, was that not many really knew much about them. It was as if there was a secret that they wished never to be uncovered. To many that knew this secret, it was something that would ruin their existence...at least on earth if anyone they didn't want to know found out.
As the trio of friends began their day, in another part of Burbank two sisters Sage and Karisma Johnson also had begun theirs. Sage was an up and coming poet and artist in the Los Angeles area and at 26 years old, she had already been voted best artist in town. Karisma however, was rebellious and good for nothing; always going between jobs and at 28 lived off of her sisters pay checks and it aggravated Sage to no end that her older sister wouldn't apply herself so that she could finally live her own life.
The day had begun with yet another broken record of an argument, dealing with the fact that Karisma once again quit her job at the local record store because it was getting too hard. "You are not going to rely on me for the rest of your life!" Sage exclaimed. "If you have to mooch off of somebody, go live with Marcus." The young man she referred to was Marcus Devlyn. She didn't care for him at all, but at the moment she was too frustrated to even think about that.
There was something about him that made Sage's skin crawl and her blood run cold. It was as if an aura of hate and nastiness seemed to be a permanent fixture in his countenance, permeating every fiber of his being. "You just have to run your mouth about how imperfect I am, don't you Sage? You were always the favorite especially with Mum and Dad. I just gave up because who was I to compare with the Great Sage Johnson, world famous artist and poet?"Karisma said, then she stormed out of the house and hopped into Devlyn's car.
Sage sighed heavily, watching her sister drive out of sight. She absentmindedly fingered the sterling silver Triquetra (Celtic knot that symbolizes the Holy Trinity) pendant that she wore. It had been given to her by her grandmother, though the tradition was to pass it on to the oldest. Karisma never let Sage live that down, among many other things. With a sigh, Sage decided to take a drive to Laguna Beach where she loved to sit on the sand and think and reflect. Many a time spent there was what gave her materials for her poetry and art.
As she drove in her new Midnight Blue Mustang Convertible, the sounds of Josh Groban's "February Song" began to mix with her thoughts. Part of her was cursing herself for being so smart; she wanted to be 'normal' so that Karisma and her could go back to what their relationship had been when they were children. I want so bad for my relationship with Karisma to turn out for the better...I feel like my talents and intellect are a curse. We can't even have a decent conversation without an argument, Sage thought with a sigh. However, she was unaware that Karisma's connection to Marcus Devlyn was somehow a large factor to the atmosphere change in their house. How large of a factor, it was unknown to either of them.
Finally getting to the beach, Sage slipped off her sandals to let the warm sand sooth her. She leisurely strolled along, the tide occasionally grazing her feet, the cool water a stark contrast to the sand. Finally, she stopped and found the perfect place to sit and began a sketch. For some time, she was lost to the world around her as she drew the tranquil sight of the ocean sunset before her. Without realizing it, she began to draw a figure upon what she had believed to be a finished drawing. She drew the intricate curls with deep concentration, capturing with intense clarity the image of the man in her mind's eye.
Finally satisfied with the work she had done, she set aside the sketchbook, leaving it open to the page she had finished and reached for the CD player that lay in her bag. A few seconds passed and her ears were filled with the beginning sounds of 'Oceano', which brought a smile to her face. The song was fitting as she watched the waves crash and the tide shift. She began to hum along as she picked up a notepad and began to think up ideas for a new story she was writing for the message boards.
Again becoming lost among the working of one of her many talents, Sage had yet to notice a pair of espresso eyes observing her. She continued to hum along to the baritone that filled her ears with sweet music as words poured forth from the pencil she held in her right hand. Finally, satisfied with what she had written, Sage set the notepad and pencil aside before taking the headphones off. It was then that she noticed him and she couldn't stop an audible gasp from escaping her lips.
"Judging by that gasp you know who I am and that you're a fan of my music," Josh said, a grin of slight amusement on his face. Sage just mutely nodded, words failing her completely. She glanced down at the colored sketch beside her and her cheeks tinged a slight pink, looking at the eyes she had captured so perfectly on paper then to the real thing before her. "Uh um yeah... I um, I'm sorry. It's just that I've wanted to meet you for a long time. I um, suppose that you are probably too busy to sit down and chat," Sage said, ready to leave. Suddenly, to her complete shock, Josh sat down beside her. "I'm not busy at all. So, what drew you to my music?" he asked with a smile. She looked down at her hands in search of her answer. "I uh...well um, my life has been rather lonely and I've always been an outcast in my family. I was at my lowest point ready to overdose on some pills when one of your songs came on the radio", Sage answered.
Josh was stunned to momentary silence. "Wow..." was all he managed to breath at that moment. He looked out at the ocean and sighed softly, thinking of what he could say. "As I have mentioned in interviews and in concert, my songs are not magic but are a way for me to reach those who are hurting. I bear my soul to those in need to feel that warmth, peace and love that people are desperately searching for," he spoke. "In fact, you are part of the few that give me deep comments as to how the music has helped them. I am truly blessed that God has allowed me to touch your life Sage," he continued. Sage smiled and said, "Well, I am thankful that God has given you the talent that you've shared with us. Some days...well, most days really...I don't know what I'd do without your music."
"I feel so encouraged by you and your story, Sage. I want to take a photo with you and maybe sign it on the back. That way you will remember our encounter here at the beach," Josh said with a smile. "That would be great," Sage replied with a smile, matching Josh's enthusiasm with her own and so, he snapped a quick photo with his digital camera and exchanged mailing addresses with Sage so he could drop off the photograph later..
"I know that you are a very busy man, as you are acquainted with Salena and Celeste Mason, the famous authors and singers. I have a feeling that after this encounter...we will no longer see each other," Sage said, clearly saddened. "Actually, I see you more as a new friend rather than just a fan. I really do want to get to know you better,"Josh said. "I've met Salena twice for book signings and she is so down to earth and yet she is a bit edgy in personality. Are you and her by any chance seeing each other?" Sage questioned after a moment."Seeing Salena would be like dating a sister. We get at each other's throats enough living in the same condo. I love her so much, but if I were to date her I would probably have premature gray hairs," Josh said with a chuckle.
"I never thought of you two being anything alike," Sage commented. "Well, if you stick around long enough you just might see what I mean by that statement," Josh replied. "You really want to be my friend? That's new...most people don't really care to get to know me. I've been the shy oddball all of my life even with my own family," Sage revealed. "That sounds familiar. I was the same way when I was in school," Josh said with a smile. "Yeah, I know you were. I guess that's one thing that drew me to you," Sage replied. "We seem to have a lot in common."
While the two were walking and talking, Josh's mind kept wandering to his true purpose of being there. What Sage didn't realize was that Josh, Salena and Celeste had a reason for befriending her and her sister.
|
The fics:
In the Company of Angels
Keep Me Awake
Don't Look Back |
|
Jordyn G. Hawthorne
Administrator
member is offline
Galadriel, Lady of the Galadhrim
Joined: Nov 2007
Gender: Female
Posts: 480
Location: Grobania...where else?
| | Re: In The Company Of Angels
« Reply #2 on Jan 3, 2008, 12:32am » | |
Chapter Two
After Sage and Josh had parted ways, he couldn't help but notice a figure standing not too far away. Mariana, he thought just as Salena showed up at his side. Josh turned to face his long-time friend. "Did you happen to see who I saw?" he asked. "Yes I believe so. You might as well come out from your hiding place Miss Demon-girl. We know what you're up to," Salena said.
"Don't you dare 'Miss Demon-girl' me, Salena. I do what I want when I want. I have once again an ultimatum for Joshua, become my very own and join me or I shall make life very....shall we say, difficult for Sage and Karisma Johnson," Mariana said. "Never will I give into you, Mariana. You will never lure me to the darkness that you have given into. You have never succeeded before and you never will," Josh said. "Oh really? Well, we shall see who wins in the end," Mariana stated before disappearing into the twilight. Josh sighed and shook his head. "I still don't understand how she was so easily taken into the other side, Salena. What could've been the appeal?"
"Like her boss, she sought power and fame over the well-being of the other angels and the children of God. She decided that fleshly desires and earthly wealth were far more superior," Lena stated. "What a sad assessment of what she has become. I wonder if a fallen angel can be led back to the fold?" Celeste asked as she walked up to them. "I haven't thought about that," Joshua said. "Now, I'm beginning to wonder myself."
"Well, the only way for a fallen one to return to the fold is for them to do a selfless act, one that is not for self glorification," Lena told them. "Somehow, I don't see that happening with Mariana, Asher or Raven," Josh replied with a heavy-hearted sigh. "You would be surprised how things can turn out Joshua. After all, Asher and Raven are only Mariana's lackeys. They have no thought process of their own," a familiar voice said in a low whisper. "Aaron Davidson! Good to see you, my motor cycle riding angel boy. So, you do have moments of intellectual thought," Lena said with a smile.
"It comes and goes," Aaron said with a laugh as he embraced Salena. "I'm a warrior not a brainiac."
"Very funny, Aaron Luke Davidson. 'Moments' is definitely an appropriate word," Joshua said as he gave his best friend a half hug. "You must be Celeste, the newbie to the human world. I hope that Salena and Joshua aren't making your first time down here too serious. I know that Lena has a tendency to be way too well uh...prudish," Aaron said as he blocked her punch. "I am not prudish Aaron. You make me sound like an old maid and I just happen to take my job seriously." Lena said. Joshua cleared his throat to keep from laughing. "A little too seriously," he muttered.
"What was that angel boy? I heard that and I hope that you were joking. I mean, after all, I can't be THAT bad...or am I?" Lena questioned. "Well...you can be, but I love you anyway," Joshua said with a smile. "I know and I love you guys too, just trying to test it out to make sure you really weren't all that serious," Lena said.
"Who said I wasn't serious?"
"Oh no you didn't, angel boy! For that you shall be tickled!." Lena exclaimed, running after Josh and tickling him. Josh laughed and tried to get away from her, but it was useless. "Alright! I give! Uncle!" he exclaimed. "Aaron are they always like this after some kind of argument?" Celeste asked the older angel. "Well, they don't necessarily argue. They get into playful disagreements and end up liking each other at the end of the day. But, they really do love and care for each other," Aaron replied. "I guess I need to learn more about human emotions, like sarcasm and jest. I mean, in heaven we are only taught to be joyful, happy and full of hope," Celeste said.
Aaron nodded. "You come to learn those sorts of things through the years. You're still just a..." he suddenly trailed off, an uneasy feeling stirring within him. "Josh! Lena! C'mere!" he hollered, gesturing to them. Just as he said those words and the other angels came, Mariana and her brother Asher showed up, fire in their eyes. "So, I'm just a lackey, Joshua? Let's see if you can bite better than you bark," Asher challenged. Before Josh could react in a way that would not have been fitting of an angelic being, two other dark figures appeared. "Draco. Raven," Josh stated. "I should've known you two wouldn't be far behind."
"So Raven, you have taken it upon yourself to ruin the lives of such kind-hearted souls as Karisma and Sage. You truly seek to damage the lives of the innocent," Lena spoke up. At the same time, Asher and Joshua were in full combat at that very moment. It was as if all of his pent up negativity was aimed at Ash.
"You shall never win, Mariana...always sending your idiot brother to do your dirty work. Evil shall never win as long as angels exist. We may be down and out at times, but failure is not an option," Joshua said as he won the battle. "Perhaps that is a mistake," Mariana stated. "Or perhaps, you merely under-estimate him and his power." Just then, with Josh's back turned, Ash took him down with one strike. However, it wasn't long before he stood back up, slowly but steadily. "If you want to fight Mariana, then do it yourself!" he challenged. He knew full well that Mariana was not into doing the dirty work for herself, that was why she had her brother and lackeys do it.
"Till next time then, goody-goodies, for I shall triumph even for this moment," Mariana said as she and her minions disappeared. Josh sighed and shook his head. "Does she honestly think she's on the winning side?" he asked. "Remember, she is blinded by the desires of the world as the good book states. She has been lured into thinking that she is on the winning side," Lena said.
|
The fics:
In the Company of Angels
Keep Me Awake
Don't Look Back |
|
Jordyn G. Hawthorne
Administrator
member is offline
Galadriel, Lady of the Galadhrim
Joined: Nov 2007
Gender: Female
Posts: 480
Location: Grobania...where else?
| | Re: In The Company Of Angels
« Reply #3 on Jan 22, 2008, 3:09am » | |
Chapter Three
Josh and Celeste arrived at Warner Reprise records later that day to find that David had a new assistant - her name was Sara Williamson. Throughout the entire business meeting Josh felt uneasy around her, like something just wasn't right about her. Josh decided not to mention it to Celeste till the culmination of the meeting. It would be a dead give away that they were angels if he did. However, no sooner had the meeting ended, that he took her aside. "I don't think we were alone in there, if you catch my drift," he said.
"I sensed it as well Joshua. The aura in the room made me absolutely nauseous," Celeste said. "I think for now, we should shake it off considering that it could just be a feeling." Josh sighed. "And if it's not just a 'feeling'? What then?" he asked. "I say that we try and see what Sara's true colors really are," he concluded. "No need, goody-goodies. As usual, your intuitiveness has spoiled my fun," Mariana spoke through Sara. "I knew it was you!" Josh exclaimed, pointing at her. "When will you ever learn that evil never triumphs, Mariana?"
"I will never end my tyranny until you decide to join my side Joshua. Don't you see that earthly riches and pleasure are what it's all about?" Mariana said. "IN THE NAME OF THE MOST HIGH GOD, I COMMAND YOU TO LEAVE THIS GIRL! YOU ARE TO NEVER ENTER HER EVER AGAIN." Aaron suddenly screamed. "Never will I listen to you! I find this useless human to be a most comfortable vessel and I will be leaving, but only because I deem it best. Not because you have 'commanded' me to,"Mariana said, while leaving in a puff of smoke. Josh sighed and shook his head. "Will she ever learn that I will never side with her?" he wondered aloud.
"Apparently, not for demons although devious and cunning at times, don't carry any common sense about them," Chris Groban, said entering the room. Christopher was not an angel himself, but was given the gift to discern who was. "You're probably right about that Chris," Josh agreed. "Of course I am. Now, the deal here is this; we need to figure out what their course of action is. Once we do, then we can thwart their plans even before they make them," Chris continued. "You know full well Christopher that only the Big Man upstairs knows all."Celeste said Josh nodded. "That's true. Somewhat unfortunate in this case though," he said.
"I'm not saying use divine foreknowledge; only H can do that. I'm saying that we can find out what they are up to and thwart the execution of those plans," Chris explained. "That is an excellent idea, my smart and sometimes goofy younger brother," Josh said with a grin. As they continued their brotherly ragging on each other, they noticed Celeste take a big sip from Josh's Mocha Frappucino Light. "This is an excellent concoction. What exactly is in it?" Celeste asked. Josh shook his head. "Lord, help us. We have another coffee addict on our hands," he muttered.
"Well, technically we don't...yet. She has only had her first sip, so if we teach her that moderation is best, I highly doubt she will turn into another Lena on overdrive," Aaron said. "Wait a minute, is this what you warned me about Joshua? I find it rather tasty and will seek another one," Celeste said. "I'm telling you, this is not a vice that you wish you over-do. When Lena goes through withdrawals, you would think she joined the other side," Josh told her. "Oh now, it's not that bad!" Salena defended and Josh just laughed. "Um, right. What about the time we had you fasted from espresso and you became absolutely murderous?" Aaron asked. "Okay fine. I do get a tad crabby when I am going through withdrawals, but come on! You know, they say that coffee has anti oxidants," Salena pointed out.
"That is ONLY if you drink it in moderation, not every 20 minutes," Josh said. "Says Mr. Starbucks himself," Chris teased. "Alright, alright...but remember, I do so only twice a day and I only go on overdrive when I'm recording," Josh said with a smirk. "Okay, will someone please tell me what is in this coffee that raises so much alarm and caution?" Celeste asked. "In a word, caffeine," Josh said. "The best and yet worst substance ever created. It's good for the energy boost, but a little too much...it can and will make the receiver just a bit neurotic for a while. Exhibit A," he continued, gesturing to Salena.
As if on cue, Salena began madly texting on her cellphone, giggling madly which was a known mannerism when she and such a boost met. "That should be enough evidence for you," Josh spoke to Celeste while Salena kept bouncing around aimlessly. "Salena! Switch to decaf already!" Josh exclaimed, laughing. "Why should I? Excitement is the spice of life!" Salena continued, to the confusion of the young cherub and the annoyance of everyone else
"One of these days, I'm slipping you decaf. I swear."
"I must warn you that I can tell when it is decaf or not. Just kidding, but you do realize that our human bodies can be worse off with decaf. Then again, at this point maybe decaf on different occasions sounds like a good idea," Salena said "Actually, I find that Salena on caffeine makes for a more light-hearted bouncy person.....okay fine, she's a nut case but it's way better then when she is all matronly.. YECH!" Chris exclaimed. "That's true," Josh agreed. "You ever been around when she starts sounding like Mom? Ugh."
"Okay stop it you two. Josh, you can be just as much of a NUT CASE as me at times. I mean, really if you deem me a spaz, all I can say is it takes one to know one," Salena said punching him lightly. "I am not a smarty pants, thank you very much," Josh shot back. As the group continued to walk the older angels as well as Chris once again felt a presence that was rather eerie and made them all feel sick. Celeste, being a cherub, had a similar feeling but ignored it.
"I have a feeling that Mariana and her idiot lackeys are hatching a plan as of now. I think that it is going to involve luring Karisma into being their puppet in their evil doing, thus tearing the sisters apart," Lena said as Josh, Aaron, and Chris nodded in agreement. "I feel so unworthy to be here with you all. I mean, you sensed all of this just by a sick feeling in your stomach and the chill in the air. I should probably get out of the way." Celeste said, her eyes downcast.
What the group didn't realize was that Mariana had already begun part one of her plan; knowing that Celeste was a cherubim, she decided to use her feelings of insecurity and doubt against her. "You need to be here, Celeste. How else will you learn?" Josh asked. "Get thee away from her Mariana. Why must you constantly prey on the ones that have less experience? You must find yourself a more formidable opponent, for surely it show cowardice on your part to pick on someone so young," Chris suddenly spoke. Josh looked to his brother. "You're even more intuitive than I thought," he said, surprised.
"I have no need to answer to a mere human, despite the fact that you know who we are," Mariana said as Asher and Raven attempted to bind Celeste. "YOU WILL NEVER SUCCEED, FOR WE SHALL WIN THE FINAL BATTLE!" Celeste screamed as she dissolved the binds that held her.
"Why must you continually seek the downfall of God's messengers? Your side has never succeeded, unless the person in question was willing to become your servant," Aaron said. "We will ultimately win in the end! You'll see!" Mariana sneered before the trio disappeared. "I swear, that woman truly does get my goat every time I see her,"Josh said as he sipped his drink. The group of angels arrived at the siblings condo, which was two streets from the studio. Here, they would begin to monitor Sage and Karisma. It seemed that breaking Karisma free from Raven's grip was what was needed at this point, and yet, how to free her was still a lingering thought in their minds.
|
The fics:
In the Company of Angels
Keep Me Awake
Don't Look Back |
|
Jordyn G. Hawthorne
Administrator
member is offline
Galadriel, Lady of the Galadhrim
Joined: Nov 2007
Gender: Female
Posts: 480
Location: Grobania...where else?
| | Re: In The Company Of Angels
« Reply #4 on Feb 1, 2008, 12:37am » | |
Chapter Four
That evening, Josh again decided to go to the beach for a sunset walk and happened upon Sage in the same area where they had first met. He watched her from a distance until she finally noticed him. "Hello Josh. I guess my gut instinct was right, you do frequent this beach," Sage said with a smile as he sat down beside her. "Here's your photo, Sage. I hope that you keep it in a safe place, and I know that we are going to be great friends," Josh said, handng her the photograph they had taken together. "I look forward to our 'chance encounters' here," Sage told Josh with a smile.
Just then, Chris came up to the two. "Hey, you must be the girl Josh has told me about," he said with a smile. Sage smiled back. "Yeah, I'm the girl. I didn't expect Josh to say anything about me though," she said. "Well, no worries. All things that were said were good," Chris assured. "Well, anyway...what made you come here?" Josh asked his brother. "Oh well...I thought of something we need to talk about is all," Chris explained.
"Oh judging by the tone of your voice, it's about a certain conversation pertaining to our parents that we had earlier." Josh said. Chris nodded. "Yeah." He turned to face Sage. "I hate to do this to you, but Josh and I need to talk alone," he told her and she nodded in understanding. "Sure, no problem. I'll see you around Josh," she said and the two boys left. "You know you have to tell Mom and Dad your secret sooner or later, right?" Chris asked of his older brother once they were alone.
"I know the fact that me being a 'miracle baby' was due to my angelic self entering their son...how, in reality their real son was in fact not expected to live past a week," Josh said with a sigh. "How am I supposed to tell them that, Chris? I have no idea how they'll take it," he continued. "They are our parents and knowing them they'll overreact with shock at first, but in the end they will love you as they always have," Chris told him. "I guess I ought to tell them and get it over with huh?" Josh asked. "I can't keep it from them forever." The two went to Jack and Lindy's house with the intent of telling them everything. When Lindy opened the door to find both of her sons standing on the porch, she invited them in and hugged them both. Josh smiled at her enthusiasm at seeing him after about a month of being away.
"It's good to see you son. You never just come for a visit lately. It's understandable though, because you have been so busy with the tour," Lindy said "I know, Mom. I'm just glad to be home," Josh said with a smile as they all sat down in the living room. "Don't give me that boxed reply son your eyes are telling me that something is bothering you." Lindy continued "I think you both better sit down before Josh and I tell you our news. It may shock you," Chris warned. Josh sighed and glanced over at Chris before he said anything. He wasn't really looking forward to revealing his secret.
Chris gave Josh the one look that clearly said 'say it now or I will say it for you.' Josh nodded and turned back to face Jack and Lindy. "Mom...Dad...there's something about me that you don't know," he started softly. "I'm not who you think I am."
"I don't like where this is going son. Please tell us your not a felon or something of that nature," Jack said, obviously worried. Josh laughed and shook his head. "No, no. Nothing like that. I'm not sure how to say this so you'll believe me..." he paused and again looked over at Chris, hoping he'd help in some way. "Let's just say that there is more to the 'divine intervention' portion of how Josh's life was saved at birth," Chris supplied.
"What do you mean boys?" Lindy asked "I'm an angel, Mom. There I said it," Josh finally spit out. "Very funny Joshua. You an angel? I mean, you have always been a good boy...but really," Lindy said, unbelieving. "It's true," Josh insisted and he proved it by changing his appearance; bright lights filled the room and Josh was shrouded in white. Lindy sat there for a minute, in complete shock. "You're WHAT?! " she finally exclaimed. "This is some sort of joke. It has to be. Why would we be chosen to house an angel of all things?" She shook her head. "Nice try boys, but the joke isn't going to work."
Suddenly, Salena appeared in engulfed in a beam of light, also wearing white. "It's true," she said. "You've been in the company of angels all along." The Groban's sat there, shocked with the confirmation. "Finally, the day has come!I have waited for you to tell these pathetic mortals who you really are, Joshua. Now is my chance to control them!"Mariana exclaimed with glee. "You harm one hair on their heads and so help me God..." Josh trailed off before he could become angry. He didn't want to overreact. "I KNEW IT! I can get the 'great' Joshua to become angry! This is a wonderful revelation...if it continues, you'll easily be brought over," Mariana stated. "I will never join your side, Mariana. Will you ever understand that?!" Josh finally exploded. "I want nothing to do with you! Ever!"
"If I can't gain control of you or your pathetic parents, they shall remain in this trance forever," Mariana said as she exited with a puff of smoke. Josh sighed and shook his head. "She'll never learn," he said. "True, she is as idiotic as they come. She doesn't realize that a warrior angel like Aaron over here could take them out of a trance," Chris spoke up. Josh nodded. "It's a good thing you came, Aaron. Unfortunately, my just being a messenger and protector..." he sighed. They had all heard the same complaint from him before. "You know you're not JUST a messenger and protector, Josh. You are part of the brains of our operation, while I'm a dumb jock warrior," Aaron said. "Hey, I'd rather be a warrior any day, but who am I to complain?" Josh said with a shrug. "You do realize that it is your vast knowledge and extensive view of the world that helps to maintain you in such a position? I mean, after all angel boy, God has esteemed and gifted you with such mental prowess that at times it's hard for one such as I to comprehend," Lena said.
"Um...no offense to the party in question, but why does Joshua have moments of doubt where his abilities and gifts are concerned? As angels, are we not perfect in our own right?" Celeste asked, curious. "No offense taken, Celeste. I'm glad you asked actually," Josh told her. "Though, none of us know the answer to that question...not even me. I wish I did but...no, I don't. As for your second question...." Selena cut in.
"Well, generally yes...angels possess all perfection to a degree. After all, we have the case of Lucifer, who turned his back on God...thus having followers such as Mariana, Asher, Draco and Raven," she said. "Hm, that gives me an idea. If angels can doubt and find insecurity within themselves...what about demons?" Chris asked. "I hadn't thought about that Chris," Josh said. "Well, it was a simple deduction, my dear brother. After all, most situations always have two or more sides," Chris said.
"When did you get so smart? Shouldn't I be the smarter one, since I technically am what...about four thousand years older?" Josh said with a laugh. "Well, yeah. Nut that doesn't mean that I couldn't catch up to you," Chris pointed out. "Good luck with that," Josh told him. "Now, are we going to leave my parents sitting here or what?" he asked, looking to Aaron. Having said that Aaron flicked his wrist and the Groban's were once again moving about, still mesmerized by the fact that their oldest son was an angel.
As soon as they came out of the shock Lindy began to pace anxiously. "So, God decided to tease us and make fun of us by placing an angel into the body of my still-born child? Well, if this the way God really is, then I give up. I never had two sons." Josh sighed, hearing Lindy's words. "I never should have said anything," he muttered before leaving without another word to anybody. He stood outside, mentally beating himself up. It was then that Mariana saw the perfect opportunity to make her move yet again.
"I knew this would happen and you could've been spared this. Join me, Joshua. It's the perfect time to exact the revenge you feel in your heart on those that were supposed to love you. I mean, look at how they took your news; being a good little angel isn't all it's cracked up to be," Mariana hissed. "Will you never give up, Mariana?" he asked. "You know...I hate to say this but, I'm really tempted by your offer. Just not enough to take it. You might as well leave me alone."
"You said yourself that you're tempted, so why don't you stop being such a goody-goody and give in?" Mariana asked. "Why should I give in to what you believe to be your perfectly laid trap, Mariana? Give me one good reason," Josh challenged angrily. "Well, let's see. I'm smarter than you - that is a fact; I'm also better than you and stronger than you," Mariana said, unaware that Salena had been listening to the conversation and what she didn't realize was that Lena had planned to flash back to Mariana's last case as an angel before turning to the other side. It was this failure that had made her vulnerable to the darkness. Suddenly, a flash of light came through the sky and as if it were a movie, Mariana's last case began to play out. "Strong, huh? Correct me if I'm wrong, but was that 'strength' you just saw there?" Josh asked Mariana after the vision had faded.
"I will not be defeated, you ignorant goody-goodies. You can play that all you want, but I will never return to your side," Mariana said, her voice wavering. The scene kept playing over and over again until her defenses left her entirely and she became completely human. It was a sad process for any immortal being, especially and angel or demon. With one simple amplification of their weaknesses, they could turn human for some time....or so they say. The only way for Mariana to gain back her immortality was to become an angel again, but according to her, that would never happen again.
"See now, you are a mere human Mariana...and it will take a long length of time for you to become immortal once again. The other side has basically erased you from their databases and their minds," Chris told her. "So, now you'll have to get a job, learn how to work...and worst of all, experience every painful human emotion you've caused in so many during your time as a demon," Josh spoke up and as he did, he seemed saddened by the events that had just taken place. He had never wanted to see any being - especially a lost one - endure the hardships Mariana was sure to face.
Josh sighed as Mariana began to walk away. "And to think...I was actually in love with her at one time," he said, shaking his head. "You were what?!" Celeste exclaimed and Josh nodded. "I was in love with Mariana years ago. It's a long story," he told her. "How about you give me the reader's digest version of the story?" Celeste asked. "We were on an assignment that required the two of us to live as humans for an extended period of time; meaning we were able to experience every human emotion, including love. Well, during that time...I had started to fall in love with her," he explained.
"It was actually a mutual feeling that they both shared considering that Mariana was an attractive angel." Salena said.
"In turn, when the case failed and Lucifer got her to join the other side, those feelings became an obsession to posses and own me," Josh finished sadness in his eyes. "So, this is the cause behind her wanting you so badly. Her love turned into a need to posses," Celeste seemed to finally understand. Josh nodded. "That's exactly it, Celeste. It pains me to see her going through everything she has, all because of her own choices," he said with a soft sigh.
"I agree, Angel Boy. That is how things are to be, unless she learns to be selfless and loving. She is not going to become immortal again until that time," Lena spoke. "It's unfortunate that she probably won't change though," Josh stated before deciding to go back to his parents and try to talk to them again. Josh and Chris opened the front door to find that, once they entered the living room, the anger once again came back full force. "Why don't you and your other angel friends just leave! I only have ONE son and that is Christopher! No wonder you were so perfect, with not an ounce of mischief in you. Well, I suggest you leave because I never want to see your face again!." Lindy said.
To say that Josh was hurt by this was an understatement. Without a word, he left and started walking - to where, he didn't know or care. I almost hate being an angel right now, he thought. I'd give anything to turn back time and never come here. As he continued to walk aimlessly, unaware that he was being followed by Selena, Aaron and the rest, Josh's angelic glow slowly began to fade as rain began to fall. He didn't seem to notice or care.
"Don't tell me that you're giving up too?! You know that wishing you weren't an angel will make you purely human as well! I have a strong feeling that there's more than meets the eye with your parents." Aaron spoke as he walked up to Josh's side.
"Aaron...I honestly don't care anymore, especially if this is where caring gets me. I'm done, end of story," Josh spoke firmly, then Salena said, "Joshua, your caring and generous spirit will eventually win your mother over. I know that, deep down in her heart, she never meant those things she said."
"Yeah, Josh. I mean, Dad believes you with every ounce of his being and I know that mom believes you too; she just is still bitter about everything. Just give her some time to process everything and it'll work out, I know it will," Chris interjected. "She can have all the time she wants. I'm not going back," Josh muttered, walking away from the group around him. "Don't you dare turn into a coward, Joshua Winslow! You are my son and always will be, no matter what. I always knew that you were special and now I finally understand why. I love you and so does your mother, so don't give up on us," Jack's pleading voice said over the rain. "I don't belong here. I guess I never did," he spoke to Jack. "This day has proven that."
"You would be surprised how the exact opposite is the truth. You have brought so much joy and happiness into our home and into the lives of millions of people through your music," Lindy's voice suddenly cut through the rain which now came in a torrential downpour. "I guess I'm just not very good with surprises. I'm very sorry that I took out my bitterness on you," she concluded. Sighing, Josh made his way back over to Jack and Lindy. "I'm sorry I deceived you for so long. The time just wasn't right for you to know until now," he said. "Sure, Chris has always known but that was only because God has given him the gift of discernment. I never had to tell him what I truly was, because he always knew," he told them. "So, if you are an angel that brought so much joy and sunshine into our lives... I;m guessing that Mariana must be a demon? She must be, because our bitterness and anger came and went very quickly," Jack spoke.
Josh nodded. "You're right, she is a demon...or was rather," he said. "She is now a human due to some unfortunate circumstances."
"It is unfortunate that, due to the retention of memories that many immortal beings have even when they become mortal, Mariana is slowly becoming a mentally deranged homeless person...unless of course she finds some kind of aid, which we highly doubt considering that even the Evil One has erased her from his radar," Salena told them.
|
The fics:
In the Company of Angels
Keep Me Awake
Don't Look Back |
|
Jordyn G. Hawthorne
Administrator
member is offline
Galadriel, Lady of the Galadhrim
Joined: Nov 2007
Gender: Female
Posts: 480
Location: Grobania...where else?
| | Re: In The Company Of Angels
« Reply #5 on Feb 27, 2008, 4:31pm » | |
Chapter Five
The next few days were mental and emotional torture for young Joshua. Many times, he found himself waking in the middle of the night in a cold sweat for apparently no reason at all...except for one. Doubts ravaged his mind day and night, without ceasing. Doubts that caused his once bright and nearly blinding glow to become a mere flicker at times. Once again sitting up in bed after waking, Josh lay his head in his hands. His mind was not letting him gain even a moment of rest and it showed on his face.
Why must these doubts plague me so, I have already cleared everything with my family. My identity has been revealed so all should be well, and yet I can't shake these feelings of uncertainty and lack of confidence, Josh thought. Sighing, he lay back down and closed his eyes in hopes of getting at least a little sleep. No sooner had his eyes closed that he found himself in a completely white room - a room he knew all too well. "Hello, Joshua. I never thought that I would need to have this type of one-on-one meeting with you," the man dressed in white spoke.
"I never anticipated either," Josh spoke. "I suppose I should have though, considering the past few days."
"These doubts you have been wrestling with can only be shaken if you want them to be. After all, you are my child just as the humans and besides, Asher and Raven have never gotten the best of you before so...why now?" He asked gently. Josh shrugged. "I'm not really sure why they're getting to me all of a sudden. I knew they would try since what happened with Mariana and I should've been prepared for it, but...I wasn't. Maybe I'm not meant for this assignment," he said. "Yes, you were meant for this assignment. You will understand what I mean because there is still a lost young woman who is experiencing as much doubt as you are. You may not understand it right now, but you could be the one that could get her to live again," He said and Josh realized who was being spoken of. "Sage," he said simply. "I nearly forgot about her," he confessed with a heavy sigh. "Isn't there someone else better for this? At this point, I'm not so sure I can continue; not with everything I'm dealing with."
"That is where you are wrong, my son. If she were to see that, as Josh Groban, you have your flaws and doubts she may see that there is strength in getting through them. For the time being, I willl put Salena in charge, but you shall continue to be a principle caseworker for these girls. I know that you can do this, Joshua. You have never truly given up; you have just had your dead ends and every one, even angels go through them," He said.
Josh woke the following morning refreshed and ready to go. He still carried doubt on his shoulders, but he didn't let it get him down like he had before. Descending the staircase to follow the scent of breakfast, Josh saw his brother sitting on the couch with his laptop. "Working on a new project?" he asked Chris who just nodded, not once taking his eyes from the screen before him. Josh smiled and shook his head as he continued on into the kitchen where he found Lindy at the stove, cooking away for her family. Josh approached Lindy and hugged her. "Morning Mom," he said before offering to set the table.
Once breakfast had been served and everyone seated, Josh again became quiet and seemed to be deep in thought. "What are you thinking about son?" Lindy asked him and Josh looked over to his right where she sat. "Oh, just my latest assignment," he told her. After he had finished eating, Josh took his plate and glass to the sink before kissing Lindy good-bye and walking out the front door. He hoped to find Sage on the beach again that morning and was glad to find that she was there, in her usual spot. Sage, having gotten the sense that she was no longer alone, looked up to find Josh at her side. She smiled at him and removed the headphones from her ears; again, 'Oceano' had been her song of choice. "Hey Josh," she greeted and he smiled back. "Hey there, Sage. I was hoping I'd find you here," he told her. "Oh yeah? Why's that?" she asked and he said, "Because, I wanted to apologize for never coming back to you a few days ago. I shouldn't have just left you here, waiting for me," he said.
"Oh, well...it's okay," she assured him. "I had to get home anyway. So, other than that, what're you doing here?" Sage asked. "Nothing really," Josh replied with a shrug. "I just thought that it'd be a good beach day I guess." Sage nodded in agreement, again looking out to the expansive azure ocean before her that came crashing to the shore in violent waves. Sighing, she reached for the silver charm that hung on her neck. "What's that?" Josh asked, breaking the tranquil silence. "Oh, this? It's a Triquetra," Sage told him. "It's a Celtic knot that symbolizes the Holy Trinity. My grandmother was Irish and the tradition is to pass on this necklace to the first-born girl," she explained.
"The first born? Didn't you mention to me that Karisma was the oldest between you two?" Josh asked. Sage nodded. "Yeah, she is and...unfortunately, she's never let me live down the fact that I was given the necklace and not her. I guess Seanmháthair* thought I was more worthy to have this thing, which unfortunately has been not only a blessing but a curse because of the rift it's put between Karisma and I."
"I know this is going to sound a bit too forward but, do you believe in angels and divine intervention?" Josh asked after a few moments of silence. "Indeed I do. If it were not for my faith in God and in the work of his angels, I probably would be dead by now," Sage said "Well do you believe that they could be among us today, angels and demons I mean?" Josh asked. Sage shrugged. "Well, sure. I mean, I believe we entertain angels unaware almost every day," she told him. "I know this probably sounds stupid but, I've always wondered what it'd be like to meet an angel," she continued.
"Well, you never know. You could be in the presence of one and not know it, like you said," Josh said, as he rose to leave. "Where are you going?" she asked him. "I had planned to meet Salena, Celeste and Chris over at my parents house for dinner and, I promised that I would be back in an hour with the wine. I've been out 30 more minutes than expected," Josh explained. "Oh, okay then. I'll see you around?" Sage said, also standing.
Meanwhile hiding in some nearby bushes were Marcus Devlyn and Karisma Johnson. While in hiding, they saw Josh turn a radiant glow while being garbed in white. "I knew there was something odd about that Josh Groban character. Who knew that it was his being a messenger of God! Here comes the easy money:
'JOSH GROBAN'S ANGELIC VOICE EXPOSED', Karisma said to Marcus, excited. "Yes, my dear. This will gain you the easy money you wanted and all the fortune and fame that you ever wanted," Marcus said, his eyes gleaming red.
Meanwhile, Sage had started walking home, unaware of the plan her sister was hatching.
*Seanmháthair - Gaelic word for 'grandmother'
|
The fics:
In the Company of Angels
Keep Me Awake
Don't Look Back |
|
Jordyn G. Hawthorne
Administrator
member is offline
Galadriel, Lady of the Galadhrim
Joined: Nov 2007
Gender: Female
Posts: 480
Location: Grobania...where else?
| | Re: In The Company Of Angels
« Reply #6 on Feb 27, 2008, 4:42pm » | |
The 'legend' mentioned in this chapter was written as its own short story. If you'd like to read it, you'll find it in the 'Legend of the Triquetra' thread, stickied here in this area. 
----------------------------------------
Chapter Six
As Joshua entered his Porsche, a dark cloud came overhead; it seemed to be aimed directly over his car alone. Josh knew full well that the reason for this was that, somehow, a demon-human connection had been made and a plan was being hatched. Who they were and what the plan was, he had yet to discover. As he pondered over why such a strange phenomenon was only occurring near him, his cell phone rang. "Hello, angel boy. I just wanted to let you know that Raven has infiltrated the mind of Karisma Johnson. I must warn you that she is out to "expose" your true identity to the world. I fear that people will not believe her, therefore being thrown into the psychiatric ward at the hospital or people will believe her and our assignment to help them will be jeopardized," Salena spoke with worry in her voice.
Josh sighed. "I should have known it would be something like this. What next, I wonder?" he said. "Well, eventually the moment will come when the need to reveal to Sage who we truly are and yet, when and how is entirely up to you my boy," Salena said. "You're leaving that up to me? Or is the Big Man Upstairs leaving it to me?" Josh asked, a slight smile in his tone.
"Well, the Big Man Upstairs trusts your judgment. After all, you are one of his top case workers. I understand that it was tough enough telling your parents so the fear is still there, but I suggest sometime within the next month or two," Lena told him. Josh sighed. "Lena...meet me at the park. Celeste and Aaron too," he told her before hanging up his cellphone and driving toward the nearby park. When Josh arrived at his destination, he was glad to see everyone already there, waiting for him. He got out of the car and walked over to them. "Celebrities and their fancy cars," Aaron said, shaking his head. "Oh hush up," Josh replied, taking a seat at the picnic table. "I have gathered us all here because I need ideas of when and how I should let Sage know who I really am. I feel that we must share this revelation with her as soon as possible; it could save both her and her sister's lives," Josh continued. "I would suggest that you reveal it slowly, in bits and pieces. The last thing we want is for Sage to distrust you," Celeste spoke up. "I concur, for we are in the business of saving them from themselves, not driving them further into the downward spiral they are already doomed for," Aaron supplied.
Josh nodded in agreement to Aaron. "I just..." he sighed. "I know this is wrong and completely out of line but..." Josh paused again and shook his head. "Never mind. Forget I said anything."
"What is it you wish to say, angel boy? I believe that I can pretty much guess where you are going with this though," Lena said. "Well then, Miss Salena, what is it that I am thinking exactly?" Josh questioned. "I believe that you are fighting your human side, which is garnering feelings for Miss Johnson, and yet the angelic side of you is saying that you must concentrate on her as merely an assignment. I do hope that my analysis of the situation is correct," Celeste suddenly spoke up. Josh looked to Celeste with surprise. "Well...I gotta say, for a cherub you're pretty intuitive," he stated. "You're right. 100%."
"I was merely stating what was before me, in hopes that I had a correct assessment. And, I thank you, considering that I have such wonderful teachers," Celeste said as she looked at the others. Josh sighed in frustration after several moments passed. "How am I supposed to fight myself and what I feel while trying to help Sage? I know I'm not supposed to fall in love with her, but I can't seem to help it. No matter what I do, my feelings for her seem to be too strong to resist and...I'm not so sure I want to resist anymore." With those words, Josh stood and decided to head home.
No sooner had he gotten settled in front of the television there was a knock on the door. Wondering who it could possibly be, Josh walked to the foyer and opened the door. To his surprise, Sage stood there. "Hey, Sage. I was just thinking about giving you a call. There is something that I must ask you," Josh said. "Sure Josh," Sage replied with a warm smile.
"Have you ever wondered why so many of my fans have dubbed me the 'Angel of Music'?" Josh asked after a long pause. Sage nodded. "I have actually. I kind of guessed it to have come about because of how healing and soothing your voice can be," she replied. "You are partially correct my dear, and yet it will all be revealed to you all in due time. Now, I would like for you to join me for dinner tomorrow night at Cucina Romana - the restaurant that Salena and Celeste own," Josh told her.
"You're inviting me to dinner?" Sage asked, shocked. "Yes, I am Sage. I hope you don't mind, but I would like to get to know you better. Our moments together on the beach are not enough," Josh answered with a smile. "I'd love to go to dinner," Sage replied, smiling. "And...you really want to get to know me better?"
"Indeed I do. As I mentioned on the beach, I see you more as a new friend than just a fan," Josh said with a smile. "So, I'll pick you up at 7 pm tomorrow evening. I hope that isn't too early for you?" Josh asked. "No, 7 is perfect," Sage agreed and a few minutes later, she left his home feeling as if she were on cloud nine; her heart was lighter than it had ever been. As she drove home, uncertainties began to fill her mind. She picked up her cell phone and dialed Josh's number. "Hello, Sage. I had a feeling that you'd call. What's wrong? Don't tell me your having second thoughts?" Josh asked. "Honestly...I don't know, Josh. I can't really explain what's going through my mind right now," she admitted.
"If this has to do with the fact that I'm a famous singer, I urge you to please look past that. I want you to see the man that has grown very fond of you and wishes more than anything to get closer to you," Josh responded. "You are a beautiful young woman with a generous and loving spirit, with whom I hope to have many more wonderful memories with," he finished. "I...I'm not really sure how to respond to that," Sage told him, laughing softly.
"Then don't say anything and just trust in what I said. Goodnight and if I don't see you on the beach, then I'll see you at 7," Josh said as they hung up. With a sigh, Sage looked down at the Triquetra that she wore around her neck. Her grandmother had explained to both she and Karisma that, besides its symbolism of the trinity, it held mystical powers that would manifest only if the bearer were pure in heart. At this point, I doubt that the legend is true, and yet it could be as certain as the luck found in a four leaf clover, Sage thought.
"There you are! I should've known I'd find you staring mindlessly at that blasted Triquetra! It should be mine, not yours! I'm the oldest, so it should've gone to me! Why must everything go to a good-two-shoes like you?!" Karisma ranted. Sage stood to her feet, staring at the older woman who barely stood above her. "You're just jealous that you weren't Seanmháthair's favored child! She saw something in me that you don't have and do you know what that is? A pure heart! That's why I have the necklace and you don't! The legend would never come to pass if it had been given to you!" Sage exclaimed.
"I highly doubt that Seanmháthair would have wanted a weakling such as yourself to obtain such power. I see no strength or physical prowess in such a person as yourself," Karisma hissed. "So, you don't deny your jealousy?" Sage asked.
"I am merely stating the fact that, between the two of us, I have more of the intellectuality needed for wielding such power. I know that within me lies the strength to use it anyway I please," Karisma said. "I thought you didn't believe the legend anyway! What is it you've always said? That it was nothing but an old fairy tale?" Sage asked, her tone challenging.
"Maybe I did believe enough of it to know that the necklace has power and that is all I seek; the means to become rich and powerful," Karisma admitted. "Then you are not of pure heart, dear sister. If wealth and power are your aim, then it proves your heart is tainted by greed. Therefore, the legend would never come to fruition with the Triquetra in your possession," Sage told her. "Seanmháthair knew what she was doing when she referred to me as *coimeádaí dar an ársa finscéal. I can only hope that one day you will come to the understanding that it is not whether you are first or last born, but where your heart lies in order to be keeper of the legend," Sage finished.
"Evil spirits, I command you release her! Make yourself known, Raven. Why must you illuminate greed and a dark heart within such a woman?" Josh said as he entered, for the door was wide open. From the moment he stepped in the door, all time was frozen; only Josh and Raven were able to move about. "Are you still trying to win, angel boy?" Raven asked, a smug look on his face. "You may as well give up. You know you're going to lose."
"Must I continue to repeat myself? Good triumphs over evil. Why must you seek to destroy the bond that once was so wonderful between these two women? They shall reconcile if I and the others have anything to say about it," Joshua said as he zapped Raven into the night.
-------------------------------------
The following day, Sage spent her every waking moment trying to decide what to wear that night. She wanted to look perfect, but unfortunately, she turned her nose at every selection in her closet. While she was in the process of throwing everything back into her closet, Karisma came in. "What are you doing?" she asked and Sage gave a passing glance in her sister's direction.
"Trying to find something to wear tonight," she said as if it explained everything. "You have a date, don't you? I'm guessing that it's with that no-good pretty boy singer, Josh Groban. I highly doubt that he truly wants to be with the homely, pathetic excuse of a woman that you are," Karisma said. Sage whipped around to face her sister. "Excuse me?! Who do you think you are to talk to me like that?" she asked.
"I am your older sister and the stronger of either of us, therefore I claim here and now that you are nothing! He is with you out of pity; why would a rich man such as he want to be with an amateur artist like you?" Karisma said as she pulled the Triquetra from Sage's neck. Sage looked at Karisma, then at the silver chain she now held in her grasp. "Give me that!" she demanded, reaching for the necklace. "That necklace is mine! Give it back!" Sage cursed being so much shorter than her sister. Finally, she had a grip on it and managed to get it back.
As soon as it was back in Sage's hands it began to glow, and a powerful rush enveloped her. Suddenly, Karisma's eyes began to glow and lo and behold, Mariana escaped from her body. Just then, Josh entered the half opened door. He raised his hands to freeze time for the sisters and began his attack on Mariana. "You have taken this too far, Mariana. Why must you torment these humans in a futile attempt to win me over? Can you not see that I shall never belong to you and to your boss?" Josh said.
"I'll win you over eventually, Joshua. It may take time, but it will happen!" Mariana exclaimed before finally disappearing. As time unfroze, Sage looked at the broken piece of jewelry in her hand, tears in her eyes. The delicate silver chain was the same chain that had always been with the pendant and now it was ruined.
"What happened?" Karisma asked, looking at the chain in her sister's hand. "Let me help you fix that; it's the only symbol of our clan that we hold onto," she said, reaching for the chain. Sage recoiled like she'd been shocked. "Don't you dare!" she exclaimed. "The last thing I want is this necklace in your hands!"
"What happened? I just remember coming in here and then nothing," Karisma said. "Oh, don't you play innocent with me Karisma! You know exactly what happened!" Sage shouted. "How could you do this?! Are you so blinded by jealousy that you have to try and destroy the last tangible link with our grandmother?" At that moment, Celeste had taken on angel form and was erasing the whole ordeal from their memories, enabling the beginning of the meeting to start over and no argument ensuing. As if the last ten minutes never occurred, Sage again stood in front of her closet putting clothes back as Karisma came to the door.
"Hey, little sister. What's happening?" Karisma asked. "I'm going on a date," Sage replied. "Well good for you it's about time you met someone, and I have a feeling it is a certain singer," Karisma said, a smile on her lips as she helped Sage zip up into a sleek black dress she had finally chosen. The sisters continue to chat about anything and nothing as Sage got ready. Soon, the doorbell rang. Sage walked to the door and opened it, smiling when she saw Josh.
The two left for the restaurant and once they arrived, they were seated almost immediately. "I guess this is one of the many perks of being a celebrity," Sage said with a smile. "Yeah it is but really, Salena and Celeste own this place so they had it set for us. Lena has always had a knack for cooking and they both wanted to own a restaurant," Josh told her as they sat down.
While the two ate their meals, they talked about everything and nothing. For the time, Sage even forgot that she was sitting in one of the most expensive and high class restaurants with her favorite singer. She found Josh to be the most approachable and friendly person she had ever met. "I really like you Sage more than I have ever liked any girl. Because of that, I feel that I need to share with you more of who I really am." Josh told her after some time. "But first, I'd like to know more about you," Josh said with a smile. Sage looked into his eyes, finding pure sincerity there. He really did want to know her.
Sighing, Sage began: "Well, as you already know I'm of Irish descent. My father was born and raised in Dublin, moving here for college and that's where he met my mother. Anyway, my sister and I grew up being taught not only English, but Gaelic as well. My grandmother, who gave me this necklace, spoke English but she was more comfortable with her native tongue, which is why Karisma and I were taught both languages simultaneously."
Josh nodded, listening intently. "So...you speak fluent Gaelic then?" he asked and Sage nodded in reply. "I've also spent many summers in Ireland with my grandmother and for those three months, I didn't speak a lick of English. I find it easier to speak Gaelic now most of the time because of it."
"So, I'm guessing that the necklace you wear has deeper significance than merely being a piece of jewelry?" Josh asked. Sage looked down at the silver pendant. "Yes, it has great significance within my family. It's...it's been around for a long time - centuries," she told him. "I have a feeling that a story comes with it. Most ancient pieces usually do," Josh replied, interested. "Oh yeah, there's this legend behind it that goes back hundreds of years," Sage told him. "I would love to hear this legend and how it came about. I love hearing about family tales and traditions," Josh said.
Sage sat in silence for several moments, recalling the legend in her mind. "It started in the year 1418. The necklace was given to a young woman named Rhiannon Goulding, who was of royal descent - her father was Lord of Castle Goulding at the time. Apparently, he ruled the land with an iron fist after the death of his wife, Rhiannon's mother; taxing them beyond their wages and such. Well, Rhiannon, being the pure-hearted one that she was, didn't like it and sought to be free of her father's iron hand. She came upon the local fortune teller who gave her this necklace and told her that it possesses a great power, but it would only be unleashed by those that are pure in heart and should only be passed on to those that were of gentle spirit and pure heart, starting with the next female. However, if the following heir was found to not qualify, the next one would receive it."
"Out of curiosity, aren't you the second daughter? I mean, if the necklace was meant for the first born, why does Karisma not own it?" Josh questioned, feeling he knew the answer and yet wished to hear it from Sage. "My grandmother gave it to me because, apparently, Karisma doesn't reach the requirements for owning the charm," Sage told him. "Lately, she's proved that. She's become greedy and hateful, wanting the Triquetra for herself and sometimes, it seems as though she'll stop at nothing to get it."
"Do you suppose that negative forces are driving your sister's hatred and greed? I mean, anything or anyone new show up in her life lately?" Josh asked. "Well...there's this guy, Marcus. I've not liked him since the moment I saw him," Sage told him. "I don't know what it is."
"Well, I guess that the moment has come for me to explain who I truly am and why certain negative circumstances have been circling around you and Karisma," Josh said. Sage looked at him with questioning eyes. "What are you talking about?" she asked. Josh stood and lead her outside without another word. He led her to the car and drove to a secluded area of the beach. As they came to their area on the beach, Josh looked into her eyes and took a deep breath. Suddenly, he was clothed in white where he was once clothed in a pair of dark jeans and his "This too shall pass" t-shirt.
"Sage, I am an angel sent by the Almighty God to guard and guide you and Karisma. I know full well who and what Marcus is up to. He, along with a few others on this earth, are demons and those negative attitudes that were found in your sister where not entirely hers," Josh explained. Sage stood there for several moments, too shocked to speak. "You...you're really...?" she stuttered, unable to believe it. "Yes Sage, he is and so are we. I know that this is a lot to take in," Salena said, Aaron and Celeste standing beside her.
"We felt that it was time to share our true identities with you, for that Triquetra holds spiritual powers and we know full well what they are," Aaron spoke up. Sage turned back to face Josh, still in shock. "So...we were right all along in calling you our Angel of Music," she said, a smile playing on her lips. "Yes, my dear Sage, you were right to do so. However, I must warn you that if the media were to find out who we really are, we can no longer be here," Josh told her. Sage nodded in understanding. "I won't say a word to anyone," she promised. "Plus, I'm not so sure I'd be believed anyway."
"I understand that this is too much for you to take in. I just had to tell you because well...I love you with all my heart, Sage Johnson," Josh told her. "You...what?" Sage asked, not believing what she'd just heard. "But...how? Can...angels really love a human?" Suddenly, Sage was frozen in place as Salena appeared next to Josh. She didn't look too happy. "Angel boy, are you sure you want to go doing this to another woman again?" Salena asked. "I mean, remember Angelica? She loved you with all her being and well, you had to up and disappear after awhile. So, watch your steps and be careful with where this goes," Salena finished before disappearing.
As if nothing had just occurred, Sage still stood there, a confused look on her face. "Well, normally...most don't fall in love with a human, but some actually succumb themselves to seeking the love of another. I promise to love you with all my soul and I hope that you feel the same way too," Josh concluded.
"I uh...well I uh....wow, this is too much to deal with," Sage stammered.
*coimeádaí dar an ársa finscéal - Keeper of the ancient legend
|
The fics:
In the Company of Angels
Keep Me Awake
Don't Look Back |
|
Jordyn G. Hawthorne
Administrator
member is offline
Galadriel, Lady of the Galadhrim
Joined: Nov 2007
Gender: Female
Posts: 480
Location: Grobania...where else?
| | Re: In The Company Of Angels
« Reply #7 on Mar 3, 2008, 3:12am » | |
Chapter Seven
"You don't have to answer right now Sage, I just wanted to let everything out in the open, I mean if you need to process all this or if you want nothing to do with me I understand," Josh said as he turned away. "Josh..." Sage lay a gentle hand on his shoulder. "I love you too. If I said I didn't, I'd be lying. But...I never expected this."
"Indeed, it is a lot to take in and I should probably get going. I'm sorry for everything. Wait...what?" Josh said, Sage's words finally sinking in. "I said that I love you with all my heart and soul, Joshua Winslow Groban, and knowing that you are here to guide me along my journey makes me love you so much more," Sage said, giving him a gentle kiss. "I've never been this happy in my entire life. It's all because of you," she continued. "I'd never walk away from that...especially just because of who...and what you are."
"Then, there is something I must tell you concerning your Triquetra. The power that is found comes from within the heart. You come from a long line of spirit guides, my love - all who have worked hand in hand with many a celestial being," Josh told her. "I had heard that...but, I thought it was just a rumor, a story. I never gave it any credibility," Sage replied, shocked at this newest revelation. "Many before you who were pure of heart have held fast to this power, and yet very few have chosen to become immortal," Josh continued.
"I-immortal?" Sage whispered, hardly believing what he said. "Is that really possible?"
"Indeed. Your great Aunt Glenda, without your knowledge, is actually an immortal spirit guide. She chooses to be discreet about it. She has full knowledge of who I am and has given me the blessing to open up the door to immortality if you so wish," Josh said with a smile. "Wow...um, I always thought there was something different about Glenda. I never suspected this though. Um...I don't...I don't know what to do. This is all so complicated," Sage spoke, clearly a confused look on her face. "I don't want to be separated from you, I do know that much."
"It is quite simple, my dearest niece, for even your Seanmháthair is an immortal spirit guide. You would be the third if you wish to take your place to help others who are in need as well," Glenda spoke, appearing before them. "I wish only to do so if it will end the constant fighting that is going on between Karisma and I, and if it shall end her quest for the Triquetra," Sage finally spoke. "It will end your torture and pain permanently, and yet I must warn you that the Evil One can still cause a stirring, making the road bumpy. But, now that you understand the power and the position you are in, you can counteract his evil along side me," Josh told her.
"I'll have to think about it," Sage replied. "This is all too much to process at once."
"I understand, my dear, if you wish to sleep on it. Though, I must warn you that if you do not at least answer the call to become the spirit guide you were born to be, the power shall leave us," Glenda said and Sage nodded. "I just need twenty-four hours to get everything straight in my mind. I'll have an answer by this time tomorrow," she promised. "Josh or I shall appear before you when the morning dawns at 6:00 am, for we must have the answer before Karisma wakes up and evil once again begins its course," Glenda finished. "How about I take you home my love, and if you wish I can stay with you tonight so that no evil shall befall you while you mull over what you have learned," Josh suggested.
Sage nodded in agreement and followed Josh. The following morning, Sage knew in her heart what she had to do. She lay her hand on the charm that lay on her neck and nodded with finality at her decision. Still, she had her doubts. Suddenly, she felt a presence that made her feel extremely uncomfortable as she walked down the hallway past Karisma's room.
It was a feeling that made her sick to her stomach. She felt the darkness around her and turned to find that Raven was right behind her, eyes glistening with rage. "So, you have discovered the purpose of the power found within that blasted emblem. It should have been used for earthly fame and fortune, not as an aide to doing good for weaklings such as yourself," he hissed angrily. "In the name of all righteousness, peace, hope, and love, I command you to be gone from this house! You no longer have hold over my sister's thoughts and actions!" Sage commanded as the Triquetra glowed with a golden light and Raven was reduced to a mere mortal.
"I should've known there was something evil and self-seeking about you, and I should've known it was you that caused Karisma to treat me the way she did! Well, I suppose I ought to thank you because your actions have solidified my decision." Just as she finished speaking, Josh appeared beside her, his arm protectively around her. Sage looked up and smiled at him. "I am now ready and willing to accept my place as a spirit guide for all that is good and true on this earth. I pledge to immortality as my grandmother and aunt have before me," Sage said as she kissed Josh softly. "So, with open hearts we grant you all that you have pledged, Sage Johnson. The gift of immortality as you walk forward from this life into the next to carry out your place in the spirit realm," Salena spoke as she appeared.
"To the protection of all that is noble, true, and righteous we welcome you with love," Aaron and Celeste said as they came beside Salena. "It is with great pride that we bestow upon you the title of guardian of the light. Your pure heart has shown us that this is what you are meant for," Aaron spoke. "Do so with care and with great courage, remembering that your spirit is what has earned you this position," Josh finished. "Just like angels, spirit guides cannot reveal who they are to those they aide for it would destroy the natural balance of how this world works," Celeste explained.
Sage nodded in understanding. "I still have a hard time comprehending everything," she told them. "It's all happened so fast..."
"You have made the right decision, my dear. You will make an excellent spirit guide as you and your partner protect all that we hold dear," Glenda assured.
- THE END -
|
The fics:
In the Company of Angels
Keep Me Awake
Don't Look Back |
| |
|
![[Home]](http://s1.images.proboards.com/menu/home.gif)
![[Help]](http://s1.images.proboards.com/menu/help.gif)
![[Search]](http://s1.images.proboards.com/menu/search.gif)
![[Login]](http://s1.images.proboards.com/menu/login.gif)
![[Register]](http://s1.images.proboards.com/menu/register.gif)
![[Search This Thread]](http://s1.images.proboards.com/search2.gif)
![[Send Topic To Friend]](http://s1.images.proboards.com/buttons/sendtopic.gif)
![[Print]](http://s1.images.proboards.com/buttons/print.gif)
Logged