Dr. Gregory sat in his office with a scary expression written all over his face. The line on his forehead creased in masked fury - stopping himself from slamming his fist on the table; sure that he'll break it and he couldn't afford it, especially since there will be a special guest that he's waiting for today.
His eyes were piercing sharp as he tried to quell his wrath - Trace - his apprentice was gone so was his legion of corpses and all the souls that had been on his hands. "What happened to you, Trace? " he whispered to himself - a lace of worry for his apprentice echoed in his voice as well as anger for losing his soldiers for his plans.
He has the idea that if Trace fought with the Raven - given the mediocrity of their enemy; based from the reports that he's still honing his fighting techniques - it's not likely that the Raven had slain Trace. A protector - that bitch Artemisia might've interfered and killed Trace or worse - they're keeping him under captivity.
Every muscle in his jaw clenched - his teeth grinding together. He hissed, "Damn those imbeciles! " His aura flared; anger radiated to Artemisia and the Raven. He was gripping his knuckles hard, nails dug on his skin. "I can't wait to tear them to shreds once I have my hands on them! " His amber orbs turned blood-red; glinting with a manic expression.
Gregory took a couple of breaths to try and calm himself. He's aware that the moment he'll let his anger run free - it'll be too hard to control it. He doesn't want Anthony - his client before and his most favorite human on his tier to see this side of him. The young man has his sympathy - he could relate to Anthony's experiences. He's even planning to spare him and turn him into a vampire after his plan succeeds.
Though he doesn't know how to convince Anthony because one difference between them is that the young man is too kind to even think about revenge.
His face distorted in confusion, he's still trying to figure out why Anthony is still kind after all of that abuse and what could push his buttons and release those repressed emotions inside? "Such a wonder, " he whispered to himself and faintly chuckled. Realizing the other reason why the young man amused him because he's a ticking time bomb.
"It'll certainly be a riot! " He grinned, fully invested to know what could trigger Anthony. Yet for some reason he doesn't want the young man to be hurt by others once again that's why he wants him to burst out and teach those people a lesson...especially that perverted fatso.
Dr. Gregory heard a knock on the door interrupting him from his thoughts. Almost in an instant - his whole demeanor changed. His piercing crimson eyes reverted back to its kind amber orbs. A comforting smile plastered on his lips and his aura became approachable.
"It must be him. " There's a hint of a smile on Dr. Gregory's voice. He took an intercom by his desk and asked his clinic staff to let Anthony enter.
The door creaked open and Anthony stepped in and sat by the sofa. His current appearance sent a sudden jolt of worry on Dr. Gregory's face. The young man looked like a total mess! Anthony's face was pale, his eyes sunken low and lips dry and cracked.
The doctor stood up from his seat and walked towards the cushioned seat facing the sofa. "What happened to you? " The usual composure on Dr. Gregory's voice vanished and was replaced by genuine concern. "Did that agent of yours give you a hard time again? " Dr. Gregory jumped into the conclusion that Mr. So had said something again to push Anthony to work all-nighter.
Truth to be told - when he's being with that man for the sake of his plans - he has the intrusive thoughts to also kill him together with the other creatures.
That man is heinous and it'll be a relief if he'd be wiped from the face of the world.
Anthony smiled weakly upon hearing Dr. Gregory; he shook his head. "No... I just recovered from sickness, " Anthony lied, voice full of fatigue. "I am here for an entirely different reason and I trust you that you can help me, " he continued, referring to his problems concerning his sexuality.
Anthony just pushed himself to come here because he doesn't want to bother his therapist to change another schedule when he already confirmed it. He was still recovering from mana exhaustion from his last mission. The first day was utter hell because no matter how Vin healed both Anthony and Aegir - they couldn't leave their bed - their body felt heavy and eyes drooped to sleep most of the time.
Aegir wants to accompany him here but of course he declines. It's about his feelings for Aegir afterall!
No way he'll permit it! He'll die in embarrassment!
Dr. Gregory beamed upon Anthony's response that he trusted him. It felt like the kid was doing better from his depression two years ago. The scars on Anthony's wrist now barely recognizable and he seemed to have gained weight since his condition years ago. "You should've told me and we can reschedule this, I don't mind, " he suggested, shrugging his shoulders.
Anthony waved his hand to say no and smiled meekly. "I don't want to bother you, Doctor. I am okay, really. I just needed to consult you about this because it's been bothering me for too long. " There's a slight tremor in his voice, unsure on how to start.
Dr. Gregory leans in slightly, offering a kind and non-judgemental gaze to his patient. "It's alright, I am right here to listen, " his voice was soft and comforting - creating an environment that will make Anthony feel safe.
Anthony averted his gaze to Dr. Gregory, his lips trembling and his hands fidgeting with the buttons of his vest. He cleared his throat before speaking, stuttering on his first and second words, "This feels embarrassing but... how do you tell you're into someone? " The question caught Dr. Gregory off guard although he's quite happy that the young man doesn't seem to be bitter anymore just like before about the idea of relationships.
A good development. He's glad.
"I know it sounds ridiculous but I want confirmation. " Anthony closed his eyes in awkwardness. Speaking a little fast to get over it.
Deep inside Dr. Gregory he felt the urge to laugh but he's stopping himself not to. "Loving someone differs in every individual you see... " he started, pausing a bit to think what words he needed to say. He only has two experiences so far and it all led into a tragedy but those feelings he felt towards them were true and it was engraved into his heart.
Anthony's eyes didn't leave Gregory's. The young man resolved to listen attentively to what his therapist would say. "Let's see... loving someone feels like you found a place that could automatically make you smile and it'll show on your every day thoughts that as much as they make you happy - you also desire for them to be happy. " His gentle voice added weight to his words but something Anthony failed to notice is the sadness and longing that his therapist is desperately hiding somewhere in his eyes.
A flicker of understanding sparked on Anthony's orbs as snippets of Aegir's sweet smile filled his mind. Everytime he beamed like the sun - Anthony's heart felt warm and he couldn't help but to bask with him together; enjoying the light that was radiated by his joy - until Anthony forgot that he was loomed with darkness at that moment. And for those days that Aegir's brightness fall and replaced by a gloomy expression - Anthony's heart wept with him - aching to find ways to shield him from the harsh winters sent by the world; comforting him until the hope brought by spring found its way back to his luscious forest green eyes.
Anthony nods, ticking an invisible check on his mind on what Dr. Gregory said. The change of expression painted on Anthony's face didn't escape the therapist's gaze. A subtle smile was written all over the young man's face and his cheeks bloomed with a light shade of pink.
A wave of nostalgia hit Gregory - he had the same goofy expression before. Chuckling softly, he continued, "When you love someone; you accept them for who and what they are. " He remembered his late wife who accepted him for being an outcast and her fear of him leaving her because of her dark past. But as his beloved wife chose him everyday despite his flaws and traumas - he decided to let her feel the same - to be chosen - without conditions.
Dr. Gregory's heart felt heavy, there's a lump on his throat that he couldn't swallow but all those emotions failed to show on his face - he already mastered hiding them. His insides felt like burning with unsated fury - when he saw her and their unborn child burnt and gone along with the charred remnants of their home - his soul was also engulfed with the same inferno along with the hope and dreams that were already healing him until nothing was remained but embers.
Gregory tried his best to keep on speaking in a straight voice, after all he was speaking with his client, "Even if the whole world persecutes them; you'll always choose to be by their side. " Anthony agreed; remembering how he's prepared to show Mr. So what he's made of when he insulted Aegir.
He accepts Aegir but the reason why he keeps a lid on his feelings and sounds unsure is because he knew that they're both male - and he questions himself of his identity as a person being straight all his life. There's a lingering fear he had as well about facing those monsters existing in society with the same mindset as Mr. So. He could take their words but he couldn't... he might have done something wrong when they hurt Aegir.
That's why he's also thinking to protect Aegir by staying silent but his heart troubles him whenever he tries to hide it.
Pushing himself to inquire further, Anthony gulped a lumpful of his saliva. "Is love can be viewed as the same even if you fell into the same gender as you? " Anthony expected judgment in his therapist's eyes but he didn't get anything but the same unbiased gaze.
"Can you tell the difference between a man and a woman's joy? " Dr. Gregory suddenly asked him a question. Anthony's brows crumpled; with an unsure answer, he replied, "The reasons for their happiness? "
The next thing the doctor told him sent a jolt of discoveries to Anthony. Gregory's voice was calm as he asked another question connected to Anthony's answers, "Did the feeling of joy - the essence of that emotion - changed just because there's various reasons to cause it? "
"No. " It was a quick response because that's the only answer he could think of.
Gregory smiled. "It's in here, " he paused and pointed at his head, "Not in there, " he continued, now his index finger was placed where his heart was.
"Joy is still joy no matter what causes it, whether big or small - a human or even an animal. The same as the feeling of love. Perception is the reason why we think it's different even if it's a split image. " Anthony was eagerly waiting for Dr. Gregory's next words hoping to understand even for a bit.
"It's the same logic as how we judge things. For example: the people at the party liked the soup that was served - it was yellow in color and had a sticky texture. " Dr. Gregory set an example to connect with his logic, his hand shaped like a bowl of soup.
"You don't want to eat it because it reminds you of something disgusting and it's okay but it will become a problem if you try to force your opinion on others and vice versa. And the only solution to that is to let them eat whatever they want and the same goes to you. "
"And what if they tried to fight you for what they believed what's right even if it meant hurting you? '' Anthony sounded so certain - an emotion shown in his face because it had occurred to him for many years and deep down he knew that they wouldn't stop and even drag Aegir to it.
He doesn't want to see Aegir be persecuted just like they did to him.
Dr. Gregory could see where Anthony was coming from. He has the same dilemma as him before on his first love. He was mocked when one of the elders found out he was attracted to the human male. He still remembers their words that left a scar on him...
Disgusting
Gay shit
Worthless embarrassment
Perhaps their anger of his gender identity was another reason why they were able to beat him to a pulp and kick him out of the village.
He had lost everything because of love but somehow if there's a part he doesn't regret is he allowed himself to be free - to love.
"Are their opinions more important than the risk of losing the person you love? " Dr. Gregory asserted. Instinctively, Anthony's system repulsed on the idea of losing Aegir - he balled up his fist and harshly shook his head.
"Why would I lose him when I am trying to protect him? " At this point, Anthony felt like he's not making sense. He couldn't understand himself at all.
Dr. Gregory spoke in a serious but calm voice, "Because you wouldn't gain anything if you keep on pleasing other people's opinions towards you and that's where you'll lose the chance to even get your feelings across to the other person. Your feelings are valid, because it is you who is feeling them and not them. " Dr. Gregory's words echoed in Anthony's mind. Truth to be told, he's always tried to rationalize his feelings because of his thoughts that it shouldn't be. But the more he kept it shut - the more it burst open.
Anthony placed his hand close to his heart, he inhaled deeply; leaning forward. "What can I do, Doctor? "
"Fear of judgement is the dominant foe, " Dr. Gregory acknowledged. "But living your truth is liberating. Explore with your true feelings and you'll get the entirety of the answers you seek, " He advised Anthony.
Their talk went on for an hour - and it sent clarity to Anthony's mind. The fear may still be here in his heart but he decided to give his feelings a go - delving into it more and letting Aegir feel the gravity of his emotions.
Anthony also learned that although he may have feelings toward a man even though he's straight, that won't automatically label him as homosexual. It's a spectrum so there's a lot of factors to consider. Maybe it's just because he's Aegir and him being Aegir caused him to be attracted but Anthony understood one thing - it's a huge step to get to know himself better.
Anthony trusted Dr. Gregory so much that he was also able to open up other things - especially about the decision he's been thinking - packing his bags and leaving his editor after finishing his current project.
The relief and a hint of joy were evident on Dr. Gregory's face. The Doctor was calm the entire time but it was this moment that Anthony could read the expression on his face telling him, "That's about time! "
Anthony's eyebrows shot up, his lips attempting to smile that faltered into a hesitant grimace. A wave of awkwardness washed over him. "Finally! What made you decide that you're finally done with that... " Dr. Gregory stopped, trying to find another filtered word that he could say against Anthony's editor. He continued, "...that unprofessional man? " He really wants to say something hideous but it's a shame he's working as a therapist at this moment.
Anthony laughed, eventually his face turned serious. "Well, remember the man I like? " Dr. Gregory nodded. "Mr. So... he insulted him. And from that moment, I felt I was done. Any more of me seeing him talk shit with Aegir... " he paused, his eyes narrowed mixed with anger and temperance. "I might do something he wouldn't like, " the last sentence he said sounded cold and harsh - sending an air of tension in the air.
That moment, Dr. Gregory finally proved that the young man was capable of wrath - and the gravity of his fury resembled that of a dark shadow awaiting to lunge when given the chance. A satisfied smirk found its way on Gregory's lips both on the reasons that Anthony could be provoked and the news that he's finally leaving that bastard.
He could finally punish Mr. So until he wet his pants.
Anthony's scowl softened when he heard his phone buzzing from his pocket. He immediately took his phone and checked for its new message. Anthony's mood lightened in an instant when he saw who sent it...
Aegir.
Anthony grinned like a love sick fool as he read the content. He found it cute that Aegir tried his best to send him a message even though he was still having a hard time getting accustomed to his new smartphone.
From: Aegir
Go home. Now. Hungry.
Dr. Gregory took notice of it and he thought that it was really a certain person that could influence Anthony's mood. An interest to meet that individual sparked on Dr. Gregory's heart. He wonders how amusing that person is that he could bend Anthony?
If he could convince that person first he's sure he could also get Anthony to his side...definitely.
Anthony typed a quick reply and put his phone back in his pocket with a smile. His attention turned to Dr. Gregory, clasping his hands together. "Thank you for everything, Dr. Gregory! As usual, you are a lifesaver. I won't hide my feelings anymore. " Anthony stood up and even bowed his head.
Dr. Gregory replied to Anthony in a teasing manner, "Looks like the lucky man already texted you and it's time to go home. " Dr. Gregory wiggled his eyebrows which made Anthony smile a little silly - scratching the back of his head.
"Yes, it's time for me to go. Thank you again, Doctor! " Anthony beamed and offered his therapist a handshake on which the doctor immediately took.
"Don't forget to send me a copy of your new book once it's already available, okay? " Dr. Gregory reminded him. Anthony gestured him a thumbs up.
Anthony waved goodbye and turned his back - walking towards the door to leave. As he opened the door; he was met with a man with auburn hair and hooded crimson eyes. There was a visible arrow tattoo on his hand with two coiled headless snakes.
The man made Anthony feel uneasy. There's something in his aura that seems dark and the man felt rather familiar to Anthony; he just doesn't know where he saw this person. His heart was loudly beating on his chest due to the creeping anxiety.
The man's piercing gaze darted on Anthony which made him jolt a little. He felt nervous staring at his eyes. Anthony excused himself in a hurry.
He tilted his head to watch Anthony walking away. Just like Anthony, he felt like he had seen him before and it awakened something in his nerves - the same feeling he's getting when he's hunting; his lips curved in a cruel smile.
He stepped inside the room - eyes filled in glee that he found a new target but he didn't expect the sudden loud shut of the door and the heavy pressure he felt getting directed to his body - compelling him to kneel. The suffocating aura emitted by Dr. Gregory danced around the man making his eyes go wide in fear - his body ran cold as beads of perspiration made its way out of his pores.
He couldn't understand why his master was angry - his mouth was twitching in nervousness for him to speak. In an instant, Dr. Gregory was in front of him - pupils resembled a venomous snake ready to gobble him whole. He gripped his jaw and forced him to look at the Doctor's intimidating eyes. "You won't be hurting that human, Gravitas. That's an order. " Dr. Gregory's voice was threatening, every word sent a ripple of pain in Gravitas' body - he clutched his abdomen - coughing continuously until his blood smeared the white tiles.
Gravitas couldn't comprehend why his master could hurt him for a mere human but he knew that if he wouldn't listen to him - he'll not see the light of the day today.
"Do you understand? " Dr. Gregory's voice boomed like thunder as another wave of piercing pain hit Gravitas.
Gravitas' voice was trembling as he answered, "...Yes, master. " The pain left his system but the terrifying look his master was giving him was still there - warning him earnestly not to touch the human.
Deep inside Gravitas' mind - he was fuming with anger. He wanted to reduce the human to mincemeat for taking his master's attention.
Trace was now gone but he was replaced but a puny human.
But Gravitas' sure that what news he got today will make his master happy. "Reporting! There's a recent development towards our plans! You need to see it, master! "
-
In a deserted place near a huge volcano - Mount Carion - an infamous active volcano known for its occasional eruptions; lies a huge oak tree planted on an islet - a small, vegetated island in the middle of the lake. There's something ominous on that place - the tree - although we're alive but seems lifeless because of its pale-colored bark, dry looking branches and the gray-almost black leaves swaying with the wind. On the middle of its trunk is a huge pulsating orb the color of skin laced with blood. Its dark blue veins wrapped around the tree reaching all the way down to its roots.
A huge magic circle was also placed where the tree was placed with symbols and words that were inscribed in red colored ink. One notable sentence kept on repeating around it, "Chażer les trevas" an old language which means, "An offering to the rightful".
The water surrounding the islet was also peculiar. It was not blue or green but a sinister color of black. Everytime the sun's light hits the water - it will start to move as if there's something lurking inside of it. There's times where the water will begin to show bubbles from the surface and there would be sounds of a chorus of people screaming and screeching. The sound will go on for five minutes - the orb from the tree beats a little faster as it happens until everything will be silent as a pool of red spreads on the inky waters.
Dr. Gregory and some of his legions were there watching the odd looking tree by the lake's shore. He was clutching a dark violet colored crystal ball the size of a basketball. There was a mad satisfaction on his lips as he watched a shadow move from inside the tree's orb. Sooner, the reborn God will tear himself out of his constraints and his plan will bear its fruits.
He walked towards the water with the crystal ball in his hand. As soon as his feet touched the murky waters - countless ghostly hands started to emerge from its surface. They tried to pull his robe as they screamed and moaned. But Dr. Gregory was not fazed in fact - he was delighted about the souls' suffering.
"Feed well, my lord, " he mouthed as he released the orb onto the waters. It was the accumulation of the souls they harvested from his farm.
Dr. Gregory called Gravitas by his side, relaying his orders, "Find the nymphs in the city and attack the cat's coven this time, " he was referring to the place where cat people live. "It'll fuel them to be angrier to the protectors especially based on your reports Artemisia was also housing a cat-person that they detest. '' Gravitas immediately bowed and left using a teleportation skill to heed with his orders.
A guttural chuckle escaped from his lips, each devoid in pure mirth. His eyes glint with a horrifying expression. "You will not beat me, Raven. Not today nor tomorrow. I won't let that happen. " His cackle began to go louder; his hands tightly fisted.
Those who wronged him will have to die. The world will be purged according to his liking. His new lord will also serve under him - ironic as it may seem - no one knew that the magic circle he placed had a binding contract signed with his own blood.
Hell will break loose for those unfit to live including the humans, nymphs, cat-people, the protectors, and the Raven. Few more souls and it will be done. "What a good day! '' Dr. Gregory chirped as he continued to laugh.
And he will undoubtedly place his favorite human on the top list he'll spare.
Gregory wouldn't admit it but Anthony was the sole person that reminded him that somewhere deep in his heart - there was an untainted part.
A place where it prompts his senses to remember the memory of his dead son - a what if - he unconsciously projected on the young man...
Somewhere he couldn't go back to. A place of no return.
-