Damien Thorn (![[info]](https://www.insanejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small} _bornofajackal) wrote,@ 2018-10-26 06:31:00 |
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[Note: What follows is the game history of Damien's time in
![[info]](https://www.insanejournal.com/img/community.gif){kind=small}
wariscoming (panfandom RP set in the Supernatural universe), composed mostly of his actions, as well as the actions and words of others that affected him (including friends, relationships, events, plots, etc.) during his 5 years in the game. And of course there's an additional 50 years of memories in Lucifer's Cage.]However, Damien's current path to destiny was interrupted, as it would seem that fate or other forces had different plans for him. He was brought to another universe by a Seal. A Biblical Seal, one of many that the demon Lilith needed to break Lucifer from Hell's Cage. Unfortunately, or fortunate depending on point of view, his travel to that world cut off connection to his father. As a result, he also didn't have the title of Antichrist while there (and no more omniscience, or people randomly dying if they discovered his identity, knowing all the answers to a question, etc). No rank, no power or leadership over demons. He had at first entertained the notion of joining the demons, but after a deadly fight in which he barely escaped, he reconsidered his priorities. He came to the idea that this was an interesting opportunity: his destiny was no longer bound to the Bible or his father's plans, or even God's plan.
He was unbound from that destiny and path, able to be free of it and choose his own way, whether it be for good or ill. So he then joined up with the good guys, using his chaotic talents to help in the fight against the evil side, while also keeping a tight lid on no one discovering his true origins. Because frankly, that usually always resulted in plots and attempts at his demise, and he'd rather have avoided that. Fighting for good was.. different. For a while. It was completely different than his usual style, or if he was helpful before, then it was to gain something or use someone. But this time it was for real. Nothing to gain other than not being a threat or villain to take down, for once. And so he continued to help and do his part.
There were several instances when he was in danger, and a couple close calls to his secret being discovered. Once was when there was a ghost targeting specific people, amping up their fears and issues, lots of fear and only became worse the longer it lasts, with the added problem of compulsive scratching on the arms. His rant about being in fear of angels as bad guys had caused concern but he son stopped. He had a couple people helping him through it, Jaina Solo among them. The second time his secret was at risk was when he referred to Christ as "the Nazarene", which is what some below had sometimes called Him, so he then suggested he had mistakenly been involved with a cult... which was partly true in a way.
So he did his best to blend in with people, not as a leader to take control of anything, but as a person in the same boat as others brought there via Seal. Just one of many individuals with powers and using them to help. He had acclimated himself to this new way of life quickly. Unusual at first but he eventually settled into it. Living in the super-protected apartment complex of Team Good Guy. Taking any offered classes that taught about this new world, how to survive, how to fight in it, the threats, along with other various combat and research skills taught by them. He had even gotten a job as a convenience store clerk (no doubt his father would laugh, going from company CEO to a lowly cashier). He would occasionally help out, not only in the battles that came about, but to pitch in on occasion with grocery shopping for the kitchen, buying pizza for Fridays, and possibly a big bowl of candy on one occasion.
But as there were good points to it all, there was also the bad. There were times when he was vulnerable. Times when he was a target, under attack, and in danger. He had been infected by blue kryptonite, which had rendered him human without any of his unique skills. He had pondered the idea of whether not he should get the powers back. If he was just another guy, no powers, then it would be easier, not worry about being a threat sometime down the line. But it would soon be over. It was found that the solution was high temperatures, i.e. a room hot enough to be a sauna or hotter. And so he was restored again, then coming to the realization that this, who or what he was in this life, it was the way it should be. And also useful when his unusual talents and learned skills or tactics would be good in a fight. But there was something worse than the kryptonite. Worse than when he had been kidnapped by Drusilla, when she and her vampires had taken blood as with others of the captured. He had lost track of time. Fed from, left alone, heal, fed from again, an repeat. He was eventually dropped off elsewhere but thankfully was healing again, though being rescued by Paige and Shay was also fortunate. He had also been kidnapped, among others, by the demon Alastair. High level, grand torturer, one of the best if not the best. Damien was tortured at various intervals along with the others. He felt weak, helpless from it; it was mostly due to his experience as a child, being dragged into a church against his will in attempt to kill him, so naturally, the torture experience had triggers for him. They were soon rescued by the good guys when one of them escaped and led them back to the secret lair.
And so he went on and continued to attend the classes and help when needed. It had shortly come out, a startling revelations and feelings of betrayal by the displaced and natives, that Ruby was on the side of Lucifer to break him out of Hell, but then chose to side with Sam and the humans. Damien had been quicker to forgive and express that he believes in the sincerity of change, probably quicker than most would have. This was mostly because he understood, oh how he did understand it. He felt it was similar to his own circumstance; being on the side of evil, being the loyal son, acting as Lucifer's agent and ambassador in the world of man, and now living in Kansas in a complete opposite of what he was supposed to do, switching sides to the heroes. He may never consider himself a hero but could at least work as one or give aid to them at the least. Of course he had not explained all of this as to how he understood and forgave it, just that he did. Though it would come out later.
One thing had come upon him without warning. In this place the Seal brought him to, he didn't have the connection to his father. This could mean that certain walls didn't exist. He could guard against a physical vulnerability, but that of the mind and heart would be unexpected. And so it was with him. He would meet someone named Prue Halliwell, a witch with telekinetic abilities. It had only began as an acquaintance type deal, with her asking the boards for shopping inquiries, and he had simply gave an answer about a few malls and shopping centers, though there was more small talk between them at the Thanksgiving feast made for everyone to attend. And then something had changed when they were put into another life, one in which all were still existent but with different memories, a false life, each with a specific job in a big company. Damien Thorn had become Damien Taylor, seemingly normal but with plenty of energy, had a family of a brother and two sisters (one of which had a baby on the way), worked out at the gym. His position in the company was a member of the Security team, he would patrol the premises in addition to watching the cameras in the security room. Prue had been one of the higher level management people, slightly older than normal, and blond.. and also had a tryst with several employees secretly on occasion, of which Damien had been one of those people.
It was a short time before everyone had dreams, triggers, reminders of their true life. There was also a haunt/ghost problem with the building, and Damien (as did others) had surprisingly discovered they had abilities when defending against attack. Eventually they got closer to the truth. Dealt with the spirits and the cause, culminating in the destruction of the building (one method in particular was by fire, by Adam Vasic, along with Christy Jenkins whom Damien had once went on a date once to show her the movie and popcorn ritual of normalcy, and of course he thought her power was awesome). And so with the ghost and building taken care of, the veil had fallen and everyone had become their real selves again, all memories intact. But it wasn't all okay. In that life, he had a family who loved and accepted him, no attempts on his life, and plus he was about to be an uncle. Although a false memory, it still had felt real and now suddenly it was all gone. The fact that an angel had orchestrated it also didn't make him too happy regarding it.
And of course, there was still the fact of himself and Prue having their part in it, and all it entailed. It was awkward, to say the least. Neither had regretted it, but it was still awkward to talk about it first. It was a while later when they had seen each other in passing, running into each other, and would make plans to meet in places. It was about the third or fourth outing that he and she would officially have called it a "date", and by then, all that took place in the fake life was a distant memory that didn't need to be mentioned again. He began to find himself caring about her as a friend and partner, and also as a significant other, which was not a feeling he often had before. All of that was now new territory for him. And for once, he didn't do it with intent to gain something. No ulterior motive. No desire to use this to his advantage or some other evil master plan.
She did have special magical powers, but then so did he in a way. He also found similarities between them; having similar abilities, as well as being a target, not to mention a parallel between witches being persecuted and himself being hunted, each a target just for what they were. They were partners also not just in personal matters, but could also rely on each other in combat situations, in training, and other things of that nature. He only kept one secret, and that was the one about his true origins. He had fears about anyone finding out since it didn't ever work out so well for them if he did. He thought maybe he should tell her of it soon but his impulse for self-preservation usually won out for the most part.
Unfortunately, Lilith had succeeded, her plans could not be thwarted in time. There was a huge battle. And not just one, it seemed to be in various other directions. Demons were possessing people, innocents were taken, chaos abounded around the apartment complex. As usual was the case for them, Damien and Prue teamed up as a fighting duo once again, going out and using their skills (and anti-demon tactics learned in classes) to defend and fight back, exorcise, anything needed to do their part. It was at this time that tragedy had struck. One of those possessed was a witch named Morgana Pendragon (from the BBC Merlin series). Damien was suddenly enchanted by a spell, unable to move or speak, to do nothing but watch. Prue had lost the fight and was knocked into a rebar, the impalement of it had killed her. The young man certainly did not take it well. He felt anguish at the loss, along with the helplessness of unable to move or protect it. It was once again a new feeling for him, as no one else had brought that out from him previously. And.. he also felt a great hate, a rage, a wish to kill the demon or worse, the rising anger only made worse by the 'statue' spell. He was also surprised to be left alive, though perhaps that was the punishment. To see the tragedy and know nothing he could do will prevent it. Of course Prue and others who had died were brought back to life a time afterward. But at the time, it was a great loss. It was compounded also by learning that the attacks were a distraction. A real attack, of course, but there was something worse, something that required keeping the fighters busy: the act of freeing Lucifer and starting the Apocalypse. Damien was glad Lilith was dead, but had wished it wouldn't have been the cause of his not-father to rise and walk among them.
He felt that all they fought for to prevent it was for nothing. One thing, prevent the Devil from being free. It had failed. He was free. And of course the Horseman too. If stopping Lilith, the demons, monsters, and evil displaced was difficult? Stopping Lucifer and his plans would be doubly difficult, if not completely impossible. It seemed likely to Damien that this would result in more losses before it was also done. He also felt a bit odd at the idea of still fighting for good. He would ordinarily be working with the Horseman, with Lucifer, the Apocalypse was his original fate. And yet here, now, he was doing the complete opposite. It was something he never would have comprehended doing but there it was. And so he and Prue, and his other friends, he worked to help with them as he did before. There was a bigger threat now and he wasn't one to simply quit or run.
It was not long before his secret was to be discovered, however. Prue had been the first. They had been on a few dates already. Movies, dinners with her family, going on road trips, hunting, gift giving, rock concerts, eating at nice restaurants, etc. He had a wonderful birthday surprise at a club which she had surprised him with, one of his best birthdays up to that point. It had eventually ended with both of them retreating to his room for a great night together, their first since that "fake memories" incident. But the reveal had come the following morning. She had discovered his mark in his hair as he slept, the cluster of tiny three sixes together under his scalp. And so now she would know. He saw little reason to lie, she had seen it. So he was honest for once. Told her exactly what it meant, of who he had been, or who he was supposed to be. They had talked, as he stated that he had never intentionally taken innocent life or hurt anyone since his arrival to Kansas, that his old ways were in the past, that he didn't really want that destiny now, and that he had been using his abilities to help good people instead of to harm him. When she didn't run from him, or worse, turn against him.. he was very surprised. And relieved. It was one more reason why she seemed perfect for him. And perhaps he was alright for her too. It wouldn't be the first time a Halliwell had dated a man with a dark past, after all.
Not long after his truth came out, they were once again challenged. He and everyone else were sent to a life five years into the future. A world where Lucifer had won, the world was damned, and zombies roamed free. A complete nightmare. Those who had died before were suddenly showing up alive. Others, though, they lived through it. In this scenario, Lucifer-in-Sam had won the battle in Detroit, as well as the Horseman and the Apocalypse, which led to the zombie outbreaks. Near the second year of it, Damien and Prue were to have a child together. It was to be a girl. They'd wondered what a child from them would be like with their combined attributes and heritage, no doubt a mystery. One thing they did know was that she would be loved and protected as best they could. Unfortunately, they were caught in a fight and it had resulted in miscarriage. A chance to bring life into a dying world, at least a way for them to have a small peace in the chaos.. snuffed out.
And of course there was the death of the sister Phoebe which added to the grief. This had led them to changing for the worst. Her being more cold, dangerous, and lesser with the caring, willing to do anything to punish the zombies, a darker shadow of herself. And Damien? Well, he had found it easier to give in to his dark nature, the side which he often resisted before and only used to fight for others. He was more accepting of his former destiny and gave in to it more freely, not above killing or torture of monsters, though human threats (such as crazed hunters or gang members) wouldn't be pitied or shown mercy were they to get in the way. So for the next few years in that timeline, he fought, taking out as many as he could while at the same time hating what this world had become. The threat of the Croats had in fact become a perfect target to take out their rage and anger on. It was only sated for a while, til they needed another, and another, similar to a cup that is never filled.
This was also a place where he had informed Ruby of his true past, of his secret origin of being a former Antichrist. Given that the world was already well on it's way to Hell, he'd seen no reason to hide anything. He had offered himself up to use for any tasks where his special skills maybe needed. Given a request, he'd follow it and do what needed doing, though occasionally a few places he'd been sent to may have looked like a tornado aftermath. Anything requiring mayhem, chaos, destruction, he was more than happy to go out and serve. By the 5th year, the dead had suddenly showed up without reason. They turned out to be the real deal, not zombies but truly the ones who had been killed. He was unsure how to accept it. On the one hand, it was good to have Phoebe and the others back. On the other? His unborn child was still gone, and plus the world seemed beyond saving, so he had to wonder of the purpose having the living back would serve. But then he had already given up trying to understand how it al worked ages ago. When the time came to fight once more, the people would join. Some would fight while others grieved, and others trained, and some stayed out and did their own thing. But once it was done, the scenario was finished.
They were propelled five years back into the past, into their present 2009. Everything was restored. And yet, they also still had their memories. Damien, with Prue, remembered their loss and what they had become because of it. And of course Damien's secret revealed to Ruby and any other who may have known from her, that was not forgotten either. In a way, he was partly relieved that at least one or a few had known that secret. At least this way he wouldn't have to omit things or be vague about himself in any future talks. Though there was the worry if other demons knew and what could happen.. but he tried not to worry much over it. He had also promised himself that he would never become what he turned into in that world, to never lose himself as he did. Equally import was his determination to help and do whatever it took to prevent that future from ever happening.
There had been another Seal event. There would be many over the years that happened to him, such as becoming a child (twice), changing gender, being powerless, etc., but one thing he liked was the appearance of a Christmas singing bauble that would grant one wish per person. His wish would be obvious, he wished for large amounts of money, in the millions. He would like to not worry about never having enough to support himself, or about job security, and being able to donate on occasion might be something he might wish to do. Thus he had been able to buy some improvements to his apartment room, as well as have more than enough for gifts toward his girlfriend, her sisters, and any of their friends.
It wasn't too long before the threat of the Horsemen became clear. They had rings which improved their influence and power. Each one (aside from Death) would do something to the populace which would cause great harm or worse. The first of these was War, resulting in rivalries, misunderstanding, us against them type thinking, etc. When it came time to fight and War was located, Damien had offered himself to join a team with Jack Landors, Elliot Spencer, and Jacen Solo(whom he respected as a trainer and leader). Damien's task would be to serve as a backup and lookout. Watching backs, support actions, and guarding the area to help defend against interruptions to their task. Threats were finished, there was a fight against the Horseman, and strong lightning, followed by a removed finger and the most important part: the ring. Once taken, War's effect on the infected ones had quickly dissipated. Score one for the good guys.
The Seal had then done something else to surprise people. New arrivals. But not just any arrivals, these were ones with a connection to those currently living. The future children of specific people, both normal and also children from an alternate timeline. Unfortunately, Damien and Prue were away in Chicago for a sort of vacation on Valentine's holiday, so they had yet to learn of it. But they would soon find out when one of them would teleport to their room and contact them, upon which they'd return back to Kansas post-haste. What he had found out? They had not just one child in the future.. but two. Patricia and Alexander Halliwell-Thorn, well into their teen years.
They came from a happy future where the Apocalypse was stopped. They also believed that Patty was probably the unborn child Prue had lost during the zombie future, which thankfully was being prevented. Seeing the two new additions, it gave Damien hope. Hope that the zombie timeline was averted and hope that they had a family. That he had a family, something he always coveted about normal people. Also hope that they would indeed marry in the near future, if the children's last names were any indication. And if someone like him could have all that? It was better than anything he could have dreamed. Being a father was another new step. Technically he currently wasn't one yet, but Patty and Alex's existence showed that it was possible.
There were new friends made from the future children interacting with each other, there were even a couple of parties. But there also chaos and tragedies. Some were kidnapped and tortured by the demon Meg. One of those taken was his daughter Patricia. He felt another new emotion. Anger, of course, that he knew very well. But also a protective streak, a strive to save and protect what was his, a need to keep them from all harm. He immediately joined in any searches, tempted to go alone but stayed with his wife. Searching tirelessly til the location was found. He did want to torture the demon once they found her. Ohh, so very much. Especially after seeing Patty's condition; she healed physically, but he knew that that isn't the only kind of pain that can linger with someone. He realized it best to keep cool and do the most important thing, which was get her back to the apartment medbay for help. Damien had already endured several events of being tortured, so he understood all too well what it was like for her; he also knew that coming back from that could be possible but not easy. He could only hope that they would all be fine in the end. The children soon felt a 'pulling', a sense of being time to go back. They had vanished soon after, leaving Damien and his wife to themselves. There was much to discuss now about their future. Much to plan and much to prepare for. But then, he'd always been good at organization skills so he wasn't completely worried.
And so it came to be that they would be married. It was a big decision and change, one which himself and Prue had discussed several times. It wasn't one he entered into lightly. He realized it would go to another level, deeper and higher than they were before, yet another new step for them as a couple. Of course their children had proved it too, so they figured that all the signs were pointing for them to go ahead with it, especially as they couldn't find one reason not to. They had set a date for it to be in April. The placing of the ceremony was a challenge. Having it in a church was not comfortable for him in the least, Prue and her family had also known that. They had also learned from her about his true past, which he was again surprised that they were still okay with him.
Perhaps it was because of his choice to fight for Team Good Guy, or because one of them had dated a demon before themselves, or maybe some other reason. Either way, he was accepted (and likely watched, to take down if he ever hurt her). So they had decided it would be a Wiccan wedding. That was a much better setting than a Christian church, in his opinion. Nearly half of Lawrence (or more) had attended, since they had a large number of friends among the natives and displaced. But there was a secondary decision to be made, concerning the name change. Damien would be pleased at having Prue take his name, but also felt she should be able to still keep her family name too. So the compromise was that her last name would become Halliwell-Thorn.
Once it was all done, he had revealed a rather large wedding present. It was actually a Seal bauble wish he had made back during Christmas. It was something he kept secret and not told one soul about, going to maintain it, check up on, and keep clean at specific times when he could be alone. The wish was for his home mansion from Chicago to be set on an open land plot. Thorn Manor. It was every bit like the place he remembered, down to the last detail. Of course he would get charms and protections for it too. So, a couple months after the wedding, he had surprised Prue with it. They soon decided to leave the complex and move into the manor as their family home. The sisters and any other family had also been invited to stay, it was quite comfortable. He had even set up a room for their magic, to store potions, supplies, and such other things like that. Things had been going better from there. Working from his manor rather than an apartment was also better in his point of view, not just because it had more space, and also his belongings and the familiarity of it from home. But also because it was his, something he could really called his own. And it was great for a while. But then he was surprised yet again. It had happened when he had taken Prue to Paris for their honeymoon (he's into grand gestures like that) and they had been enjoying it immensely. And then it happened. The Seal... had sent Prue back home to her world.
It was almost a bad a blow to him as when she had temporarily died. Having her suddenly taken from him had left him shocked for a time, and also hurt, although he'd insist on not showing it and putting on a calm and brave face as a cover. He knew that not only was she sent home, but sent home to die at the hands of a demon. He knew this and it sort of made it worse to know it. And there was also the effect the separation had was taking the happiness he had found with her, it was the closest he had ever gotten with anyone in his life, both at home and in Lawrence. It took him time to get past it. To continue on. Of course he would always remember her, deciding that if she couldn't be with him, then he could at least honor her memory and keep on helping just as she would do, and encourage him to do. Plus it was what he had been doing before he had met her. For the next couple years, however, he had focused on the important asks and preparing to help stop Lucifer. Though when that was to be or if he would even survive it, he had no clear idea of.
A criminal mastermind named Moriarty who was defeated (i.e. killed), had returned as a demon. Damien had remembered a time when he expressed privately of himself as a fan and interest in autographs. He had a list of super-villains that he might like autographs from, and this man had stood out in literature as a very interesting sort, although this one was a more modern version. But when his in-laws were in danger of his attacks before, he had ceased contact and gotten busy in other matters. And now the man had returned, which led to the complex being destroyed by bombs. He was one of those who went in to help save the wounded and get as many as they could from the ruins, one of them being Jaina Solo. He had remembered her helping him years ago in Kansas, and so he was quick to begin the search once Jacen had given the order. He had made a new friend during this in the form of the starship captain James Kirk. They would team up on certain points to go look for survivors, and anything else to help. Another need of importance, however? Housing. With the apartment complex demolished and lives lost in it, people needed to have residences elsewhere whether it be temporary or permanent. So when Lois had made the post on the subject, Damien had been quick to offer his mansion up as one of the options. It was huge, spacious, had some amenities, supernatural protections to ward off threats, and plus a reinforced metal bunker underneath to serve as precautions against zombie attacks just in case.
A handful of people had been assigned to the manor almost immediately. A cop named Endeavor, hacker Edward, "Scream" movie survivor Sidney, thief Parker. He had gotten on well with Endeavor, perhaps due in part to Damien's life being saved in the church by a cop so long ago. Once residents, he always made sure the tenants would have everything they need while living there. Food, all cable TV access, occasional gift money, as well as giving Endeavor one of the nice cars. Damien had also put donations toward other things, to join his money with those given by others; the college tuition for displaced, funds for rebuilding a new complex and buying one already constructed, and generally anything else that was needed. The bombing wasn't the only problem, however. Just as during the unleashing of the Apocalypse, now demons once again took possession of hosts. They created havoc in not just Kansas, but also over the world. One in particular had possessed an Original vampire named Kol.
Damien had met him once or twice, thought he was cool as he'd reminded him a bit of himself, with the hunger or need to kill things, Damien was in fact one of the people who'd suggested he put the violent tendencies towards killing evil; it'd be both fun, plus no guilt since it was done against bad monsters instead of humans. The demon in the vampire had a conversation with him, one which revealed that the demon knew exactly who and what Damien was back home. He was disturbed as now it would seem that Lucifer loyalists knew his secret. He wasn't sure if all knew it, but loyalists knowing it was something he'd wish to avoid thinking of. Another issue with it was concern was whether or not the host was "awake" during that conversation, and if so, did they now know the secret? He was uncertain. So as he usually does, he avoided it altogether and never brought the subject up, more a "if it's not discussed, maybe it's forgotten" type thing.
After the demons were finally exorcised and Moriarty killed off for real, the battle was still afoot and just as dangerous as ever. Damien had signed up to go with a team for a huge fight. But then it was a bust and didn't happen, as something else came up to complicate matters. Lucifer had taken a new host: Sam Winchester. The angel Michael had also taken Dean. The time had come now for the final fight. It was to take place in a cemetery. Damien was aware that this battle was unlike the others. They could lose and die. Lucifer could win, there could also be zombies. But he chose not to think that way. He went into it knowing subconsciously the end would be failure, but believing and acting that this was winnable. That there really was a chance that the Devil and everything else would be defeated, and they will have drinks afterward. He even understood that there was a possibility he might not come out of it alive, he could actually die. He decided that was fine with him, so long as there was a win overall. And also maybe because it meant he won't die from him being evil, but rather while he was fighting against Evil, against a version of his father. But then.. rebellion ran in his family.
He had come to the battle loaded up and ready, as prepared as anyone would be. So many were there fighting. Lucifer himself was farther away but there were a lot of other evil threats present. Demons, bad witches, monsters, etc. He used his powers as well as the weapons, not holding back an inch as he helped fight back. There had been a few deaths during the fight. But the good guys had won. Lucifer and Michael (with hosts) were cast back down to Hel. Unfortunately.. one little snag. More than one hole was opening up in the earth, more than just one portal into Hell. It opened under a large number of people. Damien Thorn was one of those. But they'd won. Yes, they did win. He yelled and cursed as he found himself falling downward into Hell, helpless to stop the descent into the Cage. Part of him thought that maybe he deserved to go there. For his past crimes. For being.. what he was. It would be his fate back home, after all. He slightly accepted that but also hated it. It didn't seem a fair reward for stopping the Apocalypse from burning the whole world. But it was what it was. He could only accept and despise the predicament, nothing could be done on his side to get back out.
Time passed differently in Hell than in the world of mankind. Days or weeks on Earth feel more like years. Or eventually decades. The Cage, however? It seemed to prolong time farther than the usual. What was a month or two had become... fifty years. It was mostly mental torture, cruelly realistic simulations based around the Seven Sins. Gluttony would be seeing a table full of the best food and drink, only to have it become ash in his mouth. Lust was watching himself partake of that sin, and while he might have liked that at first, it showed another side; showed him occasions when he had used it to corrupt others to him, to pretend to love, getting a devout believer to give in to temptation with him only to break it off later on, etc. That especially was difficult to see. He hated it, because he wasn't like that person anymore, and had actually been in love for real. No pretenses or motives. Seeing himself in that was like viewing a warped mirror reflection. Other sins played out as well. People in his life both in Kansas back home, living or dead, all cornering him and calling him evil. Calling him things like abomination, irredeemable, corrupter, destroyer, hopeless, no amount of good will change his fate, and so on.
Another scenario would similar to a Mortal Kombat theme, or to use a more recent media comparison, the Hunger Games. He was to kill off everyone else who went to the Cage. He resisted at first. Trying to talk or reason with the others, but talking wasn't apparently part of their intent. He then tried hiding, or more bargaining, restraint maneuvers or mild wounding, hit and run tactics. And still they came, it was quickly obvious to him they sought his death and would never stop. And so he did it, he gave into the torture and killed. Usually quickly. And then it would be over, leaving him with guilt. Then another sin-guided scenario would play out for a while and then once again he was pitted against his fellow inmates yet again. And again he would end it. It got to a point after twenty years of it that he just let himself go and just give in. He stopped caring about all of it or about himself. Plus it was self preservation, he knew they'd kill him just as easy if given the chance. He'd kill in various ways, some quick, some creative, others violent, and it would be over only to start up yet again later on. Again, and again.
He would also be given the illusion of freedom. It was completely believable and realistic. They had all gotten out of hell at last. They were free. He had his house, his friends and all was okay again. The time was varied. Could be a day, a month, a year, or another week again, etc. And just when he felt really safe and okay with everybody? Someone, anyone he thought of as friend, they would kill him. Taking his heart, using a knife or some other way. There would be the harsh words that he should have stayed down there, that he was unwanted and deserved Hell, and no one truly cared if he was out or not, and worse. After "death", he would immediately awake to find himself in the Cage yet again. All of this would play out, it never let up. It felt like forever with no real hope of getting out. And al of this torture would continue for the fifty year period. But then.. he was surprised when he and the others were suddenly topside. He was in shock and disoriented. From what he could see, a person above was tied to a Cage prisoner below and they all had been brought back.
He wasn't completely sure it was real. It seemed like just another torture, another game with his mind. Something to give him hope only to take it away once he reaches for it. And, being on Earth again was one of the Cage's illusions. It took him a long while to accept that this time was for real. And even then, he would still have doubts. Not to mention the nightmares that would plague his nights now, of his memories down there. There was also the guilt from his actions during the "Hunger Game" thing. He had swore before to never harm innocents, and yet he had done worse than that to some of them. He carried that along with the painful memories of Hell. There was a slight relief, however, when he learned he hadn't really killed any of them at all. It was false, illusion. It turned out that the others had a similar experience, he was on of the many who'd be killed during the false fights.
One good thing was that he still had his friends in the manor, though unfortunately one of them was returned home via Seal. They still had each other to help out. But such was difficult since most of them were also in the Cage too. He was always master of his house and helpful ally to friends or tenants, but he felt like he was coming up short in that area; he didn't know how to begin to help them heal when he himself was just as much in the same boat. It would eventually get better in time. Each day that passed proved he was really home. He could be sociable and put on a face if he had to, but the Cage still had an effect on him like the others. He was uncertain if they'd be okay. One thing he did know was they, that he.. was a survivor. And so he would keep on fighting if he had to. It was a challenge at first just to leave his room but that was managed after a while. But he was never taught to give up or concede defeat. He could still be useful. He didn't like the alternative of wasting away.
And so, hard as it may be at times, he put himself out there. Started paying more attention to the boards. Making himself available for a hunt if some were being given out. Stocking up on supplies, or meeting up with Kirk, donating some funds to another cause, attending public functions, or checking on his manor residents. December had passed, didn't seem to be any wishes via bauble this time around. Or so it appeared that way. Turned out it was just delayed and this time it had a color aura. His bauble was either dark purple or black, or navy blue type. He couldn't think of anything to wish for pertaining to his world, or additions to the mansion, and he was already insanely rich. So.. he decided like others to wish for a power. His would be teleportation. And it seemed to work. Now he could go anywhere in the world he wanted to be, just thinking of the destination, and he would appear there in a blink. Once he practiced it for a while, he made a point to announce this discovery and submit his name to the list of other magical teleporters among the displaced.
Kirk had informed him of his own bauble wish; to be able to start and run any business, any company successfully. There had been moments on occasion since he got out of the Cage, when he would contemplate the idea of having his own company. He had thought a wish for his corporation Thorn Industries to appear here, just as he did the mansion. But he had already wished for a teleport power. Plus, he thought of a better idea than wishing his business to Kansas. Rather than do that, maybe it would be a good idea to start it from this place instead. He hadn't come up with the idea before, since the company was his old life. But his experience in the Cage below had made him think about it. He had been down there for fifty year, in torment and a victim of all that transpired, now a survivor as so many others were. For most, five decades is a lifetime, after which they have things to show for it. A good job, a family of their own, a business, something to their name, a legacy, etc. He felt he had none of that. And he also needed something to keep busy. Aside from hunting and giving help to people, he wanted something that he could call his. A company would be something with his name, and potential profit, and of course helpful to others in the place, if not the world. He had thought of the company having scientific and technological applications, but decided to have a focus on agriculture. And another bonus, maybe it would also create more jobs as well.
So after talking to his friend about it, he began to take steps toward it. Getting permits, buying up an open lot or building (while making plans to have a larger one built on the side), purchasing the factory machines, obtaining the needed papers to hire workers, and various other tasks required to get a company started up. It was starting to happen. Not quickly, but it would be there eventually. He had also been working with Kirk to help Rose Tyler's Center building, it was spoken that their were various needs. Sports equipment, food, backpacks, school necessities, and other similar programs. Damien had come up with, after Kirk's help, for the backpack program, i.e. 50 to 500 backpack for school, as well as a large food supply. Hopefully it would be a success, though he'd expected it would be with the two of them working together with the task, along with others who may help.
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By this time, five years had passed. Damien had noticed talk on the boards about containment plans and contingencies for threats. It was one probably spoken briefly of before but now seemed more in depth. Not just for specific vampires, but for all, for anyone who could be a threat to the people. Damien had wondered if there would be any for him. He'd think that it may be a good idea, if he ever went back to his old ways. He hoped that those who did know of him, few as they may be, might have an option for what to do if he reached a worst case scenario. Perhaps it would be easy. Maybe impossible in his own world, but not here; here, not everyone was just an ordinary human. But he didn't expect there would be a problem for his part in the long run. Four to five years in this universe and he still was on the side of Team Good Guy, with no slipping up so far. Temptation at times, of course. But he believed he was still stable enough to continue living safely and to still be useful to others. He was about to check on his friends in the manor once again, perhaps have another heart to heart talk about the Cage and maybe see if they needed any distractions. Maybe a movie, or going out to a fancy diner.
However, the Seal had struck once again. It had sent his friends home occasionally, acquaintances, and family once. It seemed now it was his turn. After so long in Kansas and doing good, he was suddenly sent back to his home world. It was exactly as it was when he'd left. He remembered Kansas for a short time but that eventually faded, til it was more like a lost dream in the subconscious. There was an occasional sense of deja vu such as when someone had a ruby necklace, or employees at work had a Star Trek ringtone, or a business partner used the word "prudent" when emphasizing the need to swiftly close a deal. But such lingerings in his mind lasted only a brief moment before putting it aside to move on with the tasks at hand. So he continued with his business, running the international company he had inherited. Mostly going through the motions of return during the week, then partying at the clubs on the weekend. As to his "other" work, that mostly consisted of recruiting followers to his side, assigning tasks to make temptation easier for people, giving the occasional speech or sermon to the flock, and other such things.
Through it all, he would go about the routine but have a sense he was missing something. Possibly it had something to do with his vague and weird dreams, or maybe the fact that it was usually lonely at the top, or more likely, wondering where all of it led to. What he was working for and what the final battle required.. or even if it was necessary at all. Good and evil had been warring since the beginning, the idea of a finality to it was an unusual notion for most, even for him. And of course he was mentally hesitant about the world being finished. He liked it as it was and being on top, so ending it seemed a bit counter-productive to his current work. But he'd not speak of this to any soul, he knew he'd have to do in the end what fate, destiny, or prophecy called on him to do. Even though he might prefer to live his own way, he understood duty and expectation.
And so three months had passed. It was time spent running his business and making allies. He was, however, one of the youngest men known in America to be head of their own company. There were some who had talents they used in high positions, prodigies really, but Damien seemed to have more influence than most when it came to the business and political circles. But he was still new to this. He did well enough but thankfully he was a natural. And of course he had the Disciples. Two of which had membership in his inner circle and could still turn to them for advice. He had also been studying in depth about past leaders, corporate kings, as well as how leaders of nations did things. He had spent the last weekend in Europe as a vacation of sorts. One of his British allies he had known a year before had suggested fox hunting on horseback as a hobby. So, always willing to try new things, Damien had participated. It was a nice break from the daily business. It was hard at first but he caught on after several rounds. He could probably have tracked the foxes due to his jackal/canine side, but showing off wasn't the point.
It was fun. And so, he let the hounds do the tracking and he would do some shooting. Though the trip to the UK wasn't merely for a hunting trip with friends. He also had taken the opportunity to check in some of the London offices for the company. Announce himself, watch the workers, make sure business ran smoothly. Once back in Chicago, tired from the trip, he had prepared himself to check on things at the office before heading home. Turned out he had a busy week ahead. Unfortunately, he was yet again to be taken by powers beyond his control. He paused in confusion and noticed he was no longer in the top floor of Thorn Industries. He was in a cemetery, old grass and dirt, with gravestones.. one of which he was sitting upon. The Seal had done as it often did, bringing someone back to Kansas. This time it would seem that Damien Thorn was chosen. For what, he didn't know nor was he sure if anyone else did. One thing he did know was that he should be prepared for anything to happen. He was sure he could adapt to it again. He was good at adaptability. Always had been.