II. Gods and Monsters

Warning

Carter was flung to the floor as he materialised on the other end; raising his head to see Metatron towering over him, great wings spread wide. Carter couldn't help but be in awe of the creature. Of all the weird, wonderful and terrifying beings he had encountered over his greatly extended lifetime, this one was truly unique. Metatron had completely cannibalised his own body, replacing every inch of it that he could with metal and circuitry; all just to make him a more effective killer. It was beyond the normal realms of self-improvement; this was obsessive.

"This is not your fight human," Metatron growled, bending down so as to get a better look at him.

Carter's head moved back slightly in surprise. He'd even replaced his voice. It was no longer the silken smooth tones of angels that he was used to, it was now low, grating, full of malice and anger. It would fill the average person with dread, instead of the hope angels were supposed to instil.

"I didn't realise hunters were allowed to use biological agents now," the old man remarked.

"I use whatever allows me to accomplish the task," Metatron spat, his arm twisting and clunking to form a lance-like firearm, its tip inches from Carter's heart.

He halted suddenly, raising to his full height as if listening to something. Carter saw his chance and leapt at the cyborg, attempting to gain an advantage. Unfortunately, Metatron had expected that. He swung his great arm, slamming it into Carter's chest and forcing him back to the ground. All this without even looking.

"You're predictable as ever human. Attempt a move like that again, and I will execute you with haste."

Carter watched the shining figure cock its head to the side, ever so slightly. It was definitely listening to something. He let out a growl. Contented or inconvenienced, he wasn't quite sure.

"You will have to excuse me, I must prepare for the great hunt ahead. However, heed my warning. This is not a battle you should involve yourself in. Intervene again, and you will perish."

With that, Metatron grasped Carter's throat with a giant, metal hand and threw him backwards. Carter saw white lightning envelop him, then spit him out in the clearing he had been dragged from only moments ago.

Meanwhile, back on the hill, Metatron raised his palm and summoned the hologram of Lilian.

"Lilian, contact On High, tell them I wish to return for a re-supply."

"Of course Metatron," came the synthetic female voice.

She stared into space for a moment before looking back at the metal faceplate.

"I am afraid your request cannot be processed," she told him.

"What? On who's orders?" Metatron growled.

"Gabrielle's."

Metatron growled, his anger rising.

"On what grounds can she reject me?"

"It seems that after your return to full consciousness, your connection to Heaven has been severed until further notice. You can no longer return home."

Lilian's image flickered back into Metatron's palm as his fists curled. He took a deep breath, arched his head towards the sky and let out a great, lamenting scream.