CHAPTER 6: A New Beast

Jasmine "Cole! Cole! Are you in here? If you are, scream or something!"

Jasmine checks the house door by door, clearing each room she passes. Just when she had given up hope, she trips on a handle on the floor.

Jasmine "What kind of sick house of horrors is this?"

Jasmine slowly and carefully pulls the trap door open. She held her gun firmly in front of her.

Cole "Grrrrr. Raw RAH rah."

Jasmine "Cole, you down there bud?"

Cole "Cole, here!"

Jasmine "Cole! Thank goodness, I've been looking all over for you. Why were you here?"

Cole "Jas...mine...Jasmine...JASMINE!!!"

Jasmine "Cole, I know you're excited to see me, but you go to calm down."

Jasmine was nervous, but a sense of calm washed over her. Everything was going according to her plan. All that was left was a task that should have been easy, but will soon to be the most difficult of all her assignments.

Jasmine "Okay, let's get you outta here and all cleaned up! Come on, let's go im tired of being in this sick place."

Cole "Jasmine smell nice."

Jasmine "Aww, thank you, now let's go."

Just as Jasmine turns her back to leave Cole ambushes her and pins her to the ground. Struggle as she might Jasmine couldn't escape.

Jasmine "Oookaay...Cole, gonna let me go? Huh? be pretty nice of you."

Cole "Let go? Cole no want to let go."

Jasmine "Cole, you're scaring me. Let me go so that we can leave, okay?"

Cole "NO. Cole is hungry."

Jasmine "I'll feed you when we get to my house. Anything you want."

Cole "Cole want you."

Unable to resist the temptation of feasting, Cole started to lick her all over.

Jasmine "As much as I would normally like too, this isn't the most appropriate time. Get off!"

Cole lost in his primal instincts starts to snarl and growl. His breath grew bothered and heavy. In a moment of weakness, he fell into temptation and rips Jasmine's shirt and pants. Now in her underwear, Jasmine tried with everything she had to push Cole off, but he was too strong. Panic and fear started to swell within Jasmine. She was trapped with no escape.

Jasmine "Cole, I understand how you feel, and if you can hear me at all. I just want you to know I'm not mad. If this is what you want, then I'll suck it up, but please...please come back to me."

Cole put his nail under her bra, cutting it off.

Jasmine "Seriously, Cole, please don't do this."

Jasmine starts to tear up and cry as Cole tears away the remaining bit of her clothes.

Jasmine "If that's what you want, then take it, you demon."

Cole "Me? A demon? I guess I would be if I forced a girl, huh?"

Jasmine "You were in control of yourself the whole time?"

Cole "Not for the entire time. I heard you call me a demon. It was shocking, to say the least."

Jasmine "What happened to you? Your eyes are red."

Cole gave Jasmine his usually bright and vibrant smile, but something was off about this one. It was nothing like his regular smile. Was it his face? Or the blood that covered him? Was it the foul smell of rotting meat that filled the basement? Jasmine thought and thought until it hit her. The eyes! It's in his eyes. He lost something that he would never get back. That happy go, lucky kid was a kid no more, dead and buried never to see the light again.

Jasmine "Hey Cole? Are you absolutely sure everything is ok? Like I'm here for you if you need me."

Cole "You're here for me? Really?"

Jasmine "Yes, of course, why wouldn't I be?"

Cole "Oh geez, I really could've used it a week ago. Ya know when they beat, tortured, raped, starved, and almost killed me. I really could've used emotional support, when I called you, my FATHER, my MOTHER desperately to come, save me. I really could've used you when I was bent over that desk, getting violated day after day, when they held me down and pressed hot metal into my skin. Did you know that the human body can survive several days without food or water? So to answer your question, I am fine and don't need your support."

Cole looked at Jasmine. Jasmine turned beet red, realizing that she too was naked.

Jasmine "Like what you see, perv?"

Cole "I'm not a perv."

Jasmine "You sure about that? Seem pretty pervy to me!"

Cole and Jasmine got whatever clothes they could find in the house and went their separate ways.

A week later, Cole entered his school now being in control of his eyes and their color. He had a sense of self-care. He would typically be excited to be able to control his eye color, but it just like everything else seems rather meh.

Mr.Grolo "Good morning, class! Today we welcome Cole Yankell back. Class be kind. In his absence, he has gone through a very traumatic experience."

Cole "Excuse me? My puppy didn't die. I was raped and tortured. I don't need nor want your pity."

Mr.Grolo "That's awfully rude. You should say thank you and be happy that you're alive."

Cole enraged by his teacher's comments, grabs Mr.Grolo by his collar, slamming him into the chalkboard. Without a second thought, Cole started to push him into the chalkboard, reshaping it to his teacher's body.

Johnathan "Hey, ass hat put him down."

Cole "Why on earth will I let this dog down? He has a prejudice that is outlawed here. It suddenly makes the punishment void, cuz my eyes are red, right? Do I not deserve to live free."

Johnathan "No, you don't. I remember you quite well. You acted like you were better than us in elementary and middle school, but we are in high school. We aren't the same kids back then."

Deablos "just show him your red eyes. that will make him submit to you."

Angelos "Cole I know this won't make sense, but you should just wait until you can safely make a move the do so. As much as I would love to show this kid what's what, and give him a piece of our mind. You can't afford to fight the entire class currently."

Cole "For once you have a point."

Cole lowers his teacher to the ground and takes his seat.

Jasmine "pssst Cole...pssst Cole."

Cole "What do you want."

Jasmine "Oh! Me! Nothing. Just thought you might want some pills. Got a fresh supply."

Cole "No, I'll be fine on my own."

Jasmine "You sure?"

Cole stares deep into Jasmine's eyes.

Cole "Yea, I'm sure."

For most of the day, Cole remained quiet. He didn't feel the need to talk to anyone. What could they know? How would they understand the pain that he was in? Even if they did, would they even care? All of these answerless questions and thoughts devoured Cole's mind, Like a raging storm.

Deablos "Hey Cole! Snap out of it. What happened to you isn't your fault. Stop blaming yourself."

Angelos "And if those people don't like you, then frick them."

Deablos "Such foul language hehehe."

Angelos "My apologies, I won't use such language again."

Cole "will you two ever shut up?"

Deablos "You're so mean, keeping a demon locked up in silence. It's downright torture in here ya know?"

Cole "Suffer in silence."

Deablos "Why? You didn't."

Cole furious slammed his hands against his desk, Making everyone in the class jump.

Mr.Grolo "Mr.yankell, is there a reason for your disturbance of my classroom."

Cole "Maybe, maybe not. Who knows?"

Mr.Grolo "Well if you don't want to tell me, then you might want to talk to the principal."

Cole "If I didn't tell you, Why would I tell him?"

Mr.Grolo "Cole, I will not tolerate disrespect in my classroom."

Cole "Then don't."

Johnathan "Stop arguing. Think just because you were kidnapped that you get a free pass to be a dick?"

Cole "Actually, I do."

Johnathan "YOU LITTLE..."

Mr.Grolo "Johnathan! Calm down. You shouldn't waste your time on him. He's lost all reason."

Jasmine "Mr.Grolo, are you saying that because Cole was being disrespectful or because his eyes sometimes change color. Let me remind you that he is still a human being. He has feelings, emotions, thoughts, wants, and desires. You really ought to think about your words before you speak."

Mr.Grolo "Jasmine, you're on thin ice as it is. Before he showed up this class was peaceful, now look at it. One more outburst out of any of you and I'll hold the class back thirty minutes."

Cole "Why not forty-five?"

Mr.Grolo "It's an hour now. keep talking, and I'll double it."

Cole "Triple, finial offer."

*ring ring*

Mr.Grolo "That's it, you are all staying after class for three hours. Everyone thank Cole for giving you time to reflect on yourselves today. I expect all of you to return, or you will lose half of your total score on your mid-terms. Class dismissed."

Jasmine "Cole...Cole...Don't you ignore me! Hey! I'm talking to you."

Cole "What's your angle? Huh? Befriend me so you can use me? You want me to be your personal sex toy? What? What do you want from me?"

Jasmine "Cole, all I want is what's best for you. If we became friends, that's a bonus for me."

Cole "How do I know I can trust you?"

Jasmine "You can't. Trust is funny like that. You just believe the person, and hope you didn't place your bets wrong."

Cole "Fine, but if this bites me in my ass, then I'll do everything in my power to end you."

Jasmine "I wouldn't have it any other way."

Cole and Jasmine part ways so they could get to their remaining classes.

As Cole walked into the gymnasium, he could feel the anger and resentment in their eyes as they glared at every step he took. Red eyed demon! Bastard! Devil! Evil! Monster! Fiend! We hate you! We hate you! We hate you! Their eyes shouted insult after insult at him. As the coach started to speak, Cole read his physics textbook and started to do his homework, trying desperately to ignore the stares.

Coach Hoffman "Okay! Today, we are sparing. With the threat of the Lucifer program's return and the integration of the demonic programs, God and some bureaucrats think that you should be able to defend yourself in the event a possible demonic attack. From today forward we will increase the length of your gym period and shorten some others. Your parents have been informed of this change but will not be required to engage in self-defense courses. Your generation is our first and last line of defense, so train hard and learn well. From this day forth you are the militia. Okay, now that introductions are out of the way. We will be holding a mock trial to assess your physical endurance along with your unique skills. From there you will be placed into one of four categories. The first is physical, the second is emission, the third is spiritual, and the last is for the very very very few of you that are faith naturals or commonly known as blessed. Those of you that are considered blessed will fight for student council president, and the second place will be vice president, third will be in charge of the disciplinary committee and so on. They are your betters and should be respected as such."

Cole "Aye yo, coach. Can I sit this one out? I'm a pacifist, and I wouldn't want a demon being student council president."

Coach Hoffman "NO! There are no exceptions. I don't buy into the whole red-eyed people are evil. My wife, after the loss of our daughter, became red-eyed and we are working through it. If she has to, so do you. Now that's out of the way, line up the three approved events will be a four-mile obstacle race, a test of faith, and a one on one match. The trials are only for placement and skill groups, as such will not affect your grades. However, the students identified as blessed will be graded and will have a one on one. Do your best and may God smile upon you."

The students one by one lined up on the track. Each with their own stance to help them fun faster in hopes of being blessed.

Angelos "Cole, we could just not do as well as we could."

Deablos "Yea, if you show off, you'll be marked as blessed."

Cole "It's not like I can hold back, they will notice."

Angelos "But it isn't like you tried in the first place. Just do no more than anyone else."

Deablos "No...Angelos, let him be. He wants to do all he can."

Cole "I found my goal to believe in to strengthen my faith. To that end, I will do whatever is necessary."

Deablos "Aww he is all grown up!"

Angelos "We will be here when god test that faith."

Coach Hoffman "On your marks...get set...go!"

Cole's eye's shifted a blood-red as he summoned his wolves. He was quickly closing the gap between him and the fastest student. With each mile and obstacle, the students one by one realized that there was no chance for them. As Cole was finishing his last hurdle, he felt something rather someone approaching fearing he might lose Cole ran as fast as he could.

Coach Hoffman "It's a tie between Aslalo and Cole! Next event is a test of faith. Each of you, grab the wormwood and focus faith into it. Depending on the effects will show you, your faith type as a tangible thing you can see. We did this so that in the fight, you could start to develop your fighting style according to your faith pronunciation. After that, you will move back inside where you will get ready for the fight."

The first person that entered the testing room was the schools' star Aslalo grabbed the wormwood having streaks burnt into it. Soon Johnathan stepped out the testing room. After him, the students filed in and out all rejoicing their newfound abilities.

Aslalo "Sweet lightning! Johnathan, what did you get?"

Johnathan "I'm not sure it just split in two? I guess blades or something?"

Aslalo "Oh! You have wind! Nice, that's pretty good and pretty versatile."

Johnathan "I guess?"

When Cole grabbed the wormwood, it just disappeared. Shocked the Procter to give him another one thinking it was a fluke of some kind. Cole grabbed the second plank, and it splintered, burned, and was soaked all at the same time.

Proctor "Do you think this is some kind of joke? You better take me seriously, you red-eyed fuck."

Coach Hoffman "What seems to be the problem?"

Proctor "He is taking my orders as a joke."

Coach Hoffman "How?"

Proctor "Go on, show him."

Cole shrugged and grabbed another plank of wormwood. As he focused his faith into it, the plank started to get lighting streaks.

Coach Hoffman "He is just a lightning user."

Proctor "I said to show him!"

Cole focused harder, and the plank started to drip water, burn, and splinter into other pieces of wormwood, suddenly right before their eyes it disappeared, leaving a spec of ash behind.

Coach Hoffman "Wow proctor, He didn't take it as a joke. He is blessed!"

Proctor "Him? The one with a demonic program is blessed?"

Coach Hoffman "He was the last one. Fifteen were blessed other than him, so since we didn't expect as much to be blessed then we will say that we are giving him a chance for the sake of "equality". Cole if we do this, you will face more discrimination than ever, but you will have a chance to prove yourself to the teachers and the outsiders that not all demons are wicked."

Cole "I'll do it, but I get the feeling this comes with a stipulation."

Coach Hoffman "Yes, unfortunately, you will have to be under the guise of a faith cripple so to speak. So you mustn't show your unique faith type, just basic faith uses only. if they were to know that you literally delete things from existence..."

Cole "They would be afraid of me, I know."

Angelos "What are we going to do, Cole?"

Cole "I think the best course of action is to get hit more times than I hit back. Only two people know that there are three of us. So you two need to act as one program. Angelos, focus on the opponent. I want to see their movements and the weak points in their defenses. Deablos, I need you to focus on me. Regulate my power output to no more than sixty percent of the max. Make sure that I can counter and exploit weaknesses found."

Deablos "As you wish."

Cole leaves the testing room to a boxing mat on the floor. Nervously, he clenched his fist, waiting for the roster to be declared. The proctor and Coach Hoffman sat center stage. Without a word, Coach Hoffman shot a blank in the air.

Coach Hoffman "Now that I have your attention! This is the final test of abilities! This final test will be a no holds bar brawl. There are two rules. Rule number one do not kill. Rule number two as long as it doesn't violate rule one there are no rules. In this academy, some of you will be considered blessed. What does that mean you may be wondering. The proctor will tell you all you need to know about everything. Proctor."

Proctor "Those of you who are considered blessed have out of nature, abilities. For instance, if you can manipulate water in all forms, then you would be considered blessed. In the example, when the blessed grabbed the testing wormwood it will steam, dampen, and freeze all at once. Only fifteen of you have shown this propensity to be blessed! The rest of you are normal and fine except for Cole Yankell. He is a cursed child. Meaning he cannot use faith like the rest of you, essentially it will take him longer to do what a normal student can do. That doesn't mean look down on him. It means help him when you can and show mercy as your teachers will show you."

Coach Hoffman "The fifteen blessed and their respective abilities are Aslalo Chafer; gods lightning, Johnathan Angel; heavenly wind, Julissa Daneir; unconditional healing, Nichole Rienhart; death's touch, Dianne Trand; perfect aim, Justin Vadoo; copy, Dexter Ronalds; hellfire, Claude and Camille Rivera; heavenly light and void respectively, Angilina Vizzkarra; control, Alex Dewitt; frost, Jesse Hicks; empty, Joshua Dewll; atomic radiation, Naomi Nguyen; firmament, Shawnte Jones; mutation."

Proctor "Those of you, identified as blessed are not allowed to participate in the tournament. You will have yours after the mock battle. The winner of the mock battle will be able to challenge the blessed. If you can defeat one person you will be considered blessed and be permitted to continue. However, once allowed to continue your grades will be affected by the outcome, so just because you became blessed doesn't exclude you from their rules"

The class was in an uproar from the new information. Their lives were drastically altered. Powers, blessed, the militia? All foreign concepts to them. Where they even ready to go to war or die? Would they be expected to kill?

Coach Hoffman "Not to worry, we miscalculated how long the test of faith would take, so we are doing the tournament tomorrow and the blessed finials Friday. Replacing those events will be a class on how to properly use your magic. Draw the surrounding energy into yourself and push out to use your ability. be careful while it doesn't have any direct adverse actions your magic can be released uncontrollably and cause collateral damage."

The students practiced for hours being easily outshined by the blessed students only taking thirty minutes to fully learn their ability.

Johnathan "Hey cursed child, how does it feel to be born shit?"

Cole "Pretty good! How do your mom's legs feel after my visit?"

Aslalo "Cole, chill dude. That was going too far."

Cole "Was it? She was yelling deeper the entire time."

Aslalo activated his ability surrounding himself with lightning "I SAID COOL IT!"

Cole "Or what? You're gonna electrocute me? How shocking! Go power some lightbulbs and mind your business."

Aslalo "Do you want me to turn you into a pile of ash? I wouldn't mind killing my first demon before anyone else."

Those words struck cole harder than any lightning Aslalo could produce. Not only did he call Cole a demon but also he took murder as some game that is played. He didn't understand what it meant to take a life, be it a demonically possessed human or just some rando on the street. whit this anger Cole's eyes turned a crimson color as he prepared to fight. the proctor not being too far away ruched over to Cole knowing the danger he would pose.

Cole "Is that what you desire? You're welcome to try. This demon will humble you, Oh great one!"

The proctor broke up Aslalo and Cole as the students began to drop one by one.

Proctor "We warned you, any further transgression Cole and you will be suspended."

Cole stormed out of the class into the locker room as the students woke up.

Worried about the day's events the proctor pulled coach Hoffman into his office.

Proctor "Did you see what he did?"

Coach Hoffman "See what?"

Proctor "Don't play stupid. You know exactly what im talking about. He drew power from their souls."

Coach Hoffman "oh? He did, did he?"

Proctor "He cannot fight in the blessed tournament."

Coach Hoffman "This is my class and my task force and my students. The only reason you're here is to make sure the boy doesn't kill anyone, so forgive me if I don't care for your bias."

Proctor "I'm trying now to make sure he doesn't."

Coach Hoffman "He will be fine. I have faith in my students."

Proctor "I pray to God you are right, because if your not it will start a war."

As Cole left the school the normal way, he noticed the halls were increasingly empty as if the students were making way for a prince. The feeling grew larger and larger as cole got closer to the exit.

Aslalo "HEY ASSCOLE! We ain't in class now, still want to talk shit?"

Cole "Ah, Asslalo! Fancy meeting you here buddy!"

Aslalo slammed cole against nearby lockers as he activated his lighting to inspire fear into cole.

Cole "Think you're cool? Picking on a cursed child, poor shame to the crown!"

Aslalo "Why are you fucking around? The balls you showed in gym today? you wouldn't have done that if you were cursed!"

Cole "Hey sparky, tell that to the coach and proctor. Me, on the other hand, would like to go."

Aslalo smiled as he let him go. Cole turns to walk home as he is struck by a bolt of lighting bringing him to the ground.

Aslalo "Take that home with you."

Aslalo spits on Cole as he walks past him almost as if he wanted to display dominance. Cole angrily wiped the spit off and started to head home, about halfway home Coach Hoffman pulls his car up to offer him a ride home. Cole shrugged his shoulders and entered the car.

Coach Hoffman "Cole so you are aware you almost killed the entire class."

Cole "So?"

Coach Hoffman "If you cant keep your powers in check, you may need to drop out of the tournament."

Cole "You don't think I will win do you?"

Coach Hoffman "To be honest Cole, no. I've seen your performance in class. While I don't doubt your potential to better, you have to be realistic. It would be years before you could even attempt to try out."

Cole "Pull over and let me out, please. I think I'll walk now, thanks."

Coach Hoffman " Come on Cole, don't be like that. It's my job to make you face reality."

Cole in his anger grabbed the door and started to push it, breaking the locks. He glared at his teacher with his dual-colored eyes.

Cole "If I wanted your opinion, I would've asked for it."

Before Coach Hoffman could reply Cole forced the door open and jumped out. barrelling down the street he did his best to run away from Coach Hoffman. In the shock of Cole's actions, Coach Hoffman slammed on the breaks, almost flipping his car on its side. As much as he would love to have faith in Cole, his mind is telling him otherwise. Cole is but an immature cursed child, right? His power is uncontrollable, maybe he shouldn't have lied to Cole about what his situation was. He should have told him that he wasn't secretly blessed, But that was one of his dear students. He couldn't break the news to him, especially after he went through. Cole needed something to believe in, even if it was nothing but a harsh cold lie. Forcing those thoughts out of his mind, Coach Hoffman starts his search for Cole.

Angelos "Cole? Are you sure you won't hold back?"

Cole "Yes I'm sure."

Angelos "I'm doing the calculations for our chance of winning and it's not high."

Cole "Come on not you too! I have faith we can win."

Deablos "Speaking of faith, Cole would you like to get stronger?"

Cole "What? How? I have been racking my brain for hours and now you tell me?"

Deablos "I thought you knew since you've been using this power."

Angelos "You better not be talking about what I think you are!"

Deablos "And if I am? Then what feathers?"

Angelos "I get it! You want to kill Cole and me."

Deablos "Oh yea, totally and then die myself? If you haven't noticed there isn't a lot of evil souls around here for me to leach off to survive. Even if I Could find another host, how long until he goes insane? Do you know how rare it is to have two A.I.E like us? Not to mention that not only do I leave but so does my half of the wolf program. Cole can barely manage to stay sane and that's with the both of us reminding him constantly of who he is. Could you imagine an untrained, unsuspecting bystander with his angel program in its default setting? If he didn't kill himself the police force most definitely will! Believe it or not, I care about Cole just as much as you if not more."

Angelos "You must be lying. There is no other answer for you to put his life in danger in such a way!"

Deablos "Maybe to save his fucking life. Like I said the wolf programs come directly from Aether. they draw from you and me then push it into Cole's body directly. You had no problem with coming from that power."

Angelos "That's different, his life was in danger and such a small degree relative to what he on his own will draw out. Not to mention you saw first hand what that tiny bit did to his internal organs. We spent days fixing the damage. You should count your blessings that I don't completely destroy your program's core."

Deablos "Feathers, we are on completely different levels. You low-level weakling. Learn your place!"

Angelos " I'll show you low ranking scourge."

Cole "Will you shut up. Seriously, I don't even understand what you two were arguing about. I will make my own decisions from now on. You two will facilitate whatever plan I come up with. Now tell me how to harness whatever you were talking about."

Deablos "As you wish, but first I must tell you everything. Wouldn't want our feathery friend to get her wings in a bunch."

Cole "Fine just be quick about it. Twenty minutes or less."

Deablos "Fine, long ago sometime around 0 b.c. when the Earth was first created, God made man and breathed life into him. This life was God's pure essence. With this power in humans, God gave them the unadulterated power of him. Creating other God's like him. Just tinier than him, and just a little bit weaker. Strangely unlike the other beings he created, these tiny God's didn't respond on command instead, showing defiance. The first of these little God's were Adam and Lilith. At first, Adam and Lilith got along with God really well. Then Lilith started to defy God's judgment referring to them as nothing more than as the words of a fool. God didn't take kindly to her blasphemy so he separated Adam and her. Lilith becoming the first demon and Adam the first human. To keep Adam from his depression god taught Adam how to command the power within him so that he could place him as the dominant creature and the most dominant of his species. Adam was given a second wife as a gift from God. This one is a little less like God and more human. They had kids and within those kids was the same power given to them by God. When Adam left the home God made him in he taught his children and they taught their children and so on and so forth. Eventually, the knowledge of how to use that power was lost to time. Eventually, people learned how to use this power again but only half at a time. Some took to the crazier and out of body power and called it magic. Others took to the physical and called it chi. Just a few broke from the mold and learned both. When both practices come into one, it produces aether or as most call, it souls. To do what magic users can do and what chi users can do."

Cole "You told me that long-ass story just to tell me to draw on the power of my soul? Are you kidding me right now?"

Deablos "So is that because you don't believe in souls or did I really annoy you?"

Cole "Both. We disproved God a few years ago. Now you want to talk about souls? What wacko page were you on that you found that?"

Deablos "Then explain magic?"

Cole " It's an energy source that comes from within our subatomic particles. The application of these particles is determined by the electromagnetic impulses within the microchip in our contacts."

Deablos " Wow you made the power comes from within your body and is controlled by your mind sound fancy. It's like you went to school and stuff."

Cole " I see what you're doing. But we aren't the same. I have evidence of it not being real and you don't."

Deablos "How about you try it and prove me wrong? Isn't that what science is about?"

Cole "I'm going stop you right there. It's called the burden of proof and it's not on my shoulders to prove you wrong."

Deablos "How about a wager then?"

Cole "What are the terms?"

Deablos "If such a thing is false then I will do whatever you decide, even if it's to take my own life. On the off chance that I am right, then you have to let me teach you the faster way to activate that power."

Cole "Easy. You're on."

Deablos "And you have to endure the training no matter how long it takes, history lessons and all."

Cole "Fine. I'll disprove your claims and then you'll see."

Deablos " Shake on it?"

As Cole reached out to shake his A.I.'s hand Angelos stopped him. Shaking her head.

Angelos "Cole before you shake. I'll tell you she is toying with you. She has been around for millennia and ran through people like you the entire time. Don't be tempted into her foolish ways."

Deablos "Stay out of this Feathers, Cole do we have a deal?"

Angelos "Look at her program, she is foaming at the mouth to the pain she is going to put you in. Think it over."

Cole "Deal, you two are stupid if you think anything of that was true."

Cole grabbed the demon's hand. Smiling the entire time, Deablos faded away.

Cole "Where are you? Your program isn't visible."

Deablos "Cole, we are here. We never left."

Cole "Deablos, it's dark. Give me my sight back."

Deablos "Cole we can't do anything. You started the procedure only you can stop it."

Cole "How?"

Deablos "Walk forward. Keep walking and don't stop. You will know when to stop."

Cole walks forward for what felt like hours. He wasn't thirsty or hungry or bored. He just was, nothing more or less. As he was walking he felt his legs get tired. A few more steps he felt cold but he kept walking, eventually, he was tired. Just when his bodily functions started to slow his pace he saw a fire in the distance, almost instantly forgetting the pain he was in. Just as he arrived a mysterious man appeared. He had no facial features. His skin was cracked and gray. The only thing that stood out to Cole was the shinning golden crown on his head.

Mystery man "Hello there youngin, how are ya?"

Cole "My name is Cole Yankell, who are you?"

Mystery man "I'm you but not you. Don't worry about it, it's not that important."

Cole "It sounds pretty damn important."

Mystery man "So what are you doing here? I didn't expect you for some time."

Cole "I don't know. I just appeared here and walked for hours. I don't even know what you are."

Mystery man "Who I am and where you are is not important."

Cole "What is important then?"

Mystery man "Why you are here?"

Cole "I told you I don't know."

Mystery man "Seems to me that you do know. Maybe you could find a way out if you tell me."

Cole "Listen, I'm going to tell you this one last time. I DO NOT KNOW WHY IM HERE!"

Mystery man "Calm down, you're not in any danger or anything. Barely any time has passed."

Cole "Calm down? CALM DOWN!? How do you expect me to be calm when I am trapped in some sort of dream."

Mystery man "I am being patient with you, you are more than welcome to keep walking. I'm sure we will meet again."

Cole "You are obviously some sort of figment of my imagination caused by the stress im in. If im correct and this is a dream, then I passed out and eventually I will wake up. So all I have to do is wait."

Mystery man "How long do you suppose we have been here? our conversation feels like it was what twenty to thirty minutes? Plus the five or so hours you spent walking here, for a total of what? Sixish hours?"

Cole "Yeah, and? What's your point?"

Mystery man "I'll put this in a way that you understand. Time here is a little fucky. To your actual body, it has been only one millisecond. You haven't even hit the ground yet let alone pass out."

Cole "That's not possible."

Mystery man "When I first come here, I was just like you. Who would believe in a God or any Gods that let the world suffer? Then I grew up, in doing so I realized maybe suffering is a good thing. without it, we have no motivation to grow."

Cole "You are crazy! I don't know what part of my mind you are but apparently, I went through too much abuse and now I have broken."

Mystery man "HAHA! Probably my dear lad, probably. Do you know why you are here now? Try to remember what brought you here."

Cole "I made a deal."

Mystery man "What was that deal?"

Cole "Essentially I had to disprove this crazy notion that the supernatural exists."

Mystery man "Well, you won't find those answers here. Trust me I looked for thousands of years. However, I do know the answer."

Cole "And that is?"

Mystery man "For you to find out. All I'm going to say is have a little faith, even if you fail a thousand times just have a tiny bit of faith. This was a fools wager because it's not something you can prove right or wrong."

Cole "So you're telling me if I just believe it to be true then I will have access to that power?"

Mystery man "You have your convictions, whatever that may be. Use them to power you. It's as simple as breathing."

Cole closed his eyes and drew a deep breath. He poured his heart into getting out. For a split second, the void cracked to reveal a sliver of light.

Mystery man "Good! Cole, you have to push harder and deeper into it. It's ok to be scared of believing your choices have eternal consequences, face them and don't let them overpower you."

The harder Cole focused the more cracks appeared in the void. The more cracks that appeared in the void the more he believed. Eventually, the void shattered revealing a world of pure white light. there was no end to the light nor any beginning. it just was.

Mystery man "You think he got what it takes to replace me?"

Mysterious voice "I don't know, only time will tell. He hears me but my power is too much for him to withstand in any degree. If he starts his training now, maybe."

Mystery man "Hmmm maybe you're right. Don't go too hard on him. I'm rather fond of this one."

Mysterious voice "Me too."

Cole was in awe of this world of white. Trying his best to gather his thoughts he shouted out to his programs over and over with no response. After he gave up his efforts he heard something faint in the distance call to him.

Cole "Angelos? Deablos? I'm here! Angelos! Deablos! Help!"

Angelos "Cole! Cole! You need to wake up now! Breath and speak your desire."

Cole "I want to leave this place."

In a flash of light brighter than the void of nothing, he was in Cole suddenly opened his eyes to catch himself before he fell.

Deablos "So what's the verdict?"

Cole "You win. Teach me."

Deablos "Without fail, first draw energy from the outside and draw it out from within. Then push it into your heart. Every beat should pump more and more power throughout your bloodstream."

As Cole did what he was told, he felt a small fire in him grow inside of him. the power he felt was immense and crushing but warm and loving.

Deablos "Now push it out."

With one push Cole shot out a small puff of smoke and fell to the ground in pain.

Deablos "You have to keep the mixture consistent the entire time or it will damage you. Try again, Actualize your thoughts and bring them to life."

Cole tried and failed over and over and over. After an hour of practice, he was able to negate a portion of the backlash he received from his power. He knew it wasn't enough and he kept training until he perfected it.

Cole "Am I able to compete with the blessed now?"

Deablos "That is up to you."

Cole "Then I will keep... training. I don't feel strong enough yet.*huff**huff*"

Angelos "Cole, you have to recover. If not you won't have a chance what so ever of beating anyone."

Deablos "Cole, grab the four heaviest rocks you can find and turn them into armbands. you have to reconstruct the material into a different one. it won't change its mass but it will change shape."

Cole focused on the heaviest rocks he can lift with all of his might to no avail. He threw his hands down in frustration.

Cole "This is horse shit, all I feel is pain. Nothing but agonizing pain. Is this a way for me to get stronger or are you just trying to torture me?"

Deablos "You feel pain due to your own failings. I'm doing my best to help you."

Angelos "Cole, if you are going to keep training then you need to maintain the same ratio the entire time. Don't give up, try again please."

Cole "This better not be for nothing."

Deablos "First draw energy from the outside and draw it out from within. Then push it into your heart. Again every beat should pump more and more power throughout your bloodstream. Feel it, don't fight it, control it and tell it what to do!"

As Cole did what he was told, he felt the same small fire in him grow inside of him. This time he focused on containing it as much as he could. Each pulse he felt made it more and more difficult to keep it inside.

Deablos "Now push it out."

With one push Cole shot out a small fireball and fell to the ground in pain.

Deablos "Good, you're doing good. Try again."

Cole tried and failed over and over and over again. After an hour of practice, he was able to negate the backlash he received from his power completely. He knew it wasn't enough and he knew he needed to keep training until he perfected it.

Deablos "Ok, now you have a complete mastery of the control of your power and the application of it. However, you still need to practice the battle application of it. That can only be learned in battle."

Cole "Am I able to compete with the blessed?"

Deablos "That is up to you."

Cole "Then I will keep... training. I don't feel strong enough yet.*huff**huff*"

Angelos "Cole, I will say again you have to recover. If not you won't have a chance what so ever of beating anyone."

Deablos "Cole, want to try again with the rocks?"

Cole focused on the heaviest rocks he can lift, they started to shake and glow but ultimately just fell to the ground. Not wanting to give up Cole mustered up all the strength he could and shot out a puff of smoke and fell to the ground in agonizing pain.

Angelos "You need to maintain the same ratio the entire time. You already perfected the ratio. you just need to keep the consistency when expelling that energy. Try again please. I know this must be difficult for you, but you need to master the output. You don't understand the importance of doing this."

Cole "SHUT THE HELL UP! I WILL NOT LET THIS DO ME IN!"

Cole got up and pushed out a tiny ball of energy. The pain that shot throughout his body made him scream in anguish. Somehow he was able to fight the pain and stand. Cole didn't get discouraged anymore instead, he was inspired not only to fight the pain but to keep training. Eventually, he gained a mastery of his new power.

Deablos "Don't get excited just because you don't feel pain anymore. You haven't completely mastered this ability yet."

Cole "Then *huff**huff* let's keep *huff* going."

Angelos "I think that's enough for today. You have enough strength to compete with the blessed. However, whether or not you win is up to you."

Deablos "She has a point. At the rate you learn, the only way to have you improve any further is through combat. The basics you mastered all on your own."

Cole "I'm not strong enough. It's okay let's keep training until you're confident in me winning."

Angelos "Maybe you haven't mastered the basics yet. It isn't about being confident, it's about faith. We don't know if you will win or lose but I have faith you will win."

Cole "I don't know about that. You heard coach, even if I got a grip on my powers he still doesn't believe I will be near the top fifty. Ya know maybe he's right."

Deablos "Get that out of your head right now! Who cares what others think? It's not like they have to deal with the loss. Besides, I never said training is over. If you want to get stronger then I will do as you command. Do you see those boulders over there? Each weighs about thirty pounds. Use aether and turn them into bracelets."

Cole extended his arm out to the rocks sending his energy at the rocks, causing them to glow a deep red.

Deablos "Now focus on what you want them to be. The shape, material, the color every detail and tell them to be that."

As Cole focused harder and harder the rocks lifted into the air and shrunk down into simple sweatbands.

Cole "I-I-I did it! they changed shape on command!"

Deablos "Don't get too excited! You're going to put them on. You need to train your physical body as well as your spiritual one or the power as it grows will make you pop. Remember it's a mixture of chi and magic. So just because you have the outwardly force down doesn't mean the inside is at the same level."

Cole "How do I grow this power? The human body can only do but so much."

Deablos "The wonderful thing about chi is that it breaks your limiter, so there is no plateau for you. The only thing that limits the amount of power you can draw is you. Aether shares the benefits of magic and chi but none of the drawbacks like the limited use or the specific ability. It requires a massive amount of concentration normally even if it's off by a fraction of one percent it will lash out as if it were one hundred percent."

Angelos "Don't be discouraged, the lesser one is a good teacher. Better than mine even. Your body naturally produces it for you."

Deablos "Now that we have today's lesson out of the way put the sweatbands on your limbs and don't take them off unless I say so."

Cole struggled to lift the bands off the ground each one feeling heavier than the last.

Cole "How am I supposed to fight like this?"

Deablos "I dunno, but you will."

Cole "Whatever, I'm tired and hungry."

Angelos "We should head home then."

Cole "Yea, we should."

Coach Hoffman spotted Cole as he was about halfway home causing him to slam on his breaks.

Coach Hoffman "Cole! Where have you been? I've been looking all over for you. Are you feeling better?"

Cole "I'm hungry and sleepy."

Coach Hoffman "I could take you to my house and feed you."

Cole "No, I am going home."

Coach Hoffman "Okay, let me at least buy you dinner."

Cole "No thank you."

Coach Hoffman "Get in and I'll drive you home."

Cole "That's quite alright, I'm fine."

Coach Hoffman "Cole, what's wrong?"

Cole "Well I have a middle-aged man following me trying to get me in his car to do god knows what."

Coach Hoffman "Cole, it's not like that and you know it. Just get in and we will talk about it on the way home."

Cole "I am going to tell you for the last time. I do not wish to be near you. Leave me alone!"

The energy Cole gave off made Coach Hoffman recoil in fear. he had never felt such a deep power. It's as if the very air he was breathing was burning him.

Coach Hoffman "Still I insist you allow me to assist you. I will drive and get some food for us and bring it here."

Cole sighed as he walked to the car. Just as Coach Hoffman pressed on his gas pedal Cole grabbed his door and held the car in place. the more Coach Hoffman pressed on the gas, the harder Cole gripped the door.

Cole "I'm pretty sure it's my power that's giving me the strength to hold this car in place. I'm having a hard time perceiving my own strength. Not too long ago I couldn't even lift some rocks. I'm learning more and more the more I use this power. You want to know something else I learned? I'm glad you asked. I am getting this feeling from you, well your soul to be specific. It wants to harm me and it's in fear. That's good, it should be scared..."

Coach Hoffman "I am the one that calls forth the north wind. I am the one that controls the very path it walks. Hear my name and burn. Burn those that will do harm to me. Let them not stand in my presence in comfort but total agony. I ANTONIO HOFFMAN CALL FORTH THE WIND SPELL BURNING AIR!"

A tornado of wind suddenly appeared and swirled around Cole. Coach Hoffman sighed a breath of relief thinking it was over. Just as he put his car in gear he heard a deep breath. To his surprise, Cole dispelled his wind by waving his arm.

Coach Hoffman "That's impossible. That spell would have incinerated even the blessed that control fire."

Cole "Don't worry, it was a defense mechanism, I don't even know how I did it in the first place, had it not I would have been burned to a crisp I'm sure. As I was saying, you should be terrified because if I get the slightest hint that you told anyone about me or try to pretend like you care about me, I'll use you as my test dummy. I don't know how to fully control my power so trust me when I say it will be the most agonizing time you have ever had. I'm glad we came to an understanding, you may go now."

Cole left an indent in Hoffman's car as he let go. With a smile, he waved Coach Hoffman off and went home. When he arrived his family was sound asleep. Finding a still-warm dinner plate on the table with a note. As he was eating he read the note.

-Cole I have to step out for a day or two for some military business. I just wanted to say im so proud of you, keep up your training. I know I may have seemed distant lately but im always watching. I was filled with absolute joy when I heard you were found and that your A.I.E. turned blue. keep up the good work. Remember your mother and I love you dearly-

-DAD

Cole started to tear up as he ate. His food getting saltier as the tears mixed with the food.

Cole "I wish you said that to me earlier old man. I love you too. I will be strong for you and for Jody. I promise I won't let you down."

Angelos "Cole, if you are finished eating. It's time for bed. Aether uses chi to increase your healing factor but it's especially fast if you sleep."

Cole "I guess you're right. Goodnight then."

Cole headed upstairs and went to bed for the night.

Angelos & Deablos "Goodnight Cole. We wish you the best of luck tomorrow."

The next morning Cole rushed outside of his house.

Cole "I'm late, I'm late. Geez, why didn't yall wake me up!"

Deablos "We tried, you wouldn't wake up."

Cole screamed as he ran to his school, barely making it in before they locked the doors.

Proctor "Cole Yankell! You were almost late. We already took attendance and it will be marked when you arrived. Get to the stage the match is starting soon!"

Coach Hoffman "Welcome parents, students and faculty to the first student militia tournament! The event is simple, this is an all out brawl with two rules! Rule number one Do not kill your opponent. Rule number two as long as it doesn't violate rule one there are no rules. Don't worry, however, with our state of the art medical staff on hand provided by the foundation of medical research. All injuries will be treated within a timely manner. With that being said, Students take your places and fight!"

The moment Coach Hoffman shot the blank. The students started to battle. Staying out of the fight as much as possible Cole dodged any attack that came his way the best he could but the bracelets were stopping him from moving as well as he normally would.

Kibustchi "Hey! Demon! Think you can just not fight? I thought your kind reveled in violence."

Cole "I'm not sure about demons in general but I would like to avoid fighting if I can kibi!"

Kibustchi "My name is Kibustchi of the kurnagi shadow assassin clan. Don't you dare disrespect me by calling me kibi! We hide in the blessed shadows of life, those who fear darkness fears the light. Those who fear death fears life. Hear me shadow assassin technique shadow slash."

Deablos "Cole, shadow spells can be countered by a strong light."

Cole "OK! draw power from outside and pull out from within. each beat of your heart should pump more and more power out. Maintain the same ratio and a consistent release and push!"

When Cole swung his arm a blade of light slashed Kibustchi's shadow in half.

Angelos "Wow, you summoned an angelic blade!"

Before Cole could celebrate Kibustchi hacked at him again and again.

Kibustchi "Hows that for kibi? Can't handle the shadow assassin techniques, can you? Huh cursed one?"

Cole "It's not that. It's just difficult to move with these armbands."

Deablos "Cole, his attacks are pretty straight forward. All you have to do is counter and wait for an opening and attack. It appears every second slash when he retracts."

Cole saw the opening just before the blade cut him. Barely dodging Cole strikes a decisive blow on Kibustchi's abdomen sending him flying into five other students knocking them all out.

Cole "So that's what chi does to your physical body huh?"

Angelos "More so the aether strengthened you. chi just makes your body stronger to withstand the force."

Cole "Hmm ya don't say? So I can choose how hard I punch?"

Angelos "That's what we have been telling you."

Cole "I should listen more often. What else can I do?"

Deablos "It's the very power of god himself. There is no limits on what it can or cant do except for you."

Cole "I HEAR THAT! HOW ABOUT WE HAVE SOME FUN!? FUCK WITS OF THIS CLASS, I WILL BE THE FIRST STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENT! SO MOVE OUT OF MY WAY!"

Deablos "FUCK YEA LET'S GOOOOO!"

Angelos "Cole we should think about this!"

Proctor "In light of Cole Yankell's declaration, the principal said that no demon will dictate what goes on in this school half blood or not! As such he is adding a third rule. Anyone or group that eliminates the cursed child Cole Yankell will be given a provisional status as blessed."

The crowd roared as the students focused on Cole. One by one Cole took them all down. He felt it, his punches were sharper and harder. he could more freely even though he was weighed down. his reaction time was faster than ever before. he didn't even need to use his wolves.

Natalie "I wouldn't get confident Cole! It's your fault that Johnathan doesn't talk to me anymore. Durokan family chantless art fire."

Natalie attacked Cole with her hands engulfed in a violent purple flame. Every time she swung Cole felt weaker and weaker. Her hands moved faster and faster as if she was growing in power.

Natalie "My family specializes in magic martial arts. The chantless art fire will burn at your stamina levels. If I can't reach your power I will bring yours down to mine."

Cole "That's cheating!"

Proctor "You think demons will fight fair? As we speak they are mobilizing to kill you all."

As Cole dodged the punches, he felt weaker the closer they grew to him. Natalie giving it all she could round house kicked Cole sending him flying across the stage.

Natalie "I did it! I beat Cole!"

Cole "Ya know, you talk way too much. This isn't anywhere near my maximum output. So I ask would you like me to feed you to the wolves?"

Natalie "You can't touch me. Your power will be halved until you pass out. We will not be scared of a demon."

Cole "Do you know what's half of infinity?"

When Cole stood an ominous dark energy surrounded him. The air surrounding him sent shivers down Natalie's spine. Not being discouraged she rushed at Cole unleashing a flurry of attacks sending him flying around the stage. Each time Cole stood he was sent flying in a different direction."

Cole "It's infinity."

Cole's eyes shifted to a sulking deep blood red. His pupils became slanted. His nails turned into claws and his teeth became sharp. The sight made the crowd silent and fearful."

Cole "Don't worry, Cole no kill you. Cole just want a taste"

In a blink of her eye's Cole disappeared and reappeared in front of her. Out of sheer terror she punched Cole barely getting him to turn his head. She punched and kick to no avail. He wouldn't budge what so ever. She desperately kicked his neck in hopes that he will go away, but instead he grabs her leg and starts to crush it. Her bones creaking and cracking in his grip.

Cole "Cole so sorry, but Cole can't let you win. You really really strong. Keep training and you will one day surpass even the blessed."

Natalie was shocked. Cole's Aura wasn't scary because it was violent. It was scary because it was kind. As ominous as it was, it was also loving. It was as if he were a gentle warrior. As she pulled her leg from Cole's grip, she understood the power that was in front of her and fell to her knees.

Natalie "I forfeit. I'm sorry please let me go. My leg is already broken"

Cole "No. I must use you as an example to those who raise a hand against me."

Natalie tried to crawl away as fast as she could with her broken leg. Cole followed her to the edge of the ring. the look in her eye's was that of pure terror of what he was going to do. Cole smiled as he keeled beside her. The fear in her heart rose making Natalie tear up. Cole just smiled and flicked her forehead knocking her out.

Cole "Show kindness and mercy to those who show you evil and punishment. Please rest peacefully."

Brandon "Get away from her you evil demon!"

Cole "Ah Brandon. You weren't kind, nor did you stand idly by. No you were an active participant in my abuse. As such you will be my example for those who dare indulge in violent impulses and the suffering of others."

Brandon "Oh yeah? Your a cursed demon that picks on girls. So bring it! To those upper or greater beings I will shine! I will shine like the stars in the night sky. I will shine brighter than those who dare snuff my light out. Shine magic rock star! Take this my strongest attack! Made specifically to target and destroy evil at the speed of light!"

Brandon shot a laser of pure light at Cole.

Angelos "Cole, have just a tad bit of faith. Even if it is no larger than a mustard seed, Have faith!"

In an instant Cole split the beam of light in half and ran towards Brandon, breaking his defenses with pure force, knocking him to the ground. Cole let out a powerful roar as he mounted Brandon. The air around Cole shifted from a gentle Warrior to that of pure anger and hatred. with one swing of his arm he broke Brandon's jaw. Cole didn't stop, he kept wailing at Brandon, breaking bone after bone. Pummeling him so hard that the ground started to crack. Just as he was going to deliver the final blow, he saw a glimpse of himself in the blood that littered the floor. That scared little boy who wished someone would save him. With his final swing he stopped his abuse. When Cole rose his head he was surrounded not only by the proctor but the principal and higher faculty.

Malick "Whew, that was quite the close call. I thought we would have to put you down."

Cole "Principal Malick! I didn't sense your soul until the last second! You must be incredibly strong. Don't worry, I had no intention on killing him."

Malick "I must admit Cole Yankell, you are incredibly strong too. If you had landed that last blow i would've took your head where you stood."

Cole "As if old man."

Malick "You want to test that?"

Cole "I mean all of the contestants gave up or were knocked out. The blessed tournament isn't till tomorrow, How about a quick match?"

Malick "Ohoho you sure are brave. How about a wager instead? I read in some old book that demons like to gamble."

Cole "I'm no demon sir, but i will gladly accept what are your terms?"

Malick "If you come in first place i will fight you. If not then you will drop out of this academy and stop learning that ominous power. Also if we do fight and You win, you will receive a passing grade no matter what you do, If i win our little match. You must learn swordsmanship from me during your time in school."

Cole "It doesn't sound like I lose anything. What do you have up your sleeve old man?"

Malick "Ohoho nothing. My job isn't to be evil towards my students, but to foster a spirit of self discovery and growth."

The energy the principal and Cole gave off was sending shock waves through the air. The pressure was so imminence, those who were standing were barely able to move. Trapped by their fear, unable to stop their knees from trembling. Their faces showed no signs of fear from the other. Cole smiled as he stretched out his hand to shake.

Cole "Deal!"

Malick gripped Cole's hand. Even though Malick was slightly crushing His hand, Cole didn't show any sign he was in pain. Rather he squeezed back, showing the principal that he wouldn't back down.

Malick "There you have it! Cole Yankell has won the first student militia tournament! As such he will have an opportunity to compete with the blessed for student council president. The rules for the trials of the blessed tournament shall be announced tomorrow to keep it as fair as possible. That is all I will say about that. I am so proud of all of those that competed! Such displays of potential fills my heart with pride. Do not be discouraged if you quit or was eliminated. Instead be inspired to grow stronger. The road ahead will be the roughest time some of you have ever experienced. I wish you the best of luck with your education. That is all. THE FIRST STUDENT MILITIA TOURNAMENT IS NOW CONCLUDED!"

With the blessed tournament the next day Cole left to do some training alone. To the dismay of the blessed that witnessed Cole's power the principal told them if they go easy on Cole for any reason they will be expelled. With the stakes looming over them Cole and the rest of the blessed trained harder than they ever had before. They practiced their abilities until their bones ached with pain.

Cole "Dad, watch over me like you always do. I will never lose ever."

Chapter 6: CHAPTER 6: A New Beast

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Chapter 6: CHAPTER 6: A New Beast

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