@Bloodshadow: Perhaps I should add the following disclaimer for clarification:
The opinions expressed by the characters do not necessarily reflect the views of the author. Personally, I hold nothing at all against Darkness and I very purposely wrote a statement in the Notes section concerning Heaven's xenophobia actually being an antiquated (and inaccurate) attitude. I regret as much as you do the absence of many progressive reformists in Heaven.
I am really pleased and delighted as to the positive reception expressed by several to my post (blame me not; after all, which writer is not guilty of the enjoyment of praise from others?
), and, no objections providing, am satisfied that it is acceptable with the current canon.
Regarding the issue of classes of divinity, if the majority believe that Elemental Masters (Master Form) should be slightly more powerful than Council Archangels (and Archdemons for that matter), it is fine with me and I will simply incorporate that into writing.
I will look forward with great anticipation to continuing this adventure with everyone.
***
IC: Though Emparael believed the Sword of Justice to be a mere "civil police force", history had already proven him wrong, and the future would soon follow suit.
The Sword, always led by none less than the incumbent Archangel of Justice, is composed of some of the most potentially illustrious angels in Heaven. It does not conscript or recruit, as the Sword does not seek out members; those few whom believe themselves to be worthy must seek out the Sword and pass arduous tasks to acquire membership and prove themselves to be fiercely devoted to fighting that which is unjust wherever it may be found.
The most important principle and duty of Catyrael's group has always been to enforce Divine Justice in both the Upper and the Lower Worlds, for its mandate originates from Heaven and is, for all practical purposes, eternal; its jurisdiction is also as far and wide-reaching.
Catyrael knew that news spread at the speed of light in Heaven in the aftermath of important Council decisions; hence, he was not particularly surprised to find some old friends waiting for him.
"We have become acquianted with everything that has occurred regarding the Council's decision on intervention in the Lower World. Speaking at least for myself, I am joining you on this venture, Catyrael, and there cannot be a shadow of a doubt about it," said Dominrael.
"Can there be a better moment for the Sword to exercise its power again and to assist those who are in need? Needless to say, I shall participate as well," said Falindael rather cheerfully.
"They speak for me as well," intoned Moriael solemnly. And yet, between such old friends and veterans, six words sufficed to effectively convey a message.
The Archangel of Justice had to pause for a few seconds to take in everything said by this welcoming committee and its implications. They were of a slightly lesser order of Angels, but had proven their worth upon many an occasion, and it mattered not to him.
"You are ancient, dear, and just friends of mine to whom I could not deny this. In fact, it seems you are just as inclined as I am to re-experience some high old times, and if this little adventure actually proves to be more than a small police action, it is certain that we shall."
"However, if we are actually to intervene in what appears to be a large battle between Lower World inhabitants, would you not need more than four angels? Only one thousand years before, I remember the days when Heaven would have sent four hundred!" said Dominrael, on a sad note.
"Yes, Dominrael, you are not alone in having difficulty in reconciling with the fact that Heaven was more powerful once, something which I readily admit. We may not be able to muster four hundred for this police action; we will have to accomodate a small force. Perhaps a group of twenty."
"Both of you worry needlessly. Even were the four of us, the Archangel of Justice and three veteran companions engaged in pitched battle outnumbered one hundred-to-one by hostile Lower World denizens, the odds would still be against them!" noted Falindael with renewed cheer.
"However, these are not average Lower World denizens we speak of. I fear greater powers against whom we have not been tested, and of whom we still know little, are players in this particular game. We must take care."
Catyrael paused, lost for a brief moment in the sphere of angelic thought.
Is it possible that I have failed to consider all of the implications of the situation? Who are these "Elemental Masters" exactly? How powerful are they? What is their attitude regarding Heaven? Are they benevolent? Will they be hostile? They are probably too young to remember Heaven's previous interventions; the last one occurred approximately a century ago, so if they see us, they might be completely ignorant as to our identities and our purpose in the Lower World. How will they react then? Veteran Enforcers of Justice like these three need have little fear against most of the Lower World's inhabitants in battle, but are their lives in peril if such mysterious beings make their presence known? Oh by Solraegiel! I am not the Archangel of Love, but of Justice. And if sacrifices must be made in its name, they shall be. None shall stand in the way of its inexorable fulfillment...but if sacrifice can be minimised, then it should be."Yes, friends, my confidence in all of us is unwavering, but be cautious with these unknown creatures of power known as "Elemental Masters". Only once you have ascertained their attitude with relative certainty should you approach them. We know not what they are capable of, and to be safest, I wish to endanger as few as possible. Further, there is another factor to consider: though the Council did not discuss this, I find it very difficult to believe that what appears to be a very well-organised and co-ordinated Death Army could suddenly and spontaneously launch a massive assault upon the Kingdom of Darkness without prior preparation. I sense a great hand behind the maneuver, possibly someone greater than an "Elemental Master". In fact, I suspect the implication of at least one False God. But enough of these concerns, which I will elucidate upon at the briefing. Meet me before the Crystal Arch at the noontide."
***
Note: Of course, Heaven is very familiar with the concept of the Elemental Masters, but it knows very little about the current holders of those positions.
