But Monja didn't move a muscle, paralyzed in the spot. Another plea crossed her lips, which the kids ignored as they arrowed straight for David. A sudden energy took over Monja's frame as she jumped forward and pushed David out of danger's way.
Monja: *Her eyes blaze with a fierce protective light. A surge of power, raw and untamed, explodes from her, throwing the kids back.* I said, stop it! *Her voice bellows, causing a power surge that leads to complete darkness. The kids stopped in their tracks.*
David and Jin-Woo stare at their female companion in utter silence and wonder. The apartment plunges into an oppressive, absolute darkness. Only the faintest outlines of the figures remain visible, swallowed by the unnatural gloom.
Monja: *Her silhouette trembles, her voice thick with barely controlled fury.* If you hurt David, you hurt Christopher… if he's hurt, you'll have me in tears. Now either give my kids back willingly or taste my wrath.
A low chuckle breaks the silence. It doesn't come from the siblings. A figure materializes from the shadows, wings the color of falling leafs faintly visible in the near-total darkness.
Darius: *He folds his wings gracefully, his sickly sweet demeanor at odds with the oppressive atmosphere. He inclines mockery in his gesture.* My, my, Monja. Such fire. I haven't seen you this passionate since… well, let's just say it's been a while.
Jin-Woo: *The hunter's instincts scream danger, something seems off. He recognizes the energy signature, similar yet distinct from the kids, merely moments before. This new presence… it's ancient, powerful, and deeply unsettling.* Who are you? *He demands, his voice cutting through the vast darkness.*
Darius: *He lets out a soft, melodic laugh, the sound echoing unnervingly in the confined space.* Let's just say I'm an old friend… of the family. *His gaze shifts to Lloyd and Lerato, a glint of something predatory in his eyes.* And it seems our little fledglings have found themselves some… interesting playmates.
The children, still frozen, shivers slightly, as if a cold wind has just swept through the room. The oppressive darkness seems to cling to them, pulsating with a sinister energy. David moves to stand beside Jin-Woo, his hand gripping his blade again. The air crackles with unspoken tension, a sense of impending conflict hanging heavy in the silence.
David: *Whispers, keeping his eyes fixed on Darius and the children who seems to be alright again.* Do you recognize this… entity? *He sheathes his blade, opting for a more discreet approach.* He seems to know Monja.
Jin-Woo: *He shakes his head slowly, his mind racing. This situation is spiraling out of control. He can sense Michael's absence keenly. Where is the Archangel when they need him?* I don't. But I can feel… something. Something old and powerful. This isn't good, David. *He looks back at Monja, concern etched on his face.* Are you alright?
Monja: *Monja takes a deep breath, trying to compose herself. She can feel her children's fear, their confusion. It's a mother's instinct, a bond that even this unnatural darkness can't server.* I… I don't understand… a family friend? I've never seen you before!
Her voice cracks with unshed tears, a mixture of fear and maternal anguish. The darkness pulsates again, growing colder, heavier. A sense of dread settles over them, thick and suffocating. Darius smiles, a slow, predatory grin that sends chills down their spines.
Darius: *He spreads his wings, the movement causing the shadows to dance and writhe. His voice drips with amusement, laced with a hint of menace.* Oh, Monja, dear. Don't you recognize me? I'm just here to… reconnect. After all, we have so much to catch up on. *His gaze falls on Jin-Woo, a flicker of recognition – and perhaps, a hint of challenge – in his eyes.* And it seems you've made a… new friend. How… fascinating.