InsaneJournal

Tweak says, "I should quit while I'm ahead"

:: wax on, wax off :: (skeeballfanatic) wrote in colligo_threads,
@ 2009-12-25 11:02:00

Entry tags:

!open, castiel, clark kent, damien thorn, god, satan

WHO: God (OPEN TO MULTIPLE THREADS)
WHAT: Celebrating Christmas, in Her own way.
WHEN: Christmas morning - 10am
WHERE: A church
RATING: TBD
STATUS: In Progress

Many skeptics believed that Christmas had become so commercialized, so focused on spending money buying things that people don't really need, that the real reason for the holiday had been lost. In some ways, perhaps, that was true. For some people it really was all about getting gifts rather than giving them, about selfish things rather than sharing love with those around them. Yet as a whole, those who celebrated tended to know the real reason for Christmas and most, in their own way, gave thanks for it.

And needless to say, it was typically a very busy day for God.

The fact of the matter was, when people prayed, God listened. No matter how small the prayer, no matter how seemingly insignificant, God was there. Smiling down upon them with love and compassion. And while Christmas was symbolic of the birth of her only begotten Son, people still prayed for themselves. Asked for things for their loved ones, for health and for happiness. And every single one of those prayers was acknowledged in some way. It was the one day that things were personally handled by her, as her own thanks to those who still remembered the sacrifice she'd made for humanity so very long ago.

So for the majority of the early morning, God had returned to Heaven to preside over Earth. Now that the sun had risen, though, she returned to Colligo to be with those who were cut off from her creation. She had spent a few hours walking the streets to be amongst the mortals. She had given food and blankets to a group of homeless who were huddled together in the park rather than going to one of the shelters in the city. She had made money appear in a single mother's purse so she could afford some last minute gifts for her children. And at long last, God had wound up at the very same church upon whose lawn she had met with Castiel a few months earlier.

There was a smile upon her face as she listened to the bells sound the beginning of the service. Her skirt flowed silently around her ankles as she stepped inside the building and looked around. Spotting an empty pew and made her way to it, deciding that this was where she would spend the next hour or so. Not up front, near the stained glass window that depicted an image of her Son and his disciples, nor at the alter where the men in cloth were beginning to pray to her, but at the very back of the congregation amongst those who were troubled yet still present. Those looking for guidance, clinging to their last shred of belief, and hoping with everything they had within their soul that God would smile upon them.

Little did they know that she already was.

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heavenslancer
2009-12-25 04:22 pm UTC (link)

Castiel walked past the little church often yet he rarely stopped. There was no need. Churches held no special significance to him. He knew His Father was everywhere. This was the place he had met his Father, the significance was not lost on him. He knew it was the reason he came this way even when he didn't need to. He was always curious to see if his Father was here but he had not seen Him there again yet, today Castiel felt drawn to the place.

He was not sure why except for the fact it was Christmas day and thoughts turned to his Father at that time.

Castiel entered the little church for the first time since he arrived in Colligo. He looked around the church, seeing it was nearly full, he moved to the back and he stopped, and stared. He did not wish to draw attention so forced himself to move forward. He slipped into the pew next to his Father and looked at his with surprise and no small amount of wonder and awe. It was how Castiel generally looked at his Father.

"Have you come to minister to them?" Castiel whispered curiously.

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skeeballfanatic
2009-12-26 07:10 am UTC (link)

God was aware the moment Castiel entered the church, of course. However she didn't glance at him until he spoke, preferring to let him say whatever he might be planning without interference from her. At his question, she smiled and turned her gaze to him.

No, little one, her voice carried so only he could hear it, Those who are assembled here needn't hear from me to know of my existence.

It was true, of course. Even those amongst the crowd who were still filled with doubt and whose hearts were in such pain, could feel the spirit of the Lord in a setting such as this. There were very few who couldn't. The irony of course being that those who typically couldn't were the ones who needed God the most.

But she didn't have to minister to them to make her presence known. Simply by being there in the flesh she had brought about a peace that wasn't nearly as noticeable otherwise. The air was thick with her love and support, her willingness to sacrifice anything - including her only Son - to ensure humanity was given a chance few other beings were.

Reaching out, God gently took Castiel's hand in hers and gave him another warm smile. Many humans believe, she confided in him, that only those who are completely without doubt and who truly follow my path will be blessed. They sit in judgment of those around them, considering themselves better than the rest. Yet today they all gather together without thoughts of superiority in order to honor someone they have never met and who they would not know were they to do so. It is a special day for humanity and we're both fortunate to be amongst them for it.

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heavenslancer
2009-12-26 08:31 am UTC (link)

No one else but his Lord, and his brother, could see them but when God took Castiel's hand the angel's wings quivered and fluttered in delight. He did not tighten his own fingers, that would imply a familiarity that he just didn't share with his Father.

He watched his Father's face as he looked around the church. He had not seen his Father so relaxed since there first meeting and he found it heartening.

"I have seen the same inconsistencies in them but they are capable of great faith and nobility. I look at Dean and Jimmy and I see the best of them. Jimmy is... at home here. Dean would only come if it were for a case but both feel your touch all the same." Then Castiel look a moment to look mildly disapproving. "Dean is very familiar with you, I have noticed."

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skeeballfanatic
2009-12-26 08:51 am UTC (link)

God's smile was an amused one when Castiel showed his disapproval at Dean's behavior toward her. She knew that to most, especially one as loyal as Castiel was, that her relationship with Dean seemed strange. In fact only her relationship with Morningstar would seem stranger, and that was one that most rarely if ever witnessed. Dean, however, was casual with her in all settings, both public and private.

Don't trouble yourself over Dean's behavior, Castiel, she finally told him, her tone still light and filled with faint amusement. He is well aware of his place and knows when to refrain from such familiarity.

She fell silent as the congregation began a prayer, allowing the words to wash over her. When they had finished as a whole, she glanced to Castiel once more. She picked back up the very same train of thought she'd had before the prayer had begun. Besides, were he to act as anyone but himself it would be a far greater insult to me than simply calling me Lady and his other, more unorthodox, actions in my presence.

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heavenslancer
2009-12-27 01:53 am UTC (link)

Castiel was relieved. Although he suspected his Father would have shown disapproval by now had he been concerned about Dean's behaviour it was good to hear in his Father's own voice he was not concerned. One of the things that had been concerning Castiel the most was a tension between his Father and his charge. He knew Dean would come off second-best and he he did not want Dean to be on the receiving end of his Father's wrath, even if it was deserved.

Castiel's eyes strayed to the being sitting at his Father's opposite side. He had paid him little attention, his Grace muffled by their Father's, until he heard his Father use it's name. That was when his eyes went wide, he tensed. For a moment he lost sight of his Father altogether. Only saw his brother. On his face was a look of pure distaste.

"What is he doing here?" Castiel spat. "Why is he walking free?" He did not address Lucifer directly though that would not hold.

He backed away a little, sliding across the pew but his eyes stayed fixed on Lucifer. He had to stop the next words out of his mouth. Now is your chance, Father. That would have been over-stepping his mark but he knew his Father could hear the thought. Castiel didn't know what to make of his brother's presence but he knew he had to keep him from Sam Winchester He knew his Father knew this too but Castiel had found, lately, may things he thought he knew were not even close to true. He had to trust Morningstar was under their Father's control. It was the only thing stopping him tearing out his brother's throat. It was the only thing keeping him from blasphemy.

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skeeballfanatic
2009-12-28 04:50 pm UTC (link)

Castiel.

Although her tone was firm, there was no rebuke in it. In fact there was more of a tinge of exasperation mixed with no small amount of caring. She had known the moment Castiel learned of Morningstar's presence within the city that he might react accordingly. In fact were she not present, she had little doubt he might have attacked the fallen angel outright. Which is partially why she was glad it had come to pass in this fashion. Who better to keep the younger angel from doing such a thing than her, after all.

Turning a bit in the pew, so her back was to Morningstar for the time being and she was facing Castiel directly, her gaze met his and her expression softened a bit. I do not expect you to understand, little one, but do try to calm yourself. Morningstar as no intention of making a bid for Sam Winchester in this place. This is not Earth and therefore not the planet over which Morningstar plans to someday rule. She is simply here, as I am, to relax and enjoy herself a bit.

A glance over her shoulder at the fallen angel in question and she added with bemusement, Perhaps a bit too much enjoyment, in this instance. Then she looked back to Castiel and lightly touched the seat he had been accompanying before sliding away from them both.

Now come. There is no need to fret and certainly no need to consider openly attacking another. Not today, and certainly not in this place.

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heavenslancer
2009-12-29 01:53 pm UTC (link)

Castiel had been experiencing a new-found defiance of late and, as Castiel never did things by halves, he had been showing everyone glimpses of his new nature. Everyone but his Father and his Father would never see it directed at him. God was right, Castiel did not understand, but if his Father said Sam was safe he had no choice but to believe and to be relieved. Sam was safe. Castiel relaxed a little. He still did not like being on the same space as Lucifer. He did not understand his Father's reaction to Lucifer, he could only trust it but it was hard. It was exceptionally hard.

He moved back to his former seat as his Father bid him but he made to attempt to communicate with Lucifer. There was a limit to how much he could restrain himself, even in a house of God. The congregation had began to sing a song of praise to his Father and Castiel looked to his Father for permission to join in.

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im_nota_hooker
2009-12-25 09:21 pm UTC (link)

Satan had been not very busy Christmas morning but she had been out and about. The locals seemed happy along with many Colligo stranded people, she sighed and kept a friendly smile.

She wasn't sure where she was going and had no set point of end but she felt like she should be with friends on this holiday. Passing the Church she tilted her head, the door seemed cracked so she stepped close to the entrance. Smiling she took a small seat in the back row, looking to her side she added. "It is a lovely day to be here."

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skeeballfanatic
2009-12-26 07:17 am UTC (link)

There weren't many who would have believed Morningstar willing, or even really capable, of stepping foot inside of a church. It was, after all, hallowed ground. Sacred. Blessed by the Lord and a sanctuary from those who wished to avoid the lure of Satan. However, God knew better.

While it was true that Lucifer had no power in this place, that didn't mean the fallen angel couldn't come inside. It was, after all, a safe haven for all of God's creatures - including the very first one to fall from Grace.

So yes, it was a bit unusual and certainly unorthodox. But Satan was hardly one to follow the status quo and God's sense of humor was just quirky enough to recognize the irony of her being present in such a place as this, on today of all days. Which meant, instead of casting her from the area or even showing disdain at her presence, God simply glanced at her and smiled.

And it will continue to be lovely provided you behave yourself, Morningstar, she responded, a teasing lilt to her words. Of course she knew Satan had no intention of attempting to cause trouble - at least nothing too terrible or significant - but their bantering was something that was familiar to them both. Comfortable, in a strange sort of way that chances are only God and Satan could truly understand.

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im_nota_hooker
2009-12-26 11:23 pm UTC (link)

Satan heard God's voice and smiled intently at the warning although she was well aware that there was no trouble here. "I am just coming to praise your holliness." It was bantering but nothing that God herself couldn't understand or enjoy.

She looked past God and sighed it was true that sometimes she hated being damned and hated by many. Although it was the way thing were now and she had learned to accept that fate. "Merry Christmas!" She whispered excitedly.

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skeeballfanatic
2009-12-28 04:54 pm UTC (link)

God gave a soft snort of amusement at the response. Of course you are, she replied with a bemused smile and light shake of her head. Really, Morningstar, you of all beings should know I would scarcely believe that.

Which was, of course, the point of the comment. It was also a prime example of the sort of unusual relationship she had with one who had once been her most trusted angel above all others. Her love for Morningstar was still as strong as it had always been, of course, but there were many who did not understand that fact. Including the much younger angel seated with them.

With the light smile still in place, she glanced to Satan. My attention is going to go elsewhere very shortly, she said simply. There is one here who requires my guidance. Behave yourself, She paused, then added, And do try not to provoke Castiel too much. I've taken quite a liking to him.

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im_nota_hooker
2009-12-31 05:35 pm UTC (link)

Satan looked past God to the youngest angel seated next to her. Giving a simple smirk she agreed "I shall not provoke the young angel too much." It was a gentle tone though so she had good intentions.

Watching the Lord head toward a troubled soul she turned back to Castiel and stuck her tounge out. It was playfull but then she spoke her voice soft as she knew he heard her over his loud singing. "I am not here to cause trouble, gentle one, I am simply alone on Christmas and seek refuge in a church with my family.

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chosemanypaths
2009-12-26 11:30 pm UTC (link)

Among those in the back was a man who normally would have felt much more comfortable settled in the front, among the wealthier families and people making a show of their piety. A former United States Senator, a man who knew all about how much a show of religious devotion could boost one's social and political standing . . . and yet here he sat, in the next-to-last pew, staring up at the service with quiet, slightly confused eyes. It had been so long since he really came and heard Mass of any sort, and the memories he still retained were not serving him well. He didn't quite remember what he should be doing, what he should be feeling at that moment. He knew there were things he should know; rituals that had been ingrained in him when he was young (though never as strictly as his mother's scoldings of "Sit still. Be quiet. Listen to the bishop, and for God's sake stay awake."), but they were nowhere in his mind now as, years later, he knelt for a prayer amongst the troubled and the devout together, his aged body protesting just a little as he got down on his knees.

For not the first time in his life, and especially in the last few years, Nathan Petrelli really didn't know what he was supposed to do next.

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skeeballfanatic
2009-12-27 05:12 am UTC (link)

Although it was clear Castiel wanted desperately to attack Morningstar, God knew he wouldn't without her express permission. Just as she knew Morningstar wouldn't dare turn against her right here and now, and try to sway some of the lost souls currently gathered to her side. No, God knew they would behave - as much as an angel as young as Castiel and one who had fallen so far as Morningstar could at least - and therefore she felt quite comfortable with turning her attention away from them after a while to one person in particular.

Nathan Petrelli. A man who had spent the bulk of his life living up to expectations laid out by his father and whose ideas, while certainly not ones that God balked had, had landed him in quite a bit of trouble and caused no small amount of pain to others in his life over the years. He was one of the current lost souls assembled. A man who, while undoubtedly certain of her existence, had still managed to lose his way in a world that had spiraled out of control around him.

Rising, God moved past Morningstar - with a warning look to both her and Castiel that all but screamed 'both of you behave' - and slid into the empty space beside Nathan. He was still struggling, even know in this place of worship. She could sense it coming off of him in veritable waves and made a decision as she gazed upon him to do something she rarely did with most humans.

She intended to make her presence known. Once she'd done so, she knew it was quite likely she would have his full attention. Until she did so, she knew he would pay her very little mind. And in order to help him, she needed him to know who she was and that she was truly there.

It wouldn't take much. Her Will alone could, of course, make him realize it. As could a great many other things she could do to draw his eyes upon her. However, she wasn't about to strip his own free will from him nor did she wish to make a scene and cause the others assembled to glance their way. So instead of anything flashy or impressive, as many likely believed she would do should she truly walk amongst them, God did something rather simplistic.

Reaching out, she placed her hand upon his shoulder and allowed her simple presence to be felt clear to the depths of his soul.

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boy_scout
2009-12-30 01:55 pm UTC (link)

Christmas was one of his favorite times of the year. He knew it was mostly commercialized by the society of modern times all over the world, mostly in America.. but it did not deter him from celebrating it with those back home when he was there. He had always seen his mother, Chloe, Lionel, Lana, Pete, everyone who knew them. But Pete had moved long ago and Lionel was killed by his own son. And of course he couldn't see Lana anymore due to the extensive kryptonite she had to absorb due to that bomb a year or so ago.

He had kept busy here, though. His ears were always open if there was danger among the natives.. or the arrivals. But today seemed a bit quiet. So, picking out a good suit, he walked into the church. It had been some time, certainly. But this was nice. He moved to sit down in one of the pews, bowing his head to silently offer thanks to God for all the goodness in their lives, and for the safety of their friends and family...

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sonofajackal
2009-12-30 02:25 pm UTC (link)

Damien was unsure of how this would work if he dared set foot inside a holy place. Would he burst into flame? Would he keel over and fall to the floor as pain hit every nerve in his body? He was not certain. Some small voice in his head told him it might be fine. Technically, he probably would not be a fan of Christmas, though he felt he should be pleased at the selfishness, and how some were extremely nice in that fake way on one special day of the year. And of course it was the celebrated birthday of the Son of God, a being who should be his eternal enemy.

But Damien did not feel as much malice about it in this place. He figured it was.. just business, as they say. He did like humans, contrary to what some might have thought. And maybe he should be thankful the angels didn't smite him within five minutes if they knew he was here. And he was also thankful for the peace that existed here.

He quickly found out that, no, he did not spontaneously combust when he slowly, and oddly stepped inside with great caution, looking around curiously. Nothing happened. Maybe nerves, but that was just from the brief anxiety. Wasn't so bad now. He slowly walked down the aisle, turning to sit in a pew at the back of the room. "Okay.. still here," he mumbled under his breath. So far, so good. He tentatively sat down and took a few deep breaths.

"First time?" Someone beside him asked nicely. It was an old lady that had sat in the pew in front of him.

Damien shrugged. "Err.. second," he said with a nod. He really didn't want to think of the first one. Didn't end well. So he stared ahead, though not looking directly at the cross. And he thought in his mind, making a promise to try behaving while in here, but he was also thankful for just being alive and having friends...

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im_nota_hooker
2009-12-31 05:38 pm UTC (link)

Satan although still sitting in the place that God had put her, looked towards her son whom just walked into the chruch. Raising her hand and her voice slightly "Hey over here.." She spoke excitedly keeping an eye on the young angel behind her back. She waited almost out of her seat to introduce her son to the angel and her Lord.

"My dear Damien!" She called out almost ordering him to her side.

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	sonofajackal 2010-01-14 10:18 am UTC (link)
	"Mom?" Damien looked over in surprise at seeing her right there. He quickly got up and walked over to her section, taking a seat beside her. He felt a little better now. "So.. I bet this must be an unusual setting for you. And me too. You know.. being in church." He laughed. (Reply to this) (Parent) (Thread)

	im_nota_hooker 2010-01-21 02:06 am UTC (link)
	She laughed quietly listening to the lecture go on for a few moments longer. "No, I have been in this setting before." Satan thought of when she had been Gods' right hand lady. Leaning her head over she laid it on his shoulder and held his hand softly. "I don't believe anyone should be alone for Christmas." (Reply to this) (Parent)