Hallows Eve: The Hallow

By R. L. Matthies

Where Awakening leaves off, the Hallow continues as the path leads towards chaos. As events continue to unravel relationships are increasingly strained. The chaos set in motion pushes some apart while others come together. As the Hallow commences realities collide, exposing new entities previously un-believed.

Join me as we continue this tale on our way to a new understanding.

• Language: English
• Publisher: R. L. Matthies
• Release date: Jun 16, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370062577

R. L. Matthies

I am a self-published author and I work a standard job. I love writing and delving into my imagination and "living" through my stories as I write them. To me there is no greater pleasure than to dive head first into the depths of the imagination, which I believe is the heart of all of mankind's achievements. I guess that mostly I love thinking and writing those thoughts down and I want to share them with others. I was raised in Florida, United States, in a peaceful country setting where my imagination was encouraged to flourish. I had parents who fostered imagination, creativity and independence. I have been developing stories most of my life and I hope that you will enjoy them as much as I do.

Book preview

Chapter One

Kathryn watched the sludge from Azazel’s body drip onto the ground, sizzling on impact, the stench of it revolting and immediately made her vomit. The ethereal fluid dissipated shortly after leaving her mouth. She watched Solomon leap from the ground, his body covered in bolts of blue lightning as his fist extended. Azazel didn’t move nor did he stop.

Solomon was like a fly on a windshield, his body slammed into Azazel’s and was forced to the ground. The resulting implosion sucked the entire coliseum into a void around Azazel. Solomon laid on the ground, struggling to breath, the rubble from the coliseum revolving around Azazel I told you long ago Jento. My vengeance would not be swift. He said as he grabbed Solomon’s skull.

Damien slammed his fists into Azazel’s elbow, Azazel looked over Did you really think that would work? He said. His elbow hadn’t moved nor had he flinched. He picked Solomon up, swung him at Damien, who leapt out of distance and rolled back to Azazel.

Solomon grasped Azazel’s hand, his grip ignited the fur on Azazel’s hand. Azazel threw Solomon into the air. Memnoch threw a ball of fire at Azazel, who turned and caught it. When Azazel turned around Damien grabbed Azazel’s wings. Lightning bolted around Azazel’s body. Azazel whipped around clutching at Damien’s throat with his hand holding the fire.

Damien leaned back and grabbed Azazel’s wrist. He tugged at it, attempting to twist it. Azazel in return grabbed Damien’s throat with his open hand and began crushing his neck. Solomon fell down on top of Azazel, who unintentionally released his grip on Damien’s neck, and was driven into the ground from the weight.

Solomon stood up We cannot win this. We need to find Malachi.

Damien nodded and vanished with a flash of light. As did Solomon and Memnoch, Kathryn returned to the physical plane and walked up to the gaping hole Azazel was buried in. As she stared hopefully at the depths Azazel burst from the earth, a gust of wind burst from his body, knocking Kathryn down.

Azazel landed and held his hand out I have more wonders to destroy.

Kathryn knew better than to resist, she grabbed his hand and stood up, looking round for the camera I think that you destroyed my camera. Azazel looked around So it would seem. As Kathryn thought about it Where did the remains of the coliseum go? Azazel laughed You humans… He looked around You seriously think that your plane of existence is the only one. How arrogant you are.

Azazel placed his hands less than six inches apart and pulled them further, Kathryn’s camera quickly pieced together and floated to her Here you go. He said as he walked up to her. Kathryn took a quick step back before she realized there was no where to go.

Azazel picked her up and took off What are you going to do about those guys you fought? Kathryn asked.

Azazel laughed You saw the fight. Do you really think they are a threat to me?

Kathryn looked from the height and observed the damage, or lack there of. It was as if the coliseum was never there. You didn’t finish answering Jento’s question. Azazel looked at Kathryn He didn’t actually ask a question. He was making a statement. He said.

Well, then what was the end of your sentence? Kathryn asked.

Azazel looked forward Which one? I’ve said many sentences since I was returned. Kathryn looked at Azazel, wondering what exactly was going through his head. She was sure he knew which one. But being as thorough as she was You said and I quote ‘There is no other way. Not for me. Without this, I…’ What was going to be the ending? She asked.

Azazel shook his head It does not matter.

Because there is no other way for you. Kathryn said.

Chapter Two

Dr. Johnson was roaming the streets, scalpel in hand, looking for someone. It didn’t really matter to him who, he just needed to find them. He happened on a car that was stopped at a red light. He warped to the door, as he grabbed the handle, the door itself warped away, he didn’t care where, but he liked that it was no longer in his way. He stared at the oddly attractive woman and he placed the scalpel against her neck Don’t worry, I’m a doctor.

Susanne starred at Johnson, observing his mannerisms, way of speech and odd choice of words considering the action that accompanied them. Can I help you Doctor? She said.

Johnson moved in close, placing his nose next to Susanne’s neck, sniffing strongly and frantically You smell delicious. Who are you? Susanne didn’t move, she didn’t want to provoke any more hostile actions My name is Susanne. What is yours?

Johnson pulled his face away and stared into Susanne’s eyes Johnson. Dr. Johnson. I think that you need a physical examination. He said as he pulled Susanne from out of the car. Susanne didn’t struggle, simply and calmly she stepped from the car. Johnson pushed her against the vehicle and again placed his face against her neck, sniffing her neck, face, breasts and down to her abdomen. What are you? He asked.

Susanne sent a panicked feeling from herself to Solomon. I’m a woman. She replied.

Johnson all but slammed his face into Susanne’s and placed the scalpel against her throat I know that. As I said, I’m a doctor. But you’re not entirely human. He said.

Neither are you. Solomon said as he grabbed Johnson’s shoulder. Johnson pushed the scalpel against Susanne’s throat hard enough to draw blood Attempt to move me and I’ll slit her throat. Johnson replied.

I would not recommend that. Susanne replied.

Johnson shrugged Unless he is a member of the Argendes line, he doesn’t stand a chance.

I am Solomon. Solomon said as he jerked Johnson away.

Johnson turned as he was pulled back and drove his nails into Solomon’s stomach. Solomon looked down as Johnson’s fingertips came into contact with his skin. Immediately he noticed that his skin was pierced and stepped back. Holding Johnson at arm’s length.

Johnson swung the scalpel randomly at Solomon, driving him further back So, Solomon Argendes. He who has almost impenetrable skin. You’re bleeding like a stuck pig.

Solomon looked down, Johnson was right. He was bleeding as if an artery had been pierced. Susanne. Solomon said.

Johnson turned, Susanne clocked Johnson in the head with a tire iron. Knocking him to the ground. She grabbed Solomon’s hand and together they vanished in a flash of light. Johnson stood up shrieking in anger. He looked down at the small pool of blood on the ground. He knelt down next to it, almost worshipping it as he dipped his fingers in it.

He brought his fingers to his mouth and placed them onto his tongue. As the blood touched his tongue his eyes glowed purple and red, illuminating the vicinity with the colors. He continued dipping his fingers and licking them clean as he felt his heart race, everything more pronounced, even the asphalt began to move as though it was breathing.

Chapter Three

Ugg..aaghh.. Erik groaned as he sat up Finally. Magnus said as he turned. Erik looked at the man You’re an Argendes. He said. Magnus nodded as he turned But you needn’t worry. I mean you no harm as of yet. He said as he walked toward the couch. Erik looked around, a rundown, probably condemned building.

What do you want from me? Erik asked.

Quite simple really. Magnus said as he starred at Erik Two things. One: What was that creature that was about to vivisect you, and where is Jamie Anna-Beth Namor?

The creature used to be a scientist and a doctor. Now, due to some kind of radiation, he has changed. As for Jamie, you will not find her. Erik replied.

Ohh that is where you are wrong. Somewhere within the recesses of your tiny brain, her whereabouts is hidden. I’ll find it. Magnus replied as he grasped Erik’s skull. A haze of blue light flashed within both Magnus and Erik’s eyes. Magnus looked around within the light and saw only light, golden and blue at the same time. What is this? He asked.

What is this? Magnus heard his voice echo back.

"This has never happened before. Where are the memories, thoughts… Images." Magnus thought.

With his own voice Magnus heard his thoughts echo back from all around him. A violent shrieking and grinding sound pervaded the air and the light went gold and white and Magnus fell to the ground. Erik stood up staring at Magnus, he wasn’t sure what happened, he knew that Magnus had grabbed his skull, but wasn’t sure why he had dropped.

Erik didn’t waste any time, he left the building, searching his pockets for his phone. He pressed send, there was no answer, he hung up and walked to his car. As he got in he noticed that there were no keys. Judging by what the members of the Argendes family could do, he figured that they wouldn’t need one.

A flash of golden light illuminated the inside of the car, Seriph looked at Erik, who was crouched under the dashboard Do you even know what you are doing? Seriph asked. Erik jerked, slamming his head on the dashboard, as he looked up at Seriph What do you want Seriph?

Seriph held his hand out, keys jangling I believe that you’ll want these, as it appears that you do not remember how to hotwire.

Erik grabbed the keys Lilith, you said that the Argendes line was her vengeance on mankind. Then why are we still here? They are more dangerous then our most powerful weapons. Erik said.

Seriph glared at Erik Because they are clever. Avoid, divide and destroy.

That does not make sense. Until recently, Azazel being the one in question, they have not made a single move against mankind. Not that has been noticeable. Erik said as he straightened himself in the drivers seat.

Exactly, not noticeable, if you think that they have not been in the background guiding and influencing people in power then you are a fool. Seriph said.

What is it that you want me to do? Attack them, get the military involved. I don’t think that they can really do anything against them. Massive amounts of electricity might work, but that would only bring one down at a time. Erik said.

Seriph shook his head You are not thinking properly. Every single sense that you have they have, but far stronger. Theirs eyes can pierce the veil of space and time, sense the past and future of an object with a single touch, hear things that a dog cannot. Use your imagination. How would you bring down an enemy that has incredible power while causing the least amount of damage to the area around. Seriph said as a bronze glow engulfed his body.

Erik looked over as Seriph vanished. Hear things that a dog cannot… That is definitely a weakness. he thought.

Chapter Four

He isn’t supposed to be here. A feminine voice whispered. She watched Ezekiel kneel down next to Malachi Fret not Israfil. Ezekiel said as he placed his hand on Malachi’s chest. Malachi’s eyes drug open, all around him were hues of grey, purple and blue. He looked to the hand on his chest and followed it up to the shoulder and finally to the person’s face. You! He blundered, pushing himself away from the man in front of him.

A warning I gave to you when you were but an infant. A warning not heeded. Ezekiel said as he stood.

Israfil walked up behind Ezekiel You are not to speak to him.

Ezekiel looked to Israfil I am not concerned with the consequences. He said as he held his hand out to Malachi.

Malachi stared at the two, Israfil wore a golden tiara atop her elegantly braided silver hair. Her blue hawk like eyes avoiding his glance. She was wearing odd, ancient Greek clothing, but her most noticeable feature were the enormous feathered wings on her back, entirely white. Ezekiel on the other hand had a strange skull like mask on his face, grey ghastly hair flowed around as though air was moving through it.

A bright yet dull green glow emanated from the mask’s eyes and Ezekiel’s wings were entirely bone, his clothing too matched that of an ancient Greek but it was grey and tattered, and his skin was grey, tight and dried. Revealing every muscle, vein and bone. He had long talons for fingernails and toenails, his feet were a little deformed as well.

Where am I? Malachi asked.

You are in the shadow realm. Something that you‘ve both touched before and nearly pierced recently. Now you have returned. Ezekiel said.

What do you mean something that I’ve touched Malachi asked. Israfil stepped forward You don’t remember do you?

Malachi shook his head Remember what?

Ezekiel looked to Israfil then to Malachi Remember you may not, but as before, without death there must be transformation. He said as he hovered toward Malachi.

Malachi looked to the ground beneath Ezekiel’s feet, although he was standing on something solid, Ezekiel was still floating. Malachi noted that there seemed to be no boundaries here. What do you mean transformation?

Don’t attempt to flee. Ezekiel said as he held his hand out.

Malachi backed away, attempting to keep his distance Do not touch me. You have no idea what I am capable of.

You’re powerless here. Israfil said.

Malachi turned and burst into a run, glancing back Israfil didn’t seem to move further away and Ezekiel was still gaining on him. He stopped and turned, thrusting his hands out. Fire erupted from his palms, upon contact with Ezekiel, the flames enveloped him. Malachi stopped and smiled. Powerless am I. He said.

Ezekiel emerged from the flames unscathed Futile.

Malachi turned around, Ezekiel appeared in front of him and placed his hand against his chest. Malachi felt peaceful for a moment before he wailed in agony and vanished. Death is but the end of one thing and the beginning of something new. Ezekiel said.

Should he return, what will you do? Israfil asked.

It matters not. I am but his ally. Ezekiel replied.

Chapter Five

Azazel landed on the top of the great pyramid of Giza, he placed Kathryn onto the enormous brick The great pyramid. I’ve never seen it up close, now I stand on top of it. Kathryn said. For a moment she was lost in awe at the marvel beneath her feet It has lasted a long time, now it’s time has come to an end. Azazel said as he walked around the surface.

Kathryn looked to Azazel You don’t want to do this do you? She asked.

Azazel stopped and looked at her with sympathy for a moment before he glared at her I am a demon, I feel no remorse for my actions. Ending humans and their marvels is my purpose.

Lily clapped her hands as she walked up behind Azazel I am proud of you. You are the only one who has realized the meaning of your existence. She said.

Kathryn stared at the gorgeous woman in front of her, although she looked like she was ready to give birth any minute, she was glowing with pride, life and just a hint of love. Who are you? Kathryn asked.

Azazel turned to Lily and embraced her tightly I’ve missed you beloved.

Lily didn’t return the hug and she looked away. Azazel released her and stared at her for a moment What is the matter? He asked

I am Lily, and I’m sorry my dear, but you have to die. Lily said as she looked to Kathryn.

Azazel looked at Kathryn then to Lily Why? He asked.

Lily pointed her finger at Kathryn Because, she will be your undoing.

Azazel shook his head She means nothing to me.

Lily cocked her head and glared at Azazel If she means nothing, then why did you ask why she had to die?

Azazel shook his head I was only curious.

Lily nodded Then you can have the honor of killing her.

Kathryn stared at Azazel and backed away Wait… She started to stutter, quickly trying to think of what to say that might save her life. Azazel raised his hand, aiming his palm at Kathryn. Azazel snapped his fingers and Kathryn turned stiff I do not see a reason for her to die. he said.

Lily sighed and waved her hand. Kathryn flew off of the pyramid, Azazel stared, mouth agape What have you done?! He thundered.

As I said, she will be your undoing. Lily replied as she faded away.

Azazel leapt from the pyramid and flew to the still falling Kathryn. Just before he caught her she slammed onto one of the bricks, blood splattered from her body, and she continued to bounce down the side of the pyramid. Finally Kathryn hit the last brick and ceased bouncing. Azazel landed next to her mutilated body and crouched down. His hands hovering over the corpse before him.

He felt conflicted, both ecstatic and woeful. In his confusion he neglected to notice the tanks, helicopters and soldiers approaching the pyramid.

Chapter Six

Erik parked outside Kain’s Tavern and brought his phone to his ear Mr. Cudrow. I hope you have good news for me. General Marson said. Indeed I do, however the enhancer is out of the question. Erik replied. Argh-gr… Then this conversation is over. Marson announced.

I wouldn’t hang up if I were you. Erik said.

Or what? You’ll kill my wife, she is no longer in any danger. Marson replied.

Erik shook his head Azazel, his senses are similar to ours, but much stronger.

And which of these senses would you have me exploit? Marson asked.

Erik chuckled Hearing, I know for a fact that he can hear things that dogs cannot. Erik stepped from his car and walked to the tavern. He wasn’t sure why he stopped there, the only thought he had about the reason was that it was one of the few places that Malachi spent his time.

Well, that might be something useful. I’ll handle it from here Mr. Cudrow. Marson replied.

Erik closed his phone and put it into his pocket. He grasped the door handle and got a strange headache. He let go and the pain subsided. He shook his head and quickly opened the door, a brief moment of pain, then nothing as he stepped into the building. It was packed, even though the parking lot was empty. The noise was horrendous and he looked around.

Diane walked up to him with a menu I’m sorry for the crowded state we are in. I’ll take you to the last table. Diane said as she led Erik to the booth that Malachi always had on reserve. Don’t worry about it. Erik replied as he sat.

Diane placed the menu in front of Erik Would you like a moment to look through the menu or are you ready now? She asked.

Erik placed his hands onto the table, that same pain pierced his brain and he quickly raised his hands I’m not actually here for food or drink. Do you know Malachi by any chance? He asked.

Diane looked up from her notepad glaring at Erik Yes.

I was wondering if you had seen him within the last forty-eight hours. Erik said.

Diane shook her head No. Erik cocked his head and stared at Diane I get the feeling that you are not pleased to hear his name. Erik said. Diane closed her notepad and sighed No I am not. Now if you are not going to order anything I’d like it if you left. She said.

Erik nodded and walked out of the building. He wasn’t even sure why he was looking for Malachi, just had a feeling that he needed to talk to him. He got into his car and started driving down the road. Stopping at the ruins of one of the police stations for a moment to observe the devastation.

That same bronze light appeared next to Erik and he looked to Seriph Why aren’t you going to one of your weapon storages and grabbing that prototype sonic rifle? Seriph asked.

Erik shook his head I don’t know. Something is nagging at the back of my brain. Erik looked to the ruins again Do you know where Malachi Argens is? He asked.

Seriph shook his head and growled Don’t concern yourself with him yet. First you need to get that weapon so you can start killing the members of the Argendes line.

Erik shook his head Get out of my car.

Seriph grabbed Erik’s jaw and forced Erik to look at him Now you think that you can order me. Seriph said. Erik grabbed Seriph’s hand, a golden, blue light shone from the contacted area and Erik’s eyes turned the same colors. Seriph jerked his hand away and vanished. Erik sat there with strange images flashing in his eyes.

Chapter Seven

Beth sat next to Malachi’s corpse, watching the