There was something else. I felt I needed another defense against the numerous attacks upon my mind. During my meditation I exercised my mind in hopes of cementing its ability to defend from such attacks. I had my doubts. What I needed was to expand my knowledge of the Song of Shields. Jered know the song I needed, but he kept it his secret despite my requests to learn it.
My motives for leaving earth may have been weak. If they were I ask forgiveness.
With Fox's permission Malcolm and I used the tether to ascend to Heaven. It was awe inspiring in scale as well as in presence. The Eternal City was almost indescribably beautiful. I would tell you that it took a while to adjust to the glory of Heaven, but I never really did get adjusted. It seemed strangely alien and idealized. I felt as though I belonged here, but only partially.
Malcolm and I parted as he sped off to speak with Gabriel. With some help from a few resident angels I made my way to the Halls of Worship. It was hard to ascertain, as unfamiliar with Heaven as I am, whether there was any sort of disruption in the city caused by the aggressions between the Dominicans and Michael's forces. I can tell you that I didn't recognize any Dominicans at all. Perhaps this is because they aren't making themselves public, or perhaps it is that I simply do not recognize many angels period. I spoke with an orderly group of angels who worked closely with Laurence. I introduced myself, explained my circumstances, and informed them that I wished to speak with Laurence if he was not overly burdened with other tasks. They informed me that Laurence was not currently available, but they would contact me shortly. This was fine. I assured them that the matter was not urgent. Several of them smiled. They understood. Everyone was quite helpful. Something rarely goes this smoothly on earth.
While I waited I made my way to a courtyard where angels were honing their battle skills, or possibly they were merely playing. I found one, a bald nearly featureless man, leaning on a greatsword. He was not currently engaged in activity so I approached him. His name was Golath. With a simple "Test your might." he began what I can only describe as a uniquely expert series of attacks. I leapt to action, but upon drawing Soulpiercer it was transported away by an unknown force and replace by a sword of light. The battle was long. It did not begin well for me. I was force to try several different techniques before I found one effective against this excellent swordsman. Alas it was too late. I was eventually defeated. It was a humbling experience. I still had much to learn.
A reliever came to me in the courtyard and told me Laurence was ready to speak with me. I was lead to a great hall. There on a throne was Laurence looking much as I remembered him from hundreds of years ago. I drew my sword (Soulpiercer once again) and knelt down on one knee before him. First I told him what I knew of the situation with Dominic. Primarily, I informed him that the falling of Dominic's forces, which has now been reported around 75%, began about 10 years ago. Was it just a coincidence that Kobal also disappeared at that same time? I felt the two events were related indirectly, but in some fashion. We discussed the situation. I reiterated that Kobal has recently interacted with us. This gave Laurence food for thought, but he issued no instructions to me.
Next I requested to know the Ethereal and Celestial Songs of Shields. He granted this wish. In addition I believe he also reinforced the progress I had been my making on strengthening my will. I thanked him. I felt stronger and more confident. I was ready to return to earth. After I departed from the hall. I descended to find Dana and Daimon.