Heroes S4 Story - Carnival of Souls CH1
After watching the extended trailer for the new season of Heroes I had a strange carnival dream. In case you couldn't tell by the name of my journal page that I find creepy carnivals to be fun.. I do. And if they have creepy ringmasters and/or clowns even better. So anyway, I remembered bits and pieces and put this together. Mind you, I have no idea what the real plot will be but this is what my imagination wove..
I don't think Sylar actually has any part of the carnival plotline at least you didn't get that from the trailer but in my dream he was there. Coulter was this sort of devil character that was tempting all the good guys like Hiro and Peter. Coulter didn't want Sylar to interfere but he realized that Sylar was stronger so he had to find a way to "tempt" him so that he didn't interfere. I don't really remember what the end game for Coulter was supposed to be... anyway here's my interpretation.
Carnival of Souls
Looking at her strained expression, Coulter knew there was more. “What else?”
“The demi-god is near, Samuel. He senses our power.”
Coulter looked thoughtful. “Is he coming here?”
“Where our kind goes, he will follow.”
Coulter nodded, “Then we will need to deal with him.”
She seemed to pull in on herself. “That could prove difficult. His power comes at a terrible price.”
“We need to direct him away from his current path... I’ll have to offer him something else.”
“That’s a dangerous game.”
“Perhaps, but I will not allow anything to interfere. We’re too close.”
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
“We are honored.”
Sylar smirked, “Sure you are.”
“The carnival welcomes all who are in need of respite... or salvation.”
So that was it. Sylar resisted rolling his eyes. The man was some sort of zealot. Coulter probably wanted him to join his little band of traveling acolytes. Sylar glanced around the room at the motley assortment of lost souls. Easy pickings, he decided.
“Is that right?” The people here had an odd manner of deportment, almost as if they were from another time, another place, he thought to himself. It didn’t bother him though, he often enjoyed playing at characters himself. Whatever game the carnival-master was indulging he would play along… for awhile. He was bored and could use some amusement. Mostly he enjoyed his solitary lifestyle. He tolerated companionship only in small doses. But at times, it could be lonely. Despite what his enemies might believe he did have feelings. And sometimes he craved human interaction. This situation offered him the perfect opportunity. He could lay low... and feed.
“I think you will find things different here,” Coulter stated.
“Oh, I already do,” he quipped. Sylar walked around the far end of the table. He couldn’t help but note that the scenario was arranged so that Coulter “presided” over the whole room. Amusing. These people could be fun.
“Allow me to show you the proper tribute.” Coulter motioned and a young man stepped to his side, head bowed.
“This is Aaron. Show our honored guest your ability.”
The young man nodded once and turned. Reaching out with his hand, palm side up, he flicked his wrist and what seemed to be a foot-long blade of energy shot out and imbedded itself in the wall. He repeated the motion and several more projectiles hissed through the air. After a moment, the energy lances dissipated leaving only punctures as a telltale sign of their violent passage.
Sylar’s breath quickened and eyes dilated as he watched the most interesting display. He found it odd that these people would be so open in showing him their abilities. A little discretion went a long way. There had to be a dozen people at the carnival with abilities that he could absorb. People, who more than likely, wouldn’t be missed by anyone. Being a fringe group, the authorities would not be as quick to investigate the disappearances of a few nomadic carnies.
“Are you pleased?”
Sylar shook himself out of his reverie. “Pleased?”
“Aaron’s ability.. Is it fitting?”
Sylar frowned slightly, what the hell was this all about? There was something about the carnival-master that was starting to raise his hackles. He wondered what the man’s ability was and rather it was a threat. “Fitting, for what?”
Samuel smiled, “To sate your desire.”
“My desire?” Sylar growled, his fingers flexing. Seemed that Coulter knew more than he realized and that could definitely be a threat. He glanced around the room marking the positions of the other carnies in case he needed to fight his way out. There were only four within the tent but he could hear more heartbeats around the outside perimeter.
Samuel raised his hands in a surrendering gesture. “There is no need for you to be apprehensive. I would never challenge you. I wish only to show my respect. Please accept this offer.” He nodded to Aaron and the young man came to stand in front of Sylar, his head bowed.
Sylar braced his legs slightly apart, his fingers uncoiled. “What offer might that be?” he asked with no little suspicion.
Aaron sank to his knees before him. Sylar’s eyes widened slightly. “I offer you my power.”
Well ok, this was something new. He’d had people beg him to kill them before. Mostly it involved the realization that they weren’t going to get away from him and just wanted to get it over with. Some wanted to offer up some measure of bravado in their last moments by almost daring him to kill them. But never had anyone just offered themselves up like some kind of sacrificial lamb. “You want me to take your power?”
“I would be honored.”
“Uh huhhh”, Sylar responded, “You do realize that I will kill you.”
“I do,” Aaron replied solemnly.
Whatever answer Sylar had been expecting it wasn’t that. He looked over to Coulter who sat with an inscrutable expression on his face. He took a step back not trusting the situation at all. “What are you doing? And don’t give me any more of your bullshit.” His fingers began to spark in anticipation. Killing specials outright had become almost as satisfying to him as absorbing their abilities first. Coulter would be the first to die.
“No bullshit.. Mister.. may I call you Sylar?”
If Coulter was expecting some expression of surprise from him regarding knowing his name it wouldn’t be forthcoming. “You have less than ten seconds to give me a reason not to kill you.”
"What purpose would it serve? I’m no threat to you. I might even be of some benefit if you allow it. I meant no offense with my offer. I only meant to show my respect."
Respect? What kind of fool did this guy take him for? No one in his life had ever respected him, not even now with all the power that he wielded. Feared yes, respected no. Sylar scoffed, “I've been mindfucked by the best, you can save the spin. I’m not impressed.”
“Have I lied to you yet?”
Ok, now that got his attention. It was one thing that Coulter knew his name but that he seemed to know his abilities? That was not good. Sylar took a threatening step forward. “You will tell me how you know these things about me. You can do it pain-free or not. I don’t much care.”
Coulter nodded, “Leave us.” The tent emptied out leaving the two men.
“Will you sit with me?” Coulter motioned to the chair opposite.
Sylar shrugged slightly and sat down. “My patience is just about done. Last warning.”
“All of us here at the carnival are bound as family by something much stronger than blood. It has given us the unique ability to share what we are. That is how I knew that you were coming.”
“So one of you is a clairvoyant.”
“What one is... we all are.”
Sylar’s hands sparked, “Enough with the cryptic shit.”
“We are able to share abilities.”
Sylar leaned back in his chair pondering the implications. “I see... and how does that work exactly?”
“You're wondering if you absorb one person’s power if you will absorb them all,” Coulter stated with a small smile.
Sylar cocked his head, “And would you happen to be a telepath?”
“No, my gift is a little... hard to explain.”
“You’ll find there’s very little that I can't understand.”
Coulter smiled, “Of that, I am certain. You are close, you know. To your goal.”
Deciding he wasn’t in any immediate danger, Sylar decided to play along a bit longer. “Since you seem to be the expert... just what would that be?”
“Omnipotence.” Coulter gave him a strange look, “It’s hard for you at times to see beyond the imperative that drives you but there will be an end to it.. and a beginning. Believe that and don’t lose hope.”
Who the hell did this little shit think he was talking to him about hope and salvation? “I’d worry about my own salvation if I were you.”
“You are truly amazing, your ability has no limits. And because of that, people will always either fear you or they will try to use you. But they are insignificant in the scheme of things. You will become a god among men. It has already been written.”
This guy was either crazier than he first thought or just plain stupid. “And which are you Coulter?” Sylar tapped his fingers lightly on the table top, tiny sparks arcing with each touch.
“I'm neither. I offer you respect instead of fear. I ask for nothing from you save that you allow me to continue my special work here.”
“What special work would that be exactly?”
“I am testing the faithful.”
This time Sylar didn’t repress the urge to roll his eyes. “So let me see if I have this right. You have this little harem of powers that you can draw on so you lure specials to you, give them the “come to Jesus speech” and if they don’t convert... then.. what?”
“These abilities weren’t meant to be used for amusement. They have a greater purpose. We have greater purpose. They will all find their way here sooner or later. Those that don’t deserve their gift will be brought to task. That is my purpose.”
“You’ve seen that they will all come to you?”
“I have.”
Well, this was an interesting little development Sylar decided. If it was true what Coulter was saying and all the specials would be drawn to the carnival.. then he could sit like a spider in a web and wait for them to come to him. When you say “Brought to task” what exactly do you intend to do with those that don’t see things your way?”
“They will not be allowed to interfere. Those that won't accept salvation will be swept aside.”
Sylar chuckled, “You mean that you kill the ones that won't join your little crusade. That’s just... delightful.”
“It’s unfortunate. We could do so much good together. They are just mis-guided souls.”
“Is that what I am?” a lazy smirk played along Sylar’s lips. Now that he had a handle on the man’s motivations it would be easy enough to use it to his advantage.
“You do what is in your nature to do. There is no fault in that.”
“But you want me to leave your “little church” alone..”
“I can't stop you. Nor do I wish to interfere with what is your own destiny. Our destinies may have intersected at this time and place but I don’t believe that one has to annilate the other. We can co-exist.”
“What do you propose?”
Coulter smiled.
..Chapter 2.
I don't think Sylar actually has any part of the carnival plotline at least you didn't get that from the trailer but in my dream he was there. Coulter was this sort of devil character that was tempting all the good guys like Hiro and Peter. Coulter didn't want Sylar to interfere but he realized that Sylar was stronger so he had to find a way to "tempt" him so that he didn't interfere. I don't really remember what the end game for Coulter was supposed to be... anyway here's my interpretation.
Carnival of Souls
Looking at her strained expression, Coulter knew there was more. “What else?”
“The demi-god is near, Samuel. He senses our power.”
Coulter looked thoughtful. “Is he coming here?”
“Where our kind goes, he will follow.”
Coulter nodded, “Then we will need to deal with him.”
She seemed to pull in on herself. “That could prove difficult. His power comes at a terrible price.”
“We need to direct him away from his current path... I’ll have to offer him something else.”
“That’s a dangerous game.”
“Perhaps, but I will not allow anything to interfere. We’re too close.”
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
“We are honored.”
Sylar smirked, “Sure you are.”
“The carnival welcomes all who are in need of respite... or salvation.”
So that was it. Sylar resisted rolling his eyes. The man was some sort of zealot. Coulter probably wanted him to join his little band of traveling acolytes. Sylar glanced around the room at the motley assortment of lost souls. Easy pickings, he decided.
“Is that right?” The people here had an odd manner of deportment, almost as if they were from another time, another place, he thought to himself. It didn’t bother him though, he often enjoyed playing at characters himself. Whatever game the carnival-master was indulging he would play along… for awhile. He was bored and could use some amusement. Mostly he enjoyed his solitary lifestyle. He tolerated companionship only in small doses. But at times, it could be lonely. Despite what his enemies might believe he did have feelings. And sometimes he craved human interaction. This situation offered him the perfect opportunity. He could lay low... and feed.
“I think you will find things different here,” Coulter stated.
“Oh, I already do,” he quipped. Sylar walked around the far end of the table. He couldn’t help but note that the scenario was arranged so that Coulter “presided” over the whole room. Amusing. These people could be fun.
“Allow me to show you the proper tribute.” Coulter motioned and a young man stepped to his side, head bowed.
“This is Aaron. Show our honored guest your ability.”
The young man nodded once and turned. Reaching out with his hand, palm side up, he flicked his wrist and what seemed to be a foot-long blade of energy shot out and imbedded itself in the wall. He repeated the motion and several more projectiles hissed through the air. After a moment, the energy lances dissipated leaving only punctures as a telltale sign of their violent passage.
Sylar’s breath quickened and eyes dilated as he watched the most interesting display. He found it odd that these people would be so open in showing him their abilities. A little discretion went a long way. There had to be a dozen people at the carnival with abilities that he could absorb. People, who more than likely, wouldn’t be missed by anyone. Being a fringe group, the authorities would not be as quick to investigate the disappearances of a few nomadic carnies.
“Are you pleased?”
Sylar shook himself out of his reverie. “Pleased?”
“Aaron’s ability.. Is it fitting?”
Sylar frowned slightly, what the hell was this all about? There was something about the carnival-master that was starting to raise his hackles. He wondered what the man’s ability was and rather it was a threat. “Fitting, for what?”
Samuel smiled, “To sate your desire.”
“My desire?” Sylar growled, his fingers flexing. Seemed that Coulter knew more than he realized and that could definitely be a threat. He glanced around the room marking the positions of the other carnies in case he needed to fight his way out. There were only four within the tent but he could hear more heartbeats around the outside perimeter.
Samuel raised his hands in a surrendering gesture. “There is no need for you to be apprehensive. I would never challenge you. I wish only to show my respect. Please accept this offer.” He nodded to Aaron and the young man came to stand in front of Sylar, his head bowed.
Sylar braced his legs slightly apart, his fingers uncoiled. “What offer might that be?” he asked with no little suspicion.
Aaron sank to his knees before him. Sylar’s eyes widened slightly. “I offer you my power.”
Well ok, this was something new. He’d had people beg him to kill them before. Mostly it involved the realization that they weren’t going to get away from him and just wanted to get it over with. Some wanted to offer up some measure of bravado in their last moments by almost daring him to kill them. But never had anyone just offered themselves up like some kind of sacrificial lamb. “You want me to take your power?”
“I would be honored.”
“Uh huhhh”, Sylar responded, “You do realize that I will kill you.”
“I do,” Aaron replied solemnly.
Whatever answer Sylar had been expecting it wasn’t that. He looked over to Coulter who sat with an inscrutable expression on his face. He took a step back not trusting the situation at all. “What are you doing? And don’t give me any more of your bullshit.” His fingers began to spark in anticipation. Killing specials outright had become almost as satisfying to him as absorbing their abilities first. Coulter would be the first to die.
“No bullshit.. Mister.. may I call you Sylar?”
If Coulter was expecting some expression of surprise from him regarding knowing his name it wouldn’t be forthcoming. “You have less than ten seconds to give me a reason not to kill you.”
"What purpose would it serve? I’m no threat to you. I might even be of some benefit if you allow it. I meant no offense with my offer. I only meant to show my respect."
Respect? What kind of fool did this guy take him for? No one in his life had ever respected him, not even now with all the power that he wielded. Feared yes, respected no. Sylar scoffed, “I've been mindfucked by the best, you can save the spin. I’m not impressed.”
“Have I lied to you yet?”
Ok, now that got his attention. It was one thing that Coulter knew his name but that he seemed to know his abilities? That was not good. Sylar took a threatening step forward. “You will tell me how you know these things about me. You can do it pain-free or not. I don’t much care.”
Coulter nodded, “Leave us.” The tent emptied out leaving the two men.
“Will you sit with me?” Coulter motioned to the chair opposite.
Sylar shrugged slightly and sat down. “My patience is just about done. Last warning.”
“All of us here at the carnival are bound as family by something much stronger than blood. It has given us the unique ability to share what we are. That is how I knew that you were coming.”
“So one of you is a clairvoyant.”
“What one is... we all are.”
Sylar’s hands sparked, “Enough with the cryptic shit.”
“We are able to share abilities.”
Sylar leaned back in his chair pondering the implications. “I see... and how does that work exactly?”
“You're wondering if you absorb one person’s power if you will absorb them all,” Coulter stated with a small smile.
Sylar cocked his head, “And would you happen to be a telepath?”
“No, my gift is a little... hard to explain.”
“You’ll find there’s very little that I can't understand.”
Coulter smiled, “Of that, I am certain. You are close, you know. To your goal.”
Deciding he wasn’t in any immediate danger, Sylar decided to play along a bit longer. “Since you seem to be the expert... just what would that be?”
“Omnipotence.” Coulter gave him a strange look, “It’s hard for you at times to see beyond the imperative that drives you but there will be an end to it.. and a beginning. Believe that and don’t lose hope.”
Who the hell did this little shit think he was talking to him about hope and salvation? “I’d worry about my own salvation if I were you.”
“You are truly amazing, your ability has no limits. And because of that, people will always either fear you or they will try to use you. But they are insignificant in the scheme of things. You will become a god among men. It has already been written.”
This guy was either crazier than he first thought or just plain stupid. “And which are you Coulter?” Sylar tapped his fingers lightly on the table top, tiny sparks arcing with each touch.
“I'm neither. I offer you respect instead of fear. I ask for nothing from you save that you allow me to continue my special work here.”
“What special work would that be exactly?”
“I am testing the faithful.”
This time Sylar didn’t repress the urge to roll his eyes. “So let me see if I have this right. You have this little harem of powers that you can draw on so you lure specials to you, give them the “come to Jesus speech” and if they don’t convert... then.. what?”
“These abilities weren’t meant to be used for amusement. They have a greater purpose. We have greater purpose. They will all find their way here sooner or later. Those that don’t deserve their gift will be brought to task. That is my purpose.”
“You’ve seen that they will all come to you?”
“I have.”
Well, this was an interesting little development Sylar decided. If it was true what Coulter was saying and all the specials would be drawn to the carnival.. then he could sit like a spider in a web and wait for them to come to him. When you say “Brought to task” what exactly do you intend to do with those that don’t see things your way?”
“They will not be allowed to interfere. Those that won't accept salvation will be swept aside.”
Sylar chuckled, “You mean that you kill the ones that won't join your little crusade. That’s just... delightful.”
“It’s unfortunate. We could do so much good together. They are just mis-guided souls.”
“Is that what I am?” a lazy smirk played along Sylar’s lips. Now that he had a handle on the man’s motivations it would be easy enough to use it to his advantage.
“You do what is in your nature to do. There is no fault in that.”
“But you want me to leave your “little church” alone..”
“I can't stop you. Nor do I wish to interfere with what is your own destiny. Our destinies may have intersected at this time and place but I don’t believe that one has to annilate the other. We can co-exist.”
“What do you propose?”
Coulter smiled.
..Chapter 2.