Angel Incarnate: Second Sight

by Linda Creel

  Ella knew all about the angel-blood’s heritage, but her brother had no idea Aura, and her family, were descendants of the archangels.

  There had been numerous discussions about whether to tell him or not, but in the end, the Council agreed it was better for him not to know.

  Their priest, Father Patrick, had agreed to take Ryan under his wing.

  Aside from assisting him with Sunday Mass, Father Ryan, as he was now called, was already heavily involved in activities offering guidance to a group of mortal teenagers who had lost their way. Since he was only twenty one, most of them could relate to him, and were comfortable opening up about their problems.

  “I may be able to sneak away for a few hours,” Gabriel said.

  “We’re supposed to go to Caspian’s wedding in Utopia the day after tomorrow; maybe you could come for a little while. Me and Tracy have been practicing some new dance moves,” Bren said, trying to persuade the archangel to spend more time with her.

  “We’ll see,” Gabriel responded, though he was certain Michael would never allow him to attend the ceremony.

  Bren wrapped her arms around him, and Gabriel kissed both of the girls on the cheek. After seeing them to the door, they watched as the archangels sped towards the park, leaving behind a faint impression of white smoke.

  Chapter 3

  When Michael and Gabriel returned to Heaven, the memories of the war came flooding back as they walked through the Valley of Death. Its golden street was a reminder of their brothers and sisters who died during Lucifer’s insurrection.

  As they continued on, they found Esra sitting on a marble bench outside the Vale of Tombs.

  The lush purple garden housed all the Angels of the Tier, who had been sleeping since the war. Surrounded by oak and maple trees, it was also home to the feathered guardians, who kept a constant vigil, and expressed their grief in a soft song of lament.

  Wildflowers and thistles grew in a circular pattern, and the pleasing scent of freesia and lavender filled the air.

  The seer looked up as they approached.

  Michael gave a faint smile before he walked over to his wife’s coffin, and placed his hand on the glass lid.

  He wanted desperately to hear Kaelariel’s voice again.

  Wearing a simple, white cotton gown trimmed in violet; her golden curls were draped loosely over her chest, while a crown of purple lilies garlanded her head.

  “Did Lucifer see Aura today?” Esra asked.

  “No, she wasn’t in Aeden, but he knows Bree and Tercia are alive. Does Aura remember anything about her past yet?” Gabriel asked.

  “Bren and Tracy,” Esra corrected him. “I have been blocking some of Aura’s visions. I’m not certain she is ready to accept the truth.”

  “Lucifer will find her sooner or later. Do you think it’s a good idea to continue to suppress her memories?”

  Esra smiled.

  “It is a weak block. Our Father removed Aura’s veil when she was reborn, and he transferred a great many powers to her; powers that will most certainly be tested by Lucifer and his disciples. As Aura grows stronger, her memories and abilities will return.”

  “There is little Lucifer can do without Bodhi’s bow,” Michael said as he rejoined them.

  Esra’s brow creased and Gabriel noticed a crack in her voice when she spoke.

  “Lucifer may not be able to harm our children, but there are others to consider. Not all the angel-bloods have the same strengths. Many have had their blood weakened by the mortals they married. Their children have some protection, but it is no match for the dark one or his minions.”

  “We are forbidden from interfering unless the fallen wage another war against Heaven,” Michael said as he joined the pair.

  “What of Bren and Tracy?” Gabriel demanded. “Am I to lose them a second time? Is killing those who share our blood not a direct attack on Heaven? If Lucifer finds the bow, and returns power to the dagger and the whip, do you think my little ones can defend themselves against those weapons?”

  Esra gently caressed her brother’s cheek.

  “You were there the day they came back. Did you not remove their veils and transfer your powers to them?”

  Gabriel nodded.

  “Each can call for your swords, though from what I’ve seen, Tracy is more adept with a bow and arrow,” Esra said. “Do not concern yourself about their well-being. They would not have been reincarnated, if Father intended to take them again. Bren has been given the second sight, but she has also mastered some of your battle techniques.”

  “Does anyone else know this?”

  “No – aside from me, and Eve, no one else is aware of this new power, though she will be informing Tracy very soon. There is no reason for the others to know yet, Gabriel. Bren is a warrior at heart, just like you. Already, she understands the importance of keeping her weapons hidden.”

  Michael could see the pride on his brother’s face when Esra spoke of the children.

  “You should have seen their eyes light up when I told them we would one day fight together,” Gabriel said. “They are so much like Bree and Tercia; neither has any fear.”

  A tear fell from Esra’s eyes.

  “They were so young -- only five years of age. Mortriel’s attack on them was so vicious. They never wavered. Even though it cost them their lives, they used their tiny bodies to protect Alannah because they were her guardian.”

  “My daughter sacrificed her life too,” Michael said. “At least Bren and Tracy were given a second chance. Irizah’s body was never found.”

  “We all suffered terrible losses,” Esra sighed.

  She knew where Irizah had been taken, but she was cautioned by the Almighty not to mention this to Michael. Irizah was reborn as a mortal, albeit she still retained some special powers which her adopted mother knew nothing about.

  For now, the young girl was better off where she was. In time, she would be reunited with Bren and Tracy, but to disclose her whereabouts this soon would endanger her life, especially if Lucifer got wind that she was alive.

  It was Michael who cast Lucifer into Hell, and even though the archangels had been warned not to interfere in the war the fallen angel was waging with the angel-bloods, Esra knew Michael would not allow any harm to come to his daughter.

  “It was my privilege to cast Mortriel out,” Gabriel said trying to divert the conversation. “My only regret was that he didn’t die.”

  “He lives because his purpose has not yet been fulfilled,” Esra said.

  “What purpose could the dark ones son have that would benefit Heaven?”

  “Your question will be answered soon enough. Lucifer grows restless,” Esra sighed. “He is desperate to find our brother’s bow and I fear his patience is wearing thin. We must prepare for the worst.”

  Her next comment was directed at Michael. “We are forbidden from being openly involved in any attacks, but we can offer some direction to our children. I will speak to Father, and advise you of his wishes after the Council meets with the Guild.”

  She then turned, and walked out of the garden.

  “Do you think she has seen what the future holds?” Gabriel asked.

  “Esra is the Eyes of Heaven; she sees everything. Our half-mortal family may have to rely on their own abilities,” Michael said as he watched Esra climb the stairs to the first tier.

  He slapped Gabriel on the back. “Come – we will meet with the Council before the Guild arrives.”

  As they were walking away, Michael thought of Aura.

  I pray we can keep her safe; my son will not have the strength to endure his wife’s death a second time.

  Hell was a giant maze, designed with winding catacombs and hidden levels to prevent anyone from ever escaping.

  When Lucifer approached the gatekeeper, he was arguing with a young girl who claimed to have been tricked by one of his disciples.

  “He said he was a healer,” she cried. “I told him I would exchange my life for my sister’
s, but he let her die, and then brought me here. How was I to know he was the devil’s son? I want to go home,” she sobbed. “I want to go home right now.”

  Lucifer walked up to the blue-eyed child.

  She was wearing a tattered pink dress, with a ruffled pinafore; short white socks and black patent leather shoes covered her feet. Her pale blonde braids barely touched her shoulders. She couldn’t have been any older than seven human years.

  “This is your new home,” Lucifer said.

  His voice was calm and almost soothing to her. “Now, be a good little girl and listen to your Father. As long as you behave yourself, I will have no need to punish you.”

  He stared at the gatekeeper. “Is her sister here?”

  “No, my Lord; she was alone when Mortriel brought her in.”

  “Where is my son?”

  “He dropped off the child, and then said he had other business to take care of. I’m waiting for someone to take her to his chambers.”

  Lucifer stared at the child’s trembling hands. Her face still wet with tears, he lifted her chin. “What’s your name?”

  “My name is Hope, sir,” she whispered.

  Lucifer turned to face the guard. “I want her taken downstairs. The angel children are in need of some company.”

  “Pardon, My Lord, but Mortriel was very clear about where he wanted her taken. He said he’ll be back for her.”

  The dark lord walked over to the gatekeeper.

  The child watched in horror as Lucifer slowly ran his hand down the man’s cheek, leaving a residue of burnt flesh where his fingers had touched the skin. When he removed his hand, half of the sentry’s dark beard was still smoldering.

  “My son does not give orders here. You would do well to remember that.”

  Hope was too afraid to scream. She had never seen anything so terrifying before. Lucifer turned back to her. “You have seen what hell-fire can do. Because of his insolence, this man will carry these scars for all eternity. Now, you understand why you should never anger Father.”

  The young girl nodded. A few minutes later, a large teenage boy came through the gate. His face was also scarred.

  “Take her to the lower level,” Lucifer commanded. “See to it her clothes are changed. Make sure she is given strawberries and chocolate. I’m told little girls like those types of sweets. Then, take her to the prisoners. I want them bathed, and dressed. I will be down to see them shortly.

  Lucifer smiled as he thought about his new acquisition.

  Such a pretty little thing; she will be good company for the angels. Perhaps they will even become friends. I have to make sure Mortriel doesn’t touch her. She will be of no value to me if she’s damaged or dead.

  The servant looked at the gatekeeper’s face, and decided it would be better to remain silent. He nodded, and then took the girl by the hand.

  As soon as they disappeared through one of the doors, Lucifer turned back to the sentry.

  “When Samhael returns, send him to me.”

  The gatekeeper nodded. Though the fire had stopped burning his flesh, he could still feel the heat from the mark which started below his left eye, and ended at his chin.

  He thought about shaving off the rest of his beard, but knew Lucifer liked to display his punishments. The servant would not make the mistake of challenging his master again.

  Lucifer walked through a series of doors, until he reached his private chambers. The finest Italian leather and hand-carved wood were used for the décor, which was both comfortable and durable.

  After telling his servants he did not want to be disturbed, Lucifer poured a glass of red wine from a carafe on the table.

  Ledgers and parchments were scattered on top of his mahogany desk. He pushed the papers aside and leaned back in the black leather chair.

  What a stroke of luck finding the girls. Perhaps I should wait before telling Mortriel about Bree and Tercia’s return. The archangels must be worried, or they would not have followed me. They will be watching me closely.

  Lucifer took a long drink of wine, and then placed the glass on the desk before closing his eyes.

  I’m certain Avriel is alive too. I need to know everything about her – who her friends are, where she goes, and if she keeps company with any mortals. I will speak to Samhael; he’ll be discreet. He has some human associates who can watch her without being noticed. Soon, I will avenge my wife and children.

  A scream from the outer room distracted Lucifer from his thoughts.

  “I told them I was not to be disturbed,” he bellowed.

  Before he could reach the door, Mortriel kicked it open.

  Lucifer’s son had long, silvery-blonde hair, and cerulean eyes. Most considered him handsome, but he had an uncontrollable temper -- a trait his father did not admire. Mortriel didn’t yet understand that in order to be a good leader, he needed to control his emotions.

  “Why did you disregard my orders? The girl was supposed to be brought to my room!” Mortriel demanded.

  “I have plans for the child; she is not to be harmed,” Lucifer responded.

  “She belongs to me!”

  “Do I have to constantly remind you who is in charge? You are my son; stop acting like a spoiled brat throwing a temper tantrum.”

  Mortriel knew his father loved him, but if he wasn’t careful, Lucifer wouldn’t hesitate to unleash a severe punishment on him. His tolerance of disobedience could only be pushed so far without repercussions.

  Plopping on the couch, the dark prince reigned in some of his anger before he spoke again. “What’s so special about this child? Surely you can have one of the others.”

  “There are very few others, and this one reminds me of Laelah when she was a young angel.”

  “Humph -- why do you even think about my mother? She failed all of us.”

  Lucifer’s skin turned such a dark scarlet color, it was almost black. The band that was holding his chestnut locks snapped.

  His voice deepened, and his body tripled in size until he towered over his son. Sharp claws extended from his fingertips, and black, leather-like wings protruded from his back.

  “Do not ever speak ill of your mother to me,” he raged. “She did not fail us; we failed her. I should never have left her alone to be killed by her brother.”

  Mortriel knew he had crossed the line.

  “Paul will pay for what he’s done; I swear it.”

  The change was instantaneous. Lucifer’s appearance returned to normal, and his voice was once again soothing.

  “You will stay away from the child,” he warned. “I want her to think of me as a father. She is to be my companion, and will spend time with the Eternal Children. You will move the uncle into their room, and stop torturing him.”

  Mortriel started chuckling. “Why would I want to do that? Punishing him is one of the few pleasures I have.”

  “You will do so, because I command it.”

  “Do you think the girl will gain any information from the children? They may be small, but they are wise beyond their years.”

  “Perhaps a different approach will help me to gain favor with them,” Lucifer admitted. “Nothing else had worked.”

  The conversation was interrupted by another knock at the door.

  When Lucifer’s female companion walked in, he could see she had a blood-soaked towel wrapped around her right arm.

  He stared at his son, who smiled, and then shrugged his shoulders.

  “Forgive me, but I was asked to come to you when I returned from Purgatory,” Samhael said.

  Regarded as the Dark Lord’s right arm, Samhael hesitated before speaking. The scowl on Lucifer’s face, confirmed Mortriel had crossed the line yet again.

  “Perhaps I should come back when it’s more convenient.”

  “There is wine on the table. Pour yourself a glass, and then take a seat. I have a great deal to discuss with you,” Lucifer said.

  Walking over to Mehri, Lucifer removed the wrap to reveal a two-inch
-deep gash in her right arm. He turned to face his son.

  “You have been warned never to touch what is mine! This is just another example of why I can’t trust you,” he spat.

  One of Lucifer’s regrets was that he no longer had the ability to heal others. Though she still considered herself a lowly servant, Mehri was in fact his second wife. Lithe in stature, he loved her long golden hair, and bright blue eyes. Even though she was still mortal, he trusted her.

  Mehri insisted that she felt no pain, but the crocodile tears sliding down her cheeks told a different story. Lucifer brought her arm up to his mouth and placed a gentle kiss upon it.

  Mehri was a naive seventeen year-old, when she made a pact with Lucifer to save her infant son. She had no regrets. Baby Byron was taken to a wealthy baroness who was unable to conceive, and Mehri came to Hell, becoming Lucifer’s companion, and later his wife. He had never been unkind to her, but his son, Mortriel was a different story.

  After taking a fresh towel from the bathroom, Lucifer wrapped the cloth around her arm.

  He walked over to his desk and pushed a red button beneath the center drawer. A few seconds later, a pair of tall, burly males rushed into the room.

  “You called for us, My Lord?”

  “Take Mehri to the infirmary, and see to it she is looked at by the physicians.”

  Most of Lucifer’s healers had once been doctors in the mortal world and their expertise often came in handy.

  Without saying a word, the males gently took the woman by her left hand and led her towards the door.

  “Send for some of the other girls, and have them bring our dinner,” Lucifer commanded. “Mehri will be hungry when she returns.”

  The door closed and Lucifer remained calm as he walked over to Mortriel.

  Placing his hands around his son’s throat, he choked him so hard, Mortriel was unable to speak. “If you ever touch one of my possessions again – son or not – I will cut off your hand,” Lucifer warned.

  Before he released his grip, he threw Mortriel across the room. His body slammed into a tall bookcase in the corner. As he lifted his head from the floor, a dark bruise in the shape of a handprint became visible around his neck. Mortriel stared incredulously at his father.