Siren Descending

by Katherine Smits

  “You were in stasis, but I don’t know how long, since time seems to move differently here. If it means anything, I came after you within a week in our time.”

  “To me the experience was like being asleep.” He rubbed his face. “My beard didn’t grow. I don’t feel hungry or weak either. Nothing changed at all for me. Like time didn’t pass. Interesting.”

  “Good. With this arid climate, I’m losing too much fluid. My strength is almost gone, so I can’t carry you out of here.”

  He gathered her in a fierce hug. “It is you. One of them wouldn’t admit weakness even if it knew about how Nerei dehydrate out of water. I can’t believe you came for me.”

  She clung to him. “I’ve never been so glad to see anyone in my life. I’m so sorry for getting you in this mess. This is all my fault, but I’m going to make amends, starting by getting you back home.”

  “Wait, I remember now.” He pulled back. “I was angry because you hid your troubles with this Gelion from me. After I went inside to figure out what to say to you, a man appeared in front of me. And then... nothing.”

  “Gelion kidnapped you. He brought you here to pressure me into sleeping with him and surrendering my powers to him. I tried everything to pull you back, even convinced the mages the devil abducted you. They tried so hard to find you.” Her chest ached. “And they said they’d keep working on a rescue, but Gelion gave me a deadline of seven days. I couldn’t wait any longer, so I came on my own.”

  Thorne paced a few steps away. “Hurry. He might come back any time. Let’s go.”

  She caught up. “Relax, I have an agreement with him.”

  He smacked his forehead. “You. Made. A. Deal. With. The. Devil.”

  She nodded.

  “Are you crazy? That never turns out well.”

  “This time will. The goddess Styx helped me by giving me something for protection. Besides, the terms aren’t so bad.”

  “Wait. What did you promise her?”

  “Well, she’s my ancestor, so she was sympathetic, but she couldn’t let me cross her namesake river without payment, so I offered her the ancient Greek coin Bathin gave me.”

  “The demon you summoned to bring you here?”

  “Right.”

  He narrowed his eyes. “What did you give him?”

  She grinned. “Nothing much, just your old decanter, and he was so nice. All he wanted was for me to realize not all his kind are horrible monsters.”

  Thorne scrubbed his hand over his face. “Okay, so he gave you a coin. She allowed you to cross. Did you give her anything else?”

  “No, I drank some of her water and promised to never tell anyone about this once we’re out of here.” Athenia wrinkled her forehead. “You can’t tell either. If we divulge anything about what happened here, we’ll both be forced to drink from the river of forgetfulness.”

  “Don’t worry. Once we get back, I’ll never want to think about this experience again, much less tell anyone. Not that they’d believe me anyway.”

  He surveyed her. “Where did you find the dress?”

  “Styx gave it to me. This is supposed to provide me with protection. So far, all it’s done is turn Gelion on.” She grimaced.

  He widened his eyes. “So, then you made the bargain with the devil. What did you promise him?”

  He’s reacting better than I thought he would. Relief weakened her knees, and she wobbled.

  He caught her arm and steadied her. “Are you all right?”

  “Yeah, I felt a little off-balance for a second, that’s all. This is good news. I only promised to sing for Gelion.”

  “Anything else?” Thorne eyed her with apparent suspicion.

  “When we go, you have to follow behind me. I can’t look back.”

  “What happens if you do?”

  She twisted her fingers. “Um, you fall into stasis again, and I lose my—”

  “No! You bargained with your soul, didn’t you?” He slapped his forehead.

  She stared. Why is he so upset?

  When she didn’t answer, he took her by the shoulders and shook her. “He conned you with the oldest trick in the book. The devil makes a bet you’re sure you can win, but he deceives you. It never works out. Do you realize what will happen to you?”

  “I asked him to explain, and he did.” She pulled away. “The consequences don’t matter, though, because this isn’t a wager, but an agreement, and I can fulfill the terms. I’ll save us both this way.”

  Thorne groaned.

  ΨΨΨ

  Gelion appeared in front of them. A snarling, black, three-headed canine strained at a leash the devil clutched in his left fist. The dog opened all three mouths. Forked tongues darted toward Athenia, and slobber foamed to the ground. Everywhere the spittle landed, the rocks smoked and sizzled as though acid ate away at them. When the hound barked, sparks of flame shot from his eyes.

  With a scream, Athenia took several steps back. “Get that thing away from me.”

  Gelion patted the creature and crooned to him. “Don’t take offence, boy. She doesn’t mean to insult you.” Straightening, he raised his eyebrows at Athenia. “This is Cerberus. Surely, you’ve heard of him.”

  Thorne pulled her behind him. “Keep your pet under control, or I’ll make sure no one hears of him again.”

  Gelion laughed. “Bold words from someone who’s helpless here. However, don’t worry. This fine fellow only guards the exit to keep inside the damned souls who try to escape the premises.” He clicked his tongue. “Where are my manners? Well met, mage. I apologize I couldn’t take the time for an introduction earlier.” He reached out to shake.

  Thorne scowled. “You mean when you abducted me and popped me into Hell?”

  “Well, I wouldn’t use quite those terms...” Gelion dropped his hand.

  Thorne tensed.

  Oh no. Thorne may give Gelion a reason to break the deal. Athenia stepped between them. “Gelion, you promised to let me lead Thorne to safety.”

  “Not so fast. You owe me a song, and I want that first.” He leaned against a stalactite. “Sing me something heartfelt.”

  “All right.” She considered. I doubt he would enjoy anything celebrating the freedom of the sea. One of the enchantment arias might lull him a little and take the edge off him, though. She began low and soft. As she wove allure into the melody, she built the song to soaring heights.

  Gelion leaned against a rock.

  From all directions, creatures stepped into view. They locked their gazes on her and swayed in rhythm.

  Cerberus lay on the ground with his paws over his muzzle. He whined and rolled over on his back.

  As Athenia thrummed her music beyond the range of human voices, the denizens of the underworld moved a few steps toward her. All stared at her, unblinking.

  Except for Gelion, who speared her with a razor-sharp glance.

  After she let the last notes trail away, he spoke. “Good job. I enjoyed that and the others here are spellbound.”

  She ground her teeth. “All right. I found Thorne. I gave you a song. Now, let us go.”

  He pouted. “I suppose so. I’m constrained by the covenant we made as much as you are.”

  “So, which way do we go?”

  “See the path?” He pointed. “Take it to the end. It intersects with the outside world.”

  She looked. “You’re kidding.”

  “Follow the trail.”

  “That cut goes straight through sheer rock cliffs. A mountain goat couldn’t make it.”

  His expression turned smug. “I never said it would be easy.”

  I’d like to shove that smirk up his elegant ass. “All right. Come on, Thorne.”

  Thorne paled but nodded. “I’ll be right behind you all the way. Never doubt it.”

  She hugged him. “No matter what, we’re surviving this.” She pressed her mouth to his.

  He kissed her back, locking on to her lips and searing them with passion. “Athenia, I’ll never forget this
.”

  She wanted to stay melded to him forever, but she stepped away. “I don’t want your thanks. I got you into this, and I’ll get you out.”

  As she took a step toward the path, he grasped her arm. “Not gratitude. When we’re home, I’ll show you.”

  Gelion yawned. “Is this pathetic performance over? I’m ready for the next chapter.”

  Athenia glared at him. “If I ever get the chance, I’ll end you.”

  He stretched. “Give it your best shot, mageling. I’m not worried.”

  Athenia mentally smacked herself. He’s the devil, you idiot. You can’t hurt him. She centered on her goal. Help Thorne out and don’t bother with revenge.

  She paced to the trail and took the first steps. I want to make sure Thorne is behind me, but I can’t. I must trust he can follow.

  When she reached the side of the mountain, she started to climb. As she came out of the shadow of the peaks, the eerie yellow light changed to something like sunshine. Instead of making her feel better, though, it beat down on her, dehydrating her more.

  She managed to scale another promontory. This terrain is so difficult most men would need climbing gear. She tamped down her fears. Thorne isn’t a regular human.

  A dozen more paces. I can’t hear his footsteps. Is he still following me, or did Gelion trick me again? I can’t turn around though.

  Sweat ran in rivulets from her temples down her face and soaked the back of her dress. Thirst tortured her. Why didn’t I bring water? What moron goes to Hell without bringing something to drink?

  She scaled a few more boulders. The featureless rocks and mountainside pressed on her. It all seems the same. What if I’m in some loop taking me over the same area again and again?

  The story of Sisyphus reared its ugly head in her brain. He pushed the rock up the hill over and over, only for it to fall back again. What if I’m doing the same thing? I could be here for eternity trying to save Thorne.

  She sent her senses questing toward him. I can’t tell if he’s behind me or not.

  Another foothold. This is so hard. Earth is much less forgiving than water. When will I be able to rejuvenate?

  She heaved herself to a level area. Thank you, Goddess. Now, I can rest for a minute. She sucked in as much oxygen as her lungs would handle.

  A faint cry came from behind her. “Help me.”

  Thorne. She took a step toward the voice but stopped. No, it’s one of Gelion’s deceptions.

  Legs spread and all her senses open to receive info, she waited. If Thorne needs me, I’ll go to him, but I’m sure this is a ruse.

  Thorne’s voice called. “Athenia, I tripped on a rock and sprained my ankle. If you don’t come back for me, I’ll be stuck here.”

  Athenia yearned to go to him. Her body angled forty-five-degrees in Thorne’s direction. Don’t be an idiot. This is a ploy. She stopped herself and faced forward.

  Sweat beaded her forehead but dried before it fell, leaving her skin sticky. She wiped her brow, and her fingers came away white. Salt. I’m dehydrating faster.

  When her calves cramped into hard knots, she sank down, moaning. As she stretched each leg, she massaged the back of it, trying to make the blood circulate. This is torture.

  Flashes lit the area. What is that? Oh, a shiny rock. Mica. The light sparked again, reflecting Thorne’s image on the face of the boulder. Joy radiated in her chest despite her physical pain. He’s back there.

  She heaved to her feet. As she climbed another outcropping, her foot slipped, and she slid a few meters back. Pulse racing, she clung on. Better not look down, or I’ll never take another step. Goddess give me strength.

  Ahead, a flat area offered another place to stop. She pulled herself to it and collapsed on the ground, panting. How much farther? Must rest even though I’ve only gone a little way since the last time I stopped.

  Her heart slowed to its normal pace, but it skipped and stuttered. Not good. I only hope I can last long enough to take us out of here. Once Thorne is safe, I’ll rejuvenate.

  CHAPTER ELEVEN

  Steps clacked on the stones in front of her, and a figure approached. Blinded by the sun, Athenia stood and shaded her eyes. “Who’s there?” She prepared a defensive sonic boom. If they’re a threat, I’ll be ready.

  When the newcomer came into view, Athenia nearly passed out from shock. “Delphie?”

  Whole and beautiful, her twin showed no sign of Merlindrake’s torture.

  Athenia ran to her and hugged her hard. “How can you be here? This is Hell.”

  Delphie squeezed her. “I’m only staying a short time to repay debts I accrued during my life. When I heard you were here, I insisted on seeing you.”

  Athenia sobbed. “I missed you so much. I tried to avenge your death, but Merlindrake got away.”

  “I saw it all and it doesn’t matter.” Delphie gestured to a large, flat slab. “Let’s talk over there.”

  Athenia pressed her lips together. “I want to, but I’m leading Thorne out. He’s here because of me, so I need to save him.”

  Delphie peered into the distance. “I don’t see anyone.”

  “He was right behind me”

  “Maybe he needs to catch up. Sit with me. We probably won’t have another chance to talk for a long time.”

  A lump rose in Athenia’s throat. “Once I escape, we won’t be together again until I die.” She clung to Delphie. “It may break me to lose you again.”

  Delphie led her over, and Athenia sat. Delphie perched beside her, holding her hand. “We can avoid separation.”

  “What do you mean?”

  Delphie leaned toward her. “Stay here with me. Once we’ve both paid for our transgressions, we can ascend together.”

  “Go to heaven?”

  “Yes, we would never be parted again.”

  “But I would be dead.” Anxiety wormed through Athenia.

  “Who else matters? The mage doesn’t care about you.”

  “Thorne? No, you’re wrong. He saved me from Merlindrake and took me in after all I did to hurt him.”

  “He’s kept you at arm’s length since then, though.”

  “Yes, but he’s getting past it.”

  Delphie shook her head. “Before you ran into Gelion maybe, but after this stunt? Thorne might be grateful now while you’re here to rescue him, but when he thinks about it later, he’s going to blame you.”

  Athenia drew a shaky breath. “Well, it’s my fault.”

  “How?”

  “When I did a glamour, I left open a door, and Gelion came through it.”

  Delphie laughed. “Are you kidding? Gelion’s the devil. He goes wherever and whenever he wants.”

  “Oh, I didn’t think about that. Gelion claimed I did it. He said Thorne felt him enter and that’s why he went dizzy and weak after I used my magic to make the potion.” She huffed a breath. “I was stupid to believe Gelion. All he does is lie. Still, he brought Thorne here because I wouldn’t give in to him.”

  Delphie twitched a shoulder. “Does it matter? Once Thorne’s safe, he won’t want anything more to do with you.”

  “You’re probably right.” Athenia’s chest ached.

  Her sister bit her lip and looked at her with pleading eyes. “So, stay with me. It’ll be like the old days.”

  “But Thorne will die if Gelion doesn’t let him go.” Athenia dashed tears from her cheeks.

  “Not dead, Thorne will be in stasis.”

  “That may as well be death.” The hairs on Athenia’s arms stood up and she shuddered.

  Delphie jumped to her feet and stared. “If you’re so concerned about him, you’d better go back and help him.”

  “Why?” Ice ran down Athenia’s spine in spite of the heat.

  “See for yourself. He reached the rock below us and slipped. He caught hold of an outcropping, but he won’t last long. Go back and pull him up.”

  Athenia froze. “I can’t. If I look behind me, I’ll violate the terms of the deal I made
with Gelion, and I’ll lose Thorne forever.”

  Delphie’s eyes went wide. The color drained from her face. “Do something, or he’ll fall.”

  “Delphie, you go help him. You aren’t governed by the same limitations.”

  “I’m not allowed to become involved.” She glanced away. “Act now, before it’s too late.”

  Athenia angled her body to the side and took a step. Then she stopped. “You want me to fail, don’t you?” Her heart ached again. How can my twin turn on me like this?

  Delphie’s eyes filled. “It’s so lonely and horrible here. I need you with me.”

  Athenia leaned away. “I can’t abandon Thorne.”

  “Does he mean more to you than I do?” Delphie sobbed. “Don’t you love me anymore?”

  “Please understand.” Athenia patted Delphie’s shoulder. “I’d stay with you if I could.”

  Delphie jerked away. “He’s more important to you. You’re choosing him over your own twin.”

  “No, but I must atone for my mistakes just as you do. This is how I make reparations.”

  “He’s only a human,” her sister spat.

  “When did you become so cold?” Athenia frowned.

  Delphie tossed her head. “I never liked them. I couldn’t be honest before because you always cared so much about their welfare. Now, you should be concerned about mine.”

  She’s not acting like herself at all. Athenia crossed her arms. “Tell me, where did we keep our grimoire?”

  “Testing me?” Delphie made a dismissive gesture. “Ridiculous.”

  “You don’t know, do you? Athenia narrowed her eyes.

  The woman before her tilted her chin. “This is no time for games, and I’m not in the mood to play.”

  Athenia trembled from rage. “If you were Delphie, you would help Thorne. You’re another damn fake.” She shouted, “Gelion, pull this demon out of here before I take her out like I did the last one.”

  She sank back onto the rock with her arms wrapped around her for comfort. At least the real Delphie didn’t betray me, but I can’t trust anything or anyone in this goddess forsaken hole.

  ΨΨΨ

  Athenia clawed her way over another rockface and gained a plateau. Her mouth ached from dryness, and her muscles cramped continuously. She didn’t bother to stop and stretch. With a clenched jaw, she lowered her chin and doggedly pushed on. One. Step. At. A. Time.