by Thawer, Tish
Michael grimaced and looked at Garrett. Holli had never been this short with any of them, and now he wondered if embracing her time as the Goddess was going to become a problem. Michael’s concern was trumped by the deep sigh coming from Raven as Holli grabbed her hand.
“What are you doing to her?” he asked.
“Saving her life.”
Michael watched as Holli took a deep breath and became instantly covered in ice.
The Goddess placed both her hands on the center of Raven’s chest, calling forth the hellfire that was residing deep within her friend. Raven moaned as the flames flared all over her wings, but relaxed when they sizzled, turning to smoke then freezing upon Holli’s command. The Goddess removed her hands from Raven’s torso and clenched her fists, shattering the frozen flames. She turned back to the men and simply stated, “There. I’ve extracted the hellfire from within her. She should wake at any moment.”
“Don’t you want to stay and make sure she’s okay?” Garrett asked his wife as she turned to leave.
“There’s no need. I know she’ll be okay.” Holli opened the door and left.
“Is this going to be a problem?” Michael nodded at Holli’s retreating back.
“I don’t know. She’s only just returned and I haven’t had a chance to talk with her yet,” Garrett replied, obviously sharing Michael’s concern.
“I think you better find the time,” Michael turned his attention to Raven as Death disappeared from the room.
“Come on, baby. Come back to me.” Michael leaned down and kissed Raven’s lips, hoping to speed her recovery.
31
Death appeared back in his throne room only to find Holli already there with Abigail again.
“What’s wrong?” he asked, noting Abigail’s agitated state.
“Loki was here, he said that Lucifer had been recalled to Heaven to face his punishment.”
“Interesting,” Death walked across the floor and took a seat upon his throne. His scythe materialized in his hand and he waved Abigail forward. “What else did Loki have to say?”
Abigail swallowed hard, not really wanting to share this little tidbit just yet, but knew she couldn’t keep it from them if she truly wanted to gain their trust. “He said that Asmodeus and I would now be in-charge of Hell. I don’t believe him, though,” she rushed to add.
Hmmm. Death tapped his chin, then nodded at Abigail. “I know you’re anxious to return to Asmodeus, but we need to see first if what Loki says is true.” He looked at his wife. “Holli, we need to see if Raven’s awake yet. Can you return to her room, and ask them to join us if so?”
Holli nodded in Garrett’s direction, but didn’t vocalize her response. He and Abigail watched in silence as the Goddess left the room. “Tell me, quickly, what happened to her down there?” Garrett demanded.
“I don’t know. There wasn’t much that happened externally besides her getting coated in ice, but she did tell me, that internally, she was getting bombarded with memories and that it was confusing for her.” Abigail looked around, worried she’d get busted for sharing a Goddess’s secrets.
“Thank you for telling me. Hopefully we can get all this sorted out soon, and once Loki and Lucifer have been dealt with, her powers will fade and we won’t have to worry about it affecting her further.”
“Hopefully.” Abigail agreed with Death that it would be best if everything went back to the way it was. She just doubted it was possible after all they’d been through.
Holli, Michael, and thankfully, Raven returned to the throne room within minutes.
“Rav, thank God you’re okay,” Garrett pulled his best friend into a tight hug.
“Thank the Goddess, you mean,” Raven teased and winked at Holli, clearly not as worried as the rest of them about her friend’s situation.
“Yes, thank the Goddess, indeed.” Garrett released Raven then took Holli’s hand and led everyone to the seating area again.
“We have some news,” he began. “Loki was here and told Abigail that Lucifer has been recalled to Heaven to face his punishment.”
No one gasped as Abigail expected, but simply turned to Michael to see what he wanted to do.
“Raven and I need to return home anyway, so I’ll go and see what information I can find. We’ll be back soon.” He stood and held out a hand to Raven, who gracefully followed him and disappeared in the archangel’s blinding light.
“Now. Let’s discuss what we’re going to do if what Loki said is true and they expect you and Asmodeus to take over ruling Hell.” Death nodded at Abigail.
“I seriously doubt he was telling the truth. Besides, wouldn’t they just replace him like they did Death with you?”
“I’m not sure,” Garrett admitted.
“I say we just wait and see what Raven and Michael find out, and until then, I think we should all just get some rest. Abigail, you’re more than welcome to stay in the same room as before, but without the magical restrictions, if you’d like,” Holli offered.
“Thank you. That sounds great.” Abigail smiled.
After showing Abigail to her room, Garrett and Holli retired to their private quarters. “Can we discuss what happened to you today?” Garrett asked as he slid a hand down Holli’s hip as she crawled into bed.
“I’m not sure what there is to discuss. I did exactly as planned: returned to Hel, regained some of my powers to help our friends, and now I’m back.” She lifted a shoulder like it was the easiest thing in the world.
“I understand that, and I’m so proud of you. I can’t thank you enough for saving Raven, and helping Abigail, too. You truly are the most selfless person I know.” Garrett bent forward to kiss his wife, but stopped when a frozen tear ran down her cheek. “Honey, what’s wrong?”
“I’m not sure. I can feel the powers within me dying back down, but the memories of my former life bombarded me while I was there, and it created this strange hole inside of me,” Holli stammered as she buried her face in her hands.
“Sweetheart, it will be okay. The fact that you returned unhindered and in full control proves you’re stronger in this form than in your previous one. You are a Reaper now, and the wife of Death. There’s nothing we can’t face together. We’ll get through this, I promise.”
“I hope you’re right.” Holli laid her head on the pillow and tried to relax as a light coat of frost covered the blankets surrounding them.
“Please lay down and get some rest,” Michael pleaded with Raven as soon as they appeared in their bedroom.
“I’ve been on my back long enough. Now, let’s go see if what Loki said is true.” Raven turned and walked toward the front door.
“You know you’re not allowed inside the inner kingdom, so please, just wait here and I’ll be right back,” Michael begged.
Raven stopped, then spun and placed her hands upon Michael’s broad, inflated chest. “I know you were worried about me, but I swear I’m fine. I’ll tell you everything once this is all over, but for now, the best way you can help me is to let me repay Lucifer for what he’s done.”
Michael lowered his head and gave in. They knew each other so well, so it was no surprise she could read his fear and concern. “I just can’t lose you again,” he whispered.
“You won’t. I promise.”
Michael leaned down and kissed her breathless, then transported them to outside the golden door of Heaven’s main hall.
“Wait here. I’ll be out as soon as I can.”
Raven nodded as Michael pushed through the shimmering door. A burst of bright white light pulsed from the other side, and she heard Lucifer’s distinct voice scream out in pain just as it eased closed.
Twenty minutes passed before Michael emerged alone.
“What happened? I heard Lucifer in there,” Raven prodded.
“Yes. He was inside. He’s been punished for his involvement and for going against the covenant, but more so for his misuse of power on a Heaven bound soul and the disfiguration that has caused.”
“What the ‘F’ do you mean a Heaven bound soul?” Raven asked, wide eyed.
“That’s right, I’m sorry, you don’t know.” Michael took Raven’s hand and transported them back to their room.
“Talk.” Raven crossed her arms.
“While interrogating Abigail after you’re unfortunate meeting, we found out that it wasn’t Crawley who retrieved her soul, but Loki in disguise. Apparently, he needed a soul bound for Heaven to be taken to Hell in order for his and Lucifer’s mixed magic to work.”
“Son of bitch!” Raven cursed.
“Yes, that’s also why Abigail was unaffected by the torment of the Fields.”
“Makes sense. But I thought Holli stopped the changes that were happening to Abigail, so what did you mean by, disfiguration?”
“She did, but not soon enough. Abigail has become enough of a demon that she will no longer be allowed into Heaven.” Michael shook his head. “This is just the kind of chaos Loki wanted.”
“That bastard has to pay!” Raven’s wings snapped into place. “Let’s get back down there and let the others know what’s going on so we can come up with a plan.”
“Okay, but hold on.” Michael sighed. “There’s more.”
32
Death and Holli woke again to Michael’s voice outside their door. “Death, we have information.”
“Okay, we’ll meet you back downstairs,” Garrett called out. Turning to Holli, he asked. “Do you want to join us?”
“Yes, of course. I’m better now.” She smiled shyly and welcomed Garrett’s comforting kiss.
The couples gathered in the sitting room once more. “Should we get Abigail?” Holli asked.
“Not yet.” Michael gestured for everyone to take a seat.
“Okay, what’s up?” Garrett asked.
“Lucifer was in Heaven. He received his punishment and has been permanently recalled. He’s officially lost his position for all he’s done.”
“Okay, so what does that mean? What are they going to do now?” Holli asked.
“Loki was telling Abigail the truth, they do want Asmodeus and Abigail to take the position jointly.”
“Really?” Holli asked.
“Yes. They referenced the contract they have here with you both. They think that having a ruling couple has worked well so far and want to utilize that same arrangement in Hell.” Michael shrugged. “Besides, as far along as the changes are in Abigail, her soul is no longer allowed in Heaven.”
Garrett looked at Holli who lowered her head. “She wanted to return to Asmodeus in Hell anyway, so that news shouldn’t be too upsetting to her, hopefully,” Garrett offered.
“Hopefully,” Holli agreed.
“So, what are we looking at? Are they going to promote Asmodeus and Abigail soon?” Garrett asked.
“Yes, they are sending someone to Hell to perform Asmodeus’ coronation tomorrow, and will be summoning Abigail once there.”
“Why is it being conducted in Hell instead of the inner kingdom?” Garrett asked.
“Because, like I said, Abigail is no longer allowed in Heaven and with Asmodeus being a pure demon, neither is he. Remember, Lucifer was an angel before he was appointed.” Michael explained.
“Ah. Got it.” Garrett nodded.
“Are we allowed to attend?” Holli asked.
“Yes, as a matter of fact, they encourage us all to make the trip, to show our support and hopefully avoid any future conflicts between our realms.” Michael put an arm around Raven’s shoulders. “That’s all we know for now, so if you’ll excuse me, I’ll like to spend some time alone with my girlfriend.”
“Wait. No...I mean, yes, I can’t wait to spend some time alone with you too, but first we need to discuss what we’re going to do about Loki. He can’t be allowed to get away with all the grief he’s caused again.” Raven slid out from under her archangel’s arm.
“I agree,” Garrett stood up. “But honestly, are we even sure his plan is done? I mean, initially, he made it clear that his intention was to ruin me and Holli here in Purgatory and have Lucifer take our place. Then, Lucifer gets adiosed instead and we’re to believe that’s it? That that was his end game? I don’t think so.”
“I don’t think so either, but until he shows his hand again, how are we supposed to know what he’s up to?” Michael replied.
“I guess we won’t.” Garrett sighed. “Let’s all get some sleep and we’ll meet back here tomorrow morning and head down together for the coronation.”
Everyone nodded and disappeared, including Loki from his hidden position behind door to the alternate castle.
Abigail woke to the sounds of magic. A tinkling on the air then a bright light which produced a short, balding man in the center of her room.
“Hello, Abigail, I’m the ambassador who will be conducting your ceremony today. Please come with me.” He held out a hand as tiny white wings sprung from his back.
Abigail stood, nervous and curious as to what the day would bring, but it was her soul-deep desire to return to Asmodeus that caused her hand to shoot out into the little stranger’s.
With a pop of light, they were transported into the main entrance of Lucifer’s castle. Lucifer’s castle, she thought. Not anymore.
The ambassador walked forward, veering right as he reached the sitting room. “I’ve already spoken to Asmodeus, but I’ll give you two a few minutes alone to discuss everything before we begin. He’s waiting for you in the throne room.”
Abigail turned and ran straight for the main doors. The idea of entering this room had never brought her such an overwhelming sense pleasure. Yanking the handles open, her eyes immediately locked with Asmodeus’. He was sitting in one of the two chairs that had now been placed on Hell’s throne. “Babe!” Asmodeus bellowed as he leapt from his seat.
A pair of gold cuffs adorned his wrists and his broad chest was bare. As he strode forward, his tight black pants shifted over his strong legs with each step, highlighting his muscles in the most glorious of ways. Abigail ran across the onyx floor and leaped into the arms of her demon. “I’ve missed you so much,” Abigail said before plastering his face with kisses. Finally she settled on his lips to enjoy the lust that organically sparked between them. There was no need for him to use his powers on her, for together, the passion they felt grew exponentially each time they were together. Abigail laughed internally. That was one side-effect of her transformation that she’d never complain about.
“Can you believe this?” she asked.
“I know. I was surprised when they approached me with their offer, but the idea of ruling with you by my side was a complete turn-on, so I said yes.” Asmodeus waggled his eyebrows.
Abigail laughed and writhed in his arms, pressing herself tight against him.
“Ahem,” interrupted the ambassador. “We’re ready to begin.”
Abigail reluctantly unwrapped her legs from around Amosdeus waist and slid back to the ground. Taking her hand, her prince––and soon to be King, guided her back to their shared throne. “Is there anything special we need to do?” Abigail asked.
“Yes, die!” Loki remarked from behind their chairs as he cast out a massive green rope that pulsed with his magic.
“Are we ready?” Raven asked.
“Yes. I think so. I went to check on Abigail this morning and her room was empty. They must have called her down already to prepare,” Holli replied.
“Okay, let’s go.” Death reached for their joined hands and transported them all to the interior of Lucifer’s castle.
“How lovely, we’re so glad you could make it.” Loki cackled.
The group looked up to where Loki had swept out his hand and found Asmodeus, Abigail, and the ambassador Heaven had sent, all tied up within a glowing green rope and were surrounded by the other eight princes of Hell.
“Loki! What’s the meaning of this?” Death demanded, pushing in front of the rest of the group.
“Oh, this isn’t my doing. It seems you’ve got a few demons
who feel like they’re getting the short end of the stick.” He waved his arm at the princes and laughed as Mammon stepped forward.
“He’s right! Why should Asmodeus be the one promoted? We’re all brothers here and some of us, more than others, would make a better replacement for Lucifer than him.”
Garret laughed. “Says the demon of greed.”
Mammon roared. “I speak for everyone here. There’s no way we’re letting Asmodeus and his half-breed girlfriend become our leaders.” The brothers’ low growls and agitated nods confirmed they were all on the same page.
“Unfortunately, that’s not up to you!” Michael stepped forward and flared his wings, but refrained from drawing his sword just yet. If they could talk their way out of this, it would be better for everyone involved.
“Really? Because it seems we have a tight handle on what’s going to happen here, not you.” Mammon’s words drew Michael’s eye to the glowing rope biting into the others and holding them firmly in place. The memory of Loki’s poison seeping into him as he dangled above the phenom room hit him like a brick, sinking him to his knees.
“Michael, what’s happening?” Raven raced forward and leaned down, spreading her wings wide over him to block the other’s view.
“I can’t stay here, the poison in Loki’s rope seems to be affecting me again.” He looked her straight in the eyes, and hoped she saw his regret for keeping this from her.
“Go. We’ll take care it,” Raven kissed him quickly, then stood back.
Michael disappeared with a blast of power that filled the room with a white hot light.
“Seems your archangel is having some issues,” Loki taunted.
“It’s not him you should be worried about.” Raven flung out her hands, casting her Reaper ribbons into the air.
“Oh, are we doing this then?” Loki’s staff appeared in his hand.
“Whenever you’re ready!” Raven stepped forward.