Fall from Grace (Book 2: An Angelblood Novel)

by Linda L. Creel

  A few minutes later Aidan joined them in the kitchen; already dressed for the day. Aura passed him a cup of tea.

  He stared at Rita and Jessica. “Why are you both here so early?”

  “We wanted to speak to Aura before we left this morning,” Rita replied.

  “It’s justgirl talk,” Jessica smiled.

  “You’re welcome to join us if you like,” Aura said.

  “No thank you. I have learned never to interfere when you girls are talking. I’m sure it’s nothing earth-shattering.”

  While Aura and the girls thought he was making a joke, he never cracked a smile.

  Aidan put his cup down and pushed back from the table.“I think I’ll do some exploring today.”

  “If that’s what you want to do. We’ll be shopping for most of the afternoon,” Aura said.

  Aidan quickly excused himself.

  “Don’t you want any breakfast?” Aura asked.

  “No thank you. I’m not hungry. Say goodbye to the girls for me.”

  They listened as Aidan opened and closed the front door.

  “What the hell was that about?” Rita asked her sister.

  “He’s been acting strange the last couple of days,” Aura said. “I think he’s worried about Jeziel.”

  “I understand he’s worried, but he was damn cold towards you,” Rita insisted.

  Aura shrugged her shoulders. It was true Aidan had been distant since Jeziels disappearance. She was confused by his behavior, but she wasn’t prepared to discuss it with him.

  Aura tried to remain calm. “Aidan’s entitled to his own choices. Maybe he was only staying here to be close to Alannah. It’s not like we’re in a relationship.”

  “He gave you a ring,” Jessica said.

  “He’s my Guardian and he gave me a promise ring. He promised to protect me, nothing more. I’ve never asked him if he wasinvolved with Jeziel and I don’t intend to. That’s his business, not mine. We’ll talk when he’s ready.”

  “You’re certainly more patient than I would be,” Rita insisted.

  “I’ve just recently turned sixteen. I’ve got plenty of time to decide who I want to spend my future with. As long as Aidan understands that Alannah is staying with me, there won’t be any problems. But if he tries to take her away, that’s when things will get ugly. She may call him daddy, but she is my daughter and I’m not about to let her anywhere near Jeziel.

  Rita and Jessica stared at Aura. They thought that Aura and Aidan were growing closer, but shewasn’t upset at all by Aidan’s sudden change of heart. They decided to drop the subject.

  When her father and Adam arrived, Rita took them into the library. They were surprised when Eve and Jessica joined them. Rita made her request to bring Richard before the Council. “It’s been more than a monthsince Virgil’s death and we want a ruling in the matter.”

  Paul agreed to notify Arthur to gather the Commissionfor a hearing. They would address Jayden’s annulment at the same time.

  When Will and Joshua came down for breakfast, Rita told them of their plan to go to Utopia. “We need to make a stop first, and then we’ll meet you there.”

  No one asked where they were going and they didn’t volunteer any information.

  Jane decided to join Acadia and the other girls when they went shopping.

  Alannah asked, “Do you need some retail therapy too?”

  “I think we are all in need of some retail therapy,” Jane laughed.

  She was certainly feeling better. Acadia’s company was good for her.

  After breakfast, Aura and the others left to go shopping. She whispered to her sister and Jessica, “Be careful. I know you can handle those creatures, but I still don’t know where Richard or Natalie are.”

  “Don’t worry. I doubt either of them will give us an excuse to kill them,” Rita said.

  Jessica laughed.“One could only hope.”

  Paul and the others left for Utopia, while Rita and Jessica prepared for their own mission. Aura was sure Aidan was somewhere searching for Jeziel.

  She almost felt guilty for not telling him about Alorrah’s news. Still, he had seen the same visions showing Jeziel conversing with Samhael. He never considered that she had fallen, despite leaving with the fallen angel.

  Aura certainly wasn’t going to trust Aidan until she was sure about his loyalty. There was something about his relationship with Jeziel that she didn’t understand. Her priority was keeping Alannah safe. Somehow she thought finding Jeziel was a bigger priority for Aidan.

  She wasn’t about to let him or anyone else interfere with her plans to bring Alorrah and Alexis home. She would do it alone if she had to. She was just beginning to understand the powers she held in her hands.

  If Aidan chose the path to darkness, it would not be a path she would take. She hoped she was wrong, but she would watch him for any signs he was being tempted; especially a change in the color of his eyes. She knew how close Alannah was to him, but even she was starting to distrust him.

  That made Aura sad because no one had suffered more than her daughter. She would die to protect her.

  She used to think Aidan shared the same feelings, but not anymore. Christmas Eve showed her that Jeziel came before Alannah. Aura would never forget that.

  Chapter 10

  Richard was outside Mahlyssa’s home thirty minutes later. He stopped at the front door so his arrival could be announced.

  When Mahlyssa came to the door she looked at Richard.“I wasn’t expecting you to return so soon. Have you come for my little guest?”

  “No, I’m here about something else entirely. I hope he hasn’t been causing you any trouble?”

  “Of course not, he’s quiet at the moment.” “He is unharmed?”

  “I can assure you he’s fine. I gave him a sleeping draught, nothing more. He is actually entertaining at times,” she smiled, as she led him to the study.

  Mahlyssa had children in the house and it was for their sake she kept Richard’s visit discreet. “How long will my guest be staying?” she asked.

  “Not too long, a few weeks at most, but I have other business I need to discuss with you.”

  Mahlyssa was wearing a long dress that covered her unsightly body. Her face was hidden behind a scarf which coveredher head and neck. “I’m listening,” she said, as she motioned for Richard to take a seat.

  “I will be requiring your assistance again.”

  “Are you bringing me another guest?” Mahlyssa smiled.

  “No, my daughter is in need of a new identity and I know you’re capable of altering someone’s appearance.” “Those types of spells are extremely difficult to perform.”

  “I am prepared to offer you a substantial reward for your help.”

  “I have more money than I need.”

  “Money is not what I was prepared to offer.”

  “What could you give me that would make me attempt such a dangerous task?”

  “I could give you back your appearance.”

  Mahlyssa stood. Her face reddened and her lips pursed in rage.“How dare you! My father left me with this cursed body. She removed her scarf, revealing a face that was distorted and hideous. Richard jumped back. He hadn’t seen what Marcus had done to his own daughter. Mahlyssa’s skin was scarred as if burned by fire.“This was my reward for being loyal, she said, dropping the scarf to the ground.”

  Richard recovered his composure. “I have the power to remove your curse and make you the woman you once were,” Richard insisted. “Perhaps a small demonstration will convince you of my sincerity.”

  “Lies!” Mahlyssa shouted.

  “I can assure you it’s the truth; if you would be so kind as to hold out your hand.”

  She hesitated for a moment; then did as requested.

  Richard used the incantations Samhael taught him. He knew Mahlyssa would be unfamiliar with the language. He barely understood it when Samhael told him. Mahlyssa’s hand changed instantly. “Now do you believe me?”
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  “Change me now!” She begged. “I have been trapped in this body for forty years. I’ll do whatever you ask.”

  Richard hated rewarding anyone, but he had no choice. She was one of the last Enchantors that he had some control over and while Samhael could undo spells, he couldn’t erase the mark of angelfire. Mahlyssa would have the knowledge, but he was sure she would never give up the secret under any circumstances.

  “How do I know you will be loyal to me after I change you?”

  “How do you know I will not change your daughter back?”

  “It seems we both have something to lose if we betray each other,” Richard laughed.

  He spoke the rest of the incantations and Mahlyssa changed before his eyes. She was once more a stunning blonde with Kelly green eyes. Richard could see why Virgil fell in love with her. She was as perfect a specimen as he had ever seen.

  “Where is your daughter? I will change her now,” Mahlyssa said.

  “She is not with me, but I’ll return with her later today. I trust you’ll be here when I return? I would hate to reverse the spell again.”

  “That won’t be necessary. I have always kept my word.”

  “That’s true. Oh there is one small detail I forgot to mention. She has a scar on her left cheek. It was made by angelfire. I trust that won’t be a problem?”

  Mahlyssa raised her brow.“Angelfire - was it made by one of the Archangels?”

  “It was made by one of their descendants. Will you be able to disguise my daughter or not?”

  Mahlyssa thought for a minute. “There is a way, but I’ll need a few hours to gather the supplies. Bring her to me this afternoon. I’ll be ready then. What does your daughter look like now?”

  “She has long auburn curls and black eyes.”

  “If you want to be convincing, I suggest we make her hair blonde. As for her eyes, with the proper mixture I can change them to blue.”

  “I agree blonde hair and blue eyes will be a dramatic change for her.”

  “I can only alter her voice slightly, but it should be enough. Also you’ll want to take any jewelry from her that might be recognized. I can alter her outward appearance, but you will have to instruct her not to use any body language which might reveal her true identity.”

  “Of course,” Richard said. “I’ll take my leave now and return this afternoon.”

  “Excellent. I promise you will not be disappointed.” She called for one of her servants to show Richard to the door.

  When the young girl looked at Mahlyssa, she almost cried.“Mum-the curse is broken.”

  Richard vowed if Mahlyssa ever betrayed him, she would not be the only one to suffer. It was clear she regarded her servants as family, giving him a slight advantage. Of course, there was always the news of Myra. Richard would keep her whereabouts a secret, until he needed her assistance again.

  After Richard left, Mahlyssa returned to the study. She would honor her agreement with him, but she would also resume the search for her daughter.

  She wondered what Richard’s daughter did to deserve such a fate. Angelfire could only come from a powerful angel. Virgil taught her that. Though she vowed to hate him forever, she later realized it was her father who was to blame for their misfortune. She wondered what life would have been like if she hadlistened to Virgil’s warning about Marcus. She hoped for the chance to tell him he was forgiven. She remained faithful to him all these years, not because she was hideous, but because she still loved him.

  When Paul and the others arrived in Utopia it was almost three o’clock in the afternoon. He suggested they stop at the sanctuary before meeting with Meredith.

  Will and Joshua hadn’t been home since before Thanksgiving. Neither of the boys were happy to be back, but they wanted to make sure Henry was safe. Joshua knew all too well how vindictive his brother Richard could be, especially if Natalie was the center of the recent controversy.

  Arthur advised him they would convene the meeting of the Committeeat four o’clock, allowing the boy’s time to visit with Henry.

  Jayden accompanied Will and Joshua.

  When they left the sanctuary, Paul and the others walked next door to Richard’s home. The estate was one of the finest in Utopia. Richard’s deceased wife had spared no expense in the décor.

  As they approached the large oak door, Paul knocked three times to announce their presence. Meredith was not pleased to see three Guild members standing in her doorway. She stared icily at the group before addressing Paul.“Are you expecting trouble?”

  He wouldn’t entertain her attitude today. “The hearing for the death of the Enchantor is scheduled today at five o’clock.”

  “My son is not here and I don’t know when he’ll be returning,” Meredith said coldly.

  “That’s unfortunate. The hearing will take place regardless of Richard’s presence,” Adam replied. “You can’t have a hearing if Richard isn’t present,” Meredith argued.

  Paul was blunt and indifferent towards the Governor’s wife. “I’m afraid you’re mistaken. If Richard fails to appear, he will abide by the ruling of the Commission. I have it on good authority some of the members may ask for the death penalty.”

  “You would like that wouldn’t you. I haven’t forgotten you murdered my father. Now you’re trying to kill my son and my granddaughter,” Meredith bellowed.

  “Your father killed an angel. His punishment was just. Your son will be given an opportunity to defend his actions. However, if he fails to appear, he will live with the decision of the Commission,” Joseph reiterated. “As far as your granddaughter is concerned, we don’t have enough evidence to convict Natalie yet, but rest assured we will be vigilant in our efforts to learn the truth. I trust you know that killing an angelblood carries the same penalty of death?”

  Paul smiled. “As Joseph said, Natalie will be given a reprieve for now. However, after these matters are resolved, we’ll need to speak with her again. Now if you’ll excuse us, wedon’t want to be late for the meeting. One of the first topics of discussion will beJayden’s annulment.”

  Meredith glared at them as they walked away.

  When Joshua and the boys arrived at Henry’s, they were surprised to find him in such a relaxed mood. Henry although pleased to see Joshua, was confused about the timing of his visit.

  “We wanted to ensure you were safe,” Joshua said. Henry laughed.“I’ve never been better.”

  “So it’s true you asked Meredith to move out,” Joshua said. He could barely contain his delight. If the Committee agreed to give his father an annulment, Meredith would no longer be the first lady of Utopia.

  “ Your mother left earlier today. I had the servants take her belongings to Richard’s country home. I intend to have our marriage annulled.”

  “ Yes– we heard that. Do you think the Commission will grant your request? You and Meredith have been marriedfor forty years,” Will said.

  “A minor fact of little importance considering she can no longer be trusted. They won’t forget her outburst the last time we were together. I have no doubt she would have allowed Richard to kill Joshua if Rita and Jessicahadn’t intervened,” Henry stated.“The Commission will certainly take her recent behavior towards Joshua into consideration.”

  “And what about Natalie, do you know where she is?” Jayden asked.

  Henry was sympathetic to the young man. “I suspect she’s hiding in Paris temporarily. The Guild doesn’t have enough evidence to charge her with your brother’s death yet.”

  The three boys looked at each other. They knew the truth about Natalie, but it was obvious the Guild didn’t inform Henry. Why would they keep something of such importance from him? As far as Jayden was concerned they could have her trial and then he wouldn’t have to bother with having the marriage annulled. He would almost enjoy watching her die.

  “How is Jane? She must be overwrought with grief, losing two children so soon,” Henry asked.

  “She’s doing better. Having Acadia there
is good for her,” Jayden said.

  The guilt washed over Henry once again. “She’s a nice girl; one of our best. I am truly sorry for deceiving her.” “I thought she was staying here because she had no other family,” Joshua said.

  Henry looked at his son. “It was your mother’s decision to keep her and the other girls here. I should have intervened on their behalf. I promise you it was a choice I now deeply regret.”

  Will see ing the concern on Henry’s face, tried to alleviate some of his guilt. “No one blames you. Acadia loves the valley. I doubt she’ll want to leave. I understand the Commissionis meeting at four o’clock. We can go to the Hall of Justice together.”

  Jayden started to laugh. “Let’s hope we’ll all see a little justice today.”

  The other boys both smiled. “I’m sure the Commissionwill grant your request. Natalie doesn’t have any friends on the board. Most of them despise her as much as they do my brother,” Joshua said.

  “Thank you,” Jayden said sincerely. He wanted to be rid of Natalie and start the next journey of his life. If Aura was right, he would see Jasper again. He wanted desperately to apologize; praying his brother would forgive him.

  Chapter 11

  Rita and Jessica arrived near the woods, where the vision showed the two creatures hiding inside the small cabin. “How should we approach them?” Jessica asked.

  Rita looked at her friend and smiled.“We’ll call them out; then take them down.”

  “Are you sure that’s wise? Wouldn’t it be better if we contained them inside?”

  “I’m not prepared to walk into their little funhouse, are you?”

  “No, but what if they try to run?”

  “They won’t get far. I’m betting they don’t know about our powers. If they’re as deviant as my father predicted, they will want to engage us.”

  Jessica stared at the cabin. “Let’s get this over with. I don’t want to give them any advantage by knowing we’re here.”

  Rita approached the dwelling and called out, “Faelan and Fenryr!”

  The brothers immediately rose from the table. They were smiling. “It seems our luck had changed. Richard said we could have anyone who ventured into the woods,” Faelan said excitedly. They hurried towards the door and opened it to find the girls waiting.