“They will be easy prey,” Fenryr laughed. Rita and Jessica knew they would have precious little time to ready their weapons, but they didn’t want to expose them too soon either.
Faelan spoke first. “To what do we owe this pleasure?”
Rita was careful and decisive with her words. “We are here on behalf of the Guild. You and your brother have been found guilty of murder. We are here to pass sentence on you.”
The creatures both laughed. “I don’t remember having a trial.What punishment have you decided?” Rita was unyielding. “The penalty for murder is death.”
Fenryr was still laughing.“What if we decide not to go with you?”
Rita smirked. “What makes you think we’re going anywhere?”
What areyour names?” Jessica asked.
Faelan stood defiantly. He did not fear these young girls. They had no idea what he and his brother were capable of. He decided to play their game. “I believe you already know that.”
“Your real names; those you were born with,” Jessica said.
“We were born as Clarence and Chester,” Fenryr said with disdain.
Rita and Jessica started laughing hysterically. “I can see why everyone is so frightened of them. Those names are terrifying. Clarence and Chester; how priceless.” They continued to laugh.
But the brothers weren’t laughing. Jessica and Rita watched as they extended their claws and their teeth, ripping through the flannel shirts and jeans they were wearing. Knowing they would be attacking in seconds, the girls called for their weapons.
As the creatures lashed out at them, the girls were more than prepared. They moved quickly to avoid being cut by the deadly claws. Jessica wrapped her whip around Fenryr’s hands, while Rita quickly took off Faelan’s left arm. She then took off Faelan’s right arm; dropping him to the ground.
She looked at him and said, “Who do you work for?”
As Fenryr struggled to free himself from Jessica’s whip, Rita took off his right leg. He too dropped to the ground, screaming in agony. Angelfire was something they’d never seen.
“I will only ask you once more,” Rita shouted. “Who do you work for?”
Faelan and Fenryr knew they were going to die, but they would never implicate Richard because Lucifer’s wrath would be far worse than death. “Go to hell!” Faelan screamed at her.
“After you ,” Rita responded, by removing his head. They watched as the appendage bounced a few times before landing in front of his brother. His eyes were still open.
Fenryr stared at his brother and thenat Rita. “If I tellyou what you want to know, will you spare my life?”
Rita knew she couldn’t lie about something this important. “That won’t be possible. You have to pay for your crimes. I will however, give you the opportunity to ask for forgiveness before I kill you; if you tell me the names of those who you are loyal to.”
“Do you think me a fool? How would I benefit from your proposal? Will you allow me my freedom?” Fenryr laughed.
“I’m afraid forgiveness is the only redemption we can offer,” Rita said frankly.
“I have no need of forgiveness.” Fenryr cursed them both and Rita quickly beheaded him too.
“Do you think there are others inside?” Jessica asked, as she stared at the two headless creatures.
“If there were others, they would be gone by now. Rita dragged the bodies of Faelan and Fenryr to the center of the yard and piled them on top of each other. They entered the cabin cautiously and looked around to find something they could use to start a fire. Jessica found some kindling and matches in one of the rooms, while Rita looked for something to put the heads in.
“What are you doing?” Jessica asked. Rita told Jessica of her plan to take the heads to Utopia.
She found some burlap sacks in one of the cupboards that served as a pantry. Before placing their heads inside the bags, Rita put gloves on. They returned outside and arranged the kindling around the bodies before starting the fire. Within seconds the creatures were completely engulfed in flames. Normally, Rita would have said a prayer over the bodies, but in this case she doubted it would have made a difference. These creatures had no soul, so it didn’t matter.
“Where do you think they go?” Jessica asked her friend.
“I doubt they go anywhere. They won’t go to Heaven and I’m sure they can’t go to Hell considering they have no bodies and no soul. Lucifer had no further use of them. They will just cease to exist.”
When there was nothing left but ashes, it was time to go before the Commission. “I’m sure we’ll get their attention today,” Rita laughed. Jessica agreed and as each of the girls held one of the bags, they left for Utopia.
Meredith watched as the Guild walked towards the Hall of Justice. She needed to find Richard before the hearing.
without
She wasn’t about to let her son be convicted presenting a defense. Perhaps the Commission would show him some mercy, considering Richard believed the Enchantor killed the Allgoods. Regardless of their feelings towards him, they couldn’t deny he was trying to protect the children of Utopia.
When the Guild was clear of the property, Meredith walked into the library to call Desiree. She was unable to hide the panic in her voice.“Is Richard there?”
“He was here, but he and Natalie left before noon. Issomething wrong?” Desiree asked.
“The Guild is holding his hearing today at five o’clock. I need to speak with him urgently.”
“Surely they wouldn’t hold a hearing without him. He has a right to defend himself.”
“The Guild cares nothing of his defense. Th ey would like nothing better than to kill him, the same way they murdered my father. Henry has moved us out of the Governor’s mansion. He’s going to have our marriage annulled.”
“I can’t believe Henry would do such a thing.”
“He cares more for Ambrosia an d Analie. He intends to leave the house and all his family heirlooms to them; as if they deserve anything,” Meredith grated.
“If the Commission agrees to his request, you will be entitled to some form of compensation.”
“The pittance they would award me could never keep me in the lifestyle I am accustomed to.”
“You’re welcome to come here.”
“I appreciate your kind offer, but I would be more valuable to Richard if I remained in Utopia. I should have allowed him to marry you instead of his brother. Perhaps everything would have turned out differently and neither of us would have regrets now.”
“Have you heard any news of Caspian?” Desiree asked half-heartedly.
“No, I don’t know if he’s dead or alive. To my knowledge no one has heard from him since your wedding. If we don’t hear from him soon, we’ll have no choice but to ask the Commission to declare him dead. You would be free to marry Richard then.”
“The marriage wasn’t consummated,” Desiree whispered.
“I know dear. When we finish with all these other allegations, I will go to the Commissionon your behalf.” “Do you think they will declare Caspian dead?” Desiree asked hopefully.
“I see no reason why not. Even Henry would admit there’s a chance Caspian is dead.”
Desiree looked at the clock on the wall. “It’s after four, if you are to find Richard I shouldn’t keep you any longer. Let me know the outcome of the hearing.”
“I’ll call as soon as I know anything. Be careful, the Guild will be watching you both more closely now.” “I have no fear of the Guild. Richard would never allow anything to happen to me.”
“I’ll be in touch. Take care of yourself,” Meredith said.
“You do the same and please try not to worry; Richard will make sure Natalie stays safe.”
As she hung up the phone, the panic overwhelmed her. Meredith had to find Richard. If the Committee held his hearing without him being present, she had no doubt they would find him guilty.
When Henry arrived at the Hall of Justice, he looked around to fi
nd Paul and the members of the Guild speaking to Arthur. The members of the council were all wearing their black robes, signifying their status. Henry elected to wear a tweed jacket and black wool slacks.
“Did you speak to Meredith?” Arthur asked.
“Yes, we told her we would be holding the hearing at five o’clock. I have no doubt she will make contact with Richard and they will both be in attendance,” Paul said. “We can address Jayden’s annulment first.”
“Are you also planning to request your marriage be ended as well?” Paul asked Henry.
“Yes, I’m sure I can make a convincing argument.” “Are we going to inquire about Natalie?” Arthur asked.
“We have more than enough to discuss today, but rest assured we have not forgotten about her,” Paul assured him.
Henry didn’t take his seat with the rest of the Commission. He would be testifying today. The meeting started with a prayer, as it always did. Arthur would lead themin Henry’s place. No one argued. The people of Utopia trusted him absolutely.
“We are here today to discuss the matter of the annulment of Jayden Collins to Natalie Fairbourne. Is Natalie Fairbourne in attendance?” Arthur asked, as he looked around the room.
“Natalie will not be in attendance. She left Utopia yesterday and no one knows her whereabouts at this time,” Henry stated.
“In l ieu of the fact Ms. Fairbourne will not be in attendance, she will abide by any decisions made today by this Commission,” Arthur stated. “We will hear what the young man has to say before pronouncing judgment.”
The other Utopians looked around. Surely Natalie would offer some argument if she intended to save her marriage. They all heard rumors about Jayden’s brother’s death. Would they be discussing that as well?
Seeing the concern on their faces, Arthur advised there would be no trial yet concerning the death of Jasper Collins. “We will however, be holding a hearing concerning the death of the Enchantor Virgil,” Arthur said.
Richard and his mother were not yet in attendance. It would not go well for him if he remained absent. The Utopian people long awaited Richard to be held accountable for his actions. Perhaps today the Commission would deliver some justice and they would be rid of him forever.
Richard no sooner returned to Phillipe’s home, when he was advised of Meredith’s panicked phone call. “The Guild is holding a hearing today in reference to the death of the Enchantor,” Phillipe said.
“What!” Natalie screamed. They can’t do that!” “I’m afraid the Guild can do as they see fit,” Richard replied nonchalantly.
“They’re trying to convict you Father,” Natalie said.
“That’s not going to happen,” Richard said. “If it appears they have already passed judgment, I’ll leave,” he smiled.
“Aren’t you worried about what they might do?” Natalie asked.
“I acted in defense of the residents of Utopia. That will provide a strong enough argument.”
“You can’t be serious,” Natalie replied. “Everything is under control. Of course this will delay my plans for a short time.”
“Should I go with you?” Natalie asked.
“No! You’ll stay here as agreed. I’ll return in a f ew hours to collect you. I doubt the Guild will come to you Phillipe, but you should take the necessary precautions just in case.”
“I’ll wait for your return before joining Marie.” “I am indebted to you for your hospitality. It will not be forgotten.”
Phillipe laughed.“I’m sure my days as ambassador are numbered. I should rather enjoy my retirement.” “It would benefit all of us if you remained in your position until you are asked to step down.”
“Of course, they won’t fire me yet. Desiree is still married to your brother. To my knowledge Henry won’t do anything to upset Caspian.”
“I agree. My father doesn’t know the circumstances regarding the marriage. It may give us the time we need until my plan is in place,” Richard said.
Richard was angry because Natalie was interfering with his plans. “I’ll return as soon as I can. You need to be ready to leave as soon as I get back. Do you understand me?”
“I’ll be ready, but I wish you would tell me where we’re going,” Natalie protested.
“You’ll find out soon enough.” Richard then vanished, leaving Natalie alone once again with Phillipe.
Chapter 12
Aura and the girls met the family at one of their favorite malls in Baltimore. She had been there with Ella and the twins when she saw Alannah for the first time. They spent most of the day shopping. She hoped when they returned, Aidan would be there with news about Jeziel. As they were packing up the cars with their purchases, Aura stopped suddenly. “You all need to stay close to me,” she said.
“What’s the matter Mommy?” Alannah asked.
“Black wing,” she responded. “I can smell him and he’s close.” She looked at the others and told them not to be frightened, her shield would protect them.
“Is it Samhael?” Bren asked.
“No, it’s someone even more powerful than Samhael.”
“Do you know who it is?” Bren questioned.
Aura didn’t want to alarm them, but she knew with certainty who the stranger was. As he approached them, Alannah started to cry. Ben and Tracy quickly took her hands.“Don’t worry Aura won’t let anything happen.”
“Stay together!” Aura insisted.
She watched as Lucifer’s son came closer. He must not have shopped at the same boutiques as Samhael. Mortriel was wearing a cotton shirt and jeans. Aura was instantly drawn to his pale blonde hair and blue-grey eyes. His hair, almost white in color, fell loosely down his back to his waist. Aura would have expected his eyes to be black, but then she remembered Samhael. Unlike the other dark wings, his eyes were blue.
AsLucifer’s son approached them, Aura didn’t wait for him to address her; she spoke first.
“Why have you come here, Mortriel?” Smiling he asked,“Avriel is that any way to greet an old friend?”
“You are no friend of mine. I asked why you’re here.”
“I heard you were alive and I wanted to see for myself. It’s been so many years. I couldn’t believe it when Samhael told me the good news. I see the other eternal child is with you. Pity her twin sister and cousin are locked away. I’m sure you miss them terribly.”
Aura moved closer to him. “If you dare touch Alorrah or Alexis, I promise you’ll burn!”
Mortriel laughed.“I have no intentions of harming the little ones.”
“Because you can’t,” Bren yelled at him. “If you try to touch Alorrah, she’ll turn you to ashes.”
Mortriel looked closer at Bren and Tracy. Their resemblance to Bree and Tercia was remarkable. “So, apparently I didn’t kill you both. I was certain I did.”
“Get away from them!” Aura shouted.
Mortriel continued to laugh. “You don’t want to make a scene here when there are so many innocent bystanders,do you?”
Aura looked around. There were several teenage girls walking in the parking lot. Regardless, she wasn’t going to be threatened by him. She didn’t respond verbally, instead she called for her shield and watched as Mortriel was thrown to the macadam.
He picked himself up and Aura could see the fury on his face. “You’ll pay for that!” he spat.
Aura first called for her shield to protect the mortals. When it was secure, she looked at Mortriel and laughed. “Know this; if you even think about hurting my little ones, I will enjoy watching you die.”
“We’ll meet again soon. Perhaps then you will show me some proper respect,” Mortriel said.
“You are a fool if you think I would ever respect a demon like you. Why don’t you be on your way, before you get hurt?” Aura sneered at him.
“We’ll see. I’ll be sure to say hello to your daughter.” Mortriel smiled, and then he disappeared.
Aura rushed to Alannah. “Send Alorrah a message. Tell her if Mortriel or any o
f the others come anywhere near her or Alexis, I want them to burn.”
“OK Mommy. I’ll tell her. They can’t hurt her; you know that right?” Alannah said, as Aura dried her tears. “Are you certain they can’t hurt Alexis either?”
“No she’s still safe. He can keep them locked up, but he can’t harm them physically,” Alannah reassured her mother.
“I’ll notify the Guild when we return home. They won’t be happy about Mortriel’s visit. He doesn’t frequent the earth anymore than his father does. He despises the mortals too. I’m sure he is planning something. I wish my visions would tell me what it was,” Aura sighed.
She made sure the others were calm and then told them it was time to go. “Keep your cars close to mine. My shield is powerful enough to protect you, but we shouldn’t delay going home,” she said.
When Richard and Meredith arrived at the hall, the entire room became silent. Meredith was as arrogant as ever. They made their way to one of the tables where Henry was sitting with Analie. Will and Joshua were also seated at the same table next to Jayden.
Henry didn’t acknowledge their presence, despite Richard and Meredith taking seats near him. Richard was surprised to see Joshua and Will there. Meredith didn’t speak to either of them, but she glared at Jayden.
Arthur stood. “The Council has ruled in favor of this young man. We see no reason not to grant his annulment, provided the High Council agrees. Arthur looked at Paul. “You will notify them of our decision?”
“That won’t be necessary,” a voice came from the back of the room.
They turned to see Uriel standing there. Despite wearing jeans and a cotton shirt, the soft light that shadowed his body, gave him a commanding presence. The residents could see the resemblance to Paul immediately. Both had blonde hair and soft blue eyes.
Judging from the look on Paul’s face he wasn’t expecting a visit from his father today. He quickly stood and walked towards him. “Father, I wasn’t aware you were coming,” he said.
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