CheapLit: Free ebook sample of "Heavenly Falling" by Bridget Squires

Heavenly Falling

By Bridget Squires

Copyright 2011

SMASHWORDS EDITION

* * * * *

PUBLISHED BY:

Bridget Squires on Smashwords

Heavenly Falling

Copyright © 2011 by Bridget Squires

Smashwords Edition License Notes

Cover Art By Laurie Ricard

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author's work.

****************************************************

It’s cold outside tonight even though I cannot feel it. I can tell by the way they huddle in their jackets, covering themselves as if the chill will simply pass over their bodies without effect. The goose bumps snake along their exposed skin, sneaking under the gaps the fabric has neglected to properly close together and spreading throughout their bodies. They shiver, and then study their surroundings cautiously as if sensing my presence. Their hearts steady beat slows, as if it too is listening for some sort of sound, some sort of absentee warning as to why the feeling of being watched has washed over them like rain from the heavens. The gargoyle that I am perched upon is not exactly an ideal shelter from their eyes, but there is little they can do to escape now; they have come too far to turn back, human stubbornness at its best, I suppose.

The female gazes at the male, as if his eyes will answer the question burning in her soul, the question that at any moment will leave those over painted, pursed lips. "Are we lost Edgar?" The voice quivers slightly, as if on the verge of tears, like deep within the body knows that at any moment the life within her will be depleted and the body left vacant. Enough of the patience game, time to monopolize on the opportunity at hand and be done with it. As I drop from the building, the wind blows my hair up into a twisted crown the color of charcoal. The lightweight button down clinging to my torso flaps slightly, the skirt around my waist raises— small shorts covering where I should be exposed. The pavement hits hard against my body, flattening my form to its surface as if forcing me to pray to the gravity it utilizes to advantage.

The heels of the pumps that reside on my delicate feet snap, as I set upon the female with such fury that there is almost no sound able to escape her lips before I bury my face into her jugular vein. The male, with little options left, turns face and makes a run for it. What a gentleman, I can't help but think. Leave this one behind while you rescue yourself, selfish maggot. Within seconds the female is done, at least until I can return and have a proper meal. The male runs thru the leaves, crunching loudly with each footfall, so much for a stealthy retreat; this one might as well have a honing beacon under the skin. Catching (well not even catching would be the appropriate word since there is no effort in the act at all) and making him mine, takes only seconds. While I deprive him of his life, draining him of his memories and his blood, I feel a tingling sensation as the warmth of his essence coats my innards. When there's nothing left to feast upon, I return to the female and finish my task. Once done, I stalk off, the thirst satisfied for now, but it will return, it always returns. The last act is to mumble to myself "Shit, I broke a heel" as I retreat into the night.

I am not what you’re thinking, although I bear some similarities to this creature mankind fabricated. I am not a "vampire" and the mere implication causes anger inside me to swell and grow until, like the beast of hell, I find myself growling through clenched teeth. Vampires, those silly little romanticized vermin with their hearts worn on their sleeves and poor moral character are pathetic. Vampires are not real, yet humans fancy my likeness to these impostors simply because we two are alike since they created images for us both. The fact is what these humans developed into the ideal of vampires actually started out as a true blue creature, my kind, but years of manipulation in the story has blurred the imagery. Humans perceive vampires as ones who drink blood to survive and shy from the daylight as well as leaving bite marks in victim’s necks. Some strange sexy creation to make women swoon and men envy. This is simply imbecilic. I mean honesty, think about it long and hard. Are you telling me that nobody has EVER in all history connected that these falsified vampire victims simply don’t exist? How many humans are found with huge gaping holes in their necks each day? The answer: none.

My bite leaves no traces behind; consider this one of the few gifts I have left. After I am done, the marks disappear leaving no evident cause of death. My victims (but I wouldn't call them victims because I am higher than them to begin with) are more often than not declared as having died from fright. As for the sunlight, I feel neither hot nor cold weather, so the sun or moon matters little to me; it’s all the same. I only savor warmth when I feed, and that only exists momentarily. I don't feel empathetic towards my prey; they are simply sustenance and nothing more. Besides, the Earth has millions upon billions of people and I take one a night, maybe two. Obviously I am not threatening humanities reign on Earth with those numbers, am I? The sun is just bothersome because it exposes me to the eyes of those who harbor lust within their souls. There are eyes that examine and pick apart my impeccable appearance. The eyes that cause the male of the species pants to tighten and ties to require loosening. No, this kind of attention is not relished on my part unlike the human females who utilize it to their full advantage. I prefer the night, were few people travel out and the quiet provides me time to admire my home, the home I miss with every fiber of my being. A home I can never return to but am forced to bear witness to nightly.

My name is Azerial. I am what humans would consider female in form. As for an age, I have none. In fact, I was created before all of this, before the Earth, before even time itself. Needless to say, pinpointing my age would be impossible. I am what is known as a fallen one, an angel that the Lord did cast down to live among His minions; one He released onto this planet otherwise known as His playground. I need not tell you the humiliation I faced when my judgment was decided. Michael himself took away many of the gifts that had been bestowed upon me while my maker simply shaking His head in disgust. For what reason did I lose my place among the chosen, my place in the halls of angels, the purest of all His creations? Well let's just say He hears all, even when I questioned privately, within the recesses of my mind, whether I had complete faith in His love for me. He, that is all knowing and all hearing even heard the unspoken and rained the much discussed wrath of God down like a lightning bolt strikes the tree. Now, sentenced to a life neither human nor angel, I am trapped in this void between the two.

The greatest suffering one can feel is to not belong, and for me I never will. The soft, stunning white appendages that once graced my shoulders and smelled of baby power and a hint of strawberries, are now nothing more than deep, black tattoo like etches across my back. The back; the ultimate reminder I will never stretch those wings in full splendor again, much less wrap myself in their comforting embrace. I was cast not into Hell thankfully; for that would have been an indignation I would not have lived through but to learn here with the humans about His love and to restore my faith in His word, a punishment that was utilized to keep my fellow blessed ones in line. I suppose you could call me His teaching tool. Contrary to what you have been led to believe I do not require food or drink to sustain myself. I don't even require the life force I steal away from my pitiful prey. There's a thirst within me that lusts for the feelings I once harbored within myself, the feelings of power and ultimate privilege. And the only way to achieve those feelings is to sate the thirst. The thirst leads me to my chosen prey, those whose loyalty to Him is strongest; those whose faith is unquestionable. I deplete them of their blood, memories and belief in Him, and savor those feelings of trust and faith as if they were mine.

Now though, I find myself losing more faith in Him rather than relying in His love. The thirst is increasing in appetite and the feelings of satisfaction are increasingly fleeting. I feel as if He is simply challenging me further, as if there is some task He expects me to perform, some idealistic way to once again fall into His favor, yet I have no clue what that would be. He obviously has more faith in me than I in Him. I doubt He approves of the lives I take but at this point there is little else He can punish me with, so why not? This is what I call my "life" although there is not much to tell. Each day opens with me huddling in the shadows, doorways of run down shops, scathing angrily in abandoned buildings looking for some form of understanding. At night I wander aimlessly throughout a hollow city, eventually encountering those true believers upon who I will feast. The cathedrals flicker to life once dark has spread along the landscape, beckoning those in need for shelter and those in need of midnight, forgiveness. I watch as the needy come and go from the holy site; my eyes scanning, searching for those marked as most faithful. They glow, you see, the ones who commit themselves to His word, the ones I make mine. No normal human can detect the glow, but I have the sight He bestowed upon me during my creation, yet another gift left lingering within my body.

The gift does little else for me, just like the other gifts I have left. The most extravagate of gifts were stripped once I was cast out. I still have my beauty, which I despise by the way, untraceable bites, the sight of the holy, strength and speed higher than humans, eternal life since I am neither dead nor alive anyways and finally, my favorite gift, the ability to alter the human’s decisions. Like the couple I took tonight, the ones I implanted the thought of a shortcut through the park and watched them stray from the path, much like many humans stray from His path to begin with. This gift also helps me receive clothing to keep my form covered since store clerks are so easily manipulated. My old gifts would make the highest powered human burn with envy. I once could decide fates, change a human’s course of life for the good or bad, whatever He wanted. The wings were my favorite, the warmth and feeling of soaring through the sky.

Daylight peeks over the horizon; it reminds me of His eyes, the soft glow that previously comforted me. Humans come and go once more, the couple will be discovered shortly but I am miles from there, hidden away in a graveyard crypt. It comforts me to be surrounded by the dead, the ones my former fellow angels had chosen an end for as they followed His endless word. I can tell it’s humid, the way water condenses on the multicolored stained glass window emblazed with a large crucifix. The light pouring in covers me in a rainbow of shades, highlighting my curves as I crinkle my nose in disgust. This body is a sin in itself, why punish me with beauty when all I want is to return home? I can already feel the thirst returning, a burning within my body, a tug or pull in a way. A sound jolts me into a standing position, my body no longer reclining along the tombstone of some corpse rotting away. The sound resonates throughout the crypt again, stronger now. Sobbing, yes that is what it is, a soft muffled sob. Needless to say it’s none of my business, I am in a graveyard what did I expect? Of course someone would arrive to mourn the passing of a loved one.

A shadow appears outside the stained glass window, a distinct set of eyes and the oval of a face is all I can make out. Opening the crypt door, I peer out, not afraid but reserved to hide my nude body, the etching of my former wings disturb most who see them. A fragrant aroma wafts outside the door— cologne of the rich and powerful— a smell I know from my days of bringing those types to their knees with their own impending death. When the figure appears, my first instinct was to take off, escape the vile situation I was now faced with. He was a man, at least in body. Deep brownie colored hair cropped short spiked in the front, eyes a deep brown, almost black with a hint of red lining them. Tall and muscular with a savvy grin across his face, I recognized him immediately even with this new vessel to carry him; Talon could not be mistaken for any other worldy or unworldly creature. Hissing, I brought my foot skillfully up, an arc of wind sweeping upwards, aiming to kick him square in the face, his sobbing façade broke immediately.

Talon danced away from the blow, a smooth turn of cheek that was barely visible. He caught my leg, stroking my supple skin with his amazingly smooth hands. Swinging my other leg up sent me backwards, my hands catching me as I used them for leverage to bounce myself back up when Talon moved to avoid the kick once again and released my leg. With skillful ease I swung, fist balled and knuckles bore, hoping to connect this time. My speed these days is less significant than I had once possessed but still faster than normal, just not as fast as Talon’s. I know I am outmatched but still I fight on. Talon catches my fist, spins me around sending me to the ground, dust rising in a cloud of camouflage as I take advantage of being momentarily hidden. My foot comes up, this time connecting with skin, heated skin as if a fire inside the body. A grunt confirms I have met my mark and I swing a balled fist, bones cracking as my fist slams into facial bone. A sharp shoves send me backwards again, in response I duck and roll, ending on my feet like a gymnast fists in the air, my knuckles white with strain.

Talon lunges forward, snatching me up by the ankle before I can escape his grip. My head meets the ground with a meaty thud, stars flashing momentarily. I swung my other legs around, knocking him backwards as I leapt onto a nearby gravestone, hoping the height would give me an advantage. A heated hand raises, stirring dust up and blinding me from his attack. It seems that Talon has bored of this game, this frantic Tango of abuse losing its luster quickly for him. Sliding faster than I, he is behind me in a moment, snatching each of my wrists as he yanks them behind my bare back, subduing me. The sensation of his lips as they hover near my ear causes a rush of emotions to flood back— pain, misery, outrage... you name it, I suffer. Where I feel nothing for humans, my kind from above or below affect me in a whole different way both physically and emotionally.

“Azerial, is that the proper way to greet an old friend who has been searching for you? Come on Z, you know I won’t hurt you, I just want to talk.” The tone carries the accent the people of this city have, obviously Talon didn’t shop around. He took what was handy when he picked his vessel. His voice, with its sweetness and the way it swelled over my form, caused me to feel light headed. It has been decades since Talon and I have seen each other, and appearing now seems to have thrown me off my game, especially considering I am fully nude. I can feel Talon’s claws digging into my flesh, small droplets of blood are surely swelling to the surface and taking into account only my kind can hurt me, I wince. Talon spins me around by my wrist, like one would spin a dancer in the Samba only rougher, my body sliding into the crypt. The wall hits my back hard, a crack I can only assume to be a rib breaks the silence, the stone cold and bare. As the door shuts, I gather my clothes and dress, ignoring Talon the best I can.

The feeling of his fingers as they brush my skin sends waves of ecstasy throughout my system, memories of lovemaking that still linger centuries after the fact. Talon traces the etchings carefully, a soft sigh escaping parted lips. “Z, I have to talk to you. Why do you insist on fighting me every time, you only injure yourself which, if I had a heart would break it in two. I do not enjoy defeating you, one who was once so mighty but you leave me little choice. Will you behave now? I come here bearing a gift for you, an offer from my master” with those words I spin around once more, hand open intending to smack him for the implication I would work for his master but once more as the breeze of my swing slices through the air, Talon catches it smiling. Over his game as well, I decide to make a hasty retreat, no need to linger where I do not wish to be especially with a demon I once thought I loved.

“You have nothing to offer Talon and whatever it is I do not want to hear it. I will be going now, do not follow me or track me down again. Besides how did you even find me?” I say turning for the door. “Finding you was not difficult. All I did was watch the news Z. And if I found you the others will and you know that. The head of a fallen angel can fetch a good price you know. Plus I am offering to restore you gifts, to make you complete once more Z” those words caused my body to come to a ragged halt. Hope glimmered inside my mind, the thought of home and what I once was too much to bear. Images swirled around me, a barrage of glances of my once beautiful life. “Impossible” I spat, although it didn’t sound as rude as I intended. I hadn’t yet turned, afraid Talon would see that glimmer, recognize the weakness he had touched upon. My heart ached for my maker, even being punished I still loved Him regardless of whether He loved me or not.

“I can do it Z, I wouldn’t lie to you. Lucifer was once your kind, you know that. He too fell from favor just as you hav—” I cut in abruptly, filling with rage once more. “Do not liken me to Lucifer! He fell from favor simply because he wanted to rule not because he fell in love with a useless demon that befuddled his mind with lies. If he could restore my gifts why hasn’t he done so for himself? Rejoined the ranks of the blessed? Lies, all of it but I do not expect more from the likes of you. Where my maker designs beings of beauty and blessings, yours creates chaotic beings that take life!” with that Talon’s face morphed into a familiar wrinkle of hurt. My words bringing the separation anxiety of talents between my kind and his to the surface, a wound still raw and barely scabbed over even though it had been a millennia since we had been together. Talon sat on the tombstone; his shoulders slumped, almost as if he were admitting defeat.

I could not leave, I stood staring, wondering what thoughts were running through this demonic beings warped mind. The way the rainbow of colors from the glass fell over his form made him beautiful, picturesque in a way, like a child needing a hug. Moments passed and nothing was said, we simply resided in the same vicinity separated by the barrier of feelings that had once engulfed our souls. Talon spoke first, words barely above a whisper yet seemingly loud in the crypts close quarters. “I would not lie to you Z. He can do it; I have seen it for myself. You could have a second chance, to do with it what you like, rejoin those who turned their backs on you or be free here among your master’s toys but finally complete. Lucifer has no inkling to rejoin the heavens; he enjoys his reign in hell. But for a small favor, a task simply miniscule compared to what your master once asked of you, he will grant you everything that has been taken” Talon paused, as if judging my reaction before continuing. I turned, faced my former lover and eyes fixated on his form. The red glow that flickered and brightened then faded was clear to eyes like mine. The glow of a non believer, one who followed another set of laws, ones prepared by Lucifer. The glow was weak, the body Talon inhabited revolting against the possession, a battle he must be feeling deep inside.

“He did it for Sariel, I witnessed everything Z” Talon finished and looked down. My mouth hung agape, surprise polluting my features, something that does not happen often. Sariel had fallen centuries ago, long before I had, because of a question about the life of a baby that my master did not appreciate. Sariel was stripped, just like I had been, and punished here just like I had been. We had watched from above as Sariel suffered, unsure and scared. Unlike me, Sariel was weak, a trait not common in angels which was why it did not hurt to see him decline. One day Sariel simply disappeared, escaped the radar and never was seen from again. Most of my fellow angels assumed Sariel had chosen to erase himself from existence, content to spend eternity in a cave somewhere I suppose. This new revelation, that Sariel had vanished because he regained the ability to perform the act, was startling to say the least. Talon looked up into my eyes, the red lining surrounding the brown iris growing in size. “This isn’t about us Z, it’s about you getting what you want and my master receiving a gift only you can give. Once the favor has been completed, you will regain everything and can do what you like after”

I had no idea the favor; the consideration seemed hidden behind the wish to be whole again. My head was nodding roughly even before I realized I was agreeing. The crypt suddenly seemed like a place these things shouldn’t be spoken about. The recent dead, ones who had passed within the month, could hear everything that was spoken in the graveyard. It takes about a month for the soul to find the door and arrive in heaven for judgment. Until that time, the dead souls wander the grounds although I cannot see them any longer. This conversation was sure to draw some curious soul in, and while Talon may see the poor thing, I could not. Risking ruining my reputation further did not sound pleasing right now. He was watching at all times, He was waiting for me to commit some sort of act that would allow me to return on His terms but what if those terms were never fulfilled? What if I spend decades more sentenced to struggling along with the pathetic humans He held in such high regard. To fast track the process with a little help from the other side did not sound too bad at this point.

“Talon, I will do what Lucifer asks but first I want proof, proof that Sariel was restored. Show me, show me the way only you can” I begged, the desperation clear in my voice. Talon rose and approached, taking my hand in his, caressing the knuckles before taking me away into the depths of his mind. Lucifer stood at his throne, tall and proud, ragged broken obsidian wings dragging behind him. Sariel was crouched at Lucifer’s feet, tears dropping like diamonds toward the flame ridden ground, evaporating into wisps before striking the surface that burned brightly. Talon stood nearby, head bowed, horns ablaze and skin the color of freshly spilled blood. Lucifer spoke, his voice booming with a presence only Lucifer and my master could muster. “Sariel, you come before me a broken spirit, robbed of your life with a punishment that proves that a holy man still harbors evil. The task was completed perfectly; I salute the effort and dedication you possessed. For this favor, I restore you my friend, restore you to glory that no longer requires approval, you are free from this day forward”. As Lucifer spoke, Sariel’s glorious wings sprouted slowly, like ivy snaking through his skin before outstretching into a brilliant display of power. Sariel rose, a smile spreading throughout his features, muscles gaunt and eyes powered with his former gifts. Sariel spoke next, his voice strong and proud, hints of laughter hidden within the words “Thank you great one. What was taken has been returned. I salute your honesty and as promised I will disappear from my old masters view and live a life away from the limelight yet blessed once more” and with that, like a bullet Sariel was gone, a trail of light remaining where he had stood.

The vision dissipated, fading away with ripples like water disturbed upon a peaceful pond. Sariel had in fact been restored and no longer was I going to question the validity of the offer. As the crypt returned in full glory, Talon opened the door and beckoned for me to follow which I did without question. The destination did not matter, only the reward. The graveyard was silent, Talon glancing side to side often, indicating there were souls nearby. The vessel he was using seemed weakened, lacking the luster it had when he had first arrived. The skin of his vessel sagged, loose and floppy, as if the body was melting away. I was unsure whether to ask if he was alright or ignore it. Instead of allowed my mind to wonder back to the days Talon belonged to me, when he craved my flesh like none other, when he would beg for my touch and embrace.

Talon was a rival of mine from the moment we had started out battling over the humans. Where I took lives as directed by my master, Talon encouraged those who were not yet ready to cross to take their lives early, casting these lost souls into hell and successfully stealing yet another one of my master’s play toys. In all my glory, Talon never showed an ounce of servitude; instead he challenged me endlessly, following in my wake of collecting souls and taunting me with every chance he could. The rivalry eventually led to respect for one another and finally to a moment of weakness where I gave into desire. Our secret rendezvous were filled with passion, steaming lovemaking sessions that left the two of us breathless and lingering in the scent of sex that wafted through the air. Our meetings left my heart aching when we were apart, the forbidden love we shared distracting me and causing a variety of issues.

It was at this time I questioned whether my master loved me, when God heard my doubt. Apparently my forbidden love was one thing He could tolerate but to question Him led to my demise. I never saw Talon again after being cast out, secretly blaming him for my betrayal. All this time I harbored ill feelings toward my lover for abandoning me, leaving me when I needed him most. I was no longer special therefore no longer pleasing to him. Even demons bore of the angels and when an angel falls, demons have little interest in them at all. Now, centuries later he had arrived out of the blue with a promise he knew I would not turn down. A part of me still held a tingle for him, or perhaps the thirst had returned.

Talon's vessel was deteriorating quickly, skin detaching from muscle and bone, slack and useless. The closer we came to the gate of the graveyard, the worse condition the body became. "I don't see how you got used to walking, this is monotonous. I need to dispose of this body. It’s weak. Do you mind? I will meet you at the gate" Talon had never asked my approval before, but for some reason he sought it now. I shrugged, unsure exactly what he wanted to me say. Talon nodded in response before vacating the corpse, leaving the shell to crumple to my feet like a battered doll. Smoke escaped the open lips, Talon's heat seeping away. That's the problem with demons; they destroy their vessels too quickly. Usually the body would last longer, swelling with heat before melting away but obviously Talon had been far too hasty and chosen a bad vessel that decomposed too quickly. The gate came into view, the rows of graves stones bidding me farewell as I approached the exit. Since my heels had been broken last night, I had chosen a pair of puma's. Sneakers do not feel right though upon my soles, I prefer the height of heels, bringing me closer to the sky, providing the feeling of rising upwards. An African with skin the color of Colombian coffee beans stood waiting, Talon's glow visible easily. The teeth were a brilliant color of unmarred snow, bright and friendly. The hair was longer, a frazzled afro and eyes the color of midnight on a starless night. Once again the beauty of Talon's choice struck me, Talon always chose the most attractive vessels, even though in his regular form I found him insatiable.

The wrought iron gate creaked loudly as my fingertips pushed it aside, allowing me to exit my sanctuary. "Talon, nice to see you again, nice choice" I smiled, my heart aching for his caress once more, a silly thought that I squashed quickly. The street was busy, bodies cramped tightly together on sidewalks, as the humans continued their daily routine, unaware a fallen disgraced angel and demon possessed vessel were among the crowds. Static of sirens and other noises polluted this beautifully warm January morning, a city alive with a different kind of evil, the sins of humans themselves. Talon flagged a taxi, the bright yellow bumblebee looking vehicle halting at the waving hand immediately the promise of a fare luring more than one cab yet Talon chose the first that had stopped. Opening the door widely, Talon motioned to me politely, a somewhat shocking display of manners. Cigarette smoke and stale food odors filled the closed in car. Talon and I sat silently, the cab driver ranting about the President and some new law that was unfair. The banter was clearly an attempt to calm the driver’s nerves, maybe sensing something not quite right about his new fares. I peered an exasperated look into Talon's eyes finally convincing Talon to quiet our cabby by placing a wall of silence between him and us.

Now, I started to wonder what my task was to be, wild thoughts’ cluttering my mind, scenarios playing out leaving me wondering how far I'd go for restoration. Killing the pathetic humans seemed plausible, a task I could accomplish with no lingering feelings of regret nor shame. "Where are we going Talon, do I at least get a clue. The thirst is strong, I need to know how far away we will, I need people nearby, I need the warmth" my voice sounded distant, the thirst becoming a distraction that could no longer be ignored. Talon scanned the streets of people, as if deciding a worthy victim to sate the thirst burning within me. I have never felt further from my master than when I wait too long to feed. I almost felt….human. Talon looked at me, my weakness pouring from every ounce of my being, a sickly coloring shading my skin. “Will the cabby do? The glow is weak yet there. It will hold you over until I can find a more suitable victim” Talon motioned to the cabby who was speaking and waving hands in the air yet not a syllable was heard by either of us. I stared ahead at the driver, a soft glow creeping in and out, weak and barely visible but it was there none the less. A diamond in the rough, that's how I refer to those like our cabby. A spirit inflamed with question of God's love yet not strong enough for true dedication to His work. My mouth watered, saliva gathering in waves, my body shivering with need.

"If I take him Talon, who will drive us wherever it is that we are going?" I asked, the smile that lightened the black skins features and the narrowed eyes told me that Talon had a plan. "I will Z, take him and I will drive. I know where we are going anyways" he laughed, a deep throated chuckle. I asked the cabby to pull off into an alley, announcing I had to use the bathroom and an alley would do. As usual human intuition is nearly nonexistent since the cabby pulled off quickly, no question or other suggestions. I set upon the cabby with speed that neither gave the cabby a chance to turn around nor even gave the poor sap a chance to react. Blood, thick and salty filled my senses with satisfaction. Gulp after lovely gulp filling me with the faith I longed for, an infectious faith in my Lord that multiplied and divided like cells. Once I finished, the warmth spreading and the thirst completely subdued for now at least. Shoving the useless remnants of the cabby out the door and into the pissed soaked alley, Talon climbed behind the wheel and I positioned myself in the passenger seat. The ride continued with Talon and I reminiscing of sorts.

It felt good to talk to a being similar to myself, one who understood the truth of the world, not the lie humans have been led to believe. There was a question burning in the back of my mind, creeping to the tip of my tongue then retreating like a battered animal before I could spit it out. Weakness is not a trait smiled upon where Talon and I came from whether it is his boss or mine, rules were in place. God's angels were always meant to remain strong, steadfast and undeafeatable. The same was true for Talon's kind, being forged from the flames and cooled in a river of tears does that to one. Yet an itch tugged in my mind, an answer I could not simply pretend I didn't need to hear. As the city faded and the highway enveloped the car, red taillights streaking through the night that was slowly setting in, the red reminding me of Talon's eyes, I finally decided the time had come. "Talon, why didn't you come for me when I fell?" My voice was shaky and secretly I cursed myself for allowing the uncertainty to snake along my words. There was silence, a thick wall of awkwardness that disgraced me in a way that reminded me of my judgment day, when I was cast like trash from heaven. Talon must have felt my shame, felt my intensity because that dark skinned hand that his vessel possessed was set upon my alabaster skin and rubbed my supple skin gently.

"Z, I’m a demon, you know that. I couldn’t be there, even if I wanted to you know how it would look. Your demon ex lover showing up in heaven to watch your downfall? Not acceptable behavior on my part. Afterward I did look for you but you had vanished. I found you now isn’t that enough?” Talon’s voice contained a hint of disdain; the feeling was mutual for me as well. Talon was cold as always, distant and feeling no amount of regret. I however now felt the pang of regret tearing me up. How could he be so callous? Demon or not, how could he have walked away when I had lost everything simply because I fell in love with him? Bitterness consumed me immediately, betrayal, anger, despise, it all bombarded to the surface of my body, my fists balled tightly in an attempt to control the outrage before another hand to hand battle ensued. Tears stung my eyes, my teeth clenched to keep them from releasing down my cheek, showing my volubility in all its pathetic glory. I have never felt more like a hormonal human woman than at this very moment.

We said nothing for a long time, the highway had disappeared and now the bumps and slush of back roads greeted the hijacked cab. I say the glow before we even got to the final destination. A halo of gold shimmering in the night, beckoning those like I with the sight to stare at the incredible beauty. The glow reached upward into the sky, long tendrils resembling fingers scrapping along the stars, blowing in and out of view like one of those human trick birthday candles whose flame extinguishes simply to reignite itself over and over. My eyes were not able to break away from the splendor and when Talon spoke; his words seemed unclear, muffled by my awe in the show I was bearing witness to. In all my centuries among humans, I had never seen such a concentrated area of faith. Talon’s voice resonated once more throughout the confines of the cab and this time the more intense tone dragged me away from the glow. "That's where we are heading Z, I asked you if you can see the glow?" I nodded slowly, eyes still wide and in my mind reflecting the glorious light show. "Talon where are we going? I have never seen anything like this before" managed to pour from my mouth, lips trembling as I felt as close to my Lord as I have ever felt since being cast here among His toys. Talon didn't answer, simply continued driving.

The closer we came to our destination, the more intense the glow became. Finally a small, tree lined road appeared and Talon turned off onto it. The cab jutted to a halt, the engine cut of and keys tossed in the cup holder. "This is as far as I can go Z. You know why. Go take a look around, scope the place out but do not go in. I have to dispose of this vessel, its weakening and I cannot be without an appropriate vessel to explain the task to you. I will be back shortly" with those words Talon opened the door, walked a few yards off to the side of the road and then vacated the body, sending the burnt out remains tumbling down into a ravine. I inhaled sharply as I opened the door and prepared to enter the circle the glow encompassed. As I stepped through the outline, a static like burst nibbled at my skin, a thousand tiny shockwaves washing over me. It did not hurt, instead it felt good, comforting, warming. I can feel myself smiling, a grin glued onto my face as I admire the feelings of faith that are gathering in this area. As I walk the path, taking mental notes of all the key markings, I realize I still have no clue what lies ahead.

A flurry of ideas pop up in my mind, a church maybe or a cult even. Cresting the hill, I finally see what is awaiting my presence. The building was massive, floor upon floor of windows, each and every one bearing a crucifix. The stone that had been used to construct this marvel was aged, red brinks fading to brown with ivy creeping up the building as if embracing the truest religious central there could possibly be. Saints adorned the rooftop, looking down upon me, a slight discomfort forming in my stomach. I feel as if they are judging me, as if I am back upon the shameful pedestal awaiting my final sentence. I recognize each and every one, depicted in ways only the humans could have created. The real Saints were not clad in armor with weapons in hand awaiting some sort of battle. No, the real Saints had been martyrs for a cause, sacrificing eternity for my Lord's approval. The doorway was rather large, a set of double class doors, with no writing whatsoever to hint as to what this place was. It was spooky in a way, if I were human I would be downright afraid, but I am not so instead I find myself intrigued.

The oaks that are scattered around the building are paired with weeping willows, branches bare and brushing the ground, sweeping the leaves in a way. There are only three cars in total, each in worse disrepair than the other before it. Age had not treated the metal boxes with kindness, rust, orange and flaky, marred the snow, causing a stain that would last until the next storm. It was odd, there wasn't a single light on, and the building was thrown into complete darkness. In all I counted 5 floors, with the building spreading along the ground and being about as colossal as a municipal hospital of a big city. There were obvious paths shoveled in the snow to prove that someone, or several someone's resided here. Curiosity overcame me and I found myself approaching the entrance, needing to know where I am specifically. A solid metal plate was bolted into the stone, it too well aged and lacking much detail. In bold letters it contained the words: St. Valentine's Convent. Suddenly I feel sickened, my stomach knotting and tightening, the realization I was at one of the Lord's most holy houses to do a deed for Lucifer himself bringing about questions I did not want to dote upon. Turning, I walked with my gifted speed back to where Talon had left me, the static as I retreated from the utter overwhelming love for God nipping at me once more.

Talon was still gone, possibly having difficulty finding a vessel. The ground sunk beneath my weight as I sat in a nearby snowbank. What could I possibly do wrong here? How could I accept a deal that would go against my God in such a terrible way? I haven't fed in hours but simply being here erased the thirst, the craving squashed and no longer itching in my mind. A convent, a home for nuns and the forgotten and lost, a home for those who God has guided here for salvation, what have I agreed to. "All done Z?" The new baritone voice startled me; yes me, a former being of endless power jumped like a scared animal at a noise I the dark, how pathetic. "Yes, it’s a convent. A beautiful one at that and by far the most powerful convent I had ever laid eyes upon" I mumbled, hoping Talon would skip the niceties and get down to business. Turning, I found Talon's new vessel much less attractive than his other choices. The tall, lanky figure, a mop of wheat colored hair wild in the moonlight with blue blazing eyes, still rimmed with Talon's demonic red, and a face as plain as can be. A farmer I am guessing.

I couldn't help but smirk; the idea of Talon residing in a vessel so undesirable struck me as ironic. In a way I find myself wishing that Talon would be cast out, sentenced to eternity here on Earth and actually feel my true pain. "It’s the best I can do. There aren't many people nearby so don't snicker" Talon announced, his pride damaged I suppose. Talon gazed at the glow for a moment, studying its circumference more than likely, demons don't like such a large concentrations of faith, it disturbs them. A demon cannot enter such a strong force of faith, which I'm starting to realize is why they need me. The sick churning feeling in my stomach returns, stronger now than before. Talon had led me to a place that resembled my home in its sheer glow of love for my Lord and I somehow doubt I am here to do good. "So what is the task Talon, obviously I realize why you chose me, I don't see you penetrating that glow without suffering the consequences" my words were flat, I didn't want to show Talon an ounce of discomfort.

Talon sighed, shoulders slumping and back arching, a sign he used to display when he was about to tell me bad news. Tiring of the games, this cat and mouse, give and take waste of time I growled with discontent, anger building until I felt as if it were overflowing from my body I snap. "Talon, just tell me what your boss wants! You’re wasting my time and your own by holding back and pretending to be some ashamed demon when you’re not. You know what I need to do so rather than prolong the inevitable just spit it out so we can both go on our separate ways" the spite in my voice surprises even me right now. Talon looks up, eyes ablaze with intensity, the vessel breaking down rapidly as the heat from Talon's possession eats away at it with each and every anger snarl that crosses his face. Tufts of hair fall from the scalp, singed away. Still I'm steadfast, matching his intensity as best I can, knowing that a line in the sand has been drawn and the final outcome still undecided by either party. The moon shines brightly, stars peeking out from clouds, like eyes spying from closed blinds, I almost feel as if my former comrades are watching me, judging me once more.

Talon throws something at me, an indistinguishable bundle that I allow to fall to the ground, once more displaying my stubbornness and resentment. Talon watches silently as I retrieve it and look through the contents. Inside is the history of St. Valentine's Convent as well as a list of names. Photos, old and yellowed from age and worn in the corners are also included in the pack. Every photo is of the same woman, her white hair parted smoothly and a bun tightened to perfection affixed to the top of her head. Her eyes are blue, a grey toned blue though, as if stress and time has erased their luster. Wrinkles adorned her face; deep set frown lines which are a striking contrast to the bright, toothy smile that filled her face in each and every snapshot. In some shots she was surrounded by beggars, each with dirty hands outstretched toward her, clothes smeared with dark feces stains and knit caps that were more holes than knit. In another shot she stood tall, arms wide to the sky, children of different backgrounds crowded around her, each mimicking her hand gesture. In the largest photo her habit smothered her small frame, the pitch black color making her pale skin glow almost the way my Lord's did.

“Her name is Mother Superior Catherine. She runs the convent and she is your target” Talon scowled, a twisted look that further made him appear ugly and bitter. “She has great influence and has been spreading the word of your master and converting those who were meant to be ours. Lucifer simply will not stand for your master to steal souls who are rightfully his using this woman. You are to eliminate her, but there is a condition. It must look like a murder, something that will break the faith of all the residents inside. You must also wait until the afternoon of Mass on Sunday, so she will not deliver the sermon with the Priest” Talon finished. I find it humorous in a way that demons cannot speak my masters name, it burns their throats, chokes their lungs with a substance that inhibits the demon from finishing the word. Instead Talon refers to God as my master, poetic I guess considering his master is a name no one wants to speak much less hear. I find myself in a predicament now, deciding whether or not to take this task. Any other human and I would accept and be done with the whole mess but this one, this one is special. Do I uphold the values instilled in me by my Lord, the “thou shalt not kill” rule has already been broken with each and every victim I feed off but this one is different, special to my Lord. Talon sees my hesitation immediately; it is the same look I had when deciding whether or not to sleep with him when our sordid affair began.

“Z, don’t think about it. It’s just another life. Don’t pass up this gift for some woman who serves no purpose other than to spread your master’s word, a master who disgraced you and sent you here to live like a shamed child sent to their room without dinner. Do the deed and return to glory or else Lucifer will find another of your kind and you will remain here suffering” Talon pushed, harder than he should, harder than he would for another. I nodded, accepting the job. She was just another human, one more life would not matter. Mother Superior Catherine obviously is one of God’s favorites, a thought that irks me, since I was a creation He made and was suppose to love endlessly. Instead she thrives here, His glory shining upon her daily while I huddle and weep for my homeland. No, one more life is worth restoration, worth being loved once again. How could He not welcome me with open arms when I am doing what is necessary to return to him? My love for Him has never been clearer. Sunday was three days away and I suddenly find myself unsure as to why I am here so early. “Talon if I have to wait until Sunday, why are we here now?”

Talon waves a hand toward the circle of glowing faith, a gesture I recognize when he is simply passing a question off as ridiculous. “You have to get inside first Z. Get the convent to trust you so that it appears a stranger they trusted killed their beloved Mother. That should shake the foundations of faith in a way that will cause irreversible damage therefore releasing the ones meant for our side to continue along their path of destruction” the words contained a hint of sarcasm, Talon doubting why I would ask such a question. In all honesty I do realize my error. I couldn’t just walk in and eliminate the target like some mad woman; this would require stealth and the skill of blending in with those who I can relate to. “Go there tonight, broken and dirty, begging for forgiveness and allow them to take you in. Then act when the time comes. I will know when the deed has been completed and will meet you here to bring you to Lucifer to receive your reward” as he started to turn, an idea popped into my head. I needed to appear broken, dirty and as if I was a sinner beyond any sinner the convent had ever witnessed. I need help to accomplish this look.

“Hit me” the words burst forth from my lips sending Talon spinning around with a look of surprise. “I mean it, hit me Talon. Beat me to within an inch of any human’s life and I will go there the way you described. I will not fight back”. A normal angel or demon would be outraged by the idea, mutual respect I suppose whereas I have never had much respect for Talon’s side. Our affair simply was an affair of curiosity, an affair to allow me to see how evil works and feel it without having to become it. Before I could open my mouth, Talon’s fist cracked into my cheek, the bitter syrup of blood filling my mouth, causing me to gag. The next blow contacted with my stomach, air rushing from my lungs, a gasp filling the silence. The world spun, a tilt a whirl of abuse being rained down upon my body. When I was battered properly, Talon left with no remorse nor any sign that he felt sorrow for his former lover. I do not know where he will dispose of his vessel but it didn’t matter. Now I had to make my way up the path and return to St. Valentines for false redemption.

The first knock at the door solicited no response, no lights flickered to life, no movements to confirm it had been heard. The second time I knocked, blood smeared from my knuckles, staining the doors, knocking harder had slit the skin open further, exposing the raw flesh underneath. A figure approached, lights snapping on one by one as the figure came closer and closer. It was a woman, but not Mother Superior, this woman was younger. The door creaked open, a squeal of force releasing into the night. Mustering up some tears I allowed the droplets to fall from my eyes in waves, each creating a path of cleanness, washing away the grime Talon's beating had caused. "Hello? May I help yo....oh MY!" The woman reached for me, taking me into her arms and ushering me inside. St. Valentine's was as beautiful yet majestic inside as out. Portraits hung along the wall, angels of all races fighting mythical battles. There were larger ones of my Lord's immaculate child Jesus scattered between the others. The floor was made of worn, faded wood, years of footsteps aging it beautifully.

A large crucifix was present right inside the doorway, a jewel of luscious red set into center, the heart of the cross. I crumpled to the floor theatrically, moaning with false pain. The woman set upon me with haste, disappearing for a moment and returning with towels soaked in water. Another woman appeared, also too young to be Mother. Together the two cleaned me up, muttering words of encouragement and thanking my God for rescuing me from whatever evils had captured and injured me. They introduced themselves, each with soft spoken words that seemed to sweet and innocent to be much older than prepubescent girls. The one that had answered the door was Sister Hannah, a short mousy woman with large eyes and a pointed nose. Sister Teresa had joined her, with wild auburn hair that reminded me of Talon and hazel eyes that shined brightly. After tending to me Sister Hannah asked my name, her quiet unsure tone almost lost in the large hallway

"My name is Ariel, I was attacked down the road and say this building almost shining and guiding me here" I tried to sound terrified but to no avail, instead I sounded desperate which was how I truly felt. Sister Teresa's hand covered her mouth, fear creasing her features, eyebrows furrowed. "We must get you to bed; Mother will know what to do in the morning. Come now, come now" Sister Hannah had taken my hand lightly, leading me away from the long hallway to an opening similar to a ballroom with a splendid stair down the center. There were busts and full size statues around the room, each with such detail my finger tips couldn't help but brush the etchings of the eyelashes and lines of the sculpted lips of my Lord's creations. As I climbed the stairs, mental photographs were flashing through my mind, scenarios of the good mother's demise. Distracted I find that Sister Hannah has been speaking yet not a word has been heard. "What was that Sister?" I ask, as innocently as possible.