SOUL MATE PUBLISHING New York EARTHWALKER Copyright2014 KELLIE WALLACE Cover Design by Fiona Jayde.

This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents are the products of the authors imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, business establishments, locales, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews. The scanning, uploading, and distribution of this book via the Internet or via any other means without the permission of the publisher is illegal and punishable by law. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the authors rights is appreciated. Published in the United States of America by Soul Mate Publishing P.O. Box 24 Macedon, New York, 14502 ISBN-13: 978-1-61935-371-8 www.SoulMatePublishing.com The publisher does not have any control over and does not assume any responsibility for author or third-party websites or their content.

EARTHWALKER | 1 Chapter 1 Noah entered the hospital foyer and shivered, his wet woollen coat dripping water onto the laminate floor. Around him people moaned, writhing in pain or comforted loved ones. He always hated coming to hospitals, the trip often leaving a bitter taste in his mouth. A young nurse engrossed in her paperwork passed him unaware of his stained clothes, wet from the rain. He must have stunk, having spent most of the night shivering in an alleyway, gaining the courage to come inside the building. He gazed at the nurses behind the reception desk taking calls and admitting new patients. They wouldnt notice if he snuck down the hall to Room 205. He inadvertently lifted a hand to caress his left shoulder, branded with a handprint of an archangel. It stung tonight meaning his next soul was nearby. He remembered the night hed gotten the brand, lying on his bathroom tiles dying of a heroin overdose in 1965. He didnt see whod grabbed him from near death but he did remember their grip on his shoulder, their fingers boiling his skin like plastic. His soul, ripped from his body, pulled through the ceiling and into the stars. He woke up days later, hovering over a dead body. He didnt recognise them, or how they died but somehow he knew what to do. He rested his hand upon their shoulder and was temporarily impaired by a bright light. It was gone as quickly as it came, leaving behind a feeling of euphoria. Whatever he had done felt right. A babys cry snapped Noah back to reality, back to the dripping coat and the chill in his bones. The smell of the hospital nauseated him. He tapped his notepad against his chest and remembered the job he had to do. He wandered down the hall passing the dead or dying in their hospital beds. They were not his tonight. When he approached Room 205, he fished in his pocket and withdrew his leather-bound notepad. Embossed in gold was the name of his next soul. Damien Jacobs. According to Noahs Intel from Heaven, the man had terminal cancer, dead for at least an hour. But his soul was still affixed to the hospital, not ready to leave Earth. Noah pressed a hand against the door and searched the halls. A nurse ducked into a room nearby, a patient hung by the cafeteria. No one paid him any attention, so he turned invisible, sucking energy from the objects around him. Reaping souls took stamina and energy, draining him quickly. He had a short window of time before he materialised again. Noah stepped into the room and paused to listen to the sound of weeping. Damien lay dead in his bed, tubes still attached to his lifeless body. After all these years as an angel, he could never forget the colour of the human skin once a soul left the body. The fragile area around Damiens eyes appeared transparent and elastic. His family sat around him, hunched over, each gripping onto a piece of his blanket, desperate to capture his soul before it left his body. Noah saw movement in the corner of his eye. Damien stood beside him in a white hospital robe, his face blank and deadpan. Am I dead?

Noah froze, knowing his answer could change Damiens fragile frame of mind. When a soul is fresh from the body, there was no telling whether they would be agitated or bitter about their death. It all came down to the first interaction. An angel must treat them as though they were still alive, human. He took a steady step towards Damien, his hand out stretched. I am afraid it is true. But you must come with me now, he said gently. Damien stared at him, confusion plastered on his face. Who are you? Where will you be taking me? A nurse entered the room, unknowingly walking straight through Noah. He let out a breath of surprise, always hating the strange sensation. I will take you home to your God, he said once he recovered from the intrusion. Damien shook his head defiantly. No, I am not ready. Noah sighed in defeat, feeling an indelible wall being built. Here is my home, Damien added. My wife and family are my home. I understand that, Damien, Noah said carefully, as though speaking to a child, but do you want them to go through life mourning over your death, while you remain trapped here for all eternity? You are bound to this hospital, not your family. A light of recognition dawned in Damiens eyes. He swung back to look at his family weeping over his lifeless body. I will stay here forever if I dont go with you? Noah nodded, and outstretched his hand again. Thats right. You are no longer needed here. Come with me. At first Damien didnt move, and then he closed his eyes and let out a giant sigh. He gazed at his family once more before approaching Noah slowly. I never thought the cancer would win, he said in admittance. I fought it for years, until one day I just gave up. I was angry at my family for allowing it to happen, angry at this hospital for letting me die. A smile pulled at the corner of Noahs lips. You mustnt blame anyone. God chose you for a reason. Now come, before its too late. Damien nodded and lowered his hand into Noahs. As soon as their skin touched, a light birthed from deep inside the angel, enclosing the spirit in a golden orb. A shrill cry filled the air as Damiens soul gave one last fight, before darkness returned to the hospital room. Noah swayed on his feet, bracing himself against the wall. Transporting a soul to Heaven always drained him, zapping his energy. Damiens family hadnt seen or heard the exchange. He withdrew his notepad from his pocket and saw Damiens name had gone from gold to black. The transportation was successful. He replaced the leather-bound book in his pocket and left the room. When he entered the hall, lights above his head flickered on and off. Nurses and patients stared at the ceiling in awe. Noah continued on, sucking in their energy to become physical again.

This time, the nurses noticed him when he turned a corner, drawing their gaze over his dishevelled appearance and wet coat. As long as he didnt draw attention to himself, he would be alright. He continued down the hall, stopping short of a black figure looming over a patient in a hospital bed. It held a familiar stance and wore a coat similar to the one he wore. He wasnt aware of any other angels visiting tonight, nor expected anyone else at the hospital. It was his territory. Noah approached the hospital room door and peered inside. The patients mouth was stretched open, a soft glow exiting the body. The figure was extracting a soul, which was illegal in Heaven. As if sensing his presence, the figure paused and stared at him. A breath of surprise exited Noahs lips. The dark figure glaring back was him! At least someone identical to him. He flew into the room, pointing at the other angel with a shaking finger. Who are you? he ordered. Noahs double grinned, his eyes glowing red. You know who I am. He saw the unmistakable aura around the figure. A demon. Who are you? Daniel, the demon replied. Why are taking my form? Noah asked. Why are you here? Daniel diverted his gaze back to the patient and sucked out the remnants of the soul. When he was done, he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. Ive always loved the rich savour of souls, he said, circling around the bed. They taste so good, particularly the ones who are clean. The ones with tumours always leave a bitter taste in my mouth. As he stared into his own eyes, Noah studied the deep pools of blue, the scars feathering his skin, the fine baby soft skin now peppered with a five oclock shadow. It felt strange looking at himself this way, like looking into a living mirror. He is not my first tonight, the demon admitted, his voice cutting through the deafening silence. I have taken the souls of hundreds tonight . . . all in your form. Why? Daniel let out a cruel laugh, his voice left hoarse by the scars of Noahs self-abusive past. I dont mind your form. In fact you are flexible and warm, but you have major head issues. Why the regrets? Noah put out his hand. Show me your notepad. Why? I want to see if this man was on the list. He wasnt.

Noah stepped aside and reached for the patients records hanging on a chart at the foot of the bed. He read it without hindrance, having years of understanding medical jargon. His cancer was in remission. This man would have survived if you hadnt reaped him. When he returned to confront the demon, Daniel had taken his true form. A tall blond man in a suit stared back at him, his eyes as red as a ruby. No, he wouldnt, Daniel said stubbornly, playing with an invisible thread on his suit. I found him before he had a chance to fight. Without a hint of regret, Noah shoved the demon with great strength, sending him flying backwards into an array of EKG machines and wires. The creature landed hard, leaving an imprint in the wall. He laughed as he struggled to climb out of the jungle of medical equipment, sending sparks into the air, unhurt. What was that for? Anger seared Noahs belly. I want to know why! he screamed. Why me? I could lose my glory because of this! A sly grin spread across the demons face. I know. Before he had a chance to rip the demon apart, a bright light suddenly appeared from the ceiling, drawing Noah skyward with incredible strength. He screamed and thrashed against the pull, watching the demon down below laughing at him, his blood-red eyes dancing with delight.

Chapter 2 Noah woke in a small, brightly lit cell. He grimaced against the glare of a light above his head. A hint of lavender and sandalwood wafted in the air. He must be in Heaven again. He rose to a seated position and jolted at the sight of archangel Michael standing on the other side of the bars. It upsets me to see you in there Noah, he said, his arms crossed over his broad chest. A golden aura embraced him. Noah climbed to his feet and approached the bars, wrapping his fingers around the cool metal. Michael, why am I in here? The archangels brows came together. You dont know? Realisation slapped Noah hard in the face. The demon, he breathed. What? The demon in the hospital. He framed me. Michael shook his head, his face set into a disappointed frown. You were caught stealing souls, Noah. No, it wasnt me, he insisted. It was a demon. He said his name was Daniel. There was no one else there. No! I was set up.

You know its against our law to steal souls from unready vessels, Noah. We know you were in Saint Marys hospital, and a few more last night, Michael explained. Yes, I was there, Noah admitted. But I was retrieving a soul who was ready. Damien Jacobs. Check my notes. We have. The name wasnt in there. Noahs mouth dropped open. It was. I saw the name turn black right in front of me. He was sent to heaven. Thats not what our records tell us. You visited two hundred hospitals last night. You were recorded in stealing one thousand souls. This is very serious, Noah. It was a demon! he cried. I saw him in a room stealing a soul. I didnt take those souls. He did. The thunderstorm calmed in Michaels eyes. Who was this demon? Did you recognise him? No, but he said I knew him. There were no demons at St Marys last night. We only saw you. Noahs grip on the bars tightened. He was in my form! Im not the criminal here. Okay, Michael reasoned, running a hand over his face. Deep-set lines formed around his eyes, and his mouth was downturned. Even his pale skin appeared duller and lifeless. So there was a demon there with you. Did he say why he took your form to reap souls? I never got to ask. You dragged me up here! Michael raised a hand and his golden aura intensified. Calm yourself. Its not up to me what happens to you. Youll have to address the Tribunal today to fight your case. Noah let go of the bars and sat down on the bed, sending loose feathers into the air. He knew what happened to rogue angels if they ignored the rules. Demons and Hell Hounds entered Heaven in a haze of heat and flames, imprisoning the accused in a cage of fire, dragging them down through the earth to an eternal life of pain and torture. Hed seen it once, and it was something he would never forget. Noah shivered against the chill. What will happen to me if they dont believe me? A shadow crossed Michaels face. I dont know. The Elders will make the final decision. Im afraid well have no say in it. Do you think Lucifer is involved somehow? Michael played with an invisible thread on his robe. Gabriel has been talking with Father about Lucifers need for fallen angels. Hes building an army for something we do not know of yet. It is getting quite serious- He paused, when he saw the look of dismay on the younger angels face. He stepped forward and entered the cell through the bars. Being dragged to Hell is the most extreme

Ive ever seen. The last time they sentenced an angel to Hell was five years ago. You witnessed that, too, remember. Noah nodded, recalling the stench of burning flesh and hair. It had been imprinted into his memory. I dont want that to happen to me. You want to be an archangel, dont you? Michael quizzed. Of course. Thats my ultimate goal. Noah, you are still a rookie and you have a long way to go. But youve already shown your worth after a small period of time. Thats important to the Elders, Michael said. Just be honest with them, and Im sure theyll appreciate it. Will you be there? Yes, with Gabriel. Pray for me, Michael, Noah begged. You wont need it. Noah stood before the tribunal an hour later. Standing with his wrists cuffed, he threw a helpless glance towards Michael who stood in the crowd, next to Gabriel. Their faces were sombre and impregnable. The room was full of spectators, other angels and warriors of God sitting in marble pews, their low voices trickling throughout the bitter cold room. Noah stood with his back to them, their stares penetrating his flesh. Ever since the news of Noah stealing souls rocked throughout Heaven, he was seen as a criminal. Angels avoided him as though he was cursed and the friends he once knew shunned him. What is your profession, child? Noah started and looked at the three tribunal leaders in front of him, all dressed in white robes with gold trimmings. They sat behind a black marble table. Um . . . I collect human souls that refuse to leave the mortal earth. The middle angel, who Noah recognised as the right hand of their Father spoke. Was that what you were doing when Michael called you back to Heaven? Noah nodded. Yes, sir. How many souls did you think you collected that night? Twenty. It was a quiet night. Thats not the numbers we received. The Elder didnt show a flicker of emotion. I was told you believe someone framed you. Is that true? That is correct, it was a demon.

A demon? I know it sounds preposterous, but its true. A murmur rose among the crowd. He looked to his brothers again. Gabriel was gone. Do you know who this demon was? the Elder asked. His name was Daniel, Noah said. In his true form he was a tall, blond man. The Elder stopped to speak with the other angels at the table, their voices a low inaudible mumble. He returned to Noah. I am sorry, child. This is just very hard to believe. We have never had something like this happen before. Did he say why he was in your form taking souls? Noah sighed, hearing the scepticism in the Elders voice. I know it doesnt sound believable after the last war but its true. I wasnt able to ask him because I was bought back here abruptly. He shot a glance towards Michael who was unresponsive. We havent been able to track down the demon in question. Lucifers soldiers have confirmed there is no Daniel. Noah, Im afraid youre lying to us. Im not lying. I was framed! He turned to Michael. Brother, please. You must help me! Michael didnt move, but his eyes wept. As much as we want to believe you, shape shifting demons are rare, the Elder explained. We really want to believe you. We all know Lucifer is building an army, Noah said. Maybe hes creating hybrids. We never know! The Elders exchanged glances. The spectators went silent. All Noah heard was his own thumping heart. Child, do you know what happens to traitors of Heaven? the Elder quizzed. He nodded, knowing all too well of the consequences. The last time an angel was ordered to trial and banished was his best friend, Peter. He was found guilty of working with Lucifer, the worst crime to commit in Heaven and ordered to eternal life in Hell. Peter had been sent away, ripped from Noahs grasp by engulfing flames. Yes, I do know, sir. How can I prove to you that Im innocent? The Elders looked at each other again and conversed in low voices. Noah watched them, trying to read their facial expressions. After what seemed like eternity, the middle angel broke from the conversation and stared at him. We have seen all the evidence brought to us and have made a decision, the Elder announced, his booming voice ricocheting off the walls. The room went silent again. How do you plead? Not guilty, sir. Noah glanced behind him to Michael and back again. He took a deep breath.

We have agreed to give you one more chance. The Elder paused when the room broke out into gasps and whispers. You plead your innocence, and your history proves a loyalty to us. We are willing to give you one more chance but The sound of the verdict rocked Noah to the core. Thank you! You will not regret this. I am not finished yet, child. You mentioned you wanted to prove your innocence. That is true, Sir. We will give you one human year to find this demon responsible for your framing, and we will drop the charges. Failure to meet these demands will result in your banishment to life in Hell. Do you understand? The relief quickly evaporated inside Noah. He was freed from the shackles, but still tied to his duty. He needed to find this demon fast. Yes, sir, I understand. Thank you for being lenient. The Elder nodded and linked his fingers together. One year only, Noah. Consider this part of your punishment. What part? The ground under his feet suddenly shook with the intensity of an earthquake. The surface split open to reveal the limitless boundaries of space. Noah fell through the cracks screaming, sucking in breaths of air as he struggled against the force. A light birthed underneath him and he fell toward it, reaching for it. Then everything went black.

Chapter 3 Noah woke to the sound of his own ragged breathing. He rolled to his side and pressed a hand to his aching temple. Amid the searing pain, he felt an iciness encase him, though it wasnt the same chill he knew in Heaven. This was different, almost earthly.

As his eyes adjusted to the new environment, he came aware of his surroundings. He sat in a cold, damp alley. The stench of pollution and rotting trash scorched his nostrils, and his backside was wet from sitting in a puddle. Car horns echoed in his ears. Skyscrapers pinned him in. He must be in a city. He tried to get to his feet, but lost his balance, falling against a trashcan. At the end of the alley, people passed by, too engrossed in their own little worlds to acknowledge him. Noah groaned and got to his knees, buttoning up his wool coat. The fabric was soiled and dirty, but it will do until he could find some fresh clothes. Excuse me, are you alright, sir?

A soft voice broke through the honking horns and the pounding in Noahs ears. He turned and saw a figure hovering at the entrance of the alley. A woman. She wore a red jacket and matching pumps. Her blue eyes ran up and down his body, making him blush. She tentatively took a step closer. Sir, are you okay? Noah cleared his throat and braced himself against the brick wall. He wobbled. Yes, I think so. She reached him in two strides, her cheeks dusty pink from the cold. She was beautiful, lovelier than any other angel Noah had met. Her raven black hair fell loose over her shoulders and her ruby red lips stood out amid the dim ally. Do you need help? she asked. Are you hurt? He frowned and pinched the bridge of his nose. Where am I? New York City. Noah dropped his hand from his face and stared at her. He must have scared the woman because she started to back away from him. What year is this? 2012, she replied cautiously. Realisation hit him like a slap in the face. Of course. They sent me here to find him! Find who? The demon who me banished from Heaven. The woman glanced over her shoulder to the crowded street and back to Noah again. A frown formed between her light blue eyes. Right. Um. Well, I am on my lunch break. Let me take you the hospital. I dont think youre well. Whats your name? he asked, brushing dirt from his coat. The woman, who was walking towards the entrance rather quickly, stopped in her tracks. Im Fern. Whats yours? Noah, he replied, falling in step beside her as they joined the crowded footpath. He saw her tense at his close proximity. Do you live or work around here, Noah? Fern asked. For a brief moment he was taken by the suns rays bouncing off the skyscrapers, the swollen roads and the stench of the city. He had been to New York once to collect a soul in 1985. It was a lot different back then. People walked by talking into hand held devices with thin cords springing from their ears. Billboards flashed and moved and voices spoke hurriedly from large TV screens in shop windows. In the corner of his eye he caught Fern studying him and he smiled at her. Its been a while since I was last here. And no, I dont live here. I live above the clouds.

If it wasnt for the bustling city around them, he was sure Fern would have run off. But she stayed, walking shoulder-to-shoulder, eyeing him with a certain grace that left him speechless. Who was this woman? Where are we going? he asked. Fern dug through her handbag and pulled out her cell phone. I am taking you to the hospital. Its not every day I find a delusional man on my lunch break. Im not delusional. I know we have only just met, but my friend is a doctor and can see to you quickly. He might be able to recommend a psychiatric hospital. "Why do you think Im delusional? I am telling you the truth, Noah pleaded. Fern dropped the phone from her ear and stopped at the road curb, waiting for the lights to change. Noah, let me be frank with you. Im just a publishing assistant, living my mundane life. I normally dont stop and help random men but I saw you lying in the alley, and thought youd been mugged. I was trying to be a good person. I dont need your help, Noah replied, looking around him. The crowd waiting for the light was growing with each passing second. I have one year to find the demon so I must leave. The traffic came to a stop and the white hand flashed, but Fern didnt move. Who is this . . . demon? Noah took a couple deep breaths and rubbed his hands together as if to generate an imaginary spark. I caught him stealing a soul from a body that wasnt ready to go. He was in my form. And thats bad? Fern questioned, stepping forward onto the road with the other pedestrians. Noah quickly followed her, narrowly avoiding a passing taxi. Yes. Its illegal in Heaven to take another form regardless if its for good or evil. Whats the punishment? Eternal life in Hell. So youre an angel? she asked with a hint of derision. Yes, I arrived here this morning. Fern crossed her arms over her chest. Prove it to me. Why? If Im going to be walking around New York with a so called angel I need proof. Okay. Noah stopped in the middle of the busy pavement, outside a coffee shop. He searched the faces that passed him by, until one caught his attention. A homeless man sat in a ball by the doors, wrapped head to toe in blankets.

There. He pointed at the figure. Do you see him? Fern followed his finger and curled her nose. The local homeless guy? What about him? Have you ever seen a soul? She shook her head. I cant say that I have. Noah could sense she didnt believe him, he could see it in the way her red lips curled subtly at the ends. Hed show her. He stretched out his palm towards the homeless man and closed his eyes. He heard Fern take in a sharp intake of breath. When he opened them again he found almost every person on the pavement had stopped to stare at the glowing blue orb emanating from the homeless mans chest. Fern grabbed his arm and squeezed. Oh my, its beautiful. What is that? Thats the human soul, Noah replied with a smirk. The cleanest energy in the entire universe. The crowd grew as people bumped into each other, approaching the man, waking him to ask how he could produce such a clean, clear glow. Noah took Ferns hand and led her through the pulsing crowd to a doorway. He laughed at her wideeyed expression. Believe me now? She nodded numbly. Wow, was I seeing things? No, thats what the soul looks like in its purest form. People should pay more attention to that guy. He will cure cancer in twenty years. Fern gazed back the way they came. People were throwing money at the homeless man, taking pictures with him. She placed her phone back against her ear. Okay, I think I better call Richard. Walking into the bustling Saint Marys hospital reminded Noah of the night he was framed by Daniel. The demons face floated in his minds eye, and he dug his fingernails into his palms. Hed rarely experienced such loathing since becoming an angel, but lately he found it was all that fuelled him. As Fern led him to the reception desk, he scanned the people around him, watching expressions on doctors faces and patients walking down the hall. If the demon was a hybrid, able to shape shift, he might be anyone. He heard Fern arguing with the nurses behind the desk, trying to explain his situation. I dont know his full name. Yes, I need to see Doctor Richard Donovan right away. Do you have his insurance card or Social Security number? Fern sounded exasperated. No. How many times do I have to tell you? I found this man in an alleyway. I think he might be on some hallucinogens or other drugs.

Why do you say that? II just need to see Doctor Donovan now! Noah turned around and saw the nurses staring at him judgementally. Michael could read minds and he wished he had that talent now. Please, she said, I only spoke to Richard ten minutes ago. One of the nurses sighed in defeat and picked up a clipboard in front of her. She scanned the page. Doctor Donovan is in Room 5. Take a seat over there and Ill page him. Therell be no need for that. Fern and Noah both turned to find a tall, striking man standing behind them. He wore blue scrubs and transparent booties over his shoes. He smiled broadly at Fern before leaning over the receptionist desk. Thanks for seeing my friends. I will take it from here. The two women seemed to melt at his presence, and bobbed their heads in unison. No worries, Richard. Next time just warn us in advance. He returned to Fern and gave her a friendly punch on her arm. How are you, girl? I havent seen you in ages. Have you been avoiding me? She smiled and rubbed the area where his seemingly harmless punch had hurt her. Of course not. The publishing house is keeping me very busy and- She stopped once she saw Noah standing quietly behind her. Oh this is embarrassing. Richard, this is Noah. I found him in an alleyway down the road. I dont think hes well. That is very heroic of you, Fern, Richard said, eyeing Noah with a hint of amusement. Playing Superwoman for the day, are we? Fern blushed. No, she said, avoiding his gaze. So many people are just blind to others nowadays. I saw Noah and thought he needed help. Richard looked at the angel and put his hand on his shoulder. How are you feeling, Noah? Im feeling alright. A little dizzy but thats normal. Whats normal? Vertigo is one of the symptoms of being dropped from Heaven. Richard and Fern exchanged glances. Fern, did you find anything on him, like pills or powder? No. Okay, Noah, he said, placing a hand on his shoulder. Lets take you As soon as he made contact, a sharp electrical charge sparked on the angels wool coat, shocking Richard. The doctor pulled his hand away hastily. Ouch!

Whats wrong? Fern asked. Richard looked down at his hand and rubbed the palm. It was already pink. Its nothing. I just got a massive electric shock. From what? I dont know, he said. Sometimes our booties generate static electricity. Oh, can you take Noah into a room and check on him? Fern questioned. Richard drew his eyes up and down Noah. Yes, I guess so. Who is he? Superman?

Chapter 4 Richard closed the examination room door behind him. He crossed the room to a small tray and slipped on rubber gloves. Do you drink or take drugs, Noah? The angel shook his head. No earthly alcohol or medications, if thats what you mean. Yes, it is. Richard turned back around. Can you please remove your coat and shirt? Noah did as he was told, dumping his clothes beside him on the bed. Richard approached him with his stethoscope, but froze when he saw the hand print on Noahs left shoulder. Oh my God, what is that? Noah followed the doctors gaze to the scarred tissue. I dont really remember much about it. Were you pulled out from a burning building? Im not sure. As I said, its all a blur. Richard leaned in for a closer look. Wow, I can even see the fingerprints. Does it hurt? No. Do you mind if I take a photo of it? the doctor asked. No. Noah watched Richard open a drawer in a computer desk behind him and pull out a Polaroid camera. He took a handful of photos before putting the camera away. Thank you. I have never seen anything like that before. Its a part of me now so I dont worry about it. Richard picked up his stethoscope and placed it against Noahs chest.

Noah watched him intently, studying the lines in his face. What is it? Your heartbeat is incredibly fast, he observed. Have you taken any recreational drugs in the last 24 hours? No. Richard went back over to the computer against the wall and leaned over as he logged in. A database sprung up on the screen. What is your surname, Noah? I dont have one. Richard looked over his shoulder at him. Whats your address then? I live in Heaven. I dont have an earthly address. Okay. Richard turned and walked over to him again. Let me look you over. Somehow Im not satisfied. He checked Noahs pupils with a firm expression. Dissatisfied about what? Richard crossed his arms over his chest. How long have you known Fern? I only met her today. The doctor sighed heavily. Look, Fern has been going through a lot lately and the last thing she needs is some freak chasing after her. Im not a freak, Im an angel. Ive already proven it to her. I dont care what you are. Look, either you are putting on an act or you are generally ill. You need to remember your surname and check into a psychiatric hospital. That might be true on Earth, but I have a job to do. Get dressed. I will bring Fern in. As Noah slipped his clothes back on, Richard opened the door and motioned for Fern to enter. How is he? she asked. Richard looked at Noah and back at his friend with distaste. Hes fine, Fern. Despite an irregular heartbeat hes perfectly healthy. So did he tell you about what he was? An angel? Yes, weve discussed it. So hes not ill?

Well, its hard to tell. Hes definitely delusional but that can be due to exposure to the cold. I think he needs a warm meal and some rest. There is a mens shelter down the road. Thank you so much for seeing him at short notice, Fern said with a smile, placing her hand on Richards arm. I appreciate it. Pleasures all mine. Give Victors Mens Home a ring. Im sure theyll love to have him. Well see them now. Richard handed her a referral for the home. Next time, Fern, keep your wits about you. Im not taking you to Victors, Fern announced as she exited the hospital with Noah. The day had gotten cooler, and he shivered in his coat. To his surprise his stomach even growled. Why not? Fern slowed her pace and walked side-by-side with him. Well, I know what I saw back there with that homeless guy. Richard ishow can I say it?a snobby rich kid who has never set foot in a shelter or helped anyone. He just wants me to drop you like rubbish and move on with my life. He hates that I am friendly to people. He doesnt understand it. But he works in a hospital, Noah noted. Ironic, isnt it? Well, if you werent the person you are Ill probably be dead. Fern smiled. But you would have made a pretty corpse. Noah soon forgot he was hungry. So where to now? They stopped at the roadside and waited for the lights. Fern checked her watch. I should be getting back to work. My boss is probably wondering where I am. Oh okay. Noah felt a dull throbbing in his chest. Hed been an angel for so long that he had forgotten there were people on earth who were like Fern. Well, I should go on my way. Thank you for helping me. A hint of disappointment flickered across her face, but it was gone as quickly as it came. Do you have a place to stay? she asked hopefully. Are you hungry? Noah felt his stomach groan again. Yes, I guess I am. Okay, she said, pulling out her phone. Let me call my boss. I might be able to take the rest of the day off. What for? I have hindered you enough already, he replied. I was sent to earth for a reason so I need to get back to my mission.

Fern lowered her phone from her ear. Now, Noah, if you decide to stay here in New York, you have to stop mentioning that angel stuff. People might get freaked out. But its true. It might be but lets get you settled somewhere so you can mumble that to yourself. Fern started walking across the road, her phone attached to her ear. As she spoke candidly to her boss, Noah followed her, studying the way her skirt hugged her bottom and how her hair floated in the New York breeze. He recalled the night he died of an overdose in 1965, absent from friends or anyone close to be called a loved one. He was a Vietnam veteran, haunted by his actions in war. Love was as foreign to him as the green pastures of Nam, but as he watched Ferns face smile, laugh, and shine amid the dreariness of the day, he understood what love could be. Yes, I wont be able to come back into the office this afternoon. You want to know why? Fern stopped in her tracks and looked at Noah with a gleam in her eye. Trust me, sir, you wont believe me.

Chapter 5 You can stay here until we work out what to do with you. Fern opened the door to the apartment and stepped inside. Noah hovered outside in the corridor, eyeing the new environment with scrutiny. This place gives me a bad feeling, he said, throwing his glance around the splitting timber floors, soiled windows, and dilapidated furniture. Fern sighed and placed her hand on the doorknob, her eyebrows drawing together in disappointment. This is my sister Stephanies old place. Its bare because she is trying to sell it. Did something go wrong here? Her eyes widened for a split second and then she nodded slowly, dropping her gaze to the floor. Yes, her boyfriend used to hit her. This was his place, thats why it looks like a dump. He was jailed and now she has the job of selling it. Noah stepped inside. I understand it now. He must have been a bad man. Why do you say that? I can see his energy still in the room. Its evil. Oh, will it still be okay for you? Fern asked, stepping away from the door. Noah looked around the room once more and returned his eyes to Fern, who was studying him hopefully. Last place I stayed was Heavens jail so this will do fine.

She smiled and placed her handbag on the kitchen table. Right, I guess the next thing is to get you some new clothes. She walked by him to head to the bedroom when he grabbed her arm, stopping her short. A hint of fear crossed her features. Why are you doing all this for me? Noah asked, dropping his hand. Far as you know I could be a serial killer. Fern raised her shoulder in a noncommittal shrug. Youre something and I dont know what. Thats why I wont tell you where I live until I know I can trust you. But there is something in your eyes that pleads for me to save you. She was so close he could see faint specks of gold in her eyes and smell her sweet perfume. But he had to restrain himself because if he touched her, even kissed her, he could kill her. A simple touch of his skin would send an electrical shock so violent it would cook her heart in her chest. What about we find some clothes for me? he asked, looking over his shoulder to break their gaze. He spun on his heels and hurriedly walked down the hall to the bedroom. He heard Fern follow him, her pumps clicking on the timber flooring. I was thinking, Noah, she said as she entered the room, if youre an angel like you showed me, why exhibit human mannerisms such as hunger and pain? From what the bible told me, your kind are supposed to be devoid of all humanoid feelings and emotions. Noah picked up a photo frame from the tall boy and studied the blonde woman smiling back. It must have been Ferns sister. I dont know, he replied. I think Im feeling these things because I am on earth. My Heavenly powers are lacking, or at least weak. Fern slipped the photo from his fingers. What powers did you have? she asked, staring down at the photo. In Heaven, my job was to harvest souls from the dead who werent ready to leave their vessels. Dead people? Yes. Ferns lips turned upside down. That sounds interesting, she mumbled, putting the photo frame back on the tall boy. It was, until I got framed, Noah replied dryly. So what would one of your kind be able to perform on earth? Noah crossed to the open window, where he rested his hands along the dusty window frame. It differs with each angel, he said, watching the yellow cabs cruise the street below him. Some can teleport and heal. What about you? Im not sure yet.

"Why did Richard get a shock from you when he touched you at the hospital?" she questioned. He heard her walk to the wardrobe and open the creaking doors. He looked surprised. Every angel has an electrical force field around them. Its like our security on Earth. He turned to face her. She had her arms full of mens clothing. Thats why I cannot touch you. Even the slightest skin to skin impact can kill you. Fern dropped the clothes onto the bed and began to spread them out over the mattress. Can that change? she asked, keeping her eyes on her task. Is there a way where you can drop that shield? It might be hard living in New York. Bumping into people is a daily routine. Yes, there is a way, he said. I can either choose to become immortal, or someone of high authority in Heaven can take it away if I request it. Will you do that? Fern questioned. Get someone to remove it? Not at the moment. I want to find this demon before I do anything else. How long will that take? I dont know, but I only have one year. Do you have any leads? Well, no. I just got here. Fern picked up a shirt from the bed and threw it at him. Well, you cant do much on an empty stomach, she said. Have a shower and get changed. Im taking you out to dinner. After Fern and Noah left the hospital, Richard wandered the halls, perplexed by the scarred tissue on the mans shoulder. Hed been a doctor for ten years and never seen anything like it. He wondered if Lee might have treated this type of burn in the Emergency Department before. He exited the elevator with the photographs in his hand and passed the receptionist desk towards Doctor Lee Collars office. He knocked on the door. Come in. Richard entered. Lee sat at his computer, typing out a patients CT scan results. He looked up from the monitor and slipped his glasses off his face. Afternoon, Dick. Richard frowned and closed the door behind him. You know I hate it when you call me that. Lee smirked and rose from his chair. Oh, come on, you love it. He skirted around the desk and grabbed his water bottle from the little bar fridge. So what brings you to my neck of the woods? I need you to look at these, Richard said, handing the Polaroid photos over. Lee placed the bottle onto the table next to him and flicked through the pile. Richard watched the smug expression fall off his face. Wow, where did you get these? Are these Photoshopped?

No, they are of a man who came in with Fern at lunch time. Is it a house fire or chemical burn victim? No, the patient said he doesnt remember how he got the scar. Whats his name? Ill look him up. Lee wandered to his computer. Theres no need, Richard replied. Why not? He believes hes an angel. Lee stopped in his tracks. Oh, hes one of those. Where did you say Fern knew him from? I didnt. She saw him in an alleyway zoned out of his brain and bought him here. Lee flicked through the photographs again. Shes the caring type, isnt she? Richard strode over to Lees leather chair and sat down in it. Tell me about it, he groaned, examining his manicured nails. It drives me insane. I dont know if this guy is an axe murderer or genuine. Did you catch his last name? He said he didnt have one. I cant find any information on him at all. Its like he dropped from the sky. Have you checked online about his burn? Not yet. Does that look like a hand print to you? Richard pointed to one of the finger shaped scars over Noahs shoulder. His friend studied it and nodded in agreement. Oh yeah, I can even see the finger prints. Seen anything like that before? Definitely not. It looks like a third-degree acid burn. Something very hot must have scoured him. But how can a handprint do that? No idea. Its like someone grabbed him with their hand and burned him. I dont know of any fire gear that can leave behind that kind of mark, Richard explained. So you said Fern bought him in. Is she still with that boyfriend of hers? Lee asked. Yep. Still beating her? Richard nodded. Yep. Does he know about this new guy?

If he did, do you think he would be breathing? Probably not. Where is this angel now? With Fern. Do you trust him? No. Well, what are you going to do about it? Lee questioned, kicking Richard out of his chair. Richard straightened his scrubs and looked at his friend with a steely gaze. I am going to watch him like a hawk.

Chapter 6 Fern watched Noah in shock as he shoved a whole slice of apple pie into his mouth. The warm dessert dribbled down his chin and pooled on the table. He had forgotten what good food tasted like. He didnt care if he heard other diner patrons judge him from behind their plastic menus. He ignored their whispers, relishing the sweetness of the apples coating his palette. When was the last time you ate? Fern asked. Noah wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. Many years ago. She watched him take a sip of his strawberry milkshake and eyed her Caesar salad with contempt. What do you remember about your past life? Oh, so you do believe me now? Noah asked with a smirk. Fern stabbed a piece of lettuce with her fork, but didnt eat it. Well if Im going to help you get back on your feet, I need to know who you really are. I would like to know if Im hanging out with a serial killer. Noah laughed and signalled the waitress for another slice of apple pie. When it arrived, he didnt hesitate diving into it, eating the delicate pastry with ecstasy. Fern giggled across the table. You were going to tell me a story, she said. Oh yes. He swallowed what was left in his mouth and pushed the plate aside to rest his arms on the linoleum table. What would you like to know? Fern lifted her shoulders in a shrug. I dont know. Tell me about your parents, where you used to live, your pet dog. My parents died when I was five so Ive been alone for most of my life. I was born before my Dad went too fight at Pearl Harbour. So youre really 72? Fern quizzed.

No, Im really 25. Well, Im sorry about your Mom and Dad, Fern said, reaching over the table to touch his hand. She then remembered his warning, and froze. Im sorry. I forgot about your security fence, she said, sliding her hand back. Thats okay. I sometimes forget too. I might have to put a neon sign above my head. She laughed and a wave of contentment washed over him. What was this feeling in his chest, a beating charge he didnt recognise? He cleared his throat. Where was I? Umm, my father died at war and I remember the day we got the news. Mom was hysterical. She got ill after that and died not long after. Sometimes I thought she died of a broken heart. Thats awful. That was the norm in those days. What happened to you? Fern asked. My aunt took me in, and I moved on with my life. I dont remember much about my childhood. Did you have any friends? I had a few. But I was a nomadic child. I was always on the move, particularly when I served in Nam. Fern nearly choked on her salad. You served in Vietnam! Wow, Noah, youve led such an amazing life. Past life, he corrected her. It means nothing to me now. Fern pushed a lock of hair off her face. Um, Ive been wondering about this. How did you become an angel? Did it hurt? Before he could answer, her cell phone buzzed in her purse. She dug through it and fished it out. Her face flickered with annoyance as she looked at the caller ID. Im sorry, I have to take this. She answered the call, turning away from him. Noah looked down at his melting apple pie and took a mouthful. It tasted like rubber now. Im sorry I didnt call you. I have been busy, Fern said. I know I-Im out with a friend. Are you going to let me finish? Okay, Ill see you tonight. He watched Ferns lips turn upside down and the fire in her eyes burn out. Whoever the caller was had sapped all her vibrancy. Fern turned back around, her cheeks red with shame. Sorry, I didnt mean for you to hear all that. Who was it? My boyfriend. Im surprised he hadnt called me earlier. Does he hurt you?

His question made Fern stop and stare at him, her big eyes shadowing with tears. No, no, of course not. Why do you say that? Noah smiled weakly. Im an angel. I usually come with some special Heavenly powers. Fern looked down and ripped her napkin into little pieces. Well, Im fine, really. Eat your pie. It will get cold. Fern, if he lays a finger on you, Ill kill him. A small smile pulled at the corner of her lips. Thats ironic coming from an angel. Look, I know what its like being punished for doing the wrong things, he said. In Heaven, I had a best friend named Peter. He and I died on Earth and were sent to Heaven about the same time. We were put through training and guidance together. He was the only one I could look up to but Peters mind wasnt as pure as mine. He had been struck and seduced by the notions of Lucifer. What happened to him? Fern asked, wiping her eyes with her napkin. Lucifer promised him a better life in Hell where he could live by his own rules and become as powerful as him. And did he? No. Once the Elders found out about the Devils deal, they banished Peter from Heaven. I remember a great heat coming from the floor one day. Hell Hounds broke through the doors of our living quarters in a barrage of flames and rotting flesh and ripped Peter from my grasp. I still remember him screaming. It was worse than anything I had ever experienced on Earth. Why did Lucifer want Peter? He wanted him for his army. An army? That doesnt sound too appealing. Before I was sent to Heaven, my brothers were talking about Lucifers need for fallen angels, Noah explained. Being one himself he hoped he could manipulate them and use their bitterness against Heaven. What happens if he completes his army? Fern asked. Noah looked down at the apple pie in his plate, now a melted pile of goo. I hate to imagine. It will be the end of days and he plans to take Heaven and Earth down with him. Do you know why you became an angel? Ferns voice sounded weak and far away. Was it to stop Lucifer? I dont know. I guess everyone has a purpose.

Chapter 7 It was late by the time Fern dropped Noah off at her sisters old apartment. Once they were inside, she gave him her number written on a napkin. Take this, she said, handing it to him. Theres an old phone in the kitchen. You can call me if you need anything. Will you tell me where you live? Why? In case something happens and I need to get over there. Will it? Fern questioned, crossing her arms over her chest. I dont know. I dont see the future. She sighed and slipped the napkin from his fingers. I live in the East Village on 1st Avenue adjacent from Tompkins Square Park. She walked over to the kitchen table and scribbled her address. How do I get there? Noah asked. Subway or taxi, she replied, pinning the napkin on the fridge with a magnet. Its about a twenty minute ride. She turned, her face slightly obscured by a flashing neon sign coming from the Chinese restaurant across the street. Do you have any money? He shook his head. She went over to her purse and pulled out $30. Take this, she said. It will be enough for you to either get a taxi or the subway. But only use it for emergencies, okay? Got it. Fern checked her watch and hooked her purse string over her shoulder. I better be going. It has certainly been an interesting day. Noah walked her to the door. Thank you for everything you did today. It wont be forgotten. Ferns lips rose into what could have resembled a smile. She entered the hallway. Take care. Noah. Ill call you tomorrow. Noah walked around the apartment for an hour after Fern left. He switched off all the lights and wandered the rooms in silence, finding solace in the blinking neon signs of the nearby stores and restaurants. They reminded him of the ethereal glow of Heaven. For the first time in many years his bones and head ached with fatigue. His duty in Nam and his decline into drugs nearly ended him, but he often wondered why he was saved when others werent. Ferns words circled in his head. Do you know why you became an angel? He had no idea. Why did God give him a chance when hed abused and neglected his body and mind?

Noah settled into an old timber chair then stared through the window at the sky. He couldnt see the stars tonight, but knew his home wasnt far away. Sometimes he longed to go back to the 1960s and his drug-induced lifestyle, but now a yearning to return to Heaven formed a lump in his chest. He must have a purpose on earth because he was here now, given a rare second chance. He rested his head against the back of the chair and closed his eyes. He drifted into a restless sleep, listening to the honking horns and laughter from the people on the street. A sudden jab of pain in his right lobe shocked him awake. Argh! Noah climbed out of the chair and stumbled on wobbly feet. With one hand braced against the wall, he used the other to hold his head. He closed his eyes tight, preparing for another wave of agony. Noah. The voice was distant, but oddly familiar. Noah stumbled backwards and fell back into the chair, looking around him in dismay. He couldnt see anyone. He closed his eyes and a prompt vision of Michael flashed before him. Noah. Michael, is that you? Brother, talk to me! Then, as quickly as it came, the pain dissipated. Noah got to his feet blinking away the remnants of the ache. He looked around him hoping to see his brother but no one appeared. It had to be a sign. Why would Michael be contacting him now? Was he close to the demon? Noah ran into the kitchen and found the telephone against the wall. He ripped the napkin off the fridge and dialled Ferns number. Excitement built inside him. He heard the phone ring over and over. He hung up and tried again. The excitement slowly turned to concern. He hoped her violent boyfriend hadnt discovered their day together. Noah ran out of the kitchen, leaving the phone receiver dangling in the air. He grabbed his coat and Ferns address and bolted down the stairs of the apartment building. He burst onto the bustling streets of New York, almost running into a couple. Noah ignored their annoyed grumbles and searched for a Yellow Cab. He had seen Fern do it before so it must be easy. He trotted down the length of the street, his hand outstretched. To his luck, a cab pulled up. He dove in and gave the driver the address. He didnt take time to admire the flashing lights, colourful shop windows, or extravagant New Yorkers. Ferns safety was the only thing on his mind. Twenty minutes later, he arrived in the East Village. He paid the cab driver and exited into the chill night. Ferns stone building loomed ahead of him. He took the stairs two at a time and ran to the locked glass doors, stopping short when the doors wouldnt budge. He forgot they had security buildings now. He didnt want to buzz Ferns apartment in case it alerted her boyfriend. Damn, he cursed, slamming his fists against the glass. He was about to give up when an old woman appeared in the foyer in her dressing gown and hair in curlers.

She smiled at him and hobbled down the stairs. She opened the door wide enough to slip her face into view. Are you locked out, dear? Noah sensed she had a kind soul. He hated lying to her, but he needed to get upstairs. Um, yes, I went out to get a bite to eat and left my keys in my apartment. Silly really, I moved in not too long ago. The elderly lady laughed and opened the door wider. You seem like a nice young man. You have a memory worse than I. Noah smiled at her. You have no idea. He gave her a soft pat on the shoulder and darted upstairs to Ferns apartment. He heard shouting emanating from the door and something crash onto the floor. A womans whimper rose among the hysteria. He didnt bother to knock. He took a few steps back and slammed his body into the door three times before it crumbled open. Fern and another man froze at the intrusion. Noah straightened his wool coat. Hello. Fern appeared horrified to see him. Noah, what on earth are you doing here? Her hair was messy and her lipstick was smudged across her cheek. The man looming beside her was furious at Noahs unwelcome invite. Who are you? he growled. Noah looked down at the mans closed fists and saw he was holding a porcelain vase. What were you planning to do with that? he asked. Both Fern and her boyfriend dropped their gaze to the vase. Its none of your business, the man said, throwing it onto a lounge chair. I asked you a question. Who are you? Fern stepped between them, her hands raised. Jason, please. This is my friend, Noah. He is the one I was telling you about today. Is he your new boyfriend? No, dont be silly, she said, throwing a glance towards Noah. He needed help and I Spent the entire day with him, Jason accused. Richard called me today. What did he say? Nothing about this, he said, pointing a finger towards Noah. I could just sense it. Oh, you know its nothing! I was concerned for him so I took him to the hospital. I found him in an alleyway! Did you sleep with him?

What? Why on earth would I do that? I dont even know him! Hasnt stopped you before. Now was the time to intervene. Noah sidestepped Fern and walked right up to Jason. The man was at least twice his size, but Jasons domineering presence didnt scare him. No, I did not sleep with your girlfriend, Noah said. She helped me when I needed it. A vein pulsed in Jasons temple. Who are you? Are you really a bum she pulled off the street? No, I am a Fern gripped his shoulder, her fingernails biting through the coat material. Jason, how about you go to bed? Ill see Noah off. After a little more coaxing from his girlfriend, Jason turned to leave the room, eyeing Noah under a furrowed brow. If I see you around here again, Ill kill you, he warned as he strode into the bedroom. Once Jason was out of earshot, Fern dragged Noah to the shattered front door. What are you doing here? she rasped, gripping his arm until her knuckles were white. I saw a vision, Noah announced. I think my brothers are trying to contact me. What are you talking about? When you left, I fell asleep and saw a vision of my brother, Michael. I think he might be telling me something. Telling you what? I dont know. Maybe he has news on the demon. Look, Noah, Fern said, raising a hand to pinch the bridge of her nose. Go home and get some rest. Its been a very long day. I have work in the morning so youll have to occupy yourself for a few hours. Noah looked at the closed bedroom door and felt an odd surge of rage roll in his gut. Did he hurt you? Fern saw the expression on his face and tried to reassure him. No, he did nothing of the sort. You just caught him at a bad moment. Im okay. You sure? He doesnt scare me. Fern smiled, her lips obscured by the smeared lipstick. Jason is an ex-boxer so he knows how to hurt a man, Noah. Just stay out of his way. He scoffed. Ive heard that one before.

Chapter 8 Noah walked in the door a little past midnight and collapsed into bed. He wasnt used to being so tired, feeling as though his head might explode. He closed his eyes and fell to sleep instantly, rocked to slumber by the ambience of the city. Within minutes, he was woken by a crippling headache. Noah rolled to his side and clutched his head, moaning insistently. Amid the agony, Michaels voice sounded once again, this time more prominent. Noah. He opened his eyes and saw a ghostly figure at the foot of his bed. Michael. Noah shot up so fast he whacked his head against the headboard. Michael, is that you, brother? The vision flickered like a TV screen. Its me, Noah, Michael said, his body enveloped by a blue aura. I have come to you against the Elders wishes so I must be quick. Noah crawled to the end of the bed, close enough to see the streetlights through Michaels body. They dont know about this? No, theyre unaware that I can teleport. So do you have news about Daniel? Noah asked, with optimism. Is he active? Michael nodded. Yes, Gabriel heard whispers the demon might be in Morocco. Why there? Its remote and off our radar. We believe Lucifer has given him a list of souls to harvest. We dont know how many but he must be stopped. How do I do kill him? Michael raised his hand. The Elders dont want him killed. They believe Daniel might have used to us to learn more about Lucifers army. How do I get to Morocco? Noah quizzed, his patience thinning. I cant actually get on a plane without a passport. You have the power to teleport too, Noah, Michael revealed. I will administer the power to you for this purpose only. When do I go? Tomorrow morning. You are only able to teleport within 36 hours. After that you will be stuck in the area you transport to. Can I take people with me? Michael gestured towards a photo frame on the bedside table with a photo of Fern in it. This woman has truly taken you, hasnt she? Noah couldnt help the blush that crept into his cheeks. Shes been too kind to me so far.

Youre allowed to take one person with you however it is risky. A human body cannot withstand the teleportation as much as an angel. The further you go the more risk it involves. If you wish to take her choose your destinations wisely. Where do I go once I arrive? Find a holy man named Amuphet. He will summon Daniel and reveal his location. Thank you Michael. Hows Heaven? I miss it, Noah said quietly. Michaels vision flickered again. Its fine without you. Do you have any more questions? One. Can you turn off my electrical fianyone shed ever met. As a child she used to dream about angels and imagine them with white wings, prominent features and a body like a Greek statue, but Noah blew that theory out of teld? Fern stared blankly at her computer screen. Her phone hadnt stopped ringing all morning and her inbox was swollen full. She hadnt slept well after Noah left, kept awake by thoughts of him. As Jason whined in her ear about her need to always help people, Fern knew this man, this supposed angel, was unlike he window. He was charming, childlike, and incredibly elusive. As she nibbled on the end of her pen, she wondered why she was feeling drawn to him. Hey, Fern. She raised her head and saw her colleague Megan Miller hovering over her desk with an oddly satisfied expression on her face. Megan, whats up? Im nearly done with these manuscripts. Her friend brushed a lock of blond hair off her face. Theres a really cute guy here to see you. Is it Jason? No, Megan replied with a sly smile. Hes smaller and wearing a woollen coat. He said he needs to talk to you urgently. Noah. Fern froze. The space between her colleagues eyebrows creased and she realised she must have been staring. Fern cleared her throat. Where is he at the moment? Megan viewed her with a curling lip. Why are you pulling that face? Are you cheating on Jason? Fern straightened her blazer. Of course not. Hes just a friend. Where is the man now? she asked more insistently, pushing her chair under her desk. At reception. Fern left Megan behind and walked hurriedly into the reception area, her heart momentarily stopping at the sight of Noah standing with his back to her. He turned when he heard her high heels clicking on the tiled flooring. Fern, good morning. How did you know where I worked? she asked, walking up to him.

He smiled and ran a hand through his thick brown hair. He looked tired, dark rings bruising his under eyes. When we first met, you said you were a publishing assistant so I called every publishing house in New York until I found you. Trust me, I had to use my charms to get your address. Fern sighed. Okay, thats either terribly creepy or very romantic. What are you doing here? Im going to Morocco. Excuse me? I had another vision last night, and my brother, Michael, appeared. He said there is word Daniels in Morocco. Ill be leaving this morning. Her mouth dropped open. And how will you be getting there? Im sure Customs will not simply let you walk onto a plane. Ill be teleporting there. Fern planted her hands on her hips and stared at him under her dark lashes. Okay, Im having a hard time understanding this. You will be teleporting to Morocco to find the demon your archangel brother said might be there. What will you do once you get there? I have a contact to meet. Hes a holy man who can summon Daniel. Will you kill this demon once he summons him? No, Heaven needs him. We can use his Intel, Noah replied. You can come, too. Michael said Ill have enough energy to transport one human. No way. I am not going, Fern said, raising her hands defensively. I have too much around here to do and theres no way you will be zapping me to some random place. Okay. How long will you be gone? Thirty-six hours. Is that all? You can hardly search a city in that time. Im hoping Ill have some help from my holy man. Fern leaned in, unsure whether she wanted to hug him or kiss him goodbye. Instead, she patted his arm. Please take care. Call me or email me when you get there. Whats email? Lucifer looked down at the writhing mass of bodies at his feet and smiled. Things were finally going his way. Heaven was corrupting their own soldiers and his inventory of stolen souls was growing by the day. Demons walked the earth recruiting fallen angels and the dying from every corner of the globe. His little army would be at full capacity soon. Hed never envisioned being so close to his goal. After being banished from Heaven all those years ago hed spent the time devising a plan to make

the earth his. The force upstairs was weakening, making it the perfect time to strike. The world was now ready for domination. He dropped to his haunches and picked at a stray piece of flesh peeling from one of the bodies at his feet. Hell have to replenish these souls and give them new bodies before sending them skyward. Finding clean, intact soldiers were hard to come by these days. He sighed and stripped the skin from the body, putting it into his mouth. He chewed it with his eyes closed, revelling in its rich taste. It was a cancer patient in remission. One more course of chemotherapy and they would be curedbut not today. He knew of Heavens ploy taking souls from hospitals and morgues, but he was doing the angels a favour. Why would Heaven want angry, bitter souls running their joint? They were better placed with him where he could use them to their full advantage. Sir. Daniel wore his human form well, a blond egotistical businessman he picked up from Wall Street. Daniel, what is it? he asked, rising to his feet. Do you have news? Ill be going back to Morocco soon. I wanted to give you an update. Whats your quota? The city is war torn so I have been meeting my quote tenfold. Perfect. He saw Daniels eyes drop to the pile of bodies and grimace. What is it? I thought you would be used to that by now? No, Sir. Some of the souls we imprison down here are people I used to know so it stings a bit. Lucifer walked up to the young demon and placed his hands on his shoulders. He felt him shake. You were chosen for a reason, Daniel. Do not let me regret hiring you. Noah is suspicious but hes not stupid. What do you advise I do? The archangels are aiding Noah on Earth, informing him of Amuphets powers. Go to Morocco. I want all the details. Yes, sir, Daniel replied. Do you want me to exterminate Noah? Lucifer dropped his hands so they hung by his black robes. No, Noah is a part of our plan. He is too valuable. But we must do something about that girl of his. Do you have any ideas? Daniel questioned, a sly smile crossing his face. Pushed in front of a train, or victim of an unfortunate shooting? Lucifer sighed. Think of something a bit more creative, Daniel. Thats why you are down here.

The Iraqi sand burnt Michaels eyes as he stood over a US Army jeep that had been bombed moments before. Soldiers lay broken and bloody outside the fallen smouldering shell, some laying half in, half out of the shattered windows. They had driven over a roadside bomb, undetectable in the dense sand. His thoughts fell onto Noah, who battled a war all on his own. Lucifer was after him for something, and Heaven seemed to have washed their hands of him. He was thrown onto the streets of New York naked and unprepared. So Michael decided to break protocol and make contact. Noah was smart, he knew what to do. He picked around the carnage, sidestepping broken pieces of glass and weaponry. The sand was black with soot. What about him? He could already sense Heavens failing strength and grace. It took little thought to banish Noah so rashly, particularly how loyal hed been. Michael let out a long, audible breath and kicked at a stray shard of metal with the toe of his shoe. He wanted more, hating the angel hed become. His status would normally give him a say in cases like this, but Gabriel was headstrong. He wasnt going to allow a tarnished angel to get in his way. Dont look so depressed. They are in a better place. Michael spun on his heels and saw Lucifer step out from behind the upturned vehicle. He was smiling, twisting a melted pistol in his hands over and over. What do you want? You know the bomb squads missed this mine, he said, standing a few feet away. A stench of sulphur burned Michaels nostrils. It was hidden too well for them to detect. These soldiers had no chance. They are not in a better place, Michael replied in a low whisper, angry and surprised Lucifer had the tenacity to show up like this, after all that had happened. What did he want? He watched the devil turn away only slightly, enough that Michael could see his profile, and mutter a verse under his breath. Four black clouds emanated from the four bodies lying on the golden sand. He watched on in horror as they snaked and danced in the air. What are you doing? he asked. Lucifer opened his arms wide and the clouds soared into him, so hard he stumbled backwards. Once it was complete, he opened his eyes and grinned. Theyre in a better place now. It took all of Michaels strength not to rip him to pieces. He looked down at the lifeless, soulless bodies and wept for them. Why are you here? I should ask you the same question. I was asked to come to Iraq to provide support if needed. Lucifer let out a mocking laugh. What kind of support? Theres not much left behind once I absorb their souls. That might be so but theres something left behind and I try to provide as much as I can to them.

Lucifer hooked his hands behind his back and circled the jeep. You know, your Noah is a formidable foe. Ive been very impressed by him. He has a good head on his shoulders, no? Stay away from him. The devil put up his hands defensively. I have not gone near him, though I have watched from afar. Michael stood, planted to the ground, though he wanted nothing more than to leave. What pleases you about Noah? Hes stronger than he believes, than you believe. You are not aware of his power. Noah wouldnt stray. Hes too pure for that. Are you forgetting what killed him in the first place? Noahs not pure. He used to swallow pills and inject poison into his body. I think he remembers. But what about you? Have you tasted the sinful? The question hung between them, swirling like the hot wind in Michaels head. He couldnt deny the notion of joining Lucifer had not entered his mind. The devil was powerful, seductive, and authoritative. He knew what lay beneath the surface. Not interested, he said, though he hardly believed his own words. Lucifer approached him until he was a foot away. His dark eyes were like oil, endless and deep. I can offer you a power you have never seen before. Why me? Lucifers eyes drew up and down his body. I know youre feeling weak and devalued in your current position. What would you say if I could make you more powerful than Gabriel and the Elders combined? Michael eyed the four carcases at his feet. He wanted more than was being offered to him and knew that Lucifer could deliver. But what would be the consequences? Punishment in prison, or death? If I agree to join you, can you offer me protection? While youre on Earth, youll be shielded by your own kind, but in Heaven I cant help you there. Alright, Im in. What do you want me to do? A smile uncurled across Lucifers face, revealing yellow, stained teeth. You can have time to think about my offer, you know. Ive already made up my mind. I want more than what I have and you can offer what I seek. Youve made a good decision, he said. Put Noah off Daniels trail. Hes getting close. I dont wish him to locate him as yet. Ill see what I can do. Wonderful. Lucifer turned on his heels and walked away. He then froze in his tracks and gazed back at Michael. Tell me, what made you change your mind?

Michael drew his eyes to the bruised sky and inwardly asked for forgiveness. I want a purpose, some excitement. Is that too much to ask? Never, my son. Glad to have you on board.

Chapter 9 Noah landed hard in the sand and threw up what little he had in his stomach. Teleporting always made him ill. He arrived in Fes, Morocco, just as the sun was cresting over the ancient city. The stench of spices, donkey faeces, and wood smoke hung in the air, making him sick. Around him, the city stirred. Deserted alleys soon woke with people dragging stalls and livestock behind them. He got to his feet quickly before he was swallowed by the crowd. A man hauling mules and donkeys passed him by, laden with wide loads of produce. Noah noticed he still had his coat on. If he intended to fit in unnoticed, he needed some proper attire. On the rump of one of the mules sat a rolled piece of fabric. Noah slipped it from the animals back as it went by. He wrapped himself in the foul smelling rug. He walked among the stalls, avoiding the hundreds of chickens that roamed the streets. To his right, five stray cats hovered around a fishmongers stall as he set up. The man shouted out a stream of colourful curses and the cats slunk away with empty bellies. Noah did not go five feet without being pushed by carts, groped by eager local shoppers or approached by smiling children begging for money. It was nothing like New York. This was a primitive part of the world. He repressed the urge to gag at the sight of unruly fried spleens, cow heads, and hooves on display. Around him, locals walked around in djellabas, cradling animal skins and fried chicken heads in their baskets. He needed to find the holy man quickly. He wondered if anyone spoke English. He approached the next stall he saw, a stand selling medicines and spices. Salam, Noah said. Salam, the stall owner responded. Do you speak English? The man stared at him for what seemed like a whole minute and then shook his head. Noahs heart deflated. Do you know anyone else who speaks English? The man pointed among the canary yellow buildings. Noah followed his finger to a church steeple protruding the sky a mile away. Who lives there? Amuphet. His stomach leapt into his throat. The holy man?

Naam. Great. How do I get there? The man pointed again down the road to a timber arch connecting two ancient buildings. Rags and washing hung over it, supposedly coming from the people leaving nearby. Noah looked back at the shopkeeper. Do I go over that arch to get to the church? How far away is it? Not far, the man replied in a heavily accented voice. Ten-minute walk. Thank you, ah, Shukran, Noah said. He left the stall and darted through the crowd, carefully avoiding children playing with streamers and stray dogs. He reached the archway and noticed the foundation was crumbling. To his right, a staircase led to the next level of the building. Noah took the stairs two at a time, making it to the archway out of breath. He tentatively placed one foot on the timber and when he knew it was stable rested the other. In the distance, the steeple pierced the sky. At the end of the archway Noah saw a door covered by a torn curtain. As he approached it, the timber creaked under his weight. When he reached the end of the structure, he pulled back the curtain and poked his head in. It was dark, the scent of spices permeating the room. Hello? Silence followed. Noah stepped into the room. Despite the warmth outside, the little stone room was cool. An AK-47 lay on a timber cabinet. He heard voices in another room and wondered if the stall owner had set him up. He wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, sweating profusely. Just as he was about to give up, he spotted a doorway through the foyer. He dashed through it, descending a flight of stairs. Noah jogged through the bustling streets, ignoring the dust staining his clothes and hair. He kept his eyes on the steeple, eager to reach the holy man. He only had 36 hours to find him and convince him to summon Daniel. The sun was beating down, warming Noah inside his wrap. He had no money for water or food. He had to keep going. The stalls continued for another mile, bustling with full carts, soldiers carrying weapons and fruit stands selling melon. Every time he looked at the sky, the church appeared closer. As he trudged through the golden sand, thoughts of Fern back in New York penetrated his mind. He wished he had a way of contacting her. Jasons ongoing presence in her life was like a cancer growing in his gut. He hated the man for laying violent hands on her. He wanted a way to obliterate him before he did more damage. Noah stopped to wipe away the sweat rolling down his forehead. Thirty metres ahead lay the church built along the perimeter of a courtyard. Hope grew inside him. He broke out into a jog, side stepping men dragging cattle and ponies. Noah reached the grand stone and granite church. The proud stone steeple stood tall among the other buildings. The timber doors were shut so he knocked once, twice. He heard voices inside, echoing off the stained glass. One door swung open and a mans face peered into view. Salam. Kaif momken asaedak?

Umm. My name is Noah, he said, slipping the shawl off his head so the boy could see his features. Im looking for Amuphet, the holy man. Do you speak English? The young man was dressed in a Keffiyeh, his brown eyes deep and wise beyond his years. He nodded, eyeing Noah up and down wearily. Are you American? Used to be. Yes, I am. Ive come a long way to speak to him urgently. I believe he might be able to help me. With what? Trapping a demon. The space between the boys eyebrows creased. Whats your name? I believe I already told you. Its Noah. Wait here. The boy closed the door gently. His footsteps descended further into the church. Noah looked over his shoulder and noticed a group soldiers armed with guns watching him across the courtyard. If it werent for his resolve, Noah would have been pounding on the door to be let in. He turned back around and waited. A few minutes later the door opened again. The young mans expression had transformed so much Noah wondered if he was looking at the same kid. His face was open and welcoming. Please come inside. My name is Umar, he said, hands outstretched towards him. Amuphet has been waiting for you. He stepped aside so Noah could enter the church. Noah was immediately assaulted by the scent of candles and incense burning. A painting of crucified Christ hung above the candle-lit altar, piquing Noahs interest. I wasnt aware you practiced Christianity in Morocco, he said. Umar dropped into step next to him. We only account for 1% of the population. Islam is the dominant religion here so we have to be careful what we preach as we can be arrested. Is that why there are so many soldiers outside? Yes, and Amuphet is aware of the risks. Is he a minister? Noah asked as he was led down a corridor opposite the altar. No, hes a holy man practicing in this church. Its the only place where hes safe. Umar stopped at a timber door. How did he know I was coming? Noah asked. Umar smiled and knocked three times. Amuphet sees many things. He knows what you do and he praises you. He was interested in helping you because exercising demons is his specialty. Oh. They waited outside the door until a booming voice heralded them from inside. Come in, Noah.

Chapter 10 Noah stepped into the cool room and saw Amuphet sitting at a large table. Two burning candles adorned the top corners, providing light for the holy man as he read his bible. He paused his reading to smile at him. Salam, my child. Salam, Noah replied, his eyes falling onto his thick beard, the creaseless ruby red robe and the Keffiyeh atop his greying head. Amuphet extended his arm toward the chair opposite him. Please sit. Noah left Umar at the door and sat down in the chair. It creaked under his weight. Umar, can you please retrieve a Thawb for Noah in the back room? Yes. Umar quickly descended down the hall. Amuphet closed his bible and looked at Noah from across the table. I appreciate the great lengths you took to come to see me. I believe you need me to summon a demon. Yes, Noah said, His name is Daniel and he framed me for a crime I didnt commit. Who recommended me? My brother, Michael. A slow smile uncurled across the holy mans face. Oh yes. Michael and I have been communicating. He believes Daniel might be in Fes reaping souls. Is that correct? Thats why I am here. How did you find me, son? Amuphet asked. I seldom reveal my location to the locals. I came across a man in the market selling medicines and spices. He directed me to the church. Amuphet nodded. Hes one of my disciples. I am glad you came across him before anyone else. Whys that? Noah, a white American man is a rare sight in Fes, particularly one in a country that has a disliking towards your land. I am surprised you got here in one piece. I arrived in the market place. Good. Now before I summon the demon I think you must know my background, Amuphet said, getting up from his chair. He paced the room as he spoke. I was born in an Islam country, sworn to uphold the laws of Allah. But as I grew into a man I saw fit to be someone not to follow the crowd. When my new faith made ripples around the city I found redemption here, but not without consequence. My wife and daughter were killed by rebel soldiers, who tied their bodies up in the town square for all to see.

Im sorry, Amuphet. Umar entered the room and handed Noahs white Thawb to Amuphet. Do not mourn for my loss, Noah, he said, giving the angel the traditional clothing. In my darkest of days, I found God and his church. Noahs brain buzzed. There was something underlying in Amuphets voice, a weakness, a hurt. You need my help, dont you? The holy man dipped his head in admittance. You are observant. Yes, I need your help. With what? You collect souls, dont you? Yes, but Im not exactly practising right now. Amuphet sat back down, meeting Umahs gaze over Noahs head. My daughter was only six years old when she died, he said. Im afraid her soul is haunting the home I shared with her and her mother. I have tried everything to remove her without harm, but shes an angry spirit and refuses to leave. You want me to reap her soul? Yes. If she returns to the other side safely, I will then summon Daniel for you. Noah knew there was a catch. He wondered if Amuphet failed to tell Michael of this deal, too. He pulled at the Thawb in his hands. I can try, he replied. I am not sure if my powers work. I havent reaped a soul since being back on Earth. You can try. It seemed Amuphet had already made up his mind. I will take you to my home now. Fern rolled over in bed, disrupted by the insistent buzzing of her cell phone. She gazed over at the clock, groaning with displeasure when it read 2:00 a.m. Jason snored beside her. She reached over and grabbed it before it woke him, placing it against her ear groggily. Hello, Fern speaking. Its me. She sat up as straight as a pole at the sound of Noahs voice. She pushed stray strands of black hair off her face. Noah, where are you? In Morocco. Jason stirred and flipped over. Not wanting to wake a sleeping beast, Fern slipped out of the bed and walked into the kitchen for some privacy. When did you get there? This morning. She sat down on a stool at the kitchen island. Did you fly? Sort of, he replied with a chuckle.

You teleported. Yes. Fern sighed. Did anyone see you? No. Good, she said with relief. Where are you calling from? A church in Fes. Are you okay? she asked. Yeah, Im fine. Just a little hot, he said, his voice slightly obscured by other male voices in the background. You said to contact you when I got here so Im doing just that. She smiled into the phone. Thank you for being so considerate. Do you realise its 2 oclock in the morning here in New York? Silence followed, and then she heard him speak. Oh, I didnt know that. Im sorry. Thats fine. So have you found your man yet? My holy man? he asked. Well, whoever you were supposed to meet in Morocco. Yes, Ive met my holy man. I havent come across Daniel as yet. I have one task to do for Amuphet, and then he will summon the demon for me. Stay safe, Noah, she pleaded. Morocco is not a safe place at the moment. Whats the worst that could happen, Fern? Noah asked. Im already technically dead. She scoffed and got to her feet for a glass of water. Cradling the phone under her ear as she turned on the faucet, she said, To them you are human, so act like it. Okay, okay. He paused and Fern heard the male voices again on the other end. Look, Fern. I gotta go but I will see you soon, alright? See you soon, Fern said. She hung up the phone, but didnt move from her position, wondering why she wanted to see him sooner. Noah placed the phone back into its cradle and looked across the room where Amuphet was filling a satchel with a few items. He recognised some of the things immediately; a jar of goats blood, spices, bird bones, a bible, and chicken feet. These were all the ingredients to summon a demon. He wondered if it would work. He was running out of time as it was. How much time do you have left? the holy man asked, as if reading his thoughts.

Noah shrugged, watching him picking up a ceramic bowl and placing it into the satchel. I have another 24 hours. Do you think we can catch him when hes summoned? Amuphet focused on his packing. I cannot be sure. Im hoping Daniel might be weak from reaping. Where exactly will we be summoning him? Noah asked. The holy man finished what he was doing and looked up at the angel. Theres an underground cellar under the church where Christians used to pray from the Islamics. Well call for him there. I will make sure Umah paints a pentagram on the ceiling before we come back. Doesnt that have to be in human blood? Noah asked. Whilst in Heaven, he heard of the practice of capturing demons and other Hell-bound souls with pentagrams. The five-pointed star was used for centuries as a means of imprisoning the wicked, but Western society turned it into a sign of devil worship. The pentagram was a symbol of protection and security, not alliance. Yes, it does, Amuphet replied, approaching Noah, leaving his satchel on the table. Umar will see to it. Do not hinder your mission with concerns for him. Is everything ready to go? Are you? Noah nodded, unsure how he would react if he got his hands on Daniel. He wanted to clear his name and go home. Yes, I am. Good. Amuphet led him out the back of the church to two donkeys tied up. It was already dusk, the sky streaked with oranges, indigos, and pinks. The holy man chose one steed and climbed on, waiting for Noah to do the same. My home is not far from here, he said. It is faster on the donkeys, plus if we get caught it is a quicker getaway. Noah pressed his lips into a thin line and kicked his donkeys flanks. The animal started moving straight away. Great, thats very reassuring. They rode for ten minutes, walking among the dusty and grand ancient city. They passed mosques made of marble and stone, their high dome roofs made of sparking gold. Eagles and hawks flew in the air, their movements dance-like. The heat of the day was already dissipating leaving a chill that stung Noahs cheeks. They reached Amuphets house just before the sun sank below the horizon. They dismounted and tied the donkeys up outside the deserted building. Noah noticed Amuphets slow pace as they approached his front door. The home was dark and ominous, stripped of light. How do you know shes there? he asked. She always is. Amuphet unlocked the door and stepped inside, picking up a candle, which lay on the cabinet adjacent to him. He lit it, waiting for Noah to join him. Naya will be upstairs in her room.

As the holy man led him to the second floor and into a darkened corridor, Noah couldnt ignore the nagging pressure in his breastbone. Amuphet, I cant promise Ill be able to take Nayas soul. As I said before, I have not reaped a soul since my banishment. It will work, he replied with assurance. How can you be so sure? Amuphet stopped at a door and turned back. The candlelight flickered upon his face, throwing shadows across his features. I just know. She is ready, and so are you. He opened the bedroom door and stepped inside slowly. He seemed to know which direction to take as he headed straight for the back of the room. All Noah could see was pitch blackness, the glow of Amuphets candle. He searched the small bedroom, studying the outlines of Nayas old bed and lone tallboy. He stood in the middle of the room, waiting, and then Amuphets strained voice broke through the silence. There she is.

Chapter 11 At first Noah couldnt see past the thick blanket of darkness, then the ghostly figure of Naya caught his eye. She stood in the corner of the room, her eyes fixated on her stuffed toys on the bed. Like most spirits who die of a violent death, Naya had been left to wander the earth in her final physical state, branded with a gunshot wound in the middle of her forehead. Blood ran in rivets down her face and neck. Amuphet stood frozen like a statue, his gaze fixed on his dead daughter. Naya. She didnt respond or move. Does she ever respond to you? Noah asked quietly. The holy man shook his head. No, she has never acknowledged me. Why do you ask? If a spirit harms or responds to the living, it is harder for angels to reap them because they have rooted themselves to the physical world, Noah explained. I have reaped one soul in that state and it took more than a little coaxing to get them to move on. What happens if they refuse to leave? Noah took a step alongside Amuphet, but kept his eyes on the girl. Its not pleasant and I rather not tell you. Why cant I see through her? Some spirits drain energy from things such as electrical items to become a full apparition, while others draw energy from the people living in the house they haunt, he explained. Naya seems to be living off yours as there is no discernible source of electricity here.

Does it hurt her to become a full apparition? No, it doesnt. So you think she will go willingly? the holy man asked, turning to look at him. She doesnt seem to know we are here. We can only try, Noah replied. He approached Naya cautiously until he was a foot away. She flickered, but didnt move. He didnt have his notebook with him, but was certain the girl wasnt in it. She was most likely assigned to another angel. Amuphet let out a breath of surprise when Naya suddenly moved, looking over her shoulder at Noah. Something flashed in her eyes and a low gurgle emanated from deep in her throat. Whats happening to her? he rasped. Sshh. Naya turned so she was chest to chest with Noah. She gurgled again and blood pumped through the gunshot wound. Amuphets candle flickered in response to his rapid breathing. Do something! he yelled. Please help her! Noah took a deep breath and rested his hand on the girls shoulder. At first nothing happened, and then she let out an ear-piercing shriek. A bright light shone from her eyes and open mouth. He could feel her soul starting to shatter underneath his fingertips. Wait! Amuphet hurriedly ran over to them. I want to say goodbye. Hurry up, she is about to go, Noah yelled. Amuphet raised a shaking hand to his daughters face and stroked the fine olive skin. Tears pooled in his eyes. She was my princess. She is now ready to be with her mother. Noah increased the pressure on Nayas shoulder and within a burst of bright light she was gone. The candle went out and darkness returned to the small room. Amuphet walked out into the hall. Noah followed, meeting him outside with the donkeys. The night sky was covered in a rich blanket of stars. Was that normal? Amuphet asked, drawing his gaze to the large full moon. Noah stepped up beside him. The way Naya left? Yes. It was, so do not be concerned. When an angry spirit is cornered, sometimes they put up a fight. Naya didnt want to leave but she knew she had to. The holy man inhaled deeply, breathing in the scent of the sand and livestock around him. He rested a hand on Noahs shoulder. Thank you. You did what you promised me. Now I help you.

Noah and Amuphet arrived back at the church half an hour later without hassle. They met Umar down in the ancient cellar as he finished off the pentagram on the ceiling. His dark features had paled, after painting his own blood onto the stone. Amuphets ingredients lay strewn across a table amid six burning candles. How are you feeling? Amuphet asked, walking by and giving him a tap on the back of his legs. The boy climbed down from the ladder and took a bite of a piece of khobz on a plate. He nibbled on the round flat loaf and swallowed. Im okay. Ive only just gone back up to finish it. Its done now. Good. Was Naya sent back? Noah gazed at Amuphet, who busied himself setting up the ritual, pouring his ingredients into the ceramic bowl. Yes, shes gone. Thats good to hear, Umar replied with a smile. He walked up to his old friend and made sure the old man had his full attention before speaking. While you were gone there was some activity around the church grounds. There are some army patrols walking the perimeter. I hope this demon doesnt make a lot of noise when we summon him. Neither do I, Noah interjected. Shall we begin? Yes. Amuphet signalled him over to the table and placed the bowl in his hands. I will start the chanting once you are ready. So were clear, we do not kill Daniel? No. Once hes here I will pray to Michael, Noah explained. Just make sure the demon materialises under the pentagram. He will. Stand opposite me, the holy man instructed. I will chant on the other side. Noah did what he was told, watching Amuphet strike a match. He threw it into the bowl with a flick of a hand. It sparked and let out a plume of smoke. Amuphet then walked to the other side of the pentagram with a large book in his hands. He opened it to a page marked with a red ribbon and started to chant. His booming voice echoed off the stone walls. Within seconds, the lights started to flicker around them and the stench of sulphur settled in the room. He is near, Umar said, amongst the chanting. Noah kept his eyes pinned to the space in front of him, waiting for that recognisable aura of fire. The bowl felt heavy in his hands. He wanted to crucify Daniel for what he did to him, returning triumphantly to Heaven. Hes here. A ball of heat enveloped the small room and Daniel appeared in a burst of red-hot flames. He was dressed in a black suit, his blond hair greased over his scalp.

Who was the idiot who summoned me with this weak spell? Daniel quizzed. His gaze instantly fell onto Noah, who froze in place. Ah, I remember you. Youre the angel I met in the hospital. And framed. It was my job, he replied, with a sly smile. Noahs resolve cracked and within a blink of an eye, he was in the pentagram with Daniel, pushing his face inches from the demons own. You got me banished from Heaven! Daniel scoffed, eyeing the smouldering bowl in the angels hands. You are lucky this isnt an angel trap, otherwise I would jump out of here and kill your friends. You dont scare me. Daniel took a step forward, so close Noah could see his own reflection in the demons pale eyes. I should have the power to kill you but Lucifer has plans for you instead. Noah blinked, severing his tenacity. What type of plans? I am not at liberty to say but Lucifer will come for you when hes ready. Behind him, Amuphet made a derisive noise and Daniel spun on his heels, his eyes dropping to the dagger trembling in Amuphets hands. What do you plan to do with that, old man? The knife slipped from his fingers and bounced on the stone floor. Daniel threw his head back and laughed. Theres no way you can kill me with an ordinary butter knife. Im sure Noah knows that. Noah stilled, silent, knowing the demon was playing with them, piquing them, but the game he played was to his advantage. He had an archangel on his side. He stepped out of the circle and picked up the dagger. He ran a finger along the glistening blade. Ill get you for framing me. This is where it stops now. The demon opened his mouth to speak but froze when a bright light birthed in the corner of the room. Michael appeared in an aura of white, dressed in a stark robe. Everyone in the room stilled. Noah walked up to him, floored to see him so soon. Brother, you made it. But I havent prayed for you yet. Michael ignored his brother and raised his hand toward the pentagram on the ceiling. The stone cracked and splintered, breaking apart the blood red markings. Daniel vanished in a blink of an eye. Noah wheeled on his brother. What have you done? Youre letting him go! His time will come later, Michael replied with a sullen tone. He stared at him with an intensity Noah had never seen before. What do you mean by that? he questioned. We need to build a case.

Why? I thought we had one. The elders believe this isnt a one-off hit by Lucifer, the archangel explained. They know hes building an army and we need to catch Daniel in the act to prove it. That is ridiculous, Noah said, his tinny voice echoing off the walls. I thought it was my job to find Daniel and bring him back as soon as possible. I never envisioned I would have to chase him around the world. Michael sighed, throwing a glance towards Amuphet and Umar. Noah swore he thought he saw embarrassment dance across his brothers face. Just do your job, Noah. Follow him and I will let you know when it is time. What will you be doing on your end? Were building an army of our own. We plan to beat Lucifer at his own game. Ill see you soon. He vanished in an explosion of pure, white light. Im sorry you had to see that, Noah apologised, after Michael disappeared. It wasnt my intention. Amuphet simply smiled. You have a gentle soul, Noah. I can understand the frustration you must be feeling. I assume it wasnt supposed to end that way? Umar interjected. So I cut my arm open for no reason? Noah shook his head and placed the bowl back onto the table. His fingers hurt, realising he must have been gripping the ceramic dish. No, Umar. Your sacrifice helped us. My elders banished me from Heaven so I could find this demon. I did, and my superior simply let him go. It doesnt make sense. I think you might find Michael has your best interests at heart, Amuphet said. Dont block him out. Just listen to his advice. So, Heaven and Hell are planning a war? Umar questioned as he leaned against the stone wall. Thats reassuring to hear. What will happen to us? Noah didnt know how to answer the boys rhetorical question. The tables had now turned without him. It felt like he was Heavens pawn, dirtying his hands when they wouldnt. Im not sure what Heaven is planning. Just best to stay out of the way. Amuphet rested a hand on Noahs shoulder and thanked him. You must go. Were trusting you will catch this animal before the end of the world. Noah shook the holy mans hand firmly. I dont think God is on my side this time.

Chapter 12

Noah returned to New York, angry and confused. He crashed landed in a bed of trash bags, soiled food, and broken glass and stayed there until he collected his bearings. If Heaven was planning to rage against Hell, earth as he knew it would be over including Fern. He climbed out of the alley and brushed himself off before catching a taxi to her building. He buzzed her apartment and was let in immediately. As he climbed the stairs, he noticed the sheer difference in temperature compared to Morocco. He was glad he took his coat with him. He thought of Amuphet and Umar back in the church and wondered how they would be after the Islamic followers found out he was there. Noah reached Ferns door and a foreboding wave washed over him. A man shouted from inside the apartment and he recognised Jasons voice. Something shattered onto the floor. Noah charged into the door until it shattered under his weight, stumbling into the room. Fern lay crumpled against the wall, the buzzer for the intercom above her head. Her face was bloodied and broken. Jason towered over her, his shirt ripped at the sleeves. He looked over his shoulder, saw Noah and stormed over to him with the aggression of a grizzly bear. He shoved him hard in the chest, rocking the angel back on his heels. What are you doing here? he hollered. Get out! Fern sobbed out Noahs name and something inside him cracked. What did you do to her? I taught her a lesson. About what? Jason grabbed two fistfuls of Noahs coat and pushed his face inwards. Shes mine, got it? I know you two have been seeing each other behind my back, he growled. If I ever catch you with Fern again, I will kill both of you. I dont like other men sniffing around my stuff. Fern isnt stuff, Jason. What is she then? Someone to respect. Without warning, Noah threw a punch into the mans nose, hearing it crack under the impact. Jason collapsed to his knees, cupping his face. My nose! You son of a bitch broke my nose. He tried to get to his feet but stumbled, opening himself up for a kick to his gut. Look, Jason. Ive had a bad 24 hours so Im in no mood for your shit. I want you to leave Fern alone and get out of her life for good! Noah screamed at the man cowering at his feet. Jason let out a watery, gurgling sound, and bobbed his head in what Noah believed was an agreement. The man slowly climbed to his feet, swayed and then bolted out the door.

Once he heard Jasons stumbling footsteps descend down the hall, Noah ran to Ferns side. She whimpered like an injured animal, pressing her body against the solid wall. Fear danced in her eyes. Noah. He brushed a strand of hair from her open mouth. Shhh, its okay. Im here now. Noah, when did you come back? About twenty minutes ago. Fern raised a hand to her mouth and coughed. Is it over now? Noah knew he couldnt sit here watching her suffer from her injuries. He held healing powers, as did all angels, and hoped it worked on Earth. He rested a hand on her shoulder and looked in her eyes. No more talking. Just rest. At first she appeared confused, and then her face calmed as he laid his other hand on the top of her head. A light birthed from Noahs palm and Ferns injuries vanished. She blinked and pressed her face with shaking fingers. My broken jaw has healed, she announced. I cannot taste blood in my mouth. What did you do? Noah smiled and removed his hands from her body. I healed you. I didnt know you could do that. All angels can heal, he said. We can mend small things like broken bones and wounds, but we cannot heal aggressive things like cancer. He didnt anticipate the kiss Fern placed on the corner of his mouth. Her lips felt soft against his skin. Thank you, Noah, she whispered. I will never forget this. Um, I-I think you should rest now. As Fern slept in the next room, Noah stood at the window watching the taxis drive by in an endless yellow stream. His feelings for her were beginning to cloud his judgement. What would he do if she was ever injured because of his actions? She meant more to him now than ever before. You hold a lot of anger inside. I like that. Noah spun at the sound of the voice and sneered at the sight of Daniel standing behind him. What are you doing here? Did you follow me? Daniel studied his recently manicured nails. Youve had a strobe light on your head ever since you left Heaven, Noah. Trust me. It wasnt hard to find you. Noah turned back to the bustling city outside. Go away. I dont want to see you. Daniel stepped up beside him. We saw how you dealt with the abusive boyfriend. Lucifer was very impressed.

So? Daniel pursed his lips. Are you hurt because Michael let me go? Noah wheeled on him. Im angry because I had a chance to imprison you and take you back to Heaven. Why were you in Morocco anyway? Soul searching of course. I was ordered by the big man to watch you. He knew you would be tailing me as soon as you caught wind of my location. So I did other tasks while I waited. So it was all a ploy? You wanted to get caught? Well, he wanted to see how you reacted. You went a long way to clear your name. He liked that. Is Michael or Amuphet working for Lucifer? Daniel splayed his hand across his chest in mock shock. How am I supposed to know? I dont get into Lucifers business. All I was given was a location and how many souls to reap. Thats all. Noah shook his head. I thought Id caught you. I was ready to take you back, but it seems Michael had other ideas. You did have your chance, Noah. I was right there the whole time, ready for the picking. Michael said it wasnt the right time. Daniels brows dropped over his eyes. Well, it can be now. But you dont want to, he said, looking down the hall towards Ferns room. Is it because of her? Noah slammed his fists onto the crackling windowpane. What do you want, Daniel? Im here to offer you a job. Not interested. Just hear me out. Fine. What kind of job? As I said before, Lucifer was impressed with how you made that big brute run away with his tail between his legs. We can use you to our advantage. No. He will offer anything you ever wanted: women, money, greed, eternal life. I dont need any of those things, Noah said. Or he can give you every soul ready to leave this world, unadulterated and no strings attached. The offer sounded tempting but Noah knew he had different agendas now. He shook his head. No.

Daniel stamped his foot on the floor. Stop being so stubborn! Heaven is wasting you, man. Come to us. We can offer you a better life. Noah poked a finger into the demons chest. Im not interested, demon. Go away. Daniels face shadowed. This is not over, angel. Ill bring you to Hell even if it kills me. Then he was gone. Noah stared at the empty space where the demon once stood and felt bone weary. He walked over to a chair and lowered into it with a huff. He could count on two hands the angels who succumbed to Lucifers charm, and wondered the type of person he would become if he did so. Heaven banished him, and Hell wanted him. Whose side was he really on? A war would surely be the last straw if he didnt do what Michael asked. Daniel was doing Lucifers dirty work, collecting souls for an army bound to end the world. He needed to catch him and kill himno more excuses. He just didnt know when the next moment would come.

Chapter 13 Richard let out a moan as he searched through the hospitals online database, annoyed his hour-long hunt turned up nothing. There was no one matching Noahs description entering the hospital for the last twenty years. The man was a fruitcake, and Richard hated the fact Fern was spending so much time with him. He closed the browser window and leaned back in his chair, stretching his aching back. He was determined to uncover who this man really was. Something didnt sit right with him. It wasnt the fact Noah kept saying he was an angel. It was his ability to suddenly appear with no records or surname on file. He had to be registered with New York Health someway or another. Richard needed other avenues. He took a sip of his lukewarm coffee and checked his watch. He had two hours until his next operation. Now would be a good opportunity to check the older hospital records down in the basement. He climbed out of the chair and entered the hall. The hospital was uncharacteristically quiet today. The Emergency department had enough free time to do their paper work, which hed never seen in the years he worked there. Richard made it into the elevator and went downstairs to the cool basement. A chill bit into his cheeks as the doors slid open. He walked to the storage room, listening to his shoes clicking on the sterile concrete. Ahead lay the security-laden door with a sign Confidential Records splashed across it. Richard scanned his ID badge and the thick door unlocked. He entered the small room and signed himself in on the hanging clipboard behind the door. He took a deep breath and studied the rows and rows of hospital records. It would take him more than two hours to find anything on Noah, if he ever existed. He walked over to the filing boxes and fingered the peeling labels. Some of these records hadnt seen the light of day for many years.

Richard spun on his heels and saw an old computer sitting on a desk against the wall. He logged on and groaned at its slow processing system. He pulled up a chair and got settled. He was going to be here a while. The first thing he searched for was Noahs description, height, weight, and presumed age. Twenty-five thousand results flickered onto the screen. He tried again, eliminating height and weight. More results emerged. He sat back and ran his hands over his face. He had no idea of Noahs surname or the year he was born. He decided to fish around the records and type in the years patients with the same description were administered. He went back as far as 1960 until one name caught his eye. Noah Da Silva. His interest piqued, he clicked on the file name. The patients DMV photo came onto the screen and he let out a gasp. The man staring back was a spitting image of Ferns new playmate. Richard leaned in, unable to believe what he saw. According to the file, Noah Da Silva was bought to the morgue when he was found dead of an overdose in November 1965. He lived in Hells Kitchen until he died at aged 25. He had no next of kin or children. Richard needed to show Fern this file straight away. He was sure the dead werent getting up and moving around New York. Her Noah was an impostor. He sent the file to his printer in his office and then punched Ferns number into his cell phone. It rang only once until she picked up. Hello, this is Fern. Hi, its me. Richard, hi. Is everything okay? You sound a little exasperated. I have something to tell you, he said. Its very important. Okay, what is it? Richard turned off the computer, and then exited the records room, slamming the door behind him. I dont want to tell you over the phone. Meet me at Java Cafe at 6 p.m. Its urgent. What is so important you couldnt tell me over the phone? Fern asked. She met Richard at Java Cafe later that evening. She had spent the afternoon dealing with a remorseful Jason insistently calling and messaging her, so she wasnt in the mood for games. Tired from lack of sleep, she was unamused by Richards impromptu meeting. This. Richard dug into his jacket pocket and withdrew a piece of paper. He slid it across the table. Fern studied the medical file, noticing the man in it looked a lot like Noah. What is this? she asked. He had the same blue eyes, prominent nose and dark hair. Is this one of your jokes? No. This man died in November 1965 of a drug overdose, Richard explained, pointing at the photo. He was bought to the hospital the same night. He has no next of kin, or children. What are you saying? Fern questioned, handing the piece of paper back to him. This isnt Noah.

You cant sincerely believe that? This man, Noah Da Silva, died fifty years ago! Whoever Noah is claiming to be died a long time ago. Hes an impostor. Fern sighed. Hes an angel. Richard looked at her with disbelief. You dont believe that bull crap, do you? I can probably go and find his tombstone right now! He has you under his spell. I happen to believe in angels, Richard, Fern admitted, taking a sip of her coffee. I have ever since I was a child. They do walk the earth. Richard threw her a questioning glance across the table. Anyway, he healed me, she added. I have seen things I cant explain. Richard shifted on his seat uncomfortably. Oh yes. I heard about Jasons little indiscretion. How are you feeling? As I said, Im fine because Noah healed me. Richard rubbed his eyes with his fingertips. What do you mean he healed you? You mean in a sexual manner? No, Richard, Fern replied firmly. Jason injured me, badly. I had a broken jaw and probably a broken nose. All I remember is Noah crashing through the front door and protecting me. I heard he attacked Jason quite viciously. It was self defence, she replied. He laid his hands on my head and I saw a white light. Then my injuries were gone painlessly. Well, it still doesnt explain this, Richard said, waving the medical file in the air. Who is this man, Fern? I believe him. Okay, well lets just say he is an angel. Did he ever explain to you how he became one? I doubt it was like Casper the Friendly Ghost. Fern shook her head, recalling their conversation in the diner. He was going to tell her before Jason called. No, he never told me. Maybe because he isnt Noah Da Silva. I dont know. Richard threw the remnants of his coffee down his throat. Well whatever the case, you need to get your facts straight. He may not be who he says he is. I dont like you hanging out with him all the time. Im safer with him than I am with Jason.

Whatever. Has Jason gone to the police about Noah, or whatever his name is, attacking him? Fern shook her head. She pleaded with Jason not to go to the police when he returned to their apartment, bloody and bitter. She told him Noah was only being protective. At first, he refused to believe it, but when Fern ashamedly gave him her body, he happily obliged. No, I told him not to. Do you believe him? I have no choice, do I? Richard took Ferns hand, squeezing it. Whose side are you really on, honey? How well do you really know Noah? Youve known him for like a week? Its about that. Richard squeezed her hand harder. Please take care until you know who this guy is. I would hate for you to fall into the same trap. Thank you for your concern, but Ill be okay, she replied, slipping her hand out from Richards grasp. Also, can I borrow that medical file? I think I might need it after all. Daniel knocked on the door to Lucifers office and ran a shaking hand over his scalp. His job offer to Noah had failed and he feared his bosss reaction. Lucifer insisted clean and forward results. As he waited for an invitation to enter, Daniel thought of how he and Noah were chasing each other, forever caught in a dance of deception. One wanted the other for evil, while the other wanted revenge. Even though Daniel knew he was always one step ahead, Noah had one thing he didnt archangels. Come in, Daniel. He jumped slightly at the sound of Lucifers voice and stepped into the room, reeling at the strong stench of cigar smoke. Lucifer sat in his leather chair, adorned with bones and horns from ancient creatures. A cigar laid smoking in an ashtray. I heard the trapping went successful in Morocco, he growled, his long nails digging into the fine leather of his chair. Yes, sir. Noah was fooled. What about Michael? Did he show? Yes, in fact he released me from the trap. Noah was surprised he did so. Does he suspect anything? He does, but hes more upset Michael betrayed him. The others werent a problem. The others? Was the holy man there? Yes, and his helper, Umar. Amuphet was the one who summoned me.

Lucifer groaned and took a swig of his drink. That man has been defaming me for years. But I bet he wasnt expecting demons to take his wife and daughter. He chuckled at the thought and sat back in his chair, studying Daniel with dark eyes. How many souls did you manage to collect? Daniel fished through the satchel hooked over his shoulder and removed a large glass jar, alit by a golden glow. There are two hundred souls in here. That was all I got before the holy man captured me, he said, placing the jar on a small round table. He watched his boss pick it up and run a finger up and down the glass, savouring it. That will do for now. Thank you, sir. Daniel turned to leave. Does Noah know yet of your past? He stilled and turned around, inwardly yelping at the sight of Lucifer two inches from his face. No, not yet. Im not planning on telling him. He must learn on his own. Did he accept the job offer? Daniel swallowed the lump in his throat. No, Lucifer. He did not. The devils eyes intensified. Why not? He didnt say, but I reckon it has to do something with that woman hes been hanging around with. Fern Holliday? I thought I asked you to deal with her. Why is she still breathing? Im still devising the best route to take, boss. If I attack now, Noah will likely withdraw and fail to complete his task. He would spend every moment trying to work out what happened to her. You wouldnt want that, do you? Lucifer spun on his polished heels and walked back to his chair, but he didnt sit down in it. Good thinking, Daniel, but dont delay. What I have learnt over the last thousand years is that a mans heart is his greatest weakness. Choose your moment to strike but do it well. Yes, sir. Our army grows by the hundreds every second. I plan to fight tooth and nail for Earth. I do not want to be delayed by one little angel. You got it? Yes, sir. I want Noah on our side. He has shown valuable strength, anger and courage, something you have witnessed. I have faith you will convince him. Daniel met Lucifers gaze and shivered. It didnt matter how many years hed spent in Hell, the devils presence always shook him to the core. You will not be let down, sir. You may leave, Lucifer said. Get to your next destination.

Daniel scurried out of the room in haste.

Chapter 14 Noah was awoken from a restless sleep by a key turning in the front door. He climbed out of the bed quickly, believing it was Fern and opened the door for her. But it wasnt Fern standing in the hallway. A tall blond woman let out a shriek. Ahhh! Who are you? My names Noah. What the hell are you doing in my apartment? Im a friend of Fern Holliday. The woman released a breath and then shook her head. Why does she always pick people up like stray dogs? Excuse me? Look, did she tell you how long she expected you to stay here until I found out? She didnt tell you? Of course not. Well, Im telling you now, Stephanie. Noah and the blond turned at the sound of Ferns voice. She came down the hallway carrying a few shopping bags of food and something from Good Will. Im sorry I didnt tell you, she said, approaching her sister. I thought you had too much on your plate. Not enough to know about this! What happens if the Real Estate agent comes knocking and finds a squatter living here? Stephanie questioned. She sidestepped Noah and entered the apartment. They followed her in. Noah isnt a squatter, Fern reassured her. Hes a friend of mine going through a rough time. I thought you wouldnt mind if he stayed for a little while. Whos paying rent? Im still paying off this place. Fern placed her bags on the kitchen table and dug through her handbag. She withdrew her purse and handed some cash to her sister. Take this. This should cover two months rent. Are you planning on him spending that long? Stephanie questioned. I dont know. Once Jason moves out, Noah can sleep on the couch. What happened with Jason? I thought you two were happy? Fern and Noah exchanged glances.

We werent, Steph. Simple as that, Fern said. Now, I have to speak to Noah urgently so if you dont mind . . . Stephanie placed her hands on her hips and glared at her sister. I think youre forgetting this is my apartment. Im not going anywhere. She let out a huff of air. Where did you meet Noah anyway? Umm . . . From her work, he interjected, choosing his time to intervene. I recently moved to New York and I found an intern job at Ferns work. Right. Whats with all the clothes and food, Fern? Cant this guy look after himself? Gee, you are very suspicious today arent you? she said. Didnt you hear him? He recently moved here. I am helping out until he can get on his feet. Okay. Stephanie didnt look convinced. She repositioned her handbag on her shoulder and gave her sister a quick peck on the cheek. Ill see you again soon. Keep me updated on Jason. Fern saw her out. Once the door was closed, she leant against it and moaned. Oh my goodness! She can be so much like my mother. Why did you lie to her about how we met? Stephanie doesnt believe in angels, magic, and the devil. She would gladly send me to a loony bin if she knew the truth. Fern sat down at the kitchen table and motioned Noah to join her. But I will tell her when Im ready. He sat down across from her. Her blue eyes were bruised with dark rings and her lips were pulled downwards. I need to speak to you. Is that why youre here? Yes, she said, withdrawing a piece of paper from her pants pocket. I saw Richard last night. He showed me this. She handed it to him. Noah blew out a breath at the sight of his DMV photo. I was waiting for the day you found this. Is your real name Noah Da Silva? Fern asked. Richard told me you died in 1965 of a drug overdose. Is this man you? She pointed to the photo. Noah continued staring at his image, not recognising his old earth bound self. Yes. He wasnt lying to you, he admitted. I died that night of a heroin overdose. My soul was taken from my body and I was bought to Heaven. Is that how you became an angel? Noah chuckled. Theres a bit more to it than that but that is basically it. Did it hurt? Dying?

Noahs gaze met hers and noticed tears pooling in the corner of her eyes. She didnt need to weep for him. No. I felt great peace. Do not fear your death, Fern. You will die an old lady in her bed, trust me. She smiled grimly. A part of me still thinks you are an escapee from an asylum, but after all I have witnessed, I cannot simply let that rule my thinking. If you are a truly an angel then I believe you one hundred percent. Noah smiled. Fern, you are unlike anyone I have ever met. You are beautiful, caring, and gentle. But you close yourself off from me. He reached over the table and grabbed her hand. Let me in, Fern. Just a little. Her hand lingered beneath his, her eyes trained on the table. I have been hurt so much in the past, Noah, that it takes me a long time to truly open to someone. But I find myself trusting you more than I trust myself. How crazy is that? He chuckled and got up from his chair. He walked over to the fridge and pulled out a bottle of wine. She eyed him curiously as he grabbed two glasses and sat back down. In Heaven, we are healthy consumers of wine. Red was my favourite. He popped the cork and poured a glass for her. This should loosen you up a bit. She retrieved her glass and sipped it. Are you trying to get me drunk, Noah Da Silva? Only for recreational purposes. You need to relax. Why? she asked with a laugh. Next time I have a location on Daniel, youre coming with me. Gabriel readjusted the sword hanging by his waist and pulled open the doors to the elders forum. The bitter chill that permanently entombed Heaven bit into his cheeks, sending a shiver down his spine. He wasnt normally so vulnerable to the temperature of Heaven, but today was different. Today he was declaring war on Hell. The elders were waiting for him, sitting side by side behind their black marble table. Two armed angel guards stood on either side of them. As Gabriel approached them, he wondered how they would react to his plan for war. By casting Noah out, they had ultimately started a war they couldnt finish. Lucifer was a formidable opponent and one that had to be stopped. He was confident they would agree to his plan. Why have you called us to this hearing? one of the elder questioned as Gabriel reached the desk. Has Noah failed his task already? I have not come here today to give you an update on my brother, but hes somewhat involved. How so? Youre quite aware of the reaping Hell is doing in our name, Gabriel explained. Lucifer is building an army, taking souls that should stay earth bound. Its not acceptable, and I want actions to be taken.

Building an army? For what purpose? I dont know, I have no evidence to support this, but thats what my guts telling me. Youre not earth bound, Gabriel. You dont have to use those human mannerisms on us. So what do you have in mind to oppose this phantom army? another elder asked. Our forces are just as strong but we dont have the man power to seek justice. Why not? You banished Noah to earth because of the reaping. You ultimately caused this! Ill pick your next words carefully, child. We did what we thought was best. What do you think should be done? Declare war. Its as simple as that. The four elders stared back at him, gobsmacked. War between Heaven and Hell has only been declared once, and you were only a private then, remember? Do you recall what happened? Gabriel nodded, his grip around his sword tightening. Lucifer was banished. Im quite aware of the events of that day. If we declare war, we can take back what is rightfully ours. Those souls belong to Heaven, not Lucifer. I dont think you grasp the seriousness of this, the elder said. If we declare war, Heaven will be open and vulnerable all sorts of attack. Where would we get support? From earth. How? If Hell can reap souls, we can borrow them. Angels do it all the time. We dont have to embody healthy bodies. We can use the sick or frail. They wont be at full potential but- Are you out of your mind? Thats against our constitution. We wont allow it! Gabriel grew frustrated and inwardly cursed their stubborn, narrow minds. Then what if I told you one of your most respected archangels has fleeting loyalty. Would you agree then? The elders exchanged glances. Tell us and we may agree to your declaration. Gabriel bit his tongue at first, knowing if he released Michaels motives to the council he may be killed. Hed already lost one brother, but maybe there was a way to soften the blow. I have reason to believe Michael has been approached by Lucifer to join his side. What are you going to do about it? Arrest him! Theres no need, Gabriel said. Ill see to Michaels punishment and Ill be taking over his role until then. If we declare war we need all the help we can muster. The elders spoke privately for a few moments. Gabriel watched them eagerly, impatiently. Did he sign Michaels death warrant? Were they willing to declare war? Could Noahs banishment be revoked?

We have deliberated and decided to grant your wish, one of the elders declared. We are now at war with Hell. You have full access to the military, weapons and anything else, including earthly materials. We dont want Hell to continue tarnishing our reputation. He must be stopped, Gabriel. He will be, he replied, triumphantly. Now if you please excuse me, I have to send out an SOS to all angels. We prepare for war tonight!

Chapter 15 After spending most of the evening drinking, Fern was too drunk to drive home so Noah opted for the couch while she took the bed. As he lay awake listening to the sounds of the city, he thought of the day he met her in the alleyway. Both their lives were irrevocably changed the minute their fates crossed. Now Earth was on the brink of war and he had no way of stopping it, unless he succumbed to Lucifer. He wasnt sure if the devil wanted him for his war machine or simply to become a pawn on his chessboard. Peter had betrayed Heaven and got a one-way ticket to Hell. What would happen to him if he did the same thing? Noah let out a cry as a sudden headache burst between his temples. He sat up, half-expecting Michael to appear. But he didnt show. Instead, images of landmarks flashed behind his eyes. Noah screamed again as the pain intensified. He heard the tap-tap of Ferns heavy footfall as she awoke and tore open her bedroom door. Noah, what is it? Are you okay? He held his head in his hands as buildings, tarnished with time, flashed and bloomed in his minds eye. Century old cathedrals, grand bridges and a picture of the Dancing House in Prague bought on another wave of pain. Why there? Noah, what is it? Can I bring you anything? The headache subsided and he managed to rest his head against the soft cushion Fern placed for him. Prague, he rasped. What about Prague? Daniel must be in Prague. Lucifer is still sending him out. Is that whats causing your headache? Its often a sign Michael is coming. Fern looked around the room. But hes not here. Noah rose to his feet and steadied himself against the sofa. No, hes probably too busy preparing for war. What war? The war for Earth. The colour drained from Ferns face. What are you saying?

Heaven has declared war on Hell for the soul stealing. Gabriel sent out an SOS last night. Lucifer is building an army from the souls Daniels collecting. Were only just finding out his true motives. But why? Souls are very valuable, Fern. You remember the homeless mans glowing soul? Its pure energy, Noah explained. Thats why Gods so powerful. If Lucifer succeeds in growing his army, he can and will obliterate the earth. Oh my God. Why Earth, why now? Earth has always been a platform for both Heaven and Hell. Thats where it all started. Currently God rules the land but Lucifer is inching closer every day. The world will be over. People must be told! Not yet, but theres a way to stop it. He went over to the kitchen and turned on the faucet for a glass of water. He tipped the cool liquid down his throat. How do we stop it? He turned around and saw Fern standing half in light, half in dark. The war will end if I succumb to Lucifer. Excuse me? Youre not seriously thinking about this? Well, if its going to save the Earth. But what about you? Fern approached him and grabbed his shoulders. I . . . we cannot lose you. If I go to Prague, I can stop Daniel reaping souls once and for all. I can bring him back to Heaven, where they will prosecute him. Only then will I plead my allegiance to Lucifer. What good will that do? Fern asked. Its a death warrant! He got me framed and banished from Heaven, Fern. I want my revenge. Arent angels supposed to be about being righteous and fair to your fellow man? I dont understand why you want to do this. The war would be over before it begun. What would Lucifer want with you then? I dont know. He has a taste for fallen angels. You remember my friend Peter? He was banished to Hell and I never saw him again. And thats a bad thing, Noah. Please reconsider. Will you come with me to Prague? She pressed her lips into a thin line and sat back down on the sofa. I guess so. But what will happen if we come across Daniel? How do we know where to look?

Noah joined her on the couch. I will pray to Michael to find out. He rested his hand on her knee. Dont worry about Daniel. Ill never let him hurt you. Its not that, Fern said. I would go to the ends of the earth with you, but Lucifer is evil. Please dont go to him. Noah sat with his mouth open. How should he answer that? Hed been so bent on giving up his life so that the earth could be saved that he never saw how it would affect the people who mattered most. Hed never had anything or anyone to fight for but as he studied the fine lines between Ferns eyes he knew he found a reason to fight. When Fern went to bed early the next morning, Noah stayed up, watching dawn birth between the skyscrapers. He prayed to Michael amid a bitter taste in his mouth. It had been a long time since he had spent a night like that. Red wine always had a way of lingering. Brother, its Noah. I received your vision, he said softly. Please answer me. Is Daniel in Prague? He waited for a response but received none. He sat in the same spot for another hour until he gave up and went into the kitchen for a cup of coffee. He heard Fern rustling around in her room. As he poured the warm bitter liquid down his throat he felt the presence of someone behind him. He turned around and saw Gabriel standing in a sliver of light. A glowing sword was in his hand. Gabriel? What are you doing here? Noah asked in awe. He knew seeing Gods most famed and powerful archangel on Earth meant things were awry in Heaven. Im sorry I have been distant, little brother, Gabriel said. Heaven is unstable with fear and disarray. Has the war started? Gabriel shook his head of long golden curls. Not yet, but we anticipate it soon. Why isnt Michael here? He sent me a vision of Prague last night. Michael cannot answer your prayers at this time, Noah, Gabriel replied, throwing his eyes casually around the apartment. Hes busy coordinating an attack. I assumed his role. Is Daniel in Prague? Is that what Michael wants me to know? We have sources who told us Daniel was in the country working under Lucifers orders. We have seen a decline in reaped souls. What does that mean? It can either mean Lucifer has chosen his Army or hes culling his hunters. Is Daniel in Prague now? I dont want to waste time. With Lucifer minimising his soul intake, he might be only relying on Daniel, because he knows youre after him. We know he wants you.

Noah sighed and rested a hand on the scar on his shoulder. I know, Daniel has told me already. Is it certain Ill have an opportunity to capture him? He always seems to elude me. We believe you will have your chance in Prague. Daniel is weak from travelling and susceptible to capture. Is there a contact I am to meet? Yes, his name is Nathaniel, Gabriel said. Be warned, he is a demon, though hes acting as an agent for Heaven. Can he be trusted? Gabriel nodded. Nathaniel may have come from bad blood but he is unlike other demons. He has shown promise and loyalty despite the bounty on his head. Hell meet you there. Noah heard rustling in Ferns room followed by the sound of the shower. When am I to leave? As soon as possible. We want Daniel captured and bought to God so he can be punished. How am I supposed to catch him this time? I dont have access to the ingredients for a spell? Gabriel handed the sword to Noah. It felt very heavy in his hands. Take this to subdue him. I cannot stress that enough. We dont want to harm him. Why not? We plan to trap Lucifer. Were sure hell come to search for Daniel. When we have Lucifer in Heaven, then we can punish both of them. Noah turned the sword over in his hands, studying the ancient detail embedded in the handle and glistening blade. Can I take Fern with me? Gabriel turned towards her room. If you trust her for support, then youre allowed. You need all the back up you can muster. We cannot help you this time. Noah slipped the sword into its sheath. Michael said in Morocco that Daniels capture wasnt right for the time. Is it now? Yes, brother, Gabriel replied. The fine skin between his eyes furrowed. I fear Michael might be seduced by Lucifers plans for power. We didnt know he released Daniel. It will not happen again. I did suspect him. Will he be punished? Michael will see his punishment after the war. How much time do I have? Forty-eight hours, thats all I can give you. We cannot risk anymore than that. Heaven is at the brink of war.

Noah nodded, accepting his fate. I understand. I will inform Fern of our new plans. He turned to grab another cup of coffee and when he spun back around to speak, Gabriel was gone. The bedroom door opened and Fern entered, drying her hair with a towel. I heard voices, she said. Did Michael appear? Her eyes then dropped to the sword in Noahs hands. Oh, what is that? Noah carefully lowered the sheath to the kitchen table. Its our weapon against Daniel. Go into your room and pack. Were going to Prague in an hour.

Chapter 16 Jason settled into his favourite chair and opened a perspiring beer with a flick of his wrist. After Fern kicked him out he spent the last few weeks drifting between ex-girlfriends houses and his parents, but nothing stung more than seeing her fooling around with some Abercrombie & Fitch model. He tilted his head back and threw the bitter ale down his throat. He grimaced at the itch forming under his splint, and the ache in his jaw. His dentist seemed amazed only three teeth were punched out during the attack. Jason scowled as he recalled him saying, Someone must be looking over you, son. But no one ever was, particularly with men like him. Jason wasnt perfect, a product of his own fathers abuse and ferocity, but he still loved Fern and wanted her back at whatever cost. A knock sounded on the front door. The new apartment building he lived in was a hole, infested with rats and prostitutes. He rarely got visitors. Jason climbed out of the chair and stumbled to the door. He opened it to find Richard standing in the hall. He lifted a six-pack of beer into view. I have something to lift your spirits. Richards gaze dropped to the beer in Jasons hand and frowned. Oh, you beat me to it. You have someone else in there with you? Jason chuckled and embraced his friend. No one else here but my pity. How are you doing? Richard asked, entering. Did I do a good job on the nose splint? Jason lifted a hand to finger the uncomfortable piece of cast. Yeah, you did. I just cant wait to get the damn thing off. Another week or so, man. Jason led Richard into the lounge room where they both sat down on the couch. Hows Fern? I miss her. I saw her a few days after your . . . disagreement. Shes doing well. Hows her face? Im pretty ashamed I could ruin something so beautiful. His friend studied the beer case in his hands long and hard, as though trying to work out how to answer him. She is healing well. You cannot really tell. Still hanging out with that moron who almost killed me?

Richard tore open the cardboard box housing the beer and opened one with a flick of his hand. Yes. Actually hes the reason why I am here. Anger bubbled in Jasons gut. What has he done to her? Nothing as bad as you what you did, brother. But I have reason to believe he may not be who he says he is. What are you talking about? You know how you get a feeling about some people? I did some research on him and found this in old hospital records. He withdrew a photocopy of Noahs file from the hospital. He handed it to Jason. His real name is Noah De Silva. He used to live in Hells Kitchen. So? He died in 1965. Jason nearly choked on his beer. What? But how is that possible? Now promise not to judge me, Richard said with sincerity. He said he was an angel. Jason laughed so hard he jarred his nose. Ouch! Youre not serious are you? What a nut bag. Are you sure he didnt steal someones identity? But how do you explain the photo? Could have been his father, Jason suggested. Richard shook his head. Well things get a bit more interesting. Take a look at this. He pulled out the Polaroid of Noahs scarred shoulder. What does that look like to you? Jason took it and studied the image, not sure what he was seeing. Wow. Is that a hand print? Im not sure. Is it a burn? Maybe a gangland style torture. Richard shrugged. Whatever it is, he isnt human. Im sure of that. An angel? He healed Fern, Jason! Richard said, his voice rising with disbelief. I know it sounds unbelievable but like I said I saw her a few days after your fight and there wasnt a scratch on her. Maybe I didnt hurt her as much as I thought. She had a broken nose, along with other things. She told me Noah put his hand on her head and her injuries were gone. Jason flew to his feet. He touched my woman? Where is he? Hes staying at Stephanies old dump.

How do you know? She called me the other day to tell me Fern is keeping a stranger in her house. Jason pulled his leather jacket from the coat rack. Well, Ive had enough of this. Lets pay this angel a visit. Do you think thats a wise idea? Jason scoffed and slipped on his jacket. I need payback for my broken nose. So what can I bring to Prague? Noah laughed heartedly as Fern held an open suitcase with optimism. When he told her about Daniels latest location in the Czech Republic, she grew excited, pulling out her cell phone so she could read up on the historic city. Only yourself, he said. Were only going for 48 hours. You only need whats on your back. Noah, Im a woman, she said, planting her hands on her hips. I need to take everything with me. He threw his hands in the air with defeat. Okay, take what you must, but trust me it will only be a short visit. Have you told work youre going away? I took leave just in case, she said. What happens if we need more time in Prague? Will we be left there if we exceed it? Noah shook his head. No, Gabriel will be watching us the entire time. He will pluck us from the city when time runs out. Dont worry; he will not leave us behind. Fern smirked. I would rather be over there than here to be honest. Alright, just let me pick up a few items before we go. She dropped her suitcase onto the floor and picked up her purse, hooking it over her shoulder. Ill be right back. Noah watched her leave the apartment, closing the door behind her. He was glad she was coming with him, not because he needed backup but he knew that she would be safe with him. Jason was a threat constantly nipping at his conscious. Noah headed into his bedroom where he sat down on the bed with an exhale. If the man ever came between him and Fern again, he would not hesitate in killing him next time. He didnt care what punishments came his way. A knock at the door rocked him from his thoughts. He climbed to his feet and walked into the lounge room, looking around the apartment. He wondered if Fern left something behind. He approached the door and opened it, not giving much thought to the people on the other side. Jason and Richard charged into the apartment, knocking Noah back onto his heels. He was welcomed with a violent shove in the chest and a barrage of cuss words. Stay away from Fern, you creep! Jason screamed, grotesque with the nose splint across his face. Richard hung back, as if keeping an eye on the hallway for spectators.

Noah felt a welcomed wave of rage inside him but resisted the urge to appease it. Why are you here? he asked, ducking a punch. Who are you? Jason questioned. I know youre a fraud. Im not a fraud. My name is Noah De Silva. Bullshit, Richard said, entering the room. I saw your file. You died in 1965. Noah ducked another attempted blow. What I have told Fern is the truth. I am not a liar or thief. Who are you then? Im an Dont say you are an angel, buddy, because youre not, Richard interjected, standing side-by-side with Jason. What do you want me to say? Noah asked, finding himself pressed against the kitchen sink. He threw a look over his shoulder and found it empty. There were no accessible weapons. Jason grabbed a fistful of his shirt. I know you have poisoned her against me. Fern was loyal until you showed up. You abused her, Jason. Even I know you never hit a woman, Noah said. Its not acceptable. Dont hurt her again. Or youll do what? You dont want to know what I can do. Break her trust? She had a broken nose and jaw. I should have done much worse to you then break yours. Jason snarled, blowing hot breath into Noahs face. If he had more strength, he would have ripped Jasons soul from his body right then and there. But the sight of the glistening pistol pulled from his waistband stopped Noah instantly. Richards eyes widened and he gripped his friends shoulder. No, man. Put it away. Hes not worth it. No! I was close to having facial reconstruction surgery because of this guy! Ill not put it away. Jason jammed the weapon into Noahs face. He smelt gun oil and powder. You fired that recently, he observed. Jason blinked and snarled again. Yeah, I was practicing. Whats it to you? Noah didnt answer him, distracted by the front door opening. To his horror Fern came into the apartment, walking right into the middle of a gunfight. She dropped her shopping bags in shock.

Whats going on here? she shrieked. Richard spun on his heels. Its not what it looks like. Go back downstairs. Dont treat me like a child, Richard, Fern said, batting his hand away. She wandered up to Jason. Jason, put the gun away please. She grabbed his shoulder and squeezed. He didnt flinch. Are you okay, Noah? she asked. He bobbed his head, locking his gaze on Jason whose face had visibly reddened with rage. I think this is just a misunderstanding. Right, Jason? The man rebuffed any questions, pushing the gun further into his personal space. I should have killed you the night you crashed into our apartment. You do not belong here. Where should I go? Noah asked. Youre a brainless, soulless man. I need to look after her in case you touch her again! A gun shot rang out, shattering the tension in the apartment. Fern let out a hair-raising scream. Everyone in the room ducked for cover, besides Noah and Jason who were still face-to-face. Jason held the smoking gun, eyeing the blood blossoming through Noahs T-shirt. What . . . what are you still doing alive? I shot you point blank in the heart. Noah frowned at the frayed hole in his shirt. Yes, so you did. I told you I was an angel. You cannot kill me with Earthly weapons. Fern climbed to her feet and raced over to him, running her fingers over the bullet hole. Are you alright, Noah? He turned to her. Im fine. You have seen things, Fern. You know I cannot be killed. Youre truly something else, she said. Does it hurt? No. His eyes wide with fear, Richard hung by the entrance, gripping the door panel as though in a middle of an earthquake. Ive seen people being shot before but never standing after a bullet to the heart. As Fern saw to Richard, Noah slipped the gun from Jasons fingers. I want you out of Ferns life. Got it? If I see you even twenty feet from her, I will kill you. When Jason didnt respond, Noah sighed, knowing his threat was worthless. Jasons eyes had not left the hole in his shirt. Hey, you hear me? He grabbed the mans chin and jerked him eyeto-eye. Jason nodded dumbly and pulled himself away with a grunt. Yeah, I got it. Fern guided the men out of the apartment and closed the door behind them. She rested against the door and blew out a relieved breath of air. Do you think theyll bother us again? Noah shook his head. I think Jason will be out of your life from now on.

Fern wrapped her fingers around his arm. Thank you, Noah. You dont know how much this means to me. You have saved my life twice now. How do I repay the favour? Theres no need, he said. If I didnt step in, he would have killed you. Why do you feel you have to be responsible for me? He lifted a shoulder in a shrug. I dont know. Someone has to. Before he had time to react, Fern leaned in and placed her lips over his. Noah welcomed her touch, her kiss, slipping his arms around her waist. She felt so fragile and small. He kissed her back, relishing her heartbeat race against his. He wanted it to go on forever, but she pulled away, breaking the kiss. Ive been meaning to do that for a while, she whispered with a smile. Im glad you did. Fern stepped back, severing the embrace. She almost looked embarrassed by her brazen move. When are we due in Prague? Noah cleared his throat, and checked outside. It was still light. Whenever youre ready. Im ready now. Lets get out of here.

Chapter 17 Fern landed hard on the cobbled road and heaved her lunch onto the stone. Noah stood beside her, keeping watch. As she got to her knees and cleaned herself up, she studied him next to her. No matter how she saw it, he was her protector, her guardian. They had only known each other for very little time, but in those months, shed learned so much about him. He was a part of her now just as much as her beating heart. Their kiss at the apartment had only further cemented her feelings and loyalty. You will get used to the travel over time, trust me. I hope so. That wasnt as glamorous as I thought it would be, she said, grabbing Noahs hand as he helped her to her feet. As they touched, an instant flutter of awareness invaded her belly and she bit down hard on her lip. They stood in a deserted lane way, basking in the shade of an old building, crusted with age. Its red roof was peppered with bird droppings and sun damage. Car horns and traffic penetrated the idyllic afternoon. Noah shielded his eyes against the sun with the back of his hand. Clouds floated across the blue sky. We need to get to Charles Bridge, he said. Its this way across the Vltava River. He pointed in the opposite direction and started walking away Fern chased after him. Hey, slow down. Where do we need to go? We are meeting a demon called Nathaniel who can bring Daniel to me.

Fern stopped dead in her tracks. A demon? Are you kidding me? Noah avoided a stray dog as he continued along the cobbled pathway. Its okay. Hes on Heavens side. Can he be trusted? Thats what I asked Gabriel, Noah said with a chuckle. Yes, I think so. So what does Nathaniel have that a holy man doesnt? Noah grabbed her hand. Trust. Now come with me. We are getting close to the bridge. Noah led her through the bustling and ancient perimeter of Old Town. Fern marvelled at the walled courtyards, cathedrals, and a rich diversity of church spires. When they reached Charles Bridge, it was full of people performing in the streets, vendors selling items to tourists, and others simply enjoying the ambience of the city. The river pulsed and thrived below them, glistening under the sun. As Noah guided her over the famous bridge, Fern found herself inspired by the citys vibrancy, its rich culture and music flowing from every crevice. New York had its own culture, but it didnt compare to this at all. She paused at a kiosk and fingered the petite key chains for sale. They didnt bring any Koruna with them and she wanted something to take home with her from this visit. Then her eye caught a stone statue of a saint looking down at her. It felt as though Gabriel wasnt far away. Noahs hand settled upon her arm and she turned around. I love it here. Do we have to work straight away? Noah returned her grin and leaned in close, brushing his lips against her ear. We can enjoy the city once we meet up with Nathaniel. Were meeting him at a bar next to the Dancing House in New Town. Okay. Fern backed away from the kiosk and moved in step with Noah as they continued along the length of the bridge. A breeze carried by the river stung her cheeks and rustled through her hair. As they stepped off Charles Bridge, they passed the iconic statue of Charles IV. Fern marvelled at his long robes oxidising with time, his stern face forever frozen. They hiked for ten minutes, passing galleries, and grand museums screaming for Fern to go inside and explore. She studied Noah in the corner of her eye as they walked shoulder-to-shoulder, inquisitive to why he wasnt taken aback by the citys beauty as much as she was. Youve been here before? she questioned, as they stopped by the curbside waiting for a break in the traffic. Yes, he replied, his attention caught by the crowded street. Suddenly he grabbed her hand and dashed across the road. When they on the other side, he walked them to a nearby bus stop. I came here in 1990 for a soul shot by her husband. She refused to leave their home. I really had to coax her to come with me.

Do you like it here? Fern asked. I feel such a tourist ogling everything in sight. Noah nodded. I love it. When I was human, Prague was one of the places I loved going to. Its so rich in culture and history. I never took you as a cultural man, Fern said with a hooked eyebrow. Before I fell into drug use, I used to travel the world a lot. So I have an advantage to some new comers of travelling, he explained, pulling out two bus tickets. Ferns eyes dropped to the small cards and frowned. Where did you get those? I bought them while you were being sick. You have Koruna on you? I dont have a lot. I was going to buy you dinner tonight before we go. Fern was touched. Oh, thank you. A bus rolled up and she looked at him hopefully. Is this ours? Noah nodded and lined up. She promptly followed him and got on the bus with him. It was full of tourists. She could tell by their sunglasses, cameras around their necks, and enthusiasm in their conversations. Noah found a seat and she took a seat next to him. Red-roofed buildings flew passed in a blur. How far is the bar from here? Have you ever heard of the Dancing House? Yes, I studied it in a class for college. We are meeting Nathaniel at a bar called Andl next to it. I thought I told you already? You did. Im just excited to be here. They rode the bus for a further ten minutes, weaving around New Town. Fern sat in silence, keeping one eye on the glorious view while trying to maintain her composure next to Noah. The architecture became more familiar to her, recognizable from the art books she read during college and saw the famous Dancing House up ahead. Nicknamed Fred and Ginger the building sat opposite the Vltava River, providing contemporary flair amid an ancient city. Noah then stood up, along with a few others and walked to the front of the bus. The bus came to a halt right outside the building and she exited it with other tourists. Noah stared up at the occupied office building. How did you know where to go? Fern asked. You seemed pretty certain of coming here. Noah turned to her. Do you remember the night of my headache? Michael sent me a vision of this building. He is usually not one for subtlety so I did some research and found there was a bar underneath it. I know Nathaniel has a vice for alcohol so he has to be here.

How long should we wait for him? Im not sure, he said, walking towards the bar pumping out music onto the street. It was getting dark, the perfect time for revellers to have some fun on a Friday night. Fern followed him inside, almost gagging at the strong scent of cigars, stale perfume, and beer. A group of men eyed her with interest as she followed the angel deeper into Andl. He slowed his pace, searching for Nathaniel. After a few minutes he gave up and guided her to a table at the back of the bar. She sat down in a huff, pleased to rest her aching feet. Noah observed her from across the table. Are you feeling okay? Yes, she said, slipping off her jacket. Still a little disoriented from the travel. I promise we wont be long. Once I find Nathaniel, we will move somewhere private where he can summon Daniel. Do you think it will work? Hard to say. Daniel is suspicious of us now and he has Lucifer as his ears and eyes. Only time will tell. Fern looked around the busy bar, watching young women and men flirt over martinis and beers. She leaned over the table, giving Noah a generous view of her cleavage. How about we buy a drink? Sure. At that moment, unbeknownst to either of them, Nathaniel walked into the bar.

Chapter 18 Lucifer stepped into Andl and squinted against the dim lights and cigar smoke hanging in the air. After following Nathaniel inside, he pressed his back against the wall and slipped into a chair in the corner of the room, giving him a panoramic view of Noah and Nathaniel greeting like old friends. He noticed the angel had bought his girlfriend, the one Daniel was ordered to snuff out. Lucifer scratched the back of his head intensely, angered by his choice of meat suit. The insurance broker was definitely not his finest decision and he wished he had done more research before jumping into him. Overall, the man was lean, but carried a belly, making it hard for Lucifer to jog, and he was sure he was smoker. His lungs reeked of cigarette smoke. Lucifer coughed and flexed his hands. He was only here for a short time anyway so he could put up with it for a few more hours. He let out a sigh and watched Noah and Nathaniel from across the room. His offer still stood and he was keen in hiring the fallen angel for his cause. Daniel was nearby collecting the last round of souls before they retreated to Hell for preparation.

He watched Nathaniel from across the bar, angered by his betrayal. After finding him pinned underneath his car he promised a life of a demon, one of passion, greed, and death. He fisted his hands into two balls. He would bide his time and strike when the time was right. His eyes then crossed to Fern. Daniel was to deal with her so why was she still breathing? He inhaled until his lungs could take no more air and let it out smoothly. As he watched the girl throw her head back and laugh, hed finally found Noahs weakness. A crooked smile uncurled across Lucifers face. He knew what to do. So, Nathaniel, what were you before you became a demon? Fern asked, sipping on a chilled beer. Nathaniels green eyes slewed over to Noah for answers. Dont look at me, he said with a chuckle. She has a fascination of knowing what we did before we died. Well I was a salesman. I sold cars, Nathaniel said, taking a swig of his beer. Its not very exciting, I promise you. How did you die? Killed in a car crash. How ironic, Fern said. Tell me about it. What about you? he asked. Im not dead, she replied, with a laugh. She looked at Noah sitting next to her. Well, how can I tell? That ride over here was pretty traumatic. He patted her hand. Trust me, youre very much alive. See those guys over there by the door? They were drooling at you as soon as you walked in. They wouldnt do that to a dead woman. The trio turned and stared at the table. The men in question were happily drinking, sitting around a table full of beer and empty bottles. Nathaniel returned back to Fern. You didnt answer my question. Noah tells me youre from New York. Yes, Im a publishing assistant for a company called Bushel Books. I help authors turn their novels into print. Are they still making print books? Nathaniel asked in amazement. Wow. When did you die? 1940. The world has changed a lot since then, Fern replied. Books come in a lot of different forms now. I saw that on the Web. Is that what you call it? Yes, it is. Noah tells me youre a demon. You used to work for Lucifer?

He nodded. Thats right. I was bought to Hell the same way as Noah, but I went down, not up. Why did you go to Hell? I thought you had to be bad to do so. I was bad, honey, he said. I said I was a car salesman. I used to sell people rotten cars or lemons as you might call it today. Sometimes the brakes didnt work, fuses broke, and people died. Cars back then were built like tanks so imagine one of those hitting a tree. Ferns stomach sank. Thats awful. You did deserve to go to Hell. Youre right, Nathaniel said, dipping his head. I was sent to Hell and burned for it. A barmaid approached and settled more drinks onto the table. When she left, Fern leaned forward. Shed only read about demons in the bible so it was a rare opportunity to be sitting across from one. Do you have any discernible features that make you a demon? What do you mean? I dont know? Red eyes? Powers? Nathaniel looked at Noah and chuckled. Your girlfriend is very inquisitive. Shes not my I do. You want to see? Yes! Nathaniel blinked and for a split second his eyes were blood red. He blinked again and they were gone. Fern gasped. Oh my God! Anything else? Gees. You are hard to please, Nathaniel said with a smile. Okay, let me see. He spun in his chair and looked around the bar. His eyes fell upon a man standing at the bar talking to a pretty blonde. See the man at the bar? he asked, pointing. Fern followed his finger. Yeah. Watch. Nathaniel raised his hand into the air and wrapped his fingers into a ball, as though he was holding something. Suddenly the man at the bar clutched his chest and doubled over. The blond screamed when he begun to cough up bloody chunks of lung onto the carpet. Fern watched on in horror. She didnt intend for the man to die. She reached over the table and grabbed Nathaniels arm. Please stop.

You said you wanted to see my powers. I didnt ask you to kill a man. Nathaniel, please, Noah interjected. The demon sighed and unclenched his fist. When he spun back in his chair, the man at the bar stopped coughing and climbed to his feet, seemingly as in shock as much as everyone else in the bar. Hes going to be okay, Nathaniel reassured her. But I am a demon. You have to give me some credit. Fern noticed Noahs face had gone a little pale. Should we get to business? she asked. We are here for good, remember? Noah nodded in agreement. Shes right. I assume Michael or Gabriel told you why we are here. Yes, you want me to get Daniel for you, Nathaniel said. I can summon him under false pretences but I cannot promise he will stay. Hell stay. How can you be so certain? Because I have this. Noah threw his backpack onto the table and opened it, wide enough for Nathaniel to see the silver blade of the sword. His jaw unhinged. Is that the sword of Gabriel? Noah zipped up his bag. Yes, it is. We are not to kill Daniel with it, though, only subdue him. A simple cut from that thing will seriously injure a demon, Noah, Nathaniel said, his eyes wide. I cannot be near that thing. Dont let me even touch it. I wont. Can you summon Daniel for me? Nathaniel shook his head. There is no need. Why not? The demon shut his eyes. He is close, I can feel him. He paused and sat quietly, turning his palms skyward. Hes at a retirement home reaping souls. Where about? Half a block away. Okay, lets go, Noah said, getting to his feet. You can lead us there. He hooked the backpack over his shoulder and started walking towards the door. She and Nathaniel followed, unaware of Lucifer trailing them like a sniffer dog.

Chapter 19 Noah strode ahead as Nathaniel led them to the retirement home. The streets were speckled with canary yellow light from the streetlamps. He heard the river slap against the stone jetty monotonously. A rare bout of peace and solitude washed over him, but as much as he relished it, he knew it wouldnt last long. He turned an eye at Fern who followed closely behind him. She was still a little drunk, leaning on Nathaniel like a vine, happily babbling about her childhood in Savannah, Georgia. We moved there when Dad got a job as a fireman. It was the best thing that ever happened to me, she gushed. The city was so beautiful. I loved going to Forthsyth Park as a girl. Why did you leave? My sister had already gone, so I was left to make a name for myself. I moved up to New York and never really looked back since. Do you miss Savannah? Nathaniel asked. All the time, she replied softly. She walked on for a few more steps before asking the next question. Why did you choose to be on Heavens side? Noah slowed his pace. He wanted to hear this one. Im not proud of my past, Nathaniel said, stopping to pick up a trampled flower from the street. I grew up with an abusive father and neglectful mother. I was too young to fight in the war so I opted for sales instead. It was my boss who recommended me to sell these cars, make more money by telling people to come back for repairs. It worked for a year until one of my customers died due to faulty breaks. Thats awful. Well, I got my just desserts when I was killed in a car accident a few weeks later. I remember this heat and Lucifer appeared in a wall of flames. He dragged me to Hell and after what seemed like an eternity down there I asked to do his work on Earth. I reaped souls or showed up in some exorcisms. One day I saw an angel at the same hospital and asked if I could speak to one of the archangels. I wanted to help people. Did Heaven take you easily? It took some coaxing, Nathaniel said with a smile, winking as Noah turned around. But Im happy with my decision. Are you scared Lucifer will come looking for you? Fern asked. He had his chance. Im not frightened anymore. Five minutes later, they reached the retirement home, lit with over a dozen lights. The double doors were closed, though they could see movement inside. Nathaniel stopped and turned around to Fern and Noah. Stay out here. If Daniel sees you he might run and your visit here would be worthless.

Noah started to open his bag. Do you want the sword? The demon put his hands up. No, thats your job. Just wait here. If I dont come out within fifteen minutes, come and get me. He left them standing in the cold night, dashing up the stairs to the front doors. They watched him enter inside without any hassles. After a few minutes, Fern turned to Noah. Do you think this will work? Do you trust him enough to bring Daniel to you? Noah shrugged. I dont know. I trust him enough he will deliver the goods. I hope so. Nathaniel climbed the stairs two at a time, running into three elderly residents struggling with walking canes. They looked at him as they passed, their eyes glossed with age. He continued to his destination, drawn by Daniels force. He was close. Nathaniel skirted a corner and nearly ran into an orderly moving an old man into his room. He slipped passed unnoticed and climbed a flight of stairs. He could almost smell Daniel now. He walked down another hall, lit by one flickering halogen light. Some of the doors were shut, while others were ajar. A reddish glow emanated from one of the open doors. It was the unmistakable glow of a demon. Nathaniel went up to the door and peered inside. Daniel was standing over an elderly man in his bed, sucking the remnants of his soul. Angered by the sight, he decided to show himself, and stepped into the room. Daniel scowled at the sight of him. What are you doing here? You are no longer one of us. Ive come to change my ways, Nathaniel said. Im sure you are working for Noah. I work for no one. Daniel backed away from the bed and stared at him, his eyes glowing red. For a split second, Nathaniel could see the gears turning in the demons head. Did he believe his story? Okay, he said finally. You are here seeking redemption. Why not go to Lucifer first? Can you imagine me crawling back to him? You know him best. I thought if I could convince you I was returning, you might be able to convince him. Daniel skirted the bed. If you wish to show your loyalty, reap the next soul on my list. Theres a man in the next room who was recently cleared of cancer. Can you do it? Nathaniel studied the dead patient in the bed across from him and felt a twang of regret. What had he gotten himself into? He hated the life of a demon, relying on greed and sin to survive. But he had a job to do, no matter what the cost. Okay, take me to him. Daniel flashed him a crooked smile and exited into the hall. When he confirmed the coast was clear he entered the room next door. It was dark, rays of a streetlamp providing the only light.

Daniels next target slept soundly, his paper-thin skin luminescent under the light. It had been a long time since he last reaped a soul. What if he forgot how to do it? Bending over at the hip, knowing Daniel was watching, he opened his mouth, absorbing enough inner energy to suck the soul from the body. A low heat warmed his lips as the soul exited from the patients open mouth.. What are you doing? Daniel and Nathaniel, who pulled away haphazardly, spotted a dark figure standing in the doorway. The man wore a suit, which he scratched at absent-mindedly. Lucifer? Daniel asked, taking tentative steps towards him. Is that you? Who are you wearing? An investment broker, Lucifer replied, stepping into the room. He rolled his shoulders with a grimace. Hes a little small for me though. What are you doing here? I thought this was my final collection. Did you want me to get more? No. I am here for him. Lucifer pointed at Nathaniel. Are you really here for redemption, boy? Nathaniel stood, planted on the spot, shocked at seeing Lucifer in the flesh again. Itd been a very long time. How would he react if he knew all this was a ploy to get Daniel? Nathaniel knew he wasnt going to get out of this alive. Yes, yes, I am. I have been walking the earth for many years in fact, Lucifer. I seek direction now. You and I have a tainted past, Nathaniel. We had a good thing going until you decided to betray me, remember? I know, and for that Im truly sorry. Can you forgive me? Lucifer waved his hand in the air. Forgiveness is my Fathers thing. I dont care unless you commit to me once again. Of course, Lucifer. The devils eyes flashed. Excellent. Now, how about we wash this ethereal filth off you? He reached Nathaniel within a stride and rested his palm upon the crown of his head. A searing pain birthed inside Nathaniels temples and he let out a wailing scream. Chill, boy. Its just the glory coming out of you, Lucifer said, casually. Calm down. He increased the pressure on his head, and Nathaniel screamed in agony. Lucifer, stop! The bedroom door exploded inward and Noah and Fern crashed into the room. Noah held the glowing sword in shaking fingers. Lucifers eyes fell onto the blade winking in the dim light and scowled. Meanwhile, Daniel backed up into the corner like a frightened animal. They are here for me! he shrieked. Daniel, grow a backbone! Lucifer yelled.

Stand away from Nathaniel, Noah ordered, taking another step toward him. The tip of the sword was aimed at his chest. So you have the sword of Gabriel, Lucifer said, his eyes running up and down the blade. Im impressed. What are you doing with it? I want Daniel. He shook his head. You had your chance way too many times. Tough. He framed me, I want him. Whats Nathaniel doing here then? Nathaniel and Noah exchanged glances, which only annoyed Lucifer more. To help. I knew this was a trap! Lucifer howled, violently pushing Nathaniel away from him. He propelled forward, hitting the ground with a thud. As his world went dark, Nathaniel listened to the carnage around him and prayed. Fern gripped the doorframe, frozen in place. Nathaniel was lying unconscious on the floor, bent in an unnatural position. Lucifer and Noah were poised over him like two raging bulls. What should she do? She would have never agreed to this if she knew things would end this way. She wanted to make a noise, maybe intervene somehow. Daniel eyed her from the corner of the room. She matched his gaze, welcoming the hatred in her gut. A sudden movement caught her eye and Lucifer wheeled on Noah with such intensity the walls shook. He clicked his fingers only once, the sound vibrating throughout the silent room. The angel froze on the spot and started to cough, his eyes wide in shock. The sword slipped from his fingers and rang on the floor. Fern couldnt move, cemented in place at the sight of Noah hunched over, retching like a drunk in withdrawal, heaving blood and lung. The sword was only a few feet away. Maybe if she could pick it up . . . She stepped forward and shrieked when Lucifer materialised behind her. He threw his arm around her throat and yanked her back, knocking the wind out of her. Youre staying with me, beautiful. Let me go! she shrieked. Lucifer, get your hands off her. Noahs weak voice broke through his violent coughing. He climbed to his feet, wobbling like a newborn calf, his hand and lips splattered with blood. I said stay away. No one else needs to die. Who said anyone has to die? Lucifer queried, throwing a glance at Daniel, who was still in the corner. I want to do other things to her. He ran his tongue up Ferns quivering neck, savouring her fear. Mmm.

Get away from her, or Ill kill you! Lucifer loosened his grip only slightly and smirked. An angel going back on his word. I never thought Ill see the day. In the corner of her eye, Fern saw Nathaniel struggle to his feet. Daniel opened his mouth to scream. The demon simply pointed at him and Daniels mouth was sewed shut. Its me you want, Nathaniel said, among the other demons muffled screams. Noah and Fern are here because of me. Lucifer scowled. You lied to me. You were the betrayer all along. I will not tolerate that. Listen to me Lucifer clicked his fingers and Nathaniel exploded into a shower of blood and entrails that rained upon them, washing them in a dark red rinse. No! Noah screamed. What have you done? Lucifer laughed so heartedly it sent a shiver down Ferns spine. He had that coming for a long time. Fern squirmed in his grip. You bastard! You killed him! I am the devil after all, honey, Lucifer replied, nuzzling her neck. Let her go, and we will forget this ever happened, Noah said. He crossed to Daniel and pulled him away from the corner. The demon struggled in his grip. Stay still and behave for once! Lucifer watched with amusement. I know why you want Daniel. You are angry and annoyed. I want him to be charged for his crimes. Lucifer smiled. You know that isnt happening, he said, running a hand over his fine suit. That job offer is still available, you know. Not interested. Such a shame. Lucifer clicked his fingers and Noah and Fern vanished from the room.

Chapter 20 Where did Nathaniel go? Fern asked. Im not sure, Noah replied. Im hoping Purgatory. Where exactly is Purgatory? Noah and Fern lay on her bed, body to body, watching the ceiling turn orange with the onset of dusk. They had materialised in the middle of a busy New York street an hour before, darting off the

road before they were hit by a truck barrelling toward them.

Your culture calls it Limbo. Its where souls go when they die, before they are sent to either Heaven or Hell. Its a dark place; neither light or hope can penetrate its walls. Is it a physical place? Yes, imagine you step outside and walk down the street. You dont see it because your heart still beats, but when you die you do not float up or down, you stay, pinned to this purgatory. That world is different, barren and violent. Souls fight and blood is spilled until only the fittest are chosen to go upstairs or down. Do you think Heaven will take Nathaniel back? Fern asked, playing with a thread on the comforter. After all, he died helping us. Im not sure. When I go back to Heaven, I will ask Gabriel for leniency. Noah rolled onto his side and stared at Ferns profile. He deserves that much. I wasnt able to pick up Gabriels sword before we were zapped back here, Fern said. What will happen to it? It will eventually find its way back to him, Noah explained. Lucifer is not interested in it because it can kill him. I dont think he is stupid enough to touch it. They remained silent for a few minutes, watching the ceiling change colours. If it wasnt for Ferns soft voice breaking his thoughts, Noah could have stayed this way forever. You said you will go back to Heaven. When will that be? My year will be over in 9 months, he replied. Ferns lips turned upside down and she faced him. Ill miss you. I never thought I would meet someone like you. You changed my life, Noah. He lifted a hand to flick some hair off her face, exposing her sky blue eyes. Faint lines of fatigue were already imprinted on her forehead. But it was her ruby lips that drew his gaze. And you changed mine. Without a flicker of thought, he leaned in and kissed her, relishing the soft moan she gave when his hands rested upon her body. She felt soft and silken, her fingers playing loosely in his hair. He intensified the kiss, rolling on top of her in one swift move. She let out a small cry at the feel of his erection against her inner thigh. Noah wanted her, needed her more than ever. Before he became an angel, hed been a womaniser, bedding faceless women each night. He never told Fern this, for fear she would run off but now as he peeled off his shirt, he acknowledged she meant more than just a one-night stand. The feel of her hands on his bare skin made him jerk, pinning him to the spot so they were hip-tohip. Fern was already breathless, writhing underneath him like a serpent. Then she broke the kiss,

and opened her eyes. Meeting his gaze, she smiled, bringing up a hand to caress his shoulder. Noah, Ive been meaning to tell you something. Whats that? I lo Ferns face then froze and she rose to a seated position, the passion in her eyes turning to shock. He followed her gaze and inwardly cursed when he remembered the handprint scar on his shoulder. He had forgotten about it. Oh my God. Whats that from? I forgot you hadnt seen that yet. Whats that from? she repeated. Noah covered the scar with his hand. It doesnt matter. Ive had it for a long time. Despair crossed her features and all he wanted to do was kiss them away. He cupped her face with his two hands. It doesnt concern you. Its just a part of me. Does it hurt? Sometimes. She didnt say anything or moved, but kept her eyes on the scar. She pulled off her shirt, revealing a dark lace bra. Right above her left breast was a nasty red scar, cutting into her fine skin. Jason gave me this. I dont really remember getting it. I have nightmares of him coming at me with a kitchen knife. So maybe thats what happened. The sight of the scar sent ripples of anger throughout him, even though Jason would never hurt her again. He gently lowered Fern against the mattress and lowered a kiss onto the scar. She started to cry. Noah, you are too good to me. He smiled. Ditto. Fern yanked his body over hers and kissed him. He jolted at the feel of her hands on the zipper of his trousers. They stripped each other in silence and made love in the warmth of her bed, wrapped in the remnants of dusk. Noah woke a few hours later, one leg cocked over the sheets. Beside him, Fern slept soundly. She had welcomed him into her body and soul as a new woman, no longer tarnished by her misgivings. To him, it was though she was being reborn, and so was he. She stirred next to him, and opened her eyes. They caught his, and she smiled. Hello there. What time is it? Noah leant down and placed a kiss on her lips. Its 3 p.m. Do you want to stay in bed for a little more then go out for dinner?

Fern reached for her phone on the bedside table and checked the time herself. She moved slowly like a sloth, sitting up with the grace of a swan. Yes, that sounds like a . . . Oh! She froze and cradled her head. What is it? Are you okay? She turned an eye at him. Im alright, just got a little dizzy. I think I had way too much excitement for one day. She climbed off the bed and walked out of the bedroom. He heard her patter around in the kitchen. She returned a few minutes later with a glass of water. I might rest a bit more. Maybe it was the travel that got me. I agree. Noah moved to the side so Fern could climb back into bed. She rested against him, placing her head against his chest. I can feel your heart beat, she said after a few minutes. I would hope so, he replied with a smirk. Ive been meaning to say something to you, but Ive held back for a while. Weve been getting closer lately and I think you are super. I was wondering if it would be alright to tell you my feelings. Will it freak you out? Silence followed. Fern? A soft snore escaped her lips. Noah kissed her crown and relaxed against the pillow, drifting to sleep to the sounds of the city. It was dark when he woke again. His left arm ached with pins and needles. Fern hadnt moved from her position. Fern, are you awake? Do you mind moving for a sec? My arms dead. When she didnt respond, Noah moved more haphazardly. He slipped himself out from underneath Ferns body and checked her. She lay limp on the bed, her mouth slightly open. Fern? Noah grabbed her shoulders and shook her gently. She didnt wake. He pressed his head across her chest and listened to her heartbeat. It beat lethargically but she was alive. Fern, honey. Please wake up for me. As he sat in panic, watching her chest rise and fall, he wondered if he could heal her. Noah rested one hand on her forehead and the other on her belly. He closed his eyes and waited for the familiar warm glow, but it didnt come. His healing powers were useless. He let out a small cry and brushed a hand through his hair. Something gnawed inside him. He was sure Lucifer might have had something to do with this. Killing someone was just as simple as clicking his fingers. Was Lucifer punishing him because he didnt accept the job offer? Noah stumbled out of bed and quickly dressed. He had to get Fern to the hospital right away. He picked up her phone, and went through the contacts. Jason scrolled by and Noah continued

searching, wondering why she still had his number. Richards name came into view and he dialled the number. Come on, pick up. The phone rang out for a few minutes until Richard finally picked up. Fern, where have you been, girl? Richard, its Noah. He fell silent for a split second. Why do you have Ferns cell? Where has she been? Away, Noah replied, having no patience for accusations. Look, Richard, Fern is sick. What have you done to her? I have done nothing to her. She is not waking up. What do you mean? Noah looked down at Fern, lying in the bed, deathly still. I spent the afternoon with her, and when she fell back to sleep, she didnt wake again. Richards end was quiet again. Noah could hear papers rustling. Okay, did she eat anything? No. Drink anything. No. Its like . . . like . . . Like what? Richards smooth chocolate voice soothed him. Its like shes in a coma. Right. Okay, Ill call an ambulance over. Dont move until it gets there. Believe me, Richard. Im not going anywhere, Noah said.

Chapter 21 Noah followed the ambulance in a taxi. He sat rigidly in the backseat, his back pressed into the soft material. What was wrong with Fern? Did their lovemaking hurt her in any way? He had to contact Michael or Gabriel to see if theyd heard of this before. If his healing didnt work, then what would? The taxi pulled up to the hospital and Noah dove out before it stopped moving. He threw the driver some money and raced into the foyer. Richard was standing at the administration desk, studying a chart. He looked up when Noah came inside. You just missed her, he said. Shes been put into a room for observation.

Is she breathing? He nodded. She is. Shell be monitored to see what the problem is. You said you woke up and she wasnt breathing? Thats correct. Now I will ask you again. Do you know how this happened? You wouldnt believe me even if I told you. In the corner of his eye he saw Ferns sister Stephanie walk down the hall. Did she still hold any disrepute against him? Is Fern able to have visitors? Richard smiled and followed his gaze, watching Stephanie enter a room. I called her about twenty minutes ago, he observed. She was very eager in seeing her sister. I dont blame her. Did you tell her I was with her? Richard returned his gaze back to Noah and shook his head. No. I think thats something you should say to her. Noah turned to leave, but was stopped by the doctor grabbing his sleeve. I want you to know Fern is not responsive at this time. Dont get your hopes up. We are trying everything we can. But research shows people in comas can still hear their loved ones. Noah smiled, though it was forced. I know. Thank you, Richard. Noah entered Ferns hospital room and felt his heart break at the sight of her connected to tubes and monitors. It reminded him of what he used to do for Heaven, reap thousands of stubborn souls every week. But it wasnt a restless soul in the corner of the room, it was Stephanie. She studied him with a critical eye. I hear youre Ferns new boyfriend. Noah ran a hand over his hair in a subconscious gesture. Yes, I guess you can call me that. Were you with her when she fell into a coma? Noah took a seat across from Ferns bed. Yes, I was. What happened? Was she eating something, hit by a car? Noah cleared his throat. How should he tell her tough-as-nails sister it was after they had made love? She woke up with a headache, and fell back to sleep. She didnt wake up after that. A thin line formed on Stephanies lips. She lowered into a seat in the corner of the room, keeping a wide birth between her and Noah. You might not know this, Noah, but my sister is a fragile woman. She has always been in violent relationships. There was a man before Jason, and now you. I never hurt her, and never will.

Stephanies eyebrows flickered. I dont know what happens behind closed doors, but shes in a coma now. How do you explain that? Noah sighed and gazed at Fern in her bed. I dont know. I told Richard about the headache. He thought it might have been a sign of a haemorrhage. I hope it is something they can easily fix. My parents have just been told. They are flying back from Australia as we speak. Theyll be amused to know a man their daughter sleeps with simply falls into a coma. I just pray she wakes up. Stephanie got up from her chair, taking her purse with her. Im getting a coffee at the cafe, she said at the doorway. I expect youll be gone when I return. Pray. Noah almost laughed at the word as he watched Stephanie descend down the hall. Things certainly hadnt gone his way. Praying was the last thing he would do. He got up and went to the window, where he rubbed the scar on his shoulder. He often thought how he would be perceived once he returned to Heaven. Would they welcome him or stuff him back into a cell? Michael and Gabriel had his best intentions at heart, but sometimes he wished he just accepted his fate. Life in prison had to be better than this. He turned toward Fern. He had almost forgotten what human emotion felt like, being distant from it for so long. Seeing someone you loved in a helpless position made it sting. He wished he had the power to heal her and make this all go away. How long has she been out? Daniels voice materialised in his ear and Noah spun around so fast he nearly lost his footing. What are you doing here? Daniel looked like hed been put through the shredder. His eyes were red, his shirt torn, and blood splattered his face like Braille. He swayed a little on his feet. Im here for a favour. No way, Noah said, returning to Ferns bedside. Daniel remained standing. Please. Why should I help you? Noah quizzed, anger building inside him. I chased you around the entire world for something you did! I bled, fought, and lied to get my way in order to find you. Now Fern is ill and I dont know how to fix it. Daniels eyes dropped to Ferns ghostly face. My favour involves her. You know what happened to her? The demon dipped his head in shame. Its Lucifer. He asked me to kill her, but I couldnt do it. When he clicked his fingers at the retirement centre, he formed a virus inside her so aggressive she would have no chance of survival. She would die very painfully. The coma is the only way her body is fighting it. Why couldnt the doctors diagnose it?

This virus is undetectable by modern science, its ancient. Lucifer wants you weak, so he can strike. Why are you telling me this? Daniels sickening laugh sent a chill down Noahs spine. Look at me. I have gone a few rounds with a Hell Hound. Lucifer is thinning me out. He had me do what he wanted and now is discarding me like a piece of rubbish. Ive had enough. What do you want? Daniel approached him, though kept a safe distance away. Ill bring you to Lucifer if you can free me from his debt. Why should I? Lucifer can break Ferns spell. He can click his fingers and shell be well again, Daniel explained. Isnt that what you want? You and I know he will not give up so easily, Noah said. He wants me. We both know it. Give yourself to him only temporarily. Im sure your brothers will come and fight for you. Heaven has been breathing down our necks. Theyre only waiting for the right time to strike. Noah swung back to the sick woman in the bed and thought about Daniels proposition. If he can clear Daniels name, he can still bring him to Heaven with no strings attached. Fern will be healthy and free, but only if he sacrificed himself to Lucifer. It can be done. Will you do it? Daniel asked. Noah nodded. Take me to Lucifer now.

Chapter 22 Michael watched Noah from Heaven with a heavy feeling in his heart. By letting Daniel go in Morocco, hed not only let his brothers down and but had restitution to make to them. He needed to delay him in capturing Daniel because he was secretly working for Lucifer. He never intended to fall so hard for the fascism of the devil. He recalled the day in the desert, asking for his alliance in the war against Heaven. At first hed refused, thinking of the consequences, but the thought of undiluted power piqued his interest. He was always a follower, a guardian of the Lord, but he wanted more. He was sure Gabriel knew of his treachery, though his brother kept a distance, making it even more nerve racking. Michael was certain he was being followed by faceless angels, disappearing into a shadow or plume of white smoke as soon as he spun around. It was too risky to fall short now with the war for Earths souls so close. Michael often thought what would happen to him if he survived. Would he be banished to Hell like Peter or imprisoned forever in a cell in Heaven? So this is where you have been hiding.

Michael hastily closed the portal of Noah. Gabriel stood behind him dressed in battle attire. His golden hair fell loose over his white robe, embellished with gold trimming and a thick leather belt. His sword hung at his waist. Yes, Brother. I was searching for Noah. Did you find him? Michael nodded, unsure how long Gabriel was standing there. Yes, he is at Ferns bedside. Gabriel sighed and came up beside him. I wish there was something we could do, but this woman is not one of us. Im afraid Noah will do something rash in order to save her. I can watch him, keep an eye on him. Gabriel looked at him with a hint of distrust. The lack of archangels was the only thing keeping Michael away from prosecution. They needed all the manpower they could get. If he regained Gabriels trust and eluded him, maybe he had a chance to slip away once the war was over. I agree. I think it is wise you are not around here for long, Gabriel said. Some angels are uneasy by your presence. So you know? His brother nodded solemnly and wrapped his fingers over the butt of his sword. Its not the first time an angel has been seduced by Lucifer. Ever since our Father banished him from Heaven, hes retaliated by filling his ranks with fallen angels. I know of your betrayal, Michael. I, too, have allseeing eyes. The Elders do not know yet, and I plan not to tell them until the war is over. Thank you, Brother. Gabriel shook his head. I fear you misunderstand me. I am not delaying my telling them because of our bond, Brother, but because they cannot stand another betrayer. They will know in due course. Michael reached for him, but only grasped air. Please, you must help me. I didnt intend for this. Gabriel didnt respond. He spun on his heels and walked away, leaving Michael confused yet frightened in his wake. The smell of rotting flesh assaulted Noahs nostrils as Daniel led him to Lucifers lair. The corridor where they walked was hot as a sauna, with flames licking the walls hungrily. Around him, incessant moans and screams from lost souls filled the air, giving a sense of infinite space. Blood and flesh cushioned his feet. He had only heard of Hell from stories and legends, but it was nothing like he had ever imagined. Cells stained with blood splatter materialised along the wall to his left and right, going as far as the eye can see, each with hundreds of moaning souls inside. Noah kept his eyes to the ground and kept walking, wondering if it was a good idea in coming down here. It frightens you, Daniel asked, who walked a few steps ahead. Noah noticed he limped, carrying himself as though he weighed a hundred pounds.

Its not something they really discuss up in Heaven, he admitted, avoiding the hundreds of hands reaching for him from their cells. Why does Lucifer like to imprison these people? Where are they from? Earth, and some from Heaven. These are the very souls he stole from you and the very same who will fight your people. They are ex-addicts, murderers, and rapists. Lucifer admires their torrid pasts, so they are hungry with murder lust. How are they supposed to fight? Noah observed. They look weak. Once on Earth, they will possess a human body and use them like a puppet to fight. They were never intended to be a long term solution. Noah continued on, eyeing the lost souls with a sinking heart. What will happen to them if they make it back? Im not sure, Daniel replied. Lucifer might kill them or send them to purgatory. He wants to win this, doesnt he? With all the strength he can muster. They continued down the hall, the temperature intensifying with every step. Balls of sweat rolled down Noahs back. It was hard to breathe, the heat forming an impregnable ball in his throat. Daniels limping got worse. He couldnt hold his tongue anymore. Why are you limping? Are you ill? Daniel stopped at a door and wrapped his hand around the brass knob. On Earth, I am weightless. Here in Hell, I carry as much as the regret, hurt, and pain as any other soul in here. The deeper I go with Lucifer, the heavier I get. He opened the door and stepped inside the room. Noah, following him, was overwhelmed by the clean smelling air, as though the outside stench couldnt get inside. It was like he had stepped into a new dimension. A large chair, adorned with skulls and bones sat opposite the fireplace, engulfing the small space. A hand slipped into view along the armrest, holding a smoking cigar. The fingers were long and bony, reminiscent of the Grimm Brothers stories his mother used to tell him as a child. An underlying stench of death and power hung in the air. Thank you for coming, Noah. Lucifers strong voice echoed around the room. I assume Daniel has been a good host so far. Yes, he has, Noah replied, craning his neck to see the face behind the chair. He failed to see anything. Good. The hand disappeared and a plume of smoke escaped into the atmosphere. Youre here on your own free will so what do you want?

Im here to break Daniels debt to you. I will take him back to Heaven where he can be put on trial and convicted. Why bother? Hell just be sent back down here anyway. That may be so but hell no longer be in your care, Noah replied, shifting on the balls of his feet. You will be freed of his impotence. The hand came back into view. This time the cigar wasnt in sight. Take him. Burn him for all I care. Daniel has completed the tasks I asked. From the back of the room, Daniel made a small noise of defeat. His interest piqued by the sound, Lucifer slipped into view. Noah let out a breath of surprise as he stood, six feet tall, dressed in an oxblood coat. He was still human-like in his appearance, though his chest was large, and his eyes the colour of spilt blood. His cheekbones protruded from his face, matching the same width and dimension of two small horns on his forehead. Noah could see a whisper of angel beauty behind his features, something Lucifer had tried to shed for millennia. But that is not the real reason why you are in my quarters, Lucifer said. This is my domain and an angel will never cross it without meaning. Noah swallowed the lump in his throat. I was told you can heal Ferns sickness, free her of the virus you put there. Why would I want to do that? You want me, dont you? You have told me multiple times. Lucifer stepped out from behind his chair and approached him, the floorboards creaking underneath his weight. That is true. Ive had my eye on you for a long time. Ever since your drug-induced days, you showed great potential. When you died, I fought tooth and nail to have you down here with me. So you know who took me? Yes, he replied, dipping his head. It was Gabriel. He and I fought that night for your soul. He ultimately won, but I vowed I would eventually win you. Why now? Lucifer smiled at him, a crooked grin made nightmarish by his fang like teeth. The world is ending, Noah. Cant you feel it? I purposely cloaked Daniel in your form so I could pique your interest. You are headstrong and valiant, but still hold bitterness and shame of your past. You can use that well here. So it was a trap, all along.

Of course, and Heaven fell for it too. I honestly never intended for them to declare war. That was just an added bonus. What about Michael? Did you suck him in too? Why dont you ask him yourself? Lucifer asked, pointing over Noahs shoulder. He turned and saw Michael standing next to Daniel by the door. The first thing Noah noticed was his brothers missing vibrancy, now dissipated. He wore a gunmetal grey robe, the attire of a betrayer. Hello, Noah. Why, Michael? he questioned, reaching him in one stride. Why did you break your faith? A wave of shame crossed his features. You dont know what its like as an archangel, Noah. Youre still in training. Theres so much pressure to perform and protect. Ive been by our Fathers side for many, many years. I was losing faith in our beliefs. People are no longer accepting us, choosing to worship pop stars and celebrities. I wanted more worth. When did he come to you to make an offer? Before Morocco, Michael admitted, pausing to gather his bearings. I never intended to hurt you. You know that, right? Why did you keep sending me the visions? Noah questioned. I trusted you. I know, and Im sorry. I couldnt reveal my true motives. What did he offer you? Noah threw a glance at Lucifer, who was enjoying the confrontation. He offered me unconditional and undiluted greed and wealth. I could have as many souls as I wanted. What about Heaven? They offer that to you too. But with a price. Here, I pledge allegiance and I stay for eternity. Noahs head began to spin and he gripped Lucifers chair for support, spiking himself on one of the protruding bones. He turned to the devil, angry and hurt. Free Michael and Daniel from their debt and I am yours. No! Michael yelled. A smile uncurled across Lucifers face. I will not refuse that offer, child. Ill happily take you but you must do one thing for me. Whats that? Reap Ferns soul, and I promise Ill break Michael and Daniels bonds. Ill pull my soldiers from Earth and you can all go back to Heaven on a unicorn singing about flowers and rainbows.

The tension in Noahs chest intensified until he struggled to breath. Fern. She was vulnerable and Lucifer had planned it that way. With her out of his life, he would be weak, powerless and bitter, the perfect war machine. He would have nothing to keep him going, therefore a perfect pawn for Lucifer. Do you know why I was banished from Heaven, Noah? I loved God too much and he expected me to love humans, all of them. Lucifer shivered with repulsion. I couldnt accept these new pawns in Gods plan so I was banished, but you do. If you love this woman, you will sacrifice yourself for her. I understand. Do you want peace on Earth, Noah? Do you want Fern to grow old and die an elderly woman in her bed? Noah stood still, absorbing Lucifers words. What would happen if he said yes? What would Gabriel say? He took a deep breath and turned to Lucifer. Allow me to take Daniel back to Heaven, and I will be yours. What about Fern? Dont you care about her? Shell be my next visit.

Chapter 23 Richard walked into Ferns hospital room and saw Stephanie asleep in the visitors chair. Fern was lying like a corpse in her bed, tubes entering and exiting her body. Her parents had come and gone, vowing to look after their daughters apartment while she was here. Despite Stephanie, Fern had no one else. He was surprised and slightly disappointed Noah hadnt come around. He was sure he would be chained to the bed if he had a chance. Something must be wrong. He walked to the foot of Ferns bed and picked up her chart. There was no response to any of the tests hed run and was showing no signs of improvement. The inevitable would be coming; he had to speak to her family about switching off the machines. His movement around the room woke Stephanie. She stirred and sat up in her chair with a grimace, wiping sleep from her eyes. How long have I been out? she asked. Hard to say, Richard replied. Ive been in and out all day. I think a few hours maybe. Stephanie repositioned herself on the chair so she could take her sisters hand. Have Mom and Dad been in yet? Richard nodded, keeping his gaze fixed on Ferns chart. Yes, theyll be staying at her apartment while shes here. They bought her some flowers. See? He pointed to a vase of sunflowers on the bedside table. I saw those. Roses are her favourites, not sunflowers. Has anyone else seen Fern?

Im afraid not. What about her work friends or that strange new boyfriend of hers? Richard thought about Noah, and wondered if he was contactable. No, Noah hasnt been around. Hes visited Fern once. I havent seen him since. Stephanie sighed and shook her head. I really wish my sister would surround herself with better people. I hate she is going through this alone. Has she made any progress? Here it comes. Richard pulled a chair up beside Stephanie and sat down. I wanted to speak to you with your parents here, but I can talk to them again soon. Fern isnt showing any signs of waking up, Stephanie. Her brain scans reveal no improvement. We dont know what caused this coma, or if shell ever wake up. If by a miracle, she did. Would she be brain damaged? Stephanie asked, pulling a tissue from her handbag, and dabbing her eyes. Its hard to tell. We have tried every test known to the medical world. We have bought in neuropsychologists, who leave scratching their heads. Fern was a healthy woman before she fell ill. They have no idea what may have caused her illness. He paused to take her hands in his. You must discuss this with your parents. They need to know what to expect. Stephanie slid her hands out from Richards grasp. My parents dont care, she said. They were always absent in our lives. I raised Fern myself. If anyone should be making the decision, its me. Okay. Its up to your family what happens next. Is she in any pain? Not that we can tell. We have nurses checking her progress around the clock. Stephanie drew her gaze to her sister. You mentioned this new boyfriend of hers. I met him when Fern was bought to hospital. Do you know him well? Do you think he may have done something like this? Without hesitating, Richard shook his head. No. While Ill be honest and say I didnt trust him when we first met, I know Noah loves your sister and would never do anything to hurt her. He was the one who booted Jason from her life. I know. Theres something about him I cant put my finger on. Hes so elusive. Richard chuckled. Trust me. I went through the very same frame of mind when I met him. But Noah has Ferns best interests at heart. I hope youre right, Richard. I cant stand to lose anyone else. Noah darted down the marble corridors of Heaven, dragging Daniel close behind him. He ignored the looks of shock and awe from the other angels as he raced towards Gabriels quarters. He didnt

care what they thought anymore. He couldnt explain to every single one what hed been through the last few months. He had Daniel in his possession and that was all what mattered. Is that him? Oh my goodness, he has Daniel. I wonder if Gabriel knows. Noah kept running, blocking out the gossip with thoughts of Fern. She could be saved, only if he sacrificed himself. Lucifer will have what he wanted and Heaven and Hell will cease to fight. Every party would win, except him. Daniel stumbled into step beside him, out of breath. Theyre talking about us. I can hear them. I wouldnt worry too much about it, Noah replied. We wont be here for long. He walked to the end of the hall to a double timber door and entered without knocking. Ahead of them hundreds of soldiers stood in formation, dressed in their battle attire. Swords glistened in their sheaths. Silverly wings dusted with glory. Gabriel stood behind a podium, addressing the crowd. Michael stood off to the side with half a dozen elders. His wrists were bound by glowing rope. Gabriel froze mid-sentence at the sight of Noah walking into the war room with Daniel. A few gasps escaped into the air. He descended the stage with the grace of a king and walked through the soldiers towards Noah. Noah, youre finally home, he said, embracing his brother. I see you have bought the prodigal son with you. Congratulations. Yes, Daniel came willingly. Now, can you call off this war? You have what you want. Gabriel shook his head. Im afraid I cannot do that. Why not? Noah questioned. Two guards approached Daniel and cuffed his wrists and ankles with demon resistant metal. It sizzled as it met with his skin. I have Daniel, the only reason why I was banished from here in the first place. We have him, now call off the war! A shadow crossed Gabriels face. Do not undermine me in front of my army, little brother. Im not retreating. Why? Lucifer has tested and teased us, showing his true motives. What Daniel did is no longer of our concern. He is unimportant to us now. What do you mean? For how long have you thought this way? It doesnt matter. It does matter! Hurt and anger pulsed through Noahs veins. He wanted to throw something, anything to make these men listen to him. Are you telling me I was on Earth chasing shadows, for no apparent reason at all?

A flicker of annoyance crossed Gabriels face. It wasnt all in vain. We had good intentions from the beginning. You met Fern Holliday, who inevitably changed your life. Did she not? Yes, thats true, but now shes dying of a virus the doctors dont even know exist. I am helpless, Gabriel. I need answers. Im afraid I cannot give you any, he said truthfully. Youre a fallen angel, Noah. Your ties to us are severed. That is bullshit! he cried, using the only few cuss words he picked up while being in New York. Judging by the look on Gabriels face, he wasnt impressed. He looked over to Daniel flanked by the two guards. Though the pain from the sizzling handcuffs had paled him, he still looked composed. What will you do with him? Noah questioned. Kill him? Gabriel walked back through the parted sea of soldiers towards the stage. I have not come to that conclusion yet. You bought him here, so you deal with him. Throw him in prison or reap whatever is left from his glory. I dont care. Noah froze mid-step. What are you talking about? Daniels a demon. He has no glory. His brother turned back around, a weird, satisfied smirk on his face. Dont you recognise him, Noah? There has been something about him that has piqued you from day one, no? Daniels been transformed. Havent you, brother? Gabriel clicked his fingers and the handcuffs vanished from the demons wrists. Whats going on? Noah asked. Tell me. Youve known along, Noah, Daniel said, rubbing the sensitive skin around his wrists. He lowered his hands upon Noahs shoulders, drawing him close. Something white-hot flashed behind his eyes. You have known me all along, Brother. Remember that moment when the fire seized me from your grip? Noah stared deep into the demons eyes and saw a flicker of familiarity. His knees almost buckled under him as realisation hit. Peter? Is that you? The demon nodded. Its me. Im sorry I couldnt tell you sooner. I was otherwise engaged. Noah stumbled backwards, caught by Daniels hands. But . . . but I dont understand. You were banished to Hell. You were ripped from my grasp in a ball of fire. How are you still alive? And its something I have never forgotten, Noah, Daniel said. It was the hardest thing to accept, but when I got to Hell, I harboured such a deep, undiluted hate towards Heaven that Lucifer could utilize that rage. You were in his sights and thought I could be the perfect ploy to trap you. Noah looked at Gabriel and Michael across the room and wondered if they ever knew. It was though Peter was back from the dead, materialising in front of him as from a dream. But the man standing in front of him wasnt how he remembered him. This isnt your true form. I cannot believe you until I see the true Peter.

Youre right. You cannot trust this image. Daniel took a step back and opened his arms at full length. A dull glowing orb bloomed in his chest, bursting, bathing Peter in an ethereal glow. Amid the light, two white wings formed and spread over his shoulders, almost taking up the width of the room. The glow dimmed and Peter was in his true form, a tall, beautiful man with a strong nose, blue eyes and flowing blond hair. Thats better. Noah embraced Peter in a brotherly hug. I thought Id never see you again. Its good to have you back. Me too. In the corner of his eye, he saw Gabriel slipping into the shadows, retreating to the nearest door. Noah darted across the room and grabbed his arm, sharply pulling him back. Did you know about this? About Peter? Tell me Gabriel! His brother returned a scowl. Let go of my arm. I have a war to fight. Talk to me! Did you know? I knew before you, he admitted. Michael blurted it out when we confronted him about Morocco. Even in Heaven, theres no one to trust, Noah. Maybe it was better for you to stay on Earth.

Chapter 24 Noah walked down the chilly corridor towards Michaels cell. Peter had vanished, and Gabriel feigned any wrong doing in his disappearance. Empty black marble cells ran the length of the hallway. The faint scent of sandalwood wafted in the air, making him sneeze. Before he died, hed never envisioned Heaven to have its own prison, detaining its very own for acting out or showing rebellion. That was never in the Bible. He reached the end of the corridor to where Michael was imprisoned. He sat on his cold, hard marble bed, his head lowered in his hands. Just like old times, huh? Michael looked up and squinted at the shadow on the other side of the bars. Yes, but its usually me standing where you are. Noah observed the thin lines of fatigue on Michaels brow and eyes. His long wings were pinned behind his back. How long do you expect to be in here? Michael shrugged lazily. I have no idea. Gabriels priorities have changed. Im sure Ill be dealt with after the war. Do you know why hell still go ahead with it regardless of my return with Daniel? I cant tell you, Michael replied, I dont understand what drives him anymore. Hes just as bad as Lucifer. How long did you know? Noah asked. About Peter?

I never felt right since the day they sent Peter away. Once I saw Daniel, I sensed something was off, but I never pursued it. Im sure Gabriel knew of it before you found out. Would he kill him? Im not sure. As I said, Gabriel and the Elders have their hands full. Thats why Im in here. Noah stepped back from the cell and ran his hands through his hair. Tell me, Michael, why did you decide to go to Lucifer? I cannot seem to fathom why someone in your position would be so foolish. Michael rested his head against the hard stone of the cell wall. I honestly cannot tell you, Noah. I was damaged, desperate and hurting. I wanted an out, an offer I couldnt seek here. What did he offer you? Something I wanted so badly. Power, Michael explained. Im just the other brother here. I have no real juice in Heaven. Gabriel is a warrior, the right hand of our Lord. Im nothing. Im not proud of what I did, Noah, and I want you to know that. Gabriel told me he confronted you about Morocco and you simply spilt your guts. Why give in? I had no other choice. He threatened to take my wings. He also mentioned you grew suspicious of me. Is that true? Noah locked his gaze with Michaels, knowing he just broke his brothers trust. Thats right, but I never meant for you to be hurt. I didnt know what to expect. Gabriel acted so fast and quick. When did you tell him? When I returned from Morocco. I told him you let Daniel go and I wanted to know why. I dont blame you for going to him, Noah, Michael said. I acted as an agent for Lucifer and Im not proud of that. He stood up and walked to the bars, close enough he was an arms width away. Please dont worry about me. You have bigger fish to fry. Whats the news on Fern? He let out a sigh, thinking of her lying in that cold hospital bed, helpless and vulnerable. Lucifer can remove the virus from her body. Thats great! But theres a catch. He wont do it unless I side with him. What should I do? What does your heart tell you? To do it. What does he want you for? I dont really know, Noah said. He wants me for this war, but I think it goes past that. Hes had his eye on me for some time.

Michael reached through the bars and grabbed his sleeve, pressing him against the bars. Its true, he said, in a low whisper. Lucifers wanted you ever since you became an angel. He fought for you when you died. For what I dont know. Gabriel and I were ordered to look out for you because Heaven couldnt afford another loss so soon after Peter. Do you think I should give in to save Fern? Michael let go of his arm and sat back down. I think you need to address it with her. Noah nodded in agreement, and spun on his heels to leave. He then stopped when a thought entered his mind. Hey, do you know where Peter went? I cannot find him anywhere. His brother lifted a shoulder. I dont know. But I wouldnt want to start asking. Peter, you have returned to us today after being banished from Heaven fifteen years ago. Do you care to explain why you are back? The elders booming voice echoed around the room. The voices of other angel spectators whispered in response. Peter stood in the middle of the room, trembling at its chill. Ahead of him sat the very same elders who spoke down his verdict all those years ago. Gabriel stood in the crowd with half a dozen archangels, poised and ready to strike. He didnt understand why they were being so cautious. He was harmless, broken. He wasnt back to do any more damage. "I was bought back under false pretences, your honour, he said. Lucifer had me cloaked in an angels form, Noahs, if you care to remember, and I was the catalyst towards his wrong doing. Wrong doing? the elder questioned. He was captured reaping a soul. That is a crime punishable of death. Yes, sir, but he was me, or I was him. Noah was wrongfully charged. Is he here with you now to back up these claims? Were you two working together? No, sir. Not at all, Peter explained. No angel wishes to be banished from their home. Then how can we believe you when there are no witnesses? Peter felt like he was dealing with a child. He was sure they knew all a long he was Daniel and Noah was being wrongfully accused. He shifted uncomfortably on his feet and tried again. Im afraid I dont have witnesses. I was Daniel, I was the one reaping souls in Noahs form. Yes, but A sudden wave of heat warmed Peters back and he heard screams behind him. He spun around and saw Lucifer standing a few feet away, cloaked in a black trench coat. Gabriel and his men unsheathed their swords. Im here to speak on behalf of Peter, Lucifer said, ignoring the fleeing angels who darted like frightened mice towards the doors. The elders stood firm, though fear kept them in place. How did you get in? one asked. We have round the clock security.

Oh, you mean these two? Lucifer withdrew two severed heads from his coat and threw them onto the floor in front of him. Peter shrieked, and jumped out of the way. Youre not welcome here, Gabriel hollered, approaching the devil with cautious steps. Leave now and no one will get hurt. Lucifer lifted his hands in a mock gesture of innocence. I am only here to support one of your own, he said, slamming his hand onto Peter, who jolted forward from the force. You angels seem to forget I was one of you too. That was a long time ago, Gabriel replied. Im ordering you to leave. Now. Lucifer chose to ignore the request, turning back towards the elders. Whats this hearing all about anyway? I can certainly vouch that Peter was working for me when he was sent down my way. Is this true? the elder asked, clearing his throat nervously. Peter regained his stature and nodded, keeping one eye on Lucifer. Yes, sir. When I was banished to Hell, Lucifer put me to work. Why? Um. I dont Maybe I should answer that one, Lucifer interjected. He passed Peter and approached the elders desk. They shrunk back in fear. You seem to have this delectable habit of barring your very best. First it was me, then Peter and Noah. They both showed great talent and you banished them! Its ridiculous. It was a choice we now regret. Lucifer clicked his tongue. Well, your loss is my gain! We can handle this on our own, Gabriel said, slipping his sword into Lucifers view. He visibly withdrew. You know one touch from this can kill you. The devil let out a frustrated sigh. You know I was only here to help, to clear some names, but it seems you people dont even care about that. You banish your own without a second thought, dump them on Earth for a shit period of time, and then declare war on something that you originally caused. He laughed heartedly, sounding more like nails running down a chalkboard than a cackle. And Im the devil! Leave, Gabriel ordered. Okay, okay. Lucifer took a step back, almost tripping on the two heads. Just do one thing for me. Whats that?

Let Peter go, he said. He has learned his lesson. He framed Noah, and got punished for it. Peter deserves to be back here. Why? Lucifer sneered, though it was a smile without any humour. Black flames suddenly bloomed on his shoulders and head, engulfing him in a rippling heat. Because I get a better weapon. And within a blink of an eye, he was gone.

Chapter 25 Noah took a deep breath and opened the door to Ferns hospital room. Hed left Heaven without saying goodbye, leaving behind an angry Gabriel and restless army. He wanted to be by Ferns side again, to forget any of this ever happened. He stepped into the dim room, noticing a new bunch of roses in the vase, and an array of Get Well cards on the bedside table. The chair across from her bed was empty but he smelled stale perfume in the air. Stephanie had been here recently. He sat down with a grimace, relieved to be resting his aching bones. He reached out to take Ferns hand cushioned over the white sheets. It was warm. He sat in silence, listening to the monitors beeping in the background. The sun crept through the broken blinds, bathing her in a warm glow. Im sorry it has taken me so long to visit you, he said, with a whisper. There has been a lot of activity going on in Heaven lately and I cant wait to tell you about it. He paused and foolishly waited for her to respond. When she didnt, he continued, tightening his grip. I tried my hardest to protect you and I fear I have failed. You changed my life, Fern, and here you lie dying because of my actions. Theres always a light at the end of the tunnel, said a familiar voice. Noah spun in his seat and saw Peter standing in the doorway, dressed in oversized civilian clothes. He observed the soiled and torn clothes with slight amusement. Where did you get those? Good Will? Peters lips turned upside down and closed the door behind him. I escaped from Heaven. I landed here naked, so I had to find clothes. The grin fell off Noahs face. I was looking for you everywhere. What happened? Peter pulled up a chair next to him, and sat down so hard the chair creaked. I was put before the tribunal by Gabriel. He wanted me to burn for what I did to you and Heaven in general. When no one believed me, I had a witness come forward. Who was that? Lucifer. Noahs mouth unhinged. What? How did he bypass all the guards?

Peter shrugged. I dont know, but he killed two of them. He threw their heads at the elders. Everyone is a little shaken up. Noah shook his head in disbelief. I never thought he would risk walking through Heavens doors. Theres too much to lose. What did he say to you? Actually he tried to plead my case. He said I was innocent. It was only until Gabriel told him to leave that he showed his true colours. What do you mean? He said Im better off in Heaven. Why? He believes he has a better weapon. Do you know what that could be? Ever since the morning he plummeted to Earth, Noah always sensed he was in the sights of Lucifer, a pawn in his chess game. Lucifer wanted him for something, but he didnt know what. How could he tell Fern, if she ever woke, that he planned to sacrifice his glory and soul for Lucifers plan? Im not sure, Peter, he lied. I guess well know once the war starts. But he wants you, and only you, Peter pointed out. Could you be his weapon? How? Noah asked. I still dont understand what I can be used for. Im not an archangel. Maybe thats it. Youre not powerful enough to repel him. Youre too weak. Noah sighed and brushed his hand across Ferns cold cheek. I hope so. I dont really want to find out. Peter followed his gaze and readjusted in his seat uncomfortably. Hows she doing? Shed showing no signs of recovery. I feel helpless. I cannot ask Gabriel for help. I dont know what to do. There is something. Noahs head whipped around. Like what? Do you know someone who can help us? The colour drained from Peters face. He looked at Fern, and then at his brother. Me. What? How? I still have a little glory left, he explained. It is enough to restore Ferns health. But wouldnt that kill you? Peter nodded. It would, but I am willing to help you. Despite our recent differences, you are my brother Noah and I want you to be happy.

Noah didnt know how to respond to his generosity. I-I cannot let you do that. You have done so much already. His eyebrows rose accusingly. Frame you and get you banished from Heaven? Ill never forgive myself, he said. Its obvious how much Fern means to you. Consider it as a parting gift. Noah reached over and pulled the big man into his arms. Thank you. I hope you can find your way back to us. He shook his head. Im afraid its a one-way trip. He rose to his feet and pushed the chair away with a foot. He peeled off his jacket and stationed himself on the other side of Ferns bed. Noah watched on in despair. I cannot let you do this. Whats the point? Ill only be killing her again. Ferns soul is broken into pieces and Lucifer will not accept it as insurance if its partially there, Peter explained. By giving her the rest of my glory, her soul will be complete and you can reap her. Where do I take her? Would I be able to replace her soul back in her body once the war is over? Stop freaking out, Peter said with a laugh. It depends on the outcome. Put her soul within your body until you reach Lucifer. That way you will know shell remain safe. What about down here? Wont her machines go off and alert the doctors? It shouldnt make a sound. Shell be okay, Noah, he replied. I trust you. Peter took a deep, calming breath to steady his nerves. I must be do this properly or it wont work. I cant say Ive done this before. He closed his eyes and placed one hand on his chest, and the other hovering over his stomach. Noah watched on in shock as Peter dug away at his delicate skin through the shirt, biting down a scream. First his fingers disappeared into his body, then his palm and then wrist, but no blood was shed. A glow emanated from inside him, warm enough Noah could feel it across the bed. Seconds later, Peter withdrew a glowing ball, so bright it lit up the room. He reached over and pulled back the sheet covering Fern, exposing her stomach. He squeezed the glowing ball into her, her body convulsing and shaking in response. The machines started to beep rapidly in response. Noah sat cemented in his chair, unable to move. Hed only heard of angels pulling their glory from their bodies, but never saw it in the flesh. Peters gaze then met his, and he let out an ear-piercing howl as the last embers of his glory entered into Fern. Goodbye, Brother. Peter exploded into an aura of flames and light. The room returned to darkness. There was no evidence of the former demon, except for the pile of clothes on the floor.

Chapter 26 Noah sat in stunned silence for a while after Peter died, leaving only the smouldering scent of his ashes. He climbed out of the chair and grabbed his clothes, still warm from his body. Peter had to die in order for Fern to survive. She hadnt stirred since, and Noah wondered if it was all a big mistake. He sat back down in his chair, and tipped his head back, trying to repress the tears threatening to fall. Im sorry, Peter. I failed you. Whos Peter? Noah looked to Ferns bed and saw her eyes flicker open. She looked groggy and pale but her eyes shone with vibrancy and life. Noah leaned down and gently placed a kiss on her lips. Its good to see you awake. Ive been terribly worried about you. Fern grabbed his hand and curled her fingers around his. What happened? You fell into a coma. The doctors have no idea what caused it. It was Lucifer, wasnt it? Noah pressed his lips into a thin line, and caressed her fine skin with his thumb. Should he tell her the truth? He nodded slowly, yet cautiously. He planted a virus inside you so deadly if it wasnt for these machines you would be dead. Ferns eyes widened and she went white. How am I alive? Is the virus gone? Yes. Its gone for good, but not without I dreamt about you, Noah, Fern interjected. I dreamt about you every night. I knew you would save me. Has the war for Earth started? Not yet. He shuffled in his seat. There is something you should know. He paused and looked down at Peters clothes by his feet. Do you remember me telling you the story about my friend Peter? She nodded. Peter was a good angel and friend, until he fell into the hands of Lucifer. When he was imprisoned in Hell, Lucifer decided he would not kill Peter, but put him to use. What are you saying, Noah? Daniel was Peter. Lucifer transformed him so I wouldnt recognise him. He was under my nose the entire time. Where is he? Fern asked, looking around the room. I would like to meet him. Hes dead.

What? Noah reached down and placed the crumpled clothes onto her bed. He picked up the jacket and studied it, trying to find remnants of Peters glory entwined within the fibres. He died for you. He used what was left of his glory to bring you back to life. Fern, you were so close to death. He wanted to make everything up to me. I couldnt stop him. Noah cradled his head in his hands. Her fingers found his hair, entwining it, her touch soothing him. Im sorry, Noah. I am truly am. I never intended for you to be in this position. Will Peter return to Heaven? No, hes gone from this world now, not Heaven nor Hell. She fell silent, and dropped her hand to fiddle with the bed sheet. Is this what Lucifer wanted? In order to stop this war, he wishes for me to reap your soul as insurance. I agreed to give myself to him because Gabriel is showing no signs of backing down. This war must never reach this earth. It will destroy everything we hold dear. He waited for her response, to be assaulted and shouted at, but it never came. Instead, she stared at him with those deep wise eyes. You have to do what you think is best, she said at last. If reaping my soul means stopping this war, you must do whatever it takes. I only got you back from near death and you want me to reap your soul? Noah, you told me Peter sacrificed himself for the cause, to save me, Fern said. I cannot live with knowing your friend, your brother, died because of me. Noah, you must bring down Lucifer for good. He looked down at his hands, lying limp in his lap. If I had a choice, I would never allow you to do this. Fern took his hand, the IV in her wrist clashing against his watch, and held it tight. But you dont have a choice. You must do it, Noah, for me, for everyone else. You asked me to trust you, once. Now you have to trust me. This is more important than one person. If I do it, Ill lose you again. What happens when I die? Would I go to purgatory or Heaven? In your case, Heaven, but if you have no mortal body, we can work with the angels to continue battling Lucifer. Would you want that? You expect this war to go ahead, dont you? Noah gazed out the window, to the blue sky, skyscrapers and the untouched horizon. He didnt know what lay ahead, but it wasnt good.

I dont know what to think anymore. Gabriel and Lucifer are too headstrong and bitter to back down. If youre serious about me reaping your soul, and you have to be, we might be able to work together to bring Lucifer down. Fern smiled, a little colour returning to her cheeks. I care about you too much to ignore this, and life is short. I want to help, and as long as I get to be with you, then nothing else matters. Noah leant over and kissed her. Thank you, Fern. Dont worry so much. Well be together again soon. She smiled, but he wasnt convinced. Noah walked down the smouldering corridor of Hell towards Lucifers office. He held Ferns soul in a crystal glass close to his chest, protecting it like it was a butterfly. Hed taken it from her without harm or regret, watching her life exit her body in a golden haze. Once her machines started beeping, he quickly left, slipping away before her doctors or Stephanie could see him. He wished he wasnt in this position, killing the only woman he ever loved, but deep down he somehow believed Ferns oath. They would be together again soon. He walked to the door alit by flames and knocked twice. No one answered. Noah looked over his shoulder to the cells flanking the hallway. They were empty. He let out a frustrated sigh. Come on, its not all that bad. Lucifers voice sounded in his left ear. Heart pounding, Noah yelped and turned around. Lucifer stood behind him, dressed in black, an iron scythe in his hand. Borrowed that from Death? Noah quizzed, his eyes dropping to the curved blade. Lucifer followed his gaze and bobbed the weapon in his hand. No, Death borrowed it from me. Im very happy to see you here, Noah. I always keep my promises. Lucifer nodded in agreement. Yes, you do. Do you have what I asked for? Something inside Noah refused to hand over the jar, but he did, giving it Lucifer freely. Was it hard to kill her again? he asked, without looking up, running a finger up and down the crystal glass. Noah was repulsed by his arousal. It was. Ill probably never see her again. You got your insurance. Lucifer slipped the jar into his inner jacket pocket and motioned for Noah to follow him. Come with me. They walked further down the corridor until they reached a door guarded by two demons, armed with swords. Lucifer opened it and walked inside. The room was dark, thick with the stench of sulphur, ash, and blood.

Noah retched, covering his mouth and nose with his sleeve. It didnt matter how little he breathed, the stench still got in. Where are we? he asked. My war room. Lucifer clicked his fingers, the sound ricocheting off empty space and the room burst into light, revealing thousands and thousands of souls lined up like toy soldiers. They were glowing orbs, all in human form. They faced the other way, looking out to a fiery chasm of Hell. What is this? Noah questioned, taking a few tentative steps forward. Rock and flesh squelched under his feet. These are all the souls we took from Earth, from Heaven, Lucifer replied with a hint of pride. Many of them are yours. You might even find souls you only took recently such as John Fuller or Janette Andrew. Noah looked down to the rows and rows of dead, guarded by demons patrolling the crowd. Its your army, he uttered under his breath. Isnt it beautiful? Noah pulled his eyes away from the souls, nauseated by the thought of working against his own. Lucifer, as much as this goes against everything I stand for, I will show you allegiance. I will fight alongside you. Well, I assumed that because you just gave me Ferns soul. Theyll not stop this war, Noah explained. Gabriel is planning to go ahead regardless. He will not listen to me. I brought him Daniel and he refused him. So Im here. You want to fight your brothers? Lucifer asked, turning his back on the army. He picked at a loose thread on his jacket. Are you willing to accept me and shed angel blood? Im not proud of the choices I have made lately, but I accept what I must do. Heaven will not listen to me, and if I show up with an alliance to the devil, they might. Lucifer grinned, his lips curling over fang shaped teeth. Good boy. Now come with me, we must get ready.

Chapter 27 Michael blew out a breath of air, evaporating like a fine spring mist. He couldnt count the days he spent in the cell, trapped like an animal. But once Lucifer showed his face in Heaven, he volunteered to remain caged. It was safer than outside. Gabriel was shaken, but not deterred. If anything, it made him more determined and indomitable to be in Lucifers presence. Heaven was weak by lack of force and Michael didnt know when Lucifer might strike again, but what concerned him most of all was Noahs state of mind. There were rumours hed gone to Lucifer to show allegiance, all over a woman. Noah had done it to save Earth and protect Heaven, but the man he loved might never be the same again.

Michael. He looked up and saw Gabriel standing opposite the bars. His face was stern and furrowed, yet tainted by an underlying hint of fear. Brother, I wasnt expecting to see you so soon. I thought you would have your hands full. Thats true, but Im here to seek your assistance. Why? You put me in jail, Michael said. I assumed I wasnt going anywhere during this war. We got news Noah made it to Hell, and agreed to work with Lucifer, Gabriel explained. We dont know what he has in store for him, or us for that matter, but I need all the manpower I can muster. Michael got to his feet and approached Gabriel, wrapping his fingers around the bars. You drove him to it, you know. He had no other choice. You failed him as a brother. He chased Daniel around the world, and for what? Once you caught wind of Lucifers real plans, you ditched him. A shadow crossed Gabriels face. Do you remember when we fought in the Crusades, or the Civil War or even Normandy? I didnt fail you then. I stood by you when I could have left you to rot. He took a step back and fell into darkness. The glistening sword was the only thing Michael could see. I never intended to hurt Noah, or lead him in the wrong direction, a voice said in the dark, but we are desperate now. Lucifer is more powerful than we ever expected. What do you think he has planned for him? Michael asked, squinting into the shadows. Noah isnt an arch angel. He has no power to deal with his strength. Gabriel exited the dark so fast Michael held back a yelp. He pressed his face into the bars, nose-tonose with him, his eyes black with rage. Lucifer plans to use his body like a puppet, using him to do his bidding. He takes control of bodies like we do when we enter Earth, but Lucifer will most likely destroy Noah in the process. How do we stop him? We dont, Brother, Gabriel said. We dont have much choice but to fight against him. I dont know wholl be left standing at the end. What happens to me? Michael asked. Will I be trialled and charged like Noah and Peter before me? You know what happened to Peter? Of course I do, and I knew he was Daniel, Michael admitted. He never meant any harm and sacrificed himself for Ferns life. Did you know that? Thats why Noah is down with Lucifer sooner than we expected. Fern is dead; he has nothing left. A thin line formed across Gabriels lips. What happened to us, Michael? We were once so held by love and respect for our Father and fellow brothers and sisters. How did we fall so hard that you were seduced by Lucifers ways and I ignored the needs of my brother?

We are not as we used to be, Michael said softly. The humans have predicted this day for thousands of years and yet it comes as a surprise to us. This war will destroy the Earth and truly test our beliefs. It will not be the end, Gabriel. I can promise you that. You know I was brought here to kill you, Gabriel admitted, motioning to his sword dangling by his hip. The elders ordered me to take your head, but I cant all weve been through. I appreciate that. I need you. I will be leading our soldiers out to war within half an hour and I want you to join me. Michaels eyes dropped to the long blade and a shiver ran down his spine. An angels sword was just as deadly to another angel as anything else. If it could kill Lucifer with one touch, he had no chance. Gabriels sword was a foreboding weapon. Okay, Ill fight with you, he said, watching his brothers face light up with joy. Where will the war begin? Has a location been agreed upon? New York City, Gabriel responded. It must end where it began. Stephanie gripped Ferns cold, lifeless hand as Richard and two other doctors evaluated her sisters monitors. She got the phone call at 4:30 a.m. from Richard, telling her the worst news possible. A nurse had come in to check on her sister and noticed her machines were reading a flat line. Her sister was dead, but she couldnt bear to think of what to do next. Their parents had feigned shock and flew out of the country, leaving her on her own. They couldnt deal with the stress of their daughters condition. She hated them for it, but was secretly glad. Fern was her sister, her responsibility, and Stephanie would be making all the decisions from now on. Richard sighed, grabbing her attention. What is it? she asked. I dont understand what went wrong? Shes dead, isnt she? Richard walked over to her and rested a hand on her shoulder. It felt like a massive weight against her skin. She has no brain waves and no longer breathing on her own. Its like her soul just left her body. Dont the machines go off once a patient dies? Yes, thats right. Thats what I dont understand, Richard said. We should have known or heard something. Was she in pain? Richard leaned over Stephanie to check Ferns facial tubes and monitor pads. I dont think so. She was constantly monitored for any spikes in the EKG machine. I personally made sure she wasnt suffering.

Thank you, Richard. He grabbed a chair and sat down next to her, motioning for the other doctors to leave the room. He let out a sigh as though preparing himself for what he was going to say next. Stephanie, you must consider organ donation. Fern had a donor card. Im sure she would want you to make that decision. No. Stephanie shook her head stubbornly. No, Richard. She deserves a second chance. Shes gone. Stephanie held back a whimper. Ever since she walked into the hospital, something nagged her, pulsed at the back of her head like a cancer. She couldnt pinpoint it. She knew Fern had a second chance, but she didnt know what it was or when. Please, just keep her here for a little longer. Can you do that for me? I can try, Richard said. But I cannot promise anything. Ill see if I can move her somewhere else, or at least keep her room VIP only. Why do you ask? Stephanie felt a tear roll down her cheek. I dont know. Something is telling me not to give up. I just hope God is listening right now. Im sure he is. Movement outside the room caught her attention. Stephanie spun in her chair and saw nurses, patients, and even visitors race by the open door, talking hastily and excitedly. Whats going on? she asked. Richard got to his feet and poked his head out the door. Whats this? Is there a fire drill? he asked a nurse as she rushed on her way. A large crowd is blocking two major roads, she said, stopping for a brief moment. Are they protestors? No, she said. Theres something different about these people. Like what? Theyre all dressed in white.

Chapter 28 Amy Briggs stood with a dozen other New Yorkers at the lights, waiting for the traffic to change. It had been a long, tiring day at the office with hour-long client calls, admin tasks, and mind numbing work for the director. She just wanted to get home and watch the last episode of Gossip Girl. At her feet lay half a dozen shopping bags. How could she get those onto the train without someone bumping into her and knocking the contents out? She let out a sigh and eyed St Marys hospital

across the road. Her stomach did an involuntarily roll at the sight of patients and doctors staring out of every single window. What were they looking at? Then she noticed people around her had seen it too. Whats going on? What are they looking at? Is it a terrorist attack? Amid the honking horns and sounds of the city, she heard footsteps, a lot of them, louder than the usual footfall of pedestrians. It sounded like an army. She looked down the street and saw a ball of light on the horizon, getting brighter as it got closer. Amys mouth dropped open at the sight of taxis, trucks, and cars propelled into the air, flying off the street as though pulled by an invisible string. People on the street shrieked in fear, running past her frantically. The city erupted into panic, and Amy soon forgot about her shopping bag woes as she joined the crowd, running away from the flying vehicles and debris. Amy ran until her chest ached and her feet bled. With every step she took, she noticed her back was heating up, as though the sun was bearing down upon her. It got hotter and hotter. She stopped mid-run and turned around, avoiding the crowds of people coming her way. The impeding footfall of the army stopped and she was able to see who it belonged to. Among the cars thrown helter skelter, she saw men and women dressed in sheer white, adorned with glowing auras and carrying golden swords. They looked like ordinary people, but there was something about them that distinguished them from the people on the street. They looked more like, Angels, she whispered. Sirens broke through the hysteria on the street and police cars veered down the other end of the road, stopping short of the glowing crowd. They withdrew their guns shouting in unison. People stopped to watch, whispering under their breaths, their panic dissipating. If the police were here, surely they would be safe now. Amy felt herself closed in by other New Yorkers eager to watch how this might unfold. The people in white didnt move or flinch when a trigger-happy cop fired a warning shot into the air. She wondered if this was Judgement Day and the angels were here to take them all back to Heaven. She smiled at the thought, recalling how her alcohol-soaked grandfather would rant about the day the angels would come. But her grin quickly vanished at the sound of ear-piercing screams coming from behind her. She looked over her shoulder and saw the concrete in the middle of the road crackle and split like it was being ripped apart. Steam from the underground tunnels sizzled and danced into the bitter air. A fireball burst through the road, throwing concrete, metal and other debris around like projectiles. People closest to the heat fell to the ground, burning and screaming in agony, clutching onto boiling arms and legs.

A shrill scream rose from the depths of the crackling concrete, smashing glass windows and melting road signs. Amy covered her ears along with everyone else, crying out in pain. The sky darkened to the colour of gunmetal, foreboding and evil. Then among the smoke and licking flames, she saw him emerge. He was dressed in black with long dark hair and sharp features. Amy couldnt believe it, saying a little prayer under her breath. It was him. It was the devil. Noah heard the patter of gunfire as he breached the surface, steam and flames licking at his skin and clothes. He climbed out from the hole in the road, avoiding the crackling concrete, twisted metal and burst water pipes. He didnt realise New York was the place chosen for battle, and as he stood beside Lucifer, he recognised Ferns hospital immediately across the street. Why here? he asked. Why New York? It has to end where it began, Lucifer replied. This is the hospital you found Daniel, and its the very same Fern lost her life. Its only fitting we fight here. Noah looked around him, studying the thousands of New Yorkers staring at him with wide-eyed fear and curiosity. Police cars lay on their roofs smouldering and victims littered the streets. Ahead of him, he saw Heavens army, his former allies, lined up with their swords drawn. Gabriel and his other archangels were nowhere in sight. Are you ready? Lucifer asked. Noah swallowed the lump in his throat and nodded tentatively. He wasnt ready for this, he never truly was. He had accepted his demise, but to die in front of thousands of people, including his former brothers, scared him. Yes, there is no turning back now. Lucifer scanned Heavens army before him. Where is Gabriel? I want rip the flesh from his bones! Behind you. Gabriel materialised behind them and thrust a broken piece of glass into Lucifers spine. He howled in pain, mirroring the shock and cries from the spectators. He growled angrily and yanked the sharp weapon from his body, spinning around to take a swipe at Gabriel. But he was too quick for him. He flew back to his army and grinned, unsheathing his infamous sword. It winked in the dying light. Come on, Lucifer, he called out. You and I both know Heaven will win this war. Noah bit down on his lip as he watched the devil transform. Gabriels words had cut in deep. Small flames birthed on his shoulders and hair. A pair of black wings uncurled across his back, dripping with a black substance. Some people screamed. Lucifer laughed a bitter, cold cackle that ricocheted off the broken buildings. You are foolish, Gabriel, he said. No mortal weapon can kill me. Hell will rise above the rumble. Gabriel looked across to Noah. Its not too late to come home. Come now, Brother.

Noah yearned to leave but he was cemented to the spot. Lucifer came up behind him and ran his hands over his shoulders. Youre too late, Gabriel. Noahs mine now. A searing pain forced Noah to his knees, weakening him, as Lucifer dug his fist into his back. Bones snapped under the pressure and blood pooled in his mouth. Lucifers arm was elbow deep inside his body, pulling away at his internal organs. The devils lips brushed at his left ear. Stop squirming or it will be worse for you. A searing stench of burning flames and smoke circled around him, and a rush of air warmed the nape of his neck. He opened his mouth to scream but nothing came out. Then he heard a voice inside his head. You and I are now one, brother. Welcome me in. Lucifer was inside him, possessing his body and mind. Noah tried to resist, but failed, feeling himself being pushed down into darkness, his own body a tomb.

Chapter 29 Gabriel watched Lucifer engulf Noah whole, swallowing his brother in one bite. The young angels body convulsed and shook until the devil filled every crevice. Despite his age and years of experience, Gabriel was repulsed by what hed forced Noah to do. His little brother was dead, caught in Lucifers talons. He heard Michael step up beside him and sniffed back the threat of tears. Hes gone now, isnt he? In the corner of his eye, Gabriel noticed Michael was dressed and adorned in battle gear, the first time since the fall of Babylon. A sword hung at his waist. Yes, Im afraid so. You still want to fight? We have no choice, he said, watching Lucifer test out his new body. He jumped in the air and rolled his shoulders. I want him dead, even if that means killing Noah. Yes, Sir. He turned his back for a split second to address his soldiers, only to freeze at the sound of growls emanating from the open hole in the road. Gabriel looked over his shoulder. Lucifer was still standing where he climbed from the depths, bathed in steam and flames. But at his side stood six Hell Hounds, large, vicious dogs designed to do Lucifers bidding. They barked and snarled, revealing sharp, blood-stained fangs. The spectators on the street screamed and scattered, running down alleyways and into open stores. But the dogs didnt move, their eyes trained on Gabriels army.

Michael let out a breath of surprise and reached for his brother. We have never dealt with Hell Hounds before. They are just like puppy dogs. Until they rip you to pieces. You seem to forget we are thousands against seven. A few Hell Hounds will not be hard to eliminate. As soon as the words left his mouth, the ground shook violently under their feet. Buildings crumpled around them and smoke billowed from the foundations. On the horizon Lucifers army of demons and souls marched. They snaked between buildings and fallen cars, racing towards Gabriel and his soldiers. The Hell Hounds barked and growled, responding to the incoming force behind them. His army must be huge, Michael observed, withdrawing his sword. The whole ground is shaking. Gabriel looked around him. People were still flocked on the streets, those who were too brave or stubborn to leave. A small handful of New York cops hung around, ordering nosy spectators off the streets. No one seemed to question his authority, or chase him away. It was as though these New Yorkers had already accepted him as their saviour and fighter. We need to move these people to safety, he said. I dont know how this city will survive otherwise. He turned around and quickly ordered thirty angels to start moving people off the pavement. When Michael questioned him, he stopped and stared at his brother. This war is between us and Lucifer. I do not want innocent blood shed. Lucifers army was closer, the sound of their footfall deafening. Once Gabriel was certain the streets were clear, he lunged forward, sword out in front of him. Michael promptly followed. Lucifer clicked his tongue and two Hell Hounds charged towards them barking, drunk on rage lust. Gabriel swung his sword and sliced the head off one dog. It bounced on the road before vanishing in a blood red cloud. The other circled around him and Michael, bearing sharp teeth. Lucifer stood outside the circle, cackling with enjoyment. What do we do? Michael asked. Kill it. Obeying his orders, Michael swung his sword at the dog, cussing when it ducked the blow. He swung again, missed the vulnerable neck but sliced the animal in half from the waist down. It howled and vanished in the same red cloud. Lucifers army was close now, so close Gabriel saw the many faces of the innocent souls he reaped over the years. Demons flanked the outside, some armed with Earthly weapons such as pistols and machine guns, while others held Hell bound weapons. Chains, swords, crossbows and spears clunked together. It was the sound of impending doom. Gabriel screamed over the incoming noise. Charge!

Heaven and Hell fought among the rubble of New York City for hours. Blood was shed and both armies were weakened. Lucifers Hell Hounds chose their victims carefully, mauling four of Gabriels highest officers. Amid the battle, he managed to isolate Lucifer, pushing him further down the street away from his soldiers. He could tell Noahs body was suffering, with cuts, bruises and severe wounds affecting Lucifers agility. A large chunk of his shoulder was missing, exposing flesh and bone. It pained Gabriel to see his brother like this. He wanted a way where he could protect him, put him back together. But Noah was already gone. Lucifer, give up, he rasped, his voice raw from the unsettled dust and ash. Its over. A cold smile broke across Noahs bloodied, dirty face. This is the war Ive been waiting for ever since Father banished me from Heaven. Look around you, Gabriel. We head formidable armies. I will not simply back down. Gabriel studied the face of his brother, wanting to find recognition in the dark eyes staring back at him. Darkness and wickedness was all that prevailed. Then you leave me with no choice. Im sorry, Noah. He raised his sword, the blade winking in the dying sunlight and bought it down hard. But there was no impact. Lucifer dodged the incoming swing with an unforeseen grace. Gabriel tried again and failed. Lucifer laughed wickedly. You dont seem to understand, brother of mine. I have possessed the body of an angel, therefore I possess his skills. Noah was stronger and more agile than you were led to believe. Hes archangel material but you were so bent on destroying me you failed to see it. I can kill archangels, too, Lucifer, he growled. Try it. Gabriel lunged for him, grabbing a fistful of brown hair. Lucifer screamed and clawed at the angels face, biting into flesh. The angel hollered in return and let go, stumbling a few steps back. Lucifer wheeled around and clenched his fist in the air. At first nothing happened, then Gabriel begun to cough and choke for air. He collapsed to his knees, letting go of his sword. It crashed to the concrete. Lucifer stood triumphantly above him. See, I told you, you cant win. He reached down to grab the sword when it suddenly flung out of reach. Michael held it high, grasping the grand sword triumphantly. What do you plan to do with that? Lucifer asked. Michael took a step forward. I know youre in there somewhere, Noah. Fight him, I know you can do it.

Noahs long gone. Lucifer tipped his head to the side and studied the blade of the infamous messenger of God. You cant do much damage if you are not Gabriel. It must be wielded by him to kill me. Thats true, but I can also do this. Gabriel materialised behind him and thrust his golden dagger into the soft skin under Lucifers chin. The devil immediately started to shake and spasm as blood gurgled from the open wound. Gabriel watched with slight amusement as Lucifer frantically tried to grip the weapon protruding from his throat. But it was in too deep for him to pull it out swiftly. Hes weak, Gabriel shouted. Quickly, we must do it now! Michael raced over and planted both hands on top of Noahs head. Gabriel did the same. A glow birthed from under their palms. They closed their eyes and started to chant. Exorcizamus te, omnis immunde spiritus. As their words exited into the atmosphere, the demons and souls of Lucifers army stopped fighting, froze, then collapsed to the ground as though cut from an invisible string. Omni satanica potestas. Michael noticed this through one opened eye. I think its working. His army is dropping like flies! Just keep chanting! Virtute Domini nostri Jesu Christi. Noahs body convulsed some more, blood dripping from his eyes, ears, and mouth. Gabriels hands burned as Lucifer exited the body, kicking and screaming. He increased the level of his voice, so high it shattered neighbouring windows. Michael was struggling through the exorcism, shaking in rhythm with their brother. Then, in a flash of flames and black smoke the devil was expelled from the broken body like a firecracker, crashing into a portable news stand. Gabriel let Noah go, allowing him to fall into Michaels arms limp and lifeless. Stay with him. Gabriel walked over to where Lucifer lay in his true form, hideous and repulsive. He kicked him once in the side and Lucifer rolled over, laughing. He expelled a wad of blood onto the concrete. I am mightily impressed, Brother. I didnt know you had it in you. I should have picked you, not Noah. Gabriel lowered to his knees and pressed his face into Lucifers. You dont scare me. Im giving you a chance. Leave now before youre captured. Dont let me change my mind. Confusion circled in Lucifers eyes. Youre letting me go? No.

He stood and motioned for Michael who threw his sword in his direction. Gabriel caught it with one hand. Using the last of his strength, he swung and made contact with the concrete, missing Lucifer entirely, who rolled away. Missed me, he joked. Anger rolled in Gabriels gut. He released a violent scream, frightening even Lucifer himself. The sword burst into golden flames. The devil let out a small yelp of surprise and backed away. What about we discuss a stalemate? But Gabriel did not listen to him. He swung again and nicked Lucifers back as he crawled to his feet. Dark blood oozed onto the road. Gabriel decided not to chase him, wounded by his sword. Lucifer limped away, falling into the crevice he made when he first appeared for battle. The war was over. Heaven had won. With a smile on his face, Gabriel started to walk towards Michael and Noah, but halted at an unfamiliar sound. It was applause. New Yorkers who witnessed the battle cheered and clapped from safety zones. An odd feeling of contentment warmed him, and he dipped his head in gratitude. When he reached Michael, his brother was smiling, though it wasnt humorous. Noahs broken body lay in his arms. I dont think we can revive him. I think we can, Gabriel insisted, dropping to his knees. He lowered his hand over Noahs stomach. As though lit by a small flame, a dim light emerged amid the seared flesh and blood. It was faint, but still warm. Michael looked on in amazement. His soul is still there. I wasnt expecting it to survive. Maybe Lucifer was right. Noah was stronger than we thought. Maybe, but lets not get our hopes up. Gabriel cupped Noahs soul in his hands and pushed it into himself. A mild pain burnt his chest. I have something else to do before we resurrect him.

Chapter 30 Gabriel withdrew the glowing crystal jar from the folds of Noahs jacket. Lucifer must have put it in there before he consumed Noah during the battle. Ferns soul was still intact, unhurt. He rose to his feet, and looked up at the hospital, looming in front of him. It was time. He ordered Michael to stay behind with the injured soldiers, and entered the building. People backed against walls when he walked by, whispering to one another. He must have stunk, and looked as though he was dipped in red paint, but he didnt care. His main provocative was getting to Fern before time ran out.

He fell into a clumsy jog, his white, tarnished robes banging against the back of his legs. He reached Ferns room and entered. Stephanie and Richard were by the bed, standing at the sudden intrusion. They looked as though they had witnessed the entire battle. Their faces were white, and their arms locked together. Who are you? Richard managed to ask, eyeing him with scrutiny. My name is Gabriel. Were you down there on the street? Stephanies mouth dropped open. The angel, Gabriel? The messenger of God? He nodded and cradled the jar in his big hands. Thats right. I have something to give to Fern. Her sisters eyes dropped to the glowing orb. Is that her soul? Yes. Richard walked over to the window and looked down onto the street below. Bodies littered the road, men and women dressed in white and black. Yet he could not find one weapon. Is it over? he asked. Gabriel felt Ferns skin. It was ice cold. Was he too late? Yes, but Lucifer is still alive, he said, pulling back the bed sheet. He retreated. Stephanie stood on the other side of the bed. What do you mean Lucifer is alive? From what we saw you killed him. Gabriel shook his head. No. What you saw was me killing Noah. Lucifer You killed Noah, you son of a bitch! Richard lunged for him, but was promptly captured by Stephanie. She ordered him to sit back down. Lucifer possessed Noahs body. I had to exorcise him in order to save Fern. How? Stephanie asked, keeping one hand on Richards shoulder, anchoring him to his chair. Because he had her soul. Gabriel twisted the lid off the jar and gently removed the glowing orb from its tomb. It was warm, intensifying when it got closer to its destination. He slowly pressed the soul back through Ferns body and gazed up at Richard. Hold her down. Her body will spasm. The doctor did what he told and held Ferns shoulder down into the mattress as she twitched and shuddered. Colour returned to her stone like cheeks. Gabriel failed to hide his relief. The implantation was successful. Ferns skin and aura returned quickly. Its working! Stephanie shouted.

When he was content her soul had entered her body effectively, Gabriel let out a fatigued sigh. For the first time since he could remember, his bones ached and head throbbed. He felt a strong hand on his back, and turned, finding Richard behind him. Shes awake, he said. Gabriel watched Ferns eyes flicker open. He gently took her hand. Her blue eyes glistened at the sight of him, and then recognition hit her. Wheres Noah? Gabriel swallowed hard and looked at the door. He needed to get Michael in here quick. He spun back to Fern. Hes coming. A figure in the doorway caught everyones attention. Michael stood in the corridor, holding Noahs limp body in his arms. Richard ran over and helped the angel bring the body inside. Fern rose slightly in bed to get a better look as they lay Noah on the cold flooring. Stephanie placed a pillow under his head. Whats wrong with him? Fern asked, her voice soft and distant. Gabriel and Richard exchanged looks. Lucifer? Richard whispered. The archangel nodded. But I have his soul. I can insert it back inside him, but I dont know if he will survive. The devil ate away at him. Can you try? Yes. Gabriel closed his eyes and placed his hand over his stomach. He bit down a scream as Noahs soul was pulled from his body. Ignoring the searing pain, he tentatively inserted it back into his brothers stomach. But nothing happened; no jolting or spasms. Gabriel fell back onto his heels, defeated. Fern started to cry from her hospital bed. Michael, who was still at the door, walked over. Did it work? Gabriel shook his head. Afraid not. Lucifer was just too strong for him. We can take him back to Heaven with us. He was climbing to his feet when an arm shot up and grabbed his wrist. Startled, Noah awoke. Stephanie let out a cry of happiness and raced over to her sister to tell her the good news. Noah. Are you okay? Gabriel asked. We thought we lost you. Colour returned to the angels face and he even managed to smile. Nothing beats me. Richard helped Fern out of bed, asking to see Noah. They sat him down in a hospital chair and watched as the pair was reunited.

Fern wrapped herself around the angel, crying into his hair. It felt odd, yet homey to have her in his arms again. He kissed her cheeks, lips and forehead. He never thought he would have the opportunity to hold her again. Noah watched Gabriel and Michael slip out of the room. He knew they would be back. He had a choice to make. Richard and Stephanie left for a cup of coffee, leaving Noah and Fern on their own. He held her tight, feeling her heart beat through her nightgown. Gabriel told me Lucifer possessed you, Fern said. How did it feel? Weird. It was though I had absolutely no control over my body. Did it hurt? Noah shook his head. I honestly dont remember much. Fern studied the fine lines on his face, the numerous cuts and bruises on his skin. What will happen now? He sighed and ran a finger down her porcelain cheek. I have to make a choice. Whats that? I have to decide whether I wish to stay on earth and become mortal or go back to Heaven and live on. Ferns eyebrows snapped together. How can you make either of those choices after all youve been through? I dont have any leniency in how long I can take, he explained. You and I have been through so much together. Trust me, I wish I had more time, but I dont. Ferns blue gaze dropped to the floor. You know when I died, when you took my soul, I had a taste of what Heaven was like. It was beautiful and pure. Everyones Heaven is different, Fern. Its what you imagine it to be. I loved it. I saw my grandparents and my childhood cats and dogs, she said, meeting his gaze again. I want to go to Heaven with you. Noah shook his head without any thought. No. You are young, have your entire life ahead of you. Think of your sister and parents. What would they think? Fern let out a small mocking laugh. My parents dont care about me. Did they ever visit me while I was in hospital? And Steph, she would understand. Noah looked at Fern, at her youth, beauty and vibrancy. How could he allow her to snuff it all out? She had so much to live for. He took her hands in his and placed a kiss upon her fingers. Its

ultimately your choice. But are you sure you want to spend eternity with me? Im pretty hard to live with. Fern smiled, a beautiful smile that ensured Noah of the answer. Yes. I love you, Noah, she said. I want to spend the rest of time with you. He leant in and kissed her, sealing their fate.

Epilogue Fern watched Noah proudly as he became an archangel of Heaven. He stood tall and erect, in front of Gabriel and Michael, shirtless, dressed in pale light pants. Elders flocked the stage, chanting from age-old books. She had made the right decision in becoming an angel. It was hard to say goodbye to Stephanie and Richard, and a broken New York rebuilding, but her home was with Noah. It hadnt hurt when Gabriel removed her from her earth-bound body. All she remembered was the scent of sandalwood and lavender and sense of weightlessness. She woke and was ushered into Noahs initiation. She stood behind him now, dressed in a beautiful white gown. She couldnt stop smiling and felt so happy for him, knowing how long he wanted this. She caught Gabriels gaze and winked at him. Lucifers whereabouts were still vague and the souls he reaped were returned to their rightful place. Things were beginning to fall back into place. The elders paused from their chanting and handed Gabriel his sword. Just like a royal knight, Noah lowered to one knee and waited patiently as the large blade lowered onto each of his shoulders. Almost immediately two wings birthed on his shoulder blades, uncurling from tiny stubs into feather light wings across his back. They sparkled and shone under the light. Fern couldnt restrain herself, running over into Noahs arms. He held her close, and shared tears of joy. Youre now one of them. Im so proud of you, she cried. I am because of you.