Page 6 of Her Fallen Angel

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KAI’RIN

Dawn's first rays pierce the mist as I materialize with my warriors before a dilapidated building. Immediately, I sense the humans inside, grinning at what we've found. So many have vanished from Aerasak, taken to Protheka presumably, and now we have a group to replenish what we need.

The scent of incense mingles with decay – these survivors cling to their faith while their world crumbles around them. A world we've been portaling across for the last day, taking in the destruction, the lack of vegetation, and the brooding boosts behind it all. It's a worthless world with nearly no magic. We had nearly decided to return home - but now I'm glad we didn't.

Through the broken door, I can see inside the temple easily. A woman's voice rises in prayer, clear and unwavering. Her dark hair cascades down her back as she kneels before a makeshift altar, leading her flock in their morning devotions. Something about her draws my attention – perhaps the way she holds herself, spine straight and proud despite the circumstances.

"Look at these pathetic creatures," Vhex sneers beside me, his amber eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Still begging their gods for salvation."

It seems to be common among the humans. They cling to whatever invisible idea they think will save them. I'm not sure when they'll figure out that nothing will.

I lift my hand, silencing him. The woman's prayers wash over me, and for a moment I forget why we're here. She's unfairly beautiful for a human – warm skin unmarred by the harshness of this broken world, features delicate yet strong. My wings flex unconsciously, ash-gray feathers rustling in the stillness.

Mykael shifts his weight, ever calculating. "Their faith sustained them this long. Impressive, considering."

But I barely hear him. My focus remains on the dark-haired woman, watching how the others look to her for guidance. Such unwavering conviction in a world that's shown them nothing but cruelty. My lips curl into a smile – breaking her will prove far more satisfying than those who simply cower and beg.

"Time to introduce ourselves," I say, violet eyes flaring with magic as I stride forward. The other warriors fall in behind me, wings spread in an intimidating display of power.

Her eyes lock on me as soon as I cross the threshold. This one's spirit burns bright. I look forward to extinguishing it slowly, methodically, until she learns her proper place in my world.

As more xaphan filter into the building - one that is far too small for our presence - the humans scatter like startled prey, dropping to their knees with practiced submission. All except her. She continues her prayer, voice steady despite the tremor in her hands.

I stalk toward her, boots clicking against stone. My shadow falls across her kneeling form, wings spread wide enough to block the morning light filtering through broken windows. "Your devotion is admirable. But you pray to the wrong gods."

She lifts her chin, meeting my gaze without flinching. Those deep brown eyes hold steel beneath their surface – this one has a spine.

"I know who I serve." Her voice carries the same musical quality as her prayers.

"And you are?" I circle her slowly, drinking in every detail. The way her dark waves spill over simple clothing. How she maintains perfect posture even on her knees. The pulse fluttering at her throat betrays her fear, but she doesn't cower.

"Arenwen." She keeps her eyes forward, refusing to track my movement.

"Arenwen," I taste the name on my tongue. "Tell me, Arenwen, do you truly believe your gods will save you?"

A slight smile curves her lips. "They already have, many times over."

My hand shoots out, gripping her chin. I force her to look at me, to acknowledge the power radiating from my very being. Her skin feels like silk beneath my calloused fingers.

"Such fire," I murmur. "Such misplaced faith."

Behind me, Vhex chuckles darkly. But I barely register the sound. This close, I catch the scent of incense in her hair, see the flecks of gold in those defiant eyes. My wings curl forward instinctively, creating a cage of ash-gray feathers around us.

She doesn't struggle against my grip. Instead, her lips move in silent prayer, each word a subtle act of rebellion. Fascinating. Most humans break at the first touch, yet she armors herself in conviction.

"Your prayers won't shield you anymore, little flame." I release her chin, but she doesn't look away. "Your gods won't help you." I grin. "But I'll let you worship me instead."

Her eyes flash and my grin widens. This is going to be very fun indeed.

"Take them." My command sparks chaos.

Vhex lunges first, seizing two humans with brutal efficiency. His wings snap out, knocking others to the ground as they try to flee. Mykael moves with calculated precision, herding the scattered faithful like sheep to slaughter.

Their screams shatter the morning peace. Some beg for mercy, others cry out to their gods. How predictable. My attention remains fixed on Arenwen as she starts to rise, but my hand finds her throat, fingers wrapping around that delicate column.

"Pray louder, little flame." I lift her until her feet barely touch the ground. "Let's see if your gods hear you now."

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