Page 88 of Destined for Eternity
“A once powerful archangel who fell many millennia ago. He still serves as the Angel of Death for those bound for Hell.” His father shook his head. “Samael has not appeared to us for a very long time, but he has changed very little since I last saw him.”
The bodies and visages of many angels who fell from grace became twisted and grotesque over time. This one was different, as he clearly preferred to keep a more earthly form. But one thing was for certain, he made the prince Bartol fought recently pale in comparison when it came to power levels. Who knew how many demon slayers it would take to execute Samael?
“What is he doing here?”
Raguel’s lips thinned. “I have no idea, but I was not the one who determined which guests would attend the summit.”
“Samael.” Remiel came around the tables to greet the high demon. “I’m glad you have come.”
“Why would they want him here?” Bartol asked in a whisper.
“If I had to guess, it would be because Samael is one of the few demons whose words are their bond. If he promises something, he means it. They know we won’t trust just anyone with a new deal. He also holds a great deal of power and respect among the demon ranks that makes him a good leader for their side. The trouble is that Hell has made him dangerous and calculating. There is still a sliver of righteousness inside his soul that guides his actions, but it’s unpredictable.”
Bartol truly hoped the former archangel was reliable and trustworthy enough for the job.
“It has been a long time since I’ve last walked this plane,” Samael said, running his gaze around the room. “Much has changed.”
“Wouldn’t he have seen Earth often as the Angel of Death?” Bartol murmured.
Raguel shook his head. “He comes in spirit form and only sees the soul he has come to collect. By design, the world around him is left unclear so that he will not be tempted to stay.”
“That’s…an interesting arrangement.”
“His job is sanctioned by Heaven and considered sacred, even if he works for the other side,” Raguel explained.
There was still so much Bartol didn’t know.
“But now you and your brethren wish to have a presence on Earth,” Remiel replied, continuing to speak to Samael.
The fallen angel dipped his chin. “Times have changed, and we must change with them.”
“Or so you would prefer.” Remiel gestured toward the tables and chairs. “Perhaps we should take our seats before we begin to discuss this topic in earnest.”
“Of course.” Samael turned toward the demon assembly and addressed them in an authoritative voice, “Sit. We will partake of refreshments afterward.”
A few grumbled but did as he commanded. The contingent from Heaven took their places as well, some Bartol recognized and some he didn’t. In all, each side had approximately twenty-five representatives of varying power levels. They didn’t need that many to negotiate, but the demons insisted on that number for their group, so the angels had matched it as a defensive measure. The leaders would do most of the talking.
After everyone settled into their places, Remiel spoke from his seat at the middle of the angel section. “We will allow you to make your proposal first.”
“Thank you.” Samael rose from his position directly across from the archangel. He had a suave appearance, and yet a commanding demeanor. “As you know, we believe we have a right to a presence on Earth. For many millennia, it has been far too limited. We’re no longer willing to tolerate the old rules, especially now that the world is well aware of other supernatural beings present in it.”
“That has never been relevant before,” Remiel argued. “The supernaturals were not always in hiding, and their activities were not part of our agreement.”
Samael shrugged. “Perhaps not, but you have killed many of our kind recently who entered Earth through lawful means.”
“Most of those executions were carried out by a nephilim—which is not forbidden by the treaty. We only brought out an archangel after your side opened portals. That was unlawful.”
“You sent Stolas back to Hell a few years ago,” Samael said, narrowing his eyes. “He was summoned and did not come of his own volition.”
“I highly doubt he minded,” a nephilim near Bartol muttered.
Remiel stood. “Those were extreme circumstances, and many humans died to bring him to Earth. Also, Stolas killed a sensor, albeit temporarily, but regardless it was prohibited under our treaty. I had no choice except to intervene and send the demon back.”
“It was still a violation.”
The archangel’s eyes glowed bright gold. “Your side has made mistakes as well.”
“Which is the only reason we did not retaliate sooner. But when you broughthimback last year, that was your final mistake.” Samael pointed an accusing finger at Raguel. “All demon slayers were supposed to be converted to something else or permanently retired.”
