Page 185 of Crimson Promises
Lucifer's mocking laughter filled the room, but it felt distant and faded.
“I don’t have a choice, Ben. I can’t let him kill you.” I turned to Lucifer. Never expecting to make a deal with the Devil. “I will recite whatever words you need to come into my full power on two conditions.”
Lucifer nodded approvingly. “You’re finally learning to play the game, Little Star.” His praise and cruelty were like two whips, each one alternating strikes. “After I learned of your existence, I sought the counsel of the seer Dorinda. She is the most respected seer in the universe. Her payment is steep, but learning how to wield your full potential was worth it. She instructed that you must recite the following prophesy and make a blood offering to the universe?—”
“Like the Crimson Promises?” I asked. The thought of a searing brand maiming my skin sent a wave of nausea rolling through me.
“No, just a blood offering to the realm. It will show that you are choosing to become an angel and the powers bestowed to you by the universe. Repeat after me:
“Born of Heaven, forged in Hell,
“Dimidium comes, the tales do tell.
“With sunlit grace and starry gaze,
“The power to heal, the world to blaze.
“Between God and Lucifer, a bridge does stand,
“Balancing chaos with a gentle hand.
“For in the heart of twilight's seam,
“Lies the hope of every dream.
“Between the Lord and the Devil’s might,
“Her song rises, banishing the night.
“But an angel, in the gloom so deep,
“Seeks power, his vendettas to keep.
“Drawn to power, by vengeance swayed,
“Yet, in his path, the half-angel laid.
“For even shadows can find the light,
“In the embrace of the one too bright.
“Their love, a dance of flame and frost,
“A tale of what's gained, and what's lost.
“For in their union, old tales shall bend,
“The fallen and half, their fates to mend.
“Dimidium, half and whole, shall rise,
“Mending rifts beneath sunlit skies.
“In darkest depths and heavenly arc,
“This angel's touch will leave its mark.”
The air was electric, taut with anticipation. Everything about my existence would change after this moment, but I had no choice. The luxury of options disappeared long ago. I was about to repeat the prophecy when Ben's voice cut through, clear and unwavering.
