14

I ended up spending another hour with Zane that morning. I can't say that we did much. Just more hanging out and talking. He showed me the painting he'd been working on, and I sat in front of the window and allowed him to do a sketch of me.

But as the morning wore on, he admitted that he had to get moving. He said that he had to take care of some things at his home, considering he was going to have to move now. Baton Rouge wouldn't be a safe place to stay now that they'd found us there. It was time for us to move on and make new homes again.

I'll admit that the thought was a bit depressing to me. Constantly moving reminded me of when I was a child. But at the same time, I now understood that it was necessary. We had to keep moving on. We had to find a way to keep living.

Having the house to myself wasn't too bad. Going back to my room, I laid down on my bed and looked out of the nearby window at the fog still surrounding the house. I closed my eyes, taking in the peaceful silence and allowing myself to think over everything that had happened up until then.

A few months before, I never would've imagined that I would be there now or know what I did. In a way, it disturbed me a little to think about what I really was. I truly was a damned child, whether or not I'd chosen to be born. But I didn't want to be killed either. This existence truly was unfair for the ones like us. We were born to die.

The stress of everything was making me tired, so I made myself comfortable and began to drift off to sleep. I floated in the inky void of my mind for what seemed like a long time. It was peaceful there, and I didn't want to leave it. At least there I could forget about everything for a while.

But, as all good things often do, this had to pass. My eyes began opening again; only this time, I was standing in the brightly lit room of what looked like a large house. Huge windows that stretched from the white carpeted floors up to the ceiling were near me, and the room was filled with nice-looking light-colored furniture. I looked around, wondering where I was. It definitely wasn't anywhere I could recognize.

"My, my. It seems I've ended up with an unexpected visitor."

I looked towards where the unfamiliar voice had come from. That was when I realized that there was a man standing by the large couch near me. He had to be the most beautiful man I'd ever seen, with dark hair that framed a smooth, handsome face. He wasn't a very big man, yet definitely had a commanding air to him.

But the thing that caught me the most were his eyes. They were the lightest shade of violet I'd ever seen, and the irises seemed to carry flecks of dancing flames in them.

I worked hard to find my voice, "Who are you? And where in the world am I?"

"You're at my home. At least, you've entered it through your dream state. It's rather odd. I didn't think that this place could be entered so easily." the man responded, sitting on the white couch. He smiled at me as he patted the cushion beside him, "Please, come and have a seat. The least I could do is speak with you while you've graced me with your presence."

I stood there and studied him. There was absolutely nothing outwardly threatening about this man. The entire atmosphere felt peaceful and safe. It was enough for me to give in and sit on the couch beside him.

"I guess. But who are you? I've never seen you before."

The man nodded, chuckling slightly like he was amused, "I'd imagine not. I do not believe that we have ever met before, so I suppose I should introduce myself. I am Kinsley Martell."

"Kinsley Martell." I repeated. No, I didn't recognize his name.

"You know, you do look familiar. Tell me child, what is your name?" Kinsley asked, tilting my face up so that he could look at me closer.

"Ariana." I whispered.

Those eyes, they were so beautiful. I'd never seen eyes like that before. They were most definitely violet, and I could see flames of the same color dancing deep within them.

"I see now. You're the forbidden child he was speaking of. No wonder you could get past our defenses. But I am surprised as well. It seems you've somehow been attracted to come and speak with me." Kinsley surmised.

"You know my father?"

I really didn't think he could've been another Fallen. He just didn't strike me as the type, but he also didn't feel like another Shadow Wing. Who was this person?

"I do. In fact, looking at you, it's quite obvious to me. I'd known him very well at one time, or at least as well as any of us could have." Kinsley admitted.

"What are you? You're not human." I noted, scotting back a little.

I suddenly felt very uncomfortable about this. Even with the peaceful atmosphere there, I didn't know exactly who or what this man was, or even why I'd ended up there.

"Please don't fear me child. I have no intentions of harming you. I'd actually like to help you and those like you." Kinsley told me.

"Help us?"

"Yes." Kinsley stood up and gave me a polite bow. To my shock, six very large wings unfurled from his back. They had a beautiful tint of violet in their feathers, much like his eyes, "Be not afraid. I am a Seraph of the Violet Flame, and the leader of the Martell Nephilim clan."

You have to be kidding me! I thought. I'd just brought myself right to an angel and a Seraphim at that. Yet he wasn't being threatening at all. He was being extremely kind towards me.

I still quickly stood up and back away from him out of instinct.

"What is this all about? Why am I here?" I demanded. I hoped I could defend myself there. I'd never had to in the dream state before.

Kinsley didn't seem bothered by my fear of him. He just gave me an understanding look.

"It's alright. I would never cause you any harm, though I do wonder about this. It seems odd that you'd just appear here all at once, and in a dream state at that. But I also see this as a good opportunity. Perhaps this will offer the leverage we need to stop all of the nonsense now." he noted as he stepped in front of me.

To my surprise, he took my hands in his, and almost instantly I saw a barrage of images. Angels hunting Shadow Wings, families with large colored wings of blue, violet, and green; and the attack that I'd seen through Zane on the Shadow Wings decades before in Rome.

After what felt like an eternity, Kinsley finally released my hands, "I see now. So that's how it's been." he said quietly.

"What was that?" I breathed

"The past. You are a strong reader, so you can bring any of it up if you really put your mind to it, and within your blood you carry Saffron's memories as well as what you've been allowed to witness. That includes witnessing the extermination attempts made on the dark winged Nephilim from both sides. That is why Saffron has been so desperate to have you hidden all these years. He knows that there is a mark on your head for what you are, and you are the only one in existence that brings him any meaning now. Without you, he very well may lose himself completely within his own darkness." Kinsley explained.

"Why does this even matter? I've been born to die, and even he could turn on me." I said bitterly as I looked down. I was thinking of Chris, and again feeling that ache in my heart. It wasn't fair. All I'd ever wanted was to be with him forever.

"Don't be so afraid little one." Kinsley comforted me as he touched my cheek and made me look at him, "If this works, it may not have to be so."

"What do you mean?"

I couldn't believe how gentle he was. Were Angels supposed to be like this? I wouldn't know, considering the only others I had gotten to see were trying to kill me.

"We converse much between one another, and with the formation of the clans, there has been much talk of the original Nephilim who still exist in the mortal world. Many of us believe now that they should not be hunted down unless they do something to break the rules of the realms. For that, we've been gathering to move against the hunts, and having what you have given me in memories, I believe there is more leverage for us to finally put an end to it all." Kinsley explained.

"Really? So, they'll leave us alone?" I asked hopefully.

"That is the aim. I'm grateful that you came to me, even if it was by accident, and I will do everything I can to help you. But for now, it may be better if you returned to yourself. It will be much safer for you. I will keep my contact with you to help though. Be safe child." Kinsley said, gently kissing my forehead.

I awoke with a start, still feeling that kiss. I looked around as I sat up and realized that I was back in my bed where I'd fallen asleep. The room was quiet, and I could hear the rain falling outside.

Was that dream real? I wondered. Did I really meet a good Angel?

Finally realizing that I heard the rain, I looked back at the window. As I watched it hitting the windowpanes, I thought of what Kinsley had said. If it was real and he was telling the truth, then maybe they were finally going to help us. I smiled as I thought about that. For the first time, the higher powers were beginning to realize that we were living beings, not just abominations.

For the first time ever, the Shadow Wings may be free.

I got up and went over to the door, peeking out into the hallway. Frowning at the darkness, I stepped out and searched for a light switch. There had to be one somewhere. I was getting tired of darkness now. Tired of it being around and tired of living in it. There had to be a light at the end of this long tunnel, and I could start that by adding light to the world around me.

Unfortunately, I couldn't find any light switches up there, so I made my way down the stairs. As I came to the kitchen though, I stopped in the doorway. Mama was in there, quietly chopping up some meat for dinner. I was startled at her appearance. She had aged drastically in the little bit of time since I'd last seen her. Her hair was now almost completely grey, and the winkles on her face had deepened dramatically.

It took me a moment to find my voice, "Mama?"

"So, the demon child awakens. She will always awaken. But he never sleeps. He'll never sleep. He doesn't need to sleep and maybe she doesn't either." Mama muttered. She didn't bother looking at me.

Now I really felt uneasy. Something didn't feel right about this. I slowly took a step forward.

"Mama, are you alright?" I asked.

Mama stopped, but still didn't look at me. Instead, she stared straight ahead.

"Why did you have to pick that one? Why couldn't you just choose the other? He's much better for you, and he's still living. He's cultured and strong. He would be the better choice. It's much better than pining for an evil boy who's the enemy." she said evenly.

What in the world is she going on about? I wondered.

Then it slowly dawned on me. She was talking about Chris. She had never liked that I'd fallen in love with him. She didn't even like the fact that Saffron had predicted it. But who in the world was she talking about me choosing instead?

I felt someone come up behind me as I pondered this.

"Now Miss Mabel, didn't I ask you to go upstairs and rest? You've been very tired lately and it's not good for you." I heard Zane say.

Mama carefully turned, and for the first time I noticed that she was limping a bit. Her health was deteriorating very rapidly now.

"Oh, you have returned." she noted.

"I have. So please, go and get your rest. We'll take care of things from here." Zane assured her.

Mama nodded, then limped away. I could still hear her muttering under her breath as she did. Zane waited until she was gone before letting go of my hand.

"I'm sorry. I thought that she'd stay in bed. It may be better if I lock the door to her room." he admitted.

"Has it really gotten that bad this fast?" I asked as I stared at the doorway she'd walked through.

"Unfortunately, it has, and it may only get worse. It's better if you stay away from her for now. I don't think I need to tell you why." Zane responded.

He was probably right about that, but it still kind of hurt. Mama had always been so protective of me before. Now she may harm me in her deepening dementia.

I ended up spending the next three hours down there with Zane. He'd gone up and discreetly locked Mama's door from the outside after she went to her room. Afterwards, he'd tried to keep me company to distract me from her. I didn't mind it either. I'd always liked Zane's company. There were a few times that I thought about mentioning my dream to him, but I decided that it would be better to wait until after I spoke to Saffron. Surely he'd be the one to tell me for certain whether or not I should listen to Kinsley Martell. Maybe he could even offer me some insight as to why this Seraph had decided that he wanted to help us now.

Saffron finally returned after those three hours had passed. Of course, as soon as he did, he decided that I would spend quality time with him only. Zane didn't argue over it. He simply excused himself and went back upstairs. I didn't doubt that he knew better than to get in Saffron's way when it came to me.

But going to the parlor with Saffron, I decided to tell him about the dream I'd had, and my meeting with Kinsley Martell. With just the two of us, I felt like it was safe to do so. It immediately perked his interest once I told him the whole story.

"So, they're finally deciding to step in. It's about time they went completely soft." Saffron commented as he sat back with me on the couch.

"You don't think he's trying to trick us?" I asked him.

"No. Kinsley's not in a position to do so. He's not the same as Judiel either. He's much higher. I suppose all the death and destruction has finally gotten to him. But then, he did have to go through that war as well. I'm sure rescuing that lovely little lady of his back then affected him far deeper than he wants to admit. He's always been the type to feel pity." Saffron responded.

"He's really one of the clan leaders too?"

I cringed as I heard Mama scream from her upstairs room. She'd taken to doing that in the last hour off and on, and it was horrible.

"Yes. He's one of the three, but it doesn't surprise me that he would try to mediate in situations such as these because of what he represents. Violets are typically the more peaceful types, although they will fight when they have to." Saffron explained. He growled in his throat as we heard another scream, "She'd better shut up before I go up there. I have half a mind to snap her neck for such a commotion."

"Couldn't you just make it so that she's not suffering? She's screaming because she'd in terrible pain and her mind is going crazy." I reasoned.

"Not at all. Suffering before death is a beautiful thing." Saffron responded.

Of course he'd say that. Saffron would always think that death was beautiful, and the more suffering in it, the better. Not to mention that he seemed to be growing tired of her presence already.

"So why would you pick her to take care of me if you're just letting her die like this?"

"She was the best candidate for the job. She was well versed in the dark arts, and she was more than willing to save her own skin by any means necessary; and aside from that, she'd kept on saying that she wanted a baby before she died, so I gave her one to take care of in her time left."

I decided to change the subject. It made me sad to think that she was dying. Too many people seemed to be dying now. I was grateful that Will was going to survive.

"So where did you go today? You were gone a long time. I guess you still had things you wanted to do now that you were out." I continued.

Saffron hugged me to his side, "Just taking care of a few small things, but more importantly, I wanted to check on what Jade was up to. I didn't find him, but I did manage to find someone who might talk about what his recent actions have been."

"Really? Are you interested in knowing whether Chris is dead or alive?" I probed.

"Not really. It doesn't matter that much to me if that boy lived or died. I have two perfectly good male Nephilim here to serve any needs you may have, not to mention that I'm certain one will be beyond loyal to you now. My concern is what Jade may be planning against me and my own. I don't doubt that he blames me and you for what happened; and here I thought that perhaps I could get back into good graces with him. But it won't happen. I'm sure of it. Oh well. There's nothing more that can be done as of now. I'll simply have to use what I have left here." Saffron continued.

"You're probably right." I reluctantly agreed.

"However," Saffron suddenly added, "my source was quite adamant that Christoff is alive. He's usually quite reliable too. I'm rather glad to hear it. That chance is still there, and it also cuts the risk of Jade attacking you again more than in half."

"The chance for what?" I dared ask.

Saffron smiled at me, "What else? I want you to completely reel in Christoff. I know he's been infatuated with you, and I know that he's had you at least once, so all that needs to be done now is to make sure his heart will never look to anyone else."

"Okay, why are you so set on this? It doesn't make any sense. He's Jade's son, the one you didn't even want born in the first place, but you've been working hard on putting us together since the day I was born. Is this all some kind of revenge plan for you against Jade? Because if it is, I don't want anything to do with it. I'm not using Chris like that." I warned him.

"Not really." Saffron responded, "Christoff is simply the best suited for you. I know that eventually you will have to choose consorts. No female Shadow Wing ever goes into a long life without them to help protect her. You are simply not born to fight on the level that they are, and I know that I cannot always be around at a moment's notice. So, I'm going for the next best option, which would be putting you with their so-called prince. If that doesn't work out, then we still have the other two oldest to fall back on."

"That's why you're keeping Zane and Will, and you're hoping to get Chris back. You just want me to be protected and served." I noted.

I couldn't help thinking that it was all a little more than sickening. I didn't want a consort. I wanted one person that I could love and who would love me in return.

"You could say that, but I'm stepping in now as well because of what I've seen happen. Those two others are interested in you, but they tend to be too unstable to keep you completely safe. My best bet in all of this lies with Christoff, if he indeed still lives. If that is unable to happen, then I have another plan in order. But for now, we'll stay with the original."

Before anymore could be said, we were interrupted by the sound of the door opening. I followed Saffron's gaze to see Will peeking in.

"Hey, I hate to interrupt, but I think you might want to come out here. We've got a visitor." he said quietly.

Saffron frowned, making us get up, "I had a feeling that he might show up. Come along Ariana."

The two of us followed Will outside to the wrap around porch. I immediately felt the temperature drop as we stepped out there. Zane was sitting on the bottom step of the stairs near us. He wasn't alone either. Astaroth stood near him. He was the same as before, clothed in black with piercing red eyes, and skin as pale as the moon.

As soon as Saffron saw him, he nodded towards Will, "Keep her close to you. He's mine to handle." he ordered.

"Got it." Will agreed as he pulled me close to him.

I turned in his arms and watched. I definitely didn't want Astaroth anywhere close to me again. Not after the last time. But I was also worried about Zane. Looking at him there, I saw that he wasn't even attempting to fight back. That didn't feel right.

"This is a surprise. I didn't think you'd show up here so soon." Saffron commented as he walked to the top of the stairs.

"You expect me to stand by after what's happened? It did involve my own." Astaroth responded. His voice was deep and penetrating, chilling me to the core.

"You know, curiosity has always been your biggest vice, Astaroth. You must realize that by now. Did you really think that I wouldn't be able to stop that fiasco?" Saffron continued.

"You would do better not to speak down to a superior. The Master did just let you back out, and I don't appreciate your threats when you get in the way of what I do with my own." Astaroth countered.

"I'm well aware of that, but you also know that I mean every threat I make. You've learned that in the past. So, tell me, to what do I owe this sudden visit? Are you that sore with me for interfering before?"

Astaroth was quiet for a moment. We watched him touch Zane's head, "I had considered paying you back for that, but then, I heard about the recent incident with the one called Judiel and these children; not to mention that the one they call Christoff Liam may have been killed. So, I decided to look into it myself, and it seems that it may have been correct."

"Ah, I see. I suppose this would be only natural then, considering that you've wanted to keep this one on the mortal plane for as long as possible. After all, he's been strong enough to stand up to you and for himself since his creation." Saffron nodded.

Astaroth's eyes narrowed at him, and he kept his hand on Zane's head. For the first time I noticed that Zane's eyes looked blank. That was why he wasn't fighting back. Astaroth had managed to bring him under his control.

"And that would be all it is. I haven't spent all of this time cultivating this one only to see him killed because of recklessness. Loyalty to the damned is wasted on those who cannot take care of themselves, and there should be no loyalty of the heart for those who are not strong enough to withstand their own heritage."

Saffron growled at him, and as we watched, shadows suddenly shot out from under him. One flew up with lightning speed between Astaroth and Zane, coming to a sharp point that stopped just short of Astaroth's left eye.

But Astaroth didn't even flinch. He glared back at Saffron, "A violent temper rising once again? You're so predictable now." he scoffed.

"Perhaps, but you've offended my creation one too many times. She is the most treasured creation I've made in my existence. I've told you long before this that I would tear you apart and make sure we'd never meet again if you crossed me, and you're coming very close with these indiscretions. Aside from all of that, your creation has also pledged his loyalty to Ariana of his own free will, just as this one has. So, if you're thinking of taking him, then you'll have to go through me first. I have plans for these two, and you will not ruin them." Saffron warned him.

The black tattoo crept up his neck and cheek, and his hands transformed into black claws. Will took a few steps back with me, keeping my close.

"Be ready. This may become very dangerous." he whispered in my ear.

I nodded, not taking my attention away from them. Astaroth let Zane go, jumping back as more shadows ripped down the stairway, shredding the wood right down the middle. Thankfully Zane was able to regain his senses and jumped out of the way, doing a back flip and landing on his feet a good distance away in the yard.

The shadows that had come to life missed Astaroth, but just barely, "You've shown your true colors. You are no different from the rest of us. You play harmless, but you are more vicious than most!" he accused, his own shadows flying out from all around him as he turned back into a dark figure.

Will pulled me against him, his wings coming out as he flew off the porch and into the nearby woods. Zane did the same. As we watched, two dark shapes quickly flew into the woods across from us after each other.

Zane breathed hard, holding his throat as he joined us.

"You doing okay?" Will asked him cautiously. He was breathing hard too but trying to hide it. I wondered if the healing wound in his chest was causing him more pain because of his sudden movements.

"I'm fine." Zane responded, finally catching his breath, "That grip is like a vice when he does that, but it looks like I don't have to worry too much this time. Saffron will be fighting him instead of me."

"Do you think Saffron will be okay?" I asked them.

"I wouldn't worry too much about him. He's very dangerous himself, and he's pissed off now, so it's only going to be worse. I have the feeling that Astaroth may come out of this in pieces again. It doesn't really matter though. It's in their nature to tear each other apart in fights then allow themselves to heal again for the next big grudge match." Zane explained.

Will let me go, rubbing his chest, "Maybe it's better that way. It's bad enough that he's staying here and trying to dictate everything. We're not the types to just bend, even to one like him."

"Yes, but we need to be careful about all of this too. Having Saffron is a good thing when we consider what may come from Jade. No doubt he's got it out for us after what happened, whether Chris is alive or dead." Zane reminded him.

"Saffron does seem to think that he's alive. He was able to tell me that much before Astaroth showed up." I told them.

"See, what did I tell you? Chris is tough. It would take a lot more than that to kill him." Will boasted. He looked relieved. Not that I blamed him. He'd been as torn up as Zane and I were when he'd thought that one of his closest friends had been killed, especially because of his mistake.

"No kidding." Zane agreed, although he didn't seem like he was half as happy as Will. I wondered why.

At that, I thought about how I'd met with Kinsley and what he'd said. I hadn't gotten the chance to tell either of them about it.

"Hey, there's something else I wanted to tell you both. I got to see one of those clan leader angels this morning." I spoke up.

Both of them looked at me with some shock.

"You saw one of those Seraphs? How?" Zane asked.

"It was through my dreams. It was weird, but somehow, I was transported to where he was. Even he said that he didn't know exactly how it happened, but he was so kind to me. He talked to me, and he said that they were trying to make it so that Judiel and those other angels couldn't hunt us anymore. It was never right for them to do so, and with the clans being around now, there was no reason for it as long as we weren't doing bad things." I explained.

Will and Zane listened to what I said with a lot of interest, though they still looked shocked. Will rubbed his chest where his wound was finally healing.

"They actually want to help us now? Took them long enough." he muttered.

Zane wasn't convinced. He became a bit angry, "I don't believe it. What good would it do to help us now? They know that we've been hunted for centuries, and on top of that, they know that our own fathers may cause us harm. What good would this do aside from perhaps giving the Fallen a shallow victory against them?" he protested.

I was surprised by his reaction. If anything, I'd thought that he'd be happy for the chance to get away from Astaroth for good.

"You really don't think they'd help us?" I asked.

"Not at all." Zane answered, crossing his arms and looking away from us, "It's ridiculous to even entertain the thought. It's been far too long, and with our own fathers hunting us, there's no point."

"Come on Zane. I get what you're saying, but there is still a chance. You and I both know that. Those clans really changed the playing field with all of this. Think about it. They've never waited this long to resume the hunts before, and even Lucifer is interested in the outcome this time. There must be something more with all of this. Maybe there has been from the start." Will reasoned.

Zane shot him a stern look, "And you would continue believing everything he tells you? You've always been willing to follow whatever Lucifer says, even though you try to call yourself good at heart." he accused.

"I've made my mistakes." Will growled back, "But these angels are different. They aren't hunters, and I've told you before that the tides are changing. I sensed it before and I'm never wrong when I do."

"Must I remind you that you almost got yourself killed because you underestimated things? Not to mention that now Chris is gone as well for that big mistake you made." Zane continued.

I saw the red specks appear in Will's eyes as he narrowed them at Zane. I knew that I'd better step in before they started a physical fight too.

"Hey! No arguing! We don't need any more fighting!" I protested as I stood between them.

They both stared each other down, but thankfully decided to back off.

"Sorry, but I can't make myself believe such a thing right now. Please excuse me." Zane huffed. He then turned and walked away.

I watched him disappear into the shadows leading back to the house. What in the world had that been about? I'd never seen Zane act like that before.

But I reasoned that perhaps it was from his encounter with Astaroth. It may have shook him up, and hearing what I was saying probably didn't help. Maybe I should've waited until a little bit later to tell them about Kinsley.

Will pulled me into a gentle hug, "It's all right. This wasn't your fault. He's just got a lot going on, and it's always been hard on him to think about redemption." he told me softly. His breathing was still a bit labored but seemed better than what it was moments before.

I sighed, snuggling against him, "Thanks, Will."

"Please, don't be afraid of me, okay?" Will requested.

"I won't. I trust you." I promised.

I snuggled my face against his shoulder as I held onto him. I couldn't explain why, but I really was starting to feel comfortable with him now. Even with what he'd done before and knowing what he was, I still trusted Will. Was it because he'd saved my life before? Maybe, but I wondered if it was also because of who he was.

A scream made us pull back and look towards the house. Through the upstairs bedroom window, we could hear Mama screaming as she pounded on it.

Will shook his head, "She's getting worse now. Maybe it's time to let her go." he suggested.

"You mean kill her?" I asked softly.

"For lack of a better term, yes. I'm sorry to say that, but you know it's for the best. She's suffering terribly now." Will reasoned.

"I know, but I..." I started.

"You'll let them do what needs to be done. There's nothing more to say about it."

Saffron stepped out from the nearby trees. He was dusting himself off and didn't seem hurt. He'd also transformed back so that he looked like a normal human again.

"Looks like you took care of things. That was quick." Will noted, coughing a little. He held his chest tightly as he did. No doubt it was very painful for him to cough right now. I helped him stand by putting an arm around him.

"Of course. I have better things to do then put up with that arrogant duke. He really thought I couldn't take him again. He knows better." Saffron bragged. He didn't seem the least bit concerned about Will, but that didn't surprise me. The only things that Saffron ever seemed concerned about were me and his own interests.

"I think we all know that. But what are you planning on doing about that woman now? You know it's almost over." Will said, still playing tough.

"I'm well aware of that, but I'll let you and Zane take care of it. It seems that I have other things that need my attention at this time. Make sure you both take good care of Ariana until I return." Saffron ordered.

"Wait a minute. You're leaving me again?" I said in disbelief.

"Don't worry. It won't be terribly long. A few weeks perhaps. But I want you to remain with these two until I return. They will take you with them to a safer place and make sure that you're comfortable in your life now." Saffron assured me.

I couldn't say that I liked this at all. I'd just gotten my father back, and now he was leaving me again. But what could I expect from him? I hadn't seen the others stick around that much either. It probably wasn't in their nature.

Will agreed, not even bothering to argue with him over it, "Fine. We'll make sure that she's safe until then, but what are you planning on doing about that Seraph? He said he wants to stop the hunts now. Are you going to challenge him or actually consider working with him?"

Saffron just smiled at us, "That's for me to know and you to find out. Just make sure you obey what I've said. If anything happens to her, I'll make sure that you and Zane both don't survive to see another sunrise."

With that, he turned back into a shadow and disappeared into the woods again.

"Trust me, we know to take anything you say seriously." Will breathed.

I looked up at him, "Come on Will. We need to get back in. You're not looking too good." I insisted.

Will agreed, and we slowly walked back to the house. I shook my head as we saw the front porch. The stairs had been destroyed. The clash of Saffron and Astaroth's shadows had been a bit more massive than I'd originally thought. The wood was all busted and splintered from the front door to the bottom of what was once the stairs.

We ended up going in through a side door because of this. I looked up at the ceiling as Will sat down and we heard a loud crash from upstairs. Mama was apparently throwing things now. Looking around, I realized that I didn't sense Saffron anywhere. He hadn't come back to the house.

"He's really left already? That's just great. Now what?" I complained.

"It's okay. We'll just have to deal with things on our own. That's how they are sometimes. He probably didn't want to kill her himself because he likes seeing her suffer." Will breathed, keeping his head down. He still looked like he was in terrible pain.

"Are you sure you'll be okay?" I asked as I knelt in front of him.

I was getting worried now. I thought he should've been healing more. Had he done more harm than good by getting me out of the way of that fight?

Will took a deep breath as he looked back at me, "It's okay. I'll be fine. I just shouldn't have done so much this quick, but I didn't have a choice either. I won't let him hurt you just because he's lost his temper. That's the biggest problem they have. They lose their tempers, then themselves." he explained, touching my cheek.

I leaned into his touch, "I don't want you to die on me Will. I've already lost so much. I can't handle anymore right now."

"It's alright. I'm not going to die. I just need to take it easy for a little bit longer, then I'll be fine. I promise I won't leave you." Will replied, leaning his head against mine.

I just sat there with my eyes closed, enjoying this closeness. I'd always felt close to Will, although not quite this much. There was a small piece of me that wondered if I was allowing myself to feel this more because Chris was gone. If I'd never met Chris, or hadn't met him first, would I have felt that same instant attraction to Will or Zane? I've considered that a lot as I look back on this moment.

Another crash upstairs brought me back to reality. Will looked up towards the ceiling.

"I'm surprised she's still that strong." he commented.

"It's only the madness making her strong now. It's time to do what must be done."

We looked over to see Zane standing in the doorway with his arms crossed. He looked a bit disapproving as he watched us. I wondered how long he'd been there.

Will let out a shaky breath, forcing himself to stand with me, "Yeah, I agree. But I don't think I'm in any shape to do it right now." he admitted.

"I know. You tore some of that wound open when you flew away with her. I could sense it. But don't worry about this. She's giving me a headache, so I'll do it." Zane responded.

"Don't make her suffer anymore Zane. Just do something quick and where she won't be in pain." I requested.

"Very well. I can do that. But you should stay down here. I don't think you need to see this." Zane suggested quietly. His voice sounded a little colder. I wondered if Astaroth had done something else to him out there that we didn't know about. It made me uneasy.

"Will?" I whispered as Zane turned swiftly and walked out.

"It's okay." Will reassured me. He pulled me into a reassuring hug, "He'll be fine. This is just the side of Zane that you don't usually see. He's a little moody at times, especially when his father keeps showing up, but he'll get better later."

I closed my eyes, turning into the embrace and holding him tightly. I just wanted this night to be over now. It had been way too much that day. The strange meeting with Kinsley Martell, my mother's madness, the fight with Astaroth. I wasn't sure that I could handle all of this. I was just a new Shadow Wing. We couldn't have gone through this much in such a short period of time after we changed.

All at once, the house became completely silent. I knew then that Zane had finished it. I wanted to cry, but somehow the tears wouldn't come. It just felt like relief washed over me. Mama wasn't suffering anymore. We'd set her free from that, although I wondered what would happen with her soul now that she'd died. Would she get punished for practicing black magic and helping a Fallen?

Zane finally came back downstairs, "Alright. I made it quick, so she didn't feel a thing, but I think it may be better if we went ahead and buried her. It would be fitting with all she's done for our kind." he told us. He thankfully seemed to be coming back to himself. His eyes were looking a bit gentler.

"Yeah, but I don't think I could be of much help with that tonight. Why don't we just leave the body locked up in that room and do it in the morning?" Will suggested.

"That's fine. It won't hurt anything." Zane agreed. He stepped over to me, "I'm sorry about before. I've been scaring you, haven't I?"

I nodded, "A little bit. I just want the old Zane back."

"It's okay. I'm back now. I'm sorry I haven't been myself, but sometimes I lose myself when things happen with Astaroth, and it's been very stressful with what happened to Christoff. Just give me some time. I promise I'll come back around." Zane told me.

That sounded like the Zane I'd come to know. It was a relief. At least he was coming back to being himself. I just hoped that he wouldn't do anymore of this losing himself for a long time. That was kind of scary. I didn't like thinking that he might turn on us with it.

"So, what's the plan? You must know that Saffron's decided that he's leaving us for now." Will pointed out.

"I figured as much. He's not that different from the rest of them when it comes down to it. I'd imagine that he's looking into what's going on with this Seraph as well. They all may eventually be looking once they hear of it. If what that Seraph said was true, then it will also affect them." Zane responded.

"How?" I asked.

"If they manage to say that we don't need to be destroyed, then we'll fall under the same rules as everything else that exists. That would mean that they cannot try to harm us without probable cause, or they'll face retribution. As you'd imagine, that would put a real damper on the ones like my father. It even affects the ones like Jade and Saffron, considering that they can turn on us if they lose their tempers. If we are under the same rules, it could end up driving them away." Zane explained.

"No kidding. They'll probably fight it if the issue is pushed. I know my dad too well. He's always said that he won't let anything stand in the way of him controlling his offspring if he desires it." Will added.

"Your dad?" I felt the instant chill go through me despite the warm embrace I was still in.

"Trust me, you don't need to know any more about him right now. He's the least of our worries anyway. He never comes around any of the Shadow Wings except for me, and to be honest with you, I think at this point he can't even stand me anymore. But I count that as a good thing." Will admitted. It seemed like he was trying to downplay what I now knew. Not that I blamed him. He was still worried about scaring me.

"Back to the present though," Zane interrupted, "we still need to figure out our next move, beings Saffron has left again. I don't believe that it would be in our best interest to remain in Baton Rouge. It's not plausible considering all that's occurred."

"But where should we go? Is there any place we can really be safe?" I asked him.

"We could always go north. You and I have some pretty nice penthouses up in New York City, and it's crowded enough there that it would be difficult for them to stage any real attacks on us without causing a major issue." Will suggested.

Zane gave him a knowing smile, "You just want to get back up there to your private studio with her, don't you?"

"It wouldn't hurt anything. Personally, I think Ariana would make a lovely model for a photoshoot." Will responded, smiling at the thought.

"Huh?" I didn't quite follow.

Zane chuckled, "I guess you didn't realize it. Will's biggest hobby in recent years has been photography. He's always loved doing independent fashion shoots, so he's had a private studio in New York for that for a while." he explained.

"Really? You never told me about that." I said as I looked at Will.

"Guess I forgot about it. It's been a while since I've been back to that one. I shut it down when I decided to come down here with Zane. I just thought it would be a better change of pace. New York City does tend to be hectic." Will admitted.

"It would be the better option to head back there now if we really think about it. It's a large city that's close in quarters. They wouldn't be so apt to go after the ones like us there, so we can use our time there to regroup and figure out what it is that we want to do next." Zane reasoned.

"Well, I'm game. I don't think I want to stay down here after all of this. No offense, but all I've seen in Baton Rouge is a lot of horror." I told them.

"None taken. Trust me, I know exactly what you mean by it." Zane agreed.

Will let out a long breath, rubbing his chest, "Alright, then we'll go to New York City in a few days. But right now, I think I'd better get some rest. This still hurts like hell."

"Come on. I'll help you." I offered, taking his arm.

Zane watched us for a moment, then walked over to help too. Will walked fairly well up the stairs and to his room, where we helped him lay in the bed. I sat beside him as Zane made sure the curtains were closed.

"You should make sure you get a good night's sleep tonight Will. We'll have a lot to do in the coming days." he reminded him.

"I'll try. Just don't do anything stupid tonight." Will responded.

"Not at all. I plan on getting my rest as well." Zane agreed. He walked over and gently rubbed my shoulder, "Try to rest tonight as well Ariana, and if you need anything, don't hesitate to find me."

"Okay. Thanks Zane." I responded.

Zane walked out, closing the door behind him. I looked back at Will, feeling bad for him now. It was obvious that he was in terrible pain again. He tried hard to hide it, but I could see it in his eyes.

"You know, you don't have to hide how bad this is. I can still help you some." I offered, laying my hand on his chest.

"I know. I guess it's just the man in me. I've never liked admitting that something hurt me that bad." Will sighed in relief.

"You're all stubborn, aren't you? But I guess that comes with living as long as you have. I never would've thought that you all were that old just by looking at you." I commented.

Will smiled at me, "I've always counted that as a good thing. I bet that Chris and Zane do too. I don't think anybody ever wants to get old. We're just lucky that way."

"Maybe, but I think there's a dignity in getting old too. It shows how much life you've had. I'm sure that a lot of people look at us and think the wrong things because we look so young. Well, with you and Zane, and I guess Chris before." I went on.

"You might be right, but there's always advantages to everything."

I couldn't help letting out an exhausted sigh. It was all catching up with me again.

"Hey Will, do you think this was all my fault?" I asked.

"What do you mean?" he responded.

"If Chris hadn't come after me, if he hadn't brought me back here, maybe they wouldn't have come after everyone again. Maybe that angel wouldn't have tried to trick you." I reasoned.

The room became quiet. Will seemed to be thinking it all over.

"I see." he breathed, "So you really blame yourself for all of it?"

I gasped as I was pulled down into a hug, "Will?!"

"You said it yourself; none of us asked to be born, and none of us asked for what we've gotten in this life. I've lived my whole life with my back to the wall, just like Zane and Chris. Maybe you will too. Maybe Fallen Children aren't meant to ever live peacefully. But that's no one's fault. We are what we are. So don't blame yourself. None of us blame you. The Shadow Wings will always live on, no matter what." Will whispered.

His words were comforting to me as I hugged him back and let the tears fall. At least I felt safe in that embrace. But I knew in my heart that all of this was only the beginning for me too. Even after everything that had happened so far, my journey was far from over. After all, the Shadow Wings were still considered the forbidden children.

And the hunt was just beginning.