Page 50 of The Fallen

?“Don't underestimate me spawn. Who do you think talked Semjaza into manipulating the other angels into mating with the women of earth? And taught them everything they know to pass down to you and your little friends. Let's not forget the intricate plan I put together to get you to me and free myself,” he raised an eyebrow. “If you were thinking the answer to all those questions was me,” he pointed to himself. “You would be correct.”

?“What makes you think you can take over the world, let alone Heaven? The archangels defeated you before, they can do it again,” Marie yelled.

?“That is true, but now I will have a secret weapon,” he smirked.

?Marie was confused, but she knew he would make it fall into place for her. He needed her for something, that was the only reason he was letting her live. That, she knew for sure. But what could he possibly want from her? He was way stronger and smarter than she ever was. What was his end game?

?“I'm glad you asked. With your blood, together we could create the ultimate race, one that would dominate any spawn we made in the past. Just think, a child who could manipulate metal, produce fire and charmspeak. It would be incredible. Let Michael and Raphael try and stop that.”

?“You're crazy. I'm only sixteen, I'm not doing this. You must be insane,” Marie said through her teeth and stood up.

?“Crazy, yes. Insane,” he tapped a finger on his chin, “Again, yes. But I'm afraid you're not understanding me. I don't need anything from you other than your delightful blood. And don't worry, I have ways to get it. But I am giving you a choice. It will be on you whether you give it willingly or I take it by force. Soon, I will release my brothers and it will be time to take back what is rightfully ours and no one will stop me.”

?Azazel got up as well and walked around the table to stand in front of her. She coward at his presence. He intimidated her and when he was close, she felt helpless.

?“I'll give you some time to think about it, but don't take too long; you know how I am when I don't get what I want. I can still get to you, remember that. So tell your mom she can save her shielding tricks, they're useless.”

?He trotted toward the wall he came out of earlier. Before he went back through, he turned to her once more.

?“Oh and Marie, it was very wise to get Brenton off your back. I didn't like him. I wanted him dead, but I guess we'll go with your way. After all, he is no threat to me,” he disappeared and Marie woke with a start.

?Her chest was heaving, she was drenched in sweat and couldn't get her breathing under control.

?She got up and ran to find her mom. At least she knew she would be safe for now. He wouldn't kill her if he wanted to create his super army.

?She checked every room then finally went outside. Her mom was standing around watching the other angels playing a game. Brenton was next to her.

?She instantly felt relieved. She walked up to them and hugged her mom. She loved the smell of her, it was familiar, warm and inviting. It made her feel like nothing else in the world mattered. She needed that feeling.

?“Whoa, what was that for?” her mom asked.

?“I love you so much. And, I just needed some reassurance.”

?“Okay. I love you, too baby.”

?She let go and turned to Brenton. He didn't light up like he used to, but she still felt safe around him.

?He extended his hand to her, “Hi, I'm Brenton Kane. And you are?”

?She shook his hand, disappointed. “Marie. My name is Marie Mitchell.”