9 comments/ 10789 views/ 39 favorites Guardian Devil By: fgmntfmgnshn Edited by: nancyharpman17... Thank you as your additions are what kept this from being mindless drivel. * Faith. Intuition. The comforting feeling that a higher power is offering a helping hand to navigate life. These phenomena lend credence to the truth that we all have guardian angels assigned by Destiny to watch over us in times of need. But what we never realize is the reverse is also true... * "Iskra!" The name was shouted in the same way every annoyed Father would call for his daughter, the first syllable a dull roar and the second; well, it was obvious she was in trouble. Satan's fingertips glowed red as they tapped in an angry cadence against his throne which emanated an ominous, unnerving pulse while he awaited her arrival. * Iskra shook with freight upon hearing her name. "Damn." She thrust the silver platter forward, "Here, just take them all." She released the serving dish just as quickly and the boy barely held onto it. Iskra hurried to the main hall before her footsteps became lead. She trembled and her whole body resonated with the tone her father used and the echo of her own name. All too soon she appeared at the expansive, imposing metallic black door. Nervous sweat rolled down her forehead. She brushed it away, along with the few tendrils of her long, bright red hair. Her hand scraped over the two horns that protruded three inches from her head. She didn't want to go in there; but with one final breath, she steeled herself and pushed open the door. The first thing Iskra noticed was his large, imposing horns that arched backward and down before curling forward and framing his face. This led her to his piercing black eyes, so similar to her own, but yet, far more sinister. They penetrated her very existence and caused her to march the rest of her journey with her head downcast, staring at the cracks in the cement floor. "What were you doing?" Satan quickly took the vocal lead, his voice deep and brusque, which only fueled Iskra's melancholy. "Nothing... Just baking some cookies," Iskra's voice barely cracked above a whimper. "Just baking some cookies?" Satan reiterated the same words; but the tone implied harshness and cut through the sweet innocence her tone had made them sound. His stare was fiery, as a square formed above his left shoulder and began to play her villainous act in high definition. "Does this look like you were just baking cookies?" The scene unfolded quickly; Iskra entering the regrettable nightmare the nine-year-old boy was forced to relive over and over again -- his personal hell -- and offering comforting solace; and, of course, a few chocolate chip cookies. "Well?" Satan's stare had never left his daughter during the playback, and now he wanted his answer. "What do you have to say for yourself?" "Father, Andy's only nine." Iskra subconsciously lifted her arms in conjunction to her soft plea. "Yes, a nine-year-old who..." Satan paused, as a large book appeared in his lap, and a pair of bifocals fell upon his nose. He flipped open the ledger and turned to the name 'Andrew Staley'... "picked up his father's gun and shot him dead. Then realizing what he had done, turned the weapon upon himself. He is in Hell for a reason." "But he only committed those sins because he witnessed his drunken father repeatedly slam his mother's head into the wall. It was the only way to save her." "And he failed. She died and went to heaven; and he is with us, where he belongs. It is the way of the world. It is what we do." Iskra's face contorted in what she felt was the unfairness of it all, "But, Father..." "Iskra," Satan took off his glasses as he leaned forward, "We are in the business of souls. We harvest all those who are sinners. Hell, we even encourage the righteous to be corrupt." "I know, Father," Iskra's voice went monotone as proof to how many times she has been lectured on the subject. "We devils have desires, encourage others to have desires, grant desires, and, in return, we garner their souls." Her voice then changed to one of a pleading nature, "But, there are souls here that..." "Iskra," Satan interrupted. "I will not have this conversation with you again. You are the daughter of the leader of Hell, the one whom all other demons worship as their leader. What does that say about me when I can't get my own spawn to act like a true devil?" Satan shook his head, "You lower the temperature, give water to those assigned manual labor, and visit purgatory in an effort to lighten the hardships of the souls trapped there. Where did I go wrong? Your brother and sister are at the top of the list when it comes to corrupting human souls. Perfect devils. But you... I can't even send you to earth for fear of you screwing up. There is no room for compassion in what we do." He rubbed his forehead in frustration. "I don't know what to do with you." Iskra's head fell, tears in her eyes; and her hands quickly covered them. Above all else, she knew her place in her father's heart; and, like so many children, all she wanted was his respect. "I know, Father... I know I am not worthy to be called your daughter...but I want to be. I'll do better to make you proud." Satan looked at Iskra with benevolence. He may be THE Devil...but this was still his daughter. "When I step down, I was going to divide the world in half, with each of your siblings getting a controlling share. There is still time to change my mind and divide it into thirds." "Father?" Iskra glanced up with reddened eyes. "I have decided to give you a chance to prove yourself. An eighteen-year-old high school boy named Mason Parker...Corrupt him and you may be on your way." "Oh, Daddy, thank you!" Iskra ran forward and jumped into his arms. Her embrace was tight and she showered him with kisses. "I won't let you down." "I know, Iskra. I know," Satan chuckled. "Your name means 'spark'. Now show me yours. Show me you can be a devil." Iskra jumped from his lap and giddily ran towards the exit. Satan put the arm of his glasses in the crook of his mouth as he sat back in his throne. With an amused smile, he shook his head. "Kids..." He let the word trail off as he felt the emptiness of the space where his eldest daughter had just vacated. "I hope I did the right thing..." * Iskra was rounding the corner in the hall, almost to her bedroom in the castle. She was excited and couldn't wait to meet her mark, although she had no idea about how to corrupt someone. "I can't believe Father is sending 'The Reject' to earth." The words came from a girl leaning against the wall, her foot lifted against it, and the words were spoken with utter distaste and spat towards Iskra. "You couldn't get a fly to commit a sin." Iskra stopped in her tracks at her little sister's proclamation. "Morana, what do you want?" "Nothing. Just pointing out how useless you are as a devil." Morana pushed herself away from the wall, a menacing smile on her face. "So, what did he give you...some high school boy?" Iskra glanced down, "Um, yeah..." "HA! I take down a hundred of those in a week. They are so susceptible to lust. Figures he'd give you an easy prey. Of course, you've got to actually be willing to get your mark to commit one of the seven deadly sins." Morana then laughed as she walked away, "Don't forget to change your appearance. Humans don't have horns." "Maybe she's right..." Iskra looked down, dejected. The truth seemed to smack her in the face. Her eyes closed as she was on the verge of tears. "No, I'll show them... I'll be the best devil there is." Her eyes reopened and her smile resumed, "I can do this!" * "Ow," Mason grunted, dropping his books as he was shoved into the locker. "Out of my way, dork!" Wade Harvey, one of Hilldale High School's resident macho football chauvinists, laughed as he walked past with his entourage. Mason glanced at Wade's girlfriend, the cheerleading beauty, Kristen Petry; before quickly grabbing his dropped books and doing his best to make a hasty retreat and avoid the humiliation of what had just transpired. With downcast eyes, he made his way to his physics class; and with a sigh, he plopped into his front row seat. "A week into the school year, and things are just as they left off. Another year of being on my own." Mason shook his head as the bell sounded and Mr. Poole began the day's lecture. It was the same every year...nothing but taking the brunt of the elite of Hilldale High School. He had hoped things would change now that he was eighteen and a senior; but it was obvious he had another year of wedgies, toilet swirlies, and worst of all, the verbal taunts. Mason shivered at the thought. The sound of high-heeled footsteps were heard far before the door opened; but only then did everyone in the class look up and behold the bright red haired beauty at the door, wearing a short, black mini skirt and tight v - neck red top. "Excuse me," Mr. Poole turned from the blackboard to the girl at the door."Who are you...and why are you interrupting my class?" "I'm your new transfer student." "I wasn't aware there was a new student for my class." "Oh, I almost forgot," Iskra snapped her fingers. "Yeah, today is my first day." She reached into her bag and pulled out her class schedule...the exact same schedule as Mason Parker. Mr. Poole immediately backtracked. "Of course, now I remember. You must be Iskra Abaddon. Please, take a seat in any empty desk." "Thank you." Despite clothing that accentuated her curves, which she despised, Iskra couldn't help but to smile at the effectiveness her snap had on the teacher's memory. She started to scan the front row and stopped when she reached the middle. Black, unkempt hair, jeans and a t-shirt... a little bigger than she thought, but it was him. She casually walked down the middle aisle, giving a seductive glance to the student in the front row before taking an empty seat in the back. Iskra couldn't be any more excited. Based on the drool coming from the boy in the front row, Morana was right...high school boys are easy prey when it comes to lust. "I'll be home tonight and Father will be so proud." * As soon as the end-of-class bell rang, Iskra wasted little time in heading to the front of the class and to her mark. "Hey there, I'm Iskra. Do you mind showing me to my next class?" The thud of his book dropping resonated through the class or it could have been the collective jaws that fell to the floor in surprise, echoing everyone's grumbles of, "She choose that nerd?" "Um... Uh... Ye-ah... Uh... Sure." Iskra smiled again at the ease of it all, "Thanks." They walked in silence with Iskra two paces ahead. She despised what she was going to do next. It was going to be her first time and she had wanted it to be special; but, alas, she wanted to make her father proud, even more. When they reached the next class, Iskra stopped short. She took a breath and turned, wrapping her arms around his neck. It had to be around his neck because she doubted they would have made it around his waist. "Here's a thought...instead of going in there together, why don't we go somewhere... more private?" "Um... My next class is down the hall, but..." "What?" Iskra's face dropped. "You're not Mason Parker?" "Mason? What would you want with that loser? Anyways, I'm George Thatcher. We can still..." He let the rest hang in the air as he looked at her hopefully. "Um, sorry," Iskra took a step away, followed quickly with another one. "I've got to get to class." She entered the classroom hurriedly and took a seat. She really did feel sorry for leading George on, but her own embarrassment was far more cognizant in her mind. Her head was in her hands and she was blushing profusely. * After watching the new student with George...someone just slightly higher on the social echelon than he...at least he was the class clown...Mason shook his head and entered class. He sat in his normal seat, the front seat in the furthest row of desks. Iskra was in a daze all throughout class. "How did I get the wrong person? He matched the description and sat in the front row?" The sound of the bell startled her out of her thoughts. She looked quickly and saw someone else who happened to match the description she was given, although he was slender... awkwardly toothpick slender. She made her way to the head of the class, far less confident of herself this time, "Um, you're Mason, aren't you?" Mason didn't even look away from packing his book into his book bag, "I am and I'm not interested." He threw his backpack over his right shoulder, not even offering a glance at the red haired beauty before hurrying out of the room. 'What is that girl trying to do? First George, and now me? I'll just avoid her.' Mason let out an exhale as he crashed down into his seat for his next class. Iskra stood paralyzed, "Um... Uh..." "Miss." Miss Dyer interrupted Iskra's train of thought. "Not sure what you're used to; but here, at this school, when the bell rings, you go to your next class." Iskra acknowledged the teacher with a small, nervous smile, "Oh, yes, thank you." She shook her head as she walked out of class. "Now what do I do?" She then thought about what she was wearing. 'I feel silly.' "Hey there, Sexy," Wade put his arm around Iskra's shoulders, "I know you're new here...so, let me tell you somethin'. I'm the most popular guy at this school and I'm goin' to let you date me." Iskra rolled her eyes, thankful she was at her class. "No thanks," she shrugged herself out of his grasp. "Not interested." "Huh?" Wade blinked in shock. "Nobody has ever said, 'No' to me." "Sorry to break your impressive streak," Iskra spoke over her shoulder as she entered her class. Wade glared at her back, "She'll come around." When Iskra entered class, she immediately felt defeated at seeing Mason cringe upon seeing her. She didn't know what to do. He was her goal but he wouldn't even look at her. So when the end-of-class bell rang, she simply followed him. Every class...she was there. During lunch...she sat at his table. When he switched tables to get away from her...she trailed him. She even followed him into the men's restroom; but immediately exited and waited against the wall when she realized he wasn't the only one in there. She had no plan, but just hoped her presence alone would eventually entice him to do... something. Mason gave a relieved sigh when the final bell rang. He packed up his book bag and hustled for the exit. A small smile appeared when he didn't see his new shadow amongst the sea of people. "Come here, you little shit," Wade grabbed a hold of Mason's shirt and while sneering, he slammed him against the lockers. Wade's muscled bicep flexed as his hard forearm pressed against his fellow teen's chest. "What makes you so fucking special, to have the new girl all over you? Huh?" And with that, Wade pushed even harder into his ribs. "Answer me!" "I... I... I don't know." Mason cringed, turning his head to the side in hopes of not having to see the destined impact. "She keeps following me." "I bet if I kick your ass she'll realize what a waste of time you are." "Wait... Please, just wait," Mason pleaded. He then added the only words he could think of to get the brute to reevaluate his plan of slaughtering him. "Don't you already have a girlfriend?" Wade laughed. Hard. He still maintained his grip on the nerd in his clutches, but it took him a minute to compose himself. "When you are me, you have the right to be with any girl you want." He then offered a devious smile and cocked his fist. "And now you'll pay for not minding your own business." Iskra let out a relieved sigh. Just turning her back for the couple seconds it took to put her books in her backpack gave Mason time to flee, but she had finally found him. Her relief, however, only lasted for a moment, as she saw his predicament. With a rushed step, she arrived as Wade's arm thrust forward. "So, you think that by punching Mason, that will make me want to go out with you?" Iskra's eyebrow rose with her question. She then shook her head, "Pathetic." Wade's fist stopped right before impact, the gap only paper thin. "Hey, Baby. I wasn't going to hit my friend here." Wade let go of Mason's shirt, patting his shoulder as he dropped his fist. "You know how we boys are." He then wrapped his arm around the nerd's neck and gave him a noogie. "Nothing wrong with a little roughhousing." He released his captive and then nudged him forward with a sneer. As he walked away, he glanced over his shoulder, "See you around... friend." Iskra smiled, "I'm glad I got here when I did." Mason picked up his bag and slung it over his shoulder. He started walking for the exit but paused when he was next to Iskra. He wasn't sure what to say. She had stopped him from getting pounded; sure, but he wouldn't have been in that predicament if she hadn't been hounding him all day. "Thanks." It was mumbled but audible as he continued out the door. Iskra's smile evaporated. She felt utterly defeated. She thought how disappointed her father would be at her futility. She was supposed to be a devil...the daughter of Satan himself...and she couldn't even get one measly high school boy to lust. Morana was right. "You shouldn't give up so easily." The male voice came from directly behind her. Iskra was startled from her self pity. She turned to find a man who appeared to be in his late twenties, dusty blonde hair, and a body that seemed to be out of a cologne ad. His piercing blue eyes penetrated her and his smile seemed to be one of confidence. "Uh, what was that?" "Hi, I'm Todd Phillips... I mean, Mr. Phillips. I'm the counselor for students whose last names begin with the letters A-J." Todd touched Iskra's shoulder as he walked by, "And it's refreshing to see a student who knows what she wants; and if you want it bad enough, you'll get it. You shouldn't give up so easily." Iskra stared forward as Counselor Phillips left. "He's right. I can do this." She hurried out the door and saw Mason on the other side of the parking lot. He was walking past all the cars to the sidewalk on the other side. After a deep breath and renewed determination in her eye, she began her pursuit. Mason was a block from home when he heard the familiar voice shout, "Hey Mason, wait up!" Mason glanced over his shoulder to see Iskra coming closer. "Why are you following me?" he bellowed. But instead of waiting for a response, he ran. Iskra let out a frustrated sigh. She was already unsteady in her high heels just trying to walk fast; so running was out of the question. "Curse high heels." Mason charged through the door to his home, quickly shutting and locking the white wooden door. Iskra arrived at the door and started knocking on it, "Mason, open up!" When no response came, she resorted to pounding on the door. Frustrated, her face scrunched and she put all her effort into her scream, "I just want to have sex with you!" "Excuse me? What do you want to do to my son?" Iskra squeaked open her eyes only to see Mason's mother at the door. Her hands were on her hips, her eyes narrowed, and she had a fierce, protective expression etched into her face. "Yeah, Mom, she's been following me around all day. First she humiliated George and now she's after me." Mason was in the background, almost hiding behind a chair. 'Could this get any worse?' Iskra took a deep breath and then offered a smile as she snapped her fingers. "Oh, hello, Mrs. Parker, I'm Iskra, a friend of Mason's from school. I'm just trying to get your son to open the door, because I was absent for part of a lecture and I was hoping he could fill me in on what I missed. I only said what I said to get him to answer faster." Mrs. Parker's face softened and a welcoming smile pursed her lips, "Well, of course, you can come in, dear. Any friend of Mason's is always welcome here." She quickly stepped aside to allow Iskra to enter. "And none of that Mrs. Parker nonsense. You can call me Diane." Guardian Devil "What?" Mason let out a shocked shout. "You're letting her in?" "Mason, don't be so rude. She just needs help with homework. You can certainly do that." She then turned to Iskra, "Please, forgive him. He's just been out of sorts ever since he got home." "That's okay," Iskra smiled. "I won't judge him based on today." "Aw, such a sweet girl," Diane put a hand to her chin. "Can I get you something to drink? Soda or juice?" "But, Mom?" Mason whined as he clutched the chair in front of him, awestruck at what he was witnessing. "Mason, mind your manners." Diane gave Mason a look that he was all too familiar with seeing. It was the "You're-in-deep-shit" look. It was a look he hadn't seen since he was ten years old when he accidently set fire to the living room carpet while working on a science experiment. "Now show this wonderful girl to your room and help her with her homework." All Mason could do was give a slight nod. He took two steps back before he felt resigned to his fate. "Right this way, Iskra." "You two kids have fun." Mason was in his room, standing in the furthest corner from the door. Every step Iskra took was announced with a slight creak from the floor in the hallway. It was as if the sounds were his own personal death taps. With one final creak, she was standing at his door. "What do you want from me?" Iskra bit her lower lip. Now that she had Mason alone she was unsure how to proceed. She stared at him before offering a quick shoulder shrug. "I really do only want to have sex with you." "Girls don't just say that... Not to me, anyway." Mason stared her down. "Why me, huh? What do you get out of all of this?" Iskra didn't know how to respond; so she walked forward, each step full of nervousness, until she was standing directly in front of him. She looked up at him with scared doe eyes, "Don't you want to have sex with me?" "No." Mason walked past her and sat down in his computer chair. "What? Why not?" "It's obvious you don't want to." Mason pushed the power button and his computer began to hum to life. "I think someone is making you do this to either make fun of me, to torture you, or both; and I won't give them the satisfaction. So you can go back to wherever you came from and tell them I said, 'No'." Iskra sat on the bed, her head in her hands as tears cascaded down her cheeks. "I'll never be a proper devil." Her words were muffled, barely audible and meant just for her as she began sobbing. A few minutes passed before she felt a touch, altough it was occurring the entire time. It was gentle and soothing, a light circular motion on her back. She sniffled back her tears and opened her eyes to find her head was burrowed into Mason's chest, his t-shirt damp from her crying. "I'm sorry." "It's all right." Mason patted her back as he stood, moving back to the computer chair. "But you should go now. Tell Satan I said, 'No'." Iskra stared bewildered at the boy. "How did you know my father is Satan?" "What?" Mason sat in complete shock, mouth agape, body paralyzed shock. "How did you know?" "You... you were... you were being serious?" Mason gulped at the knowledge and subconsciously scooted backward until the chair hit his desk. "I heard you mutter something about a devil, so I was just playing on your words. I thought you meant the person forcing you to make fun of me was like a devil, not THE Devil." "Oops," Iskra fell back onto the bed, one arm splayed across the mattress while the other lay across her eyes. "You're joking, right?" Iskra rubbed her forehead. "Well, no use in being uncomfortable." She snapped her fingers and her outfit drastically changed. Blue jeans, sneakers, and a black tank top with a white, unbuttoned over-shirt appeared in place of her slutty ensemble. "AH!" Mason shrieked as he stood to run. He took a step toward the door but, in his consternation, he tripped over the chair on which he had been sitting. It and he tumbled unceremoniously to the hardwood floor. Iskra sat up at the commotion, "Are you okay?" She knelt down and removed the chair from Mason's entangled feet before offering her hand, "Here, let me help you up?" Mason scooted away from her until his back hit with a small thud against the wall. Iskra offered him a slight smile and a look full of sympathy, "Please, don't be afraid, Mason. I won't hurt you." "But you're a dev... ev" Mason's voice faltered, still disbelieving the truth. "Devil." Iskra shook her head, "But not a very good one." "What does that mean?" Iskra sat back onto the bed, "It means my father sent me here to prove my worth as a devil...and I failed." Her head then hung low and her voice cracked barely above a whisper, "I always fail." Mason sat silently, digesting what was said. He didn't know what to make of the downtrodden devil sitting meekly on his bed. He had to restrain his chuckle when he realized there was not much difference to the emotions of humans and devils. "You failed...but failure doesn't define you. You are still a devil." "But..." Iskra looked up with uneasy eyes and was met with an empathetic smile. "And believe me, I understand about wanting to please your dad. Mine wanted me to follow him in his footsteps at his garage. Even had the name changed to Gary and Son Auto Shop. It took me a couple of years before I had the nerve to tell him I wanted to be a computer programmer. He was pissed at first, and still kind of is; but I'm heading to State University on a full scholarship...and it isn't for auto repair." Mason stared deep into Iskra's black eyes. "Worth is based on what is perceived as worth your time. So what do you really like to do?" "Me?" Iskra put a hand to her chest. "No one's ever asked me that before." "I'm asking." "Um... I guess," and the corners of her mouth arched slightly upward as she spoke, "I like animals. I have a pet canine named Cerberus." "Cerberus?" Mason stared bewildered at the girl. "The three-headed, serpent-tailed-dog-that-stands-guard-so-the-living-don't- enter-the-Land-of-the-Dead, Cerberus? "Yeah, he's my best friend." Iskra nodded her head, "I'm actually impressed you knew of him." She then caught sight of Mason's shocked continence. "What's wrong?" Mason ran a hand through his hair, "I'm not sure why that surprised me, considering you're a devil." He then moved to his desk chair. "So, why not become a veterinarian?" "A veterinarian?" Iskra sat in thought before a smile pursed her lips. "I'd like that." "So, you're leaving and becoming a veterinarian?" Iskra tilted her head with an amused smile, "Um, no... I can't go back now. Father will know." "So where are you going to stay?" "Here, of course." "WHAT?" Mason flailed his arms out wide. "No way!" "Well, if I don't, Father will come looking for me and this will be the first place he'll check, since this is where I'm supposed to be?" Iskra then chuckled, "Do you really want Satan to come to your home for a visit?" Mason sat there as if he were a deer caught in headlights. His eyes were glazed over and his mouth moved a little but no words were able to be formed. "Hey, guys, I thought you two might enjoy some refreshments while you study," Diane stood at the door holding a tray that carried two glasses of lemonade and a bag of pretzel rods. Iskra glanced over, smiled, and then snapped her fingers. Diane smiled back, "And, Iskra, I just spoke with your father, and he said there was an out of state work emergency. He wanted to know if you could stay here for a while. I told him that it wasn't a problem. We'd love to have you stay with us for as long as you need. I already set up the guest bedroom for you. So, welcome to the family!" She set the tray down on the desk next to Mason. "Well, I'll let you two get back to your homework. Dinner will be ready soon. We're having spaghetti tonight." Mason stared bewildered at Iskra. Everything seemingly was moving at the speed of light and he couldn't keep up. Finally, in a feeble whisper, he was able to mutter, "Did my mother really just have a conversation with Satan." "No." Iskra stood and made her way to the offered refreshments. "That was me. Devils can't change free will. That's why I couldn't force you to have sex with me; that would have to be your choice, but we can change perception. For instance, I needed your Mom to agree to allow me to stay here. To do that, I implemented the idea that she had talked to my father. Your mother is a naturally caring person, and she agreed to that perception." Mason rubbed his forehead, "What do you want from me?" "I just need some time to figure out how to explain it to my father, that's all." Iskra stood and reached for a glass of lemonade, "Until then, I'll stay here. I can even help you, if you want." "Help me? How can you help me?" "I'm a devil, Mason. And devil's work in granting humans desires in exchange for their souls. But since I'll be staying with you, we'll call it even. I don't need your soul." "My soul! If I had had sex with you, you would have taken my soul!" Mason's eyes went wide and his complexion went pale in abject horror. "Well, duh," Iskra chuckled and then saw Mason's expression. "Relax. I'm not going to do anything. Remember, I'm going to be a veterinarian now. I'll just help you out since you helped me. Thank you for that." Mason just stared at her, concerned over his eternity. Iskra gave an expression full of comfort, "I promise. No one will hurt you. Not even me." Mason stared a moment longer before shaking his head, "I don't think I did anything to help you." "Nonsense." Iskra smiled, "You've made me realize what I really want with my life, and now I want to help you do the same. So, what do you want?" Mason's thoughts immediately went to Kristen Petry. He ran his hand through his hair as he shyly responded, "Well, there's this girl..." * The cafeteria was a bustling, raucous environment. Some students were in line for a slice of pizza that more closely resembled cardboard. A small group was huddled at one of the tables in the back enmeshed in a roleplaying game. But most were at their tables, loudly discussing the inconsequential elements they deemed important to their high school lives. As Mason and Iskra sat at their empty table, Mason's palms were sweaty in nervous anticipation. "Don't worry," Iskra chuckled, as she patted Mason on the back. "I told you I'll fix it to where she'll say, 'Yes'." Mason just glanced at Iskra through the corner of his eye, before his stare returned to Kristen Petry, a vision in her short skirt and white blouse. "I believe what you said was 'I'll make sure she has fond memories of you and that should have her wanting to date you.' That leaves a lot of room for her free will to say, 'No way'." Iskra gave a reassuring smile, though it went unseen. "Mason... Just go over there and ask her out for this Friday. I'll take care of it." "Says the person who herself admits that she's not a good devil," Mason playfully grinned. "Hey," Iskra gave a minor look of shock coupled with a smile at the unexpected verbal jab. Mason stood with a deep breath, "Well, here goes nothing." Mason's steps, slow at first, became even more so as he came closer to the girl of his fantasies. Iskra looked on in amusement at Mason's demeanor. All the information she had on the teenager showed him to be a good guy; and now she found herself rooting for him...a far cry from when she was trying to steal his soul. Still, helping him felt far better to her than the latter, and she hoped her plan would work. She smiled as she raised her hand to snap her fingers. "Hey there, Sexy," Wade grabbed Iskra's hand and moved it to her other hand, not relinquishing either as he sat down. "I thought I'd give you another chance to be with the most popular guy at this school... Did I mention I drive a BMW? Yeah, I have money. How about you ditch that dweeb and we go to my place? I have a hot tub out back." * "So, what do you say, Kristen? Would you like to go out this Friday?" Mason stood before the cheerleading beauty, unconsciously twiddling his thumbs. Kristen briefly stared at Mason in shock. 'Did what she think just happen, really happen? Did this dork really just ask her on a date?' She stood, knowing she needed a quick response to save her reputation; and that response came with a thunderous smack of her palm against Mason's cheek. "Take a look at me...then take a look at yourself. Now ask yourself why would I ever date something so pathetic? Get lost, loser." She smugly smiled as she sat back down, thoroughly happy with herself. Mason was fighting a losing battle with the tears that were beginning to well up in his eyes. He desperately wanted to hide...to get away from the stares of the people he was forced to call classmates. 'What made me think I could trust a devil?' His head was low as he turned around. He took a few steps back in the direction from which he came, using the back of his hand to wipe at his eyes before glancing toward Iskra. * "Get off of me," Iskra was squirming, desperately trying to get out of Wade's grasp as he now had one arm around her body, his hand clutching her waist while the other still bound her hands. "You know you want it, Sexy." Wade sneered evilly as he pulled her body closer. In an instant, Mason knew what had gone wrong with Iskra's plan. "Wade... That Bastard." Gone were Mason's tears, replaced by an icy gaze. He stormed over to where Wade was manhandling Iskra. "Excuse me, but I believe she told you to get lost." Though he stood defiant, Mason had no idea where this bravado was coming from, nor did he have a plan after that first sentence. He just knew he had to intervene somehow. Wade cocked his head in annoyance at being interrupted. Anger swept through his body once he found out who was interrupting. He stood slowly... deliberately...while staring down the nerd. His eyes were full of intimidation as he cracked his knuckles, "And what are you going to do about it?" Mason gulped, almost resigning himself to his fate. Iskra let out a sigh of relief, grateful to have use of her hands. She quickly snapped her fingers. Wade flexed his fist before looking around. He saw Counselor Phillips staring intently at the scene. Wade knew if he continued, at the very least a suspension would occur. His parents would certainly take his car away for that. "You're lucky right now, but know that I am going to kick your ass... Soon." He finished by shoving Mason in the chest before walking toward Kristen. "You won't believe what that dork said to me. If it weren't for Counselor Phillips watching, I would have pounded him then and there." Mason let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding as he plopped down in the seat next to Iskra. He shook his head and wiped at his brow before his focus returned to the beauty seated next to him. His relieved expression quickly changed to one of sympathetic caring. He would rather spend a lifetime of getting pounded by that jerk than spend one second being the object of his lust. "Are you all right, Iskra?" Iskra's gaze was downtrodden as she met Mason's worried stare, "Sorry I couldn't help with Kristen." "Really?" Mason was taken aback. "After what just happened, that's what you're concerned about?" He shook his head, "That's nothing. What about you? Did that asshole hurt you?" "No, I'm fine. I'll just have to be aware of his presence and I'll stop him before he tries anything again." Iskra gave the saddest frown, "But I had promised to help you and I failed. I'm sorry." "Listen, I don't care about that. We can try some other time." Mason stood and offered his hand with a warm smile. "Though I've never skipped before, let's get out of here. I think we can both use a break from this place." Iskra responded with a simple smile as she placed her palm in his. * It was an unusually hot day for September, as a heat wave caused the temperature to climb throughout all of the city of Hilldale. The tall trees offered some shade but seemed to let out a sigh of relief themselves when even the slightest breeze would pass through. The sidewalk, complete with several cracked imperfections from their use, presented a heat shimmer mirage in the distance as Iskra and Mason slowly made their journey home. "Sure is hot today," Mason wiped at the sweat accumulating on his brow as he interrupted their feet clacking silence the two were sharing. "This is nothing. You should see where I live." Mason gave a small chuckle, "No thanks. I believe you." He paused a few moments before continuing, "Do you mind if I ask what happened back there?" Iskra made a quick look toward Mason, "Back where?" "The cafeteria." Mason's eyebrows scrunched as if deep in thought. "You said you'll have to be aware of Wade's presence and you'll be able to take care of him. But what about today? Why couldn't you take care of it today?" Iskra stopped in her tracks, ashamed of herself. She took a deep breath, not really wanting to admit the awful truth. "I can't use my powers without snapping my fingers." Her head was held low as she continued. "All of the other devils can just conjure what they need. My Father is the best, and my siblings are great at it too; but me...I need that catalyst. And that prick stopped me just by grabbing my hands. I told you I wasn't a good devil." Mason put his hand to her chin and lifted it to where their eyes could meet. "Actions are what dictate good from bad. You've learned from your mistake and will be aware next time. Learning from failure will make you a great devil." Though Mason was holding her chin, Iskra glanced away, "Thank you." Mason moved his hand to wrap around her shoulder, "Now, c'mon, let's get home and into air conditioning." * There was a gentle rapping coming from the door. Mr. Dawson, old and quirky in nature, turned from his monotone monologue about news stories never being objective and to beware how the government spins the information given to the public which had nothing to do with the wonderful characteristics an earthworm possesses...the focus of today's lecture. He shouted a very irritated, "Come in" at being interrupted. The very awkward-looking blonde-haired teen, Penelope Sanders, pushed up her black-rimmed glasses before opening the door. She held a yellow slip of paper in her right hand and gulped at the ornery old teacher, "Counselor Phillips needs to see Wade Harvey." Mr. Dawson glanced over his bifocals to the back row at Wade, "Come on, son. I don't have all day to wait for you. Get going." Wade stood and practically strutted out the classroom, "Get a grave, old timer." It was said loud enough for the students to hear, but soft enough that Mr. Dawson didn't, even though he was closer, and the class erupted in laughter. * "Thanks, Penelope, I'll see you tomorrow." Counselor Phillips smiled and gave a quick nod toward the teen; and Penelope knew she was no longer needed, which meant some extra time in the library. "Have a seat, Wade," Counselor Phillips closed the door behind him as Wade took a seat in the black, hard cushioned chair that was offered. "So what's this about, Phillips?" With an arrogant smile, Wade put his hands behind his head and his feet upon the desk. "I like you Wade," Counselor Phillips started. "You're arrogant, display a sense of entitlement, a problem with authority, and I love how manipulative you are with girls. I mean, what you did to your twelve year old cousin was just phenomenal." Wade's smile deteriorated, not knowing how Counselor Philips knew something he had told no one. His feet came down from their restful position, landing on the floor with a thud. He decided to play dumb, "What are you talking about?" Guardian Devil Counselor Phillips held up his hand, "Just let me finish." He gave a grand smile as he sat on his desk, right where Wade's feet had just vacated. "You, my good man, are one of my favorite pupils. Or should I say, were? Yes, you, Wade, were one of my favorite pupils. A naturally despicable soul and one destined for eternal damnation." His countenance turned harsh as his once grand smile took on a scowl for which a devil would have been proud. "But then you went after my sister." Counselor Phillips' appearance morphed drastically. Gone were his sparkling blue pupils. In their stead were a pair of piercing black eyes, menacing in nature. His blonde hair turned into a flowing mane of deep red, tied in the back into a ponytail, and a matching goatee grew from his hairless chin. What was once a toned frame became muscular and intimidating. His clothes seemed to conform to his new figure, but changed from bland beige pants and brown sweater vest to a black with red pinstripes suit, his tie disappearing, the top three buttons from the red dress shirt, unclasped, offering a view of red curly chest hair. Wade was momentarily stunned before he screamed in terror. A second later, he was at the counselor's door, unable to open it. "There is no escape and the room is sound proof." Counselor Phillips slid off his desk and glowered at the teen. "Did you know that once a soul reaches a point of no return, devils can take it whenever they want? Normally, however, we devils wouldn't take a soul such as yours so early. We would want, and, frankly, expect your wicked ways to rub off on others...or just simply make life miserable for the righteous. We actually help the likes of you... and I have. So many times I fanned the maternal bond in which your mother cares so deeply, so she would believe anything her precious son would say." His steps became like leaden thuds as they marched toward his prey. Wade stared in fear at the counselor, his hands alternately pounding on the door, hoping for help, or vainly struggling with the door handle that seemed incapable of movement. "I had such high hopes for you, but she is my little sister. You understand." Counselor Phillips cracked his fingers and then cracked a smile. * "You know, you're not so bad Mason," Iskra sighed comfortably as she sprawled out on his bed. "I'm surprised you don't have a girlfriend." Mason raised an eyebrow, "Really?" It was said disbelievingly and full of sarcasm. "You don't understand why the tall, gawky, nerdy teenager doesn't have a girlfriend?" He then chuckled, "I almost forgot you aren't from around here. Yeah, girls my age aren't flocking to hang out with guys like me." He sat down at his computer, pushing the power button as he did. "You shouldn't sell yourself short," Iskra smiled. "A lot of girls would love to have a good, caring, sweet guy." "Name one." Mason's fingers became a blur as he typed in his password. Iskra thought for a moment, not having researched the girls at Mason's school. She then shrugged her shoulders, "I would." Mason laughed as he opened up a Microsoft Word file marked 'The French Revolution: The Rise and Fall of Napoleon Bonaparte', "Yeah but you're not a human, you're a devil." "Yeah, that wouldn't work," Iskra inwardly sighed. "So, onto Kristen Petry. I hope you really like her because when I'm done with her, she'll love you," She finished with a mischievous grin. Mason turned in his chair and saw Iskra splayed out on his bed. Her red hair fell angelically around her head, her black eyes dark, yet with a touch of caring, her smile, so warm and kind. She was beautiful. The vision before him caused a lapse in thought before he mentally shook his head and smiled. "Are you sure you should be doing this?" Iskra laughed, "Why not? I am a devil, after all." * "We shouldn't do this today. It doesn't feel right." Mason let his backpack fall to the ground as he sat at his typical cafeteria table. "I mean Kristen just lost her boyfriend to an aneurism. I think we should wait." "Yeah," Iskra chuckled as she pointed to a laughing and smiling Kristen gossiping with her clique at her lunch table, "She looks devastated." Mason shook his head at Kristen's perceived lack of caring, "I see your point, but still, we should give it some time. She may be fine with it, but I'm not. It's not appropriate." "Okay, whatever you say," Iskra shrugged her shoulders as she took a drink of her chocolate milk. "So, what now?" "Let's get out of here." Mason stood with a smile. "Where do you want to go?" Iskra raised an eyebrow as she stared up at him. "I have some ideas, but I don't have a car to get there. So, I guess we're just going home." "I may be able to help with the ride," Iskra snapped her fingers as she stood; now grinning like the Cheshire cat. "My, my, you never skipped school before; and now, you're doing it two straight days." "I guess I just never had anyone to skip with. I mean, what would I do all day by myself?" Mason grabbed his backpack from the floor and slung it over his shoulder, "Besides, it's not like I have any tests in my final three classes today." Iskra shook her head as she snickered, "You may be the only person who makes sure that when he skips, he isn't missing a big test." * "And the only one who skips and goes to a place where he may learn more there than at school," Iskra commented as she stared in wonder at Giovanni Francesco Barbieri's Assumption of the Virgin. "There really is a lot of art that portrays God and his family." "Yeah," Mason chuckled. "He's kind of a big deal here on earth." "But you see!" Iskra emphatically pointed at Henry Fuseli's The Nightmare, "My kind are always represented as dark and mean. This one has me sitting on someone's chest." She then huffed in annoyance at what she was witnessing. "So unfair." Mason chuckled as he came behind Iskra, placing his hands comfortingly on her shoulders. He peered at the description plate. "It says it's a nightmare not a devil." Iskra glanced over her shoulder at Mason. She was surprised at the closeness but relished it as well. Unconsciously, she pressed her body into his causing his hands to slide forward and down to her elbows, "So if I am dreamed about, it's a nightmare?" Mason gulped. He had only meant to comfort his -- he wasn't sure what Iskra actually was to him -- not to actually embrace her. God, she looked beautiful. He held Iskra tight for the briefest of moments before breaking all contact and moving to the next painting. "I understand you're upset at how we humans perceive devils, but can you blame us?" He turned to face Iskra, his eyes staring intently into hers. They radiated a soft but serious gaze. "You yourself admitted you were only here to steal my soul." Iskra met Mason's eyes, "Yes, but I didn't. Humans do have free will. We devils only tempt, we cannot force. People always want to blame others for their own misgivings. 'I only did it because...' or 'If this other person wouldn't have done this, I wouldn't have had to do...' They are all just... just..." "Excuses," Mason finished for her. "Exactly!" Iskra waved her finger in the air. "You still have your soul because you are a good person. You took responsibility." Her eyes then tilted toward the floor in a moment of reflection, her thoughts drifting to the souls that she felt didn't deserve to be in hell. They were echoed in her soft, barely above a whisper tone, "But I can see in some cases where what we do isn't right. And I personally haven't taken a single soul... not even sure I could." It took Mason a minute to digest everything that was said. There was obviously more to the good/bad, God/Satan or whatever you wish to call the eternal afterlife than he realized. But he did realize, in front of him, was someone who was truly good natured, a gentle soul baring her feelings to him. She was trying to be strong, but yet she was so vulnerable. He felt a strong connection to the battered devil before him. "And your conscience is what makes you a good devil." He then nodded slightly his affirmation, "And I suppose you're right. People should take responsibility for their actions." He walked back over to Iskra and put his arm around her shoulder, glancing back at the painting. "I see what you mean. You are far more beautiful than that little black nightmare." He pulled her close until her shoulder bumped his and then released her before he started walking away. "C'mon, let's go get something to eat. I know this great place." Iskra couldn't help her smile as she watched Mason. If only he were a devil. "You know, calling a devil 'good' isn't exactly a compliment." She sighed before hurrying her steps, then slowing down once she was next to him. * "This is a nice restaurant," Iskra glanced around at the crystal chandeliers, gold trim lining the walls, candles on the table's, ambiance that was Giovanni's restaurant, as they were being sat by Vito, the overweight, balding maître d' with a thin mustache. "Yeah," Mason smiled as he pulled out Iskra's chair. "Mom always talks about how Dad surprised her one year for their anniversary by coming here." He then walked around, his smile still evident as he sat down opposite her. "She said the food was the best she's ever had." Mason's smile evaporated as he stared at the menu or more precisely at the dollar amounts next to each item. He ran a hand through his hair and he gave a nervous chuckle, "Wow. I didn't realize this place was so expensive." "And this is just our lunch menu," Vito announced in his heavy Italian accent as he suspiciously eyed the teens. Iskra laughed at Mason's expression, "Don't worry. I have plenty." Vito glanced at Iskra with doubt, but left the couple after a monotone, "Your server will be right with you." Mason waited until Vito was out of earshot, "I don't like you having to use your powers to treat me to dinner. We can go somewhere else." "Why not?" "First a Lamborghini Veneno and now dinner at this extremely expensive place? It's too much and with how you're doing it," Mason's head shied down and he subconsciously began twiddling his thumbs, "it doesn't feel right." "Why?" Mason took a deep breath and then met Iskra's stare. "It feels like stealing." Iskra smiled but it quickly turned into a small laugh before she composed herself. But the smile still persisted. "I'm not stealing it...I'm conjuring it. No person or bank or ATM or anything is missing money; and as for the car, I picked it because I thought it would help in getting Kristen for you." "Oh..." Upon hearing that revelation, Mason perked up a little. "I guess it's okay... if you're not stealing it." At that moment, the waitress arrived and placed two water glasses in front of the couple, "Are you two prepared to order?" Mason grabbed the glass of water and held it in the air, "To us, and the start of a great friendship." Iskra giggled as she imitated Mason's actions. "To us and our..." she paused briefly as she resigned herself to the truth as to what her and Mason's relationship could only be..."friendship." * They arrived home late that night. Both were giggling as if they were drunk as they entered the door, although neither had had any alcohol. They were simply having a good time enjoying each other's company, each telling their horror stories of ridicule as they grew up while being social pariahs in their worlds. "You think that's bad?" Mason chortled as he continued, "My freshman year I had P.E. last hour, and I was stuffed into a locker. And, by stuffed, I mean my arms and legs folded like a pretzel... And, because it was so late, everyone left the building without noticing. My Mom had to get them to open the school back up to find me!" "Oh yeah," Iskra retorted, "When I was six, my sister, who is a year younger than me, mind you, said I wasn't a devil; and tried to send me to my own hell. She had waited till I was asleep, came into my room, and tied me down. She then set fire to the bed and tried to roast me by attempting to turn the bed like it was a rotisserie." "There you two are!" Mason's dad, Gary, had an angry scowl as he spat those words at the teens. Diane was immediately behind him equally upset. "Do you know how worried we've been?" Iskra quickly snapped her fingers, "We did call but no one answered. We even left a message... We were having a study session at the library." Gary grabbed his phone and noticed he had a missed call and a voicemail, "Oh... okay," He scratched his head in confusion as he showed his wife. They peered at his phone, wondering how they missed the call, since they had been staring at it for the last two hours. Gary then chuckled, "I thought I was going to have to have your Mother call the superintendent of the school board again." He waved his hand as he left, his wife behind him, still a little confused about the phone; but not before calling out, "There's meatloaf in the fridge if you're hungry." Iskra didn't miss a beat as they kept walking, "Morana was so mad when nothing happened to me. She was convinced I wasn't a devil, but the lack of burns from the fire proved to her otherwise." "Well, I can't say that anyone has attempted to cook me," Mason sat on his bed and slid himself across the sheets until his back laid against the wall, "But I did have a girl in my home economics class dump a dozen eggs on me while I was tying my shoe. Then flour. And then the chocolate icing." He shook his head and rolled his eyes at the recollection, "She then had the gall to try to tell the teacher I was the chocolate cake she was supposed to be baking." * The sunlight peered into the window and through the blinds casting its morning hue upon Iskra's chin. As the sun rose in the east, the streak of sunshine moved ever so slowly...first her lips, then her nose, and finally upon her eyes. The slight warmth caused her to stir, but the rays of light pounding on her eyelids forced her to raise her arm to act as a shield. It took a second for Iskra's consciousness to catch up with her. She could feel Mason not only lying behind her, but his arm wrapped around her, holding her tightly by her midriff. The best part was the stiffness that she felt nuzzled in her ass. She wanted so badly to just reach around and ensnare her prize. It was the first time her own desire for lust invaded her being, and it was nearly overwhelming. If she were her sister, it would be an easy choice. Morana would take it without a second thought, but Iskra knew she was incapable of such forcible acts. She had wanted her first time to be special and knew that, with Mason, it could be. A smile pursed her lips at the thought. Iskra held still, savoring the moment, until she heard Diane in the distance. She pinched the bridge of her nose and then spread her fingers wide to wipe the sleep from her eyes. Carefully, she removed Mason's arm as she slipped from his grasp. Iskra stood, taking precaution not to wake Mason. She was going to sneak out but found herself just staring at his form, wishing she could snuggle back up with him. Her ever present smile quickly changed to distress at the sound of Mason's alarm. She darted out of the room and back to her own. After a few relieved breaths, she sighed, unsure why she felt the need to run in the first place. * Mason awoke to the feeling of something gently itching his nose. His eyes creaked to allow only a slit of vision to be seen. The truth that was revealed caused his heart to race. He was in bed with Iskra. Not only that, but he was spooning with her, and a few tendrils of her hair were what was touching his nose. He inhaled deeply, enjoying her scent in his nostrils. Mason felt the smoothness Iskra's stomach provided. On its own volition, his hand clenched tighter against her form. The thought of this foreign experience, even just a day ago, he would have deemed as a mere fantasy; but now it was occurring and he couldn't help the smile. Just to be with someone of the opposite sex was new, but the added benefit of her actually enjoying hanging out with him was almost too much. He wondered if it would be the same with Kristen... A moment of panic then struck as Mason realized his morning erection was burrowed into Iskra's ass... What if Iskra got mad that he was holding her? His body tensed as she started to move and his eyes sealed shut in nervous anticipation. He felt the bed shift slightly. He heard the floorboard creak by his bed. And then... nothing. No more floor creaks came, meaning she was still there. His ears focused on every sound, just waiting for the resonance of snapping fingers. Suddenly there was a burst of noise from his alarm clock, followed quickly by the pitter-patter of her feet fleeing the room. Mason opened his eyes to the stillness of his room. Iskra didn't kill him. She didn't even say anything. He smacked off the annoying nuisance of his alarm before curling up with his comforter, wishing for that feeling of holding someone again. * It took a week. Iskra prodded at Mason every day to ask Kristen on a date. Even over the weekend, she had offered to take Mason to the brunette teen's home, so he could begin his courtship. But, alas, Mason declined. Simply put, he declared that he, at least, wanted to wait until after Wade's funeral. But for that week, the two outcasts were inseparable. They laughed, shared interests, and truly enjoyed each other's company. Iskra was more than pleased with Mason's 'thank you' gift for what he called, "future considerations", as he took her to a petting farm to fuel her love for animals. She especially loved the rabbits that, after a quick snap of her fingers, loved to just lie in her lap; and the birds who similarly contentedly perched on her shoulders; all the while, Mason was right next to her, sporting a peculiar grin, as he fondly watched how happy he made her. * "You finally ready?" Iskra was at their typical cafeteria table, sipping on her chocolate milk. She was staring at Mason... who was staring at Kristen. Although her look was of one of amusement, Mason's was more of a nerve wracking consternation. Mason wiped his sweat-covered palms on his jeans. He sighed, "Okay, I'm ready." He took a deep breath before he started on his march toward the rest of his life. Iskra could only snicker a quick, "Good luck." Anything more would have had her rolling around on the floor. As Mason drew near, however, her countenance changed; and she also gave a heavy sigh, knowing this was the end of her relationship with him. 'He would have Kristen now. What would he need me for?' She paused for a second longer before resigning herself to the reality of the situation...then...snapped her fingers. Mason stood directly behind Kristen. He took one more deep breath before clearing his throat. That one action seemed to reverberate through the entire cafeteria. "Um, Kristen?" The words barely escaped his lips and his body felt like it was betraying him as it fidgeted, despite his desperately wanting to remain calm... to portray himself as the cool guy for once in his life. His head also shied slightly to the side, waiting for the same thunderous smack he had received a week prior. Kristen turned in her chair and made a gasp in nervous shock. "Oh... Mason, um, hi." She quickly adjusted her ensemble and though disappointed she hadn't worn a more revealing outfit, she did her best to show off her assets. She pulled up her skirt and sat with her chest out, providing what she hoped was a much better view of her features, and to finish the look, she offered her best smile. Mason shook his head in disbelief. He refocused on the girl of his dreams and his eyes narrowed. Though he trusted Iskra, probably more than anyone in his life and she's a devil, the change in Kristen's demeanor toward him was still surprising; and the surprise surfaced through one solitary, uncontrolled whispered word, "Wow." He shifted his weight in an attempt to just delay the words he knew he was supposed to ask. Guardian Devil The entire student body watched with rapt interest. All of the girls were jealous that the now most popular guy in school, Mason, might be choosing Kristen to date instead of them. All the guys were just happy Mason was finally choosing someone...so the other girls would now be fair game for them. "Mason?" There was an almost pleading quality to Kristen's tone as she tried to draw the attention of the most popular guy in school. Mason shook his head again, this time allowing himself the ability to speak, "Yeah, I was wondering..." "I'd love to go out this Friday!" Kristen interrupted. "We can go to dinner and then the football game." "We can?" Though Mason hoped it would come to this, he was still astonished it was happening. Kristen Petry is going to go out with him. "Of course, Mason." Kristen stood with a huge smile. "Someone as popular as you can definitely be my boyfriend. I'm sorry I said no last week. I only did it because you weren't that popular, but now..." she finished by giving a grand smile. Upon hearing the words, "I only did it because," Mason had to stifle his chuckle. By the time Kristen finished her excuse, he couldn't contain it. He openly laughed. Everything Iskra mentioned about humans not taking responsibility was being played out right in front of him. Is this what he really wanted? Someone so self-centered and unwilling to be herself? 'No. I want someone who will love me for me and is someone like...' Emotions began to flood Mason's consciousness. He turned his head to his normal table in the cafeteria... to Iskra. She had her head down, in an attempt to hide her face. He could tell she was doing what she could to hold back tears. His eyes softened immediately and he ran a hand through his hair, 'I'm an idiot.' He faced Kristen once again, "I'm sorry, Kristen. It may be futile, but I love someone else." Mason could hear the thud Kristen made in her chair as he began walking back toward Iskra. Questions flooded his mind... Can this work? If so, how? Can a devil and a human even be together? So many questions...and he didn't care. He just knew he had to tell Iskra or he'd always live with regret. He stopped next to her, noticing her shoulders were slightly twitching. "I love you, Iskra." To Iskra, the world stopped. She couldn't have possibly heard what she thought she just heard. Her head slowly lifted to see the eyes of every student were upon her. Her head slowly turned to the male behind her chair. Her eyes slowly widening in shock as she took in what was transpiring. "I love you, Iskra," Mason repeated, now that he knew he had her attention. "I don't know when it happened; and I don't know if it's even possible for us. But I don't care. I love you." Iskra was overwhelmed with emotion. Her tears of sorrow burst forth now as tears of joy. She sprung to her feet and into Mason's arms, "I love you too, Mason." The force caused Mason to be pushed back two steps, but his arms readily embraced the red haired devil. * "Skipping is becoming a routine for you," Iskra snickered as she lay down on Mason's bed. Mason sat down next to her, his hand coming to rest on her thigh, "It's not a big deal. I'm caught up in all my classes. I just wanted us to spend some time alone...to figure out how this is going to work." Iskra turned, curling herself up against Mason. Her head rested on his leg while her hand was moving up his thigh, "How it works is you are going to put this in me." Her hand then shifted slightly and began caressing his now quickly rising erection. "No, I meant our relationship. Wait, what?" Mason's eyes were wide as he glanced down. Iskra met his gaze and gave a playful smile. "I know what you meant, but I thought we could do this first." "Really? Just like that?" "We devils have desires just like humans. More so, actually. And we are encouraged to indulge in whatever we want to do." Iskra turned and lay on her back, her palm intertwining into Mason's hand as she did. "Now I'm not like most other devils. I didn't want to just start having sex with whomever, whenever. I wanted it to be special...with the one I loved. I was waiting for you." She lowered his hand to her breast. "We can wait if you really want to. But I don't want to." Her smile became sensual as she seductively bit her lower lip, "Do you really want to?" Mason slowly began to manipulate his first breast. It was soft, pliable, and perhaps the greatest sensation he had ever experienced. Iskra's nipple seemed to be puncturing through her clothes and into his palm...it was so hard. It took a mere nanosecond to decide he most definitely did not want to wait. His mouth went dry and as he spoke, the words came out hoarse, "I'm not exactly sure of what to do." He finished with an awkward smile - one full of excitement and nervousness. Iskra's smile was ear to ear as she jumped from the bed. "I have some ideas." Her hands fumbled with the button on her jeans as her enthusiasm was soaring higher than heaven. Frustrated at her ineptitude with a mere button, she paused and simply snapped her fingers. Instantly she was nude, her smile returning, until she glanced at Mason. "Aren't you going to get undressed?" "Oh, um, yeah," was all Mason was able to squeak out. His hands slowly went to the hem of his shirt but stopped as his eyes focused on the first naked woman they had ever witnessed. Iskra was beautiful, her breasts stood high and proud on her form. There was a small patch of red hair right above her pussy which appeared to be glistening. 'Is it supposed to do that?' Mason took a hard swallow before his mouth hung slightly open. He was completely enchanted. "Mason?" Iskra tilted her head as she giggled. "Oh, sorry," Mason gave a nervous laugh as he lifted his shirt overhead. "Here, let me." Iskra snapped her fingers. Mason shook his head in shock. Having seen Iskra do that to herself was one thing, but having her do it to him was quite another. It took a second for him to come to grips with what was happening before he smiled, "I suppose that's one way to get undressed. Definitely faster." Iskra dove onto the bed. Her body curled up next to Mason's, her head near his crotch as her eyes fixated on his swollen gland. "So this is a cock," Iskra's voice was soft as she didn't intentionally mean to say those words aloud. She lightly grasped the throbbing member and was impressed by the warmth it gave off. Mason's hand fell onto Iskra's back. He became fascinated with the smoothness of her skin as his fingers started gliding downward across her being. Mason's worry soon came crawling back into his mind as his hand reached a point of no return. 'Would she be upset?' He paused a moment before he just reacted and hoped. His hand slid further down and cupped Iskra's butt. When no reaction came, he became more daring. 'If that's okay, then why not this?' His other arm reached under, careful not to disrupt Iskra's investigation of him, and palmed one of her breasts. He began to massage each while his smile became wider than that of the village idiot. Iskra caressed the hardness in her hand. She slowly slid her hand upward until she reached the mushroom head. Down again and then back up, she leisurely stroked as she became more emboldened. Her head leaned closer to the beast in her hand and as she neared, she flicked her tongue out. It twitched. She smiled as she glanced up at Mason, "I think it likes me." Mason gazed back into her eyes, "I know it does." "Then what are we waiting for?" Iskra pushed Mason on his back and quickly straddled him. She stared lustily into his eyes as she reached underneath her and grabbed his erection. She deftly guided it to her entrance, "Ready?" Without waiting for a response, she sunk downward and didn't stop until she completely buried him inside her. Both gasped with pleasure at the invasion. Iskra rose until just the tip remained before plummeting downward once again. And then again. And again. Each subsequent plunge caused her euphoria to grow exponentially which was the catalyst to her increasing the frequency of the act. Every intrusion forced a deep, involuntary moan to escape her lips until her mouth took on a permanent 'O' shape and the sound became resonate and elongated. Mason was startled at Iskra's initial audacity. It was short lived; however, as the feeling of her riding him was heavenly. In a day full of firsts -- his first time seeing a woman naked, the feel of a woman's breasts and ass -- this was his greatest thrill. He bucked his hips to meet the freight train above him head on and at the collision, the slick velvet sheath he was encased in seemed to grapple at his appendage. The feeling triggered a severe pulse of ecstasy and encouraged the repeated action. All he could do was to grunt with every thrust and each burst forth with a carnality of gratification. And their eyes never left each other's gaze. "Iskra..." It was the only word Mason was able to form and it came out strained at best. He was close, too close; and he wanted her to know...before it was too late. Iskra responded by going faster as she was on the cusp herself. "Don't... Stop..." Mason tensed as he rose up one final time. He grabbed Iskra's hips and wailed as he unleashed a torrent of seed that flooded her womb. His body shook and his toes curled. His orgasm was powerful and unrelenting. He felt it everywhere. Iskra had been waiting for this moment. As Mason came inside her, it sparked her own fierce climax. Her body clenched upon the man beneath her and the hardness in her depths. The waves of unbridled rapture came from deep inside her being and ravished her very soul and caused her to collapse upon his chest. Panting was all that could be heard and their smiles were all that were seen. Mason wrapped an arm around Iskra. His hand rested gently on her head, his fingers intertwining with the tendrils as he delicately stroked her hair. "That was amazing." Iskra snuggled deeper into his chest, her body pressing tightly against his. "I love you." "I love you, too." * The cafeteria was bustling as usual. The teenage gossip flowed, the pizza was its normal cardboard, and everyone was back to avoiding the table with the class dork. None of that bothered Mason or Iskra as all they could see was each other. Their hands were entwined and their eyes dreamily basked in the glow of each other's. All the while, their lunches were getting cold. Iskra's face scrunched and her body tensed as she felt an acute uneasiness momentarily rip through her. "What's wrong?" Mason slid closer to Iskra and held her by the waist. "Are you okay?" "Yeah, I think so." Iskra took a deep breath to calm herself. "I just had an uneasy feeling, that's all." "You sure?" Mason's eyes were full of worry as he had never known Iskra to be uneasy in her surroundings. "Do you maybe need me to get you some water?" "No," Iskra smiled. "I'll be fine." "Okay," Mason drew out the word as he returned the smile, although his was less encouraged. His mind then returned to a prior thought, "So how does this work? I mean, with me being a human, and you being a devil?" "It doesn't." Both Iskra and Mason turned to the female voice that was directly behind them. The girl was gorgeous. She was dressed in a white form fitting v-neck top and white pants. She wore a gold chain belt that matched her gold chain necklace and small gold hoop earrings. Her blonde hair was long and curly and her light blue eyes seemed to sparkle. "Excuse me?" Iskra went to stand but clutched her stomach and she fell back into her hard blue chair as she felt that acute feeling again. Her eyes stared down the girl as she watched her sit down on the other side of Mason. The girl stared right back. "I mean the relationship the two of you are trying to forge. It can't happen." Mason had put his hand to Iskra's back in a way to try and comfort her, but his head turned to face the girl who seemed to appear from nowhere. "And who are you?" "Oh forgive me. Where are my manners? I just assumed that the devil would have realized who I was based on the overwhelming uneasiness she is feeling. I'm actually shocked at how bad you are taking it. Happy, but shocked. " The girl smiled as she put a hand to her chest, "My name is Celine. I was assigned by Destiny, the leader of all guardians, to be your Guardian Angel, Mason." "My what?" Mason exasperated. "My Guardian A... Ang..." "Angel," Celine finished for him. "I'm not sure why you are so surprised, since you are trying to be in a relationship with a devil." "Why are you here?" Iskra spat through gritted teeth. "Well duh, I thought it would be obvious on why I am here. Of course, as Mason's guardian, I am here to look out for his best interests." Celine snickered as she pointed her finger at Iskra while looking at Mason, "This one is not too bright, is she?" "So this feeling I have is because of you?" Iskra huffed as she tried to block out the overwhelming dread she was feeling. "Wow, you must be a really weak devil. Pathetic, actually." Celine shrugged her shoulders, "Makes my job easier." "Which is?" Mason raised an eyebrow. "I just told you I'm here to look out for your best interests, didn't I?" "Yeah..." "And do you think an angel would think your best interests lie with a devil?" "You're here to break us up?" "Of course," Celine stated matter-of-factly. "Listen, Mason, there are so many good women out there for you. So many women that would love to be with a good guy like you. So many women who aren't devils that will steal your soul, if you make them angry... Take Samantha Marks over there. She thinks you're a great guy, and would happily say, 'Yes', if you would only ask her out." Mason glanced toward Samantha. He had always thought she was cute and out of his league. His eyes then focused on Iskra. The smile occurred involuntarily and he felt all his feelings of love inside his soul. "No thanks." He didn't even look back at Celine. "You don't care that she's only here to steal your soul?" Mason peered into Iskra's eyes, "She already has it." "No. I mean you'll spend eternity in purgatory. Do you really want that?" Mason turned to face Celine. "Look, I love Iskra. If putting me into purgatory is what she does, then so be it. But she won't. I know she won't. She isn't like that. Iskra is not who you think she is." "Iskra is a devil! She's exactly who I think she is because devils are all the same!" Celine took a deep breath to calm herself. "Mason, devils grant desires so they can steal souls. Your soul." "Iskra didn't," Mason smiled. "Iskra didn't sleep with me because I desired it. She didn't fall in love with me because I desired it. She didn't do anything because I desired it. You Celine, are a racist." "What?" Celine exasperated. "I certainly am not. All God's angels are taught benevolence to all. It doesn't matter if you are Black, White, Asian, Hispanic..." "Devil?" Mason interrupted. "Devils are a race. A race that Iskra happens to belong to." "But devils are cruel, conniving, deceitful..." "Not from what I see," Mason interrupted again. "You Celine, the angel, are sitting before me slinging insult after insult and Iskra, the devil, is just sitting here taking every single one of them. She hasn't tried to use her words or her power against you. You are belittling her simply based on race." Celine surveyed the two lovers. She just sat there staring from Mason's face to Iskra's and then back to Mason's. At this moment, Mason was right. She didn't understand what the devil did to him but she was determined to find out. "Well, I suppose I'll just have to stay by Mason's side until I determine what is truly going on here. And so I can keep an eye on you properly," Celine gazed at Iskra, "We'll be sharing a room." "The hell you will," Iskra snarled. Mason's phone sounded as he received a text. "Who could be texting me now?" He hit the button and read the text from his mother. 'I am excited to tell you we have someone else staying at our house. She's a foreign exchange student named Celine. If you see her at your school, be nice to her.' Mason showed Iskra the contents of her phone and she huffed in agitation. Mason shook his head, "Can't you do something?" Iskra appeared completely dejected, "She's more powerful; and if I tried, the conflicting powers of heaven and hell would do serious mental damage to your mom." Celine smiled, "And to show you how compassionate I really am...even to the likes of a devil..." Iskra suddenly didn't feel any discomfort. "What... What did you just do?" Celine chuckled, "I made it so you wouldn't feel so squeamish around me. It's the least I can do for my new roommate. And I would also like to apologize to you both for my rudeness earlier. I'm sorry." * "So what do you really want with Mason?" Celine asked as she pulled the blanket up to her chin. "I mean, technically, he's right; and you haven't done anything that would allow you to take his soul. Even your original offer of just having sex with you wouldn't have done it." "Huh?" Iskra lay on her side, her hand holding up her head as she stared at the angel. "What do you mean by that?" Celine turned her head, "Seriously?" And based on Iskra's wide eyed reaction, she knew that she was, "In order to get someone's soul, they need to commit one of the seven deadly sins. Having sex isn't on that list. Lust is, but having sex with someone who is offering it is simply two people having sex. Though it's still frowned upon by God, unless you are married, He won't kick you out of heaven for it." Iskra let her head collapse to the bed. "I suck at being a devil." "So you admit you're after Mason's soul." Iskra turned again to face her, with defiance in her eyes and a hardened tone, "I am NOT after his soul." Her voice softened as she thought about her history with Mason, "I was at first, but not anymore. Never again. I love him. I love him so much, that I'm imagining that this comforter I am sleeping with is him. I love him so much that I'm not willing to risk his parent's mental health to be with him; though I desire so much to be by his side. I would die before I would let anything happen to him." Celine was taken back at the truth of the words. She had always known devils to be clever with their words; lying, manipulative. Those were the qualities they have always shown her, but the beguiling truth always lied in their eyes. And so it was with Iskra... Her eyes told her the she was speaking the truth. "Iskra. I believe you. Everything I've been taught is telling me not to, but I do. I believe you." She then shook her head. "I can't leave too soon, as Destiny would just think I have gone mad if I report what you say as truth. I hope you can understand my need to still be here for a little while longer, but I do believe you." Iskra gave a faint smile as she certainly understood not being able to go back without the response the higher ups want... Lord knows her father isn't going to be happy when she tells him. "It's all right." She then got really excited, "Does this mean I can go sleep with Mason?" "No. What did I just say about heaven frowning on sex before marriage?" Celine then snickered, "Besides, you two would keep me up all night if I allowed that and I need my beauty sleep." Iskra rolled her eyes, as if she cared about what God thought about sex before marriage. But she knew if she did indeed sneak to Mason's room, there would still be the problem of his parents; and she wouldn't risk their sanity. She laid back down, happy about Celine's belief in her, but disappointed she wasn't with Mason. She settled for falling asleep snuggling up with the comforter and using her imagination. Guardian Devil * It was a thunderous crash. Mason was soundly sleeping, dreaming of Iskra's naked form as his body reacted to the sound before his consciousness could catch up. It was as if his body was on a spring wound too tight as it flew upward and outward. He teetered on the edge of the bed before he himself made his own thunderous crash by unceremoniously falling to the hardwood floor. "What the hell?" Mason groggily wiped at his eyes before investigating his alarm clock to note it was only ten minutes before he was supposed to wake up for school. Another deafening boom echoed through the house. It had the sound of wood breaking, glass shattering, and the crackling of some electronic device being short circuited all in one. "What was that?" Awake now, Mason stood and ran toward the living room and the sounds of destruction. What Mason found was a more familiar noise that was usually restricted for when he was getting tormented by the opposite sex; the sounds of girls giggling. He also noted the complete and total annihilation of what used to be the living room. Iskra and Celine were ten feet away from each other in what appeared to be an old west show down, though they were fighting bits of laughter. "All right, try this," Celine chortled. As she finished those words, one of the last non destroyed items in the room, a mirror that hung above where the couch used to be, flew towards Iskra. "Ha!" Iskra snickered, "Is that all you got?" Iskra stood and as the mirror came closer, it appeared to slow down, but not slow enough. The sound of the glass breaking was followed by a hard thump as Iskra fell to the ground. Mason ran to the love of his life, "Iskra, are you okay?" He knelt down and threw the remnants of the demolished mirror to the side. Iskra was laughing so hard she snorted. A befuddled Mason could only get out one word, "Huh?" Iskra sat up, still a slight giggle in her voice, "You got to admit I almost had that one." "Almost," Celine walked over, "Next time I'm confident you'll stop it completely." "Aw, look at Mason," Iskra smiled. "He's as confused as a hungry baby in a topless bar." "Well, can you blame him? He walks in and sees the living room looking like Armageddon, and his girlfriend under a broken mirror." "His concern is sweet though," Iskra leaned into Mason and gave him a soft kiss. As she pulled away, her excitement returned, "Did you see the mirror slow before it hit me?" "Yes," Mason drew out the word, still unsure of what exactly was happening. "And I did it without snapping my fingers!" "Oh," Mason offered his hand, "So you were practicing?" "And she's getting better," Celine smiled. "Yes I am," Iskra put her palm in Mason's and he pulled her up. "Celine's a great teacher." "Let me get this straight... You two are friends now?" Mason pointed at both of the girls. "But isn't that against... um... I don't know... the rules for you two?" "Well, there aren't exactly rules or restrictions for an angel and a devil to be friends," Celine brushed off some debris from Iskra's shoulder, "though I am pretty confident it has never occurred before. I mean if someone, just yesterday, would have told me I would be helping a devil become more powerful, I would have thought them deranged." "It's great, isn't it?" Iskra smiled as she put an arm around Celine's waist. "I've never had a girlfriend before. It's nice to be able to talk with someone who understands about heaven and hell, who won't judge me for being me." "Iskra's a good person and I seriously think she was born on the wrong side of things," Celine threw her arm over Iskra's shoulder, "And she loves you. And as your Guardian, I approve." "That is great you two are friends. Awesome that Celine's able to help you better your powers," Mason's eyes went wide as he held out his arms. "But tell me why did you have to do it all in my living room?" The girls looked around at the pure devastation they caused and began to giggle. "Relax, Mason." Celine rolled her eyes. "It's all under control." She then glanced at Iskra, "I'll take care of the living room if you take down the barriers." With that, everything that was destroyed began to put itself back together and in their proper place. "I'm going to make some coffee." "Okay." Iskra tried without her catalyst at first, but resigned herself to her fate and snapped her fingers. "It's a work in progress." She then looked at Mason. "Sorry. We only thought to put up the sound and staying asleep barriers for your parents." Mason looked around at how fast the living room put itself back together. "I'm still trying to get used to it when you use your powers, and now I have to deal with Celine too." Iskra chuckled, "You love me, and you know it." She leaned in and kissed Mason's lips. "You got me there." The alarm clock sounded from down the hall. Mason ran a hand through his hair, "I guess it's time to get ready for school." * The three became fast friends. They always hung out together; and were up for anything either of them wanted to do, whether it be shopping, going to the movies, or even Mason's computer games, which Iskra and Celine dominated. Celine even relented and allowed the couple some private alone times so they could increase their bonds. The three seemed to live in their own little world that allowed a human, a devil, and an angel to be happy with their shared company. * Counselor Phillips was leaning against the wall as he watched through the sea of people in the hallway at his new favorite pupil, Will Harrison. A smile swept across his face, knowing he fanned the flame of justice in the teen since the first day of school and how much he's been able to accomplish in a short period of time. It was enough to make a devil proud. Counselor Phillips' eyes fell upon a student he had never seen before. He tilted his head as he peered at the raven haired teenager. He gave a soft chuckle as she started walking toward him. "What brings you here, Morana?" "Damn," Morana laughed. "I was hoping you couldn't tell it was me. I had walked right past Iskra and she didn't even give me a second look." "Yes, well, my dear youngest sister, I am not Iskra." "Point taken, Marik." Morana leaned up against the wall next to her brother. "I hear you are going by the name Counselor Phillips." "Yes. And your cover name is..." "Stephanie Clark." "Great," Marik responded monotone as he glanced at his watch to show he was bored with the conversation. "Now enough with the small talk; why are you here?" "Very well then," Morana glanced up to her brother. "Did you know Iskra is consorting with an angel?" "I did indeed. The angel is nothing more than a Guardian, one of the lowest forms of angels. It's not as if she is one of Archangel Michael's Powers Angels. She poses no threat." "Yes, of course. If you say so." Morana then smiled, "Father may feel differently." Marik now looked over to his sister, "May?" "Well, to be more precise," and Morana's smile became ear to ear, "Father is livid. So much so that he fed Hitler's soul to a Chimera. Again." "Always painful," Marik laughed. "Father always does enjoy punishing Hitler." "Yes, he does," Morana chuckled. "And now that Father has done that, he's on his way here." Marik nodded slightly, "So that's why you're here. You want to see what Father's plans are for Iskra." "Wouldn't miss it for the world." "And when will Father arrive?" "Soon." Marik slightly shook his head, "I don't suppose a report from me would help." Morana tilted her head, "You really want to try to change Father's mind?" "No." Morana's eyes narrowed, "But you think Iskra's right?" "Devils have desires, grant desires, and encourage desires; Iskra is only doing what she desires," Marik gave a faint smile," If you take that into consideration she, for the first time in her life, is acting like a perfect devil." Morana thought about that statement for a moment, "Interesting notion. I doubt Father will see it that way." "I suppose we will find out." "Yes. I suppose we will." * It was a cool day in late October. The sun cascaded upon the fall foliage that was creating a rainbow display of differing red, yellow, and orange hues in what could only be described as a perfect autumn afternoon. Iskra and Celine were already outside the school and half way finished with their walk home when Mason came running from behind. He stretched out both his arms and draped them over the shoulders of both girls as he stepped in between them. In his right hand, the hand over Iskra, had a clear three prong poly binder that had a big bold red A plus written on the top cover sheet. "So this is what Mr. Prill held you after school to discuss," Iskra smiled. "Congratulations." "Yes," Mason proudly responded. "He said that my analysis of Napoleon and specifically the Battle of Waterloo was impeccable and that my paper was written at a college level." He then nudged Iskra, "And I did it without your offered help to do my homework with a snap of your fingers." "Allow me to give my congratulations to you as well," Celine grinned. "Thanks, Celine." "Okay , Einstein," Iskra bumped Mason back but only slightly harder. "I just wanted to be able to spend more time with you. I mean your girlfriend is a devil that is able to get you whatever you want. I don't understand why you're still going to school. I don't even understand why we're walking, instead of driving the car I gave you." "It's a nice day," Mason laughed. "And you're just mad that because I still want to go to school, you still go. But you don't have to. I told you I'd be fine." "What? And just be bored all day waiting around for you to get home? No thanks." Mason's voice fell from one of playfulness to a more serious tone, "I want to make something of myself. I want to be more than just your boyfriend." "That's commendable, Mason," Celine glanced at Iskra, "I'm sure you wouldn't want him to come to resent you now would you?" "I know, I know," Iskra smiled. "I really do understand. I just like giving him a hard time about it. It's actually one of the many reasons I love him. I know he will never take advantage of me." Mason stepped in front of Iskra and faced her. "I love you too, Iskra." He then leaned in and kissed her. "Iskra!" The name was shouted in the same way every annoyed father would call for his daughter, the first syllable a dull roar and the second, well; it was obvious she was in trouble. Iskra shivered. Mason looked at her curiously, "Are you all right?" He then glanced at Celine and noted that her relaxed stature had turned to a closed fighting stance. At the same time, Iskra choked out the word "Father" and Celine mumbled, "Satan." Mason's eyes went wide before he took a deep breath. After all, he wanted to impress. As he turned to face Iskra's father, he also shivered, unprepared for the large imposing figure that stood fifteen feet in front of him. The thick, curled horns surprised him most and proved that Satan didn't care if any humans saw him just as he is. Mason took another deep breath to compose himself before walking forward. "Mason," Celine cautioned. "As your Guardian, I do not recommend you going over there. In fact, I think you should get behind me." Mason ignored the warning. He knew he was going to have to meet the demon someday and today might as well be the day. He strode forward until he was within arm's length of Satan and extended his hand to the devil, "Good afternoon, Sir. I'm Mason, Iskra's boyfriend. It's a pleasure to meet you." Satan towered over the youth with an ominous smile. "So you are the young man that has corrupted my daughter." He accepted Mason's hand with a firm grip as he stared down Iskra. "I gave you a chance and this is how you repay me?" Satan thundered. Iskra's head shied toward the ground, as she had always been accustomed to doing in her father's presence. "I will teach you properly and will start with him." "Huh?" Mason yelped as Satan's grip tightened. Celine took a step forward, a stern expression in her eyes, "If you kill him, Satan, you will have to answer to God himself as that boy has done nothing in order for you to take his soul." "No, you pitiful basement level angel," Satan ominously insulted. "I would not dare challenge the system God has created... But as in everything, there are always grey areas." His menacing laugh began to echo off the trees. Iskra looked up with tear stricken eyes just in time to see her Father and Mason disappearing, "Father, please, no." Celine stood in shock, "What just happened? Where did Mason go?" "Purgatory." Iskra spoke softly and the word clung in the air. "Father didn't take his soul, he just took him so God can't get involved." "Purgatory?" Celine exasperated. "We got to get him back." "We can't." "What?" Celine put her hands on Iskra's shoulders. "You're just going to let him go?" Iskra looked back through reddened eyes, "We can't disobey my father." "And you say you love Mason." "I do love Mason!" Iskra stared back at the angel in shock. "I don't believe you anymore." Celine shook her head, "Well, maybe you can't defy Satan, but I'm Mason's Guardian." Celine took a couple steps away with a determined scowl. "Purgatory," she snarled as she closed her eyes. Celine opened her eyes to the horrific sight of corrupt souls crying out in agony for help from their eternal darkened prisons; each one reaching out through their ever present nightmares, all wanting her to be their salvation. What she was witnessing caused her to gasp, her hand coming to her mouth. Her head was on a swivel taking in all the dread until her eyes fell upon Satan walking in the distance. "Satan, unhand Mason!" Satan turned, his hand clutching Mason by the forearm, "You, an angel, followed me to purgatory? You do understand you are not under God's protection in my realm?" Celine took a fighting stance, "I am that boy's Guardian and will do as I must to protect him." "You are courageous, Guardian. Stupid... but courageous." As the words finished rolling off Satan's breath, he disappeared and instantaneously reappeared directly in front of Celine, one arm still grasping a struggling Mason and the other clutching a massive flaming iron club hammer whose handle was as large as a small tree and the club as wide as small couch. The head of the hammer was already arching down when he appeared and Celine didn't have a prayer in avoiding the immediate strike to her midsection. "You Bastard!" Mason was still trying to remove himself from the devil's grasp as he saw his friend get thrown ten feet in the air before coming to rest face down on the ground. "Relax, kid. An angel has impressive healing powers. She isn't dead." Satan then laughed, "Yet." He strode two steps to the fallen angel. "Hope you've prayed for forgiveness for all your sins," Satan then raised his club hammer once more. "Celine, you've got to get out of here. Save yourself!" Celine put her palms to the ground and struggled in her futile attempt to stand. All that was accomplished was her being able to flip herself over. Upon doing so, she understood her precarious position and saw the hammer on its way down to meet her doom. She closed her eyes and her body tensed awaiting the strike. The moment seemed to last an eternity. 'Am I dead? Did God save me from the pain?' Celine was confused as to why she felt nothing "What?" Satan roared. "How can a puny basement level angel, a mere Guardian have this much power!" Celine creaked open her eyes to reveal the truth of what transpired. Satan was frozen in his actions; his hammer halted mere inches from her face. She sighed, relieving herself of the breath she was holding, "Thank you, God." "No, it wasn't God. I stopped you, Father." Iskra's voice was stern and deterring. She walked forward, each step taken with purpose and the aura she was radiating was one of immense power and it caused her hair to flow in the nonexistent wind. "I will not let you hurt my friend and I will NOT allow you to harm Mason anymore!" Her black pupils dilated as she let off a strained thunderous roar, proof as to how much power she emitted. Satan flew back twenty feet into a wall, the force causing his indentation to be embedded into the concrete. Mason, however, momentarily hovered in the air before being set to the ground, now free of the devil's grasp. He ran over to Iskra and embraced her tightly, "You came for me. Thank you." "Yes, thank you Iskra," Celine put one hand on her friends shoulder while the other grasped her pained stomach. "Sure took you long enough, though." Iskra stepped forward and in front of Mason and Celine. Her eyes never wavered from her father. "You dare challenge me, Iskra!" Satan removed himself from the wall and took a step forward before he saw a daunting sight. Iskra had an army behind her. An army of souls. Every soul that Iskra had befriended, had made eternal damnation easier, had made the labor assigned more tolerable, and had baked cookies for, stood steadfast behind her, resolute to follow any instruction she may order. He then took a hard look at his eldest daughter. She was powerful. He could feel her aura from so far away and he knew it had eclipsed not only both of his other children, but his own as well. She didn't even need her catalyst to create such raw power. 'Is that boy responsible?' He took a deep, shivered breath and the hammer he had held dissipated. "Iskra, my daughter," Satan's voice was now soft and he offered a slight smile. "If this boy is what you want, then I approve. I also approve of you taking over a third of the world, and you even have me considering leaving you as sole heir to my throne." "What?" Iskra's eyes went wide at the statement. At the loss of her determined concentration, her aura level went back to normal; the souls she was commanding lost their focus and at the sight of the devil Satan, they ran back to their prisons. "Really?" Satan watched as everything went back to normal and shook his head. "Yes, you have proven yourself worthy today. In fact, I believe with some maturation on your part, that your powers may one day exceed my own." He already knew they would. "Father, thank you. I always wanted a chance at being a part of the throne." Iskra briefly gazed at Celine and Mason before looking back at her Father. "But I have decided it isn't what I want anymore. I want to create a shared life with Mason; he as a computer programmer, and I as a veterinarian. I want us to have children and grow old together. I'm sorry if I've disappointed you again." Satan walked forward to his daughter and encompassed her in a heartfelt embrace. "I'm not disappointed. I'm proud. Go. Live your desires. You have my blessing. But know that part of the throne will be waiting for you whenever you desire." "Sir," Mason nervously smiled. "Though we may have gotten off on the wrong foot, there is a question I must ask you." Satan looked at the teen and held in a laugh at the boy's countenance. "And what question might a moral teen like you have for the likes of the Devil King?" "Sir," Mason gulped, "I would like permission to marry your daughter." Now Satan did laugh and he patted Mason roughly on the back, "Of course you may." His voice then became stern and injected fear, "But also know that if you break her heart, you will have to deal with my consequences." Mason gulped again. "No worries, Mason" Iskra kissed him on the cheek. "I know that will never happen." Mason faced Iskra and a smile pursed his lips at the knowledge he would do all in his power to truly never let that happen. Not for his soul's sake, but because he truly did love her. He leaned in, sealing that internal promise with a kiss on her lips.