Prologue

For my readers and those who

adored

Adopted by a Vampire.

✧

NOXIANA’S

POV

The sudden grasp on my shoulders caught me off guard, but I didn’t let it show. As I looked up at the angel who had captured me, instead of the naughty smirk I was expecting, I saw a look of concern in her eyes. She was gentle yet firm in her hold, as if trying to restrain me without causing any more harm.

I was fractured, but on the inside. I was betrayed.

I was beaten by my ‘friends’ because they realized I could never fully be like them. They all thought they had killed me, and I’m so happy that they thought so because when I’d heal, I’d take my sweet revenge and kill them one by one until there would be nothing left of them.

I didn’t remember how the angel dragged me away. I was unconscious the whole time, and the last strength in my body was left for breathing. I just felt myself flying, and it slightly cooled my burning body.

When my body no longer floated, I realized we had come to our destination. As I partially opened my eyes, I could see the ugly filth. I wanted to cackle, but I was barely alive. Everything around me looked disgusting.

The air stung my lungs-too clean, too foreign. Flowers bloomed in unnatural colors, too bright, too perfect. Even the trees seemed to judge me, their leaves rustling with silent disapproval.

And above it all, they flew.

Angels, floating through the skies. Wings white as snow, eyes glowing with that damned egoism. They floated effortlessly, as if gravity had never touched them. All of them were clothed in white. In that saintly color.

I was in Heaven.

I leaned my head against the trunk of a tree and coughed. It felt as if my body was torn apart by claws, and every breath burned like acid through torn flesh.

Death would have been a mercy. But mercy, it seemed, wasn’t what the angel who stole me wanted.

Since the beginning of time, angels and demons have been sworn enemies. We were the opposite of everything good. We were cruel and evil, and the angels were kind and good. We only brought darkness, and they only brought the light.

My father, ruler of the Underworld, once made a truce with the ruler of Heaven.

“If neither being interacts with the other, if they tolerate each other, if one of the beings doesn’t kill or take captive the other, there will be no war . “

They all wanted war, but they knew they would suffer the loss. Both angels and demons are strong and powerful beings in their own way. If the war were to begin, it would destroy everything and everyone. So, after some consideration, both of the rulers decided to bring peace. At the time I was born, my father didn’t want to take the chance of danger coming my way because he thought he would have a male heir.

My mother, however, died while giving birth. My father hated me for years, until he gave me a chance to prove myself to him. Instead of a daughter, I became his son, and many demons thought I was biologically one.

I cut my hair short and wandered both the Underworld and the human world. That’s when I met my ‘friends’. They said the human world is much better than ours. And I believed them. Together, we started to kill humans left and right. I didn’t care much for them back then. Until they wanted to kill a little human boy. I offered to do the killing, and they agreed. I chose not to kill him, though. I brought him to the nearest human house and rang the bell. I could still remember his huge, blue eyes full of tears. Full of innocents.

However, my secret was found. Days later, I came to the human world. I had a secret spot where the largest waterfall was. I liked sitting by it and hearing the water flow and staring at the sky until stars appeared.

But they found me, and so my secret. In a demon’s eyes, not killing someone is a weakness. And they hated it. They hated me for becoming weak, and I hated myself for it.

They tore me apart. Piece by piece, until I couldn’t breathe, and my skin was slit, and cut. No other beings ever came down to this waterfall, so I thought this was my end.

One demon stepped over my body like I was garbage. Another dipped his fingers in my blood and laughed, sketching wicked sigils over the stones. That was their idea of art.

Most demons don’t have empathy. They simply don’t care about anything but themselves and their twisted hobbies, such as killing.

The angels saw us many times in the human world and chased us, but with our ability to teleport where we want, it was hard to catch us. They want a reason to start a war. A lot of them want us to burn, as killing humans is prohibited. However, no evidence was left behind. They had no actual prove against us, only plain words.

I felt something cold be placed on my skin, and a sudden relief washed over me. It first started with my face, and then the other parts of my body that were wounded. I still couldn’t open my eyes; I just knew I was no longer leaning against the tree because the material beneath me was soft and comfortable-like lying on feathers.

I fell into a slumber while soft fingers tended my wounds, wishing I could stay in this delirium forever .

✧

SIENNA’S POV

My classes were over, and I needed to go somewhere else. Somewhere far away. I was tired of being only in Heaven. I wanted a change, and right when I exited the classroom, I recalled how we once visited the human world. We weren’t near humans, because we’re forbidden to do so if they’re not in a dangerous situation.

We found the most magical place humans have. A tall waterfall in the middle of nowhere. Surrounded by huge trees that perfectly hid it. No wonder no one was coming there. It was impossible to find.

That’s when I decided to go back there again. Explore the waterfall. Find some new herbs and flowers.

Odessa, my best friend, was sitting by the fountain, playing with the water. I came up behind her silently. She wasn’t paying attention to her surroundings.

I gently attacked her from behind, and we both slipped inside the fountain.

“Sienna! Are you crazy!” Odessa exclaimed, and I laughed.

“Scared of water?” I teased her.

She rolled her sandy-colored eyes and stood up. The rays shone exactly on her ginger curly hair, and she looked just so gorgeous.

“Would you come with me somewhere?” I asked and came out of the fountain, not caring that I was soaking wet.

She turned to me and furrowed her brows. “Where exactly? You’re just a trouble, Sienna. What are you plotting?” She questioned, and I chuckled.

I squeezed the water out of my long, wavy white hair and cleared my throat. “I’m not plotting anything. I just want to get out of here. To the human world.” I stated.

Odessa quickly covered my mouth with her hand. “Don’t shout so loud! What if they hear us?” She panicked.

I removed her hand from my mouth. “I didn’t know you were so scared of the Elders . They will never catch us in the human world.”

Odessa sighed and looked around to see that no one was listening to our conversation. “But that doesn’t mean they won’t know. I have to study for tomorrow, so you have to go without me. I’ll come with you the next time.” She said, and unfolded her wide wings.

“If someone was looking for me-”

“You’re sleeping.” Odessa cut me off with a smirk.

I smiled and said bye to her. Odessa flew above the ground and then into the sky.

I, on the other hand, chose a different direction. The Heaven’s Gate.

The protective wards are usually up, guarding the academy from demons, who think they can carelessly enter our world. But because I overheard a couple of guards talking about flying down to the human world, I knew the wards were down, and I had easy access outside.

Heaven’s Gate is surrounded by the Woods of Rei. It’s the largest area where numerous trees are planted. It’s also forbidden for us to go there because there are so many heavenly beings who hid there after the first war with demons.

The school is too close to the gate, in my opinion.

How do they not expect students to sneak off to the human world when it’s right under our feet?

I flew by the forest, being careful so not a single teacher would see me, and landed in front of the gate.

It was a stone gate that was created by arched pillars. It looked very simple. If someone who wasn’t from here stumbled on it, they wouldn’t think you could get through it to the human world.

The only unusual thing about the gate was that the inside looked like a mirror filled with water. You could only see yourself in it.

I took a deep breath and walked through it. It was like walking through nothing. Air.

And right when I crossed the gate, I ascended into the sky.

With wings such as mine, I landed in the human world in two minutes, and the location of the waterfall was another five minutes away.

When I finally found it, I couldn’t believe my eyes. We do have waterfalls in our world, but for some reason, these ones are different. More profound. More magical. Which is ironic.

I hid my wings just in case someone was there, which was highly unlikely. I carefully climbed the big rocks and stones. Walked through heavy mud since it was raining, and then my eyes caught sight of it. A gasp left my mouth. It was so unbelievable to see it again. I never wanted to leave this place.

I marched toward the waterfall and immediately stopped in my tracks. What my eyes saw, my mind couldn’t comprehend.

I unfolded my wings, since it increased my power and strength, and silently headed to the motionless demon lying on the rocks.

The closer I got to the demon, the more rapid my breath became. I’ve never encountered one before. From all the stories I heard about them, every one of them was petrifying.

I covered my mouth to muffle my loud panting and hovered over the demon. I couldn’t say if it was a woman or a man since the demon’s face had been covered by their chin-length black hair. I crouched down beside them, my heart thrumming in my chest.

I brushed their hair aside and flinched. Black markings trailed along the female demon’s neck, stopping just at her jawline, where they split into lightning-like veins, crawling toward her cheeks. The rest of her face was pale, almost ghostly in contrast. Thin black eyebrows arched sharply upward, framing her large, upturned eyes. Her lips, heart-shaped and faintly red, were the only color left behind on her face.

Her hands were the color of charcoal, as if scorched, and when I moved the sleeve of her jacket up to know if her arms were fully charcoal, my heart skipped a beat.

She looked exactly like the teachers described demons, except for her pale face.

When I tore my gaze away to her body, my breath left my lungs. She was deeply wounded and had cuts all across her stomach, legs and hands. Her clothes were torn and dirty, covered in black blood.

Whoever did this to her must’ve loathed her.

I rushed away from her, ready to leave because I shouldn’t even be at such close proximity to a demon in the first place. But then I heard her cough, and as an angel, I was taught to help those in need. There’s no written law about not helping a wounded demon.

I spun back in her direction and ran to her. As I was grabbing her by her shoulders, and for a split second, she opened her snake-like eyes; their amber hues hypnotized me like a swinging pocket watch.

Chapter 1 • Enemy

NOXIANA’S

POV

My eyes flew open, fixing on the white ceiling above me. I couldn’t move a single limb as if someone had drugged me. I didn’t feel my wounds, though. They didn’t hurt at all.

I slowly turned my head to the side, and rage coiled in my veins when I saw the angel who had kidnapped me.

I wanted to grab her by her long white hair and threaten her, but I could barely keep my eyes open.

My gaze slid down her figure and back up.

She didn’t look very strong because I could see through the

white, almost translucent dress that she wore; she had no muscles. It showed off her long legs, hugging her small waist precisely because of the corset laced on the back.

She sighed and slowly spun to me. When she met my gaze, she winced, and her back slammed against the desk, almost knocking the stacked books on the ground.

I glared at her with my eyes narrowed, trying to control my temper. I needed to get away from here with a functioning body, and if I did something that was not needed, I’d be killed.

The girl took a deep breath and squeezed her eyes for a moment. Then she finally looked at me. “H-Hey.”

My brow arched. Is she seriously greeting me? Isn’t she aware we’re enemies?

I don’t think she had realized what she had done.

I didn’t blink or move my gaze. I just intently watched her. She had almond, grey eyes and round, greyish-brown eyebrows that weren’t as thin as mine. Her nose was narrow and small, and her lips were full and rosy.

I stared at the curve of her lips for a bit too long. Forcing my eyes away, I let out a weary sigh and focused on the ceiling instead.

This is worse than being tortured by the Devil.

The girl walked toward me at an unhurried pace, stopping at my side. When her hand suddenly moved for my wounded arm, I caught it in a tight grip

“That hurts!” She squeaked.

“Do. Not. Touch. Me.” I seethed and bored my eyes into hers. I let go of her hand, and sharp pain coursed through my arm.

“Who do you think tended your wounds all night?” She retorted.

Her hands carefully touched my arm again, her wings unfolding widely. She closed her eyes, and a small light poured out of her palms. Before I knew it, the pain was no longer there.

I glanced at her, and her face was twisted in so much agony, as if she were reliving my pain.

When she opened her eyes, her wings folded back, and she removed her hands from my arm as if it burned.

What are her true intentions with me? Why would she waste her power on me?

I shut my eyes and heard her walk somewhere else. I didn’t care to look where. All I could think about was taking my revenge as soon as possible. The demons needed to be shredded into pieces by my hands.

A few minutes later, she returned with a tray of food. I could smell the aroma from afar. Saliva was instantly forming in my mouth.

I haven’t eaten in a couple of days, and my stomach required food. Either that, or the energy of humans.

“I’ve cooked this for you. It’s nothing special; however, you need to eat something to gain strength.” She said, looking at me.

She got carefully closer and sat down at the edge of the bed. Gently, she adjusted the pillow behind me, helping me sit up. For a brief moment, our eyes locked, close enough to feel each other’s breath-but she quickly pulled away, fear flickering in her gaze, as well it should.

I kept my eyes on her face and heard how rapidly her breathing changed. Saw how often she blinked and how hard her heart was pounding in her chest, wanting to break free.

“I’m going to feed you now, since you still cannot move your arms without being in pain.” She informed me and set the tray on her lap.

I wanted to protest; however, my hunger won over me. I desperately needed something in my mouth, and when I looked down at the tray, I found a delicious-looking piece of meat with potatoes. I wanted to grab the food and devour it by myself, but I knew better than that.

She grabbed the wooden spoon with her shaky hand and scooped the food. The girl stared at me and slowly moved the spoon in front of my lips. I opened my mouth and stuck my split tongue out.

Her eyes almost popped out of her skull at the sight of that. I loudly laughed, and she just gawked at me. Angels who are attending the Academy had never seen a demon with their own eyes.

But why was she so surprised to see that we are different from them? To her, I’m just a beast. A filth.

I knew I was nothing more than a villain that didn’t deserve to survive.

She blinked a couple of times and finally found the courage to feed me. She fed me until there was nothing left. I hadn’t looked anywhere else but at her. It was making her enormously nervous.

The whole time, she kept a safe distance from me as if I could do something to her when I was barely able to turn my neck.

“What is your name?” She broke the tense silence.

“What is it to you?” I sneered, my voice low.

She looked at me and got up from the bed, placing the tray on the desk. “I see,” she murmured.

“Well, my name is Sienna. I will take care of you until your wounds heal. Stay in bed, and don’t try to go anywhere. Nobody can know you’re here.”

I chuckled. “Oh, that’s bad news. I was about to go for a run. Stretch my numb legs that I can’t even feel, and make a show in front of your classmates.”

She folded her long, pale arms under her chest, cocking her head slightly. “Trying to be funny with me? I meant every word I said. I can’t know how quickly you can heal. You could perhaps already walk by now.”

I sighed, rolling my eyes. “You think I’d be lying in bed if I could walk? Do you really think so lowly of me?”

Sienna merely frowned and left the room in a rush, locking the door behind her, as if I couldn’t break it apart.

I’d soon leave one way or another. That was for sure.

⸻⸻

Heyy, I’m back! I hope you’re liking the story so far.

The updates will be once or at most twice a week, as I’m still writing the last 20% of it.

Chapter 2 • Healer

SIENNA’S

POV

On my way to class, I thought about how stupid I was. I hid a demon in my room while my roommate was away. If the Elders found out about it, it would be over for me. I couldn’t keep her locked up in my room for too long. It wouldn’t take much time before she’d regain her strength and try to harm me.

Only heaven knows what is going through her head when she’s looking at me.

“Sienna!” Aria called after me as I neared the classroom.

“Oh…hey.” I nervously smiled.

“Let’s go to class together. We’re a bit late,” she said and laughed. Her long, light brown hair framed her soft facial features, and her round eyes perfectly matched the hair color.

Aria and I had known each other since we were little. Unlike with Odessa, our friendship had been through a lot. Aria, for quite some time, hated me because I was the daughter of an Elder .

She wanted to be like me; she once even tried to bleach her hair white, which is forbidden for angels. Each hair color is special, and we should be content with it. Not changing it.

We hadn’t spoken to each other for years until we met at the academy for angels. I had no intention of forming a new relationship with her. She always liked to bring me down so she would be above me. Even now, she wrapped her hand around my arm and dragged me into the classroom. She still thinks she’s above me. But she’s so wrong.

We apologized to the teacher for coming late, and I sat beside Odessa, who was already frowning at me. She hated seeing me with her. Aria sat down at the opposite side of the classroom with her friends, whom she liked to gossip about behind their backs.

“Miss All Perfect is again trying to win you over?” Odessa scoffed.

“She can try all she wants; she’s not going to win,” I replied, looking at Odessa with a smirk.

She smiled and looked back at the teacher. I felt Aria’s eyes on me, but I entirely ignored her.

“As you all know, soon you will go through a test, which will prove your skill in healing. Some of you may have it, and some don’t. Some may be keeping it under many layers and have no idea they possess such a power. Today, we will experiment with a dead flower and try to bring it back to life.” Ms. Maribelle announced.

Our classroom was always filled with plants and flowers. It was more of an open space than a room. We could see the sunny sky above us. Next to us was a small lake framed with light stones, filled with frogs and fish. And all of us were sitting on a small hovering cloud that the Elders created for us.

Ms. Maribelle uncovered the dead camellia under the cloth, and both of us gasped in shock. The flower was unrecognizable, black as…

Black as a demon’s skin. Charcoal. Dark. Dead.

“You should go first,” Odessa whispered into my ear.

“No, I told you. I don’t want anybody to know I’ve been practicing healing,” I whispered back.

Ms. Maribelle observed each one of us in the room, and her eyes landed on Aria. I immediately grinned. She had no power of healing. I knew that very well.

Aria formed a fake smile and walked to the dead camellia.

“Remember, if you put way more energy into it than you should, you could die. We may be immortal, but we are not indestructible.” Ms. Maribelle cautioned.

While others intently watched her trying to bring the flower back to life, I stared at the lake and the animals swimming in it.

If they were all to die, I could heal them. Bring them back to life. But who would do that for me? Who would choose to bring me back, except for Odessa?

I saved the demon, and I sinned. But isn’t every life sacred? Will I be punished once my secret is found?

My heart started to pound, and my breath hitched.

“Hey, are you okay?” Odessa asked, concern in her tone.

I took a deep breath and closed my eyes for a second. When I opened them, a smile carved into my face.

“Yes, I’m just a bit exhausted. I’ll go to bed after the class.”

What would I do if somebody’s life here were endangered because of me? I needed to talk to the demon and make sure she wouldn’t do something that would bring ruin into our lives.

I have to talk to her after the class.

Aria made no progress in saving the flower. She couldn’t revive it, no matter how much she wanted. She never possessed such a gift.

It was perhaps because she was a selfish being. She stood in front of the teacher and our classmates, but her goal wasn’t to save the flower but to impress the teacher, to make everyone see she was better than them.

I recalled the day my opinion about her changed. When she stumbled over a branch and fell onto the grass. In the process, she broke a wing of a butterfly, and while nothing happened to her as she only had scraped knees, she didn’t care that she damaged the butterfly’s only ability to fly.

I healed it secretly when she went crying to her mother, and I saw through her cruelty, which was very well masked.

“It’s okay, Aria. Maybe next time.” Ms. Maribelle broke the silence.

Aria quickly smiled, the corner of her mouth twitching. She returned to her seat, and Ivex exchanged places with her. He was a bit more skilled than Aria, but his healing ability wasn’t strong enough to save the flower.

“Do you think I’d be better?” Odessa whispered.

“For sure,” My eyes narrowed. “Only kind beings are able to heal what’s broken.”

⸻⸻

Chapter 3 • Dust

NOXIANA’S POV

The door burst open, and the little angel girl stood there, peering at me. It was almost impossible to hold my laughter. She might have thought that she looked terrifying with her intense gaze, but compared to me, she looked like a little puppy with its tail curled between its legs.

“We need to talk,” she said, taking a seat behind her vanity desk.

I took a deep breath and gazed up at the ceiling. I hated this place more than anything. I wasn’t used to such a bright place. Everything was shiny and white. Even this girl. She looked too pure and innocent.

“Okay, I’ll start now,” she began. “Once you regain your strength, you’d better repay my kindness by leaving everyone alone. Including me. You will go back to your world, and no one will ever find out about this.”

I smirked and slowly turned my head in her direction. Her eyes widened, and her heartbeat quickened. Demons hear very well. It was one of our great benefits.

“Is that all? Or is there something more, princess?” I asked, and that seemed to anger her. I just called her what she was. Egoistic. Prideful.

Angels will never know how difficult it is to be in our skin. To be the one whom everybody hates. They comfortably live in their world, and we can barely survive.

Of course, I understand why. The killings. But not all demons feed on humans. Not all of us are total monsters.

“I’d prefer if you’d call me by my name, demon.”

I growled, and Sienna flinched. I began to cackle so much that my wounds started to hurt. She thinks she can play my game, but she’s very wrong.

“If you call me a demon one more time with that tone of yours, I won’t be so nice.” I seethed.

“Then tell me your name, and the problem will be solved.”

I rolled my eyes and exhaled. Why do they have to be so persistent?

“Noxiana,” I murmured.

Sienna didn’t say a word. When I glanced at her, she was studying me as if I were a portrait. We do look completely different from one another, but who allowed her to stare at me?

Fuck, if only I could stand on my feet.

I must’ve looked so disgusting in her eyes. An enemy she wanted to save and now had to take care of. How pathetic.

Maybe this was one of their experiments. Kidnap a wounded demon and observe me like I was some abnormality.

“Let’s get back to what I was saying. Promise me you won’t do anything reckless while you’re here, Noxiana,” she spoke.

“It depends on a lot of factors. If I regularly get food. If I don’t get too hot, and of course, mainly on your behavior towards me.” I replied with a smile.

Sienna, all of a sudden, got up from the chair and, like a flash, hovered over me, her hand clutching the headboard.

“Be grateful I’ve saved you. You’re in the best care,” she whispered with fierceness, her gray eyes narrowed.

Feisty. I like that.

I stretched my hand and touched her long, white hair. She gasped, staring at her hair grasped in my hold in horror. I played with the strands of her hair that were like silk between my fingers and then met her gaze.

“Since when can you move your hand like that?!” she exclaimed.

I let go of her hair at once. “Since now.”

“Ugh, do we have a deal or not?” She backed off to the vanity desk, probably because she was scared to be close to me again.

“Yes, we do,” I replied. I had no intention of hurting anyone. I only wanted to leave this place and return to where I belonged. To go where I felt at ease.

Back to the waterfall .

Sienna pushed the white curtain that was hiding the window aside and observed the outside. Her breathing quickened. She must’ve been anxious. If someone were about to find me here, it would all be over for us. End of the truce. Beginning of a war.

“For how long do you think my wounds will heal?” I asked, and her attention shifted to me.

“Perhaps two weeks? Or more? I can’t say. I’ve never treated dem-I mean, your kind.”

Suddenly, someone knocked on the door, and Sienna’s heart almost jumped out of her chest. She took a deep breath and warily tiptoed to the door.

“W-Who is there?” she asked loudly, her voice shaking.

“It’s Odessa. We’re going flying. Are you joining us?”

Sienna glanced at me and then back to the door. She’d be stupid if she didn’t go. That would raise suspicion.

“Give me five minutes and I’ll meet you by the fountain,” Sienna yelled.

I watched her as she walked back and forth across the room. She didn’t want to leave me alone for too long. She was still afraid I would do something. I guess she didn’t believe my plain words. I didn’t blame her for that. I don’t even trust myself.

“You should go. I will be lying on this bed, waiting until Your Majesty returns.” I spoke first.

Sienna intently observed me. Her finger then pointed at me like a knife. “I will be back very soon. Stay in bed, or you will open up your wounds.”

She grabbed her stuff and hurried out the door. I started slowly moving my limbs. My body was still in agony, but the pain was nothing I couldn’t handle. Maybe it would be better if I had died. Nobody cared for me anyway. My father surely didn’t even notice my absence. I’m simply just a mere dust that no one even cares to wipe off.

During the time Sienna was away, I questioned my whole existence and came to the conclusion that I couldn’t die yet. I still had something sweet to live for.

I still needed to take my revenge on the demons who almost broke me to pieces. I’d live for them. Solely for the revenge.

After that, I could happily die, for all I care.

⸻⸻

Chapter 4 • Sins

SIENNA’S POV

Odessa and my classmates were waiting by the fountain for our teacher. Hayes, the prettiest boy in our school, stood next to Aria, entirely bored by their conversation. Many said he was the most powerful angel in the school. I had never seen his power, but I sensed strength in him. The same strength I had when I was healing.

“There you are,” Odessa said as she walked over to me.

“Where are we flying today?” I asked her.

“I have no idea,” Odessa answered just as the teacher showed up. “But I think we’re staying within the school lands.”

We flew at least twice a week to somewhere random to stretch our wings. We don’t usually walk around with them unfolded. They’re too big, and occasionally we break things with them.

Flying has always been my favorite thing to do. You truly feel free when you’re up in the air. Nothing and no one can stop you. Or at least you think so.

Together we rose to the sky and followed our teacher. Odessa and I were right beside each other at the end of the line. All the other students were in front of us. Aria and Hayes were behind the teacher. Just by looking at her, I got annoyed. She really thought she was better than us in every single way. She even tried to look elegant while flying. Being perfect and flawless was the most important thing for her.

“Mr. Allyn, when will we visit the human world again?” Vearina asked, her shoulder-length crimson-red hair the most catching thing in the eye.

Mr. Allyn stopped flying forward and turned to us. We all collectively stopped as well. He stared at us, his icy blue eyes narrowed, more piercing than a dagger, his long black hair over his shoulder.

“We will no longer visit the human world. The Elders prohibited it until they resolved the matter with the demons who had been freely roaming through the human world,” he explained, and a chill ran down my spine.

“Why are we afraid of them? We should go against them.” Hayes argued.

“Demons are cunning creatures, Mr. Hayes. They disguise themselves in the dead bodies of humans whom they killed. They manipulate you, and they play with your mind.” Mr. Allyn said coldly.

Hayes backed off, and I rolled my eyes. He had never met a demon in real life. He only liked to act brave.

“We still have a truce with the demons. But if one of them ever trespasses on our world, the truce is over. The endless war would begin,” Mr. Allyn added, gazing into the sky.

Did I just start the war? I looked around. No, I couldn’t have. I only wanted to help. To heal.

Then we moved on and flew for another half hour over our school lands. I couldn’t shake off the petrifying feeling stuck in my chest. I couldn’t erase the words Mr. Allyn said. If someone were about to find out what I did, would I be able to live? Would the Elders forgive me?

“Odessa?”

“Yes?”

I took a deep breath. “Do you think that if a person saves someone bad, they should get punished for it?”

Odessa slowed down her wings and looked at me. “I think we should do what our heart tells us to do. Saving someone’s life is the most beautiful thing you can do. If the person was bad, they would die either way because of their sins,” she replied.

Could I stand the burden that was set on my shoulders? But it was my doing. I trapped myself. And I still didn’t know how long it would take for Noxiana to heal. It could be tomorrow or a month later.

I threw myself into the lion’s den.

When we landed back at campus, I hurried back to my dorm. I found Noxiana peacefully sleeping on my bed. If I didn’t know she was a demon, I’d think she was an innocent woman. But Mr. Allyn was right. They manipulate. They’re malicious.

I strolled to my vanity desk and picked up a hair stick. I twisted my hair around it to create a bun. Then I took a new dress out of my closet and walked to the circular lakes near the Woods of Rei.

Other angels were already there, bathing. I came last. I chose the last lake, where no one wants to bathe, because they believe it’s cursed. For what reason? I don’t think they even know. Someone created this gossip a long time ago. Someone who was no longer attending the academy.

When my body sank in, all the worries flew out of my body, and for a moment, I let myself relax. My gaze rose to the sky full of twinkling stars and a shining full moon. The teachers said the stars are our ancestors. Shining as our white wings, and looking down at us. But I never believed in fairy tales. Not even when I was small and my maid was telling me bedtime stories.

Suddenly, I heard heavy footsteps behind me. I tilted my head back. Then I met those royal blue eyes.

“Evien, I told you not to meet me here!” I scolded him. His beautiful dark complexion was lit by the moonlight.

Evien was my father’s guard. He was one of the best guards in Heaven. I didn’t see him as often as I did when I was a kid, but he had always been kind to me.

“I apologize, my lady. But I have news to deliver.” He whispered, and I looked around to see if anyone noticed him. I nodded for him to continue, noticing how long his dreads grew. They were reaching his abdomen, decorated with gold beads and cuffs with intricate designs.

“Your brother is back. You might meet him tomorrow.” Evien announced, and my heart stopped beating for a moment.

“H-He is back?” I stuttered in complete shock.

“Yes, my lady. He is,” Evien said with a faint smile.

That could only mean our father had saved him, because otherwise he would never have been able to return. Not after what he had done.

If somebody at school other than Aria and Odessa knew that my father was one of the Elders , they’d try to use me and despise me. They would think of me as a spoiled brat whose father is an Elder . Even Aria would like that, but because our families have a long history, she had to swear to keep it a secret.

“Thank you, Evien. Please, return safely. No one can see you here.” I whispered, and he nodded, vanishing into the shadows.

I couldn’t believe I could see my brother again. My beloved brother who sacrificed his dignity for a human.

⸻⸻

Chapter 5 • Surprise

SIENNA’S POV

Noxiana was awake, watching me. Her amber irises glowed against the pitch-black of her eyes, where no white remained. The sight sent goosebumps all over my body. They looked so empty without emotion. Slit like snakes. Filled with poison.

Was she truly like that? Poisonous with no empathy?

I got off the bed and opened the small window, setting the curtains over it so no soul would see inside.

Then I came up to Noxiana to inspect her wounds. They were too red.

“When was the last time you had a bath?” I asked her.

She slowly raised her head, glaring at me. “Hell do I know.”

I exhaled, irritated by her attitude. I quickly went to grab a bigger bowl and filled it with the clean water of the lakes. I put some herbs in it and headed back inside. I locked the door just in case.

Today we had no school. I had more time to care for Noxiana and to meet my brother, who hadn’t visited me yet.

I placed the bowl on the nightstand and carefully removed the tourniquets from her body. She wore tight black pants, the straps around her thighs once heavy with weapons. Now they were gone-hidden, locked away, out of her reach to harm me.

Her top was black shirt with long sleeves, and on top of it a leather jacket that I had to remove. The clothes had holes and slits in them. They didn’t even look like clothes anymore-just scraps of fabric.

“I’ll remove your clothes since I’m going to wash you,” I announced, and Noxiana just smiled at me. I really didn’t want to undress her.

Her hand clung to my hip, and my heart hammered in my chest. “Do you want to see me naked, princess?” she asked, grinning.

“Take your hand off my body. We had a deal,” I seethed.

“We haven’t said anything about touching, though,” Noxiana’s brow lifted.

I rolled my eyes and reached over her pants. I unzipped them and grabbed the hem of them. Noxiana’s eyes were carefully watching me. I began to gradually shimmy the pants down her legs. I couldn’t stop staring at them. They were black as charcoal.

Once I took the pants off, I moved to her T-shirt. Because she’d have to move her hands to get it off, I quickly grabbed a knife from the drawer. She didn’t protest as I thought she would, but she might have understood there was no other way to get it off.

I cut the shirt vertically, revealing her chest. She had some sort of bra underneath it. I once saw humans wear such things. We usually wrap a piece of cloth around our chest, or we dress without it.

Noxiana seemed to be in no pain as I cleaned her wounds. It must have burned and tingled, but she didn’t even flinch. I changed the dirty water for fresh water and then cleaned off her body. She had a pretty slim figure. Yet, her hips were wider, so her waist had a small curve.

Lastly, I cleaned her face. I gently placed the cloth on her cheek, and she snatched my wrist. Her shadowed eyes intently watched me. Her hand was cold but soft.

When I moved the cloth over her lips, which were cracked and dry, I pulled out of my pocket a balm that I had made. I applied it across her lips with my finger, and for a moment our eyes met. This time with much less hatred, but much more curiosity.

Was this being really as dangerous as Mr. Allyn said? Would she let me live this long if she were so wicked?

But on the other hand, she was injured. She couldn’t harm me even if she wanted to.

Noxiana’s hand leisurely reached my face, and something panged in my heart. It felt like electricity. It felt like thousands of thorns stabbing my body. My stomach twisted with a feeling I had never experienced before.

A sudden knock on the door made me flinch. I snapped my neck to the door, and a terror set in. If I didn’t lock it, how would I explain what was going on?

I hurried to the door. “Who is there?”

“It’s me.” I knew the voice too well. I haven’t heard it for quite some time, but I could never forget it. It was my brother’s.

I unlocked the door and burst through it so he wouldn’t have a chance to look inside.

“Rowan,” I said when my eyes met his. He looked the same as I remembered him. His brushed-back honey-blond hair was a bit longer. But his ocean blue eyes stayed the same.

I immediately wrapped my arms around his body, and he didn’t expect it. “I missed you,” I whispered, and a tear rolled down my cheek.

“I missed you as well, little sister.” He replied, hugging me back.

“You won’t go anywhere, right? You’re staying here?” I asked.

He patted my back and drew away to look into my face. “I won’t go anywhere anymore. I promise,” he quietly reassured.

“I’m so happy! It’s been years, Rowan. I almost forgot your face,” I softly said.

With his thumb, he wiped away my tear. “I know, little sister. I apologize. I acted recklessly. I shall never make such a mistake again.”

“Now you’ll be under my radar. I won’t ever let you go.” I laughed.

A heavy thud came from my room. My pulse quickened, my eyes widening as I snapped my gaze from the door to my brother.

“I have to go back because I’m working on a project. I don’t want it to explode, so let’s meet later. In an hour by the fountain,” I said, backing away to my room. Rowan simply watched me with confusion all over his face, half nodding.

I waved goodbye and got inside my room once I saw he was walking away. When I shut the door and spun, I couldn’t believe my eyes.

⸻⸻

Chapter 6 • Soul

NOXIANA’S

POV

I rolled off the bed and dropped to the ground. I thought the distance wouldn’t be so big, but I guessed it wrong. I wanted to leave this place. Immediately. I hated lying in bed all day, doing absolutely nothing. I wanted to get out. I had to get away from my enemies, but I still couldn’t move my body much.

If I tried to escape, my chances would be slim-I’d have to drag myself out, and it wouldn’t take long before someone found me outside the dorm.

As I was lying on the hard ground, I realized how much I appreciated Sienna’s soft bed. My back had never experienced such a comfort before.

In no time, Sienna came back inside, fury written across her face. She stormed toward me and dropped to her knees. She seized my arm and tried to lift me.

I, on the other hand, wanted to test my strength, so I gripped her hand and pulled her toward me. She fell directly on my chest, and I exhaled sharply, groaning in agony.

Sienna slowly tilted her head, and her horrified eyes met mine. We peered at each other for a while until she finally realized how long she had been lying on me. She swiftly rose from my body and hurried to the other side of the room.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Sienna hissed in a low voice.

I stared at the ceiling, breathing through the pain she had caused me. “Lying on the ground, sunbathing. What about you?” I grinned, and Sienna sighed.

“Do you realize you could’ve gotten exposed? And both of us would get in so much trouble? This could start a war, Noxiana,” she seethed.

“And weren’t you the one who brought me here in the first place? I didn’t come here by myself, princess.” I snapped back.

Who does she think she is? If only I had my strength, I would show her how to talk to me properly.

Sienna marched back to me, seized my back, and heaved me onto the bed. The whole time, I had a smirk plastered across my face. She really shouldn’t have messed with me. I’m not a saint.

“Don’t try this next time. Not a single soul can know about you.” She whispered, her face awfully close to mine.

“That will be easy,” I whispered back. “As even I myself don’t possess a soul.”

Sienna frowned for a split second and then erased any emotions from her face, placing her hands on my chest. Her snow-white wings outstretched, her eyes closed, and golden light poured out of her palms like rays of sunlight.

Suddenly, all the pain disappeared. It simply didn’t exist anymore.

She pointed her finger at me and folded her wings. “This is the last time that I’m healing you with my precious power. Remember that. No more recklessness.”

I rolled my eyes and sighed. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

Sienna accepted my mocking reply and wrapped new tourniquets around my wounds. They were starting to heal, and I was glad to see the positive progress.

I suppose she couldn’t heal me fully. It would take too much of her power, and she had already wasted much of it on me.

Or maybe she was terrified of what I’d do to her fully healed. I doubted she had a plan of how to take me back to the human world.

Both assumptions could be correct.

As always, Sienna was too careful around me. She didn’t want to touch me but had no other choice. Each time our skin brushed, she glanced at me, as if to check I wouldn’t kill her for it.

Her fingers were gentle, and not once did she do something on purpose to cause me harm.

“Who was that guy outside your door?” I suddenly wondered, and Sienna raised her gaze at me.

“That was my brother,” she replied with a sad tone.

“You haven’t seen him for a long time?” I studied her face. She was too lost in her thoughts.

Sienna wrapped the last tourniquet around my arm and moved back to her vanity desk as always. “No. He was living in the human world,” she reluctantly replied, and I knew I should’ve kept my mouth shut by the look on her face.

I couldn’t catch a lot from their conversation outside. They were speaking too quietly, but I knew something was wrong. Her brother did something bad.

“Once you are able to move more, I’ll help you wash. You stink a bit,” she said, with a smirk.

I rolled my eyes and looked up at the ceiling. This was my new hobby, by the way. Staring at a white wall. I started to see images after some time. Maybe I was hallucinating from all the herbs she put on my body.

“I’ll be going to class now, so don’t-”

“So don’t do anything stupid. Yeah, I got it, so go.” I finished the sentence, and Sienna sighed in annoyance. She grabbed her stuff and left the room, the door slamming shut behind her.

All I was left with was me and my clouded mind. I had to prepare a plan of how to leave this fucking place, and it wouldn’t be easy.

I didn’t know how it was possible that Sienna brought me here, but the opportunity must’ve been special.

Everyone knows that you can’t just enter Heaven as if you were going there for a cup of coffee.

Heaven is always heavily guarded. The demons I knew who tried to get here never returned. Their wards are impenetrable.

The Elders’ magic was the only thing that made them equal to us. But if they didn’t have any, we would’ve won the war against them.

For a moment, I reconsidered conquering this place, taking Sienna as my hostage, and winning my father’s favor. He was my only blood-related family member who was left.

But that thought crashed almost instantly. I lived all my life for my father. Caged in the shadows he casted on me. Pretending to be someone he needed but couldn’t have.

I wouldn’t waste more of my precious time on him.

I’d simply pretend he was dead-and I was all alone in this fucking cursed world.

⸻⸻

Chapter 7 • Monster

NOXIANA’S POV

“Is it truly necessary?” I asked Sienna.

She was trying to work out a plan to get me to take a bath, but I really wasn’t sure about anything that she came up with.

It was a risk. Only one pair of eyes and our huge secret would be revealed.

“Yes, it is. Your wounds need to be deeply cleaned, and I cannot do so with a cloth,” she said.

I rolled my eyes. “And what if someone sees me?”

“They won’t. Everyone is in their dorms, sleeping. Do you know how late it is? I should be snoring. Not meddling with you,” Sienna scoffed.

I sighed and glanced at her. She was wearing some kind of beige silk robe, and only that. Her hair was tied in a low ponytail, a couple of strands framing her face.

My eyes gradually fell down her figure, and all of her curves were more defined than ever.

“Let’s just do it the easiest way. I’ll fly with you in my arms. The place is not far away from here.”

I quickly looked up.

“You want to carry me? Absolutely. I’ll feel like a queen.” I smirked, and she narrowed her eyes.

After a few seconds, she unfolded her large wings and gently hoisted me into her arms. Being so close to her skin, smelling lemons and vanilla, was dangerous.

It was the only scent I didn’t completely hate here.

After careful observation, she flew us to the small circular lakes. They were near the woods, with no one guarding them.

It would be weird if guards watched the girls wash themselves in the first place.

Sienna landed on the grass with a light foot, and without looking at me, she placed me into the semi-warm water.

“Fuck,” I growled. “This isn’t pure water.”

She smirked and sat down on the grass.

“Sea salt. Makes our body cleaner, and it makes your wounds get rid of the infection,” She explained.

I gritted my teeth, feeling every open spot on my flesh burn and sting.

“Should I hold you?” Sienna suddenly asked.

I raised my gaze at her. “I think I’m capable of standing by myself, angel.”

She glanced away with a smirk. “As you wish.”

The moonlight cast a light on Sienna, and even though I was barely able to hold myself, my eyes were only glued to her.

She was leaning on her elbows, staring at the stars. She looked delicate and strong at the same time, her long legs outstretched.

“To be so carefree as you. I wish for that.” I murmured, and Sienna looked at me.

“Are you not? I found you in the human world, which means you’re not bound to stay in the Underworld.” She raised a brow at me.

As I was about to answer, I lost my balance and couldn’t grasp anything. My back was swallowed by the water, and soon enough, I saw darkness.

Maybe I should just die. I suffered enough.

My eyes were almost fully closed when I caught sight of Sienna, reaching her hand toward me.

For a moment, I wanted to take her hand, but then I just shut my eyes.

I fought enough. For my father, and for myself. Nobody wants me anywhere. I’m sure everyone knows about my failure. That I didn’t kill a human child. I’m a disgrace to my kind.

Only because I didn’t want to kill the innocent. Only because I didn’t want to lose the remaining fragments of my empathy.

“You’re a crazy being!”

My eyes opened at once, and I was no longer under the water but staring at Sienna, hovering over me.

I smiled.

She slapped me.

“You could’ve suffocated! Why didn’t you take my hand?” she shouted, but not loud enough for anyone else to hear.

“Slap me again. Slap me so I could feel something,” I whispered.

She raised her hand in the air, ready to give me another slap, but stopped mid-air.

She exhaled loudly, her hand trembling. “I’ll not expose myself to danger because of you. I won’t lose my life because of you. Is that clear?”

“Crystal. Clear,” I replied.

Sienna then unfolded her wings, and we returned to her room. She dried me and put new clothes on me.

They didn’t look like the clothes she had been wearing. The pants were black and the T-shirt gray. They probably belonged to a man.

“Where did you get these clothes from?” I asked her as she was brushing her hair.

She didn’t meet my gaze when she answered. “By the waterfall in the human world. I tried them once to know what it feels like to be dressed as a human.”

“And how was it?”

She froze and, after a couple of seconds, continued brushing her hair. “As if I were in a different skin.”

I smirked. “And did you hate it?”

She finally looked at me, but with loathing. “What about you? Do you hate yourself?” She snapped back.

If I weren’t a complete wreck, she would’ve been pushed against the wall, my fingers around her throat, squeezing the life out of her.

“Why should I? Because I killed people?”

Sienna abruptly stood up, her fingers curled around the hairbrush handle, her chest rising rapidly up and down.

“Yes, indeed. Do you feel no remorse?” She asked, but more loudly; I could hear the disgust in her voice.

I killed because I had to. I killed because my father wanted to. I didn’t choose this for myself. I’m not who she thinks I am.

Yet, I’m still a monster.

“No,” I answered, and I heard all those hopes and assumptions crash to ashes in her little head.

Sienna quickly turned around and went to her bed, tucking the thin comforter around her body. She was scared of me; she just didn’t want to admit it. She wanted to think of me as one of her angel friends. They never committed any crimes. Their hands were clean, not stained with blood.

But my hands are crimson red. They cannot be cleansed.

“I’ll never be what you are. Remember that, little angel. Don’t try to change me.” I stated and closed my eyes.

Her heart was beating fast, but it looked like she had already fallen asleep. She didn’t like to hear the truth. I was mere dirt and nothing else to her. Why try to find something good within me when I’m all rotten?

However, my mother wasn’t like that. She refused to kill, to feed on human energy. My father was never a good match for her, but she had no choice. She had to marry him and bear an heir. How laughable it is that my father never got what he wanted. A female demon cannot be an heir. Even when I tried to be a boy, I was never good enough.

Now, he has another wife who’s pregnant. Perhaps she will accomplish the job my mother never did, and it will be like I’ve never existed.

After all, I’m my father’s biggest disappointment.

A daughter who was no use to him.

⸻⸻

Chapter 8 • Respect

SIENNA’S POV

Waking up with a strange feeling in the pit of my stomach meant nothing good. When I tried to find the reasoning for it, I didn’t have to think for too long. Right after I turned around, where Noxiana lay, the answer was displayed in front of me.

She was the reason.

Since our last conversation, I couldn’t believe she felt absolutely nothing when she killed humans.

Many demons have no empathy, like wild demons that have no home and are running wild in the Underworld. But Noxiana never seemed to me like a wild demon; otherwise, my body would already be rotting somewhere.

I sighed and sat up slowly, staring at her motionless body as she slept. She didn’t look dangerous like this, despite her face markings and snake-slit eyes.

I rose to my feet and strode to Noxiana. I examined her body, her face, and her hair. Something about the way she looked made the inside of my stomach tickle.

It must be because of our difference. I feel threatened.

I carefully sat down on the edge of the bed and leaned closer to her. I was probably the only angel in our school who had seen a demon so up close.

When I was little, I always thought demons had horns. Even humans perceived them so, and I was a bit disappointed when I learned they don’t possess any.

My hand sank toward hers, fingertips barely tracing the back of her hand. I had touched her before, but this time it felt different. Her skin was surprisingly soft, but her knuckles were swollen. They still hadn’t recovered.

I took her hand in mine and glanced at her. When I saw her eyelids were still shut, I raised her hand and studied her skin. It was like charcoal, even her nails, as if ink had spilled across a gray rock.

Many called them ugly for looking like this, but in my opinion, they were unique. They looked like a complete darkness, except for their shining, colorful eyes.

I laid her hand beside her body, ready to go to a class, but when I stood up, she yanked me down by the wrist.

I almost fell on top of her if I hadn’t held myself with one hand.

“Am I a monstrosity you cannot help but observe?” Noxiana asked, her amber irises glowing.

I stared at her wide-eyed. She was getting stronger day by day. For now, she could use her hands, but in a few days, it would be her whole upper body.

How will I control her then?

“I was merely looking at your wounds. Let me go.” I replied and writhed my wrist, but she held me like iron.

She chuckled, and with her divided tongue, she licked her lips, and my heart skipped a beat. “You can observe other parts of my body. The better ones,” she softly said, hypnotizing me with her eyes.

I fluttered my eyelashes when I realized what she meant by that. “N-No! No. Why would I want to do that?” I thrashed, tugging my arm.

Noxiana dragged my wrist to her mouth and licked its length. All the hair on my body rose.

“You taste quite good, little angel.” She grinned.

My heart hammered against my ribs. How dare she lick me so inappropriately? Am I sugar to her?

I jerked my hand free, swiftly backing to my vanity desk. Noxiana began to eerily laugh, and I almost started to tremble.

I can’t show her any weakness. I won’t be weak.

“Stop playing games with me. I’m not to be toyed with,” I declared.

She suddenly stopped laughing and went still. “And I’m not a dead lamb that needs to be circled by crows. Respect goes both ways, but that’s something you angels don’t understand. You all think you’re better than us, but I won’t bow to you.”

✧

Even though the lunch smelled delicious, I could hardly digest anything. Noxiana’s words whirled in my mind like a tornado. She had always talked about our kind as if we were monsters. We never killed the innocent. We never harmed humans, while demons kill left and right, no matter who gets under their grasp.

I rushed into Ms. Maribelle’s class so I wouldn’t be late, though I’d rather spend my time by the fountain, reading a book about the healing power. That would at least teach me more about my skills than Ms. Maribelle.

As I walked inside the classroom, Ms. Maribelle still wasn’t there, unlike my classmates. Aria with Hayes, of course. A group of their friends was sitting beside them, and Odessa was standing in the corner with Inara.

Inara was a girl with curly lavender hair and white eyes like the moon. She had the most beautiful caramel skin. I envied her for it. I was as pale as a wall.

Angels always gossiped about her because of her hair and eyes that were too unusual for us, and I couldn’t imagine their reaction if they met Noxiana.

I walked towards them, and Inara instantly smiled at me. She was the kindest angel in our academy.

“Are you feeling better?” I asked her. She was missing school constantly. It was due to poor health. But there was something within her that was strong. She wasn’t as fragile as people thought.

She hugged me and nodded. “Yes. I’m all better now, and I’m so glad to see you two. I missed you,” she said.

“Who wouldn’t miss us? We are the best company.” Odessa joked, and I chuckled.

Aria suddenly looked at us with a fake smile. I smiled back. She waved at me and turned to Hayes. She probably thought I didn’t see how quickly her smile dropped into a thin line.

Ms. Maribelle entered the classroom, and we settled onto the soft clouds beneath us. Her long blond hair was braided and decorated with tiny diamonds that sparkled like morning frost. She wore a pale, off-shoulder gown that shimmered like moonlight, with winged sleeves that floated around her arms.

“Good morning.” She began. “As of today’s lesson, I prepared something more complicated to accomplish. However, it’s not impossible.” From within her gown, she revealed a small rabbit with a badly wounded leg.

“It may perhaps be difficult for you to heal a flower, but your powers should activate because of your empathy for this small rabbit I’ve found near the Woods of Rey. Some of you may heal it completely or partially; others not at all. As I said previously, not everyone possesses such a power.”

I immediately hid behind Odessa. Even though I wanted to help the little, helpless rabbit, what would happen once Ms. Maribelle knew I could not only heal flowers and animals but humans as well?

“Miss Sienna, you have no desire to help this creature? Do you want it to die?” The teacher’s voice startled me.

I stopped hiding, and everyone’s eyes were on me.

Ms. Maribelle arched a brow, probably expecting some sort of argument, but I didn’t want everyone to think I had a weakness.

“No, not at all. I was just looking for my earring.” I answered and stood up.

As I walked to the front, I unfolded my wings and took the small rabbit into my hands. His big black eyes were staring into mine. They begged for help.

And all of a sudden, I saw Noxiana in my mind.

“Follow my instructions,” the teacher said. “Imagine an energy created within you, spreading through your body, especially your arms.”

Her voice became a whisper as I followed my heart. I didn’t need instructions.

I suppressed my power to a minimum to hide how huge my ability was. I held the small rabbit gently in my palms, letting my power slowly heal him.

Everyone gasped as the light surrounded us, but I didn’t act surprised. I solely focused on healing.

“Continue, Sienna! You’re doing unbelievably well.” Ms. Maribelle exclaimed in awe.

I quickly smiled and finished the healing process. When the rabbit started to move his leg, I knew he was completely healed.

“That was very impressive,” Hayes suddenly spoke.

“Thank you,” I replied and handed the rabbit back to the teacher.

She stared at me, her eyes slightly wide. “Sienna, your power is incredible. You may be the best Healer amongst the students,” she stated.

I shook my head. “It was really nothing. I don’t have such a great power.”

She drew closer and touched my shoulder. “You even might bring a dead being to life.” She whispered, and my heart pulsed wildly.

If only she knew I brought an almost dead demon to life.

“Thank you, Ms. Maribelle, but you’re overestimating me. I’m not that gifted.” I chuckled, and when I glanced at my classmates, I saw the fury written across Aria’s face.

⸻⸻

Chapter 9 • Silence

NOXIANA’S POV

Sienna had been trying to keep her distance from me, but it was, of course, an impossible task when we were living in the same room and she was tending my wounds.

When she didn’t have classes, she stayed on the right side of the room, either reading a book or mixing all sorts of herbs.

She sometimes talks to herself, as if I weren’t even there. She recited the same sentences over and over again about the ability to heal.

I was bearing with it at first, but after I heard it for the billionth time, I really wished I could’ve cut off my ears.

I liked how she was still wary of me, though. The side glances and the small dagger she kept under her pillow. It was impressive and ridiculous at the same time. Did she really believe she could stab me with it?

Sleeping for demons is rare. But ever since I was taken here, I’ve slept like a baby. It’s probably the most I’ve ever slept in my life.

You have to be constantly alarmed because there’s always someone who wants to slice your throat. Especially someone like me. The daughter of the demon ruler.

I was protected at the beginning, when everyone thought I was a boy, but once my secret was revealed, I kept my claws sharp and ready because they all wanted to have a piece of me.

Some wanted to take me hostage and bargain with me, but my father didn’t care for me. In his eyes, I was a stranger, a no one.

Women weren’t respected in the demons’ realm. Only if they had higher positions. For instance, being someone’s bride, or wife.

The door opened quickly, and I tore my gaze towards them. Sienna returned with a bowl of fresh water and herbs to apply to my wounds.

She locked the wooden door behind her and carried the bowl to the vanity desk. When she put it down, she sighed.

“Too heavy, little angel?” I taunted.

She shot me a sharp glance, her chest rising rapidly up and down.

“No, it’s not. I’m not weak, even if I’m a woman,” she burst out.

I looked away. “I never said females are weak. Angels are. Except for healing me, what other abilities do you have?”

In a matter of seconds, Sienna was next to me. I turned to look at her.

“Don’t test my patience, Noxiana,” she said and applied the wet cloth to my wound harshly. “It’s been days and days since you’ve been here, and all I do is run around, trying to heal you quickly so you can leave Heaven. But you always have to call my kind weak. You’re an ungrateful being!” She snapped.

I snatched her wrist and glared at her.

“I didn’t ask for your help. You brought me here, remember? So stop putting the blame on me because you regret saving me.” I seethed. “And yes, you’re all weak. If the Elders didn’t possess magic, you’d all be dead.”

She thrashed against my hold, keeping eye contact.

“No more to say now?” I grinned. “Do you at night think about what will happen once I’m fully healed? Is that thought haunting you?” I asked almost in a whisper.

She suddenly froze, and her eyes grew wide. I felt her wild pulse beneath my finger pads, and it drove me wild.

If my body worked properly, I could twist her under me.

“W-We had a deal. You won’t hurt me, and I’ll help you leave.” She said, her voice full of fear.

I took a deep breath and shoved her hand away. She immediately touched her wrist, rubbing it, and took a step back.

“If you start babbling about the healing powers again from that stupid, ancient book, I will break the deal,” I seethed.

Once Sienna’s heart steadied, she snatched the fallen cloth from the ground and threw it back into the bowl.

When she turned her back on me, I again observed her like I did every time. I’ve never seen such white hair before in my life. They already reached her butt. They were so pure-looking.

Her legs were nicely shaped, also. They looked soft to the touch, like a feather.

I averted my eyes from the lower part of her body and took a deep breath.

Maybe my hunger is developing? Why do I otherwise always want to look at her?

“I won’t be disturbing you today. I’m meeting with a friend. So enjoy the silence and the walls.” Sienna suddenly announced and stormed out of the room.

Sweet silence again.

⸻⸻

Chapter 10 • Garden

SIENNA’S POV

As soon as I was away from Noxiana, I could breathe easily.

She was too unpredictable, too wild for someone like me to handle. She broke our deal and almost left a bruise on my wrist.

What will happen once she’s on the loose? I can only heal her fully once I have a plan for her escape.

I walked faster, heading to the garden that is near the bathing lakes. There wasn’t a flower or plant that wasn’t growing in that garden. Statues made by our teachers were hidden between the flowers, peeking over them. It was the statues of angels that fell in a battle between the demons. It was my favorite place in the academy.

The garden was already filled with students, reading on the stone benches or playing their instruments on the grass.

I whirled around, looking for Odessa, and in the process, I bumped my shoulder into someone.

“I apologize-” My eyes met with Hayes’s, their blue color reminding me of the sky.

He smirked. “You have a great power, Sienna. You may be on the same level as me, and powerful beings should always stick together,” he said and tilted my chin before he left the garden.

I stood still for a moment, not understanding what had just happened. Then I shook my head and spotted Odessa swinging at the wing.

“You found the perfect spot,” I said. She looked up.

“Well, it’s because you’re never punctual. Where else would we sit? On the grass again?” She rolled her eyes.

I sat beside her and began to swing us lightly.

“I heard a whisper going around that we have a new teacher who will teach the Unspoken History class,” Odessa informed me.

“Really?” I replied. “I don’t know if I should be excited or scared. I’m barely managing other classes.”

She laughed and started to swing us as well.

“I heard that he’s gorgeous. Blond and well-built. At least the classes will be worth attending.” Odessa joked, smiling.

I nudged her on the shoulder and chuckled.

Wait.

Blond and well-built?

I abruptly dug my legs into the grass, forcing the swing to stop. “I think it’s my brother.”

She snapped her head at me with furrowed eyebrows. “Your brother? Isn’t he in the human world?”

I shook my head. “He’s back, but it was supposed to be a secret. I guess now I know why.”

“You missed him so much. Did he change?” She wondered, and we started to swing again.

“Yes, and no. He was there too long. But I’m glad his punishment is over, and he will teach us.”

Rowan was the sort of person who followed the rules. He was painfully smart and better than me at everything. I didn’t envy him. We just bloomed at different times, and knowing he was pardoned and was going to be my teacher made me happy.

“Odessa! Come here for a moment.” Someone shouted.

She looked at me, knowing I wanted her to stay.

“Just go. I’ll take a small walk.” I said, pushing onto her shoulder to get up.

She nodded and hurried down the path, plants and flowers closing in around her.

I got up from the swing and wandered a little deeper into the garden, brushing past the tall lavender stems and the vines drooping from the stone archway. The air was warmer here, thicker with the scent of jasmine and something else I couldn’t place.

Everything was quiet now. The laughter of the students faded behind me, and I could finally think.

Or, at least, try to.

I strolled through the narrow path, where trees surrounded me, and I paused near a pink mushroom. A small bird lay motionless, entangled in the grass.

I crouched down, reaching my hand to the small bird, when I heard it.

The sound of a strong animal, huffing.

My fingers froze. I tilted my head, listening to the sound of walking. I turned slowly, scanning the garden. No one was there except the small bird and me.

I shifted my attention back to the bird and caressed its back. He must’ve been a newborn due to his size, unaware of the world’s danger.

“I hope you will find your mother, little one,” I said and lifted him. I tucked him into a hollow in the tree so no one would harm him.

Then I heard the low nicker and realized horses made such a distinguishable noise.

I whipped my head toward the noise source and caught only a glimpse of long, black hair tipped in white.

Why would a horse watch me? Was he afraid I’d hurt the bird?

I shook my head and strode back to my dorm. Animals here are different than those in the human world. And horses? They are the wildest and most sacred creatures. You cannot hurt them, but they can hurt you.

I had so much unfinished business here; I couldn’t die of curiosity-even though I wanted to know why the horse had watched me.

⸻⸻

Chapter 11 • History

SIENNA’S POV

Walking to my brother’s class was the weirdest experience, especially because I wasn’t supposed to know about him.

Everyone else was thrilled about a new subject, but I was quite nervous. Thankfully, Odessa was with me. I felt more at ease.

His classes were held outside, on tall pillars and arches that were covered with green vines. The place had three levels, and we were on the highest one, which had small pools of water and pink roses planted everywhere.

With my arm interlocked with Odessa’s, she and I strode to the open space, and students were already sitting on the hovering clouds, chatting.

Rowan hadn’t arrived yet, but everyone seemed impatient.

We took a seat at the very back, and I was relieved. Aria wasn’t here. She was in almost every one of my classes.

“He’s here,” Odessa whispered, and Rowan walked in front of the students. He wore a white tunic with gold lining.

“Good day to you all. I’m Rowan, your new teacher of the Unspoken History. Some of you may be disappointed because you expected something more thrilling, but let me assure you, history is more exciting than you might think,” he said, and everyone stared at him-especially the girls.

“In this class, we will learn about creatures that roam through the Woods of Rei. Dangerous and good. You should recognize them when you come face-to-face with them. If you should either greet them or rather…run.”

Seeing Rowan look so passionate about teaching made me happy. I thought I’d never see him like this again.

He continued. “And about other creatures that are in the Underworld. Because one day you might fight against them. Nothing is impossible.”

Students started to murmur. Talking about Underworld was unusual in the academy. Teachers rarely wanted to talk about it.

“I have a question.” A guy with long brown hair raised his hand.

“Go on,” Rowan replied.

The boy cleared his throat before speaking. “Do you believe there will be a war?”

Rowan’s gaze observed us, and for a couple of seconds, he stared at me.

“Like I said,” he looked at the guy again. “Everything is possible, and if demons entered our world, the war is inevitable.”

My pulse quickened.

“Now, let’s start today’s lesson with an easier topic, such as Angel’s Familiar,” Rowan announced, and everyone intently watched him.

“In the past, every angel had its familiar who protected them from danger. Who sacrificed themselves for their owner. But once the war with the Demons ended, all the remaining familiars started living in the Woods of Rei.” He explained.

“When they’re free, they’re more than dangerous. Trying to get close to them is a death sentence. You, however, have been forbidden to go to the Woods of Rei, so there’s no chance you’d meet any of them.”

I once read about it in a book. The creatures are wild and can be basically anything. Even if the creature is small, it can be vicious.

All the students took such an interest in this class, even more than in the flying lessons.

“When was the last time an angel had a familiar?” Odessa suddenly asked.

I turned to her with a raised brow. She only shrugged with a smirk.

“I don’t know the exact time, but it was before you were born. Even before me.” Rowan chuckled, and Odessa’s cheeks turned red.

I shook my head with a smile. She really had an eye for my brother.

✧

When the class was over, I headed to the garden again. I wanted to check on the little bird. I quietly walked to the tree, looking for him, but he was no longer there.

“I guess his mother found him.” I smiled and pivoted to go sit in the garden when I heard something move behind me.

I stilled and slowly turned around, my eyes growing wide.

Before me stood a black horse with long raven hair and white snow ends. In the middle of his forehead, a shining crescent moon was embedded. His sharp white eyes stared at me, and I shivered.

I wanted to move, but couldn’t. I was hypnotized by his eyes-unable to move a limb.

The horse slowly crept toward me, and I really believed he’d kill me. I swallowed hard and prepared for my end.

“Sienna?” Rowan’s voice cut through the air, and I snapped my head in his direction.

I glanced back at the horse, and he was observing me.

“Where are you?” Rowan called again.

I retreated one step, and the horse advanced.

“We shall meet again. And by the third time, I’ll claim you.” The horse spoke in an eerie, low voice solely in my mind and suddenly vanished.

“There you are.” Rowan appeared next to me, and I had no time to gather what had just happened.

What did he mean by claiming me? Why does he want me?

“So, how was I? Was the lesson tedious?” He asked with a smile, and I had to compose myself.

I cleared my throat. “Your lesson was phenomenal. No one was bored.” I said.

He smiled. “I’m so glad to hear that. I was a bit nervous. I’m happy you’re attending my class, Sienna.”

“Of course. How could I not?” I said. “But the thing you said about Familiars. Do you have a book about it? I’d love to know more.”

He chuckled. “I have too many books. Come with me. I’ll give you one.”

✧

“I’m hungry,” Noxiana complained, for the hundredth time, while I scrolled through the pages of the book Rowan gave me.

“I already gave you half of my food. Don’t be greedy.” I said absentmindedly, staring at the drawn sketch of a crescent moon in the book.

All Familiars had the same symbol on their forehead. That way, you could recognize they’re Familiars .

“But that’s not enough for me. I need more.” Noxiana whined again.

I ignored her and continued reading the book.

“The Familiars are creatures of the deity. They have their own mind and thoughts. They can speak human language, and foremost, they protect. Once a Familiar chooses its angel, nothing and no one can separate them. It’s as if they were one. If their owner is in danger, the Familiar will sacrifice itself for them. It will obey and be commanded by its owner. Familiars are wild creatures who can be controlled only if they’re willing to be under someone’s reign.” - The Book of Familiars.

Does that mean the wild horse won’t let me go? Is it really my Familiar?

“Princess, what is so interesting in that big, shabby book that you ignore my starving?” Noxiana asked with a slight anger in her tone. “Do you want my stomach to eat my insides?”

I closed the book and turned to her. She was glaring at me, her eyes dark.

“Alright. I’ll find something for you.” I said and left the room. I didn’t want to risk that she’d eat me, even though she wasn’t able to walk yet.

Yet…

⸻⸻

Chapter 12 • Melody

SIENNA’S POV

I rushed to my class to see that everyone had already been assigned their instruments. I was the only one left who didn’t have one.

I scanned the crystal-clear lakes and grass, looking for Odessa. It was easy to find her because she was the one who played the piano. When she looked my way, I waved my hand for her to notice me.

“Sienna!” she called, waving back before I left to join her.

Ms. Levine finally acknowledged my presence in the class. She walked toward me with her arms folded, her burgundy hair swaying from side to side. “Where have you been, Ms. Illyndorn? You’re late,” she scolded me right away.

“I apologize, Miss. It will never happen again, I promise you,” I said, my eyelashes fluttering.

She rolled her brown eyes and gave me my assigned instrument. It was a harp. It was the hardest instrument to play out of all the options we had here. My eyes widened just by looking at it. It looked magnificent, but my fingers wouldn’t ever play it right.

Ms. Levine left, and I was finally able to let out a sigh. “I’ll fail the test to become a true angel if I don’t learn how to play on this thing,” I complained to Odessa.

“Don’t worry! I will help you after school. I played the harp before.”

I snapped my head at her. “Really?!” I exhaled. “Now I feel a bit lighter. You’re my savior.” I said, wrapping my arms around her, laughing.

✧

I could remember maybe four notes from the sheet music I’d been given to learn. Odessa learned her song in less than ten minutes. I was truly lacking a musical ear. But I knew how to heal. I might be the only strong Healer in our class. I considered that a bigger talent. I could save lives.

“Sienna, you have to put much more effort into it if you desire to learn to play this instrument. Look at Odessa or Aria.” Ms. Levine pointed this out in front of the entire class. I felt how blood rushed to my cheeks. How dare she do this in front of everyone? Degrade me just because I’m not proficient at playing a stupid instrument. If she only knew I could heal breathing beings.

“I’m so sorry. I’m trying my best, but it will take me some time to be as talented as Aria and Odessa. I’m just not at their level.”

The teacher stared at me for some moments before moving on to the next student. She was not very fond of me. She never really liked me in the first place.

“I can help you, Sienna.” Aria suddenly offered, and my mouth twitched.

“Odessa already offered her help, but thank you,” I replied with a fake smile and looked at Odessa, who rolled her eyes.

I held back a laugh and forced my attention on the harp, though my mind kept drifting elsewhere. If Noxiana were to do something wicked, I’d not be there to cover up for her.

A demon like her would never listen to me, no matter what I have to say to her. They’re selfish beings. They only care about themselves.

“Are you still alone at your dorm?” Odessa suddenly asked.

“Uhm…y-yes, I am. Why are you asking?”

“Well, if you want, I could transfer to you. Who knows if Laira will come back? No one heard about her for months.”

My roommate, Laira. She was a sweet and kind girl. She was the opposite of Aria. One day, she packed her belongings and left the academy. No one told us the reason, and I haven’t asked her why she was leaving. We weren’t particularly close, but we talked.

“Let’s wait until next year. If she won’t come back, I’ll gladly welcome you.” I smiled.

“Pinky promise,” Odessa extended her finger.

“Of course.” Our fingers wrapped around each other.

I’d be glad if Odessa and I were roommates now, but how would I explain the demon who was sleeping in my bed and was eating my food?

“Ladies! Less talking, more playing, please.” Ms. Levine yelled, and we secretly chuckled.

After what felt like a thousand days, the class was over, and we had lunch. It was difficult to enjoy the food when Aria sat across from us in the second row, glued to Hayes, who was solely focused on his food.

“I hope your room is tidied up. I still have to clean my room after lunch.” Odessa mumbled, and I stared at my food. I still had to take some for Noxiana.

“Hmm, that’s unfortunate,” I murmured absent-mindedly, contemplating how to hide the food in a napkin.

“Don’t tell me you’re not ready for a check-up?” She questioned.

My head snapped at her. “What check-up?”

She sighed and shook her head in disbelief. “Ms. Maribelle will check each room today. To see if we’re cleaning them. Haven’t you heard it when she talked about it?”

My heart skipped a beat.

“N-No, but I have to go now!” I said and rushed out of the lunchroom.

They usually do check-ups randomly. So, you never know which room they will inspect first. It could be Odessa’s right now, or mine. Ms. Maribelle hasn’t specified the time. I completely forgot about it, and I could only hope they didn’t find Noxiana.

I hurried to my dorm as fast as I could. I even used my wings to be there sooner. Just as I landed in front of the dorms, Ms. Maribelle stood in front of my door.

My stomach coiled with dread.

⸻⸻

Chapter 13 • Hide

NOXIANA’S POV

Doing nothing all day and just staring either at the walls or out of the window is another level of boredom.

After Sienna left, I tried to move my leg-it worked, but that was all I was capable of. My body seemed to reject my mind.

So, since I had nothing to do, I thought about what kind of shitty classes angels have in this Academy.

They’d never teach them how to kill someone. Or how to protect yourself from an enemy. They only care about plants and music.

We demons were trained in various defensive maneuvers and combat stances. There’s no chance angels would win against us. Maybe only if they had some secret weapon up their sleeves, but I’m not aware of any. We keep tabs on our enemies. We know what their weakness is. They had to create a ward around the Heavens because they knew we had become much stronger.

Angels were always weak creatures. If it weren’t for the truce, demons would already have killed them all and made them extinct. But because of the demon ruler Xelran and the angel ruler Araquiel, their fight was put to a stop.

Xelran is the strongest demon in the Underworld. He proved himself time and time again. Every single demon respects him, except for me. I don’t consider him my father. He’s the demon ruler to me, someone I should only serve.

The sound of foot steps in front of the door tore me out of my reverie. It wasn’t a singular sound, so it wouldn’t be Sienna because she’d never expose me to anyone.

The knock on the door alarmed me. I quickly looked around to find a place to hide. I could slide under the bed, but they’d hear me fall to the ground.

Another knock came, and then a female voice spoke, “Seems like she’s having a class. Let’s enter.”

“Fucking hell,” I murmured and decided to teleport somewhere random within this land. The process was agonizing; it tore my skin again, since I hadn’t properly healed. I appeared in the woods, far away from the academy or dorms. My body began to burn, and I had to bite my hand to not cut off my split tongue.

I collapsed onto the muddy ground, and the sound of nearby running water reached my ears. It took me some time to gather myself and drag my body forward. Slowly, I crept towards the source, following the sound of the stream. The stream was next to a huge mountain, hidden behind towering bushes.

When I finally crawled to it, I let myself slide down the steep edge into the water. Every wound on my body started to itch and hurt. But the coldness of the water calmed my burning skin.

The leaves of the trees started to rattle, and the sound of crickets strangely composed me. I’ve been through much worse pain than this. I could handle it. I could overcome it. But for how long? How would Sienna know where I was? Perhaps she wouldn’t even look for me. She finally got rid of me. It would be easier for her to let me die than to try to help me escape.

It felt as if every limb of my body was torn, no longer intact. I didn’t dare to look if I was correct. I had to think of a plan. How to get out of this realm and go back to the human world.

Then, out of nowhere, I heard footsteps. I moved my head around to catch sight of the being who would soon get rid of me. But I couldn’t see anything.

My vision began to blur, and even though I tried to stay awake by blinking, it didn’t work fully. The footsteps neared, and I had no chance of escaping. My body was destroyed, barely alive.

My eyelids were heavy. I couldn’t open them for the life of me so I gave up. It wasn’t the first time I did so. After all, I wasn’t as strong as I thought I was. I got captured by my enemy. I shouldn’t have allowed it. I should have fought back, but I couldn’t since I was beaten up. What would other demons think of me? They would kill me in an instant, and I’d thank them for it.

“I won’t let you die. Not until I decide your time of death.” I recognized the voice. Light and full of pride.

I felt her hand on top of mine, and then she intertwined our fingers. I gently squeezed them, unable to utter a word.

“Stay awake. Don’t fall asleep on me.” She shouted, and I wanted to laugh. Her voice sounded concerned.

Why does she care if I live or not? She should be glad I’m dying and not surviving. She should just let the water carry my body as I slowly die.

She pulled me from the water and laid me gently on the grass. The last thing I remembered before losing consciousness was the blinding light pouring from my chest as she gripped both my hands. Her wings were spread wide, her face lifted to the sky, and her eyes closed.

After that, the agony completely faded away.

⸻⸻

Chapter 14 • Revived

NOXIANA’S

POV

When I woke up, it felt as if my whole being was revived. Nothing hurt anymore. I tried to speak, but the words were stuck in my throat. The trauma of the near-death experience still lingered in my bones. Sienna looked down at me, and her expression softened.

“Shhh. Don’t try to talk,” she said gently, her grip on my hands loosening slightly.

I wanted to disappear from her sight. I couldn’t stand her seeing me like this. I was supposed to be strong-not as weak as the angels are. But somehow I became like them. Weak and useless.

I wrenched my hand out of her grasp and growled. She immediately shifted away from me, and I had to contain the fury inside my body. To keep it all in, even though it was hard.

I carefully rolled to face the ground and used all the strength in my arms to lift myself upward. I looked ahead and saw the edge of the angels’ realm. It was so near but so out of reach.

I went on my knees, barely keeping myself together. “How do I get out of here?” I asked, my voice low, filled with rage.

Sienna didn’t move or speak. She just stood near the trunk of the pine tree, holding her palm against it.

I snapped my head at her. “Tell me how the fuck I’m supposed to get out of here!”

She looked at the grass and murmured, “You can’t.”

I frowned. “I can’t?” I slowly rose to my feet, no longer feeling the weakness in my bones, but power, as if every limb of my body was replaced with a new one.

I stalked toward her, and she slowly backed off. “I can’t stay here any longer. I can’t stand this place. It’s all disgusting.” I seethed and teleported with my power right in front of her.

I grabbed her by the throat, staring into her eyes that were spreading with fear. “I have to thank you, though. You made my body new. My powers are back, and it’s all thanks to you.” I whispered.

She shivered, her hands enveloping my hand at her throat. She tried to speak, to escape from me, but it wasn’t possible.

“If it’s not possible to leave, you will find a way to make it possible, angel,” I said, and released her throat. Sienna started to cough, filling her lungs with oxygen.

I won’t look like a weakness in her eyes anymore.

“Why are you like this?!” She yelled at me. “I helped you. I healed you, and this is how you thank me for it?” She looked brave but only on the outside. Inside, she was a scared little cat because she realized I’m no longer at her mercy.

I huffed and rolled my eyes. “ You brought me here. I didn’t beg you to do so. So, why do you require a thank you from me?“ I stated.

She rubbed her throat before speaking. “I regret that choice now.” She seethed. “I should’ve believed what everyone says about you. You demons are wicked beings that deserve no help or mercy.”

I drew closer to her, and as she tried to back off, her back hit the trunk of a tree. “Well, too bad you can’t get rid of me now,” I whispered and saw disgust wash over her face.

Sudden footsteps alarmed us, and we both looked at each other in unison. I quickly looked around, trying to find a place to hide, but except for the trees, there was nothing else.

“We have to hide at the top of the tree!” Sienna whispered and unfolded her wings.

I narrowed my eyes. “Do you want to break the branches? Just teleport with me,” I said in an obvious tone.

Her eyes widened, shaking her head. “I’m not letting you touch me.”

I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. “Do you want to get exposed, rather?” I asked, pinching the bridge of my nose.

The footsteps became clearer and louder. We only had a couple of seconds to decide, and Sienna was truly testing our luck. I couldn’t destroy my only chance of escaping from this place just because she hated me.

I clutched her wrist and slammed her against my chest. I felt her body tense against mine, struggling against my hold, trying to break free from me, but I was determined to keep her close. I tightened my grip on her wrist, holding her securely against my chest.

Her scent, a mix of lilies and something uniquely her, filled my senses. My hands splayed against her back, feeling the curve of her spine, the warmth of her skin beneath her clothing.

I swallowed hard and immediately teleported us to the crown of the tree. I heard her wildly beating heart ringing in my ears. I felt her rapid breaths against my neck. It made me uneasy.

The wind whipped around us, the branches swaying dangerously beneath our feet. I could feel Sienna’s panic, her harsh breaths against my neck as we clung to each other, trying to steady ourselves and not fall to the grass.

“Stop squirming,” I whispered into her ear.

Her eyes slowly rose to mine, and then a pain followed as she dug her nails into my arms. I grinned, closing the last bit of distance between us.

“Remember who I am, princess,” I whispered, and the pain slowly subsided. I looked away, scanning our surroundings. Sienna’s eyes sneakily studied my face.

Two angels passed by the trees, and when Sienna caught sight of them, her body trembled. Once they’d inspected the trees or merely looked up, it would be over for both of us. I would get killed, and Sienna would get punished.

Once the angels passed by us further west, another angel appeared. It was a girl who looked the same age as Sienna. As if she sensed our presence, she looked up at us, and Sienna sighed loudly. The girl waved at her, and I was confused.

Her gaze snapped to me, and her eyebrows drew together.

“I can’t read your mind,” I said, staring into her eyes.

“Down. Now,” she ordered.

I laughed and wrapped my arms around her. “As you wish.”

Instead of teleporting, and without a moment’s hesitation, I jumped down. Sienna screamed into my ear until the moment we landed softly on the grass below. She was cradled in my arms as if I were about to let go of her. Which I did consider, but somehow couldn’t do.

“Sienna?” The girl called her name, and Sienna looked up in surprise. She must’ve thought we died.

She immediately wriggled out of my arms and moved to the girl who was watching me with her eyes popping out of her skull.

“What have you done?” She whispered as if I couldn’t hear her. “What is that doing here?!”

Sienna grabbed her face into her palms and drew closer. “Odessa, you can’t talk about this with anyone. I’ll explain everything once we get back to the dorms, but for now, just help us get away.”

Odessa intently peered at me, her gaze not moving an inch from my face. Her pulse was fast, and so was her breathing.

I smirked.

“Please, you’re the only one who can help us,” Sienna said.

I looked away to break the staring contest so she could answer Sienna. We had no time for this.

She took a sharp breath and turned to Sienna. “Ms. Meribelle and Ms. Levine smelled an unusual scent. If you don’t leave right now, they will catch us all.” Odessa said with urgency.

“But how will I hide her scent?” Sienna asked, holding her temples and walking in circles.

Odessa opened a pouch that was attached to her dress and dug through it. After a couple of seconds, she pulled out a small tube with glittering liquid. Carefully, she took a step closer and held it up for me.

I took it, and she instantly retreated. “What is this?” I wondered, studying it.

“It should cover your scent if you apply it every day on your skin.” She explained, not looking at me.

Sienna suddenly snatched it from my hand, and applied it to my neck. Our eyes met for some moments.

“Odessa, buy us a few minutes. Hide Noxiana’s scent. Then we’ll meet in my room.” Sienna said and grabbed my hand. Without a warning, she tugged me forward as she started running. I have no clue why we couldn’t fly or teleport there, but I didn’t care to ask.

We ran until we got out of the forest and saw the Academy. The problem was that there were too many angels flying around and too many guards patrolling the campus. We hid behind a tree, and Sienna stared through the branches.

“We can’t go to my dorm.” She stated.

“Why?” I asked.

She turned to me. “Because what if someone is still in my room, waiting for me? It’s a risk.” She stared at the guards, and at her classmates, lost deep in her thoughts.

When I became too quiet, Sienna glanced at me. What she didn’t expect was to see me wear the body of someone else. A human I killed decades ago.

⸻⸻

Chapter 15 • Plan

SIENNA’S POV

In the blink of an eye, Noxiana no longer looked like a demon but a mere human with long black hair and blue eyes. No charcoal skin, and no split tongue. She looked just like us. I stared at her with my mouth open.

“Like what you see?” she asked, and I woke up from the trance.

“I have a billion questions to ask, but we have no time for that,” I grabbed her wrist. She was still cold. She couldn’t fully disguise who she really was.

I dragged her behind me through the Academy, and all the guards were peering at us. We didn’t stop even for a moment. It wasn’t until we were close enough to my dorm that I let go of her wrist.

I unlocked the door, and when it was clear, I shoved her inside. I locked the door just to be safe. I spun to her, and she no longer had a disguise.

“Why did you change yourself back?” I shout-whispered. “They could come back here and see you like this.”

She scoffed. “But they’re not here right now, are they? They won’t know the truth.”

I pressed my fingers to my temples. “How can you know that? Can you read their minds?”

Noxiana laughed and walked towards the small window. “No, I don’t have such powers. Anyway, we have to think of something. There must be a way to get out of here,” she said, staring out of the window.

I sat down on the bed and closed my eyes. It was the only way I could focus. After several minutes, nothing came to mind.

Then I flinched as somebody knocked on the door twice. I snapped my gaze to Noxiana, and she was already staring at me.

“It’s only Odessa,” she whispered, and I exhaled, my heart almost bursting out of my chest.

I got up, my legs a bit weak, but I managed to walk to the door and open it. Odessa rushed in, and I slammed the door behind her. She was out of breath, and her cheeks were as red as tomatoes.

“Sit down.” I helped her get to bed.

“So?” Noxiana asked.

I shot her a sharp glance. “Can you give her a second to breathe?” I seethed.

She rolled her eyes and folded her arms under her chest. “Soon we might all lose our breath if they decide to slit our throats.”

“They will do what?” Odessa wondered in a high-pitched voice.

I took a deep breath and placed my hand on her shoulder. “Nothing. Don’t listen to her.”

Noxiana turned to the window again, and Odessa seemed to calm down. Even if what Noxiana said was very brutal, none of us knew what would happen if they caught us.

I sat down next to Odessa. “Do you think there’s a way for Noxiana to escape without being caught?” I asked her.

Her forehead creased, and after a couple of seconds, she replied, “In thirty days, there will be a ball. A celebration of the Academy. Many guests will come, and everyone will be too busy with the preparations.”

“Thirty days?! That’s a month of hiding here.” Noxiana exclaimed.

“Do you have a better plan up your sleeve? It seems like a long time, but it will pass quickly.” I frowned.

“Pass quickly? And what will I do here? I’m a demon; I can’t even leave this room without being caught.” Noxiana scoffed, and I turned to her.

“So now it’s my fault?” I took a deep breath.

I got up and marched in front of her. She raised a brow at me and tilted her chin upward.

“Either accept our plan, or go to hell for all I care.” I seethed, peering at her.

“You can’t mean that, Sienna! We would all be punished.” Odessa shrieked.

Noxiana chuckled, a sly smirk across her face. “Listen to your friend, angel. Who said I didn’t accept your plan? I just found some holes in it. That’s all.”

“Holes? It’s better than nothing. There’s no other way for you to leave.” I declared.

“Fine. I know. Now I need a bit of rest.” Noxiana laid down on the bed as if we weren’t even there.

“How did the dem-I mean, how did she get here?” Odessa whispered and glanced at Noxiana.

I sighed. “It’s a long story. I’ll tell you later.”

Odessa got to her feet and folded her arms. “Yeah, you’re right. I should leave now.”

“Goodbyeeee,” Noxiana said louder and waved her hand.

I rolled my eyes and walked Odessa to the door. “I’m so sorry about this. I don’t want to get you in trouble.” I whispered so Noxiana wouldn’t hear.

“We need a little thrill, Sienna. And I always wondered what demons look like from up close.” She murmured, staring at Noxiana over my shoulder.

I shook my head. “This ‘thrill’ could get us punished! Also, be careful around Noxiana. She’s sly as a fox.” I warned.

“Will be!” She laughed and left before looking around for anyone suspicious.

I shut the door and locked it. I took a deep breath and turned to Noxiana, who was no longer lying on the bed but standing right behind me. Her amber eyes burned with flames, but her face stayed emotionless.

“W-What?” I stammered.

She cocked her head and moved forward. I backed off. My back hit the door, and in that moment, I wished I hadn’t healed her completely.

I spread my wings as it activated my strength, and Noxiana’s eyes widened with a smirk carved into her face.

“You warn others about me, but you chose to stay in the same room as me.” She said, her voice hoarse.

My eyes narrowed. “If I exchanged rooms, it would raise suspicion, and they would ask questions about it. And also you’d have a new roommate who would probably faint upon seeing you.”

Noxiana laughed and slammed her hand next to my head. I flinched, but fury boiled in my veins. How could she be so disrespectful toward me when I healed her?

“Getting smart, huh? But don’t think I don’t see how your hands tremble and how quickly your heart is beating. You should be terrified of me.” She snarled.

My fingers curled into fists, and I bolted from the door, our noses almost touching.

“I’m not terrified of you. And I’m stronger than you are. You’re in my world, so how dare you threaten me?!” My voice grew louder from the rage.

Her eyebrows rose to her hairline, and in a split second, her fingers wrapped around my throat. She didn’t choke me, but her grip was firm.

“You angels think you’re better than us, but it’s the exact opposite.” She began. “If I wanted, I could break your bones right now, and you would be dead, and there would be no one to help you, little angel.”

My eyes grew wide, my heartbeat hammering against my chest.

“Do it then. And you will never leave this place.” I choked out.

Noxiana’s mouth turned into a grin as she let go of my throat. I took a deep breath, touching the spots where her fingers were.

She laid down on my bed, arms crossed on the back of her head.

I sighed. The thought of living with the demon had never crossed my mind, even in my nightmares, but if we wanted our plan to work, we had to get along. Whether we liked it or not.

⸻⸻

Chapter 16 • Checkmate

NOXIANA’S POV

“You can’t keep doing that. You’re cheating, aren’t you?” I glared at Odessa as she was sitting across from me, grinning.

She shrugged. “Or maybe you just suck at playing chess. Haven’t you considered that option?”

The urge to throw the whole game at her was high.

“Aren’t you scared of me? You know I could kill you in an instant if I wanted to.” I whispered.

Her heart skipped a beat, but her poker face didn’t break.

“I’m well aware of that, but since you want to leave this place, you cannot kill me.” She whispered back.

I sighed. “Such a shame.”

Her eyes widened slightly.

“When is the little angel supposed to return?” I asked, staring at my Black queen.

“Soon. Her brother returned home after many years spent in the human world. She missed him. She wants to spend time with him.” She said and moved her horse.

“That’s why you have to babysit me? Because she wants to spend time with her brother? Aww, how disgusting.” I rolled my eyes.

She shook her head. “I understand you have no clue what empathy is, but you should at least try to be considerate. She saved your life more than once.”

I know well enough what empathy is. It was because I let myself feel; I ended up in this shit.

“Should I go on my knees in front of her? I never asked her to save me. It was her irrational decision.” I scoffed.

She glared at me for a moment. “Don’t talk about her this way. She’s an amazing angel and person. We could be severely punished because of you.”

A smile was carved into my face. “The problem is, I don’t care. I only want to leave this shithole behind and live my life as before. Is that clear enough?” I stated and made a checkmate with my queen.

She looked away, hurt. “Yes.”

✧

When Odessa left, I sat on the edge of the bed, waiting for Sienna. I played with her hairbrush, trying to detangle my hair. Even though they weren’t even touching my shoulders, I couldn’t brush them out.

As I heard the familiar footsteps, I tossed the brush beside me, and the door unlocked. Sienna walked in, all happy without a worry on her face.

But as soon as she saw me, her lips turned into a straight line.

“I see you’re glad to see me.” I taunted.

She scoffed, heading towards me. “Why is my hairbrush on the bed?” She asked and snatched it.

I shrugged and raised my hands in the air.

She took a seat on the chair in front of her vanity desk and started to brush the tips of her hair.

I watched her fingers intently, imagining for a split second how they would feel on my face.

I almost shuddered.

“How was the family reunion? Does he already know you have a demon in your bed?” I chuckled.

She rolled her eyes.

“You are only in my bed because I have nowhere else to hide you. My room is the only solution, genius.” She snapped back.

The top of her dress slid a bit down her shoulder, and for some unexplainable reason, my eyes couldn’t stray away.

I jumped to my feet, and Sienna froze. I strode behind her and grabbed the hairbrush from her hand.

I gently began to brush her hair. She slightly shivered, goosebumps appearing all over her skin.

“Have you thought about me?” I asked.

She looked over her shoulder at me. “Why should I think about you?”

My eyes strayed to her lips for a moment.

I cleared my throat. “I meant, if you thought about how to hide me here until the ball.”

She turned back, and her shoulders fell. “No. But I’m trying my best because eventually, someone will find you here.”

It could be at any moment, and I’d end up dead.

“Exactly. That’s why you should only stay in your room and think. Going out with your brother or friends won’t help us solve this problem.” I said and threw the brush on the desk.

Sienna flinched, and for a second, I thought about how easy it would be to pull her by her hair and laugh in her face.

Even if they caught me, I’d still grin in their face because a demon was capable of entering their realm, and their precious angel was taking care of me instead of letting me die and rot to pieces.

She abruptly stood up, clutching the dress in her fists. “You are so cruel!” She shout-whispered. “I have to attend classes and hang out with everyone in order not to raise suspicion. You have no understanding. You have no heart.”

Sienna then stormed toward the door, but before she could open it, I teleported behind her and pressed my palm against it.

She spun, frowning at me.

“And where exactly are you going now?” I asked, breathing heavily.

Her eyes narrowed, glaring at me. “To take a bath.”

It was already evening, and everyone was either in their rooms or returning to them, so I tagged along with Sienna. I changed my body into the one I used before and stuck close to her. No one seemed to pay attention to me.

“Is your presence really necessary?” she asked, her eyebrows snapped together.

I huffed. “I want to take a bath as well. Just because I’m a demon doesn’t mean I don’t take care of myself, princess.” I rolled my eyes.

She glanced at me before settling a towel on the grass. “Well, I wouldn’t think that because of the way you looked when I found you.”

I looked around, not finding any angel roaming the place, and changed into my original form.

“Oh, maybe because I was barely alive, and my skin was torn apart?” I ridiculed.

Sienna had already gotten into the small lake, pulling the top of the dress down, but halted when she realized I was staring at her.

“Go to the next one. I won’t share a lake with you.” She said.

I pulled my pants down and threw them aside.

“I don’t care one bit, little angel.” I slipped inside beside her.

Sienna quickly shifted out of my reach, and I smirked. I spread my fingers onto the surface of the water, enjoying the right temperature.

“Why don’t you have a roommate like all the others?” I wondered and looked at her, watching me.

She averted her gaze. “My roommate was supposed to return. But I believe she won’t anymore. I want Odessa to be my roommate next year.” She explained.

“What if I became your roommate?” I said.

She chuckled. “You already are.”

I shook my head. “No, I mean, what if I truly became your roommate and attended classes with you? That way, I don’t have to hide, and you won’t look suspicious for always rushing to your dorm to me.”

Her lips turned into a thin line. “Are you mad? That could never work. They would recognize you’re not one of us. You don’t even have wings.” She reasoned.

I shrugged. “So? We can make up some lie about me hurting myself and that I can’t fly for a month. By the time they would question me, I would no longer be here.”

Sienna sighed and looked around. She hated my idea but knew we had nothing else up our sleeves. This was the only option.

“How long had your roommate been attending the school before she left?” I asked.

Her forehead slightly creased from thinking. “Not for too long. She only attended a few classes, which we no longer have now.”

“That’s great. What did she look like?” I slowly started to undress my top.

“Black hair, blue eyes. A bit slimmer-” Her eyes grew wide. “W-What are you doing?”

My whole chest was exposed.

“What do you think I’m doing? Washing myself.” I laughed.

Sienna’s gaze dropped to my chest for a split second as if she couldn’t hold back from seeing what I looked like.

I brought my hand slowly to my breast and spread the water over it while I was watching Sienna. The friction on my hardened nipple felt good, and somehow, looking at her made it even better.

“Sienna,” I softly said.

She looked into my eyes and then at my hand. Her eyes slightly widened. I grazed my nipple, and her lips parted.

When she met my gaze, I could see she was intrigued by me. Interested in my body. Touching me with her eyes.

A sudden voice jolted us, and before I could react, Sienna rushed to me and turned me so her back faced the stranger. Then, without hesitation, she shoved me under the water.

I was there for a couple of seconds. I even considered drowning her because she didn’t warn me beforehand. But when I no longer felt pressure on my shoulders, I moved my feet to get to the surface.

I attached my hands to her waist and took a deep breath. My breasts were pressed against hers, and I felt and heard her fast-pulsing heart.

Her eyes slowly lowered, and she took a sharp breath. I clutched her waist and pressed myself harder against her, and oh, hell. The feeling of her breast against mine was better than anything I’ve ever felt. And I didn’t feel much otherwise.

I swallowed the lump in my throat and the weird desire that coursed through me. She was still my enemy.

But fucking

hell .

“Are they gone?” I forced myself to speak.

She stared into my eyes, taking deep breaths. “Y-Yes.” She choked out.

My gaze strayed to her lips and how they were slightly parted.

“Let’s go back before they find us,” I whispered, and tore my eyes away. I got out of the lake, drying my body.

Her warmth still lingered on my fingers. Maybe she wasn’t as strong as I, but she was still dangerous.

She could get under my skin and control my body to do the forbidden.

⸻⸻

Chapter 17 • Disguise

SIENNA’S POV

I stared at Noxiana, but she was disguised, wearing the skin of an innocent human she had killed.

She was dressed in one of my dresses, looking so much like us. It was hard to tell the difference. Her raven hair brushed her collarbone, and her midnight blue eyes emphasized her stern, cold look.

“Be careful. Your eyeballs will fall out of your eye socket,” Noxiana remarked.

I rolled my eyes and looked away. “Stop being delusional. I’m trying to see if there are any hints you give that you’re a demon wearing human skin,” I retorted.

She huffed and folded her arms. “Of course, there are none. Do you angels smell a certain way or what? I look like you, except for the wings.”

When will she stop being cheeky with me?

“Alright. Let’s move on to the more difficult part, which is how we will explain your sudden arrival. Your parents wrote them no letter or came here by themselves to announce your return to the academy,” I said.

Noxiana took a seat on the bed and crossed her legs. “I’ll just say, we wrote to them, and that it’s not my fault that no letter arrived. See? Problem solved,” she smiled and fluttered her eyelashes.

I narrowed my eyes. “You can’t act like this in front of my classmates and teachers. And your solution has holes. What if they try to contact your parents, who don’t exist?” I pointed out.

She jumped to her feet and strode toward me. “Then I’ll tell them my parents are too busy to meddle with them, and if they don’t want any complaints, they should just let the matter be. Is this good enough, little angel?” she asked, looking at me with that harsh look of hers again.

My gaze shifted to the door. “Yes, it is. I don’t want to be late for class, so let’s go.” I stormed towards the door.

Two days ago, when we shared a lake, she looked at me this way, and something strange had ached in my chest ever since. It was a very uncomfortable feeling, which is why I was trying to avoid her eye contact.

While we walked together to my music class, I glanced at her and let out a loud sigh.

I halted, frowning. “You walk like a bear. Angels have light feet,” I whispered.

She stopped in her steps and took a deep breath. A few seconds later, she resumed her walk, and this time it was lighter and ladylike.

I caught up to her and noticed how tall she was. Even though she was wearing someone else’s body, her height stayed the same.

“If you lived half of your life as a male, you would walk the same way as I. I’m not used to dresses or long hair.” She confessed, a bit of sadness in her tone.

I never imagined she would sound somber talking about it. After all, she experienced some sort of emotion.

“So, you want to wear dresses and have long hair?” I wondered, and she glanced at me.

“I really don’t care how I look anymore, and short hair is more practical in a battle.” She explained.

We reached the class, and it was a bit emptier. I immediately tangled my arm with hers, and she peered at me.

I gave her a wide smile and tugged her to the corner of the class. We sat down on the pillows, and shortly after, Odessa came.

“I can’t believe you’re here.” She whispered to Noxiana.

“I can’t believe it either. So many of my ancestors wanted to achieve this, and I’m the first one who did.” She whispered back with a triumphal tone.

I slapped her hand. “Can you speak a bit louder so everyone can hear your confession?” I hissed.

She huffed and averted her gaze from me.

Odessa squeezed closer to me. “Isn’t this too risky?” She asked.

I shrugged. “We don’t have any other choice. A month is too long for her to stay hidden in my small room.”

“I agree. I feel like a prisoner, which I am, but still. It’s unfair.” Noxiana chimed in.

I shot her a death glare, and she chuckled.

“You’re so intimidating, little angel.” She laughed.

A demon is laughing into my face. Could this get any worse?

Suddenly, Ms. Levine appeared, and I took a deep breath. Now was the time for Noxiana to act like us. If she made a single mistake, it’d be over for us.

Ms. Levine greeted us, and almost immediately her eyes settled on Noxiana. She analyzed her with her long stare and decided to speak up.

“Sienna, who’s the girl next to you?” She asked.

Everyone turned to us.

I cleared my throat, ready to answer, when Noxiana squeezed my hand.

“I’m Laira. Sienna’s roommate. I came back after an injury. I missed this school.” Noxiana said in a higher, nicer tone.

It almost looked like Ms. Levine didn’t believe it.

“Oh, I see. I’m surprised that no one told me about your arrival.” She said.

Noxiana smiled. “I’m as well. I believe it’s the fault of my parents. I apologize on their behalf. They’re so busy.”

Ms. Levine nodded and surprisingly let the topic go. I was sure, though, she would ask the Elders why she wasn’t informed about Laira. Hopefully, they would be too occupied to accept her audience.

The lesson carried on, the room filling with the soft hum of strings and the echo of flutes as we learned each note.

Noxiana looked slightly annoyed, and it brought me so much joy.

“There are a lot of wrinkles on your forehead. Maybe you should calm down.” I teased.

She couldn’t stop blowing the air into the flute. No beautiful sound came out of it. It was the exact opposite.

My ears bled.

“Why is this stupid thing not working?” She asked.

I let out a sigh. “You have to practice in order to play it. It’s not that easy.” I answered.

Noxiana groaned and tossed the flute beside her. She acted like a child.

“Stop having tantrums. It’s not as if you’ll stay here for too much longer.” I added.

Suddenly, she leaned against my shoulder, her hot breath on my skin. “I’m not giving up. I’ll keep trying, even if my lungs have no oxygen,” she whispered, and I swallowed hard, looking straight ahead.

“Get off me. That’s not how angels-”

“I know, I know,” she cut in. “That’s not how angels act.” She chuckled and leaned off me.

✧

We headed back to my dorm. Of course, everyone talked to Noxiana at the end of the lesson. They asked the most pointless questions, but I let them be. It would look weird if I tried to stop them from talking to my roommate.

Noxiana acted naturally, as if she were truly one of us.

We strode the narrow, grassed path near the garden. My eyes lingered there, remembering the mysterious wild horse.

I wonder if he’s still there.

“We’re having the next class together as well,” Odessa said.

“Yes, we are. But don’t be glad. We can end up in so much trouble if someone recognizes Noxiana.” I stated.

Noxiana groaned.

“I know, but it’s exciting! It was so boring before Noxi came.” Odessa exclaimed.

I halted and spun to face her. “Noxi? You already have a nickname for her?” I said mockingly.

Noxiana laughed and put her arm on Odessa’s shoulder, and her eyes grew wide.

“We’re going to be the greatest partners in crime.” She smirked at her, and I caught the flicker of fear in Odessa’s eyes.

Noxiana snapped her gaze at me. “Right, little angel?”

I peered at her, breathing heavily. Acting recklessly on the school grounds wasn’t the wisest decision. Students roamed the campus, staring at us. After all, Noxiana was the newest attraction.

In the corner of my eye, I noticed Hayes and Aria. They were heading our way.

She was the last person I wished to know about Laira coming back to school. Although the situation was inevitable. We had too many classes together.

“Yes, now let’s leave.” I quickly said, my eyes shifting back and forth between Aria and Noxiana.

But before we could leave, the familiar nickering echoed through the garden. It was so loud that all the students stopped in their tracks.

“What was that?” Odessa wondered.

Her question was answered because from the garden emerged the wild horse I’ve encountered. I thought I’d never see him again.

“We shall meet again. And by the third time, I’ll claim you.”

His heavy hoofs thundered against the ground as he walked confidently toward me. His long hair swayed with the wind.

He was the most gorgeous horse I’ve ever seen.

The horse’s eyes shifted to Noxiana, and he suddenly halted. My heart skipped a beat.

Familiars could sense demons. They were the protectors.

“Take Noxiana away,” I told Odessa, still staring at the horse.

The wild horse whipped his tail in a furious way, his hoof scratching the ground.

“What’s going on?” Rowan’s voice distracted me, and the wild horse charged at Noxiana at full speed.

I spread my arms and moved in front of her. “Don’t you dare hurt her!” I seethed.

The horse stopped right in front of me, his muzzle touching the tip of my nose.

“Mavros.” He growled.

I looked into his white eyes; they were so bright like the moon.

“Please,” I whispered. “Don’t.”

He glanced at Noxiana. “But I require an explanation. She’s full of rotten energy.” The horse’s voice rang solely inside my head.

“I promise you, I’ll tell you what you wish to know.” I quietly said.

The horse puffed and swung his head. “Very well, then. I’ll let you have it your way, Sienna.”

The horse walked back to create a space between us. He bowed to me, and I did as well. He was showing his respect for me.

“My name is Cealum, and from this day till I die, I’ll serve you and protect you.” The horse announced.

Everyone present gasped. He wasn’t bluffing about claiming me.

Noxiana touched my shoulder. “What in the world is happening?” She asked.

I smiled. “Cealum chose me as his owner. He’s my Familiar .”

✧

My Familiar didn’t let anyone near me, except Odessa and Noxiana. He wanted to talk to me, and he didn’t care that his claim wasn’t aligned with the rules. He simply didn’t care.

Together, we chose to hide in my dorm. It wasn’t the best decision due to his size, but he fit through the door somehow.

We sat on the edge of the bed while Cealum stood in front of us. It was…awkward.

“What is a female demon doing in the Heaven Realm?” He suddenly asked.

I took a deep breath. “To make the story as short as possible, I’ve saved Noxiana from dying. I took her here to heal her.”

Noxiana chuckled.

“What do you find funny, demon?” Cealum wondered.

Noxiana yawned and turned to her original body. It was like watching her vanish and reappear.

“I find it funny that we need to tell a horse about our personal business. I didn’t break into your world. Sienna brought me here, and I want to leave this place as much as you want to kill me.”

I snapped my head at Cealum. “You want to kill her?” I shout-whispered.

“She’s a threat to you.” He replied with a serious tone.

I moved in front of Noxiana, my hands on my hips. “No one will touch her, and neither will you,” I stated.

“Exactly.” Odessa chimed in. “Who are you to command us?”

Cealum looked her up and down.

“Very well. I’ll not kill her, but I’ll keep my eyes on her, Sienna.” Cealum warned and glanced at Odessa again.

He suddenly turned, unlocking the door with a flick of magic, and walked out without a single word. Something about his demeanor reminded me of someone.

Noxiana grabbed my wrist, and I flinched.

“Can you finally explain to me why that horse is protecting you?” She asked, her brows knitted.

I thrashed against her hold until my wrist was set free. Why does everyone around me think they can rule over me? I have a mind of my own. I don’t need someone to tell me what to do or say.

“From now on, Cealum will be by my side. He’s my Familiar who chose me. There’s nothing I can do about it. Once a Familiar chooses his owner, he belongs to them.” I explained.

Noxiana’s amber eyes narrowed. “He knows about me. He won’t let me live till the next morning.”

Blood boiled in my veins.

“I won’t let anyone hurt you, Noxiana. You will safely escape Heaven, and it will be as if we never met, and you’ve never seen our world.” I stated, but the words tasted bitter as they left my mouth.

⸻⸻

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✧ Aesthetic of Characters ✧

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Chapter 18 • Sweet

NOXIANA’S POV

I wasn’t aware that horses were such annoying creatures. Killing one of them surely wouldn’t have been so wrong, even in Heaven.

“Why is she glaring at me, Sienna?” Cealum asked.

We sat by the fountain, the horse standing in front of us. I couldn’t bear the look in his eyes-one I knew all too well. They burned with the desire to kill me.

“Don’t mind her. She’s always like that,” Sienna answered, taking a sip from a silver goblet. It was filled with pink water.

I scoffed, my arms folded under my chest. “Will the horse follow us everywhere we go? Even when we bathe?” I said, my voice stern.

The horse whinnied and looked away.

“Of course not. Don’t be ridiculous,” Sienna said, not even glancing at me.

I was more than upset. I was fuming.

How could we succeed with our plan when a strange horse was all around Sienna? He stayed silent, but for how long? He loathes me more than I do myself.

I turned to Sienna and wrapped my hand around hers, the one holding the goblet. She flinched, her eyes snapping to mine. Gently, I drew the goblet toward my lips and drank from the very place where hers had touched.

I looked at her over the rim of the goblet and savoring her stunned expression.

“What kind of liquid is this? It tastes oddly sweet.” I asked and drew my lips away. My hand, however, was still around hers.

After a couple of seconds, she replied, “The Elders make it for us, so we don’t get tired of only tasteless water.”

“Oh, interesting.” I dropped my hand from hers into my lap, my skin tingled with a weird sensation. “You’d be surprised how many of these sweet waters exist in the human world. Some are too sweet or even sour.”

Sienna’s eyes widened. “Really? I wonder if I’d like it.”

“I think you would.” I faintly smiled.

Then, the silence grew awkward. I almost forgot that Sienna had only experienced Heaven, never the Underworld or the human world.

There was so much to see and experience. Being stuck here sounded wearying. There were too many rules and expectations that not all students could accomplish.

I wondered what happened to those who didn’t possess a gift such as Sienna. Were they simply useless to the Elders ? Did they mean less?

“There you are.” A male voice tore me from a trance.

It was Sienna’s brother.

“Why did you want to see us?” Sienna asked as she got up, clutching her dress tightly.

Rowan glanced at the horse and then back at Sienna.

“You and your Familiar need to speak to the Elders . Your Familiar needs to confirm he chose you; otherwise, he needs to return to the Woods of Rei.” Rowan explained.

I grinned. If only they sent him back.

“I understand, but I have a flying class soon, and it’s been so long since I stretched my wings,” Sienna said.

Rowan shook his head. “We cannot delay the matter. If you wait longer, the Elders will take the matter into their own hands. Do you want that?”

Sienna immediately looked at the horse. She was fighting with herself, but I didn’t understand why. Was she afraid the horse would speak of me?

Unbelievable.

As though she didn’t want to get rid of me sooner.

“Will you come with us?” She asked Rowan, and he nodded.

She turned to me, her eyebrows knitted together. “We will be right back. Stay here.”

I nodded once, and Rowan shot me a curious look. We’ve never been introduced.

All three of them headed to the Elders , and I was left by myself, in my disguise.

I’ve never seen the Elders , but from what I heard, there were twelve of them. Each of them never aged until someone would kill them. They looked youthful, with long hair and white and gold robes.

In my head, they looked more like ancient men with ridiculously long mustaches.

I buried my hand in the fountain water and twirled it. It was refreshing, even on my fake skin. It wasn’t an ordinary fountain, though. It looked like glitter had been spilled inside it; however, when I pulled my hand out, there was no evidence of it.

“You’ve changed a lot, Laira.”

I slowly raised my gaze to the girl in front of me. Her brown hair was up in a bun, making her long eyebrows even more arched.

“Did I?” I said, eyeing her.

I don’t know who she is or if she knew Laira personally. I need to be careful.

“Yes, you did. I remember your hair was longer. You didn’t cut it, right?” She asked, her brow raised.

I laughed. “You haven’t seen me in a long time. My hair is the same as it was before.” I forced the fakest smile I could muster until my cheeks ached.

The girl smirked and folded her arms. “Laira, I do wonder where you have been for so long.”

I stood up and folded my arms as well. No one would intimidate me.

I smiled again. “That’s private. What matters is that I’m back.”

“I know, but it seems like the teachers are surprised to see you. I was as well.” She snapped back.

I had to stop myself from strangling her.

“I talked to the teachers and explained my sudden arrival. You don’t have to worry about it.” My mouth twitched.

Her eyes narrowed. “Why haven’t you even once addressed me by my name, Laira? You forgot my name?” She asked, and I froze.

In the human world, there’s a word women call each other, and I’d gladly call her that as well.

Fucking bitch.

“Aria.”

I looked over my shoulder to see Sienna and the horse coming back.

Fuck.

I almost got caught.

“Is everything okay?” Sienna asked me with a smile.

I wrapped my arm around hers. “Yeah, we should go now,” I said. “It was nice talking to you, Aria.” I winked at her and dragged Sienna away, heading to the dorms.

“What was that about?” She murmured.

I glanced back at Aria, who was no longer standing by the fountain.

“She finds me suspicious, little angel. She’s not convinced I’m your roommate, Laira.” I whispered.

Suddenly, the horse appeared beside me, glaring at me.

“It’s easy to recognize you’re not a divine being. Under all of the layers of flesh, is everything rotten, dark, and wicked.” The horse sneered.

My eyes grew wide, and I stuck out my split tongue at him.

He nickered.

“Noxiana! We’re not even inside yet.” Sienna shout-whispered and pushed me inside the room as I was back in my original form.

She moved in front of me, with her eyebrows snapped together and her hands firm on her hips. “You can’t do this. What if Aria was hidden somewhere, waiting for you to reveal what she’s been suspicious about?”

She has a point.

“Then tell your horse to stop annoying me. He thinks he’s better than everyone. You all are really the same. Your egos are higher than your power.” I stated, my voice low.

Sienna suddenly pointed her finger at my chest and glared at me. “You should be glad the Elders didn’t call you to meet them. Stop being arrogant. Cealum is only doing his duty.”

I seized her hand, looking at her through my eyelashes. She gasped softly.

“You’re getting braver in my company. I wonder why, Sienna.” I smirked.

She was furious like a kitten, trying to wound me with her tiny claws that could only leave just mere scratches.

“Put your hand away, demon.” The annoying horse spoke.

Sienna turned to Cealum and shook her head.

Truly unusual behavior.

While they argued over me touching her, I stared through the window. Aria knows I’m hiding something. She knew I didn’t know her name. If we make even the smallest mistake until my escape, it can all end horribly.

I looked at Sienna, who was frowning at the horse, and when the thought of her getting hurt crossed my mind, I became hot inside as if a volcano erupted in my chest.

Someone suddenly knocked, and when the door opened, Odessa stood at the threshold with the biggest grin.

I groaned, longing to lie down. “Is this a hotel? Both of you get out before I get a headache.”

⸻⸻

Chapter 19 • Defence

SIENNA’S POV

Today was supposed to be my flying class, but because of the thunderstorm, we stayed on the school grounds.

Thank the Heavens. How would Noxiana, aka Laira, explain to Mr. Allyn that she couldn’t fly? What if he sent her to the Healer, and they’d want to see her wings anyway?

Mr. Allyn was sitting on a hovering cloud, explaining the techniques of flying we hadn’t discussed yet.

It was pointless, in my opinion, to talk about it instead of showing it.

Noxiana and I were lying stomach down on the grass, pretending to listen to Mr. Allyn. For a moment, it even looked like she was interested in what he was saying. Only for a moment, though.

Noxiana stretched her muscles, and her elbow touched mine. It was a fleeting moment, yet it sent electricity through my being.

I looked at her, studying her disguise, and found myself missing her true form.. I didn’t like her to use someone else’s flesh.

It reminded me that she had killed. Her hands would forever be stained with blood.

“I’ve been wondering.” She began, and I quickly glanced at the teacher. “How come you fly in the human world as well?”

I let out an exhale.

Why is my heart beating so fast all of a sudden?

“The Academy is divided from other parts of Heaven. We deal with all kinds of creatures, and if the students had access to other parts of the world, it would cause problems. Many of us would get hurt. We’re still learning how to defend ourselves. That’s why we visit the human world a lot. To not fly to the same places.” I explained.

Noxiana scoffed.

“Defend yourself?” She questioned. “Do you even know what that word means? No herbal tea will help you in a fight, little angel. Only if you poisoned it.” She chuckled.

I rolled my eyes. I hate when she calls me that.

“There’s no danger as of now. And we have many more years to learn.” I said.

“War can begin while we’re speaking. It doesn’t ask for permission, Sienna. If thousands of demons just trespassed the Academy, how would you protect yourself?” She asked, and I met her eyes.

She was completely serious, and that surprised me.

“Well,” I started. “I would fly very high and use the advantage of my wings. Demons cannot fly.”

Noxiana’s eyes narrowed. “But we can teleport. Even in the air.”

I blinked, taken aback by her words.

“Then I’d use my wings as a shield, and…and.” I couldn’t think of anything. Because all we learned was about healing and herbs.

Noxiana looked away, shaking her head.

“Like I predicted. You have no combat skills. They would kill you in an instant.” She murmured with anger.

I wanted to say it wasn’t true, that I know how to fight, but that would be a lie. However, Aria’s voice alarmed me.

“This poor creature!” She exclaimed, bending over something in the grass.

I jumped to my feet and rushed to see what was going on.

Hayes noticed me and stepped aside so I could get closer. I nodded in a thankful way.

It was a Lepidastrige.

A creature that looked like an owl, but with wings like a moth, and long, thin ears that stuck out of its head.

“What happened?” I asked, and everyone looked at me. Including Aria.

“I accidentally sat on it. I didn’t know it was there.” She explained.

I lowered to my knees and scooped it into my palms. Its wing was crushed.

“I’ll heal it,” I said, and closed my eyes, feeling the energy surge through my veins, until it was in my hands, shining like a sun.

It only took a couple of seconds before the wing was fully healed, looking brand new.

The creature moved its wings and stared at me as if it wanted to thank me. I smiled.

“Next time, be careful where you sit,” I said, and pierced my eyes at Aria.

I put the creature down, and in a second it flew to the sky.

“I wasn’t aware of it.” She put on the most fake smile. “Don’t be mean to me, please.”

I narrowed my eyes. “I wasn’t.”

Suddenly, strong fingers curled around my shoulder, and my eyes grew wide.

“That was incredible. Truly astonishing!” Hayes said, his hand glued to my shoulder.

“Thank you. But it wasn’t that amazing.”

He shook his head. “It was, in my opinion. Your power is magnificent.” He smiled and started to caress my shoulder.

Aria’s burning gaze froze me in place. Why was Hayes interested in me? It must’ve been because of my great power.

He drew closer, his face only inches from mine.

“What are you doing?” I asked.

He looked curious. He wanted to know why I was so powerful. From whom did I inherit such potent genes.

But before he could reply, he was shoved away.

“Don’t be so close to my friend. It’s disrespectful, don’t you think?” Noxiana’s high-pitched voice almost made me laugh.

She hooked her arm around mine and hoisted me to my feet way too strongly. She dragged me to our spot, her cold hand somehow warmer.

“Don’t let him touch you without permission.” She burst out.

We sat down, her hand on top of mine.

“But you never ask for any and do it anyway.” I snapped.

She squeezed my hand, and something fluttered in my stomach. Like a butterfly.

“You’re mine for now, princess.” She turned to look at me. “Exist only for me, until I’m gone.”

My mouth parted slightly as I stared at her in awe. Exist only for her? Why would such things leave her mouth? Was she entirely crazy?

For the rest of the lesson, her hand stayed on mine, and every breath I took was heavier than the previous.

✧

I couldn’t stop tossing and turning during the night. Noxiana’s words lingered in my mind, and I loathed it.

Why was she on my mind when I should be sleeping?

I groaned quietly so I wouldn’t wake her, then closed my eyes for what felt like the hundredth time.

Before I could try to fall asleep, the sound of the creaking bed startled me. Noxiana was getting out of bed.

I turned to the other side and shut my eyes.

Her footsteps alarmed me. She was getting closer and closer to me. Why was I so nervous? She wouldn’t kill me.

“I know you’re not sleeping.” She said, and I grimaced.

I let out a sigh. “What do you want?” I asked.

“Come with me outside. I want to show you something important. And put on your shoes.”

I spun, glaring at her. “I want to sleep, Noxiana. I don’t want to go outside.”

Without a word, she grabbed me by the waist and lifted me out of the bed. When she put me down on the ground, I was pressed to her body.

“Be a good angel, and come with me outside.” She whispered, and even though it was dark, I couldn’t escape her amber eyes. “It will help you survive.”

That caught my attention. So, we sneaked outside.

We headed where we always went. To the small lakes where we took baths. Because it was farther from the classrooms and dorms, no one could see the girls bathing. Students could still pass by, but Noxiana wore her disguise.

“So? Why are we here?” I wondered.

“I want to know that as well.”

I whirled to Cealum’s voice.

“What are you doing here? Weren’t you supposed to be gone longer because of some business in the Woods of Rei?” I asked.

He nickered.

“I rushed to come back. I won’t let you stay with this darkness alone. Why did she bring you here in the middle of the night?”

Noxiana scoffed. “Darkness? Please, go to the library and learn new vocabulary if this is all you can come up with to name me.” She laughed.

I exhaled, pinching the bridge of my nose. “Enough of you two. Can you stop the fight for now and pick it up in the morning?” I said. “And I wonder as well why I had to be dragged here, Noxiana.”

She tore her gaze from Cealum to me and took a deep breath.

“To teach you combat moves. And don’t say you don’t need them because I know you do.” She arched a brow.

She is right. I do need them. For my own well-being.

“Alright. Where should I kick you first? In the stomach, or in the head? I prefer the second option.” I grinned.

Noxiana drew closer, looking down at me. “That would make you very happy, wouldn’t it?” She whispered. “Sorry to disappoint you, but that will not happen today. For now, you’ll try to punch me.”

My heartbeat quickened.

I shifted my arms in front of me and curled my fingers into fists.

“I’m all ready,” I said with enthusiasm.

She smirked and beckoned me to strike.

I darted at her, swinging my fist at her shoulder, but she ducked my punch, and I almost fell on the grass.

“You really believed you’d hit me.” She chuckled.

I squinted my eyes and sprinted. She stood still, staring at me. The blood in my veins was boiling. She always thought she was better than anyone here.

As I reached her, I again swung my fist, this time toward her stomach, but in the process, she snatched my arm and pushed me to the grass.

Air whooshed out of my lungs. I took multiple breaths, steadying my heart before I launched to my feet and raced at her as she was laughing at me.

I caught her by surprise. I grabbed her shoulders and jumped at her. Her eyes widened, and we were slowly falling to the grass.

But just before we hit the ground, Noxiana rotated in the air and placed her hand on my back.

I was the one to fall on the grass, unfortunately.

It, however, didn’t hurt. My back never touched the ground. It was hovering above it because of Noxiana’s hand.

When I calmed my heart, I finally met her eyes. She was breathing heavily, staring at me as if she had never seen me before.

She suddenly let go of my back, and both of her hands were beside my head. But that wasn’t what made me sweat. It was her thighs, straddling mine. The feel of them, holding me tight, made me lose composure.

“Not bad, little angel. It’s a great advantage to surprise your enemy and strike.” She sounded out of breath.

I gulped. “I-I know. That’s why I did it. To surprise you.” My voice trembled.

She smirked, and it was weird not to see it in her original form.

She studied my face as if she couldn’t figure something out, and then she lowered her cold breath against my neck.

She squeezed her thighs, and something between my legs pulsed. It was a weird feeling. Not entirely bad, but not right either.

“Keep surprising me. I quite like it.” She murmured, and it tickled.

My heart hammered against my ribs. It was the only thing louder than my breath.

“Oh, Heavens, stop acting like a lizard, you malicious thing! Move before I use my powers on you.” Cealum suddenly chimed in, and I totally forgot he was even there.

Noxiana sighed in annoyance and teleported to Cealum in an instant.

“Not before I cut your precious hair and sell it to the demons, horse.” She seethed.

Cealum whickered, pawing the ground.

I simply shook my head and passed by them back to my room. Of course, they immediately followed me like they were little ducks following their mother.

In some ways, it was true, and that terrified me.

⸻⸻

Chapter 20 • Special

SIENNA’S POV

Having your Familiar nearby was always reassuring-a constant sense of protection. But having him with you in the library was far from comfortable.

The students kept staring at Cealum. He was a giant horse. Maybe even a little bit frightening to some. He glared at anyone who looked my way.

I couldn’t say I didn’t understand their stares. I would’ve been staring as well.

“This horse only brings us unwanted attention,” Noxiana remarked, flipping the pages of a book she wasn’t even reading.

“And you bring trouble to Sienna by breathing the same air as her,” Cealum snapped back.

They acted worse than children.

I ignored them and opened another book I’d grabbed from the shelf about demons. Despite being our greatest enemies, there was surprisingly little written about them. At least, not in the sections students were allowed to access.

All that was mentioned about them concerned their appearance. Their skin was always described as charcoal from head to toe, their eyes as glowing with an intense, almost neon light, and their ability to teleport anywhere they wished.

But Noxiana wasn’t fully charcoal. She was different. Special .

But why?

“Hey! You’re still reading books?” Odessa’s voice tore me from my clouded mind.

Today, she had her hair up in a ponytail. It suited her. I could see her freckles better.

“Hello,” Cealum greeted her.

Odessa smiled at him. “Oh, hi. You’re already back. You must’ve missed Sienna so much,” she pouted. “I wish I had a Familiar , too.”

Although Cealum was a horse, there was something different about his face every time Odessa was present.

“I can protect you. You don’t need another Familiar .” Cealum’s tail whipped.

Odessa drew closer and caressed his forehead, her voice softer. “Thank you. I appreciate that.”

Cealum whickered.

Noxiana scoffed beside me, shaking her head. She held a book about angels. Our history and abilities were written there by our ancestors who died in the first war with demons. It didn’t seem like she was actually reading, but her gaze lingered on the sketches, studying them closely.

“Noxi?” I whispered.

She snapped her gaze at me, stunned. “I thought you didn’t like that nickname.”

I shrugged. “It’s more practical, and it gets your attention, doesn’t it?”

“Yes.” The corner of her mouth curved up. “Especially when you say it.”

I nudged my elbow into her shoulder and focused on reading again.

“You wanted to ask me something?” She leaned closer, and I slightly flinched.

“Umm, maybe, but I don’t think you will give me an answer. So, let’s pretend I have no questions.”

She sighed. “Speak your thoughts, or I’ll get angry.”

I turned to her, looking around to be sure nobody was close enough to hear what I was about to ask.

“In the book, it says all demons have fully charcoal skin, but you’re… different ,” I whispered.

She watched me with a serious look. I almost regretted speaking.

“This stupid book is correct. Demons don’t have pale skin. They are charcoal. I’ve wondered myself why I look the way I look, but my father never wanted to tell me. The other demons surprisingly never asked me about it. It’s my biggest life mystery.” She said, and glanced into the book I was reading.

Her father was a monster. He didn’t care about his own child. He made her something she wasn’t. That’s why she was here now, where she didn’t belong.

“Do you have any theories?” I asked, and our eyes met.

“Even if I had some, they wouldn’t matter because I don’t care. I don’t want to know.” She closed my book without breaking our eye contact and tossed it on the light wood desk.

Odessa suddenly appeared beside me, her arm wrapped around mine. Noxiana glared at her.

“It’s only sixteen more days until the ball. What’s the plan?” Odessa wondered, but I was frozen, looking at Noxiana’s tense shoulders and her fingers curled into fists.

“Sienna?” Odessa poked the tip of my nose.

I tore my gaze from Noxiana. “Umm, for now, there’s no further plan since we don’t know how the ball will be organized. It will be difficult and risky. But there’s no other choice.” I replied.

Odessa blew out a breath and rested her head on my shoulder. I ignored Noxiana’s burning gaze.

What is her problem again?

“I cannot believe we’re saving this creature. We should hand her over to the Elders . It is the wisest plan.” Cealum chimed in.

Noxiana cackled, and a shiver coursed through my being. “There’s no we, horse. You have no part in it. Don’t poke your huge nose into our business,” Noxiana seethed with an eerie undertone-the demon way of speaking to other beings.

A little later, Odessa had to leave for her class, and Cealum went along with her, claiming he had something to take care of. I had no clue what a Familiar could do in the angel academy, except for eating and being by my side.

As I stayed alone with Noxiana, it suddenly felt awkward. There was a tension in the air that wasn’t there before. It was heavy and dangerous.

I didn’t like it at all.

I gathered the books I needed for studying, and we left the library. The entire time, Noxiana remained silent. Far too silent for my liking.

She was looking only straight ahead, her hands folded under her chest.

Whatever was on her mind meant nothing good.

⸻⸻

  ![](https://img.wattpad.com/f9752006b751cb8087752322116179dc4f3666e8/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f3956436f695338366c6532585f773d3d2d313535323735343337392e313837363534323639366233393237623236343339383831323539332e6a7067)

Chapter 21 • Control

NOXIANA’S POV

I almost committed a murder.

When Odessa touched Sienna, I lost my head. I had to think about that annoying horse and not to shove Odessa on the ground and strangle her.

But then she did something even worse.

She lay her head on her shoulder, and Sienna said nothing. She was so comfortable with it. I couldn’t believe my eyes.

Yet when I touched her, she slapped me or yelled at me. The reason for that was obvious. She was simply disgusted by me.

To her, I was still just dirt.

It won’t be too long until she gets rid of me anyway.

After she grabbed a few books from the library, we walked to class. I ignored her on our way there. My mind was too crowded. I usually understood my emotions-mostly because I barely had any-but when I was with her, they were all foreign.

I didn’t recognize myself or my behavior. Why did I suddenly get hot inside when she was being touched by others? Why did I want to see her naked when we bathed?

I didn’t have such thoughts with other girls.

So why couldn’t I stop myself from getting closer to her?

I ran my fingers through my hair, forgetting they’re not really mine. Sienna was paying attention to her brother, who was too eager to teach a bunch of unskilled angels. With such lectures, they would never succeed in a fight.

My father is the worst man in the world, but he was right about one thing.

You can’t win without a skill.

I sighed, stretching my neck to one side. Every muscle in my body was tense. I hadn’t had a proper workout in weeks.

If our little plan failed, and it came to a battle, I’d get destroyed.

I turned to Sienna, watching as she was intently taking notes. Her handwriting was elegant. I didn’t even know how to write properly.

My eyes lifted to her shoulder, revealed when her hair slipped over to the opposite side. The dress she was wearing revealed quite a lot of her skin. I noticed the little details. The pink undertone of her skin, a couple of freckles, the hollow of her throat, and her defined collarbone.

A being like her should be worshipped by all her classmates.

“Why are you gawking at me?” She blurted out without looking at me.

I smirked. “Because I can, little angel.”

Her eyebrows knitted, but only for a split second. “Pay attention. There’s nothing interesting about me.”

“Oh, I’d very much disagree,” I murmured, my gaze lingering on her lips. “Besides, it’s not like I need to pay attention. I’m not a student.” My voice dropped to a whisper as I leaned toward her ear.

The quill slipped from her hand.

I snatched it and put it behind my ear, snickering while Sienna frowned at me.

✧

After class, we went to dinner, and the moment we stepped into Sienna’s room, I shifted back into my true form.

The feeling of short hair was familiar again.

Sienna began to read her books, and I rested on the bed with my hands behind my head. The matter about my skin clouded my head. I had always wanted to know why I wasn’t fully charcoal. But only my father knew the truth, and I’d never get the answer from him. Especially not now.

He probably thought I was dead.

After two hours, Sienna finally set her books on the nightstand and braided her hair. She got into bed with her back turned to me, as always.

And even after an hour had passed, I couldn’t sleep. I had too much on my mind. Things that shouldn’t be there in the first place.

I silently got down from the bed and looked through the small window outside. No one was there, except for some rabbits and ducks.

Even they were freer than I was.

I glanced at Sienna, and all of a sudden, I couldn’t go back to bed. My body betrayed me.

With light steps, I moved across the room and sat on the edge of her bed. A long strand of her snow-white hair rested against her cheek.

I stretched my hand and gently brushed it aside to have a good look at her. The moonlight shone through the small window, directly on her face, making her complexion paler. Only her rose-colored lips held any pigment.

I leaned over her, supporting my weight with my arm. She looked like one of those flowers in the garden. Extraordinary. Too bright. Too perfect.

So out of reach.

My eyes moved to her arm-that arm Odessa was carelessly holding as if she owned her.

Without thinking, the back of my hand skimmed her arm. Her skin was like a cloud, like silk. But even such comparisons weren’t enough.

I glanced at her shoulder, which was covered by her nightgown, and with a gentle move, I pushed it down.

The sound of her thumping heart startled me. Her hand was suddenly on mine, her eyes wide and afraid. Afraid of me.

I snatched her hand and pinned it against the pillow. I was so dangerously close to her. Only our clothes were creating the barrier between our naked bodies.

She fixed her gaze on me, thinking I’d pull back. But I didn’t. I couldn’t.

Her hand thrashed against my hold, but I was stronger than her. I lowered, our noses only inches apart. She took a sharp breath.

I cocked my head, studying her reaction. The closer I got to her, the more her life was in danger.

She was breathing rapidly, her eyes full of panic, but my head was filled with forbidden images. Images that should never exist.

Her free hand pressed against my mouth, and I almost laughed. She was scared I was thinking about kissing her.

I smiled against her palm and drew her hand away. I caged her fingers in my iron grip and brought her index finger to my mouth.

I held her gray eyes in a chokehold and stuck out my split tongue, wrapping it around her finger, my cold saliva cooling her warm skin.

All the tension in her face vanished, and the quick beat of her heart only intensified.

I didn’t think she had ever experienced something like this. Nor would she again.

I wanted my tongue all over her skin. I wanted not only to touch her, but to taste her. Her finger alone was tempting. I had to stop myself before I did something that could never be reversed.

But I kept staring at her collarbone and her exposed shoulder, seeing how her eyelids fell and how deeply she was breathing.

Was she tempted as well? Was she wondering how I tasted?

No, I already know her opinion about me. She’d never think of me that way. And I’m only aroused. Any other girl would satisfy me.

I exhaled, letting go of her fingers. She blinked, and for a split second, I saw confusion in her eyes.

I ran my hand through my hair, messing it up. I was staring at her with a serious face when I said, “I’ll keep my distance.” I paused. “But only because I know I can’t have you.”

I sprang from the bed and teleported to mine. Sienna was left frozen, staring at where I was a second ago.

I awakened something that should’ve stayed buried.

⸻⸻

Chapter 22 • Avoidance

SIENNA’S POV

I was picking up some herbs and not because I needed them. I had to get away from my room. From her.

What she did last night was now irreversible. I couldn’t forget about her fingers grazing my skin. I couldn’t forget the way she pushed the sleeve of my gown down, and I certainly couldn’t forget about her tongue wrapped like a snake around my finger.

She did the most unthinkable things. How was I supposed to act in front of her now?

I wasn’t asleep enough to miss the feeling of her sitting on the edge of my bed. I thought, perhaps she wanted to talk about something. But when her skin grazed mine, I knew that wasn’t the case.

What did she mean by having me? I shook my head. No, I don’t want to know.

I strolled through the garden, going in circles because I had nothing else to do.

The good thing was that the ball was coming up soon, and I wouldn’t have to wander around campus anymore. Noxiana would go back home, and I’d act as if she never existed.

“What are you doing?”

I halted, my heart jumping out of my chest.

I whirled to find Noxiana standing behind me. She looked almost bored. And if nothing had happened between us.

“I like to take walks,” I replied, clutching my dress.

She showed no reaction. As always.

“Oh, I almost thought that you were avoiding me.” She said and took a step forward.

I took a step back. “Avoiding you?” I nervously laughed. “There’s no reason for that, is there?”

A long silence followed. I almost thought she wouldn’t answer.

“Yes, you’re right. There’s no reason. And shall never be.” She stated in a dull voice.

My smile turned into a thin line. Even though her face was unreadable, there was something about her tone that revealed everything hidden within.

“We should talk, Sienna. Inside.” She beckoned to the dorm.

No matter how much I didn’t want to be alone with her, I knew it was inevitable.

She left first, and I followed a few steps behind. Her walk was still unmistakably masculine, and the dress did nothing to soften it-if anything, it made it worse.

The door barely shut behind me when Noxiana returned to her true form. She rotated the chair and sat, watching me. I kept standing by the door.

She was dressed in black pants and a loosened black shirt. The clothes looked pretty human-like.

“Who gave that to you?” I asked.

She looked startled by my question. “This?” She pinched the shirt with her fingers. “Odessa. She said she accidentally colored it black, but I feel like she was lying and just wanted to give it to me.”

I nodded.

There was something about the way she sat and talked. It was with so much dominance and harshness. For a moment, I wanted to escape from her. From the weird feelings spreading within me. But that would be childish.

“I see. That does sound like her.” I said and moved my hands behind my back, taking a deep breath. “What did you want to talk about?”

Her gaze drifted away.

“About my escape.” She started. “If something goes wrong, which I feel like it will, I don’t want you or Odessa to protect me. If they catch me, let me die.”

I froze. I didn’t want her to get caught. That would mean all my healing would go to waste, and the time I spent taking care of her.

“That won’t happen. I brought you here, so I’ll get you out as well. You have my word.”

Noxiana looked at me again. Her amber eyes were glowing. I swallowed hard, recalling last night.

Our eye contact was broken by a knock on the door, or more like a bang.

It was Cealum.

I quickly opened the door that he burst through, glaring at Noxiana.

“Are you that bored, horse, that you can’t stop but follow my every step?” Noxiana said, and chuckled, her head leaning against her palm.

“Stop fooling me! You knew I was following you; that’s why you teleported all around the campus.” Cealum seethed, and I turned to Noxiana with a frown, my blood boiling.

“You did what?”

Noxiana shrugged, and her shirt slipped off her shoulder, exposing her bare skin.

I averted my eyes.

“No one saw me. I’m not that reckless to get exposed. Stop underestimating me.” She snapped.

Cealum’s tail whipped sharply, and it hit my back.

“Oh, I sincerely apologize, Sienna.” He bowed to me and focused on Noxiana again. “You demons have recklessness mixed in your rotten blood. I won’t let Sienna get punished because of you.”

Noxiana abruptly got up from the chair and kicked it. The chair shattered on the ground into many pieces.

The playfulness in her facial expression was gone, replaced by fury.

“I won’t listen to the same whining. You’re afraid I’d murdered everyone in the academy? Do you believe I have such a desire, horse?” Her words cut like a freshly honed blade.

“And you,” she pointed at me. “You just let him downgrade me. I thought you were better than that. But I was wrong.”

She disguised herself and stormed out of the room, shutting the door with a loud bang.

Cealum nickered. “Oh, heavens. She’s so dramatic.”

I wanted to agree, but Noxiana was right. She had done nothing to any of us, and we had always treated her like a piece of garbage.

Especially me.

“Cealum.” He turned to me. “From this day on, I don’t want you to talk to her in such a manner.”

He shook his head slightly before he answered, “As you wish, Sienna. Your wish is my command.”

✧

Noxiana was gone for the whole day. I tried not to worry, but it was impossible. Countless thoughts ran through my mind while I was alone in my room.

Did someone catch her? Had she accidentally turned to her true form, and had someone seen her?

I couldn’t stay still and do nothing. Sitting on my bed would eat me alive.

I put on my white cloak as it was a bit chilly outside and exited my room. It was already evening, with fireflies dancing in the air. They were so magical. I almost wanted to stay only to watch them.

But the thought of Noxiana not seeing them reminded me of why I was outside in the first place.

I rushed to the fountain first, but she wasn’t there. I checked the garden, and there was no trace of her.

She couldn’t be by the lakes because the girls were having a bath.

I headed inside the academy, looking through the classrooms, until I wandered to the very back, where a small gym was located.

Only men were usually exercising there.

In the corner stood a punching bag and a few weights crafted by the Elders . They pulsed with a faint white radiance, casting gentle light across the room.

And Noxiana was sitting on a bench, lifting the weight with one of them.

I silently strode toward her, pulling the cloak off my body. She detected my presence too quickly.

“Were you here the whole time?” I said when our eyes met. It was less intimidating because she was disguised.

She set the weights down and manspreaded, her forearms on her legs.

She wasn’t wearing a dress, but the kind of clothes men wore here. White satin pants paired with a sleeveless vest, neatly tucked into a wide belt that wrapped around her waist.

“Yeah, I was here. I discovered this place a few days ago, but I didn’t dare to come here.” She said. “But since the men are sleeping, I had to take my chance.”

I nodded, moving closer to her. “Listen, about what happened…I want to say, I’m sorry.”

Her eyebrows rose. “Can you repeat it one more time? I can’t believe you’re apologizing to me.”

I rolled my eyes. “N-No, one time was plenty.”

Noxiana laughed and got up, her arms folded. “Since we are here now, and no one will come here, we should continue where we left off the last time.”

The last time? When she licked my finger?

I took a step back. “I-I can’t. I mean, we can’t…let’s just go back.” I stuttered.

She frowned and took a step forward. I looked at her, my heart beating fast.

“Like I said, nothing will happen between us, little angel. I prefer demon women. And after we part ways, you won’t even remember my name.”

Even if a hundred years passed, I’d never forget your name.

“And,” she continued. “I was talking about the combat moves.”

My cheeks heated. I should’ve known what she meant.

With a smirk, she drew back and stretched her arms. My fingers curled into fists. How can she mess with me like that?

“Sure. You never taught me anything useful, even though you’re always bragging about your fighting skills.” I said, my hands on my hips.

Noxiana abruptly turned to me, her eyes narrowed. “Well, we didn’t have much time, and the horse always interrupts everything.” She scoffed.

I yawned. “Sounds like an excuse to me.”

With the speed of light, she was behind me, and my legs gave under me as she kicked me in the back of my knee.

I fell on my knees, but she wasn’t done with me. With a light push on my back, I collapsed on the ground, and she shifted on top of my back.

She straddled me and brought my wrists together in an iron grip.

I was panting, my knees and back hurting. I shouldn’t have provoked the devil.

“I didn’t even use my energy on you, princess. If every fight were as easy as with you, my life would be brighter.” She laughed.

I exhaled with rage. “Aren’t you supposed to teach me something? Why do I have the feeling you only wanted to see me on the ground?”

Her fingers brushed the hair from my face, and her blue eyes glowed.

“I just gave you the most useful lesson, Sienna. Because you weren’t focused, I used that distraction. You crumbled to the ground, and I won.” She cocked her head. “But I must admit, I do like seeing you helpless on the ground. At my mercy.”

I was breathing so heavily, I thought my lungs had stopped working.

“I think I know why you enjoy this so much. You can’t do this with your demon women, right? So, you enjoy torturing what you can .” I said, my voice sharp.

She was silent for some seconds, holding my gaze in hers.

“Of course. Demon women are not weak. They can all fight and destroy their enemies.”

“But fighting skills are not everything, Noxiana. Just because you have strength doesn’t mean you win.” I argued.

Noxiana chuckled and twirled me around, hovering above me with her hands planted on either side of my head.

“Really?” She spoke. “I’d only believe it when you prove it to me, but we don’t have the time for that, do we?”

I looked away. “No. No, we don’t.”

We returned to the dorm, each retreating to our own side of the room and lying down in silence. I couldn’t fall asleep. Not because of the pain in the back of my knees, but because I wanted to prove to Noxiana that my Healing power was good enough. That I didn’t need to know how to kill someone with my fists or legs.

I was stronger than she could ever be.

After all, I brought her to Heaven, didn’t I?

⸻⸻

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Chapter 23 • Bridge

NOXIANA’S POV

A week had passed since I was alone with Sienna in the gym. Everything stayed the same afterwards, well, except for us.

I kept coming to classes with her, besides the flying lessons. The teacher, whose name I forgot, didn’t seem convinced of my supposed injury.

The time was sacred.

It was not only he who could get more suspicious of me. But thankfully, we only had one more week until the ball and my getaway.

During no-school time, Sienna spent her time with her brother. She said she missed him, and I believed her, although I never experienced the feeling of missing.

Yet, I knew she wanted to get away from me. Because of my impulsiveness. Because of what my running mouth had said.

I spoke too much.

I don’t even have a clue why I said such things. I only wanted to have a taste of her, to know how she felt, but since when was I interested in an angel? Since when did I start having such thoughts about Sienna?

I’ll admit it. I’d always liked her figure and her hair, but this time the feeling was different-heavier. For the first time in centuries, dread coiled inside me.

The only other time I’d felt that cold weight was when the demons learned that I was a girl, when my life’s worth turned to nothingness.

I’d rather cut open my chest and tear the non-beating heart out than experience it for the third time.

I got up from the bed. I was exhausted from always lying down, and strolled to the front door. As I was about to open it, Odessa shoved it open.

She almost slammed it into my face.

“Where are you going?” She asked, a wide smile carved on her face. Her hair was braided into two braids, a couple of free curls framing her face.

I sighed and folded my arms. “Frankly, I don’t even know myself. I’m tired of these same plain four walls.”

She giggled and grabbed my forearm. “Then come with me. I’ll show you something.”

✧

Odessa dragged me farther west, and I didn’t protest. I’ve never been that far from the campus.

Sienna was probably cautious. Odessa, on the other hand, didn’t care one bit.

Although I was strangely irritated by her, I didn’t particularly hate her.

We walked up the spiral concrete stairs, hidden in a round loggia that was supported by tall columns that were wrapped in blooming cherry blossoms. Once we had ascended all the steps and reached the very top, a long bridge lay ahead of us.

“Come!” She exclaimed. “There’s a river underneath it.”

I trailed after her until we stood side by side in the middle of the bridge. The sun hung low as it set, and birds chirped loudly in the sky. When I glanced down at the river, it shimmered like thousands of tiny diamonds.

“What do you think? Isn’t it beautiful?” She said, waiting for my reaction.

I squinted my eyes. It was all too much for me. The sun was stabbing at me with its heat. I was used to being a bat, hiding in the darkness until it swallowed me whole.

“It’s…nice,” I replied.

Odessa laughed. “Nice? That’s a weak word to describe this place. If I could, I’d stay here forever.”

I turned to her, leaning against the concrete balustrade handrail. “Really? Are you not interested in the human world? You only want to stay here and never discover the vast world?”

“I’m not familiar with it. I don’t want to go somewhere I’ve never been. It…scares me.” She replied, staring into the distance.

I leaned forward on the handrail, resting my weight onto my forearms, and as I looked down, I caught sight of her moon-white hair.

Sienna was by the river with Rowan. They were talking about something. But they were too far for me to hear them.

“The human world is like a combination of Heaven and the Underworld. With its ugly and beautiful parts. It’s a shame you’re scared of it because of the ugly parts.” I said, staring at Sienna and at how her hair swayed in the light breeze.

Odessa whipped her gaze at me. “I didn’t want to offend you, Noxi. Even though I was terrified of you when we first met, I realized you deserve a chance. Every being does. You’re not that wicked.”

I smiled at her. “You wouldn’t say that if you knew of my past.”

Neither one of us spoke. We gazed at the river, and then Odessa finally noticed Sienna and Rowan.

I watched her as her cheeks reddened.

“Do you like him?” I wondered.

She shrugged. “It’s more like a crush. I’m not good enough for him. He’s a son of-” she slapped her mouth. “That’s a secret. I can’t tell you that.” She giggled.

I nodded. “Secrets are important. They should not be revealed. But I don’t think he’s that special. He looks like a chicken.”

Odessa slapped my hand. “Don’t say that! All the girls in his class have a crush on him. He’s like a god.”

My eyebrows snapped together. “Him? I don’t see the appeal.” I murmured.

Odessa shook her head, and I smirked. When my eyes strayed back to Sienna, she was no longer accompanied by Rowan.

Hayes stood next to her.

My fingers clutched the handrail, and my posture straightened.

What does he want from her?

“Oh, it looks like Hayes likes Sienna. He admires her power.” Odessa pointed out. “Maybe he will lose his interest in Aria soon and focus on Sienna.”

I huffed. “Who does he think he is? If I wanted, I could break his bones into tiny bits and break his neck with a single snap. It would only dangle from his spine.” I burst out, imagining it.

The silence reminded me I was talking to an angel, not a demon.

When I turned to Odessa, she looked slightly horrified.

“Oops, sorry. I got carried away. You know, the demon tendencies.” I said with a grin.

She punched me gently in the arm and laughed. “Don’t scare me like that, Noxi. That was truly horrifying.”

“Don’t worry. I wouldn’t hurt you.” I focused on Hayes, my eyes narrowed. “But I can’t say the same about him.”

Sienna raised her head, looking at the bridge, slowly noticing us. I waved at her, smiling.

She didn’t reciprocate it.

She frowned.

“Look at her face! I think she’s jealous because she’s not with us.” Odessa giggled and hooked her arm with mine.

At first, I wanted to pull away, but when I saw the surprised look on Sienna’s face, I was oddly satisfied.

⸻⸻

Chapter 24 • Moment

SIENNA’S POV

When Rowan left, I was ready to find Odessa and spend time with her. I didn’t want to return to the dorm. I didn’t want to be alone with Noxiana.

Perhaps I was childish. I didn’t care, though.

Then, I sensed someone behind me. I didn’t turn; I stayed stoic. I knew who it was.

Hayes walked to stand beside me, arms folded, and set with confidence.

“What are you doing here alone? Where’s your little friend?” he asked.

I stared at the flowing river. “Odessa has other friends besides me. She doesn’t need to be with me all the time.”

Hayes chuckled. “I didn’t mean Odessa. Your other friend, who is a bit feisty.”

I turned to him. “Why are you interested in her?”

Hayes shook his head with a small smile on his lips. “It’s you I’m interested in, Sienna. You should join us more. Be where you belong.”

My brow arched. “Where do I belong?” I asked. “And where exactly is that?”

Hayes’s eyes flickered above my head and back to me. “Of course, with the more powerful angels. Odessa is a beautiful girl, but aside from potions and herbs, she’s not special. And Laira doesn’t seem to have talent for anything. But she’s excellent at glaring, even from a long distance.”

He smirked and looked up again. I followed his gaze because I was irritated. Once I caught sight of Odessa and Noxiana together on the bridge, I was even more aggravated.

Why are they together?

“Seems like you were left out. But don’t worry, Aria will gladly replace your friends,” Hayes said, and shortly after, left.

I didn’t move my gaze from Noxiana. She was leaning against the bridge handrail, and Odessa was waving at me.

Even though I was sure it was Odessa who dragged her there, deep inside me, I was disappointed.

And the reason why I was feeling this way tasted bitter on my tongue.

Yet, when Odessa linked her arm with Noxiana’s, I couldn’t just stand there and watch them.

I took a deep breath and unfolded my wings. I flew slowly upward, touching the surface of the river with my toes.

It was so pleasantly cold.

When I was above the bridge, I carefully landed next to Noxiana. She watched me the whole time, her eyes curious and sharp.

“What were you talking about with Hayes?” Odessa asked.

“Shouldn’t I ask you two the same thing? Why are you here?”

Noxiana leaned off the handrail and towered over me. “Why can’t I be here? Is this place specifically not allowed for demons?”

I straightened my posture, peering into her fake blue eyes. “Don’t be cheeky with me, Noxiana. Why can’t you simply answer my question?”

She cocked her head, that annoying smirk on her face. “And why do you answer a question with another question? Not fair, little angel.”

Inside, I was fuming. She just makes fun of me. She doesn’t care at all that she’s the one who’s in danger here.

“We only have a week left until the ball, and you’re risking your identity. You’re reckless.” I scoffed and took a step away. The tension was suffocating.

Odessa shifted between us. “I apologize, Sienna. I brought her here without thinking. But I thought she was bored there. You wouldn’t like to be closed up in the same room all day long.”

I laughed. “Actually, I would. If it’s because of my safety, I’d stay there even for months.”

Noxiana’s eyes narrowed. “You must be pretty angered because we interrupted your little moment with that ugly head.”

My eyes grew wide. “What? You think I was having some moment with him?”

She folded her arms, with no expression on her face. “What else was it? He’s obviously interested in you.”

Fury curled through my veins like fire, scorching through my whole body.

“Well, he isn’t. And even if he was, what is it to you?” I said.

Noxiana stiffened, but her jaw clenched. I had no idea why she was acting like this. She told me her taste is in demon women. I was her enemy. She hated me.

Then why did she look at me in such a-

“You can do whatever you want. I don’t care. But it could complicate my escape if you started dating him, and he’d follow your every move. Just wait until I leave. You can hold back, right?” she said, but the tone of her voice wasn’t nonchalant. It was disappointing.

I raised my chin and put my hands behind my back. “Of course, I can. It’s only a week, and we will never see each other again.”

Odessa looked shocked by our interaction. Worry flickered across her face, though she didn’t say a word, and Noxiana’s breathing was uneven, no matter how hard she tried to conceal it.

The sooner she gets out of my life, the better.

⸻⸻

Chapter 25 • Greenhouse

NOXIANA’S POV

I haven’t spoken to Sienna properly in three days. We avoided each other as best we could. Every time she glanced at me, she was frowning, and every time I looked at her, my jaw clenched.

When we attended the classes, we sat next to each other to avoid suspicion, but the tension between us was palpable.

Odessa and even the horse were trying to make us converse, but neither of us yielded.

I couldn’t stand her. I didn’t want to live in the same room as her. But I didn’t have a choice.

Three days ago, when Mr. Allyn kept wondering about my wings, Sienna spoke up for me. He wanted to know why my injury was taking so long to heal.

That was when Sienna stepped beside me and touched my shoulder.

She told Mr. Allyn I didn’t want to talk about it in front of everyone because I felt embarrassed. The lie somehow succeeded because he brushed it off, and I returned to my room.

I knew the next time he’d ask me about it, he would really want to see my wings, which I didn’t possess. Thankfully, the next time wouldn’t happen because we only had a few more days until the ball, and he’d never see me again.

I got ready for the next lesson, which was about herbs and potions. I cleared my throat and put on a smile as I walked through the dorm door, trying to walk like a lady.

As I passed the fountain, Odessa appeared by my side.

“Hey.” She greeted me, smiling.

“Hello, to you too. You seem much too happy about studying. What happened?” I asked, and together we walked inside the academy.

“I was talking to Rowan. He’s so dreamy and beautiful.” She replied, fidgeting with her fingers.

I shook my head as we strode through the stone archway. “You should forget about him. He’s a teacher. He won’t give you a chance.”

Odessa huffed. “Just because something is morally wrong doesn’t necessarily mean it’s bad.”

My eyebrows snapped together. “So, you believe me being here isn’t bad?”

She came to a halt and turned to me. “I believe it was fate. You were meant to come here for a reason. Even if we don’t know its meaning.”

We didn’t speak again as we made our way to the classroom, where the air hung heavy with the fragrance of herbs and the soft, ghostlike trails of potion smoke.

The classroom was smaller, but it had all kinds of plants and flowers planted in small pots. It almost looked like a greenhouse because of the glass ceiling. The sun had its clear way through.

In the middle of the room was a long, rectangular stone table arranged with all the necessities for brewing potions and test tubes.

I’d attended this class only three times, and each time proved how awful I was at it. I usually kept to myself, saying and doing little because I barely knew what an angel was supposed to understand.

At any other time, I’d find Odessa annoying, but she was convenient. With her by my side, nothing could go wrong.

I picked my seat at the beginning of the table, and Odessa settled beside me. Right then, Sienna came in with the horse, and once again, I was amazed they let him in like royalty. He was nothing special-just a horse.

Of course, every student in the room turned their way.

They were all jealous. They’d never have their own Familiar . It was rare for something like this to even happen in the first place.

The only available seat was across from me. Sienna reluctantly sat down, and the horse stood next to her, swinging its tail.

He has no shame.

“Hello, Odessa.” The horse broke the unnerving silence.

“Hi, Cealum. Looks like we’re the only ones in good spirits today.” She remarked.

I frowned at Odessa, but she was suddenly looking at the ceiling.

“And where were you anyway? I was looking for you.” Sienna spoke, ignoring my existence.

Odessa giggled, not meeting her eyes. “Well, I was talking to the teacher.”

Sienna arched a brow. “Were you with Rowan? You still have a crush on him?”

The horse’s tail stopped swinging.

“I’m sorry. It’s not that easy to stop liking him.” Odessa whispered and leaned against her fist, pouting.

Sienna faintly smiled. “I’m not against it, but Rowan is a complicated being. And he just healed from a heartbreak. I don’t want him to break your heart.”

Odessa nodded, sadness carved in her facial features. “I know. But you can’t stop liking someone in an instant. It’s not possible. Only time will help me move on.”

Sienna glanced at me, but I was already looking at her, so our eyes met. It only lasted for a split second, though, because she started to prepare certain herbs, her eyes blinking way too quickly.

“Sienna, if you don’t mind my absence, I have to go somewhere. I’ll come back in the evening.” The horse chimed in.

He didn’t look as happy as before.

I smirked.

Karma hurts.

“Sure, go where you need to. I’ll be waiting for you.” She replied.

Before the horse left, he cast a glance at Odessa. I couldn’t believe a horse could look devastated, yet he did.

Was he truly interested in her?

Can a horse be in a romantic relationship with an angel?

Probably not.

I focused on the assignment in front of me. We were practicing making potions that could make you feel relaxed.

There was a lot of lavender in it. I hated the smell of it.

“What’s going on? Are you feeling sick?” Odessa asked.

I shook my head and pinched my nose.

A small chuckle escaped Sienna’s mouth.

I shot my gaze up at her, but there was no sign of her even smiling.

✧

Later that evening, once I’d escaped Odessa and her attempt to teach me how to weave a dandelion crown, I slipped out of the dorm and rushed outside.

I watched the full moon, shining so brightly I almost thought it would burn me.

It reminded me of the time I was sitting by the waterfall, gazing up at the moon and stars. I was free, and in solace.

But the sound of someone fuming tore my eyes from the moon. I turned to the garden and saw someone sitting there.

I edged forward, my gaze sharpening. That broad silhouette was unmistakable.

I sighed and silently sat down next to him.

“Don’t tell me you’re going to cry,” I said, looking ahead.

Cealum nickered. He was sitting on his butt, legs spread in front of him. He didn’t look like a horse at all.

“Of course not, demon. Why would I shed tears? I’m a protector, not a crybaby.” He mumbled, whipping his tail sharply.

I folded my arms, staring at the garden that was lit by fireflies. “Were you having a tantrum the whole day? What are you, one year old?”

He fumed again. “Watch your tongue, darkness. You have no idea why I am like this. It’s none of your business.”

I abruptly turned to him. “I’m not blind or stupid. It’s about Odessa.”

The horse stared at me, his eyes wide. “How did you know? What kind of black magic did you use?”

My eyes narrowed. “I’m a demon, not a cottage witch living in the forest. I have eyes. I noticed you’re always looking at her.”

He snorted and looked away. “You’re the last person who should know. But since you’re leaving soon, I shall let it be. Just keep your mouth sealed.”

I grinned. “Don’t worry. I won’t utter a word to her. It’s not my business.”

“Perhaps, if you weren’t my enemy-” he paused. “No, it still wouldn’t work.” He finished in a playful tone.

And despite us being the greatest enemies, we could still sit side by side without slicing our throats.

The old me wouldn’t believe it.

How can two completely different beings tolerate each other? My father always said we couldn’t achieve agreement between angels because they were always prideful.

I can’t say he wasn’t right.

But he was wrong about so many other things. I managed to stay in Heaven for a whole month without getting slaughtered by our enemies.

After all, they weren’t as bad as I thought they would be as a company.

Insufferable? Yes, they were. But still, Sienna took care of me. She healed me, and now I could take my sweet revenge on the demons who thought they got rid of me.

⸻⸻

Chapter 26 • Preparations

SIENNA’S POV

The preparation for the ball was, to say the least, chaotic. We were decorating the campus, classrooms, and even the staircases. Everything that could be seen.

And even though it was tiring, all the students were shining with happiness.

Why? Because every parent would return to meet their children. It wasn’t something you could miss. The ball was extremely important.

Even my father-one of the Elders -would have a speech.

You cannot refuse an invitation from the Elders . Every single student and guardian had to attend the ball.

I was happy for Odessa because she hadn’t seen her parents in over a year. Once you graduate from the academy, you have all kinds of duties. That’s why most students barely know their parents.

That’s why I barely know my mother. I haven’t seen her for years. I don’t even remember her face.

My mother and father were no longer together. My mother always wanted to be on duty, and my father would prefer if she were at home, taking care of the household.

But my mother didn’t want to be useless. She didn’t want to sit around the house and do nothing when she could help those in need.

I always supported her. I always stood by her side.

But I sometimes felt the sorrow. I lost the memory of her gentle voice when she sang me lullabies to sleep. Her voice was no longer recognizable. I only recalled her silver hair, pulled up into a messy bun with a couple of braids at the sides, and those longish bangs that fell over her eyebrows.

I couldn’t wait to see her after all this time.

I rushed toward the ballroom, arms full of candles pressed tightly to my chest. There were so many that I had to carefully balance my steps to keep them from crashing to the ground.

When I reached the door, it was closed. I let out a frustrated sigh and thought of a way to open the tall arched door without using my hands.

If the door handle weren’t so high, I would use my foot, but in the process, all the candles would fall to the floor and crack.

I glared at the door, fuming.

If I catch the person who closed the most important door today, I won’t be gentle.

“Do you need my help?”

I froze.

She was standing right behind me, towering over me as she always does.

We haven’t spoken to each other for days. And every time I wanted to talk to her, I got furious. And not only that.

The closer the day of her escape got, the more irritated I felt. I just wanted to shed my skin like a snake and get out of this uncomfortable feeling.

“Yes, I need help,” I muttered, and Noxiana’s arm stretched to the door handle. For a moment, we stayed still, her body pressed against mine.

She was breathing heavily, and so was I.

She took a sharp breath and opened the door with a quick swing. I dashed inside toward the table with golden candle holders scattered across it.

I put the candles on the table and sighed. They weighed a lot more than I anticipated.

I looked around, staring at the chandeliers for far too long. They were golden and grand. Same as the ballroom with its intricate gold designs all over the tall pillars and walls.

When I looked down, I noticed my reflection in the white marble tiles. I was a complete mess. My hair was braided, but a couple of baby hairs were sticking out, and my face was sweaty.

“Slacking already?” Rowan’s voice alarmed me.

I rolled my eyes. “It’s such chaos. I haven’t stopped walking since I opened my eyes. Don’t blame me for a little break.”

He folded his arms, looking a lot more muscular than I remembered. “Tomorrow is important. We can’t forget about anything.”

I leaned against the table, seeing Inara cleaning the chair my father would sit on. She looked much better. There was more color in her face.

“I know. I’ve been hearing about it all day. No need to remind me.” I scoffed.

Rowan laughed and put his hand on my shoulder. “I’m going back to my assignment. Good luck, little sister.”

He took off, heading to Inara, who immediately smiled at him. He smiled at her as well. I’ve never seen him smile like that before.

Since when did they get so close?

Before I turned back to the candles, my eyes caught Noxiana and Odessa cleaning the window together.

Odessa was telling her something, and Noxiana kept nodding. She looked slightly annoyed.

I abruptly spun and started placing the candles into the holders.

No time for distractions.

“Need help with it?” Hayes asked, standing suddenly next to me.

I took a deep breath. I wasn’t in the mood to talk to him.

“It’s alright. I can handle a couple of candles.” I said, not looking at him.

“Have you considered what I said by the bridge?”

I halted and slowly turned to him. “Hayes, there was nothing to consider. It was enough that you offended my friends. I don’t tolerate such behavior by anyone.” I said.

He arched a brow. “Are those friends of yours so much better than us? You will regret this decision one day, Sienna.”

I smiled. “I won’t regret anything. Now, please return to your assignment and stop bothering me.”

I wouldn’t be so awful to him if I weren’t exhausted and angry. But I didn’t feel bad at all.

Hayes and Aria believe I can be bent as they like. But I’m not a little girl anymore. I won’t be bent by anyone.

When I was finally done with the candles, I strode to the windows. Odessa was alone, and Noxiana was nowhere in sight.

“Tomorrow’s food will be enough payment for today’s work,” Odessa claimed.

I laughed. “Hopefully, our plan will go smoothly, and we will eat until the evening.”

Odessa stretched her arm across the window, wiping it. “Don’t worry. Our plan will work.”

Just as I was about to argue, Noxiana entered the ballroom with Cealum. My eyes widened.

Since when were they okay with walking together?

“Such a shame they didn’t get along sooner, huh?” Odessa nudged me on my shoulder.

Yeah, a shame.

When the silence went on for too long, I noticed Odessa gazing at Rowan, who was gently leaning against Inara.

Odessa’s smile was lopsided.

“Is…is your brother dating Inara?” She asked in a whisper.

“I have no clue. But for now, I don’t think so.”

She blinked quickly. “For now.” And with a sudden spin, she rushed out of the ballroom.

As I was about to run after her, Cealum got in my way.

“Let me handle it, Sienna.” He said with a look of certainty.

My shoulders relaxed, and with an exhale, I nodded.

For a moment, I doubted if it was the right choice, since I was her best friend, but maybe she needed the comfort of someone else. Someone who wasn’t connected with Rowan.

Noxiana moved beside me, her hands folded.

She huffed.

“What?” I asked.

After a second of silence, she replied, “Because of feelings, you get destroyed. It’s best not to feel. That way, you have no weakness. You won’t feel agony.”

“I disagree.”

Noxiana looked at me with a raised brow.

“You need to feel all those emotions to get stronger. It’s only after you feel sadness and happiness that you’re truly prepared to live because the world isn’t only sunny. It also gets clouded, with the most horrifying thunderstorms.” I said.

Noxiana shifted in front of me, looking at me as if my words were the most ridiculous thing she had ever heard.

“I’ve never experienced the world as ‘sunny,’ and I felt sadness, little angel. It’s better to feel nothing than everything. And you’re only ignorant because you haven’t been through such pain. You’re pathetic.” She seethed and stormed from the ballroom as well.

I almost staggered to the ground if it wasn’t for the pillar that held me back.

Am I really pathetic?

I’ve been through pain. I know what it’s like to fall into the abyss. Who is Noxiana to tell me that I have no acknowledgment of deep pain?

And when did she experience pain? She’s a demon. She shouldn’t feel anything. She should only be heartless and bloodthirsty.

Yet, she isn’t.

She isn’t any of that. She isn’t heartless.

Maybe that’s why she hates to feel because she feels too much.

⸻⸻

  ![](https://img.wattpad.com/2a2e993cd89542a9d7a3eb627fa0847d8000c455/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f435f7065516d79395778684b45413d3d2d313535383337393232332e313838306532373761366138633835383930303532313036363931302e6a7067)

Chapter 27 • Gate

NOXIANA

’S

POV

Day D.

When I woke up, Sienna was no longer in her bed. It was nothing unusual. These past few days, she has disappeared early to avoid talking to me.

But today was important. It was the day of my escape.

Shouldn’t we go over our plan again? And talk through what could go wrong?

She simply left me in the dark.

But I won’t stay there because she wishes to.

I got dressed, letting my hair be messy, and headed outside.

As I predicted, the angels were preparing for the ball. The women were running around with makeup and accessories. And the men gossiped about how drunk they would get.

I narrowed my eyes and stormed to the garden. Some of my classmates tried to have a chat with me, but I completely ignored them. I was over this act. I was over this place.

As I reached the garden, I found Sienna hidden between the tall trees. She wasn’t dressed in a special gown. Her hair was still braided from sleeping.

I quietly approached her. She didn’t seem to acknowledge me until a couple of seconds later.

When our eyes met, I recognized every single worry in them. She was afraid. Afraid that our plan wouldn’t work.

“W-What are you doing here?” she asked, looking up at me.

I drew closer, but not too close. “I’m done with your silent treatment. Since this is the last day we spend together, we should go through the plan again. Just to be sure,” I said.

She was staring at me with a small crease between her brows.

I cleared my throat and sat down on the grass next to her.

“So, after the guests come and my father finishes his speech, we will walk you to Heaven’s Gate,” Sienna explained.

I nodded. “But we have to be careful. Aria is suspicious of me. She can’t follow us.”

“Yes, I know. Cealum will take care of her. And Odessa and I will take care of the guards,” she said.

I arched a brow. “You will seduce them?”

She shot me a death glare. “Seduce? I wouldn’t go that far. We will just…distract them enough for you to slip through the gate.”

I scoffed. “Distract them? And in what way?”

Sienna sighed. “What is your problem now? Do you have a different idea? They will be drunk. They won’t think clearly.”

I turned sharply to her, and with a swift move, my hand stretched to the trunk of a tree that her head leaned on.

She flinched.

“Since you’re so intelligent,” I began. “Tell me then if you believe I’m thinking clearly right now.”

She studied my face, glancing at my arm next to her head.

Sienna opened her mouth slightly, and a couple of nasty thoughts crossed my mind.

“No, you aren’t.” She choked out. “But we can’t make any mistakes today. Focus only on your escape, Noxiana.”

My gaze dropped to her mouth.

Easier to say, harder to do.

“Alright. Let’s get ready then.” I gulped and abruptly got up.

✧

As soon as we returned to our room, Odessa barged in. She carried different types of dresses, shoes, and accessories.

They were all too bright for me.

“Let me take care of you two. It will be fun.” She said, smiling, but I could tell she was still hurt after what happened with Rowan.

“I won’t wear white again,” I murmured, my arms folded.

Odessa giggled and sat down beside me on the bed. “Don’t worry. I have a special dress for you.”

I smirked and gently elbowed her.

When I raised my eyes to Sienna, she was slightly frowning.

Odessa cleared her throat and looked at Sienna. “Take the dress I got for you, and go change in my room. My roommate is not there.”

Sienna glared at her. “Why me? Why do I have to go somewhere else? This is my room.”

Odessa sprang to her feet. “Go. Right. Now.” She emphasized.

Sienna rolled her eyes and grabbed her dress. But in that haste, I didn’t even notice which one was hers.

“Now.” Odessa punched me in the shoulder. “It’s time for you to dress up.” She said, handing me the dress she picked for me.

It was deep blue with slight hints of velvet green, covered in silver dots that reminded me of stars. The sleeves were puffy and off-the-shoulder, showing much more skin than I ever did before.

This is the last time I’ll be dressed like this. I can survive it.

“Get out. I won’t change in front of you.” I said, and Odessa laughed.

“Who said I wanted to see you naked?” She grinned and rushed out of the room.

When I changed into the dress, she came back and styled my hair with a hairpin. I stared at myself in the mirror, and I wished I could see myself in my true form like this. With long hair and pale skin. Not the rotten skin and badly cut hair.

“Wow, you’re so pretty, Noxi. Let me do some fun makeup on you.” She laughed and grabbed my chin. She drew some blue eyeliner and put a bit of red lipstick on my lips. Her genuineness caught my eye as I watched her intently. She wanted me to look pretty.

Before she was done, I grabbed her wrist. “Thank you, Odessa. For giving me a chance. For being nice to me. I hope you won’t miss me much when I’m gone.”

She blinked quickly, trying to suppress the tears. “Of course, silly. Don’t thank me. I-I liked you. You’re so different.”

I smiled and let go of her. “I know. I’m amazing.”

Suddenly, the door opened, and Sienna walked in, and the entire conversation with Odessa had left my mind because seeing Sienna was like seeing my favorite waterfall.

She wore a vanilla-colored dress with off-the-shoulder sleeves that fell around her arms to the wrists. The bodice of the dress looked like a corset, sewn with golden threads that hugged her slim waist.

Her chest was revealed, showing off her delicate décolletage with a golden necklace in the shape of a harp.

Her long, snow-white hair fell in loose waves, the crown of it decorated only by a tiara set with a bright white diamond, like a raindrop resting on her forehead.

“Oh heavens! You look like a goddess!” Odessa exclaimed, rushing to Sienna.

“That’s an overstatement. I don’t look special.” Sienna laughed.

But you do. You look so…

“Noxi, say something! Isn’t she the most beautiful angel you’ve ever seen?”

I gulped, a knot in my stomach.

“You don’t look bad,” I uttered.

Sienna looked disappointed, but what else should I have said? It’s not like my compliments would matter.

“Ugh, don’t listen to her. You look beautiful.” Odessa touched her hair.

“You don’t look bad yourself.” Sienna pointed out.

I raised my gaze quickly, meeting those gray eyes. My nails were digging into my palm, sweat tickled my spine, and my jaw was clenched.

“I-I have to go change.” Odessa stormed out of the room.

We were left alone. The room was shrinking, and the air was suffocating me.

Oh, for the devil. I need to hold myself back. I’m leaving this place anyway.

“We should say our goodbyes now,” Sienna announced.

I nodded and got up, closing the space between us.

“I survived. I don’t even know how I managed to live in this place, but if it wasn’t for you, I’d be dead.” I took a deep breath. “So, I’m grateful for that.”

Sienna laughed, and my hand twitched.

“Interesting way to indirectly thank me, but I accept it. I’m glad I could save you, Noxiana. Now you can go home. Where you belong.”

Sienna was breathing quickly, her chest going rapidly up and down.

“Yes, now I can go home, and you can fully focus on school and other…things.” I managed to say. “Farewell, little angel, my enemy.”

“F-Farewell, Noxiana,” Sienna whispered, staring into my eyes.

For a moment, I wanted to smash her against the wall and have a taste of her, as I would never see her again, but if I did that, would I be able to leave?

I don’t think I’d be capable of that.

I have to let go.

Let. Go.

✧

Together, we exited the room, not saying another word to each other because there was nothing else to say.

Guests had already come, and I’ve never seen the campus and garden so full of people.

Odessa was already changed to a forest green color dress, and Cealum was next to her. They walked toward us, and I noticed Aria by the fountain in her light pink dress. She was glaring at us. Her puppy, Hayes, had his arm around her shoulders, staring at her chest.

I laughed to myself. How could he be a better choice for Sienna? He was worse than a horse’s shit.

“Your father will have his speech soon. We should go to the gate and make the guards relax a little bit.” Odessa whispered, analyzing our surroundings.

Sienna nodded. “I know. But first, we need to meet our parents. If they start looking for us after the speech, we will be done.”

Odessa’s eyes widened. “Oh, right! I have to find my parents. I almost forgot about them.”

Sienna smiled. “Go. We will meet in half an hour by the gate.”

As soon as Odessa left, a guard with darker skin and long dreads headed towards Sienna. She didn’t seem startled by him, but just in case, I moved closer to her.

“Evien! Where have you been? I haven’t seen you in weeks.” Sienna exclaimed and hugged him.

I had to look at the horse to shift my anger somewhere else.

“I’ve been busy, my lady. I can finally relax today and catch up with you.” He said.

Sienna drew away, looking at him. “You lost weight. You need to take care of yourself.”

He rolled his eyes as if she had scolded him more than once. “Don’t worry yourself with such trivial matters. I’m doing fine.”

“Alright. I’ll believe your words.” She laughed and looked around. “Did you…did you see my mother?” She asked, and her fingers were fidgeting.

Evien’s smile turned into a thin line. “Your father told me to tell you that your mother will be late. She’ll probably return in the evening.”

Sienna’s smile disappeared together with her good mood. She must have missed her mother. She probably couldn’t wait to see her, and I wondered, what kind of feeling was that? To miss your mother.

“Well, that’s okay. I’ll see her when she returns.” She said to Evien, her voice full of sadness.

Evien faintly smiled. “I have to go now, my lady. See you later.”

“Of course. Enjoy the ball.” Sienna’s fingers dug into her arm, and I almost thought blood would start pouring out of it.

I watched her intently as she was looking at Evien, who was walking away, and I saw through her mask. She was so fragile, so vulnerable.

She was good at pretending that everything was fine when, in fact, it never was.

⸻⸻

Chapter 28 • Escape

SIENNA’S POV

We hid behind the trees, watching the guards, who clearly had no interest in guarding the gate.

Noxiana and Cealum were far away from us. It was better that way.

I looked at Odessa and nodded. Together, we stepped out from behind the trees, each holding a cup of wine laced with the sleeping herbs Odessa had mixed.

There were only two guards stationed at the gate, which was convenient. There wouldn’t need to be more because it’s not like anything had happened between demons and angels in years.

The Elders believed no demon would try to break into the Academy. Yet they still created the wards.

Odessa walked toward them first, with her hips swaying seductively.

I put on an act as well and started curling a strand of my hair around my index finger while staring at the guards.

They noticed us in an instant, and they weren’t displeased at all.

Their gazes lingered on our faces and traced the lines of our bodies, and once we were close enough, they grabbed us by the waist and pulled us close.

I swear I heard rustling in the bushes. It was either Noxiana or Cealum.

Still, I continued in my act.

I leaned against the guard and shifted the cup to his mouth. He didn’t hesitate and began to drink.

Odessa succeeded, too. Both guards drained their cups to the last drop, leaving nothing behind.

We stayed close to them until their fingers at our waist started to loosen. We smirked and dragged them to the forest.

Odessa said she didn’t know how long the affect of the herbs would last. So, we didn’t waste any time and hurried to the ballroom.

My father was already giving his speech, and everyone was intently listening to him. He sat in the throne chair, his long silver hair falling over his chest, dressed in a simple white gown with a gold belt. The rest of the Elders were standing by his side.

“This academy is your home. But I know that when you see your parents, you may feel differently-because they are your home too. Still, they are warriors who dedicate their lives to helping those in need, and for that, we should all be grateful,” my father said with a smile.

“One day, after you finish your studies, you will become like them. You will face danger and confront beings who appear kind on the surface but are hollow and withering within. This academy exists to prepare you for that.”

The room was filled with people’s clapping, but all I heard was Noxiana’s mocking laughter.

“Thank you all for coming. Enjoy your time with your families. Eat and drink until you can’t!” My father laughed, and for a second, our eyes met.

It had been a long time since I last spoke to him. Not since the situation with Cealum had happened. But we were never close.

Some angels moved to dance to the sound of the violin, the harp, and the piano. Others stayed standing to chat with their families.

I looked at my father again, half-hoping he would seek me out, but he was already deep in conversation with the other Elders . It wasn’t as if we could’ve spoken openly anyway. Yet, he could’ve sent Evien to ask me to meet him after the ball.

I averted my gaze.

Neither of my parents wants to talk to me today, the only day when we have a chance.

“The wine has a weird taste,” Odessa said, and I tore myself from my thoughts.

She handed me another goblet, and I took a sip.

She was right. The wine tasted strange.

“Perhaps the Elders picked the wine from the time the Heaven was created, and now the wine expired,” Noxiana whispered, holding a goblet as well.

Cealum whickered, and I narrowed my eyes.

“What?” Noxiana asked, staring at me.

“Since when did you two start to get along?” I wondered and folded my arms.

She and Cealum looked at each other abruptly and then quickly looked away.

“Sienna, don’t say such scary things,” Cealum answered.

Noxiana coughed and took a sip of the wine. “Yeah, I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

I shook my head and stared at the angels dancing together in their colorful gowns. It looked so magical.

I imagined dancing like that with my mother and father. We would be happy in my imagination. They would have a happy marriage, and they would care about me the most.

I’d be their number one priority. Not the Academy, nor duty.

In the crowd, I noticed Odessa’s parents. They looked so good together. They looked like a real couple.

“How was the reunion?” I asked Odessa and grabbed a cake from the table behind me.

“Frankly, I thought it would be better.” She replied, and I turned to her.

“I hadn’t seen them in so long, but when we met, it was like meeting strangers. They changed, and so did I.” She finished with a sad smile.

I wrapped my arms around her after chewing the cake. “I understand you better than anyone else. But at least you talked to them. My mother is late, so I might not even see her, and my father ignores me.”

“Our parents are awful, aren’t they?”

I let out a breath. “They are.”

I looked behind my shoulder, seeing Cealum drinking the wine that was on the table, and I suppressed a laugh.

“How can you drink it? It tastes weird.” I whispered.

Cealum froze and slowly raised his eyes at me.

“Is that Noxiana’s goblet?” I asked. “And where did she go?” I examined the ballroom, but she wasn’t anywhere.

“I think she said she needed to go outside. She looked like she was dying.” Cealum nonchalantly announced.

My eyes grew wide. “What?! Why did you let her go outside alone?”

I stormed out of the ballroom, pushing my way through the crowd. Odessa and Cealum were right behind me.

I sprang open the first door and then another door until I was in the hall. I rushed outside and found her immediately, slouched against the wall.

“Nox-Laira, are you okay?” I asked, and when I moved closer, her disguise vanished.

“Noxiana, what are you doing? Change back!” I whisper-shouted, shielding her with my body.

Odessa and Cealum appeared beside me, doing the same thing.

“It must be the wine,” Cealum claimed.

I was already suspicious of it. It had a weird taste. Too unusual.

“But why does it only effect her and not us?” I asked, my voice full of panic.

“I have no clue, Sienna. However…” He nickered. “Someone is watching us.”

My heart began to hammer against my chest.

“We need to get Noxiana out of here immediately. The gate won’t be unguarded for too long.” Odessa said with urgency.

I wasn’t sure what to do first. Even a small move could cost us everything.

As Noxiana glanced up, her amber eyes turned brighter; I had never seen them so angry.

“This…was a trap.” She muttered.

I frowned. “What do you mean by that?”

She smirked, breathing heavily. “The wine.” She met my gaze. “It weakened my power to disguise. I can’t change, no matter how much I want to.”

Cealum grunted. “There is no way out. Someone is waiting for us to reveal what Noxiana is. If we move, it’s over.”

Odessa began to pant, and I almost didn’t feel the ground beneath me. Was this really the end? After everything we went through?

“Sienna?”

And in that moment, when I heard my name in that almost unfamiliar voice, time seemed to stop.

It was my mother’s.

“Your daughter is hiding someone, Mrs. Illyndorn. And it’s not a celestial being.” Aria’s voice cut through.

Of course, she’s the one behind this. She’s the one who destroyed our plan.

I didn’t look at my mother. I just couldn’t. Not in this situation.

“Sienna, who is that?” My mother asked, and I hugged Noxiana, facing back to my mother.

I acted with the utmost disrespect. I was always a nice and kind daughter. But who was my mother? I didn’t know.

Odessa covered Noxiana as well, and Cealum faced my mother. With the two of them, I felt stronger.

If they weren’t with me, I’d crumble.

“Soon, guards will arrive. If you give up now, there will be no punishment.” Aria exclaimed.

I wished my mother wouldn’t see this.

My betrayal.

“I refuse,” I stated out loud, staring at Noxiana. Her amber eyes never left my face.

“Just go.” She whispered. “Be the hero who captured the enemy.”

I shook my head. “No, this wasn’t your fault. I won’t let you get punished for my doings.”

Aria cleared her throat, and I heard the clatter of approaching guards, their armor loud in the distance.

“Sienna, what do we do?” Odessa asked with her shaky voice.

I kept my gaze on Noxiana, whose face was unreadable. There wasn’t an ounce of emotion on her face.

It was almost like she had to hide them all away; otherwise, she’d burn.

“Teleport us to the gate,” I said quietly, as the footsteps of guards were getting closer.

She frowned, and I was glad to see some emotion finally cross her face. “I’m not strong enough to teleport us all. I can only teleport you and me.”

“What about Cealum and me?” Odessa wondered.

“Since the guards aren’t aware of Noxiana’s escape, we need to take advantage of that. Hold them here for now, and then come to the gate if it’s possible.” I said, and before I hugged Noxiana tighter, her snake pupils dilated, and something about it tickled my stomach from the inside.

“I’ll find you, Sienna. You’re my-” My mother suddenly shouted, but Noxiana teleported us to Heaven’s Gate, not letting her finish the sentence.

We crumbled to the grass in a split second. I got to my feet and helped Noxiana to stand.

“Let’s go,” I said, and dragged her to the gate. We didn’t have time to waste.

“What will happen now?” She asked, breathless.

I gulped. “You will leave and live your life.”

She pulled my hand, and I halted.

“No, I meant what will happen to you, Odessa, and Cealum?” Her grip on my hand was like iron.

I exhaled. “I’ll deal with it. Now, you have to cross the gate before they all get here.”

She stared into my eyes as if she was ready to spill every possible secret she had been hiding.

“Please, this is the only chance you can leave. There won’t be another.” I pleaded.

She broke our eye contact and stormed to the gate, holding my hand still.

Her short hair jumped in the air, and the dress was floating around her body each time her legs moved.

I gripped her hand tighter, and her skin was so soft and cold.

When we reached the gate, I was breathless. Noxiana was standing straight, staring at the portal.

It looked like her power had fully recovered.

“So, I just need to walk through it, and I’m gone?” She asked, her gaze studying the gate.

I still held her hand. She didn’t seem to notice.

“Yes, after you cross it, you need to be ready to teleport. There are no steps. It was designed for angels only.” I explained.

She took a deep breath and squeezed my hand. My eyes slightly widened.

“Thank you.” She murmured. “For saving my life.” Her hand slipped away from mine.

It felt like an arrow shot through my chest. I wanted this feeling gone, but I didn’t know how. By each passing second, it grew larger.

The sound of hooves alarmed me. Odessa was flying along the storming Cealum.

“Goodbye,” Noxiana said when I turned to her. It was the first time I’ve seen her smile with honesty. It wasn’t a smirk or a grin. It wasn’t fake. It was her true smile.

She turned toward the portal and stepped closer. When she reached out and slipped her hand through it-and I realized one more step would mean she was gone forever-I threw myself at her, and together we tumbled through the portal.

Nothing mattered anymore. My mother would frame me for hiding a demon, and my father would never consider me his daughter again. And Rowan would never forgive me for taking care of a demon when he was the one who tried to catch them in doing their crimes.

I had no future at the academy, no matter how much I liked the school and classes.

We were falling in the air, my arms wrapped around Noxiana, who was completely stoic. I almost thought she’d let us die.

The fall was happening too quickly for me to save us with my wings.

We were just a moment from hitting the ground when Noxiana safely landed on the grass, after teleporting us to the waterfall.

To the waterfall where we met, where it all began.

She held me by my shoulders, staring at me as if I were a horrifying creature. Her fingers were too strong, too deep in my skin; I thought she’d crush my bones any second.

The waterfall was loud, and the birds were flying low. Even the clouds weren’t doing us any favors.

It looked like it would rain.

“You’ll crush me if you don’t stop.” I laughed nervously.

She was still frozen, probably trying to figure out the reason why I came down with her.

“Please, let go of me,” I said, and grabbed her wrists.

She suddenly shook me by the shoulders. “Are you fucking crazy?! Why would you leave Heaven? Why would you throw yourself at me when you know there’s no way for you to get back? Why, why, why?!” She shouted into my face.

“And how could I stay there?!” I snapped. “I hid and healed our enemy! Even if they didn’t see you properly, Aria must know what you are. My mother saw me protect you. It’s over for me. Don’t you understand?”

After a couple of ragged breaths, she let go of my shoulders with a yank, and I almost stumbled back.

She whirled back to me, staring into the sky. “So, now you want me to take care of you?” She chuckled in her deep voice. “I’m not a caretaker.”

A pang shot through my chest.

“I never expected that from you. I’ll stay here, and you’ll return to the Underworld as you should.” I said, and folded my trembling arms.

Noxiana stayed quiet and gazed farther into the sky. She only broke the silence after several minutes.

“Fucking. Hell. I can’t believe this shit.” She exclaimed, and I looked up, seeing Odessa flying down, Cealum right behind her, with his unfolded, large wings, which I didn’t know he possessed.

Well, until now.

⸻⸻

Chapter 29 • Mortals

NOXIANA’S POV

“I should drown in the waterfall, and perhaps after constantly going through the process of dying… I’d die,” I muttered, lying on my back and staring at the cloudy sky.

It was already raining, and I felt uncomfortable. I was still wearing the dress, and it didn’t match my true form.

I was irritated to death.

Wait, no. Scratch that. I was infuriated.

I had to keep breathing slowly so I wouldn’t start choking Sienna. She had no idea what she had done by escaping Heaven.

The guards would start looking for her everywhere, and I would be the one to blame. An abductor. The first demon to capture an angel.

I never wanted to have anything to do with Heaven or angels. I only wanted to be alone. In peace, finally.

“We can’t stay here for too long. They will find us.” Sienna said.

I huffed. “Didn’t you just hear me? And going against angels is the beginning of a war. I don’t want to have any part in it. You can go wherever you want. I’m staying here.” I closed my eyes tightly, hearing Sienna’s quick heartbeat.

She stepped closer and sank to her knees before me. My eyes flew open, and I tilted my head to look at her.

Rain soaked her face and chest. With each breath, her breasts tightened, and the temptation to have a small touch was high.

“Noxiana.” She began, and our eyes met. “Help us just for a few days.”

I should’ve said no. I should’ve teleported to a different place, but I wasn’t capable of that. Of leaving her. Of saying no to her.

I swallowed hard. “Only for a few days,” I managed to say, noticing she was shivering slightly from the cold rain.

I need to steal some hoodies and jackets.

“Well, I don’t think it’s a good idea to go with her anywhere. The guardians will find out where she will take us.” The horse suddenly chimed in.

I teleported in front of him in a split second, and Odessa, who was next to him, flinched.

“Since you’re depending on me in the human world, you’d better watch your tongue, horse. You can’t stay here without me.” I stated, peering into his eyes.

“She’s right. None of us ever explored the towns.” Odessa muttered into his ear.

I smirked, and the horse grunted.

Sienna appeared beside me, shivering more than before.

We have to leave now.

“I just don’t understand why you would follow us. You could’ve blamed me. Now, you can’t return as well as I.” She said, her voice shaking.

“I’m your Familiar . I go wherever you go.” The horse replied with authority in his voice.

Odessa cleared her throat before speaking. “And I’m your best friend. We are in this together, Sienna.”

I watched her as she faintly smiled, her teeth chattering.

Alright, I’m over this.

“This feels like a family reunion, but we don’t have time for that.” I burst out. “I can teleport us together, but nobody can accidentally see Cealum…like that.” I looked up and down at him.

His tail whipped. “Like what? The most magnificent horse you’ve ever seen?”

My eyes narrowed. “Yeah, that’s not the word I’d use. Humans would be quite alarmed if they saw you like this.”

He was silent for some seconds.

Then he took a step back from us, and the half-moon on his forehead began to glow brighter until a mist whirled around him, and instead of hooves, he had feet and human legs.

When the mist dissolved, Cealum’s human form was finished. His straight black hair with white ends was long, and his eyes shone white as in his horse form.

He wore a dark purple, high-collared shirt layered with silver chains across his chest, cinched at the waist with a wide belt, as thin chains and charms fell from it in disarray . Loose black pants were neatly tucked into the lace-up boots,

and he had far too many rings decorating his fingers.

Cealum’s thin eyebrows were white and shaped upward. His jaw was sharp, and his ears were a bit pointy. He looked like a delicate, dark flower. Not a Familiar .

Sienna’s eyes grew wide, and Odessa’s jaw hung open, her eyes fixed in a state of mesmerization.

I sighed. “You can gaze at him when we get to a safe place. Grab onto me right now.”

Sienna was the first to touch me. It was so automatic, I held my breath for a moment. Cealum was the second, with his index finger barely touching my arm.

Odessa was last because she couldn’t stop gawking at Cealum. I think she had realized that she was drawn to men with long hair.

“Finally,” I muttered, and immediately teleported us to a house, where I once lived.

I called it abandoned, but I restored it. Well, not entirely. Only the interior.

I’m an excellent thief. I stole many things, and no one had caught me.

The exterior of the house was white. Although it wasn’t entirely modern, it wasn’t an old house.

The windows weren’t cracked, and the roof was in good condition. There were some imperfections, but I didn’t mind them.

Its location was in the woods. That’s why I chose it in the first place. Even if someone passed by it, they wouldn’t try to enter due to its state.

From the outside, it looked like it would crumble to ashes if you even tried to open the door. But the truth was, the house wasn’t that weak.

It wasn’t a big house. It was quite small. Only two rooms for sleeping, a kitchen, a living room and a bathroom.

I teleported us into the middle of the kitchen, and they all quickly stepped back, scanning the room.

“Where are we?” Sienna asked, staring at the white kitchen cabinets that were full of dust.

“I lived here before. It’s not really my house, but no one stays here, so I occupy it.” I explained.

Cealum chuckled, with folded arms. “Of course. How nice of you to steal what isn’t yours.”

I smiled. “Since you’re in your human form, we can finally have a fight that I longed for. I hope you’re as good at throwing punches as you are at speaking.”

I rolled my eyes and drew closer to Sienna. Her teeth didn’t chatter anymore, but she was still cold.

“I’ll go and find some clothes and food. There are only two beds, so we have to share.” I said, and Odessa froze.

Cealum looked suddenly so interested in what I said.

“I want to stay with you, Sienna! It’ll be the first time we’re going to be roommates.” Odessa exclaimed.

Sienna laughed and nodded. “Sure. We will share the bed.”

Hell, I want her to stay with me .

I put my hand on her cold shoulder, missing her warmth. “I’m a great roommate, though. Don’t you think so?”

Her eyes immediately found mine, and I saw what I thought I wouldn’t. She was scared.

I didn’t blame her, though. I didn’t even trust myself.

“You had her for a month, Noxi.” Odessa chuckled, and Sienna’s eyes grew wide.

“What?” She exclaimed. “I was hiding her. Nothing else.”

Odessa awkwardly smiled. “I-I think we should check out the rooms.” She snatched Cealum’s hand and dragged him to the back of the house.

Cealum never looked happier. It was strange to see him smile.

Sienna folded her arms and looked at the floor.

“I’ll go now. Don’t go outside, okay?” I disguised myself in a different body, this time. The woman was a bit older with short blond hair and green eyes.

Her fashion sense was a bit more unusual, but at least the brown coat was long.

Sienna stared at me. Half surprised, half horrified.

I took the coat off and hung it on her shoulders.

She stared into my eyes, looking for me inside the disguise. I was glad I wasn’t in my real form.

The dress she was wearing was just too distracting. Too tempting.

“I’m sorry.” She whispered.

“What for?”

“I ruined everything. This isn’t how it was supposed to be, but I was too-” She paused.

“Too what?”

“I-I don’t want to talk about it right now. Just come back quickly.” She pushed me slightly and pivoted after Odessa and Cealum.

I took a deep breath and teleported to the last store I remembered stealing clothes from. The store was still there, but the clothes changed.

The trends change too quickly for me to remember them.

I should take many warm clothes.

It was the beginning of autumn. I just hoped they’d find a way to return to Heaven before the winter because only someone like me could withstand the icy cold weather.

Someone who doesn’t have a pulsing heart.

⸻⸻

Chapter 30 • Decisions

SIENNA’S POV

The bedroom was in a lot better condition than I’d imagined. Of course, the curtains had to be washed, the bed mattress had to be exchanged for a new one, but other than that, the furniture looked nice.

It was made of dark brown wood, the same as the bed frame. The walls were painted white, but in some places they were peeling off. It didn’t matter, though.

The most important thing was the fireplace on the opposite side of the room. It was already chilly outside, and I was still wearing the golden dress.

There was nothing to cover myself with, except for the coat Noxiana gave me.

I sat down on the edge of the bed and hugged myself tight. It had been more than an hour since Noxiana went shopping.

Many thoughts crossed my mind. What if she were caught? What if the guards or guardians found her? What if she only acted strong but was actually weak, and her disguise didn’t function very well?

I clutched my knees, breathing heavily.

“What have I gotten myself into?” I whispered, pushing back the tears.

Everything was over. I couldn’t go back and face my parents even if I wanted to. I couldn’t be in the same class as everybody else, knowing I committed a crime. I betrayed them all .

“Sienna?”

I looked up, and Odessa was standing behind the threshold.

“Are you…okay?” She asked and came inside, taking a seat next to me.

I shook my head, clenching my jaw to keep me from crying. “I’m alright. It’s you I’m worried about.”

She touched my hand, and it felt like she stabbed me in the heart.

“I made a choice. You didn’t beg me to come with you. I wanted to go,” she said, caressing the back of my hand.

I sighed. I couldn’t believe what she was saying.

“And what future will you have now? If they don’t find us, how can you have a life here?” My voice rose. “Didn’t you want to become a teacher?”

Odessa froze, her hand on top of mine slightly trembling.

“I-I can do something else-”

I abruptly stood up. I was no longer cold. My blood was boiling.

“No! You can’t do something else. We’re not humans. We are not meant to do a human job!” I shouted, no longer holding back.

“We can adapt! Look at Noxiana. She’s a demon, but she lived here. If she can do it, we can as well.” She stood up, her forehead creased.

My fingers curled into fists.

She was so wrong. Beings like us can’t adapt to mortals.

I leaned against the wall, staring at her through my eyelashes. “Why did you follow me? Tell me the truth.”

Her eyes shifted to the old wooden floor that was creaking with every move.

“Do I have to explain it to you?” She sighed. “You’re my family, Sienna. Even seeing my parents again after years apart, I felt no sadness over their coming departure. But when I saw you go through the portal, my heart was almost crushed to pieces. How could I stay in Heaven without you?”

I began to pant. Her words were too heavy. I felt even more responsible for her than before.

Yet, at the same time, I realized how much she was like a family to me. Without her, I’d have been so depressed over the years.

“I think we both need to clear our heads. I’ll stay with Cealum tonight.” She added and rushed out of the room, completely ignoring Cealum, who stood by the door.

He folded his arms and let out a sigh as he leaned against the door frame. “I’ll go after her. Don’t worry, Sienna. You both made difficult decisions today. It was expected you would fight.”

I nodded. “You’re right, but still, I don’t want to fight with her. I’m just afraid.”

“I’m here. I’ll protect both of you.” He said softly, and I found a bit of comfort in his words. “Rest for now.”

He left the room at an unhurried pace, and I sat back down on the bed. I laced my fingers together, ready to form a plan.

There has to be a way for Odessa to return. I’m doomed, but she still has a chance.

A black mist suddenly bloomed in front of me, and when I blinked, it vanished. Noxiana stood there in her true form, arms laden with bags.

When I quickly wiped the tears away, the bags dropped to the floor with a loud thud .

“What happened?” She asked and took a step closer.

I didn’t want to talk about it. I was weak, and Noxiana was right. I was never strong or clever.

“Nothing,” I replied. “You found some clothes?”

She stared at me silently for a few moments before she grabbed one of the bags and handed it to me.

I opened it and pulled the clothes out. The first was a white sweater with a…hood? Then many long-sleeved t-shirts and warm-looking pants that were a bit too big for me.

“I hope I got your size. You can try them on.” Noxiana said, eagerly looking at me.

They weren’t exactly my size, but it’s better than nothing, I suppose.

“Could I wash up first? Is there a lake nearby?” How could I dress in new clothes when I was dirty from the rain and mud?

Noxiana chuckled.

“What’s funny now?” I frowned.

“Humans don’t wash themselves in lakes. Come with me.” She headed to the hallway, and I instantly followed her.

We turned right, and then left for another door. Noxiana opened it and strode inside. I peeked in, seeing that the whole room was covered in white tiles.

In the corner was placed something that looked like a bucket meant for horses. However, it was made from a different material, and it was taller.

“Humans wash in a bathtub. I fixed the water, so you can have a warm bath.” Noxiana informed me.

I came closer, studying it. “So, I just wash inside of it?”

“Yes.” She smirked. “After you’re done, just let the water drain. If you need a towel, they are in the other bags.”

I nodded, meeting her eyes. “Alright.”

“Alright,” she repeated.

She turned and walked out the door. I rushed to the bathtub and turned on the water.

I slipped my hand under the stream, and it was cold. Noxiana had said she fixed it, but maybe she hadn’t done it properly.

I let the water run while I hurried for my new clothes and a towel. When I returned, I stripped and wrapped the towel around me. The bathtub was almost full. I just wasn’t sure how I would withstand the cold.

Suddenly, the door opened, and I flinched. Noxiana came inside without asking for permission, of course.

“Can’t you at least knock? What if I were naked!”

She chuckled and closed the distance between us. She was dressed in oversized pants that she had also given me, along with a loose black shirt that was not fully buttoned up.

“Does that thought bother you that much?” Her eyebrows raised.

I frowned, blinking quickly. “What? Yes. I mean, no.” I sighed. “What do you want?”

Her eyes strayed to my body in a glance; I wasn’t even sure she actually looked at me.

“I only wanted to ask if everything is alright. Is the water hot enough?” She asked, staring deep into my soul.

I took a step aside and clutched the towel tighter around my chest. “Yeah, everything is fine. You can leave now.”

She cocked her head to the side and slipped her hands into the pants pockets. “Maybe, we should not waste the water and have a bath together. We could fit with you on top of me.”

I took another step back, my heart racing. “I decline your offer. Now, please go.” The back of my legs touched the surface of the bathtub. I had nowhere to move anymore.

She crossed the distance in a single step and leaned in. I sucked in a sharp breath as she towered over me, her nose just inches from mine.

She dipped her fingers into the water-I heard the faint splash-and her eyes narrowed.

Noxiana didn’t move an inch and brought her wet fingers to my cheek. The cold water smeared on my skin.

I shivered.

“If only a few drops make you shiver, how could you bear the whole tub of it?” She asked, staring into my eyes.

“The hot water isn’t working, so I thought I’d handle the coldness,” I answered confidently.

She didn’t smirk or laugh. She looked disappointed.

“So you would wash in ice-cold water?” Her brow arched.

I swallowed quickly. “Yes. I want to be clean.”

Noxiana shook her head, moved over to the bathtub, and drained the water.

“If you want warm water, you have to turn the tap handle to the other side.” She said as she turned it, and the steam from the hot water began to rise in the air.

“It was my fault for not telling you.” She added and glanced at me.

I nodded. “Oh, I understand now. Thank you.”

“After you’re done, come to the kitchen to eat.” She said, and suddenly teleported away. It took me by surprise.

There were just so many things to learn about the human world. Everything and nothing made sense at the same time.

But as I sank into the bathtub full of hot water, I sighed in relief. I was warm again and could feel my toes.

Maybe staying here won’t be so horrible.

⸻⸻

One of my favorite chapters.

Don’t forget to vote and comment, please <3.

Chapter 31 • Alone

NOXIANA’S POV

After we ate, we started cleaning up the place. It wasn’t in bad condition, but there was a lot of dust.

Sienna and I were cleaning our bedroom, and the horse and Odessa were cleaning theirs.

None of them spoke to each other when we were eating. So I asked Cealum what happened while I was gone, and he explained their fight to me.

A couple of times, it almost looked like they wanted to converse but realized they weren’t on speaking terms yet.

Sienna was frowning the whole time she was wiping the floor, but what made me chuckle out loud was her outfit.

The sweatpants and hoodie I bought her were not the right size. It hung on her like a bag of potatoes.

She quickly turned her head to me, her frown even deeper.

“What’s so funny?” she wondered.

I stopped stacking the wood in the fireplace. “You should relax, or that frown will stay on your precious face for eternity.”

Sienna’s jaw clenched. “I’m not in the mood for your annoying taunting.”

I smirked. “Oh, that I can see very well.”

She rolled her eyes and continued wiping. I stood and walked over to her, then crouched and yanked the piece of fabric from her hands.

“So, you fought with Odessa?” I asked and then began wiping the last dirty spots on the floor.

Sienna was quiet at first, staring at me. “It was the first fight we ever had. It’s odd we’re not talking to each other.” She finally spoke.

“Oh, well, I’m sure you’ll talk again. Friends are like that, right?” I said and stood up.

Sienna did the same and stared at me.

“What? Can’t get enough of looking at me?” I grinned.

She didn’t laugh or roll her eyes. She had something on her mind.

“Did you…” She paused. “Have someone like Odessa? You know, true friend?”

I folded my arms, noticing her hands were hidden in the sleeves. I wanted to laugh again.

“No. Such relationships don’t exist in the Underworld or between demons. It’s rare if it does, but I’ve never met two demons who were like you and Odessa.” I truthfully answered.

Her eyes softened, and I gulped. She was so close to me. Only a few inches separated our bodies. I wanted to press myself against her, to cage her in my arms, and breathe in her delicious scent. I wanted to have her to myself-show her what my split tongue could do.

“W-What are you doing?” Her soft voice tore me from the trance.

She was pressed against the wall, hugging herself, and I was towering over her.

I hadn’t realized what I was doing. If she hadn’t said anything, I might have made a mistake.

“Nothing for now,” I said, looking at her lips and then at her eyes.

She blinked. “W-We should continue cleaning. It’s almost evening.”

“Uhmm.” I sighed and took a step back, and suddenly, I could breathe easier.

The bed was the hardest part to clean. It took us the longest, but everything finally came together once I’d stolen the new mattress.

Money was overrated.

“I hope the fireplace will work,” Sienna said, sitting on the clean bed.

“Of course it will. And even if it weren’t, I’d make sure it worked.” I opened the window to let in the fresh air.

“But you don’t need the heat, right? You’re always cold.”

Looking outside, all I could see were pine trees. “Yes, I don’t need the fire.”

I did enjoy the feeling of a warm body.

But not mine.

“So you’d make sure the fireplace is working only for me?”

I instantly frowned and closed the window. I didn’t want Sienna to be cold again.

“Only for you?” I spun toward her. “We’re sharing the room for tonight?”

Sienna’s brow arched. “I thought that was obvious since I’m not talking to Odessa.”

Oh fuck.

“But there’s only one bed.” I pointed out.

She nodded. “Yeah, I’ll sleep by the fireplace because it looks like it will be very cold at night, and you can take the bed.”

“No.”

“No?”

I strode in front of the bed, hands in my pockets. “The bed is yours. I don’t want to sleep in it.”

“Why are you suddenly so generous? It doesn’t sound like you.” She chuckled.

My eyebrows raised. “And how do I usually sound?”

“Like a cunt.” She smirked, and I was taken aback. I liked this fierce side of her.

I took my hands out of my pockets and leaned over Sienna, my hands beside her body.

“Say that again while looking into my eyes, little angel.”

She fluttered her eyelashes, her eyes avoiding mine.

I scoffed. “That’s what I thought.”

As I pulled back, she caught my forearm, and I halted.

For a moment, I really thought she’d say it, but when our eyes connected, she was silent.

“I’m going to bring some candles, or we will get lost during the night.” I wrenched myself free from her grasp and stormed out of the room.

I wouldn’t get lost, but she would. And I needed to get away from her because I couldn’t think straight. She turned every thought of mine into herself.

As I stepped into the kitchen, I was ready to lunge at the tall man standing by the counter. But then I remembered that Cealum turned into his human form. It was strange seeing him without his tail.

“Are you finished?” I asked and opened the cabinet where I stored candles.

Cealum was drinking water as if it were whiskey. “Yes, we did. It’s spotlessly clean.”

I grabbed six candles and handed him three. “You can light up the fireplace by yourself, right? You don’t need my help, I hope.”

Cealum nodded. “But is Sienna really sleeping with you? Didn’t she change her mind?” His fingers were fidgeting.

I leaned against the counter with a sigh. “We’re not sleeping together . I’m staying on the floor. And why are you asking me this? Don’t you want to spend time alone with Odessa?”

Cealum pinched the bridge of his nose. “I’m scared to even look at her, let alone sleep in the same bed.”

I frowned. “Scared? Why?”

“Because I’ve been dreaming about being close to her for weeks, and since I was in my true form, I knew there was not a sliver of hope for me. How could a girl like her be with a horse?” He burst out. “And now that I can be so close to her, I’m absolutely terrified.”

His words struck me more than I’d like to admit. Even a being like him couldn’t compare himself to an angel.

So how could I, even for a moment, delude myself?

She would never look at me the way I looked at her. She’d never desire me and want me as I did.

I had to remind myself of my place. I was her enemy. The guards were looking for her, and once they’d find her, my delusions would shatter to pieces.

I was not worthy. I had human blood on my hands.

I was just filth.

⸻⸻

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Chapter 32 • Skin

SIENNA’S POV

During the night, I was pretty warm. The fireplace worked well, and Noxiana took care of the wood so there would be enough for the whole night.

She sat by the fireplace, with her forearms resting on her knees. She merely stared at the flames, her mind clouded.

We didn’t talk at all. I had nothing to say to her, and neither did she.

I didn’t know what my purpose should be, since I couldn’t return home. I only wanted Odessa to be sent back to Heaven, so I could have a peace of mind.

But we all knew that was impossible. They all witnessed our escape. They knew we were in this together.

I stripped them of their innocence and turned them into villains.

When I finally closed my eyes and sank into the fluffy comforter, I sensed Noxiana’s eyes on me.

I never felt anyone’s stare like hers. It was like the tip of a knife-sharp and unmissable.

I didn’t open my eyes. Instead, I squeezed them hard and recited the names of the herbs I had learned until I fell asleep.

It was easier to be asleep than to face my consequences.

I’d be a fool if I didn’t admit that I was scared. I was sure Noxiana knew it, too.

How could a girl like me, without any fighting skills, survive here?

If it weren’t for Noxiana, we would have been sleeping by the waterfall, which was not safe at all.

When the morning came, the weather got better. The rays shone through the window, highlighting the dust in the air, making it look magical.

Noxiana was no longer sitting by the fireplace, and the room wasn’t as warm as before.

I got out of bed and rushed to the hall. It was so quiet that I almost thought that everyone had disappeared.

I checked Odessa and Cealum’s bedroom, but they weren’t there. No one was in the kitchen either.

I ran towards the bathroom, and the door was slightly open. Noxiana was in the bathtub, facing me with her back to me.

Her short wet hair clung to her face. She had one arm draped over the rim of the tub, while the other lay submerged in the water.

I’d never noticed that her arms had visible muscles. It was difficult to tell due to her skin color.

She suddenly arched her back and let out a moan.

At first, I thought she was in pain, but then I noticed the movement of her arm beneath the water.

Heat crept to my cheeks; I must’ve been red as a cherry.

I froze in place, unable to look away or cover my ears.

Her moans were so deep, full of agony. I wondered if it hurt to touch yourself. I’ve never done it before.

But as I stood there, watching her thrash in the bathtub, slamming herself against it, I knew the feeling was indescribable.

Her grip on the rim of the tub tightened, and I heard my pulse in my ears. Odessa or Cealum could’ve come in any moment, or Noxiana could have listened to my heartbeat. Still, I didn’t move an inch.

“ Fuck .“ She groaned, her hand moving faster, while my eyes grew wide.

My fingers brushed the waistband, slipping slowly inside my pants, to touch myself for the first time, to feel the same thing as she did.

Heavens.

I was so wet.

But the more I stared at her, at her bare skin, at her frantic movements, I knew I wanted her to be the one to touch me.

To have her long, slender fingers inside me. To stretch me.

I’d committed so many sins that one more hardly mattered.

Noxiana began to tremble, water was splashing to the floor, and my lips parted.

As she reached the orgasm, she panted and repeated only one word.

“Sienna. Sienna. Sienna. S-Sienna.”

That seemed to shatter me from whatever trance I was in.

I ran back to my bedroom and quietly shut the door. I couldn’t even reach the bed before I crumbled to the floor, breathing heavily.

Was she thinking of me while…?

My breasts were more sensitive to the touch, and I had no clue why. It had never happened before.

My heart hammered against my ribs, and I couldn’t even breathe.

I touched my breasts, and the image of Noxiana flashed in my mind. Electricity coursed through my entire being, and the most insane urge pulsed between my legs.

But everything crashed together when someone knocked on the door.

Could it be Noxiana?

I calmed myself down, breathing slowly, and said, “Come in.”

The door opened, and a wave of disappointment hit me. It was only Cealum.

“Is everything alright, Sienna?” he asked, studying my face, which was probably still red. “Why are you on the floor?”

I immediately rose to my feet, dusting my clothes off. “I’m fine, Cealum. Where were you, and where is Odessa?”

“We were outside. Odessa wanted some fresh air,” he replied, a small smile playing on his lips.

Why is my heart still throbbing?

“Oh, that’s great. I just woke up.” I murmured, wondering if Noxiana heard our conversation.

Cealum nodded. “Come eat then. Noxiana brought us eggs.”

“I’ll be there. I just need two minutes,” I said, and Cealum’s eyebrows lifted. It was still weird to see him as a human and not a horse.

When he left, I took a deep breath into my lungs and tried to erase everything I witnessed five minutes ago-to forget how my body reacted to it.

I went into the kitchen. Odessa was seated behind the small circular table, with Cealum sitting next to her, and Noxiana was opening a box of eggs.

My heart was beating quickly again.

“Two or three eggs?” Noxiana asked, turning back to me.

I stared at her wet hair and then at her figure. She was dressed fully in black.

Noxiana suddenly spun, and when I came face-to-face with her, I rushed outside. I didn’t care how childish I looked. I was so embarrassed.

I disturbed her privacy and saw something I shouldn’t have. But she said my name while…

Once I was on the front porch, no longer near her, my heart slowly returned to a normal tempo.

I pinched the bridge of my nose. I looked like a fool in front of everyone. They must’ve thought I went crazy, and I wouldn’t even blame them for that.

“What’s going on?”

No, no, no.

“Sienna, you’re acting so weird,” Noxiana said, and I gulped.

How should I explain to her that I watched her in the bathroom?

Suddenly, she teleported in front of me and grabbed me by the shoulders.

“If it’s because of Odessa, don’t worry. You will talk again,” she said, her voice soothing.

I shook my head slightly, feeling the heat of my cheeks. “I-I’m going inside.”

I headed to the front door, ready to open it, when Noxiana slammed her hand against it.

Breath whooshed out of my lungs. I stared at her charcoal hand, fear spreading through me.

Fear of desire.

“Don’t you think,” she started. “It’s rude to stalk someone while they bathe, little angel?”

“I-I have no idea what you’re talking about.” My hands and legs were shaking uncontrollably.

She chuckled, and I knew I was done for.

Her hands slipped to my hips, beneath my top, and everything I’d tried to bury came rushing back.

She drew closer, so close that our bodies were touching. Her lips brushed against my neck, and all the hair on my body prickled.

“Did you really believe I didn’t hear your heartbeat when you watched me play with myself?” She whispered.

Her fingers nudged the waistband of my pants lower, replaced by the chill of her touch against my hip bone.

I inhaled a sharp breath, leaning against the door like I was numb.

Her mouth hovered near my ear, her breath coming heavy and cold.

“Have you thought about how it would feel if I touched you as I did myself?” Her split tongue swirled my earlobe. “Or have you touched yourself already?”

There was a knot in my throat. I couldn’t speak. I couldn’t move.

My body was on fire.

“Come on, angel.” Her fingers began to move downward. “Have you opened your pretty legs wider at the thought of me?”

I crumbled to the floor, shaking, overwhelmed by the most insane urges of my life.

Noxiana laughed and opened the door.

“Don’t stay out for too long. It would be bad if you got sick.” She voiced nonchalantly and went inside.

I stared at the concrete, wishing I could turn into a non-living thing as well.

At least I wouldn’t feel the tingles in my body that were eating me alive.

⸻⸻

This was so much fun to write 👀

Don’t forget to vote and comment <3

Chapter 33 • Humans

NOXIANA’S POV

Of course, I knew Sienna was watching me. Her heart was throbbing in her chest like a ticking bomb, ready to blow.

For a moment, I thought about stopping pleasuring myself, but I knew she liked what she saw.

If she didn’t, she wouldn’t watch me like a hawk.

I was aware we had other matters on our minds, but I couldn’t bring myself to stop teasing her.

The whole day after our encounter outside, she avoided me. She only spoke to Cealum, throwing glances at Odessa from time to time.

It was hilarious, if I must admit.

Sienna, a girl who was always trying to stay composed, couldn’t resist desire and lust.

She surely never touched herself or had sex. I wondered-when I was in the bathtub-how she would feel on my tongue. How wet would my fingers be after I entered her walls?

All I could do was wonder. But I wanted more than that. I needed to experience it.

“What did you want to tell us?” Odessa tore me from my thoughts.

I crossed my leg over the other, staring at Sienna, who was observing the wall behind me as if it were a painting, not just a plain wall.

“We should head into town and pick up a few more things,” I said. “I only have two hands, so what I brought was pretty limited.”

“But can we leave this place? What if we run into the guards?” Odessa asked.

I smiled. “No one would recognize you dressed like this, and as for me, I’ll disguise myself.”

Cealum huffed, stretching his arm along the couch armrest. “It’s Heaven’s guards we’re talking about, Noxiana. They are trained to find refugees and traitors, especially.”

I rolled my eyes. “I know, horse. But the human world is vast. They can’t find us as easily as you think. They’d have to track us, and since I teleported us here, it’s nearly impossible.”

“Nearly?” Sienna spoke, looking me straight in the eye.

I smirked, looking from her eyes to her lips. Her pulse quickened in an instant. “Yes, little angel. I’m not a god or the devil. I can’t do magic and seal this place from intruders.”

Her eyes narrowed, and I missed this attitude of hers more than anything. It was what I liked the most about her. Despite being her enemy, she was always courageous. She said what was on the tip of her tongue without thinking about the consequences.

“When should we go? I really want to see the human village!” Odessa exclaimed.

I turned to her. “Change into warmer clothes, and we can leave this instant. But Cealum-” I waited until he focused on me. “You have to wear sunglasses. Your white eyes would make a human or two question…what you are.”

“Sunglasses? What’s that exactly? Is it for the protection of the eyes?” He wondered, his eyebrows knitted together.

They were so oblivious.

“Yes, you’re protecting your eyes with them, but you need them for cover,” I explained.

He nodded, to my surprise. I’d expected him to voice whatever clever thought was on his mind, but after that, he fell silent.

“For how long do you want to stay here?” I asked, and it was Sienna who looked at me.

“We don’t know yet.” Her eyebrow arched. “Do you have a problem with that?”

The grip of my fingers on the armrest tightened. “I didn’t say that, but what is your next plan? You’ll be hiding here, and then what? I’m asking about your future.”

Sienna abruptly got up from the chair, her fingers curled into fists. “I saved your life, Noxiana. Don’t forget about that. We’ll stay here until I say otherwise.”

She marched to the bedroom and slammed the door shut.

Odessa and Cealum looked after her with worry written across their faces.

I cleared my throat. “Go change. We’re leaving.”

✧

I teleported us to a crowded street. It was better to blend with the humans instead of being in the center of attention.

Noise and voices blurred together as footsteps hurried past us, the air heavy with the scent of food and smoke.

There were so many corner shops with everything we needed on this street.

“Wow, they buy everything in those little houses?” Odessa asked in a whisper.

“Yeah, they do,” I replied, watching Sienna being thrilled by the long pink dress that was hanging on a mannequin, displayed behind a glass wall.

“If you ask me, it’s selfish to keep all these things locked away just because you need a piece of paper to pay for them. Why not share, as we do in our world?” Cealum chimed in.

I turned to him with a frown. “No one asked for your opinion, horse. Let’s get going.”

He scoffed and tilted his chin upward.

I merely shook my head and stalked forward.

“So, how do we do this? We don’t have money, right?” Odessa asked as we all marched forward simultaneously.

I smiled when I spotted the weapons shop. I needed them for my revenge-the ones I’d had before, Sienna had gotten rid of.

“We don’t have money. We will do it my way.” I announced.

Sienna scoffed, hugging herself tighter.

I halted. “What is it now?”

She exhaled and turned to me. “Stealing is wrong. Humans need money to live.”

I rolled my eyes. “Oh, so now it’s my fault?” I closed the distance between us. “I’m not a human, or saint. I’m a demon, my dear enemy. I do things in my twisted, morally wrong way. You either do it my way or go on your own.”

We held eye contact for what felt like an eternity. She broke it off first.

“Odessa, you’ll go with Cealum to find food,” I said. “Sienna and I will look for better clothes, but not until you’re finished. I’ll teleport you back to the house first.”

“What?” Sienna frowned. “Why not teleport us all back together?”

I took a deep breath. “Because they’ll steal. And we don’t want to shift any attention to us. After they get what we need, I’ll immediately teleport them home. It’s the safest option.”

She threw her hands in the air. “What am I supposed to do now?”

I smiled. “Check out the stores. I’ll be right back.”

Sienna glared at me for a long moment and then turned on her heel to the clothing store.

Odessa and Cealum headed for the supermarket. We didn’t look suspicious at all-especially not Cealum, with his long ass hair and sunglasses perched on his nose in November.

Humans even like to imitate us-I saw it during Halloween. They dressed as ghosts, vampires, witches, angels, and demons. It felt ridiculous that they wanted to be something like us.

Being a monster was a curse.

Other beings only looked down at you. Maybe that’s why we are the way we are; maybe all we needed was to be accepted for being different.

Is being different so wrong?

“We got everything, Noxiana,” Cealum announced, and I almost forgot we were in the supermarket.

I looked into their shopping baskets, noticing various kinds of food.

“Take this as well.” I grabbed two bottles of wine and put them into the basket.

In a flash, I glanced around. There was no human near us.

“Touch me,” I commanded, and they obeyed.

✧

I teleported to the clothing store that Sienna previously entered. So many women were trying on boots and coats, but Sienna was studying the pink dress that was probably half the price because they wanted to get rid of it. Summer ended long ago.

I sneaked behind her, looking at the dress. It wasn’t special. It seemed too boring for an angel. So what did she see in them?

“Do you like them?” I whispered into her ear, and she flinched.

“When did you get here?” She asked, staring at me as if she had forgotten I had disguised myself.

I smirked. “Just now. Have you found the clothes?”

She folded her arms under her chest and slightly shivered. “Yes, but can’t we somehow pay for it?”

I sighed. “Again with this? Just take what you need, and let’s go back.”

As I was about to walk away to look at the leather pants, she grabbed me by the arm.

“This isn’t right.” She whispered.

I didn’t turn around. “Yeah, and you know what else isn’t right? You and I are here. You saved me when you should’ve just let me die.”

She let go of my arm and moved in front of me. Looking down at her gave me so much thrill.

“ Stop . Stop throwing this at me every single time.“ She frowned, her jaw clenched.

I took a step closer. “Yeah? Am I not your favorite crime?”

She raised her fist in the air, wanting to punch me. I could see in her eyes how badly she wanted to do it.

“I hate you.” She seethed, pushing back the tears.

I snatched her wrist, holding it tight. “I hate you even more .”

She gazed into my eyes, almost burning a hole into them.

It took her a few seconds to yank her hand away, grabbing the clothes she had prepared in the fitting room.

When she came back, I placed my hand on her waist, and with the last look at the pink dress behind her, I teleported us to our house.

⸻⸻

Chapter 34 • Madness

SIENNA’S POV

We had been unpacking the clothes and food in the living room. Odessa and Cealum were chatting about all those fruits and vegetables the humans had on display, but my mind was somewhere else.

“We’re lucky this is an old village. There are no cameras inside the stores,” Noxiana said, and that immediately pulled me from my thoughts.

“Camera? What’s that?” I asked.

Cealum and Odessa didn’t know either, judging by the confused look on their faces.

“It’s hard to explain, but people can see you through it,” she replied.

“There’s so much we don’t know about the human world,” Odessa murmured, and she looked at me with a faint smile.

I smiled back. It felt like we hadn’t talked for years when in fact it had only been a day . I guess that’s what it feels like when you’re so close with someone. You want to talk to them all the time.

“We are now in exile. We should learn about humans as much as we can.”

They all fell quiet, as if I had told a terrible joke.

I looked at Noxiana, and even she looked at me strangely.

“Before that happens,” she finally spoke, her eyes straying to Cealum and Odessa. “You should try the alcohol humans drink. It’s so much stronger than yours.”

Both of them suddenly got excited, which was weird. Especially for Cealum. Was I the only one in a gloomy and serious mood?

Noxiana set a green bottle on the table and swiftly pried it open with a knife. Odessa returned from the kitchen with cups, handing one to each of us, and Noxiana poured the golden liquid inside.

It had bubbles that sparkled on the surface, and it reminded me of the water in the academy fountains.

“This is called champagne. Humans always drink it when they’re celebrating something,” Noxiana explained.

Odessa snatched the cup and sniffed its contents. “It smells weirdly nice.”

“Really?” Cealum took a sniff as well, and his nose wrinkled.

I didn’t sniff it. I took a sip, and my eyes widened. It was definitely a strong drink, but I liked the taste of it.

Noxiana laughed and drank the whole cup in one gulp.

I didn’t know she was a heavy drinker. I guess we always learn something new about each other.

“You know too much about the human world. Weren’t you living in the Underworld?” Cealum suddenly asked, taking a sip.

Noxiana’s smile turned into a flat line. “I was, but I spent more time in the human world.”

“Why?” Cealum wondered, and I sensed tension building in the air.

Noxiana leaned against the back of the couch with a sigh. “Because I wasn’t someone who was welcomed home. My father would be happier if the demons who nearly beat me to death had finished the job and left me to die in agony.”

The silence spoke louder than any words. We were all shocked that Noxiana shared something so personal with us.

I had never heard her speak about her father. I almost thought she had no parents.

“But did he ever tell you that? How can you know he wants you dead?” Odessa chimed in, her eyebrows knitted together.

Noxiana poured herself another full cup of champagne. “I know him too well. He wanted a boy, not a girl. I’m useless to him otherwise. I’m worse than the pits of Underworld. I’m nothing .”

I finished what was left in my cup, and sadness swept through me. The times I questioned if she felt anything were ridiculous.

She truly felt too much.

I saw the stabbing pain in her face. She had no home, no friends, and no family. She lost everything and everyone.

I pitied her.

Odessa wiped her watery eyes. Cealum’s attention immediately shifted to her. He looked like he wanted to lean closer and make her feel better, but didn’t know how.

After all, he was a horse pretending to be a human. He didn’t understand much about people’s intimacy.

Noxiana cleared her throat. “The good thing is I don’t care about anything. Fuck my father and everyone in the Underworld.” She proclaimed with her hand raised, causing the liquid to slightly spill on the floor.

Odessa raised her hand, too. “Fuck my parents too! Fuck them for not caring for me all these years.”

She looked at me, waiting for me to join, but I was hesitant. Showing my Familiar and enemy my weakness was embarrassing.

But did it matter anymore? I was doomed anyway.

I joined them, my hand raised the highest. “Fuck my mother, whose face and voice I almost forgot.”

We clinked our cups together and drank them down in one go.

And that’s how it continued. One cup turned into ten.

Cealum passed out on the third one, but before that, he was walking on all fours like a horse around the room.

Noxiana couldn’t stop laughing at him.

Odessa, after the sixth one, ran to the bathroom to throw up.

I wanted to help her, but I could only crawl one or two steps before I fell to the hard floor.

Noxiana looked the most normal out of all of us.

The more she looked at me like a wolf, staring at its next meal, the more sober I became.

I slowly pushed myself up from the couch, using the wall to steady me as I made my way to the bedroom.

It took me at least five minutes to get there.

I closed the door behind me and crumbled to the ground.

The fireplace crackled over the nearly burnt wood, filling the room with a perfect, cozy warmth.

I rolled beside the fireplace, stretching my arms to the heat and smiling as my cheeks got warmer.

With the alcohol in my blood, I couldn’t remember anything bad that had ever happened to me. All I knew was that I never wanted this feeling to end-that nothing really mattered, and everything felt wonderful, and that all I had to do was smile and laugh to be okay.

Within minutes, the door quietly opened.

I wanted to look behind my shoulder to see who it was, but my body was uncontrollable. It wouldn’t listen to me.

Someone closed and locked the door.

I shut my eyes and focused on the heavy footsteps that halted just behind my back.

I was even more dizzy than I had been a minute before.

The room was so silent, I even reconsidered whether it was all happening in my head. But the heavy breathing was too vivid.

And just like that, I sobered up.

I heard the branches of trees swaying outside because of the hard wind, the fire crackling in the fireplace, and my heartbeat slamming against my ribs.

I gulped, feeling the cold breath against my neck, smelling plums and wood.

I knew the scent well enough. I had been living with it for an entire month.

I stayed frozen like I was dead, counting my heartbeat because that was all I could do to calm myself down.

One part of me wanted to rush out of the room and hide myself outside. The other part of me wanted to stay close to her until the morning came.

If I were honest with myself, I wouldn’t even know what I wanted or what I felt. I just knew that I couldn’t move because my desire won over what was right.

She suddenly drew closer; I could almost feel her skin against mine.

I opened my eyes and stared at the flames, at the burning logs, as if they had all the answers I needed, when suddenly the sweatshirt that was too big for me rose over my ribs, my shoulder got bare, and her cold breaths grazed my warm skin.

Time seemed to stop, except for my heart, which kept pounding.

Noxiana lunged at me, pressing her lips, cold as ice and soft as a feather, on my skin. Every nerve in my body felt like lightning. The one that the gods could strike upon us.

My core clenched, and I took a sharp, soundless breath.

Noxiana brushed her lips on my skin again, but this time a bit higher, almost to my neck.

I almost didn’t register her hand that was sneaking under my sweatshirt. Either everything was happening too fast, or I was still drunk and lost some of my senses.

Her hand was on my waist, her lips were kissing my skin, and I was on fire. I felt like one of the logs in the fireplace.

No, I can’t allow this to happen. We can’t be doing this.

I braced myself with my hands ready to push myself up, but Noxiana didn’t allow that. She pushed my waist down until I was lying fully on the floor again.

“No,” she whispered into my ear, and all the hair on my body bristled.

Her mouth moved to my neck, and my stomach tickled like thousands of butterflies. Every little movement of her mouth caused a throbbing pain between my legs. It was madness .

My breath was ragged, my head was spinning, and my heart was racing.

Noxiana stopped kissing me and instead buried her nose into my hair, inhaling my scent. I gasped, trying to touch her, but she wouldn’t let me.

Her fingers on my waist scratched my skin, and my back arched. Then they moved downward, touching the band of my underwear.

I immediately glued my legs together, breathing heavily.

Noxiana laughed into my hair, dragging her nose to the side of my neck.

“Open your legs.” She whispered, her voice darker than before, more demanding.

I couldn’t even shake my head. I was a statue.

Noxiana sighed and licked my neck with her split tongue, trailing it to my hairline.

Oh, Heavens.

I lost the strength to keep my legs closed. They opened on their own.

Noxiana sought access in an instant, and her fingers slipped inside my underwear. Breath had left my lungs.

Noxiana’s touch was nothing as I had imagined-it was infinitely better than anything my mind had conjured.

Her fingers spread my folds, and I moaned.

Nothing could compare to her touch, to her lips. She was rough. Ruthless. Lethal.

She circled my clit in a slow movement, playing with me like I was her flute.

I recalled her sitting in the bathtub, doing the same thing to herself, mumbling my name.

How much did she think about doing this to me?

Noxiana groaned, and I felt myself getting wetter. I leaned against her body, gasping and moaning, letting myself enjoy this sin that couldn’t be erased.

She started to rub me up and down all over my clit before she slipped her fingers inside of me.

My walls clenched, and Noxiana groaned, biting my ear. “Fuck.”

It was a foreign feeling. Something you couldn’t forget or get fully used to, but it was incredible.

She slowly started to thrust her two fingers inside me, and a slight pain coursed through me.

She halted and kissed my head before continuing. All I could think about was the release. I was so close to it, but I never wanted the build-up, the excitement, to be gone.

Noxiana growled, and her fingers slipped out of me with ease.

Before I knew it, she was on top of me, shredding my sweatshirt to pieces with her claws.

When my chest was left uncovered, I hid my breasts in my palms, staring at Noxiana with my cheeks hot and lips needy.

A soft chuckle escaped her mouth before she forcefully grabbed my wrists and pinned them beside my head.

She looked down at my chest that was going rapidly up and down, her eyes focused on my painfully hard nipples.

Noxiana licked her lips, and I never felt shyer. I wanted to hide under the bed, but couldn’t because she leaned over my chest and kissed my breasts for several seconds.

I was soaked and needy for her fingers inside me again. I wanted to beg her to continue, but I was too weak to utter a word.

Noxiana licked my nipple like some candy and hovered over me. Her fingers slid into my underwear again, this time going straight inside me.

They were so warm despite her being cold.

My back arched, a whimper spilling out of my mouth.

In harsh thrusts, she pushed in and out of me with her slender fingers, staring into my eyes.

When my body began to tremble, and every thrust was like a wave hitting the shore, her pace quickened.

“You have no idea.” She kissed me like it was painful and drew back. “What you do to me.”

Her fingers fastened, and I came undone. Moaning, crying, and whining.

Noxiana smirked as I watched her through the tears in my eyelashes. I let her bury her teeth into my throat and shoulder, no longer sure I had any dignity left.

My arms were spread on the floor. I didn’t care what she was doing to me anymore. I merely kept breathing through my mouth, enjoying the feeling after the release.

My body was floating above the ground, and if I had the ability, I’d do this over and over again until I couldn’t speak.

⸻⸻

Chapter 35 • Crave

NOXIANA’S POV

No one ever taught me how to care for someone. My father was a distant being. He couldn’t get past the fact that I wasn’t born a male.

He only knew how to hit. How to bring me to my knees when I disobeyed his orders.

I yielded in the hope of pleasing him. I cut my long hair and wished he’d be satisfied with me for once.

I killed and harmed beings, yet that still wasn’t enough. Even when I became a monster for him, I was nothing.

I only knew what a hug meant because I’d seen humans do it. I only knew how to satisfy someone because I had seen it on TV.

Doing it for the first time was a strange experience. But before I was aware of what I was doing, I longed to touch, to kiss, to feel. I knew it no longer meant I was doing it mechanically. I was doing it because I wanted to.

Because when she was curled up against my body, her face in the crook of my neck, I realized that I wanted her to want me more than anything else in the world.

I enjoyed watching her chest rise and fall, her being at peace because she had forgotten I was the one holding her.

I knew once her eyes opened, the sickening awareness that she was in my embrace would return.

I pushed those white strands from her face to have a better look at her. She was breathtaking, even with messy hair and alcohol emanating from her mouth, but I couldn’t care less. Especially when she clung to my body as if her life depended on it.

I never wanted her to be found, to be taken away from me.

I’ll never let that happen. She’s mine now. Only mine.

Sienna groaned as she slightly stretched, throwing her leg over mine. Her fingers clutched my shirt.

I squeezed her tighter, breathing in her scent that I hated once, and now I couldn’t imagine living without it.

She slightly shivered, and I frowned. The fire stopped burning hours ago, and my body couldn’t keep her warm.

“I won’t leave,” I murmured and nuzzled my nose behind her ear.

We could become one. Both cold, in each other’s embrace. Why leave the other just because warmth is better? What is coldness compared to Sienna’s body on top of mine?

Even if we froze to death, I wouldn’t leave.

I became so deluded that I imagined living here, in this old house. Discover things we’d never seen before; feel things we’d never felt before.

I wasn’t a being who liked to possess things. Dead or alive, because I didn’t know how to care for them.

But I no longer cared now. I didn’t see things as right or wrong. I only wanted to kiss Sienna’s lips from dusk till dawn and hold her as if she were wrapped in a spider’s web. To make her moan and arch her back when my fingers were exploring her.

“You’re my possession,” I whispered, and she stirred.

I drew slightly back to see her face. She slowly opened her eyes, adjusting to the light that poured through the window, spotlighting her face.

It took her several seconds before she tensed, snapped her gaze at me, and then another couple of seconds when she realized this was not a dream but reality and started to draw away from me.

I pulled her back, our noses almost touching. Her eyes were wide, full of fear, embarrassment, and regret. Exactly what I was expecting.

My gaze strayed to her lips, at them being parted, and without thinking, I attacked her mouth, slipping my tongue inside.

Hell, she tasted like a forbidden fruit. Too good to be true.

I palmed her cheek, my fingertips in her hairline. The saliva from our mouths was all over my chin, and I was ready to open her legs again, but with my head between them.

“No-ugh.” She pushed me just enough to take a breath, her head tilted back.

Her sweet neck was exposed, and I took my chance. I licked it and kissed it, and every single time, she arched into me.

Her mouth was saying one thing, but her body said another.

“You can’t erase what happened,” I said against her skin, feeling her goosebumps. “And even if you wanted to, I won’t.”

She stilled, but her heartbeat was quicker than ever.

I raised my head, meeting those steel eyes. “You want to get up now?” I pulled back. “Go.”

She held my eyes for quite a long time and then propped herself on her elbows, twisting sideways, until she was on all fours.

She began to crawl to the door, and I smirked.

When she reached them, she got up, and grabbed the door handle.

I immediately teleported behind her, my hand slamming the door shut with my face nuzzled in her hair.

She shivered, but not from the cold this time.

“Do I make you nervous?” I asked, kissing her head. “You should be, because I crave you. More than I did a second ago.” My whisper seemed to tickle her as she flinched.

I opened the door, and she dashed out of the room as if I was chasing her.

I couldn’t help but laugh. I was not done with her even in the slightest.

However, my smile vanished when my ears caught a strange sound outside the window.

I teleported outside, analyzing every shadow and every tree, but found no one.

It could’ve been an animal, but why would it be near our window?

I couldn’t detect any familiar scent. It looked like someone covered it.

“Fucking cowards. Fleeing the moment you’re acknowledged,” I said.

I teleported to the living room to find Cealum looking out the window.

“Have you-”

“Yes,” he cut me off. “Something was out there. It was not an animal.” He turned to me, his face set in a frown.

I walked to stand beside him, looking out of the window. “They left no trace of themselves.”

“If it were guards, they wouldn’t spy on us; they would just burst inside.” He stated, and I looked at him. “It’s most likely your kind who’s after you, and now Sienna and Odessa are in danger.”

“No, they aren’t,” I emphasized every word. “We will protect them and get rid of my enemies.”

Cealum’s eyes glowed even brighter than before, as if fire fueled them.

Our staring contest would’ve continued if something hard hadn’t crashed inside one of the bedrooms.

That’s when our faces turned from anger to horror.

⸻⸻

I like my women to be a little toxic.

Chapter 36 • Warning

SIENNA’S POV

I ran as fast as I was able across the small hallway, into the other bedroom. When I shut the door behind me, Odessa looked at me, startled.

I was breathing heavily, leaning against the door because, otherwise, I’d lose the ability to stand. Every fiber of my being was on fire. Just a mere touch of hers sparked the blood in my veins.

“What happened?” Odessa asked, getting up from the bed. She was dressed in a green sweater and white sweatpants. The color suited her ginger hair.

“I… I made a catastrophic mistake.” I burst out, my throat knotted with thorns.

She drew closer, her eyes full of concern. “Why? Are you hurt?”

I shook my head and dashed to the bed. I couldn’t keep standing anymore. I was shaking. “I’m alright.”

Odessa sat beside me and touched my arm. “We drank quite a lot yesterday. I still taste the vomit in my mouth.” She grimaced.

“It’s about the alcohol.” I raised my shoulders and closed my eyes. “Something happened with Noxiana.”

It was only after I said it that my shoulders dropped. It felt so freeing.

When our eyes met, it looked like she had something to tell me as well.

“Something happened with Cealum, too,” she whispered and looked away, her cheeks red.

We both had shocking news, yet neither of us judged the other.

“We don’t have to talk about the details, right?” I said.

“No, I don’t think we need to.” Odessa grinned at me.

“Yeah, we don’t.” My brows furrowed. “It was a mistake anyway. At least you and Cealum are celestial beings, but Noxi and I are enemies. What we did was treason.”

Odessa’s brow arched. “But a pretty enjoyable treason.”

As I rolled my eyes, I pushed her shoulder playfully.

“I thought you didn’t like anyone else besides my brother,” I said, and she sighed.

“Well, I thought so, too.” She looked clouded with thoughts. “Maybe I feel a tad something. I’m not in love with Cealum, though. I didn’t entirely forget Rowan.”

I nodded. “I understand. You can’t just change how you feel all of a sudden.”

Odessa smiled, staring at me like she hadn’t seen me for years. “I wanted to apologize-” she started.

“No,” I burst out. “It’s me who should apologize. I shouldn’t have questioned your decision to come after me. I’m not a queen or someone who can rule over people. You made your decisions, and I should’ve respected them.”

She shook her head, fidgeting with her fingers. “I understand why you were angry. I truly do now. I only saw the situation from my point of view, and I didn’t care to imagine yours.”

I opened my arms, and Odessa, without hesitation, wrapped her arms around me. We held onto each other for several minutes.

This is what family felt like-warm hugs filled with love and care.

“Let’s not fight ever again,” she whispered. “Nothing had ever made me more anxious than having a man spend the night in my room.”

I laughed. “Cealum is not exactly a man.”

“Well, he looks like one now. A very handsome man.”

I hugged her tighter, hoping I’d never lose her because she was so dear to me.

All of them were, even Noxiana.

The window frame suddenly flew open, slamming against the wall with such force that the glass shattered into a million tiny pieces.

Both of us whipped our heads toward the window. A demon with skin like Noxiana’s and eyes as green as an apple was crouched down on the windowsill.

Metal hoops pierced his nose, cheeks, and brows, glinting coldly in the light. The pointed earrings lining his ear looked more like weapons than accessories, hanging there like threats. His raven-black hair stood short and spiked, sharp as blades. Dressed entirely in black, his skin seemed to melt into the fabric, as if shadow itself had claimed him.

I swallowed hard as he quickly jumped down onto the floor. Odessa gasped and seized my arm, trembling.

The demon slowly rose to his full height; he was taller than Cealum and Noxiana.

We both unfurled our wings at once, knocking everything around us to the floor. Then we shot toward the wall, retreating as far as we could.

The demon laughed with his eerie, rotten voice. He grabbed the nightstand and threw it in our direction.

We both darted to opposite sides as the nightstand slammed into the wall, splintering into pieces.

Odessa had never fought before. She didn’t get trained by anyone, and my fighting skills were nothing compared to the demon’s.

I stared into the demon’s eyes, realizing that Noxiana wasn’t like them at all. This demon was not cruel; he was a monstrosity. He only craved blood, and destruction.

I looked at Odessa, who was shaking and clutching her sweatpants, her knuckles white.

I had no weapon on me, nothing I could use to harm this demon.

He closed the distance slowly, each measured step setting my nerves on edge. Before I could think, I launched upward to the ceiling and struck him hard in the chest.

He didn’t expect it at all. He staggered back, but he didn’t fall. He was still on his feet as if I had thrown a piece of paper at him.

He stood in front of the shattered window, laughing like a maniac.

I was ready to strike again, but the door burst open, and everything unfolded too fast to follow.

Noxiana threw a dagger at the demon, stabbing him in the neck. The demon’s back crashed into the wall, but he was indestructible. His grip was on the dagger’s hilt almost in an instant, forcing it out violently. The demon smirked and licked the blade that was covered in his rotten blood.

In the blink of an eye, he jumped back to the windowsill and launched the dagger at Cealum, but Cealum was no longer in his human form. He was back to being a horse.

Just as the dagger was about to plunge into his skull, a surge of lightning-shaped energy ricocheted back, slamming into the demon with brutal force.

The demon fell back from the window, and the dagger flew past him. Noxiana immediately went after him, teleporting outside.

I stared at the window, completely frozen with fear.

In the corner of the room, Odessa slid off the wall to the floor, crying.

“Are you both unscathed?” Cealum’s voice made me turn my head to him. His white eyes burned with fury.

I nodded and folded my wings, darting to Odessa.

“It’s okay now. The demon is gone,” I said and wrapped my arms around her.

She sobbed, tears running down her face like rain. “I-I thought he would murder us! I saw our demise.”

I hugged her tighter, and Cealum changed back into his human form. He went down on his knees and put his arms around us.

“You don’t have to worry. I won’t let anyone hurt you.”

I realized then that I needed to be comforted. I wanted Noxiana to hold me in her arms.

A tear gathered in my eye, but I blinked it away until it vanished and forced my body to be still.

✧

NOXIANA’S POV

I followed the demon through the forest, his form going from solid to translucent. He did it to anger me, but his tricks were outdated. They didn’t work on me like they used to.

I hurled my daggers at him, but he dodged them every time. I wanted to destroy him. I wanted to begin my revenge.

Agares. He was one of the demons who tore me apart. He was the one who dipped his fingers into my blood.

“Stop running away from me, you fucking coward!” I yelled, and he came to a sudden halt.

I took my chance, and my dagger pierced his leg like an arrow. It was a clean throw.

“I’ll tear off your limbs and feed them to the wolves,” I seethed and teleported in front of him.

He snarled, showing me his sharp teeth. “You should’ve been dead.”

I crouched down and smiled. “As you can see, you didn’t do a great job at killing me.” My claws unsheathed. “But I won’t make the same mistake.”

I sank my claws deep into his eyes, twisting them mercilessly. His screams echoed through the forest, but it was in vain. No one could hear him. Not a single living soul.

A smirk crossed my lips.

I tore his body apart, throwing each piece to a different spot in the forest. The wolves feasted. I made sure nothing remained-no fragment that could come back to life.

I stared at my claws that were full of his remains. It was poetic. He dipped his fingers into my blood, and I shredded him with my claws.

But this was a warning. The others were coming for me, and Agares was only the beginning.

They wanted to finish the job that they had left incomplete.

⸻⸻

What songs match Noxi and Sienna? Let me know!

Chapter 37 • Tempted

NOXIANA’S POV

I immediately returned home. This could’ve been their plan: to lure me out so they could hurt the others. But Cealum was with them. That was the only thing that eased my mind.

When I teleported to the bedroom where they had been left, they were not there.

I ran into the living room and found them sitting on the couch. Odessa was lying on Sienna’s lap, and Cealum was right next to her, holding her hand.

Sienna was the first one to notice me.

Our gazes met, and her heartbeat quickened. She carefully slid from underneath Odessa and dashed to me.

She examined me, noticing I was covered with black blood. There wasn’t a spot on my body that was clean.

She outstretched her hand to my face, and I winced. “No,” I murmured. “Don’t touch me.”

I’m too filthy for your fingers.

“Are you hurt?” she asked.

I looked away. “No. What about you?”

Please, say no.

“Not a single scratch. I fought back,” she replied, and a weight fell from my shoulders.

“Good.” I nodded with a tight smile and turned on my heel to the bathroom. I stripped off my bloodied clothes and washed my body thoroughly.

The image of Agares being in the same room as Sienna was worse than a hundred whips.

I’ve never experienced such a fearful emotion before, where I didn’t want someone to die but was afraid I couldn’t save them.

The hopelessness was not something I could stand. I always have to be in control.

I quickly dried off my body and changed into the clothes that were close to my reach.

I returned to the living room, and Cealum’s hand landed on my shoulder. “You and I. Outside,” he said and walked to the front door.

I followed him after I saw Sienna sitting next to Odessa.

“This is not done, am I correct?” He paused. “More demons will come after you.”

I ran my fingers through my short hair. “Yes, at least six.”

His eyes brightened. “What did you do to make them want to kill you?”

Slowly, the corner of my mouth turned up. “I survived.”

He winced, confusion written all across his face.

“We have to kill them. When they come again, it will be in full force. They won’t let us be until our bodies turn cold,” I said.

He nodded and turned to forest, hearing the sound of owls singing eerily in the distance. “I’ll do anything to protect Sienna and Odessa. I won’t let a strand of their hair be bent.”

I smiled. “This is one thing we can both agree on.”

✧

Odessa and Cealum fell asleep together on the couch, her head resting on his shoulder. That bastard must have been very excited.

I lit the fireplace in our bedroom since Sienna looked too cold, or she was still shivering from what had happened earlier. I wasn’t sure.

She sat on the edge of the bed, hugging herself and staring at the flames.

I sighed and drew closer to her. “You don’t have to worry. Cealum and I will take care of everything.”

“I don’t think so,” she muttered, and I instantly frowned.

I tilted her chin up, staring into her eyes. “Say it again. I couldn’t hear you.”

She gulped. “I won’t let you two fight all by yourself. I want to help, too.”

I shook my head and gripped her chin. “Absolutely not. Those demons that are after me are not very polite. They will drink your blood and make me watch it, and I’d rather kill myself than see that happen.”

She suddenly snatched my wrist and pulled me toward her. I lost my balance and fell on top of her.

We stared at each other, breathing heavily. All I wanted to do was to mark her skin with my teeth, kissing every single spot on her body, until she would whisper my name in the most pleading way.

“Tempting the temper, little angel?” I whispered, licking my lips.

Sienna gazed into my eyes and stretched her hand to my cheek, rubbing my skin. “The closer I am to you, the more dangerous my life becomes.”

“So?” I paused. “Do you want to go your own way? Be as far as you can from me.”

I wasn’t smiling or grinning. My face was serious.

She gulped, her hand on my cheek trembling. “Don’t you think it’s too late for that?”

“Is it?” I leaned into her hand. “Have you fallen for me so deeply you cannot fly to the surface?”

Sienna turned her head away from mine, a flush creeping up her cheeks.

I leaned lower, finding her averted gaze. “Your flushed cheeks are betraying you.”

She glanced at me, her pupils larger. “I’m betraying myself by… having feelings for you.”

I chuckled. “A poor love confession. I expected more from you.”

She rolled eyes. “This is not a love confession.”

I took her hands in mine and pressed my lips to hers. They were soft and sweet. Then I straddled her, my thighs pressing against her hips.

She shivered, moaning against my lips, but it wasn’t enough for me. I was suppressing my longing for her. I was afraid that if I let myself feel fully, I would break her bones.

When she was under me, I couldn’t control my strength. I was aware that my kisses were harsh, that my fingers were clutching her too tightly, and that I was unconsciously grinding her thigh.

“Noxi,” she murmured, but I kept kissing and biting her lips.

“Keep using that nickname. I love it.” I smiled against her mouth and felt a rush of pleasure as she moaned.

I bit her again and felt the iron taste of blood. I brushed the blood all over my lips and kissed her again.

“I…need to…breathe.” She gasped, and I couldn’t stop smiling.

“You’re insane,” Sienna whispered as I nuzzled my face into her neck, feeling unsatisfied.

“Prepare for the worst because I’m not done with you, not in the slightest.”

Her heart began to race, and a wide grin spread across my face. This was only the beginning. She had no idea about the kinds of things I’d imagined doing to her.

And every single scenario would come true, even if it was the last thing I’d do before I died.

⸻⸻

Chapter 38 • Equal

SIENNA’S POV

I woke up to the sound of someone talking. It took me a while to open my eyes. I wanted to sleep more, but the voice was persistent.

I forced my gaze upward and looked straight ahead. A tall figure stood over me. Tilting my head back, I met those amber eyes.

Noxi was already smirking, her hands in her pockets.

“Is something wrong?” I asked, my voice sleepy.

She studied my face for a moment before replying, “No, everything is fine, but you have to get up.”

I frowned. “Why? Isn’t it still too early?”

Noxi sat down on the bed and pulled my comforter off. “It’s never too early for fighting practice.” Her brow arched. “Didn’t you say you wanted to help?”

My eyes widened. “You should’ve said that sooner! Of course, I do.”

I thought she wouldn’t let me help them because she didn’t think of me as strong, but I was wrong.

“Dress warmly. We will meet outside.” She rubbed her thumb on my shoulder and teleported in the blink of an eye.

I pulled on a pair of oversized black pants, then slipped into a brown leather jacket that hugged my body, keeping the warmth from escaping.

I headed to the kitchen and grabbed an apple. On my way outside, I ate it with anticipation. I couldn’t wait to learn more. To be able to protect the people I cared about. I didn’t want to stand idle when another fight occurred.

I exited the house, and Cealum, in his horse form, was waiting in front of the steps. Noxi was standing beside him with Odessa, who looked as though she was still asleep.

“Let’s move further into the forest,” Cealum said, and we all followed him.

It was finally sunny. There wasn’t a single cloud in the sky.

We walked past the tall pine trees with birds singing on the thin branches. They sounded happy. Free.

I looked at Noxiana, who was arguing with Cealum about something, and I wished we weren’t enemies, that she and I were free like the birds.

We stopped in a place where there weren’t many trees. It almost looked like a circle. There was only grass and wildflowers.

“What are we going to do here?” I asked.

Cealum turned to me, flicking his tail. “You will finally use me.”

“I will… what?” I glanced at Noxi, but she looked as though she already knew what he was talking about.

Cealum strode toward me, the crescent moon on his forehead shining brightly. “There’s one thing I haven’t told you about our bond, Sienna.”

He halted in front of me. “ Familiars are warriors, and we’re connected with our master. That means we can share our powers.“

“Share your power? How can I do that?” I wondered, eager to know more.

“It’s very simple. Just say the word Lunula, “ Cealum replied with a whicker.

I took a deep breath and chanted the word. “ Lunula .“

The crescent moon on Cealum’s forehead glowed gold, and before me, a hovering feather bow appeared, adorned with golden patterns and diamonds.

The feathers looked almost translucent, reflecting colors. I had never seen a bow like this before.

“This weapon will serve you as well as I do. The arrows appear after you pull the string,” Cealum explained.

I gingerly reached my hand towards it. The weapon I was holding was unlike anything I had ever handled before. It looked divine.

The moment I touched it, my wings spread.

“What happened?” The weapon in my grip was glowing.

“Use the bow, Sienna. Don’t be afraid of it.” Cealum’s soft voice calmed me.

I pulled the string with a light force, and an arrow with its tip shaped like a diamond and its fletching like wings appeared out of nowhere.

I pointed the arrow at a random tree and let off the string. Like lightning, it struck something.

Noxiana teleported to my fallen arrow and raised it in the air. I had struck a pine cone.

“But how is that possible? I’ve never practiced archery,” I mumbled in awe.

“With this bow, you won’t miss any target, even if it’s moving. That’s why angels wanted to have Familiars during the war. With our divine power, they were equal to demons,” Cealum said, his hair flowing with the cold breeze.

I shot the infinite arrows for hours, while Noxiana taught Odessa some combat movements.

“Wait! My leg!” Odessa yelled, but Noxiana only smirked, pushing her leg to her head as she was defeated on the grass.

Even Cealum stopped paying attention to me. For several seconds, he stared at Noxiana, and I thought he would kill her.

“She won’t hurt her,” I remarked, and Cealum sharply turned his head to me.

“I know, Sienna. Let’s get back to shooting.” His voice echoed only in my head.

✧

When my stomach started to growl uncontrollably, I stopped shooting the arrows. My fingers were bruised, and they hurt. I couldn’t continue with archery even if I wanted to.

I had had enough for today.

I crashed down on the grass, craving water and food.

Noxiana’s face suddenly hovered over mine.

“Already done, little angel?” She smirked and crouched down next to me.

“I want to rest,” I whispered, staring at the sky.

Her cold fingers tucked my hair behind my ear. “Our enemy never rests,” she paused. “Remember to keep going, no matter how hard it is to move forward.”

Her hands slid beneath me, and suddenly I was lifted into her arms. I rested my head against her shoulder and sighed.

Cealum walked ahead of us with Odessa on his back. She was already asleep.

“Do you think we will win?” I asked Noxi.

She held me tighter. “We must. Either that, or death.”

I never liked how direct Noxiana was. But she was right. We had to win. There was no other choice.

“And if we fail?” I whispered, and sadness washed over me.

She halted and looked at me, her amber eyes glowing. “I’d kill and torture anyone who stands in your way, even if it costs me my life.”

I clung to her more tightly, nuzzling my face into her neck. “I’ll protect you, Noxi. Remember? I have the Healing power.”

She continued walking. “Every power has its limit. Don’t overdo yourself.”

I rolled my eyes. “I know myself. I’m capable of much more. I don’t have to hold myself back.”

Noxiana stayed quiet for the rest of the walk to the house, but I knew she disagreed with me. Perhaps she still thought of me as weak.

I wanted to prove to her that I wasn’t. That I had so much to show.

After Noxiana and I prepared some simple food, we all returned to our bedrooms to eat.

Odessa was too tired to wake up, but Cealum changed back into his human form and carried her portion of the food into their room.

He took great care of her. I knew he’d protect her as much as me.

As we lay on the bed, Noxiana intertwined our fingers and rubbed my knuckles.

At one point, we looked at each other in unison, and butterflies exploded in my stomach. I loved the sharpness of her look, her bright eyes, and the way she looked at me with hunger, without shame.

She was transparent when it came to me-I could see right through her.

I began breathing faster, and my hand was sweating. When I tried to detach our fingers, she clutched them harder.

I sighed and wanted to sit up, but she tugged me back down.

“Don’t worry. I won’t touch you today, but I’m having you all to myself.” With a swift movement, she rolled me on top of her, locking her hands around my waist.

“Why not today?” I asked teasingly, searching for her heartbeat, but I forgot she didn’t have one.

She caressed my back, pressing me harshly to her chest. “You’re too weary. I like my toy fresh so it can last for hours.”

My skin was covered in goosebumps.

I wished she were less direct with some things. I couldn’t fall asleep after that at all.

⸻⸻

Chapter 39 • Flame

NOXIANA’S POV

The next day after lunch, Sienna was practicing archery with Cealum again. It was inevitable. Our enemies were much more experienced-their tactics more cunning and wicked.

We always played dirty. But who doesn’t when they want to win?

I’d break every law just so Sienna could live. I didn’t care about our realm’s feud. They could all slaughter each other, and I wouldn’t bat an eye, but Sienna had to live.

Even without me.

I was prepared to pay for my sins.

While Sienna and Cealum were in the woods, Odessa and I went for a walk. It was better to know your surroundings well if we needed to hide.

“Noxi?”

I turned to her with a raised brow.

“I have a bad feeling. Something horrible will happen,” she said, her face completely serious.

Maybe her intuition is right. Maybe something horrible will happen.

“That’s why we need to be prepared. Remember to always stay close to me during a fight. You barely know how to use your fists, and I can’t focus on protecting both you and Sienna, but if something happened to you, Sienna wouldn’t survive it,” I said, sighing.

Odessa abruptly stopped in her tracks. “And I won’t live if she gets harmed, so forget about me and protect only Sienna.”

I chuckled. “You know, I didn’t like you at the beginning, but now I can’t imagine letting you die.”

We looked at each other in unison and smiled.

“We have been through a lot together, haven’t we?” Odessa looked away.

We continued walking, heading toward Cealum and Sienna. “Yes. I still can’t believe I managed to escape from Heaven.”

I frowned when a thought struck me. “I’ve never asked, but how did you find us?”

“It was Cealum. His bond with Sienna is so powerful that he can find her anywhere. He feels her presence,” Sienna replied.

“Interesting,” I mumbled, lost in my thoughts again.

If only I had such a power.

When we finally found Sienna and Cealum, she was still shooting arrows at the pine trees.

She was awfully good at that.

“Remember not to hesitate because your enemy won’t,” Cealum said, watching her intently.

Odessa and I stood behind the trees, watching Sienna. She looked like a warrior, determined to win no matter the consequences.

Even though she was excellent at archery, I was still afraid. This wasn’t enough at all.

“Cealum, I can’t anymore. My arms hurt,” Sienna whined, and I noticed the shiver in her muscles.

“We cannot stop. We have to keep going,” Cealum urged.

I frowned, marching towards him.

“Wait!” Odessa whisper-shouted, following me.

“That’s enough training for today, Cealum. Can’t you see she can barely stand on her own feet?” I exclaimed, wanting to punch him.

Cealum peered at me with his white eyes.

“Can you not fight right now? That’s the last thing we need right now,” Sienna chimed in.

I kept glaring at Cealum, wanting him to change into his human form so we could all return to our house.

After a few seconds of staring at each other, Cealum broke eye contact first and transformed into his human form.

I smirked and grabbed him by the throat, slamming him against the tree.

Both Sienna and Odessa gasped.

“I don’t care that you’re a divine being. I’ve killed for centuries. One more death means nothing to me, so leave Sienna alone. She’s exhausted,” I seethed.

“I could kill you with my power of lightning, and you would turn into mere ash,” Cealum sneered.

I clutched his throat tighter. “Do so then. Turn me into ash. I dare you.”

Cealum began to pant, and I could see in his eyes that he was considering it.

“Please, I beg you. End this bickering.” Sienna appeared next to us and put her hands on our shoulders.

Cealum looked at her and stopped panting. I removed my hand from his throat and took a step back.

“I apologize, Sienna. I did not want to tire you. I just want you to be prepared for the worst,” Cealum said.

Is he questioning his own ability to protect her? Is he that insecure, or does he believe we won’t win this fight?

“I understand. You don’t have to be sorry.” Sienna smiled, but even her face looked tired, with crescent-shaped shadows under her eyes.

“Smoke.” Odessa suddenly uttered.

I turned to her. “What?”

Her eyes were wide, full of terror. “I smell smoke.”

We all looked at each other at once, and Cealum immediately transformed back into his original form.

I grabbed Sienna, pulled her against my chest, and teleported us in front of the house.

“No!” Sienna screamed as flames and smoke rose from the crumbling house.

My eyes narrowed, my veins filled with fury.

Odessa was on Cealum’s back as he flew down beside us from the sky.

“They’re here,” I stated, watching the house become a ruin.

“Are you certain?” Cealum asked, probably hoping for a different answer.

I took a deep breath and hugged Sienna tighter. “Unfortunately, I am.”

“We have to leave,” Odessa murmured, her voice quiet.

Sienna was trembling in my arms, completely exhausted. Odessa barely knew how to hold a weapon in her hand, and Cealum was not confident.

For years, I had nothing. No home. No friends. No love.

Now that I had it, the thought of losing it was unacceptable.

I would not let it burn to pieces like this house.

“Let’s start with our plan,” I announced, and looked over my shoulder at Cealum. He nodded.

Meeting our enemy in an open field was much better than in the woods. They would hide and strike you hard, but keeping them somewhere open gave you more leverage, even though the chance of you getting hurt increased enormously.

It was a risk we were willing to take.

I teleported us behind the forest, into an open field that was barren, devoid of flowers and grass.

Cealum stayed behind us above the ground with Odessa.

“Noxi,” Sienna murmured, trembling. “I’m scared.”

I wanted to tell her that she shouldn’t be, but even I myself was terrified.

We were outnumbered. The demons were too powerful against us, yet I remained confident in my ability to destroy them.

The strength of my defense outweighed their strength.

One by one, they appeared before us like candle flames.

All six of them.

Their faces were a painful reminder of the scars on my body. Their boots and knuckles imprinted on my skin like a hot brand. The slashes of their daggers and knives carved into my flesh.

This moment was all I was dreaming about, taking my revenge on them.

But holding Sienna in my arms changed my way of thinking. Was this revenge more important than her safety?

Still, I couldn’t run away from my enemies. I had nowhere to run, and no one would protect me other than myself.

Even my father would rather watch me die than to save me.

“We’ve missed you.” One of them said. I no longer cared to remember their names.

I smirked. “Before or after I killed your precious leader?”

One of the girls growled, showing her sharp teeth that were like blades.

“It’s over, Noxiana, the daughter of the demon ruler. Your father doesn’t even care where you are. Killing you is a mercy. You were never one of us anyway.” The guy with green eyes said. “You betrayed us by not killing the child that should’ve been killed. By taking the side of angels who are our enemies. So I sentence you and your friends to death .”

The wind blew past us, blowing our hair like a weightless feather.

The silence was eerie, but final.

“Now,” I whispered.

Sienna took a deep breath and exclaimed, “Lunula!”

When the bow appeared in front of her, she snatched it and pulled the string, aiming at the demon who spoke of our death.

The demons wasted no time. They got divided, but before one of them could strike us, Sienna didn’t hesitate and shot the first arrow.

Because the bow was a divine weapon, death was inevitable.

Our first enemy died instantly, an arrow shot through his head, and a few seconds later, he was turned to ash.

Our enemies’ anger exploded upon seeing their new leader being killed. Two of them lunged at Sienna and me, and the other three at Cealum and Odessa.

I unsheathed my daggers that I had dipped into the school fountain. The water on the blade would ensure that their death would be immediate.

Demons don’t die so easily.

As Cealum hurled lightning at the demons flickering from place to place, I kept hurling my small daggers at our

two opponents.

Sienna was behind me, trying to shoot arrows, but demons were too swift and too cunning.

It was an unfair fight.

“Get away from me!”

Odessa’s voice drew my gaze over my shoulder toward her. She was on the ground, trying to push the female demon away from her body.

Because my attention was elsewhere, the male demon in front of me slashed me with his iron mace.

It sliced into my arm as I defended my face, and in the process, I fell to the ground.

Sienna, behind me, kept shooting arrows, but the demons realized that their death would be final if the arrow hit them, so they avoided them at all costs.

I teleported behind the demon who was heading towards Sienna, throwing my dagger at him. It pierced his back in a split second, his body crumbling to ash.

I smirked, already feeling the early victory within reach.

Sienna smiled at me, panting.

Together, we fought another female demon. It almost looked like the fight would be over.

But almost is never enough.

When we heard the groan Cealum let out, we both knew he had fallen. He was on the ground, a knife was lodged in his leg, and a demon was laughing at him.

Odessa was a few paces in front of him, with a male demon chasing her.

Although there were only four more demons to kill, the situation became worse. Without Cealum protecting Odessa, it was harder to win.

“Help her!” Sienna yelled at me, but I was scared of leaving her by herself.

“Please,” she pleaded, tears in her eyes.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

I teleported to Odessa, kicking the demon in the stomach.

Sienna, meanwhile, ran to Cealum, prepared to shoot another arrow, when suddenly the bow vanished from her hands.

Due to Cealum’s wounds, his divine ability weakened.

The female demon who stood by him chuckled at Sienna. “Not so powerful anymore, are you?”

Sienna frowned and spread her wide wings. As she rose to the sky, the demon’s face turned to wrath.

“Worried about her?” the demon taunted. “I can’t wait to kill your friends and make you watch how we skin her alive, feasting on her divine flesh.”

The demon’s blow drove the breath from my lungs as it struck my chest. I fell to my back, unable to take a breath.

Odessa screamed, crying, throwing daggers at him. He lunged at her, but before he could touch her, Cealum’s lightning struck him.

“Kill him with the dagger!” I shouted at Odessa.

She didn’t hesitate and stabbed him in the heart with the dagger.

Like all the other demons, this one had the same fate.

I sighed, rising to my feet. Three against four.

I touched my stomach, but the pain was numb, then I looked heavenward and watched Sienna fight with the female demon.

Good job.

“This is not over.” Another demon yelled and knocked me to the ground, wrapping his hands around my neck.

I fought him off, kicking him between his legs, but he didn’t even budge.

The distant cries of Odessa and Cealum’s groans echoed in my head like church bells.

Is this how we will die? On a field, killed by our enemies?

I kept punching the demon, even though I was losing my consciousness. I wouldn’t give up, not until my last breath.

I deserved to die for my sins-but not my friends. They shouldn’t have to pay for what I’ve done.

Then, without warning, the wind roared in like a tornado, and a pair of wings slammed into the demon choking me, hurling him across the field.

“Noxiana. I’m here. Please be well. Please be well,” Sienna repeated, touching my face.

I grabbed her hand. “I’m alright. Don’t worry. I won’t die.”

As she was about to stand up to help Odessa, the wind whirled faster and faster. Sienna’s hair was floating in the air.

The sky opened, and from it ten guardians flew towards us. I clutched Sienna’s hand tighter.

They killed the remaining demons with their translucent swords, golden whips, and crossbows.

They killed them like it was nothing.

Both Sienna and I were speechless, staring at them.

Cealum and Odessa were saved, and that’s all that mattered. If the guardians hadn’t come to help, I don’t think we would’ve all come out of this alive.

As the guardians tucked their weapons away, all of them looked at me, and it was like Death was standing in front of me with its scythe.

“Run! Just run and don’t look back!” Cealum suddenly yelled. “I’m placing her in your care, Noxiana!”

I watched him, and Odessa, who was crying by his side, touching his leg.

Time seemed to slow down. What was the right decision? I didn’t know.

I only knew one thing.

I looked at Sienna, whose face was pure terror, and closed my eyes.

I only knew that I couldn’t live without her, and if I left her here, I’d never see her again in my life.

I’m sorry. So sorry.

I grabbed her tighter and teleported us from this field stained with death, leaving behind our companions, our friends.

⸻⸻

Hey, I’ll have a small break so I can publish the remaining 5 chapters together, since it’s better if you read them without waiting <3

Chapter 40 • Bad

SIENNA’S POV

Noxiana teleported us to a cave with a waterfall shielding its entrance. The sound of rushing water woke me from a trance I was in for several minutes.

But Cealum’s weak voice and Odessa’s bloodshot eyes projected in front of me.

Would I ever see them again?

“Sienna…” Noxi’s voice tore me from my thoughts.

“How are you feeling?! Let me help you.” I spread my wings, ready to heal her, when she suddenly snatched my hand.

I glared at her, my heart beating like drums.

“Don’t weaken yourself. We don’t know if we’re safe yet. I don’t want you to waste your power on me,” Noxiana murmured, breathing heavily.

“Waste?” I frowned. “Is saving your life wasteful?”

Noxiana looked at me with her partially opened eyes. “Be a good girl, and listen to me, Sienna. I’ve been through shit like this before. Chasing and catching. I just need to rest before we think of a plan.”

I writhed from her hold and stood up. “Why do we always have to do everything your way? I’m smart enough to think of a plan.”

Noxiana took a deep breath, touching her stomach. “When did I ever say, you’re not smart enough? I just don’t want any complications. Who knows how close the guardians are to us?”

I folded my arms under my chest. “And my plan would have holes? Did you forget it was me who got you out of Heaven’s realm?”

She sighed and looked at me with her burning amber eyes. “No, I did not. But you forget yourself, Sienna. I’m a demon. I spent centuries out in the wild, whereas you were only up there, living comfortably.”

I hugged myself, feeling the coldness setting in my bones. “Comfortably, maybe. But happy? Not much. You don’t know what my life was like. I don’t have a perfect, loving family. I haven’t seen my mother for years, and my father, well, he’s absent, too. So don’t you dare talk about my life as if you lived it. You only saw a glimpse of it.”

I didn’t stay to listen to what else she had to say. I marched straight ahead, deeper into the cave. When I reached almost the end of it, I sat down on the cold, hard stone and wrapped my arms around my knees.

I wanted to cry.

I wanted to be free.

I wanted to know if Cealum and Odessa were safe.

But I made my choice. I chose Noxiana, my enemy, instead of my home and parents.

When I felt the salty liquid on my lips, I realized I was crying. I was buried too deeply inside my thoughts that I didn’t even notice I was sobbing.

I wiped the tears away and squeezed my eyes, not letting myself shed more tears.

Now wasn’t the time for being weak.

I rolled onto my side and hugged myself. I just needed to think for a second in silence. To get through all our remaining options.

And there were only a few of them.

Either I saved Noxiana by letting the guardians catch me, or we would have to teleport every single day to a different place to not be found.

But for how long had we had to hide?

For how long have we had to live in fear?

“Sienna?”

Noxiana called my name, and it echoed through the cave’s wall.

I stayed in place. I didn’t want to talk to her.

“Sienna, where are you?” She yelled, moving slowly forward.

I wanted to shout, Go away. But I didn’t want her to leave this cave. She was injured. Weak.

“Sienna.” Her voice deepened, and she was right behind me.

I didn’t have time to turn to her. She was already on top of me, gripping my wrists beside my head, biting the crook of my shoulder.

I screamed, her teeth buried deeply in my flesh, her knee between my legs.

The pain mixed with arousal, and I had no idea what to feel anymore.

Noxiana kept biting me all over my neck and shoulder. She wasn’t gentle at all. She was like a wild animal from the Woods of Rei.

Unyielding and dangerous.

“Please, stop! You’re not healed.”

With her tongue, she licked the wounds she caused, kissing them afterwards, and without a word, she began to undress me.

“What is wrong with you?!” I shouted, trying to stop her, but she ignored me, and my stomach was already bare.

Her eyes were empty-a void of nothing.

“You cannot run or hide from me anymore, little angel. You belong to me from the moment you followed me into the human world, and I can do whatever I want with you.”

She unzipped my pants, staring into my eyes without blinking. Her hand stretched over my hip bone, her body moving over mine like a shadow.

“Don’t resist me, Sienna. Submit yourself to me,” she whispered, her face just a few inches from mine. She stuck out her split tongue and licked my lips the slowest she could.

“Submit.” She whispered against my lips before she kissed them.

At that moment, I forgot that we were on the run, that our lives were at stake. I let her tongue enter my mouth, no longer resisting her.

If I felt cold before, now I was burning alive.

“Yes.” Noxiana pulled on my lower lip and slipped her two fingers inside my pants.

They were at first resting on my abdomen, but after a few seconds, when she started to kiss me more violently, they moved downward.

Noxiana groaned when she reached my clit. She moaned into my mouth, devouring my lips, and slowly circling my clit.

My legs weakened, and loosened their tension at once.

She stopped kissing me after a few minutes, and I could barely breathe, my lips swollen like never before.

“This is not enough,” she murmured and pulled my pants down, tossing them away with my underwear.

Before I could ask what she was doing next, she lifted my legs and moved them on top of her shoulders.

I was burning alive from being so seen. She was staring directly between my legs, breathing like there wasn’t enough oxygen.

Noxiana lifted her eyes at me and grabbed my thighs.

She licked her lips once and then buried her face between my legs.

“What-”

I couldn’t finish my sentence. Her tongue sent goosebumps all over my skin.

My loud moans echoed off the cave’s wall. With each lick of her split tongue, my eyes rolled back. It was like every nerve in my body was lit on fire.

“You taste so good,” Noxiana murmured, and started to kiss me down there.

The more she kissed me, the more my stomach filled with butterflies.

I dug my fingers into the rocky ground beneath me, hoping to push away the building feeling in my abdomen further, but in vain.

It was unstoppable.

Tears rolled down my temples from how good she pleasured me.

“Noxi…” I moaned, tilting my head back.

Her fingers clutched my thighs tighter, kissing me teasingly, taking breaks after hearing me groan.

“Open wider. I’m not done with you.” Noxiana said after she put my legs down.

She removed her pants and underwear and squatted. She pulled me towards her, with one of my feet going under her and the other over her hip.

With a force, she connected our bodies. Her hand lifted my leg over her shoulder, and she slowly turned to it.

First, she kissed my ankle. It was a short kiss, but because we were connected, I unconsciously rubbed myself against her pussy.

“You’re a very bad girl, Sienna,” Noxiana said with her low voice, and stuck out her tongue, licking me.

I closed my eyes, wanting her face between my legs again.

“So bad,” she whispered and sank her teeth into my flesh.

I gasped, loving the pain she caused me. It made me forget about reality.

Noxi groaned, sinking her teeth deeper.

For a moment, I thought she would feed on me and bleed me dry, but then she licked the wound she caused and licked her lips.

“You taste good,” she said and started to thrust herself against me. “Don’t let me taste you again, or I won’t be able to stop.”

By the look on her face, I knew she was serious.

I moaned, feeling her wetness.

“You want to… to kill me?” I asked breathlessly.

She fastened her rhythm.

“Fuck, I kind of do.” Her hand reached my neck and wrapped around it.

Her body slammed against mine, and I was tingling everywhere.

“You’re so turned on, Sienna. I want to sink my teeth into every place of your body.” She choked me gently. “Your inner thighs and neck.”

With every friction of our clits, it became harder not to scream and just let her destroy me completely.

“Fuck…” She whined, choking me harder, rocking back and forth.

I didn’t have much air left in my lungs, but I only wanted to reach the climax. I couldn’t take it anymore.

“Sienna,” Noxiana growled and leaned over me, placing both of her hands beside my head as I hit the ground. Her claws screeched on the rock beneath me, and I realized that could’ve been my throat.

Her lips smashed against mine, pulling, nibbing, and biting them. Her tongue intruded into my mouth, making more wet sounds.

It all brought me closer to insanity.

“Every inch of your skin belongs to me,” she whispered, going back to kissing me.

Oh, heavens.

It hit me like a wave, making me uncontrollably shake and move my body from side to side. I dug my fingers into Noxi’s skin, and I felt like I was flying.

She whimpered and gasped, her claws carving straight lines into the rock.

“I’m sorry, love. I can’t take it.” She suddenly said and moved between my legs, biting my inner thigh.

I screamed and whipped it to pleasure.

“Don’t. Stop.”

⸻⸻

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Chapter 41 • Bargain I

Back in Heaven’s Realm, locked in the underground prison, Odessa slowly opened her eyes to the agony in her body.

The prison cell was dark, except for the white glow of the cell door. If one tried to touch it, their flesh would melt.

Odessa lay on a comfortable bed with food and water placed on a small tray on the nightstand. She slowly sat up, weariness clinging to her. If she could, she’d sleep for a whole week straight.

Her eyes slid to the white gown that she was changed into. Her skin was no longer dirty, but clean. Someone must’ve wiped her.

“Is anyone there?” She called, her voice weak.

A guardian appeared before the cell.

“Where is Cealum?” she asked.

The male guardian folded his arms. “Right under your nose, traitor.”

Odessa looked around her cell, not understanding what the guardian meant. Not until he smirked and glanced at the cell next to her.

Odessa jumped to her feet, losing her balance in an instant. She darted to the wall that separated the cells, leaning against it.

“Cealum? Can you hear me? Are you alright?! Please, say something…” She shouted, but the only response she received was silence.

The guardian drew closer. “He’s deeply wounded, but he’s alive.”

Odessa sighed in relief.

Thank the heavens.

“But,” the guardian continued. “If your traitor friend won’t tell us the exact location of Miss Illyndorn and the female demon you were all hiding, you won’t ever see him again.”

And just like that, he left with a smile on his face.

A tear slowly rolled down her cheek. If Cealum had given away the location of their friends, Noxi would have been killed. But if he refused to yield, his life would be in danger.

“Cealum! Can you hear me?” Odessa banged her fist against the concrete wall.

“Please, say anything,” she murmured helplessly.

Seconds passed before the horse groaned.

“Don’t… worry about me.” Cealum managed to say.

Odessa couldn’t hold back the tears. “How could I not! You’re injured. They need to help you.”

Cealum sighed, knowing that his life could end tonight. All that mattered was his answer. Only that could change everything.

But Cealum couldn’t expose where Sienna was. And even if he wanted to find her, he was too weak to sense their connection.

“No, I’m fine. I just need to rest,” Cealum said.

Odessa leaned against the wall and slid her back down until she was sitting on the cold ground.

“What will happen once they find them?” she asked, even though she was afraid of hearing the answer.

Cealum wasn’t sure because something like this had never happened before.

“If they find them, Noxiana will be killed. And if they won’t find them…” He couldn’t finish the sentence.

“What if we convinced them that Noxi isn’t like other demons? If we could give her a chance, so could they!” she stated.

Cealum coughed, his body cold as ice.

Now was his chance to confess. He wouldn’t have another one.

“Odessa,” he began. “I may not survive this night, so I apologize for being so frank with you, or if my words will make you uncomfortable, but I have to tell you what’s been on my mind for a long time.”

After he took a deep breath, he continued. “From the first time I saw you, I couldn’t avert my eyes. You were like a sun to me. So warm. So strong. I couldn’t help but stay close to you. I know you liked Sienna’s brother. I’m Familiar. I shouldn’t have liked you in the first place, but I do. I’d risk my life to protect you. I’d do anything for you.”

Odessa was breathing heavily, not knowing how to react to his confession. Her heart was throbbing inside her chest.

“Cealum…” she whispered, her lower lip trembling.

Suddenly, the sound of numerous footsteps echoed through the dungeon.

Odessa snapped her eyes to her cell door, and soon after, four guardians appeared.

One of the guardians was Sienna’s mother.

She opened the door and walked inside in her shiny armor. She looked more like a general than a guardian.

“Hello, Odessa. You’ve grown so much,” she said, smiling.

Odessa looked away. “Sienna did too. We both did.”

Sienna’s mother, Haelyn, drew closer, crouching down to Odessa. “I know. And I want to find my daughter, Odessa.”

Odessa stayed quiet.

Healyn sighed and stood up. With a tilt of her head, she called the guardians inside, and they seized Odessa by her arms.

They dragged her into Cealum’s cell.

Cealum groaned, whipping his tail. “Don’t harm her!”

The guardians didn’t let go of Odessa. They held her in front of him. He was lying helplessly on the ground.

Healyn strode inside, staring at him.

“ Familiar , tell us where my daughter is hiding. I have to find her before the demon harms her.“

Cealum was looking at Odessa, at the men holding her arms tightly. It would surely leave bruises!

“I’m Sienna’s protector. You think I’d let her fall into the hands of someone who could harm her?!” He seethed.

Healyn nodded at the guardians, and the one next to Sienna’s right pressed a dagger to her throat.

Cealum’s eyes widened. He wanted to use his power to protect her, but he could barely keep his eyes open.

“Speak now, or she will be silenced forever,” Healyn warned.

“How could you kill an angel!” Cealum burst out. “She has done nothing wrong. You cannot do that!”

Healyn laughed. “You all have the same reason for deserving to die.” She paused and turned to Odessa. “You betrayed Heaven. You sided with our enemy. And my daughter was kidnapped by one of them.”

Cealum was now the judge.

He had to kill one to save the other.

“You have one hour to decide. That’s our bargain,” Healyn stated.

But Cealum didn’t want to be the cut. He didn’t want to choose.

But he had to make a choice.

⸻⸻

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Chapter 42 • Bargain II

Odessa was moved to her cell again; half an hour had passed since Sienna’s mother gave Cealum the ultimatum.

The clock was ticking, and nerves were growing.

Both options were equally horrendous. How could Cealum kill Sienna? He was her Familiar . He was by her side to shield her from death.

But the thought of killing Odessa was unacceptable.

For half an hour, he tried to find a solution to end this misery.

But still, he thought of nothing.

“Cealum… you can’t betray Sienna. I’ll never forgive you for that.” Odessa finally spoke, ending the torturing silence.

Cealum whipped his tail. “Sienna has Noxiana. I trust her ability to protect her.”

Odessa banged her fist against the wall. “No! Please, I beg you. I won’t live if she dies because of me!”

A tear rolled down Cealum’s face. “And I won’t live if you die. You can’t make me kill you, Odessa. Never!”

Odessa cried in sorrow. Was this the Underworld instead of Heaven? Why were the ones she loved at the brink of death?

“You have to understand. Please, understand my decision,” Cealum said.

Odessa chuckled, shaking her head.

How could she? He was about to kill her best friend. Her one true family.

“No, you have to understand what’s coming out of your mouth. I don’t want you to save me. If this is my fate, then so be it. Please, let me go.”

Cealum smiled.

“Trust me, Odessa. This is not your fate. You can hate me however much you want, but I won’t let them kill you. You’re a wonderful woman. I hope you’ll never lose your precious smile.”

✧

The hour was up.

Odessa was moved back to Cealum’s cell, but she no longer looked at him. She couldn’t.

He was about to kill her best friend because of the love he had for her.

“So? Where is she?” Healyn asked.

Cealum let out a grunt.

You can’t do this to me , Odessa thought.

Cealum whipped his tail and shook his head before the crescent moon in his forehead began to glow brightly.

“No!” Odessa yelled, and the guardians tightened their grip on her.

It took a couple of seconds for Cealum’s crescent moon to stop glowing. He opened his eyes, looking nowhere in particular.

“Sienna is sitting by a stream. She’s all by herself. It’s where the largest waterfall is.” Cealum revealed.

Healyn smiled and glanced at Odessa.

“Your friend saved your life. Thank him properly.”

Odessa wanted to punch her in the cheek. She no longer cared who Healyn was.

“What will you do with the demon?” Cealum wondered.

Healyn sighed and wrapped her hand around the hilt of her sword.

“We will bring both my daughter and that filth here to question them. But if it were up to me, I’d kill her in an instant for ruining Sienna. I wonder what her father will say about this.”

Healyn left the cell, and Odessa was no longer moved. They left her with Cealum, but it was worse than being alone.

Odessa slid down the wall, hugging her legs.

“You’re so cruel. If love made you this way, I want you to stop loving me,” she murmured, tears running down her cheeks.

Cealum cried as well. Just silently.

“They will kill Noxi! The Elders won’t have mercy. You know that.”

He remained quiet.

“I hate you!” Odessa suddenly stood up abruptly and drew closer. “I hate all of you.”

Cealum shut his eyes and let her hit him. He no longer felt the pain. He knew that what he did was worse than a crime, but he believed in Noxiana.

Only she could hear the guardians from a far and move Sienna to safety. Of course, he couldn’t share this information with Odessa. Even the walls had ears.

The guardians would find the traces of them, confirming that Cealum didn’t lie, that they just weren’t right on time and Sienna and Noxiana teleported elsewhere.

If his plan worked, nobody could know that Sienna and Noxiana were hiding inside the cave. And he could only hope that they would stay there.

He cursed his divine abilities for not being stronger, so he could notify both of them in advance of his plan, but it was better than nothing-than to let Odessa die or send Noxiana under the knife.

Now they just needed to wait.

Wait for the hour of judgment.

⸻⸻

Chapter 43 • Remember

NOXIANA’S

POV

Sienna lay on top of my body as I leaned against the cave’s wall. She was warm, and her soft snorts made me smile. She fell asleep half an hour ago, and all I could focus on was her breathing and her heart, which was pulsing calmly.

I imagined us living here, behind our favorite waterfall. It would be so poetic.

No one would bother us. Not a single living soul. We would have all the time in the world to spend together.

But that was just a fantasy, and I wasn’t prepared to fully face the cruel reality. We were always going to be enemies-beings that shouldn’t be friends, or lovers.

My fate was death, and no one could prevent it. I had no one who could defend me.

I wasn’t a saint. I never claimed I was one, not unlike angels. Just because they were wearing white gowns and had a garden full of flowers didn’t mean they had no sin.

When we were at war, they killed children and babies as much as demons. But that didn’t matter anymore.

I was a monster. Nobody could say otherwise, and Sienna was innocent. She didn’t deserve to end up with someone like me. To be on the run. Her life should’ve looked different.

As she lay in my arms, I realized how blessed I was. I experienced love.

That was a privilege I didn’t deserve.

“When did you wake up?” Sienna’s soft voice pulled me from a clouded mind.

I smiled. “Long ago.”

She frowned. “And what were you doing?”

I palmed her cheek, rubbing her lips. “Enjoying my view.”

Her cheeks reddened.

“I should get dressed. We need to catch some fish to eat. I’m hungry.”

She got up and searched for her clothes that were scattered all across the cave.

I strayed my gaze to the waterfall, my fingers curled into fists.

✧

Catching fish with my claws was easy. I didn’t have to use any of my strength. Sienna got into the water, trying to catch one herself, but she didn’t have much luck.

“Can you stop laughing at me!” She exclaimed, fully drenched.

I sat on the grass and watched her struggle.

“But you’re so much fun to look at,” I said.

Sienna straightened and marched towards me. I kept leaning on my elbows, staring at her furious face.

She stopped in her tracks once she was standing near my waist.

“We can’t linger here for much longer, Noxi. We need to hide,” she said, her arms folded.

“Don’t worry.” I caressed her calf. “If I hear anything suspicious, we will leave. Let’s stay here for a while.”

She nodded and sat down on the grass. Afterward, I made a fire from all the branches I broke.

The fish were slowly turning from blue to gray as they grilled above the fire. Sienna and I both watched the flames in silence.

We both had clouded minds, but neither of us wanted to speak of it. We both had deceived ourselves into thinking that this could work. That we could be on the run forever.

Her father was Araquiel , the ruler of Heaven; he’d look for her until his last breath and kill me in an instant.

We’d never be safe. We’d always look over our shoulders.

I watched Sienna hug her legs and stare at the sparklers of fire. She was the most breathtaking being I’ve ever seen. I’d never forget the day she saved me, and the first thing I saw was her steel eyes.

It was the same day that I died and was reborn.

“Am I that desirable to look at?” she asked.

I reached out to her ear and carefully tucked her white hair behind it. “Always, little angel.”

Sienna smiled at me, and if I had a pulsing heart, it would surely jump out of my chest.

I grabbed her hand and intertwined our fingers. “I know I thanked you before for saving me, but I want to tell you again how grateful I am for you, Sienna. You showed me that my world isn’t only black. You gave it a meaning, a purpose.”

Sienna chuckled. “Don’t say that. I didn’t do anything special-”

“No,” I cut her off. “You did, and I want you to realize how much that means to me. I want you to remember that I love you more than anything in my life, Sienna.”

She frowned, wriggling her hand from my grip. “What is the meaning of telling me this now? Your tone sounds strange, Noxiana.”

I let go of her and smiled. “I’m just exhausted.”

Slowly, I stood up and strode to the frantic river. I crouched down and filled my palms with the water, quickly splashing it over my face.

I knew what the right thing to do was. It was the first time in my life that I realized what kind of decision I had to make.

Even if it would kill me.

“Sienna, come here.” I rose to my full height and turned in her direction.

She strolled to me with a questionable look.

“Come here.” I opened my arms, beckoning her with my fingers.

She erased the distance between us and buried her face in the crook of my neck. I smirked and enveloped my arms around her.

“I could get used to this forever,” I murmured, grazing my nose in her hair.

She snuggled closer. “I love you, Noxiana.”

A tear slid down my cheek.

“I love more than the words could tell, little angel.” I snatched the dagger from my sheath. “And I hope you’ll never forgive me for this.”

“Demon! Let go of her!” One of the guardians shouted as they flew down from the sky.

I heard them much sooner-their wide wings flapping and weapons clashing.

I twisted Sienna in my hold and pressed her back to my chest. I swung my dagger at her throat and pushed the sharp tip to her pulsing vein.

“She belongs to me!” I yelled. “I’ll bring her to my father, Xelran, as a sacrifice for what you all did to my kind.”

Sienna slowly craned her neck to look at me. She was trembling in my grip, sobs uncontrollably running down her cheeks.

“Try to get closer, and I’ll slice her throat,” I warned when they landed on the grass.

Sienna’s mother, Healyn, stood at the head of the guardians, clad in white and gold armor, holding a silver sword with a blade that looked as if it had been dipped in a pastel rainbow.

“You filthy creature! Get your hands off my daughter, or we won’t hold back on you.” She seethed.

I chuckled and threw the dagger I was holding against Sienna’s throat at a random angel.

It pierced his heart.

Haelyn frowned and gripped the sword’s hilt tighter. “Guardians, I command you to attack the demon!”

I shoved Sienna to the grass and blocked all the hits coming my way until I saw that Sienna was safe from me.

That’s when I let go of my daggers and let them catch me. As their swords and arrows pierced through my flesh, I smiled.

It’s a sacrifice that we make for the people we love.

I saved Sienna’s life. I gave her a future she could never have with me.

I didn’t deserve to live. My life belonged to her.

Forever.

⸻⸻

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Chapter 44 • Judgement Day

SIENNA’S POV

I never thought that the person I loved and cared about would be the one to betray me.

When I felt the cold steel pressed against my throat, her fingers clutching me too tightly, I knew she wasn’t just teasing me.

Of course, I saw through her plan. I wasn’t stupid.

The moment the guardians flew down, I understood Noxiana’s farewell speech. She wanted to set me free. Let me live in peace, away from her.

What broke me the most was that she decided it all by herself. She didn’t care about what I wanted.

Living in Heaven’s Realm wasn’t as nice as other beings thought.

The angels were envious creatures. They loved to gossip and laugh at those who were weak.

Every ball was filled with fake smiles and laughter from our parents, who didn’t even care about us.

It was all just for show.

The Elders only cared about power. And after months of hearing Noxiana talk about how they slaughtered her kind, I no longer thought of them as saintly.

My whole life was a lie. At least Noxiana grew up in reality, with no fairy tales about how we angels were a big, happy family.

Once Noxiana pushed me to the side, and my knees hit the wet grass, one of the guardians grabbed me by my wrists and chained me.

It was pointless to fight back. I wasn’t strong enough to fight them, and Noxiana wouldn’t help me.

This is exactly what she wanted.

They took me first to Heaven. As I descended the sky, I watched in horror as arrows pierced Noxiana’s flesh and heard her bones crack. Her smile was beautiful even from afar.

Something within me died upon seeing her being broken to pieces again. I recalled how I found her by the waterfall. Her snake eyes begged me to save her.

And this time it wouldn’t be any different.

Once we flew through Heaven’s gate to the middle of the campus, the guardian who was holding me leaned me against the fountain.

It took me several seconds to notice that we weren’t alone. All the students and teachers circled us like we were prey about to be eaten.

All these familiar faces were staring at me, judging me with their sharp gaze.

But I no longer cared what they thought of me. What I did was the right thing. I saved someone’s life.

A few moments later, all the remaining guardians flew in, holding Noxiana by the arms.

Her clothes were dirty, stained with her dark blood. Her head just dangled on her spine, so lifeless.

The fury slowly coiled through my veins, burning my palms and cheeks.

When Noxiana was thrown onto the light concrete, a large distance separating us, the rage within me broke free.

I spread my wings, breaking the chains into pieces. The steel clinked against the ground, making everyone shift their attention to me.

“Traitor!” Someone shouted.

“How dare you bring our enemy to our Realm?”

“You’re forever tainted with darkness. You should be put in a cell!”

My head was spinning. I tried to find the individuals who yelled these condemnatory words at me, but their faces became blurry.

“After all,” I recognized Aria’s voice. “You’re nothing but filth. You betrayed your own people. You cared for a demon. You even have feelings for it . You’re not worthy of your Healing powers, Sienna. You don’t deserve them.”

My limbs were shaking as I slowly rose to my full height. I supported myself by holding onto the fountain basin.

Little by little, my vision cleared. I swallowed the bile in my throat, slowly recognizing all my classmates.

I wanted to shout at the top of my lungs that I wasn’t a traitor, that I only helped Noxiana to cure her.

That’s what we were taught from an early age. To help those in need.

But after all, I couldn’t utter a single syllable. My lips quivered, and my classmates’ and professor’s judging eyes rooted me in place.

Haelyn suddenly appeared in front of me. Although I didn’t remember my mother’s face that well, I could always remember her eyes.

Those steel eyes that I inherited from her.

“Guards! Call the Elders immediately. We captured the enemy,” Healyn commanded, staring into my eyes.

I didn’t avert my gaze. I wouldn’t let her win. Only over my dead body.

The Elders gathered around Noxiana and me. They all wore the same expression on their faces.

Proudness and authority.

My father, Araquiel, stood in the middle, glaring at me with his ice-cold eyes and furrowed eyebrows.

“What have you done, Sienna Illyndorn?” he seethed through his teeth.

I let out a loud chuckle and smiled.

The students and teachers gasped and gossiped. How could I dare to laugh at our ruler?

“Sienna, please calm down,” my brother said, standing a few feet behind me.

“No!” I yelled, peering at my father. “I won’t continue to play this charade. You never cared about us, father! Instead of keeping your son safe, you send him to the human world all by himself to deal with demons. What kind of father are you to do that? To let him stay there for years just because he failed in his mission that he didn’t even want to accept?”

I paused, taking a deep breath. “And how dare you pretend I don’t even exist?”

Araquiel’s eyes grew wide.

“I’m the daughter of the Heavens ruler! I’m the daughter that he doesn’t even like!” I shouted, laughing. “Now, how will you punish me, father? What will you do?”

Droplets of cold rain fell on my heated skin, soothing me for a moment. The dark clouds closed around the sky like a warning.

The guards, guardians, and Elders- I didn’t care about them at all. I only cared about Noxiana.

The guardians pointed their weapons at her, but she lay there with her head ducked down. I couldn’t even look her in the eye.

“Guardians,” My father suddenly spoke. “Get a hold of the demon. We have to know her intentions before we end her life.”

My heart skipped a beat.

“No! You can’t do that!” I shouted, wanting to protect Noxiana, but the guards and guardians grabbed both of my arms, holding me back.

“We don’t have to do that,” Healyn chimed in, blocking the guardians from Noxiana. “Let me just kill her.”

My father’s frown deepened. “We cannot do so. We have no idea who she worked for, Healyn. You know I respect you as the commander, but you have to move aside.”

Haelyn didn’t move an inch.

My father took a deep breath and looked over his shoulder at Evien.

Evien apologized and moved my mother aside with force.

No matter how high my mother’s position was, she couldn’t have a bigger word than my father.

For the first time in my life, I saw something in my mother’s eyes that I couldn’t believe was true.

There was a terror in her eyes. She was petrified.

But why?

Why didn’t she want my father to see Noxiana?

As soon as the guardians lifted Noxiana to her numb feet, she finally showed a sign of life by turning her head straight.

My father, upon seeing her, stumbled back. The guards prevented his fall.

“Merikh?” he softly said, staring in shock at Noxiana.

Noxiana opened her mouth, her chest going up and down quickly. “That’s my mother’s name…h-how do you know my mother?”

What?

“You… survived,” Araquiel whispered, bewildered.

Healyn broke free from Evien’s hold and lunged at Noxiana with a dagger in her hand.

“No!!” I screamed, tears running down my cheeks.

Noxiana dodged her attack, and my father pulled her to his chest.

Everyone gasped, staring like statues at my father, who had just touched a demon.

“You won’t take this revenge away from me again!” Healyn screamed, being held back by Evien again.

My father spread his enormous wings, holding Noxiana tight.

What does all of this mean? What’s happening?

✧

NOXIANA’S POV

“I apologize about what happened to your mother,” Araquiel whispered. “I told her not to go back.”

I could barely keep my eyes open, to let out a sound, but what Araquiel uttered made me regain my strength.

“What…” I took a deep breath. “What do you mean? Why did you know my mother?”

Araquiel averted his gaze. He looked ageless, as if he were a century old and at the same time young.

“P-Please,” I pleaded. “Tell me what happened between you and my mother before I die.”

His eyes snapped to mine. “I won’t let you die. You’re her only daughter.”

If I had the strength to laugh, I would.

“Why are you protecting me? I’m your biggest enemy. It’s better if you kill me and be done with it.” I seethed.

Sienna’s mother writhed out of the guard’s arms, shouting, “Fine! If you won’t kill her, then I’ll reveal your dirty secret to everyone present!”

Healyn walked to the middle of the campus, shaking.

“Your ruler had an affair with a female demon!”

The gasps, shocking words, and rage were thick in the air.

“And this demon, that he’s protecting, is her daughter. She’s the descendant of Xelran. Your wise ruler helped Merikh. He healed the dying demon in her womb, and betrayed our Realm!”

What? That can’t be true. It’s not possible. My father would know about it, and he would-

He would kill my mother for it.

My knees gave out under me. My mother didn’t die giving birth to me. She was murdered by my father. He must’ve found out about my mother’s meetings with Araquiel through his spies.

All my life was a lie.

“She was… killed?” I murmured, tears running down my cheeks.

She saved my life, knowing the consequences, but she did it either way.

I thought I was never loved until I met Sienna.

How painfully wrong I was.

Merikh loved me. My mother truly loved me.

That’s why I was different from everyone else. My pale markings were the result of Araquiel’s healing power.

“He’s a traitor who still rules our Realm! Do you still want him on the throne?” Sienna’s mother exclaimed.

Angels’ voices kept rising, becoming angrier.

Healyn’s plan was crystal clear. She wanted Araquiel to pay for his sins, for cheating on her with my mother.

Frankly, I couldn’t blame her. I understood her rage.

The Elders glared at us, whispering something to each other.

My intuition was alarming me. Something bad was about to happen.

One of the Elders , suddenly, took a step forward.

“Araquiel, if these accusations are true, you cannot rule Heaven any longer. Your people are disappointed, filled with fury that only our law can subside,” the Elder spoke.

Araquiel took a deep breath and nodded.

“We will hold a court, but first, you need to willingly abdicate. It’s for the sake of our Realm,” he added.

Araquiel squeezed my hand.

“I’m willing, but only if no harm comes to this demon,” he said.

The Elder nodded. “We will be hearing from everyone involved. Even your daughter.”

Araquiel folded his wings and lifted his chin. Despite the accusations against him, he still looked proud, with no regrets.

“Guards, escort Araquiel inside.” The other Elder ordered.

I glanced at Sienna, her wide steel eyes gawking at me.

I wanted to avoid her gaze, but I had to be sure she was alright. She must’ve had a billion questions. Was she mad at me? I couldn’t tell.

My mother was the one who ruined their family. If Araquiel had never met her, none of this would ever have happened.

I wanted to tell her how sorry I was. That it was a mistake that she saved me.

I lifted my hand, barely standing.

The corners of Sienna’s mouth slightly curled, and the weight from my shoulders fell.

“I’d rather rot in the cell for eternity than to leave that filth alive for much longer.”

Healyn’s voice cut through everything. Through the whispers, through the chaos, through the ringing in my ears.

I didn’t even have the strength to turn my head.

But then I felt it. A sharp, sickening sound. Steel meeting flesh.

My breath caught in my throat as something cold and brutal drove into my chest.

For a moment, I didn’t understand. Then the pain followed.

It exploded through me, tearing through bone and muscle, stealing the air from my lungs as if I had been thrown into the depths of the Underworld itself.

A choked gasp ripped from my lips. My eyes closed slowly.

The sword was buried deep in my chest.

Healyn’s hand gripped the hilt, her knuckles white, her expression twisted in disgust.

“You should’ve died with her,” she spat, her voice trembling with wrath.

My fingers twitched uselessly at my sides.

I couldn’t feel them. I couldn’t feel anything.

“Noxiana!” Sienna’s scream erupted the air.

It echoed in my head, distant and sharp-pitched, like I was already slipping somewhere far away.

Healyn yanked the blade free.

A wet, broken sound left my throat as my body gave out completely, collapsing forward, but I never hit the ground.

Strong arms caught me.

Araquiel.

His grip tightened around me as if he could hold me together, as if he could stop what had already begun.

“No… no-” his voice broke, “What have you done?!”

Blood spilled freely now, soaking into his robes, dark and endless.

I tried to breathe, but I couldn’t.

Each attempt felt like drowning.

My gaze blurred, but I forced it to focus past him, past everything, until I found her.

Sienna.

She was struggling against the guards, her wings spread, her face drenched in tears.

Our eyes met, and in that moment, everything else disappeared.

All the anger.

All the lies.

All the things we never said.

I tried to smile.

I wasn’t sure if I could do it. My lips trembled, barely moving.

“Little angel…” I murmured, my voice nothing but a broken whisper.

Her name died on my tongue. The world dimmed at the edges. And for the first time in a long, long while, I was terrified.

✧

SIENNA’S POV

Noxiana collapsed to the grass; the life in her eyes was… gone.

The angels were staring at me, at Noxiana, wondering what would happen next. The silence was deafening.

I wished Cealum and Odessa were here with me to tell me what I should do.

I was so helpless. So outraged.

My father was a liar. He destroyed our family, but if he hadn’t helped Noxiana’s mother, she wouldn’t exist.

For that, I’d always be grateful.

But now, I no longer cared about anything.

I didn’t care about the gossip, Araquiel, or my mother.

They could all die, and I would feel nothing .

Noxiana’s lifeless body lay on the grass, her eyes shut, tears still rolling down her cheeks.

I thought she would never leave me. She promised she would stay with me forever.

She broke her promise, but I would not-not until my last breath.

Either we’re dead together, or we live. I wouldn’t accept it differently.

With my wings, I shoved the guards, making them fly several paces to the ground. I marched forward to Noxiana. Everyone watched me, but I didn’t spare them a single glance.

I did that already. I cared about their opinions, and for what? Now they all want me dead for treason.

With thorns in my throat, I dropped to my knees beside Noxiana. I stared at her face, recalling the moment we met. She looked way worse now, but even back then, I was sure I could save her.

Where did all my ‘believing in myself’ go? I was once so confident.

With my trembling arms, I lifted her upper body and pressed her to my chest.

“N-Noxi-” I let out a sob. “You s-said I’m yours, that you won’t leave me. How could you break your promise to me?”

She was always cold, but now, she was frozen.

“Please, you c-can’t leave me. I can’t live without you.” I pressed my lips to her temple. “N-Noxi.”

She was gone. Forever. I lost her.

And it was all my fault.

I snapped my eyes to my mother, rage spreading through me like wildfire.

“How dare you!” I shouted, my voice broken. “How could you take the only being that loves me, away from me? I hate both you and Father. I hate you. I hate you. I hate you!”

Healyn had zero regrets in her eyes. Only my father looked heartbroken, but not because of what happened, but because the only thing that remained after Merikh was gone.

I ducked my head down and kissed Noxiana on her mouth.

Even if it were the last thing I’d do, everyone would see my declaration of love. If my father couldn’t do it because of pride, I would.

I pressed Noxiana against my body, and with a scream, my Healing power exploded all around me. The bright light enveloped us like a stroke of paint, slipping through every hole, tree, and water.

The guardians moved toward me, trying to stop the healing process, but with a swing of my wings, I blew them rolling on the grass.

I closed my wings around us, protecting us from every possible danger. As the light poured from my hands, it passed through Noxiana’s body.

The guardians shot their arrows and daggers at me, but with all my remaining strength, I held my wings in place.

Tears ran down my cheeks, and everything hurt. But even despite the pain, I had to save Noxiana.

She was all I had left. No one would love me as much as she did.

And I couldn’t love anyone else but her.

The light started to expand, growing larger and larger until I had to shut my eyes to not be blinded.

The explosion was so immense that the light was still lingering in the air, and everyone else was blinded.

I folded my wings when the light reduced, and I could see Noxiana’s face.

“Noxiana,” I whispered.

Seconds passed, and nothing was happening. I was prepared to accept the worst, but then her eye twitched.

Breathe in.

Breathe out.

At once, her snake amber eyes sprang open, staring at me.

“Noxiana!” I exclaimed and hugged her tightly. “Say something, please. I thought I had lost you forever.”

She coughed, shaking.

“Please,” I repeated.

“It seems… you can’t get rid of me that easily.”

I pulled back, gazing into her eyes.

“I can’t believe you’re alive,” I murmured.

She reached her hand to my cheek. “It was you who brought me back. You saved me again .”

I smiled and pressed my forehead against hers.

“I’ll protect you from now on. No more sacrifices. I want to be with you forever,” I said.

Noxiana gently pushed on my chest, and when I noticed her horrified look, I flinched.

“W-What happened-”

“Your wing,” she cut me off. “Sienna. Look at your wing.”

I looked over my shoulder and gasped. My wing… the feathers were gone. Only the bones remained, and they turned black.

That was the price I had paid for bringing someone back to life.

Before I could look at Noxiana again, my vision became blurry, and someone grabbed me by the arms.

“No!” I thrashed against their hold, but it was pointless.

I was too weak.

I could barely keep my eyes open.

When they dragged me far enough from Noxiana, they positioned me on my knees.

“Do it before it spreads!” I recognized the voice of one of the Elders.

“Yes, my Lord!”

Then the breath whooshed out of my lungs.

An agonizing pain followed, and something heavy dropped next to me.

With ragged breath, I looked down and broke another cry.

They cut my wing off.

“Sienna!” Noxiana shouted. “You will be fine. It’s alright!”

But how could I, after seeing the remains of my wing lying on the grass like garbage to be thrown into the fire?

It was harder to take a breath. The pain was excruciating. The loss was unbearable.

I lost a part of myself.

They lifted me to my feet and dragged me again. Despite my heavy loss, I looked at Noxiana, who was being held by guardians.

My brother ran after me.

“Promise me, Rowan, that you won’t let them hurt her. Please. Put your hatred for demons aside and help me!” I yelled, and after a few moments, Rowan nodded.

I let the tears pour from my eyes. I let the cries echo throughout the campus.

“I love you, Sienna.” Noxiana’s voice was barely a whisper, too far away to hear.

I love you more than anything. I’ll never forget you.

I knew that was the last time I’d hear her voice, so I had to remember it like a melody, like the sound of my flute before it got lost with the wind.

⸻⸻

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Epilogue

✧

ONE HUMAN LIFE LATER

✧

SIENNA’S POV

If someone asked me years ago what I desired, my answer would have been my parents’ love.

Every child wishes for that.

Love changes you, and every creature and being needs to experience it.

Even though I didn’t receive parental love, I gained love that only a few beings find.

It’s rare. Special. Strong and dangerous.

I risked my life for love.

And I would do it again if I had to.

“Sienna?”

I turn towards the arched stone entrance.

Odessa smiles at me, and I do, too.

“Weren’t you going to visit me in two days?” I ask and get up from my bed.

Odessa walks in with a light step.

“Weren’t we apart for too long already? And I know you’re bored here.” She chuckles.

She is right. For at least forty years, I was locked in an underground cell. So was my father, whose cell was next to mine.

The Elders couldn’t help but torture us most cruelly.

But after forty years of behaving morally right, my sentence was reduced, and I was moved to a seclusion beyond the school. It was my first time seeing more than just our academy, and I loved it.

The gardens and towers full of books. The magical creatures who are running around the woods freely.

I’ve begun to like living in seclusion.

The Elders kept me here without guardians. I could never fly again, so I was no threat to them.

You may ask how difficult it was to accept the fact that I’d never be flying through the clouds.

My answer is, impossible.

But with each passing day, I’ve gotten used to it. I had no other choice.

“Sienna, I finally found the book. It took me hours to get through the whole library.” Cealum’s voice echoes through the stairwell.

Odessa glares at me and sighs.

When Cealum notices her, he halts. Odessa doesn’t look at him.

“I didn’t know you had a guest. I’ll come back later,” Cealum says and puts the book on the table.

Odessa waits until Cealum leaves, so we can go back to our conversation.

“Don’t you think it’s time to forgive him?” I ask. “If I’m alright with everything that happened, so should you. I’m not mad at him for who he chose to protect.”

Odessa sits on top of the table that has all kinds of fruit and vegetables arranged in a clay bowl.

“I don’t want to talk about this anymore, Sienna. You have to accept that Cealum and I won’t ever be friends again.”

When the Elders interrogated me, I told them that both my familiar and Odessa were forced into lying.

That way, they weren’t punished. It wasn’t fair to let them sin for something that had nothing to do with them.

Odessa, however, has started to loathe Cealum for not choosing to save me. Even after all these years, she cannot forgive him.

I was never angered by Cealum’s choice. It was the other way around. I was happy that he protected my one and only female best friend.

His choice was hard, but he decided well.

Cealum could’ve gone back to the Woods of Rei and be wild again. Instead, he decided to wait for me.

When I was moved into the seclusion, he immediately followed me.

Odessa became a potion teacher at the academy. She comes to keep me company while she studies more books.

“Alright then. I won’t pursue you anymore, but you should reconsider it, at least,” I say.

She then proceeds to tell me about everything that is happening at school these days.

All the teachers who taught us are already gone. The new ruler of Heaven replaced them, and some of them wanted to retire, for instance, Miss Maribelle, who taught healing.

During the time I was imprisoned, another war with demons began.

Many had lost their life, even my mother.

Araquiel is still in the dungeon, but his energy is weak. He won’t last for too long.

“And what about… Have you seen her?” I ask, fidgeting with my fingers.

Odessa shakes her head. “I haven’t seen her in years. But the last time I did, she was safe and sound.”

Because I used almost all my power to heal Noxiana and I lost my wing, she didn’t receive the death sentence.

For years, I had no clue where she was or what she was doing.

As of now, she’s helping Heaven in gathering information about demons. And I could thank the new ruler for that.

She’s a spy and also teaches the students about the demon abilities. That was part of the agreement of setting her free.

She wasn’t exactly free, but at least she wasn’t locked up in a cell.

In these past few years, the Elders were either killed for being an ally with the demons or simply thrown away from their position.

The new ruler decided not to have the Elders help him with our Realm. His new way of ruling was inspiring.

Together, the teachers, students, animals, and common folk made suggestions on how to improve our home for the better.

All the decisions were made together.

There were some who didn’t agree with this. Aria and Hayes were the first to oppose after they got married. They moved somewhere far away, and no one heard about them at all.

“By the way, I have a surprise for you!” Odessa exclaims.

“What is it?” I wonder.

She smirks and spreads her wings. “I’ll have to carry you.”

I roll my eyes. “Do you know how humiliating this feels?” I laugh.

“Come on. I know you miss flying.”

And she’s right. I do-more than anything.

I dress in a light blue gown with long sleeves and wrap my arms around Odessa’s neck. She grabs me around the waist and flies to the sky.

I smile and close my eyes, enjoying the wind against my face.

It feels like yesterday when I was flying through the sky like this.

When we draw closer to the academy, I’m taken aback.

“Am I allowed to enter?” I ask.

“Yes, I got permission,” Odessa answers.

We head to the bridge with the most beautiful flowers and waterfalls. The memories rewind.

Odessa gently puts me down, and I look across the wild river.

“Nothing changed here. It’s beautiful as always,” I comment.

Odessa leans against me. “That’s true. The flowers spread even more over the years.”

If only I could stay here.

I caress Odessa’s hand and sigh.

“What’s wrong?” she asks.

“Nothing… It’s just that, although I like my life as it is right now, there are many missing pieces. I miss the academy and you, especially.” I answer truthfully.

Odessa pulls back, and our eyes meet.

“It’s not only about me, Sienna, and you know it.”

What a painful truth.

I shrug. “There’s nothing I can do. I have to accept that this is it.”

Odessa suddenly pulls me into a hug, and I smile. What would I do without her?

“Oh! I completely forgot. Inara sent you a gift, but because I was too busy with teaching, I forgot to bring it.” She laughs.

I draw back this time with my eyebrows raised.

“How is she doing, by the way? I hope my brother is treating her well. Being the ruler of Heaven must rob him of the time he could spend with her and the kids.”

Odessa chuckles. “Inara looks very happy, and the kids are healthy. They can’t wait to meet you again.”

The last time I saw them, they were babies.

My brother became a father of twins. A boy and a girl.

“Let me get the present. It’s in my classroom. I’ll be quick,” she adds.

I take a deep breath. “You know I won’t mind staying here longer. You don’t have to rush back.”

Odessa pushes me playfully and spreads her wings.

“I’ll take my time.” She gives me a wink and flies to the sky.

I turn to the river, my hair floating with the sound of the wind.

The peaceful silence was my sanctuary. Every time I stood on this bridge, my mind was cleared.

My plans and desires didn’t have to be guessed. But now? My options were limited.

A few minutes go by when I hear footsteps.

“You’re back quite fast-”

The strength in my feet weakens. I stumble back.

Carefully, I turn around. My stomach coils with dread.

She can’t be here. It’s just my imagination.

I’ve missed the academy so much that I started to hallucinate.

That must be the only logical reason.

But the goosebumps on my nape feel real.

I grab the railing, feeling dizzy.

I’ve been dreaming about meeting her ever since we were parted. Every night, every morning, I cried my eyes out at the thought of never seeing her again.

I kept deceiving myself that one day I would, even though I knew that possibility was slim-almost non-existent.

But the cold hand on my back isn’t a hallucination. It can’t be. My fingernails are pressed deep into my skin, grounding me in the pain.

Slowly, as if the world itself might shatter if I move too quickly, I turn.

She’s not a memory. Not a dream forged by longing.

The wind whips between us, tugging at her collarbone-length dark hair, my gown, and everything that once bound us together and then tore us apart.

My lips part, but no words come out.

She looks… different.

Her eyes still burn the same-those sharp, dangerous amber eyes-but there’s something else behind them now.

“Sienna.”

My name on her lips again feels like punishment.

My grip on the railing tightens. “You’re not supposed to be here.” My voice comes out weaker than I intend.

She lets out a quiet laugh. “That’s the first thing you say to me after all these years?”

“I thought you were a hallucination,” I mumble.

Her gaze softens. “I was starting to think the same about you.”

Silence settles between us again.

Heavy. Thick. Unbearable.

I should be angry. I should scream at her, push her away, remind myself of everything that happened-the betrayal, the pain, the years spent alone in darkness.

But my body betrays me.

One step closer to her. That’s all it takes.

Noxiana’s eyes flicker to my movement, something dangerous igniting in them, but she doesn’t move, she doesn’t touch me.

“Why are you here?” I ask, my voice unsteady. “You’re working for Heaven now, aren’t you? Spying on your own kind.”

A faint smirk crosses her lips. “Still keeping tabs on me, little angel?”

My heart clenches at the nickname.

“I had to know you were alive.”

Her expression changes instantly. The smirk disappears.

“I am,” she says quietly. “Barely.”

My eyebrows furrow. “What does that mean?”

She doesn’t answer right away. Instead, her gaze drops to my body, to the way I stand, taking me in like she’s afraid I’ll disappear.

“You can’t fly anymore,” she murmurs.

I swallow. “No.”

A mix of anger and guilt washes through her face.

Her jaw clenches. “That’s my fault.”

“No.” My voice comes out sharp. “Don’t say that. You don’t get to take responsibility for everything, Noxiana.”

Her eyes snap to mine, and a bitter laugh escapes her mouth. “That’s rich, coming from you.”

We stare at each other, two beings, bound by something neither of us can undo.

Suddenly, Noxiana moves. Slowly. Carefully. Like she’s approaching something fragile.

“Do you think there’s a single day I don’t think about you?” she continues, her voice rough. “A single moment I don’t-”

Her hand lifts, then drops back to her side, like she doesn’t have the right to touch me anymore.

But I want her hands all over my body. I want her to fill me with her coldness so we could freeze together and never be separated again.

The thought alone makes my heart clench.

She takes another step toward me, her eyes darken.

“Sienna…”

Noxiana closes the distance between us, my heart pounding loudly.

My thighs press tighter together, the pulsing desire throbbing between them.

Her voice alone could melt me.

The years I spent without hearing her were like not being able to hear your favorite song.

You crave to hear it each day more and more.

She grabs me by the waist, and I move back until I’m leaning against the railing.

Her beauty is even more profound. It makes me blush.

I avert my gaze, trying to steady my racing heart, but Noxiana grips my chin, forcing me to meet her eyes.

“Tell me you missed me. Tell me you had no one else on your mind,” she whispers.

I gulp. “I only had you in my heart. I thought of you from sunrise to sunset.”

She draws closer, our noses almost touching. “Tell me you want to be with me. Tell me you forgave me.”

My lips are parted, my breath quick.

I grab her by her loose black shirt with my trembling hand. “I do. I did.”

I bite the inside of my cheek to be sure she is still real.

For once, I was thankful to feel pain.

She suddenly slams me against her chest, and our lips connect in a sudden crash. She bites my lips almost immediately, her fingers digging deep into my skin.

I tug at her long hair and fight against her tongue, which keeps attacking mine.

Before I blink, Noxiana lifts me, and I automatically wrap my legs around her waist.

Something is tearing, but I pay no attention to it.

Well, not until I feel the soft breeze against my bare back.

“My gown…” I murmur against her mouth.

Slowly, we sink, and I’m straddling Noxiana now.

She nibbles at my lower lip, holding me by the throat while tearing the rest of my gown apart.

I can hardly take a breath.

When my gown is completely scattered to pieces, she turns me around, and I’m beneath her.

I’m bare from the waist up, so Noxiana has straight access to my body.

When her lips move across the middle of my chest, I arch my back.

She suddenly stills and meets my eyes.

“I am-” She chuckles. “We are both allowed to stay here. Rowan came to me and lifted my sentence. He told me to meet you and tell you the news. All the Elders who imprisoned us are no longer in the council. We can be together. Peacefully.”

For minutes, I’m silent. To accept what came out of Noxiana’s mouth seems impossible.

Rowan hated demons. They were the reason why he was banished from our Realm. Was he doing all this just for me?

I push Noxiana just enough to rotate. But my crawling doesn’t last longer than four seconds.

Noxiana collapses on top of my back and starts kissing my neck.

“Do you no longer want me? Why are you trying to escape?” she asks, her voice low.

I frown. “I’m no longer delusional. I need to talk to Rowan.”

Noxiana laughs at the top of her lungs.

“Funny that it was delusion that kept me alive all these years,” she says.

I can’t help but smile. I would lie if I said that I didn’t experience the same thing as she did.

“Sienna, it’s all true. Rowan wants us to be together. He fought against his hatred for demons just so we could be together once again. You can talk to him later. What is important right now is that you want me. Do you?” she asks.

I take a ragged breath, and a tear rolls down my cheek.

How can she even ask me that?

“For eighty-five years, I have longed for you, Noxi. I don’t want to waste a single second more,” I whisper.

Noxiana presses her lips to my temple and lets out a shaky exhale.

I didn’t even notice her fingers clutching my wrist.

“I have a small house in the woods. We can live there, and you can teach at the academy. Rowan said that’s his wish. He wants you to teach healing. He said that no one ever brought dead beings to life.” Noxiana pauses for a moment. “Don’t blame him for not telling you first. Rowan wanted us to meet as soon as possible.”

I chuckle. “I really hope I’m not dreaming.”

Noxiana moves me, so I’m lying on my back. She touches both sides of my face and gazes at me like never before.

We both changed, and for the better.

“Since Rowan doesn’t hate me that much, he gifted me a vacation to spend time with you. I’ll be glued to you from the moment you open your eyes to the moment you snore,” Noxiana says.

I smile, butterflies tickling my stomach. “Take me home, Noxi.”

She hoists me with ease into her arms and kisses my cheek. “Let’s finally live.”

THE END

⸻⸻

Thank you all so much for reading!

This was by far the most difficult story to write. Half of the time, I wanted to give up, but I couldn’t disappoint myself and you. I always finish every story I write on WP.

Hopefully, you’re not mad at me 👀 I had the ending in my head before everything else. I wouldn’t change a thing!

<3

Check out my other wlw works:

Fatal Attraction - Completed

Saving Grace - Completed

Adopted by a Vampire - Completed

Announcement

Wings of Mercy is now available for purchase as an eBook! I want to thank all of you for reading. This was the hardest story I had ever written. I’m so glad I finished it :)

Link is in my bio <3