Echoes and Embers by Cyndi Friberg

Author:Cyndi Friberg [Friberg, Cyndi]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Anything-but-Ordinary
Published: 2012-10-27T22:00:00+00:00

Refusing to leave the females unguarded, Sariel sent out an angelic command, summoning Gadrayel to him. Alyssa and Rosalind sat on a bench by the fire talking softly, their heads slightly bowed. He scanned Rosalind’s being, searched her mind, examining every nuance of her soul. Spiritual forces had definitely played a part in her development, but he couldn’t define the specifics of her nature.

She is not a Nephilim. Gadrayel’s voice sounded within Sariel’s mind.

Though he sensed Gadrayel behind him, Sariel didn’t turn around. Gadrayel should be chastised for his misbehavior, but Sariel couldn’t help but empathize with his subordinate. This mission was unusually complicated.

Your silence had me wondering if you were nearing a Crisis of Faith. Sariel sent a surge of annoyance along with the thought. You should have reported your findings.

I apologize. Gadrayel moved up beside Sariel. The lesser angel remained incorporeal, only discernible to highly trained angelic senses. I had nothing to report.

You claim she is not a Nephilim. How came you to that conclusion? Sariel sent his thought directly to Gadrayel’s mind.

I observed her at court. I listened and searched her being extensively. I’ve never encountered anyone quite like her.

Sariel smiled. That description applied equally to Rosalind and Alyssa. You did not approach her while she was at court?

Nay. I only interact with my objectives when absolutely necessary.

Sariel understood what he didn’t bother to say. It was easier to destroy a being with which he had never interacted. If a simple scan of their nature could determine that a Nephilim was corrupt, there was no need for conversation.

Did you sense Enos at court?

Enos is about? Gadrayel’s shock sounded genuine.

He appeared to Alyssa asking about Rosalind. Do you have any idea what Enos would want with Rosalind?

Gadrayel shook his head. Nay. She has no significant powers and is completely unaware of the few she does possess.

Sariel nodded. Gadrayel had told him nothing he didn’t already know. Why did you conceal yourself from me?

I had nothing conclusive to report, sir, and did not wish to risk your ire.

Sariel snorted. Her image is seared upon your mind. How far did you indulge your carnal nature?

Not nearly as far as I wanted to. Sariel followed the direction of Gadrayel’s stare and found Rosalind. Never before have I faced such temptation.

Another sentiment Sariel understood all too well. You were wise to return Rosalind to the castle. Who does she believe you are?

Her gamekeeper.

For the time being let’s allow her misconception. Guard her well. With Enos about, we can take no chances. But only appear to her as this gamekeeper.

A long pause followed then Gadrayel asked, Is Rosalind forbidden to me? She is not human. I have been able to determine that much. Yet she is not Nephilim either. Will I Fall if I…indulge my carnal nature with her?

Sariel locked his hands behind his back and shook his head. I don’t know the answer. In fact, I’m struggling with a similar question.

Gadrayel’s gaze moved to Alyssa, his expression curious. Is she an angel?

Aye. Sariel chuckled.

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