Arrival of the Beast: Lucifer's Clock, #2

Sixteen Years Ago

THE CREATOR MADE HIS rounds on the floor that held the hospice patients. He was usually invisible to the innocents, but he made sure the ones he visited could see him. They didn’t see his true form; instead, they saw one of their loved ones. Still, they knew he wasn’t from their world, and they believed him to be an angel.

He liked to welcome them to Caelus and give them something to look forward to. He told some of them stories about the wonders of Caelus, while others were just content with being in his presence, because when he was around them, their pain and worries vanished. The nurses and family members thought the patients were mentally unstable because of their terminal conditions, so they ignored it when the patient’s mumbled and whispered to him.

He had stopped to speak with a terminally ill gentleman by the name of Earl Ray. They were reminiscing about the first-time Earl had met his wife, Lily.

She was the skinniest, and most big-headed, loud-mouthed girl I had ever met, and I fell head over heels in love with her. Do you know what was the first thing she said to me?

What’s your problem, you buck-toothed freak? the Creator guessed smiling.

Earl nodded and laughed himself into a coughing fit. The Creator touched his arm, and his coughing subsided.

Thank you, Earl said, patting the Creator’s hand. He looked back up at the Creator with tears in his eyes. Will she be there?

Yes. She is... the Creator trailed off. The building began to shake as if there was an earthquake. An alarm sounded in the hallway of the hospital, alarming the residents. They cried out while the staff tried to calm them.

Then the shaking stopped as suddenly as it had started. This earthquake wasn’t normal though, because the Creator had felt a shudder throughout the realms at the same time. Something big had happened. Something big enough to shake this world’s existence. It was here, and it was a girl. Lucifer’s child had been born.

Is everything okay? Earl asked.

I hope so, the Creator said, standing. I have to go, Earl. I will see you soon.

The Creator followed her life force to a hospital across town. When he entered the room, her mother, her cousin and his right-hand angel, Gabriel were silently looking over her. Gabriel noticed the Creator’s presence as soon as he entered the room. She handed the newborn to her mother and bowed her head as the Creator approached the mother and her new bundle of joy.

She is the spitting image of Luciano, said the cousin in awe.

Yeah, she is, agreed her mother.

We need to find that loser so he can take care of his responsibility. He should not get away with this!

The Creator peeped over the mother’s shoulder at Lucifer’s daughter and couldn’t help but laugh. She was a magnificent monstrosity, perfect in every way. Lucifer had certainly outdone himself with this one. The innocents didn’t stand a chance against her.

We’ll be okay. We don't need him, the mother whispered to her daughter.

The Creator thought about giving Gabriel the command to end the child’s life right then, but the baby looked at the Creator and smiled. Within that smile he saw true innocence and a chance for her to be something different from what she was destined to be.

1

Feminist Fish

ANGELICA WOKE UP IN a cocoon of baby powder and beautifully sculpted arms. The events from the night before flooded her memory. She blushed at what had occurred between her and Michael. Even though they had kept it PG-13, the idea of his lips on any part of her body almost sent her into a frenzy. She still couldn't believe he was in love with her. He was a billion years old, and she was the first person he had fallen for. Or was she? She had assumed that since he was an angel, he hadn't had a girlfriend before.

But what if she was wrong? What if he had a crazy ex, or one of those on-again, off-again relationships, where the ex was always lurking in the background, or even a girlfriend she didn't know about? Had she just signed up to be a side chick?

Michael didn't come across as a player to her, but there were times when he would disappear and supposedly visit Caelus. Angelica sighed at her troublesome thoughts. She just needed to accept the fact that Michael loved her and wanted to be with her and only her.

What's wrong? asked Michael, sensing her sudden agitation.

Do you have a girlfriend? Angelica blurted out, then wished she could punch herself in the face. It sounded absurd when she said it out loud.

Michael chuckled and pulled her closer to him, burying his face in her hair. You can't be serious.

You're really hot. I can't imagine you not having a girlfriend or two. Angelica turned around to face him, so they were eye to eye.

Michael frowned when he realized she was serious. Angelica, I have never been in a relationship with anyone before. These feelings I have are uncommon, and frankly, they are frightening. I feel as if I’m free falling, without my wings, and I don't know what will happen when I land.

Angelica couldn't help the big grin that spread across her face. So, you are a part of the V team, too?

What is this team you are speaking of? Michael asked, his forehead creasing.

Angelica giggled. From now on, I will call you the billion-year-old virgin.

Michael laughed when he realized what Angelica was talking about. Being an angel has its advantages. We are naturally good at everything we do. He leaned in toward her and said in a husky voice, Every. Single. Thing. Therefore, practice isn’t needed.

Right, said Angelica swallowing deeply. That would explain why I’m good in school and...stuff, she said, almost falling off the bed. She could feel her blood pressure rising from the smoldering look he was giving her. How could he have this effect on her? Between the change and her raging hormones she was going to spontaneously combust. Angelica hurriedly jumped off the bed, needing to put some distance between them.

Satisfied at the discomfort he had caused her, Michael lay there with a smug look on his face. When Angelica noticed this, she knew he had purposely said that to make her uncomfortable. She smiled sweetly as she grabbed her pillow and tried to hit him with it. He dodged the fluffy missile and grabbed her by the waist, pulling her on the bed and tickling her. Angelica squealed with laughter as she tried to push him away.

Okay, I surrender! She laughed. If you don't stop I’ll pee on myself!

And from now on I will call you Angelica, the princess of piss, Michael said in a regal voice.

Angelica giggled and tried to hit him again, but he easily blocked it and pulled her on top of him with one hand. Angelica’s laughter faltered when she realized the position she was in. Michael slid his hand into the nape of her hair, and gently pulled her head down toward his, kissing her softly on the lips. That thrilling spark that she was getting used to shot through her body, from head to toe, as his lips sensually massaged hers. Angelica agreed, angels were naturally good at everything. An hour later, she made it downstairs, still a little buzzed from their make out session.

Someone's high beams are on this morning, said Adaira as she pounced on the kitchen counter.

What are you talking about? Angelica asked, opening the refrigerator and peeking inside.

I'm talking about you, sunshine. If you get any brighter, I'm going to have to start wearing sunglasses indoors.

Angelica closed the refrigerator and ignored Adaira’s comment about the bright glow she was giving off.

Don't you have some catnip to play in or something?

I think you've done enough playing for both of us, Adaira said, with a smirk.

Ugh, whatever. And just to let you know, making faces like that are weird on a cat. You need to practice doing something else like meowing and licking your paws.

Adaira hopped off the counter and pranced out of the kitchen, laughing.

Angelica couldn't help smiling when she heard Adaira singing, Michael and Angelica flying above the trees, k.i.s.s.i.n.g...

If Adaira knew, then Connie and Gabriel did, too. It was just a matter of time before Gabriel said something to them. Angelica just hoped that Michael wouldn't let Gabriel come between them. Michael appeared in the kitchen, dismissing Angelica’s thoughts.

What’s wrong? he asked, frowning.

Nothing, she said, quickly.

Michael looked down, and away from her. Are you having second thoughts about us? he murmured.

No, of course not! Angelica rushed over to him. I want this, but...I think that we should keep our relationship status between us for now. I don’t want Gabriel ruining this.

Michael looked at her with understanding in his eyes and nodded. Okay.

Angelica smiled, relieved at his compliance. How about we have a beach day?

By the water? Michael frowned in disgust.

Angelica snorted. Yeah, that kinda comes with the beach territory. Don’t tell me you can’t swim?

Of course, I can swim. We just prefer not to, he said indignantly.

Oh, like a cat.

Michael frowned at the comparison. I wouldn’t go that far, but I can see the similarities you are trying to draw.

Angelica grinned. I promise I won’t throw you in, scaredy-cat.

With a stern look, Michael said, Do you give me your word?

I promise, she said, giving him her best serious face.

Alright, then, let’s go, he said, cracking a smile.

6 6 6

Michael watched Angelica as she floated on her back in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Mexico. Of course, he had declined to join in on her water adventures. He didn’t feel like having wet wings for the rest of the day, so he happily watched Angelica. He could watch her all day and be content. When she dropped her legs, and flipped over into the water, Michael felt his heart turn with her. Her every move, breath, look, and words affected his very being.

As she swam towards him, Michael stood slowly. Two large, fish-like tails smoothly broke the surface of the water, about one-fourth of a mile behind Angelica. Michael swiftly walked to the beach’s edge, willing Angelica to get to him. Angelica exceled at swimming like everything else in her life, but no matter her skill, she couldn’t out-swim Lucifer’s creations, mermaids. They were closing in on her fast, and she was oblivious. Michael took flight and flew over the water towards the mermaids. Angelica must have sensed him because she stopped swimming and looked up at him.

Go! Michael yelled at her while waiting for the mermaids’ tails to break the water again. Angelica didn’t hesitate to take off toward the shore. Their large, scaly tails broke the surface, and Michael dived down quicker than a hawk after its prey. He grabbed hold of each tail and yanked them completely out of the water. As they hovered in the air, they hissed at him and twisted and turned in his strong grasp.

We don’t mean the princess any harm! one of them hissed.

Of course, you don’t. You just want to kidnap her and take her to your master, growled Michael.

We have no master! We want to meet the princess! She is our idol!

Michael looked at the mermaids closely. Like most mermaids, they had colorful scales that covered their entire body from head to tail, rows of razor sharp teeth, two slits for a nose, and large, slanted, black eyes. They were not the most pleasant sights to behold. These two appeared to be young. Their scales were of a vibrant color and weren’t as slimy as the scales of the older mermaids he had come across.

Where is the male leader of your clan? Michael asked warily.

We lead ourselves. We don’t need any male to tell us what to do!

Michael had heard about the feminist movement that was taking place, not only among the innocents, but also among the female supernaturals who felt oppressed by their male peers. He wouldn’t be surprised if these mermaids considered themselves a part of this movement.

And who are you to speak on the princess’s behalf? She doesn’t need you to speak for her! You should be on your knees worshipping her, male scum!

Yep, they were feminist fish. Michael dropped them back into the water and was back on the shore beside Angelica in an instant.

Are those what I think they are? Angelica asked in awe as she watched the mermaids swim closer to shore.

Yes, answered Michael irritably. They are another devious creation of your father’s. They were created to lure innocents at sea to their deaths.

I can’t even go for a damn swim, murmured Angelica.

I apologize. I didn’t think they would be here. They usually inhabit colder bodies of water to avoid detection.

What do they want? Angelica whispered.

To see you, Michael said as they watched the mermaids walk out of the water towards them. Thankfully, the area of the beach that Angelica and Michael occupied had no other visitors to witness the mermaids emerging from the water. Michael grimaced at the magical transformation that overtook the mermaids. They looked like normal teenage girls in bathing suits. Luckily, the transformation was temporary and didn’t last longer than 24 hours.

The mermaids now stood in front of them with looks of admiration and respect on their faces as they gawked at Angelica.  

Our queen, one of them said. They both dropped down to their knees in front of Angelica.

Oh, no. I’m not a queen, explained Angelica. She looked at Michael for help. He just shrugged, obviously annoyed that his day with Angelica was being interrupted.

You fight the dominance of your father and the control he tries to have over your life. This is inspiring to all female supernaturals that are under his reign. We acknowledge you as our sovereign and will fight with you.

Wow...I don’t know what to say.

The mermaids awkwardly stared at Angelica for a few seconds while still on their knees. They were apparently awaiting her command. Michael cleared his throat.

Please stand, Angelica said, motioning for them to stand up.  The mermaids hastily obeyed, but again they stood there, staring at her as if they were waiting to be told what to do. Angelica looked at Michael for help, but he was giving the mermaids his best, most, fierce look.

What are your names?

My name is Angie, and hers is Angel. We changed our names when we fled our clans.

Those are awesome. Angelica smiled, not missing the fact that they were shortened versions of her own name.

Thanks, said the mermaids beaming.

Would you like to sit with me? I was just about to eat lunch, Angelica offered. She immediately looked conflicted. These were creatures of the sea and Angelica had no idea what they ate.

The mermaids didn’t find anything wrong with her question because they squealed and jumped in place for a few seconds. Once they noticed the shock look on Angelica’s face they composed themselves. 

Forgive us, princess, said the mermaid named Angie. She was short and chubby with long, wavy, yellow blonde hair with turquoise tips. Her two-piece bikini matched the color of the ends of her hair. We are honored to be in your presence. The other mermaids back home would die to be here right now.

That’s not necessary. No one needs to die on my behalf, Angelica said laughing nervously. She took a seat on the blanket Michael had laid out for them earlier. The mermaids hurriedly sat opposite her.

But we would, princess. Wouldn’t we, Angel? said Angie, looking at the other mermaid.

Angel was tall and thin with big brown, slanted eyes, and a short, black bob with a yellow sunflower pinned to the side matching her yellow one-piece. She nodded enthusiastically. Without a second thought, I would cut off my fin and bleed to my death if it meant honoring you.

That is...sweet, said Angelica, baffled as to how to reply. What did you say to strangers who were ready to die for you? You want some? Angelica handed them a platter with fruits and cheese.

The mermaids hesitantly helped themselves. When they tasted the fruit they both closed their eyes and moaned with pleasure. What do you call these delicacies?! Angie exclaimed.

Those are grapes. You can have more.

The mermaids gladly helped themselves as Michael looked on with a frown of disapproval. Angelica gave him an apologetic look. He had put a lot of thought into the picnic, and now strangers were eating it.

We never thought in a million years we would get a chance like this; especially when this is our first time on land.

You have never been on land? Angelica asked, raising an eyebrow.

No. Our former clan leader forbade it. The older, more experienced mermaids can go on land to lure the innocents, but not us.

How much older? Angelica asked curiously. Most supernaturals had long lifespans. Michael and Gabriel were older than the earth and Connie was almost 400 years old. Angelica was probably the only supernatural who didn’t have a long life, but she wasn’t sure of that either, being that she was the only half supernatural/innocent that existed.

Only a couple of centuries older, Angie said, rolling her eyes as if centuries were nothing, but a couple of years.

Wow, that sucks, said Angelica with a frown. And as quickly as her frown had appeared, it was replaced with an ingenious grin.  

How would you like a proper introduction to Corporis? Angelica’s eyes lit up with her new idea.

What do you mean, princess? Angel asked as she looked at Angie with a bewildered look.

Yes, what do you mean, princess? Michael asked through gritted teeth.

I’m going to introduce them to the wonders on land.  The mermaids once again squealed and clapped with excitement.

Michael interrupted their celebration when he grabbed Angelica by the arm. Can I speak to you alone?

For a brief second, the mermaid’s true selves flashed through their enchantment. Razor sharp teeth were bared at Michael, eyes black as night homed in on him and claw-like nails protruded that were ready to attack.

Woah! It’s cool, Angelica said, holding out her hand to stop the mermaids. He’s not going to hurt me.

The mermaids reluctantly relaxed back into their teenage forms, while still glaring at Michael. Once they were a few feet away from the watchful mermaids, Angelica began to speak.

This is so cool! Mermaids are real! she whispered excitedly.

Angelica, as exciting as this may seem, they are dangerous creatures. You cannot expect me to let you frolic around with them all day, Michael whispered with his eyebrows furrowed.

I don’t think they are dangerous. I mean, besides the terrifying scene I just witnessed, I think they have good intentions.

Michael sighed. I should take you home right now, he muttered to himself.

But you’re not. Angelica drew closer to him and intertwined her hand in his. Michael’s heart sped up of its own accord. That was how it always acted when its owner was nearby.

And what makes you so sure? Michael asked her in a softer tone.

Because you love me and want to see me happy.

Michael didn’t say anything. He didn’t have to because he knew Angelica was right. He just looked at her and rubbed her chin affectionately.

Then it’s settled. We’re taking the mermaids on an adventure. Angelica quickly pecked him on the lips and took off toward the mermaids.

Michael looked at her with a mixture of concern and amazement. Her life had been unimaginably turned upside down, and she was in the middle of an ancient battle of good and evil, and yet she was still able to find some sort of happiness within it all. He wished to be more like her; he wished to be able to live in the moment with no thought or care for tomorrow.

2

Six Flags

THIS CONTRAPTION IS wonderful! What is it called again? Angel asked, her eyes aglow with curiosity.

It’s called a car. Angelica giggled as the Uber driver gave Angie a peculiar glance in the rear-view mirror. Both mermaids were holding onto the door handles with death grips as the car coasted at thirty-five miles per hour.

Is this how innocents are transported? Angie asked. She looked as if she was about to throw up at any moment.

For the most part. Angelica flashed the driver an exaggerated, sweet smile. She instantly regretted that when he almost ran a red light. Michael gave her a reprimanding glance from the front seat. Angelica shrugged innocently. Michael shook his head and faced forward.  

We are here, the driver announced, looking at Angie and Angel with a peculiar stare. The mermaid’s awe at the car radio and his cell phone gave him enough reason to.

What is this place? Angel asked, stumbling out of the car.

Angelica stood next to her. Six Flags! she said excitedly. It’s an amusement park.

Angel squealed with joy. ‘I don’t know what that is, but it sounds amusing!"

I hope it’s better than the car ride, said Angie, looking at one of the towering rollercoasters in the distance.

I’ve never been to one before, but I’ve heard about it from my friends, said Angelica.

You have friends, Princess? Angel asked, surprised.

Angelica grinned and nodded. Yup, and they’re pretty awesome. Why would you ask that?

With the bounty on your head, you can’t trust anyone.

So why should she trust you? Michael growled, hovering protectively over Angelica. He quickly took her hand. Angelica squeezed it, reassuring him that everything was okay.

Angel lifted her chin high with a hard look in her eye. Ask anything of me to prove my allegiance to her.

That’s not necessary, Angelica said with a nervous smile, but Michael or the mermaids weren’t smiling one bit.

What would you like me to do? Carve my allegiance to you on my chest? One of Angel’s human fingers transformed into a sharp talon. She pulled down the collar of the shirt she had transformed into before leaving the beach.

Angelica grabbed Angel’s deformed hand. Angel, don’t. This isn’t necessary. I believe I can trust you.

Angel nodded and her hand transformed back to normal. If you believe me, that’s all that really matters, she said, sneering at Michael.

For now, Michael said menacingly.

C’mon, we’re here to have fun. Can we please try to get along? Angelica pleaded.

Michael and the mermaids nodded in agreement.