Chapter Eight

After a quick flight soaring over California to the southern end of the Cascade Range, Dante and the rest of the Slayers from their lair arrived at Mount Shasta. An extensive cavern system wound through the base of the massive volcano, and there were even large caverns that tourists visited. But the hidden cave system of the Slayers, angels, and other heavenly beings wasn't included in any travel brochure.

Dante and Mal exchanged tense glances as they quickly made their way along the pathway to the grand hall where everyone would be meeting. Michael turned to them as they crossed the threshold, and Dante was startled to see such a grim expression from the typically self-satisfied angel.

"We don't have time for banter," said Michael, directing his terse comment to Dante as he spoke.

Normally, he'd bite Michael's head off, but the severity of their situation made him hold his tongue. For once, he agreed with the pompous archangel.

Many Slayers Dante hadn't seen before filled the grand room, as well as others he knew who held top-ranking positions. The cavern was vast and seemingly endless, lit by glowing crystals that cast ethereal colors across the jagged stone walls. Thick, humid air carried with it the scent of incense, sage, and musty earth, and massive stalactites hung from the ceiling like sharp teeth, adding to the sense of foreboding that filled Dante.

At the center of the cavern, a large stone table was surrounded by higher-ranking angels and gargoyles—their wings stretched out behind them in a show of power and authority. The angels were robed in their official garb of shimmering gold fabric with a bib collar of multicolored precious jewels. In contrast, the gargoyles were clad in dark leather, flowing silk shirts, and silver chains around their necks and wrists.

It seemed as if they were still waiting for others to arrive, as Archangel Michael had yet to call the meeting to order. Dante continued to survey the room while he waited until his gaze landed on a group of five female Slayers he hadn't seen in ages approaching them. He couldn't remember all their names, but there was one he definitely hadn't forgotten. The majestic beauty hadn't changed a bit. Even her jet-black bobbed hairstyle and pouty red-stained lips were the same.

"Hello, Zahra. It's been a minute."

She gave him a wry smile. "Actually, more like a billion. I believe we were both trying to seduce Spartacus at the time."

Dante arched his eyebrows. That was a long-forgotten tryst. While their interlude had been enjoyable, the burly gladiator wasn't his usual type. He preferred more delicate men.

"Ah, yes. I remember that night. I do miss the wine from that era. The grapes were so rich and pungent. Not like the watered-down version of recent centuries."

She rolled her eyes. "That's your takeaway from a tumble with Spartacus? Grapes?"

Dante gave a dismissive shrug. "I wasn't impressed."

Zahra crossed her arms. "You haven't changed a bit in two thousand years. You're still absolutely ridiculous."

He smirked. "I'm willing to bet you got a piece after I was through with him."

She frowned. "Are you kidding? I didn't want your leftovers. I made do with Julius."

His eyebrows shot up. "Oh yeah? Never had the chance to meet Caesar. Was he worth it?"

She screwed up her nose. "I wasn't impressed."

They both snorted laughter, and he gave her a hearty pat on her back. "Those were good times though, weren't they?"

She grinned before her features darkened again. "Bitch of a time to be meeting up again, though. What do you know about the second relic?"

He shook his head. "Fuck all. I don't think anyone's been informed yet. It's possible that no one knows for sure."

As if on cue, the loud, resonating voice of Archangel Michael echoed through the cavern, causing conversations to cease and heads to turn in his direction.

"Thank you all for being here. I understand your concerns regarding this crisis, and I've called this meeting to share what information we have."

The high-ranking gargoyles and angels prowled toward the table—wings and robes shuffling in a rustling sound that would be soothing under different circumstances. Dante stood tall with Mal, Zahra, and the others at his side. He scanned the crowd again, curious to see whether Lucifer would actually show up.

Michael"s voice carried across the room as he continued, "The five stones of David have been taken by the Rogues. They were obtained in what is now known as Istanbul, where they were relocated to a hidden location over a thousand years ago. It would also appear that one of our own is in league with the demons and Rogues."

"Uh, hold up." For once, Dante wasn't interrupting Michael to get him riled. What he was saying didn't make sense. "That's not possible. Wouldn't the traitor simply turn to shadow?"

Michael shook his head. "That's part of what everyone needs to understand, why this meeting is so crucial. Our situation is evolving." He arched one eyebrow. "May I continue?"

Dante sighed. "Please."

"As I was saying…" Michael held Dante's gaze before returning his attention to the rest of the group. "According to one of the traitorous Slayers we've captured, they've been taught an incantation by Leviathan, the leader of the demon uprising, to mask their identity as Shadow."

Shocked murmurs spread through the room as everyone reacted to this unfortunate development. Their task was already daunting enough, but with this new trickery, protecting the relics would become even more difficult.

The murmurs were louder this time, and Dante leaned into Mal, whispering, "I thought the stones David used to slay Goliath were a fake. I've always heard they were never saved in the first place."

Mal nodded. "I think we all did." He narrowed his eyes at Dante. "Perhaps rumors of them being fake were spread in such a manner to guarantee they were protected."

Michael continued, "Lucifer is quite upset. Says we should've known and that the Divine Spark is messing with him. He's waiting to see how we intend to proceed."

Dante snorted. "Right. Because that's what the Divine would do, put Their rule in jeopardy."

Michael sighed. "Lucifer's always been high-strung and irrational." He shrugged. "Gabriel and I will deal with him, don't worry."

Zahra spoke up. "Why isn't he here? I was told he was the one demanding a meeting."

Michael tugged on the hem of one of his jeweled sleeves, pausing a beat before answering. "Don't place your trust in rumors. No one in the heavenly realm will ever acquiesce to Lucifer's demands. As such, we have to tread very carefully. The Seal is safe for now, but news of the ring being located has already been shared with other Slayer factions. We can't risk moving it until we know who the traitor is."

Dante was about to ask Michael what their next move should be, but Caleb spoke up before he had the chance to.

"I still don't understand why The Divine doesn't simply use Their omniscient power to locate the remaining relics. Then they could be taken to Heaven, and we wouldn't have to fight this battle any longer."

Dante couldn't remember which Slayer and Nephilim had produced this newbie, but they needed to bone up on their history lessons.

Michael regarded Caleb, his expression betraying the irritation that he typically reserved for Dante's benefit.

"The relics are objects given to humans, only becoming holy through the prophets and the events that shaped their existence. Once their power became known, that's when the demonic realm discovered they could be used against the Light. The Divine Spark had already given authority to the angels to watch over them, so They are no longer directly responsible for anything pertaining to the relics." Michael tilted his head, then voiced what Dante had been thinking. "Did you not pay attention to the reason why you, a Slayer, were chosen to fight this battle? Or do you simply not care?"

Caleb's jaw went slack, and his eyes darted around the room nervously. "Oh, uh, I care. I guess I must've missed the angel part."

Michael pinched the bridge of his nose then took a deep breath. "I see. Well, in case you're still confused by your holy mission, let me explain. The angelic realm is in charge of the relics, and the Slayers—of which you are one—were formed to battle the Rogues."

"But we still get to be guardians and have a fated mate at some point, right?"

The corner of Michael's mouth twitched. "You have to slay one hundred and thirty-three Rogues first."

His expression fell. "I know that part. But what if all your fellow Slayers keep taking the kill shots before you can?"

Another Slayer barked out, "Then move your molasses-ass a little faster."

Several gargoyles fell into raucous bouts of laughter, and Dante found himself grateful that he'd never had to fight a battle with the whiny Slayer. The Rogues were enough of a pain in his ass.

Michael yelled, "Enough! Let's get back to the reason we're here. We have to move quickly before our enemies obtain a third relic." He rubbed his forehead. "I appreciate that many of you place the blame on the angels for losing the relics in the first place. But let me be clear. We did not lose them. They were given to prophets and saints for specific purposes. Once the humans had them, they, or in some cases, their descendants, did a crappy job of hanging on to them. Sometimes, their enemies stole them. So, I would appreciate it if we could stay on task as opposed to arguing over why we've been charged with this mission in the first place.

"In addition, we need to be more on alert." Michael paused as if conflicted before continuing, "But I don't want distrust of each other to throw us off course. Eyeing our allies with suspicion or animosity will only give more power to the Shadow. We'll be so preoccupied with focusing on treachery within our ranks that we'll forget to be vigilant in our regular mission. That's why Uriel and I are appointing a special team, a group of sentinels from each lair whose primary focus will be to investigate this new breed of Rogue and protect their home base."

Dante raised a finger when Michael glanced his way. The angel pursed his lips. "Yes, Dante?"

"Could you clarify what is expected of a mated Slayer at this time?"

Michael's eyebrows shot up. "I find it ironic that right as you accept your Fated One, we should be faced with this crisis. As such, you'll be required to fight. We need to utilize every Slayer possible." He gazed around the room before continuing, "That holds true for everyone."

Dante always hungered for battle, but now that he'd tasted what having his mate was like, he was conflicted. And poor Amir would be devastated.

"With that said, I'd like the following Slayers to remain so you can be briefed on your duties as sentinels."

Dante elbowed Mal so they could hurry back to their lair when Michael announced Mal's name. He froze, then turned to see Michael taking a seat as the new sentinels gathered around him. He trailed after Mal until he reached the stone table.

"Wait a minute. Does that mean Mal won't be fighting by my side or with the rest of us?"

Michael snorted. "Oh, so now you're suddenly desperate to fight with him? Given up your vigilante ways, have you?"

Dante gritted his teeth. "Fair enough. But I'm back, and we've always been an outstanding team in battle. Look at the group of Rogues we just annihilated and the relic we recovered. Surely, that holds greater significance than sidelining him."

Michael pasted on an I'm-bored-by-your-nonsense expression. "The last time I checked, I'm in charge. If you're unhappy with the delegation of power on this mission, I suggest you take it up with the Divine Spark."

Dante gritted his teeth harder. Michael should've simply told him to fuck off. No gargoyle had ever had a private audience with the Divine.

Mal rested his hand on Dante's wrist. "Hey. We're still a team. But I've been fighting without you for a long time. And thanks to the battle we just shared, I only have to complete a few more kills before I get my fated mate." Mal turned to Michael. "Will my position as a sentinel keep me from achieving that goal?"

"I can't promise you that. But in your capacity as sentinel, any rogue kills you accomplish will be part of your tally—including any traitor who is masking their shadow side." Michael gave him a soft smile, something Dante rarely saw the archangel do. "I chose you especially because of your even temperament, your ability to calmly access situations. It's imperative that your fellow Slayers don't fall into the trap of false accusations."

Dante's knee-jerk reaction was to feel as though Michael was making a dig against him. But truthfully, Michael was right. Mal was the best gargoyle for the job. His commitment to what was right, his caring nature, and his capacity to forgive was what set him apart from most of the other Slayers. There was a reason Mal was one of the only gargoyles Dante not only tolerated but cared about.

Mal appeared startled by Michael's statement. "I hope I can live up to your expectations. I vow to do all I can to discover those who are turning on their fellow Slayers."

Yeah. Mal was perfect for the job. Dante knew himself too well. He'd never be that humble.

Dante patted Mal on the shoulder. "You're going to kick ass as a sentinel. Ignore my grumpy ass."

A voice came from behind him. "I think we all do."

Dante frowned, peering over his shoulder at Zahra. "Haven't you left yet?"

Zahra let out a hearty laugh then winked. He gave her a half smile in acknowledgment. In truth, he deserved a lot of the barbs he'd been hit with since returning to the fold.

Uriel, who had been quiet throughout the proceedings, held Dante's gaze as he spoke to Michael. "I think what we discussed earlier should be shared with Dante. His mate will need to be protected from the repercussions, so it's only fair he be informed."

What now. "I don't want Amir dragged into any of this. He doesn't need the stress now that he's pregnant." Dante frowned. "Or ever. If you need me to be a good boy and sit with him in our room all day, I'll do it. Whatever it takes."

Everyone stared at him as if he'd grown a second head.

Michael blinked repeatedly. "Weren't you the same guy who insisted all this fated mate stuff was bullshit, or am I hallucinating?"

Dante balled his fists. "You'll be hallucinating, all right. Care to take this to the surface?"

Michael's wings blazed a fiery red, his eyes turning to brilliant, piercing stars.

Mal grabbed Dante's arm. "Don't. You know better than to challenge any angel to a fight, let alone Michael."

Dante took several calming breaths then let go of the rage permeating his body. Mal was right, he did know better. But, damn. Michael needed to step off already.

Michael's fire subsided until his form was that of a human again. He continued as if Dante hadn't said a word.

"Yes, Uriel. That's an excellent idea. Begin briefing the sentinels while I speak with Dante."

With a sweeping gesture, Michael indicated with his hand for Dante to follow. Once they reached a small pool of water tucked away in the far end of the cavern, Michael stopped.

"First of all, I recognize that we've clashed many times over the millenniums and that we'll likely never be the best of friends. But I assure you, all that matters to me is protecting the balance and following the Divine Spark's plan. Part of that plan is ensuring that all life-givers remain safe. I'll never do anything that puts Amir in danger. Understood?"

Dante clenched his jaw before answering. "Understood. Now, what's going on?"

"We've relocated the ring in secret. Only myself and Uriel know where it is. We purposely led everyone at the meeting to believe that it was still at your lair. Mal's getting briefed on the subterfuge right now, but we're guiding Mal to hint to Amir that it hasn't been moved. We didn't want to put you in the position of lying to your mate."

Dante frowned. "I don't understand. The relics are always verified then taken to one of the designated locations for safe keeping."

"Yes, but we didn't discover we had traitors until after the verification. One of the Slayers who was present could be an enemy. If we're lucky, they might try and find out from Amir where it's been taken."

Dread built inside Dante that was almost as strong as his fury. "You will not be using Amir as bait."

Michael crossed his arms."What did I just say about not putting Amir's life in danger? You know, sometimes I think you don't hear a blazing word I say."

"I hear you," Dante growled. "But I choose to disregard what I don't believe is true. I'm the one in charge of Amir's protection. I'm the one who will see to his safety." He stabbed a finger at Michael. "And don't you dare tell me that because I didn't want a fated mate before, I can't accept my duty as his protector now! That's bullshit, and you know it."

One corner of Michael's mouth lifted in a smile. "Duly noted. In that case, you may assist Mal if you feel comfortable misleading your mate."

Dante huffed. "The fuck? Misleading my mate? Yeah, I don't think so."

Michael tipped back his head. "Divine, give me strength." He regarded Dante again. "Pick one. Defend your mate by misleading him into thinking the relic has been moved, or fight with your fellow Slayers and allow Mal and the other Sentinels to ensure his safety. You can't have both."

Dante dug his fingers into his palms, his head ready to burst from the rage coursing through him. He'd bent plenty of rules over the years, but he'd never received any serious backlash because his motives had dovetailed with the Divine Plan. He'd been allowed to fight the Rogues his own way until his fated mate was ready for him. But to willfully disobey Michael's decree in such a blatant manner could get him banished. He'd never see Amir or his child again.

Lie to Amir? Or trust that Mal and the others would keep him safe? Never had he been so conflicted.

"I…" He swiped the back of his hand across his mouth. "I can't lie to him. And I think you already know that."

Michael nodded slowly. "As much as I find you challenging on a good day, I do know that. I've never met an angel or gargoyle so capable of blurting out exactly what they're thinking, no matter how inappropriate." Michael's features turned grave. "Which is why you'll be leaving with your Slayer team for battle now. I won't chance you cluing Amir in on our plan. Only Mal and Caleb will be returning to the lair."

Dante's jaw went slack. "You can't do that! I need to see him before I go in case I don't come back!"

Michael's features clouded, and Dante thought the archangel might be on the verge of another glowing fit.

"This is my decree! Do not make me banish you for Amir's sake."

Dante's hands shook, his knees weakening. Never had he been so devastated by following an edict from Michael.

"Yes, Michael. I'll follow your decree."

He spun around, marching toward Mal with determination. It was crucial to make sure his friend relayed a message to Amir in case he didn't survive the upcoming battle. As much as he longed to confess his feelings in person, he couldn"t bear the thought of dying without Amir knowing how much he loved him.