The Daughters of Saturn

By Idalita Wright Raso

Blood is the seat of the soul...

Vampire horror set in medieval Spain. Felipe de Hayos, the son of a wealthy statesman is forced by his parents to marry a mysterious Moorish woman named, Lilith Al-Salameh. But Lilith is hiding a dark secret. She is actually Saturn's Immortal High Priestess, and plans to transform Felipe into an immortal, like herself.

However, Lilith's plans are dashed when a family friend and her daughter, Zaybeth Castile arrive at the de Hayos estate. It is love at first sight for Felipe and Zaybeth. Learning of her husband's betrayal, Lilith plots the lover's destruction. Lilith and the Daughters of Saturn perform a forbidden ritual, opening the Eye of Saturn—cursing Felipe into a vampire and Zaybeth into the only one who can kill him.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Feb 26, 2016
• ISBN: 9781543970296

Book preview

Author

IN THE BEGINNING

THE BLACK VOID

After HIS long slumber, Saturn, the Great Father, awoke and opened HIS all-seeing Eye. Gazing out into the black cosmic abyss, the god spoke in a thunderous voice.

"Sapirla ne’kab vitoar zop’kab shael!" (Blood is the seat of the soul!)

Saturn’s words had awakened the void and breathed life into the universe, thus marking the beginning of time. Saturn waved HIS golden scythe, sending powerful lightning bolts streaking across the vast universe. Dust particles swooshed and swirled while elements joined, until they formed an infinite number of luminous stars, nebulae, and planets. Saturn made HIS planet sixth—HIS sacred number, HIS seal.

The entire cosmos bore Saturn’s seal—HIS sacred number—six hundred and sixty-six. Saturn’s sacred number was the fabric upon which the universe was built. For it was a powerful, magickal mathematical equation. In some galaxies Saturn’s sacred number was symbolized by a six-pointed star. In other realms the sacred number was depicted as a black cube. No matter how Saturn’s sacred number was perceived, it was the perfect construct for an invisible, inescapable prison—a matrix that placed all beings, great and small, rich and poor, free and slave under HIS control.

To oversee the countless worlds in the universe, Saturn created a legion of gods in HIS image. They lived within the rings around HIS planet, forming the Council of Gods. Saturn selected forty-two principal gods to act as overlords; among them was Apollyon, whom the Great Father affectionately called, Pluto.

* * *

Saturn extended HIS golden scythe and a glorious band of light flooded the cosmos. Out of the wondrous light, a winged figure emerged. The majestic white wings of this magnificent being opened like a blossoming flower—it was a woman. Her skin was a translucent, icy blue. She wore a loosely draped, sheer white sheath that barely covered her flawless, round breasts. A halo adorned her head, as her long white hair cascaded over her shoulders. Round her neck she wore a gold six-pointed star necklace.

You are my daughter. I shall name you, Isis, Saturn declared.

Salzol ShBThAI! Salzol ShBThAI! Salzol ShBThAI! (Hail Saturn! Hail Saturn! Hail Saturn!) Isis said in Solsatihel, the language of her Father, Saturn—the first language of the gods and of the universe.

Saturn stretched forth HIS golden scythe and two winged, translucent, icy, blue figures emerged—Asira and Dusana.

Asira, a petite, raven-haired beauty and the younger of Isis’ two sisters, held on tightly to Dusana’s hand as Isis embraced and greeted her sisters.

Isis, Asira, and Dusana, my daughters, I empower you with the gift of immortality, the power to heal, create, destroy, and the ability to travel through time and space. As my daughters, you are my messengers—my angels, Saturn proclaimed.

Saturn’s scythe emitted beams of electrical energy, bathing the sisters in a pale blue light.

Daughters, I give to you the task of transcribing my laws and ceremonies, and fashioning them into sixty Sacred Scrolls. You shall become the guardians of the scrolls. After you have finished your task, go and tell every being in the cosmos that I am their god. Saturn turned to Isis and held out HIS hand. "Sa’hal!" (Come!)

Isis placed her trembling hand in her father’s and vanished. Isis and Saturn arrived on Rhea, the planet Saturn’s second largest moon.

Isis, being my eldest daughter, I have bestowed upon you all wisdom so you may intercede on my behalf. I am entrusting you with all of my magickal knowledge, the Great Father decreed.

Isis listened carefully to Saturn’s words and meticulously recorded HIS every magickal secret and fashioned them into the Six Forbidden Scrolls. Isis summoned the magick of the universe and sorcery bound the scrolls and funneled them inside six solid gold cylinders. Sparks flew as an invisible hand engraved the cylinders with Saturn’s insignia—a scythe inside a six-pointed star resting on a flat, black, onyx stone.

Isis knew the scrolls had to be protected. Anyone possesses them could use its magick to open Saturn’s all-seeing Eye and create or destroy an entire universe, transform beings or unleash the Judgment Seat of Saturn to punish those who opposed them—or far worse! They could send Saturn to an eternal sleep and ultimately control the universe. Isis hid Six Forbidden Scrolls in the last place anyone would look for them—deep inside Pan, the oddly shaped, innermost of the planet Saturn’s moons.

* * *

Although Saturn had created an infinite number of planets, there was one planet in particular the Great Father favored more than all the others—Earth. It was HIS grandest creation. Saturn generously filled the planet with animals of every kind. HE gave the lands life-sustaining water and lush vegetation.

Saturn stood back and stroked his long white beard. Something was still missing—a caretaker. HE crafted in the image of HIS daughters—beautiful and beguiling—woman and made her Earth’s mother. HE gave woman HIS sacred number—six and vested her with a special gift, the power of creation.

In time, woman gave birth to man. Man’s number was also six. Their off-spring was also given Saturn’s sacred number. Thus, the human covenant with Saturn, like all beings of the universe, was six hundred and sixty-six. The number of man’s Third Eye, his spirituality—his direct connection to the creator. Now, man was a part of Saturn’s matrix.

Isis, Asira, and Dusana came to Earth and instructed man on keeping Saturday, Saturn’s Sabbath Day, Holy. They taught man Saturn’s sacred rituals, which often required human sacrifices and the drinking of blood.

Sapirla ne’kab vitoar zop’kab shael! (Blood is the seat of the soul!)

Saturn was so pleased with Earth and man; HE spent the first millennium living on the planet as a man-god, making HIS home at the summit of the world axis—the North Pole. The time Saturn spent on Earth was known as the Golden Age. During this period, there were no wars, famine or disease. Mankind lived peacefully in lush fertile lands of flowing milk and honey.

MY NAME IS APOLLYON

Inside the rings of Saturn, the principle gods assembled in the Great Chamber for the Planet Assignment Ceremony. The gods sat at six gold tables, chatting with one another, eagerly waiting their assignment. Apollyon was among the deities, gathered in the Great Chamber.

Saturn, the Great Father sat at the front of the chamber on a floating golden throne, holding his scythe. One by one HE called the gods’ names and assigned them to oversee a particular planet.

Jove! Saturn summoned.

The god made his way to the Great Father and kneeled.

I give you the planet Jupiter, Saturn said, as HE placed HIS scythe on the god’s left shoulder.

"Salzol ShBThAI! Salzol ShBThAI! Salzol ShBThAI!" (Hail Saturn! Hail Saturn! Hail Saturn!) Jove said.

The gods clapped.

Apollyon sat for what seemed like an eternity, waiting for his name to be called. He looked around nervously; he was the only god that had not been assigned a planet. Just when he thought Saturn had forgotten about him, he heard his name.

Pluto, come forth! Saturn announced.

Apollyon’s heart gave a horrible jolt. He swallowed hard. This was it! The moment he’d been waiting for. Apollyon beamed, as he walked to the floating throne. Apollyon knelt before the Great Father.

Pluto, since you are my favorite, I hereby assigned you the planet Pluto, Saturn proudly declared.

Instead of the gods clapping and cheering, the Great Chamber exploded with laughter.

Apollyon’s heart sank. His eyes lingered bewildered for a moment on Saturn. Not wanting to show his disappointment, Apollyon plastered on a fake smile and thanked the Great Father.

Saturn placed HIS scythe on Apollyon’s left shoulder and blessed him.

Apollyon tucked his black wings tightly to his side and cast his eyes down, as he walked past the laughing faces of the other gods.

How could Saturn do this to me? He has made me a laughing stock.

Apollyon was furious. He was glad when the Planet Assignment Ceremony was over and Saturn finally left the chamber.

Cheer up, Pluto, old boy, Jove said, jokingly slapping Apollyon on the back. Remember, it’s not the size of the planet that makes the god, but what the god does with the planet that counts.

My name is Apollyon, he snapped, brushing back Jove’s hand. Easy for you to say, Saturn gave you the Red Giant, the largest and luckiest planet in the entire universe. My planet, if you can call it that, is nothing more than a tiny, cold, barren rock, he scoffed.

Sounds like someone has planet envy, Mars teased.

The gods laughed.

Well, Pluto, you are Saturn’s favorite. What did you expect? Mercury said.

Apollyon stood up abruptly, his black wings unfurled. His right hand curled into a fist ready to strike Mercury square in the face.

Apollyon, Venus said quietly.

Yeah, what is it, sweetheart? The god turned his head, to look upon the goddess. She was the embodiment of femininity, grace, and beauty. Venus’ smooth, golden tones swathed Apollyon in a sea of calm. He relaxed his fist, bringing his arm to his side.

Saturn gave you the gift of death and rebirth. Perhaps you could use your talents to breathe new life into your planet.

And why should I have to work so hard, while all of you rest on your laurels?

Rest on my laurels? You must think it easy being the god of war, Mars said, pounding the table.

All the gods, except for Venus, burst into laughter.

Apollyon vanished in a whiff of smoke.

ELIJAH’S GREAT SACRIFICE

Earth during the time of the Golden Age in the fortified city of Khirbet Qeiyafa, near Jerusalem.

Every tribe of man paid homage to the Great Father by erecting temples and appointing elders to oversee the shrines and help to guide the faithful. The chief elders were given a six-pointed, gold star—Saturn’s talisman—HIS star. A few loyal servants won Saturn’s favor and was rewarded with HIS most precious gift—immortality. One such servant was Elijah. Saturn knew just how much Elijah loved his first-born son, Yosef. Saturn decided to test the Chief Elder’s loyalty.

Brother Elijah, Isis said, materializing before the Chief Elder. Saturn feels you do not love HIM. Tell me Elijah, is there someone you love more than the Great Father?

I can assure you Isis; I love no one more than I love Saturn.

Then prove it. Sacrifice what you cherish most dearly, tonight at the harvest celebration. Do this and Saturn will reward you. Isis vanished in a rolling cloud of smoke, leaving streaks of white and purple luminous radiation, evaporating in the air.

Elijah took a deep breath and called for his six-year-old son, Yosef.

Yes, Papa? The bright-eyed boy ran into his father’s arms.

Once Elijah gazed into his son’s eyes, he couldn’t bring himself to tell him the boy the truth, so Elijah lied.

Yosef, there’s a special celebration at the Temple of Saturn tonight to honor you.

The boy’s face lit up. To honor me, Papa?

Yes. You have won Saturn’s favor, the Chief Elder said, casting his guilty eyes to the floor.

Elijah covered his son’s head with a black hood and bound the boy’s wrists with thick ropes. He told his son it was part of the special celebration. They walked for an hour until they came to the mysterious temple.

Rhythmic, tribal drums and the melodic tune of the lyre played. Worshipers, some completely naked, with arms outstretched to the heavens, exploded into a frenzy of elation as they paid homage to Saturn underneath the biggest and brightest harvest super moon the world had ever seen. A mammoth golden statue of Saturn rested in the center of the courtyard.

A gold breastplate and a robe adorned the statue’s body. The figure held in its left hand a gold S-curved scythe, with a blade sharp enough to slice a man in half. Upon the head of the statue sat a jewel-encrusted, stepped crown. Lying majestically at the foot of the statue was a carved gold effigy of the bird of wisdom.

Thick, black, billowing plumes of ash and smoke spewed out from the corners of the statue’s smiling mouth. Elijah glanced at the statue. He knew what was hidden behind the figure’s devious sneer—it was a brazier deep inside the statue’s belly that was designed with a dark purpose in mind.

Elijah led his son up the steep, uneven, stone steps to the statue’s smiling mouth. Still blinded by the hood, the boy stumbled a few times going up the uneven steps. Once they reach the mouth of the statue, Elijah positioned his son directly in front of the brazier and shoved him into the flames.

Elijah stared coldly into the fire as the flames popped and hissed, rising higher until the red-hot, demonic inferno consumed his son’s body. The mouth of the statue seemed to smile with delight, accepting Elijah’s sacrifice.

Tribal drums beating faster and faster, until the festivities came to a grinding halt. Immediately, everyone turned and faced the statue of Saturn and bowed.

Fifteen temple elders, dressed in hooded black robes chanting. Salzol ShBThAI! Salzol ShBThAI! Salzol ShBThAI! (Hail Saturn! Hail Saturn! Hail Saturn!) The elders led the processional into the shrine.

Isis’ white, six-foot wingspan spread majestically as she hovered above the congregation. Ritual flames danced in a hearth illuminating Isis’ icy blue translucent body, giving her an angel-like appearance.

Greetings, faithful servants. Elijah, come forth, Isis said.

Elijah humbly walked forward and knelt. He bowed his head in reverence.

Your obedience has proven you worthy to receive Saturn’s greatest reward—immortality. You shall live on Saturn’s planet and dine amongst the gods. Your descendants will be favored by the Great Father and receive special blessings. Arise, Brother Elijah and join the celebration.

Elijah raised his head and pulled back his hood. His head was bald and decorated with a hexagon tattoo. In the center of the design was an eye with a scythe for its pupil. The left side of his face also donned a tattoo—a bull’s head enclosed in a six-pointed star, encircled by an inscription written in Solsatihel, followed by ancient symbols.

Dusana and Asira suddenly appeared, hovering in the temple. Worshipers and the elders fell to their knees, interlocking their arms, swaying from side to side chanting. A haunting sound rumbled through the temple, growing louder until it vibrated the walls and floors. A mixture of fear and adoration could be seen on the faces of the worshipers. Shrieking sounds reverberated, with a near deafening pitch.

Worshipers began writhing in pain—blood oozed from all orifices—their eyes, ears, noses, and mouths and formed a single trail of blood that led outside to the foot of Saturn’s statue.

Blood is the seat of the soul! the Daughters of Saturn chanted.

APOLLYON’S REBELLION

The planet Nibiru, located just beyond Pluto in the Milky Way Galaxy.

Apollyon sat high on his throne overlooking thousands of angry, grumbling, rebel gods that had gathered in the great hall.

Quiet down! We have much to discuss, he bellowed.

The gods ceased their discussions at hearing Apollyon’s order.

I trust everyone knows why I have called this meeting?

To fight against our oppressor, Saturn. The owl god, Stolas said.

Right you are. For a millennium, Saturn has lived on HIS beloved Earth amongst HIS precious humans, leaving us to run the universe, while HE gets all the glory, Apollyon said.

Yeah, Saturn loves theses humans more than HE loves us, Malphas, the raven god said, as he unfurled his wings. HE treats us like HIS slaves.

That’s right, Malphas. It’s about HIM. HIS will. HIS laws. Just who the fuck does Saturn think HE is? Apollyon roared.

A cold and heartless taskmaster, that’s who, Shax chimed in.

Well, all of that is about to change. We’ll show HIM! This is about respect, Apollyon said, adding fuel to the fire.

The gods cheered.

Saturn has even granted some humans immortality, Apollyon said, turning up his nose. That right should only be reserved for the gods. I say it’s time to test the loyalty of these humans. Let’s show them exactly how Saturn has deceived them.

A massive god with three serpent heads stepped into the light. Apollyon, how are you planning on doing that? Thamuz, the snake god hissed. His black, forked tongue darted in and out of his mouth.

By controlling the Six Forbidden Scrolls and opening Saturn’s all-seeing Eye. Once HIS Eye is opened, I can send HIM back into an eternal sleep, breaking the illusion.

Obtaining the scrolls won’t be easy, my lord. They are guarded by Saturn’s daughters, Belial warned. The sisters are more powerful than we are.

Yes, but there is something far more powerful than the sister’s magick.

And what is that? Shax asked.

"Love," Apollyon said, cocking his head to one side. Once I gain control of the Six Forbidden, we’ll go down to Earth and enlighten these mortals. After they realize Saturn has enslaved them, they will turn their backs on HIM and worship the gods of their choosing.

Zagan stepped forth. He cleared his throat before speaking. Apollyon, this is blasphemous. Saturn is our creator. HE is our father.

Do not be blind, Zagan. We have a duty to spread the truth to every being in the cosmos and set them free.

But the Great Father can turn us into ash with a blink of HIS eye, Zagan said.

Apollyon stood up and with his arms stretched outward, majestically addressed the crowd. And I have the power to raise you out of the ashes. It is our duty to set the universe free from HIS illusion. Saturn must be destroyed! So, who’s with me?

The gods mumbled as they deliberated, then they spoke their decision in unison, I!

Apollyon’s thin lips curled upward. It is settled. But first things first, I need leaders. Step forth when your name is called and kneel. Stolas, you have been loyal to me from the beginning, so I bestow upon you the title of High Prince of the Underworld. You will teach the humans astronomy, so they may know about the universe that Saturn has kept hidden from them. Zagan, you shall be King of my minions. Shax, you shall serve as my Duke. Belial, you will head up my army. Thamuz, you are in charge of weapons.

Yes, of course, my god, my king. It is my honor to serve you, Thamuz said bowing.

Apollyon motioned with his hand. Ronove, come forth! Since Saturn is so arrogant and has mandated that every being in the universe speak HIS language, Solsatihel. Ronove, you will teach the humans the many tongues that are spoken in secret…One by one, Saturn’s planets will fall—starting with HIS precious Earth. Arise brothers and prepare to strike!"

The mob of rebel gods applauded and cheered, singing songs of war. Zagan and Shax hoisted Apollyon high up in the air.

THE SEDUCTION

Isis sat silently, resting upon Iapetus, the third-largest of the planet Saturn’s sixty-two moons, when Apollyon suddenly appeared before her in a blinding white light. She let out a gasp.

A thousand apologies, Isis, I didn’t mean to frighten you, but when I saw you sitting here alone—

Apollyon, Isis said breathless.

You know my name?

Of course I know your name. You’re my father’s favorite god. Isis lifted her gaze, making eye contact with Apollyon. He was not as large as the other gods, but he was muscular and ruggedly handsome. His steely, gray eyes and wavy, ash blond hair captivated Isis. She was swept away by a flood of emotions she could not explain.

Isis suddenly felt nervous. Her heart raced with an excitement she had never known. Apollyon had stirred up passions of unbridled lust deep inside that caused Isis’ body to ache with sensual desires.

Tell me why a beautiful creature, such as yourself, would desire to sit here all alone, when you should be out in the galaxy, dancing and having a good time.

Isis eyes trailed Apollyon’s gaze, scanning her scantily clad body. She blushed.

I know, let’s go dancing on Ramilsea.

Apollyon, Ramilsea is at the edge of the last universe, in the eleventh dimension.

And with good reason, it’s the liveliest planet in all the heavens. There’s a never-ending festival that’s been going on since the beginning of time. Now, those Ramlians really know how to throw a party.

Isis hesitated.

We could go to my planet, but I’m afraid it is not suitable for guests at this time.

Apollyon, what makes you think I would desire to go anywhere with you?

Anything would be better than sitting here on this dreary, old moon. He held out his hand.

Isis could not deny she was completely attracted to Apollyon. He had a quiet strength and confidence about him that aroused her curiosity.

All right, but just this once. Isis placed her hand in his and they vanished.

Isis and Apollyon danced close. Their attraction was explosive. Their lips met in wild passion. Night after night, Isis and Apollyon danced and journeyed throughout the universe, returning to Iapetus only to rest.

Oh, Apollyon I’ve had so much fun. So much fun, in fact, my sisters have kindly reminded me that I’ve abandoned my responsibilities.

Speaking of your sisters, have you told them about us? Apollyon probed.

No, not yet. Why do you ask?

Just curious. What about Saturn? Does HE know we’ve been spending time together?

The subject has never come up in conversation.

Why are you keeping secrets from the Great Father? I hope it’s not because you’re ashamed of me, he said in a hurt tone.

Isis turned to Apollyon. No, don’t be silly. It’s not that at all.

Then why haven’t you told HIM? he demanded.

When it comes to matters of the heart, Saturn wouldn’t understand. HE’s too busy keeping law and order in the universe to be bothered with the intimate details of romance. She lifted her eyes softly to Apollyon. You see, love and romance are not the Great Father’s strong suit. Those gifts belong to Venus.

THE PLANET VENUS

Venus’ palace was spacious, with large white marble columns trimmed in gold. Apollyon entered the castle and found the goddess lounging on a fringed, ornate carved chaise, sipping on nectar from a golden chalice. She was humming to a melodic song, coming from a harp that was playing all by itself.

Apollyon stared at the goddess for a moment. She was breathtaking.

The goddess’ gaze met his.

Venus, forgive the intrusion, but I really must speak with you, Apollyon said in an urgent tone.

Venus sat upright. Apollyon, come in. May I offer you something to eat? She waved her hand and a buffet table of ambrosia, suddenly appeared.

No thank you. I come to you for advice regarding matters of the heart.

Matters of the Heart, is my specialty. Come, sit and tell me all about it.

Apollyon sat next to Venus, gazing at her lustfully for a moment. Venus gave a half-laugh, snapping Apollyon out of his naughty daydream. Sorry, he apologized. I’m thinking about taking a wife, but I need to know if she truly loves me.

That’s easy enough. Venus handed Apollyon her chalice. Look into the nectar, think about your love and you will have your answer.

Apollyon stared into the chalice. His reflection melted away, giving way to Isis’ reflection. She was scribing his name on a piece of parchment. Then she drew an outline of his face. Apollyon could almost hear Isis’ heart calling out to him. There was no doubt in Apollyon’s mind, Isis loved him. Everything was going according to his plan. The nectar returned to its normal state. Apollyon handed the chalice back to Venus.

The goddess took a sip of the nectar and turned to Apollyon and gave him a playful smile. So you’re in love with Isis. Well, aren’t you ambitious? she teased. Last we spoke, you were complaining about your assigned planet being too small. What changed?

Let’s just say I decided to take your advice and breathe life where there was once death.

* * *

After a night of frolicking in the universe, Isis and Apollyon relaxed on Iapetus. Apollyon looked long and deep into Isis’ eyes. He swept her long, white hair back, gaining access to her neck and placed tender kisses.

I love you, Isis, he professed.

Oh, Apollyon, I love you too.

Apollyon wrapped Isis in his black wings and held her close. Isis, I should like to take you as my wife, if you will have me.

Yes, Apollyon, I will take you as my husband, she said with breathless excitement.

Our union will make us as one and there shall be no secrets between us, he immediately added.

No secrets, Isis gasped, between the ardent kisses.

Apollyon and Isis vanished.

The planet Pluto was as cold and barren as Iapetus. Apollyon’s palace was grand, but in desperate need of repair. Candles illuminated the bed chamber. The room was bare, except for a round bed lined with pillows and silk bedding.

I know it isn’t much, but with your feminine touch, we can make this planet our home, he said, putting his arms around Isis, and kissing the nape of her neck. Apollyon swept Isis off her feet and into his arms. He carried her to the bed where they made love.

Lying entwined in each other’s arms, gazing starry-eyed at one another, Apollyon traced the outline of Isis’ face with his fingers. He kissed her sweetly on the lips.

Now I am a part of you and you are a part of me, there shall be no secrets between us, he said in a luring tone.

No, my love, no secrets, Isis repeated.

I’m glad to hear you say that because as husband and wife, we must trust one another completely. Tell me Isis, do you trust me? he probed.

Yes, of course I do.

Since we have become as one, we must also learn to share. Especially our most cherished secrets. Wouldn’t you agree?

I agree.

Isis, will you share your most cherished secrets with me? he asked, kissing the nape of her neck.

Yes, of course, Apollyon.

Then you won’t mind taking me to the Six Forbidden Scrolls, he said in a casual tone.

How do you know about the scrolls? she asked in a small panicky voice.

I felt a surge of power flowing throughout the universe, when you inscribed the incantations onto the parchment. All I ask is to read them.

What you ask is impossible. Apollyon, the scrolls are pure magick—the first words ever spoken by Saturn. I am their sole guardian. No one, not even my sisters, are allowed to look upon them, without permission from the Great Father, she explained.

Am I not Saturn’s favorite god? he asked, with firm persistence.

Yes, but…

Am I not your husband? His voice was steady and calm.

Yes, but…

You said there shall be no secrets between us. You said you trusted me. You agreed that we should share everything, including our most cherished secrets, he said with gentle remonstrance.

Yes, but…

Surely, HE would make an exception for me…Just a quick peek. Remember, you are my wife and there shall be no secret between us. Apollyon’s eyes were very persuasive.

No secrets, her voice dropped to a whisper. Very well, I’ll take you to the Six Forbidden Scrolls, but you must promise not to speak any of the incantation or write anything down.

I promise, my love. I simply want to admire the first words ever spoken by our creator, he said in sincere tone.

Isis and Apollyon arrived on Pan. With a wave of her hand, six gold cylinders materialized, floating in midair. Apollyon’s eager hands reached for the first canister, then the next. He spent hours studying the six scrolls until every word was ingrained into his memory.

Apollyon glanced over his shoulder at Isis. Her back was turned to him.