The Fire Stone: Children of Adonai, #5

By Brandy Marks

5. The Fire Stone: A Tale of Redemption and Power by Brandy Marks

Prepare to embark on a thrilling journey of angels, witches, demons, and redemption with the release of the highly anticipated novel, "The Fire Stone."

In this gripping tale, readers are transported to a world where the lines between heaven and hell are uncertain, and the destiny of powerful beings hangs in the balance. The story follows the enigmatic Angel Miriam, who awakens on Earth with no memory of her true identity, only to find herself thrust into a world of darkness and desire.

As Miriam becomes entangled in the machinations of witches and demons, she encounters Astaroth, Prince of Demons and god of erotic love, and rebells against what is demanded of her. Along the way, he is torn between his passion for her, possible love, and his dark nature and a seed of decency within.

In the depths of hell, a witch named Hecate finds herself ensnared in a web of evil, forced to serve the new ruler of hell, Andras. But when Hecate gains unimaginable power through the activation of the Fire Stone, she becomes the new ruler, leaving Andras and her mother imprisoned for an eternity.

As the story unfolds, alliances are formed, and the boundaries between good and evil become further blurred. Astaroth finds his way back to heaven, while Lucifer extends a helping hand to demons who are seeking redemption with the approval of heaven's Lord. And in a moment of divine intervention, Yeshu'a offers Hecate, her given name, Isabella, a chance to leave the grip of hell's power and ascend to heaven.

"The Fire Stone" is a riveting exploration of the human and celestials condition, showcasing the complexities of good and evil, redemption, and the indomitable power of love. Brandy's masterful storytelling skillfully weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and spirituality, captivating readers from the first page to the last.

About the Author: Brandy Marks is a highly talented and imaginative author known for her ability to transport readers to otherworldly realms with a unique blend of captivating storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Brandy continues to captivate readers with her literary works in paranormal adventures and romance.

• Language: English
• Publisher: DOTCross
• Release date: Apr 1, 2024
• ISBN: 9781963428124

Book preview

Preface

WHEN THE DESIRE TO write this book was birthed, it was to provide a form of entertainment for readers and because Lucifer is in the stories I’ve had to ask the questions:

What if Lucifer could be redeemed?

Several Christians, appalled said, Impossible. Nevertheless Yeshu’a said, What is impossible with man, is possible with Adonai. So...

What would it mean if he were?

The answer to this query is the fictional piece before you now. As you read or listen to the story, consider this scripture:

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. — 1 John 4:7

To my readers— this is not scripture though I’ve referenced scripture. I do not profess divine inspiration; it’s possible. Rather the novel is a fictional story and neither, you as a reader, or I as the author must have theological agreement. Indeed, some Christians believe it is the work of the devil.

The work does presume certain doctrinal beliefs but this novel is not meant to be an account of biblical truth. It is merely an exploratory look into a possibility and imagines, What if?

Mythology is in some portions. The rationale here is that ancient or modern mythological creatures and gods have their basis in some level of fact or are the result of the actions of fallen angels.

When possible, I’ve tried to be consistent with scripture and biblical commentaries. I have used my imagination to tell a story to spur interest in the Word of God and create an entertaining tale.

Send destruction down on them, confuse their tongues. . . Psalms 55:10

Chapter 1

Encrypted

HESITATING, AMADEUS, shakes his head. Those demons are at it again. What a nightmare. Silent a heartbeat, his brow furrows, lips a tight line. Amadeus pauses to consider the dilemma. He glances at me. My name is Miriam. I’m an angel and he seems to always want me involved in his dramatics. It can be irritating and I’d like to yell at him but don’t. What has you so upset? It’s all I can think of to say and remain calm.

Heaven’s language was encrypted. As you know, up until now, it’s been only inside our system. To us celestials, it made sense. Except now he knows - how to interpret it. He glances at me, as if expecting a response, so I do.

He, as in Andras, hell’s ruler? Who in heaven would help him, I wonder? Andras is not the brightest, so he could’ve only interpreted the encryption with help, likely from within. And it’s the first time Adonai has helped hell’s ruler since Lucifer left. Who else would be bold enough?

Yes, and while he’s top of the evil trinity, he hasn’t bothered to tell Astaroth or Asmodeus about the encryption either. Likely, he has plans and they won’t know until it’s all over.

Andras has never been forthcoming. Except Amadeus isn’t listening and interrupts. I infiltrated their system, and learned, when we transcribe anything, what was randomized by an algorithm they couldn’t or, previously couldn’t crack, now he can. He stops again. We’ve been able to understand what they say, but not the other way, until now.

So, everything we said was gobble-de-gook, until now? Guess the Boss has plans to change things. With Andras, I’m certain change will follow. It’s hell, after all, and he’s the ruler since Lucifer’s redemption.

Amadeus is still talking. It was the best firewall we ever had against demonic espionage. Now he has the key and will use it against us.

Crap. I say and glance at Michael, who does not welcome my use of certain human terms; a frown mars his perfect features. Sorry. Not wanting to offend. What are we supposed to do with this, or what am I expected to do?

Arms crossed over my chest, foot taps the floor and eyebrows draw together I look at Michael. This is the reason he’s here, to send me to the throne room for orders. If it were Amadeus, he’d know and be gone already.

Michael stands by musing: Not only does Andras have the encryption, but Earth’s fire stone has vanished. He deliberates within, wondering whether he should say something, but knows the Lord doesn’t want her to know, not yet. I surely don’t comprehend His reasoning, not this time. You will discover your purpose, and I’m sorry. It was all he said before hurriedly vanishing, looking relieved.

RARELY DOES MICHAEL apologize, so what in the stars do they have me doing this time? A frisson of fear races throughout my spirit. I don’t have long to wait for Adonai calls me to the throne room, only he’s not there; Ariel is when I arrive. You’re heading for Earth ASAP. You’ll discover what to do when you arrive, Ariel reassures.

Where’s Lord Adonai? He always shares his plans with me when I’m involved, and I’d like to have a little more information.

She looks away, not meeting my eyes. You know Adonai would have told you, if it were relevant, is all she says.

If it were relevant! Eyebrows crash together, my lips a tight line. Ariel, this concerns me, so it’s very relevant. First, Michael apologizes, then disappears. You don’t tell me anything. Adonai’s left without a word. A thumb plucks its way over my fingers like I’m fine tuning a violin. I relax and breath deep.

Ariel looks directly at me and says. What I know, you know. No one’s told me anything else. Don’t be anxious. You know the Lord is with you.

Nostrils flare. I snort out a breath. Yeah, in spirit. I would rather he was here in person. Yeshu’a wouldn’t keep a secret from me. At least I hope not. It does not help to argue and, if I leave now, I’ll discover the answers in time. Still, no matter how many eons have passed, heading into the unknown, my heart races. In the past, a disaster seemed to always follow. So rather than leave for Earth, I head for a distant star system, heart racing, my thoughts jumbled as I recall when I’d first set eyes on Lucifer, in the throne room.

He was not particularly handsome in his humanoid form, yet something about him captured my attention. Even his usual arrogance did not distract from him. I imagine he’s insecure and the arrogance hid it. At the time, I didn’t understand, now I do.

Chuckling, Adonai frowned, seeing me ponder the problem, so he sent me from the room, which I’d not comprehended at the time. Only later did I learn the reason, after many eons passed and Lucifer rebelled and Adonai sent him to Earth–oh, he caused a world of hurt for the humans. Still, more centuries would pass before he and I met again, only this time, unexpectedly.

Alone in the forest, back to nature, I’d said at the time; it was pleasant, until dark clouds rolled in, lightning flashed and the ground shuddered and shifted, throwing me down. Scrambling to my feet, I saw a crack in the earth open before me, and out of its depths, my heart nearly stopped at seeing Lucifer; he was the last person I would imagine seeing after all this time. Though he often walked about on Earth.

My mouth fell open in surprise. I wanted to look away - to run away - but my feet refused to move. Heart pounding, I gasp a breath, and wide-eyed all I can do is stare. I open my mouth again to speak, but no words come. I inhale an uneven breath and let it out, stumble back, trip and fell, trying to put some distance between us. Taking another breath to regain control and slow my racing heart, I ask, What, what are you doing here?

A good question, he said with a wicked smile. Then he leaned down, picked me up effortlessly, and pulled me tight against his hard body. At first, I felt a thrill of excitement then fear took over. I’d always been attracted to him, which I’m sure he know. But now, I didn’t know what was going on. I struggled to escape, but was no match for his strength as he pulled me along, down into the chasm, past the rocks opening before us, into hell. Upon arriving, he set me down and laughed at my terror. Be still, angel girl. No one is going to harm you. You’re here for a brief stay with adorable me.

Lucifer had me taken to a suite of elegant, furnished rooms. The Art nouveau style was amazing and caught my attention; its ornate organic, flowing shapes and forms - elongated, they exaggerated its dramatic impact. His use of nature for inspiration frankly surprised me. He, or whoever did the design, imitated the curves and lines of plants and flowers in seamless elegant continuity; it reminded me of the forested woodlands. The rooms are pleasing to the eye. Its curved shapes sinuously echoed a liberated spirit. One I could not imagine Lucifer in. He left me alone.

As the months fled by, I tried to converse with the human maid he’d left. She never spoke, went about the duties someone had assigned to her. It was boring. Then one day, Lucifer arrived at my door. He stayed a few moments, then left. This he did several days in a row, then I did not see him again for several days.

When he did come, I would turn him away, but he was so intriguing it became difficult to do so. Let’s face it, I was bored with nothing to do. As time passed, my fear vanished, because he filled the silence, the boredom. After that, we had many intriguing conversations, both interesting and intelligent. There came a time when I looked forward to his visits, though I could discern no purpose in them. I could not imagine Adonai would leave me his prisoner forever, and I was equally certain Lucifer was not trying to seduce me.

Still, intrigued by him and his intelligence, in time, this cherub created magic in my heart. While he’d never touched me, at times I imagined his powerful arms holding me. At first it was the kiss imagined, then desire for him came. It would have appalled my friends. I laugh now at the thought, because one day, he professed his love for me. It was long before when I had fallen in love with him. So, having won my heart and I his, we never made love, though both desired it. Yet something in me rebelled against the lust I felt.

Several months passed and Lucifer and I enjoyed one another’s company, until Adonai called and requested I return to Heaven. Only later did Lucifer repent, something many thought was impossible. These were my remembrances as I walked among the nebula and admired the beauty of the creation. There was so much more that happened during my stay in hell.

Next, my thoughts take me to Celaeno. It’s the true source of my misgivings. Captured by demons as I and several others searched for Celanese Fragments, as they were called. I was bound by an incubus who disguised himself as Lucifer. The spider demons venom caused me to hallucinate and I believed the incubus seduced me into sexual encounters. I’ve never gotten over the guilt, having sex first with an incubus I imagined was Lucifer, and loving the physical delights. How could I have fallen for such temptations? Even Lucifer, he would never have tricked me so. After all, we fell in love.

Adonai allowed the love between us. He later informed me our love was ordained from the beginning. Still, being bound by an incubus, real of not, the questions I had for Adonai, why did He permit this, I never asked. Now I wish I had, for I fear, once again on Earth, I will find myself in a situation beyond my control, and I’ll have to manage the guilt certain to arrive, for often temptations attend. Finally, I prepared to return, to continue on to Earth.

Except I’m not ready to return. Does my fear have to do with my past and not knowing what to expect? If so, what can I do? My stomach’s tied in knots, for no matter how many times I put those memories aside, still my anxiety rises. I take a couple breaths to relax and I cry, Lord, where are you? Will you not go with me?

In praying, the words sound foolish. If it were needful, he’d be with me, and he is in spirit. This journey I make alone, I suppose? Musing, I hope it’s nothing like the last. Shrugging, accepting the inevitable. You must be okay with my ability to endure, whatever it may be.

Reluctantly, I turn away from the stars and head home, just in time to meet with Ariel upon returning to heaven’s realm.

Sorry, I needed some time to prepare. Now I feel more resolved.

I understand. Ariel wraps an arm about me. I’d be hesitant too; it’s difficult jumping into the unknown after some of the emotional trauma you endured. I find you amazing to even take on the task.

I’m thinking, Like I have a choice. So, together we walk to the portal that will take me to Earth. It’s likely pre-programed, so, while I may not know where I’m headed, the portal does, and upon entering, I wave good bye to Ariel. In an instant, seeing the stars flash by, soon I alight on a path, a good distance from the Crystal City, its towers are mere shadows in the early dawn.

I love the dawn as it warms the air and fires my thoughts of the beauty before me, warming my heart. Soon, the deep purples of night take on vibrant hues, golden light warms the misty blue landscape. As the sky changes from charcoal to dove grey, then a rosy hue, I look forward to the cerulean blue soon to follow, engaging the many birds awakening in the trees nearby, their song echoing in the stillness. Taking a deep breath, exhaling, I am at peace, but not for long, as my feet touch down on Earth.

Little did I know there was mischief afoot that would change me forever. This change was not necessarily for the better, either, not at first, anyway.

However, since the beginning of time, I’ve trusted the Lord of Heaven. I cringe because there have been times when events transpire over which I have no control and I wonder, what what’s the purpose in it? Adonai always says:

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts,

neither are your ways my ways."

"As the heavens are higher than the earth,

so are my ways higher than your ways

and my thoughts than your thoughts.

I can’t recall the verse in Isaiah. He’s one of the Lord’s prophets and my favorite, but those words I don’t always want to hear. If a mortal and you’ve read the Holy Book, you might understand. So, let’s get on with the story.

"Stand fast in your enchantments, with which you labor; perhaps you may succeed; Isaiah 47:10

Chapter 2

Hecate

AFTER LEAVING PLOR’S court, I sought my mother. Let me explain. My birth mother was the empress of a planet on an alternate universe, one created by Lucifer, a cherub, I would later learn. She used a human from Adonai’s world to become pregnant and give birth to me. Rather than go into the long story, let’s just say, things didn’t go as she planned and I ended up on Adonai’s world where Plor na mBan, the queen ended up having me foisted upon her.

Plor na mBan, Queen of Celaeno, had gained an infant through unholy means. Its mother, a Fae with special talents had aborted her fetus. At least it was her intent. The physician knew who she was and harvested the fetus. Knowing the queen sought a child of magic, he sold the fetus to the queen whose maid carried and birthed the child. Later, when the mother, learned about it, Plor had to give the infant up in exchange for another, me.

Given to Plor na mBan to raise, she named me Hecate, after an evil witch. Imagine how I felt learning I was named for a goddess of witchcraft. Plor never let me forget. I exchanged one born of love for one born of evil.

When I was old enough, I got the hell out of her court. Talk about evil. She was one evil woman, though she professed to be a follower of Lord Yeshu’a. Ha. Anyway, after leaving, while searching for my mother, I met the elder, hoping she was her. She seemed kind, but she was not my mother.

WHILE THE ELDER IS not my mother, I stay with her as an acolyte, a witch in training. I’ve learned, I’m a powerful one. And I’ve also a rebellious spirit and like to do things my way, so on occasion, when unobserved, I left the compound on my own adventures. I’d been warned many times to stay away from the ice cave, but that warning merely fueled my curiosity.

A while after joining witches-in-training, I’d stumbled upon the ice cave by accident and met Micaela, I later learn is my mother who teaches me more magic than the elder knows I believe. Now Micaela’s sent me to the hillside to apply the magic I’ve learned. I am so excited to show her and wanting to incur her wrath, I move quickly.

Watching from a thicket, to remain unnoticed, an incredible sight meets my eyes. Micaela told me an angel of great beauty and grace,