Page 74 of The Music Demon

“I just had an interesting convo with a music demon.”

Kellareal’s smile faded. “Lyric.”

“That’s the one. He had some provocative things to say about Black Swan transitioning humans to demons.” She cocked her head and studied him as she said, “Especially females. Anything we should know about that?”

The angel pursed his lips and waved his hand. His clothes instantly changed to his usual day dress; cream leather pants, a thick, white nubby tunic, and a wide jeweled belt that looked like the inspiration for the one given to the Worldwide Wrestling title holder.

When Rosie looked curious, he said, “If we’re gonna talk business, I need to look the part. Dress for success and all.”

“This is your idea of dressing for success? What would a successful outcome to this dialogue mean to you?”

“Well, you know.”

“No. I don’t.”

“You’re going to try to extract information that I don’t want to share. I’m going to resist. Prevailing means getting out of here without telling you anything or having you follow me.”

“At least you’re honest.”

“Always.”

She tilted her chin up and narrowed her eyes. “Isthatthe truth?”

The angel’s face turned a little pink. “With you? I’m always honest with you.”

“Good. Let’s walk and talk.” Kellareal shook his head. “No? What’s the problem?”

“If we’rewalkingand talking, I might be distracted by the garden or the clouds or the birds. And I might say things.”

“Yes. That’s the idea.”

“You’re as tricky as a demon.”

Rosie laughed and held her palm up like she was taking an oath. “Own it.”

“I have to go.”

“No.”

“I want to go.”

“You’re not going anywhere until you tell me what I want to know.” Kellareal pouted. “Lyric told me to ask my grandfather about female demons. But Grandy is…”

“Insufferable?” Kellareal sneered.

“I was going to say a mixed bag of delight and confusion. I might get him to talk, given enough time and patience, but the information would probably be couched in half truths and riddles. Since I’m not in the mood for games and puzzles, I’m asking you.”

“It’s a good thing you came to me instead of your grandfather. In fact, that should be a policy.”

“I didn’t come to you. You were summoned here.”

“You know what I mean.”

“Off topic.”

“You started it.”

“Did I not just tell you I’m not in the mood for games?”

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