Page 15 of Raphael
I fight to keep confusion from my face at his cryptic remark. Before I can demand clarification, he continues on casually.
“It’s no secret your uncle’s judgment has been...compromisedof late. He sees threats where none exist, and ignores those simmering right under his nose.”
My hackles raise instantly at the insult to Lucifer. “You overstep yourself,” I snap, half-rising from my seat. Kane’s sharp gesture makes me freeze.
“Poor choice of words, my apologies. Allow me to explain my concerns properly.” His placating tone does little to soothe my ruffled temper, but I retake my seat, watching him warily.Let’s see where this line of discussion leads.
Kane spreads his hands, the picture of forthright sincerity. “For decades now, Lucifer has relied on the same financial advisor, Dom Uphir—you know of him, yes?” At my curt nod, he continues. “By all accounts, Uphir’s dedication has never wavered. But what if loyalty blinded your uncle to malfeasance?”
My eyes narrow, thoughts racing as I process his implied accusation. Could Lucifer’s trusted advisor truly be behind the missing ledgers, the damning money trails?
Seeing he has my full attention, Kane presses on, intense as a circling shark. “Consider—Uphir’s role grants him unrestricted access to accounts, full discretion on transactions. Any irregularity could be easily dismissed as his usual obscure methods.”
I keep my face impassive, but his arguments spark doubt in my whirling mind. What Kane suggests is possible, however improbable it first seemed. And yet...
“You propose a significant theory,” I state carefully. “But proof remains lacking so far. Why not take your suspicions directly to Lucifer?”
At that, Kane smiles without humor. “Let’s simply say I prefer a more...delicateapproach in this matter.”
The implication hits me fully then. As head of security, Kane likely suspects many within these walls. But evenhedares not bring such accusations about Lucifer’s inner circle directly unless fully proven.
Unless, perhaps, they came from the boss’ beloved niece instead...
I turn this over silently as Kane looks on, calculating. I still don’t fully trust his motives, but if Uphir truly has betrayed us, that takes priority over petty disputes with Kane. Our clan must stand united against outside threats.
At long last, I nod slowly. “Very well. I will seek proof to confirm or refute these claims about Dom Uphir. And if your suspicions prove warranted...”
I trail off meaningfully, letting Kane fill in the rest—that I will present the evidence to Lucifer and recommend appropriate judgment. For good or ill, the axe will fall where it may, even on old loyalists. No one steals from the Morningstars unpunished.
Seeming to take my statement as a binding agreement, Kane rises smoothly, adjusting his cuffs. “Most prudent course of action. I look forward to witnessing these affairs reach a satisfactory resolution.” His smile looks almost sincere, but the predator still lurks inside those reptilian eyes.
With a respectful tip of his head, he turns for the door, pausing at the threshold. “And Helena—you may rely on my absolute confidentiality regarding our discussion. Lucifer need never know my small part.”
The words come heavy with significance. I merely nod in return. His cooperation will not soon be forgotten, whether or not his intelligence proves legitimate. Kane has wedged himself firmly into these delicate family matters, and I must now work around the scheming snake.
After Kane departs, I sag back into the chair, energy depleted. I passed this first real test, demonstrating cunning to match Lucifer’s infamous associate. Now time will tell if an alliance with the devil brings the justice I seek, or simply more snakes aiming to strike.
CHAPTER9
Raphael
The scorching desertsun beats down as I emerge from the sanctuary of Menhit’s Oasis, the cool lake water sliding off my bare skin. With long strides, I make my way onto the sandy shore, sunlight glinting off the droplets cascading down my muscular physique.
Baal, the hulking Canaanite storm god, claps me on the back with a wide grin, his dark eyes twinkling. “That was fantastic, Rafa! The best shots yet. You really know how to work the camera.”
I chuckle, grabbing a towel to dry off my dripping wings and body. “All in a day’s work for charity, right?”
It’s been a long but amusing day, posingau naturelfor Baal’s calendar to benefit the animal sanctuary. We’ve made use of the scenic oasis for the backdrop—graceful palm trees, reeds swaying in the breeze, and the crystal blue lake waters creating an exotic aura.
Menhit even closed it to the public for the occasion. She’s always had a soft spot for me since we fought together back in the day.
The usually easy-going Baal has been focused and attentive behind the camera, directing each shoot with calm precision. As head of his pantheon, he knows how to take charge when needed. But his cheerful swagger soon returns once the work is done.
I glance over at the complex camera setup on the shore, various reflectors angled just to capture every muscle and feather. “Let me see some of the photos at least, to make sure you got my good side.”
Baal eagerly flips through the shots on the digital display, holding it up for me. I whistle, impressed in spite of myself.
“Damn, I look good!” My physique is perfectly highlighted by the strategic posing and lighting. Every muscle pops cleanly under smooth bronzed skin, pristine white wings majestically displayed.
