The Shadows Among Us.

CHAPTER 11

Ashen considered Mira’s question, weighing the risks aloud. “If we wait here in Hell, we’re closer to Zepar and Lilith, but we’re also right under Lucifer’s watch. Every hour we stay increases the danger—especially for you, Mira.”

Asmodeus nodded in agreement. “The earthly realm is safer for Mira. Demons can’t cross as easily, and you’ll blend in there. But it’s harder for Zepar to reach us with news, and coming back to Hell quickly could be tricky if Lilith agrees to meet.”

Ashen turned to Mira, meeting her eyes. “It depends on what kind of risk we’re willing to take. Here in Hell, we’re exposed but ready to act. On Earth, you’ll be safer—but we might lose precious time.”

He squeezed her hand gently.“What do you think, Mira? Where would you feel the safest waiting for Zepar’s message?”

Mira thought carefully and said,“ If we wait on earth, we will be able to start looking into my family background.”

Ashen’s eyes lit with understanding at Mira’s suggestion. “That’s a good idea. If we wait on Earth, not only will you be safer, but we can start searching for clues about your ancestry—maybe even find something Lilith would need.”

Asmodeus nodded thoughtfully. “I can send Zepar a fire message from almost anywhere, as long as I have a focus. Once we’re settled on Earth, I’ll let him know our location and how to reach us if he finds Lilith. Just remember—messages take longer to travel between realms, but it’s possible.”

Ashen smiled at Mira, relief softening his features. “We’ll keep moving forward on both fronts. While Zepar searches here, we’ll do our own research in your world. When it’s time, we’ll be ready—no matter which realm we’re in.”

Mira felt a renewed sense of purpose. Together, they would uncover the truth of her family and face whatever destiny awaited them.

Ashen leaned toward Asmodeus, lowering his voice as he shared a guarded secret. “There’s a house—an old one, hidden deep in the mountains outside the city. No one knows about it but me. It’s shielded with wards and enchantments; we’ll be safe there in the earthly realm.”

He pressed a small, engraved token into Asmodeus’s hand, the symbol etched on it matching the wards that protected the mountain retreat. “Use this to guide you. Once we cross over, send the location to Zepar in your next message. He’ll know where to find us if he needs to.”

Asmodeus nodded, accepting the token with a look of respect. “I’ll handle everything. As soon as we’re settled, I’ll alert Zepar.”

Mira listened, relief flickering in her chest at the thought of sanctuary. The plan was set: together, they would travel to the hidden house in the mountains, where they could wait safely, search for answers, and prepare for whatever came next.