Chapter 5 Secret Trip

The light cooing of the owls filled the starry sky, few shadows following behind the king as he snuck his way out of heaven. Nobody was to know of his little escapade to hell, not even his closest advisors. He didn't know what he was to expect upon exiting the golden gates that he'd known all his life.

Having slipped on a plain black hoodie and jeans, he'd hoped he wouldn't stand out once he reached the pits. Everyone had explained for years that it was a terrifying and depressing existence to live in. Not a soul ever dared to enter without reason. It was believed that demons were hateful creatures, relishing off the agony of others. He didn't believe this to be true, but it didn't cease the fear that bubbled in his chest.

The path from Heaven to Hell was simple to cross despite its very gloomy and arid atmosphere. The split between the apposing realms was short, but noticeable. Dark skies of onyx stretched to every horizon. Some called it the Void, others believed it was impossible to cross despite its small size. Ashton new well from Matt's teachings that it was merely a safety net to keep out unwanted visitors. Only a few small plants sprouted out of the cracked dirt below his feet, small rocks crumbling at every step. Hell's gates were similar in structure to the ones he had always known, only gold instead of silver with deep maroon accents. In only a short time, he had crossed the barren landscape. Several questions interrupted his travels as he stood at the entrance. Was this a mistake?

Ash pushed the thoughts away and continued through the large gate, taking hold of the cold, metal bars. A rush of heat flushed his face as he passed the threshold, revealing the expansive, apocalyptic skies of Hell. Buildings on the outskirts of the castle were worn and bricks blew away to dust. It was clear no souls had lived in these houses for centuries. The earth had taken back many of the building left standing, dark vines split concrete siding. Ashton's hair stood on end at every creak as he pushed forward, soon reaching the inner workings of the town. Despite a few side glances from passing demons, he wasn't given any trouble. The angel passed by small colorful shops and newer homes, each one brandishing the signs of heat exposure. In the distance was the monochromatic towers of the king's castle, looming over its citizens. Surprisingly, there were only a few guards at the front entrance with clear boredom on their faces. When the angel approached, their gazes turned to him.

"The king isn't taking any visitors at this time." one flat voice spoke. Ashton looked between them, and it was clear by the sudden change in their expressions that he didn't blend in as well as he'd hoped.

"I've been invited personally." He lied, gently pushing off his hood to reveal his heavily contrasting hair. Exchanging a few glances, the guards hesitantly opened the front doors. The angel thanked them quietly as he himself reluctantly entered. The floors of the castle were a charcoal colored wood, all the decor matching strikingly well. He expected to be met with servants or guards, but the walls only echoed an eerie silence. A grand staircase stood in direct view. Only a few steps in and a deep chuckle boomed, one that rocked Ashton's heart.

"Interesting. I wasn't expecting you to accept my invitation." A few short moments and the demon king came into view, his dark ruby and coal suit flared at the chest. The smirk that spread at his lips almost looking hungry.

Ashton gathered his confidence to speak. "I'm not accepting your invitation. I simply wanted to know your true intentions." The deep chuckle that left Damien made it clear that the Angel's faux confidence was clear. With swift movements, the demon cleared the length of the staircase, stopping merely a foot away. The height difference between the two kings was minimal, Damien only slightly taller, but carrying his height with a more menacing feel.

"You're cute when you're flustered." He smirked, causing Ashton's eyes to widen. "Angels are so easy, but you've been overly difficult to sway my dear."

"I'm not your dear." The angel spat back without hesitation. The sudden fight in his words were enough for the opposite king to be visibly impressed.

"Oh come now. I haven't had an angel to play with in a long time. Would be quite a shame to have to wait longer."

"I see my presence was not needed. I'll be going now." Ashton turned to leave, but was stopped by a rough hand taking hold of his wrist. Out of the corner of his eyes, he could see Damien beginning to speak, however he ignored the male and pulled his arm away. Swiftly, he pushed through the front door, leaving faster than he had arrived. Ashton refused to glance behind him, frustrated by his own inability to spot bad intentions in others. Why did he think this was a smart move? Facing the demon head on would never be good. He decided to forget about this encounter and head immediately home.