By His Will ...

By His Will …

Lucifer swiveled his chair, looking out over the dim canyons of New York City. The rising sun sent rays of light spearing through the darkness, casting a pale golden light below as it shattered against the gilded signage that adorned the building.

He refocused, staring at his reflection. “What more do I have to do? I’ve proven my superiority to God. I’ve created chaos in His paradise; my minions outnumber his goody-goody angels by ten-to-one. Hell, I’ve even gotten one of my own elected President of the most powerful nation in the world! Why won’t He admit defeat?”

His phone buzzed. “Mr. Morningstar?”

“I told you not to disturb me, Angela,” he growled.

“My apologies, sir, but that report you’ve been waiting for just arrived.”

“Bring it in!”

Angela came through the doorway carrying a thick envelope. Lucifer snatched it from her hands and … paused. Angela stood, a patient smile on her face. What was it about her? She is so … long suffering, he finally decided. “I’m sorry. I’m just preoccupied.”

“I understand. I’ll be outside if you need anything.”

He looked at the cover: Satan versus God: An Analysis. “Probably a waste of money but let’s see what opportunities I may have overlooked.”

He read each page before what he was looking for jumped out at him. He read aloud, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

“A child!” he blurted. Of course! I must have a child. A human born of myself to show I am as great as He and lead the way into my realm! His mind raced. Who could he trust with such an honor? A laugh forced its way past his lips. “I know the “how” at least!”

Inspiration finally came. “Who have I trusted? Who has never failed me? Who has never questioned or scorned my judgement?” He reached over and hit the intercom button. “Angela, would you come in? I have something – something important – to discuss with you.”

Angela came in, hesitancy showing in her demeanor. “Have I done something wrong?”

“Quite the contrary.” He peered deep into her eyes, willing obedience. “I have chosen you, among all mortals, to bear my child. You will never want for anything and, from this day forward, you will be under my protection.”

Mesmerized by his words, Angela nodded consent. Lucifer placed his hands over her stomach. Angela gasped as she felt burning, as though she had swallowed an ember.

“It is done. Now, your only duty is to protect and nurture our child.”

Angela could barely whisper, “Yes, Master.”

~~~~~

Angela became aware that she was in her apartment. The events of the morning were clear in her mind as she formed a knowing smile. She walked into her bedroom, undressed, and turned on the shower. Standing under the hot torrent, she washed, allowing the comforting water to flow over her.

Finishing, she toweled off but did not dress. She walked across the living room to a small closet and opened the door. She knelt and took a match, striking it and lighting a liturgical candle. The light revealed a small altar.

“Father, I have done what you asked. I now bear the son of Satan. Thy wish is my command.”

She heard a whispered voice. You have done well, my Angel. She could feel the slight vibration of His laughter. Lucifer’s weakness is his pride. You will bear his son but you will raise him not to embrace evil but to conquer it.

Angela Marie – the Angel Mary – smiled at the thought of thwarting the Prince of Lies. “I was thinking that as he grows, I’ll send him to parochial school. If anyone can instill belief, it’s those pesky Nuns,” she said, a lilt of laughter in her voice.

Again, she felt the vibration. Oh, that’s perfect. It will drive him crazy! I detect a note of hesitation in you. Do you have doubts or concerns?

Angela hesitated, considering Father’s question. “Well, there is one thing.”

Anything, my child.

“When I first came unto the Earth, you created me from Adam’s rib. The second time you sent me to Earth, I bore your son, Jesus. Now, I am to bear the son of Lucifer.”

Yes, all true. You have been a faithful servant, never questioning my plans. What is troubling you?

“I’ve read your notes, 'The Word was made flesh.' So, what’s with your insistence on ‘virgin’ birth? I mean, if a girl can’t have a little fun …”

The house shook with His laughter.

An entry for the May round of "Invalid Item" 
Prompt: "Lucifer has a child on the way. Will the baby be the greatest evil of all or the greatest good of all? How did it happen? Where's the mother?"
Word Limit: 800
Word Count: 800