THE UNINVITED.

by
David Calvert.
 2017 David Calvert

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or used in any manner without
the express written permission of the publisher, except for the use of brief quotations in a
book review
 Precis.

When avowed atheist, Henry Doggett, discovers his worldly existence is being threatened
by an unearthly entity who seeks to impregnate his wife, he is required to set out on a
voyage that ultimately leads him into the preternatural realms of angels and demons.

Cloistered in a monastery high in the Ural Mountains, he is brought before Ivan

Vereshchagin who, along with his faithful acolytes, seek to exorcise the uninvited intruder
who possesses him.
As the ungodly drama unfolds, they are confronted with the revelation that Henrys
demonic possession is being orchestrated by another and far more calculating demon of
renown.
When the battle lines are drawn, death inexorably follows in their wake.
PROLOGUE.

Berlin, Germany.

April 14, 1945.

A convoy of military vehicles stood in readiness outside the Reich bank. Walther
Funk, its president, looked on as an elite squad of SS officers hurried back and forth,
loading what remained of the banks gold reserves onto a waiting cargo truck before
the beleaguered capital fell to the allied forces encamped sixty miles west. Of the seven
hundred and thirty-one ingots, only seven hundred and thirty were being spirited away
to safety. Under the orders of a beleaguered Fuehrer, Funk had withdrawn an ingot
some months earlier and handed it over to an occult splinter group of the previously
outlawed Thule-Gesellschaft.

Funk knew better than to ask the purpose behind such an act. In his wildest
imaginings, he could never have envisioned that the precious ingot had been wrought
into a device unlike any other; a device of such unimaginable power that only a
madman could have conceived of. In the end, its mastery had proven to be beyond
even the control of the vaunted master race and soon fell into the hands of another.
****
It was a day the battle hardened young Soviet would never forget. He had survived
the slaughter of the street fighting and the hand-to-hand melee in the maze of corridors
and stairwells of the Reich Chancellery. Bloodied and bruised, he sat on its rubble-
strewn steps and pulled from his tunic the spoil of war he had stumbled across.

Peeling back the purple cloth, he gazed again at the gold artefact. Its intricate design
and arcane symbols were unlike anything he had ever seen. Unaware of its incalculable
power, he stuffed it back into his tunic and said nothing of it to his comrades. The
consequences of this single act of avarice would prove life changing for himself and
those around him and, more significantly, those yet to be born.
 CHAPTER ONE
Russia. Present day.

Henry Doggett looked out from the cell window overlooking an expansive
courtyard. Beyond its lofty stone walls was an unfamiliar and inhospitable
mountainous landscape. It was a far cry from the Grecian villa where his and Lisas
experiences had first begun. The familiar world he had known had become a
disquieting place, a place in which his preconceived ideas of reality were being swept
aside to reveal a darkly unpleasant truth. Ahead of him lay an indeterminate future,
where either death or salvation awaited him and his beloved Lisa. Unaware of the
chain of causality that had been set in motion decades earlier, he lay back on his cot
and summoned up memories of happier, carefree times.

****

The idyllic island of Serifos had been the perfect choice for Henry and Lisas
honeymoon. Basking in its warm Aegean clime, they took advantage of the island
and all it had to offer.

A temperate breeze swept in from the ocean as they made love on the veranda of
the secluded villa, perched high on a bare hillside, overlooking a fertile valley and
deep cut bay. As usual, Lisa had been unreserved and demonstrative in her passion
and Henry was pleased he had chosen such an isolated spot. Basking in the afterglow
of their sexual encounter, he took up his camera and began scanning the photos he
had taken earlier that day, only to notice something rather unusual about them.
What the hells that?
Lisa emerged, naked, from the swimming pool. Whats what?
Theres something odd on the pictures I took this morning.

Wrapping a beach towel around herself, she sat next to him on the sun lounger and
scanned the photos. Hmm. Maybe its some kind of camera glitch, she said at
length.

Yeah, thats what I thought at first, until I noticed it only appears on the snaps we
both appear in. The others look perfectly fine. If its a camera fault youd expect it to
show up an all the photos.

A lens reflection, perhaps?

He looked at her, unconvinced. Well if it is, its being pretty damned selective on
where it shows up.

Switching off the camera and throwing it onto a vacant lounger, she let her towel
slip provocatively from her shoulders. I think youve spent enough time on that,
dont you?
 Good God, woman! Henry gasped. Havent you had enough?
Not nearly enough, she said. Pushing him onto his back she straddled him,
moving rhythmically back and forth.

Henry was quick to respond as whimpers of pleasure surged from behind her
moistened lips. All too soon, however, Henry climaxed and once again she was left in
want of more.

****

Despite purchasing a new camera on their return home, the strange artefact kept
reappearing. Their album was now full of images depicting it. What were the odds,
Henry wondered, of such an event occurring? He determined to get to the bottom of it
once and for all.

Armed with the latest software, he scanned the images on his laptop. What he saw
both shocked and mystified him. Under higher resolution, the artefact revealed some
disturbing features. Was his brain merely trying to make sense of random graining
patterns, or was the wraithlike face staring back at him from the screen a subjectively
real phenomenon? Having exhausted the rational interpretations of lens flares,
internal reflections and various other camera artefact effects, his investigation
ultimately led him into an area of study he would not have normally considered, i.e.
the paranormal.

But even here there was no consensus of opinion as to what the anomalies actually
were. His search for the truth had reached an impasse and he would have given up on
the whole affair, had it not been for his sister-in-laws suggestion to Lisa that she
show them to Madam Gorodetsky.

****
The Russian-born psychic passed her hands slowly over the photographs Lisa had
laid out before her. A look of utter bewilderment crossed her face on viewing them. A
second attempt was equally as unproductive. I am sorry, my child, but I am getting
nothing from them, she said.
Nothing at all?
Not a blessed thing.

Lisa was surprised. Madam Gorodetsky had proven her skills as a psychometrist
on numerous occasions. Her ability to receive accurate psychic impressions from
objects was well attested.

I am at a complete loss to give you what you desire, she continued. I am getting
nothing whatsoever from these pictures. This has never happened before.
Lisa began collecting up the photos.
 Perturbed by her sudden inability to perceive any impressions at all, Lyudmila
offered Lisa her best guess.

It might be a guardian angel belonging to either you, or your husband. I have seen
many such photos. Perhaps it is making its presence known to warn of some
impending misfortune.
Misfortune? Lisa echoed.
Da, she replied, slipping momentarily into her mother tongue. That is what they
sometimes do.

But some of these photos were taken over a year ago. Id hardly call that
impending misfortune.

This is just my best guess; which is based off many similar photographs of this
nature. If it is a guardian angel, it may have chosen to manifest itself as a warning of
some future event.
Lisa blanched. A warning of what: death? An accident?

There is little point in worrying yourself over what I have told you, Lyudmila
said. I could be entirely wrong child. For some reason - beyond my experience and
understanding - my gift seems to have temporarily deserted me.

On showing Lisa to the door, she could see she was still unnerved. I am sorry that
I could not be of more help to you, she said. But with your permission, I could speak
to a colleague who may be able to shed some light on the matter.
She readily agreed, leaving behind a contact number and several of the photos.

****
Youve been where? Henry barked on hearing Lisas news of her meeting. You
know how I feel about those people. Most are charlatans and those who arent are deluded
fools!

Youve spent months going over those pictures looking for a rational explanation and
still havent come up with one, Henry. Rather than accept an alternate explanation for
them, youve washed your hands of the whole affair and buried your head in the sand.

Excuse me! I looked into that supernatural hogwash and found nothing. And just
because I couldnt find a reasonable answer for them doesnt mean there isnt one.

Well be sure and let me know if you ever do find one, because Id certainly love
to hear it!

****
 Several days later the phone rang. Lisa, my dear, a familiar voice intoned, I
have talked with the colleague I spoke of and she would like to speak with you and
your husband.

Something in Lyudmilas tone unsettled her. What is it? Has she found
something?

That I cannot say. However, she stressed that both you and your husband must
attend. What time should I expect you?

Lisa thought for a moment. Around seven. It may take a little while to talk Henry
around to the idea.

Seven it is then.

Before she could utter another syllable, the phone went dead and she spent the
remainder of the afternoon chewing over what Lyudmila had said or, more crucially,
what she had felt constrained not to say.

****

Henrys briefcase had hardly touched the floor before he was being whisked
unceremoniously into the car, affording him little time for protestations.

When Lisa told him of their destination he was uncharacteristically calm and she
didnt like it one little bit.

As they pulled into the spacious driveway of an imposing stone-built detached

house, Henry enquired, Who is this other woman anyhow?

I havent the foggiest Idea. But from what Ive been told shes some kind of
expert in her field.

And what kind of field is that exactly?

I dont know, but I think were about to find out.

As they climbed from the car they were approached by a small, matronly woman.

Thats Madam Gorodetsky, Lisa whispered. Be nice to her.

Lisa, my child, she beamed, I am so glad you and Henry could both make it.

Henry shook her hand warmly. Its so nice to meet you at last. Lisas told me so
much about you.

Henry was up to no good and Lisa knew it. This was so unlike the man who had
so recently shared his less than charitable thoughts concerning such people.
 Please, call me Lyudmila, she insisted, squeezing his hand.

Lyudmila it is then.

But you have not eaten yet, she pronounced. Please, come in, come in, and I will
prepare something for you both.
How the hell did she know I havent eaten yet? Henry wondered.
Theres no need to put yourself out on our account, said Lisa.

Nonsense. I am sure Henry would appreciate it. Linking their arms, she shepherded
them up the driveway into the comfort of her extensive home.

Within the space of a few minutes their hostess entered the dining room and
placed a platter of pirozhki pastries and a variety of blini pancakes on the table before
them, followed by a glass of Russian coffee. I am afraid it is not what you are used
to, but I am sure you will both find it quite pleasant.

Henry sipped the dark brew through its topping of fresh cream and nodded
appreciatively. This is some place you have here, Mrs. Gorodetsky. It must have cost
a pretty penny.

My late husband, Viktor, bought it as a belated wedding gift many years ago. He
was an architect in the East Berlin Soviet zone before the wall was built. Thats where
we met and fell in love. We were both unhappy with the way things were at the time,
so we defected to West Germany. From there, we eventually made our way to
England.

As fascinating as Lyudmilas story was, Lisa was growing impatient. Where was
the mysterious colleague who had so urgently requested their presence? Again, she
looked furtively at her wristwatch.
Do not fret yourself child, said Lyudmila, breaking off from her conversation
with Henry. Our guest will be here very soon.

Lisa smiled feebly and blushed with embarrassment at her faux pas. An apology
began to form on her lips when they heard the front door open and close.

There now. What did I tell you? Rising from her chair, she went to greet the
latecomer.

Anya Peshcov entered the room. She was graceful and alluring, the very antithesis
of their hostess.
Anya, these are the people I spoke of.

Sorry Im late. I hope my aunt has kept you entertained? She flicked aside a
stray lock of raven hair from her face.
You never told me you had such a pretty niece, Madam Gorodetsky, Lisa said.
 She is blessed in other ways also. But we are here to discuss more urgent matters,
are we not?

Anya pulled up a chair and opened the front of her snug, military-style, leather
jacket, producing from it several of the pictures Lisa had left with her aunt. I can tell
you that whats been captured in these images isnt, as my aunt speculated, a
guardian angel, she said, spreading them out across the table.
Lisa sighed with relief.
Then what do you think it could be? Henry chirped up.

There are many things it could be. It may be a projected thought image, an
earthbound spirit, or an elemental.

Henry had already come across the first two implausible explanations during his
research and had summarily rejected them. As to the third he enquired, What exactly
is an elemental?
Theyre non-human spirit entities, sometimes referred to as nature spirits.

He looked askance at Lisa before returning his attention to Anya. Let me see if
Ive got this right. Were talking goblins and fairies here, arent we?

Anya picked up on his scepticism. Not in the way that you may understand them,
Mr. Doggett. Whatever concept you may have of such creatures is probably false and
in no way represents their true appearance, or natures. Besides, she added, Im not
sure that what we have here is an elemental. I merely consider it a possibility.

Henry rose up from his seat. While you may consider these creatures as being
feasible, I can assure you that I most certainly do not.
Then we have a problem if you cant, Mr. Doggett.

Lisa was mortified and sat in open-mouthed astonishment at Henrys ill-mannered

behaviour.

Oh, theres no problem. You see, unlike some, I know the difference between
fantasy and reality, he said.

Lisa turned to Madam Gorodetsky. Please, you must forgive him. Hes obviously
had a bad day, she said, flushing with embarrassment.
On the contrary. Ive had a bloody good day, until now.

Lisas mood switched from mortification to outright indignation. Hauling her coat
from the back of the chair, she stormed out before her anger erupted.

Henry was in the process of following when Anya waylaid him. Mr. Doggett, she
said, barely maintaining her composure, were not the charlatans or misguided fools
you clearly think we are. I think it would be wise for you to reconsider your actions.
 He thought, Best for whom? You and your aunt?
Exactly how much cash have you made from my wife lately?
Lyudmila sprang up, cursing in her mother tongue.

Anya quickly calmed her down. We dont charge for our services Mr. Doggett and
never have. Quite frankly, I find your cynicism unwarranted and offensive. We are not
deluded fools or con artists.

But Henry wasnt listening. In a few moments, he would have to face Lisa - a
prospect he wasnt looking forward to one little bit.

Anya picked up on his apprehension. Im sure your wife will no doubt forgive you
in time, she said, handing him a card. Please take this and contact me if anything
changes.
Stuffing it into his pocket, he left.
 CHAPTER TWO
Contrary to what Anya had predicted, Lisa was not in a forgiving mood. In the
weeks that followed, her drawn out sourness stretched Henrys patience to its limit.
Inevitably the strain on their relationship began to show. Nothing he said, or did, to
win back her affections had worked. To compound matters, his firms Christmas get-
together was only days away. Keeping up the facade that nothing was amiss between
them was proving difficult. One wrong word, or high-spirited act from him, would
result in a complete meltdown. He was going to have to be on his very best
behaviour.

As it turned out, both he and Lisa spent a relatively cordial evening. There were no
bitter recriminations, no angry outbursts, or bearing of teeth. For a short while at
least, Lisa seemed to regain something of her former personality.

Walking through the hotel foyer on the way to the coach park, they noticed a large
group of revellers standing around the hired photographers table. Henry produced his
wallet, but Lisa forestalled him.
Its been a good night. Lets not spoil it?

****
On returning to work several days later, Henry found a brown manila envelope
waiting for him on his desk. Inside were two photographs of himself and Lisa.
A voice called out, Henry!
He turned to see the approaching Company Director.

Tom, he asked, slipping the photos back into the envelope, how was your
Christmas and New Year?
Oh, the usual: too much food and wine and too many in-laws. How was yours?
Henry smiled feebly at his outworn witticism. Much the same, I guess.

But things were far from being the same. Lisa had been acting strangely over the
last few days. Something was clearly troubling her, but when he broached the subject
her taciturn mood grew even more deeply entrenched.
Ah, I see you got the photos I left, Tom went on. The photographer was going
to bin them due to motion blurring, or some such nonsense. I thought, hell no! Good
old frugal Henry would like these, especially as theyre free of charge.

Henrys unkind thoughts went unvoiced as he struggled to maintain the

smokescreen of gratitude on his face.
 Anyway, Tom continued, straightening his tie and glancing at his watch, theres
no need to thank me. Time is money as they say and we have a busy day ahead. With
that, he took his leave.

A quick glance at the photographs had Henry worried. Things had changed
dramatically. The ill-defined face he had expected to see on the portrait of them both
was nowhere to be seen. Conversely, the second photo revealed something far more
worrisome. Was this the kind of change the attractive Anya Peshcov had alluded to
when she handed him her card? He decided it was time to grasp the nettle and find
out.

****

Ah, Henry, I was wondering when youd show up, Anya said, pulling her
dressing gown tightly about herself to fend off the icy January chill sweeping in from
the street. Please, come in and make yourself comfortable while I change into
something more suitable.

Escorting him into the lounge, she went off to change her clothes and returned
moments later sporting tight fitting jeans and a cropped top.
You have the face of a troubled man, Henry. Can I get you something to drink?
He shook his head. No thanks. Im driving.

Her tousled, shower-dampened, hair hung limply across her shoulders as she sat
next to him. Tucking her legs beneath herself, she said, Okay, lets get down to
business then. You have something to show me I take it?

He opened up the briefcase he had been clutching firmly in his lap and handed her
the manila envelope.
Ah! More photographs I presume?
Yeah, they were taken several days ago at the companys Christmas do.

She pulled them out and studied the portrait first. This is a lovely picture of you
both.
Thanks, but its the second one Id really like your opinion on.
He watched intently for her response to it.
She looked up after a few moments. Things really have changed, havent they?
Thats why Im here.Quite frankly Im at a loss to explain it and if Lisa was to -

No, she cut in, You were right to keep this from her. Theres no point in
worrying her.
Should she be worried?
 Please, dont read things into what Im saying, Henry. Im only suggesting that
until we know what were dealing with, it would be irresponsible to unnecessarily
cause her concern.
Slipping the photos back into the envelope she asked, May I keep these?
Be my guest. As far as Im concerned, the further they are from Lisa the better.

Once again Anya proffered him a drink, which he kindly refused. Lisa thinks Im
working late and I dont want to arouse her suspicions.
And, how is she?

Shes as moody as hell at the moment. One minute shes up and the next shes
down. She seems to swing from one extreme to the other. Ive absolutely no idea
whats going to greet me when I walk through the door. Last night she went to bed in a
foul mood, but when she woke up this morning she was acting totally different. She
couldnt do enough for me.

Forgive me for asking Henry, but is there any history of psychiatric disorders in
her family?
None that Im aware of. However, I am beginning to doubt my own sanity.
And why is that?
There are times when I think I can hear whispering voices.
Anya straightened up. And what do the voices say to you?
I dont know if theyre even talking to me. I cant quite make them out.
Have you looked for a rational explanation for the whisperings?

At first, I thought it was the neighbours TV or radio. Then I began hearing them
when he wasnt at home.
Anything else?

Ive had two or three nightmares recently and I cant shrug off the feeling that
someone is watching me. Then theres the occasional faint scratching sounds coming
from the walls.
These scratching sounds. Do they begin around three in the morning?
Henry was taken aback. Yes. How on earth did you know that?
Lets just call it a lucky guess for now.

Henry looked at his watch and jumped to his feet. Hell, its later than I thought!
Id best be making tracks.
Okay. Ill be in touch with you as soon as I know anything, Anya said, showing
him to the door.
 With Henrys departure, she returned to the second photograph. Whatever the
semi-human-like streaky figure was, it was moving incredibly fast and appeared to be
circling Lisa on the dance floor. No one else it seemed was even remotely aware of
its presence. She now knew the focus of its interest. Furthermore, she was also
convinced that its motives were far from beneficent, as the number three - or
multiples thereof - was often associated with demonic forces and the mocking of the
Holy Trinity.
 CHAPTER THREE
Almost two weeks had passed and Henry had begun to think Anya had given up on
him when, out of the blue, his mobile rang.
Henry. Hows Lisa?
There was a timbre to her voice that made him nervous. Shes tired and irritable.
And the other stuff you told me about?
Its getting worse. Why do you ask?
Because Ive spoken with some colleagues and we think we know what it is that
keeps showing up in the pictures. It may be the cause of your wifes irrational mood
swings and all the other stuff.
I dont understand.
Hows your sex life Henry?
Her question caught him on the back foot. Thats none of your damned business!

For goodness sake , Henry, just put aside your male pride for a moment and tell
me whether or not youre still having sex with Lisa. A simple yes or no will do.
Yes, but -
But not as often. Correct?
Henry whispered harshly down the phone, How the hell do you know all this?
I want you to pick Lisa up when you finish work and bring her straight to my
aunts home. Ill tell you all I know there.

****
A chilling Arctic wind continued blowing in from the north, making the journey to
Madam Gorodetskys slow and treacherous. Lisa, who was not in the best of moods,
hadnt spoken a word to Henry during the drive. When they were less than a minute
or so from their destination she finally said, I thought wed put all this behind us.
We put it all behind us? Jesus, thats rich coming from you! Youve done
nothing but bust my balls since I spoke up at Madame Gorodetskys.

Lisa became increasingly confrontational. You drag me from the house without
so much as a by-your-leave and you expect me to be happy about it? Then you tell
me were off to Madam Gorodetskys. As I recall, you didnt exactly endear yourself
to them the last time we were there.
No, I didnt and I regret it. However, things have changed.
How?
 Im not exactly sure.
What the hell are you jabbering on about Henry? Just spit it out and tell me.

Look, he snapped, all I know is Anya told us to be there and that shed
discovered something about the Christmas photos!
Lisa turned. You mean the Christmas photos?

Henry sighed deeply. There was no turning back now the cat was out of the bag.
Tom gave me them when I got back to work after the Christmas do.
You mean the ones of you and me? The ones we decided not to buy?
Henry nodded.
Youve had them all this time and never once said anything to me?
Anya told me not to. Shes been holding onto them.

So the pair of you have been colluding behind my back and keeping me
completely in the dark?
It was for your own good!
She shrilled, Ill be the judge of that and not you, or bloody Anya!

Momentarily distracted, Henry hadnt seen the layer of black ice ahead and the car
began spinning violently.

Lisa screamed as he struggled with the unresponsive steering. It was far too late to
do anything. Mounting the curb, they missed a garden wall by mere inches before
careening into a hedge and ricocheting back onto the normally busy road, where they
came to rest.
Oh fuck! Henry gasped, Are you okay, Lisa?
There were no words, only the weeping of a woman in shock.

He undid his seat belt and leaned across, pulling her to him. Christ, if anything
had happened to you Id never-
Just hold me Henry. Hold me, she wept.
Anya had witnessed the accident from her aunts window and rushed out to help.
Lisa and Henry were already out of the car as she approached them.
She took Lisa into her arms. Are you okay?
She shook her head tearfully.

Henry, see if you can get the car into the driveway, Anya said, and Ill take
Lisa with me.
 As they walked back to the house Anya knew more than the accident had brought
on Lisas highly emotional state. She had a secret to tell and it was eating at her very
soul.

Lyudmila watched as Lisa knocked back the generous glass of vodka she had
poured for her. Her hands shook as she placed the empty glass onto the table.

Soon you will be fine, da? Lyudmila said, pouring another and encouraging her
to drink. Come child, it will warm your belly and chase the cold from your bones!

A shaken Henry looked on, cradling a hot mug of coffee in his hands, as Lyudmila
went to pour another stiff drink for Lisa.
Dostatochno, Aunt Lyudmila! I think shes had enough.
Enough? The poor child will be glad of it when the emoh visits again.
Anya took the bottle from Lyudmila and walked off into the kitchen.

Whats a a emoh when its at home then? Lisa enquired through a haze
of intoxication.

It is something you do not want in your home child. Madam Gorodetsky

pronounced, crossing herself several times over.

Youve said quite enough already, aunt, Anya chided on re-entering the room.
Please prepare something to eat for our guests.

She had barely left the room when an anxious Henry asked in a whisper, What is
this emoh thing your aunts talking about?

Anya took him to one side out of Lisas earshot. In English, its called an
incubus.
Henry was still none the wiser.
Its a particular type of demon and a rather nasty one at that.
Youre telling me a demon is responsible for whats happening to Lisa?

Anya picked up once again on the scepticism creeping into his voice. I know this
is difficult for you to take in Henry, but thats exactly what Im saying.

He laughed half-heartedly, but the intensely serious look on her face left him in no
doubt that she believed and meant every word of it.

Okay, for the sake of argument, lets say that I go along with this and that a
demon is responsible. What does it want?

Im sorry, Henry, but its already getting what it wants; hence my question to you
on the phone several days ago about your sex life.
 Henry balked at the idea of Lisa having sex with a demon. Thats crazy! Arent
they supposed to be ghostlike and without solid form?

In their spiritual state, yes. They need to inhabit a physical body in order to do the
necessary, Anya informed him, and they found one in you.
Me! You think Im possessed?
Yes I do, Henry.

But Henry was having none of it and argued, I think Id know if I was possessed,
dont you?

Incubi arent like your standard demons, Henry. Theyre far more astute and
covert. Placing you in an amnesic state during your possession is pretty much a run-
of-the-mill task for them. With the right training, even I could cause you to forget.
Then what about Lisa? Shed certainly know, wouldnt she?

Lisas known for some time whats been going on, Henry. You see Incubi have
certain attributes and are skilled in using them to their advantage. They know their
victims deepest and darkest fantasies and will use them to maintain control over
them.

Henry was still having none of it. No! She would have said something. She
would have told me!

Anya took hold of his arm. You have to understand that in the initial stages she
may have thought it was you. However, by the time the reality of what was
happening dawned on her it was too late; shed become addicted to the incredible
high the incubus is providing.
What new plot are you hatching now Henry? Lisa slurred. Get your backside
over here right now.

Before you do, theres one more thing you must know, Anya whispered. Incubi
dont copulate out of sheer self-gratification. They have an overriding imperative to
reproduce their own kind and we cant allow that to happen.
Before he could ask how it could be achieved, Lisa called out again and he took
his place by her side.
Laying her head drowsily on his shoulder, she began drifting off to sleep.
He tapped her cheek to rouse her.

I am afraid you are wasting your time, said Lyudmila, who had been listening by
the kitchen door. It will be some time before she is fully lucid.
He looked to Anya for an explanation.
 Theres no need to worry, Henry. She wont come to any harm. Her drink was
laced with a mild sedative to make her more compliant. All I ask is that you stay calm
and listen to what I have to say.
He nodded his agreement.

I know that what Ive told you goes against everything you believe to be true,
she said. But what if you were to hear it from Lisas own lips. Would you then at
least consider the possibility?

He looked to his wife. Lisas never given me cause to doubt her in the past. Shes
always been open and above board with me. If she confirms what youre telling me,
then yes, Id consider the possibility.

This is how things stand at the moment, Anya went on. The demon is looking to
impregnate Lisa and is using both of you to achieve its goal to bring into the world
something that hasnt been seen since biblical times. In order to prevent that, we have
to separate you and Lisa from each other until such times as the incubus can be
exorcised.
Where will you take her?

Shes going nowhere, Henry, but you are. Theres a remote monastery in the
Urals where they can help rid you of your demon. You mustnt on any account tell
Lisa where youre going. I wont lie to you, she confessed, Incubi are not like
ordinary demons. They have no fear of exorcists, or exorcisms. Theyre not the
slightest bit overawed by holy things, so getting rid of them takes a while.

What about friends and family? Theyre bound to wonder what on earths going
on.

They will not wonder about your disappearance Mr. Doggett, Lyudmila cut in,
because you will leave a note professing your love for my niece and how you
planned to run away with her. Only we will know the truth.
But I cant just leave her!
If you love her you must, or would you prefer to become the instrument of her
death? Giving birth to such a monster could kill her, she pronounced.

Lisa was already showing signs of a marked deterioration, both mentally and
physically. Henry knew in his heart of hearts that he had to leave.

Itll take about a week or so to set up travelling arrangements, Anya informed

him. In that time, we have to find out if Lisas pregnant or not. God willing, she
isnt. You must also tender your resignation at work with immediate effect.

And during that time, you must not see your wife, Lyudmila warned. There can
be no physical relations between you. The demon will do all it can to break your will.
We have to prevent that from happening.
 For that reason, Anya added, weve decided you must come and stay with me.
Itll help cultivate the belief that were lovers and you have to convince Lisa its for
the best.

Unburdening her dark secret to Henry was the hardest thing Lisa had ever done.
Unable to look into his eyes, she wept pitifully for his forgiveness and understanding.

How could he not forgive the woman he loved? Were it not for his sexual
dysfunction, he suspected she would not have done the things she did. He wished
now he had listened to her repeated requests to seek help.

Lisas pleas for him to stay almost broke his resolve. In doing so, he knew of the
consequences that would follow in its wake. Cradling her in his arms, he professed
his continuing love for her.
 CHAPTER FOUR.
The journey to Mt. Telpos-Iz through the treeless, craggy terrain of the Northern
Urals had been long and arduous and Henry was forced to open the window of the
dilapidated Skoda to vent the cab of noxious exhaust fumes as they climbed the
stone-strewn foothills on the last leg of their voyage. In doing so he quickly learned
how the 1,617 metres tall mountain had acquired its name The Nest of Winds. The
invading air stream was every bit as frigid as it was powerful. Having left the main
highway several miles back they were now in different territory, a treacherous
landscape of bone jarring potholes and hazardous icy conditions.
Anya smiled. Were almost there, Henry. Just a couple of minutes more.

He grimaced at her. Sorry, but this is about as close to a smile as I can manage at
the moment, he said, blowing into his hands and tucking them firmly under his
armpits.

Anya chuckled. Ill be staying at my uncles in Serov. Its not too far away, so Ill
come and visit when Im settled in.

Thanks. Id like that. Itll be nice to see a familiar face and have someone to talk
to now and then.

Oh, therell be plenty people to chat with. In fact, you wont be able to shut them
up once they get started. Quite a few of the brothers here speak English.

Just tell me theyre not an ascetic order and that they dont spend their days
flogging themselves and other weird stuff.
What made you think that?
Anyas infectious laugh began rubbing off on Henry.

I dont know, he chuckled. Maybe its because of what they do; casting out
demons and all that malarkey.
I think youve been reading far too many Dan Brown novels Henry.
Moments later, the taxi pulled up in front of the monasterys imposing gates.

You mustnt let any pre-conceived ideas or prejudices of the brotherhood stand in
your way Henry, Anya advised. Theyre a mystical sect who branched away from
the Orthodox Church many years ago and there are few who know of their
existence.

Henry hauled his suitcase from the boot of the Skoda. Now whos been reading
too many Dan Brown books? he retorted.
She cast a stern look.
Okay, okay! I promise I wont offend them in any way.
 A heavy bar being drawn back on the far side of the gates signalled the moment for
her departure to Serov. Two figures, garbed in black habits, approached them.

Henry, I want you to meet brothers Alexi Bragin and Leonid Denikin, Anya
announced.
He shook their hands.

Leonid, the taller of the two, spoke in faltering English. Mister Doggett, it is a a

Pleasure, Alexi prompted.

Yes, yes. It is a pleasure to meet you.

Thank you. Id like to say its a pleasure to be here, but given the circumstances I
wont.
Anya elbowed Henry in the ribs.
Alexi and Leonid looked at one another. Leonid grinned broadly. Ah, the English
joke, da?
And a very bad one at that, Anya voiced.

If you are ready, Alexi said, taking Henrys suitcase, we will take you to your
quarters.

Ill see you tomorrow when youre settled in, Anya promised as she climbed
into the taxi cab.

Henry nodded and watched the unroadworthy taxi drive off in a cloud of choking
exhaust fumes.
Turning to his new hosts he said, Okay fellas, take me to your leader.
As the gates slammed shut behind him, the brave faade fell from his face.

****

Anya had not been taken in by his smokescreen. She had strongly felt his fears for
Lisa at the monastery gates. He was already beginning to question the soundness of his
decision. Something else also troubled his mind, something her heightened intuitive
senses could not quite penetrate. She knew only that it had something to do with his
and Lisas relationship.

As she drove through the outskirts of Serov dusk was beginning to settle in. She
looked back at the outlying mountains and offered up a prayer for the man who had
put so much faith in her. She knew all too well what he could expect from the
impending struggle. As a child, she had undergone many months of torturous
exorcism rituals to rid her of the low-level demon that had once possessed her. But
the expulsion of an incubus was an entirely different affair. They played by an
altogether different set of rules.

****
Ivan Vereshchagin sat beneath a slate grey sky, sipping thoughtfully on his early
morning coffee in the monastery quad. Now in his late-fifties, he had spent the
majority of his life in the pursuit and expulsion of evil. Prematurely aged by his
encounters, his deeply wrinkled and weather-beaten face belied his true age.

A sudden screech shook him from his contemplation. He looked skyward. There,
circling less than thirty metres above him, was an unusually large eagle. He watched
intently as it continued circling the courtyard and had begun to speculate on whether
this was some kind of omen when Brother Alexi Bragin and Henry entered the
square. He rose to greet them.
Alexi bowed to his superior. This is our guest, Mr. Doggett, Father.

Rising from his seat, he offered a friendly hand and an enthusiastic greeting. It is
a pleasure to finally meet you in the flesh Mr. Doggett. May I call you Henry?
Henrys just fine, Father.

Then you must call me Ivan, he responded. My title is used only by the
brothers.

Motioning Alexi away, he re-took his seat on the stone slab and gestured for
Henry to do likewise. Craning his neck heavenwards he asked, Did you see the large
sea eagle as you came into the square a moment ago?

No, Im afraid I didnt. Henry, too, was now craning his neck to catch a glimpse
of it.
It must have flown off when you came into view. No matter. Perhaps it will
return later. Please walk with me, he said, rising from the slab, and we will talk of
your situation.

Henry was more than happy to do so. Had he sat much longer on the ice-cold slab
his backside would surely have fallen prey to frostbite.

They walked within the perimeter of the high stone walls; a structure that Henry
thought had more in common with a fortress than a spiritual retreat.

You are no doubt aware by now that prior to your coming here Anya was keeping
me up-to-date on your situation.

Sure, though it took a while for me to put two and two together. It was only when
she referred to the monastery that I realised you were the colleagues shed spoken
of in an earlier conversation.
 As revealing as Anyas appraisal of your situation was, there are still certain
aspect that need to be addressed, specifically as to why a dyed-in-the-wool atheist
like yourself agreed to come here.

If youre asking me whether I had some kind of epiphany or divine revelation,

then the answers no. I came here for one simple reason; I love my wife and it was
what she revealed to me that brought me to this place, even though it ran contrary to
my beliefs.

Ivan pulled up short. Looking him squarely in the eyes he asked, If it came to it,
would you willing sacrifice yourself for her?
If thats what it takes, yes.

His response came without hesitation or look of indecision, only a passionate

conviction to see the ordeal through to its end. His love was something Ivan could
use to his advantage in the days, weeks, or months to come. It was the rock on which
he could build the Englishmans fortress.
Do you know the true meaning of what love is Henry?
It all depends on who youre asking the question of I guess.
I see it in you my friend. Its the ability to go beyond oneself and sacrifice all for
someone, despite their weaknesses and failings. Its the same unconditional love
Christ showed on the cross. His willingness to sacrifice himself is the hallmark of
true love.

Like my parents, Im afraid I never held much store in the Bible, Henry
confessed. I thought it was simply a way of giving hope to people who found
themselves living in intolerable times; something they could pin their hopes on. It
seemed to me that if it wasnt for those insufferable times it would never have been
written. Now Im not so sure.

There is some truth in what you say. For me its relevancy still holds true today,
even more so. There are countless wars being fought, even as we speak, and many
kinds of enemy. Most are fought openly on the nations battlefields by men and there
are those which are not.

He took Henry by the arm and shepherded him on. This is our theatre of
operations and our enemy is not of flesh and blood, but an implacable antediluvian
foe.
Im sorry, but youve lost me there antediluvian?

The term refers to anything that existed prior to the great Flood of Noahs time.
What we call incubi were variously known as the angelic sons of God, the
Grigori, or the Watchers. These angels rebelled against God and took on a
materialised form in order to copulate with human women. Their women bore
children, called Nephilim, to them. The Flood was Gods way of cleansing the
Earth of them.
Then how can one of them be inside me?

It cannot. The Nephilim were the hybrid offspring of the angel/human coupling
and as such were mortal. They were all destroyed, but those who begat them were
not. They simply changed back to their angelic state. But they could not evade
Jehovahs punishment and were delivered into pits of dense spiritual darkness to
become the incubi.
Henry shook his head in confusion.

In the fullness of time you will come to understand these things my friend, Ivan
assured him. However, in order to best your enemy, you must first come to know and
understand him.

With that they walked on, spending the remainder of the morning in meaningful
conversation, each getting to know the other just a little better. It was during this
period that Henry learned about the lovely Anya Peshcovs possession.

As a child, she had lived an unremarkable life, prior to her demonic encounter,
and was the youngest of three siblings, Ivan told him. Her parents were of average
intelligence, her father a mineworker and her mother a part-time seamstress at a local
factory. The only thing that singled Anya out from the rest of her siblings was her
devout faith and her love of the resurgent Russian Orthodox Church. That is why she
was targeted by the demons. From the moment I first saw her, I knew she was special
in the eyes of God. When the exorcism was finally over she began displaying a
particular ability, an ability she had not previously shown and would later give freely
in the service of our work.
What kind of ability?

I suppose you could call it an elevated perceptiveness. She can sometimes

perceive things as they truly are, be it a complex person or situation.
Henry was uncertain what to make of Ivans tale of Anyas possession and
burgeoning talent. Assuming it was true, was it possible he could emulate the
endurance and faith she had shown as a child in the face of such a ruthless enemy?

****
Pyotr Gorodetsky arose unusually late that morning and watched his niece as she
stuffed the food provisions into her rucksack. The weather is not good today, he
said, peering through the window. It will change for the worse. I feel it in my bones.
Anya looked up from her packing. What you feel in your bones is arthritis, old
man. You should wrap up more warmly.
 Pyotr dismissed her advice with a wave of his arm. Pah! What would you know
of such things? He pulled back the netting from the window to get a better look at
the mountains. You are going to the fortress of devils, yes?

She rolled her eyes. Yes, Uncle Pyotr, Im going to the monastery and please stop
calling it that.
I think you must like this man, Henry Dugout.
His name is Doggett, uncle. And yes, Ive come to like him.
He carries the mark of Satan, child. Be careful.

Anya shot him a scornful look. You forget Uncle Pyotr that I also once carried his
mark and but for God, the brothers and the fortress of devils, I would have died with
it.

Forgive an old man, he said contritely. It is only because I love you that I say
these things.

Anya sensed his heart-felt regret and joined him at the window. Hugging him from
behind and stroking his temple she assured him, Ill be careful as you asked uncle,
but you must do something in return.
The old patriarch turned to face her. Anything you ask.

She looked at him for a moment, an impish grin settling on her face. Please get a
haircut and put something warm on for goodness sake.

Pyotr was still chuckling at being caught out so easily by her as she climbed into
the waiting taxi cab.

Just as prophesied, the weather took on a dramatic turn for the worse. The
mountains were no longer visible behind the heavy, wind-driven, curtain of snow that
blanketed the landscape.

Anya was becoming increasingly worried. She leaned forward and asked the
driver, How much longer before we get there?

Ten minutes. Maybe less if we are lucky. It is becoming almost impossible to see
the road.

As she settled back into her seat something large and indefinable suddenly
impacted against the windscreen, sending the taxi cab into a dizzying spin. With a
sudden, bone-jarring, lurch it came to an abrupt halt, forcing Anya up hard against her
seat belt.
What on earth was that?

A tirade of abuse erupted from the young driver as he tried to restart the vehicle. A
bloody eagle? He thumped angrily at the steering wheel. What in the name of God is
an eagle doing flying around in this weather?
 After several failed attempts the taxis engine finally coughed into life. It pitched
forward then, just as quickly, game to a grinding halt. Once again, the steering column
felt the brunt of the burly drivers fist as he vented his spleen on it. Winding down the
window and peering out he cursed, Czechoslovak piece of shit!

With a heavy sigh, he turned to Anya. Im afraid we are going nowhere, lady.
Weve struck a boulder and the left front wheel looks badly damaged, the windshield
wipers also. It will be impossible to see anything without them. I will radio in for a
tow truck but, looking at this weather, it will be some time before it reaches us.

Anyas announcement that she would finish the journey on foot wasnt a good idea
and the Serovian driver did his best to dissuade her from it. He quickly realised he
was wasting his breath when she scribbled a hasty note and handed it to him, asking
he pass it on to her uncle as soon as possible as she would not be returning home that
night.

He watched her disappear into the blinding whiteout. As he Climbed into the cab
he noticed three deep furrows etched into the car bonnet. On closer inspection, he
saw the unmistakable sign of abnormally large talon marks carved deeply into the
bodywork.

****
Have you forgotten just how treacherous these icy mountain roads can be child?
Ivan admonished as Anya warmed herself in front of the fire.

No Father, of course I havent. Im well aware of the dangers, but if it hadnt

been for that stupid bird crashing into us I wouldnt have needed to walk the rest of
the way.
His eyes constricted. This bird you speak of, where is it now?
I dont know. It must have flown off I suppose.
It wasnt injured?
No, I suppose not. Why do you ask?
Because I am beginning to suspect this so-called bird is more than it appears to
be.

Before he could expound any further on his suspicions there was an urgent knock
at the door and a somewhat concerned Henry entered. His relief was palpable when
he saw Anya.
How are you Henry?

The question is, how are you? Alexi told me youd been involved in some kind of
crash.
A slight bump thats all, she said, phlegmatically. Its nothing to worry over.
 Im afraid that might not be strictly true, Ivan said. Please take a seat, both of
you, and Ill explain.

For several minutes, the pair sat and listened patiently to Ivans suspicions about
the sudden appearance of the eagle.

As if things werent bad enough for Henry he now had to contend with the
possibility that a second demon, in the guise of a bird, had joined the fray. Could
things get any worse he wondered?

Anya, please fetch me my copy of The Dictionnaire Infernal from the antiquities
vault, Ivan instructed.
Yes Father.

And while you are there tell Brothers Alexi and Leonid to join me here and have
Brother Zarubin prepare some food for us. I fear its going to be a long day.
Is there anything I can do? Henry asked.

Yes indeed. Please accompany Anya. From now on, no one is to travel alone. That
goes for the brothers also.
Ill see to it your message is passed on Father, Anya replied.

As they were about to take their leave Ivan took Anya to one side and whispered
something to her which, undoubtedly, Henry wasnt meant to hear.

****
What is this Dictionnaire Infernal anyway? Henry asked as they made their way
to the vault.

Its a book on demonology. Hopefully itll tell us a little of what we need to know
concerning our new feathered arrival and the creature who inhabits you and what
positions they hold in the hierarchy of Hell and so on.
So its a kind of Whos Who of Hell then.

I suppose you could call it that, she replied, pushing open a heavy oaken door
into the antiquities vault to reveal an all-encompassing chamber.

Situated at several wooden tables were a number of scholarly brothers. Among

them were Alexi and Leonid. On hearing the news from Father Vereshchagin, the
vault reverberated with their excited chatter.

From behind a hidden recess a somewhat severe and disembodied voice called out,
This is not a Moscow nightclub brothers. Must I come out there and knock your
heads together for silence?
Anya instantly recognised the gruff tone of voice and called out to its owner,
Pavel!
 Holy cow its Hagrid! Henry muttered, as a behemoth of a man suddenly
stepped out from behind a concealed workstation.
Anya, he called out with outstretched arms.

She ran to him and was quickly swept from her feet and swung around as though
she was little more than a rag doll.

It is so good to see you again little one. I was wondering when you would pay me
a visit.
Its good to see you too Pavel.
He looked to Henry.
This is Mr. Doggett, Anya announced.

Pavel wrapped his immense fist around Henrys hand and shook it vigorously.
Ah, the funny Englishman. It is good to finally meet you also.
Pavels the monasterys Chief Librarian, Anya informed him.

He looked Pavel up and down. Well, he said, I can see why you dont need any
keep quiet signs around here.

The giant Russian roared with laughter and slapped him playfully on the shoulder,
almost dislocating it from its socket. It is good you have a sense of humour
Englishman, he said. When the time comes, you will have need of it.

Pavel, Anya interrupted, Father Vereshchagin has sent us for de Plancys

Dictionnaire Infernal.
Has this to do with the strange bird the brothers have told me of?
It has.

One moment please, he replied, disappearing into the furthest reaches of the
cavernous vault and returning shortly thereafter with his arms laden with several
tomes and manuscripts. I had anticipated his request and have added several
grimoires and Mathers Clavicula Solomonis to it. He will find them very instructive
and helpful in his research.
Anya turned to the studious brothers Leonid and Alexi. You are both to come
with me. Oh, and one last thing, she said, Would you see to it that Mr. Doggett is
returned to his quarters Pavel?
Henry looked at her in disbelief. But I thought -
Im sorry Henry, she interrupted. Im merely carrying out the Fathers orders.

****
 Lisa had slept badly since Henrys departure. Once again, she had dreamt of him
making love to her; had felt the invitingly warm Aegean breeze flow across her naked
form and the touch of Henrys capable hands as they stroked her intimately.
Tonguing the velvet folds of her femininity, he brought her to climax. In the heat of
her passion he entered her and she knew at once this was not the man she loved! She
had done nothing to discourage the imposter, but had wantonly wrapped her legs
about its thrusting hips in encouragement until the heat of her passion was spent.

Now fully awake, she could no longer shrug off the libidinal excesses she had
willingly surrendered herself to. Plagued by an all-consuming remorse, she tried
rationalising away her actions. Yes, she missed Henry. Yes, she loved him and
wanted desperately to be closer to him. Nevertheless, at the end of the day she knew
she was being mind fucked by a demon and had done nothing to stop it. Desperate
and distraught, she turned to Lyudmila for help.
Why did you not tell me of this earlier? she asked down the phone. It is
important that you never hold these things back from me.
I want it to stop, she wept, but I cant help myself.
It is playing with your mind child. It wants Henrys return as much as you. Only
through his human seed can it fulfil its purpose. If Henry was made aware of your
situation he would return home to protect you and all would be lost.
Then what am I supposed to do when it pays me another visit?

A train of thought began formulating in Lyudmilas mind. It is drawing energy

from you in order to maintain the psychic connection. I am no expert in these
particular matters, but it has given me an idea as to how we might deal with it. I will
contact Anya and discuss it with her. You have someone staying with you?
My sister, but she has to return home in a couple of days.
Then you must come stay with me when she does.

Lyudmila was true to her word. Within minutes of her revealing conversation with
Lisa, she was talking to Anya.
 CHAPTER FIVE.
Anya re-entered Ivan Vereshchagins study. Sorry about that Father. That was
Aunt Lyudmila. Shes just given me some interesting news about Henrys wife.

Alexi and Leonid looked up from their manuscripts, eager to hear the latest
intelligence.

The incubus has been paying her occasional visits, which means its possession of
Henry isnt permanent. Its leaving his body to maintain its hold on her.

Ivan was quick to realise what Anya was driving at. So, if we can find a way of
stopping it re-entering him then -
Exactly what my aunt thought, too, said Anya.
This is very good news!
Excuse me Father, Alexi cut in, but how will we know when it leaves him?
Because in two days time Henrys wife will be staying with my aunt, Anya
explained. She will be watching for any signs of its presence. The minute she sees
them, shell call me. Since we dont know just how long the window of opportunity
will last, we have to be ready for when it happens.

Ivan fixed the brothers with a stern gaze. Nothing of what you have heard must be
spoken of in front of the Englishman. I want you both to work with Brother Zaytsev
on discovering what our winged newcomer really is and finding a way of dealing with
it. Meanwhile, Anya and I will work on the problem of the incubus.
They nodded and began tidying away their manuscripts.
I have been giving some thought to the eagle, brother, Leonid said, and think its
chosen form may be significant and might be a clue as to its hierarchical status and
classification.
Then we must not waste time brother.
Scooping up the documents, they hurriedly left the room and left Ivan and Anya to
themselves.

Not long after their departure, Anya grew irritable and started flitting fretfully from
one manuscript to another.
Ivan looked up from his book. What is it child?

Some of these manuscripts claim that incubi have the power to make people fall
into a deep sleep, she revealed, so my aunts presence in the house may be of no use
to us.
 And some say its penis is double forked, or made of iron and is extremely painful
to the victim, Ivan furthered. A lot of this material says more about the imaginations
of their writers rather than what is actually true.
Then how do we know what to trust?

Simple. If it has this power then why hasnt it used it on us? Also, in your reports
to me you make no mention of Henrys wife complaining about how painful her
sexual encounters are. You spoke only of her psychological distress and low energy
levels. Inflicting pain would be counterproductive to the demons agenda.

The deep furrows of her brow relaxed. Youre right. I hadnt thought of it that
way.
Then I see no reason why we should not proceed as planned.

****
Dusk had begun to settle in as deep within the bowels of the monastery Brothers,
Alexi, Leonid and Pavel were pouring over several manuscripts. They had uncovered
four possible candidates for the mysterious eagle. Of the four, Asmoday, the demon
of lust stood out.

He appears here also, said Leonid, fingering the entry in the deuterocanonical
Book of Tobit. He is a demon characterised by carnal desire. In the Malleus
Maleficarum he is also described in such a way.

Alexi closed the grimoire he had been studying. So, it seems that our feathered
friend may be a demon after all.

Pavel scratched his head. I am not so certain. I recall somewhere that Asmoday
gave the power of flight to a human once. There was no mention as to how this was
achieved exactly, but if he was transformed into a bird then maybe the eagle could be
a man.

Just then Leonid caught sight of a drawing in the grimoire Pavel had been
studying.
What is that?
Asmodays sigil.
Leonid deliberated intensely on the demonic seal. He seemed troubled by it.
What is it brother? Alexi asked.

I have seen this, or something very much like this before. I am certain of it, but
where?
Look around you Brother Denikin, Pavel laughed. Where else but here.
No, no! It was long before I came here.
 Pavel continued in playful mood. Before you came here brother you were nothing
more than a snot-nosed brat roaming the streets of Serov and that was not so long
ago.

Leonid blanched as a long-forgotten memory suddenly emerged. It is a man! I

must warn Anya! Without uttering another word, he rushed from the room.

Dashing along the dimly lit passageway, his impetuous nature having gotten the
better of him, the realisation that he was quite alone suddenly struck home. He had
ignored Father Vereshchagins warning. Shoving it to the back of his mind, he
mounted the stone steps leading to the refectory, beyond which lay Father
Vereshchagins study.

Almost there, he gasped, the muscles in his legs burning as he ascended the
refectory steps. On reaching the doorway he stopped to catch his breath and felt an
icy Siberian chill sweep over him from beyond the threshold. A powerful current of
air greeted him on pulling open the door. The place was in complete darkness. He
stepped tentatively into the void.

****
Ivan and Anya were almost done for the evening and were about to put aside their
studies when an horrific shrieking echoed throughout the building. It had come from
the direction of the refectory. By the time they reached it, Leonid Denikin was dead
and a small band of brothers had crowded around his corpse.
Ivan and Anya approached them.
Who is it?

We think it is Brother Leonid, Father, a voice called from the middle of the
crowd.
You think? Ivan said, pushing his way through the gathering.
Yes Father. It is hard to say.

Vereshchagin looked down at the brother leaning over Leonids corpse, then to
Leonid himself. He struggled to hold the contents of his stomach at bay as he took in
the grisly scene of a crimson halo pooling around Leonids head from the savage
injuries inflicted upon his eyes, tongue and throat.
On catching sight of the repellent spectacle of Leonids eyes hanging from their
sockets, a fountain of vomit rose up from the pit of Anyas stomach.
At Ivans behest, she was escorted from the scene by one of the onlookers.

Leonid! Alexi cried out on entering the hall, followed by an out of breath Pavel.
Where is Leonid?
The group parted to reveal the man he had called out to.
 This cannot be! He was with us only a moment ago!

Pavel said nothing. Walking into the crowd he picked up the limp body of his
friend and pulled the hood of Leonids habit gently over his mutilated face.

Take him to the infirmary, Ivan told him. Brother Korolyov will know what has
to be done. Brother Vasilyev will accompany you.

Another of the brothers, Sergey Azarov, approached Ivan. Father, would it not be
wise to check on the Englishman?
Yes. Please report back to me on his status.

Sergey dashed off with another of the brethren leaving only Alexi, Ivan, and four
other brothers remaining behind.

Alexi, still in a state of shock, sat alone beneath the stained-glass window lost in
thought. Ivan joined him as the four remaining brothers cleaned up the mess left
behind in the wake of the murder.
Tell me brother, why was Leonid on his own?
Alexi then related what had happened during their studies in the antiquities vault.

It was common knowledge to us all that Anya had been targeted by the eagle
demon, but Leonid must have stumbled across some other connection to do with the
sigil and Anya, Ivan theorised.
Do you think he was killed because of what he knew, Father?

I am certain of it. I am equally certain as to what killed him. He pulled a single

feather from the sleeve of his habit. I found this beneath his body.
And the man Brother Leonid spoke of?
That I do not know.

The sudden clamour of voices on the stairwell and the sound of running feet broke
the stillness.

Sergey Azarov and his companion burst into the hall. Father, the Englishman is
missing!

Ivan sprang to his feet. And what of the brother who was assigned to watch over
him?
He, too, is missing!
I want them found! Organise search parties immediately!

In all the years he had known him, Alexi had never seen Father Vereshchagin so
rattled. He had fought demons and all other manners of Hell spawned personifications
without ever once losing his composure.
 You are taking too much upon yourself Father, Alexi ventured, uncertain as to
how the ageing exorcist would take his advice.

As suddenly as it had come, the anger subsided. I know my son, but there are
times when the burden of my office weighs heavily upon me. Tell me, Alexi, he
asked at length, When you look at me what do you see?

I see a man who has selflessly given his life in the service of our Lord. You are
His blessed vessel of retribution and a man whom I have had the honour of fighting
alongside.

Though my conviction in the work we do is strong, I am growing weary of the

fight, Ivan confided. I am not the man I once was. This failing old carcass betrays
me with each passing day. The time is fast approaching when I must succumb to the
inevitable presented by it.
As must we all, Father, but this is not that day.
They walked from the hall oblivious of the dark shadow darting across the face of
the stained-glass window and disappearing into the stillness of the night.

****
At that same moment, Brother Dieter Lehmann and Henry were returning from a
tour of the monasterys church.

Henry had taken a shining to his powerfully built German minder, despite his less
than perfect grasp of the English language. As they rounded the east wall, Dieters
muscular arm shot out and pushed Henry back around the corner.
What is it?
Nicht sehen sie das?
Henry looked at him in bewilderment.
There! he whispered, pointing to the north wall.

Henry could see very little. He pulled a torch from his puffer jacket and was about
to throw some light on the situation when Dieter stopped him.
Keine, Henry. Mssen Sie nicht! You must not, he warned.

What is it? I cant see a bloody thing through this freezing mist, he whispered
back.

Es ist der eagle, he replied, spreading his arms wide to indicate its size, und es
ist gross!

Henrys command of basic German was sufficient enough for him to pick up on
what Dieter had said. He peaked around the corner to take a look.
 At that very same moment a shaft of light fanned out from the narthex onto the
courtyard as several brothers exited the main building, illuminating the creature
perched on the lofty granite wall. Spreading its wings, it swept down the precipitous
mountain slope into an all-enveloping miasma.

My God! Did you see that thing? It was huge! Henry yelled to the brothers as
they approached.
They appeared not to have heard him.
Come on fellas. Are you blind? You must have seen it!

As they drew closer Dieter caught sight of their doleful expressions. Ist etwas
falsch, he murmured to himself.
Henry looked at him.
Something is wrong, he repeated.
 CHAPTER SIX.
Lisa awoke from a dreamless sleep and ran an early bath. The sounds of the first
morning commuters making their way to work ebbed as she basked in the warmth of
the porcelain womb. Sliding deeper into the water she felt the sensuous currents
snaking around her body and embracing her naked form. Slowly, her mind began to
wander and drifted back to a distant land of spearheaded Cypresses and the scent of
the solitary Judas tree that occupied the corner of the villas garden.

Henry was swimming in the sparkling waters of their private pool. He emerged
naked onto the patio, his toned body shimmering in the afternoon sun. He walked
slowly toward her. She felt the heat of her passion mounting.
Sorry sis, gotta use the lav. Im peeing myself.
Lisas eyes sprang open. Jesus, Mel, couldnt you have knocked first?

Pulling down her panties she replied, Why? Its not like youve got something
that I havent seen before.
Dont you have any shame?
Youre a fine one to talk of shame, she giggled.
Lisa looked in puzzlement at her.
Mel nodded to Lisas cupped hand caressing her breast.

On looking down, Lisa was mortified at the site of her erect nipple poking from
between her own clasping fingers. It must be getting cold in here, she bluffed,
vigorously sudsing the water to hide her embarrassment.
Yeah, right, she said, hitching up her panties and flushing the toilet.
Lisa scowled. Would you mind just doing what you have to do and leave please?
Heard anything from him yet? she quizzed as she washed her hands at the basin.
No, I havent, and I dont expect to.
The lousy bastard! How could he do it to you?
Please dont call him that Mel.

Throwing the hand towel onto the toilet seat she threatened, Id do a lot worse if I
got my hands on him and that bitch of his!
Lisas tears brought her siblings outburst to a sudden end.

Oh shit, there I go mouthing off again when I should be comforting you. She
knelt by the bathtub and clasped Lisas hands. Tell you what, she said. Seeing as
how its my last day here why dont we go out tonight and paint the town red. How
does that sound?
 A quiet meal would be nice. I dont think I could handle crowds just yet.
Okay, a quiet meal then. Ill book a table at Giovannis.

As it turned out, Lisas fears of how she would manage to get through a night out
with her sister were groundless. To her relief, Mel never once mentioned Henry. By
the end of the evening both were well fed and a little the worse for wear.

****
What is keeping you Lisa? Lyudmila muttered to herself as she peered through
the bay window onto the snow-covered street.

The antique clock in the hallway chimed eleven. Lisa was already an hour late and
the matronly Madam Gorodetsky was becoming increasingly worried. Earlier that
morning she had received a phone call from her niece and was given the disturbing
news of Leonids death and their fears concerning the homicidal eagle. As a
precautionary measure, she was also given instructions on how to counter the demon,
Asmoday.

Lyudmila had waited long enough. She picked up the receiver and began dialling
Lisas number, but was forestalled by the sound of a car horn in the driveway. She
hurried to the door and opened up. Lisa looked ill.
Good heavens child, you look dreadful! Has something happened?
Only my little sister, she replied.

She ushered her in and took her coat. On entering the lounge, Lisa explained the
reasons for her lateness and fragile appearance.

Whats in this? she enquired of her host as she handed her a large tumbler of
some revolting concoction she had prepared.
It is best you do not ask. Just drink it down in one go.
She raised the glass to her lips and almost retched on the repellent smell.

Come now, Lyudmila encouraged, Just nip your nose and drink it down. You
will feel all the better for it.

Within a matter of minutes Lisa began to experience the beneficial effects of the
brew. As the colour in her face gradually returned, she vowed never again to drink
with her sister.
It wasnt long after that the subject of her estranged husband came up.

He is doing well and sends his love, Lyudmila said in response to Lisas query.
But there is still much work to be done. There are many things to consider before the
exorcism can be safely done.
 As their conversation continued Madam Gorodetsky quickly realised that Lisa was
subtly probing her for more information regarding Henrys location. Was this for her
peace of mind, or was there a darker and more sinister purpose behind it all she
wondered. Whatever the reason, she deftly changed the subject.

Let me show you your bedroom. It is right next to mine, so I am close at hand if
you should need me. I will unpack your luggage and get you settled in.

Despite her protestations, Lisa helped with the unpacking. Half-an-hour later they
were all done.

As the day drew on, Lyudmila noticed that Lisas exertions were beginning to take
effect on her already weakened state. It took very little persuasion therefore to coax
her into bed. On doing so, she took the opportunity to go into town for the provisions
suggested by her niece. On her return, she stuffed them into the refrigerator before
checking in on her guest. She was still soundly asleep.

Returning to the fridge, she took three fish from the carrier bag and removed their
hearts and livers. Placing them in a dish, she put them on the cold shelf. Having done
so, she began committing to memory the incantation she had written down during her
conversation with Anya.
 CHAPTER SEVEN.
Pyotr had long ago resigned himself to the inevitable fate that had befallen his
addle-brained father. Like him, he too would most probably end up spending his
remaining years in a mental asylum, hidden away from the embarrassed gaze of the
public.

Had it been three of four days since he had last seen his niece? He couldnt recall
and cursed his failing memory. How could he forget something so recent and yet
remember things clearly from years ago? For the moment, however, he was clear-
headed enough to recall that Anya was still at the fortress of devils and would probably
require more provisions for her stay there.

****
The smell of burning incense weighed heavily on Pyotrs stomach as he was shown
to Vereshchagins vacant study to await his nieces arrival. Laying atop an oak bureau
was an ornately leather-bound tome. Pyotr felt impelled to reach forward and pick it
up. Before he could do so, Anya entered the room.
Uncle Pyotr! What are you doing here?

He turned on hearing her voice. She was not alone. Following in her footsteps were
Father Vereshchagin, Henry and Dieter.
Anya introduced them to him.
On hearing Dieters name, he backed away in fear and loathing.
What is it uncle?
Have you forgotten they are our sworn enemies?

We are no longer enemies. The war is over and has been for many years. We are
all friends now.

But for Pyotr the war and the atrocities committed on both sides were still fresh in
his disorderly brain.

Dieter spoke fluent Russian and understood everything the old man had said. It is
best I leave, he suggested.
Within seconds of his vacating the room Pyotr became his normal self.
What are you doing here uncle?

I have brought provisions for you and the Englishman. Though I am at a loss to
understand why you did not come and stay with me in Serov.
Anya hugged the bewildered old man. You are very thoughtful, uncle.
 Henry and I have much to do Mister Gorodetsky, Ivan said. If you will excuse
us, we will leave you both to get reacquainted. Later, if you wish, Anya could
perhaps give you a tour of the place.
Anya mouthed a grateful thank you to them both as Ivan led Henry out of the room.

No sooner were they in the passageway than Henry asked, What was that all
about?
Ivan explained what had taken place adding, Alzheimers is a terrible affliction
even more so in Russia. Many of its sufferers are fated to live out their existence in
poorly equipped and undermanned mental asylums. Quite frankly, Henry, I suspect
that a small proportion of those belong in a place like this.
It kinda makes me feel like a fraud, Henry confessed.
Why is that?

Because I dont feel, or even act like Im possessed. Theres been no projectile
vomiting, no three sixty-degree head turning, or speaking in strange tongues and what
have you.

Ivan laid his hand on his shoulder. Let me share something with you that might
help you understand, he said. There are many types of demons. The kinds of
manifestations youre describing are usually committed by low-level demons, with
the exception of the head turning, which is pure fiction. They will abuse their hosts
bodies in various ways to draw attention to themselves. The more dramatic they are
the better. This eventually leads to the hosts death. The physical body cannot take
that kind of punishment and eventually burns out, or is saved through the intervention
of exorcism.
I see.
Conversely, he continued, there are other demons that are much subtler in their
approaches. Incubi and Succubi - their female counterparts - are of this kind. They
make no overt displays of possession. In order to procreate their kind, they must
remain hidden to human eyes. They can achieve this in various ways.
And possession is one of them?

It is certainly the easiest. It is believed by some that they can even re-animate the
dead in order to achieve their aims.
Henry shuddered at the thought of it.

Vereshchagin was careful to say nothing of the higher levels of demons beyond
that of the Incubi. These were the aristocracy of Hell. From their elevated thrones,
they commanded the demonic legions. They were the Princes, Dukes, Marquises and
Kings of their realms. Among their ranks was Asmoday. Soon, he might well have to
confront the infernal aristocrat. It was a prospect he was not looking forward to.
 While were on the subject, theres one thing Ive been meaning to ask you, said
Henry, as they turned into the south walkway.
Yes?

Why doesnt the incubus just leave me and find another host? Surely that would be
easier.
It is a problem that has also troubled my mind, Ivan admitted.
And?

He pulled up at the top of the stairwell. It is a question I cannot answer. He tapped

Henry lightly on the temple. The uninvited one may be listening in.

As they made their way down into the courtyard Ivan pondered on what he had
come to suspect about the incubus. Had it fallen in love with Henrys wife, or was it
mere infatuation? Was it using Henry as its sole vessel knowing she would accept no
other because of her love for him? There was a time when he would have shrugged off
such an idea as foolish nonsense. It was Asmodays possible involvement that had
caused him to give it some credence.

In the Book of Tobit, he had read how Asmoday had murdered seven consecutive
husbands of the woman Rachel on their wedding nights. The same fate would have
befallen the next, Tobias, but for the intervention of the archangel Raphael. But it was
one particular passage that resonated in Ivans mind, in which were written the words
Asmoday loved Sarah.

Had Asmoday offered his assistance to an infatuated incubus for this reason, seeing
in him a reflection of himself?

****
During supper, the refectory buzzed with the sound of chatter. All but Anya was
engaged in conversation. She seemed distant and troubled. Henry knew what was on
her mind.
A penny for your thoughts.

She snapped out of her reverie and laid down the fork she had been toying with.
Looking at Henry with deep and soulful eyes, she said nothing.
Its your uncle, isnt it?
She struggled for a moment to keep her emotions in check. Yes, it is.
Would you like to talk about it?
Youve enough to worry about without me adding to the mix.
Nonsense. Its not like Im rushed off my feet with work these days.
 She smiled and opened up a little, voicing her fears about her aged uncle and the
serious decline she had noticed in his health since her return to Russia.

Hes changed so much since I last saw him, she continued, and his grasp on
reality seems to be slipping further from him with each passing day. Hes not the same
man I remember from my childhood.

Thats probably why youre having difficulty coming to terms with it. For you,
the changes appear to have happened overnight. Due to your long absence from him,
youve had no time to adjust to them.

I dont think I ever will. Take today for instance: I was showing him around the
place and he appeared to be fully lucid and attentive. He actually seemed to be
enjoying the tour. Then out of the blue he started to panic for no apparent reason. It
was as though he didnt know where he was. Nothing I said or did could calm him
down. All he wanted was to return home to Serov.
That must have been awful for you.

Whats awful is the fact that hes probably sitting back at the farm right now,
frightened and alone and with no one to care for him.

****
Pyotr was far from being alone. He had never been truly on his own from the day
he had found the seal in the Reich Chancellery. He had looked avariciously at the
finely wrought golden pendant with its intricate carving and mystical symbols. The
name Asmoday, emblazoned between the inner and outer circles, meant nothing to
him. He had walked from the Chancellery ruins believing that fate and the angels had
smiled upon him.

It hadnt taken him long to realise, however, that the artefact held some kind of
mystical power. On two separate and unforgettable occasions, it had saved him from
certain death.

Less than an hour after its discovery he was moving from building to building,
mopping up the last pockets of German resistance when a snipers bullet struck him
squarely in the chest. It had penetrated his tunic and struck the amulet throwing him
to the ground. Miraculously, the soft metal artefact remained unscathed by the
impact, as had he.

The most dramatic confirmation of its power came the following day as he and
several of his comrades were pinned down under intense enemy fire on the ground
floor of a hotel. From an adjacent building, they heard a sudden shriek. It was the
familiar sound of an incoming panzerschreck rocket. They dove for cover as it
crashed through the window, blowing apart the room and those in it. All, that is,
except for Pyotr.
 Following his repatriation, he hid the amulet away from prying eyes in the hayloft
of his barn. He had long since given up the idea of selling it. Within two years of his
return inexplicable events began to occur in and around the village; events which
were to cast suspicion upon him.

Over several consecutive weeks, strange nebulous lights were seen over outlying
croplands. Shortly thereafter, the crops began to wither and die. Flax, wheat and
potatoes were all affected by it. Following a lengthy investigation, even the Ministry
of Cultivation could not satisfactorily explain the local devastation, or how Pyotrs
crops were unaffected by it.
It didnt take long for the rumour mill to take over. Despite there being no
evidence to link him to it, Pyotr was targeted as being responsible for the mysterious
blight by a disgruntled group of smallholders.

Fearing for their livelihoods, the neighbouring farmers decided to take matters into
their own hands. Their actions culminated in the death of one of their own during a
botched arson attempt. Quite how the Molotov cocktail exploded in his hand before
he had the chance to light it was never adequately explained in the coroners report.
Law, order and sanity, however, were quickly restored following the event.

Whatever Pyotr turned his hand to in the succeeding years was blessed and with it
came notoriety and comparative wealth. Being neither good looking, nor a fool, he
knew what attracted his female admirers to him. They pandered to his every whim
and fancy. If he ever bore any true affection toward a female it was to his ten-year-
old niece Anya, whom he adored like she was his own. She, in turn, loved her uncle
and would occasionally stay over at the farm. Never had Pyotr felt happier than in her
presence. Then one day the unthinkable happened.

Anya was playing in the barn late one afternoon and, as usual, Pyotr was in
attendance. Though the artefact was way beyond her reach, high up in the roofs
rafters, he took no chances where his niece was concerned.
Engaged in her favourite game of Fipe, Anya had allotted her uncle the role of
seeker and herself as the hider. The chosen counting place was the tractor where
Pyotr now stood counting down the seconds before coming to seek her.
No cheating, she called to him, giving away her position in the empty cattle stalls.

I wont, Pyotr chuckled.

Countdown over, he began his search and deliberately avoided the area she was
hiding in. Where are you? he called out, expecting her to run from the stalls at any
moment to reach the tractor before he could tag her.

He moved to the rear of the barn, further away from her position. I know you are
here somewhere. Come out, come out, wherever you are.
Strangely, she didnt press home her advantage.
 It was getting late and Pyotrs brother would soon arrive to take his daughter home.
Deciding to end the game, he headed for the stalls. As he approached a heap of empty
grain sacks he saw her foot poking out. Fipe! he yelled, taking hold of her ankle. I
win!

He had expected Anya to burst excitedly out from beneath the sacking, screaming
with joy as she made a headlong dash for the tractor. What emerged, however, was the
alarming sound of a rattling, laboured breath.

Tearing away the sacking, he found Anya curled up in a foetal position. She was
struggling desperately to breathe. Pupiless red eyes met his horrified gaze as a
network of pulsing blue veins spread out from beneath her hairline across a deathly
white face. Her lips pulled back into a frightening snarl, revealing sharply serrated
and discoloured teeth.

He stepped back instinctively from the emerging entity. Between the barks and
growls Anyas voice broke through, begging for his help.

Galvanised into action, he hauled her from the ground and held her tightly to his
chest as he made for the farmhouse. Before he had exited the barn, her body went
limp. A cold shiver ran down his spine. Fearing the worst, he looked again at the
frightful face. A livid symbol had appeared on her forehead. It was a symbol he
recognised instantly.

It had taken almost a year to exorcise the demon and a further three before Anya
had recovered fully from her ordeal. Only her guilt-ridden uncle knew the cause of it,
the symbol having vanished before being witnessed by anyone else.

Over the following years he made many attempts to rid himself of the artefact.
Even placing it inside a heavy metal box and hurling it into the fast-flowing waters of
the Kakva river hadnt worked. Realising the futility of his actions he returned the
seal to its hiding place, where it lay undisturbed for several years before the next
incident took place.

He recognised the village waif who had taken refuge in the hayloft of his barn.
Leonid Denikin was as well-known to the tight-knit community, as was his
notoriously drunken and hell-raising mother who frequented the ale houses offering
sexual favours to any man whod pay for the privilege.

Pyotr had no way of telling how long the boy had been there, other than it was
long enough for him to discover what others had not. He snatched the amulet from
the terrified youngster and cuffed him around the ear, threatening him with dire
retribution should he reveal to anyone what he had discovered.

Fearing the boy would speak of his discovery, he made a last-ditch effort to
dispose of the amulet and buried it deep beneath the pigpen where, strangely, it
remained put.
 CHAPTER EIGHT.
While Lisa lay asleep in her room, oblivious to the smell of burning fish heart and
liver, Lyudmila continued the ancient purification ritual to render Asmodays
demonic influence ineffectual. In the Book of Tobit, Anya had told her, it had been
used successfully by Tobias against Asmoday. Having rendered the demon
innocuous, he was able to consummate his marriage to the woman Rachel, whom
Asmoday had fallen in love with.

Having completed her task, Lyudmila cleaned away the evidence and retired to
bed.

If Lisa was conscious of the strange odour the following morning she said nothing
of it to her host at breakfast. She appeared well rested and in better spirits. It was
obvious to Lyudmila that the incubus had not visited her that night. She knew of
course that it had nothing to do with the purification rite, as incubi were impervious
to it. She believed the reason for its non-appearance was to allow her to regain her
strength before mentally raping her again.

The subject of Henry was never far from Lisas lips, but that day she spoke little of
her husband. The reason for this became abundantly clear when Lyudmila caught her
rifling through her personal mail.
Mortified at being caught red-handed, she dropped the letters onto the table and
begged for her hosts forgiveness and understanding.

I forgive you child, she said. Under the same circumstances, I would probably
have done the same. But you are torturing yourself unnecessarily. You cannot defy
Gods will.
Lisa failed to see how Gods will had anything to do with it.

Of course it is His will, Lyudmila explained. Ask yourself the question: why
has the incubus not told you of Henrys location? Surely it must know.
Lisa couldnt understand why she hadnt thought of such an obvious question.

It is because you are not meant to know. Do you think demons have unrestricted
power to act as they wish? No, they do not. If it were true, then the world would be in
utter chaos.

Demonic belief systems, she went on, are very much like our own. Some do not
believe in God, or the Devil. They have been spiritually blinded from the truth. It is
Gods bidding that prevents the incubus from telling you where Henry is.

It began to dawn on Lisa that her spiritual beliefs were equally as fragmented as
those of the demons. She had gone through life merely paying lip service to a blind
faith that was ill-defined and superficial at best. Now her faith in Gods ineffable
purpose was being put to the test.
 Her hostess picked up on Lisas uncertainty as to how to deal with her situation.
She had been suddenly thrown from a temporal existence into one that she was ill-
equipped to handle. She knew of only one way to help her strengthen her spirituality
for what was yet to come.

It had been many years since Lisa had last picked up a Bible, let alone read one.
As she flicked aimlessly through its pages something caught her attention.
Appositely, it was the book of Job she had come upon and as she read his inspiring
story she began to feel a strange kinship towards Gods ancient servant.

Was it some forgotten childhood memory that had drawn her to it, or had
something far greater motivated her choice?
 CHAPTER NINE.
On several occasions, Henry had noticed the curious stone stairwell that led down
beneath the east wall of the monastery and had often wondered what purpose it
served. On this particular day, he felt impelled to ask Dieter what it was and where it
led.
Es ist der Eingang zu den Dmonen tor.
In English, please, Henry requested.

Dieter thought for a moment then said, falteringly, It is the entrance to the
Demons Gateway. The brothers call it the Everto Porta.

Henry descended the steps for a closer look. Fixed into the foundation walls by
three ornate iron hinges was a heavy, metal-clad door. It was locked. He pushed aside
the elaborate key escutcheon and peeked through the large keyhole. On either side of
the door he could make out external wall buttresses. Directly ahead of him,
approximately one metre beyond the buttresses, the level ground appeared to drop
abruptly away into the valley. Why anyone would build a doorway that led nowhere
baffled him.
Doing a little sight-seeing?

Henry recognised instantly Anyas pleasantly modulated voice. He closed the key
escutcheon and climbed the steps. I was curious about where it led.

It doesnt lead anywhere now. The doorway was built as an escape route by the
priests during the Revolution. Since the landslide a few years ago, it was made off
limits to everyone.

Bit of an odd name for an escape route though isnt it The Demons
Gateway?

Its a derogatory term the Bolsheviks gave to it because of the many priests who
escaped through it during the anti-religious campaigns.
Oh well, herein endeth the first lesson, Henry remarked.

Dieter laughed nervously as the trio began making their way back into the
monastery.

Henry wasnt to be so easily hoodwinked this time. For a door that hadnt been
used in years the hinges were remarkably well oiled and rust free, as was the
escutcheon that bore the signs of recent scratch marks.

****
Inviting a demon into his world was something Ivan Vereshchagin was not
looking forward to. It was a last contingency, should their attempts at exorcising the
Incubus fail. However, calling upon the very demon that had allied himself with the
incubus was fraught with danger.

Demons are governed by certain rules; the first being that they are constrained to
tell the truth of any questions posed to them during an evocation ritual. The second,
however, was less favourable to the exorcist. Any slip or divergence by the summoner
from the prescribed evocation and banishment ritual would mean almost certain death,
or insanity, for all those involved.

After hastily scribbling notes into his diary, he removed his reading glasses. He sat
back in his seat and rubbed the tiredness from his eyes. The pressures and anxieties of
the last few days were beginning to show.
Are you alright Father?

He waved dismissively at a greatly concerned Alexi Bragin. I am fine. Just a little

tired.
Alexi was ten years his junior, but even he had begun to feel the stresses of the last
few days. As he refreshed Ivans cup of coffee he said, It is perhaps not my place to
say this Father, but you are far from well. The workload has been a strain on us all and
on you in particular. You are stretching yourself too far.

You are my right hand, my confessor and confidant, but please do not presume to
be my nursemaid also.

I meant no disrespect Father, Alexi countered, but I cannot in all conscience

ignore the evidence of my own eyes.

And do your eyes see the future of my downfall brother? Has God spoken to you
of His purpose regarding me?
No, Father.

Then all you see is the tiredness of an old man, is it not - a weariness that a little
sleep cannot cure?
Yes, Father, replied a humbled Alexi. Please forgive my presumptuousness.
There is nothing to forgive. Your advice is well-intentioned and I would be a fool
to ignore it.

There is another matter that I must bring to your attention, Alexi ventured.
Earlier today Henry was taking a keen interest in the Everto Porta and was asking
questions about it.
He was?
I believe Anya was able to deflect him from its real purpose.
 Good, but I think it would be wise to ensure that the brothers are informed of
whatever story she gave him. He must not find out its true function. Please see to it
immediately.
Alexi nodded and headed for the door.

There are a couple of other things before you leave brother, Ivan called out.
See if the changes to my ceremonial robe have been completed. If they have, bring it
to me for inspection. Secondly, I would be grateful if you would also choose those
brothers who are best fitted to assist with the evocation ritual.

Alexi felt honoured at the faith Father Vereshchagin had placed in him. Selecting
the attendees for such a terrifying rite was every bit as crucial to the event as was the
evocation and banishment ritual itself and for that reason was normally left to the
primocreatus exorcist to perform.

****
Dieter was now a permanent fixture in Henrys cell. There were times, however,
when Henry wished to be left alone with his own thoughts. He was aware the German
brothers presence was not merely to safeguard him from whatever dangers might
present themselves, but to ensure also that the incubus gained little knowledge of
what was really going on. The incident at the Everto Porta was proof of that.

What was the brotherhood up to? And why had Anya lied to him concerning the
Demons Gateway? If he discovered the truth of its purpose would it jeopardise
whatever they were planning? Were all these questions the product of his mind, born
out of boredom and inactivity, or were they the manipulative creations of the cunning
entity inside him attempting to learn more? He no longer knew.
You are troubled my friend? Dieter laid down his German - English dictionary
and sat down next to him on his cot. You would like I teach you more German?

Yes. How do you say I miss my wife? Im a prisoner here. And last, but not least:
Which are my thoughts and which arent? he said, sarcastically.
Dieter replied, The second is easy; Ich bin ein Gefanginen hier. The third also;
Die in meine Gedanken und welche nicht? But the first is hard for me to say, even
now. There was a long pause. The first is Ich vermisse meine Ehefrau.

A single tear traced its way down the Germans cheek and he quickly brushed it
aside. Forgive me, he said at length, but I miss also my wife.

Henry felt like shit. Self-pity had blinded him to the pain of others. It had never
once entered his mind that the unassuming Dieter and perhaps many of the brothers
had their own personal stories to tell, some of which were undoubtedly more tragic
than his own.
 Uta Lehmann, Dieters wife, was barely twenty-two years old when she lost her
battle with an improbus demon. Her untimely death profoundly changed Dieter. He
sought revenge on those that had taken her from him and would have been consumed
by his blind and unfocussed anger, but for Father Vereshchagin and Anyas
intervention.
How many demons have you exorcised during your time here Dieter?
I think six I have helped mit.
Werent you afraid?
Natrlich! Only an idiot would not be. You also are afraid?
If Im honest, yes.

A little fear is gut, he counselled, but you must never give in to it. Mit the help
of God things will get better.

And with Gods help maybe I can better your English, Henry responded light-
heartedly.

****
Ivan, dressed in his white ceremonial vestment, stood before the full-length mirror.
From his neck hung the pentagram of Solomon, through which he would command the
demon. On its reverse was the seal of Asmoday.

You have excelled yourself Brother Davidenko, he said, fingering the seal.
Rarely have I seen such intricate work.
Evgeny beamed broadly as he brushed aside a few loose threads from the robe.
Thank you, Father. Given the importance of such a powerful symbol of authority
over the evil spirit you intend to command I entrusted no one but myself to the task.

From the skirt of Ivans robe hung a parchment of calfskin. On it the hexagram of
Solomon had been exquisitely embroidered and hidden beneath a white linen cloth.
And what of the Disk, the Vessel and Secret Seal? Ivan enquired.

The Disk is almost completed. The seal and the vessel will be finished in
accordance with the ritual.
And the lions skin girdle?
It should be finished by tonight.

Ivan took one last look in the mirror. Removing his regalia, he handed it back to
Evgeny. Please do not think me disrespectful when I say I hope that none of this will
be necessary.
No, Father. I also pray for a less confrontational outcome.
 Such an expectation, however, was looking more remote than ever. They had yet to
uncover the identity of the incubus, or the means of its speedy eviction. As for the
eagle, they had seen nothing of it since Brother Denikins murder. With preparations
almost in hand, they could only wait for the incubus next move. It wasnt long in
coming.
 CHAPTER TEN
Henry was sound asleep when Dieter was awoken in the early hours by his
resonant snoring. Bleary eyed, he rose from his cot and nipped Henrys nose. An
incoherent mumble sprang from his cellmates lips as he turned over to face the wall.
Dieter went back to his cot and sat on the edge with his head resting in his hands.

When next he looked up, Henry was sitting bolt upright staring blankly ahead.
Slowly his head turned to face Dieter and regarded him with unwavering,
inexpressive eyes.

Ephemeral shadows of blackness began coalescing around Henry as Dieter

struggled to throw off the rigor of fear from his limbs.
Now completely enveloped in the stygian gloom, Henry rose slowly to his feet.
Dieter looked on helplessly as the entire room became engulfed in darkness. Time
itself seemed suspended in that moment. It felt as if all of creation had been expunged
and he had been cast into the inky black of Tartarus where all reason, hope and
humanity was being sapped from his soul.

From deep within his swiftly waning memories the words of the 23rd psalm
sprang suddenly to his lips. As the recitation grew to its climax an incandescent aura
radiated from his body, pushing back the darkness and illuminating the cell in an
ethereal glow. No sooner was the litany completed than both men fell to the floor.

Dragging himself to his feet, Dieter staggered to the door and rang the alarm bell
that had been set up in advance of emergencies. The demon was no longer to be seen.
It had either re-entered Henrys body, or was roaming free elsewhere.

****
It was just after 11.10 pm in the Gorodetsky household when Lyudmila heard the
distinct sounds of Lisas voice over the intercom system she had set up between both
their bedrooms. Climbing from her bed, she went to investigate.

She opened the door just enough to poke her head through. As her eyes focussed
in the dim light she saw Lisa lying naked on the bed, its covers strewn across the
floor. The diffused light of the streetlamp filtered in through the curtains sufficiently
for her to see that her eyelids were flickering rapidly. She was dreaming.

Under normal circumstance she would have entered the room and thrown the
blankets over her. However, fearing this was a prelude to something far worse, she
held back.

After a minute or so, she began to enter the room when, out of the corner of her
eye, she caught sight of something dark and impalpable rising up through the
floorboards.
 Fighting back the urge to switch on the light and scream bloody murder, she gently
pulled the door shut and hurried across the landing to her bedroom.
She spoke only two words into her mobile. Its here!
In reply, she received only two. We know!

****
Henry came-to to the sound of anxious voices and echoing footfalls. He was
moving rapidly through a corridor on a gurney pushed by Pavel. Next to him was a
worried looking Anya. Dazed and confused, he tried sitting up only to discover he
had been securely strapped down. Whats happened? Where are you taking me?
Dont worry, Henry. Were taking you to the church, Anya said.

He struggled briefly to free his bonds. What the hell for? And why am I tied
down to this contraption? Will somebody tell me what the hells going on here?

All in good time Henry, she replied. Father Vereshchagin will explain
everything to you when we get there.
Wheres Dieter?

Hes at the infirmary. Brother Korolyov thinks hes going to be okay. So theres
no need to worry about him.
Do you recall anything of what happened Englishman?

He looked to Pavel. No. The last thing I remember was reading a book. I guess I
must have dozed off.
Were almost there, Henry, Anya said as they rounded a corner. Try and relax.

But Henry couldnt relax. The apprehensive looks on their faces had aroused in
him an intense feeling of disquiet.

****
Lisas unabashed whimpers of pleasure were barely audible through the hissing
interference over the intercom. Interspersing the static, was a guttural and
otherworldly demonic tongue that made Lyudmilas flesh crawl. Every last fibre of
her being was screaming inwardly, urging her to action. Turning a blind eye to what
was tantamount to rape, therefore, rested agonizingly on her conscience. Tormented
by the sounds, she covered her ears and began to pray that it would all soon be over.
For Henry, it was all about to begin.

****
Ivan Vereshchagin, Alexi Bragin and Sergey Azarov had entered the church in
advance of Pavel, Anya and Henry. Having completed their prayers in the sanctuary
they entered the nave through the central door of the templon, Father Vereshchagin
vested in surplice and purple stole.

Anya left Henrys side and went to greet them. They spoke briefly before she
returned.

Smiling, she took hold of Henrys hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze and left
without uttering a word.
Is this what I think it is? Henry asked Pavel as the trio approached him.
He began checking Henrys restraints. It is, Englishman.
I dont think Im ready to go through with this yet, he said nervously
No one ever is.

For the first time in his life Henry was experiencing the true meaning of fear. He
tugged against the tightened restraints, the pounding of his heart becoming more
incessant with each passing moment.
Do not fight it, Pavel whispered. It will only make things worse. Remember
who you are doing this for.

Henrys head dropped back onto the gurney and he gazed up at the richly
decorated domed ceiling. Staring back at him was the iconic figure of the Christ.
From the centre of the ceiling hung an immense chandelier containing the
iconography of the saints.

Henry began to think of Lisa, the one true love of his life. Whatever horrors he
was about to face he would endure, for her sake.
How long will it take?

That all depends on the demon, Pavel announced. It may last for hours, even
days. In this case I am not sure, because the exorcism is being done in its absence.
Henry looked quizzically at him.

It is no longer inside you, Pavel explained. We are going to try and stop it from
returning to your body, but we may not have much time. That is why the Father has
altered the ritual and is performing the Catholic rite of exorcism. It is far more
powerful.

Henry didnt need to ask where it had gone. The thoughts of what his wife was
enduring right at that moment were enough to strengthen his resolve. Then lets get
on with it and send the fucker back where it belongs!

Ivan approached and made the sign of the cross over Henry, himself and all those
present before kneeling.
 Lord have mercy, he intoned. Christ have mercy. God the Father in Heaven have
mercy upon us. Holy Mary, pray for us.

Henry could do nothing but listen as the Litany of the Saints reverberated
throughout the church.

All holy saints of God intercede for us and be merciful. From all evil, deliver us O
Lord. Save your servant who trusts in you. Let him find in you a fortified tower in the
face of the enemy. Let the enemy have no power over him and the son of iniquity be
powerless to harm him. Lord, watch over him from Sion.

Henry pushed aside all thoughts of the here and now and cast his mind back to the
far-flung shores of England and his beloved Lisa. He was drawn to her in his time of
need. Abruptly, the sound of his name brought him swiftly back to reality.

Ivan was standing over him, his eyes ablaze with the ardour of the saints. Let your
mighty hand hold back the evil one from your servant Henry Doggett, that he may no
longer hold captive this person whom it pleased you to make in your own image and to
redeem through your son; who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, forever and ever.
Amen, Alexi, Sergey and Pavel responded.

Ivan crossed himself and then Henry. Placing the end of his stole on Henrys neck
and his hand on his head he commanded, See the cross of the Lord; be gone and never
return, all hostile powers! The stem of David, the lion of Judahs tribe has conquered.
Lord, heed my prayer. Let my cry be heard by you.
He looked compassionately into Henrys eyes. May the Lord be with you.

At that instant, an ominous roll of thunder was heard above the domed church roof.
The chandelier shuddered briefly, raining down dust and cobwebs onto the floor of the
nave.

From his prone position, Henry had a clear line of sight to it. No one else, however,
seemed remotely perturbed by the event.
Ivan continued, undaunted. I abjure you, by the living and the dead, by your
Creator, by the Creator of the whole universe, by Him who has the power to consign
you to Hell, to depart forthwith in fear from this servant of God, Henry Doggett, who
seeks refuge in the fold of the church.

****
Anya and Dieter crossed themselves as they stood behind the infirmary window.
Only the church dome could be seen from their vantage point, but it was what they
could see above it that held their attention.
A huge funnel had opened up, sucking crystalline motes of loose snow into itself.
Rotating around the eye was a dense swirling fog that tapered off into the distance
like an inverted tornado. Deep within the revolving miasma tiny particles collided
with one another, triggering violent outbursts of pure energy from the surrounding
wall. Plainly, this was no arbitrary act of nature.

****

Within the confines of the nave, only the sound of thunder and occasional flashes
of light streaming through the stained-glass windows were evidenced.

Ivans voice had raised an octave or two to be heard over the developing discord
outside. Signing the cross on Henrys sweating brow he intoned, I abjure you again,
not by my weakness but by the might of the Holy Spirit to depart from this servant of
God, Henry Doggett, whom almighty God has made in his image. Yield, therefore,
not to my own person but to the minister of Christ - for it is the power of Christ that
compels you. Tremble before that mighty arm that broke asunder the dark prison
walls and led souls forth to light.

****
Thousands of miles away, the effects of the exorcism were beginning to make
themselves felt. Nothing but static could now be heard over the intercom and a
concerned Lyudmila wasnt sure what next to do. She eventually set foot onto the
landing and made her way to Lisas bedroom.

The sight that met her eyes took her breath away. Lisa was pinned to the wall
above the headboard, her arms and legs spread wide.

The demon was now circling a counter-rotating ring of blackness that had
appeared on the ceiling. From within it, glistening specks of snow drifted earthward.

The temperature had dropped dramatically enough for Lyudmila to see her own
breath. She could hear the exorcists voice coming from beyond the dark portal and it
was growing in volume and intensity.

Give place, abominable creature, give way, you monster, give way to Christ, in
whom are found none of your works, it commanded. For he has already stripped
you of your powers and laid waste your kingdom, bound you prisoner and plundered
your weapons. He has cast you forth into the outer darkness where everlasting ruin
awaits you and your abettors.
There was a brief silence. The incubus became enraged. It snarled and spat venom
into the black abyss.

To what purpose do you insolently resist? Ivans voice resumed. To what

purpose do you brazenly refuse? For you are guilty before almighty God, whose laws
you have transgressed. You are guilty before his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. I abjure
you in the name of the spotless Lamb to depart from this man; to depart from the
church of God.
 The demon reacted violently to Ivans taunting. Scrambling on all fours across the
ceiling, it screeched its terrible fury.

Tremble and flee as we call upon the name of the Lord, before whom the
denizens of hell cower, to whom the heavenly Virtues and Powers and Dominations
are subject, Ivan continued. The Word made flesh commands you; the Virgins Son
commands you; Jesus of Nazareth commands you. And now, in His name, I abjure
you be gone from this man who is His creature. It is futile to resist His will. The
longer you delay the heavier your punishment shall be; for it is not men you are
condemning, but rather Him who rules the living and the dead.
An ear-splitting roar erupted from the creature. Large, coal black wings erupted
from its shoulder blades and without warning it hurled itself into the abyss, its entire
body trembling with rage.

With its departure, Lisa fell from the wall onto the bed; mercifully oblivious to all
that had transpired.

****
Lyudmilas warning came too late to alert the others of the demons return. It
exploded out of the funnel with the speed of a runaway freight train, gathering
momentum as it sped earthward toward the church, its wings pulled tight against its
muscular body.

With hawk-like agility it spread them out at the very last moment, temporarily
slowing its descent. With only inches to spare, it cleared the perimeter wall. Seconds
later, it impacted with the stained-glass window.

The sound of shattering glass brought the proceedings in the church to a shuddering
halt. Father Vereshchagin glanced up. Showing no sign of fear, he continued to
minister the rite.
Lord heed my prayer.
And let my cry be heard by you, came the response.
Henry was in a near state of panic. He could now see what hung beneath the domed
ceiling, and it was moving in their direction.

Pavel saw the fear in his eyes and followed his gaze. He, too, could now see the
advancing demon.

Fearlessly, Father Vereshchagin continued to lead them in prayer; God of heaven

and earth, God of the angels and archangels, God, who has power to bestow life after
death and the Creator of heaven and earth and whose kingdom is without end; I
humbly entreat your glorious majesty to deliver this servant of yours from the unclean
spirits; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 Holy shit! Henry screamed, thrashing back and forth in a vain attempt to free
himself, Get me off of this thing!

Pavel pinned him to the gurney as Father Vereshchagin turned to face the ancient
adversary.

Crossing himself he cried out, I abjure you every unclean spirit, every spectre
from hell, every satanic power, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, to cease your
assaults against the creature whom He has formed from the slime of the earth for His
own honour and glory; to quail before wretched man, seeing in him the image of
almighty God, rather than his state of human frailty.

A chilling voice suddenly erupted from the creature. Slime you are and to slime
will you and your kind return priest! Anger me no further, for the epoch of mankind
grows short upon the earth and thy time even shorter.

Depart from me accursed one! Ivan ordered, For you, O evil one, and for your
followers, there will be worms that never die. An unquenchable fire stands ready for
you and for your minions Depart accursed murderer, model of vileness, creature of
obscenity, for God has willed that man should be his temple. Be gone, seducer! Your
place is in solitude; your abode is in the nest of serpents; get down and crawl with
them!

A piercing screech rent the air as the irate demon hurled itself at the chandelier.
With flapping wings, it tore at the chains holding it to the ceiling.

Small fissures began to appear in the dome and large chunks of plaster and
artwork soon began raining down from the Pantocrator onto them.
Father! Alexi called out, All is lost. We must leave!

The thwarted exorcist nodded his reluctant agreement. Within seconds, they were
dashing toward the narthex and the porch lying beyond.

As they barrelled towards the exit, an immense shockwave of billowing plaster

and splintering wood threw them to the ground. It blew open the doors, hurling them
into the freezing cold courtyard.
Silence ensued.

Anya and Dieter were the first on the scene and as the dust began to settle she
cried out, Wheres Henry?

They looked frantically about themselves. At the foot of the steps lay an
unconscious Pavel and the overturned gurney; the security straps ripped from the
steelwork and its former occupant missing. Then, through the open door of the
church, Henrys dishevelled figure emerged.
Dieter and Anya ran to his aid, catching him just as his legs gave way.
 ****
Lisa had fared better than her husband. She had at least been spared the horrors of
her encounter and had no memory of what had taken place that night. She was
somewhat taken aback, however, to find herself in Lyudmilas bed the following
morning.
 CHAPTER ELEVEN
Rumours of the bizarre anomaly seen over the monastery began to circulate in the
tight knit community of Serov. With each telling the tale grew more elaborate.
Shortly thereafter, stories of the local politsiya rounding up witnesses for
interrogation began to surface. They were undoubtedly taking the sighting seriously.
It soon became apparent that their so-called investigation was nothing more than a
ploy to suppress the truth. Threats and strong-arm tactics were being used to silence
anyone who knew anything about the event.

Pyotr was in no mood to be interrogated by the notoriously corrupt menty. When

three officers came knocking at his door he was surly and distrustful from the outset.
From their shoulder insignias, he concluded the first was a lieutenant. He stood by the
door and said nothing throughout the interrogation. The second, a pockmarked
Lieutenant Colonel, began searching the house whilst the highest-ranking officer,
Colonel Anatoly Kuznetsov, conducted the questioning.

Pyotr was taken aback by the easy-going manner of the rotund Kuznetsov. He had
expected rough treatment at the hands of the menty.

After the usual perfunctory questions, Kuznetsov suddenly changed tack and
began asking about Anya. You are aware that your niece is currently residing at the
monastery?
Of course.
Are you also aware that she is in the company of an Englishman?
Pyotr hesitated. Yes, I am aware of that.
This is very strange dont you think, Sacha?

Very strange, colonel, his second in command replied before returning to his
search.
You see our records show that she is currently residing at this address,
Kuznetsov continued. Can you explain this inconsistency

Pyotr went immediately into defence mode. What has any of this to do with your
investigation?

His interrogators mood suddenly changed. Slamming his fist onto the table he
threatened, You would do well to remember who you are speaking to old man! I ask
the questions and it is you who will answer them.
Then ask the right fucking questions and I will!
Red faced, Kuznetsov rose to his feet and kicked back his chair.
Pyotr braced himself.
 Incredibly, Kuznetsov began to laugh. Motioning to his subordinate by the door
for the return of his chair, he took his seat again.
Pyotr could do nothing but stare in slack-jawed confusion at him.

Relax old man. I have no intention of getting rough with you. Had you spoken of
what really is going on up there, things might have gone quite differently for you.
You know what takes place at the fortress of devils? Pyotr stammered.

Lets just say that for a certain disbursement we turn a blind eye to some
irregularities.

Misunderstanding his meaning, Pyotr hummed and hawed about his modest
financial status.

Our silence is already paid for, old fool, and our pay master is generous. You
have nothing that we need, he interjected.

Im not so sure about that sir, announced his second in command, dropping a
heavy golden amulet onto the table.

Kuznetsov smirked, Well, well, it would seem that you havent been entirely
honest with us concerning your assets Mr. Gorodetsky.

Pyotr stared mutely at the amulet for some time. The last he recalled, it was buried
under two feet of pig shit.

He looked up into the avaricious eyes of his interrogator and warned, If you know
what is good for you and your men, Colonel, you will forget that you ever saw this.

With a gesture of his hand Kuznetsov restrained his second in command, who was
about to correct Pyotrs manners with a well-timed blow to the back of his skull.

I think it is you who will forget ever seeing it my friend, he grinned, unless you
wish to undergo further interrogation as to how you acquired it.

Pyotr said nothing. He knew all too well that it would only be a matter of time
before it found its way back to him.

True to form - some two hours later - it turned up at the farmhouse. As for the
three menty, their bodies and the mangled wreckage of their patrol car were later
discovered at the bottom of a deep ravine.

Fearing another visit from the politsiya, Pyotr took up his shovel and headed for
the pigpen with amulet in hand.

****
Anya and Dieter entered the infirmary. One look at their doleful expressions told
Henry that things had not gone according to plan. Listening to their account of what
had taken place in the aftermath of the aborted exorcism, he asked, Hows Lisa? Is
she alright?

Shes okay, Anya told him. Unlike you, she can remember nothing of her
ordeal.
I take it that Ivan, Pavel and Alexi made it out okay.
They suffered a few minor cuts and bruises, nothing more.
Henry issued a deep sigh of relief. And you, Dieter?
I am well, my friend.

Henry clasped his hand. I dont recall a whole lot of what happened in the cell,
but Im glad youre okay. Maybe you can fill me in on the details when I get out of
here.
Dieter nodded.
So, where do we go from here, Anya? Whats Ivans next plan of attack?

Ive no idea, but Im sure hes working on something. Well have to leave that up
to him. In the meantime, I suggest you concentrate on getting better.

I get it, Henry responded, holding up his hands in submission and tapping his
forehead. The less I know, the better it is for all.

Anya knew that of all the people in the monastery, Henry was the least at risk. As
far as the incubus was concerned, he was far too valuable an asset. Everyone else,
however, was expendable. It was then that her thoughts began to dwell on her frail
uncle Pyotr.

****
Ivan was none too pleased when Anya announced her intention to visit her uncle
later that day. He finally gave in to her, stipulating that she was to be accompanied by
Brother Zaytsev. Later that day, they set out for Serov in the track driven KT-3 Kristi
Snowcat, the only vehicle capable of travelling the distance in sub-zero conditions.

On reaching the farmstead, Pavel and Anya were surprised to find the front door
ajar and the farmhouse unoccupied. They called out Pyotrs name, but there was no
response. By now the pair were beginning to worry. Outside, it was minus thirty
degrees and dropping and they began to wonder why the old man would leave the
door open on such a bitterly cold day? Had he walked from his home in a state of
presenile dementia and gotten lost?

They scoured the surrounding farmland. The barn was secured, as was the pigsty.
On crossing the wallow, however, they came across Pyotrs inert body. Lying across
his abdomen was a shovel. Pavel picked him up in his powerful arms and took him
into the farmhouse.
 Anya began banking the fire.

No! Pavel commanded. We must let his core temperature rise slowly. The
shock to his system may be too much for him.

The stench of pig shit was almost unbearable as his body began to respond to the
ambient room temperature.
What was he doing out there?

I do not think even he could tell you that, Pavel said, rubbing the old mans
hands and shoulders briskly. His mental condition is obviously growing worse. I
think the time has come to face the truth little one; he has become a danger to
himself.

You know what those asylums are like. He wouldnt last two minutes there. I
couldnt do it to him.

You have very little option, Pavel replied, suddenly trailing off as a thought
sprang to mind, unless we take him to the monastery.
Do you think Father Vereshchagin would allow it?
I am almost certain he will, Pavel beamed.

Without further ado, they washed the now semi-conscious Pyotr down as best they
could and bundled him into the Snowcat and secured the farmhouse for the evening.

Before setting off, Pavel took one last look at the wallow to see if he could
discover what Anyas uncle had been up to.
On approaching the wallow, he discovered several hungry swine rooting around in
the snow, when only shortly before they had been securely fastened in the pig
enclosure.

Stranger still was their behaviour to his approach. More often than not, the
voracious creatures would mob anyone advancing toward them in the belief they
were about to be fed. However, the normally excitable swine remained quietly
banded together in the eastern corner of their patch.
As he drew closer to them they began shying away. The shovel that had lain across
the old man still lay where they had found him. Scratching his head in bewilderment,
Pavel made to leave. On doing so, his foot sank into a soft patch of disturbed earth
that had been covered over by an earlier snowfall. Picking up the shovel, he began to
dig away at the yielding area as the sky opened up with an inundation of hailstone.

Undaunted, he continued to dig as the freezing hail stung his face, clinging
tenaciously to his beard and hair. Had he been less occupied in his task he might well
have seen the sudden change in the pigs temperaments.
 Pyotr was drifting in an out of consciousness on the back seat of the Snowcat. Its
VW engine was idling, awaiting the return of its driver. Anya could no longer see her
comrade through the wintry screen. Several minutes passed before she finally
sounded the horn.

Did you find anything? she enquired as an out of breath Pavel climbed into the
warm cab and throttled the engine.
Nothing, came the brief reply.

The Snowcat lurched forward, its wipers and engine at maximum speed. Pavel was
in a big hurry to put as much distance between himself, the farm and slaughtered
swine that now lay dead in the wallow with their brains battered out.

He grimaced occasionally into the rear-view mirror, grateful that Anya had been
so engrossed in tending to her beloved uncle that she hadnt noticed the blood oozing
from his torn trousers and lacerated legs. The untruth, that he had found nothing, sat
uneasily on his broad shoulders and he was glad Anyas preoccupation with her uncle
kept her from asking any further uncomfortable questions, or from noticing the pain
he was in. How would she react, he wondered, when the truth of his discovery was
revealed to her?

****

Pyotr was semi-conscious when they arrived back at the monastery and was
helped from the Snowcat by a gathering of brothers. Pavel ordered he be taken to the
infirmary.
Ill go with him, Anya said.

That would be best. In the meantime, I will inform Father Vereshchagin of the
situation.

Anya wrapped her arms about his giant frame, looked into his brown eyes and
thanked him. I dont know how Id have coped without you.

Her deep admiration and respect for him made what he was about to do all the
more odious. Go little one. Quickly! he said, kissing the crown of her head, Your
uncle has need of you.

Ivan looked up from his studies as Pavel entered the room. His ashen pallor and
bloodstained trousers alarmed him.

Pavel assured him that his injuries werent as bad as they looked and that he would
visit the infirmary after their meeting. He then recounted what had taken place at the
farm.
You have the amulet with you?
Yes Father, but I have not told Anya of it.
 He rose gingerly to his feet and delved deeply into the pockets of his coat. I dont
understand! It was here just a minute ago, he said, patting himself down. I
distinctly felt it in my pocket in the courtyard.
I take it that it is of some importance.

Yes, Father. It bares the sigil of Asmoday. It looked as if the old man had been
trying to bury it.
Didnt Brother Leonid say he believed the eagle was a man; that he had seen the
seal before and that he must warn Anya?

He did, Father. I wondered myself why he felt impelled to warn her above all
others.

Ivan clasped Pavels arm and sat him down. You did right to say nothing of this
to her. Meanwhile, I will have your wounds tended to and have the brothers retrace
your steps back to the Snowcat in the hope of finding the amulet. It may be of great
use to us.

****

Time was running out. In just three days a full moon would rise over the mountain
peaks. It was during this particular waxing phase that the summoning ritual had to be
performed. As ill as Pyotr Gorodetsky was, Ivan had little choice but to find out what
he knew and how deep his involvement went. Given Pyotrs addled state of mind he
held out little hope of gaining any useful information.
As expected, Anya took the news hard. At first, she refused to believe it.
Nonetheless, Pavels testimony and the late Brother Denikins last words had cast a
shadow on her uncles innocence. Reluctantly, she gave Ivan permission to question
Pyotr.

It was now patently obvious that he was involved in recent events, but it was only
when Anya pleaded with him for the sake of his immortal soul to tell the whole truth
that he eventually gave way and spoke openly of his finding the seal at the
Chancellery and the history that followed. Shortly thereafter, he fell unconscious.

From his confession, they learnt he had long suspected the seal was responsible for
his good fortune and the misfortune of others. However, his suspicions were only
brought into sharp focus when Anya was possessed. It was also apparent to them that
he had no knowledge of his involvement in the death of Brother Denikin. The
transmogrification from man into bird had stripped him of those memories. It also
answered an age-old question that had troubled Ivan over the years about Anyas
possession.

Fearing the change could happen again, he ordered a constant vigil be kept over
him and that he be restrained to his bed.
 On leaving the infirmary, they ran into the search team returning from the
Snowcat. Despite a thorough hunt they had found nothing and Ivan could not afford
to waste any further time looking for the elusive artefact. There were far too many
things for the brothers to do. The Everto Porta was now their top priority.

All restoration work on the church was put on hold until after the summoning
ritual, a fact that had not escaped Henrys notice. Nor had Pyotrs admission into the
infirmary, or the search activities of the brothers shortly thereafter.

****
Dieter had never felt comfortable when it came to drugging Henrys bedtime
drinks in the wake of recent events, but had done as was requested of him. The
brothers nocturnal comings and goings from the Everto Porta would have
undoubtedly alerted him that something unusual was going on. Nevertheless, Henry
had picked up on it despite their precautions.

The following morning, he noted that many of the brothers were absent from
breakfast and those who were in attendance were uncommonly subdued and
uncommunicative. As he and Dieter returned to their cell he briefly caught sight of
the Everto Portas entranceway through the passage window. Even through the
freshly fallen snow he could see the tell-tale signs of footprints coming to and from it.
 CHAPTER TWELVE
Mel was in Lisas neighbourhood on business and decided to pay her a visit. On
exiting the municipal car park, however, she caught sight of something that unsettled
her. Pulling away from a side road some yards ahead, she saw Lisa in the company of
Madam Gorodetsky.

Determined to find out what the hell was going on, she tailed them at a discreet
distance. It soon became clear to her when they turned onto the southbound
carriageway that they were not heading for Lisas home.

Ultimately, Mel found herself in a familiar tree lined avenue and pulled over as the
pair entered into the driveway. It didnt make any kind of sense that Lisa would ally
herself with the aunt of the woman who had taken her husband from her.

Lyudmila and Lisa had barely finished unpacking the shopping when the doorbell
rang.
Are you expecting someone? Lisa asked.
Not that I know of, Lyudmila replied, making her way to the door.
Moments later, she entered with Mel in tow.
Sis! What the hell are you doing here?

What am I doing here? Given the circumstances, I think that should be my bloody
question, she said curtly. I take it that this is the so-called friend you told me you
were going to stay with?
Lisa looked to Lyudmila for guidance.
What is done is done child, she said. I have a feeling she will not let the matter
drop until she knows the truth.

Then youd better make yourself comfortable, Lisa suggested, pulling out a
kitchen chair for her sibling. This might take a while.
Mel remained uncharacteristically silent throughout Lisas narrative. When she
finally spoke, it was to ask why she had kept the truth from her of all people.

We thought it best not to tell anyone for fear of placing them in danger,
Lyudmila cut in.
Im family for chrissakes! Mel snapped. I have a right to know!
You believe me then?

You might have the body and looks that any woman would die for, sis, but
imagination was never your strong point. You couldnt have made this kind of shit
up. Now pack up your stuff. Youre coming home with me.
 I am afraid that is not possible, Lyudmila said. There are some things you are
not aware of, or qualified to deal with. You have already placed yourself in great
danger just by being here.
Shes right Mel. You really should leave this place for your own good.
Dont worry about me, sis. You know I can look after myself.

Lisa knew that no amount of argument would dissuade her sister from the course
she had chosen.

You are a stubborn child! Lyudmila said, testily. You have no idea what you
are getting yourself into.
Then I guess that makes me a fool rushing in where angels fear to tread. One
things for sure though; like it or not, youre stuck with me.

Allowing Lisa to move in with her sister was far too risky. The only viable option
was for Mel to move in with them. Later that day, Lyudmila informed Anya and Ivan
of the latest turn of events.

Mel, never one to let the grass grow beneath her feet, had also made a phone call.
Though somewhat suspicious of the suddenness of her illness, her boss had little
option but to accept the situation.

It didnt take long for the old psychic to get the measure of her new guest. Though
Mels heart was in the right place, she was undisciplined and mercurial and needed to
be kept on a tight rein.

****
Henry understood the reasoning behind the brothers subterfuge concerning the
demons gateway, but he was finding it increasingly frustrating to be kept out of the
loop. But then again, on recalling what had taken place at the church, he thought that
ignorance of what they were planning was perhaps a blessing.

He is very ill, Dieter said when quizzed about Pyotrs sudden arrival. Beyond
that, I am not at liberty to say.
I know it has something to do with the eagle, Henry replied.
I cannot say.

You dont need to. Why else would the brothers suddenly break ranks and no
longer walk in pairs?
Dieter was becoming increasingly uncomfortable with Henrys probing.

Theyre also doing something at the Demons Gateway. I saw footprints coming
to and from it this morning. They werent there last night. Funny, Im normally a
light sleeper. The slightest sound usually wakes me. Its strange that I didnt hear
anything last night. Why do you think that is?
Dieters face flushed crimson.

Henry kept up the pressure. The brothers must have worked late into the night,
too. There were quite a few absent at breakfast this morning.

Dieter remained mute on the subject, but his discomfort was plain to see, thus
confirming Henrys suspicions.
After a brief silence Henry asked, Have you seen Anya recently?
She is with her uncle.
Henry rose up from his cot.

I do not think it is permitted to visit the infirmary without the Fathers

permission, Dieter warned.
Either with or without it, Im going over there to see Anya. If I stay cooped up in
this cell much longer Ill go stir crazy.
I will have to speak with the Father first.
You do that. In the meantime, Im going to make my way over there.
But you cannot just -
You just watch me! Henry cut in. With that, he walked from the cell.

Scheie! Dieter cursed under his breath, running from the room to catch up with
his headstrong friend.

****
Henry entered the infirmary alone; Dieter having rushed off to inform Father
Vereshchagin of his unannounced visit.
Henry! You arent allow-
I know, I know, he interrupted, but I had to see how you and your uncle are.

She looked down at the wretched figure lying in the bed and stroked his forehead.
It isnt looking too good for him.
And you? How are you coping?
As well as can be expected, I suppose.
Whats wrong with him anyhow? I saw you and Pavel bring him in earlier.
Hes suffering from hyperthermia, amongst other things.
What?
 We found him lying unconscious in the pig wallow.
What the hell was he doing there?
We think he may have wandered out during one of his absent-minded moments.
So why is Ivan trying to stop me from visiting him?
I dont know what youre talking about.

Henry had had enough of the bullshit. Dont treat me like an idiot! I know
somethings going on. Since your uncles arrival the brothers no longer walk around
in pairs. They obviously think the eagle isnt a threat to them anymore. Theres
clearly a connection between it and your uncle.
Before she could reply a stern voice called out, Mr. Doggett!

He turned to see Ivan, Dieter and Pavel moving in on him. From the look on
Ivans face, he meant business.
You must leave here now, he ordered.
And if I dont?
Ivan nodded to Pavel who stepped forward, his giant frame towering over Henry.

Henry stood resolutely before the goliath. Come hell or high water, he wasnt
giving way to Ivans threats.

A faint murmur broke the tension. Pyotr was coming-to again. His voice, weak
and brittle, was barely audible.

Anya leaned forward, her ear almost brushing against his cracked lips. What is it
uncle? What are you trying to say?

Pallid and sweating, his eyes filled with terror, he whispered He is coming for
me!
Whos coming for you?

Pyotr took hold of her arm and pulled himself closer. The demon is coming for
my soul. Do you not see him? He is standing by the doorway!
But Anya could see nothing. Theres no one there, uncle, she assured him.
No, no, you must listen to me before it is too late!

She felt his gnarled fingers dig deeper into her arm as he uttered a stream of words
into her ear.
Suddenly they ceased. His eyes were no longer fixed on his niece, but over her
shoulder at the grotesque form returning his horrified gaze.
 He screamed, his body racking so convulsively that only the giant Pavel could
hold him down.

The bed shook violently. Caught up in a dance macabre, it skipped about the floor,
rising and falling as if possessed of a will of its own. Even with his great strength,
Pavel couldnt hold on and was flung unceremoniously to the ground.

A sulphurous stench filled the room; a demonic calling card that galvanised Ivan
into action. Taking a flask of holy water from his vestment he began to pray for
Pyotrs soul, but it was far too late. As he unscrewed the cap, the bed abruptly
crashed to the floor and all became deathly still.

Anyas startling shriek brought Brother Korolyov, the monastery physician,

dashing into the ward. The offensive odours of rotting flesh and acrid sulphur
assailed his nostrils. Less than an hour earlier he had looked in on Anya and her
uncle. For a man of his advanced years and suffering from the effects of
hyperthermia, Pyotr was in reasonably good shape. As he drew nearer the bed,
however, he was greeted by a mass of putrefying flesh. Its stench was overwhelming.
Henry led Anya from the room. Moments later Pavel and Dieter followed them
into the corridor. Only Ivan and the doctor remained behind.

The physician was at a complete loss as to what could have caused the accelerated
cellular collapse and putrefaction.

It looks like some strain of deadly bacterial infection. Something akin to

methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, he told Ivan. The thing is, I have never
read of one that acts with such phenomenal speed.

Ivan then related what had transpired minutes earlier, adding, Do you recall the
young peasant girl who was possessed and brought here several years ago? And do
you also recall what happened when we tried to feed her?

Vadim Korolyov could indeed remember. It was indelibly imprinted on his mind,
it being his very first experience of a possession. The moment the girl tried to eat
what was put in front of her, the food rotted before she could get it to her mouth. On
each occasion, he also recalled the smell of sulphur being present.

Once again, Henry was out of the loop as Anya and the others were taken aside by
Father Vereshchagin to reveal what Pyotr had told her. After a few minutes of trying
to eavesdrop on their conversation he gave up and made to leave.

Before he had reached the door, a voice called out. Where are you going Henry?
We have need of you.
It was the last thing he had expected to hear from Ivan. What followed next was an
even bigger surprise.
I want you to go with Brothers Zaytsev and Lehmann. Wrap up warmly. The
journey will be long and cold.
 Where are we going?
Prospecting, said Pavel, enigmatically.
Prospecting for what?

That you do not need to know for now, Ivan told him. Please do what the
brothers tell you without question.

Henry was more than willing to agree to his terms. Anything to get away from the
claustrophobic confines of his cell and the horrors he had witnessed.
 CHAPTER THIRTEEN.
Mel returned to Madam Gorodetskys with a fresh change of clothing and
necessities for a week, her mind still awash with the mind-blowing revelations
imparted by her sibling. A thousand questions concerning the incubi inundated her
mind. She needed to know more about them. To that end, she had packed her laptop
into her holdall. Within minutes she was online.

Lyudmila began to wonder what was taking her new guest so long to unpack.
Leaving Lisa alone to her biblical studies, she took the opportunity to have a chat
with Mel. It seemed only right that she be made privy to the some of the information
that had been withheld from her sister concerning the demon, Asmoday.
You want me to do what?
To perform the cleansing ritual against Asmoday, Lyudmila reiterated.
How long will I have to do it for?
Every night. Do you think you are up to it?
For Lisas sake, I hope so.

Good. You will accompany me tonight and I will instruct you. After that, the
responsibility will rest on your shoulders.

It began to dawn on Mel how much faith Madame Gorodetsky had placed in her.
She returned to her research with a greater sense of purpose and determination.

Mels devotion and loyalty towards her older sibling was evident throughout their
lives together. Despite being her junior by some two years she had taken it upon
herself to protect her reticent sister as best she could from the periodic trials and
tribulations that life had thrown at her. In retrospect, it seemed that the entire purpose
for her existence had been to protect Lisa; a role she accepted without reluctance or
resentment.

Lyudmila had left the room in a buoyantly optimistic mood. Mels investigations
would reveal nothing that they didnt already know, but at least her mind was
focussed for now. She entered the drawing room to find Lisa staring vacantly at the
pages of the Bible, her body unnaturally rigid.
Are you alright child?
Lisa was unresponsive.
She approached her cautiously. Is there something wrong, Lisa?
There was still no response.
She knelt before her and stared directly into her expressionless eyes. Sliding the Bible
from between Lisas fingers, she laid it on the table. Her skin was warm to the touch and
she could see the radial beat of her pulse relentlessly throbbing beneath her alabaster
skin.

What is it? Mel cried, as she bounded down the stairs in response to Lyudmilas
urgent call.
It is Lisa. Something is wrong with her!
Within seconds she was by her sisters side. Whats wrong, sis?
She remained mute.
Please! Talk to me Lisa.
Has she ever done anything like this before?

Though her condition bore all the hallmarks of some form of seizure, Mel assured
Lyudmila that neither Lisa nor any of her family had ever suffered from such a
condition.
Mel suddenly backed off. Oh, shit! You dont think Asmo -?

No child, Lyudmila assured her. If Asmoday was present in the house, we would
both know about it by now and we would not be having this conversation.

Lisa shuddered, her body violently reanimated, causing the pair to jump back in
fright. Confused and dazed she asked, Whats wrong? Where was I?
Youre at Madame Gorodetskys, sis. Dont you remember?
Yes of course I remember that. I mean where was I a moment ago?
We were kind of hoping you could tell us.
After a brief moment of introspection, she said, I remember being in some kind of
vehicle and there was snow all around. Mountains, too. There were people with me and

Yes - yes. Go on sis, Mel encouraged, And

And Henry was there!

Like her sister, Mel knew nothing of Henrys location and was unaware of the
significance of what she had described.
For Lyudmila, Lisas narrative was highly significant and confirmed that, somehow,
she had briefly made contact with her husband. Seeking to allay their suspicions, she
told them, It is probably nothing more than some kind of wish fulfilment daydream.

Mel wasnt convinced. Having assured herself that Lisa was okay, she returned to the
bedroom to conduct additional research of a more arcane nature. Had her hostess known
of what she was about to attempt, her stay would have been extremely short-lived.
Unfortunately, her first solo endeavour went unnoticed.
 Spirit communication had fascinated Mel throughout adolescence. As a teenager,
she had dabbled in it with friends. Even then she had wondered how much of it was
down to deliberate manipulation by her drunken cohorts, or how much of it was real.
Her question was later answered in a very dramatic fashion when one of their group,
an overly imaginative individual, was suddenly overtaken by a fit that abruptly ended
their experiment.

The memory of that night had been indelibly printed into Mels mind. Not so
much by her friends convulsions, but what took place in their aftermath. As they
tended to their friend, Mel had chanced to look up at the table where they had been
sitting and saw the planchette moving across the face of the Ouija board of its own
accord. It was a determining moment that was to strengthen her conviction in the
supernatural.

Throughout the succeeding years of attending sances and enrolling in various

ghost hunting groups, she never came across anything to rival what she had seen that
night and, inexorably, her interest began to wane.

In light of recent events, she also began to wonder if the unearthing of her old
Ouija board several weeks earlier was mere happenstance, or whether fate had
intervened in its discovery. She was inclined to believe the latter.
 CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Dieter and Pavel sat up front in the Snowcat, Henry occupying the rear seat. For the
most part, the journey had been spent in relative silence until Dieter noticed through
the rear-view mirror that Henry seemed puzzled by something. He was looking around
and sniffing the air.
What is it my friend?
Im not sure. Theres a familiar smell in here.

Pavel took his eyes off the road for a moment and looked around. He sniffed deeply.
Other than the faint whiff of diesel fumes, he could smell nothing.
If I didnt know better, I would swear it was Lisas scent.

You have been away from her far too long, Englishman, Pavel joked, fixing his
attention once more on the road ahead. You are beginning to hallucinate.

Shrugging off the moment, Henry sat back in his seat and continued to watch the
scenery slowly pass them by. He quickly grew bored when the snow resumed its earlier
flurry, hiding from view the mountainous vista he had been enjoying. Resting his head
against the passenger window he drifted off into a light sleep. Later, he was awoken by
a sudden jolt.
Are we there?
Almost. We have just passed through Serov, Dieter replied.

Henry stretched out his stiffened limbs in preparation. In the distance, he could
make out what appeared to be a farmhouse set beneath the foothills of the mountains.
Is that where were heading?
Da, Pavel replied. That is the home of Pyotr Gorodetsky.

Dressed in hooded extreme environment suits and snowshoes, they stepped from the
comparative warmth of the Snowcat into a sub-zero environment. The freshly fallen
snow compacted readily beneath their feet as they struggled the last few yards to
Pyotrs front door, the baying wind sweeping across the landscape making it almost
impossible to communicate with one another through their oiled wool facemasks.

What are we looking for? Henry called again, grabbing Dieter by the shoulder to
get his attention.
We will know when we find it! he shouted.

Gaining entrance into the farmhouse was proving more difficult than they had
anticipated. The door lock had frozen and Pavels heavily insulated mittens were
making his task all the more arduous. Finally, it succumbed to sheer brute force and
determination.
 On entering, Pavel began giving orders to Dieter in Russian. That some of his
instructions involved Henry became abundantly clear when Dieter informed him that
he was to remain by his side at all times and not wander off on his own.

Then what the hell was the point in bringing me with you? I might as well have
stayed back at the monastery.

Then it struck him. Oh, now I get it. Theyre doing something back at the
monastery that they dont want me to see. Thats it, isnt it? Thats why Im here.

You can speculate all you like, Englishman. It will do you no good, said Pavel,
removing his mask and gloves. Taking a kerosene lamp from the table, he lit it and
warmed his hands briefly before putting on the gloves and mask again.

Handing the lamp to Henry he said, You and Brother Lehmann will begin the
search upstairs.
And you? Henry enquired.
I will begin my search outside.

With that and armed with the telescopic shovel he had brought with them, he
disappeared into the snowstorm.
Henry asked, Are you a betting man Dieter?
Nein. Not really. Why do you ask?

Because Im betting he knows exactly where to find whatever it is weve been

sent here for.

After you my friend, Dieter said, ignoring his speculation and motioning to the
flight of stairs.

Look! Henry remonstrated, Do we really have to go through with this crap? We

both know we arent going to find anything in here.
Dieter motioned once more to the stairs.
Okay have it your way, he sighed.
Ihre Schneeschuhe! Dieter exclaimed, pointing to Henrys feet.

Unclamping the snowshoes, he kicked them petulantly to one side and climbed the
stairs.

****
Pavel quickly located the artefacts former burial site. Digging through the
compacted snow and frozen earth, he came across a familiar flap of purple cloth.
Hauling it from the ground, he opened it up. Pyotr had been right in assuming the seal
would return to its resting place. He had foretold this to Anya, prior to his death.
Placing it inside the sanctified black pouch that Father Vereshchagin had prepared, he
returned to the farmhouse knowing that what he carried was a weapon of
inconceivable power; a weapon so dreadful it could unleash upon the world the
impious legions of Hell itself.

On re-entering the farmhouse, Pavel was confronted by a log fire burning brightly
in the hearth. Before it sat Dieter and Henry, divest of their survival gear. On the
kitchen table sat an open bottle of vodka, from which they had drank.

Without uttering a word, he removed his facemask and pulled down the hood of
his jacket. Picking up the bottle, he took a healthy swig before returning it to the
table.
Henry was the first to speak. Well? Did you find what we came for?
He shook his head.

Henry wasnt buying into the lie, but kept his suspicions to himself. I guess wed
best be making tracks then, he said.
I am afraid we are going nowhere, Pavel told them. The weather grows worse.
It is too risky. We will stay here for the night. Maybe it will be better in the
morning.

Almost as if it was an afterthought, he then enquired, You have been

unsuccessful also?
We found nothing, Dieter told him.

Apart from the drink and a few rations that is, Henry said, pouring another
vodka.
Then we will make ourselves comfortable, Pavel declared.
What about Father Vereshchagin?

I have already informed him of my decision, Englishman, he said, laying his

cell-phone on the table.

****
Just as Henry had conjectured, the brothers had set about completing their work on
the Everto Porta and Ivan was beginning to feel a lot more optimistic of the outcome
now they had discovered the sigil. With it, he could command a greater influence
over Asmoday and his banishment. Learning the identity of Henrys uninvited visitor
also seemed within his grasp. Little time now remained before the waxing moon
would crest the mountains.

Anya was also pleased. Her aunt Lyudmila seemed to have everything in hand and
was orchestrating events back home with apparent ease. Things, it seemed, were
finally beginning to fall into place for them. She had even begun to put things into
perspective regarding her uncle. Though his death came as a terrible blow, she
consoled herself in knowing that he was now at peace.

Her role in researching the incubus was at an end and there was little else she
could do but await the outcome of the summoning ritual and exorcism; a situation
that she was finding increasingly difficult to accept. Ivans over protectiveness of her
was beginning to rankle. Sooner or later, he would have to accept she was equally as
qualified as the brothers to deal with the dangers involved.

She began reflecting on the incubus and its true angelic form. This was one of her
gifts, to see through the demonic faade of their physical appearance and glimpse the
true essence of their former angelic selves. Their vying, dualistic natures were almost
human-like, as was their propensity for evil. On the night Henry exited onto the steps
of the narthex, following the aborted exorcism, she had felt the demons presence.
From this brief encounter, she had sensed his past remorse; a regret that had, over
aeons of time, distorted into an abiding hatred of the Creator.
 CHAPTER FIFTEEN
The planchette remained stubbornly unresponsive to Mels repeated requests for a
sign that the spirits were in attendance. She asked once more, Is there anyone
there?
Again, there was no response.

Below, she could now hear the faint, yet familiar, voices of her favourite soap
characters drifting up from the lounge. Now completely distracted by them and
making no headway with the spirit realm, she abandoned any further attempt at
communication and went to join Lyudmila and Lisa. Moments after her departure, the
planchette began to move.

Shortly after 11 p.m., Lisa took to her bed. She could no longer fight the effects of
the strong sedative she had taken.

After a respectable period of time, Lyudmila and Mel looked in on her. She was
sound asleep. It was time for Mel to commence her first purification rite. On
completing the task, she and Lyudmila turned in for the night.

Mel was far too weary to take up where she had left off with the Ouija board.
Sliding it and the planchette beneath her bed, she pulled the sheets over herself and
quickly drifted off to sleep, oblivious to the faint scratching noises coming from
beneath.

****
As was his wont, Ivan worked into the early hours. Distractions were few at such
an hour, providing him the time and peace he required to prepare himself both
mentally and spiritually for what was to come. Satisfied that everything was in order,
he settled back in his chair. His mind began drifting aimlessly through a web of
reminiscences, each thread connecting intimately to the other in an unbroken
sequence of events that charted the path of his life.

Travelling back along this network of memories, he recalled the significant events
that had shaped his destiny and those of the people he had encountered. It had been a
hard and hazardous journey, for at the heart of every web lay the pitiless beast, the
father of lies, who lay in wait for the unwary soul who entered blindly into his
domain.

Of the countless exorcisms Ivan had performed, Anyas had been the most
memorable and disturbing. It would often take days, weeks, or months to elicit a
demons name - a vital necessity when seeking to exorcise it. It therefore had
troubled him why Anyas had given up the struggle with him before he could learn its
identity. Now aware that he had been duped into believing he was struggling against
a lesser demon, he began to wonder what Asmodays true intentions had been. Had
he orchestrated the entire scenario in order to test Ivans metal against that of his
own, knowing that they would cross paths again in the years to come?

Equally as disturbing was the phone call Ivan had received from the UVD
Department of Internal Affairs earlier that day, concerning the deaths of three of their
local officers. They were looking to speak with Anya on the whereabouts of her
uncle.

Ivan informed him of Pyotrs demise and during the conversation learnt that they
were treating the officers deaths as accidental and were merely seeking to confirm
that they had visited the old man.

Ivan verified that shortly before his death, Pyotr had spoken to him of his meeting
with them and would personally sign a statement to that effect.

Seemingly satisfied with his explanation, the officer told him he would trouble
him no further and hung up.
It had all been far too easy. Plainly, his mysterious benefactor had intervened in
the affair and had greased a few palms to ensure a favourable outcome to the
investigation. Whoever the monasterys benefactor was he, or she, was well
connected and had money and power aplenty.

****
Rising before her normal time, Lyudmila was surprised to find Mel already up and
preparing to go out.
You are up early child.

Yeah, I have to check on my mail and stuff, she replied, fastening up her coat.
Is there anything I can get you while Im out?
Well, there are one or two things that we are running short of, she said, dashing
off into the kitchen and returning with a hand-written note. Perhaps you could pick
up these items for me.
Mel glanced at the short list. No problem. Is there anything else?

Yes. The last item you must buy from the kosher fishmonger on the high-street
market and nowhere else. Mention my name and he will give you exactly what we
need.
Okay, I understand., she said. It shouldnt take me too long.

****
Lisa was awoken by a shrill scream. Downstairs she could hear the sound of
sobbing. She sprang from the bed, threw on a dressing gown and dashed down stairs
to find Lyudmila sitting on the sofa cradling her hand.
 Oh my God! Whats wrong? What have you done?

Its nothing child, she winced. I was making breakfast and burned my hand on
the hob, thats all.
Let me see.
An ugly looking blister was beginning to form across her palm.

It looks really bad, she pronounced, rising from the sofa. You need something
on it, quickly.

Running to the kitchen she opened the fridge and took out a bag of ice cubes. It
was then she noticed that there were no cups, plates, or anything to suggest Lyudmila
had been preparing breakfast. Passing her hand over each of the cookers hotplates,
she soon learnt that Lyudmila had lied to her.
After tending to her hosts injury, she made for the phone.
What are you doing?
That looks serious. You need an ambulance.
No! There is no need.

Ignoring her, Lisa picked up the receiver and began dialling. She quickly backed
away in horror at the coarse invectives being screeched down the phone at her. Put
it down you fucking bitch! it warned.
Dropping the handset onto the table, she backed away in shock.
You are lucky. At least it gave you a warning first, Lyudmila said.
It suddenly dawned on Lisa that Mel was nowhere to be seen.
Wheres my sister?
She is safe. She had some errands to attend to.
Still trembling, Lisa continued tending to her hosts wound.

There is a jar of home-made ointment and a roll of bandage in the bathroom

medicine cabinet. Please bring them to me, Lyudmila instructed.

As Lisa watched her bind the wound, she felt a growing respect for the old
womans courage and level-headedness. Were on our own now, arent we? she
said. Theres no way to contact Henry and Anya.
No child. We are never alone, she assured her. We are in Gods hands.
We have to warn Mel not to come back here.
Do you think for one moment that the demon will allow it?
 As they waited for Mels return, Lyudmila began to wonder how a low-level
demon had gained access to her home. Though the nightly ritual was specifically
designed to ward off the likes of Asmoday, it should also have kept any lesser demon
at bay. There was only one way it could have gained entry; someone had invited it.
But who would be so reckless as to do such a thing? She could only think of one.

****
As the last of the brothers filed through into the courtyard from the Everto Porta,
having completed their preparations for the summoning ritual, Anyas growing
concern as to why her aunt had not made her customary phone call was beginning to
weigh heavily on her mind. Locking the gateway, she made her way to Ivans study.

As she began dialling the number, Ivan entered. You are wasting your time. Ive
tried several times to contact them, but without success.
She lowered the receiver and took out her cell phone.
I am afraid that wont work either, he said.

Just then and much to his surprise, his cell phone began to ring. Anya pricked up
her ears, hoping it was her aunt.

Ivan disappointed her with a shake of his head. That was a message from Brother
Zaytsev. They are on their way back from your uncles farm.

****
Mel sauntered contentedly through the bustling shopping centre. The January sales
were all but over, but there were still last-minute bargains to be found.
Melanie Caine?
She turned to see a plump brunette approaching.
Its me, Mel, Annie Sheavers!

Annie! she responded, finally recognising the overly imaginative and drunken
teenager who had caused such a commotion at the sance all those years ago. Thats
really strange. I was just thinking about you yesterday. Its been years since I last saw
you. Youve changed.
Well you certainly havent. Youve hardly changed at all.
Flatterer.
You got time for a coffee? My treat.

Mel looked at her wristwatch. Ah, what the hell, she said. I can spare a few
minutes for an old friend.
It didnt take long before the subject of the sance came up.
 You know you really frightened the shit out of me that night you had the fit, Mel
said.

Me? What about you? I almost died when you told us what youd seen. Did you
really see the planchette move, or was it just a wind up?
Oh, I saw it alright.

Annie shuddered. You know, that still gives me the heebie-jeebies when I think
about it.

Mel soon lost track of time as the conversation carried on. It was only when her
garrulous friend needed to relieve herself that she realised the lateness of the hour.
Having offered to take her home, she waited for her return.
Five minutes passed and there was still no sign of Annie.

Polishing off the remains of her lukewarm coffee, she went to see what was
keeping her.

The toilets were empty save for one solitary figure slumped forward over a hand
basin.

Whats wrong, Annie? You dont look too good, she said, supporting her
weight.
I I dont feel too well.

Helping her to a vacant cubicle, she sat her down. I wont be long. Im going to
get help.

As she made to leave she was gripped firmly by the wrist. Theres no need for
that.
Mel shuddered at the strange masculine voice emerging from Annies mouth.

Without warning, Annies head snapped back and regarded Mel with luminous
white eyes. Your friend will come to no harm and you must not fear me, it said. I
am a messenger, who has been sent to warn you.
I dont understand. Warn me of what? she asked, struggling to free herself.
Return to your sister and undo what you have done.
I havent done anything.
Did you not call upon the dead to seek their aid and guidance?
Yes, but -
Foolish mortal, you rush blindly in where even we fear to go.
The words struck Mel like a bolt out of the blue. Youre youre an ange-!
 What I am is unimportant, the messenger cut in. Return now and close the
gateway you have opened between this world and that of the fallen ones.
But I wouldnt know where to begin.

When the time approaches, you will know what to do and I will be there to guide
you. Have faith and all will be well.
The rattle of crockery shook Mel from her reverie.

Can I get you something else? asked the young assistant, as she cleared away the
cups from the table.

Erm No thanks, Mel smiled, looking around and wondering how the hell she
had gotten back to the table.

On returning from the toilet, Annie seemed oblivious of what had taken place.
Well, we really should do this again sometime, she said.

We really must, Mel responded, somewhat confused. So where would you like
me to drop you off?

Annie hadnt a clue what she was talking about. Nowhere, she said. Ive still
got bags of shopping to do.
Could my day get any weirder? Mel wondered.

****
We should make good time back to the monastery, Pavel announced. The roads
ahead have been cleared.

Henry squinted through the suns glare reflecting off the virgin snow, but could
make virtually nothing out ahead. His eyes were beginning to ache with the sheer
effort of it.
Dieter passed him a pair of snow goggles. Put these on. It will be not so bad.

Off in the mid-foreground he could now see the commercial/mining town of

Serov, with its prevailing high-rise apartments rising up from the eastern foothills of
the mountains. Amidst the drabness, he caught sight of something gleaming in the
sun. Pointing in its direction, he asked, Whats that?

The Temple of Transfiguration, answered Pavel. It is one of Serovs several

tourist attractions. We will pass close by it on our way through the town.
It looks impressive, Henry announced. It must be very old.
Pavel laughed. The apartment blocks are older. The temple is quite recent.
Id like to visit it, if we have the time.
 It is impossible Henry, Dieter told him We must return to the monastery as
soon as possible.

Perhaps we can do so when your situation has changed, Pavel invited. But as
Brother Lehmann said; we must get back to the monastery.

Henry caught the briefest of conspiratorial glances between Dieter and Pavel,
leaving him with the distinct impression that whatever was being planned for him
was going to happen very soon. Whatever Pavel had found at the farm had brought
about a greater sense of urgency.

****
Where the hell have you been? Lisa barked on Mels return.

Keep your hair on, sis. I know Im a little late but I bumped into an old friend and
we got to chatting.

Before she could utter another word, Lyudmila entered the room and was still
clearly in a great deal of pain.

Jesus! Whats been going on? Mel exclaimed, on seeing her heavily bandaged
hand.
Well while you were off cavorting with old friends, Madam Gorodetsky was
attacked. Thats whats been flaming going on!
Attacked by who?
The freaking paper boy! Who do you think? Lisa shouted.
Please! This is not helping any of us. You need to calm down, Lyudmila
interceded. Motioning for Mel to take a seat, she informed her of all that had taken
place since her departure.
Oh shit! I understand now. Thats what he meant, Lisa said.
What the hell are you jabbering on about, sis?
The messenger. He told me to return home.
Messenger? What bloody messenger?
Actually, he was more of an angel than a messenger.
Lisa was about to launch into her sibling again when Lyudmila called for calm.

Now then child, she said, Just tell us as clearly as possible about this angel, or
messenger of yours and what he said to you.

When she was done relating her story, she looked at Lyudmila. Im sorry. I didnt
mean any harm. I only wanted to help.
 What is done must be undone. Please bring the Ouija board to me, she ordered.

When Mel returned with board and planchette in hand and held them out to
Lyudmila, they unexpectedly flew from her grasp and took off across the room,
crashing against the fire breast and dropping to the floor.
They looked horror stricken at one another.

Well child, it would seem your angelic encounter was true. Only you can close
the portal.
Mel baulked. I cant! I dont know what to do.

Then I flaming will! Lisa screamed, lunging defiantly forward. Ive had about
as much as I can take of this crap!

She had hardly gotten halfway across the room when she was flung violently
backwards by an unseen force.

Mel screamed and the room got bitingly cold. The atmosphere itself seemed to
thicken appreciably, closeting them in a deathly cold shroud.

Lisa began to choke and struggled to breathe as invisible hands gripped her by the
throat, hoisting her up.
No, you bastard! screamed Mel. leave her alone.
A mocking laughter filled the room.

Without warning, a calmness and clarity of thought came over Mel and a familiar
voice resonated in her head. Have courage and faith and you will endure.

You know, as dumb decisions go I reckon this ones probably your worst, Mel
goaded, And I really dont think your masters going to like what youre doing to his
chosen one.
Lisa fell to the floor with a heavy thud and Lyudmila went to her aid.

The angered demons attention was now firmly fixed on Mel. You dare to
provoke me?

Give it a rest, windbag, she taunted, Ive dated guys who were far worse than
you. At least they had the balls to square up to me face to face.
Lyudmila looked on, utterly astonished at Mels act of insane boldness.

Then gaze upon me insolent human and know that I am the last thing you will see
in this world.

All hell began breaking loose as a cyclonic wind suddenly erupted within the
room, the atmosphere vibrating with raw energy. A dissonant clamour tore through
the entire house as doors flew open and slammed shut. Pictures flew from the walls
and peppered the floor with broken glass.
 Seizing the moment, Mel picked up the board and planchette and hid them behind
her back. Then all fell silent.
Is that it? Mel called out Is that the best you can fucking do?

Like ripples in a pond, two meters from the floor, dark waves radiated out from a
central vertical point in space. In it, Mel saw the demonic face of her enemy.

Once again, the messengers voice came to her. Hold steadfast, it counselled. A
little while longer yet.

As she watched the ever-expanding ripples, she saw the hideously tortured form of
the demon begin to emerge.
The time to strike was at hand. Opening the ouija board, she threw it at the creatures
feet commanding stridently, Ol bolape a noco de Elo. Ol adrpan ila!
Though the words had sprung from her lips, she had no idea of their meaning.

Shrieking his vengeance, the demon was slowly being drawn into the board.
Raphael! it screeched in utter surprise, You cast me into the darkness, but like him
who you buried beneath the sands of Dudael I shall rise again!

Picking up the board and folding it shut, Mel spoke once more in the strange tongue,
silencing the enraged demon. Utterly exhausted, she sank to her knees and looked to
Lyudmila. What the hell did I just do? And what was all that gibberish I was
spouting?

Lyudmila crossed herself. You spoke Enochian child, the sacred language of the
angels.
I did?
The angel who spoke to you in the caf must have been Raphael.
The archangel Raphael?
Yes, child, and I think it is no twist of fate that it was he who was sent to help us.

When you two have quite finished, would one of you please help me up from the
floor? Lisa rasped.

****

Ivan listened intently to Anyas narrative of what had taken place at her aunts. When
she had finished, he said nothing and began pacing up and down his study in deep
contemplation.
Whats wrong, Father? You seem troubled by the news.

The English say that you do not use a sledgehammer to crack an egg, do they not?,
Ivan quizzed.
 Yes Father, but I fail to see wh-
Then why send an archangel to deal with a low-level demon? And why Raphael?

Perhaps it is because he saved Tobias from Asmoday, Father. They are, after all, old
adversaries.

Old adversaries, Ivan muttered to himself repeatedly. Suddenly, he stopped

pacing and spun on his heels. Tell me again the name of the place the demon
mentioned before its banishment by Raphael.
Dudael, Father. Im pretty sure thats what my aunt said.

A light went on inside Ivans head. Saints be praised child! Dashing from the
room he called out, I think we have just been given a clue as to the incubus
identity!

****
The antiquities vault was all but deserted. Only a handful of the brothers were
present. Those who had worked on the Everto Porta into the early hours were now
sleeping peacefully in their cells.

Alexi Bragin looked up from his studies on hearing the door open. Father, he
said, rising to his feet. Can I help you with something?
I hope so brother. The Books of Enoch and Tobit; bring them to me please.

The urgency in his voice had Alexi up and running. Moments later he returned and
placed the books onto the reading desk.
I want you to look up any references you can find on the archangel Raphael and a
place called Dudael, he instructed, passing Alexi the Book of Enoch.

As he began his search, Ivan turned to Anya. Please go to my study and watch
out for Henrys return. The moment he arrives, I want Brother Lehmann to escort him
to his cell. Then have Brother Zaytsev report to me immediately.
After a few short minutes, Alexi announced, I have it!
Read it to me.

And again, the Lord said to Raphael: bind Azazel hand and foot, and cast him
into the darkness: and make an opening in the desert which is in Dudael, and cast
him therein. And place upon him rough and jagged roc-
Enough, brother! Ivan commanded, holding up his hand. It is sufficient.
What have you learnt Father?
The name of Henrys demon. Azazel was a Watcher, one of the fallen angels.
 Then we do not need to perform the summoning ritual for Asmoday. This is
indeed good news, Alexi announced.

On the contrary brother, it complicates things. Azazel was once called the
cleverest and most intelligent of Gods angels. It is not known how many aeons
passed after the time he was imprisoned by Raphael. What I recall from a reading of
the Abrahamic faith of Islam, is that he became completely insane during that period
and escaped his bonds by tearing his spirit and body apart to make his escape. It is
believed he wanders the worlds desolate places in spirit and that it was through these
wanderings he came to understand his ability to take control of other vessels by
force.
Then how can we even hope to overcome such a formidable adversary, Father?

That, my son, I have yet to figure out. For the moment, our main focus is on
Asmodays banishment. However, Azazel must be kept distracted at all cost, until
Asmoday is trapped within the magical triangle. Once there, he will be powerless to
commune with any of his brethren. Should we fail in the distraction, he will come to
Asmodays aid and all will be lost.
Then what do you propose we do?
You are versed in the intercessory exorcism rite?
I am, Father.

Good. Then gather up the brothers you require to perform it. Time is of the
essence.
With that, Alexi rushed from the room.
 CHAPTER SIXTEEN.
During the journey home, Pavel repeatedly felt inside his environment suit to
reassure himself that the artefact was still there; actions that hadnt gone unnoticed by
Henry.
Lost something?

No. But I think I have picked up an unwanted guest from the farmhouse, he said,
scratching himself.

Henry found it peculiar that Pavel, alone, was troubled by ticks. Despite having
spent the night in an uncomfortable bed he, himself, was untroubled by them.

Turning to his cell mate he asked, How about you Dieter? You picked up any
unwanted lodgers?
None that I know of.
Then I guess youre the only one on todays menu Pavel.

Conscious that Henry was trying to manoeuvre him into an unguarded response,
Pavel kept silent.

Maybe you caught them from the pigs when you were out looking for
whatever it was you were looking for, Henry resumed. After all, you were the only
one of us who came into contact with them.

Perhaps, Englishman, Pavel finally responded. Or maybe European blood is

just too bland for their liking.

With the conversation at an end, they trundled through the mountain pass in
silence. Inevitably, Henry succumbed to the effects of his restless night and drifted
off to sleep.

They were making good time and Serov was now eight kilometres behind them
when, for no apparent reason, Pavel cut the engine. Pulling down his hood, he cocked
his head.
Dieter looked at him. What is wrong brother? I hear nothing.

He held up his hand for silence and waited. The distant rumble he had heard was
getting louder. It was a terrifyingly familiar sound. Avalanche!

The Snowcats engine roared into life as he threw it into reverse, pushing the
accelerator hard to the floor.

Several hundred yards ahead, Dieter saw the leading edge of the avalanche crash
over the vertical cutting of the mountainside, spilling onto the road and down into the
gorge. A tidal wave of ice, rock and snow was heading straight for them. A sickening
hollow formed in the pit of his stomach. The Snowcat is too slow, brother. You will
never outrun it, he said

Pavels eyes were fixed firmly on the rear-view mirror. I have no intention of
trying.

With only seconds to spare, he edged the Snowcat nearer the cliff face. An ear-
splitting screech of metal rent the air as the it came to a standstill beneath an
overhang. Seconds later, the avalanche roared over them and pummelled the Snowcat
in a shower of snow and ice, shattering the windscreen. As the blinding deluge burst
in on them, the Snowcat lurched suddenly towards the gorge and came to a halt.

In the ensuing deathly still silence, Dieter checked on Henry You are alright my
friend?

Henry wiped away the snow from his goggles. Incredibly, he had slept through the
entire incident. Only when the avalanche had crashed in on them had he awakened to
find himself half buried beneath its hoary remains. I guess so, he said. What the
hell happened?
Avalanche, Dieter replied.

Pavel said nothing. He was far too busy trying to open the cabin door. At length,
he turned to Henry. Pass me the trench shovel from under your seat, he ordered.

Shoving aside the compacted snow from around his legs, he retrieved the shovel
and handed it over.

The window burst out with a single blow and Pavel stuck out his head. They had
come to a stop only inches from the edge of the gorge. He breathed a heavy sigh of
relief. Crossing himself, he slumped back in his seat.
What happens now? Henry asked.

Dieter pushed away the built-up snow from the shattered windscreen. The road
ahead was blocked, but not impassable by foot. Thankfully, most of the heavier snow
and debris had been carried down into the gorge.
Pavel looked back the way they had come. Despite being closer to Serov he
decided to move forward rather than retrace their steps. There was no way of
knowing how long it would take for the road to be cleared and time was at a
premium. They had a long hard slog ahead of them.

Well Englishman, he said, twisting around in his seat, it looks as if we go on

foot from here. With luck, we should reach the monastery sometime after sunset. I
will let Father Vereshchagin know what has happened.

Collecting their gear together, they abandoned the Snowcat and joined Pavel on
the debris field; he now a little wiser after his conversation with Ivan.
 Though avalanches were not uncommon for the time of year, Pavel was beginning
to entertain some worrying thoughts concerning it. Could it have been deliberately
triggered to prevent them from reaching the monastery? Was it mere coincidence that
the avalanche occurred not long after Henrys probing questions about his tick?
And how was it that Henry - a self-confessed light sleeper - managed to catnap
through the entire episode? Armed with the latest intelligence from Father
Vereshchagin, he thought it prudent to keep a very close eye on the Englishman.

Abandoning the Snowcat, they set off across the hazardous debris field unaware
that behind the Englishmans tinted goggles otherworldly eyes were watching them.
The thirteen-kilometre trudge along the snaking mountain road began to take its
toll on the group; all, that is, except for Henry. He seemed completely unaffected by
it.

The sun was beginning to set behind the mountains when Dieter, cold and weary,
wheezed, How much longer, brother?
An hour or more. We will rest here for five minutes before moving on.

As they shared the brew of hot coffee from a thermos Dieter had liberated from the
farmhouse, Pavel turned to Henry. I think you can dispense with the goggles,
Englishman. The sun has almost set.

Id rather keep them on if you dont mind. Theyre the only thing thats keeping
my eyeballs from freezing over.
Dieter laughed, but Pavel was curious to see what lay behind them.

No, I really think you should remove them, he insisted. It is getting dark and
one wrong step out here could have serious consequences.
Dont you think youre being a little melodramatic?
Pavels eyes narrowed. No. Now please hand them over.
Suddenly, they were caught in the glare of approaching headlights.
Mountain rescue! Dieter cried, jumping up and waving his arms.

Azazel glared at the approaching Kratz snowplough and the Vetluga TTS
mountain vehicle following behind and relinquished control of his host.

Instantly, Henry began to feel the painful effects of his punishing trek. I guess I
wont need these anymore, he said, removing the goggles and handing them over to
Pavel.

As he watched his companions limp off to the rescue vehicle and the plough move
on down the road to clear a path to the Snowcat, Pavel felt the reassuring weight of
the seal beneath his environment suit and smiled. Tomorrow, he thought, is going
to be a good day.
 ****
The light, multi-purpose, Ansat helicopter hovered briefly, kicking up plumes of
loose snow as it touched down in the monastery courtyard.

Anya and several brothers, alerted by the sound of its chopping rotors, had rushed
out and watched excitedly as a tall dark-skinned stranger, with briefcase in hand,
stepped down from the cockpit.
Anya was the first to greet him and noted he spoke in a Midwestern American accent.
Miss Peshcov?
Anya was surprised that he knew her name. Yes, thats me. Can I help you?
My names Jeff Adams. Ive urgent business with Father Vereshchagin.
Is he expecting you?

No, he isnt. My visits completely unannounced, but I think hell want to hear what
I have to say.
Anya was intrigued. Then youd best follow me, Mr. Adams.

Adams hesitated. Forgive me, but theres some expensive equipment on board
that needs offloadin first.
Im sure the brothers will see to it for you, Anya assured him.

You couldnt have come at a worse time, she said, as they made their way to
Ivans study, Father Vereshchagin has a lot to contend with at the moment.
I assume youre referrin to the summoning ritual.
Anya pulled up. You know about that?
Sure I do. Thats why Im here.

As they continued on, she couldnt help but wonder exactly how much the well-
informed American actually knew, and what his business was.

****
After a brief introduction, Anya left the two men to their business.

Adams got quickly to the matter at hand. Passing an envelope to Ivan, he said,
This is to substantiate my identity. As youll see, its from our mutual benefactor
and mentions that Im to attend tomorrows ritual.

Ivan instantly recognised the unique wax seal on the envelope. Breaking it, he
enquired, For what purpose?
Im here to document the event.
 In what way?

I think youd best read the letter sir, he suggested. Youll also find it mentions
our cover story for bein here. Youll need to familiarise yourself with it.

Ivan looked up from the communiqu, completely dumbstruck. Youre to film the
banishment ritual?
Yes sir.
That is out of the question! It is insane and far too dangerous.

Need I remind you, Father, that Im merely the messenger, carryin out the orders
of the benefactor? Besides, Im accustomed to danger, as my rundown will attest to.
With that, he pulled a folder from his briefcase and dropped it onto the desk

Ivan couldnt fault his visitors impressive. rsum. As a war correspondent, hed
filmed in just about every strife-torn country one could imagine. It was his most
recent assignment, however, that got Ivans attention.

It says here that you worked as an independent videographer for the Vatican on
possession cases for two years

Yes sir, I did. I believe they hired me because of my scepticism. Suffice to say, I
went in as a rationalist and came out a believer. Over the last two months alone Ive
filmed more than forty exorcisms and all of em were from the same small district.
The same district?
Yes sir. Every last one of em.
But that is unheard of.

Up until now it was. He delved again into his briefcase and handed over a bulky
file. It isnt an isolated case, either. Its happenin worldwide.

This is absolutely incredible! Ivan mumbled to himself as he thumbed through

the hundreds of reports.

Adams leaned forward. You wanna know whats really incredible, Father?
Theyre all connected. Every last victim spoke a name; a name Im sure youre
familiar with by now.
A sudden shudder ran up his spine. Asmoday?
Adams nodded. Somethins goin on thats got the Vatican guys real skittish.
Well it would appear you are our guest, Mr. Adams, for however long that may
be.
Thanks Father. Eddie and I will do our best not to get under your feet.
Eddie?
 My pilot, Eddie Burnett, will be stayin, too. He was hired by our benefactor on
my recommendation. Hes ex-military and served in Iraq in Air Support Operations.
Thats where we met. Hes also the only guy who can operate Kitty.
Ivan cast a questioning look.

Shes a state-of-the-art, remotely piloted aircraft system drone. With it, hell be
able to film the ceremony from a safe distance.
Impressive, Ivan said. Perhaps he could give me a demonstration of Kittys
capabilities.

Im sure hed be more than happy to accommodate you. He loves nothin better
than to show off his toy at any given opportunity.

Then I look forward to it. However, there are one or two recent events I need to
bring you up-to-date on before then.
Im all ears. Fire away.

Armed with the latest news, Adams rose from his chair. Id like to interview Mr.
Doggett on his return, if possible.

Im afraid I cannot sanction your request, Mr Adams, Ivan said, getting to his
feet. I have to respect his anonymity and more importantly, the need to keep the
secret from him regarding the time and place of the ritual. However, once it is
completed and the incubus and Asmoday are banished, I see no reason why you
cannot approach him on the matter.

As he made to leave, Anya entered the room. Mr. Adams luggage has been
offloaded. I took the liberty of housing him and his pilot in Brother Denikins former
quarters.
Good. Then perhaps you could show our guest to his room.
Certainly Father.

Id like to nosey around the place once Im settled in, just to get the feel of it. I
hope that wont be a problem?

Of course not, Mr. Adams. Im sure Anya would be quite happy to act as your
guide during your stay here.

Then tomorrow, he said, turning to Anya, I reckon our first port of call would
be the church to take a few frames recordin the damage done there. Then afterwards,
Im gonna need some aerial shots of the monastery and its surroundins.

Im sorry, Mr. Adams, but any aerial shots are also out of the question, Ivan cut
in. The monasterys location must remain a secret.
To who? This is an eyes only venture. No one but our benefactor will see it.
 And if it were somehow to fall into the public domain by accident, or design:
what then? How long do you think it would take before every hack journalist and
filmmaker would come knocking at the gates? No Mr. Adams, I must insist you abide
by my rules, as I must also insist on having the full editing rights to the finished
documentary to ensure our continued secrecy.

Adams was in no doubt that the savvy old man was not to be messed with.
Okay, he relented. Have it your way.

****
A sense of apprehension struck Henry as they entered through the monastery gates
to see the Ansat sitting in the forecourt.
We have visitors, Pavel said, as the Vetluga pulled up alongside.

Yeah and very important ones by the looks of it, Henry replied nervously. I
wonder what they want?
We will find out soon enough Englishman. But first, I will have Dieter escort you
to your cell.

Thanking their rescuers, they disembarked and Pavel made his way to
Vereshchagins quarters.

****
On entering the late Brother Denikens cell with Anya, it didnt take long for Jeff
Adams to see that Burnett wasnt too happy about something.
Man, you took your sweet time in gettin here, he remarked, brusquely.

There was a lot of ground to cover with Father Vereshchagin. Youve got a
problem?

Oh yeah. I got a problem right enough. He swept his arms around the room.
Notice anythin amiss?
He looked about the room, uncertain as to what Burnett was alluding to.
The gear, man! Theres no equipment.
Jeff turned to Anya for an explanation.

Im afraid we had to stow it in the Snowcat shelter, she explained. There just
wasnt enough room for it all in here.

You have any idea how sensitive some of that stuff is, sister? It dont take much
to gum up the works in sub-zero temperatures like this, Burnett retorted.
Yes, I do. You made it very clear when we put it there, Mr. Burnett. But as I told
you then, the place is adequately heated to prevent such an eventuality.
 I hope youre right lady, cos if you aint this whole missions scrubbed.

Cmon Eddie, lighten up a little and cut the lady some slack. Im sure she knows
what shes doin.
Burnett huffed, Shed better is all I can say, man.

If you like, I could set up a cot for you down there so you can keep an eye on
things, Anya offered.
No. That wont be necessary. Hes just fine where he is. Isnt that right, Eddie?
Hell, I guess so, he acquiesced.

Just then, Alexi Bragin entered the room to inform Anya that Pavel, Dieter and
Henry had arrived.
How are they?
They look well after their ordeal; though a little tired perhaps.
They took their leave of the new guests and went off to see Henry.

Well I reckon wed better get some shut eye, Adams said. Weve got a lot of
work to do tomorrow. Vereshchagin wants to see Kitty in action. Ill leave that to
you.
And you? Burnett quizzed.

Im takin a grand tour of the place with Miss Peshcov, and grabbin a few snaps
of the church interior.

Yeah and a couple more besides I bet, Eddie grinned. That Peshcov dames one
hot babe.

You know me, Eddie. Its all work and no play as per usual, he said, unpacking
his holdall.
So, whens the big shindig?
Its scheduled for tomorrow.
Fuck, Jeff! Why so soon?

Because according to tradition one of the rituals has to be performed on a specific

date, around three till sundown tomorrow. Youll be takin care of that and Ill be
takin care of the other.
Theyre holdin two shindigs at the same time?
Apparently, theyve no choice in the matter.

****
 Anya spent less than fifteen minutes in the company of Henry and Dieter.
Exhausted from their trek, they retired early to bed. As she made her way to her own
quarters she bumped into Pavel, returning from his talk with Ivan. She enquired as to
how the meeting went.

He is very pleased little one, now that he has the seal of Asmoday in his
possession. He has also informed me of our new visitors and their purpose here.
Ah yes, Mr. Adams and Mr. Burnett.

I cannot understand why the benefactor wishes to film the ritual, he said,
combing his fingers through his unruly greying beard.

Perhaps in case anything goes wrong, Anya proffered. That way the video
footage can be studied for future reference in the hope that further mistakes will not
be made.

Then we must hope that no such study will be necessary, little one. The safety of
us all rests in the balance.
With that, they parted company and Anya withdrew to her quarters to make a call
to her aunt.
****

Lisa entered the drawing room just as Lyudmila hung up the phone. Was that
Henry?
No. Just Anya reporting in.
Is everything okay?
Everything is fine. Henry is resting, as you should be.
But Im not in the least bit tired yet.

Lyudmila was far from surprised. Given the events of the day their bodies were
still flooded with adrenalin. It would take a while for the effects of the sleeping draft
to take effect.

Well I dont know about you two, but Im parched. I could really do with a stiff
drink, Mel complained.
Mm. Sounds like a good idea to me sis, Lisa chirped in.
I could pop down to the off-licence if you like.
No. I wouldnt send a dog out in that weather. Maybe some other time.

Lyudmila rolled her eyes and rose from her armchair. I recognise a hint when I
hear one, she said.
 Liberating the half bottle of Krepkaya vodka from the fridge, she returned with
three shot glasses and a plate filled with egg and cheese cold snacks. Pouring three
generous shots, she raised her glass. Bodeem zdarvye! To our health, she
toasted, downing her vodka in one.
Lisa and Mel responded in kind. Our health!

As the night wore on, the deceptively smooth Krepkaya had the sisters tongues
wagging and the alarming events of the day were momentarily forgotten.

The upshot of their spur-of-the-moment session was inevitable, as Madam

Gorodetsky knew it would be. Succumbing to the drinks and her sedative, Lisa
eventually teetered off to bed.

Satisfied that Mel appeared to be un-dulled by the alcohol and so was capable of
performing the nightly ritual, Lyudmila took to her bed shortly thereafter. She was
still awake when Mel retired to her room. Contented that all was well, she said a
prayer for her niece and those who would take part in the battle to come.

But things were far from well. Mel had made a negligible error in performing the
nightly ritual. It was a simple slip-up that left them exposed.

****

In the early hours of the following morning a lone, naked figure shambled beneath
the flickering street lamps. Pausing momentarily in front of the Gorodetsky
household, it entered the grounds. Locked doors were no obstacle for the soulless
horror and with a simple sweep of its hand the door opened silently.

Behind lifeless eyes an intimate tableau of disjointed earthly memories glimmered.

In mortal life, it had known only pain and despair. In embracing death, it was without
will or purpose, becoming little more than a vessel for the demon puppeteer,
Asmoday. Sluggishly, it climbed the stairway.

****

As the sun crested the mountains of Serov, an extraordinary incident took place.
For no discernible reason, hundreds of birds began falling dead from the sky, many of
which ended up in the monastery courtyard.

Alerted by one of the brothers, Ivan entered onto the scene with Jeff Adams in
tow. Camera in hand, Jeff began documenting the spectacle. Snapping off several
shots in quick succession, he asked, You ever seen anythin like this before?
I have heard of such things, he said, picking up a fallen black-throated thrush
and inspecting it. Gathering together several other species, he remarked on how
strange it was that they didnt appear to have sustained any injuries.
Perhaps it has something to do with the river, Father.
 Ivan turned as one of the brothers approached him. The river?

The men who brought back the Snowcat earlier this morning said it was running
red when they passed it.

Ivans hand shot immediately to his breast. He could still feel the reassuring bulk
of the seal beneath his vestment.
You okay sir? Adams enquired.

This is an omen, Mr. Adams. A sign from Asmoday. Dropping the lifeless
thrush into the snow, he continued, According to the Testament of Solomon,
Asmoday hates water and birds. Apparently, they remind him of God.
You think this could be some kind of warnin that he knows what were up to?

No. I think his purpose is to instil fear and uncertainty in us. As for knowing our
intentions, even he, the King of the Nine Hells, is not privy to them.

Adams scanned the courtyard. I wonder where Anya is. She was supposed to be
givin me a quick tour of the place.

I believe she is waiting for you at the church. Ill have Brother Ivankov show you
the way.

On parting company, Ivan made his way over to the Snowcat enclosure to meet
Eddie Burnett.
You must be the exorcist, Burnett guessed. Jeff told me to expect you.

And this must be Kitty. Ivan crouched down over the 1.7-meter drone resting
on the floor to take a closer look.

Shes a beauty, aint she? Burnett enthused. As micro drones go shes one of
the best. She has a top speed of 75 kph and a 1000-meter range. Her lift capacity
comes from the electrical motors paired on the three arms and shes also equipped
with HiRes and IR-thermal imagin, among other things. One things for sure; he
went on, she sure as hell wont be fallin outta the sky like them birds.

It all sounds very hi-tech, Mr. Burnett, and I am looking forward to seeing her in
action.
Just gimme another five minutes or so and Ill show you what she can really do.

****
Wow! You folks must really have ticked off this demon big time. It looks like a
wreckin balls been through here, Adams exclaimed on entering the church narthex.
The nave fared even worse. It took the brunt of Azazels anger, Anya told him.
 Adams began photographing the scene as they worked their way toward the
sanctuary, Anya furnishing him with her account of the events as they went.

Clambering over the debris field of shattered pews and ceiling plaster, he asked,
What can you tell me about this Doggett guy?

Theres really not a lot to tell. Hes an average sort of man. Not the kind who
stands out in a crowd, if you know what I mean. He worked in IT for a haulage
company; something to do with logistics I believe.
And his wife?

Shes what some would consider a stunner. Blonde, blue eyes and a wonderful
figure. Henrys her life. I suppose you could call them soul mates.

It must be tough on them bein separated like this. How bout you? You got a
significant other?

If I did, hed have to be a saint to put up with me and the kind of work I do.
Hunting demons isnt exactly a nineto-five job.
I suppose not.

The chandelier isnt secure yet, so please be careful in here, she warned as they
entered the nave.

Adams took a couple of shots of it, perched precariously across the templon and
high-backed chairs of the north wall. Above them was the shattered stained-glass
window through which Azazel had entered.
I sure hope the insurance on this place will cover the damage, he quipped.
Well it certainly cant be construed as an act of God.
Adams snickered wryly.

Making their way into the sanctuary, he asked, How did such an attractive
woman as yourself get into this kind of business, if you dont mind me askin?

She spoke openly of her possession and subsequent involvement with the
brotherhood.
This gift you spoke of. How exactly does it work?

I can see some demons as they really are. The repugnant forms they take on are
symptomatic of the anger and rage theyve developed over the thousands of years of
their fall from grace. Because theyre spirit entities and not flesh and blood, their
outward appearances are transformed dramatically according to how they feel.
Humans do the same to a lesser degree. We can tell by looking at someone whether
theyre angry or sad. Azazel, for example, is quite a looker in his true angelic form.
Yeah; a hotty with a psychopathic attitude, Adams rejoined.
 ****
When Henry awoke later that morning he saw Dieter through the open cell door
peering intently through the passageway window out into the courtyard. He looked at
his watch. It was still quite early.
What is it Dieter? What are you looking at? he called out, rising from his cot.
Something is flying around the courtyard.
What the hell are you talking about?
Come and see for yourself.

Kitty was hovering thirty feet from the window when Henry looked out. It looks
like some kind of remote controlled drone!
Suddenly, Kitty shot off over the walls and descended out of sight.
Ive got to see this close up.
I also, said Dieter, following closely behind.

Henry greeted Ivan in the courtyard, where a small gathering of the brothers had
congregated to watch the display. What gives?
Our friend, Mr. Burnett, was just showing me how his little toy works.

Id say thats more than just a toy. Its a drone and a very expensive one by the
looks of it, he said, looking to Burnett.

Right on both counts, Burnett responded, returning his gaze to the hand-held
control comm panels real-time video monitor. Just gimme a second or two and Ill
bring her back, he said, manipulating the guidance toggle.

Kitty responded instantly to the command and reappeared from behind the wall,
landing several feet in front of them.
You really know how to fly this thing Mr. Burnett, Henry said, closely
inspecting the drone.
No need for formalities. Just call me Eddie, he said, shaking his hand.
So tell me, Eddie, what brings you here?
Aerial survey and detailed mappin of the area, mainly. Unfortunately, we had to
make an emergency landing here due to technical problems with the chopper.

Ivan gave an inward sigh of relief and before Henry could ask more probing
questions suggested they leave him to his job.
Boy! Theres never a dull moment here, Henry said as they made their way back
into the monasterys vestibule.
 Speaking of dull moments: How do you feel about taking a short trip to Serov
later? Ivan asked. We could do with some fresh food supplies and Brother Zaytsev
happened to mention your interest in the Temple of Transfiguration. Perhaps you and
Brother Lehmann could kill two birds with one stone.
Isnt the Snowcat out of commission?

No, my friend. It is working again, Dieter replied. The damage was not as bad
as we had thought.

The repairs on it are almost complete, Ivan confirmed, and should be ready in
plenty of time for the journey into town. I suggest you have a good breakfast before
setting off.

The refectory was a hive of activity and gossip. Henry looked around but could see
neither hide nor hair of Anya.

She is giving Mr. Burnetts friend, Mr. Adams, a tour of the place, Dieter said in
response to his query. I am sure they will be with us soon.
I wonder if shed like to take the jaunt into town with us later?
I believe Father Vereshchagin has other duties for her today.

Henry savoured a spoonful of his buckwheat kasha and was about to quiz his
breakfast companion further on the new arrivals when he heard the sound of the
Ansats rotor blades kick into life out in the courtyard. Gradually, they receded into
the distance - along with its five occupants.
Anya entered the hall minutes later. I hope I havent missed breakfast.
Dieter rose up from the table. I will get it for you if you wish.
She thanked him before he scurried off to the kitchen.
You look a little the worse for wear this morning, Henry.
I didnt get much sleep last night. I kept dreaming of Lisa.
It must be very difficult for you being so far from her.
I was hoping to meet your new friend Mr. Adams, he said, changing the subject.
Hes just left for Serov.
Maybe later then.
I doubt it. Theyre returning to their hotel. There stopover here was brief.
So his pilot was telling me. Have you had any news of Lisa? How is she?
The last I heard, they were all doing fine.
All? Dont you mean both?
 It suddenly dawned on Anya that Henry had not been informed of Mels stay at the
house. Omitting the demon attack incident and Mels encounter with Raphael, she
gave a brief, but false, account of how his sister-in-law had become involved in the
affair.

I dont know whether to be happy or glad shes there. She can be quite a handful
and very disruptive at times. Pushing away his breakfast tray he asked, Dieter and I
are going into Serov later. Can I get you anything while were there?
No thanks. Ive got all I need.

Dieter returned with Anyas breakfast tray and placed it before her. She thanked
him.

Are you ready Henry? I think we should be setting out for Serov. We have a busy
day ahead of us.
As ready as Ill ever be, he said, finishing off the remains of his coffee.

Anya looked up as they walked from the refectory and offered up a prayer. Gods
love and mercy be with us all today.
 CHAPTER SEVENTEEN.
Mel spent her first few minutes out of bed throwing up in the bathroom. Shed
never felt so ill.
How many drinks did Mel have after Id gone to bed last night? Lisa enquired.

Two. Maybe three at most. She seemed perfectly fine when I left her, Lyudmila
answered. Perhaps she is coming down with something.
I believe they call it alcoholic poisoning, Lisa mocked.

Oh, youre so very funny sis, an ashen-faced Mel moaned as she gingerly
descended the stairway.

The ever-practical Lyudmila left the room. Returning shortly thereafter with
thermometer in hand, she placed it beneath Mels tongue and took her pulse.
Retrieving the thermometer, she glanced at the high temperature reading and
pronounced, Well my dear, it looks as if you have a fever.

Mel cast an I told you so look at her sibling before announcing, Im back off to
bed.
Lisa couldnt resist the temptation. No breakfast then?
Lyudmila admonished her for her cruel and unwarranted badgering.

I wouldnt worry too much. When she was a kid she suffered regularly from
fevers, Lisa explained. Shed often wake up in a sweat, screaming from the
nightmares they gave her.

Yeah, like last nights, Mel griped, as she slowly climbed the stairs. And since
where on the subject of sweat, Im going to need a change of bed linen. Mine are
damp.
Just give me a second or two sis, and Ill get some from the airing cupboard.

Mark my words, Lisa assured her concerned hostess, shell be as right as rain
in a day or two.
I hope so. We have enough to put up with as it is.
Id best get those bed sheets before she takes a hissy fit, she sniggered.
And I must get more groceries in. Is there anything you need while I am out?

Im fine, but I dont know about Mel. Ill check. With that, she dashed upstairs,
returning moments later with a short list of essentials.
Shes going to need these, she said, handing the list over.
Lyudmila glanced at it. Ah, it is that time of the month I see.
 Not really. She seems to be starting her cycle earlier than usual. Its just a little
spotting for now. Normally, you can set the clock by her.
 CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Eddie Burnett sat the Ansat down on a patch of ground some fifty feet from the
gleaming domes of the Temple of Transfiguration. He, Jeff Adams, Alexi Bragin and two
brothers stepped from it into the glacial morning air.

We have just over three hours to prepare, Alexi warned. We must be ready
when the time comes. The brothers will help with unloading your equipment Mr.
Adams, while you and I take a look inside. We need not worry about visitors.
Everything has been taken care of. No one will disturb us. We have the place all to
ourselves.

Eddie entered the temple. As soon as the equipments been off-loaded Ill be
headin back to the monastery to set things up there, Jeff. I need to do one last dry run
with Kitty before the main event.
Okay, Eddie. If all goes well, well be seeing you back there.
Watch your six, buddy. From what Ive been told these demons can be slippery
sons-of-bitches.
And then some, Adams wisecracked.

****

As the KT-3 Snowcat trundled down the mountainous foothills, Dieters worrying
words rang in Henrys ears.
It looks like a storm is coming in over the mountains.

Henry looked north to see the dark blanket of cloud forming over the peaks. You
think well get there before it does?
We have plenty of time my friend. The winds are not as strong today.
I hope youre right. I dont fancy a repeat performance of our last trek.
Dieter leant forward and turned on the cabin heater. We will be fine, Henry.
You know best, I guess, he yawned.
It will be a while before we reach Serov. I suggest you try and get some rest.
That wont be necessary. Im fine.

Within the space of fifteen minutes the barbiturate Dieter had slipped into his
companions breakfast had taken effect and Henrys sonorous snoring filled the
cabin.

****
 On landing back at the monastery, Eddie Burnett wasted no time in getting Kitty in
the air.

As soon as you clear the Everto Porta you will see a narrow mountain track to
your left, Ivan said. Follow it until you reach the plateau. There, you will see a
cavernous recess in the mountainside. That is where you need to be.

With deft agility, Burnett flew Kitty over the walls and followed the track. The
monitor screen showed the plateau looming ahead and the cavern Ivan had described.
Gradually reducing her speed on approach, he brought her to a gentle hover in front
of it.
How far in does it go?

Approximately twenty metres, Ivan said. The walls are roughly sixteen meters
apart and the ceiling is around seventeen metres in height.

He moved Kitty closer to the entrance and flicked a switch, illuminating the
interior. We might have a problem with telemetry. I reckon I need to be on the
plateau, in direct line of sight with kitty to maintain it.
You know best, Mr. Burnett.
Once Kittys inside, she shouldnt be troubled by the wind speeds gusting up the
mountainside.
Then you think all will be well?
I reckon its a go. I should be able to get good video and audio reception.
Excellent!
You mind if I hike down there just to make sure?

Of course not. I will take you myself. It is important you do not touch, or walk
across the pentacle and summoning triangle. The place has been sanctified in
readiness for the banishment ritual.
Roger that.

****
In the Temple of Transfiguration, Jeff Adams was also busy. He had already taken
several stills of the interior and was setting up a tripod mounted electronic news
gathering camera in the nave when Alexi exited the sanctuary dressed in his regalia.
You are prepared, Mr. Adams?
Just about.

Take your time. There is no need to hurry. It will be a while yet before Brother
Lehmann and Mr. Doggett arrive. If you need assistance just ask the brothers.
 Ill be fine. Im sure they have other things to occupy themselves with.
Father Vereshchagin has told me you have attended many exorcisms.
I guess you could say Ive seen more than my fair share of late.

Then you have no objection to my blessing you and the equipment you are about
to use.

None at all. If you have no objections, Id like to get everything set up first
though.
As you wish.

Retrieving a digital light meter from his holdall, Jeff began to take readings under
the watchful gaze of the exorcist. Just fifteen more minutes and Im all yours, he
said.

****

Tread with caution! Vereshchagin warned. The track is narrow. One false step
and you will not live long enough to regret it.

Burnett looked over the dizzying precipice to the bone jarring rocks hundreds of
feet beneath. Jeez, its enough to make a mountain goat light-headed!

I have walked this path on many occasions, day and night, and still have not
grown used to it. We must be grateful that the nest of winds is not living up to its
name today.
We gotta be pretty close to the plateau by now.
It lies fifty meters beyond that overhang. Soon we will be on terra firma.

It might be worth ferrying you and the brothers to the plateau in the chopper later.
Its big enough to accommodate it and it looks stable enough for a platform.
An excellent idea, Mr. Burnett, though it will require several trips as there will be
twelve of us.
No problem, as long as the wind dont pick up.

On reaching the cavern, Ivan pulled a tallowed wooden shaft from its wall mount
and lit it. Walking into the dark interior he began lighting several large braziers
ringing the cavern walls. Only then did Burnett fully appreciate the immensity of the
place.
You can come through now, he called out, but be careful where you step!

The veteran pilot had never witnessed the likes of what he could see before him.
Dominating the midpoint of the floor was a nine-foot diameter magic circle, with its
cardinal points chalked around the perimeter. An elaborate coiled snakes body,
containing the divine names, had been drawn inside the outer circle. Within the inner
circle were four six-sided stars containing the holy name Adonai. At the very
centre, a diamond-shape had been drawn. The Circle was completed by four
pentagrams, each containing a large candle at their centres, each emblazoned with the
Tetragrammaton.

Two feet beyond the circle was the magical triangle, in which was inscribed a
simple circle into which the demon Asmoday would be conjured. Flanking the three
sides of the triangle were other mystical names.
I need to get some video footage of this! Eddie called out.
Feel free, Mr. Burnett!

Returning to the chopper, he fired up Kitty. The rotors kicked into life, lifting her
gently from the plateau floor and into the cavern. Watching through the control panel
monitor, he muttered, Man, I cant wait for Jeff to catch an eyeful of this.

****

An atmosphere of urgency had taken over the brothers as they milled about the
place in readiness for the ritual, their constant toing and froing making Anya feel all
the more redundant. She understood Ivans decision for her non-appearance at the
ceremony. He was doing what hed always done; keeping her out of harms way. His
affection for her had dominated the early years of her life and now, having returned
to her native land, they seemed set to continue. The time was coming when she would
have to confront him with the reality that she was no longer the hapless child he had
rescued all those years ago, but a fully-grown woman who was more than capable of
looking after herself.
You look troubled little one.

Anya turned to see Pavel standing in the study doorway. How long have you been
there?
Long enough to see you are troubled by something.
She turned away, gazing once more into the courtyard. There are things that need
to be said, Pavel, but Im afraid that once they are, a long-standing friendship may be
broken.
Ah! You speak of Father Vereshchagin.
She turned on her heels. Am I that transparent?
No little one. Neither are you being ungrateful by speaking what is in your heart.

Is it too much to ask to be treated like the others and take an active role in the
rituals?
 Long ago, Father Vereshchagin took on the role of your late father and, like any
parent, he is protective of you. You must free him from that responsibility.
How will he react to that I wonder?

He will do what most fathers do when a daughter seeks her independence: sulk
for a while before accepting it.
Where is he?
He is returning from the grotto with the American pilot.

She took a calming breath. I suppose now is as good a time as any to have that
talk with him.
Good. I will pave the way for you and see to it that you are not disturbed.
 CHAPTER NINETEEN.
Lyudmila called up the stairs to announce her return home. Entering the kitchen,
she dumped her shopping bags onto the counter and removed her coat.

I think you need to come check on sis, a worried Lisa said, poking her head
through the door. Shes burning up.

On reaching the bedroom, Lyudmila was shocked to see Mel sweating profusely
and holding her stomach in pain.

Examining her abdomen, she noticed a slight distension and assumed it was
symptomatic of the onset of her menstrual cycle. The feverish delirium, however,
began to worry her.
Should I phone an ambulance?
We should wait a while to see if her fever breaks, Lyudmila advised, pulling the
bedclothes over Mel.
What if it doesnt?
Then we will call for a doctor. She may have an infection of some sort. All we
can do for now is monitor her condition and give her some acetaminophen. You will
find them in the bathroom cabinet. While you are in there, run a lukewarm bath for
her.

You seem to know a lot about this kind of thing, Mel said, on returning to the
bedroom.

There was more to my life other than being a farm labourer in the old country,
she replied. I was also trained as a nurse.

Madam Gorodetsky watched over her patient as Lisa busied herself preparing a
light lunch for them.

Now bathed and changed, Mel seemed more comfortable than before and kept
drifting in and out of sleep. Seeing there was little more she could do, Lyudmila
joined Lisa in the dining room over a bowl of Mothers Borscht soup.
How is it?
You have done well for your first time. It is almost as good as mine.

I think Ill try your recipe out on Henry when he comes home. Im sure hed like
it.

It is good to hear you speak of him and his return in such a positive frame of
mind.
I always took it for granted he loved me, but never really understood just how
much until now. Why is that?
 It is because life gets in the way. Eventually we lose sight of the things that truly
matter. Only when it is taken from us do we recognise its loss.

Well I can tell you this; from now on Ill make damned sure Ill never lose sight
of it again and that applies to Mel, too.

When we have finished here you might like to take her a little of the soup. Try
and get her to eat as much as she can to keep her strength up, Lyudmila advised.
****

Mel lay propped up against the pillows as Lisa ladled the Borscht to her lips.
Cmon sis, just a little more, she encouraged.
As she took in another spoonful, Mel saw an image on the portable TV that caused
her heart to skip a beat. Dominating the screen was the picture of a man in his late
thirties. It had her spell-bound. She raised her hand weakly to prevent her sister
administering another mouthful.
What is it sis? Lisa asked, looking at the screen.
Turn it up.

Lisa adjusted the volume and the pair sat in silence as the newscaster made her
announcement:

The body of a man, recently recovered from the River Trent, has been identified
as one William Selby. Mr. Selby was last seen leaving his home on the Rowell Estate
earlier this month. Its believed he may have taken his own life following the loss of
his job at the Winston Haulage Company. A family spokesman said that he had been
suffering from severe depression prior to his disappearance
It cant be! Thats impossible! Mel exclaimed.
Whats wrong sis? Did you know him?
Hes the guy I saw in my nightmare!
What nightmare?
The one I mentioned this morning.
Are you sure?
Damned sure!

Mel was, at first, reluctant to describe her disturbingly intimate nightmare to Lisa,
but Lisas persistent badgering soon had her talking. After listening to her sickening
account, Lisa made for the door.
Where are you going?
To tell Lyudmila about what youve just told me.
On hearing the news, Lyudmila immediately phoned Anya.
 CHAPTER TWENTY.
I have just spoken with Brother Zaytsev. He has told me you wish to speak with
me on a personal matter, Ivan said, on entering his study.
Yes, Father, I do, she said, reticently.
Ivan sat at his desk and looked up at her. Well, child, what is it you have to say?

She cleared her throat, nervously. There are times, Father, when I feel my
presence here is not required; that Im being side-lined when it comes to the riskier
aspects of our calling. Though you mean well, your overprotectiveness of me is
holding me back from expressing my full potential.

Ah, he said, gesturing for her to take a seat. I assume you wish to take on a
more hands on approach.
Yes, I do.

Ivan regarded her briefly. Im sorry to have caused you such pain. It was never
my intent.
I understand that, Father, Anya said, laying her hands on the desktop.

He leant forward and cupped them in his own. In a tremulous voice, he said, I see
now I have been a selfish man, but that selfishness was born out of a familial love for
you. When I look at you, I see the daughter I could never have, because of the life I
have chosen.

Youve nothing to reproach yourself about, Father. I understand that you mean
well.
He leant back and opened the bureau drawer and produced a large tome. Laying it
on the table he said, This is my book of remembrance. In it, I have inscribed the
names of the brothers who have lost their lives in the struggle against evil, the latest
being Brother Denikins. Inscribing your name in it would grieve me beyond
measure.
A tearful Anya rose from her seat and rushed into his arms.

Embracing her, he said, Ready yourself child. I will contact Mr. Burnett and have
him take you to the Temple of Transfiguration.

Anya kissed his cheek. Thank you, Father, she snuffled. But before I leave, I
have to tell you theres some worrying news from back home. It concerns Lisas
sister.
Ivan slumped into his chair on hearing what she had to say about Mels possible
impregnation. It seems Asmoday may have chosen another path to attain his goal.
 Aunt Lyudmila suggested a morning after pill. If its taken within seventy-two
hours of intercourse, its supposed halt the implantation of the embryo.

The problem is, we are not dealing with the fertilisation of a human child, Ivan
explained. We dont know how quickly the foetus will develop, or whether drugs
will even have an impact on it. We can only pray to God that they do and that the
outcome for Henrys sister-in-law is favourable.

****
The Ansat touched down just as the Snowcat pulled up to the Temple. No sooner
had Anya disembarked than Burnett took off for the monastery in readiness to ferry
the waiting brothers to the Everto Porta.

No one was more surprised to see her than Dieter. Is something wrong, Anya? I
did not expect to see you here.

I see Henrys still out for the count, she said, peering into the cab of the Snowcat
and ignoring Dieters query?

He has slept all the way here. The brothers should be out soon to help me into the
temple with him.
Good. Then Ill leave you to it. Wheres Mr. Adams?
He is in the temple with Brother Bragin.

Well youre a sight for sore eyes and no mistake, Jeff said on seeing Anya.
What on earth are you doing here?

Im here to keep an eye on you lot, she joked. Father Vereshchagin sent me by
way of atonement. His I might add, not mine.
Then you are most welcome, said Alexi.
She looked around at Jeffs equipment. Its like a film shoot in here.

Just making sure everythings in order before the exorcism begins, Jeff
responded. How are things back at the monastery?
Very busy. Everythings just about as it should be though.

Excellent! Alexi said, setting out a stout oak chair in front of one of the portable
light stands.

Would you mind standin in for Mr. Doggett? Jeff asked. I need to make sure
Ive got this lightin right.
Obliging him, Anya sat down as he made the final adjustments.
After a minute or so he looked up. Well that should do it. Were ready here.
 The church doors opened. All heads turned to see a semi-conscious Henry being
lugged in by Dieter and the two brothers. Lowering him gently onto the chair, they
began strapping him to it.
Anya looked to Jeff. Are you okay? You look a little worried.

Ill be fine. It just brings back a few uncomfortable memories of my time in Italy,
workin for the Vatican. How bout you?
The last exorcism I attended was my own. What few terrifying memories I have
of it are just sketchy images. I suppose this is as good a way as any to confront them
head on.

Youre either one ballsy lady, Anya, or just down right crazy. Im not sure
which.
Me neither.

****
It was Eddie Burnetts last drop off. Everything was going to plan. In the caverns
entranceway, Kitty sat in readiness. He looked at his wristwatch and felt the
familiar tightening of his stomach, a nervous tension well-known to all war veterans.
As Ivan, dressed in his ceremonial regalia, climbed from the Ansat, Eddie asked,
Fess up, Father, how do you do it? You look so damned calm and composed.

If only that were true Mr. Burnett, he replied. The truth is, I feel much as you
must in this situation.
Well youre sure as hell good at hidin it.

It would not do to let the brothers see my fear? If they can see it, then my enemy
surely will and he will draw strength from it. Fortunately, I have Gods shield and
weapons to protect me.

No disrespect Father, but Id just as soon have a Colt nine-millimetre semi in my

fist any day.

Ivan grinned. As would most I suspect, Mr. Burnett. You have everything in
readiness I assume?
Kittys all primed and ready to go.
Then may Gods blessing be upon us all.
Amen to that, Father.

****
Alexi, now vested in surplice and purple stole, checked through his mental to do
list. Only one thing remained; the response procedural for the Intercessory Rite of
Exorcism. Gathering the group together, he quickly ran through what was expected of
them during the exorcism. Anya and Jeff, being unfamiliar with the procedural, were
handed written aids to assist them. Satisfied that all were aware of their
responsibilities, he entered into the sanctuary with the brothers to offer up one last
prayer.

Well I guess its almost crunch time, Jeff said, taking up his position behind the
ENG camera.
Anya made no response. She seemed lost in a deep abstraction.
Are you okay Anya? Would you like to step out and get some fresh air?

She took a deep calming breath and looked up. No thanks. Its just that I know
some of what hes about to go through. Even in his drugged state, it isnt going be
easy for him. The memories of this day could dominate his life.

Jeff understood what she was referring to. As a war correspondent, he had seen the
debilitating effects of post-traumatic stress disorder on countless war veterans.

****

In her fevered condition, Mel had no idea the tablet administered to her by Madam
Gorodetsky was a morning after pill. Swallowing it down, she lay back against her
pillow as Lisa wiped the sweat from her brow.

Lyudmila kept looking at her watch. Given the difference in the time zones, she
had calculated that Henrys ordeal and the banishment ritual were about to begin.
Her fretful expression caught Lisas attention. What is it? Whats wrong?
Nothing you need worry yourself over.
Then why do you keep looking at your watch?
She smiled weakly. It is a nervous habit I picked up as a nurse in Yekaterinburg.

Lisa went back to tending her sister. I hope shes going to be okay, she said,
mopping away the glistening sweat from her neck and chest.

Her temperature remains constant. The fever does not grow any higher. This is a
good sign, Lyudmila assured her. As for the rest, we must put our faith in God and
wait.

****
Ivan glanced at his watch. It was time. A deep calming breath exuded from his lips
as he placed the brazen vessel of Solomon into the triangle before stepping into the
heart of the magic circle.
Having done so, the brothers also took up their positions.
 Turning to face the outer triangle into which Asmoday would be summoned, he
stretched out his arms.

Far off in the distance, over the snow-capped mountains, a menacing peel of
thunder rolled across the late noon sky as Burnett piloted Kitty into the cavernous
interior. Guiding her to within two metres of the rock face, he brought her to a
graceful hover. From this vantage point he had a commanding view of the caves
interior through the monitor screen. Switching to record mode, his finger poised
gently on the guidance toggle, he sat back and waited with bated breath.
Twelve metres below the whispering rotors, Ivan began the summoning.

I invoke and conjure you spirit Asmoday; and being with power armed from the
Supreme Majesty and most powerful Princes and Ministers of the Tartarean abode
and chief Prince of the seat of Apalogia in the Ninth Legion I summon you. I, being
made after the image of God and created according to His will, exorcise you by His
mighty and most powerful name. I command you Asmoday to appear before me in
front of this circle in fair human shape, without deformity or tortuosity. And by this
ineffable name Tetragrammaton Jehovah do I command you, at which being heard
the elements are overthrown, the air is shaken, the sea runs back, the fire is quenched,
the Earth trembles and all the hosts of the celestials, terrestrials, and infernals tremble
together and are troubled and confounded.

****
From out of the corner of his eye, Burnett caught sight of a roiling cloud forming
over the eastern mountain slopes. He glanced briefly at it and hoped that conditions
wouldnt worsen.
Ivan continued his commands.
Come forth Asmoday, without delay, from any or all parts of the world, wherever
you may be and make rational answers to all things that I shall demand of you, he
commanded. Come peacefully, visibly and affably now, without delay, manifesting
that which I shall desire. For you are conjured by the name of the living and true God
to fulfil my commands and persist within the Triangle until I am done, speaking to
me with a voice clear and intelligible and without ambiguity.

****
Again, Burnetts eyes were drawn to the dark mass on the horizon. Had it not been
for Kittys proximity alert sensor sounding over the monitor and warning him of an
impending impact with the rock face, his mission would have come to an abrupt end.
Cursing himself, he re-focused on the job at hand.
Oblivious of the near miss, Vereshchagin continued the evocation.

****
 Within the holy confines of The Temple of Transfiguration, Alexis intercessory
prayer was already underway over the now semi-conscious Henry Doggett.

...... Holy Lord, almighty Father, everlasting God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, who once and for all consigned that fallen and apostate tyrant to the flames of
hell, who sent your only-begotten Son into the world to crush that roaring lion; hasten
to our call for help and snatch from ruination and from the clutches of the noonday
devil this human being made in your image and likeness. Strike terror Lord into the
beast now laying waste your vineyard.

Henry groaned, his head falling back against the chair as Alexis introductory
prayer finished.

Anya chewed anxiously at her lower lip as Jeff continued filming, maintaining his
composure and concentration as the scene unfolded through the view finder.

I command you, unclean spirit, whoever you are, along with all your minions
now attacking this servant of God, by the mysteries of the incarnation, passion,
resurrection, and ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, by the descent of the Holy
Spirit, by the coming of our Lord for judgment, that you tell me by some sign your
name and the day and hour of your departure. I command you, moreover, to obey me
to the letter, I who am a minister of God despite my unworthiness; nor shall you be
emboldened to harm in any way this creature of God, or the bystanders, or any of
their possessions.

Alexi fell silent then, laying his hand on Henrys head, he said, They shall lay
their hands upon the sick and all will be well with them. May Jesus, Son of Mary,
Lord and Saviour of the world, through the merits and intercession of His holy
apostles Peter and Paul and all His saints, show you favour and mercy.
Amen, all present responded.

Henry spasmed, his limbs pushing defiantly against the restraints that held him in
check.
The Lord be with all here present. Alexi called out.
May He also be with you, the gathering returned.
Opening up his Bible, he began reciting the holy Gospel according to St. John.
Crossing himself, he began his recitation. When time began, the Word was there
and the Word was face to face with God and the Word was God.

Crossing Henry on the brow, lips and breast, he continued, This Word, when time
began, was face to face with God. All things came into being through Him and
without Him there came to be not one thing that has come to be. In Him was life and
the life was the light of men
 Henry became increasingly agitated by the priests liturgy and struggled harder
against his restraints.
Undaunted, Alexi carried on.

The light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not lay hold of it. There
came upon the scene a man, a messenger from God, whose name was John. This man
came to give testimony to testify in behalf of the light that all might believe through
him. He was not himself the light; he only was to testify in behalf of the light.

And a lot of fucking good that did him, priest, Henry mocked. Tell me, where
was your precious God when they cut off his head?

The congregation looked on in horror as blood began oozing through the pores of
Henrys throat.

Jeff focussed in on his face; it was crimson with anger, his eyes inky black pools
of nothingness.

Azazels voice erupted from Henrys mouth as he looked squarely into the camera
lens. If its fucking miracles you want the world to see, American, then try this on
for size.
Slowly, the chair and its occupant began to rise into the air and rotate on its axis.

Aware that the demons narrative was a common ploy to distract him from the
liturgy, Alexi took up from where he had left off.

Over Azazels raucous laughter, he went on: Meanwhile the true light, which
illumines every man, was making its entrance into the world. He was in the world,
and the world came to be through Him, and the world did not acknowledge Him. He
came into His home, and His own people did not welcome Him. But to as many as
welcomed Him He gave the power to become children of God those who believe in
His name; who were born not of blood, or of carnal desire, or of man's will; no, they
were born of God.

Genuflecting, he crossed himself and said, And the Word became man and lived
among us; and we have looked upon His glory, such a glory as befits the Father's
only-begotten Son full of grace and truth!
Thanks be to God, came the response.
Azazels laughter subsided as the chair descended.

May the blessing of almighty God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, come upon you
and remain with you forever, Alexi chanted as he sprinkled Henry with holy water.
Amen, rejoined the gathering.
Unaffected, Azazel licked away the droplets of holy water and looked about him.
His gaze fell upon a fearful Anya and a malign grin spread across Henrys face. Tell
me, child, I forget; is this the part where Im meant to scream in agony and beg for
mercy as you did?
Anya backed away.
Dont listen to it, Alexi cautioned.

Dont listen! Dont listen to it! Azazel mimicked. Well youd better fucking
listen to me - each and every one of you, he warned. Before this day is done, Ill rip
your fucking souls out and consign you all to everlasting perdition.
A faint buzzing sound brought his tirade to a sudden end.
A brother approached and handed Alexi a cell phone.
He read the message and smiled.
What are you up to priest? Azazel snarled, his eyes narrowing.

Alexi moved to within inches of Henrys face. I have something to show you,
demon.

Jeffs timely close-up perfectly captured the look of shock in the demons eyes on
seeing the image on the cell phones touchscreen of the magical triangle, containing
the brazen vessel of Solomon, into which Asmoday had been recently cast.
Why do you show me this, priest?

Because it is the instrument into which your abettor, Asmoday, has just been cast
to await the day of his final judgement. Soon you will be joining him, Azazel.
Spare me and whatever you want will be yours, he brokered.
There is nothing you can offer that could dissuade me from carrying out Gods
will upon you.

Azazel shrieked his fury as he burst free from his restraints and gripped Alexi by
the throat, hurling him pell-mell across the room. Seconds later, he made a beeline for
Anya.

Jeff was quick to respond. Releasing the ENG camera from its mounting, he flung
it at the oncoming demon, striking him squarely in the head.

Henry suddenly slumped to his knees a dark amorphous outpouring issuing from
his gaping mouth. At the eleventh hour, the homicidal demon had been summoned
into the triangle.

****
Eddie Burnette was still trembling after witnessing Asmodays banishment. What
was to follow was far worse than he could have possibly imagined.
 Attempting to escape the confines of the triangle, Azazel raged, changing from
one hideous form to another in a frantic bid for freedom. Finally, he gave up the
struggle.

The King of the Nine Hells has deceived you demon, Ivan said. Your
usefulness to him has come to an end. You are betrayed! Asmoday has cast you off;
you who were nothing more than a distraction to hide his true purpose, it being all
along to impregnate Lisas sister with his own spirit.

You fucking lying mother of a whore! You think your pathetic trickery can fool
me?

The blood of innocents is on your hands. You have sinned before the eyes of the
Creator and have defiled those whom you were tasked to protect. At your feet lies the
Solomonic instrument into which you will soon be cast to await your final judgement,
along with your accomplice.

Did I not tear myself asunder and rise up from the depths of Dudael to make my
escape? There is no prison, divine, or otherwise, that can hold me for long.

Quoting holy scripture, Ivan said, The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the
night. and neither you, or the heavenly hosts know the day or hour of your
judgement. Dwell on that as you plan your escape, demon, because the hour may be
closer than you think.

Do what you will holy man and spare me from having to listen to your fucking
dogmatic assertions.

Happy to oblige him, Ivan began intoning the words of the banishment ritual and
cast him into the Brazen Vessel, before sealing it with the Ring of Solomon.

Forgive me for askin, Father, Burnett said at the close of the ritual. Do you
honestly believe he wont escape from the vessel?

Ivan smiled. Right now, Mr. Burnett, he and his abettor will be at each others
throats, one blaming the other for their predicament. Demonic enmity can last for
untold millennia. Theyll be far too busy warring against each other to even
contemplate escaping.
Burnett laughed. Now I get it divide and conquer.

****

Henry came-to in the infirmary, having no idea how he had gotten there. The last
thing he recalled was heading towards Serov with Dieter. After that, nothing.
Confused and dazed, he raised his head and was met by a searing hot pain that tore
through his skull, forcing him back onto the pillow.
He raised his hands tentatively to his throbbing head.
 What the hell?

Ah, Mr. Doggett, I see you have finally awoken, Vadim Korolyov declared on
entering the infirmary. How are you feeling?
Like Ive been hit by a bloody train. What the hell happened to me?
You dont remember anything of your ordeal?

No. Nothing at all. I was hoping you could fill in the blank spaces. The last thing
I remember is heading for Serov.

Youve been through quite a traumatic ordeal Mr Doggett. Apparently, your

exorcism didnt go quite as planned.
Exorcism?

Taking out his stethoscope and sounding Henrys chest he said, As soon as I am
done here, I will inform Father Vereshchagin you are fully awake. I am sure he will
fill you in on the details.
How long have I been in here?

This is your second day now. Tomorrow Ill remove the dressing and give you
something to ease the headache.
As he was about to leave, Henry grabbed him by the arm. Tell me, doc, was the
exorcism successful?
Apparently so, Mr Doggett.

Breathing a heavy sigh of relief, he lay back on his pillow. Soon, he would be
reunited with Lisa.

****
The welcoming, on speaker, telephone call from Ivan Vereshchagin of Henrys
deliverance did little to assuage Lisas and Lyudmilas fears for Mels delirious
condition and the frightening occurrences that had begun to accompany it. In the
wake of countless electrical disturbances and foul-smelling odours, came the wraith-
like shadow figures, who were often witnessed in an around Mels room and the
stairway landing.

These and equally disturbing events usually occurring in sets of three - left Ivan
in no doubt that Lyudmilas home was undergoing a demonic infestation and that
Mels condition was the cause behind it. Like the proverbial moths to a flame, the
demons were seemingly being drawn to her.
How long has she been in her delirious state?
 Since three-o-clock yesterday morning, Father. She has also been speaking in
tongues. I managed to record some of it, in the hope you would be able to make some
sense of it.

On hearing the playback, Ivan sat back in his office chair with a troubled look on
his face.
What do you make of it, Father? Anya enquired.
Most of it is unintelligible. But I recognise one of the languages as being
Aramaic, the language used in Judea during the time of Christ. In it, she repeatedly
refers to a whitewashed wall,
And that means somethin to you? Jeff Adams cut in.

It does indeed, Mr. Adams. The Apostle Paul used that particular euphemism
when referring to Ananias, a high-ranking priest of the Sanhedrin. In essence, he was
calling him a false prophet. There are many examples in the Bible of false prophets;
individuals who falsely claimed the gift of prophesy and divine inspiration, but who
used them for evil purposes.

Having listened in on the conversation thus far, Lisa suddenly rose from her seat
and went to the bookshelf. Pulling out the bible, she opened it and began reading
aloud a verse from the Book of Revelation:

And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence
had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the
beast and those who worshipped its image.

Closing the Bible, she asked, Do you think the thing inside my sister could be the
false prophet mentioned in Revelation?
Are you or Henry of Jewish descent? Ivan asked in return.
No, were both non-practicing Christians.

Then my answer is no. There have been many false prophets, but to suggest that
the entity in your sisters womb is the false prophet would be wrong. You see, we
know for certain from where your sisters pregnancy sprang and it wasnt Satan, as
the bible tells us he will be. For this and various other reasons, it cannot be the false
prophet of Revelation.

Thus far, Anya had remained relatively silent. On speaking up, she asked how
Mels pregnancy was developing.
There is a problem with it. Lyudmila informed her.
What kind of problem?
She appears to be in the latter stages of her first trimester. The foetus is
developing at an accelerated rate. At its current development, it will reach full term
very soon. We are running out of time. I think we have to consider the unthinkable,
Father.

I understand, Madam Gorodetsky, Ivan said, and will take that under
advisement. I may contact you later today.

No sooner had the call ended than Korolyov entered the room to inform Ivan that
Henry had regained consciousness.

****

Lisa sat alone in the lounge, agonising over what Lyudmila had said over the
phone. The termination of a foetus, which she presumed would be conducted in a
non-clinical environment, was a dangerous undertaking and could ultimately prove
fatal to the mother. Then she recalled what Lyudmila had had said in an earlier
conversation of how allowing the demon child to go full term would be far riskier to
her sister. Termination, it seemed, was the lesser of the two evils.
Lyudmila entered the room. Tired and exhausted, she collapsed onto the sofa.

You need to get some rest, Lisa suggested. You look absolutely worn out. Ill
take over from you.

Your sister is resting peacefully at the moment. Just pop in to check on her every
half-hour or so. If anything is amiss, dont hesitate to wake me.

I will, she promised, pulling the sofas coverlet over her. Now please try to get
some shut-eye.
Lyudmila smiled wearily. Within minutes she was sound asleep.

****
Dusk was settling in and Lisas thoughts turned to Henrys homecoming. Would
he be the same man she had come to love and cherish, or had his traumatic
experiences left a permanent scar on his psyche, as Lyudmila had warned they might?

Certainly, her dalliances with Azazel had left an indelible imprint on her
conscience and soul. Had Henrys sexual dysfunction been the catalyst for her
infidelity? She thought it probable and vowed to help him overcome the problem,
whatever difficulties may arise.

Get the hell away from me! Mels voice suddenly shrieked over the lounge
monitor, waking Lyudmila from her sleep.

Seconds later, Lisa dashed into the lounge to discover Lyudmila on her feet and
heading for the stairs.

On entering the bedroom, they saw a tall shadow figure looming over Mel, its
hand reaching out to her abdomen.
 Take your filthy hands off her you bastard! Lisa screeched at the top of her
lungs.

The demon turned and eyed the pair menacingly, but said nothing. Ignoring Lisas
outburst, it ran its hand over a terrified Mels stomach.
Instinctively, she drew back from its touch.

You think I have come to harm the child? No, that couldnt be further from the
truth. It belongs to us and I have been charged to ensure its safe passage into this
world, it said.

Turning its attention once more on Lisa and Lyudmila, it warned, Do not stand in
my way, or I will make you wish I hadnt.

Looking to Mel, it said, On the sixth hour of the sixth day I will return and take
from you that which is rightfully ours. Soon your troubles will be over, it
announced, cold-bloodedly.

Lisa and Lyudmila stood helpless in the doorway as the evanescing demon took its
leave of them.
Stay with her, Lyudmila ordered. I must inform Father Vereshchagin of this.

****
Did you really have to hit me that hard? Henry asked on hearing Jeffs
confession.

Sorry about that, he said. It was a knee jerk reaction. If I hadnt, God alone
knows what youd have done to Anya.

If there are any apologies to be made, theyre mine, Henry replied, turning to
Brother Bragin, standing at the foot of the bed with arm in sling.

It is not as bad as it looks my friend. A simple fracture and a few bruises

nothing more.

Nevertheless, I owe all of you a debt of gratitude. You saved my life and, more
importantly, my soul.
Mein Gott, Dieter kidded, we have made a convert of him.
So, whats the prognosis, doc? When can I go home?

Vadim looked at his chart. You should be well enough to travel in a day or two,
Henry.
Thats great! I cant wait to see Lisa again.

An out of breath brother suddenly entered the room. Father, there is an important
phone call waiting for you in your office. It sounded quite urgent.
 Apologising, he left the room.

Having heard the disturbing news from England, Ivan ordered the very best
researchers from the brotherhood to find an answer to the problem. Time was running
out. Aborting the foetus using normal means was no longer an option. Any attempt to
do so would undoubtedly bring about the demons wrath on anyone attempting it. He
left it up to Anya to inform Henry of the situation back home.

****

The following day, Henry was up and about. He, Anya, Jeff, and Dieter visited the
antiquities vault to see how the research was going. The place was a beehive of
activity.

It is good to see you up and around Englishman, Pavel greeted. What can I do
for you?
Oh, nothing really. Weve just popped in to see how things are coming along.

Maybe we could lend a hand and perhaps speed things up a little? Anya
proffered.

That is very kind, but unnecessary. We have been busy all night and think we
may have the answer to the problem.
You have?

We believe so, Mr. Adams. There is one way the guardian demon and others of
his kind can be overcome in one fell stroke and that is by summoning archangels. The
problem is, Father Vereshchagin is not versed in such a ritual. It could take him
weeks to master.
They dont think they have that kinda time at their disposal.
They do not, Mr Adams, Pavel confirmed. Nevertheless, Father Vereshchagin
will undoubtedly try.
I have! Dieter chimed in.
All eyes fell upon him.
I performed such a ritual in Germany.
And youre prepared to do it again? Henry asked.
Ich werde, mein Freund. How could I do no other?

As he was making his way to the infirmary, Ivan overheard the latter part of the
conversation. Entering the vault, he asked, You are certain you want to do this,
Brother Lehman?
I am, Father.
 Then it is settled. We leave for England in two days.
With that, he set off down the corridor.

Jeff turned to Anya. Well I reckon this is where we part company. My works
done here. Ill be settin off for the States in the mornin.
So soon?

Father Vereshchagins okayed the footage and Henrys written an account of his
possession. The sooner theyre in the hands of the benefactor the better.

Anya took out her notebook and scribbled in it. Heres my phone number and
address. If ever youre in the UK, look me up. Tearing out the page, she handed it to
him.
You can bank on it.

Standing on tip-toe, she kissed him lightly on the cheek. Thats for your quick
thinking at the temple. Have a safe journey and say goodbye to Eddie for me.
Sure thing, he said, leaning forward and kissing her softly on the lips.
Whats that for?
Just curious, is all.

****
Man, this has gotta be one of the damndest missions Ive ever been on, Eddie
said on completing his pre-flight checks in the early hours of the following morning.
I thought Id seen some weird shit in my time; but nothin compares to what Ive
seen here.
Yep, its been a real eye opener for sure.
You manage to touch base with the lovely Miss Peshcov yet?
Didnt need to. She left her contact details with me.
And youre gonna follow up on em?

Jeff looked askance at him. Man, of all the senseless questions youve ever asked,
thats gotta be the dumbest of em all.

Laughing, Eddie fired up the Ansats rotors and within seconds they were
airborne.

****
Henry fidgeted in his seat throughout the interminable seven-hour flight from
Koltsovo airport to Heathrow. He couldnt wait to be in Lisas arms again. Despite
the in-flight entertainment, his mind never strayed far from their approaching reunion
and the new dangers he and his companions would have to face.

Across the adjacent aisle, Ivan and Anya seemed unperturbed and were enjoying
the screening of an in-flight movie.

Next to him sat Dieter who, with ears plugged, appeared to be enjoying a peaceful
nap.
It seemed to Henry that he alone was the only one among them who was taking the
up-coming encounter seriously.

He couldnt have been further from the truth regarding Dieter who was, in reality,
going over and over in his mind the archangel invocations. There could be no slip-
ups, or moments of hesitation, during the conjuring of the supernal beings.
 CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE.
Lisas stomach fluttered wildly. Henry had phoned her from the airport to let her
know of their imminent arrival. Although weary from lack of sleep, she did her best
to make herself presentable for him.

Upstairs, Lyudmila was tending to Mel, whod been throwing up throughout the
entire morning, when she heard the honk of a car horn as it entered the drive. She
dashed to the window as her new guests alighted from a hire car. She watched as Lisa
threw herself into Henrys welcoming arms.

Ivan and his fellow travellers hung back momentarily, allowing them a moment of
privacy.

Weve a lot to talk about, Henry said, wiping the tears from her eyes. But first,
I want you to meet my new friends. Without their help and guidance, I wouldnt have
made it through everything. Waving them forward, he made the introductions.
Last, came Ivan. Please forgive my abruptness, he said, taking her hand, but
how is your sister?

Shes a lot better than she was and her fevers subsided. Please, come inside, all
of you, and see for yourselves.

Lyudmila had forewarned Mel of Henrys and the visitors arrival the previous day
so as not to shock her unduly. On seeing Henry with Lisa, she cried with joy and
hugged them both. One by one, the others made their introductions.

We have much to talk about, Madam Gorodetsky, Ivan said at length. Is there
somewhere we can go out of earshot?
Of course, Father.

Please, just call me Ivan from herein, he whispered. We dont want to alert the
uninvited of our true purpose here if we can help it.

I completely understand. Perhaps it would be safer if we went to the local tavern

just down the road from here. They serve an excellent lunch and the bar staff are very
friendly and accommodating.
Excellent. Please lead the way. Dieter and I will follow you and Anya in the hire
car.
Leaving Lisa and Henry behind, they set out.

****
The Wicker Man was all Lyudmila had professed it to be: a welcoming traditional
Inn with an open, log burning, fire and traditional British food. For Ivan and Dieter, it
was a welcome departure from their usual fare.
 Speaking in Russian, Ivan laid out their plan of attack to Lyudmila.
What about medical intervention. Have you completely ruled it out?
No aunt, we havent. Should all else fail, youll be called upon to abort the child.

Lyudmila blanched. But my knowledge of how to carry out such a procedure is

limited. Back in the old country, I attended only a few abortions.
But you recall how theyre done, Madam Gorodetsky? Ivan intervened.

Of course. But its my skills and a lack of medical instrumentation that are in
question. My primary role in such operations involved the aftercare of the patient.
When I originally brought up the subject, I was thinking in terms of it being done by
a qualified gynaecologist.

Im afraid that is out of the question, Ivan said. Chiefly, because we have no
idea what will emerge from the womb.

Then we must pray to God for a successful outcome to the invocation, Dieter
said. Therell be no second chances if I fail.

Lyudmila crossed herself. When do you intend to perform the ritual, Mr.
Lehman?

Tomorrow night. I must be fully rested and in charge of my faculties before

making the attempt.
You have all you need?
I have the ritual athame dagger. Thats all I need.
How on earth did you get it through airport security? Lyudmila enquired.

Before leaving the monastery, I cast a powerful shade spell over it. No human, or
machine, can detect it.

Anya lightened the mood. Stroking a hand across her cheeks she said, Lord, what
I wouldnt have given for that when I was a pimple-faced teenager.

While the group continued their conversation, Ivan went to the bar. He returned
minutes later with a tray of drinks. On toasting a successful outcome to their venture,
he informed Lyudmila he had managed to book two rooms for himself and Dieter at
the Inn during their stay so as not to unduly inconvenience her.

Another round later and having partaken of a traditional pie and mash lunch, Anya
and Lyudmila took their leave of the Inn and made their way home.

Dieter went through the details one last time with Ivan on how the ritual would be
conducted, before retrieving their luggage from the car and retiring to their rooms.
Suffering from the effects of jet lag, they retired to their beds early in preparation for
the impending battle.
 ****
Another grey and overcast day greeted Lyudmila as she blearily drew open the
window drapes. Lisa and Henry had spent the night at her home and, despite the thick
divider wall separating their bedrooms, she had heard the couples prolonged love-
making. Distracted by Lisas moans and carnal outbursts, she had been forced to plug
her ears in order to get some sleep.

Good morning Lyudmila, Henry called out cheerily on entering the lounge,
looking like the proverbial cat who got the cream.
And a good morning to you Henry. Would you like some breakfast?
Please, allow me, he said. What would you like, tea, coffee, toast, or -?
No, thank you. I have already breakfasted.
Making his way to the kitchen, he began preparing two coffees.
Is Lisa up yet? Lyudmila called out.
Shes popped in to see Mel. Shell be down in a moment!

Henry was still humming away to himself in the kitchen when Lisa came
downstairs into the lounge.
How is Melanie this morning? Lyudmila enquired.
Peering into the kitchen, she replied, Resting peacefully.

Joining her host on the sofa, she asked in a hushed tone, Is it possible that
Henrys possession has changed him in some way? I dont mean just spiritually, but
in other ways?

Yes dear, it is. It left Anya with a heightened intuitive sense. However, I take it
you are referring to your love-making last night.
Lisa blushed crimson. Oh my God! You heard us?
Lyudmila smiled. He certainly has stamina, child.

The thing is, Lisa went on, he had problems in that area before the exorcism
and now hes like an altogether different man.

Then I suggest you make the most of it and count your blessings, she
counselled, cupping Lisas hand in her own.
Henry came in and laid the breakfast tray on the table.
Noticing the shortage, Lisa asked, Wheres Mels?
Didnt think shed be up to it. She was in the bathroom throwing up when I came
down.
 All the more reason to try and get her to eat something. She needs to keep up her
strength.

Right you are mlady, he cow-towed, tugging at an imaginary forelock and

backing away.

Henry came back from Mels bedroom ashen-faced. Still clutching her breakfast
tray in his shaking hands, he said in a wavering voice, That things up there in her
room.
The guardian demon? Lyudmila asked.
Henry nodded.
Lisa sprang to her feet. Whats it doing?
Its just standing over her bed, watching her doze.

Lisa made for the stairs, but Henry forestalled her. I dont think thats a good
idea. We dont want to piss it off.
Hes right my dear, Lyudmila agreed. We have a few more days yet before it
comes for the child. It is best we do not antagonise it. Give it a few more minutes and
we will take a peek.

****
Ivan and Dieter tucked in to their full English breakfasts, savouring each mouthful.
Washing them down with a Russian coffee, they looked out through the dining room
bay window into the cold and mist shrouded street.
Have you ever wondered who our benefactor is, Father? Dieter asked, taking a
sip of his coffee.

Of course. Its never far from my mind. Its unquestionably someone who
possesses great wealth and power; a prominent figure who doesnt want to be
publicly linked to the type of work we do and the unorthodox methods we use to
attain our goals. He, or she, goes to great lengths to hide their identity; hence the use
of intermediaries.
Dieter had a sudden flash of intuition. I can think of only one public figure who
comes close to that description, Father, but I could be entirely wrong.
Speak freely, brother, and say whats on your mind.
Dieter hesitated before announcing in an embarrassed tone, The Bishop of
Rome?

At first blush, it seemed an absurd idea. The more Ivan pondered over it, however,
the more sense it began to make. The Pope certainly had the power and influence in
spiritual matters and had the wealth of the Vatican at his disposal. Jeff Adams himself
admitted that his work in Italy had been sanctioned and payed for by the Vatican,
most likely through a trusted Deacon. Shortly after, and at the behest of the
benefactor, he and his pilot put in a sudden appearance at the monastery.

We have to keep our suspicions to ourselves, brother. No one else must know
what we suspect. If it is true and becomes public knowledge, the Vatican will seek to
distance itself and wash its hands of us, ending our funding.

****
Anya, Henry and Lisa entered Mels bedroom. The guardian demon was nowhere
in sight. Bizarrely, Mel was sitting up in bed with a smile on her face.

I could murder a cuppa right now, she announced, and maybe a bowl of cereals
to go with it.

Sitting at her bedside, Lyudmila asked, Are you certain, dear? Just a few minutes
ago Henry heard you vomiting in the toilet.
Well Im feeling okay now.
Anya looked at Henry. Best get her what she wants, she whispered.
As he exited the room Mel announced, I had a dream about dad.
Did you, sis?

Yeah. He was standing over the bed looking down at me with those soulful eyes
of his. He told me not to be afraid. That everything would be fine and dandy in a
few days.
Anya and Lyudmila shared a knowing look.
Did it he say anything else, sis?
Not that I remember.

Lyudmila placed the back of her hand against Mels brow. Well at least your high
temperature has dropped.
Mel suddenly jumped, her hand clutching at her stomach.
What is it Mel?
Its kicking!

Oh shit! Henry exclaimed from the doorway, breakfast tray in hand. Passing it
over, he, Anya and Lyudmila, left the room.
Has she been told about tonight? Henry asked.
I think Lisa is telling her this very moment, Anya replied.
So, whats our part in tonights escapades?
 So far as I know, we take no part in it, Henry. Only Dieter and Father
Vereshchagin will be present.

God, Id hate to be in Mels shoes when this kicks off. Shell be bloody terrified
out of her wits.

Do not fret about her, Henry, Lyudmila said. Before the evocation ritual
begins, I will give her a strong Benzodiazepine sedative. Once it takes effect, she will
not care less about what is going on around her.

****
How did she take the news? Anya enquired as Lisa descended the stairs.

She flopped onto the sofa. Reasonably well, considering. But I think she was
putting on a brave face for my sake.

Henry sat next to her and gave her a reassuring hug. Dont worry, he said,
kissing her lightly on the cheek. Shes as tough as old boots. If anyone can pull
through this, she can.
When can we expect Father Vereshchagins and Dieters arrival, aunt?
No sooner had the words left her mouth than the doorbell rang.
Henry rose up. Speak of the devil!
Well I never, he said on opening the door, If it isnt the dynamic duo!

I see you are in a reasonably cheerful mood, Henry, Ivan said, brushing passed
him.
And hows the boy wonder?
Dieter, with briefcase in hand, chuckled. When I see him, I will let you know.
On entering the lounge, Lyudmila brought them up to speed with the recent events.

When last we spoke over the phone Madam Gorodetsky you spoke of a demonic
infestation in your home.

I did Father, but since the guardian demons arrival there has been no further
activity at all, other than from the guardian himself.

The son-of-a bitch was here just a few minutes ago, looking in on her, Henry
said.
Lisa went on to describe the event.

I suspect the guardian demons motive is to lull Melanie into a false sense of
security. When we arrived yesterday, I felt nothing of the presence of other demonic
forces. Dieter and I were discussing the matter on our way over here and we both
agree that it as a positive change, insofar as we will not be encumbered by peripheral
forces during the evocation.
Lisa asked, But you will still have to deal with the guardian, wont you?

Not directly, Dieter explained, opening his briefcase and showing them the ritual
dagger. Using this, I will invoke four of the most powerful archangels to assist us.
Their presence alone should keep the guardian and any other demons at bay. As you
can see, I have removed the shade spell in readiness for the summoning.
When will it take place? Henry asked
After sunset.
Would you have any objections to me conducting a house smudging ceremony
before for then Father? Lyudmila queried.
I see no harm in your doing so; as long as you do not enter Melanies bedroom.
Then I will begin immediately. Perhaps you would like to help me, Anya?
Certainly. Maybe Lisa would like to join us?
Yes please. Id love to.
Good. Then well make a start.
With that, they left the room.

Henry was somewhat bemused. Whats this stuff about smudging all about
then?

Ivan went on to explain that it was an ancient and sacred ceremony, designed to
negate negative vibrations that had accumulated in a locale over a period of time.
So, its a bit like Spring cleaning then.
Well that is one way of putting it my friend, Dieter replied.

During the cleansing, Ivan thought it wise that he and Dieter call in on Mel and
enlighten her further on the summoning ritual. Having nothing better to do, Henry
tagged along. Dieter, being the expert in this particular matter, did most of the
talking.

****
Recalling the event in the cafe with Annie Sheavers, Mel exclaimed, Ive never
seen an archangel in its true form - let alone four!
Believe me, it is something you will never forget, Dieter assured her.

A look of sudden disappointment crossed her face, occasioning Henry to ask what
was wrong.
 Ive just remembered, Lyudmila told me Id be given a strong sedative
beforehand, so I probably wont remember much of it.

If you wish to forgo sedation then that it is entirely up to you. We cannot force it
upon you, Ivan declared.
According to what Lisa told me, you did with Henry.

That was an entirely different situation and a necessary precaution against the
demon who was in possession of him.
Mel thought for a moment. Then I choose not to be drugged.
Youre sure about that, Mel?
I am, Henry.
As you wish, Ivan said. I will tell Madam Gorodetsky of your decision.

****
The scent of burning cedar issued throughout the house as Lyudmila finalised the
smudging ceremony. Snuffing out the smudge stick in a bowl of sand, she glanced at
her watch. We have less than an hour before lunch. The men will most probably be
getting hungry by now.

Well I know Henry will be, Lisa chuckled. He burnt off a lot of calories last
night?
Lyudmila grinned at her.
Is there something Im missing out on here, Lisa? Anya inquired.

Let me just say that since Henrys homecoming I certainly havent been missing
out on anything in the bedroom department, if you get my drift?

Anya now understood why she could not intuit Henrys marital problem on
leaving him behind at the monastery gates on the first day of his arrival: It was far too
profound and personal.

****

With the fading daylight came a sense of disquiet that Lisa could not dispel,
despite the efforts of her companions to lighten her mood. She feared for her sisters
well-being should anything go awry and Dieters insistence that only he and Ivan
should be present during the invocation did little to quell her fears.

God has led us all to this precise moment in time, Ivan assured her. Do you
honestly think He will abandon us now, after all He has done?
Despite everything Ive seen, I still cant help my doubts and fears. I feel
ashamed.
 There was no bigger doubting Thomas than me, Lisa. Yet here I am, safely back
in your arms, Henry said. I truly believe he wont desert us, or Mel, now.
I hope youre right, Henry. I dont want to lose her.

He kissed her gently on the forehead and gave her a reassuring hug. You wont. I
promise shes in good hands.

It is almost time, Ivan announced. No matter what the circumstances, no one is

to enter the room during the evocation. Do you all understand?
They bobbed their heads in compliance.

Dieter placed the athame back into his briefcase and rose from his seat. I am
ready, Father.

Making the sign of the cross, Ivan said, Then may Gods love and mercy be upon
us all.

As the pair entered Mels room and closed the door behind them, Lisa began
intoning the 23rd psalm. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want .
Anya, Henry and Lyudmila, joined her in fervent prayer.

****
Mel took several deep, calming breaths in response to Dieters instructions.

Removing the dagger from his briefcase and placing it in his right hand, he turned
to face the east. Touching the athame to his forehead, he began, Thou art
Placing the dagger to his chest, he said, the Kingdom,
Transferring it to his right shoulder he continued, the Power
With the dagger now at his left shoulder, and the Glory,

As Mel and Ivan looked on, he folded his hands at his chest and pointed them and
the athame forward voicing, for ever and ever,
With his hands still folded, he directed the dagger skyward and said, Amen.

Still facing the easterly cardinal point, he lowered his arms and traced a large, and
imaginary, flaming blue pentagram in the air and thrust at its centre with the athame
and cried out the sacred name Jehovah.

Much to Ivan and Mels utter astonishment, the room was suddenly bathed in a
blue candescent light as the pentagram appeared before their eyes.

From the terminating line of the pentagram, he traced a single, fiery-white line to
the south and traced a second pentagram in blue flame. Thrusting at its middle, he
vibrated the sacred name Adonai and traced a line to the west.
 Drawing yet another pentagram, he thrust at its centre and pronounced, Thy will be
done.

He followed the same procedural once more, before completing the circle to the
east. Facing north, he thrust the athame at the fourth pentagrams core, and cried out,
You, O Lord, are mighty forever.

Encircled by four flaming blue pentagrams and a circle of white fire, he stretched
out his arms to the side, forming a cross.

Before me, Raphael, he called out. Behind me is Gabriel. At my right hand is

Michael. At my left hand is Uriel. About me flames the Pentagram and within me
shines the six-rayed star.

On repeating the first six steps of the Cabalistic Cross, Dieter fell into a catatonic-
like state. Seconds later, the Pentagrams began scintillating brightly and the room
was filled with a radiant, heavenly light. One by one, the four lofty archangels
stepped through the gateways into the world of mortals.

Ivan crossed himself and felt the immediate warm and comforting glow of their
divine presence.
Mel, too, was overcome by it.
Turn and face me Dieter Lehman, Michael instructed.
Dieter did as was bid of him and looked up into his beatific face.

Be assured, he announced, we are fully aware of the purpose behind this

summoning. Raphael, himself, has already intervened in these affairs in behalf of the
Most High and has guided your people in the discovery of the demons wicked
insurrection, thereby securing their imprisonment in the Brazen Vessel to await final
judgement.

Mel had been somewhat distracted throughout by the archangel Gabriel, who
stood before the rearmost pentagram of Michael.
My God, she thought, it is a female!
As if picking up on her thought, Gabriel looked over her shoulder and smiled at
her.

In a soft and silvery voice, she told her, When the time is right, you will bring
into this world a child. But dont be afraid. Raphael will soon unburden you of the
evil spirit that hides within your womb and give to your son a portion of his own
indomitable spirit. He will be unique among men and instrumental in the heralding of
the second coming of the Messianic Age.
You are now protected by Gods all-encompassing power, Michael announced.
The fallen ones will no longer have dominion over this place. As I have spoken, so
will it be.
 With those words, Raphael approached Mel and lifted her effortlessly from the
bed. Cradling her in his powerful arms, he spoke an Enochian blessing over her and
the child.
Elo barinu okada mirc elasa. Gemeganza, Amayo.

Horrified, Mel watched as a shadowy, non-corporeal, serpentine form slithered out

from her womb.
Cradling Mel in one arm, Raphael snatched it from the air and crushed it in his
powerful fist, before returning Mel gently to the bed.

Uriel, who had thus far remained silent, stepped forward. To your child, I will
impart the wisdom of the ages and he shall become a man of great sagacity and
courage. In him will reside a spiritual beacon - a light to illumine the dark times
ahead. As I have spoken, so will it be.

Returning to their respective portals, Dieter instigated the closing ceremony and
all went back to normal.

****

Outside, in the cold, dank streets, the guardian demon looked on powerlessly, his
attempts at gaining entry thwarted by the imperceptible and impenetrable barrier that
held him at bay. Having failed his assignment, he knew all too well what horrors
would be visited upon him on his return to Hell. The Shining One was not the
forgiving kind. Once again, his plans had been overcome by his age-old adversary,
Michael, who had cast him out of heaven long ago, with his co-conspirators.

He now had a decision to make; return to Hell and face the consequences, or flee
to the furthest corners of the Earth in the hope of remaining undetected.

****

Henry was the first to his feet on hearing the bedroom door open. Dashing to the
bottom of the stairway, he asked, How did it go?
God be praised, Ivan beamed. It went well.
Lisa rushed to Henrys side. And what about Mel?
Im fine, sis, she called out, before stepping onto the landing with Dieter.

Lisa gawked in disbelief. She couldnt believe what she was seeing. But but
your still pregnant! I thought the intention was to get rid of it.

Ivan held up his hands and called for calm. Please, everyone be seated and I will
do my best to explain what has taken place.
With rapt attention, they listened to Ivans account.
 So now youre telling us that my sisters no longer carrying a demonic child, but
an angelic one?
It would appear so, Ivan replied.
And hes going to be some kind of messiah?

No, he isnt, sis, Mel interrupted. I think Gabriel meant he will become a
prophet, like John the Baptist; a sort of forerunner to the second coming.
And youre okay with that?

Well I really didnt have much of a say in the matter. No more than the Virgin
Mary did.
How do you feel about that? Anya enquired.

Scared shitless, to be honest. Ive no idea whatsoever on how to bring up a

normal kid, let alone an uber-intelligent, angelic, one. But I have thought of a name
for him, she suddenly announced. It came to me when Raphael laid me back on the
bed.
What have you in mind, child? Ivan enquired.
Aaron.
He smiled. It is quite an appropriate name under the circumstances. It means
teacher and mountain of strength.
Exactly how far off is this Messianic Age they spoke of? Henry asked.

It all depends on what faith you follow. In the Christian faith, it is believed that
the Messianic Age began when Christ was crucified and that it is only through his
second coming that it will be initiated and fulfilled. We have no idea of when that
will be. Aaron could be just one of many prophets leading up to the Second Advent.
Where do we go from here then Mr. Vereshchagin? Lisa enquired.

We carry on with our lives as best we can and put our faith in God. A few days
from now, Dieter, Anya and I will return to the monastery. I have the strongest
feeling, however, that our paths will cross again in the fullness of time.
Your returning to Russia, Anya?
Only for a short while, Henry. I have my uncles affairs to sort out.

Lyudmila, who had slipped out into the kitchen earlier, returned with a tray of
drinks. Handing them out to all but Mel, she toasted, To mother and child!
To Mel and the little prophet! Henry countered.
 Epilogue.

And so, united in common cause, the group go about their daily lives, little knowing the
trials and tribulations that await them.in a not so distant future.

A new conflict would arise; one that stretches their fealty to one another to its limits.
Entangled in an irreverent and unholy web of deception, the group struggle to maintain
their allegiance. When all seems lost, they are approached by an unlikely source who
proposes a strange coalition.
 Other books by the author:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Strange-Dominions-collection-paranormal-stories-ebook
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Numinous-Storm-David-Calvert/dp/1521014523
 Credits.
Book cover design by Mak Wilson.
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Baphomet.svg
 Acknowledgements.
Many thanks got to my American friend and proof reader, Krista Ayscue, for her support
and encouragement during the writing of this book.

Thanks also to Karen Han, of Ghosts, Hauntings and the Paranormal, for her timely
research efforts and assistance.

My respect and admiration goes to the following authors whos works have inspired and
enthralled me over the years: Dennis Wheatley, Edgar Alan Poe, Stephen King, Ray
Bradbury, James Herbert, H.P. Lovecraft, et al.