I claimed a spiritless shape-shifter, using my emotion of curiosity as a harmless approach. I reached for its form, clear and weightless, carefully wielding fire from my clawed fingertips to show I had at least some form of demonic power. It whirled around me in a spiral-like movement, studying the brands on my arms, igniting the small flames into a huge crimson pyre from the palms of my hands. It continued spiraling out of control, showing me the true nature of flame throwing. The shape-shifter replenished my strength with its energy, and I was grateful it wasn't a resentful spirit with a devouring nature. I allowed it to become part of my spirit in good faith, and I practiced what I had learned. I could easily take possession of it within the infernal realm, but would it allow me to leave? Satan had said the shades and shape-shifters could become anything I wanted them to be, and what I needed now was a mentor. I stopped thinking so much about the brands and with the help of this shape-shifter, thought I might possibly survive here.
Once inside the North gate, Rowan led the others down the dimly lit halls toward the archway of the first house.
"It's this one," Rowan tapped his claws above the copper sigil of Dantalion's chamber.
"Why is it glowing?" Erin whispered to Vine.
"Only those demons whose servitude has been met will show their sigils glowing above their chamber. Our chambers are further down the hall, but here is where we agreed to meet and call Lord Dantalion."
"Could we hold off on the chit chat? All of you go in!" Rowan barked.
"What's up with him?" Lucia asked Sitri.
"He's in feed to survive mode right about now, " Sitri winked.
"I'll be back later," Rowan flashed his canines.
As he exited the chamber, Levi brought in food and wine, placing a tray beside the hearth.
"Ahh… I trust you are all friends of Master Rowan and Lord Dantalion," he eyed Lucia and Erin with a knowing glare.
"It's him… the guy from the ritual… you know, Samhain.. the underground club…" Erin whispered in Lucia's ear.
"Yea… I remember him now."
"You are perfectly safe here in Lord Dantalion's chamber… I should persuade you against wandering these halls… You know, demons mulling about and such," Levi chuckled.
"As soon as Master Rowan gets back we must invoke Laurel's guardian angel, Dantalion," King Vine reminded the others.