The devil was once an angel

Chapter 4: A Ghost From The Past

The chilly evening air was a stark contrast to the warmth of the café. Evelyn, Julian, and Samantha walked to a nearby park, where they could talk in relative privacy. The park was quieter now, the fading light casting long shadows that seemed to stretch and intertwine.

Evelyn led the way to a secluded bench beneath a large oak tree. They sat down, and Samantha, though visibly concerned, waited for Evelyn to start.

“So, Samantha,” Evelyn began, trying to find the right words, “it’s been a long time. What brings you here?”

Samantha’s gaze was fixed on Evelyn. “I was in town for a conference and decided to stop by. But seeing you... I didn’t expect you to look so troubled. What’s going on?”

Evelyn took a deep breath. “It’s a lot to explain. I’ve been dealing with some unexpected and difficult situations recently. You see, my past has caught up with me in ways I didn’t anticipate.”

Samantha’s eyes widened. “Your past? I thought you left all of that behind.”

Julian interjected, his voice calm but firm. “Samantha, I think it’s important that you understand Evelyn’s situation. She’s been facing some serious threats connected to her former life. There are forces at play that we’re trying to understand.”

Samantha looked between Julian and Evelyn, sensing the gravity of the situation. “I had no idea things were so serious. How can I help?”

Evelyn appreciated Samantha’s willingness to assist but knew she had to be cautious. “I’m not sure yet. I just need to figure out what’s happening and how to deal with it. But it’s strange to see you here now.”

Samantha nodded. “I can understand why this is unsettling. But if there’s anything I can do, please let me know.”

Julian took this opportunity to steer the conversation. “Samantha, have you noticed anything unusual lately? Any strange occurrences or people asking about Evelyn?”

Samantha shook her head. “No, nothing out of the ordinary. But now that you mention it, there was something peculiar about my visit. I had a feeling—almost like I was being watched.”

Evelyn’s heart skipped a beat. “Being watched? Did you see anyone or experience anything specific?”

Samantha’s expression grew thoughtful. “Not really. Just a sense of unease. It might be nothing, but it’s been bothering me.”

Julian’s eyes narrowed. “That’s significant. It suggests that whatever is targeting Evelyn might be more pervasive than we thought.”

Evelyn felt a surge of anxiety. “What should I do? How do I get to the bottom of this?”

Julian’s expression was resolute. “We need to gather more information. The first step is to understand what these entities want from you and why they’re targeting you now.”

Samantha looked determined. “If there’s a way I can assist, just tell me.”

Julian nodded. “For now, we should focus on two things: first, figuring out any connections between the disturbances and Evelyn’s past, and second, making sure you stay safe, Evelyn. The more we know, the better we can protect you.”

Evelyn appreciated Julian’s strategy, though the weight of her situation was heavy on her shoulders. “Alright, let’s start with what we know. I’ll try to remember anything from my past that might be relevant.”

As the conversation continued, Evelyn found herself revisiting memories she had tried to leave behind. She shared what she could about her previous life—about the celestial realm, the powers she had once wielded, and the reasons she had chosen to leave.

Samantha listened intently, her concern evident. “It sounds like you’ve been through a lot. But why would anyone from your past come looking for you now?”

Julian interjected, “There might be unfinished business or something that’s emerged recently that has caused this resurgence. We need to find out what it is.”

As they discussed their next steps, a distant sound broke the evening’s quiet—a faint, rhythmic thud, like footsteps approaching. Julian tensed, his eyes scanning the surroundings. Evelyn and Samantha followed his lead, their senses alert.

A figure emerged from the shadows—a young woman with a striking appearance, her dark hair cascading over her shoulders. She moved with a purpose, her eyes fixed on Evelyn.

“Evelyn Matthews?” the woman called out, her voice firm but not unkind.

Evelyn’s heart raced. “Yes, that’s me. Who are you?”

The woman stopped a few feet away. “My name is Lilith. I’ve been sent to find you and offer assistance.”

Julian stepped forward, his demeanor protective. “And why should we trust you?”

Lilith’s gaze was steady. “I understand your skepticism. I’m a mediator between the realms. I was sent by someone who believes you might need help in navigating the current threats.”

Evelyn’s confusion grew. “Sent by whom? Why would anyone want to help me?”

Lilith’s expression softened. “There are factions within the celestial and supernatural communities that have been watching the recent disturbances. Some of them believe you are crucial to resolving the current situation. I’m here to offer guidance and aid.”

Julian’s eyes remained guarded. “How do we know you’re not another part of the problem?”

Lilith’s gaze was unwavering. “I understand your concern. My intention is to assist, not to cause harm. If you prefer, I can provide proof of my allegiance.”

Evelyn glanced at Julian and then at Samantha. The situation was becoming increasingly complex, and each new player seemed to add a layer of uncertainty.

“I think we should hear her out,” Evelyn said cautiously. “If she’s here to help, we need all the assistance we can get.”

Julian nodded reluctantly. “Alright. We’ll listen to what you have to say, but we’ll remain cautious.”

Lilith acknowledged the decision with a nod and took a seat on the bench, indicating for the others to do the same. “I have information that might help you understand the threats you’re facing and how to address them. But first, I need to know what you’ve experienced and what you’ve uncovered so far.”

As Evelyn and her companions settled in, the night grew darker, and the shadows seemed to close in around them. The presence of Lilith added a new dimension to their understanding of the situation, but it also raised more questions. Evelyn realized that the journey ahead would be fraught with challenges, but having allies—whether trusted or not—might be the key to navigating the perilous path she was now on.