Chapter Three - August 17th, 64 A.D

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Silence settled in the council room as the other esteemed council members departed, leaving Lucifer alone by the grand window with its sweeping view of the vast realm below. He stood there, his gaze fixed on the horizon where the celestial fire mingled with darkness. His thoughts dwelled in depths unknown, a labyrinth of contemplation concealed beneath his solemn expression.

Azazel, a formidable presence in his own right, approached with measured steps, one hand veiled in the folds of his dark robe. As he neared, he paused, conjuring a sideways glance at Lucifer. Narrow eyes, like piercing embers beneath a furrowed brow, expressed a silent questioning. Lucifer, ever perceptive, caught the subtle shift in Azazel's demeanor. With a quiet sigh, he turned his attention away from the window, his voice a calm yet firm command.

"Whatever it is that weighs on your mind, Azazel, dismiss it immediately. I am not in the mood for your berating." His voice carried a blend of weariness and authority, his words hinting at a lingering tension between the two.

Azazel's amusement waned, replaced by a flicker of unyielding resolve. His voice took on a sharper edge, cutting through the hushed air.

"Dismiss it? Dismiss what, Lucifer?" he countered, his tone laced with a hint of sarcasm, "The notion that you lied directly to your daughter, or perhaps your unwavering dedication to upholding your carefully crafted facade?"

"You have a peculiar way of twisting reality to suit your own narrative, Azazel," Lucifer retorted, his voice dripping with a mocking edge, "I have no idea what you're babbling about."

"You forget who it is you're speaking to." Azazel smirked, "While you may wield the title of king, I hold the position of your trusted advisor. Deceiving Tara in such a manner was a perilous gamble. You are undoubtedly aware of her fiery temperament. I can't even begin to describe the chaos that will erupt once she uncovers the truth you so desperately conceal."

"You are correct about one thing, old friend," Lucifer said with a stern voice, "I am indeed the king."

Azazel rolled his eyes slightly, Lucifer too carried away to notice.

"As for my daughter," Lucifer remarked, his voice steady and unwavering, "Her allegiance knows no bounds. Like a true warrior, I have faith that she will do what is best for the prosperity of our realm."

"Enough of this warrior's life, hasn't she endured enough?" Azazel fervently argued, his frustration palpable, "For heaven's sake, Lucifer, she has never been granted the simple luxury of existence. She has suffered for far too long; do not subject her to further pain."

"As far as I'm concerned she hasn't suffered enough," Lucifer shouted, "As my own child, she will adhere to my every directive. As my advisor, so will you. It would be wise for you to remember where you stand."

Azazel, not one to back down, retorted with a tone of disdain, "Your delusional viewpoint blinds you, Lucifer. You were always an arrogant tyrant, believing your bloodline grants you power. But let me assure you, your alleged authority holds no weight in the face of reason and compassion."

Lucifer's eyes glinted with a mix of anger and amusement as he replied, "Ah, Azazel, still the insolent fool, I see. Your futile attempts to belittle me only serve to showcase your own ignorance. It seems you have forgotten your place, my dear friend. Do not mistake my patience for weakness; I have tolerated your insolence for far too long."

"Insolence or not," Azazel sighed, "I implore you to reconsider your decision. It would be wise to at least elucidate to Tara your true intentions. I would abhor seeing her wrath shatter your plans."

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