Above all other names, it was Jesus Christ who rescued my mind and brought me back to the truth I’d forgotten, a truth that Luminous seemed to grasp. Yet, doubts lingered in his mind, whether or not it were true. I needed to convince him otherwise — both him and the demon Baal that clung to his back.

  Navigating through the intricacies of dealing with such unholy entities was challenging. Demons like Baal prowled, ever vigilant for an opportunity to corrupt a soul. They fixated on the mind, recognizing its power as the stronghold of the human body. This awareness compelled me to remain vigilant, mindful not only of the visible world but also of the unseen forces at play.

  I recalled my identity, my journey, and the divine guidance that had led me to this moment.

  Memories flooded in, from the wonders of God to the present trials. I embraced my identity as Madeline Rimes, understanding that Jesus had called me to bring liberation to His people. Despite the shame that weighed heavily upon me, I clung to the promises of the Lord, knowing that His plans far exceeded my own comprehension.

  Opening the scriptures, I sought solace in familiar verses. But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Psalms 86:15. The truth of these words rang deep within me. And I held onto the assurance of Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

  Yet, despite this knowledge, shame clouded my perception, hindering me from fully embracing the grace that had been offered to me. Tears streamed down my face as I bowed my head in anguish. The memory of Douglas’s tragedy resurfaced, reigniting the flames of grief I’d long suppressed. It was a pain I was meant to confront ages ago, a necessary step for Jesus to begin His work of healing within me.

  I rubbed my eyes, exhaustion sinking into every crevice of my being as I scanned the emptiness of my chambers. The realization hit me like a crashing wave: Pauline was the handle to my sword, and without her, the blade was nothing but a useless piece of metal.

  Furrowing my brows, I pressed my hands into my face, the weight of disappointment bearing down on me. Anger surged through my veins, and I found myself pleading with God for forgiveness, although deep down, I struggled to accept it.

  My eyelids grew heavy, and I pulled the blankets tighter around me, seeking solace in their warmth. “What have I done?” the question echoed in my mind, doubts clawing at my resolve. “Jesus, did you choose the wrong person for this task?” I buried my head in the covers, grappling with the enormity of my doubts.

  How could I fulfill the role of a warrior? What if I stumbled into temptation once more, losing myself beyond recognition? And Pauline —how had I pushed her away when she was the one person who truly understood me? The undercover agent, I have no idea where she went – I have no clue what I did to her.

  A heavy sigh escaped me, the weight of restlessness settling deep within. As sleep threatened to claim me, a voice, gentle yet powerful, spoke in the depths of my heart.

  “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God …”

  “I will cling to your Word – it is my sword,” I whispered back to Him, a vow of determination rising within me.

  For me, the Word was more than just a collection of verses; it was the anchor for my sanity, a constant reminder of my identity in Him. To overcome the challenges of this world and the battles within myself, I required both the guidance of the Spirit and the living Word of God. Together, they granted me the strength to claim victory in Christ Jesus.

  Seated above the heavenly throne, Jesus and the Father radiated a glory too magnificent for mortal eyes to behold. I knelt before them, overwhelmed by their presence and unable to meet their gaze. Suddenly, a hand extended toward me, and a voice, like rushing waters, enveloped me, “Look up, my daughter. Your sins are forgiven.”

  Taking His hand, I felt an instant departure from the throne room. Walking on an invisible path beside Jesus, I followed His gaze toward the earth, distant yet intimately close.

  “Do you see what I see?” Jesus asked, his voice gentle yet full of anticipation.

  Glancing down, I beheld a myriad of twinkling lights. “I do,” I whispered, feeling a surge of overwhelming love in His presence.

  “What do you believe they are?” the Lord inquired, as if delighting in my curiosity.

  “I don’t know,” I confessed, my heart swelling with emotion.

  “Watch a little closer,” Jesus encouraged.

  As I focused on the lights, I discerned movement within them. “They’re people,” I realized, awe coloring my voice.

  Slowly, the lights dimmed, engulfed by a dark void, yet within each one, a tiny speck of light persisted.

  “Where did their light go?” I asked, perplexed.

  “The speck of light is my Spirit,” Jesus explained gently. “Each person, created by my Father, carries a spark of me within them, even when they are unaware.” As I continued to observe, some lights burst into radiant brilliance while others faded into darkness.

  “The ones bursting into light have found me, and I have received them,” Jesus affirmed, a smile of love illuminating His face. Then, His expression turned somber. “Darkness is the absence of me, and the absence of me is despair ...”

  With a jolt, I awoke from my dream, gasping for breath. Tears streaked my cheeks, unnoticed until now. Rising from my bed, I offered prayers of praise and gratitude to the Lord Jesus Christ. Gathering myself, I approached the door to retrieve our formal instructions. Before leaving, I opened the Word of God, sharpening my spiritual sword.

  As I finished, I thanked Him and closed the Holy Bible, a sense of peace crowning my heart.

  Dressing for the day, I adorned myself in a blush-pink gown, its ruffled hem and golden waistband exuding elegance. With the final touch of makeup, I stood before the mirror, ready to face the day with courage and grace.

  Before I could even settle into my seat for breakfast, I sensed someone behind me. His hands grazed my shoulder sleeves, gently pushing them down my arms. Glancing ahead, I realized I had them on the wrong way, unlike the other girls.

  My breath caught as he brushed my hair aside and pressed a kiss to the skin between my neck and shoulder. Inwardly, I recoiled. Public displays of affection were unusual for him. Why now? I furrowed my eyebrows and cleared my throat, then turned to face him.

  “Feeling confident today, I see?” I murmured softly.

  His eyes shimmered in the morning light, a smile playing on his lips as he whispered, “Shouldn’t my beautiful trophy be praised?”

  I touched the spot where his lips had lingered, feeling no attraction toward him, despite his undeniable charm. “It’s just ... unusual,” I replied carefully. “But we can make it normal, if you like.”

  He blinked, his exhale almost a sigh. “If that’s what you wish.”

  Wetting my lips nervously, I moved away from him to prepare our breakfast plates, mirroring Luminous’s actions. I couldn’t help but glance toward Pauline, anticipation bubbling inside me. I couldn’t wait to share the news with her.

  But my attention was drawn to Theodore. Dark circles under his eyes, sunken cheeks, labored breaths — it was evident that Baal’s influence had taken its toll on him. God, I whispered inwardly, Baal has truly left him and entered Luminous, hasn’t he?

  “Madaline,” Aeromonas rose from her chair, addressing me. “Why don’t you bless our meal today? Father’s voice is hoarse.”

  I hesitated, a wave of uncertainty crashing over me. How could I bless them when I no longer served their god? But, they expected it. I didn’t want to disappoint them. “Jesus, I need you,” I whispered silently.

  Summoning a smile, I stood up, but before I could speak, Stacy intervened, her cheeks flushed with indignation. “Why should Luminous be degraded? Shouldn’t he bless us?”

  I sank back into my seat, expecting Luminous to rise. But he surprised me by nodding toward me. “I’m honored, Stacy, but Madaline can lead us today.”

  Was this a test of faith? Was I meant to prove my allegiance to my Heavenly Father? My hands trembled as I pushed my sleeves back up, a silent act of defiance. “May the truth set us free,” I began, my voice steady despite my inner turmoil. “May He bless our meal and fill our hearts with peace. Let His Spirit guide us, now and always. In the name of J ...”

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  “STOP!” The warlock’s urgent voice sliced through the murmurs of the dining hall as he hurried towards Luminous. “Might I have a word, Master?”

  Luminous glanced up, a hint of annoyance in his tone. “Can it not wait until after breakfast?”

  Leaning in close, the warlock whispered urgently, “Master, can you feel it?”

  Luminous lowered his head, taking a deep breath. “Are you that afraid, Warlock?”

  “M-Master,” the warlock pleaded, “Feel it again ...”

  With a swift motion, Luminous seized the warlock by the collar of his shirt, his voice tight with tension. “Of course, I feel it. I am not bothered, but you are bothering me.” He tightened his grip, rising from his seat with the warlock still in his grasp. “Get out, and if you ever dare to disrupt our unity again, you will face the consequences.”

  As Luminous released his grip, the warlock’s body flew backward, crashing harshly onto the floor. I watched in shock, realizing the depth of Luminous’s possession.

  I understood then that the warlock had sensed the heightened presence of God within our midst. He’d always detected the fragrance of the Holy Spirit within me, even when I’d forgotten. Although darkness had threatened to consume me, the speck of light that was Madaline remained. Now, that light burst forth with undeniable brilliance. How, Lord, I wondered, How are you hiding it?

  After breakfast concluded, Luminous graciously dismissed us. As I sat there, thoughts of rekindling my relationship with Pauline floated through my mind, but it seemed the Lord had different intentions. Without hesitation, I found myself drawn to the garden. Scaling my customary pillar of stone, I surveyed the serene surroundings, sensing the divine urging for solitude, to hear His voice.

  Closing my eyes, I absorbed the invigorating aroma of the ocean breeze, feeling its salty caress. A gentle whisper penetrated my consciousness, “Put on the armor of God.”

  “Lord,” I murmured in prayer, “clothe me with the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, gird me with the belt of truth. May the gospel of peace be my footwear, and equip me with the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit ...”

  In that moment I glimpsed Pauline, feeling a surge of determination to approach her. But before I could take a step, Jace materialized unexpectedly.

  “Madaline, I’ve prepared your wedding gown, but I require some final adjustments,” she announced, adjusting her glasses with a warm smile on her lips.

  “Can it not wait?” I inquired, my gaze shifting toward Pauline.

  “I’m afraid not,” Jace replied, her nervous fidgeting betraying her urgency. “For perfection on your glamorous day, it’s imperative that we address it now.”

  A pang of regret pierced through me. What had I gotten myself into? I glanced down, then back at Jace, conceding, “Very well ...”

  “But the wedding is less than a week away,” Jace reminded me, her concern evident. “Are you sure everything’s all right? Are you experiencing cold feet?”

  I arched an eyebrow, suppressing a chuckle, and replied, “Ah, you’ve caught me. But shh, let’s keep it between us.”

  “Your secret’s safe with me,” Jace assured me with a knowing smile before departing.

  Frustration gnawed at me as I watched her leave. Lord, I silently pleaded, burn the dress. Burn it all ...

  I witnessed Pauline’s solitary journey along the path of weathered stones, where she eventually knelt in silent communion, hidden from the prying eyes of others. Approaching her cautiously, the urge to reveal myself tugged at me, but a stern warning from the Spirit halted my intentions. I gasped, recalling Luminous’s reminder that his watchful gaze extended everywhere.

  ’Pauline,” I ventured as I drew nearer, “What are you doing?”

  “Something you’ve forgotten,” she retorted sharply, her tone cutting through the tranquil atmosphere. Fair, I admitted to myself as I settled beside her. She turned her gaze toward me, curiosity flickering in her eyes. “And what about you?”

  “I wanted to apologize for my behavior,” I confessed, “but if you’re indifferent, then perhaps I should just leave.”

  “A splendid way to apologize,” she remarked dryly, rising to her feet and brushing off the dust from her garments. “I’m certain Luminous will fill your chamber soon enough.” With that, she walked away, leaving me to ponder her words.

  Sensing a presence, I glanced over my shoulder, catching a glimpse of a blurred figure through the highest window of the castle. A gasp escaped my lips as an eerie sensation enveloped me, although the Holy Spirit shielded me from its influence.

  Lost in contemplation, I stared at the swaying blades of grass, considering my next course of action. What would Madaline do? She wouldn’t stray far from her family. Determination surged within me as I rose to my feet and made my way back into the castle. Racing up the stairs to the highest level, I approached the door where the blurry figure lingered.

  As the shades veiled the windows, darkness encroached, sending shivers down my spine. With trembling hands, I pushed open the door, bracing myself for what laid there beyond.

  Stepping into the room, I was taken aback by its emptiness. Confusion clouded my mind as I surveyed the surroundings further. It resembled a photography studio, illuminated by flickering fluorescent lights that transitioned from red to soft pink and back again. My eyes widened in disbelief as I noticed the multitude of pictures adorning the walls.

  They hung there, suspended from tethered strings, each image depicting a beautiful girl, captured and frozen in time. My gaze lingered on them, only to be met with the grotesque sight of a real, torn-open heart placed beside each photograph.

  A realization struck me like a bolt of lightning – he hadn’t been speaking metaphorically. This was all too real. But, where was the true pedestal? My heart raced with anxiety as I examined the pictures more closely, stumbling upon one of myself. It depicted me perched upon my stone pillar, my face scrutinized in unsettling detail.

  With a surge of dread, I dropped the photos, their weight heavy with the weight of countless lives lost. This wasn’t metaphorical; it was a bloodbath. Anger flooded my veins as I tore the pictures from the walls, ripping down the tethered ropes and overturning the tables in a fit of rage. But my efforts were interrupted by a chilling presence behind me.

  “I see you’ve found yourself where you shouldn’t be,” Luminous muttered, his voice sending shivers down my spine.

  Turning to face him, shame gave way to righteous fury. I stared at him with unyielding eyes, remembering the horrors of this place and the lives sacrificed to protect their family. “These are nothing but offerings, I suppose,” I spat weakly.

  “They are willing sacrifices,” he countered, stooping down to gather the scattered photos. “I come here to mourn.”

  I knew better. All he’d ever done was lie. I clenched my jaw, refusing to comply as I picked up my own photo from the floor. Stepping past him, I muttered, “Mine will not be remembered ...”

  His hand seized my arm, halting my retreat. “Put it back,” he demanded, his grip tightening.

  With defiance burning in my eyes, I whispered, “No.”

  His grip tightened further as he pulled me toward him, his voice cold and commanding. “Now.”

  I met his gaze, feeling the weight of his intentions in the air between us. My lips moistened with apprehension, a silent signal of my hesitation. “Your plan is to end me,” I ventured, my voice edged with a mix of defiance and uncertainty.

  With a swift motion, he snatched the photo from my grasp. In that moment, a surge of divine purpose coursed through me, urging me to action. I reached out, my touch gentle against his cheek, a facade of the woman I wasn’t. “Is that your desire, Luminous?” I murmured softly. “Is it for the sake of unity?”

  His swallow was audible, his grip tightening around my hand where it rested against his face. “Yes, but not yet,” he confessed, his lips hovering dangerously close to mine. “I have other plans for you.”

  As his lips brushed against mine, the urge to push him away surged within me. Yet, I resisted, holding back for the greater cause, for the salvation of these people.

  If I had to play the role of a false wife, if I had to sacrifice myself for the sake of Christ, then so be it. My suffering would be His triumph. One certainty echoed in my mind amidst the turmoil — I would witness the fall of this palace, whether I was in it or not. How long, Lord? How much more must I endure? I silently questioned, a single tear betraying my determination.

  Silent questioning brewed within me, betrayed only by a solitary tear that slipped down my cheek, a silent admission of my inner turmoil.

  Luminous brushed the tear away with his thumb, and in that moment, a subtle shift occurred in his demeanor. I tilted my head, sensing the quickening rhythm of my heart, pulsating with an intensity I’d never before experienced.

  The door slammed shut, startling me with its abruptness. As he drew my lips to his once more, I couldn’t conceal my discomfort.

  His kisses trailed down to my neck, causing me to clench my teeth in response. This encounter felt otherworldly, unsettling. When his slid up my thigh, my heart threatened to implode within my chest. Yet, amidst the tumult of emotions, Madeline’s desires echoed in my mind.

  Unable to suppress my unease, I squirmed out of his grasp, shaking my head slightly. “Wouldn’t this be more enjoyable in a bed?” I ventured, the words escaping my lips in a whisper.

  “Why does it matter where it happens?” he challenged, a hint of skepticism in his tone. “Unless, of course, you do care – which suggests that Madeline Rimes has resurfaced.”

  “It’s just ... this setting feels rather bleak,” I countered, my voice tinged with uncertainty. “Even for me.”

  His shoulders rose and fell with a heavy sigh, and he drew in a deep breath, his hesitation palpable as he regarded me. Finally, he exhaled, conceding, “Perhaps you’re right. A bed would be more suitable than these decaying floorboards beneath us. We wouldn’t want to risk splinters, now, would we?”

  Approaching me with purpose, he encircled my waist with both hands, his touch trailing down my legs. With a graceful bend, he retrieved my dress, expertly arranging it back into place. As his hand gently lifted my chin, his eyes bore into mine, filled with a depth of emotion. “ What’s a week when I’ve been waiting a lifetime for this ... ,” he murmured, his voice laden with longing.

  Then, in a sudden, fluid motion, his demeanor underwent a drastic change, his once calm expression now eclipsed by a chilling darkness. His eyes, once warm, now turned black, as if a malevolent force had seized control of him. With a deep, guttural growl, his voice dripped with icy intentions as he uttered, “However, there is one thing you need to learn.” Abruptly, he pivoted back toward me, delivering a sharp blow across my cheek.

  Stumbling to the ground from the unexpected strike, I gasped, clutching my stinging cheek. Standing over me, he loomed, his gaze piercing as I brushed my hair away from my face, meeting his eyes with a mixture of shock and fear.

  His eyes reverted to their usual hue, yet the mass of his command remained unchanged. With an authoritative tone that brooked no argument, he demanded, “Never come in here again. Do I make myself clear?”

  With a trembling nod, I acknowledged, feeling the sting gradually subsiding as tears welled in my eyes. “Yes,” I managed to whisper.

  He bit his lip, a flicker of remorse fleeting across his features as he nodded in affirmation. “Good,” he said, extending a hand toward me. “Don’t be afraid of me,” he said, “sometimes discipline hurts.”

  Hesitantly, I accepted his gesture, allowing him to help me up. Straightening my dress, I smoothed my hands over the fabric, pulling the sleeves back onto my arms. In his eyes, I glimpsed a hint of regret before he composed himself with a clearing of his throat.

  As the bell rang out, we descended the stairs together, his hand firmly clasping mine, making our way to the dining hall for lunch.