Fallen

Chapter Six

"But we would rather the exposure be under our control. Under our guidance, rather than just throwing them to the winds." Anne paused, before getting to her real motive for her visit. "Which is why we need you on your best behavior. You are, admittedly, less than strict with your ways, and this is something that is well known."

Harper snorted, rolling her eyes, as Anne continued.

"But that can also be of benefit to us all. You have such a unique gift, your ability to sway favor and attract attention the way you do. I have little doubt that the Angels will also be susceptible to this."

Harpers eyes locked on her mothers through the mirror.

"You want me to influence an Angel?" she asked, incredulous.

"No!" her mother shrieked. "If anything, we want the opposite. We don't dare repeat the mistakes of Isaiah, and start the whole mess over again. We want you to control your influence, but use your experience here on Earth. Be selective, even careful with your answers if they are to question you. Help them to understand the difficulties of being pure, while in an environment that is anything but."

Harpers expression was quizzical, forcing her mother to step to her side, turning her towards her.

"To couple with an Angel, while a Fallen, could be devastating to our redemption. It would be a repetition of the exact issue that our ancestors felt so strongly against that one took matters in to his own hands, judging Isaiah. And by others going so far as to free Aerin, so that he may flee....our track record in this area is already tumultuous. And certainly something we don't care allow to happen again. It would only emphasize our lack of control, or respect for what we are trying to return to." Anne paused, considering the topic further. "I am sure, of course, that it wont be an issue. The Angels themselves are unlikely to risk making the same errors as their own predecessors. All we ask is that you tread carefully."

Harper kept her face impassive, but her mind was anything but. She knew she was being warned. She was viewed as a weak link in her family's foolish bid to be returned to Heaven. She knew full well that if she had not been the daughter of the Lead, she would more than likely been kept away from the Angels at all costs.

But, she was Harper Caison. And therefore, she would be expected to appear as her name and status implied.

Meeting her mothers gaze evening, Harper controlled her features with well practiced skill.

"I will tread as though upon glass, mother,"

***

"This isn't so bad," Grace smiled, bringing the tall flute of pale pink liquid to her lips.

Harper shook her head lightly, a sly smile coming to her face. "Only because Samuel is here." She mocked. "And you've been eye screwing him for the last hour."

"Please. You've been eyeing Noah for the last fifteen minutes. If you forced your influence in his direction any more, you may as well just throw it at him like a baseball."

Harper giggled, almost choking on her drink. It was a fruity, almost too sweet mixture, that she was certain would taste much better if champagne were added. Of course, there was not a spot of alcohol on the premises. Not even the few hidden stashes some of the Fallen usually kept secret. Any small indiscretion or chance at discovery had been promptly removed days before.

It felt as though the entire community of the Otherworld Los Angeles compound was in this large room. The dark wood walls, with their floor to ceiling windows, elegant tapestries, and soft accents, all combined to give the Gathering hall the perfect combination of heaven and earth. The ceiling above was glass, giving a flawless and clear view of the stars above, while the floor was white marble, its hard texture mirrored against the infinite sky.