*Chapter 9: The Deal*
Vraxxis smiled, seeming to savor the moment. "You see, Gabriel, I've been watching you for a long time. I know all about your little empire, and I must say, I'm impressed."
Gabriel's eyes narrowed, his face twisted in a scowl. "What do you want, Vraxxis?" he growled.
Vraxxis chuckled. "Oh, I think you know exactly what I want, Gabriel. I want a share of your empire. I want to be a partner in your little mafia."
Aria's eyes widened in shock. She had never seen Vraxxis as a business partner, but now it made sense. He had been manipulating events to get to this point.
Gabriel's face turned red with rage, and he launched himself at Vraxxis. But the demon was too quick, dodging the archangel's attack with ease.
"I think you'll find that you have no choice, Gabriel," Vraxxis said, his eyes glinting with triumph. "You see, I have something that you want very badly. Something that will give me the upper hand in our little negotiation."
Aria's heart sank as she realized what Vraxxis was talking about. The package. Whatever was inside, it must be something big.
Vraxxis smiled, seeming to enjoy the moment. "So, Gabriel, what do you say? Are you ready to make a deal?"
Gabriel's face twisted in a snarl, but Aria could see the calculation in his eyes. He knew that he had no choice.
"Fine," he spat. "I'll make a deal with you. But mark my words, Vraxxis, you'll regret this."
Vraxxis chuckled, seeming to savor the moment. "I'm shaking in my boots, Gabriel."