Ask the Oracle Read Online Free PDF Page B

hope is that we can
    resolve the situation before too much damage is done.” Turning away from the fight, Dreo
    motioned for him to follow.
    Gray swallowed nervously, trailing Dreo. Nothing like working under pressure. They
    quickly made their way through the bustling streets until they found themselves standing
    before the large iron gates of Lord Lucifer’s palace. Dreo shared a few quietly whispered
    words with the demons guarding the entrance before they were ushered in with no further
    delay.
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    27

    Gray couldn’t help but marvel at the dark splendour of their surroundings. The black
    marble that covered the floors was shot through with veins of silver, turquoise and violet.
    That, combined with deep royal-blue walls, gave the appearance that the entire palace was
    cast in a constant state of twilight. The beauty and peace emanating from their surroundings
    was in complete opposition to what Gray had been expecting to find in Hell. Sculptures and
    tapestries lined the walls as they passed, depicting everything from fallen rulers to events
    from times long past. Gray was tempted to stop for a closer look but decided against it.
    Instead, he tried to keep pace with Dreo, who was moving at a steady clip towards what he
    had described as the main receiving hall. It was there that they were supposed to meet up
    with Dreo’s team of demons who would be acting as Gray’s protection during his
    investigation. Guards were dispersed along the way, cleverly hidden in the shadows of the
    majestic sculptures. They remained motionless as he and Dreo passed, but Gray wasn’t
    fooled. He could see the tension in their bodies and the sharpness of their stares. They were
    ready to move into action at the slightest sign of trouble. Gray could admit he was
    adequately impressed.
    Passing through a massive stone archway, Gray found himself entering a beautifully
    decorated throne room. The cavernous space was well over the length of a football field and
    decorated in the same style as the rest of the castle he’d seen. Crystal chandeliers hung from
    the ceiling, dripping with pale purple and silver gems that cast an enchanting glow over the
    room. Black doors lined the walls of the hall, leading the way deeper into the castle. What
    Gray wouldn’t give to have free reign to explore the gigantic structure. Who knew what lay
    beyond those doors? The endless possibilities teased at his inherent tendency towards
    curiosity. He gave them one last wistful glance before following after Dreo’s retreating form.
    Continuing on, Gray finally noticed the Demons milling around the room. Dressed to
    the nines, they were clearly from the higher echelon of Demon society. Dreo paid them no
    mind as he continued through the throng, clearing a path with nothing more than his
    presence. Gray tried to emulate Dreo’s dismissive attitude as he walked at his side. It became
    more and more difficult as he found himself on the receiving end of some interested glances.
    Some were merely curious, while others were downright hostile. Shrugging it off, Gray
    reminded himself that he wasn’t here to make friends. He had a job to do and when it was
    complete, he would never see these people again.
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    28
    They were nearly halfway across the hall when they were intercepted by a small
    contingent of soldiers. Half a dozen men seemed to appear out of nowhere. Battle ready, they
    quickly moved to surround Dreo and Gray. Gray had no idea what was happening and
    answers didn’t appear to be forthcoming. The expression on Dreo’s face left Gray reluctant to
    ask any questions about their, less than, warm welcome.
    “What is the meaning of this?” Dreo’s eyes were blazing with barely leashed hellfire.
    Whatever the reason, Andreo Demos was pissed. The soldiers, seemingly oblivious to his
    mounting fury, held their positions. A large, barrel-chested man stepped forward, a sneer
    plastered on his