Satan's cloven hooves click-clacked across the glassy gold floor that reflected the aching brilliance streaming from the throne of God. Though the devil normally disguised himself, today he knew better; he continued toward the creatures blocking his way and then paused, a scowl crossing his dark, rage-filled countenance which was nearly hidden under the hood that concealed his other three faces. He glared at the angels that obstructed his path.
"Let him enter," a voice like thunder ordered.
The archangel in front of him stepped aside and the angels behind the powerful creature parted, permitting the devil to continue his approach toward the Most Holy's throne.
He stopped as close as he dared go toward- the blinding light, averting his eyes from the power beyond. Though it galled him to do so, Satan bowed to the Holy One and waited until he was addressed.
The thunderous voice finally broke the silence once more. "Why are you here among the Sons of God?"
"I come from going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. I have -.
The Lord interrupted, "Have you considered my people?"
Satan suppressed a sneer. Of course, he had. But he dared not say anything to raise the wrath of the Lord. He remembered his brothers chained in eternal darkness and shuddered.
"Well? the voice demanded, echoing through the immense chamber.
Quickly regaining his composure, Satan launched into his carefully crafted reply, "Do the redeemed fear God for nought? You have blocked my efforts with them. You have hedged them in, protecting them from my demons. But if you lift your protection, they will leave their faith.
There was silence in the hall. Not even the normally present faint hum of Seraphim wings could be heard.
Finally the Lord spoke, All that they have is in your power for a time; only upon their souls you shall not put forth your hand.
The devil bowed, suppressing the smile that nearly spread across his lined face. It was even better than he had dared to hope for. Soon he would launch his next attempt to corrupt more of humanity. And even though he knew he was doomed to punishment, he would have the satisfaction of dragging as many souls as he could to destruction with him. He might not rule over God as he had once tried to do. But he would have the satisfaction of destroying as much of creation as he could.
Once he had almost succeeded.
Perhaps this time he would.
