new life

I was tiny—smaller than anyone ever brought to the Underworld. Just a flickering spark in the demon's enormous palm as he carried me through winding corridors. The walls around me pulsed with crimson light, and the air was hot and thick as syrup.

I couldn't speak. I couldn't think coherently. I didn't even have a name—I only existed, feeling fear and curiosity.

The demon stopped before enormous gates of black metal with fiery runes. They swung open, revealing a vast and gloomy hall. In the center, on a throne of twisted bones and molten stone, sat He—Lucifer.

His eyes, like smoldering embers, immediately found me. I cringed in fear, but the demon carefully placed me on the edge of the throne.

"One more, Master, " he said. "Just a tiny one. No name, no memory."

Lucifer leaned closer. His gaze was heavy, but not angry. He reached out a finger and touched my spark. The touch sent a hot power coursing through me, as if a small sun had ignited within.

Little by little, I changed: tiny arms and legs appeared, and translucent wings sprouted from my back. My skin turned dark red with a purple tint. But I was still small... and I couldn't speak.

Lucifer smiled:

"She has potential. Vix, take care of her. Teach her everything."

Another demon appeared nearby - short, with mischievous yellow eyes.

"Oh, what a little one! " he exclaimed. "I'm Vix. I'll be your mentor."

Vix carefully picked me up. I clung to his sleeve, trembling with fear. He noticed and softened:

"Don't be afraid. I won't let anyone hurt you. First, we'll find a warm place, then I'll show you the lights of the Underworld, and when you're ready, I'll teach you to fly."

He carried me away, past rivers of fire and black rocks. I glanced back at Lucifer—he was still watching us.

Vix hummed, and I, leaning against his shoulder, gradually relaxed. The fear receded. There was so much around that was frightening, yet captivating…

I still couldn't speak and didn't understand much.