"Devil in the Desert" September 1, 2024

"Yet I AM the material plane." said the Devil.

Fae smiled kindly.  "I know.  I've always known.  You are the essence of will wrapped in flesh."

"Why do you look like me?" he asked.

"You know why." said the Devil.

"It is not the wealth." said the Devil.  "It is how you achieve it."

"Ethos" said Fae.

The Devil nodded.  "Ethos."

"Ah, but I knew you would refuse." said the Devil.  "It's your nature."

"And I said … 'my Father owns EVERYTHING." and they smiled together.

"Did that part of you enjoy it? The killing? The dominance?" asked the Devil.

"Of course."

"It is not the aka of excellence." said Peter.  "Not the right use of power."

The Devil looked tired.  Weary of the stories of his place and purpose.