“I’ve mentioned that names have power, right? Do you realize that when she fights battles, she’s going to have to announce herself to the opposing sword? She’ll be forced to say something ridiculous like, ‘I am Pooky Bear, from an ancient line of archangel swords.’ Or, ‘Bow down to me, Pooky Bear, who has only two other equals in all the worlds.’ ” He shakes his head. “How is she going to get any respect?”

“Oh, come on, seriously? No one’s going to respect that kind of pompous announcement anyway, regardless of the name.” I sling the sword strap around my shoulder, and the bear sword settles on my hip where it belongs.

I spot Mom’s tracker sitting by a purse. I rush to it and turn it on.

“You’d be surprised at how many would-be opponents I’ve dispatched just by announcing that I am Raphael, the Great Archangel, the Wrath of God.” He gives me an intimidating look.

It occurs to me that because of the demon wings, he’s lost the power of using his name and title too. I see by the sadness in his eyes that he’s thinking the same thing.

On the tracker, a yellow arrow pops up at Half Moon Bay near the aerie. I sigh heavily. Just for once, couldn’t I find my sister somewhere safe and easy?

“Paige is at the aerie.”

Raffe gives me a don’t-you-dare look. “You mean the place where I barely got you out alive because they were killing every human they could get their hands on?”

“Thank you, by the way.”

He rakes his fingers through his hair, looking agitated. “Look, I’m sure I could find you a nice little bomb shelter somewhere with two years worth of supplies.”

“I’m guessing those are all taken.”

“And I’m guessing someone would happily give one up for you, especially if I asked nicely.” He gives me a dry smile. “You could take a little vacation from all this and come out after things settle down. Hole up, wait it out, be safe.”

“You’d better be careful. You might be mistaken for someone who’s worried about me.”

He shakes his head. “I’m just worried someone might recognize my sword in your hands. If I squirrel you away for a couple of years, then maybe I can save myself the embarrassment.”

I bite my lip to keep from asking but it comes out anyway. “And what would you do while I was hidden away?”

“Get my wings back. Find out what’s happening with my people and set things right.” He takes a deep breath. “And once I get my business settled, I’d return home with them.”