The Guardians Chapter 1, a mythology fanfic

Chapter 1 – Joshua

I was floating in a vast, comfortable darkness, content to continue floating into forever; but then it happened. Like a sudden explosion, I saw a brilliant flash, felt the searing pain of being ripped away from my happy solitude. I looked cautiously around myself, realizing that I was naked, but not feeling any unease. I was standing on top of a brilliant white fluffy cloud looking into the eyes of what I can only describe as the most beautiful, almost painfully so, man I have ever seen. "Joshua, there is a reason why we have brought you here," the unidentified man began in a melodious deep voice. "I am Samuel," he said kindly, "and you have been awoken to begin your journey. The reason for our existence is for the protection of mortals. Your mortal is just now old enough for you to start the sometimes difficult journey of her protection," he put emphasis on her, "if she keeps on the same life path as her family has chosen for her, she will lose her immortal soul. It is what you have to protect her from." My mind reeled with thoughts of souls and protection and her, whoever she was…. "When do I start?" I managed to choke out, trying my best to sound confident. "Right now," Samuel replied with a smug smile on his face, "but we should think about getting you set up with an identity, a house, a story, a job, and of course….." he muttered humorously as if noticing my nakedness for the first time, "some clothes." I looked down confused as I suddenly felt warm, soft material enclose me tightly. "How do I find this girl?" I asked all at once worried that I may let Samuel down, "Does she have a name yet?" "Yes," he replied with a glint of a smile in his sparkling eyes, "her name is Winter, which is an American name meaning brooding and deep. Have fun with that one." "Thanks," I grumbled not sure how to take the comment, but in an instant, having all the knowledge of the situation, and that it needed to be handled discretely. "So," I spoke quietly, "I am going to Pennsylvania to protect a witch." "Yes," Samuel answered with in a whisper despite the fact that we were alone, "and we have faith in you." I shook all the fear out of my head and said gratefully, "Thanks. Well, let's get this started." I feel the dread welling up inside me, but knew that I had no other option.