Castiel was one of the most skilled fighters in the garrison. Having been apprenticed by Gabriel, and having been honored by Michael himself, he was the perfect choice to train the two young brothers.
Samandriel was soft, too soft for a warrior, with a pleasant face and a pleasing attitude. Inias was the curious one, fascinated by Castiel's skill and the kindness the older angel often exhibited.
"The angelus gladius, the strongest weapon an angel can wield," Castiel was explaining one day, standing opposite Vamiel. "The best weapon against the fallen."
Vamiel was a stout angel, stern and quiet, he was aiding Castiel with his demonstration on how to use the blades. Without saying a word, Castiel lunged at Vamiel, the larger angel dodging Cas and slashing back with his own sword.
The younger angels watches as their brothers parried and slashed, Vam jabbed at Castiel. The younger angel was faster on his feet, and with a graceful slice he rested the tip of his sword on Vam's neck.
"Your opponent will always be faster than you, stronger, and smarter. You have to think like your enemy, and watch him carefully."
Samandriel was listening with rapt interest, while Inias was quietly distracted by the shine of Vam's blade as he tossed it aside.
"Cas?"
He turned to face Inias, who was refocused. "Why do we fight?"
He tilted his head, and looked at Vamiel, who simply shook his head and vanished.
"You know why, Inias."
"I know it's for our Father, but why would he want us to perish our brother? Why does he want Lucifer gone?"
"Because Lucifer betrayed us. He defied our Father. He deserved his fate."
"So God wants us to protect the humans from Lucifer and his demons?" Samandriel spoke up. "I don't understand."
Castiel found himself smiling. He had the same questions. The same doubts. It made him feel…warm. "Because it's what God commands."
That seemed to be a good enough answer to Samandriel and Inias.
"We'll finish tomorrow," Castiel said as he turned to leave them. "Be ready."
"We will," Samandriel promised, watching as Castiel vanished.
"Do you think we'll ever be as great as he is?" Inias asked.
"I don't know," Samandriel admitted. "But I wouldn't mind being like Castiel."
