Mortal Among Gods
- 5 -
Sanctuary
Ezekiel stood at the threshold of what he expected to be the next chapter of his journey, an important revelation, yet he was met with a bizarre sight. As he opened the door before him, he anticipated a grand revelation, only to be greeted by a small closet filled with cleaning supplies
Puzzled and slightly annoyed, Ezekiel glanced back at the enigmatic shapeshifter, who wore a similarly baffled expression. Artemis, who had grown accustomed to such mystical occurrences, appeared more impatient than surprised, her eyes expectantly fixed on the closet.
"Am I missing something here?" Ezekiel asked pointing at the cleaning closet.
The shopkeeper, seemingly just as bewildered as Ezekiel, decided to take matters into his own hands. With a confident wave of his hand, he gestured for Ezekiel to step aside, allowing him to inspect the closet closely. The shapeshifter then stepped inside, prompting Artemis to raise a skeptical eyebrow.
From the outside, Ezekiel couldn't see the proceedings within the closet. Still, the unmistakable sounds of bottles clinking and brushes clattering to the floor suggested that the shopkeeper was making a mess of the cleaning supplies. Artemis sighed deeply, her annoyance mounting.
Soon, the shopkeeper transitioned from making a mess to investigating the closet's wooden interior. His fingers traced the grooves and surfaces with purpose as if he sought something specific.
Artemis tapped her foot impatiently, her irritation evident, but before she could voice her frustration, the shapeshifter knocked a particular pattern on the right wall of the closet. His hand struck the wood with precision, creating a resonant thud that echoed through the chamber.
In an instant, the wall directly in front of the shopkeeper disappeared, replaced by a dazzling, ethereal wall of light that left Artemis, Ezekiel, and even the shapeshifter momentarily stunned.
"Oh! There you go, had it at the wrong settings but now it works." He said happily nodding to himself and proceeded to walk to the glowing white portal as well as gesturing for Ezekiel and in a sense Artemis to follow him. Ezekiel follows a bit nervous about going through but seeing the strange man go in without hesitation he follows through. Artemis follows Ezekiel behind shaking her head at the older man's strange antics.
But as the young mortal and the beautiful goddess go through the light and come out of the other side not expecting to what they step in. Ezekiel and Artemis stepped into an expansive, cavernous chamber, a space that seemed to have been carved from within the heart of the earth. The walls and ceilings were composed of gleaming white stone, giving an impression of both ancient heritage and otherworldly grandeur. The room's shape was a fascinating irregularity, resembling the organic carvings one might find inside a living mountain, with corridors, entrances, and stairs branching out like the sinuous roots of an ancient tree.
The main entrances, varying in size, each led to corridors that diverged into their unique pathways, doors, or stairs to other parts of the vast underground complex. They adorned the walls of the chamber in a pattern reminiscent of tree branches radiating from the central area. The walls had a textured surface that hinted at the centuries of history embedded in the stone, each corridor leading to different quarters, offices, or sections of the headquarters.
Ascending from the ground to the higher levels were grand balconies that overlooked the chamber. They offered views of the expansive room and provided access to the various corridors on the upper tiers. Stations for stairs and elevators were strategically positioned around the chamber to allow access to the higher platforms and their corresponding corridors.
At the heart of the colossal chamber stood an awe-inspiring sight—an imposing octagonal pedestal upon which the statue from the ancient Near East was placed. The statue appeared to exude a sense of wisdom and dignity, casting an air of enigmatic authority over the entire space. The platinum doors on each side of the pedestal added to the sense of importance, hinting at the chambers that lay beyond.
Directly above the statue was an astounding feature—a scale replica of Earth. The depiction was so detailed and precise that it almost felt as if the Earth itself was hovering above the statue. Suspended beneath a meticulously crafted dome, the realistic representation of the planet captivated the attention of anyone entering the chamber.
The tapestry-like design on the dome, crafted with intricate details, seemed to tell stories of history, legends, and celestial patterns. A square indent on the ceiling held an air of mystery, suggesting a hidden significance to be discovered. The chamber was a harmonious fusion of artistry, ancient tradition, and advanced technology, inviting exploration and promising the unraveling of untold mysteries.
Ezekiel and Artemis stepped into an expansive, cavernous chamber, a space that seemed to have been carved from within the heart of the earth. The walls and ceilings were composed of gleaming white stone, giving an impression of both ancient heritage and otherworldly grandeur. The room's shape was a fascinating irregularity, resembling the organic carvings one might find inside a living mountain, with corridors, entrances, and stairs branching out like the sinuous roots of an ancient tree.
The main entrances, varying in size, each led to corridors that diverged into their unique pathways, doors, or stairs to other parts of the vast underground complex. They adorned the walls of the chamber in a pattern reminiscent of tree branches radiating from the central area. The walls had a textured surface that hinted at the centuries of history embedded in the stone, each corridor leading to different quarters, offices, or sections of the headquarters.
Ascending from the ground to the higher levels were grand balconies that overlooked the chamber. They offered views of the expansive room and provided access to the various corridors on the upper tiers. Stations for stairs and elevators were strategically positioned around the chamber to allow access to the higher platforms and their corresponding corridors.
At the heart of the colossal chamber stood an awe-inspiring sight—an imposing octagonal pedestal upon which the statue from the early Iron Age specifically the region of the Middle East. The statue appeared to exude a sense of wisdom and dignity, casting an air of enigmatic authority over the entire space. The platinum doors on each side of the pedestal added to the sense of importance, hinting at the chambers that lay beyond.
Directly above the statue was an astounding feature—a scale replica of Earth. The depiction was so detailed and precise that it almost felt as if the Earth itself was hovering above the statue. Suspended beneath a meticulously crafted dome, the realistic representation of the planet captivated the attention of anyone entering the chamber.
The tapestry-like design on the dome, crafted with intricate details, seemed to tell stories of history, legends, and celestial patterns. A square indents on the ceilings like an old temple or church. The chamber was a harmonious fusion of artistry, ancient tradition, and advanced technology, inviting exploration and promising the unraveling of untold mysteries. Overall the architecture was a mix of every culture of old from Egypt, Greece, Azteca, and so much more.
Ezekiel found himself awestruck, his expectations vastly exceeded, as he stepped into this breathtaking wonder. Artemis, too, was surprised by the grandeur of the place, which rivaled even the pristine beauty of Mount Olympus. The craftsmanship, the use of precious metals, and the boundless scope of the architecture left the two of them in awe.
"Welcome to the Sanctuary of the Red Order!" The Mysterious shop owner yelled out.
"Who built this?" Ezekiel marveled at the grandeur of the place, his eyes still wandering to take in its magnificence.
"Many men and a few women, throughout the ages, combined their skills, incorporating technology, magic, and more." the mysterious guide responded with an air of pride. Even Artemis couldn't fathom how mortals had created something that could rival Mount Olympus.
"Are you saying all of this was done by mere mortals without divine intervention?" Artemis questioned, her disbelief evident.
"Well, I may have lent a hand here and there, but yes, primarily mortals were responsible," he replied. This piqued Ezekiel's curiosity.
"Lent a hand?" Ezekiel inquired.
"Mortals?" Artemis added. The enigmatic figure looked momentarily perplexed before realizing his slip of the tongue. He offered a self-assured smile and waved it off.
"Apologies, I nearly forgot. I am an ancient god, and you may call me Al." he declared, extending a hand to Ezekiel, who, after a moment's hesitation, shook it. Ezekiel was surprised to hear this being was a god in front of him while Artemis didn't look surprised instead seemed satisfied and certain.
"Pleased to meet you, Al." Ezekiel greeted the self-proclaimed god, releasing the handshake.
"Now, can you explain what's happening to me and all of this?" Ezekiel inquired, his impatience growing.
"Of course, my prophet. But there's a room where I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding. You'll need to bear with us just a bit longer." Al promised. Before Ezekiel could react, Artemis interjected, her patience running thin.
"So, you'll share the truth with us without any superfluous conditions?" Artemis pressed.
"This will be the last condition, I assure you. Disclosing the information here wouldn't be as suitable as in the dedicated room. I promise." Al stated.
Artemis shook her head and gestured for him to lead the way. "Lead on," she said. Al appeared pleased and pivoted on his heels to make his way toward one of the spacious entrances to a corridor. With Ezekiel and Artemis side by side, they followed in his wake.
As they strolled through the grand corridor, departing from the main chamber, Ezekiel seized an opportunity to break the silence. "So, where is everyone? Why is it so empty?" he asked.
"Gone. I am the last remnant of this abandoned institution," Al replied. His voice carried a sense of emptiness and sadness. Deciding not to delve deeper into the matter, Ezekiel chose a different question. Artemis, uninterested in the organization, showed no inclination for Al to elaborate further.
"So, Al, which Pantheon do you come from, and what led a deity like yourself to be here?" Al initially remained silent, causing Ezekiel to almost apologize, but eventually, he spoke.
"Well, it's essentially from a defunct belief, and I'd rather not delve too deeply into my past, but you are the Prophet, and so, if commanded, I will share," he said, although his tone seemed less enthusiastic.
"No, that's fine; you don't have to tell us if you're uncomfortable," Ezekiel reassured him.
"Thank you, Prophet," Al replied, clearly surprised and appreciative of Ezekiel's understanding. Meanwhile, Artemis grabbed Ezekiel by the shoulder, pulling him closer to her, and causing him to stammer incoherently as he wasn't prepared for her sudden act.
"Ezekiel, was it wise not to learn more about this enigmatic god we've just met?" She whispered to him.
"I didn't want to intrude, especially since he's been cooperative and willing to help us," he whispered back.
"Helping you, yes. But I have a feeling he doesn't like me, which isn't helping my trust in him," she remarked.
"Did you not like him the first time we met him?" Ezekiel asked.
"With good reason; he's a god from a different Pantheon," she explained as they ascended a flight of stairs leading to a more modern-looking corridor.
"Well, it seemed like you didn't know he was a god at first," Ezekiel noted.
"That's true; I couldn't sense anything divine because there's an invisible barrier that separates divine families, Pantheons. Each of us has our own rules, systems, origins, and perhaps even our ends. So, I couldn't perceive him as a god, but I knew he was from a different world, something distinct, like an itch at the back of my mind."
"And that's a enough to be suspicious which leads you to dislike him." He said.
"I dislike dealing with and interacting with other Pantheons because we're all in competition, and I can never be sure of the intentions of anyone beyond the Greek Pantheon as I will be in the dark. So, in a way, I harbor a dislike for anything that doesn't clearly belong to my Pantheon," she concluded.
"But do you trust me?" Ezekiel inquired.
"I do."
"Well, I trust my visions, and they led us here for help. So, I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt." Ezekiel reasoned.
"I'll do what's necessary regardless of my feelings, but I'm not like you. My trust isn't easily granted; it takes time or effort to earn my favor. So, you needn't worry about my actions, as my trust in you is sufficient to bleed to this foreign god." she assured him with a smile. Ezekiel returned her smile, but their attention was drawn to an elevator from the 1950s that had unexpectedly opened before them. They entered the elevator, but to their confusion, there were no buttons to select their floor, and the doors closed on their own.
"Hey, where are the buttons?" Ezekiel asked. Just as Al was about to answer, the elevator started moving on its own, catching the young man off guard. Ezekiel and Artemis noticed that it wasn't just moving up but also in various other directions — right, left, forward, and backward. Minutes passed before the metallic box finally came to a halt with a ding, and the doors slid open to reveal a narrower hallway from the 1950s.
Al disembarked, and Ezekiel and Artemis followed, both bewildered by the elevator. "The simple answer is that the elevators here intuitively know the desired destination of those inside, taking them as close as possible to their goal without needing buttons," Al explained with a hint of amusement, savoring their reactions.
"Wow," Ezekiel exclaimed.
"Call me impressed." Artemis praised.
They continued to follow the mysterious man, exploring various parts of the grand headquarters. Different cafeterias offered cuisines from around the world, and training rooms, libraries, offices, ballrooms, and much more unfolded before them. Entering another elevator, they discovered a new area when the doors opened—something distinct from the rest.
They found themselves in a lobby with several elevators and stairs leading to a level floor between them. In the middle of this space were curved leather couches, and on the floor was the symbol of the Red Order: a creepy hand with wings and a single eye. Ezekiel noticed a large set of double doors, not made of wood but of some sort of Damascus steel. The door frame was gold, adorned with many unrecognized symbols etched into the gold door frame.
Al stepped towards the door, but instead of opening it like the others they had encountered, he merely stepped aside. Ezekiel gave Al a puzzled look, and the god gestured for the young man to walk forward. As Ezekiel took a step, he noticed the doors beginning to part open, revealing another set of Damascus steel doors behind them. The second set opened, followed by a third set, revealing darkness. As the three sets of doors fully opened, they exposed a vast, impenetrable darkness that even the light from outside couldn't pierce.
As Ezekiel stepped forward, his foot crossing the threshold into the previously shrouded darkness, the room immediately burst into radiant illumination. Before him lay a vast, meticulously designed office space, each facet carefully curated with a profound appreciation for history and culture.
The initial section of the office resembled a miniature library, housing an extensive collection of books spanning the ages—tomes, scrolls, and tablets neatly arranged on ornate shelves. The fine architecture of the room whispered tales of craftsmanship and erudition, creating an ambiance that transcended time itself.
As Ezekiel ventured further into the office, the character of the space shifted. Displays of artifacts from diverse cultures adorned the room, showcasing a rich tapestry of human history. Among these exhibits stood a resplendent samurai armor, its polished surface reflecting the room's ambient light. Adjacent to it, a suit of medieval knight's armor stood proudly, embodying the chivalry of a bygone era.
Various swords of historical significance adorned the displays, each telling a story of warfare and honor. Ancient Greek vases, adorned with mythological scenes, stood beside artifacts from other corners of the globe, forming a harmonious convergence of civilizations.
The room seamlessly transitioned from the exhibition area to a more functional space. A round table, situated before the imposing office desk, served as both an aesthetic centerpiece and a practical discussion space. The table featured artifacts of its own—a Japanese tea set, a medieval chalice, and other cultural relics, inviting conversation amidst the historical tapestry.
As Ezekiel approached the elevated desk, his gaze was drawn to the massive stone wall behind it. Extracted from some ancient edifice, the wall bore ancient writings that hinted at a narrative suspended in time. A depiction of a man beneath a celestial circle, surrounded by winged serpents, added an air of mystique to the space. This amalgamation of artifacts, literature, and ancient inscriptions transformed the office into a sanctuary of knowledge and cultural convergence. The room, a testament to the previous owner's eclectic tastes, bridged the gap between eras, offering Ezekiel a glimpse into the richness of human history.
Artemis followed cautiously, her steps deliberate and measured, as she entered the grand office. The artifacts within, especially the Ancient Greek vases, caught her discerning eyes. However, the scenes depicted on these vases were unfamiliar, unlike the mythological tales she knew so well. A sense of intrigue stirred within her, and she silently observed the eclectic collection that surrounded her.
As Al entered, an unmistakable joy danced in his eyes. "It's been many years since I have walked in this old, dusty office," he remarked, his nostalgia evident. He proceeded to the grand round table and took a seat, his hands clapping together with a resonant sound, drawing Artemis and Ezekiel's attention away from their explorations.
"Now come and sit, of course, Ezekiel, you get the big seat." Al declared, pointing to a chair that resembled a throne fit for a king—larger and of higher quality than the others. "Because now, I will tell you everything," he announced, his tone carrying a weight of importance. Both Artemis and Ezekiel approached the round table, taking their respective seats, prepared for the revelations that awaited them in this enigmatic space.
"Alright, what is my purpose in all of this? I mean, the only thing I got from my vision is that a supernatural spear is going to lead to a very bad future, but I think it's more than just stopping that." Ezekiel said.
Al smiled at those words. "You are right. Your vision is a problem you have to deal with in the future, but it is not your only responsibility," he said, tapping on the table, smiling at Ezekiel, and ignoring Artemis.
"You are the Prophet."
"The...Prophet...like in the Bible?" Ezekiel raised an eyebrow as he leaned forward.
"Well, not exactly similar in idea, but different in results. Honestly, this is way before my time in the Order, but they weren't referred to as Prophets until around the time of the fall of Rome. Then one of them thought that they should call themselves an easier and simpler name like—"
"Hey! How about we go more into the important stuff and not trivial information?" Artemis interjected, cutting him off. Al started to feel guilty, and it showed on his face.
"Oh! I'm sorry. You are right. The Greek goddess is right. I am sorry, Master!" Al exclaimed desperately, slamming his head onto the table.
"Ezekiel." Al looked up and glanced at Ezekiel.
"What?"
"I go by Ezekiel. The whole Master thing makes me feel a bit uncomfortable, so just call me Ezekiel. Alright?" Ezekiel said, smiling at the mysterious god.
"Strange, that's the second time," he said, regaining his composure.
"Second time?" Artemis asked, but Al only ignored her.
"Anyway! As I was saying, the Prophets are a bit different from the ones you Christians—"
"Not a Christian." Ezekiel cut him off, which Al seemed to have no problem with at all, and continued.
"You Jews believe—"
"Not Jewish either." Ezekiel again cut in.
"The ones who believe in the prophets of the Bible say those men were chosen by their god to speak on his behalf."
"Like the Oracle of Delphi," Artemis said.
"Not exactly, because they don't just speak on their god's behalf but also enact his plans or even wrath onto those who are unfortunate," Al said. Out of nowhere, a visual image, almost like a hologram, appeared on the table, startling Ezekiel and causing Artemis to pull out her knives. The hologram, Ezekiel guessed, showed different faces of Ancient Middle Easterners passing by, each looking stressed, exhausted, or worried. It stopped at one who looked a bit younger than the rest, with a wooden stick high in the air as fire and darkness rained down on what looked to be Ancient Egypt.
"Well, that's neat for this Bible Study we are having. But what about the type of Prophet I am?" Ezekiel raised his voice, and the hologram disappeared.
"Ezekiel, instead of you being the spokesperson for a god, you are chosen to be the representative of all of Humanity to and against the world of Mystery. Which encompasses all the Pantheons of Greek, Egyptian, Norse, Shinto, Chinese, Azteca, Mayans, and the hundreds of folks in Africa and many more. It also is not just those Pantheons but also the Leprechauns and Fey below the soil of Ireland, the ghosts in haunted places, and the tales of King Arthur. Well, they are all true, and humanity drew a line between them and the gods and you are that line to separating the worlds putting us in our place." Al said, his tone becoming more serious by the second. Artemis herself was stunned by what she was hearing at the moment.
"How am I hearing for the first time in over four thousand years of my immortal life that my father wouldn't bend his knees to some mortal picked by something whom I have never interacted with?" Artemis retorted.
"Believe it or not, I don't care. I'm just telling you what the Prophet is and why you are seeking it." Al said, not even giving a single glance to Artemis. Ezekiel sensed tension between the two gods and decided to intervene.
"You know what, how about we move on from this topic and continue the lesson, because this won't be helpful in moving forward," Ezekiel suggested, putting his hands up. Artemis sighed as she closed her eyes to calm down.
"No, he's right. Let's just move on, and I'm just gonna be on the fence on that claim." Artemis said.
"I will be more careful with my words next time, Mas—Ezekiel," Al said, making Ezekiel sigh in relief.
"Anyway, as I was saying, the Prophet is very important, and there have been hundreds before you who carried their torch and passed it on to the next. It all started with the very first Prophet three thousand years ago during the time of the bronze age collapse, and since then, they have been the tipping point for Humanity against the Mystery." Al explained, seeming done with talking. Ezekiel noticed that Artemis seemed to tilt her head and went into deep thought when Al mentioned the bronze age collapse.
"But why?" Ezekiel asked as he turned his eyes back to Al.
"From what I understand from your many, many predecessors, it was established as an answer to Humanity finally developing its own voice some might say evolving away from the mystery. Well, that voice wanted to tell its own story away from the myths that men have been part of for many years. So, one is chosen to be that voice in physical form and in action—the Prophet." Al finished, but one word caught Ezekiel's ears, making him ask a question with trembling hands and feet.
"Chosen by who? Because you keep saying that, and I don't know what that implies." Ezekiel asked, his fear of the answer evident.
"I can't say for sure, as I never met the being myself. But all the previous Prophets say their authority and abilities come from their God who chose them and set the rules that everyone, gods and men, is following. But I bet your predecessor kept that God's scriptures somewhere in those bookshelves." Al said as he got up and went to the many bookshelves in the office. Ezekiel looked to see how Artemis was doing as she had been quite silent since her strange reaction to the Bronze Age stuff. Her face seemed to be slightly bent down, her eyes looking down as if she were lost in thought.
"Hey, why do you keep just referring to the being that chose me as that God? Does he have a name?" Ezekiel yelled out for Al to hear him.
"Well, I don't remember the name of that God, as everyone here for the longest time just refers to him as God. I think I heard it once since I first joined the Order." Al yelled back. It didn't take long for Al to come back with a book that he was quickly reading. Ezekiel tried to look to see the cover, but the god had it positioned in a way that he couldn't see well.
"So that's his name!" Al said excitedly as he closed the book. When he was close to the table, he threw the book at the center of the table for both the mortal and goddess to see as they slightly raised their heads. Ezekiel and Artemis pushed themselves up from their chairs to see the front cover, and they didn't expect to see what it said: The Holy Bible, the Revised Standard Version.
"YHWH," he said, and Ezekiel fell back to his seat, surprised that the God of his grandfather was real and brought him back to life for this purpose. Is he going to take his life when his mission is done?
"So, have you interacted with this God?" Ezekiel asked, but Al took a pause and thought about it before answering.
"No, I have not interacted with that God directly or even heard any other god or goddess throughout my travels interact with him directly. Mostly his followers and nothing more, like your predecessor being believers and followers." Al explained.
Ezekiel found himself speechless in the wake of this revelation. Countless questions, each representing a different facet of his bewildered mind, clamored for attention. However, the notion of a Capital G God loomed large, occupying the forefront of his thoughts. Artemis, too, remained in a contemplative state, processing the weighty information they had both received. Despite the multitude of questions brewing within him, Ezekiel chose to remain silent, allowing the enormity of the revelation to settle.
After a brief pause, Ezekiel felt compelled to delve deeper into the specifics of his newfound connection to the divine. He gestured toward the Bible on the table and posed a direct question, "So, my visions and every supernatural power I've experienced come from the God of that book in front of me?"
"That's what your predecessor told me. Every time a Prophet had a vision, and I was there, I always felt a power that dwarfed the size of everything I have ever experienced. It made me feel almost like a mortal." Al responded, a hint of nostalgia flickering across his face. Ezekiel recognized the resonance of those words with Artemis's description of a powerful presence. He turned his gaze toward her, finding her eyes locked onto his. In that moment, the mortal and goddess shared an unspoken understanding of the familiar force Al described—something akin to Artemis's experience back on Mount Olympus.
Al, sensing the gravity of the situation, continued, "That does bring up something I was wondering but put aside for answering questions and giving an explanation."
Ezekiel, now more intrigued than ever, inquired, "And what is that?"
"Every Prophet before you came from different parts of the world, and how their journey started as the current Prophet is unique from all others. So I was wondering about your journey before, and you ended up here with a Greek of all things." Al remarked, curiosity evident in his expression.
While only Artemis frowned at being called a Greek.
Ezekiel took a moment, absorbing Al's question before deciding to share his side of the story. However, he felt it was crucial to begin with Artemis, as their journey was intricately tied to her dealing with the corrupted monsters of her pantheon. He turned to her, silently urging her to start the narrative.
Artemis, initially hesitant, decided to trust Ezekiel with this piece of her history. She began recounting the encounters with the corrupted creatures, detailing the two meetings that led them from the heart of Olympus to the streets of Washington. As she spoke, Ezekiel interjected with additional information, offering his perspective on the events that unfolded during their journey. Together, they painted a vivid picture of their quest, the challenges they faced, and the mysteries that unfolded.
The journey, which began with a mission to find the answer of the chosen mortal.
As Artemis finished her part of the tale, Ezekiel picked up the narrative thread. He spoke of their determination to that chosen mortal, but the twists of him being that person that led them to his home, the shocking revelation of his resurrection, and also all the visions that Ezekiel had to this day.
"And that's how we ended up here," Ezekiel concluded, glancing at Artemis, who nodded in agreement. The grand office, with its ancient artifacts and the enigmatic figure of Al.
"So?" Ezekiel said trying to fill the silence that Al was mostly in.
"Well, from what you have told me, it seemed about right from what I have heard of the other prophets. Except for not being adjusted or even capable of using your blessings," Al said as he placed his hand under his chin and contemplated. Ezekiel tilted his head and gave Artemis a look before turning his attention back to the god.
"What do you mean in that last part?" Ezekiel asked.
"Don't know; that is beyond my territory of knowledge and experience, and you know what isn't. Which is a perfect segue to the next topic of what the Prophet can and can't do in both worlds, their blessings or gifts," Al said.
Ezekiel had his head whipped back in utter confusion on that poor explanation as he gave Artemis a look who also was perplexed but just shrugged her shoulders as she wanted to continue with more important information.
"And that is?" Artemis said finally contributing to the conversation instead of retelling events or just listening as she is very interested.
"Alright, let's talk about what the Prophet can pull off against Mystery." Al began as he changed his voice as though he was a presenter.
"Eyes of God, they're the real deal," he explained. "Prophet can peer beyond the veil hiding the supernatural from us regular folks. See all those creatures and things that stay hidden from our eyes."
"And then there's this Nature Exposer ability." Al continued. "Helps the Prophet figure out if something's from the supernatural or just part of everyday reality. Comes in handy when dealing with demigods, let me tell you."
Ezekiel nodded for him to continue.
"Now, onto the Voice of God." Al shifted. "The Prophet talks, and the supernatural world listens. They can issue commands and set rules. Say 'stop,' and everything in the supernatural world freezes in its tracks. And, oh, they've got this Tongue of Babylon thing. Speak any language, mortal or divine. Comes in handy when having a chat with gods from different pantheons."
"Hands of God, simple but effective," Al said, capturing their attention.
"With a touch, the Prophet can lay down blessings. Want to be invisible or shielded from mystical stuff? Just a touch and it's done. And they've got this Sigil ability too. Draw some symbols, and it's like casting spells. Written non-audible commands like the Voice of God."
Artemis observed, absorbing the information. Al continued without missing a beat.
"Now, the Veil of God," he said. "Prophet's immune to all the supernatural shenanigans. Witches trying to turn them into frogs? Nope, not happening. And there's this Invisibility thing and it's not what you think it is. Even beings like Aphrodite can't sense the Prophet's emotions linked to love or lust or even that you are the Prophet much less sense your presence as a mortal. They're like a ghost in the supernatural realm."
"Wisdom of God, let's not forget that," Al emphasized. "Prophet gets visions and messages from God—foretelling the future, giving guidance. And they've got this Clairvoyance knack. Know gods, magic, and humanity inside out. It's like having the internet for all things supernatural and mortals."
"And finally, the Sanctuary of God," Al concluded. "Prophet can create a special zone—a neutral ground for all things supernatural. Tribunal court, secret room, garden party—it's a versatile tool for various situations."
"There you have it, the Prophet's cheat codes for dealing with the mystical world," Al concluded.
"So, are the titles a thing that the previous Prophets did, or was that more a you who have it like that?" Ezekiel asked.
"Yeah, the Prophet didn't really categorize or name their gifts. I thought it would be easier to create some terminology for reference or to be used in conversation." Al said, rubbing his arms nervously.
"So, did they use your terminology?" Ezekiel asked.
"No," Al said.
"Was it because they thought of it as childish and dumb?" Artemis said as she looked off in a different direction.
"Well, it was more respectful than how you put it, but they all thought of it as pointless," he said, sounding a bit disappointed.
"I like it," Ezekiel said, which made Al's eyes widen.
"Really?"
"Yeah, it is simple and straightforward in explaining what I can do. Going to help me remember my... gifts, I guess." Ezekiel said but hesitated to say gifts.
"That's great to hear. But is there anything else you would like to know?" Al said, smiling and feeling a bit more joyous than usual.
"There is one more thing, actually, it's the main thing that I have been seeing in my visions. A spear with great power that is appearing, and when it does, it will lead to a great conflict between the pantheons and so much more." Ezekiel said, and Al tilted his head as he went through his memories and knowledge.
"There have been many spears throughout the myths of many cultures, so I have to go by what I heard in your visions and check the library or the documentation. So, I have to go and see about anything of a spear like that," he said as he got up from his chair.
"What should we do?" Ezekiel asked.
"Anything you like; this is your domain, realm." He then proceeded to walk away.
"Wait, then how do I find anything in this place?" Ezekiel yelled out as Al was already at the entrance.
"You don't need to! Whatever you want, it will find you!" Al yelled as he left the office leaving the mortal and goddess alone in the grand office.
Ezekiel glanced around the grand office, unsure of what to do next. The vast space seemed to tell endlessly of secrets and history.
Artemis, from what Ezekiel could tell by her face, was zoning out. She didn't even acknowledge Al's presence leaving, or it seemed she was tuning out at the last part of this conversation.
"Artemis," Ezekiel said, getting her attention as she snapped out and back to the present.
"What is it?" Artemis asked as she looked at Ezekiel.
"Well, it seemed you tuned out of the conversation at the end as Al left to find some information," he said, and Artemis slightly perked up and looked over to see that the god was missing.
"It seemed so," she said.
"What's caught up in your mind?" he asked, only for Artemis to shake her head.
"How am I going to explain all of this at the summer solstice in less than three weeks?" she sighed.
"I'm guessing that's some yearly meeting?"
Artemis nodded, "It's our bi-annual meeting taking place at the summer and winter solstice, and they are probably expecting me to let them know everything I discover." Artemis said as she rested her neck on the chair, looking straight up at the ceiling.
"And that is a bad thing. I thought that was the whole point of you coming. To find the chosen mortal and look more into this danger that Olympus might face?" Ezekiel said, his face perplexed by Artemis' feelings and words.
"That is true, but learning more about these unbelievable revelations…" Artemis paused for a second before pulling her head back to look at Ezekiel, "This whole Prophet thing is just hard to swallow, but thinking about it does explain so much about why Father would decide to let humanity be free of our involvement. Or even why most pantheons also do the same thing at the same time or even later eventually."
"So…"
"It makes too much sense, but it is still incomplete unless I hear it from my Father, so I have to keep it to myself and not share it at the summer solstice." Artemis said, rubbing her temple.
Ezekiel saw the goddess in frustration and stress and got an idea, "You know, this Prophet business seems to be as much of a hassle for you as well." Artemis chuckled a bit at that comment, "Then I guess there is only one way to handle this whole Prophet thing." Ezekiel said with a smile as he got up from his chair, making Artemis's eyes perk up a bit.
"And that is?"
"Food." Ezekiel happily said.
"Pardon?" Artemis said, surprised.
"Like I said, I am going to fashion some meals as I am hungry, and grandma always says that a nice warm meal can soothe the soul and make all your worries and thoughts disappear," Ezekiel said to Artemis while her thoughts still kept going back to how she's going to deal with her father and the rest of the Olympians over this whole situation she finds herself in. But the sound of Ezekiel's food does sound tempting and might help her get her thoughts straight and have her plan for the meeting.
"You know, that doesn't sound terrible. A warm meal would be nice, and if your cooking skill goes beyond just breakfast, then I must get a taste of what you come up with next." Artemis said as she got up from her chair and proceeded to walk beside Ezekiel out of his office and to another elevator, which just as before, opened for them to enter and immediately moved on its own. It only took a few minutes before the elevator stopped moving, and with a ding, the doors slid open to reveal a large professional kitchen from the 1950s.
"Well, I didn't expect the elevator to take us right to the kitchen," Ezekiel said, leaving the elevator and going into the kitchen fit for a large restaurant.
"I have no complaint in dealing with the hassle of trying to find one in this place," Artemis said as she followed the young man.
Ezekiel started to open the fridge to see what they had. There were so many ingredients from all across the world, and from what he could tell, it was restocked with current ingredients and nothing that looked to be from the '50s. "That's interesting," Ezekiel said as he started pulling out meats, vegetables, and other food products from the fridge and cupboards.
"What's interesting?" Artemis said as she also looked around the kitchen, tracing her finger on the counters and appliances.
"Well, they have fresh food here and nothing that is expired, moldy, or rotten. It's almost like they have their own farm here for everything you can cook with," he said as he looked over two cans of beans and their labels.
"I wouldn't be surprised if a structure like this does have its very own farms," she said.
"Well then, let's make the most of it. So what would the goddess want to have for tonight?" he asked, but Artemis could only tap her finger, thinking of any dishes she knew. Only for her to draw a blank on anything meaningful. She could recall the basics of cooking some of the animals she and her hunters had hunted or even what she had eaten in the past, but nothing in terms of fine dishes that would be made in a kitchen.
"I don't have much knowledge of anything culinary in a kitchen or what you probably know. I guess surprise me," she said, taking a stool and sitting at the opposite side of the counter where Ezekiel was going to prepare the dish.
As Ezekiel perused the well-stocked kitchen, he noticed an array of fresh vegetables, succulent cuts of meat, and an assortment of spices from various cultures. Unsure of Artemis's preferences, he decided to take the lead and choose a dish that would appeal to both his taste and possibly hers.
With enthusiasm, he began gathering ingredients for a Mediterranean-inspired dish—grilled chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. He sliced vibrant bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes to accompany the chicken. As the enticing aroma filled the kitchen, Ezekiel couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction.
Artemis, observing Ezekiel's culinary endeavors, seemed intrigued. "What are you preparing?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"I'm making a simple Mediterranean grilled chicken with roasted vegetables. It's a blend of flavors that I find comforting." Ezekiel explained, focusing on the task at hand.
Artemis nodded, acknowledging the choice. "Sounds delightful. I'm looking forward to trying it."
As Ezekiel worked with precision and skill, the kitchen transformed into a haven of enticing aromas. The sizzle of chicken on the grill and the colorful medley of vegetables roasting in the oven created an ambiance of warmth and homeliness.
Once the meal was prepared, Ezekiel set the table with care, placing the grilled chicken and roasted vegetables on elegant dishes. He poured a glass of crisp white wine, a subtle addition to complement the Mediterranean flavors.
"Voila!" Ezekiel declared with a smile, presenting the finished dish to Artemis. "I hope you enjoy your sacrifice, my goddess," he said, which made Artemis roll her eyes.
Artemis examined the meal before her. The vibrant colors and enticing fragrances hinted at a delightful culinary experience. With a nod of appreciation, she picked up her fork and tasted a bite.
Ezekiel watched anxiously, awaiting her reaction. Artemis, tasting the food, closed her eyes in response and hummed in pleasure at what she just ate. A cascade of flavors danced on her palate. The succulent chicken, marinated to perfection, offered a symphony of tastes — the zestiness of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the rich undertones of olive oil. The explosion of flavors was both vibrant and comforting, a testament to Ezekiel's culinary skill.
Her taste buds embraced the roasted vegetables, each piece bursting with its unique essence. The bell peppers provided a sweet crunch, the red onions imparted a mild tang, and the cherry tomatoes offered a burst of juiciness. The medley of vegetables complemented the grilled chicken, creating a harmonious blend that delighted her senses.
Artemis paused between bites to savor the dish, her enjoyment evident in the sparkle of her eyes and the genuine smile that graced her lips. "Ezekiel, this is truly amazing," she exclaimed.
He grinned, grateful for her positive response. "Thanks so much. I usually only cook for my family, so thanks for the encouragement," he said as he made his plate got a stool like Artemis, and sat on the other side of her on the same counter. Ezekiel then proceeded to eat while enjoying the meal as well.
"Ezekiel, I understand why you started to cook for your family after your mother's death, but why did you go out of your way to have the skill to make such amazing dishes? Wouldn't knowing the basics and not to the level of a chef be enough?" she asked as she took another mouthful of some chicken. Ezekiel himself looked at his meal and with a fork started to mess with his food as he thought over Artemis's question.
"You know when I started to learn how to cook from watching those cooking channels and I started to make some actual food for my dad and me. Every time I cooked a decent meal, Dad would be happy for a few moments, so I tried to get better at it, and the more delicious my food turned out, the longer my father's happiness would last," he said, smiling as he took another bite of his food.
"So is that the reason that you ended up learning to cook so well? That's good to hear you turn a harsh situation into a passion," she said.
"I wouldn't say that cooking is a passion more than it is a means to an end."
"A means to what end?" Artemis asked.
"To bring some amount of happiness to my father, and that is what I have tried to do with all my skill and abilities throughout my years. Can I bring some sort of happiness or comfort to others?" Ezekiel said as he kept on eating, while Artemis just barely finished her plate.
"Well, I guess you have new abilities to work on and skill to figure out with the whole Gifts of God?" Artemis said as she slightly chuckled when she said 'Gifts of God.'
"Yeah, I guess I just don't know how I can train with it?"
"Well, you have used one of them, the voice of God or something, at the manticore," Artemis said, leaning over the counter as Ezekiel kept on eating his meal.
"Well, that only happened once, and I don't know where to start. It's not some exercise or skill I can practice. Hell, I don't even feel anything special right now." Ezekiel sighed.
"Was that the only time you tapped into this power?" she said.
"I guess the visions, but those come in without my decision," Ezekiel said as he stopped eating his food.
"You sure that was the only thing that was from your gifts?" Artemis said.
"What do you mean?" Ezekiel said, tilting his head.
"For one, my Father, who apparently dealt with a Prophet in the past, seemed to not sense or could tell where someone of this importance was. Even Aphrodite said she can't even sense your heart for any emotion under her domain. Hades sake, I still can't sense anything special from you, just another mortal." Artemis said without realizing she started to pick on his plate with her fork. Ezekiel didn't much care and so didn't comment.
"Wasn't it called Veil of God, and it basically shrouds me from mystery in all ways, and there is also the Eyes of God, which made me see those Greek monsters and, well, everything supernatural, I guess," Ezekiel said.
"Must be a passive thing compared to say with something as active as you commanding the manticore to stop." Artemis said, still eating Ezekiel's plate, making him smile as he pushed the plate closer to the goddess, making her realize what she was unconsciously doing.
"You can have the rest of mine; kinda got my fill for today," Ezekiel said, and Artemis slightly blushed but unexpectedly Ezekiel noticed that instead of it being a red hue, it was a golden yellowish hue. Ezekiel thought how cute her reaction was but immediately squashed those thoughts out of his head.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to grab any of your food," Artemis said, as her blush quickly left as it came.
"Aah, it's alright; you can have the rest of my leftovers," he said.
"You sure?" Artemis hesitated, only for Ezekiel to give a slight laugh as he could tell Artemis wanted to have some.
"Of course, I had enough, and you seemed to be enjoying it way more than me," Ezekiel said.
"If you say so," Artemis said as she pulled the plate closer to her, taking more bites and humming in pleasure.
"You know what reminds me of that? When I drove us from New York City to Washington D.C., it was surprising because I didn't even look at a map. I just knew what streets to take or the direction I needed to take to get to D.C. Which is crazy because I didn't even realize until now that I was getting information or wisdom," he said, getting off the stool and immediately starting to clean the dirty dishes and kitchen tools.
"You didn't realize as you were driving that you never even knew the direction or were familiar with the area?" Artemis asked, her eyebrows raised as she just finished eating the last bits of Ezekiel's leftovers.
"I was so focused on not hitting someone, especially on some of those wide highways that I just kinda did it by instinct," Ezekiel split his focus, going back and forth between Artemis and the sink.
"I assume you knew how to get there as well when you asked to drive. It seemed that we lucked out that your wisdom came in for that," Artemis said as Ezekiel grabbed the two plates that were cleaned off by the goddess.
"Yeah, that wasn't well thought out on my part." Artemis snorted at that statement.
"Then why don't we get to the bottom of these blessings you receive?" Artemis then got off the stool and proceeded to go around the countertop so she was on the other side.
"What do you mean?" Ezekiel asked, finishing drying their plates.
"That your blessings will be a huge asset for anything in the future, and so it will be in the best interest that you can have your gifts be usable and not have you be useless," Artemis explained as Ezekiel put the final dish away.
"Geez thanks for that minor jab." Artemis gave him a look, "Ezekiel, you know what mean."
"Then how are we gonna do that, here or back in the office?" He asked only for Artemis to pace a little as she thinks.
"No… with how large and expansive this place is, there is probably one room that is for training and practice for, well, probably anything."
"I don't know; it seems a waste of time. We don't know where to start or even if this is possible," Ezekiel said, but Artemis gave him a look.
"I don't think for millennia it would have been wise to have something as big as this Prophet barely use their gifts effectively. And even then, we have nothing to do as we are waiting for that god to find out about the spear in your visions," Artemis said, but Ezekiel himself felt doing this was like telling a flightless bird that got wings that they were going to learn how to fly from a none bird. But even with those feelings, Ezekiel does understand Artemis' idea. Better to try, and it might work, than to never try and never know if it is possible or not. Artemis is willing to help him, and with her experience and knowledge, maybe they can discover something in him.
"I'm a bit skeptical of this nonexistent plan of something we don't have any idea how it is supposed to work, but isn't that humanity itself, trial and error?" Ezekiel smiled.
"That's more like it, and don't worry, I'm here to help," she said, smirking. Both went to the elevator they came from before it opened for them, and as they went in, it started moving to take them to another part of the sanctuary. It didn't take long before the doors slid open, revealing another corridor. As they stepped out, they saw it extending from their left to their right, with another one leading forward and stopping at some double doors larger than the normal single-size ones.
"Do you think that is where we wanted?" Ezekiel pointed.
"Well, it's different from the hundreds of normal ones we have passed since we got here, so I assume it is." Both of them walked toward the unique door and opened it, revealing a large open space made of polished stone. The room exuded an ethereal glow, emanating from countless spheres of light that hovered in the air. The polished stone floor reflected the ambient light, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
The central area of the room was dominated by a circular stone platform, elevated slightly above the ground. On the platform, intricate symbols and patterns were engraved, forming a mesmerizing display. Surrounding the platform were pillars adorned with carvings depicting various scenes from the history of fighters or warriors engaged in combat or practicing their art or skills. Each pillar seemed to tell a story, contributing to the overall grandeur of the space.
The spheres of light, suspended at different heights, cast a soft and warm illumination, almost like mini suns that were carefully placed, giving the room a natural light. The room felt serene yet filled with untapped potential, as if it held the key to unlocking the mysteries of Ezekiel's newfound abilities.
Artemis and Ezekiel exchanged glances, a shared understanding passing between them. This room, with its mystical ambiance and purposeful design, seemed like the ideal place for Ezekiel to explore and harness the Gifts of God.
"I am surprised to say this, but the mortals have built something that even a goddess like myself can appreciate." Artemis left the entrance doorway and went to the platform. Ezekiel could only marvel at the magical lights.
"Ezekiel! How about you stop marveling at the lights and get up here and test what might help you control your gifts." Artemis was on the platform, walking around the edge, and Ezekiel went up on the platform as he walked up to her.
"Alright, what do you have in mind?" Without a second wasted, Ezekiel noticed Artemis turned into a blur, and he felt something sweep his legs. Suddenly, he was on his back looking at the stone ceilings and the lights. Ezekiel took a moment before processing what just happened and quickly left his body as he sat on the floor, rubbing his back from the sting of falling on it hard.
"What was that for!?" Ezekiel cried out as he got up to his feet, still rubbing his back.
"It seems your gifts don't manifest in defense against harm to yourself," she said.
"You could have warned me?" Ezekiel said annoyed, only for Artemis to give him a smug smile.
"Maybe that tells us that there are other skills you should work on?" Artemis said.
"Yeah, because me knowing how to fight would save me from being slammed on the floor by a few thousand-year-old goddesses." He said as he moved a good distance away from Artemis's bust still on the platform.
"Actually, how would that even manifest out of all the blessings I am given? None of those seemed to entail what you just did to me?" Ezekiel said as he waved his arms around.
"I don't know; it might have made your Wisdom of God give you the knowledge of how to fight?" Artemis posed.
"Well, that would have been a great theory to test out, but no matter how much knowledge you have on anything physical, if your physical body is not up to it," Ezekiel said.
"I guess that crosses out the Wisdom, unless…" She said as she put one of her hands behind her back, "Ezekiel, how many fingers do I have out?" Ezekiel gave Artemis a questioning look but figured out she wanted to try out if he could use the Wisdom of God to know.
"Okay, let me see." He closed his eyes and focused, trying to see any number or maybe her hand showing the number of fingers she had out. He focused on trying to get anything; he only got some random number that popped up in his head or some image of a hand with three fingers out. So he decided to go with that if that was the wisdom that God was giving him.
Shaking his head, he opened his eyes and looked at Artemis, "Do you have three fingers out?" Artemis then pulled her hand behind her back to show it in a fist with no fingers out. Ezekiel looked frustrated, "Oh come on, how is that even fair?"
Artemis cocked her head, "Fair? This is not a game, Ezekiel, especially since I did not want you to guess the right number, but this proves that it does not come in when you desire it." She said.
"Okay, then what?"
"Let's try another of these blessings?" She said.
"Like…"
"We know for sure the Eyes of God are working as you saw the manticore and the harpy and everything. The Wisdom of God doesn't seem to come in during certain accusations, and the Veil of God seemed to be working if the Olympians and myself included could only tell you are just a mortal, even now I can't tell anything special about you." She said.
"Thank you?" Ezekiel said, but Artemis ignored that comment.
"Then the only two we can try out are the Hands and Voice of God, which both seemed to come in as commands that have complete domain over the supernatural, so why not just try to replicate it as you did to the manticore." She said.
"On you?" He points to Artemis.
"Well, considering you successfully halted a manticore using your voice, why not test its efficacy on a more significant challenge – an Olympian, perhaps?" She suggests, "And regarding the repetition of such feats, why not delve into the emotions, experiences, and the essence of that particular moment? Attempt to recapture those sensations and explore how they might aid in manifesting that power once more. What was it that made it that you "
Ezekiel stood in the training room, attempting to recapture the essence of that critical moment with the manticore. He closed his eyes and delved into the memory, trying to summon the emotions, the urgency, and the inexplicable force that had surged within him.
In his mind, he vividly replayed the scene—the Manticore's menacing roar, Artemis moving to shield him, and the relentless determination to protect her. He could feel the weight of the unseen power coursing through him as he stood resolute against the creature.
As he reconstructed the memory in his mind, he could almost hear the echo of his own voice, filled with that otherworldly authority. With the scene vividly playing in his mind, Ezekiel took a deep breath, absorbing the imaginary atmosphere around him. His eyes snapped open, and he faced Artemis who was ready and in a defensive position with a determined expression.
"Let's give it a shot," he said, confidence in his voice and focus on Artemis. In a resolute manner, Ezekiel raised his voice and shouted to the goddess, "Stop!" The command echoed through the training room, but this time, he couldn't feel that otherworldly power. The air remained undisturbed.
His gaze remained fixed on the goddess, still poised in her stance. However, after a brief moment, she relinquished the position and shook her head with an air of disappointment. Ezekiel's brow furrowed in disappointment, realizing that replicating that extraordinary feat wasn't as straightforward as he had hoped. He exchanged a glance with Artemis, uncertainty clouding his expression.
"I was hoping there would be some progress with at least one of your blessings, but it looks like that won't be happening," she said. Ezekiel felt the need to sit down for a bit, so he went and sat on the edge of the platform, his foot only an inch or less above the floor. Artemis decided to sit next to him. "We should stop there for now," she said, and Ezekiel nodded.
"Are you sure? We still have one more—the Hands of God."
"Isn't that supposed to be like the Voice of God, but you're writing the commands? The only difference is some sort of blessings you can give out," she asked.
"Yeah, it seems a bit more complicated. Do I need a writing tool, like a pencil or a pen, for it to work? And what did Al mean by giving out blessings from my hands? Do I touch something and pray for blessings?"
Artemis contemplated Ezekiel's inquiries, her eyes entranced by the mystical ambiance of the training room. Soft radiance emanated from the spheres of light, crafting an almost surreal setting for their discussion.
"We could find a library; that is something my sister Athena would recommend. We could search for records about what the Prophets did or even find a journal they might have written."
"I would like that, especially checking out the books this place has. Maybe we should have done that first," Ezekiel expressed with enthusiasm, his mood shifting to concern. "Actually, I think we should head back to the office."
Artemis inquired, "Why is that?"
"Well, Al might have found the information, and we didn't let him know where we were going. So, I thought that he might be waiting for us," Ezekiel explained. Artemis let out an exasperated huff, saying, "I was enjoying my time away from that self-proclaimed god."
"I get he is strange in some ways, but he isn't that bad. So, how about we check the office? If he isn't there, then we can say he is still busy, and we can do our investigation of this place and my blessings," he suggested. Artemis gracefully stepped off the platform and onto the floor and Ezekiel followed suit.
"Then let's head off,"
"There you are!" Suddenly, Artemis and Ezekiel both heard the familiar voice of Al and turned their heads to the source. They saw Al standing at the doorway, holding a folder with papers sticking out.
"Al, you found us," Ezekiel said, walking over to the god, while Artemis moved more slowly, a bit behind Ezekiel.
"Of course! The sanctuary keeps track of everything here, even the locations of everyone," he said.
"I'm assuming you've found out about this legendary spear," Artemis said as she reluctantly walked up to them.
"Yes, and we should head back to the office, as what I've found out isn't good," Al said, and the three quickly and easily returned to the grand office. As they entered the office, Al swiftly went over to the table, slammed the folder, and opened it, with Ezekiel and Artemis standing at his side to see.
"What you are seeing here is all the information that I could dig up, and it's not great," he said, spreading the papers, some old photos, and a drawn picture of different spears.
"I found many spears through the ages and myths, but none follow how your visions present it except for one." Al then took out an old picture of an ancient Roman spear.
"It has many names—a specific type of spear, a lance. The Spear of Destiny, the Holy Lance or Spear, and its most revealing name, the Lance of Longinus. The one that pierced Jesus's side on the Cross—that is the one in your visions, and that is the worst thing we could ever hear," Al said, his hands slightly shaking.
"Why? What is this spear?" Artemis asked, her eyes narrowed.
"This lance has the power to hold the destiny of the world. With it, you can be not just a god but the most powerful being in the world, both in the magical and mortal realms," he explained, and Ezekiel's gears started to turn.
"So does that mean this spear in my visions is the center that can lead to…" His voice stopped as he was too shaken by what he was thinking, but Al knew exactly what his superior was concluding.
"Yes, this can lead to the End of the World."
Thank you for reading and feel free to leave a review of your thoughts and criticism.
Until the next chapter and have a Merry Christmas, Arklaw.