Soothe the pain of all who suffer.
Aid those in their time of greatest need.
And infuse every corner of creation with boundless joy.
With these sacred invocations, the Lord breathed life into her.
Thus, Emily, the Joybringer, emerged, her heart ablaze with the radiant warmth of Heaven's love.
For the next two hundred years, Emily embraced her purpose with a heart brimming with warmth and joy. From the moment she came into being, she knew exactly what she was meant to do: spread happiness to every soul she met. It wasn't just her job; it was her passion, her calling, her very reason for existing.
Each day, Emily approached with an infectious enthusiasm. She couldn't wait to share the light and cheer she carried within her. Her mission was simple yet profound: to uplift and heal, to remind others of the beauty around them and the goodness that lived inside them. Whether it was through a kind word, a cheerful smile, or just a listening ear, she believed in the power of small, heartfelt acts of kindness to spark lasting joy.
Every new soul that arrived in Heaven was a fresh opportunity for Emily. She didn't focus on their pasts or their struggles; instead, she saw the chance for joy and renewal. Watching others smile and laugh brought her deep satisfaction, knowing that each moment of happiness she helped create was a tiny victory against the shadows of the world.
For Emily, spreading joy wasn't just a role—it was a way of life. She saw it as a vital part of making the world a brighter place, resisting the darkness one smile at a time. Her belief was clear and simple: happiness could be nurtured and shared, and every act of kindness added a bit more light to the world.
In her eyes, every interaction was a chance to spread a bit of sunshine, to remind others of their worth, and to show them that joy could be found in even the smallest moments. For Emily, there was no greater purpose than to bring a smile to someone's face and to fill their hearts with the warmth she carried.
Like Adam would say, she was the gosh darn Joybringer!
Emily found pure joy in making others happy. Her days were filled with smiles, laughter, and the warm glow of spreading cheer. It was her calling, and she embraced it with all her heart.
But...
Emily would never claim her life was all sunshine and rainbows—nope, that would be lying, and she knew lying wasn't right! Even though she was all about spreading joy, there were moments when she felt a tiny twinge of loneliness or a little nagging doubt.
She was here to bring happiness to everyone in Heaven, but she couldn't help but wonder about the sinners in Hell. Were they not part of creation too? Her older siblings would probably shake their heads and say, "Oh no, sinners were vile creatures only interested in causing pain and suffering. ' in a scary voice. But Emily couldn't help but imagine them all alone and sad, wishing they could catch a glimmer of the joy she loved to spread.
She knew she wasn't supposed to meddle with Hell's happenings—her job was to make the souls in Heaven giggle and glow, not to wander into the realms of despair. Still, she felt a little tug in her heart whenever she thought about them. It was like, "Oh gosh, I wish I could sprinkle some of my happiness their way!" But for now, she just did her best to keep shining brightly where she was, hoping that maybe, just maybe, her cheerful vibes could reach even the farthest corners of the universe.
"Sinners are the opposite of everything you strive for, Emily," Sera had said with a serious tone. "They've had countless chances to repent while alive."
Emily had taken Sera's words to heart because, well, Sera seemed to know everything about everything. Plus, her siblings were always so nice to her. They were kind and warm whenever she met them, so she trusted them too.
But, oh boy, when Emily was on her own, her thoughts would just wander off! She couldn't help but think about those poor souls in Hell, stuck in the darkest places. She'd daydream about a world where everyone, no matter how lost, could catch a little bit of the joy she loved spreading around.
So, when Charlie brought up the idea of redeeming souls, Emily was absolutely over the moon! The idea of sharing her happiness beyond Heaven's gates made her heart race with excitement. As Charlie talked about Angel Dust and how hard he was trying, Emily couldn't stop beaming. It was like a burst of sunshine for her—finally, a chance to spread her joy to those who really needed it!
But, oh, Sera and Adam weren't exactly glowing with joy. They didn't look happy at all—if anything, they seemed kind of annoyed. Emily was totally confused. Wasn't the hotel a good thing? She was standing by Charlie, all excited, but things quickly turned into a whirlwind of arguing and yelling.
When Emily found out about the terrible exterminations, she was absolutely fuming. It was like a storm of anger and disbelief swirling inside her. She couldn't believe Sera had kept so much from her, and hearing Adam talk about killing sinners so casually made her blood boil. She ended up saying things she wished she could rewind and take back, accusing them of stuff that just hurt more.
She didn't regret standing up for what she believed in, not one bit. But she did feel bad about how she went about it. She knew Sera was hurt by her words, even though she was too upset at the time to really care. Well, no, that wasn't entirely true, and lying was a sin. Emily knew she wanted Sera to feel some of the hurt too. She didn't want to be treated like she was just a little kid who didn't get it.
Still, Emily knew she needed to apologize to Sera later. She couldn't let things stay this way.
Emily didn't just sit around feeling sorry for herself, though. Over the past month, she'd been busy talking to lots of angels and even some of the winners. Some of them agreed that things were wrong, and that little bit of agreement made Emily feel a smidgen better.
And then, something amazing happened. Of all people, Sir Pentious showed that redemption was possible! Emily could hardly believe it. She'd always held onto a hope that someone from Hell could change, but seeing it actually happen made her heart do a happy dance.
She practically bounced around Heaven, excitedly telling anyone who'd listen about Sir Pentious's transformation. "See? See? I told you it could happen!" she beamed, her eyes sparkling with joy. This was proof that her dreams weren't just flights of fancy—they were real, and they could actually come true!
But, oh, that joy was just too short-lived.
Adam and nearly a hundred of the girls who had gone down to Hell with him were killed.
When Emily heard the news, it felt like a cold gust of wind had blown through her. She couldn't believe it at first. How could something so terrible happen? The First Man, the First Soul in Heaven—slain in Hell? It was too much to take in.
She spent that night crying, her tears flowing non-stop. She felt so lost and sad, like the whole world had suddenly become darker. Her sobs filled the empty spaces in her heart, and she couldn't stop the ache that had settled deep inside. All the joy she'd tried to share felt so distant now, overshadowed by the weight of this awful news.
The angels who had cheered her on, the ones who believed in redemption just like she did, had turned away from her. They wanted nothing to do with Emily now, and she could understand why. The sinners she had tried so hard to defend turned out to be monstrous, tearing apart and violating their friends' bodies. It was awful, and it hurt so much to think about it.
It hurt so much to think about it—seeing the wreckage they left behind, the way they tore apart her friends and violated their bodies. Even Angel Dust, who she had hoped could be redeemed, had killed angels and laughed about it.
Why did Charlie let them do this? Did she really lie about caring?
The only small comfort she had was that Adam's body was returned, spared by the sinners. But even that felt hollow.
It was as if the light in Heaven had dimmed just a little, and no matter how hard she tried to bring it back, the shadows seemed to linger, clouding everything she touched.
The funeral was something Emily had never seen before—a grand, somber event, marking a first in Heaven. It was so quiet and still, a heavy sadness hanging in the air. No one had ever thought a Winner would die again.
The winners reacted in all sorts of ways. Some were crying for Adam, the First Man they'd lost. Others were confused or angry, talking about revenge and what needed to be done. Emily could feel all those emotions swirling around her, and it was like a storm inside her heart. She didn't know what to do or how to help. All she knew was that everything felt so heavy and uncertain, and it was hard to see a way through it all.
Sera's sorrow was like a weight on Emily's heart. She'd never seen her older sister so quiet, so lost in her work. It was clear Sera blamed herself, and Emily wanted so much to say something comforting, but she just didn't know how. She felt more unsure than ever, unable to find the right words or the right way to help.
Adam's son and eldest daughter were respectful when she offered her condolences, but Emily could sense the underlying emotions they felt toward her. Lady Azura didn't bother hiding her feelings at all.
Most of the Archangels were there, their faces serious and heavy with the occasion's gravity. Emily had wanted to stay, to be a beacon of warmth and kindness for those who needed it. But the stares and whispered judgments became too much to handle. Without even seeing Adam's body, she left, feeling like she'd failed in every way.
Feeling like she didn't belong, Emily quietly slipped away from the gathering, searching for someone who seemed just as lost and out of place as she felt: Sir Pentious. His redemption, which should've been a joyous occasion, had now become a source of scorn and separation for him in Heaven. He was hiding away, far from the Heavenly City, with only Saint Peter for company.
Emily's mind whirled with doubts. Had she been wrong about redemption? Was this really the price it demanded? Did every sinner's chance at change come with the cost of a winner's life? Was this why redemption had never happened before? The thought that hurt the most was her regret for not having apologized to Adam after their argument.
Weighed down by that regret, Emily cried herself to sleep, her tears soaking her pillow. She prayed to the Lord Father, looking for comfort and guidance. Through her tears, she hoped to find the strength to fix what was broken and make amends for the words she had never taken back.
The Lord heard her prayers. Azrael found the souls of the fallen exorcists, and although it would take time for them to return, they were alive.
Emily prayed again. And once more, the Lord answered—Adam had risen.
For a fleeting moment, Emily's heart swelled with joy. But, as with so many things lately, that joy was brief.
Minutes after Adam's return, he stormed back to the place where he had fallen, seeking revenge with a burning rage. He rampaged through Hell, leaving devastation in his wake. Michael, Emily's older sister, followed soon after. By the time they came back, Hell was left in ruins, with countless casualties scattered everywhere.
"They did what the Lord wished," they told Emily.
Her siblings, who had once seemed indifferent to the idea of redemption, were now oddly fascinated—but not in the way Emily had hoped. After she had left Sir Pentious with a chuckling Uriel, she came back to find Sir Pentious sobbing and wailing in despair. When she asked what had happened, the response was cold and chilling: "What was necessary."
Sir Pentious still refused to leave his house.
Emily had longed to spend more time with her siblings, and now that wish had come true. But instead of the loving, warm brothers and sisters she cherished, she saw only bloodthirsty, cold-hearted shadows masquerading as them
Was this really the Lord's will? Was this what redemption cost? Was saving one soul truly worth the death of another? Emily's mind whirled with questions. Everyone seemed to agree on things as if it were obvious, but she felt like she was missing something fundamental. Maybe being the youngest meant she was too sheltered, too naive.
She thought about her siblings who had spoken to the Lord, stood in His presence, and heard His voice. They seemed to understand so much more. But Emily had never met Him. Not once. Was that why she felt so lost and confused?
Could the Lord, who had filled her heart with joy and love, really desire such devastation? Or was there something she wasn't seeing, something she didn't understand? Had she completely misunderstood His will? If this was the path to redemption, paved with blood and tears, then why had she been chosen to spread joy? How could she keep spreading happiness when it seemed to come at such a terrible cost?
She wondered if she could ever forgive herself if this was the outcome. Would the Lord still love her if she doubted His will? And if she couldn't find the answers, what would come next? The thought left her feeling even more uncertain and alone.
What if her doubts meant she wasn't fit to be an angel?
Was her role as the Joy bringer just that, a role?
What even was The Joy Bringer?
These were the questions that buzzed in Emily's mind as she watched the shattered pieces of Adam—skin, flesh, and bones—slowly come together again. Her thoughts tumbled back to her siblings' words. The Lord was coming back with Adam. Maybe now, she would finally get the answers she so desperately needed.
Emily's soul bowed, but it wasn't a graceful or calm act. It felt like being wrapped in something enormous and overwhelming, making it hard to breathe or think. Her whole being was weighed down by a pressure she couldn't quite grasp, and everything around her spun in a dizzying blur.
Then, just as suddenly, the crushing weight lifted, and a soothing voice cut through the chaos, urging her to rise. She struggled to lift her head, her vision still swimming in blinding light. Her siblings' figures were mere shadows in the distance as they moved toward the source. Emily tried to follow...
When Emily began to wake up, it felt like being pulled from a whirlwind of tangled dreams. Bright lights stung her eyes, and everything around her was a jumbled mess of shifting colors. She couldn't recall falling asleep, but the disorienting swirl made her feel as though she'd been out for ages. Everything was tilting and swaying, and she felt woozy, struggling to piece it all together.
Slowly, the chaos started to resolve into more recognizable shapes. She could make out Zadkiel and Jophiel kneeling nearby, their forms becoming clearer as the spinning lights began to calm.
Zadkiel's kind smile came into focus as he helped her gently to her feet.
"Had a nice nap, sleepyhead?" Jophiel's voice was warm and teasing, and she felt a soft pat on her head.
Emily blinked, her vision still swimming, as she tried to find her voice. "W-what…?" she murmured, still trying to grasp what was happening.
As Emily's senses began to wake up, the scene around her started to come into focus, and oh, it was like stepping into a dream! Everywhere she looked, animals moved with such grace and beauty. There were deer with the softest golden coats munching peacefully at the edge of the trees, their big, kind eyes looking at her like they understood everything. Birds of all colors danced between the branches, their feathers sparkling in the sunlight like tiny jewels. And oh, look at those doves, all snuggled up on a branch, cooing so sweetly!
Nearby, by a crystal-clear pond, a family of foxes was playing their little hearts out. Their red fur glowed in the sunshine as they chased each other around, their playful barks adding a joyful melody to the peaceful scene. Fluffy rabbits hopped through the grass, nibbling on the tender shoots that seemed to grow just for them.
And there were creatures she'd never even seen! Majestic dragons with spiraled horns that sparkled like starlight and lions with manes made of pure gold, moving with such effortless grace. It was like all of creation had come together in this perfect, untouched place.
Emily felt a warm sense of welcome from the animals, like they knew she was supposed to be here. Her siblings were scattered throughout the clearing, adding to her sense of comfort. Cassiel was nearby, his smirk making her feel all warm inside, while Chamuel, with her bright expression, waved cheerfully before turning back to the flowers she was admiring. Everything felt so right, and for a moment, Emily let herself bask in the beauty and peace of it all.
As Emily's eyes wandered, she spotted Michael and Raguel chatting softly a bit further away. Their voices blended with the rustling leaves, creating a calming background hum. They exchanged a quick glance and a warm nod in her direction, which made her feel a bit more at ease.
But then her gaze fell on Sera, who was standing with Haniel. Haniel gave Emily a bright, friendly smile, but Sera—oh, Sera—was different. She only glanced at Emily briefly before turning away. It was like a chill had settled in her heart at the sight of Sera being so distant and cold. Emily felt a sharp pang of sadness, a knot of emotion she couldn't seem to untangle.
She wanted to call out to Sera, to bridge the gap that seemed to grow with every passing moment, but the words got stuck in her throat. The once vibrant surroundings seemed to lose a bit of their color, as if the sadness had dimmed their beauty. Emily shook her head, trying to push away the gloom, and turned her attention back to the clearing.
Taking in the serene beauty around her, her confusion slowly gave way to a sense of wonder. She looked at Zadkiel, her eyes wide with awe. "What is this place?" she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of curiosity and amazement, as she finally steadied her wobbly feet.
The soothing voice that answered Emily's question was not like any she had heard before. It was divine, calming, and filled with an overwhelming sense of peace. Her heart leaped in her chest as she felt His presence before she even saw Him. The air around her seemed to shimmer with a profound aura, something far more immense and awe-inspiring than anything she'd ever felt.
When she finally turned toward the source of that presence, her breath caught in her throat. There He was, sitting serenely on a simple log of wood. The sight of Him was both humble and grand, a paradox that defied easy comprehension. His presence radiated a comfort and love that transcended words.
She saw Him reach out, His hand moving with gentle, tender care across Uriel's back. Uriel, on his knees beside Him, had his head bowed in reverence, a picture of devotion that spoke volumes.
Emily's gaze was irresistibly drawn to His eyes. One was a deep, soulful blue, like gazing into the calm, endless depths of the ocean. The other glowed with a golden warmth, wrapping around her heart like a comforting embrace. The mix of emotions was overwhelming, making her feel both safe and incredibly small in the grand scheme of things.
Her heart swelled with awe and trepidation as she stood there, absorbing the sight of the divine being before her.
The sight was too much. Emily's eyes went wide, her heart pounding so hard she could barely breathe. This was Eden—the legendary place of beginnings, of unimaginable beauty and grace. And there, sitting before her, was an entity who could only be the Lord Himself. The one she had always heard about, the source of everything she had ever known.
"Hello, Emily," He smiled at her.
Overwhelmed, Emily collapsed to the ground, her entire body trembling with a mix of fear and elation. "L-Lord…" she stammered, her voice cracking with emotion. "I didn't… I didn't recognize You! I'm so, so sorry!" The words rushed out in a frantic tumble, each one tinged with regret and desperation. "I should have known… I should have seen… Please forgive me!"
Pressing her forehead to the soft, cool grass, Emily felt the earth beneath her, grounding her amid the swirling confusion. "I-I'm so ashamed," she whispered, her voice trembling. "But… but I'm so, so happy—happy to meet You at last!" Her tears flowed freely, mixing with her joy and fear. "I've wanted this for so long… I've prayed for this, dreamed of this… And now… now You're here, right in front of me, and I—"
Her voice faltered as her emotions overwhelmed her, but she continued to speak from her heart, her words a mix of stammered gratitude and awe. "I-I'm not worthy… I know I'm not, but I'm so, so grateful… Thank You, Lord… Thank You…"
Her questions lingered just out of reach, tangled up in the flood of her feelings, but her gaze remained fixed on the grass.
Emily's heart skipped a beat, her mind racing as silence stretched on. The joy she'd felt moments ago began to twist into a tight knot of anxiety. Had she made a mistake? Did she say something wrong? Her worry grew, a heavy weight pressing down on her chest.
Just as her fear threatened to consume her, a soft, choked sound cut through the stillness. Emily froze, her gaze locked on the Lord. Slowly, she lifted her head, her eyes meeting His. But instead of the sternness she feared, His expression was one of surprise, with an exasperated smile tugging at His lips.
Before she could utter another word, soft, warm laughter filled the air. It wasn't just one person, but her siblings, their laughter spreading like ripples in a pond. Emily's confusion only deepened as she looked around.
Cassiel's large hand gently ruffled her hair, his playful shove bringing a sense of comfort amid her embarrassment. "You can cut that right now, lil sis. That ain't Father," he said with a grin, his thumb pointing towards the seated figure. "That's our good ol' Dickmaster."
"Oh, look at my lil sis getting flustered at a bit of divinity," Jophiel teased, her laughter warm and gentle as she wrapped Emily in a comforting hug. Emily could only blink in confusion, still trying to process what was happening.
Her eldest sister Haniel, ever the picture of refinement, glanced over at the man standing nearby, a bemused expression on her face. "You appear to be leaking," she remarked with an elegant tilt of his head.
The man looked down in surprise at the large, glowing cross embedded in his torso. "Damn it," With a huff, he gave the cross a couple of gentle slaps, and it flickered before becoming dull.
Emily's eyes widened in surprise. "Dickm…? Adam?!" She gasped, her confusion growing with each passing second. She squinted at the man, who was looking at Uriel with annoyance, in front of her, trying to figure out if he was really the Adam she knew.
The more she looked, the less he seemed like Adam. He was all pale and glowing instead of his usual dark, and he didn't have any wings! He also had a nose and lips, and not sharp yellow teeth. Her eyebrows knitted together as she tried to make sense of it.
"But… he doesn't have any horns," Emily said, almost to herself, her voice full of bewilderment.
Her siblings exchanged puzzled glances. "Horns?" Chamuel asked, lifting an eyebrow. "You had horns?" She looked over at the man, who shrugged casually.
Sera, standing a bit apart, finally spoke up with a hint of understanding. "She's confusing his mask with his real face," she said, her tone flat but not unkind. "She was too young to have seen his true face."
"Wait, really?" the man said, looking genuinely surprised. He glanced between Sera and Emily with an amused smile. "You mean you've never seen my real face before?"
Emily shook her head, her cheeks turning a bright pink as she tried to piece everything together. "No… I mean, I've only ever seen you with the horns and the mask," she admitted, looking a bit embarrassed. "I've seen you eat, nap, and even go to the pool with it, so I just thought…" She trailed off, feeling a mix of embarrassment and confusion.
"Well, here I am! Pretty nice, eh?" the man said with speed arms and a smirk, before it quickly turned into a frown. "Don't fall for me though. I'm serious."
Emily managed a shy smile, her embarrassment still palpable but softened by the comforting presence of her siblings. "I guess I have a lot to learn," she said, her tone more cheerful now. "But it's really nice to see you... uh, for real, Adam."
The Angel of War, still holding her gently, asked Adam, "On that note, what exactly was the purpose of that veil, First Man?"
Chamuel gave him a flat look.
"To hide my face?" he answered, raising an eyebrow. He seemed genuinely confused with the question With Emily now having a better look, the voice and mannerisms matched up with what she'd known of Adam.
"Oh, you mean why I wore it?" Adam shrugged casually, as if it were a simple topic. "I had insecurities, you see. I figured if I hid behind the mask, people wouldn't see the flaws I hated about myself. It was my way of keeping the world from noticing how much I loathed my own reflection and everything I fucked up. I thought it'd be Better to be seen as a prideful diva with a fancy mask than to show how truly messed up I felt inside."
He gave another casual shrug, his tone light and nonchalant. "Turns out, it didn't work all that well. But hey, not like anyone's surprised. I'm pretty good at being a mess."
Noticing the stunned silence from everyone around, Adam looked around with a slightly alarmed expression. "What? Oh no, did I just ruin the mood?"
Emily covered her gaping mouth with her hands.
Sera's voice broke the silence, gentle and full of empathy. "Adam, I had no idea…"
Adam looked at her, his awkward grin shifting to something more uncertain. "Yeah, well, sometimes I guess I was better at hiding things than I thought."
Gabriel stepped closer and placed a comforting hand on Adam's shoulder. "You're my friend, Adam."
"Thanks?" Adam said, a bit taken aback.
Jophiel came next, giving Adam a reassuring pat on the back. "We all have our struggles. It's okay to not be perfect."
Adam blinked, trying to process the unexpected kindness. "Right… I guess?"
Emily, feeling a surge of warmth and compassion, walked over and wrapped her arms around Adam in a hug. Her embrace was tight and sincere, filled with a mix of apology and support.
Adam blinked, momentarily taken aback. "Uh, what's this for?"
Emily pulled back slightly, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "I'm sorry if we made you feel like you had to hide. We're here for you."
Adam's eyes widened, and he glanced at the other Archangels, who were watching with a mix of surprise and sympathy. He gave a self-deprecating grin. "Oh no, I'm doing better now. See? No mask. Just me, face, dick, and all for the world to see."
Emily's face turned beet red as she took in the last part of Adam's statement. Her eyes darted downward, and she suddenly became acutely aware of just how exposed Adam was.
Instinctively, she let go of him and stepped back, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "O-oh! Um, are you sure you're okay like this?"
Adam gave a casual, reassuring smile. "Oh, absolutely! I'm doing better now. Death has a way of putting things into perspective."
Emily nodded, still blushing. "I-I guess that makes sense. It's a good thing, right? That things look better now…"
Yeah, I don't think this place would look so pristine if he still had any lingering issues, exhibition tendencies aside," Uriel, still wobbly as he got to his feet with a visible crack on his mask, turned to his siblings with a bit of a hurt look. "I'm actually kinda heartbroken that Adam was the only one who seemed to care that I'm hurt."
The responses from the others were quick and blunt: "You had it coming." "We warned you." "You only have yourself to blame." "Should've kept your mouth shut."
Emily's was surprised by at the sharpness of their comments. Her siblings were always nice. Why were they bullying Uriel?
Emily's eyes widened as she noticed the cracks in Uriel's mask. Her concern quickly pushed aside any lingering embarrassment from earlier. She stepped closer, her voice filled with genuine worry. "Uriel, what happened? Are you okay?"
Uriel glanced nervously at Michael, who was glaring at him with narrowed eyes. Swallowing hard, Uriel offered a sheepish laugh. "I… uh… tripped."
Emily's brow furrowed, her concern deepening. "Tripped? That doesn't look like a simple trip, Uriel. Are you sure you're alright?"
Before Emily could press further, Zadkiel chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Ah, Uriel and his clumsiness. If only it were just that. But hey, we all have our moments, right?"
Uriel shot Zadkiel a grateful look, though it was clear the explanation wasn't convincing anyone, especially not Emily. She opened her mouth to question him further, but Haniel's calm, soothing voice interrupted.
"Indeed, though perhaps it's prudent that we move on to more important matters. We have our own inquiries," Haniel spoke softly, her voice a gentle reminder of their purpose here. Her words gathered everyone's attention, shifting the atmosphere from light-hearted banter to something more serious. "Wouldn't you agree, Adam?"
Adam, who had been watching the exchange with a faint smirk, straightened up, his expression growing more thoughtful. "Yeah, I suppose now's as good a time as any." His gaze swept over the group, lingering on each of them before returning to Haniel. "Ask away. I'm an open book."
Emily's eyes widened as immediately. The Archangels, in their eagerness, had unleashed a tidal wave of inquiries, all at once, without a single thought to the order or clarity. dozens of questions flew his way, loud and fast, crashing into each other until they became nothing but a cacophony of noise. The sudden barrage was overwhelming, and Adam instinctively flinched,
"Did you meet the Lo—"
"What happened when—"
"Is the Almighty—"
"What did He tell—"
"Did you speak with Him d—"
"Are we supposed to—"
"Does this mean you're—"
Her heart raced as the questions collided and blurred together into a loud, overwhelming mess. She winced at the sheer volume of the chaos and put her hands on he ears.
Sera, with a sharp clap of her hands, cut through the noise. "One at a time!" she commanded, her voice ringing with authority. "Must I remind you again, brothers and sisters, to show some restraint?"
The sudden silence was a welcome relief. The Archangels shifted uneasily, murmuring apologies and exchanging sheepish looks as they realized the impact of their eagerness.
"Sorry, Sera…" "Our apologies…" "We got carried away…"
"Okay, okay! I get it! You're all eager to know, but come on, I only have one mouth" he said, his voice tinged with a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Can we maybe try this again, but, you know, one at a time?"
The Angel of War raised her hand. "Do we slaughter the heathens of Hell and purge Earth after or before you rip the Child of Sin apart?
Emily's eyes widened as her sister's question cut through the air, her face flushing with concern. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Wait, wait! That's not—"
Adam's startled expression mirrored Emily's own shock. "...Why the hell would you think I'd do any of those horrible things?" he asked, his voice shaking slightly. "I mean, that sounds terrifying."
Chamuel looked equally surprised. "Well, you're back from the dead, and isn't that what a vengeful, divine figure is supposed to do? Wreak havoc on the wicked, cleanse the Earth, and all that? It's the End of Time, no?"
"It is?"
Zadkiel's frown deepened. "Indeed, the Seven Trumpets shall sound, and the heavens will declare the coming trials, and all of creation will bear witness. Is that not the Will of the Almighty?"
Adam looked around at everyone. "I... I didn't get that memo," he said with a bewildered chuckle. "I'm back, yeah, but no one told me anything about apocalyptic battles or the seven trumpets."
Emily's eyes darted between the confused faces of the Archangels and Adam. Their collective expectation meeting Adam's clear lack of understanding. Her brows knitted together in concern as she tried to follow the rapidly unfolding and confusing conversation.
Zadkiel's frown deepened. "But the signs... the prophecies... the Second Adam... Isn't this the time foretold, where judgment will be cast upon the wicked, and the righteous will be lifted up?"
Adam looked genuinely puzzled. "No idea what you're talking about," he replied with a shrug.
The question clearly struck a nerve with Michael. "Then why else have you returned?" she asked, her frustration tinged with worry.
Adam winced, pressing a hand to his chest. "Ouch, that kinda stings, Michael."
Realizing how her question might have sounded, Michael's expression softened. "Apologies, old friend. I didn't mean to imply that your return was anything less than significant or joyous."
"None taken."
Jophiel stepped in, trying to clarify. "What Michael meant is that from our perspective, your return feels like it's signaling something major. You come back from the dead, stronger, with eyes like Metatron's and the Lord's... It's hard not to think it's about some sort of divine reckoning." She finished with you-know tone.
Emily's heart fluttered with a mix of relief and hope. The idea that Adam wasn't seeking to destroy everything was a comfort, and the fact that he seemed genuinely interested in understanding and perhaps even redeeming those involved gave her a glimmer of hope. She was particularly heartened by his casual mention of Sir Serpent and his lack of immediate anger.
"Your guess is as good as ours," Uriel replied with a shrug, clearly still on edge about the situation. "He's no different from other Winners, I checked. Still keeping him isolated just in case."
Adam hummed thoughtfully. "Yeah, I'll visit him later and check," he said with a nod. "Gonna be paying a lot of people visits from now on. Starting with the Serpent."
"You can't kill Lucifer." Raguel's voice cut through the conversation with a firm, resolute tone.
Adam blinked, his confusion evident. "I can't?"
Uriel stepped in, his tone explanatory. "Not unless you find a way to keep the seal intact."
"What seal—?" Adam's eyes widened as realization hit him. His confusion quickly shifted to annoyance. "Lucifer is the First Seal to Roo, isn't he?" He turned to glare at Sera. "Is that why you kept avoiding the topic of why you guys weren't putting his head on a spike?"
Sera looked down, a hint of embarrassment and shame flickering across her face. "We feared you might not handle the news well."
Adam pinched the bridge of his nose, frustration etched across his features. "Well, I'm definitely not handling it well. So what am I supposed to do now? Just sit around and wait?"
Cassiel offered a sympathetic nod. "Sucks, doesn't it? Getting blue-balled out of a kill."
Adam shot Cassiel a sidelong glance, his expression darkening. "Joke about killing my children again, and I'll smack the snot out of you." His voice was calm, but the underlying threat was unmistakable. With a dismissive shake of his head, he added, "Also, my anger is justified. You're all just way too eager. How did you even jump to 'End of Times' conclusions?"
The Archangels exchanged uneasy glances, looking a bit sheepish. Cassiel rubbed the back of his neck, shrugging. "Well, it kinda made sense at the time. We were talking, getting all worked up, and then someone brought up the apocalypse."
"I think it was Gabriel," Chamuel said, pointing an accusatory finger.
Gabriel's eyes widened in defense. "Hey, it wasn't me! I was just going along with what Zadkiel was saying!"
Zadkiel shook his head, crossing his arms. "Don't pin this on me. Raphael was the one who mentioned it."
Raphael, maintaining his composure, raised an eyebrow and calmly pointed to Raguel. "I merely mentioned it in passing because someone else said it, prompted by Raguel's insistence on caution."
"I simply advised readiness for any eventuality. It was the rest of you who escalated that into a full-scale 'Let's initiate the End of Times' discussion. Uriel?" Raguel, ever serious, responded with a measured tone.
"It wasn't me! It was... uh..." Uriel stammered, glancing around as he sought a scapegoat. He looked first at Haniel. Nope. Then at Sera, who was clearly in a foul mood, mostly because of him. His finger hesitated before finally pointing to Michael. The temptation to tease her was strong, but two punches in one day would kill him. With a mischievous grin, he decided to tease the youngest. "I think it was... Emily?"
Emily's eyes welled up with tears as she looked at Adam, her voice trembling as she tried to defend herself. "Me?!" she repeated, her tone filled with disbelief. "I-I would never suggest something like that!"She turned to Adam, her gaze pleading. "I was scared, Adam. The way they were all talking about the apocalypse, finishing each other's sentences like it was just some casual plan... It was terrifying! I was the one trying to stop it, not start it!"
Her voice cracked with emotion as she continued, desperately hoping Adam would believe her. "Please, you have to believe me. I didn't want any of this!"
"He made her cry," Zadkiel said sadly.
"I'm just joking.." the Angel of Wisdom tried to reassure her. His youngest siblings always seemed to take his antics in stride. He didn't think she would take it seriously. "Junior, you believe me, right?"
Cassiel clicked his tongue in disapproval. "Way to go, dumbass."
Jophiel, without missing a beat, smacked Uriel on the head, her glare sharp enough to cut through steel. "Seriously?"
Gabriel crossed his arms and gave Uriel a disappointed look. "Honestly, Uriel, even for you, that was low."
Adam's face softened, his expression shifting to one of concern as he saw the tears in Emily's eyes. Without hesitation, he stepped forward and pulled her into a comforting hug, patting her gently on the back. "I believe you, Emily," he said softly, his voice reassuring. "I know you'll never do anything of the sort.
As Adam hugged Emily, he shot a glare at Uriel over her shoulder. Uriel winced under the intensity of Adam's gaze, looking both guilty and uneasy.
Uriel rubbed the back of his head, his shoulders slumping in defeat. "Sorry, Em," he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "I was just trying to lighten the mood."
Haniel patted Uriel gently, her eyes full of understanding. "We understand. Just... maybe next time, try a different approach?" she suggested softly. Turning to Adam with an apologetic smile, she added, "Apologies, Man of Men. It seems that in our zeal, we've gone too far."
Chamuel, looking a bit sheepish, nodded. "We're not exactly experts in interpreting things. It's why we waited for you to awaken, to be sure."
"We can't be left unsupervised for too long." Gabriel nodded.
Zadkiel nodded with a gentle laugh. "Indeed. It seems that when we're left to our own devices, we tend to get a little carried away."
Chamuel grinned. "It's true. We get excited, and things spiral out of control."
Raphael's voice carried a note of wistfulness. "I miss Father."
The others echoed his sentiment, nodding sympathetically.
"We hoped that the End of Times would mean Father's return," Haniel said softly. "But it seems we got ahead of ourselves."
Adam sighed, glancing around at the group. "Well, I'm here now, and I'm telling you cam down. There's no need to jump to conclusions or make assumptions. We'll sort things out without turning the world upside down." He looked at the Archangels with a faint smile. "Let's keep the apocalypse on hold for a while, okay?"
The Angel of Justice, with a calm and even tone, added, "At least this small debacle has shown that we and the First Man are not exactly on the same page. Perhaps we should clear up any misunderstandings now to avoid further confusion. It's better to sort things out now rather than let them fester."
Adam nodded, his expression serious. "Agreed. Let's address any issues or concerns openly so we can move forward without any more miscommunications." He looked at each of the Archangels, ensuring they understood the importance of resolving their differences. "Feel free to voice any questions or concerns you have.
Raguel, her gaze steady and her tone serious, asked, "Has the Lord given you any instructions or left a message for us?"
Adam shook his head slowly. "No, the Old Man never gave me any specific instructions or messages for you all. I'll take that as a sign he's okay with me doing my own thing."
Raphael's eyes narrowed slightly, considering Adam's response. "At the cost of sounding discourteous, what exactly are you?" he asked, maintaining his calm and measured demeanor.
Adam met Raphael's gaze with a pointed look. "What else could an Adam be but human? If your senses are telling you otherwise, then they're faulty." He paused, then added with a smirk, "But if you want my title, it's Adam Kadmon HaKadosh Shiloh Elohim Bar Adam HaRishon Tiferet Shel HaOlam. It's just a title, though," Adam added, waving a hand dismissively. "Don't take it too seriously."
The Archangels exchanged puzzled looks, their surprise evident at the stark contrast between Adam's grand title and his nonchalant demeanor. His casual attitude seemed almost at odds with the weight of the name he bore, making it clear he was more than he let on, yet reluctant to embrace the significance.
Zadkiel's voice carried a note of concern as he asked, "What of your place among us, your role? Do you wish to reclaim your old title, or do you seek something greater?"
Adam chuckled lightly and shook his head. "Reclaim my place? Nah, I'm not interested in titles or positions. I've never been one for Heaven's politics. I'm just here to do what needs to be done."
"If that is so, then what do you plan to do, O human who possesses the power of the Divine?" the Taxiarch inquired, her emerald eyes locked onto his heterochromatic orbs with intense scrutiny. "If you're not here to initiate the End of Times, what is your purpose? What drives you, knowing you have been denied vengeance?"
"First of all, my quest for Justice has not been denied" .Adam's expression turned contemplative, a thoughtful furrow forming on his brow. He took a moment to gather his thoughts before speaking. "My focus is on protecting humanity and making sure it doesn't fall into the same traps as before. I want to prevent us from repeating past mistakes and, if possible, find a bit of peace for myself along the way. Honestly, I'm still figuring it out as I go. There's no grand plan beyond saving what needs saving."
He rubbed his chin, his gaze distant. "Honestly, it's hard to put into words." He smiled, a touch of warmth in his eyes. "For now, though, I guess I'll try to be a better father."
Emily found those words reassuring, a glimmer of hope lighting up her eyes. However, for her more jaded siblings, she saw that Adam's response did little to ease their concerns or skepticism.
Raguel's expression darkened, her eyes narrowing. "So, in the end, nothing changes. We'll just continue stumbling in the dark." Frustration laced her voice as she turned on her heel, beginning to walk away. "This is a waste of time, then."
"Raguel, wait," Sera called after her, stepping forward with concern etched on her face. "Leaving now won't solve anything. We're all trying to understand this together."
Raguel halted mid-step, her back still turned to the group. Her shoulders were tense, and her frustration was palpable. "What is there to wait for, Sera? He doesn't have a plan. He's just... wandering. We've already been wandering for ages. We don't need more uncertainty."
"I understand your frustration, Raguel," Sera said softly, trying to bridge the gap. "But please, let's hear Adam out. Maybe there's something we can take from this, even if it's not immediately clear."
Adam, sensing the growing tension, took a step forward. "Look, I get it. I'm not here to lead some grand crusade or fulfill anyone's expectations. My purpose is to ensure that my descendants aren't screwed over, that humanity has a chance to avoid past mistakes. If that's not enough, then I won't force you to believe otherwise."
The Angel of Healing spoke next, hisvoice filled with concern. "It's not about belief, First Man. It's about action. We need direction, not just hope."
"We felt your divinity and believed you had a plan for us." Gabriel chimed in.
"I'm not—"
The Angel of mercy, still troubled, added, "The gravity of your presence suggests a purpose. If you're not here to lead, then what are we to make of this? We need guidance."
"We've been left in limbo for too long. It feels as though we're being dragged along without any clear goal or strategy." Raguel, with a mix of frustration and urgency, interjected. "Just waiting for it all to blow up in our face while we stare helplessly."
Adam's gaze hardened, his frustration evident. "I've already told you that I am not here to take the Old Man's place. So, I'd appreciate it if you stopped treating me as his replacement." His voice was edged with roughness as he spoke.
As he spoke, a torrent of glass-like energy burst from his back, forming wings that shimmered with ethereal light. Two additional pairs of eyes appeared above and below his original ones, creating a surreal and imposing effect.
Emily sensed the atmosphere growing heated, feeling the air around them grow warmer and the colors seem to dull. She saw her fellow Archangels bristle and tense in response. "Adam..." she said softly, looking at him with concern.
Uriel sighed, stepping in front of Adam, shielding his siblings, and trying to defuse the situation. "Do not take my siblings' words as a slight against you. We are not angry at you, but rather at our own helplessness."
"Sorry, I didn't mean to lose my temper, Divinity is a sore spot for me. " Adam said, his voice softening. His hand covered his face until the additional four eyes disappeared. the wings behind fizzled out of existence.
He let out a sigh. " My lack of a grand plan refers to the state of Creation and the rest of you. I have no intention of ordering you or leading. I know what actions I need to take."
Haniel stepped forward, her demeanor both serene and commanding. With a graceful smile, she addressed Adam, her voice imbued with an air of refined poise. "Perhaps it would be most prudent for us to revisit an earlier part of our discussion," she suggested softly, her eyes reflecting a calm wisdom. "If you have any questions or concerns that we might address, First Man, please do share them. We are here to assist in any manner we can."
Her words, delivered with an almost imperceptible hint of encouragement, served to defuse the mounting tension. The Archangels, sensing the shift in the atmosphere, seemed to relax slightly, awaiting Adam's response.
Adam pondered the question for a moment, his gaze thoughtful. "I guess I do have a question," he said softly. "Will the annual slaughter of my children stop?"
Emily's eyes lit up with a genuine, warm glow at his words. The prospect of ending the Exterminations was something she had longed for, and her heart soared with hope. She glanced around at her siblings, her enthusiasm dimming as she realized she was the only one brimming with optimism.
But just like what happened at the court, she was alone. The other Seraphim's expressions remained neutral, their faces a blend of unreadable solemnity and guarded anticipation.
The First Angel met Adam's gaze with a meaningful look, her tone a blend of seriousness and gentleness. "That is not a question, First Man."
Adam responded with a smile "I know."
A heavy sigh made Emily turn to her brother.
"The Exterminations are not merely conducted for cruelty and entertainment, Adam," the Angel of the North said, his voice carrying a serious weight. "They are a necessity to keep the Roo powerless and under control."
Roo? Emily turned toward Chamuel to ask to ask, but she held her hand and mouthed later.
"The balance of power is delicate," Raphael added, his tone heavy with grim understanding. "Without the Exterminations, the Root could become too powerful, threatening the stability of everything." He cast a nod towards Cassiel, who stood solemnly beside him.
Adam listened intently.
"You've seen with your own eyes. The manifestation of its husk alone, with only a fraction of its power, nearly ripped Hell apart. Had Michael not intervened, it might have reached the other realms."
"I know that," he said, his voice steady
Adam raised his arm, and golden ethereal chains began to materialize around him. The chains, which circled his limbs and torso, pulsed with a divine energy that caused Emily's hair to stand on end. They glowed with a shifting radiance, their intricate patterns imbued with a power that was both awe-inspiring and unsettling.
Emily could see the chains but struggled to grasp their full significance. She just knew they were powerful.
Her siblings, however, seemed to recognize their profound meaning, their faces a blend of awe and unease.
"I only ask for your trust," Adam said, meeting the eyes of his celestial counterparts with an earnest gaze.
"We do trust you, Adam," Sera said, her voice steady but laced with concern. "But trust alone isn't enough in this situation. The stakes are too high for it to be that simple."
Cassiel's expression softened, though his voice remained firm. "Sera has a point. We all want what's best for Creation, but it's hard to simply accept without understanding the full scope of what you're proposing."
"Roo is dangerous for two reasons," Adam said, his gaze unwavering, his demeanor calm despite the mounting pressure. "The chains you see are not just a display of power. They are the solution to both."
"But for how long?" Jophiel interjected, apprehension clearly heard in her tone. "Not even you could hold it for an eternity." the unspoken, Not unless you stop rejecting yourself, lingered in the air.
Even if she didn't understand half of what they were speaking about, Emily, who had been quietly absorbing the conversation, spoke up with her characteristic warmth. "I d-don't really kn-know what is going on, but if Adam says these chains are part of a solution for the Extermination, maybe w-we should give him a chance. And don't forget that Redemption is now possible...I think."
"Emily..." Sera sighed, her hand on her forehead.
"It's not a question of willingness but of ensuring that whatever plan we adopt does not introduce new risks," Chamuel's voice came from next to Emily, gently patting her head. She turned her gaze to Adam. "It's a constant stream of both Good and Evil, you can't—"
"I'd say let him do it," Uriel interjected, his voice breaking the tension with a surprising lightness. He stood next to Adam, examining the chains with an air of casual curiosity, his fingers probing the golden links. "These chains look impressive. If Adam believes they'll work, maybe it's worth trying. Sometimes the only way to find out is to test it. What do you think, Sis?"
Haniel, who had been quietly observing, nodded in agreement. "I agree with Uriel. Testing this could give us the clarity we need. If the chains are as effective as Adam believes, it might be a significant step forward."
Yet, not everyone was easily convinced. Sera's expression remained guarded. "Testing is one thing, but we must consider the risks. We need to ensure that this won't result in unforeseen consequences."
Cassiel's skepticism remained evident. "And what if the chains are only a temporary measure? We might only be delaying the inevitable. We need a thorough plan, not just a hopeful fix."
Uriel's tone shifted to one of uncharacteristic seriousness. "Do you trust me?"
Cassiel frowned. "We've established that trust isn't the issue."
"I know," Uriel said, his gaze fixed on Cassiel. "But do you trust me, Cassiel?"
The Angel of the North hesitated, noticing the shift in the way he addressed him, before nodding. "...I do."
Uriel then turned to the rest of his younger siblings, who now looked at him with newfound respect. Emily, who had been quietly hopeful, felt a change in the atmosphere. Before her stood not just 'Uriel', but the Angel of Knowledge and Wisdom—someone who had once itched the very first of the rules of Creation and unearthed the universe's deepest truths.
The others nodded in reluctant acceptance,
"The Lord brought back Adam for a reason," Uriel continued, his voice steady and even. "And as much as he denies it, he's different. He carries a new kind of purpose and insight. We may not fully understand it yet, but we have to consider that he might be the key to a different solution. The Lord works in mysterious ways."
Adam gave Uriel a grateful nod. "Thank you."
Uriel dismissed the thanks with a casual wave. "Think nothing of it. Besides, I'd rather avoid a fight if I can."
The room fell into a contemplative silence, the weight of Uriel's words settling heavily among the Archangels. The hint that Adam might be ready to defend himself if pushed was palpable, causing a shift from casual concern to a more serious awareness.
Michael's eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of something unfamiliar crossing her face. "You werere prepared to challenge us if we refused?"
"No, only if you try to attack my children," Adam replied with a casual shrug. "You've got a lovely face, and I'd hate to ruin it, but this is a family matter now."
Michael held his gaze for a moment, then closed her eyes with a resigned nod. "Very well, I'll trust your judgment. But there's something else."
"Hm?"
A smile crept across the Taxarch's face, a blend of mischief and melancholy. "Don't be so quick to throw your life away, old friend."
With that, she turned to leave, her steps echoing with a sense of finality.
"Leaving already?" Adam called out.
"The Taxiarch is a tool of War. Without a conflict to engage in, my purpose wanes," she answered, her voice carrying over her shoulder as a swirling portal began to open behind her.
With a final, lingering look, she stepped through the portal, her figure dissolving into the swirling vortex of light and shadow. The room fell into a contemplative quiet, the weight of her words lingering in the air. Until our paths cross again, First Man."
Cassiel's thoughtful frown persisted, though his tone softened. "I'm willing to give this a chance, provided we remain vigilant and adaptable."
Sera's expression was pensive as she nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. We'll need to closely monitor the effects of these chains and keep contingency plans ready."
Zadkiel's gaze was steady as he addressed Adam. "I'll support this approach, but we must ensure transparency and regular updates."
The atmosphere began to relax, the earlier tension giving way to a cautious optimism. Uriel observed the shift with a hint of relief. "It seems we're reaching a consensus. Raguel?"
Raguel's eyes met Adam's with a look of scrutiny. "Fight?" she echoed, her expression shifting to a grimace. "For sinners?"
"For my children," Adam responded solemnly, his tone unwavering.
Raguel's expression remained unchanged as she considered his words. "...I see. Your commitment is deeper than we initially understood. The Child of Sin is in my Garden; do as you wish with her." With that, she prepared to leave. Her gaze briefly lingered on Emily, who offered a reassuring smile. For the first time, Raguel's expression wavered before she schooled it back into neutrality. "I will go ahead to prepare." With that, she vanished in a shower of sparks.
Soon enough, the lush Garden dissolved, and the scene shifted back to the Third Heaven of Formation. Emily watched as her siblings began to prepare for departure. One by one, they bid farewell to Adam. As the last of them faded into the distance, the space around Emily grew quieter, with only Uriel, Haniel, Chamuel, and Sera remaining.
Haniel's hand landed gently on Emily's shoulder, her touch soft yet grounding. "Shall we head to Zebul, then?"
Emily's eyes widened in confusion. "But… I thought my place was in the First Heaven, with Sera…" Her voice trailed off as she looked to her sister for clarification. But Sera, who usually had all the answers, continued to avoid her gaze, her eyes focused somewhere distant, leaving Emily feeling even more uncertain.
Haniel's smile was gentle and reassuring. "There's a small errand that needs your help. It's nothing too complicated, just a task that requires your unique touch. Nothing to worry about."
Before Emily could fully process Haniel's words, Uriel approached, his steps light and graceful as always, with Chamuel a step behind him. "What? Don't want to spend time with your cool big brothers and sisters?"
Caught off guard by his teasing, Emily sputtered, her thoughts jumbled as she tried to find a response. "N-no, it's not that, I just—"
Uriel chuckled warmly, reaching out to ruffle her hair. "I'm just kidding, little sis. Don't take everything so seriously." His tone softened as he continued, "But before we go, is there something you need to say to the First Man?"
Emily glanced over at Adam, who was watching her with that same kind smile he always had. It made her feel safe but also a little sad, thinking about the not-so-nice things she'd said the last time they met. Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward. "I'm really sorry for the mean things I said," she mumbled, her voice small but honest.
Adam looked confused for a moment before a grin spread across his face. He let out a soft laugh and shook his head. "Emily, those weren't mean. Trust me, I've said way worse to you." His voice was playful, showing that there were no hard feelings. "Sorry for calling you a dumb cunt," he added with a chuckle.
Emily's eyes widened before she burst into giggles. "Oh, it's okay!" she said quickly, her smile growing.
The guilt she'd been carrying started to fade, but there was still a question nagging at her, one she had wanted to ask the Lord. But after everything that had happened, she decided it could wait. Instead, she nodded and gave Adam a big, cheerful goodbye.
As she turned to rejoin Haniel and Uriel, Adam's voice stopped her. "Emily!"
She spun around quickly. "Yes?"
Adam's voice was gentle but carried a weight that made Emily stop in her tracks. "Emily, it's okay to care," he said, his eyes meeting hers with a seriousness she hadn't expected. "You have a big heart, and it's not a weakness. If anything, it's one of the strongest things about you."
Emily felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words, but he wasn't done. "And thank you," he continued, his voice softening even more, "for not giving up when the rest of us did."
His words made her heart swell, and she couldn't help but beam at him. "Of course!" she replied, her voice full of warmth and determination.
Emily turned to Uriel, Chamuel and Haniel, giving them a quick, reassuring nod to wait. With determination, she ran towards Sera, her heart pounding. As she barreled into her sister, she wrapped her arms around Sera's much taller frame in a tight, heartfelt hug.
Emily pressed her face against Sera's chest, her small hands clutching her sister tightly. "I'm sorry I made you angry, Sera. I was a horrible sister," she mumbled, her voice a mix of regret and sadness.
Sera stiffened at first, the unexpected embrace catching her off guard. But as Emily's words sank in, the tension in her body melted away. Slowly, Sera wrapped her arms around Emily, pulling her closer. Her expression softened, though a hint of hurt still lingered in her eyes. "You have nothing to apologize for, Emily," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "You're not a horrible sister. You never were."
Emily's grip tightened, as if she could hold onto the moment forever. "But I made you mad… I didn't want that. I just… I just want us to be okay."
Sera closed her eyes, the weight of Emily's words settling in her chest. "We are okay," she whispered, her voice cracking slightly. "We'll always be okay."
Emily pulled back just enough to look up at Sera, her eyes hopeful but still a bit unsure. "Can we have a tea party later? Just the two of us?"
Sera's face twisted with a mix of emotions, her eyes glossy and wet as she nodded. "Yeah, let's have a tea party," she agreed, her voice trembling slightly. "I'd like that."
With that, Emily reluctantly released Sera from the hug and turned around, making her way back to where Haniel and Uriel stood waiting. Haniel smiled down at her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.
The four of them bid goodbye the Sera and Adam before Haniel's hand glowed with a soft light, and in the blink of an eye, they disappeared, leaving only The First Man and the angel who had guided him so long ago.
The soft glow of their departure faded, and the serene moment was quickly overshadowed by the tension that filled the air. The smile that had been on Adam's face vanished, replaced by a cold, steely expression. His eyes narrowed as he turned to face Sera, who stood with a crestfallen look, her shoulders slumped under an invisible weight.
"What's the meaning of this?" Adam's voice was sharp, cutting through the silence with a demanding edge. The warmth he had shown to Emily was gone, replaced by a harsh intensity.
Sera met Adam's gaze, her eyes clouded with guilt and sorrow. "I have failed as her mentor," she admitted, her voice low and trembling. "Her education and understanding were severely lacking."
Adam's disappointment was palpable as he responded, "And this is the result?" His tone carried a hint of accusation.
Sera's shoulders slumped further under his scrutiny. "They are her siblings as much as I am," she said, her voice carrying a mix of regret and quiet defiance. "I may have failed her in some ways, but they care for her."
Adam's eyes grew darker, his expression hardening even more. "Looking at you, I'd have thought they were executioners," he remarked, his words sharp and meant to sting.
Sera flinched at his harshness but held her ground. "They care about her. They won't hurt her without reason," she insisted, her voice gaining firmness.
Adam stared at her, his silence more intense than any words.
"I'm overreacting," Sera finally admitted, her stoic mask slipping back into place. "But I ask you to trust them, just as you asked them to trust you."
"They doubt her loyalty". Adam's gaze was hard as he finally spoke. "They fear she's a second Lucifer."
"She's not," Sera replied, her voice soft but resolute. "But they don't know that. We barely saw each other in the past three thousand years, and Emily hasn't even been around for a fraction of that. Emily… she's different. She has a light that the rest of us have forgotten, or maybe never had."
Adam's eyes flickered with something—hope, or perhaps the remnants of it. He sighed, running a hand through his hair, and turned away from Sera, gazing out at the horizon where the remnants of the Garden still lingered in the distance.
"She's too precious to lose," he murmured, more to himself than to Sera.
"And she won't be," Sera assured him, stepping closer. "Not with us by her side."
The two stood in silence for a moment longer, an unspoken understanding passing between them. The weight of their conversation seemed to lift slightly, replaced by a shared commitment.
"Very well, I'll trust them," Adam finally said, his tone softening as he turned away, his form beginning to fade as he prepared to depart. "Take care, Sera."
"Adam," Sera called out to him.
He turned to find her smiling at him, a genuine expression of relief and warmth. "I'm sorry, and it's good to have you back," she said, her voice filled with sincerity.
Adam's gaze softened as he looked at her. "It's good to be back," he replied. With a final nod, he faded from view, leaving Sera alone with her thoughts.
Before him lay infinite paths, stretching endlessly in every direction.
Infinite paths twisted and converged, forming an eternal web of possibility.
Through this vast maze of possibilities, He marched with purpose.
His bare feet touched the grass below, feeling its cool embrace.
The All-Father and the Child of Sin locked eyes.
The Aether appeared just as it had the last time Azrael had visited: soothing, untouched by the sinister influence of the Root of All Evil. It was a place where reality and dreams merged, where the known world faded, and something wondrous and strange took its place. Time in this realm was a fluid concept, stretching and folding in ways that made each moment feel both endless and fleeting.
Here, the boundary between the physical and spiritual didn't just blur—it vanished entirely. Souls of the departed drifted like whispers on the wind, resting in a world that felt like the echo of a forgotten song. The light in the Aether wasn't just bright; it shimmered with a living pulse, casting hues that danced and changed, revealing glimpses of the realm's true nature.
The Aether didn't adhere to the rules of the world below. Here, the impossible was ordinary. Mountains reaching the sky stood beside rivers so clear they seemed woven from the essence of life itself. Yet, even if the laws of the rest of Creation held no sway, the Aether was still governed by its own principles.
Azrael, burdened with the weight of her duty, rode through the realm, her six dark wings drooping to the ground. Shachar, her bicorn, moved at a hurried pace, or as hurried as one could be in a place where time held no meaning. The silver grass beneath them vibrated with life, but even Shachar seemed subdued, sensing the change that lingered in the air.
She had wished to stay with her siblings in Yetzirah, to linger in their presence and share in the brief respite. But the silence that had settled over the Aether tugged at her senses—a void where there should have been countless souls reaching out to her. Bidding farewell to her kin and the newly returned First Man, she had set off with haste, her mind heavy with concern.
As she approached the heart of the Aether, where the colossal Tree of Life stood with its branches reaching toward the skies, Azrael felt a tightening in her chest. Her breath caught as she took in the sight before her. Shachar's fur bristled, and she instinctively placed a calming hand on its flank.
Massive golden chains coiled around the Tree's trunk and limbs, locking it in place as though it were a prisoner. The Tree, once full of life and bearing the fruits of countless souls awaiting their Divine Judgment, was barren.
In All Creation, the Concept of Death had been suspended.