Five years had passed since Rendil began his studies in the Silver City. In that time, he had read countless scrolls, debated theology with Metatron, and shared quiet evenings with Azrael by the pond. On what would be one of his final evenings in the Library, a familiar voice sounded above him: “So, what have you learned, Captain?” He was so startled he nearly spilled his tea. Ariel stood above him, her silver eyes curious. They held each other’s gaze; her gentle smile invited an answer.

  He set his cup down. “About how demons acquire their weapons.”

  Ariel paused. “Yes, it’s a twisted process. Unlike us, demons take their weapons from the Darkness of their own world. Beings of Darkness and enslaved human souls forge the weapons into the desired form, then bind them to the demon's essence. Thanks to this, if they die but manage to return, they can summon their weapons from the Darkness again.”

  “Do they have souls?” Rendil asked.

  “Only fallen angels and their children do. The rest are just entities capable of evil. They can revive or be reborn, but no, there’s no real soul in them. It’s just a malevolent existence,” she explained in a quiet, sad voice. “The lower forms of demons are just empty shells.”

  He knew much of this and nodded.

  “It’s truly dark reading, but I need to put this knowledge to use in any upcoming encounters. You never know when some of this information might come in handy.”

  Ariel watched him a moment longer, then turned to the window. “It’s getting dark.”

  “Yes, I should grab dinner. Will you join me?”

  “Even though I rarely eat, why not,” she replied, hopping off her chair. “We could eat outside,” she suggested.

  “I’m sure it won’t rain,” Rendil remarked.

  Ariel laughed. “Yes, it only rains beyond the Fourth and Third Gates, and even there only sometimes. We don’t get to enjoy rain much here,” she said, pulling a mock grimace.

  Something wistful crossed his face.

  “My time in the City is almost up,” he noted. “Someone only gave me a five-year pass,” he looked at her.

  Ariel laughed. “That’ll have to do for now.”

  They passed one of the barracks, where Rendil grabbed burgers and drinks for them both. They flew up to one of the elevated gardens near the Main Tower and settled on a stone bench. After unwrapping the burgers, they ate in comfortable silence.

  “Mmm, I like this modern food,” she said, watching him.

  “"It's practical when you want to eat outside,” Rendil agreed.

  After a few more bites, she spoke again. “You won't be beyond the Gate forever. Soon you'll return to the City,” Ariel remarked.

  He kept his voice even. “Do you know where I’ll be assigned?”

  “For now, you'll return to Radion's unit at Golden Sunset. After that, we'll see where a long-term position opens,” she answered.

  “I see. At least I’ll meet someone new after being reassigned,” he said and took another bite.

  “See, that’s positive thinking,” she said, smiling. “But something’s bothering you... I can see it.”

  Rendil nodded. “Yes, I’ve learned that every day our chances of winning this war grow smaller, and there’s nothing we can do about it.”

  “Can’t, or won’t?” she asked thoughtfully.

  His cup halted midway to his lips. “What do you mean?”

  Ariel fell silent, then drew a slow breath. “I’m not sure I should say this... I feel like several angels would like to go home to the High Heavens. I understand them; being part of this endless war isn’t everyone’s dream.”

  “But billions of souls ...?” Rendil interrupted.

  Ariel’s voice thinned. “I’m not one of them. I don't want to abandon the fight either. Some of us think we might be more than human, that our angelic nature makes us superior. But I fear the truth is exactly the opposite.”

  “I’m convinced that in the Father’s eyes, we all have equal value,” Rendil said.

  “I can’t accept that he’d see any of his creations as lesser,” she confirmed.

  He laughed briefly. “Sometimes it’s worse than dealing with little kids.”

  “That’s true,” Ariel replied. “Maybe they’re just missing hope.”

  “And where do we find it?” Rendil asked.

  She smiled. “I don’t know yet, but I hope it’s nearby. Michael still hasn’t lost faith. But I’m afraid his pride is holding us back.”

  “What do you mean?” he asked.

  “Since Gabriel fell, Michael has changed. They were very close. Now he focuses only on strength and faith. But this war needs wisdom, too,” she said sadly. “This is a war we can’t afford to lose. It’s just us; no one else is coming.” Ariel’s silver gaze dulled.

  This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

  Rendil’s jaw worked. “Someone should be able to talk sense into him. I’ll stay here and try to find a solution.”

  Ariel stopped him. “Don’t take it personally, but my brother won’t heed a captain.” She tipped her chin toward the Tower. “Michael has hundreds of advisors around him, each with their own opinion.”

  He rubbed his temples. “So that’s where my role ends? I’m just supposed to fight and wait?”

  Ariel looked at him in surprise and asked, “Why?” Her silver gaze held.

  Rendil answered sadly, “No human has ever become a high angel. At least, not that I know of.”

  She stood up and stepped in front of him so he had to look up. She was much taller than he was. She put her hand on his shoulder and said, “Just because no one’s done it doesn’t mean it’s impossible.”

  He searched her face. “Why me?”

  She looked at him, puzzled.

  He went on, “You and Metatron... Why am I so special to you? I don’t believe it’s just because I’m the ‘prodigy captain,’” he said, making air quotes with his fingers.

  Ariel gave a mysterious smile. “If there’s something you’re meant to learn, you’ll find out at the right time. For now, believe in yourself and know that everything will turn out well. Good night, Rendil...” She smiled, then gave a strong flap of her wings and flew away.

  He sat a while longer. He had more questions than answers again. But he had to keep studying; soon he’d be transferred beyond the Second Gate with the others ...

  He kept at it day and night. Azrael’s stories of those she had helped cross became a regular comfort in the evenings, and Metatron’s teachings filled his days. When his departure date arrived, he said his goodbyes to the mentors who had guided him over the last five years. First, he went to Azrael.

  “Hello, sister,” he said.

  She sat with a quiet smile, watching him for a moment before she spoke. “Another departure awaits you. I hope that when we next meet, you’ll have new stories to share.”

  “I believe so,” he said.

  Azrael’s gaze drifted past him, unfocused. “Even though I already hold many, I can offer only those that have been,” she murmured, “not those that are yet to be.”

  They bowed slightly to one another, and he moved on to Metatron.

  “Be safe, my brother,” Metatron told him. “Use what you have learned, until we meet again.”

  “Until we meet again,” Rendil replied. “Also, will you say goodbye to Ariel for me? I know she is away from the city.”

  Metatron nodded. “Rest assured, I will deliver your farewell,” he said.

  After that, Rendil set out beyond the Second Gate once more.

  Before leaving, he listened one last time to the beautiful choir drifting through the air. Took in the City, and enjoyed the last moments of the mild breeze on his face. He knew the heat awaited him again, but he was looking forward to the change, especially to seeing his friends, whom he hadn’t seen in so long.

  He landed in the courtyard, made sure the guards spotted him, greeted them, and kept going. He missed the surrounding lagoons and beaches, the palm forests, and everything that came with them. He enjoyed the unhurried flight and scanned the surroundings for any sign of a potential enemy. After a few peaceful hours, he reached the Fortress of the Golden Sunset.

  It was already afternoon and everyone was outside practicing.

  “Rendil’s back!” Artur shouted. The group paused drills and gathered to greet him.

  “So, are you all studied up?” Werner teased.

  “Leave him be! A little knowledge never hurt, but yeah, you were gone too long!” Carlos laughed and gave him a big hug.

  The lieutenants greeted him in turn, shaking hands, patting him on the back; the whole unit was glad to see him again.

  “That’s enough for today,” Radion announced as he arrived. “Let’s go catch up in the barracks over a drink!” he called, and everyone raised their swords and headed inside.

  “What did I miss?” Rendil asked.

  “Nothing, it was way too quiet; probably because you weren’t here,” Elion laughed.

  Radion’s expression softened. “Did it help?”

  “Definitely.” Rendil nodded.

  “I’m glad. It’s good that someone in the unit values book knowledge too,” he said, glancing at Elion.

  Elion grinned, and everyone kept joking like this late into the evening. When the others went to bed, Rendil and Radion headed to the Main Tower to meet with Vesaria and Cassian.

  Inside, only Vesaria, Synaa, and Arion waited.

  “Where is everyone?” Rendil asked.

  “Cassian was sent on a reconnaissance mission with his whole branch; there was suspicion of an encounter with a high demon. They’re due back tomorrow,” Vesaria said. “Well?” She leaned forward. “Satisfied?”

  “Partially, yes. There’s too much knowledge in the Library for even a thousand years, but thanks to Metatron, I think I’ve got the key points.” He rocked his head from side to side.

  “Ah, Metatron,” Vesaria mused. “Yes, I heard he gave you most of his attention.”

  He spread his hands, genuinely puzzled. “I don’t know why.”

  Vesaria cut in. “Be careful, just because we’ve heard about it doesn’t mean it’s all good. I get the sense there’s envy among the angels.”

  “Envy? In the Silver City?” Rendil repeated.

  Vesaria nodded. “It seems even among angels, rivalry and tension exist. Envy can cause division and intrigue, weaken our unity. It’s rare, but in these times, when every success is precious, even among the ranks of Light, a shadow can appear.” Her expression darkened. “It’s something that doesn’t belong here and never should have.”

  So much for this place being all light and harmony.

  “I’ve been here since time immemorial. We celebrate those who are exceptional and who contribute the most in the fight against Darkness. But something about this situation doesn’t sit right with me...” She looked at the map hanging on the wall “It’s as if some kind of poison is slowly spreading everywhere, infecting others. You need to be careful, not everyone will wish you well just because you’ve caught Metatron’s attention.”

  “We can’t afford that kind of luxury now,” Rendil cut in.

  Vesaria just shook her head, understanding in her eyes. “Definitely not.”

  “Do you think someone might want to harm me?” Rendil asked.

  Radion chimed in, “Hard to say. Maybe it’s just us being cautious, but be careful. As an angel, you’re extremely valuable to the Heavens.”

  Rendil sighed and shook his head. “I'm not sure I'm worth that much concern.”

  Synaa added, “You’re part of the upper hierarchy now. As an angel, you’re already among the very important figures.”

  Rendil put his head in his hands. “I keep feeling like I get hope, and then it’s taken away again. I’m going to lose my mind soon.”

  Vesaria smiled. “I think you need a break and some time to unwind. I was going to challenge you outside, but honestly, you should take a moment for yourself.”

  Rendil's hands dropped from his face. “No,” Rendil replied, sitting up straight and shaking his head firmly. “Training is exactly what I need right now.”

  Vesaria was a bit surprised, but agreed on the condition that it start the next day during daylight.

  “That's enough heavy talk,” Arion concluded. “Let’s talk about something better. Who won at soccer today?”

  They talked until morning, then everyone retired to their quarters. Rendil stepped onto his terrace and lay back against the stone railing, thinking.

  When his Lumion signaled it was time, he met the others in the barracks. He kept the mood light, betraying no sign of what weighed on him. Afterward, he walked among the squads, then quietly slipped away to train with Vesaria.

  Later a bell echoed through the Fortress; Cassian’s branch was returning. After a while, Arion landed near them.

  “What’s going on?” Rendil asked.

  “The whole branch is back. They reported finding nothing.”

  They thanked him and returned to their training. Routine resumed, with angels rotating duties, until one day when Captain Ramiros landed.

  “The commanders are calling every captain to the Main Tower immediately,” he announced, then lifted away.

  “Do you know what happened?” Rendil asked Radion.

  He just shrugged, showing he had no idea.

  They'd already received the message on their Lumions. Whatever it was, it was urgent.

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