Archive of Our Own ^beta

==========Introduction==========

THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION DOES NOT CONDEMN CHRISTIANITY OR RELIGION AS A WHOLE! THIS FANFIC MERELY USES THE IMAGES AND CHARACTERS FROM BIBLICAL STORIES

Introduction:

1 Setting

Hell – is the homeplace of such characters as: the Alternates (mentioned), and Lucifer/Fake-Gabriel.
Hell consists of a so-called common Underworld, the Hellish blood river, and north-western mountains that surround this place. It is worth noting there’s a place where the exceptionally guilty demons are sent. This place, or rather places, are giant chapels, where the “inmates” spend their imprisonment, restrained on an enchanted chain. The demon may leave the chapel, but they can’t leave Hell at all (except for the bridge to the realm of the living, but they can’t cross it completely anyways)

Heaven – is the homeplace of such characters as: all three Archangels (Michael, Raphael, Gabriel) and Lucifer’s father (and flashbacks connected to this place)
Heaven consists of the bridge to the realm of the living, the bridge to hell (or any other underworld from different cultures) and the “Heavenly Garden” is also located there. A giant mountain, where all the Angels live, oversees the garden. There is a temple up above, which is inhabited by Archangels only. You can reach the Heavenly Father himself from this temple.

BONUS: Realm of the living – the homeplace of ordinary people. You can get to heaven from here, and only then can you reach hell

2 Archangels’ culture

Each tribe has their leader, which is why the Archangels’ world also has their own. The Supreme Archangel is Michael, he protects the realm of the living, and his own one. All Angels listen to him and try to keep the balance of harmony.
The Archangels abide by the following rules:

1. A) If any order given by God himself, the archangel must obey.
2. B) Any serious offence that led to consequences not only in the realm of the living, but also in the realm of the dead, the archangel must report to God. Which results in a trial, where the fate of the guilty shall be decided – either banish them, or cut off their wings, which are kept in the temple under strict magical protection and can be brought back if the guilty is redeemed.
3. C) The Archangel must keep the balance of harmony in both realms.
4. D) The Archangel must oversee the duties of his subjects and colleagues.
5. E) The Archangel is responsible for detection and destruction of otherworldly trespassers without any warning.

3 Archangels’ artifacts

Gabriel: lilies and a mirror, which he carries on his neck like a pendant, decreased in size

Raphael: a chalice which can refill itself with any drug or potion

Michael: a sword and an emerald shield, which he also carries on his neck, decreased in size

==========The Second Banishment==========

The time had come to fulfil his mission. All the Archangels were waiting for Gabriel, or rather his return to heaven. Watching their fellow archangel from the crystal sphere to make sure everything went well; the Archangels were visibly nervous.

Already in the realm of the living, the Archangel Gabriel hurried to announce the birth of Christ to the Virgin Mary. It wasn't long before he was about to deliver the good news... Even a light bad weather could not spoil the feeling of what was about to be experienced. But suddenly, the angel began to feel that he was being followed. It could be written off as excitement, but still, the archangel didn't dare tolerate this nasty feeling any longer. He stopped, hovering in the air. His feathers fluttered slightly in the oncoming wind. Gabriel looked around, looking for the source of his halt, but all was in vain. There was not a soul among the same grassy hills. The Archangel continued on his way, but he was still driven to his stops by this feeling... as if he were the prey of a sudden hunt. Suddenly, Gabriel noticed a movement in the grass near one of the stones. A couple of meters away from the Archangel, a figure that was so familiar stepped onto the hill, but now it was hard to recognize the old friend in the stranger. The tangled blond hair... seemed so familiar... It protruded from beneath the cloak the figure was wearing.

A husky voice predictably began the dialogue:

-Ah, it's been so long… So long since I've seen you! I see you shining even brighter than then...

The stranger's husky voice seemed to sound like a muffled whisper. But despite all this, upon hearing the strange visitor, Archangel immediately recognized who stood before him. It was his old friend Lucifer. As children they had been friends in paradise, and nothing seemed to be able to destroy that happiness. But this statement was a mistake. Lucifer was banished once and since then, Gabriel knew nothing of his friend's fate, but could guess...

-What? Am I scaring you? Come on!

The demon was getting closer. He tried to slowly reduce the distance between himself and his opponent. Gabriel, on the other hand, was in no hurry to descend to the ground, hovering in the air.

Strictly and confidently the Archangel began to answer:

-Go where you belong! You have something planned I know, so my advice for you is to leave. Before it gets any worse for you. I know what I'm talking about.

 The lad’s hands clutched the flowers of paradise tighter and tighter, and his wings flapped nervously in the air every now and then. Archangel tried to sound as angry and incorruptible as possible.

-Oh, it's no good chasing away old friends. I don't even know why you're here.

-Really?

With a slight tremor in his voice, Archangel replied. His blue eyes were beginning to dry as he stared at Lucifer incessantly.

-I am only telling you the truth. Dear brother... So, tell me, how are Raphael and Michael doing? I missed heaven so much. In hell, I had time to think about what I'd done.

-Stop lying!

That was all Gabriel could say before he tried to fly away, but the thought that he might accidentally lead the devil to Mary stopped him. The archangel descended to the ground but was still at a distance.

-Listen... We used to be best friends, and I miss those carefree and happy times so much. Remember when we used to fly with you? Oh... It was beautiful. Too bad we... Because of my stupidity, I can't go up to the sky.

-What are you talking about? It sounds like nonsense. You brought this on yourself. You knew what happens to angels like you.

Suddenly, the demon threw off its cloak, revealing its wings. The feathers, which had once been tinted white, turned gray and faded. This image shocked Gabriel and caused the merciful archangel to soften.  His feigned anger seemed about to crumble and give way to the real emotion of the trusting boy.

-Oh, holy spirit... What happened to your... What has become of you?

In a calmer voice the archangel said, while looking at his friend, whose general appearance made him seem worried. Gabriel understood that when angels and archangels get banished to hell, they change their appearance. But not... To such extremes? Pulling himself together, the Archangel frowned. His curly brown hair was caught in the headwind, and he replied as he took off again:

-I have no time to pity you! Go back where you came from and don't bother me again! Farewell.

-Wait! Wait!

Shouted the demon coming closer.

-All right, brother... If that's the case... Please hear my request! I long for something to remind me of home... I'd like to ask for one of the lily buds you have in your hand...

-It's a heavenly flower. It will wither in no time from your clawed paws.

Gabriel reasoned.

-Ah... But even so! It's a great joy for me to touch a past life, if only for a moment... This is my deepest dream, Gabriel!

Big eyes opened to look at the angel, who no longer seemed so far away. Gabriel felt even more sorry for his friend and slowly, began to fall into temptation. Slender fingers reached for a bud and plucked one of them. The angel was about to throw the flower to the demon, but...

-Don't... Don't I deserve to have a dear friend put a flower in my hand? Gabriel... This could be the last time we meet...

Archangel swallowed nervously and slowly began to stoop down, getting to his feet. On his outstretched arm, he tried to, as carefully as possible, place a delicate flower bud in his clawed paw. He realized that this act was foolish and desperate, but old and warm memories could not leave his head... Neither could that awful silhouette of fraternal wings. Closer and closer, in small steps approaching the snare. Without touching the devil's skin, the bud fell into the demon's palm and immediately wilted, not even a couple of seconds later. Immediately, a clawed paw gripped the victim, digging into his hand with its claws. He pulled the archangel towards him, and Lucifer succeeded in stealing the guise of the caught one, leaving him in a near-paralyzed state. Magic, nothing more. Beside the Archangel lay his artifacts and specifically: a mirror, which looked like a small ball on a string, and a lily, also called the flower of paradise. False-Gabriel looked almost the same as the original except for excessive pallor, different clothes. He tried to take the mirror hiding it under his clothes around his neck, but when it was time to pick up the lily, the whole sprig immediately wilted.

-Oh, damn it! To hell with that branch... Let it be your funeral flower.

Leaving the pale body of his original lying in the grass, the False-Archangel set off. Gabriel was alive, but now he could not even return to heaven. He could hear everything and see the figure receding in the right direction.

Somewhere in the heavens, Michael had already prepared to rush to earth ahead for Lucifer, but he was being held back by Raphael, who argued that now, everything depended solely on humans and no Archangel had the right to interfere in the course of history. Michael's time had already passed, and the course of events should not allow either of them to fly to Gabriel. For this reason, the Archangel's colleagues saw everything but had no right to interfere. Gabriel has made a terrible mistake.

==========The Punishment==========

Some time passed...

Archangel lost consciousness many times, opening his eyes only for a moment. A cold wind covered his already abnormally white face with his curly hair. It would go on like this, but suddenly, through a kind of dream, Gabriel began to feel rough fingers touching him. He heard voices, there were several of them, who exactly was speaking was difficult to understand at the moment. From the awareness of his helplessness, the holy essence involuntarily began to sink back into oblivion.

Already in paradise, the place where the Archangels dwelled, Gabriel woke up on his bed in his room. His head did not hurt, but there was something wrong with his eyes. He could no longer see well. As if his eyes had begun to swell with new portions of tears, but that was not the case. The Angel wasn't really crying, just that his eyes were watering heavily, making it difficult to get his bearings in space. Even so, his wings, arms, legs, neck, were swollen and now they needed a long stretch before he could get up and go anywhere. After sitting for a while more, the Archangel got up by leaning on objects he encountered. He waddled to the mirror in the corner of the room. He looked into it and was not surprised. The holy creature looked like a ghost. Now it was clear why, in general, Gabriel felt himself to be some kind of a detached, dying creature. After all, the angels could indeed die, but about that later…

Touching the mirror with his hand, he noticed the outline of fingerprints on his wrist. But his attempts to remember that day were interrupted by the sound of a wooden door opening abruptly. Raphael was standing at the door. The emotion on his face was unrecognizable, but his voice distinctly conveyed sadness and anxiety.

-Hello Gabriel. I'm glad that you found the strength to get out of bed! Michael and I were afraid that you would stay like this for a long time. But it's not as bad!

Raphael continued in a strange voice as if he was trying to convince himself that everything was fine.

-I was able to heal all that was within my power but... Well, we can't let Lucifer get away with it, in your guise especially, can we?

There was an awkward pause and Gabriel staggered unsteadily towards his brother, still leaning on objects while making clumsy steps. Raphael immediately ran up to the Archangel, taking him under his arm, leading him down the long corridor.

-Raphael, what will Misha do to me?

A languid and quiet voice asked Archangel. Raphael was silent, but as they approached the door that led to the main part of the temple, Raph answered:

-I will pray for you to just have your wings cut off.

The brother's voice sounded very grim. Raphael is one of the most merciful Archangels, he was almost never sad or depressed, but now, it was very unnatural behavior for him. If Gabriel had been fully aware of what was happening, he would have begun to panic long ago. Entering the temple, with icons and tapestries everywhere. The room smelled of wax and incense and the ceilings rose high up, mesmerizing with their patterns. A dim, warm light seeped in through the stained-glass windows, illuminating the figure of Michael as he stood with his back to the huge tapestry. This temple was open to anyone who wished to enter. Michael watched this place most closely; it was a special place for the Archangel. Hearing the door slam, Michael turned around and looked in the direction of his colleagues. The blade of his sword caught one of the reflections of the stained glass...

Raphael was silent, leading the guilty Archangel towards Michael. Gabriel, on the other hand, understood that now, the real verdict would be declared. For the first time in his life did he see such mourning and hopelessness in the face of his brothers. Even through his poor eyesight he was aware of this. Finally reaching Michael, Raphael let the lad go, stepping further and further away. Michael exhaled and a stern voice echoed menacingly against the walls:

-Archangel Gabriel, because of your rude and terrible transgression, God was extremely upset and saddened. From whom he would have expected such negligence, but not from you. On top of that, you lost your sacred artifact, which is unforgivable. But you should thank God for loving his heavenly children. You are condemned to lose your wings, Gabriel. But only if you return the artifact, which is now most likely in Lucifer's possession... Otherwise... You will be banished...

The Archangel leaned in a little, and he added:

-To the same place where your friend was banished.

Michael’s voice already sounded a little threatening, but it was not true disgust and anger. The brothers were all worried about each other, and Michael’s slight aggression was precisely due to the emotions of fear and uncertainty. But suddenly, Michael said:

-...And we will help you find the lost mirror. Raphael, take him under your arms and let's fly. We need to go to the realm of the living, but without being seen and yes... We must leave now!

-But... -He's so weak! We're not... Are we going to carry him on our backs? Well, and... How are you going to find Lucifer?

While Raphael was beginning to wail in his worried voice, Michael had already grabbed his colleague and was helping him walk. Raph had actually also obeyed the order of the Supreme Archangel, but in response to a word or two, this angel gave out all ten, filling his head with unnecessary fear.

-Raphael calm down. No one in my dynasty will overthrow the new Archangel! I will fall into hell myself, but I will win back Gabriel's right to live among the saints, albeit as a wingless entity! Maybe afterwards he will spread his wings again... Redeem himself.

-I can fly on my own.

Suddenly the Archangel's voice was heard. His limbs were no longer swollen, and the magic Raphael had used made the lad feel much better, if not perfect.

-Are you out of your mind? You can barely stand on your feet!

Raphael exclaimed, but Michael immediately interrupted him, who wanted to start talking about “all the risks”.

-All right, but fly between us and if anything, we'll catch you. I'll let you fly on your own, but only if you really understand that you'll make it.

-Yes... -I can fly quite well, you need your strength. I've already caused you so much trouble.

-Your mercy, we don't need it yet. Let's pack up and go! So that by the evening of this day, that bastard will have been sent to hell under tighter guard... I did it once, so I'll do it again...

-I don't like this.

Raphael repeated anxiously, inciting the other Archangels with his condition. Spreading their wings, they began their journey into the human world. Gabriel held his own even though he was having a hard time flying. Misty eyes watched the silhouettes of his colleagues, so that he did not go astray. The saints disappeared behind the clouds, flying slowly into the thick fog. Something clearly not good was going on.

-So. Ahem... Where are we going? Misha... Come on, stop!

Raphael had the shortest wings, and it was difficult for him to both soar through the air and fly long distances, even at an accelerated pace. Archangel tried to catch his breath, but he could hardly do it.

-Misha... Don't move! What's the rush? We don't know where Lucifer is.

Michael cast a cold glance at Raph. After a pause, the Supreme Archangel replied:

-I can feel it. That rotten entity. I think its nearby.

-ARE YOU SERIOUS!? No plan... Just like that, out of the blue, we'll fall on his head...

But before he could speak, the thunder really came. It was raining.

-Damn it. Not this...

Michael said grudgingly. Raphael looked up at the sky, nervously flapping his wings.

-Misha... We must land soon, or else... You'll be dragging me!

But Michael didn't react to that. He only glanced at Gabriel, who was suspiciously quiet. At one point, the flapping of the reprobate Archangel's wings became quite infrequent, and the whitish eyes slowly began to close.

-М.. Misha... There's something wrong with Gabriel.

Raph spoke worriedly, flying a little closer to this sleepy ghost. Misha also became worried and was already mentally preparing to catch Gabriel. Feathers became heavier from the water. It was more and more difficult to fly. Suddenly, Gabriel strangely folded his wings, as if preparing to dive down sharply. But this action was clearly deliberate. A monotone voice said:

-I found it, I found the mirror.

And he immediately flew downwards. He relied only on his intuition and that very feeling. The magic that bound him to the artifact guided Archangel not to let him crash. Not reaching the ground, lower from the Archangels themselves flying by, Lucifer flew as well. Perhaps the rain and impenetrable fog prevented him from sensing the saints. Gabriel grabbed Lucifer by the hair, knocking him off his normal flight pace. They began to fall precipitously, cutting through the fog and remnants of clouds with their wings. Lucifer wasn't quite aware of who had attacked him, but as he caught sight of the faded feathers, the realization dawned on him. False Gabriel grabbed the original by the neck, beginning to choke the lad. This allowed him to confuse his opponent and let his wings spread again. Still, they continued to fly down. Already the ground was visible, when suddenly, Gabriel broke the chain around Lucifer's neck and the little crystal mirror was back in his master's possession. Feathers flew in different directions; they fell on one of the rocky chippings in the ravine, with a raging river beneath them. Both creatures were already soaked to the skin, but that didn't stop them from fighting. With the mirror back in his possession, Gabriel's clear vision has also returned. In an instant, the two young angels flew away from each other, hovering in mid-air. Lucifer was wiping blood from his face, shaking off the excess water from his wings on the fly and smiling a crooked smile, he began to speak:

-Don't tell me… I've been waiting for you... I'm sure you have something to say to me!

Lucifer spoke with a strange sneer. But at this, the Archangel became even angrier, attacking Lucifer with renewed vigor, ripping out bits of feathers and fluff in an attempt to throw the demon into the water. As a result, it happened. Lucifer lost consciousness after a couple of blows and fell into the river. Gabriel, on the other hand, flew to the top of the gorge and there, falling to his knees, began to wipe the blood from his forehead. He did not notice at all how the other Archangels rushed past him and fished out the seemingly lifeless body of Lucifer. The rain stopped shedding its tears on the ground after a while. From behind the gray clouds, the sun began to peek through. Lucifer woke up, but he still didn't understand what had happened to him. The blade of Michael's sword was at False-Gabriel’s neck, while Raphael was using all his strength to prop up his delinquent brother.

-There you are. Did you think you could escape so easily?

Michael spoke in an arrogant and stern voice.

-You didn't get me, little birdie. Don't chirp my way. You got your moment of glory a long time ago!

Michael the Archangel said nothing but brought his blade close to this pale neck. Hearing the familiar voice, Gabriel stepped away from Raph, unsure of how to approach the demon. The gazes of old friends touched, and now, Gabriel's anger began to recede. Archangel could still see his beloved friend behind this demonic entity. He couldn't believe that he had to beat up someone so dear and cherished to him. But no one gave him a choice, and now, the guilt-ridden Archangel didn't buy his worries and sadness. Gabriel's hand gripped Lucifer's clawed paw and finally everything fell into place. And only now did it become apparent that Gabriel and Lucifer were very much alike at first. But there were obvious differences, of course.

-Great, now there's only one way for you to go - to hell!

-We'll meet you there. Gabriel

The devil muttered softly. It seemed that the phrase was originally intended for Michael, but before it fell, the crooked eyes looked specifically at Gabriel. The phrase made the Archangel begin to worry with renewed vigor. Immediately, Michael slammed his sword into the ground and gilded sparks scattered everywhere, opening a portal to the underworld! With a terrifying roar, the demon plummeted downward. Afterwards, only the sound of the river and the wind filled the crushing silence. 

-Let's go, we must finish what we started.

Michael said in an unemotional voice. Looking away, he asked Raphael:

-Raphael, can Gabriel fly on hi…

-Yes

Interrupted by the clear and sorrowful voice of the guilty Archangel. He was the first to take to the sky, followed by his colleagues.

After being in flight for quite some time, Raphael was silent for a long time before he finally decided to speak to Michael:

-We didn't even help him. We could have lost him.

-That's enough, what happened was not our fault. He's acting out again...

-How can you say that? Don't you feel sorry for him? Did you see the way he looked at Lucifer? Our Gabry has been friends with this Archangel most of his life and remember how hard he suffered his banishment... Be a little gentler!

-Enough! I'm sick of what's coming. Are you going to finish the job?

Michael quickened his pace and moved away from the slow Raphael. At this action, the short-winged Archangel exhaled grudgingly, but did not try to catch up with them. All three flew, piercing the clouds with their mighty wings. Straight towards the huge sun. Beyond its shining circle, which was like halos that glowed with sincere purity. Their silhouettes slowly dissolved in the light of the sunset.

Arriving home, Michael carried out the sentence declared from above. Henceforth, the Archangel Gabriel had no wings, as well as half of his magical powers. And his rights in the angelic society became a little lower too. Seen by others now as sinful and defiled. The very black sheep he had become by his own stupidity.

It had been a long time since this execution. All this time, Gabriel was thinking and looking for a way to get his wings back. What could he do so that he would be forgiven and in the eyes of others, he would regain his sincere purity? The Archangel also thought of Lucifer, for some reason, the lad felt despair and even, shame to a past friend. During his friendship with this boy, Gabry realized many things. He managed to understand the reason for his friend's bad character, he learned a lot about him. But most importantly, it was that only Gabriel knew that this boy had a truly noble heart, capable of protecting the whole world. His wings, small in width but huge in scope, seemed to encompass the whole world, protecting it from all the worst. But Archangel was distracted from his thoughts by his colleague Raphael, who had come to summon him to an urgent meeting in the temple. Already there, standing by the same crystal sphere, Michael was looking thoughtfully at something in it. He was so engrossed that he didn't even pay attention to the newcomers. The two Archangels hurried to Michael; something was clearly wrong.

-Sorry, we got delayed, now I can't fly straight. Eh

Said Raphael exhaling. Going around the sphere from the other side, Gabriel looked at Michael puzzledly and said:

-Misha... What's the reason you called us here? Something wrong?

Michael frowned, not taking his eyes off what was going on inside the artifact and began to explain:

-Entities. They're killing people. I can't understand what's going on.

-Entities? Are you sure it's not people?

Said Raphael, also looking inside.

-No, it's not people themselves…Definitely not… It's... It's like children of the devil... They devour the soul without a trace. People can hardly handle themselves. They're afraid of everything they don't know.

-It's horrible! We've got to get down there and help them somehow! But how?

Raph's worried voice boomed. But suddenly, Gabriel had an idea.

-Brothers, you don't have to go down and risk your lives. I've done wrong in the past... And by all appearances, these entities are my fault. They're the children of my mistake.

-What makes you say that?

Raphael asked, while Michael listened in silence with an equally thoughtful gaze.

-These creatures influence the soul of the deceased by consuming it. They are clearly the offspring of infernal forces, and this is closely related to us. We don't know what Lucifer did while he was in my form. Maybe it's his paws...

-No! -We can't let you go alone! You're crazy! You're wingless!

-But I'm still a saint!

-Calm down, both of you! I'll make the decision anyway.

Michael answered in a thoughtful and gloomy voice.

-It's crazy to send him alone!

- I understand it, but we do not even know what exactly these creatures are, and Gabriel even has an idea of what they may be...

Reluctantly, Michael closed the orb by hiding it. His anxiety was growing, but he already knew that he would have to bring Gabriel down to the mortals.

-So what? Are you letting me go?

-It's very dangerous to go in there alone!

-Raph, I have no choice!

Gabriel answered sternly. Both Archangels were waiting for the final decision.

-Unfortunately... We don't have time to even think about it. Gabriel... I will accept your terms. But I'll discuss them with God first, of course. I'm afraid we do have to send you to the humans.

-What if they kill him? Misha! That's enough! We have to think it over.

-We don't have time for this. I just told you!

-Friends...

A quiet echo hit the walls of the temple. Gabriel's voice was surprisingly calm.

-Please, I will be all right and yet, it is my fault and I wish... No, I demand the right to atone for it!

-Oh, gods...

Raphael cried out again.

-If you succeed, you will undoubtedly become a true hero, Gabriel. You have until the evening of this day. At night, I'll send you to the human world.

Said Michael, putting his hand on his brother's shoulder. The Supreme Archangel was as worried as the others, but he needed to be strong so the others could rely on him. Everything happened just as Michael said, in the night Gabriel would be sent down to people and now he would be able to go to heaven only after going through hell…

==========The Chapels==========

It was already deep in the night when the two Archangels descended to earth. They were completely intangible to the people they met on their way. It was cold at night, so Gabriel hid his arms in his long sleeves. As they walked farther and farther from the city, the Archangels passed a small church that was not far away.

-There... There's even a church. How nice.

Gabriel remarked, wanting to break the pressing silence.

-You're not going to get there anyway. People close places like this in a panic.

There was a low, but gruff voice of Michael. They walked even farther, and now a small house was looming. More accurately, its outline, not much could be made out in the darkness. Not wanting to endure the sound of footsteps, the worried Michael decided to ask Gabriel:

-What do you know about these entities?

-Me? -Uh... Well, all I know is that maybe... Lucifer was responsible for their creation.

Suddenly, Michael stopped and turned around, looking at Gabriel. The archangel looked concerned.

-You mean you only know the creator of these demons?

Gabriel stopped abruptly and rounded his eyes. He was uncomfortable with the Archangel's wry stare.

-Don't you mean to tell me that your whole plan to fight them is to go to Lutz and ask him to stop this coven?

-You said yourself we don't have time to think.

Gabriel answered.

-You... This is terribly irresponsible. Pray your beloved Lucifer doesn't rip your head off as soon as you come begging to him. It's so humiliating.

Said Michal as he continued his way. Soon, they reached the cottage, which was not large. Even though it had two floors, the rooms themselves were very small and unusually modest. Truth be told, angels did not need much. But the main feature of this dwelling was that it could move to different parts of the world just by switching a lever on the door. Before he left, Michael admonished his wingless colleague:

-Remember Gabriel. Your home is more than just a lodge. It's a place that connects hell and the world of the living. It's like a little bridge... Which I hope will only open if you want to go to heaven. Oh, yeah, to get home, you must go through hell, and from there you can go to heaven. They'll let you into the Garden of Eden with no problem and... You know how to go from there.

Michael said in a dry but stern voice.

-Okay, I understand you. But in what part of the house can I find the portal to hell?

-Your basement. It's boarded up for a reason.

Gabriel looked back and saw that there was indeed a door against the front door, which was located under the stairs. On it hung strange locks.

-The keys to them are in one of the rooms. Don't lose them! Or you won't be able to close the main bridge.

-Are you saying I'm someone you can't count on?

Gabriel asked with a slight smile. But catching a frown from Michael, Gabriel immediately turned dark and remembered the reason for the wingless being here. Michael stepped outside preparing to take off as his brother's voice slowed the Archangel down. Gabriel asked:

-What about clothes? I may be without halo and wings, but my appearance is still strange and does not correspond to the appearance of the present man!

-I guess… You'll find something in the closet. Anyway, it's not something you have to worry about right now.

Michael flew away, disappearing into the night sky. Talking to him left an unpleasant residue, and on top of that, the excitement was keeping Archangel awake. He decided to inspect his abode and spend the rest of the night improving the place. Like Michael had said, there were some clothes in the closet for some unknown reason. Old, oversized jeans and an equally ancient, washed-out turtleneck of a faded maroon hue. The clothes were hanging without a hanger on an old wooden crossbar. Only now did Gabriel realize what an enormous cleanup job he was about to undertake. After all, there was a giant layer of dust everywhere. But deciding not to think about it, the wingless found the keys to the locks on the basement door, folding them into the pockets of his jeans. Archangel was so agitated that he couldn't do his business properly. Especially since it was only a couple of hours before dawn. Gabriel lay down on the dusty bed, staring at the dirty ceiling. In one hand, he clutched his mirror on a string, and the other, he held in his pocket, covering the keys with his palm.

-What indescribable excitement! What a pity the Archangels don't have to sleep.

Quietly whispered a tired voice in the half-empty room. He laid like that until morning when the sun's rays knocked on the window. Gabriel sat on the corner of the bed, touching his face with thin fingers. The archangel caught himself thinking that now was the time to go down to Lucifer and question him about everything. Of course, if the devil would be "at home" Gabriel got to his feet and hurried down to the coveted basement. Inserting the keys into the locks, Archangel became more and more agitated. Various thoughts plagued his head as suddenly, the cellar door swung open, letting in a cold draught inside the house. Archangel stared into the black emptiness as if spellbound and did not immediately notice the chalky steps going down. Something inside did not allow the saint to start walking.

He talked himself down for a long time.

"Come on! Gabriel! This is your problem, and you knew what you were getting into! Come on, get it together and go downstairs before some pest decides to come to meet you!"

Archangel propped up the door with a chair, so that the passage wouldn't close abruptly, and holding his breath, as if diving into water, Gabriel ran downstairs. He only watched the steps, which were an impossible amount! Fear and excitement overwhelmed him so much that he squeezed his eyes shut and jumped down a few steps. Suddenly, he felt warm air that touched his pale face. Opening his squeezed shut eyes, Gabriel saw the underworld. That very creepy and gloomy place. Strange and incomprehensible sounds came from everywhere. The heat was really becoming unbearable, especially with people's clothes on. Gabriel did not know where to go and where to look for Lucifer, but when he saw some chapels on a hill, he decided to go there. Surely, talking with devils was a pleasure? Albeit the Archangel was lucky he did not encounter any demons on his way, he could hear them though, and it was terrifying. When he reached the chapels, the lad realized that they were staggered and almost indistinguishable from one another, forming a labyrinth. Standing as he was, he gazed into these small structures and felt himself getting sick. But an animal roar behind him brought him out of his stupor and made him run headlong through the maze. Not surprisingly, Archangel was quickly lost. As he wandered through the corridors, he accidentally stumbled upon demons wandering aimlessly through the place. Upon seeing the Archangel, they immediately rushed towards him, making incomprehensible animal noises. Gabriel was in real terror, panic snatched the air from his chest, making him not think where to run. It seemed to Gabriel that he would no longer be able to break away from his pursuers, as one of the chapels opened and someone grabbed him, pulling him inside the structure. Archangel was hit hard and at first thought he had hurt his eyes, as he realized that the structure was simply dark. To be exact, only a dim light from a small window illuminated a small part of the room. On this one source of light, a metal chain was visible. Keeping his eyes on it, Gabriel tried not to move and understand what had happened to him. Suddenly he was taken out of his thoughts by the clang of the very chain that stretched somewhere to the side. The chain tightened a little, and just now, Gabriel heard a shuffling sound. Suddenly, right next to his ear, he heard a hissing voice:

- Hello Gabriel.

Turning in his direction, Archangel saw the same crooked eyes that were now radiating a light. With a shriek, the wingless man jumped away, unaware of where he was going. He stumbled backwards and fell on his back. He cried out:

- Back off! You must have decided to devour me yourself, that's why you didn't give me to those devils! Mind you... I'll beat you up again if I have to!

-Are you serious?

The demon's eyes look... Weary? He covered them slightly and started crawling back into the darkness.

-Gabriel, the only reason I looked out of my chapel was because your runs were disturbing my sleep! I thought it was the local scum, playing in all the wrong places again.

In a displeased and slightly haughty voice said Lucifer. Gabriel managed to get to his feet and now did not take his eyes off the demon.

-Actually. You, Lucifer... I was looking for you.

-Oh, really? -That's sweet.

Lucifer answered with a mock intonation.

  Is this about remembering an old friend? Or were you sent here to kill me? And anyway... What are you wearing? Honestly, demons look better than you.

-Lucifer, I need to talk to you about something... Something very important. Believe me, I'm not here to...

But before Archangel could finish, the demon interrupted him:

-Blah, blah, blah! Blah, blah, blah! You disgust me! But let me guess... Did your coop send you to the realm of the living as the ugliest, to be devoured by entities that feed on humans?

Lucifer had a wry smile on his face. He stepped closer to his old friend, stepping into the light that now illuminated his face. False Gabriel had a tarnished chain on his leg.

-Come on! Why are you staring at me like that? Did I guess?

His voice sounded as feigned as possible and with a touch of shameless sneer. Gabriel was indeed shocked and suddenly, saddened by the thought that perhaps Lucifer was right. But that was something he didn't want to believe with all his might! The archangel frowned and hastened to object:

-How dare you! They're doing it for the people! For the sake of our faith and...

Gabriel was interrupted again by Lucifer, who was also smiling shamelessly.

- So? That doesn't change the facts of why you might be here. You fell for my temptation... You let the whole world down.

Lucifer started closing in, cornering the Archangel.

-You are nothing, Gabriel.

Getting closer and closer...

-So maybe I shouldn't have saved you then. Let the demonettes eat your tender meat while the other Angels are glad there's one less freak in their celestial world!

Lucifer pressed the Archangel into a corner, leaning against his claws embedded in the walls.

-You know what? You'd rather fall prey to these alternate entities. Let them rip your body apart and drink all that flaming blood from your thin veins! And for the world of hell, that will be one of the victories! And the beginning... For the first archangel will be dead...

Lucifer ran his claw across Gabriel's forehead, down to the tip of his nose. Thereby leaving a painful scratch halfway across his face.

-Don't try to fight them. Because when the last man dies... Your golden paradise will fall.

Lucifer sharply backed away from the Archangel and soared upward and laughed.

-You... You...

Gabriel was furious with such impertinent language, barely able to control himself.

-What a... rotten! Mind you, Lucifer! We'll see about that!

-LOOK HERE, YOU WINGLESS LITTLE BIRD. I WANT TO SEE YOU DIE!

There was a hoarse shriek from somewhere above. But not daring to bear this to himself, as Gabriel approached part of the stretched chain and yanked it with all his might, before running away to the side. The demon crashed down with a terrible, hoarse sound.

-Now you listen to me, Lucifer. I'm not going to listen to your taunts about me, my house, and my friends! I thought you were going to help me, and I was gonna help you get back. I wanted to help your insolent face become an Archangel again! But apparently... You don't need it. I'm going to learn how these things work on my own. An... And… You know... I'm happy you were banished. You're not my friend anymore!

But before he could speak, the demon flapped its tattered wings and attacked Gabriel. The Archangel dodged in time and Lucifer missed, accidentally opening the door to the chapel. The lad ran out of the room, listening to his friend's hoarse shouting that he wouldn't catch up with him.

-For your information! You've always annoyed me!

Lucifer cried out grudgingly. His voice seemed to echo throughout hell.

Having escaped from this place, Archangel would come home and the first thing he would do would be to start looking for information about alternate entities that threaten humans. But absorbing the information will be difficult. Since Lucifer's words really hurt Gabriel's feelings. On top of that, the Archangel thought about every word the demon said...

"He did say... "that he saved me by accident... Either he misspoke, or he was hiding something from me... And what a shame! He obviously knows who these creatures are...!"

==========The First Encounter==========

As it happens, it was extremely difficult to find information about these entities. Especially in this old house. Gabriel gathered his thoughts to go out and talk to people about this phenomenon. Archangel was very nervous, but unfortunately there was nothing for him to do. Sooner or later, he would have to prove himself. At least to his few neighbors. Gabriel got ready to go as he realized he was still barefoot.

"People hardly walk around without shoes. I hope this lodge has that object of clothing as well..."

As he approached the hallway, he found a small locker. With difficulty, Archangel opened it and found only an old pair of sandals. Thankfully, they were the right size. At last, he stepped outside and found the air warm and with it the pleasant smell of flowers. Flowers! Gabriel was not indifferent to this miracle. Like everyone in his dynasty, this Archangel adored plants. But a special place in the heart of this saint, took flowers. It turned out that they grew near the house, and it could not help but please. Still, Gabriel continued his way. He remembered the church he had seen the previous night. Despite what Michael had said, that was where the strange guy had gone. When he reached the holy place, Archangel was unpleasantly surprised. Yes, fortunately, this church was working, but it was deprived of its cherished sanctity. Standing at the gate, and looking with slightly confused eyes, Gabriel only woke up when he heard a strange voice. A woman had called out to him. She was busy cleaning the porch of the church. But when she noticed the strange-looking man, she distracted herself from her work. 

-Hey, you! What are you doing up? Are you here for the service?

The woman spoke in a disgruntled and tired voice. Gabriel rounded his eyes, and only now realized that he did not know how to talk to people. So, it seemed to him. He opened his mouth to try to say something but did not make a sound.

-Are you okay? Oh... God! Why do they haul the sick to churches instead of hospitals?

He put his broom aside and walked over to Gabriel, taking him by the hand.

-Who is your attendant? Is he already in the temple? Come, I'll take you there, you can sort it out.

Gabriel was still silent, horror gripped him. The boy walked obediently, guided by the woman. When she entered the room, she immediately disappeared, leaving Gabriel alone among strangers. They were all praying for something. They were strange pleas, but they clearly had something to do with those entities. The congregation was sad and depressed. It seemed that Gabriel heard someone crying. The Archangel waited until the end of the service, and then, approached the priest, who was "in demand" Many people asked him for something, to which the bearded grandfather answered uncertainly. When it was Archangel's turn to approach the minister, the grandfather reluctantly brushed the lad aside, not wanting to listen to him. The priest muttered something to himself and hurried away. The annoyed Gabriel did not know what to do. He wanted to ask someone, but everyone who had been in the church for a few minutes had already left. Stepping outside, the saint looked at the temple. A strange longing was reflected in his blue eyes. Suddenly, he began to hear crying again. At the gate to the churchyard stood a girl who could not stop her tears. Archangel rushed to her to find out why she was so sad. Quietly and gently, Gabriel asked:

-Hello, May I ask why you are so sad?

Strangely enough, for some reason Gabriel's fear of talking to people immediately disappeared when he saw someone who needed help. I wonder. The girl raised her weeping eyes, her trembling voice reluctantly began the story:

- Are you... Are you a priest?

Gabriel hesitated a little, but managed to answer:

-No, but I have something to do with the church.

The girl frowned slightly as she continued to cry.

-Please, tell me, what is wrong with you?

The Archangel insisted.

-My husband... I found him dead, and my baby... He just disappeared!

When Gabriel heard this, he was very surprised. He asked:

-How come? Where were you? Didn't you notice that someone had attacked your family?

-I was at work late, and when I came home, I saw his dead body! But first... I heard my baby crying. That's what I thought. I walked to the nursery... But when I was only a few steps away, I realized... I couldn't hear my son's voice anymore... I went into the room... There was... A dead body...

The girl started crying even harder. She could barely get the words together.

-And... The TV... It hissed even though it hadn't worked for a year! There was a white screen and strange static on it! I'm sure it was a trick of the alternates! Actually... That's why I came here.

-I'm sorry, but who are the alternates?

Asked the Archangel, the girl looked puzzled at Gabriel, her eyes hard with confusion.

-What? -Don't be silly, everyone knows about this phenomenon! How else can you explain the fact that my television worked, although it's been a year, it was not even connected to the power? I just didn't have time…

The girl burst into tears again. She covered her face with trembling hands and said something quietly.

-The service is over. Are you sure you can get home on your own?

Archangel's face showed concern and confusion, he was stumped and clearly caught in a silly situation, revealing his ignorance of what was going on. In response to lad’s question, the girl shrugged her shoulders and stood up uncertainly, heading somewhere. But in a moment, her legs buckled and she almost fainted, but the Archangel managed to catch her. Apparently, the human body is extremely unstable before stress, ready to shut down in especially dire situations.

-Where do you live? Let me help you.

Still the Archangel insisted. Of course, if the lady had been in an adequate moral state, she would not have allowed Gabriel to go with her, but now, she hardly thought about the fact that she did not know the lad at all. Still, her consent would be influenced by the fact of the partial reassurance she felt by communicating with the saint. Isn't that how holiness works and its miraculous calming effect? In any case, he helped her to her house, which was not far from the church. Without going inside, the Archangel said that if this lady sensed someone's presence, she could turn to the lad for help. Gabriel also had time to ask her a little about alternates and at least some information couldn't help but please the Archangel. Also, the saint promised that if she was in danger from these entities, Gabriel would be able to help, since he was a magician and he was a hereditary magician. Surprisingly the lady believed him and was about to ask for the number of the lad, but he just looked at her questioningly and added that he did not have anything like that and if she needed help, she should pass the church and almost next door was the house of "the magician". Gabriel went to his house, leaving the girl alone. Rummaging through the closets, he found old notebooks and pencils. Immediately he hurriedly began to write down everything that he had been told, so that the information would not be mixed up or slipped out of his windy head. The day was ending again. For the rest of the day, the Archangel kept the house clean. Darkness had descended on the ground and now all that was left in the poorly lit little house was to lie in bed and rest. Gabriel was surprised to realize that he was a little tired. Apparently, the human form does draw some resources and they are worth replenishing. Going up to the second floor, he laid down on the bed where he had already rested the previous night. Holding a candle beside him, with its light the Archangel illuminated a notebook and his notes in it, memorizing the material, namely, that alternates could appear through various techniques, such as television or telephone. They also cause victims to commit suicide, and it is worth mentioning that these entities are involved in the disappearance of people among others. As he read the lines, the Archangel began to fall asleep. Before he drifted off to sleep, he extinguished the candle, placing it beside him. At night, Gabriel was awakened by a persistent knock at the front door. The saint got out of bed and headed downstairs. Being on the first floor, only the window in the kitchen exuded moonlight. Which illuminated the silhouettes of the dwelling's minimal decorations? For some reason the saint began to feel a certain uneasiness as he approached the door. The archangel wanted to open it but decided not to hurry. He asked quietly:

-Who has come?

But there was no response. After a short pause, the Archangel repeated:

-Who is it? Please answer.

There was silence again. But then, the husky voice of the girl with whom he had been in contact yesterday was heard. Her haggard but suspiciously quiet voice said:

-Good night, please forgive me, but could you come to my house and check to see if... There's no... The alternates... I was very scared, because when I went into the house, I heard the hiss of that very TV again! I didn't go further into the house; I came straight to you! Please help me.

Begged her voice. Gabriel listened to everything and then answered that he would leave the house in a little while. He could not even invite her into the vestibule, as this room was an extension of the bridge to the nether. Finding a person in the territory of the bridge could be devastating to a person's body and soul. The lad asked to wait for him outside, but there was no answer. Even, the sound of footsteps outside the door seemed somehow strange. Gabriel became wary. But after a short period of time, he pulled himself together and went outside. Strangely, that girl was nowhere to be found.

"Right, headed for the house, hope she's okay."

He walked briskly through the houses he met and approached the unfortunate lady's dwelling... Strangely, she was nowhere to be found, and the light in the windows was not on. Gabriel nervously ruffled his hair and after taking a deep breath, knocked on the door... But at the slightest push, the flimsy door immediately opened, repelling with its blackness inside the room. Gabriel stepped uncertainly into the house, leaving the door slightly ajar. There were no lights, and finding a light switch was becoming extremely problematic. Shuffling his palms on the walls, he finally managed to find one of the switches and the room finally lit up. It was a bit of a mess, as if something had happened quite recently and the current widow would soon come to clean up everything that was out of place. It was as if Gabriel had just broken into the house, disrupting the very rhythm of life that was going on without him. But the Archangel knew that it was all just his sudden doubts. Walking carefully through the room, he stepped out into the hallway. Ahead of him were two more doors on either side. Incidentally, one of them was open and clearly led to where the very hiss of television interference could be heard.  Before heading into the room, Archangel asked in a low but audible voice:

-Are you there? Where are you...?

Gabriel's legs were a little wobbly, and his fingers were curled up as if preparing to grasp at something. He didn't hear an answer, and that made him even more uneasy. The Archangel slowly crept toward that ajar door. When he reached it, he opened it abruptly, literally bursting into the room. There was a television with white noise on the screen. The room was dark, with only a white glow allowing him to see anything around. Staring at the screen, Gabriel tried to see something in it. But suddenly, he heard a strange voice in his head. The saint squeezed his eyes shut and covered his ears. But the voice sounded insistent and thwarted any attempts to think about the situation. It seemed as if his head would burst! For just a few seconds, when he opened his eyes a little, he saw something or someone on the screen, but immediately there was a loud pop, and the TV went off abruptly. The voice was also gone from his head, leaving an unpleasant pain. Only now did the Archangel realize how badly the scratch Lucifer's claw had left on his face hurt. Touching it left warm blood on his hand. His fingers trembled and his blue eyes tried to see something in the sudden darkness. Around the saint, there was a shallow glow. Turning around and seeing a small mirror on the wall, Gabriel realized that a halo was shining over him. An empty and silent voice said, addressing to no one in particular:

-Why did you manifest? Or... Did you succeed in... Protect me?

He stared at his reflection for a while longer, but waking up from his stupor, the saint walked over to the TV, convinced of the lady's words. The technology really wasn't connected to the power. Even though Gabriel didn't quite understand how it was supposed to work. Archangel left the room and headed for the entrance. But immediately, he remembered that he had no other sources to draw the information he needed. Gabriel took whatever he thought he needed. Specifically, he found a cell phone, salt, two pencils, and one notebook. After rummaging through the drawers, Gabriel also took with him a folding knife and some dried lavender he had found in a drawer in the kitchen. The saint was very embarrassed to take all this, but he knew that otherwise, he would not be able to do a better job of looking for information on everything he needed. He didn't know how to use technology very well, but he would have to learn. Gabriel didn't leave fingerprints, as angels and Archangels didn't have them at all. But the presence of an outsider, though, could still be suspected, especially the lack of things in the house. It was reassuring to know that if anything happened, Gabriel could simply move the bridge to another location. He hurried toward the house, closing the door carefully. It was only later that he realized that it was not the girl who had spoken to him, but the very same entity. After all, remembering the kind of energy it exuded, you could tell at once that the victim's heart was not beating at the moment of the conversation through the door. It is strange that Gabriel noticed it so late. He tried for a long time to understand how people's technique worked, it might have seemed ridiculous and even, ridiculous, but the saint was on the verge of passing out, because his scratch on his forehead was bleeding, his halo did not want to go out and his head was buzzing impossibly. As a result, the Archangel fainted and did not wake up until morning, when the warm rays of the sun fell on his tired face, illuminating the dried blood. The nimbus had ceased to shine, but still, the pain in his head echoed uncomfortably...

- Not everything my sainthood will save me from. Not everything...

Quietly and unemotionally, the boy whispered before he got up and began to think about what had happened to him yesterday.

==========We’re still friends, right? ==========

As the Archangel made his way down to the kitchen, he felt the utmost weakness. His legs were dragging his body with the last of their strength. And in general, his condition was not good. He sat down at the table and looked out of the small window that had seemed so peaceful and atmospheric in the morning. Not what it was in the middle of the night. When did the alternate come in? About three o'clock, I think? The Archangel messed up badly by not recording it at the time of the incident. Perhaps he could be excused, for he did not know that it was not the girl, but already only a shell of her. Suddenly he remembered the notebook taken from the victim's house. As it turned out, it was lying on the countertop nearby. Gabriel decided to take it and start writing down all his observations. After all, it was necessary to understand what was killing these entities and, most importantly, to find out how they were affecting the Archangel himself. The sudden manifestation of the halo did not bode well. It was a very bad omen, because the aura creating a halo over any saint should be completely under the control of its owner. And if it appears, it means that Gabriel almost died yesterday, but the power of his spirit did not allow this to happen. Unfortunately, this ability is like a battery, it needs periodic power. And it can only be restored by going to heaven. Of course, Archangel has a lot of spiritual power, but it can also suddenly run out at the most unnecessary moment. Fortunately, this chip helped him heal wounds not only physical, so if his spiritual power overflows him, he will feel good. For this reason, by lunchtime, Gabriel will begin to feel pretty good. Gabriel will also record the details of the "attack on the victim."

-Where do you put them? I could guess suicide, however if you're stealing souls in their pure form, why do you need flesh?

The Archangel was talking out loud.

-You're demons, you're just privileged ... and… Enhancements? But who gave them to you? I can't believe it! I had a fight with my only friend... My best. I longed for our desires to be united and to destroy these monsters together. Afterwards, he'd be exonerated and returned to heaven... And everything would be as it was before. We'd work and spend time with each other... We'd be so good... Especially since... He obviously knows something and could help me... Even if my hunch is true and he created the alternates, if Lucifer sincerely admits guilt and moderates his pride and insatiability... Destroys them by helping me wholeheartedly... Then he'll probably get his old life back... And I'll get my... Mine...

Gabriel was becoming increasingly sad. The feeling of shame for what Lucifer had said earlier was very disturbing to the Archangel. On top of that were the unfulfilled hopes for a happy ending together. More than ever, Gabriel realized that he was connected to Lucifer very closely and inseparably. Both needed each other to understand and atone for their mistakes. Gabriel looked at the cellar door and realized that he had to make peace with his friend. Otherwise, all would be lost. Without the support of the "evil one" fatal mistakes could be made, which were more than obvious. But unfortunately missed due to lack of experience and knowledge. Gabriel took out the keys to the locks and after a while, the bridge was calling again in the dark corridor. It happened again and the Archangel went to hell. This time, going to the chapels, he was very close to the demons, and they seemed to smell him. But these are not alternates, they are not as dangerous and hence, escaping from them is much easier. Entering the labyrinth of the chapel, after an hour of wandering, his head was already dizzy, and his eyes were blurry. The saint couldn't remember where the building he wanted was. Despair was beginning to gain momentum, adding to the mad, mottled chaos in his eyes.  His gaze, unwillingly directed to the ground as suddenly, Archangel discovered the feathers. This coloring... Gabriel would never mistake it. Well... It's also an obvious fact that only deposed Archangels have remnants of wings after the fall... Pure-blooded demons never have feathered wings. Taking the quill, Gabriel stretched out his hand and squinted one eye, trying to focus on the thin edge of the quill. Surprisingly... He could see that chapel. That very one. It wasn't much different, but enough to remember the details and make it easier to distinguish from others in the future. It was the same, except there was fluff around it. But the very fact! Gabriel began to walk through the corridors, carefully bypassing the buildings, quickly enough ending up at the desired chapel. Immediately, with a blink of an eye, Gabriel stood in a stupor. He did not know what to do, what to say, and in principle not sure if his friend home at all. It sounds silly, but it made Archangel hesitate and begin to worry. But mustering his courage, he gently knocked. Unfortunately, there was no answer and Archangel decided to just open the door and brazenly walk into the room. Having done so, he finally made sure that this was Lucifer's "home", but where was he himself? Looking up, Gabriel saw the tip of a chain dangling down. Immediately, remembering how Lutz had fallen down the last time. Gently touching the chain, the saint saw strange patterns on it. This iron was obviously unusual... Gabriel gently tugged it in different directions to create a small wave. After such machinations, the chain crawled to the top and a quiet rustle was heard along with the clanking of the metal links. Flapping his wings and losing feathers in the process, Lucifer descended to the stone floor. His back was to Gabriel, and he seemed to be deliberately ignoring the Archangel. It was as if Lucifer had been waiting and knew that the latter would come to him again... A quiet and squeaky whisper sounded, echoing against the walls of the structure with a slight echo:

-What the hell brought you here? Just so you know, you're only alive because I'm really curious.

Lucifer turned around and now his crooked eyes were staring at Archangel, burning a hole in the Saint with a blank stare.

-What made you come to me again? Your will has subsided a little, hasn't it? How's the scar on your forehead?

With a sneer in his voice, Lucifer answered. But now, Gabriel wasn't so angry, rather. He still felt guilty for some reason. Justifying the demon's sarcastic behavior as some sort of, defensive reaction to their quarrel. Ruffling his hair, Archangel approached Lutz.

-Listen. I wanted to apologize. It was wrong of me to attack you like that! You've been through so much, and I'm really sorry... That I really did tell you... That we're not friends anymore. We've been friends for so long! Yeah, and... Your new look doesn't scare me either. You're still the same grumpy, but so sweet Archangel to me.

He wanted to go over and embrace his friend, but realizing his opponent's intentions, Lucifer hissed and pulled away. 

-Don't touch me with your human hands! Or I'll break them for you!

 Lucifer continued in disgust. But now it was Gabriel's turn to create a tense atmosphere in this rotten place.

-Lutz, that's enough! Let's forget our first meeting here and pretend it never happened! Believe me... I came here to make peace with you. I came here to help you.

Gabriel's face literally, shone with hope and the kindness that he exuded. So big was his heart that he could easily hide Lucifer there. Even in the latter's shattered form. So much so that Gabriel didn't care about the rules in the society of angels and Archangels. In part, it was extremely irresponsible and stupid, but now, this lad was driven by a sense of hope that grew stronger with every word he spoke. He knew Lucifer like no one else did. In an instant, Gabriel's gaze and intonation became a little more shy and awkward. He grasped both hands clasping them in a lock in front of him. The archangel was clearly nervous. He added:

- I've come for you. Even though they think I'm a real jerk back home! I'm the worst Gabriel in my dynasty, you might be right. Well... then when you said I was sent for a reason... But you know, our friendship... I'm glad my father was never silent about the Lucifer bloodline. I'm glad I've been able to live most of my life knowing that there's another pair of wings flying around. Not ordinary ones... The kind of wings that are so big that they could shelter the whole world underneath them... From the worst dangers! I know Lucifer's lineage is not holy, but any guilt can be atoned for. I only came for you because I know what you are.

-How long did it take you to write that speech? Wow! Even the lines from the legend of the Nine Archangels! Gabriel, who are you trying to fool? Yourself or the other saints? It was only a matter of time before I was banished!

-No! I don't think so! You... Or rather, your father! He's Lucifer too, but he's...

The Archangel didn't get a chance to finish his sentence before the demon intervened:

-Shut up! -My father... He's the one who lived his life ungratefully! He's the one that's been crawling all over these... ...the filthy...

-You mean Michael's family? -It doesn't matter.

-It doesn't matter! -We were hated by everyone in the angelic society at large!

Lucifer began to argue and now his face reflected anger and mild resentment...? Strangely, Gabriel felt that his friend was having a hard time remembering what had happened in heaven... Lutz began to sneak up on Gabriel again, causing the Archangel to back away.

-Everybody saw us as a threat. If someone is guilty and a Lucifer is around, guess who gets blamed? Who is hated, only because of a more stubborn character, and restricted in many ways? And most importantly... You'll never know what it's like to feel... Different... Like you've been prophesied since you were a kid... That you're a fallen man and you belong in hell. When you were constantly attacked by others... and you couldn't even find protection in the Supreme Archangel like others did if you had to... All at once, Lucifer was overthrown for no good reason... I mean... Nothing worth the risk, huh? Sound familiar?

Gabriel was dumbfounded. He saw his friend's sadness and deep down, the Archangel was happy that Lucifer had revealed himself to him. Of course, he was also aware of Lucifer's problems. Gabriel had always felt sorry for that one, but the saint did not know all the nuances of this kind of life. Unfortunately, the society of winged saints could indeed be very unfair and even, mean to their own kind. Gabriel rounded his eyes and asked sadly:

-Lutz. Why didn't you tell me you were living so badly? I knew about everything. But I didn't think you cared about them! You were above their taunts! Or... Am I wrong?

-I didn't tell you because I wanted to fit the image in your head. I’m ashamed of showing my sorrow, and what’s the point anyways?

-Lutz. That's awful! I'm sorry I didn't realize how bad you felt. Oh, what have I done? In that case, we have even more reasons to prove to everyone that you are worthy of redemption! Please, help me return to heaven, too. Let us atone for our mistakes together!

The Archangel spoke with hope in his voice. His eyes twinkled with a holy spark, and his hands nervously scraped his fingers. He waited impatiently for an answer. Lucifer, on the other hand, turned away from his old friend once more, looking up at the painted window on top. Hearing Gabriel's intentions, the demon smiled again. But why would he?

-To redeem?

He whispered softly. Gabriel was too excited and open now. Lucifer understood that perfectly, and it seems the Archangel shouldn't have trusted this demon so blindly again... Why don't you learn from your mistakes, you silly little squeaker?

-Why, I wouldn't mind. Maybe then they'll look at me and my kind in a whole new way. You want me to help you with that evil thing? No problem. I don't know who created the alternates... But I do know some things about them... By the way... Do you know anything new about them? For example... What do you use against them and how do they react? Very curious, you know...

Gabriel couldn't believe his ears. He was ecstatic! The archangel had never hoped for the favor of his friend, and here... 

-Will you help me? Will you?

-Of course. We're friends, aren't we? Theeee best...!

The demon was exhaling, creeping closer to the saint.

-Hah! Yes...

Gabriel got a little tense and even... Embarrassed? As a matter of fact, even when he was a child, he had realized how much he liked Lucifer. Gabriel kept this secret very well, always afraid of his friends’ reaction. Lucifer, on the other hand, was aware of this hidden sympathy for his person. And now, more than ever, the demon was glad that he had kept the secret about Gabriel's secret, from the Archangel himself... Why only...? He seemed to have his own plans for it. Like the first time, the demon moved much closer to Gabriel's face... Quietly he hissed:

-Friends should help each other, and you're right. I am... An Archangel

-Aha!... YES! That's right… Heh-heh...!

Very nervous, the lad replied. He decided to ask:

-So, what do you know about them?

-Oh, let's take a walk and I'll tell you what I know!

Said Lucifer, pulling away slightly.

Gabriel shook his head in agreement, and left the chapel with Lucifer, heading somewhere. Walking in hell accompanied by Lucifer was probably safe. At least, that was what the Archangel thought. Their communication did not last very long, nor did the walk in general. Gabriel recounted all that he had learned and did not notice at all that Lucifer had not kept his promise. Lucifer never shared his experience of meeting these entities.

"Probably forgot. Well, nothing! We'll meet him again."

Thought Gabriel, already in his house. The two agreed to meet again and share absolutely everything that would be available to them from information in the future. They were united by a common goal. But was this really the case?

==========Wormhole’s Fruit==========

Some time passed. Gabriel continued his struggle with the alternates, studying people at the same time. After all, for Archangel, they were no less mysterious and new, strange as that may sound. The scratch on his face never came off, apparently because of the negative energy that constantly surrounded the saint. But this did not scare Gabriel, he was fulfilling his mission, and nothing could make him return home without completing what he had begun. As he continued to communicate with Lucifer, the saint learned many new and necessary things for himself. At least, that was what it seemed to Gabriel himself. Also, he had been in high spirits for the last time. It seemed to him that at last Lutz was beginning to show signs of attention to him. It couldn't help but make him happy and give him a little bit of moral strength. And so, standing at the cellar entrance again, Archangel was about to descend again. Tucking his keys in his pockets, he strode off into a mysterious darkness that no longer seemed so eerie. All the same familiar trails. Gabriel had studied this route pretty well. They always met at the Chapel and either spent time there or walked along the river filled with blood. When he reached the little house, the saint opened the door and entered the building without a problem, already automatically looking for Lucifer. Gabriel's cheerful and in his own way happy voice rang out, echoing against the walls of the place:

-Good evening, Lutz! Lucifer, where are you?

Running his eyes around the dark corners, the Archangel asked. Unfortunately, Lucifer was not home. Apparently, Gabriel had miscalculated the location of their meeting today. Scratching the back of his head, the Saint went outside as he suddenly heard the rustling of feathers from behind the almost closed door. Opening it again, he stepped sharply back in, startling Lucifer a little. Gabriel’s face lit up with a smile and a certain amount of glee.

-Aha! So, you're home! Gotcha!

Looking up at the saint, Lucifer cast him a weary look. He didn't seem very happy about his friend's appearance. Ironically, the Archangel was so happy to see his object of adoration that he hadn't even noticed the demon looking at him at first. Lucifer didn't respond, and with a heavy exhale, he flapped his wings, approaching his friend.

-Why are you hiding from me? We... We said we'd see each other tonight.

-You're gonna even get a dead man. And yes, I remember that. But I'm in no condition to talk to you today. You should go home, I think.

Hearing the tired voice, the saint was unpleasantly surprised. What on earth made Lutz feel bad? No, Gabriel wouldn't leave so easily. With concern in his voice, the saint asked:

-What happened, son of the morning dawn? What is wrong with you? Are you not feeling well?

Gabriel tried to touch Lucifer, but without success. The demon wouldn't let him touch him, which was also a little strange.

-Don't worry, Archangel. I'll be fine, I'm just not feeling well. I don't have the energy for a walk today.

There was a squeaky whisper. Gabriel raised an eyebrow slightly as a sign of incomprehension and asked again:

-So, let me sit here with you for a while. It won't be so boring! But still... What's your pain, Lucifer?

-I’m just not feeling too well!

Already with a touch of irritation the banished Archangel answered. Adding at the same time:

-Enough! I wish to rest in solitude.

-You've had enough rest! No, I want to help you! Do you know what could be causing these symptoms?

Lucifer rolled his eyes and tsked unhappily.

-Ah, how well you change the subject... The archangel Gabriel. I don't want to talk about it.

-Change the subject? Aren't we talking about your condition? Or, for some reason, the source of your ill health... Is something else?

The saint asked in a more suspicious tone, squinting his eyes a little. Sensing the suspicion in his address, the demon immediately "backed off" and tempered his discontent.

-Gabry... It's just, I don't want you to see me weak and frail. I just... I want to make sure I can protect you in case anything happens.

Suddenly there was regret on Gabriel's face, and he shook his head to the side, clasping his hands together.

-Oh, son of the dawn. You never gave me any reason to doubt your powers. Lucifer, I understand that your condition here is unstable and you may be weaker than usual. That's why I'm here. Let's spend some time together and maybe it will help you take your mind off your bad feeling. I brought an interesting book and an apple! You loved them so much, didn't you?

A sweet and warm smile spread across Archangel's face, and he blushed slightly. In turn, Lucifer, always slouching, lifted his head and squared his shoulders a little. He looked at Archangel with his empty eyes and quietly agreed. Of course, Lucifer didn't want to spend time with him, and this game of "Courtship" had already annoyed the demon. But this play was yielding positive results. Gabriel trusted his old friend more and more again, and consequently told him a lot of useful information. But it is worth noting that in recent times, the demon increasingly caught himself thinking that he felt pity for Gabriel, so stupid and naive. But these thoughts quickly released the sinful head, and the demon continued its deception and exploitation of the Archangel's kindness and feelings. Gabriel sat down on the stone floor near the window so that the light would illuminate the pages of the book. It was some kind of religious literature. Not particularly interesting to the demon himself, to put it mildly. Lucifer sat beside it, pretending to listen to Archangel. In fact, he was studying everything. His friend's facial expressions, the moments he emphasized most vividly. The way his fingers traced the pages. Very contradictory feelings overcame Lucifer at this moment...

-Oh! That's right, Apple!

Gabriel reached into his pocket for the fruit. Before handing the gift to his friend, Gabriel asked:

-Lutz, can I have a bite?

Waking from his thoughts, the demon agreed, silently shaking his head. Gabriel immediately took a bite of the apple. But while the fruit was at Archangel's lips, something happened that Gabriel had not expected at all. Quickly, without realizing how it happened, Lutz found himself in front of the saint. Crooked eyes stared straight into blue ones, making him freeze. Claws touched the skin on Gabriel’s hands, slowly removing the palm that held the apple. But to keep it from falling, Lutz touched the other half of the fruit with his lips. There was a strange pause. After, now taking a bite on his own, Lucifer took the fruit in his hand, pulling away slightly. Looking at the Archangel, he said:

-Touching me is not desirable for saints. But don't you agree, it wasn't so scary to take a bite of fruit along with the infernal brat?

Gabriel was in a stupor; he froze like a statue, looking into Lucifer's eyes.

-Are you scared?

A voice hissed, echoing lightly.

-No.

The Archangel answered softly.

-You're very strange. Silly little bird.

Their faces were too close together, and so the Archangel flinched at every word the demon said.

-I'm not scared, because it's you.

Unsurely, Gabriel replied. As suddenly, he felt cold lips on his lips. So dead cold... But right now, they were more desirable than anything else in the world. He pulled away from the saint, got to his feet, and began to walk away, picking up the apple. Twisting it in his hands, he continued:

-You see, I've been very tired lately. A horrible, lethargic state follows me. Maybe the energy that Hell exudes has intensified? Even the demons don't feel good about it sometimes. I'm asking you to leave, Gabriel. For your own well-being. And the kiss... It's like an apology for the evening that didn't happen.

Archangel's eyes went wide. He found himself breathing manually. His head in love was doing its best to hear every word.

-Ah... That's what you mean.

Gabriel answered uncertainly. Leaning against the wall with his back, on cotton legs, the saint was able to rise. He still continued to look at his already former friend. Back when they were both living in paradise, Gabriel dreamed of calling Lucifer his family, and now, that moment had finally arrived. In the society of winged saints, things are very different. The meaning of the first kiss is more different than with humans. More meaningful and personal. Angels and Archangels are all sexless, but their society doesn't particularly encourage family formation. Each winged is busy with their endless work, which must be done unquestioningly and well, regardless of the circumstances. But it is worth noting that no one would mind if two saints wanted to start a family. In the case of Gabriel and Lucifer, however, it is quite different. Lucifer's lineage lacks holiness and is considered perverse. Well, Gabriel is the second most important archangel after Michael. Gabriel isn’t even allowed to think about starting another family. He would have to babysit the children anyway, after all, there is such a thing as a "change of generations of the Archangels". In short, this is when God himself gives new, small chicks. They are almost copies of their parents and are generally the continuation of some Archangel's lineage. So, Gabriel understood all the problems that could fall on his shoulders if anything. But now he did not want to think about it. You bet! Gabriel still did not believe that this was reality. Unfortunately...

-You need to go home. Can I walk you home?

Gabriel, awakening from his stupor, nervously began to deny it, arguing that he felt well. He, in his turn, smiled strangely and hurried to show his friend at least to the end of the labyrinth.

-There we are. Be careful, messenger of God.

-Yes! Thank you.

Gabriel took a few steps forward, but Lucifer immediately called out to the Archangel.

-Gabriel, before you go. I want to ask you a question...

Gabriel, more tensely than ever, but agreed. He turned slightly and stared at Lucifer.

-Gabriel, tell me, were you... Were you able to kill the Alternate the last time you ran into him?

-Yeah... -Probably. But why do you ask?

Lucifer looked away, like he was hiding something.

-Nothing, little birdie. It just makes me breathe easier knowing that we're getting closer to our dream... To come home.

-We'll be back, Son of the Morning Dawn. We'll...

-We'll be a family. And finally, I'll have something to stand up for. Be careful.

That's all Lucifer said before he flapped his wings and flew away without waiting for the saint to answer. Gabriel looked after him, but he had to pause. In hell, it's best not to just stand there in plain sight, huh. Nervously flapping his wings, Lucifer raced across the bloody river. There, in the gorges of the canyon, was a temple. The roof was domed with a huge stained-glass window. Lucifer flew inside through one of the windows and landed on the dusty stone floor. His fangs creaked and he himself was about to boil over. Meanwhile, around him, slowly but surely, his children began to crawl toward the demon.

In a growling, hoarse voice, Lucifer began:

-Who did that curly-haired thing kill last night? Have you completely lost your mind? How dare you die?! You all know very well that without my power... YOU'RE JUST PIECES OF SILENT SHADOWS! YOU BASTARDS! You take my life energy... and you can't give me anything in return! I am your father! And you know... How our cooperation works... How hard can it be...? To kill the stupid archangel?

While Lucifer yelled at the temple, his children crawled in and out of their parents like snakes. They were afraid of Lucifer's wrath. And that is understandable. Because with Gabriel's arrival, it became harder to hunt. Lucifer needed human souls, but he couldn't leave Hell himself. For this reason, he learned to create demons like shadows. They were much stronger than ordinary demonic individuals and extremely effective, until the arrival of Gabriel, who ruined their entire system. Lucifer didn't rub his trust in this naive Archangel for nothing. With his help, he perfected the children's abilities. But unfortunately, he wasted most of his life energy. Each child came to his father for a new share of power, in return for bringing a human soul. It was an equal exchange. Moreover, there were more alternates, therefore more souls! But no... Gabriel broke everything. After all, he often saved people, and the Alternates, having used up their parent's energy, came to Lucifer for a new "portion", without giving anything back to their father. With that kind of success, the devil wouldn't last long. But so far, he's gotten away with just feeling sick. For these reasons, when Lucifer learned of an Alternate's death, he became furious.

-I hope... That this is the first and LAST Alternate to die at the hands of a saint. Don't forget what we're doing here.

-Father, we can't fight a saint. We need more strength.

A voice came from one of the silhouettes... Lucifer just looked at the child with a look of rage and anger.

-You want to kill me!?

-We need more time to study him.

Answered the Alternate in his strange voice. Lucifer nervously exhaled and spread his wings, ready to fly away, saying one last word:

-My children... I'm upset. I don't have the strength. But Gabriel is our common problem. And I have a plan to get us some strength... One of you must hurt the Archangel badly... But not significantly... The wound should be like a scratch on his forehead. I know how to get him to calm down, at least for a few days. Okay, everybody? That's the spirit.

-If the Archangel comes to hell... Why can't we kill him? That's where we have the advantage... Don't we?

-You stupid?

The demon answered nervously.

-I'm not doing this just because I don't know Gabriel's power. How do I know he won't kill most of you? So, he's gonna hurt me too. No! There are a lot of risks...

-Why doesn't he just kill us in the human world? -Because...

-Because... He can't use his power there in the absolute... That's it. I must go. Can’t be mad enough.

When the demon had finished explaining himself, he flew away, flapping his wings. Lucifer returned to the chapel, now eagerly awaiting Gabriel again. He did not communicate with his children for a long time, as if he was slightly afraid of them. But who knows...?

==========Poison is More Corrosive Than You Think…==========

Gabriel returned home to the bridge. His head was filled with lofty thoughts. He thought he was going to melt from his own heat and embarrassment. Nervously groping his face, unable to believe it was all true. The Archangel came to his senses only when the next day's sun touched him, warming him with its sight.

-Wow... It's morning already. I bet the flowers are about to bloom to meet the bright light!

With kindness and a touch of happiness in his voice, the saint said.

 Since it was Sunday, the Archangel wanted to go to "prayers" at the very temple that was nearby. He was in a great hurry to get there; afraid he would be late. But what a disappointment it was when, at the gate, he saw police cars and a few gawkers surrounding the building. They were all discussing something, talking among themselves in whispers. This made Gabriel uneasy. The Archangel did not choose to question the frightened people. They were being chased away by the police. Carefully and barely audible, the saint approached the church and was horrified. Some words had been written in blood at the entrance, at the very steps. It was difficult to read them because of the handwriting and the angle of view. Also, on the steps, under a sheet, there was a body. Apparently, that of the old priest. Gabriel realized this because of the distinctive silhouette and the part of the cassock that peeked out from under the cloths. There were blood stains on the porch itself. Could it be that this swollen body had been paddling over the steps all night? Brr... That's just awful! Overwhelmed by genuine shock and horror, Archangel covered his mouth with his hands and slowly, began to step back. Just in time, because he almost got his ass kicked by the policeman, who was already close to driving Gabriel away.  As he walked away, he heard people's voices again. They were saying that last night, all the ministers of this church had been killed and their families had disappeared from their own homes. As he listened to this, Gabriel began to get angry. It made him angry that the shenanigans of demons were again taking the lives of innocent people. But most of all he was angry with himself because he could not prevent these deaths. He stepped out onto the road and began to run to his home. For some reason, the Archangel thought that if he told Lucifer about this incident, the demon would immediately help him and could explain what exactly the harbinger, this terrible, meat-like installation on the church's doorstep, was. Gabriel hurried along, stumbling a couple of times on the uneven road due to shoes and sudden rocks, when suddenly... Something made him stop. This feeling... So familiar before.

"Like when I first met Lucifer after his banishment. Really...!"

The saint's eyes rounded. He was almost at home as he slowly turned and saw a man in a particularly dark section of the shade of a tree. He was hooded with pale gray skin. Not at all tall, but his entire appearance was discomforting and unsettling. Archangel stared into his opponent's empty eyes with a hint of austerity and confusion, still hesitant to speak. The saint realized that some entity was before him. Also, aware that if it appeared near the bridge, it was a very bad sign... Gabriel's stern but clear voice cut through the silence. At that, the saint stepped confidently toward the guest, but still, without getting too close.

-You! Come on! What are you doing here? Go away at once! Don't hang around here! Do you hear what I'm saying?!

The Archangel asked with a shout. He was afraid, so his emotions overpowered him, making him speak louder and louder. The intruder simply stood by and watched as his victim was being tormented by shouting and nerves.

-Archangel

Quietly and monotonously the Alternate began to speak. His mouth wouldn't open, but his voice was still audible around him. The entity went to meet the saint, forcing the latter to step back a little. Without stepping out of the shadows, Lucifer's child continued:

-We know far more about you than you think. You're not the only one who studies your adversary.

Gabriel answered fearfully, but still without any loss of tension in his voice:

-Get the hell out of here! You are an abomination from hell.

To which the intruder said nothing, but continued to stare at the saint, like a statue.

Trying to turn around, Gabriel staggered toward the house. When he got far enough away, as he thought, the archangel began to run, not looking at his guest. In all this hurry, Gabriel didn't pay attention to the part of the road where shadows from the trees were falling. As soon as the saint stepped into the shadowy spot, he felt a burning sensation on his hand. It was as if he had been grabbed and the saint had to stop. He didn't immediately realize that the intruder had actually caught the boy's hand, his skinny fingers digging into it, causing terrible pain, even through his clothes. Gabriel cried out. For some reason, he was suspiciously easily able to push the intruder away from him in a sort of struggle. Running inside, Gabriel pulled up his sleeve and saw the fingerprints on his skin. They still caused an unpleasant, even, painful burning. It was like a burn, growing more and more inflamed by the minute, adding to the pain. The saint tried to help himself as much as he could, but it only worked in words. In reality, his hand was shaking and getting numb, and the spots began to swell and become covered in painful little blisters that added itching to the pain. In his efforts to tidy up the wound, Gabriel did not notice how the day passed and the sunset stained the place orange again. The saint gave up, he was tired of fighting the pain, which would not subside no matter how hard the Archangel tried. After bandaging the sore area and sitting on the ground among the flowers that were slowly closing in, Gabriel whimpered softly, quite stupefied with pain and itching. He thought of his brothers, gazing up into the beautiful sky. Thinking of heaven, he remembered his wings and how they shone with golden edges in the sunset light. He remembered how he and Lucifer loved to fly together, and how good it felt for them to frolic among the voluminous clouds. Ah! How could Gabriel forget? He had been going to Lucifer's house since the morning. Suddenly realizing that the devil probably knew how to heal such wounds. Considering that the pain wouldn't go away, and the arm continued to swell, it was foolish to assume that it would heal on its own. The boy scoffed toward the basement, wrapping the wound tighter, squirming in pain as he did so. The Archangel was back in Hell and no longer paying attention to everything around him, he had only one thought in his head – Find Lucifer.

-Please, Lutz... Be home... Be home...

As if rambling, Gabriel muttered under his breath. He reached that chapel, and without knocking, the saint literally barged in. With clouded eyes he looked for the master of the place, calling to him in passing:

-Lucifer... Lucifer, please. Answer me!

A quiet and slightly trembling voice sounded. Almost immediately. The same figure emerged from the darkness.

-Hello, messenger of God! Strange that today is not the day to meet... What brings you to me?

Slowly Lucifer approached the Archangel. Sitting down next to the saint there was a strange, haughty note of anticipation in the demon's gaze that Gabriel had failed to notice from the start. Sobbing, the lad held out his crimson hand, tentatively unwrapping the bandage. Archangel wrinkled his nose, clenching his teeth at the discomfort the swollen wound was giving him.

-Ow! How disgusting.

He muttered, fully disgusted. Pus began to appear in the wound. It was surprising how quickly the strange wound progressed. Gabriel looked at his limb with horror as he immediately turned to Lucifer.

-Can you help me...?

Already trembling and frightened, the Saint asked. And the demon smiled crookedly, and twisted his voice as much as he could to make it sound softer, he said:

-Absolutely!  I will help you, Gabriel. Please bear with me for a little while because this is going to hurt.

The Archangel gulped nervously, wrinkling his forehead in a new wave of tension and stress. He squeezed his eyes shut and turned his head away, so as not to see the whole process of treatment... And it should be said that Gabriel was not very happy to see his disfigured by a terrible disease hand. Feeling the cold claws and the palm, Gabriel shuddered and clenched his teeth harder. He mentally prepared himself. With one hand, the demon held the Saint's forearm, and with the other, he touched the wound, touching the unpleasant surface of the affected flesh without any hesitation. A sharp and searing pain pierced the Archangel, causing him to shriek and his scream to echo throughout the chapel. The smell of burning could be smelled. It was as if a red-hot layer of metal had been placed on the wound. But the pain was abruptly gone. Freeing the brain of unnecessary panic and nerves. The cold claws let go of the Saint and Gabriel was able to look at the result. In the aftermath, arriving in shock, unable to see the defeat anymore. The hand, right before his eyes, began to regain its healthy skin color, from which Archangel, with relief, exhaled.

-Phew. Couldn't I have just come to you all this time...! Thank you, Lucifer. I don't know what I'd do without you.

-It was nothing…

The demon snarled back, slowly crawling away from the Archangel. But he didn't make it in time. A nimble Gabriel caught him by the sleeve, making Lucifer hesitate. The saint embraced the demon, covering his eyes. Lucifer, on the other hand, wheezed awkwardly, trying to think of an excuse to free himself from this "trap."

-Um... Gabriel... So, who... hurt you?

Lucifer asked, hoping it would help convince the Archangel to let him go. Gabriel, slowly opened his eyes, looking directly at Lucifer. That look made the demon feel uncomfortable. It was that exact sensation when a sincerely pure soul, looking right through you. As if seeing everything you wanted to hide. Lucifer became even more uncomfortable. What on earth is he doing? After all, Gabriel trusts him. How can a demon deceive so sincere and kind, and most importantly, dear to a demon's rotten, but still living heart Archangel? Again, the echoes of morality began to awaken in this monster. But how quickly it vanished, mingling in the oily and thick blackness of this creature's soul.

-I was wounded by the alternate. Speaking of which, they were massacring again, turning the clergy into meat. There was nothing I could do.

With a slight wistfulness in his voice, Gabriel said.

-It's not your fault! You are not to blame for the death of these people!

Lucifer encouraged the Saint, but the Archangel was sad and greatly puzzled by this strange visit of alternates to the priests of the very church closest to the bridge.

-They smell me, Lucifer. That strange alternate... He looked like a small man in a hood... With a pale gray face. That entity said they were studying me. It seems to be getting a lot more serious, they're angry...

After Gabriel's words, Lucifer was the first to give the saint reliable information about the rules of the "game" on earth.

-Don't worry, those demons can't step on the bridge. They will never get there, nor can they. Because they're different, they move in a different way.

-What way?

The Archangel interrupted.

-I think they're so powerful, they can open up corridors of their own that they can get to the realm of the living. That's all I know, I'm sorry.

There was silence. Lucifer didn't notice how he was still sitting in Archangel's arms. He didn't understand right away, but was very surprised to realize that he felt soothed? A strange empty lightness filled his chest from within. Calmness... It overtook the demon, making him wish he could sink into an embrace that just a few minutes ago had seemed uncomfortable and disgusting. Lucifer caught himself thinking for the first time that he wanted to be comforted, and that then, living in paradise, he had actually enjoyed the arrival of his friend. Loved it when Gabriel's warm palms touched Lucifer's palms in return. How they both flew... And the sky was so endless for them, and the wind in their ears gave off a pleasant melody of freedom and trust in each other's company. This happiness... Does Lucifer remember how he breathed with his full chest, feeling the oncoming wind on his face? Lucifer was brought out of his nostalgic musings by Gabriel. The saint pulled his bangs away from the demon's face. Soft and warm lips touched the dead-cold forehead. Out of surprise, Lucifer flinched.

-I'm sorry. But I must go. I've spent all day on this ugly wound, and I've never done anything I set out to do.

The Archangel reasoned, leaving Lucifer sitting on the stone floor. The saint rose to his feet and smiled softly.

-Bye! Thank you for curing me.

Gabriel walked out of the chapel, leaving Lucifer alone. Crooked eyes stared into the trail of the closing door. The demon lowered his gaze guiltily. He knew... That he'd only made things worse. Touching his shoulders, Lucifer bit his lip, trying to ease the stress with his own pain. It felt cold and empty without the Archangel. But that feeling would pass quickly. In a few minutes, when Gabriel had already left Hell, his child would come to his father. To give an account of the work he had done.

The next day, Gabriel will feel just awful. The Archangel would have a fever, he would be chills, and he would vomit gray mucus. Saints didn't eat human food, and they rarely ate human food, so it wasn't poisoning. As luck would have it that day, Gabriel kept getting calls from people begging him to come and deal with the alternates. Or other strange game that was going on not far from them. After lying like this for the rest of the week, Gabriel would weaken greatly. His Aura would almost be depleted, and now, the wingless would be more vulnerable. Ironically, the Archangel didn't suspect Lucifer of this strange illness, reducing all the effects to side symptoms after the wound and treatment. In principle, this was not without merit, but only we know that it was all part of another, sneaky deception.

==========Effectio==========

Gabriel felt terrible. Even after the strange illness receded, the Archangel still felt weak. He called all the numbers of the people who had asked him to come to them while the saint was sick. But he got more and more frustrated as he heard the ringing tone, or the message that the number was unavailable. A viscous despair began to envelop him. All that sounded in his head was:

"You didn't make it, it's all your fault, Gabriel. You let everyone down once and now you're letting everyone down again."

Sitting in the corner, the Archangel hugged his knees, curled up "frolicking" on the bed. Sadness and frustration were beginning to eat away at him. It was like beasts nibbling the bones of a victim who was still alive. Hot tears began to flow down his cheeks. Like any Archangel, Gabriel adored people, and the realization that all the callers were dead was excruciating. How many numbers did he count? Ten or twenty? It didn't matter anymore... Today, he was supposed to see Lucifer, but unfortunately, Gabriel didn't want to see anyone near him now. He did not want to tell his former friend about these experiences. Night was approaching, and Gabriel planned to go to the homes of his intended victims. Maybe there he would find new clues for himself about the struggle against these devilish children. Tucking his knife and herbs as a talisman into his pocket, the Saint went out to "investigate." As he approached the highway that led to the city, the Archangel increased his pace.

-If I had... Wings... Would have made it in a jiffy.

A languid voice came from beneath his bangs. At last, when he reached the starting point, his phone began to pick up, and then, almost immediately, a call came in. The number was unknown, which in principle was not uncommon, and therefore, in no way embarrassed the Saint. Immediately answering, the Archangel heard a hiss.

-Good night. Who are you? Introduce yourself, please.

But no one answered, as afterwards, a noise was heard on that line. It was a different sound, as if the phone was being pulled out from under a cloth or if it had fallen. Finally, a quiet, crying voice came through:

-Help me.

There was a child on that line. Gabriel recognized him. It was the son of a man who had already invited the lad to his house, for all sorts of demonic nonsense. Except, why was the number unknown? Maybe the kid was calling from a different number? Maybe...

-What happened, child? Where are you?

-I'm home. Mom... They ripped her head off. I can see her head. She's looking at me.

Gabriel listened to this, and the more details he learned, the more panic seized him. Roughly remembering where this family's house was, he immediately rushed there forgetting absolutely everything.

-Hush! Hush! Please don't hang up and hide! I'll come and save you...!

But on the other end of the line, all I heard was heavy breathing and a low voice:

-They're in my room.

-THEY!?

Gabriel shrieked, almost hitting the corner of the house. The handset was hung up, but regardless, the Saint tried to dial again. Unfortunately, the device the child had was no longer available. As he ran to the house, Gabriel sensed a disgustingly rotten energy. It was as if there were not one or two alternates in the room, but a whole gathering. This startled Archangel a little, but he didn't show it and pulled the doorknob. What was he hoping for? The house, of course, was locked. Gabriel immediately ran to the nearest window and thank the gods it was open for ventilation. Gabriel grasped the crack in the window and managed to almost break the mechanism that allowed him to adjust the modes of opening and closing. Finally swinging the door wide open, the Saint pushed back the tight blinds and made his way into the house, which was engulfed in an unnaturally dense blackness. The archangel made a minimum of noise as he opened the window. But the fact that the front door was still closed prevented him from thinking calmly. Jumping out the window was difficult. And even with a child in his arms...Gabriel went to the stairs; he began to smell the disgusting smell of blood... Well, Gabriel was glad that because of the darkness, he could not see the whole bloody picture. And he knew there was blood almost everywhere... Before he reached the children's room, he heard a disgusting chuckling and rustling. At the end of the hallway, the Saint stopped. His gaze was clear but fierce. Wildly afraid, yet feeling all the responsibility he now bore, gave him the strength to go on. Contrary to the terror the lad was subjected to.

-What? You like eating flesh? Corpses...

The chattering stopped, and a strange whisper was heard. But Gabriel strode steadily straight toward the Alternates, pulling a knife from his pocket. But before he reached it, the Archangel stopped abruptly. For some reason, the lights came on. Apparently, a power surge in the house wiring was to blame. What lay before the Holy One was a truly gruesome scene: a pack of demons was chopping up what was left of a child that had already been torn to shreds. That it was a child was given away only by the scraps of star-spangled pajamas. But Gabriel was shocked not only by the baby's mincemeat, but also by the fact that Lucifer crawled out of the nursery, swearing and hissing. Now there was a new dose of horror and incomprehension. The Archangel stood upright and could not even blink. The demon also froze, in endless shock. Silence fell, preventing him from even moving. But then, space pierced again with a hiss, but this time by the very Alternate that had maimed Gabriel earlier. The intruder emerged from his parents' room, greedily gulping down part of someone's limb at the same time. He glanced at Saint and then at his father, issuing only:

-Dad, he recovered somehow quickly. You said he'd be out of commission for about five weeks and almost a foot in the grave. Ironic, ha-ha. Cause he's standing here so alive...

-Shut your mouth!

Stretching the words and with savage anger in his voice, the devil hissed. The intruder, immediately obediently silent, stood beside everyone else.

Gabriel finally began:

-How...? Are you their father? You created these monsters? And you wanted to kill me? All this time...

Gabriel wasn't talking to Lucifer anymore; he was talking to himself. Spelling out sentences and processing them. A strange desolation overtook the holy heart. It was as if needles were piercing him.

-Gabriel... Did you really think your sweet words about coming home would make a difference? I hate saints, they hate me. Fair and square, you should have been more reasonable... Less naive... And a lot smarter...

Lucifer and the alternates began to approach, forcing the saint back toward the stairs.

-Gabriel! I still want to thank you for assisting me in my plans! If it weren't for your stupid naivete, I never would have understood how a saint could be struck down or what they would try to kill my children with. But you were kind enough to tell me everything. That's all... I should have played along. What small price I paid in the end? But you... oh! You and your goddamn god, pay tenfold! I will make the heavens fall on the heads of the innocent! I know what they love... I know what they want! I know their true terror and fear... And only I am their savior!

Lucifer's eyes began to sparkle predatorily. Suddenly, the light flickered again, and then, the bulb burst. Dropping the darkness onto the corridors again. The last thing Gabriel saw were the demons looking at Archangel like a piece of meat and Lucifer's smile, stretching so wide that it looked like it was about to split his head in two. Gabriel rushed down, miraculously not falling, but it still didn't matter. The saint was trapped. And now, Lucifer's clawed paws gripped the Archangel once more, and the real struggle began. In the pitch darkness, it was extremely difficult to accomplish, but the Archangel was able to inflict a couple of stab wounds on the demon, causing the beast to shriek and whimper as disgustingly as no godly creature would have whimpered. Gabriel ran down the corridor, where the only escape route was. But Lucifer was already here, and at his sides, the Saint began to be surrounded by evil. Caught in a corner, Gabriel tried to catch his breath, but he had no time. With a nimble movement, the demon grabbed the lad by the throat with both hands, sinking its claws into the flesh without regret. The saint wheezed desperately, dropping the knife from his hands. He could see those eyes glinting with a dim light. So empty and eerie. This is the face that true evil wears, Gabriel thought. This is the face of death. The Archangel was beginning to suffocate. His Aura tried to save him, but it was too weak for that now. All it’s power had been expended on the true cure earlier. The halo only flickered dimly over the dying Archangel.

-Lucifer. Will you... Will you let... M...e die! I'm the only one... Who... Didn't renounce... You! Hear me!

Gabriel grunted, trying instinctively to save himself. But Lucifer wouldn't let up... He choked and choked... Suddenly, his friend's words made the demon think of home and truth. Gabriel had never denounced his friend. Never gave him up... Lucifer suddenly remembered how, after Easter one day, they were going back home and one last time, Gabriel hugged the future demon tightly.

"Be careful! Or you'll strangle me!"

The past Archangel said jokingly to which Gabriel laughed softly.

And now what? Is this how he responded to his friend's affection? Moral woke up very just in time.  And now, in the crooked and greedy eyes read incomprehension. Misunderstanding of his own actions. It became disgusting. Lucifer only came to his senses when he realized that Gabriel was no longer resisting. Immediately, the demon threw the Archangel against the wall. Right next to that cherished window. The saint was covered in wounds, with bruises and claw marks on his neck, and almost his entire face was stained with blood. Gabriel began to get up, leaning on the windowsill. His legs were clumsy, and his eyes were beginning to blur. He tried to cough it up, spitting out drops of blood mixed with saliva. 

-Father... What are you...?

One of the Alternates standing in the corner began. But one look from Lucifer was enough to show him the importance of silence. The demon spoke to the Archangel:

-That's exactly what it's about. I'll give you a choice... You either leave this house as an Alternate. Or you don't leave this house at all. I can't take that risk and let you live!

With his hands clasped together and his hands to his chest, the demon moved closer. He kept repeating:

-It doesn't hurt, I can save you too. Stay with me, and I can repay you for your loyalty! You are dear to me! You are loved by me!

Gabriel listened to this and with each passing second, he wanted to rip out Lucifer's tongue more and more. The archangel was in pain, he was disgusted. His heart was shattered into little pieces of meat. Wasn't that enough? Lucifer was turning the Holy One's feelings into minced meat. You were nothing more than a tool for him. How dare he press such painful points in such a situation? Gabriel couldn't forgive it; he couldn't accept it. Anger and despair. I wish tears could have poured down his cheeks. Too much, the saint was tense. Where to run to? How to escape? No, never will he become that shadow. Never to be like Lucifer's will...! Turning around, Gabriel deftly jumped out the window and began to run. Everything ached, his heart and mind went crazy with fear, but his legs carried him away. He could hear the demonic screams. It was a real chase. But the Saint made it to the bridge in time, the Archangel barreled into the hallway of his house, slamming the doors shut abruptly. He immediately collapsed, only now realizing that he was dying. His Aura could not save him. It blinked miserably and dimly, trying to do something, but to no avail. Lying on the floor, bleeding, the Saint realized that this was only the beginning. Scary images replayed in his head. The house, the corpses, the blood. Betrayal and that genuine horror.

-We must... We must go to Heaven. I can't give up now.

Gabriel tried to get up and when he did, he looked at the basement door in frustration.

-Devil... You will never... You can't stop me!

Gabriel began to descend into Hell. Already there, he was drawing too much attention to himself. But the demons didn't know the stubbornness of this saint. How much he longed to save everything he held so dear. The desire to help Lucifer evaporated. Now, Gabriel saw him only as an imminent threat to be eliminated... returning to the world of the living. The alternates returned with nothing. They appeared before their father wriggling like snakes. Lucifer was furious.

-HOW COULD YOU NOT CATCH A HALF-DEAD ARCHANGEL!? WHAT DO YOU MEAN, YOU LOST HIM!?

Lucifer was indignant for a long time but decided to stop it and think rationally. Where could the Archangel have run off to? To the bridge, and from the bridge he would try to get to heaven. Their opponent is almost dead, after all.

-Venture to Hell. I'll join you shortly.

Lucifer commands his children.

-But, Father, why do we have to go there?

-Gabriel is going down to Hell to get to the saints from there. He needs a cure and only Paradise can help him… CHOP-CHOP!

All the wicked went from home to Hell, in an effort to intercept the wounded wingless one. Why did this encounter take place? Lucifer was in dire need of food again. So badly that if he hadn't gone out hunting on his own, he would have died. His children, each time they sucked more and more energy and vitality from their parent. Their needs grew inexorably greater. But Lucifer had yet to be convinced of that, but in the meantime... He took advantage of the essence of one of his offspring, and in doing so, tricked the system of his confinement into the realm of the living. It wasn't in the demon's plans to meet the Archangel here, but this moment couldn't be delayed forever.

 In the meantime, Gabriel was hurrying to Heaven. There, at the other end of Hell, was a huge cliff with steps that went far up, lost in the creamy clouds of Paradise... Almost losing his clear consciousness, the Saint was still walking forward. He was afraid, but he could not give up now. Too much had been done to save this world. No weakness could be given! This and much more was like a conspiracy, imprinted in the Archangel's mind. Keeping his legs from dropping his wounded body. But what was it suddenly? Strange footsteps were heard behind him... It was them! Gabriel only had time to look back before he suddenly fell. Someone obviously "helped" him because his shins, as expected, pierced a wild pain. The Archangel painfully hit his forehead on the hard and heated ground as he fell. The last thing he saw were the very hands that had already harmed the saint. Gabriel passed out. He was found, he was caught.

==========Glares of the Stained Glass==========

Slowly opening his eyes, the Archangel felt a chill take hold of him. A heavy lump lodged in his throat and his limbs went numb. It was hard to see what was going on around him at first. An unnatural whitish shroud covered his vision, like a sticky spider's web. Gabriel breathed heavily, not immediately realizing that blood was dripping from his open mouth onto the stone floor. He could feel the light from the windows as well as the reflections of the giant stained-glass windows. When his vision returned to normal, the Archangel began to look around, and to his horror, he became truly aware of what was happening. He was in a ring formed of entities. In other words, the Alternates surrounded the saint, watching his every breath. Well, at the very end, under the stone pillars, Lucifer stood, also watching Gabriel. The archangel could say nothing. He felt so bad that even ordinary conversation was taking a lot of energy. The lad wasn't tied up, not held, and why should he be? The saint was almost dead. A little more and he would be a very nourishing and important dinner for the whole "Family."

Reflecting with a rutted echo, the devil's voice sounded special. Not like before, far from it:

-Archangel Gabriel, we are all very happy to have you come to visit us! You should know how happy we are to see you here. Even though I feel a little sorry for you, you will do us a wonderful favor!

The devil said with a crooked smile.

 -You see... I'm not the kind of Lucifer that's resigned to his banishment. Ha-ha! I think you figured that out already. Back when I took your form. I was already burning with pure anger and hatred for all living things! Including my hatred of Heaven's Hen... Which, at every opportunity, shoves everyone off the fluffy clouds! Who breaks one of their idiotic rules!

With each phrase, Lucifer's voice grew angrier and angrier. He went back and forth about why all this was necessary...

-Since you have two minutes to live, before I command my children to eat you, I'll just say... Archangel...

Lucifer lowered his head and soared through the air, slicing through space with his wings. He landed right in front of Gabriel's face, grabbing him by the chin. The devil's claws lifted the unfortunate lad’s head, forcing the Archangel to stare into those same crooked and faded eyes. The stained glass of which the ceiling was made illuminated the temple well. And the weaseling rays of light, all trying to get into the saint's already cloudy eyes.

-When the first of the three main Archangels dies, the realm of the saints will be greatly shaken… As will the realm of the living, among others! I don't want Heaven or Hell. This whole world... No, both realms. There just shouldn't be any! Only the blackness that we will become. And your energy, your meat... It's going to help us!

-Lutz... -Listen...

With incredible effort, the Saint spoke. Strangely, the devil let his opponent speak.

-I know what you want, and you've only confirmed my hunch now... But listen... Realms can't just be erased. What about the Holy Father? Even if the heavens fall and people are nothing but monsters, you can't turn the universe into... Darkness. Father won't let that happen... At least, because he exists. His light... The light of his soul cannot be so easily interrupted... He's not stupid, either.

-I'M GOING TO BE A GOD! NO SAINTLY FATHER IS MY EQUAL! I CAN OUTSHINE THE STARS, OUTSHINE AND DESTROY THE HEARTS OF MILLIONS!

Shouted the devil, in the face of his friend. From such strong emotions, Gabriel wrinkled his nose. But his sky-blue eyes, still stared confidently and sadly at Lucifer, burning a hole in him. It must have made Lucifer angry, too. He had expected a different reaction. Panic, tears, that sort of thing. Gabriel didn't seem to want to die. The archangel continued:

-In theory, yes. You can do it.

The demon stared at the saint with incomprehension. Could it be that Gabriel had gone insane and would now discuss taking over the world? The Archangel's husky voice continued:

-But you will not live to see it. Your children... Al...ternatives... One day... You won't be able to keep feeding them. They won't be your servants like they are now. Of course, with one or two, you can easily kill and control them. But it won't do any good to kill them. It won't be enough to overthrow heaven, Lutz. Well, the more Alternates you spawn, the greater their number and their demands... You'll just... run out. And your children will become so strong that the darkness from their bodies will consume you...

At the last phrase, Gabriel's eyes widened more, rounded, and resembling blue, cloudy crystals.

The demon listened intently to the saint's story. For a second, his face seemed frightened, but afterward. A snide and husky laugh was heard.

-Look at him. OUR DINNER'S BEEN MUMBLING A LOT OF FAIRY TALES! WHERE'S YOUR PROOF, GABRIEL?

-You felt bad when I won. Because your children came to you with nothing. That wound of mine... The poisoning. You were awake and cheerful when I returned from my long absence...

The demon got a little nervous and shivered, but he stood his ground:

-Certainly! My children are drawing strength, but I'm sure! It's not critical!

-You're trying to tell yourself it’s okay? You're afraid, aren't you?

But at that moment, Lucifer punched the Saint in the face, making him cough and spit up blood.

-Shut up... You moron… You'll make a fine dessert, and I think... I'll take the first bite.

Lucifer's eyes sparkled greedily, and his children started squawking louder. As if cheering and encouraging their parent, they came closer. Gabriel squeezed his eyes shut, preparing to feel fangs or claws. The devil's paw swung at the Archangel as one of the impatient children, eager to bite somewhere nearby, touched his father's fingers. In an instant, the demon cried out. His hand hurt badly. He clawed at it, looking at the trembling limb. The paw was covered in hoarfrost, also, severely emaciated. It was as if the skeleton had been covered in a nasty, dry skin. But, after a few seconds, in front of the demon, the arm was back to normal. Through his fingers, the Demon felt Archangel's heavy gaze.

-You're already... Running out of... And he... Just touched you.

Lucifer was numb. In an instant, he realized that Gabriel wasn't lying... He never lied to him. All this time, the saint had really been trying to bring him back to the clouds of Paradise.

"Oh Gabriel... Oh my faithful friend... My only friend..."

The demon's eyes filled with terror. Now, he realized that he was not unreasonably afraid of his children. Lucifer was really turning a blind eye to a lot of things... Somehow, the devil sincerely believed his speculations and plans, unable and unwilling to believe that at home, he could still be expected. And that his plan had a downside. The demon didn't know what to do. He did not want to be stuck in Hell, but only Gabriel could help him ascend to heaven again. Suddenly, his rotten heart felt like it was clenched by cold claws.

"I have to do something. I can't watch him get killed. As part of my family... What's wrong with that! Part of me, mercilessly torn apart!"

As the children approached, Demon felt his head spinning. It was as if he fell into a trance not knowing what to do. There was no way to drive the demons away. They stared at their father with hungry, bottomless eyes, whoever had them, of course. Each dreamed of starting to tear the soft, ruddy flesh, or else. Dad would also go for an appetizer. Lately, the kids had become excessively willful. The only thing left to do was to choke on the Archangel's meat, but now... Lucifer wouldn't forgive himself for such sacrilege!

He remembered how Gabriel had once broken his wing and almost crashed through the vein of Lucifer. Back then, they were just fledglings, and Lucifer would never forget the way Gabriel Senior, Gabriel’s father, had yelled at him. And the father of the evil one, kept shaking his head and looking at his son with annoyance. It was Lucifer's fault that the little chick had broken a wing, but it came out completely by accident! As he and his father walked home, Lucifer's parent said:

-My child, don't blame yourself. Gabriel Sr. does not hate you. He just, like me, was afraid for his son. You're young! Anything can happen! The main thing is that you admitted your mistake and apologized.

-But that's... It's not enough... To be forgiven. I guess that's the way it has to be... To cause trouble for everyone... I'm the devil in the future.

The father tapped the boy on the top of his head with the tips of his giant wings.

- What are you talking about? You're an Archangel! And I'll tell you more than that! You are a Lucifer... And our kind protects everyone and everything! What do you mean “devil”, huh?

-Whoa! Daddy! We haven't been holy for a long time! We don't have a proper job for the holy world!

-Don't talk nonsense! Without us, the whole system breaks down! That's why our kind lives! And the better Lucifers we have in our family, the better our chances of becoming saints again. And I am very glad, my boy! Because you are already growing so good and fair! Even though your character is... Wow, how difficult, to say the least!

His father was speaking with a playful intonation, which made Lucifer get angry.

-Come on, you feathery bogey! Let's go home! And in the morning, take some apples and pies to the Gabriels. They love to eat, that's for sure. You'll see, they'll forget all their insults in a jiffy!

A warm smile spread on Daddy's face...

-I do... I know how to handle them!

Thinking of his father...  It made him feel even worse. Oh, how it must have... The father must be disappointed in his offspring. But Lucifer was taken out of his thoughts by the Intruder. He turned to the devil:

-What are we waiting for. Shall we eat first?

Lucifer looked frightened at his son, not knowing what to answer. The demon shook his head strangely, not sure if it was a refusal or the other way around. The intruder only replied:

-Okay, we'll take that as a yes. Everyone is very hungry.

From these words, a nasty squeak sounded in Lucifer’s ears. His legs were turning to absorbent cotton. But what brought Lucifer out of his new bout of emotion was an equally awful shriek from the Archangel. The demons began to bite the saint. Slowly inflicting wounds...  Tears flowed from the blue lenses, but the body no longer had the strength to resist the demonic feast. By that coin, Lucifer had already been pushed back a bit. The demon fluttered its wings and involuntarily cried out the name of a friend, leaning forward slightly.    

But suddenly... The glass ceiling shattered with a high-pitched screech, sending shards of glass flying into the demons and the stone floor. Looking up, in the hellish light, Lucifer saw the Archangel Michael. He was like a clear falcon that mercilessly struck the stone floor, covering the hapless Gabriel with his gilded wings and the remnants of the clouds of heaven on them. Throwing off and chopping up the demons. In the end, Lucifer could only see the rage and tension on Michael's face. With what fierce force he was chopping up the devil's child. Grabbing Gabriel, the Supreme Archangel flew away. Gabriel awoke to a pleasant warm breeze. He thought he was flying. Opening his eyes, he saw clouds... Creamy, thick... Opening his eyes after some other time, Gabriel realized he was getting better. He was dreaming again. Thus, he came to and passed out many more times, but with each awakening his condition improved! Archangel saw the tops of the trees... He could feel Michael’s hands... Those were still as rough as they had been at the beginning, when Michael lifted Gabriel's disembodied body. The Archangel felt his fellow man land and as the wingless one was passed into Raphael's caring hands. Raphael mumbled something worriedly, but it could not be heard now. It was as if a wounded saint had been put in a jar. Gabriel awoke lying on the bed in his room. From the window shone bright but not irritating sunlight. Its rays were gentle and warm. It was as if the Holy Father himself were touching his child with his thin fingers. The rustling of the leaves seemed to whisper:

 "You are home, my child. You are safe, my little blood."

Gabriel was in bandages, but his full-strength Aura shone brightly over him. He sat down on the bed, breathing in a full breath:

-Here I am, home! Hi, Dad!

Said Gabriel, looking out the window. Turning to the rest of the room, the Archangel saw Michael, who was waiting in the corner of the room for the wingless man to wake up.

-Oh! Misha! Hi!

Gabriel smiled, but Michael did not respond in kind. The saint's face showed sorrow and severity.

-Misha... Tell me, how long have I been like this?

A monotonous and weary voice immediately answered:

-A month, by human standards.

-Wow!

In shock and with a guilty look the lad exclaimed, rubbing the back of his head. But the questions didn't end:

-Misha. What about it? We won, didn't we? Is it over?

Michael exhaled heavily, looking away.

-Misha...? Misha!

Gabriel worried, looking at his colleague's reaction.  Michael stood silently, heading for the door. Before he left, he replied:

-For you, Gabriel. This is just the beginning...

    After some more time spent in Paradise, Gabriel began to feel almost as good as new! He was strolling through the Garden of Eden with Raphael at that moment. They were talking about something, when suddenly. Gabriel let out what Raph was so afraid to hear:

-Raphy, when are you going to take me back down? I didn't finish what I started. And my wings are still not attached!

Gabriel said with a hint of glee. Raphael, on the other hand, turned dark and reluctantly replied:

-Gabriel... My little birdy, please don't talk nonsense! No, don't! Misha will take care of everything.

-What are you doing? Misha can't see the light of day because of me! He works twice as hard!

-Well... It's just the way it is. We must live somehow!

Gavril rounded his eyes. His face didn't look happy.

-Raphael, how come? I don't believe these are your words!

Raph looked down guiltily.

-Gabriel... We can't risk you. You're... You're almost dead!

Raph's voice was starting to shake. Was he crying?

-Gabry my dear... You should know what was going on in Paradise! While you were gone, Brother! Angels and Archangels began to panic, they sent Misha to the holy Father! Like... “Help me, cast out the evil one!”. What kind of trinity of the Archangels are you! People are dying! And you sent the most stupid and naive one to be eaten by voracious demons! And when you almost died, everyone... Everyone was so scared!

Raph said this, and thin, crystalline tears flowed from his eyes. He was very emotional on principle. But now, added to all that was obvious depression and fatigue.

-Gabriel! Brother, stay here! Don't play with the evil one!

Grabbing his brother by the shoulders, Gabriel replied:

-Don’t be silly, Raphy! I must help you! And with renewed vigor, I'll burst in on them! Oh, I've got them!

-And what if... You’ll...

-No! Never!

A confident smile settled on Gabriel's face. In a gentler voice, he added:

-I will make it right, Raphael and heavenly heavens. Once again, my wings will envelop me, and everything will be... As it was before!

Raphael's already large eyes widened. He looked at his brother hopefully.

-If you really believe in yourself. Please... Save the world. It's very bad. I only told you a little.

-I understand, Raphael.

The boy answered, hugging Raphael, and holding him to his warm heart. In the evening, as the sunset sky lit up the clouds and the trees of paradise... The three archangels approached the place where the stairs to Hell descended. As they said their goodbyes to their brothers, Gabriel tried to show all his tenacity to the best of his ability. Raph was very worried, and Michael... His tired and cold gaze, still shone with a ray of clear hope...

-Well! I've got to go! Remember, brothers, I will fly back on my wings.

-Oh Gabriel...

Michael answered grudgingly, as if he couldn't believe it.

-Gabrie! We will be ooooh-so worried about you, our little birdy! 

Covering his face with his hands Raphael said.

-Come on, before you know it, I'll back right here!

Gabriel encouraged Raphael. The Archangel was about to leave when suddenly, Michael stopped him. He pulled a small feather out of his wing and squeezed it in his hands, sparks went out from under his thin fingers. Unclasping his hands, the Saints stared at the dagger in amazement. A gold one with intricate patterns. Holding out the weapon to Gabriel, Michael said:

-Take this. This dagger is from my feather, it has a bit of my power.

Gabriel, carefully took the weapon, looking at his reflection in the blade.

-This blade has limited energy! Don't waste it on ORDINARY Alternates. I mean... It's a blade... For Lucifer. One stab to the heart and this vulture dies.

Michael's voice went low, but Raph cried out worriedly:

-AH! How scary it all sounds and looks!

Gabriel hid the dagger and replied:

-I got it, Misha. Apparently... You were right. Demons are incorrigible scum.

Michael’s mood slightly lifted after these words, and he nervously exhaled. The Archangels stared in Gabriel's wake for a long time before the lad disappeared from view altogether.

"Wait for me, my beloved friend."

==========The Star of Fire==========

Gabriel descended lower and lower. He was walking over the white stone. It was as if all the steps were made of chalk. He hurried, speeding up as fast as he could. After nearly an hour of walking, Archangel descended into Hell again. The place hadn't changed a bit, still staining everything around him with its devilish light in bright scarlet.

"I think. We should start our search with that very temple. Lucifer didn't keep taking me away from it for nothing, that bastard! Hiding his kids from my eyes!"

Gabriel frowned and hurried to the river that separated the other bank where the stained-glass temple was located. Strangely, he did not encounter any demons along the way. It was as if the evil ones feared the saint. For some reason, this reasoning in his head gave Archangel strength and confidence. Immersed in his thoughts, Gabriel did not notice how he came to the river. Its contents were disgusting. Along with the vile odor of rot and blood, the substance resembled a stinky brew.

-Brr! I've heard that demons feed on this abomination!

Disgust appeared on Archangel's face as he looked at the river. He involuntarily wrinkled his nose as he pondered how to cross that slurry. But suddenly, the sound of flapping wings brought him out. This sound was very quiet and disorderly. Usually, when you hear wings flapping, they almost always have a measured beat. It was like a heartbeat, at least that's how a lot of Saints flew. But no, the sound was different from what I was used to. It sounded as if someone was trying to stay in flight or pounding the air indiscriminately with its feathers. Looking toward the source of the sound a couple of meters away and close to the bank where Gabriel was standing, the boy saw a figure flying over the river, almost falling. In fact, it happened after a couple of attempts to raise his body higher. Someone large was flying on shallow wings, totally unsuitable for its host in size. The creature fell into the river medley and slowly, as in a quagmire, began to sink down, floating away thanks to the current. Gabriel was very reluctant to go into the river. But his curiosity and the fact that this creature was still alive and probably knew where the demon was, got the better of him. The saint began to enter the "Water" writhing and raising his hands higher in disgust. Gabriel was able to pull the creature out and immediately, the lad realized that he had saved Lucifer himself. The evil one was coughing and shuddering all over. He could hardly keep himself conscious, but when he saw his savior, the demonic eyes rounded and stared at the Archangel in amazement. Gabriel stepped back a few steps. At the same time, he felt in his pocket the weapon Michael had given him. Rising to his feet, the demon hoarsely, but with a touch of joy and hope in his voice greeted Gabriel.

-Gabriel! I do not believe my eyes!

The demon exclaimed. He wanted to say something else but could not. Very quickly, the Archangel grabbed his former friend by the scruff of the neck, pinning the demon to the beginning of the canyon that surrounded the mouth of the river. Resting the demon against a rock, Gabriel brought a dagger to his face. Without even touching the devil's skin, the weapon was already beginning to scorch the flesh. It was as if a sunbeam had set fire to a thin sheet of paper. Lucifer trembled nervously:

-Gabriel stop! Please stop! Messenger of God! I beg you! I am totally defenseless against you!

The demon looked pitiful, and what's more, there was genuine fright in his crooked eyes. Looking at Lucifer, Gabriel noticed the wounds on his blood-stained body.

-What happened to your wings?

In a stern and unkind voice, the Saint asked. Lucifer only mumbled pitifully:

-Gabriel! They almost ripped them all off! Please! We must run! They... They can smell me! All hell is hunting me! They think I'm a traitor!

-Wow! Another one of your plans has come back to bite you in the ass!

With displeasure in his voice, the Saint replied.

-Gabriel! Please! We must run! Until they...

Suddenly, the demon fell silent and stared behind Archangel, watching in horror.

-Oh! Don't pretend the Alternates are after us! This trick won't work!

Gabriel was very skeptical, and so he continued to hover over the demon. Lucifer, on the other hand, tried to reason with his friend to turn around. The devil's hands trembled, as did the whole demon in principle.

-Meh! All right! Don't you shake like that!

With a disgruntled face, the Archangel turned around and saw a dark silhouette walking confidently toward them. Gabriel immediately let go of the devil and he fell, unable to stand on his own feet.

-Th... They! They've come for me!

The demon grunted, trying to get to his feet. Gabriel prepared to fight, when suddenly, the Alternate pounced on Lucifer. He turned his back on Lucifer, oblivious to the Saint, as if the latter were not even there. Gabriel stared puzzled as the demon tried to escape.

-Gabriel Please! Only I know how to destroy them!  Gabriel!

Lucifer cried out nervously and in panic. Immediately, the Alternate was sliced in half, and the shadow scattered, dissolving into the stinking hellish air. Gabriel grabbed the demon's arm, pulling him toward him, and began to run, leading Lucifer.

-Where are we going?

A hoarse voice echoed.

-To the bridge. I'm surprised you didn't hide on it earlier.

As they ran, the demons came out, spying a traitor. Those two put together a pretty good "tail" of pursuers. But the whole chase came to an abrupt halt as soon as the Saint and the demon stumbled into the house that bridge. They were on the floor, covered in blood and dust. Gulping greedily for air and unable to catch their breath. The Archangel was the first to get up. He went outside and after a while, dragged a huge birch cauldron into the house. The Archangel also fetched soap from somewhere and put water to warm it. After taking off his clothes and piling them into a sticky clump, Gabriel sat down on a chair, looking tiredly at the stove where the water was boiling. On his shoulders, Gabriel threw a plaid. The saint did not seem to pay attention to the demon, who was lying on the floor exhausted, only propping himself up on his elbows. The silence lasted a long time. The demon still hesitated to speak. He did not know where to begin. The Archangel did not believe him, and every word of the Devil's was subjected to a thousand doubts. Trust was torn between the two of them. Only the sound of boiling water diluted the silence. Still, the demon made up his mind:

-Gabriel... We need to talk.

The evil one hissed softly. But the saint didn't even turn toward Lucifer.

-All right. If that's the case... I'll do the talking. I tried to kill them... But they were... Too strong. No, they weren't… No, they weren't… They were... They were... Lots of them! And together... They didn't give me a chance! They attacked me, but I managed to escape. Afterwards, all this time... The alternates have been trying to find me and... Get my full powers. They must have... They figured out a way to live without my "energy sponsorship"...

The demon was silent, waiting for a reaction. But the Archangel just took a bucket of water and poured it into a cauldron, sighing heavily at the same time.

-And I didn't show up at the bridge... Because I didn't have the keys... That's how I lived...

The demon was silent again, looking at the Saint. The saint, in turn, remained silent. But now, the Archangel held soap and a clean cloth. Soaping it up, Gabriel stared at the demon, which made the latter flinch a little. The Archangel's cold, stern gaze was burning a hole in the demon. It was getting even more uncomfortable.

-Dress and get in the tub.

 Gabriel answered monotonously. Lucifer looked at the soap rag with bewilderment and then at his friend.

-Did you even hear what I said?

-You stink of rotten blood. Get in the water, prick. We'll discuss the rest when we don't stink of corpses.

The demon glanced uncomfortably at his bloody clothes, and carefully began to pull them off. As he sat down in the bowl, Archangel poured water directly on the top of the demon's head. The curly curls hung over his face and shoulders. Oh, yes, all evil spirits and saints are sexless. They didn't even have nipples, to say nothing of the sex differences inherent in mortals. Both guys looked like plastic dolls and had nothing to be embarrassed about. Gabriel was washing Lucifer, and the memories of their shared childhood came flooding back to my mind. How, in the same way, they washed lumps of dirt off each other, while cheerfully discussing their childhood adventures. But now, beneath the soapy rags, there were bloody wounds of varying degrees of freshness and depth. Lucifer wasn't lying even now. It looked like he really had been maimed that badly, by his own children.

"It hurts so bad..."

Biting his lip, the Archangel said quietly. The demon, on the other hand, looked down guiltily at the gradually reddening water, only occasionally flinching from the soap on his fresh wounds. They washed and washed their clothes until late at night, but when it came, the demon felt very tired. On top of that, it was raining outside. Lucifer looked longingly out the window at the world where he could not set foot because of the curse. Gabriel, on the other hand, was sitting in his room reading some religious books, while he lit the pages with candles. The demon walked over to his friend and sat down gently beside him.

-What do you want?

Gabriel languidly stretched out, not taking his eyes off the book.

-Um... -What are you doing... Gabriel?

With an awkwardly strained smile, the demon asked.

-None of your claws. Sit quietly and don't growl at me. I think how to destroy your children and you at the same time.

At these words, the demon shivered and looked sadly at the floor.

-Gabriel... There's so much I haven't had time to tell you. I have so many... Thoughts about all this...

-If you've come to your senses and you want to go to heaven, I'm going to disappoint you. The only way you can get there now is as a trophy.

-Oh.

The demon answered sluggishly. The conversation was not going well, which made Lucifer more nervous. Gabriel had never been nothing to him. A beloved friend, a dear brother, or else... Yes, the demon was in love with this Saint, too. Only, the shroud of spite and his own vanity, made Lucifer work only for his own benefit. The coldness that the Archangel exuded made his heart ache. What could the demon do to regain a modicum of trust?

-Gabriel... I know there's a way to kill Alternates with Archangel artifacts, but here...  I don't know... Where my artifact is.

Guilty and quiet, the demon said. Gabriel took his eyes off the books and looked at Lutz.

-What do you mean?

And then, the Archangel thought. Indeed, what kind of artifact did Lucifer's kind have? No one had ever mentioned it. What could it be?

-In a direct way! I don't know. Where is it... Honestly, as it happens, I've never even seen the thing!

Gabriel looked at his interlocutor with incomprehension.

-It cannot be! Lucifers are obliged to have an artifact. You do not remember what kind of object it was? At least this way. Maybe I'll remember.

Gabriel's voice turned stern. This made Lucifer a little happier, and he moved closer. Lucifer began to remember:

-I only remember that it was supposed to be a star. Lucifer's star. I don't know what it symbolizes or what it can do, but it's the only thing that can help us. I think so.

Unsurely the devil reasoned, running his eyes around the room. Gabriel looked thoughtfully at his friend and began to guess as well. He had heard something about it. I think his father had told him about this artifact. In fact, Gabriel's father was the one who had instilled in the child a love for all Archangels, including the Lucifer lineage. The saint did not understand this endless hatred for every member of this lineage, for this reason... His son, he raised differently. Who knows why Gabriel's father was not afraid of the Lucifers? Why he was friends with the future devil's father? All the answers to these questions, the silent and humble Saint took with him to the "grave," leaving his child to speculate on parental actions. Lightning struck outside the window, which made Gabriel shudder and shriek a little. He grudgingly glared at the window and extinguished the candles, then went to the windowsill and hung the curtains.

-You look tired. Go back to sleep and let me think.

The saint mumbled grudgingly. The demon was a little puzzled, looking at the Archangel.

-Why aren't you going to sleep? You need your rest!

-I've already slept in Paradise. Go away and don't disturb me. 

The Archangel answered tensely. Lucifer looked down slightly and went to a corner of the room. He lay down on the floor, covered only by the one sheet he was basically in. Hiding his head behind the debris of his wings, the devil tried to sleep. Already in the morning, when the room was all lit up, Lucifer awoke. Next to him he found his clean clothes.

Finding Gabriel on the first floor of the lodge, the Demon quietly went down to his friend.

-Good morning. What are you up to?

The demon's face was sad, and he looked wrinkled. In a nutshell, he didn't look rested. Gabriel, on the other hand, was sitting with his back to the dusty kitchen table. He answered nothing, frozen like a statue, which was very strange. Lucifer began to get nervous, he stepped closer and placed a clawed paw on his friend's shoulder. At the same moment, the Archangel's hand grabbed the devil and with a punch to the face, Gabriel felled the demon, hovering over him. The lad, literally, sat on his opponent, pressing him down with his legs and weight. Lucifer’s nose began to bleed, and he himself didn't realize what had happened. But reality quickly caught up with the demon again. The hoarse voice asked only:

-What? What are you?

With incomprehension and bewilderment, the evil one stared at the Archangel. Who, in turn, was silent, holding a kitchen knife in his hand. The Archangel began:

-Demon. I remember where your artifact is. Since Lucifer was the first and thought to be the only the Archangel lineage to begin with... The Holy Father gave them the Star of Fire. It is a very powerful weapon... Stronger than Michael's sword, stronger than my mirror, etcetera. But... When you were stripped of your sainthood, this artifact was hidden in the Archangels themselves. Lutz... Your artifact has been with you since birth. In fact, it's under your skin in your belly.

Archangel's voice trembled slightly. His gaze tried not to look into Lucifer's eyes.

-YOU’RE CRAZY! THERE'S NOTHING THERE! I COULD FEEL IT!

The demon answered in a panic. Gabriel's knees pressed against Lucifer's elbows, making it difficult to jerk.

-No... It's in your stomach.

Gabriel’s hand glistened and he put it to the devil's belly.

 Immediately, the bright silhouette of a star began to spark through the fabric and skin.

-Оh.. My...

The demon couldn't believe his eyes, realizing with horror that Gabriel was right.

-Dad hid it so you'd be safer.

The Archangel's voice began to tremble. He lowered his head, beginning to shake his whole body. Unbuckling the belt and exposing the demon's belly, the lad was ready to plunge the knife in, to shred Lucifer without remorse, but... Then it wouldn't be Gabriel. He swung and swung, trying to talk himself into doing it. He was winging Lucifer with curses, hot tears flowing from his eyes.

-I.. I will use you as you use me! I hate you! I'LL WIPE YOU OUT, JUST WIPE YOU OUT! Now... Now! I can do it!

Gabriel tried to talk himself into it, but in an instant, he threw the knife away with rage and it stuck in the cellar door. Gabriel covered his face with his hands and began to cry.

-No! I'm not like you! I can't. I can't kill you! I'm an emotional fool for not being able to save my loved ones... Misha... Why did you save me!?

Wailed Gabriel, still sitting on Lucifer. Surprisingly, the demon did not resist. He meekly lay down. Lucifer was ready for this sacrifice, even. If it would cost him his life. Like Gabriel, he had made a mistake and now, it must be atoned for. Gabriel was trembling and still trying to regain his senses, when suddenly, he heard his friend wheezing. A bloody paw took Gabriel's palm and placed the Star in it. The Star was covered in blood, scraps of flesh. Beneath the Saint, on the other hand, lay a bleeding demon with a hole in its belly. Gabriel's eyes widened in amazement. The demon wheezed:

-Certainly, Gavrie. You're not me. And believe me... You're one of the best Archangels I've ever seen. Take it, it's yours! My beloved... Friend...

There was a crooked but kind smile on Lutz's face. He looked at his friend with tenderness and love, until the devil's eyes began to roll under his eyelids.

Lucifer woke up already on Gabriel's bed. Wrapped in rags and a blanket. It was the middle of the night. The Archangel was sitting on a chair next to the demon. He was already asleep, but had the Saint been sitting next to Lucifer the whole time? His stomach ached from the wound on it, but when Lucifer touched it, he realized that now, there was a scar. The demon was still alive, and around his neck, hung the same star. Carefully washed clean of blood and bits of flesh. It was as beautiful as Gabriel's mercy. The demon gave himself as a sacrifice; I think the saint will be kinder to his partner now.

==========Glass Glitters==========

Gabriel wasn't sound asleep, so he woke up almost immediately, along with Lucifer.

-You're awake, finally.

The sleepy Archangel mumbled, rubbing his eyes. The demon, on the other hand, looked expectantly at Gabriel. The evil one felt comfortable for the first time in a long time. Even in spite of his condition, a kind of happiness lingered in his chest. The demon wished that this night could last forever. He could not believe that he felt at peace. A languid and quiet whisper, still as squeaky as ever, echoed in the room:

-Gabriel, don't go out in the morning, okay?

Shocked by this phrase, Gabriel looked perplexed at the demon.

-What do you mean?

-Alternates. They're already out there somewhere. If they can't get to the bridge after me, they'll dream of snatching you when you're outside.

Gabriel frowned and lowered his head, saying only:

-Yeah. -What a mess.

-We're screwed.

The Archangel stared at the demon in displeasure. There was a hint of reproach in the Holy One's gaze.

-No, we're not! For your information, I love the Archangel Lucifer. Not the... What he's become.

Lucifer got a little dark, but then he had a spark of harmless sneer in his eyes.

-What makes you think I was talking about us as a couple?

Lucifer smiled, eagerly awaiting his friend's reaction. When Gabriel realized he'd been caught, he puffed up his cheeks in displeasure and looked away. He was embarrassed. The demon had learned this facial expression long ago. He had been waiting for that look and that emotion. It was like some kind of signal that all was well.

-Stop it! It's not funny!

With severity the Archangel replied. But the devil only whispered something that sounded like soft laughter.

-Gabriel, what shall we do next?

Lucifer asked his friend, turning his head slightly.

-First of all, we must charge the star. I'll help you with that, because... There's no spirit of your father inside. Therefore, the star needs power from the outside. Surprisingly, the artifact is still holy. It's just without power. And then... You must tell me what's next.

The demon looked thoughtfully at the star shimmering in the moonlight.

-Look, we're going down to Hell again.

Lucifer wheezed, staring at the artifact. Gabriel silently nodded his head in agreement. They sat like that for a while longer. Thinking about the impending culmination of the whole story. Both were frightened, but neither gave a sign. After a while, though, Gabriel broke the silence by asking Lucifer:

-Listen... Why did you do that?

-Why did you do that?

The devil's voice grumbled. With a slight frown, Gabriel continued:

-Why did you choose to shine brighter than the stars above your heavenly father's head? Why would you have a power equal to his and more... I speak now for your overthrow. But also, I wonder... What you said to me in the stained-glass temple. Why do you wish to destroy everything, leaving only emptiness? What good is blackness that will consume you?

The demon stared at the ceiling the whole time. Almost without tearing his gaze away, he decided to explain while he had time.

- What's wrong with emptiness? You see... We're not human. We don't have predictable lives. We have to watch them, like ants in a terrarium. So that they have food, they don't get into trouble if possible. And the most important thing for both realms is faith. Something they can rely on. People have everything for a comfortable life and, in addition, an easy pass to Heaven. Rarely does one fall into Hell. After all, what the scriptures come up with has little to do with the truth. It's easy for people to break things down into basic sins and try not to commit them. But they do not know that the saints have their own criteria for "sorting people" and then people are surprised to learn that it turns out that someone who looks good and fluffy, falls into the fire of hell. And the one who was bad according to others is sent to rest. There are times when a soul is too good and kind for eternal rest. Then, it is thrown into Hell. To suffer little sins and be reborn again. That's called reincarnation. But with the saints... Nobody knows anything. You're a tool in God's hands to fix the world. That's all. Angels aren't as holy as they seem. Their world is a lot more complicated than people's. Totally more confusing and complicated. It's not even possible to die normally. Also, always hurt by the fact that my kind are disliked and honestly, I'm still pissed off by saints. I didn't kill you... Only because you weren't supposed to be so hurt by my plan. I didn't want to chop your wings off, and... My feelings for you were bothering me. I wanted you to die in the dark along with me. For both of us... to no longer feel the pain of all that has befallen us. I don't want to see the tears of the saints I love. I don't want to feel pain again... That's why I'm afraid to go home. But trying to understand the angelic world... Is also hard. And the curse that deprives my kind of holiness... It's to blame for the sudden desire to be instead of God. As at the snap of a finger, it appears and fogs my head. Clogging my thoughts with anger and blackness. But it passes with age, it seems.

-And by that... You just decided to destroy everything? Just because... Because you don't understand how to live by the rules of the saints?

Wrinkling his forehead and in a slightly coarsened voice, Gabriel was indignant. Lucifer looked away sadly and exhaled heavily.

-It's hard to explain. It's just that the holy world is so cruel. I just want... For this senseless wandering of two worlds to stop. If it's in my power.

-It's not in your power.

Gabriel answered in a rougher voice. He was beginning to boil over.

-Lutz... Your family loves you... I've been waiting for you... There was nothing to stop you from living a quiet life... Your dad was right to call you a jerk. You really are! A big... Winged spirit! And your minds is... of a baby bird... That's what loved ones are for. To help you through your hardships. But someone had ambition! Now you're pretending... That you're poor and miserable? In the world of the saints, nothing is complicated... Heavenly father adores each of his children. Even your kind of filthy...

-Do you think I'm wrong?

-Yes. -Since... You didn't even try to understand the world you live in. Yeah, it's easier to kill everything. And then hide behind the wounds of your soul... You're such a... You're a bastard... You're a hellish a-hole, that's what you are.

Gabriel said through gritted teeth. Lucifer, on the other hand, was a little angry at his friend's reaction. Still, he thought about the Archangel's argument. And something, slowly, began to clear in his clouded mind. At least it seemed so.           

 Morning came, and they were ready for the final push. Though Demon's wound still ached, he tried not to let it bother him. After yesterday's conversation, Lucifer had rethought a lot of things and now, once again, he felt guilty about his friend. But for now, it was not a matter of that. Nervous and walking forward, they headed toward the center of Hell. There at the mouth of the river, and where the canyon tapered into a kind of arch, was the center of the underworld. Once again near the banks, Gabriel involuntarily wrinkled his nose and looked at his friend with displeasure.

-What now?

The Archangel asked dryly. There was a star around the demon's neck. It burned the man's chest a little with its holy aura.

-Come on, think fast. I can feel them already. They're really coming at you... Like beasts on bait.

Looking back, the saint spoke. Lucifer took the star in his hand, its hot metal beginning to burn, to the point of unpleasant pain, but the demon only exhaled grudgingly as he looked at it.

-I need to perform a cleansing ritual. Actually, it's eerily easy, even pathetic. But here's the thing...

Lucifer dropped, releasing the star from his palm.

-I, too, am an Alternate, and most likely... I'll finally erase myself... And hopefully not just myself.

Then, sweating profusely, Lucifer took to the sky on his torn wings. He flew to a stone curved archway and spread his wings already, towering above the river. From the conclusion of his friend, Gabriel's eyes rounded, and with horror the Archangel also realized this realization and all the risks of this ritual. He only shouted something pathetically in the demon's wake, but it was no longer audible. Meanwhile, the entities began to approach Gabriel. They were invisible. The blackness seemed to grow exponentially larger and denser. Grabbing a dagger, Gabriel began to defend Lucifer's ritual, buying the devil time.                                           

This mess seemed to last forever. The demons tried to devour the Archangel, almost ignoring the demon for some reason. Suddenly, there was a ringing sound. As if from a temple bell. It sounded loud enough to make the Archangel's ears prick up. Afterwards, there was a gilded wave that made the bloody brew of the river go out of its banks. Dousing the foul thing and dragging it somewhere in its depths, unreachable and mysterious. Something began to happen. The saint covered his face with his hands and fell, unable to stand on his feet. He didn't pass out, but such a sharp cacophony of the sounds of magic and the shrieks of demons, made his head begin to spin. But it all stopped as abruptly as it had begun. Withdrawing his fingers from his eyes, the Saint looked up, then down at the bloody river, searching for Lucifer.

-No... No, It couldn't have happened! 

Panicked, Gabriel ran his eyes along the bank and surface of the river, looking for the demon. But lo and behold! At the other end of the bank, Archangel saw a familiar figure. With a sigh of relief, Gabriel hurried to his friend. Having finally bypassed the river as befittingly as possible. Lucifer was already regaining consciousness the moment Archangel caught up with him. Lucifer was shaking all over and his eyes felt as if they had become even cloudier. The saint helped the demon to his feet and together, they went somewhere in the direction of the steps that led to Paradise. They spent most of the way in silence. Helping each other along the way, but then... Lucifer fell. Gabriel looked uneasily at the breathing demon, asking:

-Hey what? Come on, get up!

Lucifer only lifted his head and hissed back:

-They... They died too easily. That can't be...!

With horror on his face, the devil wheezed. The saint, on the other hand, looked up at the steps and answered without averting his gaze:

-Maybe... We are lucky. How should we know?

-Gabriel... I'm their father. I know what I'm talking about. And... Where are we going anyway?

Asked the demon, also turning his gaze to the chalky, ever upward steps.

-Where are we going? We're going home. To heaven!

-Gabriel... You must have forgotten. I'm... I'm cursed and I can't go to Heaven!

That's when the Archangel remembered it, too. Gabriel's eyes filled with a sickly sadness at the realization of what was happening. What to do?

-Let's say I go up to Heaven, get my wings back, and come down for you.

-But...!

-I'll also get Misha to take the chain off you.

Lucifer lowered his head; he was obviously sad. The devil did not believe his friend's blind hope.

-While you are here, watch the river. Just in case the devil comes out of it again and you'll be right.

After this phrase, the Saint went forward, without turning back at all. The demon sadly looked at Gabriel in his wake. He was not expecting his friend again. Lucifer humbly shook his head while looking at the river, then at the silhouette that was floating up the stairs. Leaning against the stone, the demon licked his dried lips, silently echoing himself:

"You're not coming back, you're leaving me. Because I deserve it."

Tears streamed down his dry, hot skin. He was very afraid of being alone. No, why is all this happening to him? Why did the river leave him alive? He was beginning to get more and more nervous, so much so... He didn't notice he passed out. Perhaps the magic through the devil's body was to blame. But what is it? Such a faint touch. Warm and alive in its own way.

"Let's go home! Lucifer."

A voice sounded. It was barely audible at first.

"Let's go home! Lucifer!"

It sounded more insistent and clearer. The demon opened his eyes. Open your eyes, Lucifer, wake up!                          

    The Archangel stood before him. Flapping his gilded wings. On his face, a slight but not evil indifference. He stretched out his hand and quietly repeated it.

"Let's go home. They're already waiting for us."

Beside his foot, the wreckage of the enchanted chain burned his foot with red-hot metal. What has happened? Does the Demon have a place to go back to? Could the bad things end, and the effort pay off? Lucifer's gaze, for the first time in a long time, was clear. Tearful eyes stared at his friend. At the wings through which the light flickered, at that bright halo and those whitish pupils. Like the sparks on the water that appear with the coming of dawn. The demon timidly stretched out his hand, and then the palms of his hands took it, pulling it toward him. A strange lightness obliterated the fatigue in his body. They flew... Climbing higher and higher. The rays aimed treacherously at them, greeting them with flashes of sparks in their eyes. They climbed higher... My heart fluttered.

-Fly above the clouds so as not to attract attention.

Softly spoke the Saint. Oh gods! He was even more beautiful, and he did not recoil. A memory woke up in my mind. Of how the demon had strangled Gabriel. It made my throat feel bitter and my eyes tingle. They flew to the temple, where they were already waiting. In the main hall, Archangel Michael and Raphael were waiting for their guests. The two saints were nervous, constantly whispering to one another.

-You are here at last!

Raph exclaimed, running a little closer.  There was a look of mild disgust on Raphael's face when he saw Lucifer. He turned around and stared at Michael. Everyone was waiting for the Supreme Archangel to decide, but Gabriel's voice came first. It echoed piercingly against the walls of the temple.

-Misha! Lucifer helped me in my accomplishments. Without him, nothing would have happened.

-I know, don't tell me that again...

Michael began to walk toward the two, leaving Raphael behind his wings. Michael's gaze fell reproachfully into the frightened, Lucifer’s eyes.

-Note... I don't think anything will work out. But I'll try to talk to Heavenly Father. Maybe... He'll have mercy on him.

Afterward, Michael walked around the two of them, stepping out into the street. Opening his wings, he flew upward in a bullet... Dissolving into the clouds. It was already getting dark in the Angel World.

-Well...? While Misha asks The Father... What should we do about Lucifer... Shall we go to the feast?

Reluctantly and with a strained smile Raph said. Wanting to lighten the gloomy atmosphere. Gabriel relaxed a little and asked:

-Feast? What's the occasion?

-What occasion? You're so silly! You, brother... You're back in one piece! You heavenly nightingale! Look! You've spread your mighty wings again! Isn't the whole angelic world celebrating?  Everyone thought you'd perish! Hah...!

-Never mind.

A little embarrassed, Gabriel answered. Lucifer, on the other hand, was hiding in terror behind the wings of the Archangel. He was suspiciously sad and silent. He didn't even look up.

-But Lucifer will scare everyone. I must stay with him until Michael returns.

Gabriel answered, looking at his brother Raphael. Raph, on the other hand, sighed heavily and replied:

-Well, if that's the case. Eh! You're missing out. That's okay, I'll bring you some muffins!

A smile spread over Raphael's face. His halo glowed, and the saint headed toward the angelic city, which was beginning to brighten up for the occasion. Just then, Gabriel remembered Lucifer's father, immediately reminding his friend.

-Lutz, your dad. He must be... He'll be very happy to see you again. Let's go see him soon.

-NO!

The demon shouted, standing in front of Archangel.

-NOT AT ALL! I don't want... I don't want him to see me like this.

Lucifer looked very insecure... He hunched over and looked longingly at the rocky outcropping where the Lucifer’s cabin was. Surprised by this reaction, Gabriel slowly walked over to his friend and embraced him, trying to comfort him.

-If you're afraid, let's go see him later. When you're back... Spread your whitish wings...

Standing in his arms, Gabriel lifted his head slightly, looking blankly at Lucifer. Lutz, on the other hand, trembled and could not understand... Was he admiring, this cold emptiness of the Archangel's eyes? Or does Fear add a lump to his throat, making him feel like a flaccid ghost with a headache? Already as night fell on the heavenly heavens, two friends, watched the festivities that had begun. Sitting on the branches of an apple tree in the distance. Lutz felt empty and insecure. He was not happy like Gabriel. As if sensing that something would be wrong. From his thoughts, the demon was brought out by the Archangel. He said he had just noticed Michael flying by.

-You need to talk to him. The two of you.

At those words, it got creepy. My head throbbed harder, and the stumps of my wings fluttered. But immediately, a warm, soft palm rested on the demon's shoulder.

-He won't touch you. I will guard you outside the door.

The demon's eyes rounded, showing the crystal sadness inside his soul.

-Gabriel. Please... Trust me... You are the most beautiful thing that has ever happened to me. It's as if your wings have always been with you. Protecting me and clearing my mind of all these strange and wicked thoughts...

But no matter how the demon opened his soul now, no matter what speeches he made, the Archangel remained just as cold. Gabriel simply could not believe again. But now, looking at those eyes... For a moment... Did they turn blue again? But all thought was interrupted by a kiss. More insistent and deeper. The demon touched Gabriel's hair, pulling him closer. The saint resembled a silent sculpture. In turn, the demon, on the other hand, tried to prove and show the true hurricane of his pain at the expense of their shared past and feelings. Tried to appear alive, to show his true fear. Which was crushing everything from the inside out. His heart was being pelted with hot glass.

"Please... React in some way... Please make the illusion that everything is okay."

But when the kiss broke, Lucifer's eyes caught the same blank stare. He was about to make another attempt, but a soft palm rested on his lips.

-Michael is waiting for you. And... I promised to come down to town. How can the feast of my return take place without me?

Moving away from the demon, Gabriel took off, ascending into the night sky. Was the Archangel angry? Quite. Pondering these thoughts in his head, the demon flew toward the temple. Inside the room was dark and somehow uncomfortable. Footsteps echoed muddy, as if Lucifer was about to enter the courtroom. When he reached the right corridor, Lutz gently pushed open the painted, wooden door. The smell of candles, incense... The dim light of the moon fell on Michael's silhouette.

-I was beginning to think I'd have to look for you.

In a calm voice, Michael spoke with a slight shake of his head. Lucifer only tensed.

-Ahem! -Let me begin. Demon, I don't know what Gabriel told you. but there's no way to get your face back. I mean... You don't deserve it. Too much evil has been done and too little has been undone. But Lucifer, remember... The Father never forgets a thing! So, he gave you a choice. As soon as... The morning rays shine upon the skies of Heaven, you leave this place and stay in Hell for all eternity! If I see you in Heaven... Oh, then blame yourself, you’ll die this instant! It's nothing personal, it's my job. But there is another option. You interrupted your father's efforts. Namely, to put your kind on the right path. But that can be fixed. Now, you are listed in this generation as banished. But you have the right to still wait for the dawn... And when it comes, die, but as an Archangel. Then in the sacred writings, you will be listed as the Archangel of Lucifer, not a demon.

There was silence. Michael was calm and overly poised. It was frightening to realize that now, he was passing a death sentence. So calm and routine was the emphasis on the words. Lucifer, on the other hand, was inconsolable. It was as if everything in his chest had shattered. It turned into tiny shards that stabbed from the inside. It hurt so much... Why? He had done all he could. But to argue with his Father in Heaven, that is the last thing to do. One bottom line-the last word is always his.

-I... I did everything I could! It's not fair! I don't want to die!

Lucifer cried out hoarsely, wriggling nastily in panic and mental anguish. Michael, like Gabriel, resembled a sculpture, staring haughtily at his opponent.

-Well... You can live! But in Hell. Anyway, you have a choice before dawn.

Michael headed for the exit, ignoring the devil's misery. Lucifer shouted something else to him, but the Archangel didn't give it much thought. Who knows? Maybe he was doing it because he didn't want to get into the problem. Less compassion, more sleep.

-Yeah, just let me know when you're leaving, and remember, I'm watching you. Don't do anything stupid.

Michael went out through a small, painted door. It was in the most unremarkable corner of the temple and didn't catch his eye at first. After a while, on cotton legs, Lutz walked out of the temple. Without knowing why, he glanced mechanically at that cabin in the rock where he had lived with his father.

-He must be asleep by now.

The demon hissed softly, looking up at the bright stars that shone above Lucifer's nest. A voice came from behind him:

-Well? When are you going to get your guise back?

The demon hissed and jumped back a little, turning around. Thank goodness it was Gabriel. And what luck that the Archangel's eyes weren't so glassy now. And his gaze in general, conveyed not indifference but curiosity and concern. Eh, Gabriel always had a hard time staying mad.

-I... I... I want it to be a surprise!

"Really silly. Do you even hear yourself?"

Gabriel raised an eyebrow questioningly, looking at the demon.

-What are you talking about? Don't you want to be an Archangel again soon?

The demon's eyes flickered as if searching for answers. He folded his hands into a lock and held them to his chest.

-Gabriel, it's a complicated process. But I hope it won't be as long and drawn out as it may seem.

  Gabriel still looked at the demon with concern, and afterward, exhaled annoyingly.

-You should have said it wouldn't be soon enough. Oh, and how am I supposed to hide you? The angels would get really scared if they saw a demon.

Gabriel puffed his cheeks a little, crossing his arms over his chest. He was trying to remember something, I think...

-That's right! On the grounds of our temple, there's a garden where Misha trains. The garden is huge, and there's a little greenhouse there. You can live there for a while. The demon raised his eyes, looking at Gabriel. Lucifer stepped closer, level with his friend.

-Do you mean... That I won't interfere with Michael?

-No, you're not. Misha only trains Thursdays through Saturday. And that's after his morning flyby. That's from 4:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The rest of the time, the garden is yours.

-Okay, I got it. Thank you for your mercy.

-It is a forced measure.

Again, Gabriel replied dryly, the glassiness in his eyes returning. They fell into silence staring at the night sky. Music could be heard in the distance, bells ringing and angelic talk.

-Gabriel, why did you leave the feast?

-I promised to watch over you.

-Yes, sorry about that idiocy. When we were sitting on the branches... I don't know what I was doing.

Nervous excuses, the foul thing touched its neck with its claws.

-Almost everything you've done can be described that way, Lutz, but I really hope it'll be like before. It's been very boring and dreary here without you. Look, let's fly, okay? I know your wings are in a terrible state, but I can give them strength for a couple of hours.

The demon looked up at Gabriel, looking somewhere through. So many conflicting thoughts formed an impossible mess in his head. But this proposal... Like a breath of fresh air. The demon agreed, shaking his head. Soft hands touched his frayed wings, and a pleasant warmth coursed through his veins.

-Let's go.

Quietly, Gabriel spoke, grabbing his friend's hand. It seemed as if they had been flying all night. No one could see them; the two of them were hidden by the thick clouds. Tearing the white haze with their wings, the friends finally enjoyed each other's company. Gabriel, even cheered up, removing that mask of austerity from his face. They watched the festivities somewhere beneath the trees of paradise. Who among the saints would have thought that the devil was watching them now? What a fright they would have had upon learning this! But at one moment, Lucifer heard the sound of bells ringing and suddenly, the bright, yellow and scarlet light of dawn struck his eyes. It was a beautiful sight... So mesmerizing and alluring...

-It's dawn already! How beautiful...

Gabriel watched, mesmerized. He flew closer to Lucifer, touching his friend's shoulders.

-How glad I am to meet him with you! Like when we were little!

But then, that leering smile began to dissolve from Lucifer's face. He listened with horror to the ringing of the bells, not listening to Gabriel. Here it is, death. That tolling sounded like a funeral march.

-Lutz! Lucifer! Do you hear it?

Gabriel realized that his friend was suspiciously silent, and now, the Saint was trying to draw attention to himself.

-Son of Dawn! I wanted to apologize.

-What for?

Awakening from his stupor, Lutz asked mechanically.

-For my behavior as an unstable teenager. Oh, I'm sorry! Lutz... You have no idea how happy I am to see you... Not a murderer, but a reformed man. I'm glad you deserve redemption! You see? It all worked out!

The archangel smiled sweetly and confidently. His blue eyes mingled with the scarlet light of the morning sun.

They were silent, looking at each other. Gabriel was literally glowing, but Lutz... He decided to tell everything:

-Gabriel... I have to tell you more about the time...

But before he could finish, Michael came along. Like a fish, he came out of the clouds, scaring the two of them a little.

-Good morning, gentlemen. Gabriel, I ask permission to take Lucifer away from you.

Just as methodically and even, intelligently, Archangel asked his counterpart. Just then, Gabriel smiled, squinting his eyes a little. He glanced at Lutz, saying:

-Well, surprise is a surprise, I'll be waiting.

The Archangel started to fly away, but Lutz felt a chill on his back.

-Surprise? Is this about you leaving? What a surprise.

-I'm not leaving.

The demon hissed a frown, and Michael’s eyes widened slightly, glaring at Lutz. As they flew to the temple, Archangel Michael asked only one question the whole time:

-Do you choose to die as an Archangel?

But there was no answer. The demon was gloomy and silent.

Already there, in the temple itself. Light streaming through the stained-glass windows illuminated the floor with bright reflections. Candles burned dimly, reflecting off the icons. The bells chimed out their rhythm and finally Michael began:

-Demon, I'm going to kill you now. Have you thought this through?

-Yes.

-Are you sure? You're going to die for your father's efforts? Did I get that right?

-Definitely. But still... If I go, Gabriel will think I'm a coward, and he'll be right. Michael, just do it!

The demon cried out in a shriek. He was shaking all over, bending over in three bends. Misha felt sorry for him, really sorry.

-Is your agony worth it? Think hard.

-I WON'T FORGIVE MYSELF IF I GO! Finish it already... Destroy it...

Misha spread his wings, glinting with the blade of his sword. In his eyes, there was a strange sadness. The Saint hated to kill, and it didn’t matter who was to become his victim. A monotone and slightly coarsened voice said:

-Your choice. Don't keep your sins on your soul. Say goodbye.

The demon was killed. With a slight movement, Lucifer was chopped into two equal parts. Misha, on the other hand, was horrified. When he was almost in front of the devil, he thought he was chopping up not a demon, but that nasty white-haired boy. Lucifer had always fought with Misha, but now. It was as if Michael had cut part of his life off. Not a particularly significant part, but it was no less important. Lucifer had disintegrated into angelic powder. Or, simply disintegrated into little gilded sparks. Misha carefully hid them in a vase and carried it somewhere in the depths of the temple.

It was already lunchtime, and Gabriel was still waiting impatiently. He buzzed all the ears of poor Raf, who was sleepy and a little offended by Gabriel. Archangel had hardly shown up at the feast, and Raph had been so diligent in organizing it.

-Listen… They've been in there a long time.

-It must be a very long and hard process!

The Archangel cheerfully replied to his colleague Raph.

-Well, Gabrie, brother. A few minutes ago, I saw a window, how Misha was flying out there, to somewhere.

-Yeah?

Archangel rounded his eyes and asked.

-I think you should go over there and ask them. Maybe something went wrong?

Gabriel frowned slightly and agreed with Raphael. Gabriel flew to the temple and what was his surprise when the saint saw neither Michael nor Lucifer in the hall with the icons. Gabriel looked around incomprehensibly, looking for some answers, but then a voice was heard behind him. The door opened, and Michael came out with a basket full of apples and some buns.

-Greetings, Gabriel. What are you doing here?

Gabriel incomprehensibly looked at his brother and at the basket.

-Wait... Where have you been all this time?

Archangel asked worriedly.

-Me? -I was in the garden. And then I flew to the bakers on a tip from Raph. I had to finish what I'd cooked.

-Where's Lucifer?

Gabriel asked him straight up.

-Gabriel, didn't he tell you? Heavenly Father wouldn't let him stay in heaven. Eternal exile to Hell. Or... Death, as an Archangel. Let's face it, he chose death, and you know... I started to respect him a bit more... I was going to give you the Lucifer’s artifact, but for some reason, the star shattered. Apparently, this instrument is built a little differently than ours.

Gabriel was shocked. How could Michael make it so easy and tell him about it so easily? There it was, the difference between the different Archangel families. And yet, somehow, Michael’s face changed. He didn't really feel like talking about it.

-How could it be?

Mumbled Gabriel in a trembling voice.

-Gabriel, all I can tell you... Is that... I tried to convince both The Father and Lucifer. But it was in vain. I'm sorry.

-I don't believe... That you tried to convince The Father!

 Wiping his tears with his sleeve, the Archangel said. Michael, however, snorted unhappily and hurried away, adding only:

-Don't judge me. I always do my best. Accept it as a fact of God's will!

Michael left, slamming the door. He felt lousy. He could hear Gabriel's cries echoing off the walls of the temple. Michael doesn't want to be that strict. But he had no choice and from that, he was angry with himself.             

==========Epilogue==========

It's been quite some time since Lucifer died. The world was able to level out, and all was well, as it were. Strangely enough, not Gabriel, no one else who knew, never mentioned Lucifer. Everyone tried to think it was some kind of bad dream. Everyone was afraid to feel those nasty feelings again. Despair, guilt, fear. Better not to think about him, right? Better not to think... The three Archangels had already been given their own young. The chicks were growing fast, bringing their parents closer to an equally brutal ritual. Gabriel Junior begged his parent to fly in the realm of the living, for Archangel Gabriel is one of those Saints who is closely associated with people. The child's desire, for the first time, to go down to people and look at them was justified. Gabriel Senior allowed it, but not for long at all. Upon hearing the answer, the happy teenager flew away beyond the clouds of heaven. That's where the souls of people came from. A pleasant and cold wind blew in his face, making his wings flutter not yet fully firm. The grass on the hills was developing, forming silvery waves. But what was it? A feeling... Like someone was watching? But who? Gabriel junior had not yet reached the people.

-Who could it be? Maybe an animal?

The boy was thinking aloud, when suddenly he heard a quiet voice.

-Boy! A creature of paradise!

-Who's there?

Gabriel Jr. went down the hill, looking around. Someone began to approach and lo and behold! A head popped out of the grass. Pale skin, Black hood. A strange and slanted expression on its face. This visitor's mouth did not move as he spoke. But why? His voice, as if it sounded in his head. Next to this something, someone else appeared. Already scarier, but silent. He was somehow corrupted and out of proportion. But the cute little rose in the pocket of the suit, made the stranger not so creepy.

-We're friends of your daddy. The Archangel Gabriel.

The mister in the hood spoke. The two demons approached slowly from different directions, but the Archangel wasn't frightened. He looked at his new friends with amazement and said with a smile:

-Really? Wow, I didn't know Daddy had so many friends!

-What? -We can't hear you very well child. Come closer to us. We want to ask you something. Since you're his son.

-No problem!

The angel ran to the Alternates. His blue eyes shone with a white sparkle, and he himself couldn't wait for a question from his new friends.

TERMIN ONE.

Angel Powder (ashes) – is an alchemical element, of extraordinary strength. Easily ignited and explodes. Remains after the death of an angel or an Archangel. Cross a flower, gunpowder, and a spark of fire to make an (Arch)angel of a certain kind. It all depends on whose ashes it was.