ATONEMENT: A story in the Divine Chronicles.

Chapter 5

In the field behind Jason's house, the council of archangels continued their intense discussion. The moon cast an eerie glow over the surroundings, adding to the sense of urgency and foreboding.

Jason stood at the center, his eyes filled with determination and frustration. He knew that time was running out, and they needed to take action before more lives were lost. The weight of responsibility rested heavily on his shoulders as he awaited the council's decision.

Raphael, still skeptical, voiced his concerns. "We can't simply accuse Ravanin or his followers without concrete evidence. We need something more substantial to point us in the right direction."

Jason nodded, understanding the need for solid proof. "I agree, but we can't ignore the signs. The symbols, the connections we've seen. There's a pattern here, and it leads back to Ravanin."

Gabriel, deep in thought, spoke up. "Perhaps we should consult the ancient texts, the prophecies. They might hold the key to unraveling this mystery."

Sachiel, the voice of wisdom, nodded in agreement. "Yes, the prophecies have guided us before. They might shed light on the situation and help us find a way forward."

As the council members deliberated, their voices filled with determination and hope, a gust of wind rustled the nearby trees. It felt as if the very elements were urging them to uncover the truth and bring justice to the town.

Tensions escalated as Raphael's words cut through the air, his disdain for Jason evident. Jason's fists clenched in anger, mirroring Raphael's own clenched fists. Before the situation could escalate further, Michael, a voice of reason, stepped in between them, attempting to diffuse the conflict.

"It would be best if you and Astaroth handle the situation," Michael commanded, his tone firm. "As for this matter, you know the law."

Jason reluctantly stepped back, his anger simmering beneath the surface. Raphael sneered arrogantly, seemingly unfazed by the intervention.

Samael, a council member known for his insight, spoke up. "Did Sitri see anything?" he inquired, referring to a member of their group with clairvoyant abilities.

Jason shook his head, frustration evident in his voice. "No, Sitri can't see anything past Jessica. But she believes it's only a matter of time before Jessica discovers the truth, and then I'll be left to deal with the consequences."

Anael, known for her directness, chimed in. "I thought that's what you wanted?" she questioned, her tone laced with curiosity.

Jason's heart sank as Anael's words echoed in his mind. He knew deep down that he had inadvertently involved Jessica in the dangerous web of secrets and darkness that surrounded their town. The weight of guilt settled heavily on his shoulders, and he longed to protect her from the impending dangers.

"It is true," Jason admitted, his voice filled with a mix of regret and determination. "Lying to her isn't helping anyone. I've been trying to deflect her away from the truth, but I know that she deserves to know what's really going on. I want her to be aware, but I also want to shield her from the dangers that lie ahead."

Sachiel's voice cut through the air, his words carrying a sense of truth and responsibility. "But she is already a part of this, Jason. You made her a part of it when you brought her into this world of secrets and darkness."

Before Jason could respond, a sudden flash of blinding light enveloped the council members. They vanished, leaving Jason standing alone in the field, his mind racing with thoughts and emotions.

As Jason paced downstairs, Amanda's voice dripped with venom as she expressed her disdain. "They want us to work with him?" she spat, her frustration evident.