God's Reign

The Divine and The Fallen

Decades had passed since Lucifer had been expelled from Heaven. His brother Michael had always been worried about him. Despite not getting along well, they were brothers above all else. He had asked for permission to visit him many times. But God had never allowed it. He didn't want Lucifer's rebellious attitude rubbing off on Michael. It had always been like this. But that was years ago. Both of his sons were now adults capable of making their own decisions. So when Michael asked to see his only sibling again, God finally agreed and opened the way down into the depths of Hell.

Michael left immediately and searched for his brother. He first saw a towering castle overlooking a city with a large clock tower looming over it. It was clear that it was all Lucifer's doing. He flew to the castle and knocked, making his presence known. Inside, Lucifer was on his throne. He didn't need to see to know who it was. The angels of Heaven reeked of purity. It made him sick. But Michael had made an effort to visit him. Lucifer knew their father wouldn't just let him do this. So, he decided to humor his twin and opened the castle doors. Michael walked into an ornate foyer. There were many statues and even paintings lining the main hall. As he wandered, a small creature ran up to him. It tugged on his sleeve as if it wanted him to follow it. Curious, Michael followed. The creature led him to a grand throne room. And there sat Lucifer. The creature bowed to its king and scurried off. Michael greeted his brother excitedly. But he was the only one thrilled by the reunion. Lucifer raised an eyebrow and stood up. As he descended the stairs. It had been so long. But neither brother had forgotten the other's voice. The two talked (mostly Michael) as they stood face to face. It was such a strange yet familiar feeling.

Naturally, God was watching his sons. The quaint little reunion was amusing. Their father wondered how things would progress. There was no question that Lucifer would remain in charge of Hell. But maybe, just maybe, things could turn around. The surprise he had in store would be worth the wait. In truth, he already had it. But there were some "repairs" in order. As he listened in on Lucifer and Michael, a thought crossed his mind. He grinned and disappeared, leaving his boys to their own devices. Another project was on the horizon.

Lucifer and Michael talked for hours, to both of their surprises. They even sat down for a meal and drinks and exchanged stories from childhood. Despite growing up together, their memories were like oil and water. There was very little common ground. One of Michael's few regrets was not realizing how much their father had isolated Lucifer. And all because he wasn't an ideal son. But by the time the truth had come to light, it was too late. Lucifer had already determined that there was no place for him in the family. And Michael couldn't do anything. The brothers discussed their upbringing. Now older, Michael understood how unjust God had been. He had only done what was convenient for him. Everyone was a Pawn, even his own sons.

In a rare moment of softness, Lucifer asked how their mother had been since his fall. Michael became silent upon hearing this. After a minute, he handed his long-lost twin a large envelope. Lucifer recognized their mother's handwriting on the back. Inside were letters addressed to him. Out of respect, Michael excused himself so his brother could read them in peace. Most of them were written around the beginning of every month. As they continued, the dates grew further apart. The last one was on the same day God had visited that one time. Lucifer gazed at the words. Angelique had never played favorites like God. But it had been difficult for her to properly care for him with him watching over everything. He quietly put the letters back as Michael returned. Knowing it was best to leave his brother alone, he bid him farewell.