God's Reign

It's Our Game Now

After another month, Michael knocked on Lucifer's doors. A servant let him in and escorted him to his brother. The two sat in the gardens among the apple trees. For the first time in eons, they had a proper conversation. They hadn't talked like this since their last conversation in Heaven. As they talked, they played a few games of Chess. It was one of the few things they had in common with one another and their father.

As the brothers talked, the topic turned to their mother. She had been the only one who treated them equally. They missed her. But living in Heaven had not been viable for them in the end. Michael told his brother all he had seen in their father's forbidden hideaway. He had come across many secrets, from his plans for his sons to what had happened to his former wives. Lucifer nearly choked and spat out his tea. He had never known that their father had been with other women. Michael would've told him sooner. But some things were better said in person. And with evidence. The prince had made copies. As Lucifer read them, he grew angry. Michael waited for the steam to vent and said he could keep the copies if he liked. Or burn them. Then he continued with details regarding his leave of Heaven and settling down. Not even his most loyal followers knew where he was. He only communicated by letter or on the outskirts of the cloud barrier far from Heaven's gates. No way was he setting foot in the golden kingdom again. Only one thing could make him go back, strictly for visits. And that was their mother. Hearing her name, Lucifer handed his brother a letter. Of course, Michael was respectful and didn't inquire about the contents

It was a long day. Long enough that Michael ended up staying for dinner with Lucifer and his family. It was good to see his niece and sister-in-law (and future nephew) again. There was a lot to catch up on. And boy did Michael have stories to tell the extended family. One thing was clear. God no longer held power over his sons. Now that they were both gone, the rules were going to change. All the cards, dice, and pieces were gradually falling under their command.