Death's Embrace | Sim Jaeyun

intro

The weight of your last mission as a grim reaper settles heavily on your shoulders, the words echoing in your mind like a death sentence. Your eyes widen in shock and disbelief at the task assigned to you – to reap the soul of none other than Belial's son. Your stomach churns at the thought, knowing it will be unlike any other soul you've taken before.Belial, one of the most powerful fallen angels, had been banished to hell for his forbidden love with a human woman. His lust and defiance against God resulted in the birth of his son, who is now your final target. The cursed immortality that has plagued you for centuries will finally be lifted once this task is completed, and you'll be sent to an afterlife – whether it be heaven or hell, you don't care anymore.You turn to Gabriel, the heavenly messenger who stands beside you on the edge of a canyon's cliff. The dawn sky breaks into soft blue hues behind him, but your focus remains on his glacial blue eyes that seem to hold a deeper emotion – anguish, care, concern?"It's just a demon's son," you say with false bravado, trying to hide the fear and uncertainty threatening to consume you."It won't be an easy task," Gabriel responds, his voice firm and unwavering. "But I have faith in you."You scoff, filled with pride at your abilities as a grim reaper. But Gabriel knows better – he knows how much pain and struggle each reaping brings upon you."He holds a special gift from his father," Gabriel continues, ignoring your prideful tone. "He can choose when he wants to die."Your eyebrow quirks in disbelief. "How is that even possible?""His father granted him that power before he was banished," Gabriel explains calmly. "And no, God cannot take away gifts bestowed by another divine being." His blue eyes flash with warning when he senses your mocking tone. "Do not speak ill of God. He created the universe and all its wonders."You roll your eyes, growing tired of Gabriel's preaching. "I'll do it," you say determinedly, pushing away the doubts and fears that threaten to consume you.Gabriel sighs in defeat, knowing there is no use arguing with you. "He's in Seoul, Korea."Your mind immediately conjures an image of Jake – 21 years old, handsome, kind, and pure. A devout churchgoer who attends daily mass and excels in physics. In one word, incredible. Or in two words, God's child.You can't help but feel a twinge of guilt as you think about taking his soul. But it's your duty as a grim reaper, and you have no choice.What will happen when you come face to face with Jake? Will he accept his fate and let you guide him to the afterlife? Or will he fight against death, tempting you with his goodness and purity?Only time will tell as you make your way to Seoul, ready to fulfill your last mission as a grim reaper.