Prophecy

Chapter 34: Explanations

*Xavia's POV*

As the warm light enveloping me began to fade, I squinted, trying to make sense of my new surroundings. It was unlike any place I had been before. It didn't feel like Heaven, Hell, or Earth—it was something different.

A place in between, perhaps... Limbo?

Closing my eyes, I focused on the energy around me. It felt neither wholly divine nor infernal but something entirely unique. A bright, silhouetted aura appeared before me when I opened my eyes. My breath caught in my throat as I realized I was standing before God Himself. Feeling awkward and unsure of how to react, I gave a small wave but immediately scolded myself and quickly bowed.

A gentle chuckle filled the air.

Oh, I was embarrassed.

"There's no need for that, Xavia," He said.

So I straightened up, mumbling a quick apology.

Since the brightness had dissipated entirely, I could see Him more clearly. He bore a striking resemblance to Grace, but... I wanted to confirm and to ask him myself.

"If I may," I ventured, "you're Grace's father, aren't you?"

"I created her, yes," He replied.

"With all due respect, you know exactly what I am asking," I retorted, a bit sassier than intended.

He laughed, a warm, familiar sound.

"It's like looking into a mirror. You are just like your mother in all senses. You have her features, hair color, and blunt sassiness. It's really nice to see so much of her in you." His words made my heart ache with a bittersweet joy. I had never really known what my mother looked like, and now, God Himself told me I resembled her.

"Yes," He continued, answering me plainly, "I am Grace's father."

"You two look alike, too," I added.

He looked me over with a critical yet kind eye before saying, "You can speak plainly. I know you have questions."

"Can you see into the future like Grace?" I asked.

He shook His head, "No, that gift is special to her. Your expression tells me you have many questions."

Feeling a bit foolish, I pressed on, "I wanted to know why you've summoned me here, and by 'here,' where are we?"

"We are in between worlds..." He explained, "It's not Limbo, but a plane that exists between a thin lining of Heaven and Earth. It's a place Grace could take you if she practiced hard enough. It allows you a moment of reprieve, and we don't have much time before you return to Earth, but it would be best if I transported you back before you fade away completely."

"So, no matter the wielder's power, this place only allows for a certain timeframe before it basically kicks us out?" I asked.

God nodded affirmatively.

"I understand, and I am sorry for taking up our limited time with such trivial concerns," I said, feeling the gravity of the situation and realizing how insignificant my questions seemed in the face of what truly mattered.

"It's okay, Xavia. Nothing was wasted." He said, sounding reassuring as He pressed, "I do need to speak to you regarding the changes you and Grace have undergone, though."

Wait...

"You know?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

He nodded, "Yes. I know your mate bond and the possible changes you may or may not go through depending on how strong that bond is."