BEYOND

Beyond: With Wings

I hear something… something. I don't know what it is… or where it's coming from… but I hear it… what is it?

A girl with medium ash brown shoulder level hair, sapphire eyes and fair skin was walking down a crowded street filled with people who were in a rush. She was wearing her school uniform heading to school when she heard whispers. She looked around searching for the voice but all she saw were a swarm of people trying to overtake those in front of them. Some were busy with their phones and the others in a panic.

Who was that?

Turning her head, her eyes begun wandering and going through every person's face but none seemed to be the right person. Her ears ring, hearing a voice crying and her head started to ache. People talking, the cars moving and every sound she heard became nothing but noise that she just wanted to stop. Her visions became blurry and she started to sweat.

Before she knew it, she passed out.

"Help…! Help me…! Somebody!"

"Who… who are you?"

The girl found herself wandering in a black ocean and heard nothing but a voice crying out to her. She was lying still floating in black water and darkness all around her.

"Please! Someone!"

"…where are you?"

"…mmy! Tam…! Tammy!"

When she finally came to, the first thing she saw was her mother's worried face. And when her mother saw she was finally awake, she gave her a warm hug then helped Tammy sit up.

"What happened?" Tammy asked.

"You tell me, you left for school early in the morning without telling me. When I got to work, somebody called me saying you were rushed to the emergency room and you weren't waking up. And after three days you finally did!" her mother said in relief and sat beside her.

"…three days?"

Tammy's mother kept talking to her but her mind was still swirling with questions and she tried to remember what happened before she passed out that day.

In the afternoon, Tammy was brought home by her mother but she had to leave for work already so Tammy was left alone.

Still not feeling like herself, Tammy went to sleep as soon as she got to her room.

Flashes of sparks and clashing sounds filled a dark room. Then everything went quiet and all that could be heard were sobs. A blurred image appeared with only a smile was visible.

"He…help…"

Tammy woke up from her dream feeling even more confuse than usual. She turned and faced the window then sighed.

"Who are you…?" she mumbled.

After taking one day bed rest, Tammy went to school. But being there and attending class didn't put her mind at rest for one bit. While in class, she kept thinking about how weird her life has been for the past days. Hearing voices, reoccurring weird dreams and fainting that caused her to sleep for three days.

Tammy didn't notice that it was already lunch break. She returned to reality when she felt someone tapped her shoulder. When she looked over, she saw her two friends standing beside her.

"Hey Tamashi, what happened to you? You've been gone the whole week!" a male classmate of her said as he sat on the chair beside her.

"Uh, I fainted and was unconscious for three days so my mom told me to take the day off yesterday"

"Hmm… well we're glad you're fine Tammy. You know, I still find it odd that you still call her Tamashi instead of her nickname, Ray" a female classmate of theirs said.

"Hey, you call her whatever you want, I still prefer her real name. So let me be, Gina" Ray reasoned out.

The two argued while Tamashi watched them like they always do. And by the end of the day, the three went home together. Gina and Ray continued to debate until Tamashi asked a weird question that got their attention.

"Hey, do you guys believe in ghosts?"

"What?! Where?!" Ray said frightened and jumped behind Gina.

"She was asking if we think they're true not that they're here dummy! Such a scaredy-cat. But if you're asking Tammy, I think they're true. Well, I believe in souls, that is. Why do you ask?"

"Cause I think one is trying to contact me"

"WHAT?!"

The two girls looked at their friend as he shakes. They laughed at him that annoyed Ray a bit. Ray sighed admitting defeat and just walked passed them, then the two girls immediately walked beside him. Putting him in the middle and smiled.

"So you really think someone is trying to contact you?" Gina asked Tamashi.

"I think it's trying to ask for my help. I just don't know what for. Got any ideas how to talk to him? It's been keeping me up at night and causing me some major headaches"

"Hmm… I'm not really sure…" Gina said mumbling.

"I think I know a place you can go to" the two girls looked at Ray with a suspicious look on their faces. "What? Just because I don't like ghost doesn't mean I know nothing. The fact that I want to avoid them makes me want to be aware where I might bumped into them"

"Are you sure you're not just trying to mess with us?" Gina said looking doubtful.

"I swear" Ray said raising his right hand symbolizing his sincerity. "You guys know about the cliff right? The one at the edge of the road we pass by when we were kids after school" Gina and Tamashi nodded as a response. "Well, some say that's the way to the underworld. That's why it's so deep that none can see the bottom. Only fogs. So maybe if you stand in the right place you might see your SOS sender"

"Hmm… it's worth a try. What do you think?" Gina asked Tamashi.

"It won't hurt to give it a whirl"

"Want us to come with you?" Gina offered while Ray was right behind her shaking his head strongly no that made Tamashi chuckle.

"No, it's fine. I can do it alone. It might not show if I bring company anyway" Tamashi answered smiling.

"Alright, if you say so. Give us a call when you have any news" Gina said as Ray mouthed the words thank you.

The three parted ways and Tamashi headed to the cliff. The sun was already setting when she got there. The cold wind was blowing and there was no one around. The place was a bit dark with a single lamp post to illuminate Tamashi.

She stood almost at the edge of the cliff and looked down and saw nothing but darkness. She looked around and saw no one. She closed her eyes to listen if she would be able to hear the cries of that person but nothing. She sighed in disappointment.

"I might just be going crazy…" she mumbled and started to walk away from the cliff when she heard that familiar sobbing voice.

"…help me…"

She immediately turned around and took a step back but that one step, made her fall off the cliff into the darkness.

"Please… help me…"

When Tamashi opened her eyes, she saw a sky that was bluer than she has ever seen before. She felt light headed and yet comfortable lying down on the grass feeling the wind blow.

"Where… where am I?" she mumbled.

"You're in the forest"

Tamashi's eyes widen and she quickly sat up after hearing a man's voice. She turned around and saw a beautiful man sitting behind her smiling so brightly. He had pale skin, grey eyes and extra light beige blonde hair. He was wearing a white sweater and black jeans as he was sitting there with his back resting on the trunk of a tree.

"Hello" he greeted while still smiling at her.

"H-Hi…" Tamashi greeted back feeling awkward.

"Are you feeling alright? You took quite a fall back there. I was walking around when I saw someone falling from the sky and was about to crash which rarely happens around here. Luckily I was in time to catch you. You're human aren't you?"

"Excuse me? Of course I am. What else could I be? A gorilla?"

"I'm sorry. It's just, humans don't usually wander to this place. Not the way angels run life"

"Again, excuse me? Did you just say angels?"

"Yeah. Angels. You know the one with magnificent white wings?"

"I know what an angel looks like. I meant, why would angels run a place? Angels don't live in earth plus angels don't exist"

"Of course they exist. They have been for millions of years like demons do"

"D-Demons? Are you crazy? There are no such things as angels and demons"

"Yes there are. Have you never met one before?"

"No, cause there are none"

"There's something different about you. I don't think you're from around here"

"I don't think so…"

Tamashi got up and found herself standing in a clearing at the edge of a mountain overlooking a city below where humans with big white wings on their back flew around. Her eyes grew wide in amazement. The man got up and stood beside her.

"What a view huh?" he said.

"It really is"

"I'm Luciel, by the way" Tamashi looked at him who was still smiling , so she smiled back.

"Tamashi" she introduced.

"Weird name"

"Tell that to yourself" the two laughed as they looked over the city.

Afterwards, Luciel decided to accompany Tamashi as they looked around the city. There Tamashi was even more impressed.

"So can I call you Tam instead?"

"My friends call me Tammy but sure. Tam is fine"

The city was lively, filled with tall buildings and the street had a lot of shops and stalls. The people, angels and demons alike were together in the city. There were no cars, only bikes and motors. Which doesn't make sense since demons and angels could fly. Besides for humans, there's really no need for vehicles.

Tamashi walked slowly to take a better look at the place. Walking in her pace, Luciel quietly watched her.

The market street was the most populated area. And the loudest.

Luciel saw a*****e and made Tamashi stop then wait for him outside. She wasn't sure why but she just patiently waited and observed the citizens in the area. She noticed there were different kinds of people with different emotions written in their faces. Though their race was different, everyone had the same look, sad and tired.

"I guess… some things never change…" she mumbled.

A few seconds later, Luciel returned and handed her a bag that confused her, giving him a questionable look.

"Just open it" he said smiling.

Tamashi opened the bag and saw clothes.

"You can't walk around in that uniform the whole time. People are starting to notice" he gestured with his head to people who were passing by, giving them glances. "Just change. There's a public restroom free to use at corner over there" Luciel pointed out and gave Tamashi a gentle push. "I'll wait right here for you"

"But…"

"No buts. I don't like attracting attention too much" he said with a serious face that made Tamashi comply.

She quickly walked towards the restroom and into a free cubicle where she undressed and put on the clothes. It was a simple black shorts and a short sleeve baby blue hoddie. And a pair of simple black converse shoes to match. She put her uniform in the paper bag and got out walking to where Luciel was standing with his back resting on the wall and his hands inside his pants pocket.

"Oh good, they fit you" he said when he immediately noticed her.

"Yeah. Thanks. About the payment though…"

"Don't worry about it. They're cheap plus I doubt you have actual cash with you" he teased.

Tamashi didn't have a rebuttal so she accepted defeat and just gave him a grateful smile.

The two continued strolling while Luciel talked about how the system worked there.

Like any country, the place was governed by a body of respected individuals. The citizens are mainly divided into four classes. The Angels, who are at the top, pure breeds and most respected race, the second class angels that were born after a human dies but lived an honorable life, the humans, and the ones considered as the lowest class, the Demons.

Though most demons and humans are despised and looked down upon, those who govern them still promote equality and let every kind live in the main city. A council compose of all kind, angels, humans and demons, are the ones who rule them.

Though equality is being promoted, cross breeds are still frowned upon. That's why they consider half-half as monsters. They are dirty and useless in the eyes of all.

"So where do you live, Luciel?"

"I live anywhere I want to, really..."

"You don't have a place called home?"

"Home? Well I guess… home is right here. In this place. I feel most at ease when I just sit here overlooking the whole city and all the wonders of the world"

"Is that the only reason you're here? Or something else?" Luciel glanced at her then returned his gaze at the scenery. "You never told me what race you are. You don't have wings so can I presume you're a human like me?"

"Actually-"

He suddenly stopped talking and got in front of Tamashi. Out of nowhere, a group of armed people came flying down from the sky to them. Tamashi's eyes grew wider and wider by the second as she stared at the angels in front of her.

"Luciel, you again. Haven't I told you before to stay out of our affairs?" one of the angels said sounding very proud.

"I'm not trying to get involved in your business. Really. I don't even know what you are talking about"

"The high council sensed an abnormality and we tracked it here. To you. So I'm guessing you're the reason for the whole fiasco that's going on in the city as well as all the other incidents these past few days. I suggest you come with us peacefully or we could just make you. So what's it going to be?"

"I told you, I have no connection to the incidents that's been happening around here and neither with the recent abnormality"

"You see, I don't believe you"

Tamashi felt the tension between the two that confused her even more. She still hasn't grasped the concept of angels being real.

"Tell me what you know or I'll make you tell me" the angel threatened Luciel that made him frown.

"As I have already said, I don't know anything. So please, just leave"

"Oh yeah? Then who's that girl you're trying to hide? Is she another one like you? A monster?"

"She's not a monster. And leave her out of this. She has nothing to do with all this. Please"

"You know what; I've grown tired your petty excuses"

The angel twisted his hand and a sword appeared out of thin air that surprised Tamashi. He then charged at Luciel and just before the blade could reach Luciel, another sword appeared. It was in Luciel's hand that enabled him to block the angel's attack.

The scene turned into a sword play where the angel was slowly over powering Luciel that made him clenched his teeth and the angel grinned. They clashed and Luciel jumped backwards to get some distance from his opponent.

Luciel mumbled a few words and placed his hand above the blade of his sword as if he was blessing it. Right after, his sword glowed, shining with silver light. The angel frowned and immediately charged at Luciel. But when their blades met once again, it's as if Luciel's sword was charged up and the angel started to have difficulties to match his strength. Luciel used this opportunity and kicked him on the stomach pushing him back. Luciel grabbed Tamashi's wrist and started to run while the group of angels chased them.

Luciel made his sword disappear and carried Tamashi bridal style then jumped way up to the branches of the trees. He jumped from one branch to another trying to get away from the angels. Tamashi unconsciously wrapped her arms around Luciel's neck, scared of how high they were.

The two were able to get away and hid deep in the forest. As soon as they landed, Luciel put Tamashi down. Luciel looked around, checking if they were followed and afterwards sighed in relief.

"Umm… what was that about?" Tamashi asked.

"It's a long story but I suspect they found me through you" Luciel answered after taking a deep breath.

"Me? How is that possible? I don't know any angels"

"I think they were able to sense you after you reached our universe. I think you coming here was the abnormality Michael was talking about"

"Reached your universe? Wait, explain what is going on first"

"Angels have abilities and one of them is to sense a disruption around us. When something unnatural happens, angels can sense it. You coming here is something unnatural since no one has ever visited a parallel universe"

"Parallel universe?"

"You're not from here right? This whole world is new to you because it's nothing like your home but similar in a way. Am I correct?"

"I mean yeah. A few faces were familiar. The city was familiar. Politics is practically the same. In a sense they're the same but a lot is still different"

"Well choices being done here are different from your place where angels and demons never played a factor. But the point is, you coming here shook the world, and the high council sensed it"

"Then what about the comment of that Michael fellow about you being a monster? Aren't monsters—"

"They are. And I am one of them. My father was an angel and my mother was a demon which makes me half angel and half demon. By definition of the society… a monster…"

"Then… where are your wings? Demons and angels both have wings don't they?"

"Being only half of them… I don't have wings. Only a bump on my back where my wings are supposed to be…"

Luciel turned around and took his sweater off. Tamashi saw two bumps on Luciel's back. It was like wings were trying to sprout but couldn't.

"It looks painful…"

"It does…" Luciel put his sweater back on and faced Tamashi. "But not the way you think… it's painful, here…" he pointed to his heart then looked away but not in time because Tamashi saw the pain in his eyes.

"So angels have the ability to sense disruption huh? Then you guys have magic?"

"Magic? You mean this?"

Luciel waved his hand and a sword appeared from a grey mist like pulling out an object from thin air. Afterwards, he swung it around with no problem. It created vibrating sounds that amazed Tamashi. She clapped that made him smile then he made it disappear.

"Can that magic bring me home?"

"I don't think so… not this magic that is"

"But there is someone with magic that can?"

"I'm not sure. But… how did you wind up here anyway?"

Tamashi told her story which Luciel found weird.

"Can you help me find someone with the power to send me back?"

"I… I'm sorry. I can't. You'll have to do that alone. Just act like you belong and you'll be fine"

"But why can't you?"

"I'm sorry. I'm practically a wanted man"

"A wanted man? Because your half angel, half demon? So what? What's the big deal? I'm sure you're not the only one. This isn't a fairy tale where you're the only one in your kind. This is real life. And life sucks and lots of people break rules so I don't believe you're the only one who is a half" Tamashi reasoned out.

"Please! I really can't"

Tamashi couldn't say another word after seeing the pain and anger in his eyes and in his voice.

In the city, there in the tallest building, groups of mixed race gather today around a table. The high council that governs the city.

"Has the issue been handled?" the representative of the second class angels asked.

"Yes, I believe the agents of the angels have pursued the suspect and will be able to give their report by tonight" the representative of the humans answered.

"Then I guess we have nothing else to discuss for today. You can now leave" the representative of the angels said.

The meeting adjourned and the rest left leaving behind the representative of the angels. A few minutes after he was alone, Michael entered the room.

"Sir, I've come back"

"Good. What did you find out?"

"The location you gave me led to Luciel"

"Luciel?"

"Yes sir. And he wasn't alone. He was with a girl. She looked human but had a weird energy around here. I've never seen her before either"

"That is indeed a bother"

"Sir, my concerns about Luciel have not changed. I still think we should do something about him"

"And like I said, as of right now, we can't. If the other members of the council know that we as much laid a finger on him, they would lose their trust in the angels"

"But sir, if they were to even find out about his heritage—"

"I know that. But right now, peace is what is important. Though he is half-half and we all consider their kind as monster, the council still believes in protecting all life. If we kill someone who has done no wrong other than living, then we will make everyone our enemy"

"I understand sir. However, if the council- no if anyone finds out that Luciel is the child of the highest ranking angel in history then things will change for the worst for us. Especially if Luciel himself finds out. We all know he has always wanted to be an angel but everyone refuses to help because he is indeed half a demon"

"I know that as well. But for now, let's just keep this between us"

"Yes sir. I shall take my leave"

"Alright. Thank you for all your hard work"

Michael left the councilor in distress as he ponders upon the matters before him.

The next day, Tamashi returned to the city alone. While she was at the streets, she noticed a crowd and heard cheers. Out of curiosity, she made her way to the front and saw a demon performing a street act. But not an ordinary street act. He was doing magic. Tamashi was amazed. A male demon was able to release black lights that sparkle and things appear and disappear. She stayed until the show ended. When it was over, she applauded.

When everyone was gone, Tamashi was left there in front of the demon who was confused as to why she was still there.

"Umm… do you need anything from me?" the demon asked.

"I was impressed with your show" Tamashi commended smiling.

"Thank you. But it's just an ordinary show. It's not like other demons like me can't do it"

"Really? So demons have powers too like angels?"

"You didn't know that?" the demon said confusingly and then Luciel's word echoed in her mind.

"Just act like you are from here and no one will suspect a thing"

"I-I did. It's just… I'm that type of person who only believes when I see it for myself. And demons don't usually use their powers so yeah…"

"You've got a point. And demons don't use their powers because it's not really allowed here"

"And why is that?"

"Simple really—"

"Stop right there!"

The two looked where they heard someone yelled. They saw angels chasing a demon flying off. To get the angels to stop chasing him, he released red flames from his palm and threw it at them.

"It isn't safe here, come with me"

Before Tamashi could say anything, the demon she was talking to dragged her away. She didn't fight him, but she looked back and saw the angels battling the demon who was desperately trying to get away but in the end he lost and was pinned down like a lowlife creature.

The demon took Tamashi to a little house at the end of the city. He let her sit on the chair in the dining room s***h kitchen.

"I'm sorry for making you run. Flying would be an inconvenience since we demons are prohibited to do so" the demon said as he prepared some drinks for them.

"It's not a problem. I've been doing a lot of running recently anyway. Do you live here by yourself?" Tamashi asked as she wander her eyes around the house.

"Yeah. Most demons really live away from the city to give the others peace of mind knowing we won't enter their homes and eat their children. Or something like that"

"That's awful. Why are demons being treated like that anyway?"

"Hard to say. Maybe because of history. You do know the history right?"

Tamashi looked away thinking of a good excuse and not to raise any suspicions. The demon sighed and placed two glass of water on the table in front of Tamashi.

"You are one ignorant girl. Fine, I'll refresh your memory"

The demon told the history of the three main races that live together on earth today.

Demons used to be brutal creatures hundreds of years ago. The humans were slaves and angels were considered as gods and saviors. Until one angel, the most beautiful and most admired, stood amongst the others telling them it's time to bring peace in the world. So they descended to earth and called for the head of the demons, their king, and offered terms of peace. But naturally, the demon king refused questioning the angels' real intentions. The peaceful angel made a deal, the angel would stay on land for thirty days and live as a mortal alongside the demon to prove that angels, demons and humans alike can live in harmony. If any angel were to show any sign of malice, then the demon was free to kill the angel. The demon, seeing an opportunity to kill the angel, agreed to the deal knowing that angels would never trust their kind and would eventually fight.

So for thirty days, the angel was always beside the demon king. She saw firsthand of how humans strive for survival and how demons were feared and hated by them. They were barbaric while humans were helpless.

"Why do you feel the need to be cruel to humans?" the angel asked the demon king under the cold night sky.

"I'm only cruel because humans and angels alike are as well. They both despise and fear us. So we only live to your expectations" he answered and the angel was saddened by his response.

One day, the demon king was hunting for food and was about to prey on a helpless child. But before he could attack the child, the angel stood between them and plea to spare the human. Seeing how she would not move away, he threatened to harm her but this did not change anything. The sincerity in her eyes touched the king's heart and so he lowered his hand then walked away. She smiled upon his act of mercy and kindness.

That was the turning point between angels and demons. As the days passed, the king grew kinder by the influence of the angel. She taught him how to act so that humans won't fear demons anymore. She taught him kind words and gestures, what to eat instead of human flesh. She taught him patience and generosity. And soon enough, he passed the teachings to his kind. The world started to light up.

On the final night of their agreement, the demon king asked for the angel's hand as he professed his love for her. She cried in happiness for she thought the love she felt was unrequited. However, despite the fact the other angels were in favor of the peace, they did not look kindly of a romance between angels and demons.

So, the angel clipped her wings to live on earth as a normal human and so did the demon king. The contract of peace between the three races pushed through but none heard back from the demon king and angel.

The two lived in peace in a forest away from the main kingdom. There they begun their new life and created a family. The angel bore twins who were boys. The children inherited the power of their parents. The first to be born took after his mother and was sprouted wings of an angel. The second took after his father and grew wings of a demon. No one knew how it came to be that both children were pure blood. And those two grew up to be the strongest of their clan.

So not to be despised by the higher rankings of demons and angels, the parents let their children live separate lives in the kingdom without letting the citizens know of their heritage. When they turned eighteen, they sent them out of their journey and told them never to tell a soul that they were brothers and they were their parents. Both understood where they were coming from.

And so, the children honed their abilities and eventually earned higher positions in their races. Both were admired and loved. But none knew of their true identity.

"Hang on… hang on, you mean to say no one knows who these two are but they knew there was someone like them?"

"Sort of. The part about the two having children was just a legend but many believe it to be true. No one knows for sure if the demon king and the angel really bore children or if they did have a pure demon and angel child. Because it's impossible. If they did have children, then they should be half demon and half angel. Because even if they did clip their wings, they still have the blood of a demon and angel. And both blood were royals"

"Did you say royals?"

"Yeah. Did I fail to mention that the angel was also a princess?"

"Yah did. Wow. So the kids must be really powerful"

"Legend says they are. And with each generation they grew even more powerful. That's why as time passed, the council put even more rules for demons. They had no issue about angels growing stronger, but for demons. It would be bad. Demons are born cannibals and have a stronger urge to dominate so if the story is true then somewhere out there, there is demon who can take over the world if he wanted to"

"But that's just racist. Demons aren't like that anymore, right?"

"Yes. But you see, unlike angels or humans, demons don't have a conscience or a soul. We only have strong instincts"

"You don't?"

"We don't. Do you get it now?"

"Yeah, I do. Wait, if there is such a being that strong, do you think it's possible for one of them to open a portal…. Say to another universe?"

"Another universe? There is no such thing"

"But what if there is, do you think it's possible?"

"Maybe… they are supposed to be the strongest of the strong"

Tamashi smiled so brightly seeing a hope for her to return to her world. But first she needed to find the descendant of the king and queen. That part there troubled her.

"Oh by the way, you never told me your name. I'm Tamashi"

"Kiel"

"Nice to meet you, so Kiel, why did we run?"

"Oh, those angels were the agents of angel that keep order around here. They were capturing a demon who broke the rules. Performing in the streets is also not allowed so I ran. I can't stop performing it's the only way I can make money to get by"

Tamashi bit back her tongue not knowing what to say to him. This sad reality just made her remember the hardships Luciel is also facing. She began to wonder how he is.

"You okay?" Kiel asked after seeing the worried look on Tamashi's face.

"Huh? Ah yeah. I just suddenly remembered a friend of mine"

"A friend? Is he a demon?"

"What makes you think it's a demon?"

"Because you don't seem to be scared of them. Or anybody for that matter. Humans tend to feel uncomfortable with us because of history you know. That's why I'm happy I got to meet you"

Tamashi was surprised to see him smile. For the first time, she actually took a good look at him. He had scarlet hair, bright yellow eyes and rosy red lips. As he smiled, she could see two sharp cannibal teeth showing. And his fingers were longer than a human. His black wings were smaller compared to other demons and grayer than black.

Kiel noticed her staring at his wings that made him look at it as well. He faced Tamashi again and asked what the matter was.

"Nothing. I just think your wings are pretty"

"Really? They're actually a bit weird compared to the others"

"I think they're beautiful" Tamashi smiled at him that made him smile back. "Hey Kiel, do you think half-half are monsters?"

"Why the sudden question?"

"I just want to know your opinion"

"Hmm… I don't think so. If there is an angel and demon that were able to love one another that much then I can't think of the child to be a monster"

In the forest, Luciel was lying under the same tree as he stared at the blue skies. Then suddenly he felt a surge of pain in his chest that made him turn around while he grabs his shirt. His breath shortens as he endures the pain. His eyes glowed bright yellow and the bump on his back grew bigger.

"N-No… not yet… please…"

In the room of the councilors, Michael met up with the representative of the angels once more.

"You called, sir?" Michael asked.

"He's progressing"

"What? Then we should act now! I don't care if he's supposed to be our mighty ruler! If he's turning to a pure demon, we should end him! Before he ruins this peace we fought so hard to maintain!"

"Hush Michael. Keep your voice down. We don't know for certain if he is indeed the descendant of the royal princess of angels and the demon king of our history. We only know that he is half of a demon and angel"

"But the dreamer of the angels already foresaw his birth. He saw that Luciel is indeed their descendant"

"He also said that he would either bring chaos or peace in our world. Either way, he is the way to our future. So we must wait"

Michael was not too happy with what he heard, so he stormed out of the room feeling annoyance and hatred towards Luciel.

"If you won't do something about this, then I will" Michael thought.

Luciel's pain finally calmed down and when it did, he mustered every strength he had to get up using the tree as his support.

"I… I need help…"

Luciel started limping away as he breathed heavily.

Tamashi stayed with Kiel for a while until she decided to leave and head back to Luciel. She was starting to get worried about him.

When she returned to the spot where Luciel always sat, she didn't find him. She looked around the area for a few minutes but he was still nowhere to be found. She felt even more worried than before. She didn't know where to find him. Until she heard footsteps. She turned around and saw Luciel walking towards her.

"Luciel?!"

"Hey Tam. I thought you've gone back to your world by now"

"Yeah, well I haven't found someone to help me. But I did find a lead"

The two sat under the tree and Tamashi told Luciel about her day.

"So you think, this descendant is real and will help you if he is?"

"I'm hoping. It's the only way I can go back. Why do you think they're not real?"

"I don't know. Actually no, I don't want to believe it"

"Why is that?"

"Because I don't think it's fair. How come those guys were able to live as pure bloods even though they are half breeds?"

Tamashi looked over to Luciel and saw the anger in his eyes. As if he was cursing himself for being born the way he is. Her heart ached for him. And she didn't know what to do. All she did was wrapped her arms around him and leaned on his shoulder hoping this would comfort him even just a bit. Which surprised Luciel but he let it be.

Luciel's decision didn't change. Tamashi continued to look for the descendant by herself so she asked Kiel to help her. For days, Tamashi searched in Luciel's world for a way to returned to hers. Every day, Tamashi would go out with Kiel looking for possible answers and when the sun sets, she returned to Luciel where she would talk to him about everything. But she was still unaware of the struggles he faced. He still won't tell her.

Until one night, Luciel was at the tree waiting for Tamashi to return. They were running a bit late after hearing a rumor of someone knowing the identity of the descendant. Tamashi and Kiel were talking to this inn keeper in the city about the possible identity of the descendant.

"I heard one of the demons who stayed here two nights ago that the agents of angels were busy keeping track of this monster who is supposedly an orphan since the day he was born. During the pregnancy of the mother, the representative of the angels himself was present. Rumors say that the councilor has always kept track of the descendants in fear of the demon brother to take over the world. And the one who was pregnant was the descendant of the demon brother. So when it was time to give birth, he made arrangements to make sure the baby was born under his watch. After the baby was born, the mother died and the father was an angel so he was sentence to exile but reports say he died from depression before he even left the city. That's why they say the baby is cursed coz unlike all other, the descendants, this was no pure blood, the baby was half"

"So who was the baby?" Tamashi asked.

"Who else? There is only one monster around this city"

Tamashi looked at Kiel with a worried look. And at that instant, she went running. Meanwhile, Luciel was at the tree waiting when his chest begun to ached again. He began screaming in pain. He felt something grew out of his back; he pulled the thing sticking out despite the pain it brought. When he looked what it was, holding with his bloody fingers was a black feather.

"No… not yet. Not until I figure this out. No!"

"Well well, if it isn't the monster"

Luciel turned and saw Michael standing behind him with his sword in his hand. Luciel was already sweating from the pain and barely had the strength to stand up.

"What do you want Michael?"

"I want eternal peace. And the only way to do that is to make sure no one from your kind ever rises again. I'm going to end your line!"

Michael charged at Luciel not waiting for him to make a single move and attempt to dodge. On the other side, Tamashi was running as fast as she could to return to the forest. She's been having this bad feeling in her stomach the whole time that she can't keep her mind silent for all the possibilities of what could be happening to Luciel.

Kiel saw the frustration in his friend's eyes. He didn't care anymore. He spread his wings and grabbed hold of Tamashi then kicked his feet from the ground. The next thing they knew, they were way up in the sky. Tamashi smiled at Kiel with gratitude and he smiled back. They located Luciel when they saw sparks and flames coming from the forest. Kiel rushed towards the direction.

In the room of the council, there was a great commotion.

"How can you keep this from us?!" the human representative yelled.

"He's right! If you knew all along who the descendant was, how can you not tell us?! We all knew that story was true and the descendant is a threat to our peace! If the elder never said anything, then we would never have found out! And if we did, it would have been too late!" the demon representative said in rage.

"You both have a point, but all your screams would do you no good! He's already on his way to becoming a demon" the angel defended himself.

"That is the point, if you have told us sooner then we could have done something" the human said.

"Like what? Huh? His stronger than any of us. Even if his power has not fully awaken, he's still far stronger than us"

"Then the only way for us to keep things in check is to kill him while he is still weak" the demon said.

"He's right. The agents of angels are already on the move as we speak. Michael is already in battle with him" the human said in confidence that made the angel feel very unsettled.

Luciel and Michael are in combat with Michael overpowering Luciel. Luciel was having a hard time keeping up. He was feeling his strength leave him with every attack he threw as he was turning into a demon. He was fighting both himself and Michael.

He jumped to a tree branch and made knives of flames appear then threw them at Michael which he was able to repel with his sword.

"Why are you so against me Michael?! I already told you that I will do anything I can to make sure I'll never be a demon. I'm going to be an angel! I want to be an angel!"

"What you want means nothing. What you will become is everything. And your fate has long been decided"

Michael flew to Luciel and grabbed him by his sweater, pushing him backwards full speed ahead and letting him crash his back to the branches. With his hand, he started to release electricity to shock Luciel but Luciel started to repel his attack making it useless for him.

As Tamashi and Kiel fly over, a swarm of angels passed by them. It was the agents of angels heading to where Luciel was.

"We have to stop them!" Tamashi said.

"Alright but you can't fight. You don't know how, plus you're only human" Tamashi pouted that made Kiel roll his eyes. "Then you'll have to fight for both of us"

"What? Hey no! I can't! I'm not in league with them. I'll fry in five minutes"

"Then you'll just have to defeat them before five minutes" Tamashi said sarcastically.

"You're hopeless"

Kiel sighed then threw red hot flames at the agents that caught their attention. They begun to chase them. Kiel dropped Tamashi to the closest place where Luciel is while he fought half of the agents that went after him.

Tamashi rushed to where Luciel is and there she saw him battling it all out with Michael. Fire, lightning, knives, and all sorts flew from left to right. Clashing sound of their blades echoed throughout the whole forest.

Michael was able to kicked Luciel down to ground that made Tamashi call out his name in panic. This got both of their attention.

"I see this girl is still around. You know, I've been wondering what your connection is and I haven't figured it out. Maybe I can make her talk after I'm done with you monster or maybe I can start with you little lady"

Michael flew to her in two seconds that frightened Tamashi once he was right in front of her.

"Get away from her Michael! She has nothing to do with this!"

Luciel yelled feeling that surging pain in his chest again along with his aching body and wounds. Tamashi was left frozen in fear. Michael pointed the side of his blade at Tamashi's cheek ready to slice her.

"Tell me human, who are you?"

Tamashi couldn't muster a word when Luciel suddenly ran with all his might and pulled Tamashi away from him. He threw a knife envelop with lighting that pierced throw Michael's shoulder and shocked him.

"Luciel! You're all beaten up!"

"Tam I need you to run as far away as you can, okay? I can't protect you while I fight him. I have no more strength left in my body”

"But—"

"No buts. Just do as I say"

"You're out of time, monster"

The two looked behind Luciel and saw Michael with burn scars heading towards them.

"Stay back Tam" Luciel warned and she did as she was told.

Luciel took a deep breathed and formed his fighting stance with his sword. Michael did the same. On cue, the two engage in combat once more. Luciel was jumping around the whole place while Michael was keeping up as he flies. Their swords collide time after time. Each throwing flames and lighting at each other. Both received injuries. They were fighting for their life with this battle as their final stand and Tamashi couldn't help but hope for the best.

Luciel threw two knives charged with lighting at Michael pinning him down to the ground. He forced himself up and was charging at Luciel with his sword ready to pierce through Luciel's heart. Luciel jumped off from a branch then twist himself to gain more force as he swung his sword.

It all happened in an instant. Both were kneeling on the ground. Seconds passed with both being steady and silent. Tamashi's heart stopped for a second but then Michael fell and lost consciousness that enable Tamashi to take a deep breathed.

She rushed to Luciel's side just in time to catch him.

"Are you alright?" Tamashi said feeling stupid for even asking.

"Been better. We need to get out of here. I can sense the other agents coming for me…"

"Yeah they are. Come on, I'll help you up. Let's find a place to hide while Kiel buys us some time"

Tamashi let Luciel use her body as support while they looked for a place to hide. They found a cave big enough for both of them. When they reached the entrance, because of the darkness, they slipped and found themselves inside a secret underground temple.

Luciel created a flame and lit up the lamps inside and was surprised to see an empty room with nothing but pictures painted on the walls. It was the history Kiel told Tamashi. They were both looking at the whole thing when Luciel began screaming in pain. Tamashi rushed beside him.

"Luciel! Luciel! What's happening?!"

"Th-The… demon inside me… it's fighting his way out. He's taking over my body…!"

"What? How can that be…?”

"Ever since I was a kid I felt two powers fighting inside me. AH! Each one fighting to gain control. ARGH! Both can't live inside me and it's even more painful because the power is strong. ARGH! DAMN! My heritage is from the demon king and the princess angel. That's why each day they grow stronger and the pain gets worse. I was told that if by the time I turn eighteen the power inside me keeps fighting, I'll die or the stronger side gains control over me. ARGGH!!! The demon is winning Tam! I can't let that happen! Help me please!”

"What?! How can I help you?”

"I need you to drive the demon inside me out. It's the only way. If only the angel remains then I'll be free and become a pure angel. I'll transmit my power to you and you'll be able to enter into my heart where you can make the demon go away”

Luciel took a deep breathed as he endures the pain he was feeling then sat up, facing Tamashi.

"I need you to do this for me. It's the only way. Please”

"Luciel, I don't know. I can't. I don't even know how”

"I'll walk you through it. I promise. Please. I don't have much time. Two beings are battling inside me and it's not looking great. If I don't do something now, I might turn into someone I don't want to be. Please…”

Luciel held Tamashi's hand and gently squeezed it. The two looked into each other's eyes. Luciel guided Tamashi's hand to his chest then closed his eyes. Suddenly Tamashi felt an energy passing through her from Luciel that freaked her out.

"W-What is that?”

"Just relax and close your eyes”

Tamashi, though hesitant, followed Luciel and as soon as her eyes closed, she saw a place she's never seen before. She looked around and found herself floating in an empty space until she heard someone weeping. She turned around and saw a little boy crouched down hugging his knees. A boy with beautiful white wings. She walked towards him but before she could call out to him, she heard another sob. When she looked behind her, she saw another boy standing there holding back his tears. But this boy was surrounded with a black aura and with black wings.

Tamashi took a closer look at them and realized their face was very similar and familiar.

"Hang on… aren't you… Luciel?”

The two boys looked up and faced Tamashi with a sad face.

"Why are there are two of you? No- wait. Why are you a kid?”

"Tam, those are the two souls fighting inside me…" Tamashi heard Luciel's voice and looked around the place looking for him.

"Luciel?! Is that you? Where are you?”

"Your soul is inside me right now”

"How? W-Why? What am I supposed to do?”

"I need you to make the demon me go away”

"How? H-How am I supposed to do that? And plus… the demon you…" Tamashi looked over to the boy with black wings standing behind her. "…the demon you looks… sad. Sadder than the angel you…”

"Please Tam. I need you to make him go away. Please… he's winning this battle. If you don't act now, I'll turn into a demon”

"But..." Tamashi stared at the demon Luciel with sorrowful eyes. "Fine…”

She walked over to the demon Luciel not sure what to do. The demon Luciel glared at Tamashi that frightened her a bit but still continued walking over to him.

"H-Hi… so um…”

"You are not supposed to be here. Leave”

"O…kay. But um… how about this? Why don't you come with me? I'll leave and you tag along. Maybe we can go somewhere and hang out or something?”

The demon Luciel didn't even react, he just continued staring at her.

"Okay, what am I suppose to do? And what's this vibe I'm getting from this kid? He's nothing like Luciel… but there's something familiar in his eyes" Tamashi thought.

Tamashi and the demon Luciel kept looking at each other. Tamashi broke their eye contact when she heard the angel Luciel sobs grew louder. She turned towards the angel Luciel and knelt down to his level.

"H-Hey… why are you crying?" Tamashi asked the angel Luciel.

"It's because he's weak" Tamashi turned her head to the demon Luciel after suddenly answering.

"Weak?”

"He's nothing but a weakling. Ready to be pushed around by people because he's different. He won't survive the outside world”

Tamashi faced the angel Luciel and watched him cry his heart out. She felt his pain with every tear that drop.

"He… hates me… he hates me…" Tamashi was surprised when the angel suddenly spoke.

"Who hates you?”

"Lu… Luciel… Luciel hates me… I love him… but he hates me”

"I hate cowards" the demon Luciel interrupted.

"I see. Y-You know, L-Luciel… you and him are one of the same, right?”

"I'm not him. I'm not a coward”

"Tam… I have no more time. Please… hurry!”

"Luciel, I know you're no coward. But you're also not a man of hate. How can you hate yourself? You're a gentle man. And the demon side of you doesn't change that. You exile your demon half because you're afraid of being cast aside. But your angel side is in pain because you yourself treat yourself as an outsider. You have to learn to accept both sides of who you are. Because demon or angel, you are you. Both of them are your identity. You are one. Don't be afraid to embrace that”

Tamashi held both hands of the two Luciels and pulled them closer together.

"Look at each other; it's like looking at a mirror" Tamashi said smiling. "Don't be afraid. Don't hate who you are. Cause you have no reason to. If you ask me, you are perfect. Perfectly you. And it's not a bad thing”

The angel Luciel smiled at the demon him and held out his hand. The demon Luciel looked at him feeling hesitant to take his hand. He slowly reached out and as soon as they touched, a light surrounded them both. Tamashi pulled away and the light grew brighter and brighter. Pulling her out of Luciel's heart.

Once Tamashi was out, she was surprised to see Luciel himself glowing. He ascended to the sky, surrounded by a light that was a mixture of white, black, yellow and silver. And after that, he slowly float down to the ground. The light begun to disappear and Tamashi was surprised to see Luciel's eyes glowing like gold and after a few seconds returned to normal.

"L-Luciel… what happened?”

"I'm not sure. But I feel lighter…”

All the sudden, wings sprouted from Luciel's back but it wasn't like any other. It was one of each. His left wing was ash black and his right was white as snow, both equally beautiful.

"Luciel! You have wings!”

"What?”

He looked behind him, left then right, and his eyes grew wide not believing what he was seeing. He had wings. After eighteen years, he grew wings.

"How is this possible?!"

"I guess you've finally embraced both sides of you" Tamashi said smiling.

The agents of angels came flying in along with the council and all were in awed to see Luciel with wings of both an angel and a demon. Luciel pulled Tamashi behind him to use himself as a shield. He waved his hand and two swords appeared in his hands. Swinging it around then formed a stance ready to fight.

The agents of angels were ready to attack when an elder angel and a demon appeared before them from behind the walls.

"Not another step young angels, humans and demons" the elder angel said.

"You have caused much trouble already" added the elder demon.

Each one gave a look to another confused as to whom they were. Both elders stood against both parties.

"We have grown tired of your fighting all these years" the elder demon said.

"And all your hatred and sorrow. No more”

"This is not what our parents would've wanted and we will not let this escalate anymore”

"Did you say parents?" Luciel asked.

"Oh yes, young chosen one. We summoned this human girl to get things fix for us after we sensed your distress" answered the demon.

"We are the first halves. The children of the demon king and the princess angel who gave up their wings to live normal lives. And the ones who gave us this peace”

"We foresaw, no actually, our mother foresaw this day where our descendant would face trial for being indifferent. And he would have to battle himself for the future”

"So mother and father told us to go out to the world and be one with it. In hopes that our actions would prevent such pain and hatred to the future. But we knew it wouldn't be enough”

"Brother and I decided to strengthen ourselves and make sure that when this day came we would be there. And here we are, telling you clueless creatures that a new era is beginning”

"And young Luciel is the key. He's no different than the rest. He may have different wings and his power surpasses all, but his existence is the proof that all races can live in harmony if only we can accept one another without fear”

Everyone looked at each other and felt ashamed for being lectured by the brothers themselves.

After that, they left the cave and resurfaced to the outside world. Luciel was ready to fly Tamashi away when she looked at the brother then walked towards them.

"You said you brought me here, I don't suppose you can send me back can ya?" she asked and that made the brothers looked at each other.

"I apologize but we have weakened ourselves enough" the angel answered.

"We no longer have the strength to send you back. But you do have a friend that can. He has enough strength to send you anywhere you wish to go" the demon said.

The three looked over to Luciel who looked clueless. Tamashi smiled and thanked the brother. She ran towards Luciel and the two flew away.

They met up with Kiel who was already getting sick of worrying. He greeted Tamashi with a warm hug, feeling relieved they were both alright.

The following day, the two boys were getting ready to say goodbye to Tamashi who was returning home.

"Are you really leaving?" Luciel said trying to sound less whinny as he possibly can.

"Yup. I-I have to. I don't belong here. I don't want to cause any more trouble than I have”

"You are trouble but not as much as I am. You know that, right?”

"Yeah. Yeah" Tamashi said giggling. "But I still need to go. Thank you for everything, Luciel”

"No. I'm the one who should be thanking you. Thank you for helping me”

"You know, there's something I've never told you”

"What is it?”

"I never told you what I was doing at that cliff where I slipped and wind up here”

"Yeah, you never did. I've always assumed you were just having a bad day or you believe in ghost"

"Yeah… Well it wasn't anything like that. You see, before I got here I was hearing voices. Cries. Pleas of distress. I thought it was a ghost. But now I know… All those dreams, visions… I finally knew what they were. They were you. It was you who I was seeing and hearing. Your cries. I heard them. I understood after I entered your heart”

"Wow. Was my pain that great that it went through another universe?" Luciel joked.

"I guess it was. And I'm grateful I was the one who heard your voice because I was able to discover this new world. So thank you for calling out to me”

"Well, thank you for answering my call. And saving my life”

"It was my pleasure”

The two smiled and embraced one another for a few seconds. Luciel waved his hand and from thin air, a portal opened. Tamashi looked at Kiel and gave him a hug goodbye then she took one last look at the place and at Luciel. She took a deep breathed then turned away from them.

Tamashi walked into the portal. The last thing she saw was a hall with different colors until she passed out. When she came to, she was at the edge of the cliff. She woke up to sound of her friends' voices.

"Tammy!”

"G-Gina?”

Gina and Ray have been looking all over for Tamashi after not coming home that night. Apparently, time moved differently from Luciel's world. In her universe, it's only been 12 hours. After that, Tamashi returned home and never said anything about the other world. She kept quiet and never heard any voices again.

She went on and lived her life as normal as she possibly could.

Until one night, when she closed her eyes. She felt something pulling her. Like gravity.

When her eyes opened, she found herself standing in the middle of a dark room. Then one by one, lights around her turned on, shining upon multiple doors circled with her in the center of it all.

"What… is this?”

She looked at every door her eyes could reach.

"Could it be… there's more than one parallel world? Multiple universes?”