Chapter 6.1: Companion and Investigation

With Azazel's orders in hand, the fallen angel returned to the guard station, where a sense of tension hung in the air. He announced the decision, though met with anxiety, was swiftly obeyed. The leader of the guard group approached Archangel Michael, and Michael, ever humble, turned to face him.

"Lord Azazel grants you permission to enter our territory," the leader conveyed, a signal of reluctant acquiescence to the archangel's presence.

Michael, his demeanor radiating humility and gratitude, performed a gracious shoulder bow in response to the leader's words. "You have my kindest gratitude," he expressed sincerely, appreciating the escort and the opportunity to step onto the island.

The leader, ever humble in the presence of such a distinguished guest, attempted to downplay the formality. "You don't have to be so polite, Archangel," he replied modestly, his eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and respect.

With a group of fallen angels accompanying him, Michael embarked on a journey through the captivating landscape of the island. His discerning eyes absorbed the natural beauty surrounding him, from picturesque spots to imposing mountains and rocky terrain. In the distance, a volcano loomed, its presence marked by billowing plumes of smoke and a sense of untamed power.

As they ventured further into the rocky area, many fallen angels observed Michael's arrival, their gazes ranging from curious to cold. Among them were humans, predominantly women, who watched the unfolding encounter with a mixture of awe and trepidation.

Finally, the group arrived at the imposing throne of Azazel, where the two great celestial beings faced each other. In the midst of this pivotal meeting, Azazel, the Former Principal, initiated the exchange with a gesture of respect.

"Greetings, like of God," Azazel began, his voice a blend of acknowledgment and intrigue.

Michael, equally respectful in his demeanor, responded with equal formality. "Greetings, Former Principal Azazel," he replied, acknowledging the fallen angel's esteemed status.

Azazel's initial scoff hinted at his surprise and intrigue, standing up from his throne as he spoke. "I never thought you'd come here alone and unarmed," he admitted, his tone laced with a hint of curiosity.

But it was Azazel's subsequent question that hung in the air, a puzzle that demanded an answer. "What genuinely wonders me is... how you found out about this place?" he inquired, the mystery of Michael's arrival deepening with each passing moment.

Michael's response carried a calm and measured tone as he provided an explanation for his presence on the island. "After the war in Bethlehem," he began, recounting the recent events, "one of the heavenly hosts observed some of your companions on a small island with a house, located in close proximity to Bethlehem. It was the same island where Jophiel had been taken for her safety. When your companions departed, the heavenly hosts, initially suspecting them to be devils, pursued them. Their pursuit led them to discover this island, where you and your followers have established your sanctuary. It was then that they relayed this information to me."

Azazel, the Former Principal, appeared to mull over this revelation, his expression betraying a hint of skepticism. "I see," he acknowledged, though not without a note of suspicion. "It is indeed a coincidence that the heavenly hosts happened upon this place while investigating the explosions."

As the conversation continued, Azazel brought up a crucial point, alluding to Lucifer's ascendance to dominion over the mortal world. "If I recall correctly," he ventured, "Lucifer's rise to power in this realm led to clashes and shockwaves on Earth. Please, enlighten me if my understanding is mistaken."

In response, Michael offered a straightforward confirmation. "You are absolutely correct," he affirmed, acknowledging the tumultuous events that had unfolded as a result of Lucifer's ambitions.

Azazel's fingers grazed his chin thoughtfully as he walked, a pensive expression gracing his features. "But it seems the world is still the same," he mused aloud, his words tinged with a sense of contemplation and intrigue. Suddenly, he pivoted, fixing his gaze upon Michael as a question formed in his mind.

"Did Lucifer fail to conquer the Almighty's great creation?" Azazel inquired, his curiosity palpable. Michael's response was measured, conveying the complexity of the situation. "If you phrase it like that, it is," he admitted, choosing his words carefully. "But the story takes an unexpected turn after his initial bid for domination."

Azazel's reaction was a mixture of incredulity and amusement. He couldn't help but express his astonishment at the notion. "That's very... very... very unusual for the prideful one," he remarked, his laughter ringing out like a curious melody. "I can't imagine Lucifer Morningstar, the greatest celestial, failing to attain what he truly desired after his rebellion."

Azazel's contemplative demeanor remained, his thoughts drifting like the wisps of smoke that sometimes graced the island. "But that's none of my business," he mused aloud, acknowledging the enigmatic turns of fate that had unfolded, even for a celestial of his stature. His attention returned to the pressing question at hand, and he leaned in closer to Michael.

"What really engrosses me right now is that—what brought you here?" Azazel inquired, his eyes locked onto the archangel's with unwavering intensity.

In response, Michael's voice carried a hint of hope and determination. "The heavens are open again for you all," he declared, his words ringing with a profound sense of purpose.

The fallen angels surrounding them fell silent, their expressions shifting between astonishment and disbelief at Michael's revelation. Azazel, never one to shy away from the heart of the matter, stepped closer to Michael, his gaze unwavering as he posed a question that weighed heavily on his heart.

"Do you really think He'll forgive me, us?" Azazel asked, his voice tinged with a blend of uncertainty and longing. His memories of the past, of his own fall and the rebellion of his brethren, were etched in the annals of celestial history.

Michael's response conveyed a deep understanding of their shared past and the consequences of their actions. "He almost threw us out in Hell due to the fact that my children, the Nephilim, were fearsome creatures and took to terrorizing the other creatures of the Earth, foremost amongst them humanity," Michael acknowledged, his tone reflecting the gravity of the situation. "I'm all aware this behavior was unacceptable to Him. So He decided to send forth the Great Flood to rid the world of the abominations before they could do more harm to humanity."

Azazel's words held a mixture of gratitude and resignation as he reflected on the celestial fate that had befallen him and his brethren. "But thanks to you, to please Him, for only casting us out in heaven," he acknowledged, "we may be able to live here on Earth peacefully." His acknowledgment of the role Michael played in their ability to find solace on Earth was marked by a sense of appreciation.

Michael's expression, however, shifted to one of deep concern as Azazel's words struck a chord within him. "As the 3rd Triad of Heaven, to interact and serve humanity closely is our very duty; nothing more on that, Azazel," he stated firmly, emphasizing the celestial imperative to fulfill their divine responsibilities. His tone rose with a touch of frustration. "I'm afraid you know that, because you were the former leader of Principalities."

Azazel sighed, his gaze cast downward as he grappled with the weight of his choices and the consequences they had wrought. "But why... why disobeying Him?!" Michael's impassioned question hung in the air, echoing the fundamental conflict that had led to their fall from grace. "Is that really hard to follow Him?"

In response, Azazel offered a more introspective perspective, one that had clearly evolved over time. "You know, Michael," he began, his voice tinged with a sense of revelation, "I just realized when I first met the human woman whom I adored that we celestial creatures are the same as humans. We feel love, pain, sorrow, and harmony. Just like them." His gaze turned toward his wife, a symbol of his love for humanity. "Nevertheless, they were more talented than us. That's what really intrigues me about them."

Michael listened attentively, recognizing the depth of Azazel's connection to humanity and his newfound perspective on their shared existence. "I'm not on your side, nor on the side of the demons, "Azazel continued, his words carrying a profound sense of purpose," did I honestly never care about this family fight between you guys. I'm on their side; I fell out of heaven for them, and I'm here for them."

Michael, the archangel, stood in silence, his eyes locked onto Azazel's with unwavering determination, his wings shimmering with divine light. The fallen angels gathered around them, their faces a mosaic of eager anticipation, their murmurs of excitement filling the rocky expanse.

"But if you really want us to go back where we came from..." Azazel continued, his voice carrying the weight of his intentions and the hopes of his fellow fallen angels. His eyes blazed with a fiery resolve as he issued a proposition that would mark a pivotal moment in their existence.

"I dare you to have a duel with me," Azazel declared, his words resonating like a clarion call. The air crackled with tension as the fallen angels watched, their breaths held, their hearts pounding in their chests. For them, this was more than just a challenge; it was a symbol of their defiance, their determination to forge their own destiny.

The crowd erupted into a wild frenzy as Azazel's announcement echoed through the rocky landscape. Cheers and shouts filled the air as the fallen angels looked forward to witnessing the clash of two celestial titans, the culmination of their long journey of exile and redemption.

"I humbly accept it," Michael finally responded, his voice unwavering in the face of the challenge. He knew that this duel was not just a test of strength but a test of their shared fate and the possibility of reconciliation.

Azazel's smile revealed a glimmer of respect, and he nodded in acknowledgment. "Very well then," he said, sealing their agreement with a sense of solemn purpose.

As the car carrying Jophiel, Uriel, and Camael approached the border between Bethlehem and Milirem, a sense of anticipation hung in the air. The transition from one celestial realm to another held an air of mystery, and the archangels couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement.

Once they crossed the border into Milirem, the landscape unfolded before them in all its glory, leaving Jophiel nearly speechless. The breathtaking mountains of Milirem rose majestically in the distance, their peaks touched by the gentle caress of the heavens. The archangels marveled at the natural beauty that surrounded them, a stark contrast to the celestial realms they were accustomed to.

"I bet it's your first time here, archangels?" Lyam, their guide and driver, inquired, his tone laced with curiosity.

Uriel replied with a nod, her eyes still fixed on the magnificent panorama unfolding before them. "We do, actually."

Lyam couldn't help but notice Jophiel's enraptured gaze, and he joined in on the appreciation of the landscape. "Beautiful, isn't it, Mademoiselle?" he remarked.

Jophiel's eyes sparkled with wonder as she nodded in agreement. "Truly, it is!"

Lyam, eager to share his knowledge of the land, pointed towards the most prominent peak in the distance. "That's called Mount Pulag. Mount Pulag is Milirem's highest peak at two thousand nine hundred twenty-eight meters above sea level, the third-highest mountain in Milirem," he explained, his words resonating with a sense of pride for the country. 

Jophiel couldn't contain her astonishment as she gazed out at the landscape. The sight of Mount Pulag, with its towering presence, had already left her in awe, but now, Lyam's revelation added another layer of wonder to their journey.

"So there are more mountains here?" Jophiel exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine surprise and excitement.

Lyam, their knowledgeable guide, nodded with a proud smile. "Yes, mademoiselle! In fact, there are many mountains here in Nazareth," he confirmed, his confidence evident in his tone. 

Uriel and Camael couldn't help but share a soft, nostalgic laugh. Their fellow archangel Jophiel had momentarily let her inner-child subconscious emerge, a delightful occurrence that hadn't been witnessed in a long time.

"Jophiel's inner-child subconscious had rebuked again," Uriel remarked with a fond smile.

Camael nodded in agreement, her gaze focused on the stunning surroundings. "I haven't seen it in a long time, not since she first entered the Celestial Kingdom."

Uriel's smile grew more pronounced as she recalled those earlier times. "What was she saying during that time?"

Camael, ever the storyteller, couldn't resist impersonating Jophiel's youthful exuberance. "Yeeeeeeeey! So this is Father's place. So fabulous and magnificent at the same time, and also the 1st triad of heaven with the most powerful angels!"

Both archangels burst into laughter, reminiscing about Jophiel's enthusiastic outbursts from the past. The image of Jophiel falling head over heels in love at first sight with Seraphim Metatron resurfaced in their memories.

"Like that!" Camael continued, her tone mimicking Jophiel's earlier excitement.

Uriel nodded in agreement. "Yes! And she always cheered for him in the Hierarchy Tournament. My ears went deaf because of her loud shouts."

Their laughter filled the car, a warm and joyful reminder of the bond they shared and the moments of pure delight that had punctuated their celestial existence.

Jophiel's sudden bump interrupted Uriel and Camael's shared laughter, and she fixed them both with a suspicious stare.

"Are you backstabbing me?" she asked, feigning a playful accusation.

Camael couldn't resist poking Jophiel's cheeks affectionately. "Of course not, little flower," she reassured her.

Uriel chimed in, her tone carrying a touch of wistfulness. "We just remembered the glorious days, Jophiel. Since we got promoted at that time, it's quite nostalgic and romantic at the same time," she sighed.

Jophiel, always perceptive, caught onto their emotions. "You miss Zadkiel, do you?" she inquired.

Uriel nodded, a hint of longing in her eyes. "Yes. Also, I was planning on taking him out. Should I say a date?" she mused.

Camael, ever the planner, snapped her fingers with an idea. "What about we initiate a plan after the fact-finding in Sonora?" she suggested.

Jophiel, always up for a good idea, nodded enthusiastically. "Since we're already here on Earth," she agreed.

Camael took out her notebook, ready to jot down their plans as they unfolded. "First, let's ask about Michael on his visit to that island, as well as Gabriel and Raphael on their mission in our grand plan, 'Restoration,'" she began, her pen poised.

Jophiel, with her newfound familiarity with the area, offered her suggestion. "Lyam's flower field," she proposed with a smile.

Lyam couldn't help but chime in, his enthusiasm clear. "Yes, precisely, Archangel! I second the motion."

Uriel, always thoughtful, considered the idea. "A field of flowers, which would be eye-catching," she agreed.

Camael nodded and noted their first destination in her book. "Okay, I'll put it on the list as second," she said. "And the third one?"

Lyam had another idea in mind. "A hot spring will do, Archangels," he suggested.

Jophiel's memory provided a fitting location. "Oh, I remember when Lucifer and I went to Jerusalem to buy a vase we both broke, and I've seen a sign where the hot spring is located. It's called Hamat Gader," she recalled.

Uriel nodded in agreement with Lyam's suggestion. "A hot spring will do indeed, as I want our men to be relaxed after the non-stop work on our grand plan," she added.

Camael chimed in, her concern for their fellow archangels evident. "Those three need to rest, as it's our way of showing appreciation for their hard work," she said.

Jophiel shared her perspective, mentioning Michael's advice. "I also want to help, but Michael told me to take some quality time for myself after the war. So I asked him about temporarily living here on Earth," she explained.

Uriel nodded in agreement and shared her own situation. "Zadkiel insists that I should take a rest as well," she said.

Camael rounded out their response, thinking of Gabriel and Raphael. "The same goes for me, as Gabriel and Raphael also deserve a break," she said.

As they contemplated their plans and the need for rest, they fell into a thoughtful silence. Lyam, always ready to contribute, broke the silence with a suggestion. "What about surprising them, Archangels?" he proposed. "Since you've already conducted your outing, I think it would also be best to surprise them, as you've said you want to at least pay for their hard work. That would be fun and harmonious for them."

Camael's efficient planning was met with praise from her fellow archangels. Jophiel, always quick to express her excitement, exclaimed, "That's quite a quick summary, Camael. Impressive."

Camael couldn't help but chuckle at Jophiel's enthusiasm. "I aim to be efficient," she replied as she prepared to refine the list.

With a few swift motions, Camael rephrased their plans. "First, ask the three regarding their mission. Second, trip to Anadem: Field of Flowers. Last but not least, trip to Jerusalem: Hot Springs."

Jophiel couldn't contain her excitement, her cheerful demeanor shining through. "This is so exciting!" she exclaimed.

Uriel, equally eager for their adventures, chimed in, "All we have to do right now is finish this investigation quickly, as I can't wait either."

As they continued their journey along the winding road, Jophiel found herself lost in thought, wondering how Lucifer was faring back in the flower shop. 

Lucifer awoke with a grunt, his surroundings gradually coming into focus. His vision cleared, revealing Amenadiel and Ennemond standing before him, concern etched across their faces.

"What the hell happened?" Lucifer inquired as he pushed himself to a sitting position.

Amenadiel was quick to respond. "I found you lying by the door," he explained.

Ennemond chimed in with his own worried query. "Are you alright, Lucifer?"

Lucifer blinked and scanned his surroundings, his mind still clouded by the strange incident that had befallen him. "Kind of..." he mumbled, his hand instinctively moving to his forehead.

Amenadiel offered a suggestion. "Maybe you should take some rest, brother."

Lucifer let out a sigh, torn between his curiosity and his need for recovery. "I'm alright," he declared, his thoughts still plagued by the mysterious woman who had briefly intruded into his consciousness.

As Michael entered the stadium, his eyes were immediately drawn to the spectacle before him. Fallen angels were gathered all around, their cheers and shouts filling the air. The energy was palpable, and even Michael couldn't help but feel invigorated by the electric atmosphere.

He chuckled, his gaze sweeping over the lush, green grass beneath his feet. "Your stadium is beautiful," he remarked, appreciating the natural surroundings.

Azazel, standing nearby, nodded in agreement. "Well, sure it does."

Michael's curiosity about the impending duel got the better of him, and he turned to Azazel with a question in mind. "So what kind of duel are we going to do?" he inquired, his eyes locked on his fellow celestial, ready for whatever challenge lay ahead.

Michael listened carefully as Azazel explained the rules of their traditional game, Bdellium Sparring. He examined the bamboo sword he held in his hand, noting its lightweight but sturdy construction.

"Sounds easy," Michael commented as he inspected the sword.

Azazel, with a knowing smirk, responded, "Sounds easy, but you need to be extra careful so that it won't be hard."

Intrigued, Michael waited for Azazel to reveal the rules. Azazel planted his sword into the ground to emphasize his points.

"Here are the rules. Just two of them," Azazel began.

As Azazel explained the rules, Michael absorbed the details. The first rule involved a medium circle in the middle, and once the drums stopped beating, they would both enter the circle, and the duel would commence. Failure to enter the circle in time meant automatic elimination.

Azazel continued, "Second, bamboos are not really hard woods like Nara. The more you swing it, the more damage will eventually occur, but far worse... it'll destroy. Once your sword is destroyed, you will automatically be eliminated. The first sword that is destroyed will lose."

Michael nodded in understanding. It was a straightforward but challenging game. Azazel emphasized a few additional rules: no using wings, and stepping out of the circle would result in elimination.

After Azazel finished explaining, he asked, "Sounds fair?"

Michael replied confidently, "I accept the terms," ready to engage in the traditional duel.

The rhythmic beat of the drums filled the air, setting the stage for the traditional duel between Michael and Azazel. They locked eyes, determination burning within them as they prepared to enter the marked circle. The anticipation in the crowd grew with each beat of the drums, cheers and shouts echoing all around the rocky stadium.

As the final moments approached, Michael made his move, stepping his right foot forward, ready to enter the circle as soon as the beat started. The drums reached a crescendo, and at the instant the beat began, both celestial beings sprinted into the circle, their bamboo swords at the ready.

The spectators in the stands erupted in excitement as the tournament officially began, their cheers and applause reverberating throughout the arena. Michael, though, felt a surge of trepidation as he cautiously swung his sword with a gentle touch. He was acutely aware of his immense strength, making it challenging for him to wield the bamboo sword with the necessary finesse.

Amid the intense sparring, Azazel taunted Michael, noticing his struggle to wield the bamboo sword with precision. The relentless clash of their weapons echoed in the arena as Michael did his best to parry Azazel's strikes.

As the duel continued, Michael found himself gradually pushed toward the edge of the circle. But then, in a swift move, he managed to evade Azazel's incoming attack, creating an opportunity for a counterattack. He surged forward, aiming to corner Azazel against the edge of the circle.

Azazel, realizing he was in a tight spot, resorted to a clever move, twisting his own sword to disarm Michael. Michael's strength allowed him to cling to his weapon, but the force of the struggle caused his sword to crack, evident on his face.

Azazel took advantage of the situation, toppling Michael to the ground. Just as he was about to deliver the finishing blow, Michael, with remarkable agility, pressed his hand against the ground, using it to pivot his body and dodge Azazel's attack.

In a decisive maneuver, Michael, with his damaged sword, launched an upper swing towards Azazel, who barely managed to block the attack in the nick of time. The impact left a visible crack in Michael's sword, and a flicker of worry crossed his face.

Azazel, undeterred, couldn't resist a taunt. "Didn't I tell you to handle your sword with more finesse?"

With both their swords bearing visible cracks from the intense exchange, Azazel and Michael found themselves in a deadlock. The fallen angel's counterattack aimed straight at Michael's sword, but the archangel managed to flip his bamboo sword vertically just in time to intercept Azazel's strike. The impact reverberated through their weapons, causing them to groan under the strain.

Azazel couldn't help but smirk, reveling in the thrill of the duel. "We're even now, Michael."

Michael, resolute and focused, met Azazel's challenge head-on. He held his bamboo sword firmly, his divine determination unwavering. "Let's see whose sword will be broken first," he replied, his stance poised and ready for whatever came next. The crowd's excitement grew as they witnessed the suspenseful battle between these two formidable celestial beings.

The fierce clash of bamboo swords continued, and the crowd's excitement reached a fevered pitch. Michael, with determination burning in his eyes, lunged forward to take the initiative. His bamboo sword was poised, aimed squarely at Azazel, who braced himself for the impending attack.

As the archangel's sword drew closer, Azazel made his move. He brought his own sword down in a swift and powerful strike. Michael, displaying his agility, leaped into the air, narrowly evading Azazel's first blow.

However, Azazel was relentless. With fluid grace, he swung his sword upwards, and Michael, still in mid-air, attempted to block the attack. In that crucial moment, Azazel, ever the cunning strategist, targeted the weakened, cracked portion of Michael's bamboo sword. With precision and force, he managed to pierce through the bamboo, causing Michael to lose his grip.

As Michael's sword plummeted towards the ground, he refused to yield. In a lightning-fast motion, he dove, retrieved his falling sword, and spun around, launching a final, devastating swing at Azazel. Azazel, unable to dodge in time due to the sheer speed of Michael's strike, watched as the archangel's bamboo sword struck his own, targeting the same fragile spot.

With a resounding crack, both bamboo swords shattered simultaneously. The duel had come to an electrifying conclusion, leaving the crowd in awe at the sheer intensity of the battle between these two celestial titans.

The port was bustling with activity as passengers hurriedly boarded the ship. Jophiel, Uriel, and Camael stepped out of Lyam's car, expressing their heartfelt gratitude to him for his kindness.

Lyam chuckled in response, clearly touched by their words. "The pleasure is all mine, dear archangels," he replied with a warm smile.

Uriel added her blessings, and Camael, always the cheerful one, bid Lyam a joyful farewell. The people around them couldn't help but smile and feel a sense of warmth from the presence of these celestial beings.

As the archangels made their way towards the ship, a crew member approached the captain, excitement in their voice. They revealed the presence of special guests among the passengers – none other than the Archangels themselves. The news quickly spread among the crew, creating a buzz of anticipation and awe. The journey was about to become even more extraordinary with the celestial guests on board.

The captain, still in awe of the presence of the Archangels, nodded in agreement. He knew they deserved nothing but the best treatment on his ship.

As the Archangels walked towards the entrance of the lower deck, they were met by a trio of crew members who greeted them with respect and enthusiasm.

"Greetings, Archangels!" they exclaimed in unison.

With kindness in their hearts and grace in their steps, the celestial visitors acknowledged the crew members. Upon hearing the captain's request, the crew members eagerly offered to transport their luggage to their cabins on the upper deck.

Jophiel, always radiating warmth and charm, expressed her gratitude, causing the crew members to blush in response. They quickly collected the Archangels' belongings and made their way to the cabins.

Meanwhile, the Archangels ascended the staircase to the upper deck, their eyes taking in the elegant surroundings of the ship.

"This ship is quite elegant," remarked Uriel, her appreciation evident in her tone. The upper deck promised a journey of luxury and comfort, fitting for celestial guests like them.

As the Archangels settled into their seats on the upper deck, they continued to admire the ship's modernity and the breathtaking view of the ocean stretching out before them. The sleek metal vessel was a stark contrast to the ancient elegance of Noah's ark, and Camael couldn't help but marvel at the ingenuity of humanity.

Jophiel, her eyes filled with wonder, gazed out at the expanse of the sea. The captain's choice of seating had offered them a panoramic view of the ocean, a perfect vantage point to appreciate the vastness of the waters.

Uriel, always practical and level-headed, remarked on the captain's thoughtful gesture. "No wonder why the captain put us here," she noted, acknowledging that this was indeed a prime spot for celestial guests.

Meanwhile, the captain, respectful and grateful for the Archangels' presence, made his way to the ship's control room. From there, he addressed the celestial visitors with great honor.

"Greetings, Archangels!" he began, his voice filled with appreciation. "We are truly honored to have you sailing with us. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all of us."

With warmth and humility, the captain approached each Archangel, extending his hand in greeting. He was deeply moved by their bravery during the war and wanted to express his gratitude.

"We are also grateful for your kind hospitality," Jophiel replied, her radiant smile conveying her appreciation. But she added, "You don't have to be so polite with us."

The captain, touched by their humility, responded, "We are merely trying to repay your bravery and service to us during the war."

Camael, ever dedicated to her duty, chimed in, "It's our duty to serve you, the people of God."

With these words, the Archangels and the captain embarked on a journey that promised both relaxation and adventure on the high seas.

The captain's smile never wavered as he graciously attended to the Archangels. He had one final task to perform before setting sail, and with a slight apology, he turned to address his crew.

"Ah, pardon me," he said, his tone slightly gruff, and he signaled the crew to bring the deck chairs. The crew moved with haste, eager to fulfill the captain's request, but the Archangels couldn't help but find humor in the entire scene. It was as if they were watching a well-coordinated play, and the crew members were the actors following their captain's orders.

"Please, take a seat, our queens," the captain insisted, his eyes twinkling with a hint of amusement as he spoke.

"We are grateful for your thoughtfulness," Uriel replied with a warm smile. The captain's efforts to make their journey comfortable had not gone unnoticed.

As the Archangels settled into their deck chairs, the crew swiftly set up a table topped with a large parasol and a spread of food. It was a generous gesture, and the Archangels appreciated it, but they felt it was more than enough.

"Thank you, gentlemen! This is more than sufficient," Uriel said, her voice filled with gratitude. The crew members nodded respectfully, then made their exit, leaving the Archangels to enjoy their meal and the breathtaking view of the ocean.

Unbeknownst to the celestial guests, the crew members scurried off to the engine room, their animated chatter echoing with excitement about their unique passengers.

As the crew members retreated to the engine room, they couldn't contain their excitement over their unique passengers.

"Damn! Archangel Uriel is even more stunning up close!" exclaimed one crew member, his eyes still filled with awe.

"Absolutely! Archangel Camael is adorable with her short hair!" chimed in another crew member, his voice filled with admiration.

"And Archangel Jophiel... Her blue eyes are like the ocean, and her blonde hair is as radiant as the sun," sighed yet another crew member, lost in thought.

The crew members continued to discuss the Archangels' beauty and charm, their voices brimming with enthusiasm. They couldn't help but speculate about the celestial beings' romantic lives.

"Do you think they have boyfriends?" one crew member wondered aloud.

Suddenly, the entire crew fell into a hushed silence. It was then that they realized their candid conversation could potentially reach the ears of the Archangels.

Unbeknownst to them, the celestial guests had been listening to their rants via Camael's mini-projection transponder. The Archangels burst into laughter at the crew's candid remarks, finding their curiosity and admiration rather endearing.

The Archangels found themselves charmed by the crew members' innocent admiration, appreciating the crew's candidness and the lighthearted connection they had forged.

"They're so cute, even though they are men," Jophiel remarked, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

Uriel joined in the laughter, adding, "Men can also be children, it seems."

Camael chimed in with her own laughter, saying, "I'm glad I tracked them. Their cheeks are blushing towards us."

With coconut juice in hand, the three celestial beings sat together, sipping the refreshing drink as they watched the gentle ocean breeze ripple through the air. The sound of waves and the sight of the endless sea stretched out before them created a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

As they enjoyed this peaceful moment on the upper deck of the cruise ship, the Archangels couldn't help but reflect on the beauty of the Earth and the simple joys it offered.

The stadium was filled with a deafening roar of cheers and applause from the fallen angels as Azazel conceded to Michael. Azazel couldn't help but smirk at the irony of his thousand-plus streak being halted by the Archangel "Who is like God."

Michael, with a soft smile on his face, acknowledged Azazel's prowess, saying, "I also never thought that the former leader of the Principalities had such an impressive streak in this fight."

Azazel casually tossed his bamboo sword aside, a gesture signifying the end of their duel. "You win," he admitted.

The fallen angels fell into a hushed silence, eagerly awaiting Michael's next words. Michael took a moment to survey the arena and the attentive crowd before he continued, "You know, you were right."

Azazel raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "I beg your pardon?"

With a newfound clarity in his voice, Michael acknowledged Azazel's perspective, "I fully understand you now; why you left heaven and chose to stay here on earth is because you were right."

He continued, his tone filled with a sense of admiration, "People, or should I say: Humans. They were more gifted than us. We celestials had only powers, not creative minds, numerous talents, and most of all... they have an afterlife."

Michael's words resonated with the fallen angels, and even Azazel couldn't help but nod in agreement. "If they die, they can still live on the other side, while we totally vanish."

Michael's laughter filled the arena, a harmonious sound that resonated with the fallen angels gathered to witness this historic moment. He leaned in closer to Azazel, their camaraderie evident, and shared his profound insight, "This is why Helel got jealous and rebelled against Father."

Azazel, intrigued and eager to understand, asked for clarification, "What are you trying to say, Michael?"

With warmth in his eyes, Michael clarified, "What I'm trying to say is that... you don't have to follow our deal anymore. I want you now to continue following your chosen path, your very existence. I think He understands you."

As Michael reached out and touched Azazel's right shoulder, a sense of acceptance and forgiveness washed over them. "You'll always be welcome in heaven," Michael assured him.

Azazel responded with a soft smile and patted Michael's hand on his shoulder, expressing his gratitude. "Thank you, Michael." The exchange of smiles between the two celestial leaders reflected the reconciliation and newfound understanding between them.

Azazel's humor broke the emotional moment, lightening the mood as he quipped, "Well, I hope you and Lucifer will be settled. Both of you are so annoying, like cats and dogs."

Michael couldn't help but laugh heartily at Azazel's comment, appreciating the genuine humor in their conversation. "I hope one day," he replied.

With their wings spread wide and hands clasped in a firm handshake, Michael and Azazel sealed their reconciliation. The crowd erupted into applause and cheers, celebrating the resolution of millennia-old doubts and conflicts between these celestial beings.

As the gentle wind rustled through the grass, causing it to sway like a mesmerizing dance, hidden among the bushes were the watchful eyes of the devils. They had come to spy on the archangels, remaining concealed from view, their intentions hidden. With a calculated and stealthy approach, they infiltrated the cruise ship, disguised as unsuspecting humans.

Inside the ship, one of the devils attempted to ascend the stairs leading to the upper deck, where the archangels were seated. However, a vigilant crew member blocked his path, determined to enforce the ship's security protocols.

"Pardon me, sir," the crew member politely began, "but this area is reserved for VIP passengers. May I kindly see your ticket?"

The devil, with a deceptive calmness, slowly reached for his pocket. In a swift and sinister move, he brandished a long, needle-like object and swiftly thrust it into the crew member's body. The crew member's movements froze instantly, and his eyes turned a haunting shade of red before gradually fading into an unnatural stillness.

Leaning in closer, the devil whispered to the immobilized crew member, his voice dripping with malevolence, "Keep a vigilant eye on the Archangels. Await my command to execute them." The crew member nodded, accepting a sinister-looking knife with an eerie black aura. He discreetly concealed the weapon in his back pocket and departed to carry out his assigned task, leaving behind an aura of ominous intent.

As the ship set sail into the enchanting embrace of the sunset, it created a breathtaking scene of tranquil beauty. The warm hues of the setting sun painted the sky with shades of orange and pink, casting a serene glow over the vast expanse of the ocean. Passengers aboard the ship reveled in the moment, soaking in the ethereal beauty of nature's canvas.

As night descended, the middle deck of the ship came alive with a lively feast. The clinking of glasses filled the air as toasts were raised in celebration. A talented musician provided a melodic backdrop, adding to the festive atmosphere. Archangels Jophiel, Uriel, and Camael joined the festivities, their presence adding a touch of celestial grace to the evening.

Meanwhile, on the upper deck, the captain enjoyed a moment of solitude, engrossed in a book while overlooking the quiet, moonlit expanse of the ocean. The tranquility was shattered when an unexpected knock echoed at the door. As the captain opened it, he was met with a sudden and shocking sight – a devil stood before him, swift and deadly.

Before the captain could react, the devil struck, rendering him unconscious with a swift and precise blow. With a malevolent intent, the intruder turned their attention to the ship's steering control. In a destructive act, they sabotaged and destroyed the control mechanism, causing it to explode in a burst of chaos.

Simultaneously, in the engine room below, other devils wreaked havoc by tearing into the ship's vital machinery. The ship's lights flickered and died as the chaos unfolded, plunging the vessel into darkness. Amid the chaos, the devils heaved the anchor overboard, ensuring that the ship came to a sudden and grinding halt, leaving it stranded in the middle of the vast, dark ocean.