Chapter 18

After the successful liberation of San Pranciscolt, I was at the helm of The Icarus steering our way back to the Smoky Mountains. I watched as Gabby and the few ponies I brought along with me went about their duties on the deck of the ship. I smiled a little but soon lost it as the memory of Lock poked my mind.

I wondered what he was doing right about now, how he was doing, and if one day we do cross paths in this world, would we still be mates like back on Earth? I reached into my coat and pulled out a piece of paper I kept to myself and unfolded it. It was Lock’s wanted poster I found in Seaddle and they had apparently upped the reward for his head to 50,000,000 bits. I sighed as I gazed at the picture they used to identify him, how the flames covering his body and that red eye of his under his hood made him look like a demon straight out of hell. I knew he was always a troubled soul, considering that tale he told me about his old mate Joshua and how he got that scar on his back, but I never imagined he’d go so far as to align himself with the bloody Devil himself.

“Lock, just what are you trying to prove, mate?” I ask solemnly. “Is all this bloodshed worth the cost of what little humanity you have left?”

“You seem troubled, Phillip.”

I glance to my right and see Michael appear from a flash of light. One of the stallions who volunteered to help on The Icarus walked by Michael as if he were never there. Guess it makes sense since I’m the only one who can because I’m the Saint.

“Aye, I guess you could say that.” I said as I tucked the poster in my pocket.

“You’re wondering about Mr. Lockdrom, aren’t you?” Michael asks. I only nod in response. “You still have faith that he would change his ways if you show him what you have done?”

“Of course I do.” I said. “I’ve known Lock long enough to know he’s a stubborn bastard, but if given a proper argument and the right set of words shared between us he’ll see there’s no need to slaughter all his enemies without mercy.”

“Normally I would agree with having faith in those who do not deserve it, but how can you be so sure it is not too late?” Michael questions. “After all Mr. Lockdrom has already said and done, perhaps he will always be intent on wiping out all who stand in his way.”

“I can’t believe that Michael.” I said dismissively. “In fact I won’t, Lock is still me mate and I’m confident he’ll come around and not have to continue going on mass killing sprees.”

“Azrael and Chamuel would disagree with you.” Michael said.

“With all do respect, Saint Michael, but I could give a bloody shite and a rats arse what those two think. I had a bad enough experience with them the first time.” I scowled.

“I agree, your meeting with the Archangels could have been a more…pleasant one.” Michael said as my mind drifted back to the day I met The 7 Archangels.

I stared at Saint Michael for what seemed like hours as he held his sword out to me and waited for my answer to his offer. Me, of all the bloody fat bastards, I was the lucky or unlucky fat Irish bastard who got picked by fockin’ Archangel Saint Michael.

“I…but…why?” I stuttered like a donk.

“Ask yourself this, Mr. McHaggard, if you were given a chance to help those in need, would you?” Michael asks.

“What, you mean like one of them superheroes or something?” I ask.

“I prefer the term Holy Champion, but yes. You see Mr. McHaggard, this world is indeed on the brink of total collapse and they deserve proper judgement. However your friend, Mr. Lockdrom, says and does otherwise. He believes that there is no redemption left for the Caribou and traitor stallions, that they should all be wiped from the face of this planet as you’ve seen him do in the vision I showed you.” Michael explains.

“But…that can't be.” I said, unable to accept it. “There’s no way Lock would commit mass genocide!”

“Would you attempt to convince him otherwise?” Michael asks.

“Aye!” I said.

“Would you still try at the risk of your own life?” Michael warns.

This made me freeze on the spot, my own life? I looked up to the moon as it shined down on me and pondered Michael’s question. I’ve never really lived my life to the fullest, never really pursued anything that was worth any kind of future. Now I’ve been shot, my soul saved by Saint Michael himself, I’m in a world that’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and now I’m being offered to be some kind of champion of Heaven with the risk of my own life. I’m not even violent by nature, and now I have to fight in a bloody war?

“I…I’m not sure.” I admit. “I’m still trying to wrap me head around this whole thing, it all feels like I’m in a dream.”

“Then do you wish to return to your home?” Michael offers, making me look back at him. “I do not wish to be dishonest with you Mr. McHaggard, what I am asking you will be very dangerous work. Some of my fellow Archangels were skeptical when I chose you of all humans, but I prefer to see the better part in one's soul. You care for Mr. Lockdrom, you cared so much that I heard your prayers after he disappeared, especially after your life was slipping away you prayed to see him once again. The fact that you hesitated when I offered you to become The Angel’s Saint is more than enough proof that you have a gentle heart. That is why if you still do not wish to fight for both this world and Mr. Lockdrom, then I shall return you to your home and seek a different champion.”

“But what about Lock?” I ask.

“We will just have to see what will happen, though I suspect it won’t be the same as what you may have had in mind.” Michael said.

Again I was silent, if I wanna go home I can just say the word and I’ll be back before I know it. But if I do then some other bloke will come and try to handle things differently against Lock, for better or for worse. The images of him killing in mass amounts were fresh in my mind but also all the times he and I hung out together. Michael said it’s too late for Lock, but is it? True, he’s working with the Devil, but has he really lost himself already?

“No…” I said as I clenched my fist. “I don’t want some random donk coming here and mucking things up. You chose me, right? Because I’m Lock’s friend, right?”

“Indeed, if anyone I believed you would be the best choice for this task. So does that mean you will accept my offer?” Michael asks as he holds up the handle of his sword.

“Couple of questions.” I said, holding up my hand. “If I accept, would that make Lock and me enemies, or could we still work together to achieve a hybrid of the two outcomes? You know, kill the bad ones, convert the better ones, it's not genocide but the bad ones are still dead? Or is this a You are the Light, He is the Dark, only one can survive kind of deal?“ I question.

“That, Mr. McHaggard, is up to you to decide.” Michael said.

“Then aye.” I said as I placed a hand on his sword's handle. “I accept your offer.”

“Splendid, then we must be off to make it official.” Michael said as he raised his other hand.

“Off? Off to where?” I ask as a bright light surrounds us.

“Why to The Silver City itself, of course.” Michael said.

“Wha?!” Was all I said before my whole vision became too bright for words.

“Here we are.”

"Ah! bloody 'ell, dat's bright! You cooehld've warned me!" I yelled, letting my accent take over my words as I rubbed my eyes.

“Apologizes, however you’ll soon have to get accustomed to the brightness sooner or later.” Michael said.

“What do you…mean…?” I trailed off as my eyesight returned and what I saw made me almost pass out. A massive city that seemed to shine a silver glow, basked in the sunlight atop the clouds. I then noticed that we were standing on white clouds that felt solid under my feet and we were standing in front of a large gate that towered above me.

“Holy Sweet Mother Mary and Joseph…” I said aloud.

“Phillip Christopher McHaggard, I welcome you…to the city of Heaven.” Michael said as he raised his arm out to the gate.

As if on command, the gates opened slowly and Michael began to walk through. As he did I saw that a halo had appeared over his head and his wings seemed to glow a brighter golden glow, as if he became more divine the moment he stepped through. I gulped a huge breath of air and followed him while trying to comb my messy hair and straighten out my clothes, trying to look at least somewhat presentable. As we walked I saw a variety of different people pass by us, all of whom bowed to Michael in respect and he just gave them all curt nods. The Silver City had such a welcoming warmth to it I felt like I could feel at peace for all my life. I also noticed that the people I passed by all had halo’s above their heads which meant these were people who had passed on.

“You know, I kinda figured I’d end up here one day but I didn’t expect it to be so soon.” I said as we walked.

“A thing of beauty, is it not?” Michael asks.

“I’m speechless.” I said, making him chuckle. “Just how big is this place?”

“Would you like me to give you a tour of the whole city? It would take a long while, about 100 years, give or take, but I would be more than happy to show you all that Heaven has to offer.” Michael said.

“100?! No thank you!“ I yelped.

“Peace, Mr. McHaggard, I was only jesting.” Michael chuckled.

Saint Michael has a sense of humor? Now I’ve seen it all… I think to myself.

As we walked I noticed how the city had a bit of a mix of buildings all in one place, some buildings I’ve seen back home in Ireland, some from the Middle East, some from the west in the States, even small huts and tents which I found a bit odd to see in Heaven.

“Curious?” Michael asked.

“A bit, not exactly what I was expecting in Heaven.” I said.

“And what exactly were you expecting?” Michael wonders.

“I don’t know…large buildings made of gold, people constantly praying everywhere, yet here it feels like I’m back on Earth.” I said.

“All beings have their own image of Heaven, even the beings of the Eques I brought you to have their own image of what this city looks like.” Michael explains.

“What do you mean the Eques you brought me to?” I repeat. “You saying there’s more than one reality or something? Like that multiverse shite I heard about?”

“Quite right, the multiverse is vast and filled with many different realities of many different planets. Earth and Eques included. I know of a special individual who has taken residence on a different Eques, he once stayed here for a time before having to return.” Michael said, looking like he was reminiscing.

“Who was he?” I ask.

“It’s not important, he has his responsibilities and you soon will too.” Michael said.

“Saint Michael! I thought that was you!”

We both stopped our walk and turned to see a white skinned man in his mid forties wearing brown khaki pants and a green buttoned up shirt and had a small halo over his head. He had short cut brown hair and a small beard, he also had hazel colored eyes. Michael smiled as the man approached and even shook his hand like they were old buddies.

“Alex, wonderful to see you as always.” Michael said.

“Likewise, how’s our mutual friend? Heard he had a bit of a scuffle with some of the top dogs.” Alex said.

“You’ll be pleased to know he was victorious, Alex, as expected for someone of his skill.” Michael said.

“Heh, not a doubt in my mind he’d come out on top.” Alex said with a proud smirk. He then looks at me and smiles and offers his hand. “How’s it going dude, name’s Alex.“

“Uh yeah, Phillip.” I said shaking his hand.

“First time in heaven?” Alex asks and I nod. “Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it once you get settled in.”

“Settled in? I’m not dead though.” I defend. He quirked a brow and looked up above my head and smiled sheepishly since I don’t have a halo.

“So you aren’t.” He said. “My bad, I’ve been dead for a while now so it’s kinda hard to tell the living and the dead.”

“How did you die? If you don’t mind me asking that is.” I ask. Alex smiles and places a hand over his heart.

“I gave my life for another, which turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made.” Alex said with pride.

“As much as I would like to continue this conversation, Alex, I’m afraid we must be on our way.” Michael said.

“Of course, it was nice meeting you Phillip, maybe we’ll meet again sometime.” Alex said as he waved goodbye and left.

“Wow, he really gave his life for someone?” I ask.

“Indeed he did, which earned him a place here in Heaven and is respected by most for his actions.” Michael said. “Let us continue our trek, shall we?”

For the next hour or so we continue our walk through the streets of the Silver City, and good Lord was the place filled with departed souls. Along the way I actually was able to meet my Nana and Grandad which was quite the tearful reunion, despite Nana scolding me to lose weight. We soon arrived at our destination which was a large temple-like structure with pillars of marble surrounding the place. Along the pathway were statues of different Angel’s that were posing in different ways and I was awestruck at their craftsmanship. At the end of the pathway was a statue of a lady angel, yet unlike the others she had not one but five pairs of wings stretched out wide. She was just standing up straight, her hands over one another, and smiling like she was welcoming anyone who passed her by. Whoever made the statue must’ve spent quite the good amount of time on it since I couldn’t help but stare at how beautiful she was.

“Majestic, isn’t she?” Michael asks.

“Aye…that’s one word for it.” I said before Michael nudged me towards the temple. “So what’s this place?”

“You remember that large castle you saw in the distance on the way here, yes?” Michael asks and I nod. “That is The Court of the Gods, it is where the leading gods from every culture come together for meetings. This is The Archangel Temple, a place where my fellow Archangels and I discuss our own personal matters with each other. And this is where you shall become our champion.”

“Are the rest of the Archangels in there?” I ask nervously.

“Do not fret, Phillip, you will soon be in the presence of some of the most influential holy beings in Heaven. Just make sure you speak when spoken to and everything shall be alright.” Michael reassures me.

I nod as we stand in front of a set of large double doors, each with the holy cross and decorated with symbols and even a few passages from the Bible here and there. The doors open and we both walk inside as the halls can only be described as simply divine and nothing more. The halls are filled with a variety of different art work depicting the 7 Archangels and their great deeds. As we walked through the halls I looked down to see I was still in the clothes I was in when I first arrived on Eques making me flustered as I tried to desperately fix my hair and straighten out my clothes.

“Is there something the matter Phillip?” Michael asks.

“Course there’s something the matter, I’m about to meet your fellow Archangels and I look like I just crawled out of a dumpster.” I groaned.

“Oh there’s no need to fret over something so trivial.” Michael said dismissively, waving his hand. “If it’s any consolation this all did just happen out of the blue so there was no way for you to prepare anyway.”

“Still don’t mean I won’t look like the ugly duckling in the presence of swans.” I said.

We turn one last corner and are faced with another set of double doors. I gulp and do one last comb of my hair with my fingers and make sure my shirt is as neatly tucked in as possible, despite my fat beer belly. With a wave of his hand, the doors open and I’m once again almost blinded by the light. I’m met with a wide circular room that looks like I’m in some cathedral in Rome. In the center of the room were large chars all in a semi circle and each one had an Angel sitting on them. All their eyes were upon me as I walked in with Michael and I felt like I was about to pass out from the amount of anxiety I was feeling. When we make it to the middle of the group, Michael looks over his shoulder and motions me to stay and stand as he walks up to a vacant chair I assumed was his and sits down.

“My brethren, I welcome you all. Here standing before us, is our newest champion, Phillip Christopher McHaggard.” They all stand and begin to introduce themselves.

“I am Raphael, the Healing Angel.” A man to my right said. He had long dark brown hair with green eyes. He wore beige robes with a black sash around his waist and he was holding a long bronze staff in his right hand.

“My name is Gabriel, the Messenger Angel.” The man next to Raphael said. He was a lean fellow with long blond hair and brown eyes. He wore a golden robe with blue sleeves and a white trim along with a dark green robe that covered his legs. On his waist was a type of golden horn with a long neck.

“My name is Jophiel, The Angel of Beauty.” A pretty woman said softly with a smile. She had light brown eyes and beautifully long flowing brown hair that seemed to reach the middle of her back. Her hair had small pink flowers along it and she was wearing a forest green dress robe.

“I am Ariel, The Angel of Nature and Animals.” Another woman said. Her appearance seemed to not go with her title since she had long black hair, fierce brown eyes, and was wearing some kind of helmet with feathers on top. She wore a black tunic with a red sash that went from her shoulder to her waist. The strangest thing is that she had a double bladed axe in her hand that she sling over her shoulder but I’d rather not question it. Perched her other shoulder was a white dove that was looking at me curiously and cooed every so often.

“Azrael, Angel of Death.” The man next to her said emotionlessly. All he wore was a single pale maroon robe with a hood over his head and was armed with a very uneasy looking scythe. His hair was dusty grey and his eyes looked as soulless as his very appearance.

“I’m Chamuel, The Angel of Peaceful Relationships.” The last man said. His face was a bit on the feminine side but his sky blue eyes were stern with a hint of kindness. His light brown hair was curly and long and wore a type of headband with a small ruby gem in the middle of his forehead. His robes were light pink and had a gold sash around his waist and in his hand was a type of chalice with handles on both sides that made it look like some kind of trophy.

Each of them had large wings on their backs, each pair looking different from the other, yet still had a divine look to them. Not knowing what else to do, I cleared my throat and lowered to the ground on my knee and bowed in respect to the holy beings surrounding me.

“It…ahem, it is a grand honor to be in all your presence, my Lords and Lady’s.” I said as calmly as possible, being careful not to shit myself.

“Michael.” Raphael said, glancing at the Warrior Angel. “I must ask once more, you are positive he is capable of becoming our champion?”

“Yes, Raphael.” Michael nods. “I am confident he will be just as righteous as his predecessors.”

“Erm, predecessors?” I repeat out loud as I raise my head.

“Indeed, Mr. McHaggard.” Gabriel said. “This may come as a little surprising, but we have chosen other humans throughout your world's history as The Angel’s Saint. Just as Satanael has for his Hand.”

“Satanael?” I repeat again. “You mean Lucifer?” As soon as I mentioned that name, the whole atmosphere seemed to become heavy and I felt a very unpleasant chill run up and down my body. I turned to see Azrael, though his face was straight and emotionless, I could feel his rage through my very soul.

“Azrael, please calm down. He doesn’t know so it’s unnecessary to become upset.” Jophiel said. Azrael glanced over to Jophiel and nodded slightly and proceeded to take long and slow breaths. “Forgive him, the name of our fallen brother is a touchy subject.”

“Touchy, is an understatement, sister.” Chamuel said. “And to answer your question, McHaggard, Lucifer and Satanael are different beings.” I was confused and looked to Michael for an explanation.

“You recall the story of how Lucifer was cast out of Heaven by God, yes?” Michael asks and I nod, thinking about all the times I heard that tale from church. “Well there is more to the story than just that, Lucifer was indeed one of us before the rebellion but was cast out for another reason. You see, Mr. McHaggard, there exists a reality of Eques that holds a tragic story of a once proud kingdom. Its name was Aephoceria, the kingdom of the Demonic Angels.”

“Demonic Angels?” I repeat.

“The kingdom was ruled by an Angel and a Demon alongside their dear friend Queen Faust. They had even procured a child together which was unheard of for an Angel and Demon.” Michael continues, but his expression then turned sour. “The child’s birth had reached the ears of both worlds from above and below, so Lucifer went to investigate. However when he returned he looked like he had been in a fight and seemed enraged about something. When he reported about the Angel had wed the Demon and the child they had together, it surprised myself and all of Heaven. Ever since we had known about Aephoceria’s existence, there had been times when fellow angels and even demons from below would join the kingdom in order to be with one another. One would think that God and Satanael would be opposed to the very idea of two completely different worlds coexisting with each other but in fact they were very supportive of it, especially since the natural birth of the King and Queens child which spelled hope for peace between Heaven and Hell. But Lucifer, being the arrogant fool he was, proclaimed that Aephoceria was a heretical kingdom filled with blasphemers and had vowed to destroy it and all its subjects. No one saw it coming, no one knew of Lucifer’s schemings behind everyone’s back, and yet he managed to forge an alliance with the demoness Lilith and built an army to destroy Aephoceria. The Kingdom was lost, the child disappeared, and for his actions to destroy Aephoceria and even try to usurp God resulted in his banishment and any who followed him. My brethren and I were enraged at what Lucifer had done, but also saddened he would go so far to commit such a crime.”

“What happened to the kid?” I ask.

“Lucifer wanted nothing more to finish his self proclaimed quest to end the Demonic Angel existence and spent most of his time on Earth to search for the child. Most believed that the child perished and the race of the Demonic Angels had died with him, but I had a feeling that the child would one day return and claim his right to the throne of the fallen kingdom but I also kept watch on Lucifer’s actions. Then finally, some years ago after several ages later, the energy from the child’s power became known and I and a few of the Pantheon Gods were quick to react. We had managed to subdue Lucifer and Lilith and even had the privilege to meet the child face to face. The boy had a few choice words for me which was justified but meeting him was more than enough besides seeing him alive and well, proof that the Demonic Angels still existed.“

I was just sitting there dead silent while listening to Michael’s tale and in complete awe. To think there existed a world where Angels like these guys and bloody demons from Hell could live together, if Lucifer hadn’t gone and mucked things up royally.

“So why does The Devil call himself Lucifer?” I wonder.

“We were told he believes it is a way to mock our fallen brother.” Azrael spoke up.

“Satanael, being the silver tongued being that he is, deemed imprisoning Lucifer in Hell was a fate fit for the fallen angel. He even went as far as to take Lucifer’s name for his own, which Lucifer was not happy about since his name would be tarnished by such an unholy being as Satanael.” Michael said.

“I see, and you still call him Lucifer?” I ask.

“Our fallen brother Lucifer is dead to us.” Gabriel said coldly. “We have long since accepted that, and if Satanael wishes to call himself by Lucifer’s name then so be it, it matters little to us.”

“That statue.” I said as a thought occurred to me. “That’s her, isn’t it? The Queen?”

“Yes, her name is Alga, and she was as beautiful as the statue that stands in front of this temple in her honor.” Jophiel said.

“If we’re finally done with the history lesson, may we please return to the matter at hand as to how we may deal with Satanael’s Hand?” Chamuel said.

“Ah yes, of course.” Michael said. “Now then Phillip, you know the reason why we have brought you here but you must understand what it is you must do as The Angel’s Saint. As we mentioned before you are not the first Saint to fight for us, nor is your friend, Mr. Lockdrom, the first Hand.”

“How many others were there?” I ask.

“Throughout the course of Earth’s history, you have the privilege of being our fifth Saint.” Gabriel said. “Satanael has made a great many dealings with humans, some of which he dubbed as his Hand which in turn made us seek a champion of our own. And now it seems he has his eyes set on Equestria to recall the seven demons of The Sins of Man.”

“The one called Dainn.” Azrael said. “He reeks of death and sin, forced others in a ritual, gained years of life at the cost of others, even formed a bargain with the Sins to do his bidding.”

“Because of this, Satanael brought over a human, your friend, to collect what he is owed.” Michael said.

“But his Hand’s methods, to kill and show no mercy to any, not even we can look past this for it has happened once before on Earth.” Jophiel said. “Especially when there are some who deserve a second chance.”

“Proper judgement is indeed called for, but genocide is not the answer.” Chamuel said.

“If the Hand continues this path of destruction, his soul will be almost as blackened as Dainn’s.” Azrael said. “Perhaps it is too late already.”

“And just what do you mean by that?” I question.

“McHaggard, let us be honest with one another, you were shown what Lockdrom has done already, yes? It seems to me that he has made his choice. He is set on slaughtering all who oppose him without remorse, just because he saved a group of equines here and there does not mean he is not absolved. If anything he should be dealt with and let you enact the proper judgement those Caribou deserve.” Chamuel said dismissively, making me very agitated at his allegations.

“You dahn’t know shite!” I blurted out, pointing at the Angel of Peaceful Relationships. “Lock is naht sahme mad keller bent ahn destroehction! It was all de foehckin Devil’s faoehlt fahr rahpin ‘im into doin ‘is dirty wahrk! I’ve known Lock fahr years so dahn’t you dare talk abooeht ‘im like you know ‘im, because you dahn’t!”

“Mr. McHaggard, please be calm.” Ariel said, trying to calm me down.

“I dahn’t gahtta do shet! You all brooehght me oehp ‘ere to what, be sahme kend o’ equalizer and set me mate straight?! Well you know what?! Screw de laht o’ you! Dat wahrld ‘is goin throoehgh absahlute ‘ell and all you laht care abooeht is me stahppin what Lock is doin! ‘e may wahrk fahr de Devil, boeht ‘e’s stell ‘uman like me! And I stell believe ‘e too can be redeemed!” I proclaim.

“You’re quite bold to speak to my brother like that.” Azrael said, gripping the handle of his scythe. “All for The Devil’s own Hand.”

“Dahn’t lecture me abooeht who’s wrahng and who’s right.” I sneer. “What matters is me ‘elpin me friend! In fact, naht ahnly’ll I ‘elp show ‘im a better way to save de planet, boeht I’ll even ‘elp redeem de traitahrs and Caribou!”

“You would even go so far as to redeem those who might be beyond redemption?” Raphael asks.

“You’re damn right I will, even if it takes de rest o’ me life.” I said.

“You’re a fool.” Chamuel scoffed.

“You are but a naïve human with the mindset of a child.” Azrael said.

“And you two are a couple of stuck up arses.” I shot back. Ariel stands from her chair and approaches me. She stands before me and looks deep in my eyes as if she is searching for something.

“You seem quite passionate to prove us wrong, Mr. McHaggard, you truly believe you can do what most believe would be impossible?” Ariel asks.

“With all due respect, my Lady, you can bet your sweet arse.” I said, not caring about my rude tone. Ariel giggles and nods as she turns to face her fellow Archangels.

“I shall choose to have faith in this one. He has a passionate soul who genuinely cares about his dear friend. The Devil’s Hand aside, Mr. Lockdrom is still human and could still be redeemed.” Ariel said.

“It has been quite some time since there has been anyone to speak to us in such a manner.” Gabriel said. “You’ve quite the spirit, I admire that so I too shall believe in you.”

“Same here.” Raphael said. “I suppose even the worst sinners who still have just a shred of their innocence left deserve a second chance.”

“Do you truly believe you can redeem your friend?“ Jophiel asks.

“Aye, I’m even willing to bet me life.” I said.

“Then I too shall believe in you.” Jophiel said.

“Death is the fate of all life at some point, just ask the Hand of the Reaper.” Azrael said.

“That may be, but life is precious to those who still wish to live.” I said.

“This will not end as you may want it to, McHaggard.” Chamuel warned. “Your friendship with Lockdrom shall be put to the ultimate test should you not see eye to eye, which is an inevitable fate and tends to always end in devastation.”

“Then I’ll just have to change fate, now won’t I?” I scoffed.

All the Angels stand in front of their chairs and approach me in the middle of the room. They all unfurl their wings and I’m now standing in a circle completely surrounded as they begin whatever they’re gonna do.

“Do you swear to shield the innocent and tend to the weak?” Raphael asks.

“I…I swear.” I said, clearing my throat and standing to attention.

“Do you swear to spread the Lord’s light during your holy quest?” Gabriel asks.

“I swear.”

“Do you swear to maintain the beauty in life?” Jophiel asks.

“I swear.”

“Do you swear to protect nature and the environment around you?” Ariel asks.

“I swear.”

“Do you swear to judge the souls of your enemies accordingly and smite the irredeemable?” Azrael asks.

“…I swear.” I said.

“Do you swear to bring peace to the world, to always have strength and courage to face adversity when it seems that there is none left?” Chamuel asks.

“I swear.”

“Phillip Christopher McHaggard do you swear to serve us, The 7 Archangels, as our holy champion, The Angel’s Saint?” Michael asks.

“I…swear.” As soon as I make my final oath, all the Archangels’ wings begin to glow and a light shines above me and they begin to chant all together.

Suddenly, the light from above shined down on me and I felt a very warm and tingly feeling in my gut. I suddenly felt myself floating in mid air as I felt my whole body begin to change. My beer belly began to deflate and my body started to become more lean and muscular. My hair became less greasy looking and more soft and wavy as it grew out long enough to reach my shoulders. I looked to my right forearm and saw a strange symbol appear in a flash of light as I continued my new transformation.

I then felt something on my back and when I turned to look over my shoulder, I saw that I had sprouted a pair of large white feathered wings and the end of the feather tips were shining a bright golden color. The light surrounding me began to die down and I slowly descended to the ground and I landed on my feet but soon fell to my knees. The Archangels waited for me to collect my thoughts as I stared off into space still processing what had just happened. I took note of my body again and saw that I no longer had a pudgy physique but with a much more muscular torso and well shaped arms and legs. I slowly rose to my feet, putting one foot at a time on the ground, and stood up straight. I looked around and noticed I was either about the same height or slightly taller than the Archangels circling me and Michael walked up to me with a proud smile.

“How do you feel, Phillip?” Michael asks. I look around and glance once more at myself.

“…Taller.” Was all I could say.

“Now you are officially our champion.” Raphael said.

“We welcome you, Saint of the Angels.” Gabriel said.

“So…what happens now?” I wonder as I paced around, trying to get a feel of my newly formed body.

“Now we must get you properly dressed and ready to train you to make you combat ready.” Michael said.

“Training? Me? But I ain’t never fought anyone or have any sort of combat experience.” I said. “Not to mention I shouldn’t waste time here when Lock is still on Eques reeking who knows what kind of havoc.”

“Not to worry, we have a chamber that is used for just such an occasion. You’ll be able to acquire years worth of training and honing your skills in just a few days time.” Michael explains.

“But what kind of training will I receive?” I question.

“I shall teach you the ways of the sword and even show you the new abilities that we have bestowed upon you. I shall personally make sure that you are more than prepared to face the enemy when the time comes for you to return to Equestria.” Michael said.

“I have powers now?” I ask.

“Indeed, take a look at your hands.” Michael said. When I looked down at my hands I saw that they had a faint glow to them and I felt a pleasant warm feeling. I sensed something about the glow and when I focused a little more my hands glowed brighter as if they were made of light itself.

“This is…so bloody weird.” I said, a little stupefied. “And what’s this tattoo thing on me arm?” I ask, pointing to the mark on my forearm.

“That is the Sigil of the Saint, it is physical proof of your role to any who sees it.” Gabriel said.

“And the wings?” I ask, gesturing to the new appendages on my back.

“What good is the Angel’s champion without a pair of holy wings?” Chamuel scoffed. Before I could ask any more questions, Jophiel grabs my arm and begins pulling me away from the group.

“That is enough questions for now, Phillip, let us get you fitted in a more appropriate looking attire.” Jophiel said happily.

As Phill and Jophiel walked away, Azrael walked up to Michael and crossed his arms.

“You have a knack for choosing the most unlikely candidates for being our champion, you know that?” Azrael said.

“True, but since when have I ever made the wrong choice?” Michael said.

“Not yet you haven’t, but he still has the mindset of a child. You recall that this is not the first time one of our champions has proclaimed or try and make peace and work alongside Satanael’s champion?” Azrael questions.

“I am fully aware of that, but I am confident that Phillip is different than the others. Perhaps he will achieve where others have failed.” Michael said. There was a brief silence before Azrael turned away from Michael.

“We cannot guarantee his safety.” Azrael said.

“Understood.” Michael said.

“Nor will we be responsible for his fate.” Azrael adds as he walks away.

“A lot has happened since that day.” I said as the memory ended. “Hard to believe I was in that chamber for a year when it had only been a day.”

“It is how we trained your predecessors and have worked quite effectively, I am still quite pleased at how far you have come. Despite the few injuries you sustained in San Pranciscolt.” Michael said, making me wince.

“Yeah well, I guess I still need to train more.” I sighed.

“Quite right, for now just focus on the task at hand. I also have your next assignment for which city you must liberate.” Michael said.

“Really? Where am I going next?” I ask.

“Las Pegasus, it is one of that crime lord’s main bases of operations. Perhaps you will find a clue as to who he is.” Michael said.

“Maybe, the sooner I get it done the sooner I can go see Lock. I wanna prove just how wrong Azrael and Chamuel are and show them that there’s still hope for Lock.” I said with conviction.

“Hmm, very well Phillip, I just pray that you know what you are doing.”Michael sighed as he turned away. “I shall return to you once Las Pegasus is free, until then I bid you good day.” He said and disappeared in a flash of light.

“I pray I know what I’m doing too Michael, I just gotta have faith in what I do from here on out.” I said to myself.

“Saint Phillip!”

I look to my left to see Gabby fly up to me with a bright smile as she lands.

“We’re almost to Sanctuary and…um, are you ok?” She asks, tilting her head.

“I’m just dandy lass, why do you ask?” I wonder.

“Well, you seem a bit sad about something.” Gabby said.

“Ah, well I’m quite swell Gabby. I’m just thinking about an old friend who I’ve yet to meet again.” I said, smiling at her. “But I’m not sure if he’d still wanna see me.”

“Ooh, is he like your best friend?” Gabby asks.

“Best friend?” I repeat. “Well I mean, aye, we’re pretty good pals but best friends seems like a bit of a stretch.”

“But he’s still your friend, right?” She asks again.

“…Aye lass.” I sighed. “He and I are bloody good friends.“

“Then there’s nothing to worry about!” Gabby chirps. “If you’re friends then I think he’d be very happy to see you again! I mean, why wouldn’t he be?”

“Heh, you’re a sweet lass.” I chuckled, ruffling her feathers on her head. “Perhaps you’re right.”

“I know I am!” Gabby said.

“Hey Gabby! Get your tail feathers down here and help me with calming these cluckers down!” Gilda squawks.

“Watch your language! I’ll be right there!” Gabby snapped as she flew towards the rowdy griffin.

I chuckled again and noticed we were indeed closing in on the Smokey Mountains which meant we were almost home. I looked to the sky and thought about Lock and what Gabby said.

“He’ll come around.” I said confidently. “I’ll show him, I’ll show them all.”

The clouds covered the sky over the snowy landscape of the north. The mood was gloomy and miserable as the sun was blocked and did not shine along the gem made structures that spread around the city. The Crystal Empire was a shadow of its former self since the Caribou turned it into a fortress of war and their capital of the conquered Equestria. The Caribou and traitors were all doing as they pleased, raping the crystal pony mares, abusing the stallions who wouldn’t submit to the new world order and had them put in shackles, and the once glorious Crystal Heart, now warped and sickeningly shaped as the Crystal Cock, sat on a pedestal in highly impenetrable magic shield. In the throne room sat a Caribou with large antlers, dark grey fur and charcoal hair, and wore black spike covered armor that showed off his status to the nation. His eyes were a sickening red as he was surrounded by dozens of mares, most of which were on their hands and knees with their flanks pointed in the air towards their master, waiting to serve him like the slaves they were always meant to be. Lust, the Overlord of Equestria, rested his head on his fist as he gazed upon his slaves.

His mind then drifted off to the broadcast from the Devil’s Hand and his proclamation of war, which irked him that once again Lucifer had sent another one of his attack dogs after him and his fellow Sins. He then slowly rose from his throne and walked down the small staircase as the mares kissed the ground wherever he stepped and approached the balcony overlooking his kingdom. He gazed upon his subjects, watched them go on about their day, and then looked up over the horizon. His eyes narrowed as a black aura surrounded his body, making the mares behind him cower in fear since their master was displeased.

“This…is our world, Hand.” Lust hissed. “And we shall hold claim to it.” He then returned to his throne and snapped his fingers as a group of mares began servicing him.

Meanwhile, in the crystal gardens, a statue of a creature with a deer antler on the right, a goat horn on the left, one long fang, different-sized pupils, a goat beard, and white bushy eyebrows. It has the right arm of a lion, the left claw of an eagle, the right leg of a lizard, and the left leg of a goat. In addition, he has a bat's right wing, a Pegasus’ left wing, a horse's mane, and a dragon-like snake's tail with a tail tuft. Petrified in a prison of stone, Discord, the spirit of chaos, stood alone with a shocked expression and was unable to move an inch. However, despite his body’s predicament, his mind was still conscious of his surroundings.

…Such a travesty. Discord sighed in his head. To think I would allow myself to be fooled by that dreadful Dainn. Such an unfortunate circumstance I find myself in. I just hope dear Fluttershy is well.

Discord then thought about what he had heard from a few guard speak about earlier. Hmm, this Devil’s Hand fellow seems to be quite set on liberating Eques. But Eques is a big place and he is just one creature, well aside from the new being who had just recently made himself known. I wonder who or what those two are?

Discord mulled over his thoughts for a moment until he hatched his own plan. Discord then focused his mind and began to force his lion paw to move. After a few minutes of straining, he finally managed to slowly inch his finger and thumb close to one another until they were pressed against each other.

Whew! I dare say that was even harder than I expected it to be. Discord thought. If these Caribou think that they can hold claim to Equestria for as long as they wish, then they are sorely mistaken. I believe it’s time I play my own hand in this endeavor.

With pure concentration and the last of what is left of Discord’s magic, his stone paw snapped its fingers and Discord’s eyes began to glow faintly. A small ghostly wisp floated out of Discord’s chest and hovered in front of the statue for a moment before flying off into the sky.

That…should do it. Discord sighed, now having exhausted all of what remained of his magic. I am unsure if it will work, but if I am to see Fluttershy once more then I believe this is absolutely necessary. Discord proclaimed to himself. Let us see how they enjoy player 3.

Author's Notes:

Phill’s promises are quite bold and some do not believe in his ideals. Now both the Saint and the Hand have their eyes set on Las Pegasus. Just what will happen if they meet each other? And more importantly…what is Discord planning?

I must’ve revised this chapter dozens of times so I hope you all enjoyed!

~WurkyWilk has left the building…