Chereads / The Beginning of the Beginnings / Chapter 6 - Chapter 6: First Seeds of Darkness

Chapter 6 - Chapter 6: First Seeds of Darkness

The tranquil beauty of Heaven was gradually overshadowed by an unsettling aura. It was subtle at first—a whisper in the golden halls, a flicker of discontent among the angelic ranks. As the sun poured its radiant light over the divine realm, the Great Archangels could sense a change in the atmosphere, like a faint shift in the wind before a storm.

Helel had begun to harbor an insidious ambition. No longer content to dwell in the brilliance of his role, his pride started to unfurl like the petals of a dark flower, hidden beneath the surface of his radiant persona. The other angels, drawn to his brilliance, remained blissfully unaware of the tumult within him. They admired his strength, but soon, an undercurrent of unease rippled through the ranks.

Michael, a steadfast guardian of Heaven, stood tall as he observed the growing tension among his brothers. His gaze, usually a mirror of calm, was clouded with concern. He had known Helel for ages, witnessing his rise through the ranks with pride, but now, the flicker of something darker danced in Helel's demeanor.

Beside him, Sarnel sensed it too. His essence shimmered like sunlight, yet the warmth it radiated was shadowed by worry. "We must remain vigilant, Michael," he urged his voice steady yet laced with urgency. "Something is changing. I can feel it in the hearts of our brethren. The harmony we cherish hangs by a thread."

Michael nodded, deep in thought. "I have seen Helel's ambition grow. It worries me. Have you noticed how he speaks of our duties? It's as if he believes he deserves more."

Sarnel sighed, his brow furrowing. "Yes, I've noticed it too. He speaks of greatness as if he seeks to elevate himself above the rest. But ambition can be a double-edged sword. It can inspire or corrupt."

As they conversed, the celestial realm continued its dance of beauty, unaware of the storm gathering in its midst. The melodies of praise echoed, but beneath the harmonious notes, a discordant hum began to rise. The Great Archangels were accustomed to maintaining balance, but now, their focus sharpened, hearts heavy with apprehension.

Suddenly, a call resonated through the golden expanse. It was a summons from God, reverberating like a sacred bell. Michael and Sarnel exchanged solemn glances before setting off for the Throne of God, where the weight of divine presence awaited them.

"Michael, Sarnel," God's voice rolled over them, a harmonious blend of authority and love. "I have summoned you here for a reason."

"Beware, my sons," He continued, His tone shifting, growing grave. "A primal evil stirs within Heaven. It threatens the harmony you have strived to protect. This darkness seeks to unravel the delicate balance we have maintained for so long."

The Great Archangels exchanged worried glances, the gravity of God's words sinking in. "It comes not from outside," God elaborated, His voice steady, "but from within. Disguised as ambition, it takes root in the hearts of those you once trusted. Stay vigilant."

A chill swept through Michael and Sarnel, and as God's warning echoed in their minds, they felt the weight of impending darkness settle upon their shoulders. While they sensed the tension among their brothers, the depth of the threat remained obscured by the very familiarity they shared with them.

"Do you think it could come from Helel?" Michael pondered aloud, the name lingering like a dark omen.

Sarnel shook his head, a furrow of worry crossing his brow. "No, I do not believe it. He is our brother, and brothers do not betray one another. We must focus on the signs, not the shadows. This is merely ambition, not treachery."

"Yet, we must keep our eyes open," Michael replied, his voice firm. "If pride takes hold, it can blind even the purest of hearts. We must prepare ourselves for what may come."

"I agree," Sarnel said, his determination rising. "We will watch, and we will guide. If darkness begins to creep into the hearts of our brethren, we must be there to shine the light back into their souls."

And so, the two Great Archangels resolved to keep watch. Their hearts, once light with the glory of creation, now carried the weight of impending darkness. With each passing day, they observed their brothers closely, seeking to unravel the threads of ambition woven into their hearts.

Yet, as they stood vigilant, unaware of the depth of the shadows creeping into their ranks, the seeds of darkness began to take root. In the heart of Heaven, where love and light once reigned supreme, the first whispers of pride emerged. The once-harmonious choir of angels now hummed a new tune—one laced with uncertainty and fear, a melody that threatened to disrupt the sacred balance they held so dear.

As Michael and Sarnel continued their watch, they remained unaware that the storm was not just approaching from without, but rising from within. The seeds had been sown, and soon they would learn that the greatest battles are often fought not against foes outside, but against the darkness that lurks within the hearts of those they once trusted.

In the wake of God's solemn warning, Michael's vigilance intensified. As the supreme Great Archangel and second leader, he understood the weight of his responsibility. Every moment spent in Heaven now carried a tension that had never existed before. Determined to guard against any encroaching darkness, he resolved to keep a close watch on his brothers.

Helel's behavior became the center of his attention. Michael observed every flicker of his gaze, every word that slipped from his lips. Something was unsettling in Helel's demeanor—a growing pride and ambition that had begun to surface. Once harmonious, Helel's voice now held an edge, laced with impatience that grated against the serene fabric of Heaven.

Michael found himself contemplating the nature of ambition. "Could this desire for recognition truly lead to treachery?" He pondered this question deeply, recalling their countless battles fought side by side, the joy they shared in moments of peace.

"Ambition is not inherently wrong," he reasoned, his resolve firm. "This pride may simply be a reflection of his desire to fulfill his purpose. I will not abandon my brother to the shadows of my doubts."

Yet, despite his attempts at reassurance, a quiet unease gnawed at him. He felt the need to address these changes, to ensure that their brotherhood remained strong. He sought solace in Sarnel, his closest confidant, who shared the burden of leadership.

Sarnel echoed Michael's thoughts as they gazed at the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson. "It's natural to desire more. We are beings of light, after all. Why should we not seek to shine brighter? This doesn't mean they would turn against us."

Michael nodded, though a thread of worry wove through his heart. "But ambition can lead to pride. And pride, if left unchecked, can twist even the purest of intentions."

"I understand," Sarnel replied, his tone steady. "But I worry about Helel and Zarnasel. Their ambition feels different, almost perilous. It's as if they're being drawn toward something darker."

"Agreed," Michael said, feeling unity in their shared purpose. "We must be vigilant, but we must also be brothers. I refuse to let suspicion poison our bonds."

They resolved to keep watch over Helel and Zarnasel—not out of mistrust, but with a commitment to uphold their brotherhood. They would guide, advise, and, if necessary, steer their brothers back toward the light should they stray too close to the shadows.

The Great Archangels continued to observe the subtle changes within their ranks. Helel's pride grew, yet Sarnel's concerns deepened. "Michael," he said one evening as the stars began to twinkle, "I believe we should inform the other Great Archangels of God's warning. They must understand the potential danger, but we must not involve Helel and Zarnasel in this discussion."

Michael considered this, nodding in agreement. "You're right. They should be made aware of the warning, but we must ensure that Helel and Zarnasel remain oblivious to our concerns."

Taking a deep breath, Sarnel approached the Throne, his heart steady but filled with reverence. He spoke gently, "Father, I come to you seeking guidance. May I share your warning with the other Great Archangels—Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Azrael, Cassiel, and Jophiel—but not with Helel and Zarnazel? I'm concerned about them, and I don't want to stir up unnecessary worry."

God's voice resonated through the expanse of Heaven, warm and inviting. "Sarnel, my child, you seek the right course. Share my warning with those who can help you guard against the encroaching darkness. But remember, tread carefully. Ambition can sometimes cloud judgment."

Sarnel felt encouraged by God's insight. "Of course, Father. I will ensure they understand the importance of unity and vigilance, while also addressing my concerns about Helel and Zarnazel."

As Sarnel spoke, God reflected on His other children, recalling the strengths of each Great Archangel. "Gabriel, the Messenger, carries My words across the heavens. Raphael, the Healer, brings comfort to the weary. Uriel, with her wisdom, shines light upon the darkest paths. Azrael embodies the duality of death and life, reminding us of the balance we must maintain. Cassiel governs the flow of time and speed, aiding us in navigating the swift currents of change. Jophiel, the Guardian of Beauty, reveals the splendor in our shared existence."

Sarnel felt a surge of determination. "Together, we can strengthen the bonds of our family and guard against the darkness that threatens our home."

With a renewed sense of purpose, Sarnel approached Michael, determination shining in his eyes. They had faced challenges before, but this time, the threat was insidious, lurking in the shadows of their kin. Yet, together, they were stronger. The Great Archangels would protect the harmony of Heaven, nurturing their bonds even as the seeds of darkness began to sprout.

Michael glanced at Sarnel, a sense of reassurance washing over him. "Let us call them together, then. We shall meet at the Council of the Transcendent Spirits. It is a place of strength and unity, where our voices can resonate without fear of discord."

The two Great Archangels swiftly summoned their siblings, the air around them shimmering with anticipation as the others arrived, each embodying their unique essence. Gabriel, with his clarion call; Raphael, exuding warmth and healing; Uriel, with sharp intellect; Azrael, embodying the duality of peace in the face of despair; Cassiel, with quiet strength and the mastery of time; and Jophiel, illuminating the space with her wisdom and grace.

As they gathered, Michael stepped forward, commanding the attention of the assembly. "Brothers and sisters, we have convened for an important reason. We have received a warning from our Father—an ominous force stirs within Heaven itself. Changes have begun to manifest among us, particularly with Helel and Zarnasel."

Concern rippled through the group. Gabriel spoke first, his voice steady. "Is there treachery among our ranks?"

"No, I do not believe so," Sarnel interjected, his voice firm. "Rather, it is ambition and pride that threaten the delicate balance we have maintained. I'm worried about Helel and Zarnasel. We must be vigilant, united as a family, to guide our brothers back to the light."

Raphael nodded, concern etched across his features. "It is crucial that we support each other. Darkness often comes disguised as something we desire."

Uriel furrowed her brow in thought. "Then we must encourage Helel and Zarnasel to reflect on their roles within the hierarchy, reminding them of our shared purpose."

Jophiel added, her voice a soothing balm, "Let us show them that ambition can be noble when rooted in love and loyalty."

As the discussion unfolded, the Great Archangels fortified their resolve. They would stand together, a united front against the seeds of darkness threatening to take root. With the wisdom of their experiences, they would guide their brothers through the storm, ensuring that the light of Heaven remained unblemished.

Sarnel glanced at Michael, a sense of reassurance washing over him. They had faced challenges before, but this time, the threat was insidious, lurking in the shadows of their kin. Yet, together, they were stronger. The Great Archangels would protect the harmony of Heaven, nurturing their bonds even as the seeds of darkness began to sprout.

As the variegated hues of sunset fell upon Heaven, painting the vast canvas of it in a tranquil sheen, Helel stood atop a crag, looking out toward the Heavenly Existences he had come to perceive as rightfully his. Before him, golden streets shimmered like fluid light; their radiance was insufficient to light up the darkness that had started consuming his heart. The Morning Star had long since ceased to be ambitious; instead, he donned the trappings of a power-hungry monster, whose growing hunger had subtly corrupted him, twisting his nature awry into something foul.

Helel's mind churned like a tempest in a cauldron, his dangerous pride warping the meaning of loyalty and brotherly love. He no longer considered himself to be serving the Creator, but was an upstart who could take the throne himself. The once noble ambitions now turned into aggressive intent to domination, and he found gladness in the idea of dethroning God to take His place among the divinity, to rule Heaven with the power of iron.

He dreamed of a time when his greatness would overwhelm the senses of those who saw him, when he would have control over life itself. It sent ripples of excitement down his spine. Every instant he spent under the service of others nagged at him, the constant reminder of an injustice he felt had been placed on him. He was the Morning Star, the brightest of all the heavenly hosts. "I am to be feared," he muttered under his breath, "not merely obeyed."

He remembered how the words of stirring, which echoed in his mind, seemed to say, "For I already have said in my heart: 'I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.'" Such thoughts fire the sparks in his soul, which raises his ambition.

In this new reality, Helel honed his craft of manipulation: a web of deceit and lies enveloping him, ensnaring others. He had learned to clothe ambitions with honeyed words, wrapping insidious thoughts with charm and flattery. Every interaction was some premeditated move; every conversation was part of some means to an end grand scheme aimed at drawing in others.

Zarnasel was the most shrewd of them all, a Supreme Great Archangel in support at first, but he too could not recognize what depth of transformation Helel had undertaken. And Helel had dressed his ambition like armor, the fire of pride in him now smoldering into a darker purpose. Recognition is no longer sought alone, but control.

And so, while walking in the garden that evening, bathed in golden light, Helel turned to Zarnasel, and with his lips curling into a sly smile, he spoke in smooth, velvety tones: "You speak of strength, my brother. However, the true strength is not only in the power has in knowing how to manage it. What if I offered you a place beside me when I ascend to my rightful throne?

The look in Zarnasel's eyes went wide, and a sudden flicker ignited inside him. Helel leaned in closer still, lowering his voice to that of a conspiratorial whisper. "Together, we could reshape Heaven. I shall be the king, and you shall be my second in command and loyal advisor. Imagine the things we could do! Establish a new order-a manner of things in which everything would be within our grasp.

The air was alive with what could have been said, and at that moment, a captivated Zarnasel stared into the vision of Helel. Still, doubt brewed somewhere in the depths of intrigue. Ambition in Helel was a wildfire, and wildfires burned everything in their path.

Yet Helel sensed the hesitation in Zarnasel's demeanor. With deftness born of malice, he pressed on. "You need not fear chaos, dear brother. I understand the balance we must maintain. We can guide the others and lead them into the light of our new reign. They will follow, for they cannot resist the allure of true power." "Is it not written that one can indeed become a god, knowing good and evil?

Zarnasel's heart was racing, his mind torn between caution and temptation. Helel's words were like sweet poison, lacing his thoughts with grandeur and glory. Still, the Morning Star was not simply charming but a master manipulator, full of guile to bend another's will to his purpose.

With each passing day, Helel's transformation only appeared to increase. So good at playing the role of the loyal Great Archangel, he harbored wicked desires in his heart. Every meeting with Michael and Sarnel was a spectacle, some form of ballet of lies, where he masked himself with feigned friendship. "I shall protect you both," he would say, oozing sincerity from his voice while formulating in his mind a scheme that would render them helpless.

In the confessional of his mind, he was concocting an intricate web of detailed lies, each one more complex than the last. He envisioned Great Archangels pitted against each other in his mind, planting the seeds of enmity that would loosen the bonds of cohesion among them. He would play peacemaker, guiding the discussions toward his goals.

Not only that, but he was armed with his charming self and the beauty that would serve as a distraction. He brought about a spell of trust in every sweet, flattering word. The surrounding hearts got ensnared as he transformed into the embodiment of deceit, perfect evil disguised under white light, and each smile held darkness within. "For I am the light that shines in the darkness," he whispered to himself, believing that he would be able to mask his true intentions with varnish over virtue.

But Helel's transformation was further fed by Zarnasel's admiration, until the crafty Great Archangel started to regard Helel as an ally in ambition. And Helel lapped up this perception well, taking good care that every thought of Zarnasel's he directed fell in line with his ambitions. "Together we can rise above all others," Helel would whisper, sending Zarnasel's ambitions into enticing enchantment, every word a weave in a dark tapestry of their fate.

His gaze is now dark, Helel stood atop Heaven, the weight of his desires binding him to pure evil. No longer was he just the Morning Star, but the harbinger of darkness-a perfect evil being that would rise against the Creator. With every thought, with every scheme, with every manipulation, he moved closer to the ultimate goal: a world in which he could reign as the top god among all beings. And as his ambitions began to dawn over Heaven, Helel could almost taste victory on his lips, a mixture of power and deception intoxicating heady. "I shall make the world grovel at my feet," he vowed as his ambition was lit like a fire, to brighten the path to his strange fate.

Yet, amidst Helel's ascent, an undercurrent of tension rippled through the realm. Michael and Sarnel, ever vigilant, remained oblivious to the brewing storm right beneath their wings. Their watchful eyes tracked Helel and Zarnasel, but they were blinded by the illusion of brotherly ambition. "They are simply exploring their potential," Sarnel had assured Michael, convinced that the interplay of dreams and aspirations was a natural phase in the evolution of their kinship.

But the seeds of discord were taking root, nurtured by Zarnasel's cunning whispers and Helel's intoxicating pride. The atmosphere in Heaven grew increasingly charged, like the moments before a tempest. The harmony that once defined their existence began to unravel, threads of trust fraying as Zarnasel's ambitions intertwined with Helel's burgeoning desire for supremacy.

In hushed conversations hidden away from the prying eyes of their brothers, Helel and Zarnasel forged a bond steeped in ambition and longing. Within the sanctity of their private meetings, they envisioned a future where they would shape Heaven according to their design. "Together, we could redefine our world," Helel said, his voice smooth as silk, weaving dreams into reality with every carefully chosen word.

Helel artfully crafted a narrative that painted himself as Zarnasel's most trusted sibling, a confidant in whom he could confide his deepest desires. "You see, my dear brother, it is you who understands the true potential of our kind. I am but a vessel for our shared vision, and I see you as the rightful second-in-command at my side." The flattery dripped from his lips, enticing Zarnasel further into the depths of his ambition.

Zarnasel's heart raced at the thought, the allure of power curling around him like smoke. He envisioned himself not merely as a follower, but as a key player in the new order Helel promised. The prospect of being the powerful right hand of a new God ignited a fire within him, one that mirrored Helel's own.

Yet beneath Zarnasel's growing enthusiasm lay an undercurrent of caution. He could sense the dangers lurking within Helel's unchecked ambition. Although he reveled in the dreams of grandeur, he treads carefully, aware that a fire left unchecked could consume everything in its path. He understood the importance of maintaining the trust of Michael and Sarnel, even as their plots unfurled like shadowy tendrils, encroaching upon the foundations of Heaven itself.

Together, Helel and Zarnasel strategized, plotting ways to reassure Sarnel and Michael while covertly orchestrating their ascent to power. "We must keep them believing in our loyalty," Zarnasel suggested, his brow furrowed in thought. "If we can maintain their trust, we can maneuver the pieces on the board to our advantage."

Helel nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. "Yes, but we must be vigilant. The moment they suspect our intentions, everything will unravel. Let us nurture our bonds with them, even as we pull the strings from behind the curtain." He leaned in closer, eyes gleaming with excitement. "Imagine a world where we are the architects of Heaven itself, shaping its destiny according to our desires."

The bond between Helel and Zarnasel deepened with every whispered scheme, each plan pushing them closer to the precipice of their ambitions. Together, they would cultivate a dark transformation that threatened the very fabric of Heaven. Zarnasel's ambition intertwined with Helel's pride, crafting a narrative where they were not merely brothers, but allies bound by their shared desires.

As the tension simmered in the air, Helel reveled in the certainty of his future. He could almost hear the echoes of the divine surrendering to his will, the sweet sound of Heaven bending to his desires. "Soon, my brother," he whispered, almost to himself, "we will rise above all, and the world shall know our names."

The stage was set, the players in position, and as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across their realm, the seeds of chaos began to take root. The dawn of their ambition was upon them, and with it came the promise of a new order—a world reshaped by pride, manipulation, and the relentless pursuit of power.