DESI
I stand on the roof of the crypt and spread my arms wide. “Father,” I call.
Instantly, he is with me. I feel him within me, beside me. I feel him everywhere. He is me. I am he. We are one.
I spread my arms wide and welcome my Second, Taige, who leads all of Eleon’s followers, and many more besides, to the base of my makeshift dais. She kneels and they follow suit.
“Daughter. You have truly become desolation, as I always knew you would, Father hisses in my mind. All that I have is at your command.”
The ring on my finger spins. The serpent wraps around my heart.
I know what he says is true.
MICHAEL
I knelt before Odin on the steps of Valhalla. Valkyries, their golden armor gleaming in the sunlight, stood on either side of me.
“Rise, my son,” Odin beckoned. “We have much to discuss.” He turned, his golden robe swirling out behind him, and climbed the steps, confident I would follow.