The Empty World | The Empty World Sequence [complete | rewriting]

Five (Draft 3) "Supernatural Aid"

"Remiel, would you come with us to see Somniel?" Jibril asked, speaking Sleep's Angelic name.

Remiel hesitated, shaking his head. "I need to find the other Archons. I suspect Gabriel and Raziel are in the Empty World."

"Yes, I am sure they are." Morpheus wasn't sure whether Jibril meant this for fact or only assurance for Remiel.

"Then, if I go as well, at least seven of us will be in one realm, should a judgement be needed. Raguel is here, somewhere, and higher ranked. He would be the best to help."

"Raguel is of the Hashmallim Order as we and Somniel are," Beholder said, putting a hand to Remiel's shoulder to gently steer him toward xem. "It would seem a conflict of interest for Raguel to have to take action in his house. And if Michael is gone, we cannot very well call for The Host."

Remiel's saffron wings fluttered at mention of The Host.

Just behind Remiel's shoulder, Jibril tipped his head, seeming to signal Morpheus.

"Really?" Morpheus only mouthed the word. Jibril wanted him to persuade Remiel?

Jibril raised his brows. Would Morpheus do it or not?

"Remi," Morpheus called. "I trust you. Raph and you taught me so much and I think he would want us both to do our best. We can't have the Archons dangerously split between realms and have Children of Night distracted from duty. Raphael can handle whichever Satans have gathered in the Empty World. Please help us here."

"Yes, of course!" Remiel said finally. "Your wing is all right, isn't it?"

"Yeah. Polymorphic flesh heals quickly." Morpheus began walking towards the paved path.

"You should see one of the Seraphim if it bothers you," Remiel advised.

Morpheus nodded and quickened his steps.

River whispered at his ear. "Murph, did your grandfather just—?"

"Encourage me to flirt with an Archon to get what he wanted? Pretty sure that just happened."

"I didn't see it until it was happening," River said. "You don't have to do that, even if someone is older or has authority."

Morpheus nodded again.

They came shortly to Sleep's house. Several of his other sons were outside the door and bowed as Remiel arrived.

Jibril let himself inside and Beholder went after him with Remiel.

Morpheus glanced at his brothers, then followed inside. The chamber was crowded, with some of his other brothers closest to the entrance, along with some Halfangels.

Past dark heads and shoulders of other Children of Night, Sleep was seated on his couch. Mother was near him with a cracked cheval-glass beside her. Two other Children of Night whom Morpheus only vaguely recognized from his Introduction were near his parents in argument.