Cherreads

Chapter 2 - chapter 2: strangers and encounters

Scene 1: Morning Conversations

The morning sun peeked through the curtains as Psal groggily sat up in bed. The remnants of the previous night's nightmare still clung to his mind, but he shook them off, attributing them to an overactive imagination. As he prepared for school, his phone buzzed on the nightstand.

Psal's Mother: "Good morning, sweetheart. How are you today?"

Psal: "Hey, Mom. I'm okay, just getting ready for school."

He hesitated for a moment, then decided to share.

Psal: "I had this weird dream last night. There was this... woman. She was calling out to me, and when I refused, she turned into some kind of demon, threatening me."

A concerned pause.

Psal's Mother: "Dreams can sometimes be more than just dreams, Psal. Have you prayed about it?"

Psal: "Mom, you know I'm not as religious as you. It was just a dream. No need to make a big deal out of it."

Psal's Mother: "I understand, but remember, prayer can be a source of strength and protection. I'll always keep you in my prayers."

Psal: "Thanks, Mom. I gotta go now. Talk to you later."

Psal's Mother: "Take care, sweetheart."

Scene 2: New Encounters

The bustling hallways of the school were alive with chatter as Psal met up with Mj by their lockers.

Mj: "Morning! You look like you didn't sleep well."

Psal: "Yeah, just had a weird night. Nothing major."

Before Mj could probe further, their homeroom teacher entered the classroom, a new student in tow.

Teacher: "Class, we have a new student joining us today. Please welcome Lutia."

A girl with an almost ethereal beauty stepped forward, her presence commanding immediate attention.

Lutia: "Hello, everyone. I'm Lutia. Nice to meet you all."

As she spoke, Psal felt a strange sense of familiarity, as if he'd seen her before. Shaking off the feeling, he watched as Lutia gracefully took the empty seat beside him.

Lutia: "Hi, I'm Lutia."

Psal: "I'm Psal. Welcome to the school."

Mj: "And I'm Mj. Looks like we're seat neighbors now."

The trio quickly found common ground, their conversation flowing effortlessly. By lunchtime, they were inseparable, sharing stories and laughter. The cafeteria buzzed with whispers and stolen glances, all directed at the captivating new student.

As the final bell rang, signaling the end of the school day, a sleek, luxurious car pulled up at the school's entrance. Lutia approached it, turning back to her new friends.

Lutia: "See you both tomorrow!"

She slid into the car, leaving a trail of curiosity and admiration in her wake.

Scene 3: A Brush with Darkness

The sky had turned a somber gray, with a light drizzle beginning to fall. Psal offered to walk Mj home, their path illuminated by the dim glow of streetlights.

After ensuring Mj was safely inside her house, Psal continued his journey home. The streets were eerily quiet, the patter of rain the only sound accompanying his footsteps.

Suddenly, a shadowy figure emerged ahead, its form obscured by the rain and darkness. A chill ran down Psal's spine as the figure advanced, revealing grotesque features reminiscent of his nightmare.

The creature, a fallen angel with twisted wings and a malevolent grin, drew an ancient, corroded sword, its blade exuding a foul stench.

Paralyzed by fear, Psal stood rooted to the spot. The demon raised its weapon, eyes gleaming with malicious intent.

Just as the blade descended, a blinding flash of lightning struck, accompanied by a deafening clap of thunder. The demon shrieked, disintegrating into ashes.

Through the dissipating smoke, two radiant beings with majestic wings descended. One approached Psal, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.

Angelic Being: "Do not be afraid. Your God will never let them harm you."

Psal: "Who... who are you?"

Before an answer could be given, another flash of lightning illuminated the sky, and the angels vanished. Overwhelmed, Psal's vision blurred, and he collapsed onto the wet pavement.

Scene 4: Revelations and Doubts

The sterile scent of antiseptics filled Psal's nostrils as he slowly opened his eyes. The white ceiling tiles indicated he was in a hospital room. Beside him, Mj sat, relief washing over her face.

Psal: "Where... where am I?"

Mj: "You're in the hospital. I found you unconscious on the street. What happened?"

Psal recounted the night's events, his voice trembling with emotion. Mj listened intently but remained skeptical.

Mj: "Psal, maybe it was just a hallucination or a dream. You've been stressed lately."

Before he could protest, his mother entered the room, concern etched on her face.

Psal's Mother: "Oh, my dear boy. Are you alright?"

After hearing his account, she clasped her hands together.

Psal's Mother: "It's clear that divine forces are watching over you. We must pray in gratitude."

Psal: "Mom, please. Not now."

Night fell, and the room was bathed in a soft, dim glow. As Psal rested, Mj remained by his side. The door creaked open, and Lutia stepped in, her expression unreadable.

Mj: "Lutia? How did you know he was here?"

Lutia: "I just... had a feeling something was wrong."

Mj: "A feeling? We've known Psal for years, and you just met him today."

Ignoring the tension, Lutia approached the bed, gazing at the sleeping Psal. Turning to Mj, she spoke softly.

Lutia: "Maybe you should go home and rest. I'll stay with him."

Mj: "No. I've been his friend for years. I'll stay."

A flicker of irritation crossed Lutia's face before she turned on her heel and left the room, her departure leaving an unsettling silence.

Scene 5: Descent into the Abyss

The city's skyline was a tapestry of lights against the darkened sky. A sleek supercar sped through the streets, heading toward the desolate coastline. Parking near the edge, Lutia stepped out, her heels clicking against the wet pavement.

Approaching the water's edge, she took a deep breath before diving into the inky depths. As she descended, the surroundings transformed. Bioluminescent creatures illuminated her path, leading her to an ancient yet technologically advanced underwater kingdom.

Upon her arrival, a servant bowed deeply.

Servant: "Welcome, my queen. He awaits your presence."

A sinister smile played on Lutia's lips as she shed her human guise, revealing her true form: Lilith, the first of the fallen.

Striding through the grand halls, she prepared to meet the one who awaits.

More Chapters