[ WP ] The grim reaper goes on strike

`` Reaper!'' called a voice behind, one all too familiar. 
 
 I turned my head to the calling voice, and find no other than one of god's greatest angels, Michael. 
 
 `` You seek audience with me sir? I'm afraid there's little to be discussed, so I'll be on my way.'' 
 
 `` You know you're walking away from a great honor, one even the worshipers of heaven have slant chance of attaining.'' I turned my whole body to the youthful looking man before me, resting my arms on the scythe across my shoulders. His face was one of seriousness and compassion. 
 
 `` I am but a humble servant, my refusal of duty will mean little in the grand scheme of the lord's plan, you of all people should know this, Michael, or do you prefer the name Jupiter? Perhaps Zeus-'' 
 
 `` Enough!'' Michael shouted. His anger showed in his deeply furrowed brow and reddened cheeks. His clenched fist shook before he regained composure and released it. He had turned his face to the ground in embarrassment but looked up now. `` I know my past! And I know my place here, but you? You command the angels of passing themselves, give guidance to those who are on the precipice of entering limbo. Why leave, why now?'' 
 
 I chuckled a bit to myself as the angel plead, somewhat thankful my shroud concealed it. I had thought little of my place in heaven, focused near entirely on my job with no need for haven's rewards and riches. To hear an archangel speak on the importance of my position was almost an honor. His sad and confused expression had some genuineness that suggested he himself was concerned, which was a far cry from the Professionalism I'd seen in him before. He deserved an answer, but... 
 
 `` I'm not going to stand for anymore denials of peaceful passing, I'm giving these people their last rites, even if I'm smited for it. You're not convincing me to go back, and I'm sorry.'' I try to make myself sound convincing, not that I was entirely lying, but he did n't seem to be buying it. 
 
 `` You're denying a direct order from God, treasonous activity included, you know the consequences for that.'' I saw the slight movement of his hand closer to his sword, `` And I'd rather not have it come to that, if possible.''. His hand was fully on his blade now, though he looked hesitant to actually attack. 
 
 `` I knew there'd be consequences, I was prepared for that the moment I sent that message. Even if I fall, Samael will be more than ready to retake his position, so I have no loose ends to tie up.'' I bring my scythe down from my shoulders and grasp it defensively in front of me. `` I do n't want a fight Michael.'' 
 
 `` Then tell me the truth.'' 
 
 `` I do n't know if I can.'' 
 
 `` Then you leave me no choice.'' the sliding of steel against the scabbard was loud as he retrieved his sword from it's resting spot. His arms spread to his sides as he began to rise from the ground, my eyes wide as I began to realize what was happening. 
 
 Were I to die again? 

