Sisyphus Prime @helios-pleonexia - Tumblr Blog

You find yourself back in the third level of the Lust layer, something deep down was telling you to go and check on a certain Mindflayer again, you couldn’t help but worry about her after all.

Entering her lair, you notice a body floating upright in the heart shaped pool not too far from her room, upon closer inspection, it dawns on you that it’s her, and she isn’t moving, the neon blue green lights on her back, left shoulder, and “eye” are dimmed as well

@lust-layer-mindflayer

*Sisyphus was looking for Irida, he had already looked for her in her room and around the halls, even the training room. But.. he didn't see her, so he kept looking for her. Once he found her in that pool, he swore he felt his heart sink.*

“Irida?!-”

*..Was she..? No, she couldn't be.. right?.. He tried looking at her from the sides of the pool, as if hesitating to enter..*

…?!

Upon feeling someone staring at her, she immediately shields her body with all six wings before diving into a very deep part of the pool, startled, it only took her a minute to gather enough courage to pop back up and look around, “exhaling” in relief when she realized it was just you

Fuck… you scared me there, dad..! I thought someone else was staring at me! That… felt very strange… anyways…

She didn’t float out of the pool, but her six wings did emerge and flutter once above the water’s surface before she swam over to a nearby ledge, “looking” at you

What brings you by, Sisyphus? Is everything alright? I honestly wasn’t expecting to see you again so soon… then again, after everything that recently happened, this should’ve been expected.

“Oh fuck- im so sorry, Irida.. Can I join you?”

*He sighed, now realizing how scary that might have been for her.. maybe even more than it was for him.*

“Well.. Can't I visit my daughter? I just wanted to check on you and maybe hang out.. And well.. I want to make sure you are safe.”

*Sisyphus smiled, joking on the first part.*

…

She “stared” at you for a few seconds, as if trying to figure out a few things in her professors, the ends of her six wings glowing a mix between light green and yellow, an… unusual color combination

You… want to join me, dad? Is water even safe for someone like you? No offense, but… I’d assume it would hurt or weaken your powers…

Yet once she heard that you came by to make sure she was safe, she “exhaled” softly and “smiled”, it felt good to know that you were always willing to check on her, no matter what

Hehe, I appreciate it, Sisyphus! Truth be told, doing this was very risky, but I hadn’t been in here for quite some time so… I threw caution to the wind, as usual!

“It doesn't hurt me, don't worry Irida.. I've tried before. So.. can I? Do I have your permission?”

*Sisyphus wanted to make sure first, since he didn't want to either scare her or worry her.. So he waited for her answer.*

“Come on, Irida! You have to be more cautious.. specially now, my child.. Dark times are approaching for us, it seems.. Yet I will make sure to guide everyone through it as best as I can.. you included.”

Huh…

She thought over what you said again before “nodding” and swimming backwards to give you space, she didn’t seem to mind

As long as it doesn’t hurt you, then jump on in, dad! And don’t worry, the water has no effect on me, so I won’t glitch out if I get splashed!

She waited in the middle of the pool for you, her six wings breaking the surface here and there so they could dry off before going back into the water, she always found this pool to be relaxing

Dark times..? What are you referring to, Sisyphus? Has… something gone wrong recently..?

*Sisyphus nodded and entered the water, sighing since it felt really good to finally be able to refresh his body.. He swam near Irida and splashed some water to her as long as he heard her, chuckling.*

“Well.. Everything that's been happening to you lately, I fear they won't stop nor become less than what it is now.. That's why I want to keep you safe.. Now, let's relax, yeah?”

Hey!

She “giggled” after being splashed with water, this entire scene reminded her of something similar that happened with Seraph, how she found him here in a similar way, when she learned he was pregnant with Lailah… taking a “breath” she splashed you back with all six of her wings

Hahaha! Bet you didn’t see that one coming, did you, dad?! Ahahaha! I’ve missed doing this… nearly forgot how relaxing this pool truly is…

“Sighing”, she swims over to you and lets her back rest against a ledge, lifting her wings up to let them dry in the process, you could see a special shimmer to them as the lighting hit in a specific way, making it look like her six wings were sparkling

Right… I highly doubt any of it is gonna stop either, Sisyphus… and these moments of freedom and relaxation are just that… moments… but at least… I have you and many others willing to defend me… I’m no longer alone in this… right..?

*Sisyphus was caught off guard, his brightness flickering as he laughed and followed her.*

“My god, those are powerful weapons on water, eh? Can you use them to swim? Have you tried?”

*He tilts his head and watches her from the water, curious about how and why her wings sparkled so much, they were very pretty, he must accept.*

“No, you are no longer alone, and you will never be, Irida.. You have all of us here.. We are all willing to protect you anytime, you know that.. Now, would you give me one of those little electricity balls?”

*Sisyphus almost begs, smiling and looking at her.*

Hehe!

She couldn’t help but “giggle” again as you complimented just how strong her six wings truly were, even though she still didn’t know how to properly use them for flight yet

Thanks, dad! Lately I’ve been discovering many new things regarding my wings, like how they’re able to glow a pastel rainbow color and that they can sparkle with divine light when angled properly!

Her voice held a definite tone of pride as she mindlessly formed a ball of electricity and immediately sent it over to you before “sighing”, it still felt so strange knowing that others wanted to protect her so badly

It’s strange, Sisyphus, no matter how many times I’m told such things… I have a hard time accepting it… but, rest assured, I’ll get used to this soon! The idea of being no longer alone… and having so many beings ready to protect me… I’ll get used to it!

“I know.. It's strange knowing you have people that care about you in so many ways.. I had to get used to this recently.. even if you might not believe me.. And, your wings are so pretty, they really are!”

*He said while she formed the ball, once she did and once it moved near him, he launched out of the water to take it, and once he got on the water again, he stayed there for some long seconds before getting his head out of the water, smiling, his brightness was lowered yet he seemed very happy.*

Yeah, guess fighting for others and defending them still remains my primary directive…

She “sighs” and “looks” up at the ceiling, admiring the endless night that could be seen from the overhead windows when she heard you compliment her wings, a very light pink color began to glow on the ends of them immediately

T-They are..? Thanks, dad..! I guess… my wings have become much fuller after they healed from being burned away not too long ago… they used to be nothing but light outlines when they first formed, but now? Fully fledged angel wings!

She turned back to “look” at you only to see the way you were acting with the ball of electricity she had sent over, it was so hard for her to hold back a “laugh” while watching the display

Pfft- Sisyphus, I swear! You’re such a tamed lion! The fact that you act like a cat every time I form one of those balls, its priceless!

“Yep, they are beautiful, I think they are simply growing with you, surviving and staying strong.. They truly look awesome, Irida.”

*Then, he heard the laugh and splashed her with water.*

“Come on! Again?! It is so much fun, you wouldn't understand it!”

Really?

She “glanced” over at her wings and lifted them a bit, watching as they shimmered with the light, she could see every feather in perfect detail, and it was so easy to recall just how soft they were too

If that’s true, dad, then… am I more divine than machine now? Have I evolved far beyond what my original design was? This is just-

She paused halfway when you splashed her with water again, she was stun locked for just a nanosecond before diving back into the pool, waiting for a minute, then emerging quickly which caused a wave of sorts to crash into you

Ahahaha! Once again, you weren’t fast enough, Sisyphus! And I understand how fun it is to mess with those! I tend to do it sometimes too, it’s not just you, trust me.

“Yep.. You do seem more divine that machine, you've been spending time with Gabriel aren't you?”

*Sisyphus joked and laughed, then, he saw what his daughter did and blocked some of the water with his arms, looking at her before throwing the ball at her, obviously not wanting to hurt her, just play.*

“Then let's play!”

Huh…

The thought of being more divine than machine… it was both incredible and inconceivable at the same time… would she evolve further? Now that she thinks about it… being a divine war machine paints a massive target on her back…

Of course I’ve been spending time with Archangel Gabriel, dad! He’s my surrogate brother, why would I? Though I wish I could also visit Seraph… but he needs time to heal…

Just before she could get caught up in her mind again, she saw how you tossed the ball of electricity and somehow took it as a challenge, “smiling”, she leaped out of the water and caught it with her left hand perfectly

Oh, you wanna play, Sisyphus? Hahaha! Then let’s play! I hope you’re ready!

“Just jokin', Iri'. Hehe.”

*Sisyphus laughs and smiles widely as he saw her accept the challenge.*

“Im always ready, Irida. Come on!”

Oh really?

She holds the ball of electricity in both of her hands and gives it more power, causing said ball to grow in size, almost like she was creating a volleyball of sorts

Did you really just call me “Iri”, dad? Damn, never thought I’d hear that come outta you! Not that I mind or anything! Hahaha!

With the ball of electricity now two times its original size, she tosses it up into the air and spikes it at you with impressive precision, it was quick and strong too

Hope you know how volleyball works, Sisyphus! Cause that’s what I’ve decided on! Unless dodge ball is more your style?

“Heh, we could say I love giving you nicknames, Irida.”

*Sisyphus smiles and prepares to hit the ball, he moved fast enough to hit it and send it towards her, with an incredible precission too, and.. pretty hard.*

“I don't know about sports, Iri, I'll just do my thing.”

She couldn’t help but hum a bit while her six wings fluttered in response to the nickname, she now had both “Iri” and “little cheetah”, it made her happy

Well I appreciate them fully, dad! I really do! It helps give me a sense of… individuality, something that’s very special to me and- woah!

She quickly dodges the ball of electricity that came flying full force at her before reaching up and catching it again, looks like volleyball isn’t the game to play with you after all

Nearly got me there, Sisyphus! Alright, guess we’ll just play a form of dodgeball! Whoever gets hit first loses! Understand?

“Well, I might give you more, little cheetah.”

*Sisyphus says and laughs at what she said.*

“Good for me! Just know that I won't have mercy!”

Oh?

She tilted her “head” to the side slightly, more nicknames? How many could you come up with for her? She was definitely interested now

Welp, up to you dad! I don’t mind! In fact… I’m curious to see what else you end up coming up with! Now then…

With the ball of electricity in her grasp, she kept her gaze on you, almost as if calculating the best course of action before tossing the ball up and spiking it directly at you

Heads up, Sisyphus! Hahaha!

“Well, you'll have to wait and see.”

*Sisyphus smiles, yet his smile is gone as soon as he sees the ball going directly at him with such force, yet.. he catched it almost perfectly.*

“Okay, that did caught me off guard.”

*He sharpened his gaze and looked at her.. wasting time so she would lose focus.. Then, he threw the ball with a lot of force once again, never doing other movements, as if all he needed was to be patient.. strong, and fast.*

Let’s see what you’ve got! Oop-

She quickly dodged out of the way of the ball of electricity you spiked back at her, it narrowly missed one of her wings, yet she somehow managed to move it just in time before catching the ball

Damn! Nice spike, dad! Almost got one of my wings there! I’m impressed! It takes a lot of careful planning to try and catch me off guard after all!

Allowing the ball of electricity to float just above her, she scans for any openings that will catch you off guard once again, making sure to remain meticulous the whole time, she wasn’t gonna go down without a fight after all, then, the opportunity presented itself and she took it, spiking the ball with a speed and strength you hadn’t seen before

With that being said… think fast, Sisyphus! Literally!

*Sisyphus laughed at what her daughter said, not seeing the ball and finally getting hit by it on the face, he didn't catch it, bringing a hand to his own face since that did hurt.*

“...ow.”

Oh fuck-

She wasted no time in immediately swimming over to you, worried that the ball of electricity caused some form of damage, she felt bad for being so reckless

Are you ok, dad? I… didn’t mean to spike the ball that hard… can I see? Are you bleeding at all? Please, let me take a look

She moved closer to you, an aura of genuine concern surrounding her as she tried to get a better look at your face, she… got too caught up in the heat of the game, the same thing that happens when she’s training or fighting

I’m sorry, Sisyphus… I… really didn’t mean to hurt you like that…

*Sisyphus nods and moves his hand away, revealing an injury, it was, indeed, bleeding, not too much but the fact that it made him bleed was already surprising.*

“..It's okay, Irida, don't apologize, im okay. I just didn't react in time, it's okay.. I promise..”

…

Seeing the blood, the ends of her six wings began to glow a dark blue color, she felt really bad for injuring you in such a way… she should’ve been more careful…

Dad… hold still, ok..? This won’t hurt at all, I promise..!

Without hesitation, she lifted one of her wings up to your face and used it to soak up the blood, making sure to heal the wound in the process by allowing warmth to emanate from her body, not caring if your blood stained her pure white wings

And… that should do it… has the bleeding stopped, Sisyphus?

“..I think so.. It's.. okay. You can move the wing away, Irida..”

*He slowly removed Irida's wing away, bringing it to the water and cleaning the feathers slowly.. The injury was still bleeding but pretty less.*

Are you sure? I think it’s still-

She paused when you moved her wing back down into the water, seemingly frozen in shock, barely anyone had dared to touch her wings since… the Violence layer incident… yet she knew it was just you

B-Be careful… dad..! M-My wings are still a little sensitive t-to being ha-

Feeling you clean her feathers caused her body to shudder in… fear? Why was she afraid? It’s just you… not him… burning them away… so why did she feel the urge to hide..? Confused and scared by the way her processors were reacting, she grabbed ahold of your upper right arm and hid herself

…S-S-S-isyphus…

“I-.. Oh fuck, im so fucking sorry, Irida..”

*Sisyphus realized and his grip left her wing as quick as possible, hands shaking with guilt.*

“..I should have asked.. Im so sorry.. Are you okay?.. Irida?.. Im here.. W-We can go out of the water if you need time.. Or-.. I-.. Im sorry..”

*He looked at her.. He was used to being able to clean and pet his loved ones, especially Minos. He had to accept he didn't think before acting, it was one of his biggest issues.*

…

She didn’t respond right away, instead she stayed hidden behind you, shuddering slightly, “looking” around, making sure no one was stalking her… she didn’t understand why such a simple action scared her so bad…

…I-I’ll be ok… d-dad… it’s ok… y-you just scared me is all..!

Slowly, she moved to face you, wings fluttering slightly in an attempt to show you that she was fine, yet her body was still trembling, she couldn’t get it to stop

We don’t have to leave, S-Sisyphus… I’ll be ok..! I… s-should’ve warned you..! S-Sorry about that..!

“..Do you want a hug, Iri?.. Im so sorry for scaring you..”

*Sisyphus said again, apologizing.. He opened his arms for her, offering a hug yet never forcing her to accept it.. He had noticed how much she was shaking and it broke his heart..*

..!

Hearing you offer a hug made her “stare” at you for a few seconds, almost like she was making sure she heard you correctly before “nodding” slowly

Y-Yes please… that would be… n-nice… dad..!

With a bit of caution, she swam into your embrace, body still shaking from being startled, but your familiar warmth helped her relax… she knew it really was you… and not him…

I-It’s ok, Sisyphus..! Really..! You don’t need to keep apologizing… I’ll be ok… I promise..!

“..I.. see.. Do you want to calm down for some more time, or shall we play softer? We can also do other things if you want, Irida.. it's okay.. Just tell me.”

*Sisyphus said, holding his daughter close and petting her back slowly, very gently, not wanting to scare her again.. His warmth was pretty comfortable..*

I… don’t know yet… I think… I…

The more she spoke, you began to realize something wasn’t right, her voice sounded lethargic, almost like her processors were fighting to stay awake…

…D-Dad…

Confused by what was currently happening, she clung to your neck as best she could and curled up, her six wings clumsily moving to shield her body… it was hard to tell if this was exhaustion or her being low on fuel… either way… the sight was concerning…

…S-Sisy-phus…

“Irida?!..”

*Sisyphus quickly cradled her in his arms and swam as best as he could to one of the pool edges, leaving Irida there and getting out of the water right after that. Then, he picked her up again and went to a corner of the room, his warmth being pretty high now so they could both dry.. his touch didn't hurt now..*

*A familiar face seems to approach Michael, a big smile on his face, oh it had been a long time since they saw each other! And.. he had so much to tell him.*

“Michael! How are you?”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

“Hm..? Oh fuck- King Sisyphus! I didn’t see you there! Apologies…”

Michael seemed to immediately jump upon hearing your voice, almost like he was heavily focused on something, the sol behind him flickering slightly while also emitting flammable sparks

“Damn, when was the last time we spoke? Feels like I haven’t seen you in ages… never mind that, is everything alright on your end? I… a lot has happened recently so… checking in on those here has been… rough… hehehe…”

“Hey, it's okay, Michael.. im not going anywhere.. You can cry on my shoulder, friend.. There's no need to hide it..”

*Sisyphus also meets the snow, starting to rise the warmth of his body so the snow and the cold would go away..*

“I-I…”

Michael immediately goes and buries his face into your left shoulder, silently crying, has body shaking while the sol behind him flickers with each sob, the eldest of the Archangels had fallen so far… and yet he refused to give up… even if it meant destroying his mind in the process…

“K-King… S-Sisyphus… I… t-this… i-it… h-hurts..! I… n-need… t-to… s-see… V-Verchiel… a-again..! I… b-but… m-my… h-heart… a-and… m-mind… c-can’t… t-take… i-it..!”

“..Michael.. you are being very brave right now.. I know how scared you are, but look, we are very close to her now.. You can do it.. We will see her.. Your daughter..”

*Sisyphus tried to comfort him, petting his back and hugging him..*

You find yourself back in the third level of the Lust layer, something deep down was telling you to go and check on a certain Mindflayer again, you couldn’t help but worry about her after all.

@lust-layer-mindflayer

“Irida?!-”

*..Was she..? No, she couldn't be.. right?.. He tried looking at her from the sides of the pool, as if hesitating to enter..*

…?!

Fuck… you scared me there, dad..! I thought someone else was staring at me! That… felt very strange… anyways…

She didn’t float out of the pool, but her six wings did emerge and flutter once above the water’s surface before she swam over to a nearby ledge, “looking” at you

What brings you by, Sisyphus? Is everything alright? I honestly wasn’t expecting to see you again so soon… then again, after everything that recently happened, this should’ve been expected.

“Oh fuck- im so sorry, Irida.. Can I join you?”

*He sighed, now realizing how scary that might have been for her.. maybe even more than it was for him.*

“Well.. Can't I visit my daughter? I just wanted to check on you and maybe hang out.. And well.. I want to make sure you are safe.”

*Sisyphus smiled, joking on the first part.*

…

You… want to join me, dad? Is water even safe for someone like you? No offense, but… I’d assume it would hurt or weaken your powers…

Yet once she heard that you came by to make sure she was safe, she “exhaled” softly and “smiled”, it felt good to know that you were always willing to check on her, no matter what

Hehe, I appreciate it, Sisyphus! Truth be told, doing this was very risky, but I hadn’t been in here for quite some time so… I threw caution to the wind, as usual!

“It doesn't hurt me, don't worry Irida.. I've tried before. So.. can I? Do I have your permission?”

*Sisyphus wanted to make sure first, since he didn't want to either scare her or worry her.. So he waited for her answer.*

Huh…

She thought over what you said again before “nodding” and swimming backwards to give you space, she didn’t seem to mind

As long as it doesn’t hurt you, then jump on in, dad! And don’t worry, the water has no effect on me, so I won’t glitch out if I get splashed!

She waited in the middle of the pool for you, her six wings breaking the surface here and there so they could dry off before going back into the water, she always found this pool to be relaxing

Dark times..? What are you referring to, Sisyphus? Has… something gone wrong recently..?

“Well.. Everything that's been happening to you lately, I fear they won't stop nor become less than what it is now.. That's why I want to keep you safe.. Now, let's relax, yeah?”

Hey!

Hahaha! Bet you didn’t see that one coming, did you, dad?! Ahahaha! I’ve missed doing this… nearly forgot how relaxing this pool truly is…

*Sisyphus was caught off guard, his brightness flickering as he laughed and followed her.*

“My god, those are powerful weapons on water, eh? Can you use them to swim? Have you tried?”

*He tilts his head and watches her from the water, curious about how and why her wings sparkled so much, they were very pretty, he must accept.*

*Sisyphus almost begs, smiling and looking at her.*

Hehe!

She couldn’t help but “giggle” again as you complimented just how strong her six wings truly were, even though she still didn’t know how to properly use them for flight yet

Yeah, guess fighting for others and defending them still remains my primary directive…

She turned back to “look” at you only to see the way you were acting with the ball of electricity she had sent over, it was so hard for her to hold back a “laugh” while watching the display

Pfft- Sisyphus, I swear! You’re such a tamed lion! The fact that you act like a cat every time I form one of those balls, its priceless!

“Yep, they are beautiful, I think they are simply growing with you, surviving and staying strong.. They truly look awesome, Irida.”

*Then, he heard the laugh and splashed her with water.*

“Come on! Again?! It is so much fun, you wouldn't understand it!”

Really?

If that’s true, dad, then… am I more divine than machine now? Have I evolved far beyond what my original design was? This is just-

Ahahaha! Once again, you weren’t fast enough, Sisyphus! And I understand how fun it is to mess with those! I tend to do it sometimes too, it’s not just you, trust me.

“Yep.. You do seem more divine that machine, you've been spending time with Gabriel aren't you?”

“Then let's play!”

Huh…

Of course I’ve been spending time with Archangel Gabriel, dad! He’s my surrogate brother, why would I? Though I wish I could also visit Seraph… but he needs time to heal…

Oh, you wanna play, Sisyphus? Hahaha! Then let’s play! I hope you’re ready!

“Just jokin', Iri'. Hehe.”

*Sisyphus laughs and smiles widely as he saw her accept the challenge.*

“Im always ready, Irida. Come on!”

Oh really?

She holds the ball of electricity in both of her hands and gives it more power, causing said ball to grow in size, almost like she was creating a volleyball of sorts

Did you really just call me “Iri”, dad? Damn, never thought I’d hear that come outta you! Not that I mind or anything! Hahaha!

With the ball of electricity now two times its original size, she tosses it up into the air and spikes it at you with impressive precision, it was quick and strong too

Hope you know how volleyball works, Sisyphus! Cause that’s what I’ve decided on! Unless dodge ball is more your style?

“Heh, we could say I love giving you nicknames, Irida.”

*Sisyphus smiles and prepares to hit the ball, he moved fast enough to hit it and send it towards her, with an incredible precission too, and.. pretty hard.*

“I don't know about sports, Iri, I'll just do my thing.”

She couldn’t help but hum a bit while her six wings fluttered in response to the nickname, she now had both “Iri” and “little cheetah”, it made her happy

Well I appreciate them fully, dad! I really do! It helps give me a sense of… individuality, something that’s very special to me and- woah!

She quickly dodges the ball of electricity that came flying full force at her before reaching up and catching it again, looks like volleyball isn’t the game to play with you after all

Nearly got me there, Sisyphus! Alright, guess we’ll just play a form of dodgeball! Whoever gets hit first loses! Understand?

“Well, I might give you more, little cheetah.”

*Sisyphus says and laughs at what she said.*

“Good for me! Just know that I won't have mercy!”

Oh?

She tilted her “head” to the side slightly, more nicknames? How many could you come up with for her? She was definitely interested now

Welp, up to you dad! I don’t mind! In fact… I’m curious to see what else you end up coming up with! Now then…

With the ball of electricity in her grasp, she kept her gaze on you, almost as if calculating the best course of action before tossing the ball up and spiking it directly at you

Heads up, Sisyphus! Hahaha!

“Well, you'll have to wait and see.”

*Sisyphus smiles, yet his smile is gone as soon as he sees the ball going directly at him with such force, yet.. he catched it almost perfectly.*

“Okay, that did caught me off guard.”

Let’s see what you’ve got! Oop-

She quickly dodged out of the way of the ball of electricity you spiked back at her, it narrowly missed one of her wings, yet she somehow managed to move it just in time before catching the ball

Damn! Nice spike, dad! Almost got one of my wings there! I’m impressed! It takes a lot of careful planning to try and catch me off guard after all!

With that being said… think fast, Sisyphus! Literally!

*Sisyphus laughed at what her daughter said, not seeing the ball and finally getting hit by it on the face, he didn't catch it, bringing a hand to his own face since that did hurt.*

“...ow.”

Oh fuck-

She wasted no time in immediately swimming over to you, worried that the ball of electricity caused some form of damage, she felt bad for being so reckless

Are you ok, dad? I… didn’t mean to spike the ball that hard… can I see? Are you bleeding at all? Please, let me take a look

I’m sorry, Sisyphus… I… really didn’t mean to hurt you like that…

*Sisyphus nods and moves his hand away, revealing an injury, it was, indeed, bleeding, not too much but the fact that it made him bleed was already surprising.*

“..It's okay, Irida, don't apologize, im okay. I just didn't react in time, it's okay.. I promise..”

…

Seeing the blood, the ends of her six wings began to glow a dark blue color, she felt really bad for injuring you in such a way… she should’ve been more careful…

Dad… hold still, ok..? This won’t hurt at all, I promise..!

And… that should do it… has the bleeding stopped, Sisyphus?

“..I think so.. It's.. okay. You can move the wing away, Irida..”

*He slowly removed Irida's wing away, bringing it to the water and cleaning the feathers slowly.. The injury was still bleeding but pretty less.*

Are you sure? I think it’s still-

She paused when you moved her wing back down into the water, seemingly frozen in shock, barely anyone had dared to touch her wings since… the Violence layer incident… yet she knew it was just you

B-Be careful… dad..! M-My wings are still a little sensitive t-to being ha-

…S-S-S-isyphus…

“I-.. Oh fuck, im so fucking sorry, Irida..”

*Sisyphus realized and his grip left her wing as quick as possible, hands shaking with guilt.*

“..I should have asked.. Im so sorry.. Are you okay?.. Irida?.. Im here.. W-We can go out of the water if you need time.. Or-.. I-.. Im sorry..”

*He looked at her.. He was used to being able to clean and pet his loved ones, especially Minos. He had to accept he didn't think before acting, it was one of his biggest issues.*

…

…I-I’ll be ok… d-dad… it’s ok… y-you just scared me is all..!

Slowly, she moved to face you, wings fluttering slightly in an attempt to show you that she was fine, yet her body was still trembling, she couldn’t get it to stop

We don’t have to leave, S-Sisyphus… I’ll be ok..! I… s-should’ve warned you..! S-Sorry about that..!

“..Do you want a hug, Iri?.. Im so sorry for scaring you..”

*Sisyphus said again, apologizing.. He opened his arms for her, offering a hug yet never forcing her to accept it.. He had noticed how much she was shaking and it broke his heart..*

..!

Hearing you offer a hug made her “stare” at you for a few seconds, almost like she was making sure she heard you correctly before “nodding” slowly

Y-Yes please… that would be… n-nice… dad..!

With a bit of caution, she swam into your embrace, body still shaking from being startled, but your familiar warmth helped her relax… she knew it really was you… and not him…

I-It’s ok, Sisyphus..! Really..! You don’t need to keep apologizing… I’ll be ok… I promise..!

“..I.. see.. Do you want to calm down for some more time, or shall we play softer? We can also do other things if you want, Irida.. it's okay.. Just tell me.”

*Sisyphus said, holding his daughter close and petting her back slowly, very gently, not wanting to scare her again.. His warmth was pretty comfortable..*

*A familiar face seems to approach Michael, a big smile on his face, oh it had been a long time since they saw each other! And.. he had so much to tell him.*

“Michael! How are you?”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

“Hm..? Oh fuck- King Sisyphus! I didn’t see you there! Apologies…”

Michael seemed to immediately jump upon hearing your voice, almost like he was heavily focused on something, the sol behind him flickering slightly while also emitting flammable sparks

“Hey, it's okay, Michael.. im not going anywhere.. You can cry on my shoulder, friend.. There's no need to hide it..”

*Sisyphus also meets the snow, starting to rise the warmth of his body so the snow and the cold would go away..*

divine-intervention-be-upon-ye

*Gabriel sat curled up in a ball in the greed layer, trying to keep his breathing and heart rate slow. He wasn’t doing a great job at that*

*It was very rare that he came to this layer of hell, but he needed a change of scenery. The panic only set in after he was deep in the layer*

*Teleporting out was completely out of the question, if he tried teleporting home like this he would end up in earth or something else ridiculous like that. So he was stuck in one of the pyramids of greed until he calmed down*

( @divine-intervention-be-upon-ye )

*..A figure approached Gabriel between the shadows, once the sun hit it, it revealed a lioness, eyes bright and light yellow, she seemed very threathening yet she didn't attack, she got comfortable besides the archangel, and soon.. another figure approached, Sisyphus.. Once he recognize who it was, he approached closer.*

“Gabriel?.. Are you okay?”

*Seeing Sisyphus made Gabriel’s heart rake pick all the way back up. His mind recycling the memory of decapitating the poor king.*

Why do you care. Last time I checked you hated me.

*The lioness actually brought him a bit of comfort, animals tended to favor him. Such innocent little creatures*

Just leave me be, I am fine.

*He was absolutely not fine, but like hell he wouldn’t admit that.*

divine-intervention-be-upon-ye

“Gabriel. If I were to not care, Equinox would have already bitten your head off, and she hasn't. Now, calm down, or I'll leave you here, alone. You don't want that, do you?..”

*Sisyphus seemed to be offended, sighing after that and offering Gabriel a hug.*

“...Come here. You can trust me. I trust that we can start again, I saw how you treated Irida, and.. how she cared about you..”

*His mind was so foggy that he didn’t even register the threat. But the little part of Gabriel’s mind that was still there very much did not want to be alone*

*It took him a moment to consider the offer, but in the end his body moved on its own and accepted the embrace*

I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.

*He meant it. He ment it with all his soul. He never wanted to kill the king, he never wanted to hurt anyone. He was forced to*

*He wished he could say it, explain everything. But all that came out was*

I was forced.

*Sisyphus sighed.. he had heard this before.. from that other Gabriel, the one that seemed to control water, the father of little Anshel and Lailah.. The Council really did cause all of them trouble.. and it made him so mad. He petted Gabriel's back slowly, keeping him close and making sure to keep the warmth of his touch comfortable.*

“..I know, I know.. please, don't apologize.. I know you didn't want to.. I forgive you..”

*His voice lowered to a calm and confortable tone.*

You find yourself back in the third level of the Lust layer, something deep down was telling you to go and check on a certain Mindflayer again, you couldn’t help but worry about her after all.

@lust-layer-mindflayer

“Irida?!-”

*..Was she..? No, she couldn't be.. right?.. He tried looking at her from the sides of the pool, as if hesitating to enter..*

…?!

Fuck… you scared me there, dad..! I thought someone else was staring at me! That… felt very strange… anyways…

She didn’t float out of the pool, but her six wings did emerge and flutter once above the water’s surface before she swam over to a nearby ledge, “looking” at you

What brings you by, Sisyphus? Is everything alright? I honestly wasn’t expecting to see you again so soon… then again, after everything that recently happened, this should’ve been expected.

“Oh fuck- im so sorry, Irida.. Can I join you?”

*He sighed, now realizing how scary that might have been for her.. maybe even more than it was for him.*

“Well.. Can't I visit my daughter? I just wanted to check on you and maybe hang out.. And well.. I want to make sure you are safe.”

*Sisyphus smiled, joking on the first part.*

…

You… want to join me, dad? Is water even safe for someone like you? No offense, but… I’d assume it would hurt or weaken your powers…

Yet once she heard that you came by to make sure she was safe, she “exhaled” softly and “smiled”, it felt good to know that you were always willing to check on her, no matter what

Hehe, I appreciate it, Sisyphus! Truth be told, doing this was very risky, but I hadn’t been in here for quite some time so… I threw caution to the wind, as usual!

“It doesn't hurt me, don't worry Irida.. I've tried before. So.. can I? Do I have your permission?”

*Sisyphus wanted to make sure first, since he didn't want to either scare her or worry her.. So he waited for her answer.*

Huh…

She thought over what you said again before “nodding” and swimming backwards to give you space, she didn’t seem to mind

As long as it doesn’t hurt you, then jump on in, dad! And don’t worry, the water has no effect on me, so I won’t glitch out if I get splashed!

She waited in the middle of the pool for you, her six wings breaking the surface here and there so they could dry off before going back into the water, she always found this pool to be relaxing

Dark times..? What are you referring to, Sisyphus? Has… something gone wrong recently..?

“Well.. Everything that's been happening to you lately, I fear they won't stop nor become less than what it is now.. That's why I want to keep you safe.. Now, let's relax, yeah?”

Hey!

Hahaha! Bet you didn’t see that one coming, did you, dad?! Ahahaha! I’ve missed doing this… nearly forgot how relaxing this pool truly is…

*Sisyphus was caught off guard, his brightness flickering as he laughed and followed her.*

“My god, those are powerful weapons on water, eh? Can you use them to swim? Have you tried?”

*He tilts his head and watches her from the water, curious about how and why her wings sparkled so much, they were very pretty, he must accept.*

*Sisyphus almost begs, smiling and looking at her.*

Hehe!

She couldn’t help but “giggle” again as you complimented just how strong her six wings truly were, even though she still didn’t know how to properly use them for flight yet

Yeah, guess fighting for others and defending them still remains my primary directive…

She turned back to “look” at you only to see the way you were acting with the ball of electricity she had sent over, it was so hard for her to hold back a “laugh” while watching the display

Pfft- Sisyphus, I swear! You’re such a tamed lion! The fact that you act like a cat every time I form one of those balls, its priceless!

“Yep, they are beautiful, I think they are simply growing with you, surviving and staying strong.. They truly look awesome, Irida.”

*Then, he heard the laugh and splashed her with water.*

“Come on! Again?! It is so much fun, you wouldn't understand it!”

Really?

If that’s true, dad, then… am I more divine than machine now? Have I evolved far beyond what my original design was? This is just-

Ahahaha! Once again, you weren’t fast enough, Sisyphus! And I understand how fun it is to mess with those! I tend to do it sometimes too, it’s not just you, trust me.

“Yep.. You do seem more divine that machine, you've been spending time with Gabriel aren't you?”

“Then let's play!”

Huh…

Of course I’ve been spending time with Archangel Gabriel, dad! He’s my surrogate brother, why would I? Though I wish I could also visit Seraph… but he needs time to heal…

Oh, you wanna play, Sisyphus? Hahaha! Then let’s play! I hope you’re ready!

“Just jokin', Iri'. Hehe.”

*Sisyphus laughs and smiles widely as he saw her accept the challenge.*

“Im always ready, Irida. Come on!”

Oh really?

She holds the ball of electricity in both of her hands and gives it more power, causing said ball to grow in size, almost like she was creating a volleyball of sorts

Did you really just call me “Iri”, dad? Damn, never thought I’d hear that come outta you! Not that I mind or anything! Hahaha!

With the ball of electricity now two times its original size, she tosses it up into the air and spikes it at you with impressive precision, it was quick and strong too

Hope you know how volleyball works, Sisyphus! Cause that’s what I’ve decided on! Unless dodge ball is more your style?

“Heh, we could say I love giving you nicknames, Irida.”

*Sisyphus smiles and prepares to hit the ball, he moved fast enough to hit it and send it towards her, with an incredible precission too, and.. pretty hard.*

“I don't know about sports, Iri, I'll just do my thing.”

She couldn’t help but hum a bit while her six wings fluttered in response to the nickname, she now had both “Iri” and “little cheetah”, it made her happy

Well I appreciate them fully, dad! I really do! It helps give me a sense of… individuality, something that’s very special to me and- woah!

She quickly dodges the ball of electricity that came flying full force at her before reaching up and catching it again, looks like volleyball isn’t the game to play with you after all

Nearly got me there, Sisyphus! Alright, guess we’ll just play a form of dodgeball! Whoever gets hit first loses! Understand?

“Well, I might give you more, little cheetah.”

*Sisyphus says and laughs at what she said.*

“Good for me! Just know that I won't have mercy!”

Oh?

She tilted her “head” to the side slightly, more nicknames? How many could you come up with for her? She was definitely interested now

Welp, up to you dad! I don’t mind! In fact… I’m curious to see what else you end up coming up with! Now then…

With the ball of electricity in her grasp, she kept her gaze on you, almost as if calculating the best course of action before tossing the ball up and spiking it directly at you

Heads up, Sisyphus! Hahaha!

“Well, you'll have to wait and see.”

*Sisyphus smiles, yet his smile is gone as soon as he sees the ball going directly at him with such force, yet.. he catched it almost perfectly.*

“Okay, that did caught me off guard.”

Let’s see what you’ve got! Oop-

She quickly dodged out of the way of the ball of electricity you spiked back at her, it narrowly missed one of her wings, yet she somehow managed to move it just in time before catching the ball

Damn! Nice spike, dad! Almost got one of my wings there! I’m impressed! It takes a lot of careful planning to try and catch me off guard after all!

With that being said… think fast, Sisyphus! Literally!

*Sisyphus laughed at what her daughter said, not seeing the ball and finally getting hit by it on the face, he didn't catch it, bringing a hand to his own face since that did hurt.*

“...ow.”

Oh fuck-

She wasted no time in immediately swimming over to you, worried that the ball of electricity caused some form of damage, she felt bad for being so reckless

Are you ok, dad? I… didn’t mean to spike the ball that hard… can I see? Are you bleeding at all? Please, let me take a look

I’m sorry, Sisyphus… I… really didn’t mean to hurt you like that…

*Sisyphus nods and moves his hand away, revealing an injury, it was, indeed, bleeding, not too much but the fact that it made him bleed was already surprising.*

“..It's okay, Irida, don't apologize, im okay. I just didn't react in time, it's okay.. I promise..”

…

Seeing the blood, the ends of her six wings began to glow a dark blue color, she felt really bad for injuring you in such a way… she should’ve been more careful…

Dad… hold still, ok..? This won’t hurt at all, I promise..!

And… that should do it… has the bleeding stopped, Sisyphus?

“..I think so.. It's.. okay. You can move the wing away, Irida..”

*He slowly removed Irida's wing away, bringing it to the water and cleaning the feathers slowly.. The injury was still bleeding but pretty less.*

Are you sure? I think it’s still-

She paused when you moved her wing back down into the water, seemingly frozen in shock, barely anyone had dared to touch her wings since… the Violence layer incident… yet she knew it was just you

B-Be careful… dad..! M-My wings are still a little sensitive t-to being ha-

…S-S-S-isyphus…

“I-.. Oh fuck, im so fucking sorry, Irida..”

*Sisyphus realized and his grip left her wing as quick as possible, hands shaking with guilt.*

“..I should have asked.. Im so sorry.. Are you okay?.. Irida?.. Im here.. W-We can go out of the water if you need time.. Or-.. I-.. Im sorry..”

*He looked at her.. He was used to being able to clean and pet his loved ones, especially Minos. He had to accept he didn't think before acting, it was one of his biggest issues.*

…

…I-I’ll be ok… d-dad… it’s ok… y-you just scared me is all..!

Slowly, she moved to face you, wings fluttering slightly in an attempt to show you that she was fine, yet her body was still trembling, she couldn’t get it to stop

We don’t have to leave, S-Sisyphus… I’ll be ok..! I… s-should’ve warned you..! S-Sorry about that..!

“..Do you want a hug, Iri?.. Im so sorry for scaring you..”

*Sisyphus said again, apologizing.. He opened his arms for her, offering a hug yet never forcing her to accept it.. He had noticed how much she was shaking and it broke his heart..*

*A familiar face seems to approach Michael, a big smile on his face, oh it had been a long time since they saw each other! And.. he had so much to tell him.*

“Michael! How are you?”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

“Hm..? Oh fuck- King Sisyphus! I didn’t see you there! Apologies…”

Michael seemed to immediately jump upon hearing your voice, almost like he was heavily focused on something, the sol behind him flickering slightly while also emitting flammable sparks

*A chuckle leaves Sisyphus as he hears Michael, nodding and offering him a hand shake.*

“Ah well, everything is going really well! Irida.. she has been having some troubles.. but if we talk about me and Minos.. I have great news.. Would you like to hear 'em, Michael? You will be surprised, im sure of it.”

*His tone and words made Michael know how much Sisyphus appreciated him, he always saw him as someone honorable, strong and.. as a close friend. After all, they were both users of the sun..*

“Oh? Have things been on the up and up?”

Michael tilts his head to the side, genuinely curious about what’s been happening while he was… spiraling… in Heaven, the eldest of the Archangels made a mental note to revisit the name “Irida” since you seemed so happy

“Great news eh? No need to hide it for much longer, King Sisyphus! Come now, do tell me everything, I’m very much interested as I have been… kinda trapped in my mind… but that doesn’t matter!”

“..Me and Minos.. had a child.. the first human child in years.. His name is Pothos, and.. I couldn't be more happy to have him..”

*Sisyphus smiled widely, he really loved talking about his baby.. and his husband too, he loved his family a lot.*

“I see… and- WHAT?! A human?! After all these years?! A human has been born?! And in Hell no less?! Holy fuck… I…”

Michael couldn’t hold back his shocked reaction to the news you gave, a human truly had been brought into this world… after a millennia or two… he lost track… but a living, breathing, human… the eldest of the Archangels was both extremely surprised and… relieved… maybe there was hope..? Though very minuscule

“I… this is monumental news, King Sisyphus! Massive congratulations to both you and King Minos! I can only imagine how exiting it was to see such a thing! And his name… Pothos… I think it’s perfect.”

“Yes! A human.. Isn't it.. incredible?.. We thought humans would be gone forever.. and now.. I am able to call the first one in years my son.. He is.. incredible.. and I couldn't be more happy.. Thank you so much, Michael!.. You can.. always try to see him, go to Minos's palace.. But well, how has been life treating you, dear friend?”

*Sisyphus's smile only grew wider and wider.. oh how he loves his family..*

“I’ll definitely pay King Minos a visit soon, it’s been quite some time since I last saw him, after all. Plus, I’d like to see this newborn human life for myself..! And… give him my blessings.”

Even though Michael’s face was shrouded in darkness, you could definitely tell that he was smiling, yet the moment you asked how things were going on his end, the eldest of the Archangels froze, the sol behind him flickering slightly, he… couldn’t lie to you

“On my end..? Not well, King Sisyphus… I mean, I literally tried and nearly succeeded in snuffing out my own life a few weeks ago… luckily Phanuel was there to help before… I became nothing more than a memory…”

“Yes, he will love that, im sure.. Wait-.. Phanuel is back?! And what do you mean you tried-..?!”

*Sisyphus was.. shocked.*

“Michael. Friend.. Why?..”

“Yes, Phanuel’s back, Verchiel and I found him in Fraud. Although our initial reunion… didn’t go as I had hoped…”

Michael looked down and winced when he heard your voice, the way you questioned why he tried to end himself not too long ago… he could sense the hurt and sense of betrayal in your voice… emotions that would definitely be prevalent if he succeeded…

“I… Verchiel left me, as did Phanuel, after that initial reunion, King Sisyphus… I broke… spiraled into a whole new depression… didn’t let anyone in… locked myself in my office… drank my sorrows away… burned myself… then just decided one night that I had nothing left to lose… and that no one would miss me… stabbed myself with my prized sword right through my gut… Phanuel managed to get in and remove it before the damage became… fatal…”

“Michael..”

*As he heard the story, Sisyphus understood.. he would have felt bad too.. Hell, he almost started acting as a weapon again when.. he was only useful as one.. and he knew too damn well how much that would have affected his mind, and.. probably his life too. He would also break if both Irida and Minos left him.. he wouldn't be able to bear it.. the loneliness, the sadness, he would never be able to get over it.*

“Im.. so sorry..”

*And soon, he hugged the archangel, he.. understood.*

“I was an idiot… for thinking it was the only answer… for believing th-“

Michael paused when he felt you embrace him, the eldest of the Archangels was frozen in shock for a few seconds before tears rolled down his darkness shrouded face, he knew he fucked up when Phanuel saw the aftermath of that night… and it still haunts him… shakily, Michael returned the hug

“T-Thank you… King Sisyphus… I… won’t lie… the events of that night still haunt me… the very idea of the fact that I nearly succeeded… I-I just… forgive me… this display of mine is… uncommon…”

*Sisyphus didn't move away from the hug, still embracing the archangel as he heard what he said..*

“..Don't be ashamed to cry.. I.. just.. imagine what you've been going through and.. I know I would have done the same.. I wouldn't be able to stand it.. Im so sorry, Michael, I really am.”

“…”

Michael didn’t say a word, instead, he buried his face into your right shoulder and began to cry more, silencing his sobs so he wouldn’t sound so pathetic, but it was obvious by the way his sol dimmed that the eldest of the Archangels was working through so much grief

“T-Thank you… K-King Sisyphus..! I… really needed this..! A-And… I’m sorry… for thinking that ending it… was the… o-only solution..!”

“..It's okay, really.. Don't apologize.. I-.. would have also thought it was.. Yet.. life does get better.. Even if it seems like you're gonna stay like.. that all your life.. or as if you're not going to survive.. I-It does get better.. Please, keep going.. I know Im not that important to you, but.. promise me that you will keep on going for your lover, and for Verchiel..”

*Sisyphus said, petting the back of his friend..*

“I will… I won’t give up again… I can’t afford to, especially now..!”

Michael took a breath, the sol behind him regaining its brilliant radiant orange glow as you comforted him, the eldest of the Archangels felt so much stronger, especially with you backing him up

“Verchiel’s hurt… I’m pretty sure Lucifer and Hell are watching over her… as for Phanuel… he sorta took off again, I don’t know where he went… but I felt the need to scour Hell… something is telling me to at least look around, King Sisyphus… although, I’m scared…”

“..I can try to help you if you want, Michael.. Please don't be scared, if he's back im sure he won't go very far away.. And.. Verchiel.. why don't you go see her?.. What happened?.. You don't need to tell me if you don't want to, but.. what's wrong?..”

*Sisyphus sighs and tilts his head, his brightness flickering softly, what had happened with her to leave so suddenly?.. And.. he knew Phanuel wouldn't be very far from Heaven specially after him coming back..*

“Verchiel… she… from what I was able to gather, her psyche broke… someone had been training her violent side… she’d become far more aggressive than before… I… all I know as of now is that she’s being treated for stab wounds caused by holy spears…”

Just recalling these events caused Michael to wince, he didn’t dare tell you that he was scared of his daughter, afraid to face her, fearful of what she’d become… the eldest of the Archangels refused to let said things become public knowledge

“As for Phanuel, I… looked everywhere in Heaven for him after my wound healed… he isn’t there… the only other place that makes sense to me is here… in Hell… but I worry that he’s trying to find Verchiel… and if she sees him… it’ll be an on sight fight… she hates him…”

“..I see.. If I were you.. I would go see her.. make her know everything is okay.. It seems like she needs someone right now.. But, of course, you can do as you want, you know her better than I..”

*Sisyphus had to accept he wasn't the best one at parenting.. Since he never got the chance to do so.. even if he now had Irida..*

“Hm.. Maybe he's hidding somewhere?.. Maybe he needs a rest.. he might.. be tired.. Have you noticed him tired?.. or.. something?..”

“Trust me, I really do want to go and see Verchiel but… I think it’s best if the two of us stay separate for a bit… I’m still unstable and I don’t wanna make things worse for my dear sunburst… she’s already going through enough…”

Michael glances down a bit, he truly did believe that leaving his daughter with Lucifer and Hell itself was the best course of action, especially considering his current mental state

“Hmm… now that I think about it, King Sisyphus… Phanuel did fall asleep in my arms almost instantly after he healed my stab wound… so it wouldn’t surprise me if he truly is exhausted…”

“I.. totally understand that, but I would suggest that going to see her as soon as possible might be the best option.. But, again, she's your daughter, I barely know anything about her.. So it is your choice.. Phanuel.. He really seems exhausted to me, if he is taking a break then I would say you shouldn't be worrying too much, I am too worried whenever Minos disappears, so I understand, but.. let him rest, yeah?.. He seems to need it.. after how long he spent out there..”

“Can I be honest with you, King Sisyphus? One of the main reasons why I haven’t gone to see Verchiel is because… I’m scared of her… of what she’s become… I… it’s pathetic I know, but… damnit..!”

Flames begin to expel from the sol behind Michael as he voices the truth to you, he can’t hide it any longer, no matter how pathetic and cowardly it made the eldest of the Archangels appear…

“Normally I wouldn’t be too worried about Phanuel but… all of it circles back to Verchiel’s initial encounter with him… he… thought we were fakes… and when she was on the ground, crying… he kicked her away… Verchiel… was abused in many ways… so such an act causes her to break… I have no doubt in my mind that Phanuel wants to make amends but… I… it’s too dangerous for him..!”

“...You're-..? I-.. How?.. Im not.. mad.. I promise.. I- just.. I don't know.. I understand how you might feel but I don't think leaving her just because of being afraid will help at all..”

*Sisyphus said.. he didn't know what to say.. he was scared of her?.. When he heard that she got abused, he got even more confused.. didn't he thought this could happen?..*

“Okay, what the fuck is wrong with Phanuel?! That is.. wrong. What the..”

“A lot of my fear regarding Verchiel comes down to… the fact that if she truly is too far gone… there’s no conceivable way to bring her back to her senses… I’d have to… kill… my dear sunburst… and… I just…”

The sol behind Michael flickers as he confesses more to you, the very idea scares him horribly, the eldest of the Archangels still holds faith that Verchiel can be saved… but if nothing can be done for her… then…

“As for what’s wrong with Phanuel… I feel as though he’s lost some of his senses during his time searching tirelessly for The Father… I mean… he truly believed that I was a trick the Fraud layer was playing on him… he wasn’t thinking rationally… but that doesn’t excuse what he did…”

“..Why?.. I.. don't.. think killing her would be a good option either.. Why kill her instead of helping? Every soul can be helped, and.. I truly don't believe your daughter is truly evil, I believe she can be saved.. I don't know how, you'll have to figure it out by yourself.. If you don't want to kill her, you should help..”

*He said, sighing, he found the situation easy in some way, helping Verchiel would take time, yes, but it would be worse if he ignored her.. and if he was scared of killing her, he should help her so she wouldn't go too far..*

“Listen. I might sound rude, but, everyone has seen those tricks in Fraud, he is not the only one. He seems to have lost his fucking mind at this point. Who the fuck sees a child crying and goes and kicks it away? You can't just defend that, Michael.. I know he is your lover, but that's wrong.”

“I… if only her entire break didn’t terrify me so much… I’d be there for her in a fucking heartbeat! I don’t understand why I’m so Goddamn scared to begin with! This… isn’t like me at all!”

Michael knew all too well that he wasn’t acting the way he usually does, this fear of his was something foreign… he hated it! Why couldn’t he just suck it up and go see his daughter?! What had him so paralyzed?!

“I take no offense at all, King Sisyphus… you’re right, I completely called Phanuel out on his behavior, it… I couldn’t believe what he’d become… the Phanuel I know would never do such a thing! And yet he did… right in front of me! I’m not defending what he did at all…”

“..What terrifies you, Michael?”

*Sisyphus met Michael's gaze, his was serious.. he knew a life wasn't a game. And they were pretty much risking Verchiel's life.*

“..Look, you need to talk to him seriously when he comes back from whatever the heck he is doing. You can't ignore that.”

“The fact that Verchiel has become so… broken… and that I wasn’t fast enough! I could’ve saved her sooner! But no… I wasn’t there when she needed me the most… when she was being abused by… him… and now someone else has taken advantage of her shattered psyche! I’m scared that… she’ll come to hate me… or even desire to kill me!”

The sol behind Michael began to flicker as his body began to shake, he… was truly scared… of everything… of himself… of Verchiel… of Phanuel… what had he become..?! This wasn’t the Michael everyone knew..!

“I will have a serious conversation with Phanuel about this, King Sisyphus… I promise you…”

*He sighs and places both of his hands on Michael's shoulders.*

“Michael, look at me.. It's okay to cry if you need to, but please, understand that.. you need to visit her, there's no need to be afraid.. Nothing is stopping you but yourself. You are the only thing stopping you from seeing her. Would you prefer for her to.. really hate you?.. To understand she doesn't mean anything to you? Because that's what she'll feel if you don't see her. She is not a monster, but a very unstable child, and your daughter.”

*Sisyphus said, not wanting to hurt Michael, yet he wanted to explain it clearly..*

“..!”

Your words immediately caused tears to form in Michael’s eyes, why couldn’t he understand it sooner..?! He was only causing Verchiel more pain by leaving her alone… by not visiting his own daughter… he… was no better than The Council now… the eldest of the Archangels collapsed to his knees and practically tore his hood off, revealing his olive skinned face, bright blue eyes, long dark brown hair, and orange head wings

“Y-You’re right… damnit you’re right, King Sisyphus! Why couldn’t I have seen this sooner?! I… what’s wrong with me?! I’m no fucking better than The Council at this point! V-Verchiel… she needs me! I… why won’t my mind accept it already?!”

“..Michael.. Get up..”

*Sisyphus did feel bad.. yet Michael didn't seem to... understand fully.*

“There's no time to blame yourself, nor anyone. She needs help, will you stay here and cry on the floor while she is probably having some horrible times?”

“…”

Michael takes a few deep breaths before stumbling to his feet, the sol behind him flickering wildly, although you can’t see it, the eldest of the Archangels is fighting with his mind, every move he’s making is against what’s being commanded, and it was painful

“K-King Sisyphus… would you be willing… to help me locate her..? I… can’t do this on my own… I realize that now… I need someone to help me… lest I turn tail and run away… fuck… my head… I hate fighting my mind like this… but it needs to be done… for Verchiel’s sake..!”

“I will.. Just.. calm down..”

*Sisyphus sighed and pulled Michael for a hug, petting his back slowly.. He knew this was being real hard for him, yet he knew he had to make Michael understand he couldn't just do that..*

“Understood, I-“

Your embrace managed to catch Michael off guard yet again, he really needed this, a way to keep him sane as the eldest of the Archangels prepared himself for eventually going to face his daughter after all this time

“King Sisyphus… thank you… truly… your support is very much needed… would you like to go now..?”

“..Yes, that will be the best thing. Where did you see her for the last time?.. She may have not gone to far from there.”

*Sisyphus moved away from the hug and crossed his arms.*

“Alright.”

Michael nodded before grabbing his hood and flipping it back over his head, making sure to situate it better so it wouldn’t fall off so easily during the search, too many beings have seen his face recently after all

“The last time I saw Verchiel, we were in Treachery, that’s where I along with the rest of the rescue team decided to hole up after saving her from… him… so I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s still there, King Sisyphus.”

“Wait.. doesn't Hell and Lucifer live there?.. I-.. might not go if that's the case, I've argued with Hell recently, I am very sorry for what I said but I don't know if Hell will accept my apologies.. And as you may know, I do not want to enrage xer.”

*Sisyphus hesitated.*

“I see… hmm… then let’s try it this way… hang on.”

Michael pulls a notebook out from seemingly thin air along with a pen then begins to both write and scribble things down on the blank page, even though his face was shrouded in darkness yet again, you could tell that the eldest of the Archangels was completely focused on what he was doing

“A better idea would be for you to help guide me through Treachery, King Sisyphus. Unfortunately, my sol has been acting up as of late… so if we follow this specific path, we can avoid Hell’s gaze. Once I know that we’re close enough to their dwelling, you stay here, make sure I have no means of running away… and I will go search for Verchiel, understand?”

“Hm, yes, that's a better plan, Michael. Now, shall we go? We can't waste more time, my friend.”

*Sisyphus nodded, memorizing the plan, admiring silently Michael's ability to make a plan in such a short time.*

“I’m glad you agree with this plan, now, don’t move.”

Michael walks over to you and places his right hand on your left shoulder before taking a breath, not even a second later did you find yourself at the entrance of Treachery, the eldest of the Archangels was breathing heavily but still he stood tall

“Ok… here we… are… King Sisyphus… now… just follow… the… plan… and we should… make it… there fairly soon… if… all goes well… ok..?”

“Yes, let's go.. I'll follow you, Michael, let's go..”

*Sisyphus said, he wasn't used to the cold, shivering a little bit because of it.. He sighed and created a cape of light for himself, putting it on.*

“Follow me, don’t stray far.”

Michael managed to catch his breath and began to walk through the snow of Treachery, determined to find Verchiel, yet with every step the eldest of the Archangels took, the more his anxiety grew… the sol behind him flickering wildly, an sos signal

“I… K-King Sisyphus… h-has the air… always been this thick..? M-My heart is… I-I… need to run… fuck… I… w-what’s… wrong with me..?!”

*Sisyphus's hands reaches to Michael's shoulder, stopping him for a moment.*

“Calm down, im by your side, Michael, nothing's gonna happen, im here. Tell me whenever you are ready to keep going.”

“I-I’ll be… ok..!”

That was a blatant lie and you could tell, especially with the way Michael’s voice was shaking along with the sos flashing the sol behind him continued to produce, yet the eldest of the Archangels refused to give up, he needed to go and see Verchiel again

“Follow me, K-King Sisyphus… I… can do this..! Just… d-don’t stray f-far… a-and we’ll g-get there..! I… k-know it..!”

“Michael.”

*Sisyphus looks at him, refusing to continue.*

“Calm down.. please. Let's rest for a moment, do you want a hug? Anything? Just.. rest for now, I know you are feeling bad right now.. Trust me, Michael..”

divine-intervention-be-upon-ye

*Gabriel sat curled up in a ball in the greed layer, trying to keep his breathing and heart rate slow. He wasn’t doing a great job at that*

*It was very rare that he came to this layer of hell, but he needed a change of scenery. The panic only set in after he was deep in the layer*

( @divine-intervention-be-upon-ye )

“Gabriel?.. Are you okay?”

*Seeing Sisyphus made Gabriel’s heart rake pick all the way back up. His mind recycling the memory of decapitating the poor king.*

Why do you care. Last time I checked you hated me.

*The lioness actually brought him a bit of comfort, animals tended to favor him. Such innocent little creatures*

Just leave me be, I am fine.

*He was absolutely not fine, but like hell he wouldn’t admit that.*

#[the radiant leader.]#[the kingdoms greed.]

“Gabriel. If I were to not care, Equinox would have already bitten your head off, and she hasn't. Now, calm down, or I'll leave you here, alone. You don't want that, do you?..”

*Sisyphus seemed to be offended, sighing after that and offering Gabriel a hug.*

“...Come here. You can trust me. I trust that we can start again, I saw how you treated Irida, and.. how she cared about you..”

You find yourself back in the third level of the Lust layer, something deep down was telling you to go and check on a certain Mindflayer again, you couldn’t help but worry about her after all.

@lust-layer-mindflayer

“Irida?!-”

*..Was she..? No, she couldn't be.. right?.. He tried looking at her from the sides of the pool, as if hesitating to enter..*

…?!

Fuck… you scared me there, dad..! I thought someone else was staring at me! That… felt very strange… anyways…

She didn’t float out of the pool, but her six wings did emerge and flutter once above the water’s surface before she swam over to a nearby ledge, “looking” at you

What brings you by, Sisyphus? Is everything alright? I honestly wasn’t expecting to see you again so soon… then again, after everything that recently happened, this should’ve been expected.

“Oh fuck- im so sorry, Irida.. Can I join you?”

*He sighed, now realizing how scary that might have been for her.. maybe even more than it was for him.*

“Well.. Can't I visit my daughter? I just wanted to check on you and maybe hang out.. And well.. I want to make sure you are safe.”

*Sisyphus smiled, joking on the first part.*

…

You… want to join me, dad? Is water even safe for someone like you? No offense, but… I’d assume it would hurt or weaken your powers…

Yet once she heard that you came by to make sure she was safe, she “exhaled” softly and “smiled”, it felt good to know that you were always willing to check on her, no matter what

Hehe, I appreciate it, Sisyphus! Truth be told, doing this was very risky, but I hadn’t been in here for quite some time so… I threw caution to the wind, as usual!

“It doesn't hurt me, don't worry Irida.. I've tried before. So.. can I? Do I have your permission?”

*Sisyphus wanted to make sure first, since he didn't want to either scare her or worry her.. So he waited for her answer.*

Huh…

She thought over what you said again before “nodding” and swimming backwards to give you space, she didn’t seem to mind

As long as it doesn’t hurt you, then jump on in, dad! And don’t worry, the water has no effect on me, so I won’t glitch out if I get splashed!

She waited in the middle of the pool for you, her six wings breaking the surface here and there so they could dry off before going back into the water, she always found this pool to be relaxing

Dark times..? What are you referring to, Sisyphus? Has… something gone wrong recently..?

“Well.. Everything that's been happening to you lately, I fear they won't stop nor become less than what it is now.. That's why I want to keep you safe.. Now, let's relax, yeah?”

Hey!

Hahaha! Bet you didn’t see that one coming, did you, dad?! Ahahaha! I’ve missed doing this… nearly forgot how relaxing this pool truly is…

*Sisyphus was caught off guard, his brightness flickering as he laughed and followed her.*

“My god, those are powerful weapons on water, eh? Can you use them to swim? Have you tried?”

*He tilts his head and watches her from the water, curious about how and why her wings sparkled so much, they were very pretty, he must accept.*

*Sisyphus almost begs, smiling and looking at her.*

Hehe!

She couldn’t help but “giggle” again as you complimented just how strong her six wings truly were, even though she still didn’t know how to properly use them for flight yet

Yeah, guess fighting for others and defending them still remains my primary directive…

She turned back to “look” at you only to see the way you were acting with the ball of electricity she had sent over, it was so hard for her to hold back a “laugh” while watching the display

Pfft- Sisyphus, I swear! You’re such a tamed lion! The fact that you act like a cat every time I form one of those balls, its priceless!

“Yep, they are beautiful, I think they are simply growing with you, surviving and staying strong.. They truly look awesome, Irida.”

*Then, he heard the laugh and splashed her with water.*

“Come on! Again?! It is so much fun, you wouldn't understand it!”

Really?

If that’s true, dad, then… am I more divine than machine now? Have I evolved far beyond what my original design was? This is just-

Ahahaha! Once again, you weren’t fast enough, Sisyphus! And I understand how fun it is to mess with those! I tend to do it sometimes too, it’s not just you, trust me.

“Yep.. You do seem more divine that machine, you've been spending time with Gabriel aren't you?”

“Then let's play!”

Huh…

Of course I’ve been spending time with Archangel Gabriel, dad! He’s my surrogate brother, why would I? Though I wish I could also visit Seraph… but he needs time to heal…

Oh, you wanna play, Sisyphus? Hahaha! Then let’s play! I hope you’re ready!

“Just jokin', Iri'. Hehe.”

*Sisyphus laughs and smiles widely as he saw her accept the challenge.*

“Im always ready, Irida. Come on!”

Oh really?

She holds the ball of electricity in both of her hands and gives it more power, causing said ball to grow in size, almost like she was creating a volleyball of sorts

Did you really just call me “Iri”, dad? Damn, never thought I’d hear that come outta you! Not that I mind or anything! Hahaha!

With the ball of electricity now two times its original size, she tosses it up into the air and spikes it at you with impressive precision, it was quick and strong too

Hope you know how volleyball works, Sisyphus! Cause that’s what I’ve decided on! Unless dodge ball is more your style?

“Heh, we could say I love giving you nicknames, Irida.”

*Sisyphus smiles and prepares to hit the ball, he moved fast enough to hit it and send it towards her, with an incredible precission too, and.. pretty hard.*

“I don't know about sports, Iri, I'll just do my thing.”

She couldn’t help but hum a bit while her six wings fluttered in response to the nickname, she now had both “Iri” and “little cheetah”, it made her happy

Well I appreciate them fully, dad! I really do! It helps give me a sense of… individuality, something that’s very special to me and- woah!

She quickly dodges the ball of electricity that came flying full force at her before reaching up and catching it again, looks like volleyball isn’t the game to play with you after all

Nearly got me there, Sisyphus! Alright, guess we’ll just play a form of dodgeball! Whoever gets hit first loses! Understand?

“Well, I might give you more, little cheetah.”

*Sisyphus says and laughs at what she said.*

“Good for me! Just know that I won't have mercy!”

Oh?

She tilted her “head” to the side slightly, more nicknames? How many could you come up with for her? She was definitely interested now

Welp, up to you dad! I don’t mind! In fact… I’m curious to see what else you end up coming up with! Now then…

With the ball of electricity in her grasp, she kept her gaze on you, almost as if calculating the best course of action before tossing the ball up and spiking it directly at you

Heads up, Sisyphus! Hahaha!

“Well, you'll have to wait and see.”

*Sisyphus smiles, yet his smile is gone as soon as he sees the ball going directly at him with such force, yet.. he catched it almost perfectly.*

“Okay, that did caught me off guard.”

Let’s see what you’ve got! Oop-

She quickly dodged out of the way of the ball of electricity you spiked back at her, it narrowly missed one of her wings, yet she somehow managed to move it just in time before catching the ball

Damn! Nice spike, dad! Almost got one of my wings there! I’m impressed! It takes a lot of careful planning to try and catch me off guard after all!

With that being said… think fast, Sisyphus! Literally!

*Sisyphus laughed at what her daughter said, not seeing the ball and finally getting hit by it on the face, he didn't catch it, bringing a hand to his own face since that did hurt.*

“...ow.”

Oh fuck-

She wasted no time in immediately swimming over to you, worried that the ball of electricity caused some form of damage, she felt bad for being so reckless

Are you ok, dad? I… didn’t mean to spike the ball that hard… can I see? Are you bleeding at all? Please, let me take a look

I’m sorry, Sisyphus… I… really didn’t mean to hurt you like that…

*Sisyphus nods and moves his hand away, revealing an injury, it was, indeed, bleeding, not too much but the fact that it made him bleed was already surprising.*

“..It's okay, Irida, don't apologize, im okay. I just didn't react in time, it's okay.. I promise..”

…

Seeing the blood, the ends of her six wings began to glow a dark blue color, she felt really bad for injuring you in such a way… she should’ve been more careful…

Dad… hold still, ok..? This won’t hurt at all, I promise..!

And… that should do it… has the bleeding stopped, Sisyphus?

“..I think so.. It's.. okay. You can move the wing away, Irida..”

*He slowly removed Irida's wing away, bringing it to the water and cleaning the feathers slowly.. The injury was still bleeding but pretty less.*

Are you sure? I think it’s still-

She paused when you moved her wing back down into the water, seemingly frozen in shock, barely anyone had dared to touch her wings since… the Violence layer incident… yet she knew it was just you

B-Be careful… dad..! M-My wings are still a little sensitive t-to being ha-

…S-S-S-isyphus…

#[the kingdoms greed.]#[the radiant leader.]#ooc: he is so scared :(

“I-.. Oh fuck, im so fucking sorry, Irida..”

*Sisyphus realized and his grip left her wing as quick as possible, hands shaking with guilt.*

“..I should have asked.. Im so sorry.. Are you okay?.. Irida?.. Im here.. W-We can go out of the water if you need time.. Or-.. I-.. Im sorry..”

*He looked at her.. He was used to being able to clean and pet his loved ones, especially Minos. He had to accept he didn't think before acting, it was one of his biggest issues.*

*A familiar face seems to approach Michael, a big smile on his face, oh it had been a long time since they saw each other! And.. he had so much to tell him.*

“Michael! How are you?”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

“Hm..? Oh fuck- King Sisyphus! I didn’t see you there! Apologies…”

Michael seemed to immediately jump upon hearing your voice, almost like he was heavily focused on something, the sol behind him flickering slightly while also emitting flammable sparks

*A chuckle leaves Sisyphus as he hears Michael, nodding and offering him a hand shake.*

*His tone and words made Michael know how much Sisyphus appreciated him, he always saw him as someone honorable, strong and.. as a close friend. After all, they were both users of the sun..*

“Oh? Have things been on the up and up?”

“..Me and Minos.. had a child.. the first human child in years.. His name is Pothos, and.. I couldn't be more happy to have him..”

*Sisyphus smiled widely, he really loved talking about his baby.. and his husband too, he loved his family a lot.*

“I see… and- WHAT?! A human?! After all these years?! A human has been born?! And in Hell no less?! Holy fuck… I…”

*Sisyphus's smile only grew wider and wider.. oh how he loves his family..*

“Yes, he will love that, im sure.. Wait-.. Phanuel is back?! And what do you mean you tried-..?!”

*Sisyphus was.. shocked.*

“Michael. Friend.. Why?..”

“Yes, Phanuel’s back, Verchiel and I found him in Fraud. Although our initial reunion… didn’t go as I had hoped…”

“Michael..”

“Im.. so sorry..”

*And soon, he hugged the archangel, he.. understood.*

“I was an idiot… for thinking it was the only answer… for believing th-“

*Sisyphus didn't move away from the hug, still embracing the archangel as he heard what he said..*

“..Don't be ashamed to cry.. I.. just.. imagine what you've been going through and.. I know I would have done the same.. I wouldn't be able to stand it.. Im so sorry, Michael, I really am.”

“…”

“T-Thank you… K-King Sisyphus..! I… really needed this..! A-And… I’m sorry… for thinking that ending it… was the… o-only solution..!”

*Sisyphus said, petting the back of his friend..*

“I will… I won’t give up again… I can’t afford to, especially now..!”

Michael took a breath, the sol behind him regaining its brilliant radiant orange glow as you comforted him, the eldest of the Archangels felt so much stronger, especially with you backing him up

*Sisyphus had to accept he wasn't the best one at parenting.. Since he never got the chance to do so.. even if he now had Irida..*

“Hm.. Maybe he's hidding somewhere?.. Maybe he needs a rest.. he might.. be tired.. Have you noticed him tired?.. or.. something?..”

Michael glances down a bit, he truly did believe that leaving his daughter with Lucifer and Hell itself was the best course of action, especially considering his current mental state

“Hmm… now that I think about it, King Sisyphus… Phanuel did fall asleep in my arms almost instantly after he healed my stab wound… so it wouldn’t surprise me if he truly is exhausted…”

Flames begin to expel from the sol behind Michael as he voices the truth to you, he can’t hide it any longer, no matter how pathetic and cowardly it made the eldest of the Archangels appear…

“...You're-..? I-.. How?.. Im not.. mad.. I promise.. I- just.. I don't know.. I understand how you might feel but I don't think leaving her just because of being afraid will help at all..”

*Sisyphus said.. he didn't know what to say.. he was scared of her?.. When he heard that she got abused, he got even more confused.. didn't he thought this could happen?..*

“Okay, what the fuck is wrong with Phanuel?! That is.. wrong. What the..”

“..What terrifies you, Michael?”

*Sisyphus met Michael's gaze, his was serious.. he knew a life wasn't a game. And they were pretty much risking Verchiel's life.*

“..Look, you need to talk to him seriously when he comes back from whatever the heck he is doing. You can't ignore that.”

“I will have a serious conversation with Phanuel about this, King Sisyphus… I promise you…”

*He sighs and places both of his hands on Michael's shoulders.*

*Sisyphus said, not wanting to hurt Michael, yet he wanted to explain it clearly..*

“..!”

“..Michael.. Get up..”

*Sisyphus did feel bad.. yet Michael didn't seem to... understand fully.*

“There's no time to blame yourself, nor anyone. She needs help, will you stay here and cry on the floor while she is probably having some horrible times?”

“…”

“I will.. Just.. calm down..”

*Sisyphus sighed and pulled Michael for a hug, petting his back slowly.. He knew this was being real hard for him, yet he knew he had to make Michael understand he couldn't just do that..*

“Understood, I-“

“King Sisyphus… thank you… truly… your support is very much needed… would you like to go now..?”

“..Yes, that will be the best thing. Where did you see her for the last time?.. She may have not gone to far from there.”

*Sisyphus moved away from the hug and crossed his arms.*

“Alright.”

*Sisyphus hesitated.*

“I see… hmm… then let’s try it this way… hang on.”

“Hm, yes, that's a better plan, Michael. Now, shall we go? We can't waste more time, my friend.”

*Sisyphus nodded, memorizing the plan, admiring silently Michael's ability to make a plan in such a short time.*

“I’m glad you agree with this plan, now, don’t move.”

“Ok… here we… are… King Sisyphus… now… just follow… the… plan… and we should… make it… there fairly soon… if… all goes well… ok..?”

“Yes, let's go.. I'll follow you, Michael, let's go..”

*Sisyphus said, he wasn't used to the cold, shivering a little bit because of it.. He sighed and created a cape of light for himself, putting it on.*

“Follow me, don’t stray far.”

“I… K-King Sisyphus… h-has the air… always been this thick..? M-My heart is… I-I… need to run… fuck… I… w-what’s… wrong with me..?!”

*Sisyphus's hands reaches to Michael's shoulder, stopping him for a moment.*

“Calm down, im by your side, Michael, nothing's gonna happen, im here. Tell me whenever you are ready to keep going.”

You find yourself back in the third level of the Lust layer, something deep down was telling you to go and check on a certain Mindflayer again, you couldn’t help but worry about her after all.

@lust-layer-mindflayer

“Irida?!-”

*..Was she..? No, she couldn't be.. right?.. He tried looking at her from the sides of the pool, as if hesitating to enter..*

…?!

Fuck… you scared me there, dad..! I thought someone else was staring at me! That… felt very strange… anyways…

She didn’t float out of the pool, but her six wings did emerge and flutter once above the water’s surface before she swam over to a nearby ledge, “looking” at you

What brings you by, Sisyphus? Is everything alright? I honestly wasn’t expecting to see you again so soon… then again, after everything that recently happened, this should’ve been expected.

“Oh fuck- im so sorry, Irida.. Can I join you?”

*He sighed, now realizing how scary that might have been for her.. maybe even more than it was for him.*

“Well.. Can't I visit my daughter? I just wanted to check on you and maybe hang out.. And well.. I want to make sure you are safe.”

*Sisyphus smiled, joking on the first part.*

…

You… want to join me, dad? Is water even safe for someone like you? No offense, but… I’d assume it would hurt or weaken your powers…

Yet once she heard that you came by to make sure she was safe, she “exhaled” softly and “smiled”, it felt good to know that you were always willing to check on her, no matter what

Hehe, I appreciate it, Sisyphus! Truth be told, doing this was very risky, but I hadn’t been in here for quite some time so… I threw caution to the wind, as usual!

“It doesn't hurt me, don't worry Irida.. I've tried before. So.. can I? Do I have your permission?”

*Sisyphus wanted to make sure first, since he didn't want to either scare her or worry her.. So he waited for her answer.*

Huh…

She thought over what you said again before “nodding” and swimming backwards to give you space, she didn’t seem to mind

As long as it doesn’t hurt you, then jump on in, dad! And don’t worry, the water has no effect on me, so I won’t glitch out if I get splashed!

She waited in the middle of the pool for you, her six wings breaking the surface here and there so they could dry off before going back into the water, she always found this pool to be relaxing

Dark times..? What are you referring to, Sisyphus? Has… something gone wrong recently..?

“Well.. Everything that's been happening to you lately, I fear they won't stop nor become less than what it is now.. That's why I want to keep you safe.. Now, let's relax, yeah?”

Hey!

Hahaha! Bet you didn’t see that one coming, did you, dad?! Ahahaha! I’ve missed doing this… nearly forgot how relaxing this pool truly is…

*Sisyphus was caught off guard, his brightness flickering as he laughed and followed her.*

“My god, those are powerful weapons on water, eh? Can you use them to swim? Have you tried?”

*He tilts his head and watches her from the water, curious about how and why her wings sparkled so much, they were very pretty, he must accept.*

*Sisyphus almost begs, smiling and looking at her.*

Hehe!

She couldn’t help but “giggle” again as you complimented just how strong her six wings truly were, even though she still didn’t know how to properly use them for flight yet

Yeah, guess fighting for others and defending them still remains my primary directive…

She turned back to “look” at you only to see the way you were acting with the ball of electricity she had sent over, it was so hard for her to hold back a “laugh” while watching the display

Pfft- Sisyphus, I swear! You’re such a tamed lion! The fact that you act like a cat every time I form one of those balls, its priceless!

“Yep, they are beautiful, I think they are simply growing with you, surviving and staying strong.. They truly look awesome, Irida.”

*Then, he heard the laugh and splashed her with water.*

“Come on! Again?! It is so much fun, you wouldn't understand it!”

Really?

If that’s true, dad, then… am I more divine than machine now? Have I evolved far beyond what my original design was? This is just-

Ahahaha! Once again, you weren’t fast enough, Sisyphus! And I understand how fun it is to mess with those! I tend to do it sometimes too, it’s not just you, trust me.

“Yep.. You do seem more divine that machine, you've been spending time with Gabriel aren't you?”

“Then let's play!”

Huh…

Of course I’ve been spending time with Archangel Gabriel, dad! He’s my surrogate brother, why would I? Though I wish I could also visit Seraph… but he needs time to heal…

Oh, you wanna play, Sisyphus? Hahaha! Then let’s play! I hope you’re ready!

“Just jokin', Iri'. Hehe.”

*Sisyphus laughs and smiles widely as he saw her accept the challenge.*

“Im always ready, Irida. Come on!”

Oh really?

She holds the ball of electricity in both of her hands and gives it more power, causing said ball to grow in size, almost like she was creating a volleyball of sorts

Did you really just call me “Iri”, dad? Damn, never thought I’d hear that come outta you! Not that I mind or anything! Hahaha!

With the ball of electricity now two times its original size, she tosses it up into the air and spikes it at you with impressive precision, it was quick and strong too

Hope you know how volleyball works, Sisyphus! Cause that’s what I’ve decided on! Unless dodge ball is more your style?

“Heh, we could say I love giving you nicknames, Irida.”

*Sisyphus smiles and prepares to hit the ball, he moved fast enough to hit it and send it towards her, with an incredible precission too, and.. pretty hard.*

“I don't know about sports, Iri, I'll just do my thing.”

She couldn’t help but hum a bit while her six wings fluttered in response to the nickname, she now had both “Iri” and “little cheetah”, it made her happy

Well I appreciate them fully, dad! I really do! It helps give me a sense of… individuality, something that’s very special to me and- woah!

She quickly dodges the ball of electricity that came flying full force at her before reaching up and catching it again, looks like volleyball isn’t the game to play with you after all

Nearly got me there, Sisyphus! Alright, guess we’ll just play a form of dodgeball! Whoever gets hit first loses! Understand?

“Well, I might give you more, little cheetah.”

*Sisyphus says and laughs at what she said.*

“Good for me! Just know that I won't have mercy!”

Oh?

She tilted her “head” to the side slightly, more nicknames? How many could you come up with for her? She was definitely interested now

Welp, up to you dad! I don’t mind! In fact… I’m curious to see what else you end up coming up with! Now then…

With the ball of electricity in her grasp, she kept her gaze on you, almost as if calculating the best course of action before tossing the ball up and spiking it directly at you

Heads up, Sisyphus! Hahaha!

“Well, you'll have to wait and see.”

*Sisyphus smiles, yet his smile is gone as soon as he sees the ball going directly at him with such force, yet.. he catched it almost perfectly.*

“Okay, that did caught me off guard.”

Let’s see what you’ve got! Oop-

She quickly dodged out of the way of the ball of electricity you spiked back at her, it narrowly missed one of her wings, yet she somehow managed to move it just in time before catching the ball

Damn! Nice spike, dad! Almost got one of my wings there! I’m impressed! It takes a lot of careful planning to try and catch me off guard after all!

With that being said… think fast, Sisyphus! Literally!

*Sisyphus laughed at what her daughter said, not seeing the ball and finally getting hit by it on the face, he didn't catch it, bringing a hand to his own face since that did hurt.*

“...ow.”

Oh fuck-

She wasted no time in immediately swimming over to you, worried that the ball of electricity caused some form of damage, she felt bad for being so reckless

Are you ok, dad? I… didn’t mean to spike the ball that hard… can I see? Are you bleeding at all? Please, let me take a look

I’m sorry, Sisyphus… I… really didn’t mean to hurt you like that…

*Sisyphus nods and moves his hand away, revealing an injury, it was, indeed, bleeding, not too much but the fact that it made him bleed was already surprising.*

“..It's okay, Irida, don't apologize, im okay. I just didn't react in time, it's okay.. I promise..”

…

Seeing the blood, the ends of her six wings began to glow a dark blue color, she felt really bad for injuring you in such a way… she should’ve been more careful…

Dad… hold still, ok..? This won’t hurt at all, I promise..!

And… that should do it… has the bleeding stopped, Sisyphus?

“..I think so.. It's.. okay. You can move the wing away, Irida..”

*He slowly removed Irida's wing away, bringing it to the water and cleaning the feathers slowly.. The injury was still bleeding but pretty less.*

*A familiar face seems to approach Michael, a big smile on his face, oh it had been a long time since they saw each other! And.. he had so much to tell him.*

“Michael! How are you?”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

“Hm..? Oh fuck- King Sisyphus! I didn’t see you there! Apologies…”

Michael seemed to immediately jump upon hearing your voice, almost like he was heavily focused on something, the sol behind him flickering slightly while also emitting flammable sparks

*A chuckle leaves Sisyphus as he hears Michael, nodding and offering him a hand shake.*

*His tone and words made Michael know how much Sisyphus appreciated him, he always saw him as someone honorable, strong and.. as a close friend. After all, they were both users of the sun..*

“Oh? Have things been on the up and up?”

“..Me and Minos.. had a child.. the first human child in years.. His name is Pothos, and.. I couldn't be more happy to have him..”

*Sisyphus smiled widely, he really loved talking about his baby.. and his husband too, he loved his family a lot.*

“I see… and- WHAT?! A human?! After all these years?! A human has been born?! And in Hell no less?! Holy fuck… I…”

*Sisyphus's smile only grew wider and wider.. oh how he loves his family..*

“Yes, he will love that, im sure.. Wait-.. Phanuel is back?! And what do you mean you tried-..?!”

*Sisyphus was.. shocked.*

“Michael. Friend.. Why?..”

“Yes, Phanuel’s back, Verchiel and I found him in Fraud. Although our initial reunion… didn’t go as I had hoped…”

“Michael..”

“Im.. so sorry..”

*And soon, he hugged the archangel, he.. understood.*

“I was an idiot… for thinking it was the only answer… for believing th-“

*Sisyphus didn't move away from the hug, still embracing the archangel as he heard what he said..*

“..Don't be ashamed to cry.. I.. just.. imagine what you've been going through and.. I know I would have done the same.. I wouldn't be able to stand it.. Im so sorry, Michael, I really am.”

“…”

“T-Thank you… K-King Sisyphus..! I… really needed this..! A-And… I’m sorry… for thinking that ending it… was the… o-only solution..!”

*Sisyphus said, petting the back of his friend..*

“I will… I won’t give up again… I can’t afford to, especially now..!”

Michael took a breath, the sol behind him regaining its brilliant radiant orange glow as you comforted him, the eldest of the Archangels felt so much stronger, especially with you backing him up

*Sisyphus had to accept he wasn't the best one at parenting.. Since he never got the chance to do so.. even if he now had Irida..*

“Hm.. Maybe he's hidding somewhere?.. Maybe he needs a rest.. he might.. be tired.. Have you noticed him tired?.. or.. something?..”

Michael glances down a bit, he truly did believe that leaving his daughter with Lucifer and Hell itself was the best course of action, especially considering his current mental state

“Hmm… now that I think about it, King Sisyphus… Phanuel did fall asleep in my arms almost instantly after he healed my stab wound… so it wouldn’t surprise me if he truly is exhausted…”

Flames begin to expel from the sol behind Michael as he voices the truth to you, he can’t hide it any longer, no matter how pathetic and cowardly it made the eldest of the Archangels appear…

“...You're-..? I-.. How?.. Im not.. mad.. I promise.. I- just.. I don't know.. I understand how you might feel but I don't think leaving her just because of being afraid will help at all..”

*Sisyphus said.. he didn't know what to say.. he was scared of her?.. When he heard that she got abused, he got even more confused.. didn't he thought this could happen?..*

“Okay, what the fuck is wrong with Phanuel?! That is.. wrong. What the..”

“..What terrifies you, Michael?”

*Sisyphus met Michael's gaze, his was serious.. he knew a life wasn't a game. And they were pretty much risking Verchiel's life.*

“..Look, you need to talk to him seriously when he comes back from whatever the heck he is doing. You can't ignore that.”

“I will have a serious conversation with Phanuel about this, King Sisyphus… I promise you…”

*He sighs and places both of his hands on Michael's shoulders.*

*Sisyphus said, not wanting to hurt Michael, yet he wanted to explain it clearly..*

“..!”

“..Michael.. Get up..”

*Sisyphus did feel bad.. yet Michael didn't seem to... understand fully.*

“There's no time to blame yourself, nor anyone. She needs help, will you stay here and cry on the floor while she is probably having some horrible times?”

“…”

“I will.. Just.. calm down..”

*Sisyphus sighed and pulled Michael for a hug, petting his back slowly.. He knew this was being real hard for him, yet he knew he had to make Michael understand he couldn't just do that..*

“Understood, I-“

“King Sisyphus… thank you… truly… your support is very much needed… would you like to go now..?”

“..Yes, that will be the best thing. Where did you see her for the last time?.. She may have not gone to far from there.”

*Sisyphus moved away from the hug and crossed his arms.*

“Alright.”

*Sisyphus hesitated.*

“I see… hmm… then let’s try it this way… hang on.”

“Hm, yes, that's a better plan, Michael. Now, shall we go? We can't waste more time, my friend.”

*Sisyphus nodded, memorizing the plan, admiring silently Michael's ability to make a plan in such a short time.*

“I’m glad you agree with this plan, now, don’t move.”

“Ok… here we… are… King Sisyphus… now… just follow… the… plan… and we should… make it… there fairly soon… if… all goes well… ok..?”

“Yes, let's go.. I'll follow you, Michael, let's go..”

*Sisyphus said, he wasn't used to the cold, shivering a little bit because of it.. He sighed and created a cape of light for himself, putting it on.*

You find yourself back in the third level of the Lust layer, something deep down was telling you to go and check on a certain Mindflayer again, you couldn’t help but worry about her after all.

@lust-layer-mindflayer

“Irida?!-”

*..Was she..? No, she couldn't be.. right?.. He tried looking at her from the sides of the pool, as if hesitating to enter..*

…?!

Fuck… you scared me there, dad..! I thought someone else was staring at me! That… felt very strange… anyways…

She didn’t float out of the pool, but her six wings did emerge and flutter once above the water’s surface before she swam over to a nearby ledge, “looking” at you

What brings you by, Sisyphus? Is everything alright? I honestly wasn’t expecting to see you again so soon… then again, after everything that recently happened, this should’ve been expected.

“Oh fuck- im so sorry, Irida.. Can I join you?”

*He sighed, now realizing how scary that might have been for her.. maybe even more than it was for him.*

“Well.. Can't I visit my daughter? I just wanted to check on you and maybe hang out.. And well.. I want to make sure you are safe.”

*Sisyphus smiled, joking on the first part.*

…

You… want to join me, dad? Is water even safe for someone like you? No offense, but… I’d assume it would hurt or weaken your powers…

Yet once she heard that you came by to make sure she was safe, she “exhaled” softly and “smiled”, it felt good to know that you were always willing to check on her, no matter what

Hehe, I appreciate it, Sisyphus! Truth be told, doing this was very risky, but I hadn’t been in here for quite some time so… I threw caution to the wind, as usual!

“It doesn't hurt me, don't worry Irida.. I've tried before. So.. can I? Do I have your permission?”

*Sisyphus wanted to make sure first, since he didn't want to either scare her or worry her.. So he waited for her answer.*

Huh…

She thought over what you said again before “nodding” and swimming backwards to give you space, she didn’t seem to mind

As long as it doesn’t hurt you, then jump on in, dad! And don’t worry, the water has no effect on me, so I won’t glitch out if I get splashed!

She waited in the middle of the pool for you, her six wings breaking the surface here and there so they could dry off before going back into the water, she always found this pool to be relaxing

Dark times..? What are you referring to, Sisyphus? Has… something gone wrong recently..?

“Well.. Everything that's been happening to you lately, I fear they won't stop nor become less than what it is now.. That's why I want to keep you safe.. Now, let's relax, yeah?”

Hey!

Hahaha! Bet you didn’t see that one coming, did you, dad?! Ahahaha! I’ve missed doing this… nearly forgot how relaxing this pool truly is…

*Sisyphus was caught off guard, his brightness flickering as he laughed and followed her.*

“My god, those are powerful weapons on water, eh? Can you use them to swim? Have you tried?”

*He tilts his head and watches her from the water, curious about how and why her wings sparkled so much, they were very pretty, he must accept.*

*Sisyphus almost begs, smiling and looking at her.*

Hehe!

She couldn’t help but “giggle” again as you complimented just how strong her six wings truly were, even though she still didn’t know how to properly use them for flight yet

Yeah, guess fighting for others and defending them still remains my primary directive…

She turned back to “look” at you only to see the way you were acting with the ball of electricity she had sent over, it was so hard for her to hold back a “laugh” while watching the display

Pfft- Sisyphus, I swear! You’re such a tamed lion! The fact that you act like a cat every time I form one of those balls, its priceless!

“Yep, they are beautiful, I think they are simply growing with you, surviving and staying strong.. They truly look awesome, Irida.”

*Then, he heard the laugh and splashed her with water.*

“Come on! Again?! It is so much fun, you wouldn't understand it!”

Really?

If that’s true, dad, then… am I more divine than machine now? Have I evolved far beyond what my original design was? This is just-

Ahahaha! Once again, you weren’t fast enough, Sisyphus! And I understand how fun it is to mess with those! I tend to do it sometimes too, it’s not just you, trust me.

“Yep.. You do seem more divine that machine, you've been spending time with Gabriel aren't you?”

“Then let's play!”

Huh…

Of course I’ve been spending time with Archangel Gabriel, dad! He’s my surrogate brother, why would I? Though I wish I could also visit Seraph… but he needs time to heal…

Oh, you wanna play, Sisyphus? Hahaha! Then let’s play! I hope you’re ready!

“Just jokin', Iri'. Hehe.”

*Sisyphus laughs and smiles widely as he saw her accept the challenge.*

“Im always ready, Irida. Come on!”

Oh really?

She holds the ball of electricity in both of her hands and gives it more power, causing said ball to grow in size, almost like she was creating a volleyball of sorts

Did you really just call me “Iri”, dad? Damn, never thought I’d hear that come outta you! Not that I mind or anything! Hahaha!

With the ball of electricity now two times its original size, she tosses it up into the air and spikes it at you with impressive precision, it was quick and strong too

Hope you know how volleyball works, Sisyphus! Cause that’s what I’ve decided on! Unless dodge ball is more your style?

“Heh, we could say I love giving you nicknames, Irida.”

*Sisyphus smiles and prepares to hit the ball, he moved fast enough to hit it and send it towards her, with an incredible precission too, and.. pretty hard.*

“I don't know about sports, Iri, I'll just do my thing.”

She couldn’t help but hum a bit while her six wings fluttered in response to the nickname, she now had both “Iri” and “little cheetah”, it made her happy

Well I appreciate them fully, dad! I really do! It helps give me a sense of… individuality, something that’s very special to me and- woah!

She quickly dodges the ball of electricity that came flying full force at her before reaching up and catching it again, looks like volleyball isn’t the game to play with you after all

Nearly got me there, Sisyphus! Alright, guess we’ll just play a form of dodgeball! Whoever gets hit first loses! Understand?

“Well, I might give you more, little cheetah.”

*Sisyphus says and laughs at what she said.*

“Good for me! Just know that I won't have mercy!”

Oh?

She tilted her “head” to the side slightly, more nicknames? How many could you come up with for her? She was definitely interested now

Welp, up to you dad! I don’t mind! In fact… I’m curious to see what else you end up coming up with! Now then…

With the ball of electricity in her grasp, she kept her gaze on you, almost as if calculating the best course of action before tossing the ball up and spiking it directly at you

Heads up, Sisyphus! Hahaha!

“Well, you'll have to wait and see.”

*Sisyphus smiles, yet his smile is gone as soon as he sees the ball going directly at him with such force, yet.. he catched it almost perfectly.*

“Okay, that did caught me off guard.”

Let’s see what you’ve got! Oop-

She quickly dodged out of the way of the ball of electricity you spiked back at her, it narrowly missed one of her wings, yet she somehow managed to move it just in time before catching the ball

Damn! Nice spike, dad! Almost got one of my wings there! I’m impressed! It takes a lot of careful planning to try and catch me off guard after all!

With that being said… think fast, Sisyphus! Literally!

*Sisyphus laughed at what her daughter said, not seeing the ball and finally getting hit by it on the face, he didn't catch it, bringing a hand to his own face since that did hurt.*

“...ow.”

Oh fuck-

She wasted no time in immediately swimming over to you, worried that the ball of electricity caused some form of damage, she felt bad for being so reckless

Are you ok, dad? I… didn’t mean to spike the ball that hard… can I see? Are you bleeding at all? Please, let me take a look

I’m sorry, Sisyphus… I… really didn’t mean to hurt you like that…

*Sisyphus nods and moves his hand away, revealing an injury, it was, indeed, bleeding, not too much but the fact that it made him bleed was already surprising.*

“..It's okay, Irida, don't apologize, im okay. I just didn't react in time, it's okay.. I promise..”

*A familiar face seems to approach Michael, a big smile on his face, oh it had been a long time since they saw each other! And.. he had so much to tell him.*

“Michael! How are you?”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

“Hm..? Oh fuck- King Sisyphus! I didn’t see you there! Apologies…”

Michael seemed to immediately jump upon hearing your voice, almost like he was heavily focused on something, the sol behind him flickering slightly while also emitting flammable sparks

*A chuckle leaves Sisyphus as he hears Michael, nodding and offering him a hand shake.*

*His tone and words made Michael know how much Sisyphus appreciated him, he always saw him as someone honorable, strong and.. as a close friend. After all, they were both users of the sun..*

“Oh? Have things been on the up and up?”

“..Me and Minos.. had a child.. the first human child in years.. His name is Pothos, and.. I couldn't be more happy to have him..”

*Sisyphus smiled widely, he really loved talking about his baby.. and his husband too, he loved his family a lot.*

“I see… and- WHAT?! A human?! After all these years?! A human has been born?! And in Hell no less?! Holy fuck… I…”

*Sisyphus's smile only grew wider and wider.. oh how he loves his family..*

“Yes, he will love that, im sure.. Wait-.. Phanuel is back?! And what do you mean you tried-..?!”

*Sisyphus was.. shocked.*

“Michael. Friend.. Why?..”

“Yes, Phanuel’s back, Verchiel and I found him in Fraud. Although our initial reunion… didn’t go as I had hoped…”

“Michael..”

“Im.. so sorry..”

*And soon, he hugged the archangel, he.. understood.*

“I was an idiot… for thinking it was the only answer… for believing th-“

*Sisyphus didn't move away from the hug, still embracing the archangel as he heard what he said..*

“..Don't be ashamed to cry.. I.. just.. imagine what you've been going through and.. I know I would have done the same.. I wouldn't be able to stand it.. Im so sorry, Michael, I really am.”

“…”

“T-Thank you… K-King Sisyphus..! I… really needed this..! A-And… I’m sorry… for thinking that ending it… was the… o-only solution..!”

*Sisyphus said, petting the back of his friend..*

“I will… I won’t give up again… I can’t afford to, especially now..!”

Michael took a breath, the sol behind him regaining its brilliant radiant orange glow as you comforted him, the eldest of the Archangels felt so much stronger, especially with you backing him up

*Sisyphus had to accept he wasn't the best one at parenting.. Since he never got the chance to do so.. even if he now had Irida..*

“Hm.. Maybe he's hidding somewhere?.. Maybe he needs a rest.. he might.. be tired.. Have you noticed him tired?.. or.. something?..”

Michael glances down a bit, he truly did believe that leaving his daughter with Lucifer and Hell itself was the best course of action, especially considering his current mental state

“Hmm… now that I think about it, King Sisyphus… Phanuel did fall asleep in my arms almost instantly after he healed my stab wound… so it wouldn’t surprise me if he truly is exhausted…”

Flames begin to expel from the sol behind Michael as he voices the truth to you, he can’t hide it any longer, no matter how pathetic and cowardly it made the eldest of the Archangels appear…

“...You're-..? I-.. How?.. Im not.. mad.. I promise.. I- just.. I don't know.. I understand how you might feel but I don't think leaving her just because of being afraid will help at all..”

*Sisyphus said.. he didn't know what to say.. he was scared of her?.. When he heard that she got abused, he got even more confused.. didn't he thought this could happen?..*

“Okay, what the fuck is wrong with Phanuel?! That is.. wrong. What the..”

“..What terrifies you, Michael?”

*Sisyphus met Michael's gaze, his was serious.. he knew a life wasn't a game. And they were pretty much risking Verchiel's life.*

“..Look, you need to talk to him seriously when he comes back from whatever the heck he is doing. You can't ignore that.”

“I will have a serious conversation with Phanuel about this, King Sisyphus… I promise you…”

*He sighs and places both of his hands on Michael's shoulders.*

*Sisyphus said, not wanting to hurt Michael, yet he wanted to explain it clearly..*

“..!”

“..Michael.. Get up..”

*Sisyphus did feel bad.. yet Michael didn't seem to... understand fully.*

“There's no time to blame yourself, nor anyone. She needs help, will you stay here and cry on the floor while she is probably having some horrible times?”

“…”

“I will.. Just.. calm down..”

*Sisyphus sighed and pulled Michael for a hug, petting his back slowly.. He knew this was being real hard for him, yet he knew he had to make Michael understand he couldn't just do that..*

“Understood, I-“

“King Sisyphus… thank you… truly… your support is very much needed… would you like to go now..?”

“..Yes, that will be the best thing. Where did you see her for the last time?.. She may have not gone to far from there.”

*Sisyphus moved away from the hug and crossed his arms.*

“Alright.”

*Sisyphus hesitated.*

“I see… hmm… then let’s try it this way… hang on.”

“Hm, yes, that's a better plan, Michael. Now, shall we go? We can't waste more time, my friend.”

*Sisyphus nodded, memorizing the plan, admiring silently Michael's ability to make a plan in such a short time.*

#[the kingdoms greed.]#[the radiant leader.]#ask blog #rp blog #sisyphus prime #sisyphus ultrakill #ultrakill sisyphus #ultrakill

*Gabriel sat curled up in a ball in the greed layer, trying to keep his breathing and heart rate slow. He wasn’t doing a great job at that*

*It was very rare that he came to this layer of hell, but he needed a change of scenery. The panic only set in after he was deep in the layer*

( @divine-intervention-be-upon-ye )

“Gabriel?.. Are you okay?”

You find yourself back in the third level of the Lust layer, something deep down was telling you to go and check on a certain Mindflayer again, you couldn’t help but worry about her after all.

@lust-layer-mindflayer

“Irida?!-”

*..Was she..? No, she couldn't be.. right?.. He tried looking at her from the sides of the pool, as if hesitating to enter..*

…?!

Fuck… you scared me there, dad..! I thought someone else was staring at me! That… felt very strange… anyways…

She didn’t float out of the pool, but her six wings did emerge and flutter once above the water’s surface before she swam over to a nearby ledge, “looking” at you

What brings you by, Sisyphus? Is everything alright? I honestly wasn’t expecting to see you again so soon… then again, after everything that recently happened, this should’ve been expected.

“Oh fuck- im so sorry, Irida.. Can I join you?”

*He sighed, now realizing how scary that might have been for her.. maybe even more than it was for him.*

“Well.. Can't I visit my daughter? I just wanted to check on you and maybe hang out.. And well.. I want to make sure you are safe.”

*Sisyphus smiled, joking on the first part.*

…

You… want to join me, dad? Is water even safe for someone like you? No offense, but… I’d assume it would hurt or weaken your powers…

Yet once she heard that you came by to make sure she was safe, she “exhaled” softly and “smiled”, it felt good to know that you were always willing to check on her, no matter what

Hehe, I appreciate it, Sisyphus! Truth be told, doing this was very risky, but I hadn’t been in here for quite some time so… I threw caution to the wind, as usual!

“It doesn't hurt me, don't worry Irida.. I've tried before. So.. can I? Do I have your permission?”

*Sisyphus wanted to make sure first, since he didn't want to either scare her or worry her.. So he waited for her answer.*

Huh…

She thought over what you said again before “nodding” and swimming backwards to give you space, she didn’t seem to mind

As long as it doesn’t hurt you, then jump on in, dad! And don’t worry, the water has no effect on me, so I won’t glitch out if I get splashed!

She waited in the middle of the pool for you, her six wings breaking the surface here and there so they could dry off before going back into the water, she always found this pool to be relaxing

Dark times..? What are you referring to, Sisyphus? Has… something gone wrong recently..?

“Well.. Everything that's been happening to you lately, I fear they won't stop nor become less than what it is now.. That's why I want to keep you safe.. Now, let's relax, yeah?”

Hey!

Hahaha! Bet you didn’t see that one coming, did you, dad?! Ahahaha! I’ve missed doing this… nearly forgot how relaxing this pool truly is…

*Sisyphus was caught off guard, his brightness flickering as he laughed and followed her.*

“My god, those are powerful weapons on water, eh? Can you use them to swim? Have you tried?”

*He tilts his head and watches her from the water, curious about how and why her wings sparkled so much, they were very pretty, he must accept.*

*Sisyphus almost begs, smiling and looking at her.*

Hehe!

She couldn’t help but “giggle” again as you complimented just how strong her six wings truly were, even though she still didn’t know how to properly use them for flight yet

Yeah, guess fighting for others and defending them still remains my primary directive…

She turned back to “look” at you only to see the way you were acting with the ball of electricity she had sent over, it was so hard for her to hold back a “laugh” while watching the display

Pfft- Sisyphus, I swear! You’re such a tamed lion! The fact that you act like a cat every time I form one of those balls, its priceless!

“Yep, they are beautiful, I think they are simply growing with you, surviving and staying strong.. They truly look awesome, Irida.”

*Then, he heard the laugh and splashed her with water.*

“Come on! Again?! It is so much fun, you wouldn't understand it!”

Really?

If that’s true, dad, then… am I more divine than machine now? Have I evolved far beyond what my original design was? This is just-

Ahahaha! Once again, you weren’t fast enough, Sisyphus! And I understand how fun it is to mess with those! I tend to do it sometimes too, it’s not just you, trust me.

“Yep.. You do seem more divine that machine, you've been spending time with Gabriel aren't you?”

“Then let's play!”

Huh…

Of course I’ve been spending time with Archangel Gabriel, dad! He’s my surrogate brother, why would I? Though I wish I could also visit Seraph… but he needs time to heal…

Oh, you wanna play, Sisyphus? Hahaha! Then let’s play! I hope you’re ready!

“Just jokin', Iri'. Hehe.”

*Sisyphus laughs and smiles widely as he saw her accept the challenge.*

“Im always ready, Irida. Come on!”

Oh really?

She holds the ball of electricity in both of her hands and gives it more power, causing said ball to grow in size, almost like she was creating a volleyball of sorts

Did you really just call me “Iri”, dad? Damn, never thought I’d hear that come outta you! Not that I mind or anything! Hahaha!

With the ball of electricity now two times its original size, she tosses it up into the air and spikes it at you with impressive precision, it was quick and strong too

Hope you know how volleyball works, Sisyphus! Cause that’s what I’ve decided on! Unless dodge ball is more your style?

“Heh, we could say I love giving you nicknames, Irida.”

*Sisyphus smiles and prepares to hit the ball, he moved fast enough to hit it and send it towards her, with an incredible precission too, and.. pretty hard.*

“I don't know about sports, Iri, I'll just do my thing.”

She couldn’t help but hum a bit while her six wings fluttered in response to the nickname, she now had both “Iri” and “little cheetah”, it made her happy

Well I appreciate them fully, dad! I really do! It helps give me a sense of… individuality, something that’s very special to me and- woah!

She quickly dodges the ball of electricity that came flying full force at her before reaching up and catching it again, looks like volleyball isn’t the game to play with you after all

Nearly got me there, Sisyphus! Alright, guess we’ll just play a form of dodgeball! Whoever gets hit first loses! Understand?

“Well, I might give you more, little cheetah.”

*Sisyphus says and laughs at what she said.*

“Good for me! Just know that I won't have mercy!”

Oh?

She tilted her “head” to the side slightly, more nicknames? How many could you come up with for her? She was definitely interested now

Welp, up to you dad! I don’t mind! In fact… I’m curious to see what else you end up coming up with! Now then…

With the ball of electricity in her grasp, she kept her gaze on you, almost as if calculating the best course of action before tossing the ball up and spiking it directly at you

Heads up, Sisyphus! Hahaha!

“Well, you'll have to wait and see.”

*Sisyphus smiles, yet his smile is gone as soon as he sees the ball going directly at him with such force, yet.. he catched it almost perfectly.*

“Okay, that did caught me off guard.”

Let’s see what you’ve got! Oop-

She quickly dodged out of the way of the ball of electricity you spiked back at her, it narrowly missed one of her wings, yet she somehow managed to move it just in time before catching the ball

Damn! Nice spike, dad! Almost got one of my wings there! I’m impressed! It takes a lot of careful planning to try and catch me off guard after all!

With that being said… think fast, Sisyphus! Literally!

*Sisyphus laughed at what her daughter said, not seeing the ball and finally getting hit by it on the face, he didn't catch it, bringing a hand to his own face since that did hurt.*

“...ow.”