‘I couldn’t stand to see this tarnished world with both eyes, so I gouged out my right one with my own hands. But it changed nothing. The world slowly falls apart, and glass that shone in the seven colours lost its radiance. It is during those dark days that I met Raphiel. It was an inevitability they call chance. Our souls probably suffered the same way.’
Have I always lived without knowing that there is dazzling light that will come leaping into sight, no matter whether I close my eyes or lose my sight? That frail light looks like it will fade if I touch it…
The last thing it illuminated was a single word. I stood stock still and just nodded, smiling, secretly making a small promise with her.
Raphiel will weave a clear melody together, and make her voice echo everywhere, from here, where she is imprisoned, and into the distance.
‘Raphiel is the sole descendant of angels in this world. I am her only servant, and one who has become her accomplice. I know the true meaning of her song, and I let it carry on channel zero, so that it reaches the world. And yet, though I have been this close to her, not once have I seen Raphiel smile. She just sits in her birdcage and sings.’
Although night comes, she flinches, and shakes a little. Trapped in her cage, the girl feared humans. Her back bears no wings, and her eyes are empty. The faint white light seems like it will someday fade away…
The last time we spoke was when we made our plan. When I finished speaking, you only smiled a small smile. It was the first time you smiled at me.
Raphiel will weave a clear melody together, and make her voice echo everywhere, from here, where she is imprisoned, and into the distance. Her song will sink into your heart in the unmistakable celestial language; it is an invitation from out this ashen illusion into the sky.
'The boy quietly and frankly explained to her a way to have her angelic voice reach far and wide. 'Today will become our special day. Can you hear it, Raphiel? The nobles anxiously awaiting your song have all gathered. Come now, begin… And end this…’ 'In the silence, the stage’s curtain rises. The boy watched and smiled somewhat sadly.’
'I am a liar. I lied about everyone on this world, and about all the stories I told.’