The fateful night

Kyle POV

With its vibrant atmosphere and rich history, Puerta del Sol attracts a diverse mix of locals and tourists day and night. Amidst the bustling scene, families enjoy pizza parlors while lovers find solace in quiet coffee shops with live music. For supernatural creatures worldwide, Puerta del Sol's Golden Clock Tower holds a deeper allure—an emblem of human ingenuity attempting to grasp the mysteries of the unknown through symbolic architecture.

Kyle found solace in Puerta del Sol's constant movement. Tonight, amidst the familiar sights and sounds, his attention was drawn to his companion, a beautiful man in white clothes whose face and complexion were very much like Kyle's, except for his silver eyes, which were captivated by the ethereal reflection of the sunset on the Golden Clock Tower.

"Look at the colors—they're so beautiful. What can I say? I am happy that the renovations in this place are finally done, and we can enjoy Puerta del Sol together," said the man in white clothes, "and you have to admit that the fountain is a very nice addition."

Kyle raised his eyebrow; if a stranger saw them, he would instantly know they were related. That would be correct. Uriel was Kyle's younger brother. However, communication didn't flow easily, as they rarely saw each other. Also, Uriel picked up their dad's old habit of talking about something else before getting to the point—if he ever got to the point.

Kyle replied, "True, but let's add more trees or shady areas next time. You know how people get in the summer heat."

Uriel scratched his head, trying to understand Kyle's point.

Kyle sighed. "During summer, temperatures rise, and people get sweaty and annoyed. Brawls might start just because they got too cranky. Angry people do stupid shit, and they hurt each other. Imagine hundreds, if not thousands, of people getting irritated and taking it out on their families or random strangers—tons of hate that feed those who feast on negative emotions."

The man in white shrugged. "Well, they have a fountain, and we can provide some umbrellas and chairs during summer festivals, and yes, there are supernatural creatures that feed on negative emotions, but there are also those who love positive emotions."

Uriel gestured toward a food stall at the entrance of the busy metro station, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm bread permeated the air. "For example, the girl in that food stall. She is a witch who uses potions in her food to soothe the hearts of travelers. See, it is well balanced here."

Kyle hunched his shoulders. The earthy aroma would have been a delicious reminder of why he loved the human realm. However, at that moment, it was a painful reminder that many considered him, a.k.a Lucifer Morningstar, responsible for tempting humans to sin and cast them to Hell. 

Still, he saw himself more as a champion of free will. 

Kyle raised an eyebrow. Uriel was rambling, but something told him something more complex was going on. Kyle questioned his brother, "Uriel, I know you love having a philosophical debate about the evils of urban development, but you didn't call me here to check on the architecture. So, level with me. What's happening?"

Uriel's silver eyes shone as he pointed at the Golden Clock Tower. "Puerta del Sol is a hotspot for paranormal activity, with ghosts and spirits lingering among the crowds of tourists and locals."

Kyle's eyebrow furrowed. "And?"

"Have you noticed more activity than usual?" Uriel asked.

Kyle nodded. "I thought it was just due to the improvement in the economy."

Uriel's voice turned stern. "Partially, yes. But it seems someone had tapped into divine energy in a street close to the Opera House."

Kyle blurted out, "I was trying to save a kitten. The poor thing was about to become a bloody pancake ran over by a car."

Uriel's expression hardened. "But one of Hell's agents checked the camera, and there are many of those in bureaucratic positions. They found you, brother."

Uriel's tone grew serious. "Intelligence tells us a group is coming after you. I'm not sure how much time you have. Our double agents might buy you some days, but you must move out of where you live now."

The sense of urgency was palpable, and Kyle couldn't help but feel a twinge of frustration. Kyle was trying to lay low, but the impending threat from Hell's agents made it increasingly difficult for him to maintain a semblance of normalcy. It was the second time Hell's agents had closed in in the last five years. Kyle felt a knot in his stomach urging him to look around the plaza, wondering if there were agents close to them already.

Uriel's presence gave Kyle comfort and unease because of their differing perspectives on handling the situation. Kyle breathed deeply, controlling his instincts to flee. Ultimately, he was grateful for his warning. And more than that, Kyle was indebted to him for being one of the few angels visiting him during his exile. Uriel reminded Kyle of his divine connections, which sharply contrasted with the mundane reality he often inhabited.

Kyle had already thought about moving out, albeit for different reasons, so he was already looking for a place. He had found one he loved, cozy and with a pleasant atmosphere, though he needed someone to share it since the rent was costly.

Kyle's voice deepened. "I'm on it already. I found a place in Argüelles, a good place to hide in plain sight."

Uriel acted as if he hadn't noticed the change in mood and exclaimed, "Great, then everything is arranged. You know, I haven't been to this town in 13 years. I am aching for some food; what about some paella?"

Kyle felt the conversation a bit disjointed, but he reasoned his brother wasn't much in touch with his emotions or that he had to go somewhere soon. Kyle decided it was best not to delve deep into trying to understand Uriel's reasoning as he was the angel of knowledge. Kyle was just the "light bringer."

Kyle shrugged and conceded. "Sure, where do you want to go?"

"What about the nice place in El Retiro Park?" Uriel suggested.

Kyle shook his head. "Nah, it must be closed at this hour."

Uriel asked, "And the one in Cibeles?"

Kyle scratched his head. "Yeah, that one caters to guests until 2 a.m., I think."

"Okay, let's go," said Uriel, heading toward the metro station.

Kyle followed but stopped Uriel by touching his shoulder. "Hey, wait, why don't we teleport?"

Uriel looked at him, confusion in his eyes. Then, urgently, he whispered while shaking Kyle, "Brother, when I say the spies from Hell are up to something, I mean it. It's best to lay low, mix with the crowd."

Uriel paused momentarily, trying to weigh his brother's reactions. "They've sent people from the intelligence agency. They're ruthless, but you know that already. They won't stop, and they'll trace any source of divine magic in Madrid until they find you."

Uriel glanced around, sensing danger. "So, no teleportation."

Kyle scoffed. "Like I haven't been in Hell for eons."

"You should already know this isn't just about ruling Hell. They're preparing for Armageddon," Uriel growled, impatient.

Kyle hissed and dropped his head. 

Uriel tried to reassure him. "I know, but listen, just do what you believe is right, okay?"

Kyle smiled. "It's getting late. Let's go. There are too many ghosts in this plaza already. Most wear glamour spells daily to blend in with human tourists but are careless at night."

As they walked through the bustling streets, Uriel's words echoed in Kyle's mind. They headed toward the Puerta del Sol metro station in silence. Kyle's stomach was knotted with anxiety, his skin prickling with the tension of the warnings he couldn't shake off.

Supernatural creatures like djinns, vampires, and witches were inclined to tempt humans to feed on their emotions. Some collected positive energies and became Heaven's agents, while others were drawn to negative energies and became Hell's agents. Many of the late-night visitors of the plaza were supernatural in some capacity, and there were so many of them that night.

When they finally reached the station, Kyle felt a slight relief. The familiar routine of purchasing tickets and navigating the underground tunnels provided a welcome distraction from the weight of Uriel's warnings. His muscles, previously tight with apprehension, relaxed as he focused on the mundane task.

Just as they were about to pay for their tickets, Kyle spotted a man bent over, almost asleep, with a trio of djinns poised to prey on him. Kyle's heart rate quickened, but a rush of determination surged through him instead of fear. He could feel his body responding, adrenaline sharpening his senses and loosening the grip of fear. His stomach, once knotted, began to settle, and his skin felt a tremendous wave of resolve.

Despite the risks, he decided it was best to take action to protect others. If a human were attacked there, someone might investigate. Kyle nudged him awake, his touch gentle but urgent. The man's big dark eyes fixed on Kyle in confusion. Kyle couldn't help but laugh, a nervous release of the tension that had gripped him. "Are you going to sleep like that? You're going to get robbed that way!"

The man stuttered, "I'm just questioning my life decisions here."

Kyle studied him briefly. He was cute, with an oval face, full lips, tall, almost olive skin, and a thick accent emphasizing the r and s. He was Latino, but Kyle wasn't sure from where. It had been a while since he'd met someone from that area.

Kyle examined his eyes, finding no traces of any great sin. An inexplicable yet undeniable protective instinct flared within him. The urge to safeguard this stranger was as physical as it was emotional, with a tightening in his chest and a deep, instinctual drive. 

Kyle laughed and gestured toward the entrance. "It's better to question your life decisions in a bar or a hotel; you might get into trouble if you stay. Metro stations are always risky at night, no matter which country you're in."

The young man thanked him and hurried off while Kyle assessed the djinns. They were displeased by his interference, but their glamour spell hadn't worn off yet. Kyle sighed, his muscles relaxed, the tension of fear replaced by the satisfaction of doing the right thing. He returned to his brother.

Uriel raised an eyebrow. "You went back to help a human?"

Kyle shrugged, feeling a sense of purpose and clarity. "If he were attacked, the police would investigate."

Uriel's face was a kaleidoscope of emotions, from bewilderment to understanding. There was a glint of mischief in his eyes until he finally smiled. "Sure, good call. Now, let's go get that paella."

As they boarded the train, Kyle couldn't help but think back to his encounter with the stranger. The young man seemed genuinely grateful for Kyle's intervention, and Kyle wondered what had brought him to Spain. Kyle glanced at Uriel, who was now animatedly discussing their dinner plans. The angel's carefree demeanor was almost infectious, but Kyle couldn't shake off his concerns entirely. He had to find a way to balance his past with his desire to stay in Madrid. The brief encounter with the djinns at the metro station clearly showed the dangers lurking in the shadows. The delicate balance between his divine heritage and mortal existence was about to be tested once again.

The restaurant's paella was a feast for the senses: saffron, garlic, and paprika mingled with the salty scent of fresh seafood. Colorful veggies and rice balanced the experience. Yet Kyle was in deep thought.

 Uriel grew alarmed when Kyle's attempts to engage in some silly chitchat didn't work out, so he asked about it. "Brother? Leaving your place in El Retiro is hard, but it is for your safety."

"It is not only that. It is the committee's thing that bothers me." Kyle grunted.

Hell was more like a place where sinful souls came to torture themselves due to the guilt they felt towards their sins, mistreating others, stealing from others, or killing someone. It wasn't a fun place to be, especially after management committees made it very complicated. Kyle grew tired of how things were going, so he quit. 

"You are still sore. They didn't realize you were gone? Right?" Uriel asked.

"And they spent almost a decade deliberating about whether to bring me back." Kyle retorted.

"Or kill you." pointed out Uriel.

"See, that's the problem. It was my thing. I shed blood, sweat, and tears to make that place work, build infrastructure, create security perimeters to prevent the attack of Underworld monsters, and they repaid me like that." Kyle despaired. "I won't return there, not even as a joke."

There was another reason why Kyle didn't want to return. The CEO was crazy, and Kyle had become weary of their schemes. They were after something big, but Kyle wasn't sure about what.

Kyle poked at his food. He didn't need food or have tasty human energy as a divine being, but it was a pleasant experience. The seafood had a hint of smokiness from the crispy, caramelized rice layer at the bottom. It made him smile. The vibrant flavors gave him a bit of relief and courage in such a dire situation, strengthening his decision. He would rather live an ordinary life and even thwart every plan from the current managers of Hell than help them with their plans.

When they parted ways, Kyle returned to his apartment, navigating the shadowy cobblestone streets and old buildings protected by magic wards until he arrived at an old building near El Retiro Park. He intentionally selected the place as it was frequented by supernatural creatures who strolled there casually.

Living in plain sight in a bustling city like Madrid made managing his identity easier than in a smaller town. With some subtle glamour spells and by avoiding overt displays of his powers, Kyle could pass as a young man with a connection to the divine, not unlike any spiritual practitioner or warlock.

Kyle enjoyed his life in Madrid. He was close to Lilian, an old friend who directed a coven of witches. He had found kindred spirits in Ahmed and Fatima, a family of djinns near his apartment in El Retiro who sold potions disguised as worldly food products. Moreover, Madrid offered good food and occasional sweet company, making his life more enjoyable.

Returning to his apartment, the bustling city sounds had quieted. In the darkness of his room, Kyle lit a cigarette, contemplating his thoughts. Maybe Uriel was exaggerating the risks of triggering Armageddon—it wasn't just about finding the dragon he defeated at the beginning of time and opening the gates of Hell.

Kyle took a deep drag from his cigarette, the smoke swirling upward like a silent prayer. Despite lacking the prophetic gift, he couldn't help but admire how various mythologies across cultures often portrayed a period of moral decline, natural disasters, and cosmic disturbances as harbingers of the world's end.

Kyle closed his eyes and cursed his luck. If he could stay longer in the city, he could continue his research and find an excellent solution to avoid Hell's and Heaven's influence and the scenarios in which humanity gets crazed.

After stubbing out the cigarette, Kyle climbed into bed. Although he didn't need sleep technically, he enjoyed the quiet moments before dawn. Outside, the night breeze rustled the trees, casting playful shadows that reminded him of ancient times. He also had an emergency escape plan if things went awry—an option with the Tuatha Dé Danann, who could hide him in their dimension.

Yet, despite the risks, Kyle wanted to stay.

The next day, Kyle woke up to his phone buzzing with new messages. The first was from an unknown number, and the second was from Professor Ortiz. "Hello, my name is Lucas Miravalle. I am a medical student searching for a place to stay. Prof. Ortiz gave me your number. I want to contact you about sharing the expenses of your home. Is it possible to contact you?"

Almost simultaneously, another message arrived. It was from Prof. Ortiz:

"Mr. Estelmati, I took the liberty of giving your number to a young lad from Ecuador. He is a good student who is having a rough time in life. I hope you, too, can give him an opportunity and the two of you find a nice place to live."

Kyle smiled, pleased to find a potential roommate. He looked at the guy in the picture and cursed inwardly—the young man from the metro station. Kyle's heart fluttered as he read the professor's message, confirming that Lucas Miravalle, the grateful young man from the metro station, was looking for accommodation.

His eyebrow twitched. "I hate you, Dad. I really do."

Suddenly, the whole thing made sense: Uriel's visit and warning and the curious fact that he wanted paella in Cibeles made him take the metro train instead of walking. His jarring behavior, tendency to not get to the point, and diverting the conversation hid a plot with a straightforward objective: Uriel wanted Kyle to meet Lucas. Or better said, he was ordered to warn Kyle and made him go to the metro at a particular hour so he could meet a particular man looking for accommodation.

Kyle hesitated between calling Lucas or not. 

His financial situation wasn't the best, with the last of his treasures running low. Returning to Hell for more wasn't an option, as other fallen angels were on alert. He needed to cut expenses, and living in a hotel was too costly. Moreover, his current place near El Retiro Park had seen more paranormal activity, compounded by a rising number of tourists, immigrants, and something else entirely.

The apartment in Argüelles seemed perfect—cozy yet spacious, with ample natural light that allowed Kyle to see if anyone was approaching. The emergency exit next to the bedroom was another plus.

He also liked Mrs. Hutchinson, their potential landlady. Her sharp intellect and piercing blue eyes had seen through him from the start. On his first visit, the old lady whispered, "You're quite the devil, young man. If I were younger, I'd have already sinned."

Kyle found it very funny.

The location was advantageous, too—West Park in Argüelles held a treasure that nullified any attempts to locate him: the Temple of Debod dedicated to Amon. Joggers in the area would come into contact with the Egyptian god, but they wouldn't be affected unless they were believers. It was a stroke of genius—any divine energy traces would diffuse due to the nearby deity.

Kyle couldn't help but chuckle at the irony of encountering Lucas out of all people. Despite his initial hesitation, Kyle decided to take the plunge and charm Lucas out of any future troubles. Having a roommate would be exciting and daunting, but the financial relief was welcome.

Kyle mentally prepared for the conversation ahead as he dialed Lucas's number.

"Hello, how are you? You're looking for an affordable room, I presume?"

When Lucas answered, his voice was slightly shaky but determined. "Hello, I am seeking accommodation near the university."

Kyle found this intriguing. He used his best Holmes impression and casually said, "You are a medical student from South America, Ecuador, maybe?"

"How on earth did you know that?" Lucas exclaimed in astonishment.

"The accent," Kyle stated nonchalantly, chuckling to himself. "Let's get to business; I have my eye on a suite in Argüelles," he explained, "which is still close to the campus but not too close to make the rent unaffordable."

"You don't mind the smell of strong tobacco, I hope?' Kyle asked, lighting a cigarette that glowed faintly with an unnatural hue.

"I don't mind if it is tobacco," Lucas declared.

Kyle leaned back in his chair, glancing at the scattered papers on his desk. "Great response. I tend to have piles of papers and notes around. I also dabble in experiments. Would that bother you?"

"Not at all," Lucas replied.

Kyle explained, "Let me think, what else? I sometimes get into a funk and go silent for days. Please don't mistake it for sulkiness. Just give me space, and I'll bounce back soon. Now, what about you? Two people should know each other's flaws before living together."

Lucas laughed nervously at this interrogation. "I have a habit of rising at odd hours and being sluggish. When I'm feeling well, I have different vices, but those are the main ones."

Their conversation flowed easily, and Kyle was impressed by Lucas's straightforwardness and intelligence. Lucas had been through a lot, and Kyle felt a sense of kinship with him.

They will be excellent roommates and perhaps something more.

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