Everywhere, there are stories told by Humans about their meetings with Deities who have changed their lives and the course of History. Here are five forgotten tales about the lives of Deities across Time and the role Humanity has played during the course of their Existence.

Nao, the God of Deceit
(800 words)

Tsubasa, the God of Seduction & Shingo, the God of Force
(2.4k words)

Maki, the God of Constellations
(2.2k words)

Yū, the Deity of Hope
(1.3k words)

Kanako, the Goddess of Art and Creativity, Messenger of Gods
(800 words)

SF2020 Team Starmates MR2 Change

Japan, Kamakura Period (Circa 1200)

Nao liked Earth. For one, it was absolutely beautiful. He could spend days wandering around aimlessly, enjoying the sights, taking naps under either the sun or the moon, playing in lakes and petting whatever animal he came across. But another perk was that Humans didn’t know who he was. For all that he loved his Siblings, they were very wary of him. Which was fair, considering that he was the God of Deceit after all and as such would prank them often. Yet, even if their attitude towards him was justified, it still affected him.

Humans, on the other hand, were another matter. There was so many of them, number ever growing, that he could have spent all of his time changing targets for his pranks daily without ever meeting the same one. Nao knew of the rules, obviously, the Unless on a mission, never make yourself visible to them. But he had long learnt to get around them. After all, he wasn’t the God of deceit without reason.

Nao had been strolling along the road for a decent amount of time already when, suddenly, from the end of the road, a man appeared.
The distance between them, quite significant to a Human, was inconsequential to the God.

The Human was a mess, with bloodied clothes, a bad limp, hand pressed on his abdomen, and breathing scattered. He was in dire need of immediate assistance, but Nao knew that he wouldn’t get any. They were kilometers away from the nearest house, let alone a healer. He kept his eyes on the man as they got closer to each other, pace ever slowing as the blood left his mortal body. They were now halfway through the dirt road and Nao was thoroughly impressed. He could see and hear clearly how painful each step and each intake of breath were for the man. It was completely hopeless, and considering the quality of his clothes, the man must have known that fact too. Yet he still seemed determined to keep on going.

He fell to his knees when there was only 200 meters left between them. With a guttural sound however, the man, in a last effort, pushed himself off the ground, and heroically took at least ten more steps before falling on the side of the road.

Keeping up at his usual pace, it only took Nao a few moments to get to the man’s level.

He was still breathing erratically, but at this point, it wouldn’t take long before he stopped. The blood had been dripping from him all this time and there was now a trail along the path. The dark colour really didn’t match with the palette of green and otherwise earthy tones of the landscape.

Nao stopped as a fleeting thought came to his mind and considered the fact that he had never seen a Human die before. He looked down at the man and was surprised to see tears trailing down the side of his face. The God knew Humans were different. It was no secret that they died, this was just how things worked on Earth, just like how flowers would bloom and then wither. Humans were intimately familiar with the concept, even killing animals for food and sometimes, for the sheer pleasure of it. This man’s time had come, and to the Celestial Being, that had always been all there was to it. Up until now, he had never considered that other beings would react with anything but acceptance.

Nao changed his mind. Smirking, he crouched down beside the man and leaned down to whisper in his ear.

“Tell me, Human. Do you want to live ?”

Shock sparked in the man’s eyes as he momentarily stopped crying.

“Who-”

“Don’t waste your breath, Human. Your time is counted. Tell me, do you want to live ?”

A sob shook him.

“Yes.”

“I see. What is your name, Human ?”

“Ame-”

He gasped for breath and for a second, Nao thought he wouldn’t get an answer.

“Ameno… Itsuki.”

“Very well, Ameno Itsuki. I am not supposed to mess with Death, but it’s not really in my nature not to.”

He pressed one hand against the open wound and another one on the man’s forehead. He closed his eyes only for a second before letting go and he promptly got on his feet.

Nao looked, pleased, as the trail of blood had disappeared and took a step to continue his stroll.

“Hey !”

He stopped and turned in shock. However, it didn’t seem like the man could see him. Itsuki who had already gotten up was frantically looking around.

“Who ? Who are you ?!”

Well, there was no way he was ever going to pass an opportunity to mess with a human, was there ?

“You can call me Nao. The Wandering God.”

As the God of persuasion and seduction, Tsubasa was naturally charming. He received special treatment from others who were swayed by his looks, the tone of his voice or even the smell of his skin. Moreover, he had also been blessed with a way with words that made it almost impossible for anyone to refuse him. Most of the time, the God wasn’t even aware of it. Some had called his abilities unfair, mostly in fists of jealousy but they mostly didn’t mean it. After all, Tsubasa was the God of persuasion and seduction for a reason. In the same way Yū could never stop hoping or Nao deceiving. This was just how they had been wired by Their Parent.

Resisting Tsubasa’s charms required incredible mental strength. And so far, only one had ever treated him coldly. Gods were capable of falling in love, but a Celestial Being’s love was as rare as it was precious. Or in other words, Gods could only feel that way once. Only one Being across time and space. And it was certainly cruel of the Odds that they would choose that God in particular to be the object of his affection.

Shingo, the God of Force and Raw energy, was all hard expressions and toned muscles yet courteous and pleasant. He was a quiet, serviable God who took great pride in honouring Their Parent. However, to Tsubasa’s displeasure, his entire demeanour would change when they would meet, only offering a few words in a harsh voice and avoiding looking in his direction.

No matter how he approached the God, his attitude never warmed up to him and, after exhausting all of his techniques, he had come to the conclusion that Shingo just didn’t feel the same way. It had been so crushing, heartbreaking that Tsubasa had fled to the Milky Way to be on his own.

He didn’t know how long he had been there when, suddenly, Shingo appeared. The God’s frantic look had turned to relief once he had spotted him. Tsubasa was at a lost. The only Celestial Beings who knew his location were Maki and Kanako. There was, to his knowledge, no reason for Shingo to come looking for him and in such a state of disarray.

“Shingo ?”

The God approached and gripped his arm. Tsubasa shivered at the touch, breath caught in his throat, he was hyper conscious of every contact of skin between them.

“Come.”

Before he could drag him flying away, he resisted.

“Wait, what ? Where to ?”

“Heaven.”

“Why ?”

His grip tightened around his arm.

“Because... This is where Deities live. Doesn’t it make sense for you to be there ?”

Tsubasa tried not to think how it was the first time the God was talking to him willingly.

“I am allowed to be here if that’s your concern. You can go back.”

“Not without you.”

He felt a pang in his chest.

“That’s very noble of you, but I’m here out of my own volition.”

“Why ? Why would you isolate yourself from your Siblings ?”

“I have my reasons.”

“Please, Tsubasa. You can tell me.”

The God couldn’t know that, but his sudden change of attitude towards him only served to hurt him and urge him to send his Brother back. He yanked his arm back.

“So now you want to talk to me ? You didn’t seem to care before so why the change of heart ?”

He didn’t answer, but Tsubasa hadn’t expected him to.

“I’m not coming back, Shingo. Just leave, please.”

The God stood still, looking in the opposite direction. And after what seemed like hours, he took off flying.

He had barely been able to stabilise his heartbeat when he got another visit.

“Hello, Brother.”

He sighed and Kanako chuckled at his display of tiredness.

“I never thought you’d ever show this openly your disdain towards Our Parent’s mission.”

“No ! That has nothing to do with the mission.”

She arched an eyebrow.

“Well, not the mission itself, more like its timing.”

“Our Parent has a Plan, and a Timing to execute it. This takes priority.”

“I know, I know. Don’t worry, I’ll successfully accomplish this mission.”

She smiled knowingly.

“I am sure you will, Brother.”

Footsteps echoed, sound getting louder as they drew closer and Shingo’s heartbeat picked up until he glanced in their direction and was met with the presence of Kanako.

“Sister.”

“Hi, Brother.”

“I believe you came to me because I have a mission.”

“Correct, Brother. I’m sorry to disappoint.”

He frowned.

“Unlike some of my Siblings, I have no qualms about going to Earth to complete the tasks left to us by Our Parent.”

She chuckled.

“I was referring to something else.”

“I am not sure I understand you, Sister.”

“Rumour has it, that you recently traveled to the Constellations for the first time.”

He looked away.

“And since when do you give credit to Nao’s tales ?”

“Since I heard it from Maki.”

He sighed, resigned.

“And ? What of it ? Am I not allowed to go to the Constellations ?

“I just find that strange. A sudden interest sparking after so long and so many invitations. Just when one of our Sibling has established himself there.”

“I was curious. Nothing strange here.”

“I’m sure. After all, finally learning where your Only Love was all this time. The impulse must have been impossible to fight.”

He quickly looked back at her as she smiled widely. He blushed.

“What are you talking about ? Who even told you that ? Oh. Was it Maki ?”

“Ding ding ding. Correct.”

He sighed.

“Can’t that God keep a damn secret ?”

“So you’re not denying it ?”

“Why would I ? It’s not like you’d believe me anyway. I swear that Brother of Ours has way too much free time on his hands.”

“Maki only intervened to help. You shouldn’t blame him for your cowardness.”

“What cowardness ?

“Don’t act dumb, Brother. It really doesn’t suit you. Why won’t you tell Tsubasa how you feel ?”

He huffed.

“Why would I ?”

She sighed.

“Think about that yourself. Well, since the message has been transmitted, I’ll take my leave now, Brother.”

She promptly left, skipping on her way out.

Japan, Muromachi Period (Circa 1500)

They both looked at each other, eyes wide.

“Shingo.”

“Tsubasa.”

It was unusual to say the least, they both had missions often but being there at the same time and same moment was very rare.Taken aback, Tsubasa could only look at the floor and organically tuck a strand of hair behind his ear. Their last encounter had been less than amicable but he was determined to at least be on cordial terms.

“What brings you here ? A mission ?”

Mouth still gaping, Shingo nodded.

“Oh, yeah, of course. Well, me too. I’ve been given a mission too.”

It was all too awkward between them still, but the God of Force followed his lead as he seemed to have processed the situation enough to form words.

“Wow, what were the Odds.”

He closed his eyes, mouth contorted in a grimace. Maybe he just shouldn’t have talked at all.

However, to his delight, Tsubasa chuckled. A beautiful, melodious sound that even Kanako was jealous of.

“I know ! I think it’s the first time I’ve seen another Deity when I’m on Earth. It’s usually never at the same time, same place.”

He licked his lips before talking.

“So.. uh what’s your Human’s name ?”

“Futsu Rintarō, and you ?”

“Uh...Taiyō”

Suddenly, the coy demeanour in the God changed, eyes sharp.

“Wait, Taiyō ? ...Ishigami Taiyō ?”

Shingo frowned.

“How-”

“WOW.”

“Wait, I’m not following, what do you mean ? How do you know my Human’s name ?”

“Shingo... My mission concerns your Human.”

Oh.

“Your Human wants to seduce my Human !?”

He nodded, expression somber.

“What were the Odds...”

Shingo frowned at the reaction but it was their first time chatting like this and he didn’t want to ruin it.

“They keep getting weirder and weirder. My Human wanting to get stronger, and your Human pursuing mine.”

Tsubasa bit his lip.

“It must be one big joke.”

This time, he let his concern slip.

“Hey, why don’t I help you out ?”

Tsubasa tilted his head cutely, eyes squinting.

“What did you say?”

He should have probably backed off after the warning, but at this moment, he had just been worried about the display the God had shown. And so, he dumbly repeated his offer.

“I can help you accomplish your mission”

It was really unfair, how gorgeous Tsubasa still looked as rage sipped through his traits.

“Who do you think I am !? I am Tsubasa, God of persuasion and seduction. I don’t need any help, from anyone, let alone a God whose lane of work is so far off from mine that he can’t even see it from where he stands ! There is no mission I haven’t seen to complition, no Human relationship I haven’t cracked. I have no need for an insider or for advice. Like every time before this, I will get my Human what he has prayed for by myself, because I am persuasion and seduction made Deity.”

He disappeared completely from Shingo’s sight and the God sighed, burying his head on his hands as he realised his mistake.

It was almost painful to watch the two Humans interact with each other. They were both clearly infatuated with the other but somehow couldn’t realised that fact.

The Gods knew they were trying, bless them. But that just made it all the more sad for them.

Shingo approached his Brother sheepishly who stopped observing his Human to glare at him.

“Here to grant me some helpful advice ?”

This time, the God had the mind not to take the provocation.

“I actually came to apologise.”

His mouth opened, making a perfect circle.

“Oh.”

“You were right, I had absolutely no idea what entitled your position and honestly I have a newfound respect for you.”

He threw a glance at the two men. Rintarō had his arms around Taiyō as he took his measurements for the kimono. His poor Human looked like he was about to faint once again, apologising profusely for making him do it and looked away before he could see Rintarō’s displeased expression.

Shingo could hardly believe his eyes when the God flushed.

“It’s frustrating at times, especially when it’s less about seduction and more about stubbornness.”

He chuckled.

“They really are stubborn.”

“More so your Human. Mine is perfectly aware of what he’s doing and what he wants.”

He sighed.

“I sometimes envy them. I mean, compared to us, they don’t really have much to loose, right ?”

His mouth went dry.

“I think I understand what you mean. Humans have so much more freedom than we do. And yet, they make up excuses not to act on their desires.”

“All the Humans I’ve taken care of do, though. They prayed so ardently for what they want that Our Parent has sent them the expert.”

“And they’ve always been successful in getting it. I think that makes you the expert in getting whatever.”

He looked at the God.

“Do you really think that ?”

“Think what ?”

“What you just said. That I could get whatever I want.”

Shingo looked at him half amused, half puzzled by his question.

Wasn’t the answer obvious ?

“Of course, Tsubasa. I don’t think that there’s anything or anyone that you couldn’t get.”

The God just stayed still, digesting what he had been told. And before he could say another word, it was time for Taiyō to leave.

“So, I’ll be taking my leave. I’m curious to see what your next move to accomplish your mission will be.”

There was a foreign look in his eyes as he gave him a small smile.

“I can promise that you won’t know what hits you.”

Shingo gulped down his saliva for the unmpteenth time. Tsubasa, still glued to his side, hand tightly holding his was giggling.

He had absolutely no recollection of when or how he had gotten into this situation. He couldn’t even try to figure it out as all of his brain energy was focused on how badly his palm was sweating.

“Don’t they make a cute couple, Taiyō and Rintarō ?”

Right, the Humans.

He forced himself into focus and immediately realised that they were weirdly in a similar position. The God looked at the pure look of stress on Taiyō’s face and he felt a wave of sympathy towards him. Rintarō made up some excuse about matcha powder on his guest’s face to gently stroke it with his thumb and then licked it. Now, his protégé looked close to fainting.

“Wow. He’s really coming at him strong this time.”

Tsubasa relaxed his body against his, head comfortably resting on his shoulder that stiffened at the unexpected contact.

“Hmm, Rintarō told me that he would rather give it his all and fail than thinking about all he could have done more for the rest of his life. Mind you, it won’t be very long but I understand not wanting to live with regrets.”

He hummed absentmindedly, still hyper aware of the God.

“Well, trust me, it’s only a matter of time before Taiyō caves, he’s already putty in Rintarō’s hands.”

He chuckled and he could feel his skin vibrating in kind.

“Well, I sure hope so. I have a mission to accomplish. How’s yours going by the way ?”

Compelled by the strange magnetism of Tsubasa’s eyes, he turned his gaze towards his. He stayed still as he got lost in them. He could have kept staring at them forever without tiring but the God was looking at him expectantly, and he answered after a longer pause than necessary.

“Uh.. Good ? I think. I just hope that Rintarō won’t be too much of a distraction.”

“Would you hate me if I told you that I hope he will be ?”

The crease between his brows deepened slightly at the absurd thought.

“Tsubasa, I could never hate you.”

Suddenly, he could feel the God’s breath on his face.

“Really ?”

“Yes. Really.”

Shingo would never be able to tell who made the first move, but he really couldn’t care less as he finally had Tsubasa in his arms, lips locked in a perfect kiss. It was really a shame that they had to separate, and judging from the God’s expression he shared his feeling about the subject. He tenderly stroked his cheek.

“Tsubasa, My Love. Please, tell me that you love me too.”

The Celestial Being smiled so prettily that he stopped breathing for a second.

“I always have, My Dearest Shingo.”

Maki never hid his disregard towards Humanity. It wasn’t that he hated Humans per se, but he couldn’t seem to find them the same qualities as his sibling, the Deity of Hope, did. He had been perfectly content to leave the missions to his subordinates. As one of the major Celestial Beings, he was rarely forced to go down to Earth, and thus he would spend the best part of his time between Heaven and the Constellations he was in charge of.

He knew that eventually he would have to go back there, and when Kanako skipped towards him, he knew that the time had come.

“Hello, Brother. It’s been awhile since we’ve seen each other under these circumstances.”

“It sure has, Sister. I don’t believe I’ve been sent on a mission since the Creation of minor Deities.”

“Well, it will be a good opportunity for you to finally see what Humanity has accomplished on Earth with your own eyes, right Brother ?”

“I guess it will. Not that it was particularly a concern of mine. History has already been written, there’s no need for me to confirm that. But since Our Parent has decided to send me down to Earth, I will make the best of it and accomplish the mission given to me.”

She hummed to some beat he didn’t recognise, and when she replied, she was short on singing.

“Our Parent would be very pleased to hear you say that since you have been assigned to a special mission.”

His curiosity was definitely picked.

“Oh ? So it’s not for a prayer ?”

She shook of her head in sync.

“Nope ! It’s of great importance. You’ve been chosen to care for the new Prophet.”

His eyes widened.

“Me ? Why me ?”

“Well, it’s your turn, from what I remember.”

“No, I mean… Doesn’t Our Parent know ?”

“There’s nothing Our Parent doesn’t know. The decision has been made regardless of what is bothering you, so rest assured. You are to depart for Earth in two rotations to assist with the birth.”

Yū was vibrating with excitement when he saw them.

“Maki !! I can’t believe it !! You are so lucky !!!”

He made a face.

“Well, I’m glad there’s at least one Celestial Being who’s excited about it. It won’t be too bad, right ? I just have to get there, make sure that the birth is successful and that the Prophet is good and healthy. Simple and quick.”

They looked horrified by their Brother’s reluctance.

“Maki ! It’s not just another wish ! We’re talking about a Prophet ! They’re special Humans !”

“They’re still Humans. It doesn’t make them better than the regular Ones. Besides it’s still just a baby. They don’t do much.”

They deflected.

“Well… I know. But they have abilities, right ? They can also earn a place among us !”

“So far none of them have been able to do that. Why would this time be any different ?”

“I don’t know... but it just might !”

“I envy your optimism.”

“Please, Brother, indulge me and tell me what little information you have on the Prophet.”

Big bright eyes stared at him expectantly and he caved.

“It’s a boy, second born son. His name is Shinjō Tōma.”

Yū squealed.

“Aww, your little protégé. And a brother ! I feel closer to him now.”

“I believed you would.”

They shot him a joyous smile and for the first time, Maki thought that maybe he should try some of that optimism himself.

Japan, Edo Period - Sakoku, Tokugawa shogunate (Circa 1850)

On the fateful day, he was sent off by his Sibling and arrived down to Earth just as the mother started pushing. The delivery happened without incident under his watchful gaze, and the baby changed arms rapidly, all eager to see the newcomer.

Maki waited patiently until everyone was asleep which, after the big party they had thrown to celebrate, had been a welcomed silence. He knew he wouldn’t have a lot of time since babies had to be fed and changed quite often and didn’t want to risk waking up anyone.

He came inside the room and took the baby in his arms.

“Shinjō Tōma, uh ?”

As if on cue, the infant fluttered his eyes open, and stared straight into him despite still being in his true form, thus confirming his status as a Prophet.

“Well, I guess we’re done already ?”

Tōma, eyes still transfixed into him extended his such small arms towards him, in an attempt to touch him. Instinctively, the God leaned back and the baby protested.

Out of any other option, Maki approached his face until he was able make contact to appease the infant.

“Blackmailing me already uh ? Bold move for a Human to make towards a God.”

The boy was still happily exploring his face.

“Now, how am I going to get out of this situation ?”

He pressed their foreheads together, establishing a contact.

“Able to see the future uh ?”

The baby wiggled in response.

“Shh, I’m almost done.”

“I guess you really are a little special Human, because I’m going to give you a present.”

He closed his eyes and when he reopened them, Tōma had fallen back asleep. And like this, all peaceful and quiet, Maki could kind of understand the fondness. He looked very cute. He caught himself smiling and walked towards the futon to give him back to his mother but the infant had a good grip on his hair.

Maki sighed but he had to admit that the baby was already growing on him. Just the time to make him lose his grip and he had already made up his mind. He closed his eyes once again and kissed the newborn’s forehead.

“There.”

He was then able to put him back beside his mother.

“We will meet again, Tōma. Very soon.”

As soon as he was back in Heaven, Yū jumped on him.

“So ? Tell me about the Prophet !”

“Don’t say it like you weren’t watching.”

“I would never spy on any of my Sibling.”

He sighed.

“Well, the birth went by without a hitch. The boy is a healthy Prophet.”

“And ? What’s his ability ?”

He smiled at the Deity’s enthusiasm.

“Visions.”

Maki watched, humming accordingly as Yū went on a rant about the advantages of this ability.

As part of his responsibilities, he would go down to Earth to check on the Prophet once a year. When he was still an infant, and then a toddler, he would be fast asleep by the time he would come by. And yet, every time without fail, the boy would wake up as soon as he would set foot in the room. This never failed to bewilder Maki since there was no reason for the Prophet to wake up considering that the Celestial Being never made a sound. It had to be instinctual, he really didn’t know what else it could have been. It seemed that Shinjō Tōma truly was one of a kind, even among Prophets.

From his tenth birthday, however, the boy had grown enough to be able to stay awake for his yearly visit, and so he would be awaiting him with only a lit candle so as not to alert his family. Maki had become concerned, each passing year with how attached Tōma was to him. While it was important for the two of them to establish contact and a trusting relationship, it was clear that the feelings the Prophet was developing had passed the point of pure affection, he could clearly see it in the way he would pronounce his name or the particular shine in his eyes when he would see him. Maki had brushed it off at first. From what he knew, Humans often grew affectionate of others in that way and at such a young age, it was more than likely that they would fade one day. As a slight precaution, he had distanced himself from the Prophet. But even then, until the boy’s fifteenth birthday, he had never considered that they would instead grow beyond imagination.

Japan, Edo Period - Bakumatsu, Tokugawa shogunate (Circa 1865)

The visit had started as usual, with the Celestial Being stepping into the room where the birthday boy was reading. He lifted his head and immediately put the book aside.

“Maki-san. Good evening.”

He was looking at him expectantly, like a dog waiting to be petted.

“Tōma. Let’s get this over with quickly shall we ? Nothing of importance happened this year, right ?”

“Well, no. But Maki-san.”

“Hm ?”

“I got older. Today.”

He shook his head.

“Nonsense, Tōma. You’re Human, you get older with every passing second.”

“Please, Maki-san.”

He sighed. He knew that he wasn’t going to let the subject go. Young Humans, as he had been warned, were particularly stubborn like that.

“Happy birthday, Tōma.”

The Prophet blushed, an expression of pure happiness on his face, and Maki got ready to leave.

“So, now that we’re done-”

“Wait, Maki-san. Before you go. Could you tell me when am I going to get my calling ?”

“Soon enough, Tōma. When the time comes I will inform you. Until then, just continue living as you’ve been.”

“Can’t you not tell me a bit more ?”

“Tōma. Like I said, do not worry about that.”

“But Maki-san. You’re only coming here because of the mission, right ?

He frowned.

“Indeed.”

“Maki-san, don’t you care about me at all ?”

“You’re my protégé, Tōma. I’ve been charged to take care of you, to make sure you would grow up to become a Prophet worthy of Our Parent’s trust.”

“That’s not what I asked. You, Maki-san. Personally, what do you think of me ?”

The God hadn’t been expecting that. He could see in the boy’s eyes how serious he was. He couldn’t just ignore it, but he also didn’t want to lie to him.

“I’ve grown fond of you over the years, Tōma. Why the questions ?”

“I think you know why Maki-san.”

His heart sank. It couldn't’ be right ? The boy was only fifteen. Way too young for the feelings he thought he had. He had to make a term to this now.

“Tōma. You can’t keep thinking like this. I am a God, and you’re Human, no matter how special.

“I asked you before. I asked you and you said Deities could fall in love too.”

He took a deep breath.

“And it’s true. However, Deities only fall in love once. There is never any way of knowing why or when. This is out of our control. This is different from Humans.”

“But it’s still possible right ? This can still happen. A God and a Human falling in love.”

“I supposed that in theory it is. But I don’t think Our Parent would be that cruel. I can only imagine the pain of watching your Only Love die.”

Tōma looked visibly shaken at the reminder.

“But- But Prophets are different no ? You said that Prophets could become Deities.”

“Tōma. Once again, it is a possibility. But you’re not the first Prophet ever. There’s been around twenty others before you and so far none of them have succeeded.”

“So… What you’re telling me is that it’s hopeless ?”

The God didn’t know if the boy was talking about them or the mission.

“Our Parent has faith in you Tōma.”

“And you ? Do you believe in me ?”

A desperate look on his face made him flinch.

“It doesn’t matter what I think.”

“It matters to me. Please.”

“I told you all you need to know. Our Parent-”

“I don’t care about what Our Parent-”

“TŌMA !”

His eyes widened. It was the first time Maki had ever raised his voice at him.

“Do you understand what you’ve almost said ? Do you have any idea how serious blasphemy is ? You’re meant to serve Our Parent. Especially as a Prophet. You should never forget that. In fact, I won’t let you. As soon as I’m back on Heaven, I am stepping down from my role.”

“What ?”

“You’ve grown too attached to me, you’ve started to forget what’s really important so from now on, you will be supervised by another Deity.”

Glassy eyes and quivering lips disappeared from his view as he got into a dōgeza.

“Maki-san, please don’t. I promise I won’t bring it up again. Please, I beg you. I will be a good Prophet. I will serve Our Parent well. I will do anything, please.”

The God took a deep breath, determined not to let his feelings show. He couldn’t yield, even if his heart desperately wanted him to. His protégé had a mission. He had a chance. And Maki was certainly not going to let him blow it.

“Rise, Prophet.”

Shaking through his tears, he stood up. In his true form, he found that the boy was only slightly shorter than him.

“Deities know the power words hold and don’t spread them lightly. I cannot take back my decision even if I wanted to. My successor has already been decided and they will soon make contact with you. You, Shinjō Tōma have been chosen personally by Our Parent for a reason. Do remember that always.”

Tōma had stopped crying but the painful expression and the traces the tears had left were unbearable. Nonetheless, he seemed to take his words to heart and straightened himself.

“Understood, Maki-san. I will wait and accomplish my mission, make Our Parent proud.”

He smiled at his baby Human one last time.

“Our Parent already is.”

They opened their eyes for the first time.

“Welcome.”

The Celestial Being in front of them was smiling.

“My name is Maki, God of constellations. My task is to oversee the stars.”

“Yū, Deity of hope. I am tasked with nurturing the feeling of hope and watch over those who embrace it.”

The God smiled.

“Nice to meet you, Little Sibling.”

He took them around the place, introducing them some others.

“How many are we in total, Brother ?”

“I don’t keep count. We’re still being made, Our Parent isn’t done with their Creation.”

“About Humans, right ? The ones we will be watching over ?”

Maki nodded.

“It shouldn't be long anymore, since it’s started. We’ll see the first ones soon.”

“Our Parent said we shouldn’t reveal ourselves to them.”

He smiled.

“We will still be able to see them from afar. Only can we go see the most devots when we answer prayers. But not in our real form, it can be fatal to them, unless they’re Prophets.”

“How will we know if that’s the case ?”

“The Script keeps a list of all the Humans who will be Prophets. Their births will be a real event so don’t worry about that.”

He looked at them.

“Impatient to meet some already ?”

“I’m merely worried about revealing myself in my true form to Humans and hurt them.”

“Rest assured then, Sibling.”

Time passed and quickly, watching Humans became their favourite past-time. Maki, their closest Sibling didn’t seem to be sharing their enthusiasm.

“Don’t you get bored, Yū ? They always make the same mistakes and then come running to us to fix everything. They never learn.”

They fidgeted in place.

“Well, they don’t live as long as we do. They’re just doing the best they can.”

He laughed.

“Is that what it is ? Well, I find that all the more puzzling that you keep watching. But I suppose it’s your characteristic as the Deity of hope. Your optimism really fascinates me.”

“Do you think I’ll ever meet one ?”

He thought it over.

“Unlikely. You were among the first to be created, one of the most powerful and one of the most important. Minor deities are always going to be sent first. But don’t lose hope.”

He chuckled.

“Well, I know you won’t do that. Anyway, it can still happen. Humans are only going to multiply. You’ll get your turn.”

Yū looked at him.

“You really think so ?”

“There are not a lot of things I look at with optimism. After all, everything has already been written by Our Parent, we already know what is going to happen. But not every single detail. I’m sure you’ll get your turn.”

Even more time passed, until one day, they were called. They couldn’t believe it.

“I- I- I’m being called down to Earth ?”

The Goddess continued drawing.

“Yep.”

“You didn’t hear it from Nao, right ?”

Kanako chuckled.

“Nope. It’s very official, Yū.”

Their heart was racing.

“My first call.”

“Congrats. And for such an important mission.”

They nodded.

“Yeah, I can’t wait to receive the details of the prayer.”

She stopped her movement and looked at them, frowning.

“Yū, you didn’t speak to Maki recently ?”

They thought about it.

“Well, the last time was before his usual visit to the Prophet.”

“Oh. So, you probably don’t know.”

“Know about what ?”

“Maki had to stop being the Prophet’s Celestial guardian.”

Their eyes widened.

“What !?”

“Yep. So now you’re being asked to step in as replacement.”

She offered them a small smile.

“Sorry, it’s not a personalised mission. I know you’ve been wanting one for a long time.”

They shook their head.

“No, it’s fine ! I just hope I’m not going to mess up. This is a very important mission after all.”

“You better not. There’s a lot of hope in Shinjō Tōma. And you might just be the one who get to see their protégé succeed.”

“I'll make sure to see to that.”

Now, get going already, your Human must be waiting for you.”

Japan, Edo Period - Bakumatsu, Tokugawa shogunate (Circa 1865)

They took in their surroundings for a moment before getting inside the room where the Human was. Earth was truly more beautiful than he had been able to see from Heaven. It didn’t make it justice, and he could almost understand Nao’s wandering.

Eventually, they came inside.

“Hello.”

The Human jumped in surprise before making a face at their sight.

“I am Yū, Deity of hope.”

“... Shinjō Tōma.”

They let out a chuckle.

“So, it is you the infamous Prophet. It was so hard to get Maki to reveal anything about you.”

He looked at the Deity, bewildered.

“You- You know Maki-san ?”

“Of course, we are Siblings. Not in the same sense as Humans, but we’re both Deities. Maki was made first and was the one who told me about Our Parent’s Creations. I suppose it’s the same for you.”

He nodded.

“Maki-san was very good to me. He would bring me a present when I was younger during each visit and he would play with me.”

They tilted their head.

“Oh ? Well, I must say I find that very strange. Maki has never been very fond of Humans. I never thought that he would go out of his way to do all of those extra things for you. He must really care about you.”

Tōma looked away.

“Yeah, maybe…”

“You must know that I’ve known Maki for millenials now. I’m one of his closest Siblings with our Sister, Kanako. I’ve been briefly informed about the reason for his quitting and you can believe me when I say that he wouldn’t have done that with anyone. This is quite out of character since Maki has never had esteem for Humans. He could have let you fail your mission early and yet, he didn’t.”

He smiled weakly.

“I am a special Human no ? A Prophet. I see all of those things-”

“They will make sense one day, I can promise that much. You only need to have faith in yourself, Tōma. Then, you might just be able to accomplish what no one has before.”

The boy looked intently at them, trying to see cracks in his confidence. After a longer moment than Yū would have thought, he nodded.

“Okay then.”

Japan, Edo Period - Bakumatsu, Tokugawa shogunate (Circa 1867)

Yū carefully memorised the detail to the mission before going down to Earth, as excited as can be.

It was still daytime and the boy had made himself comfortable in the hallway around the house, facing the garden. He didn’t hear them come, so concentrated on his writing.

“Hello, Tōma.”

They wondered if the Prophet had seen this day come. It wouldn’t have been strange. After all, he had been blessed with visions.

He lifted his head towards them and immediately stood up, spilling his ink everywhere. He didn’t spare the mess a glance.

“It’s time.”

They nodded.

“It is, indeed. How are you feeling ?”

“I- I’m not sure.”

He looked around for something, but there was nothing to be found.

“I’m nervous ? And excited ? I’ve known about this mission I would one day be given since I was born. And yet I don’t feel ready at all.”

“Trust me, you are ready. You already have everything you need to succeed. Nothing more is necessary.”

He looked at them sheepishly.

“I’m scared, Yū.”

They nodded.

“That’s a good sign. It means you’re taking it seriously, as you should.”

“Being scared is a good sign ?”

“My Brother Shingo, the God of Force and Raw Energy once said that fear was not the opposite of strength. You fear because you care, because you have something to loose, not because you’re weak. I hope you will at least trust the expert in that subject.”

Tōma took a deep breath.

“Tell me, Yū. Do you think I can succeed ?”

There was no trace of doubt in their eyes or voice.

“Of course, I do.”

They were back in Heaven in no time and Maki was pacing, waiting for them. As soon as he saw them however, he hesitated.

“You can ask, Brother.”

“Many years ago, you told me that maybe this time, the Prophet would succeed.”

“I remember.”

“So, now that you’ve met him and that you know about the mission, do you still believe that it can be the case ?”

A smile bloomed on their face.

“I am sure it will.”

Japan, Meiji Era (Circa 1910)

Tōma closed his eyes.

She looked excitedly as the Being appeared.

“Hello.”

He opened his eyes, and looked around.

“No need to be scared. I am here to pick you up, former Prophet known as Shinjō Tōma.”

He finally turned around and noticed her. His eyes widened.

“I am Kanako, Goddess of Art and Creativity.”

“I.. Wait, what is going on ? I was just going to sleep ?”

She chuckled. He was funny.

“Ah, yes. I’m sorry for your loss but Shinjō Tōma died in his sleep.”

He frowned, seemingly lost. He would soon realise, but for now, she would have a bit of fun.

“But. I don’t understand. I am Shinjō Tōma.”

“You used to be. But not anymore.”

She turned back.

“Come and walk with me, will you ?”

She started humming as she walked away and he quickly caught up with her. In her limitless mercy, she decided to speak up first.

“You have caused quite an uproar in Heaven.”

“Really ?”

She hummed.

“My Siblings are very fond of you. I knew I had to meet you, so I asked for a favour.”

His eyes grew bigger as surprise overtook him.

“When you say Siblings, do you mean-”

“Yū and Maki, yes.”

He sighed, eyes looking in the distance.

“Maki-san.. It’s been so long since I’ve last seen him.”

“Indeed, it has.”

“Tell me, how has he been ?”

She chuckled.

“Asking after my Brother before asking about yourself ? You are quite the peculiar Being.”

His cheeks went pink.

“You mentioned him so I had to ask. I care a lot about Maki-san.”

“So I’ve heard. And read. Those were some of the most beautiful poetry I’ve ever read. But I also know that your feelings drove my Brother away.”

“I was young. I never meant for things to turn like this.”

“No need to apologise. After all, things turned out exactly how Our Parent had planned them.”

He stopped in his tracks and soon after, she did too.

“What are you trying to say ?”

“Exactly what I said. That the plan was a success.”

“A success ? Do you mean-”

“Stop asking me what I mean. I mean what I say and say what I mean. You were successful. All of you.”

He looked at his surroundings in awe this time.

“So this is-”

“Not Heaven. Not yet at least. I told you I was here to pick you up.”

She smiled at him.

“So when you said I wasn’t Shinjō Tōma anymore nor a Prophet-

Finally.

“Yes. Congratulations. You’ve been officially granted a place among us. From now on, you will only be known as Tōma, God of the Riches. You will only be a minor Deity though, so you will be quite busy.”

“So, I did it ? I will get to see Yū and Maki-san again ?!”

She chuckled.

“Yep. But first, we need to finish our walk.”

They resumed walking. He looked at Kanako.

“Does that make us Siblings ?”

“That, it does.”

“Wow.”

“You’ll have to get used to a lot of new things. Like flying. But don’t worry, I’m sure all of us Siblings will be delighted to spend time with you and get to know you.”

“Like you ?”

She chuckled.

“Exactly like me. They will be so mad. It should have been your Celestial guardians showing you the way, I hope you’ll forgive me for robbing you of seeing them sooner.”

“Uh, it’s fine. It doesn’t really matter anymore right ? We’ll be together forever.”

“You’re adapting faster than I thought you would, Tōma. But you still must be impatient to see Maki again.”

“I admit that I am.”

“Tell me. Have you ever stopped loving him ? Even now, do you still love him ?”

He sighed.

“Not once have I ever stopped loving him. And even now, my love for him burns deep.”

Kanako smiled.

“I hope I will be able to steal some moments with you to write poetry once in a while.”

“I would like that, Sister.”

She stopped.

“We’re almost here, Tōma. But before that, I must tell you. You don’t have to accept this gift with the status and the powers. You can choose to spend eternity among the souls of dead Humans in Paradise instead. As a Deity, you’ll be serving Our Parent, and work for eternity. Do you still wish to accept ?”

“Yes, I do. I’ve worked so hard for that. I’ve wished for that. I’ve even dreamt about that time.”

“Then, who am I to deny you your dream ?”

She closed her eyes and a door appeared in front of him.

“Here. If you go through that door, you’ll wake up on Heaven.”

He took a deep breath before opening it and taking a step forward.

…


…


…


He opened his eyes.

“Hello, Tōma.”

His heart started racing and he looked in the direction of the voice.

“Maki-san.”

The God’s face changed to shock then, realisation. He walked towards him and Tōma, unsure of his reaction, didn’t dare to move.

A hand stroked his cheek affectionately and the Celestial Being laughed.

“You did it, my Only Love.”