“They can keep their heaven. When I die, I’d sooner go to Middle-earth.”

― George R.R. Martin

“Heaven goes by favor. If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in.”

― Mark Twain

“Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.”

― Henry David Thoreau, Walden

Michael Ray, former High Priest in the Holy Church of Romanto sat in a chair waiting in an office. But it was not your typical office, of course you had your typical office chairs and desks. Paperwork was placed neatly on the white desk, but there were no walls or ceiling. The office was located on a floating white platform surrounded by clouds, it was a surreal scene. Time was different here too; Michael had no idea if he had sat here for an hour or a minute. He did have time to come to terms with his death though, killed by heretics. Michael did not like the way he died; he had no idea on whether the mission was successful, but he doubted it.

He and his soldiers were ambushed by the resistance. More than likely, every son of Romanto was killed in the ambush. The church would have to find someone else to root out the rebels. There was a sudden flash of light, and a man appeared before Michael sitting behind the desk. Saint Capri Oakwall placed a gold folder on the desk, he smiled at Michael, his grey-green eyes filled with pride and joy. Michael took this as a good sign.

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“Michael, my son. Good news, I have looked over your file and we are pleased with what you have done in your mortal life. Of course, you have made mistakes here and there. But haven’t we all?”

At this, Capri gave a jovial laugh. Michael could not help himself, he joined in. The Saint was so…friendly and comforting.

“More importantly, Lord Romanto is pleased with your efforts to spread his light across the world.”

Michael puffed out his chest at hearing his god had notice his works upon the earth. It gave him a sense of pride and accomplishment. Capri was still speaking.

“Because of your unwavering devotion to the God of Order and Justice. You have earned entry into Romanhall.”

Michael let loose a small sigh of relief, his eternity was assured.

“But there is more.”

Capri stated and Michael sat straighter in his chair. What more can there be?

“Because of your time with the Morality Corps, and your stellar combat record before and during your time with the corps. The Council of Archangels has decided to grant you training to ascend to the ranks of the warrior angels in the Heavenly Host. This of course is your choice, but if you choose to spend the rest of eternity in paradise with the other mortal souls. This shall not be denied to you.”

Michael did not hesitate; he stood from his chair and bowed his head saying.

“It would be my honor to join the ranks of the warrior angels and serve Lord Romanto in any other capacity that I am capable of performing.”

Capri stood from his own chair and walked around the desk. He clapped a hand on Michael’s shoulder and said in a happy tone.

“I have no doubt that the Heavenly Host will be glad to have you aboard. Now, let me give you a little tour of where you will be spending eternity.”

And with those words, Capri teleported both away from the office. In a flash of bright white light, both men were gone.