Chapter 4: The Passover Feast

Michael sat in stunned silence as the morning sun crested above the meadow. Jesus' words echoed ominously in the stillness. Though virtual, he found himself truly embroiled in the unfolding drama.

At last, he looked up, meeting Jesus' calm gaze. "Where you go, I will go," Michael replied resolutely. "Your mission is too important; I cannot stand by while evil schemes unfold."

Jesus smiled gently. "Then come and break bread with me this Passover. Much is to be fulfilled this night, and strength will be needed."

He rose, and the disciples stirred, packing away bedrolls as Jesus gave final instructions. That evening, they entered Jerusalem amid swelling crowds to celebrate the holy festival. Soon they had rented the upper room of a householder, its triclinium arrayed and ready for the sacred meal.

As Jesus and the Twelve reclined around the low table, joyous chatter filled the chamber. But an undercurrent of tension betrayed the portentous night to come. Michael watched, absorbing every detail that could prepare him for what lay ahead.

At length, Jesus broke the silent prayer, making graceful yet solemn gestures. "I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I say to you, I will not eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God. This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me."

Bread was passed, broken, and consumed in heavy solemnity. Jesus spoke of Judas' coming betrayal, with his disciples exchanging disturbed glances. All grew somber as the implications dawned on them like a dark prophecy.

When the cup was offered next, Jesus' tone lowered to a murmur carrying a weight beyond its soft volume. "This cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you. Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me."

Silence fell, thick as the wine on their tongues. Each searched the others' faces, suspicion and confusion rising as the moment built to a crescendo. At last, Judas asked, far too calmly, "Master, is it me?"

Jesus only looked at him sadly. "You have said it."

Rising in agitation, Judas fled the room, and Michael rose to follow, his blood running cold. He knew not where the betrayer's path led that fateful night, only that danger now stalked in the disciples' own midst. The covenant was sealed, and the hour of treachery was near. Michael prayed his warning could still undo the catastrophe looming tomorrow.

As the small hours passed and the city streets grew still, a furtive form moved through Jerusalem's shadows towards the glimmer of watchfires in the distant hills. Michael hastened in silent pursuit, steeling himself against what the new day would surely bring. Deeper into the dark woodland paths, the two figures slipped, their footsteps echo of betrayal ripening under the silent stars. Dawn was nigh, and with it, the hour when all would be stripped away but faith itself.