Chapter 48: Divine Gifts

The golden morning light seeped through the windows of Gabriel's ethereal home, casting a serene glow across its halls. Inside, Gabriel stood at the heart of his sanctuary, his six radiant wings folded slightly behind him. His expression was one of calm concentration as he worked on a task that required not only his divine power but also his heart.

In front of him floated intricate designs of light and gold, swirling together into a tangible form. The armor he was creating bore similarities to the sets he had made for Astrid, Liv, and Eira. White and gold with celestial patterns, it carried an otherworldly elegance that radiated both strength and grace. Gabriel's armor would serve as a reflection of his identity—a balance between the protector and the divine.

The armor plates shimmered with faint engravings of stars and celestial wings. Flowing from the back was a long white cloak trimmed with gold, designed to move effortlessly with him. As Gabriel shaped the armor, a thought struck him. His creations for the sisters were powerful, but he could feel their essence—each crafted to be more than just tools for war.

"This armor isn't just for protection," Gabriel murmured to himself, a faint smile touching his lips. "It's a promise."

Moments later, the distant sound of hurried footsteps echoed through the halls. Gabriel turned toward the doorway, sensing the familiar presence of Astrid, Liv, and Eira. The doors opened with a soft creak, and the sisters entered, their faces alight with joy.

"We're back!" Eira exclaimed, her voice bright and cheerful.

Liv smiled warmly. "I hope we didn't interrupt anything."

Astrid, ever composed, stepped forward, her sharp gaze scanning the room. "You've been busy," she observed.

Gabriel chuckled softly, his glowing eyes warm with amusement. "I have, but you're just in time. Come with me."

The sisters exchanged curious glances but followed without hesitation. Gabriel led them down a wide corridor, the soft glow of the walls reflecting their anticipation. Though he did not give explanations, there was a quiet sense of excitement in the air, as if something extraordinary awaited them.

The group reached a large chamber at the end of the corridor. With a wave of Gabriel's hand, the doors opened silently, revealing the room beyond. Inside, displayed on glowing pedestals, were the weapons and armor Gabriel had crafted for the sisters. The light from the room illuminated every detail, highlighting the artistry and power infused into each piece.

Eira's dual axes gleamed with golden light, their curved blades sharp and precise. Beside them rested Liv's elegant bow, adorned with intricate patterns of vines and leaves. Next to it stood Astrid's spear, sword, and shield, each radiating a commanding aura. Behind the weapons stood the armor, their white-and-gold designs exuding both beauty and divine protection.

The sisters froze, their eyes widening in awe. For a moment, they could only stare, their expressions a mixture of disbelief and joy.

"These are…" Liv began, her voice trailing off as she took a hesitant step forward.

Gabriel stepped beside her, his wings faintly glowing. "These are yours."

Gabriel gestured to Eira's axes first. "Eira, your axes are forged for speed and precision. They'll return to your hands no matter where you throw them, and they leave behind a fiery trail that damages enemies and shields your allies. When swung together, they create a burst of radiant energy to disorient your foes. The axes' strength grows with your courage and your desire to protect those you care about."

Eira's grin stretched from ear to ear as she approached the pedestals. "You made these… for me?" she asked, her voice filled with wonder.

Gabriel nodded. "I did. They're an extension of your fighting spirit."

Next, Gabriel turned to Liv's bow. "Liv, your bow is unique. It generates arrows of pure light, ensuring you'll never run out of ammunition. Each arrow will strike true, guided by your intent, no matter how far or fast your target moves. You can also summon a 'Rain of Radiance,' firing one arrow into the sky that splits into dozens of smaller arrows, raining down on your enemies."

Liv's hands hovered over the bow as if she were afraid to touch it. "It's perfect," she said softly, her voice tinged with awe. "Thank you, Gabriel."

Finally, Gabriel motioned toward Astrid's weapons. "Astrid, your set is versatile and powerful. The spear can extend its reach mid-thrust, glowing with the brilliance of starlight. The sword releases a shockwave of radiant energy when swung, knocking back enemies. And your shield can emit a roar to frighten foes and inspire your allies."

Astrid's usual stoicism melted away, replaced by a rare smile. "You've outdone yourself," she said, her tone steady but filled with gratitude.

Gabriel wasn't finished. He gestured to the armor behind the weapons. "These armors are more than just protection. They're imbued with divine energy that creates a barrier to block sneak attacks, projectiles, and even the strikes of siege weapons. They're designed to complement your strengths."

Eira's Armor is sleek and agile, with flame-like patterns that match her axes. It enhances her speed and allows her to move effortlessly in battle.

Liv's Armor is elegant and flexible, with flowing robes beneath light plating. It emphasizes her grace and precision, allowing her to move like a shadow.

Astrid's Armor, is heavier and more commanding, with angular designs that exude strength. It projects authority and resilience, making her a force to be reckoned with.

The sisters exchanged glances, their joy and amazement clear on their faces.

Before the sisters could respond further, Gabriel raised a hand. The weapons and armor began to shimmer, their forms dissolving into particles of light. The sisters gasped, their expressions shifting from awe to confusion.

"What's happening?" Eira asked, her brow furrowing.

Gabriel smiled, holding out his hand. In his palm, three golden rings appeared, each one glowing faintly. "I've condensed your equipment into these rings," he explained. "With a single thought, you can summon your weapons and armor whenever you need them."

The sisters stepped closer, their eyes fixed on the rings. Gabriel approached Liv first, taking her hand gently as he slid the ring onto her finger. Liv's cheeks flushed a soft pink, and she looked away shyly. "Thank you, Gabriel," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Next, Gabriel turned to Eira, who thrust her hand out eagerly. She grinned as Gabriel slipped the ring onto her finger, and without hesitation, she threw her arms around him in an impulsive hug. "You're amazing!" she exclaimed, laughing.

Finally, Gabriel approached Astrid. She hesitated for a moment, her composure faltering as Gabriel reached for her hand. When he placed the ring on her finger, her heart skipped a beat, and she silently cursed the warmth rising in her cheeks. "Thank you," she said simply, her voice steady but soft.

The sisters exchanged glances before moving as one, wrapping Gabriel in a group hug. Liv rested her head against his shoulder, Eira's laughter filled the room, and Astrid held him firmly, her usual reserve giving way to a rare moment of vulnerability.

"You've given us so much," Liv said softly.

"And you didn't have to," Astrid added, her tone sincere.

Eira grinned, pressing a quick kiss to Gabriel's cheek. "But we're so glad you did!"

Gabriel froze for a moment, the warmth of their affection catching him off guard. A faint blush dusted his cheeks as he returned their smiles. "I'm glad you like them," he said, his voice warm and genuine.