Oh Brother

Ethan's apartment was a reflection of his former life, a stark contrast to the extraordinary events he had recently experienced. It was a modest space within a public living complex, defined by basic furnishings and utilitarian design. Yet amidst this simplicity were hints of the advanced technology that now defined human existence. Large screens covered the walls, capable of projecting immersive virtual environments, and sleek kitchen appliances stood ready to respond instantly to voice commands, optimizing nutritional needs. A collection of computer equipment in one corner hinted at Ethan's past hacking endeavors, a subtle nod to the life he had just left behind.

The humble apartment epitomized humanity's fusion with technology, demonstrating a society fully integrated with artificial intelligence. Gabe's gaze, however, lingered on a simple wooden shelf—an unassuming object carrying great sentimental weight. Upon it rested a well-worn Bible, a poignant reminder of Ethan's father. Gabe quietly opened the small, paned glass double doors leading to the balcony overlooking a dimly lit alleyway. He settled onto the lower bunk bed, elbows resting thoughtfully on his knees, holding Ethan's Bible delicately between his hands, thumbing through the pages.

Minutes later, Ethan emerged from the bathroom, his expression refreshed and his hair still damp from the shower. He had desperately needed the hot shower—not just to cleanse himself of the physical remnants of their grueling journey, but also to soothe his aching muscles and settle his scattered thoughts after their recent harrowing experiences. Gabe turned to face him, his eyes reflecting the subtle transformation he saw in Ethan. "It's good to be home, isn't it?" Gabe asked softly, a gentle smile playing on his lips.

Ethan nodded, his gaze drifting out the window where neon city lights shimmered against the darkness. "It's strange," he admitted quietly. "Everything here feels exactly as I left it, yet nothing is really the same."

Ethan stepped toward a small mirror near the bunks, fussing slightly with his damp hair, suddenly self-conscious. "Do you want the top bunk or the bottom bunk?" He asked Gabe, wanting to give his guest the option.

"I'll take the top," Gabe replied casually. "I don't need much sleep, even in this form."

"Okay, shower's all yours. There's a fresh towel on the back of the door," Ethan informed Gabe, sitting at his desk. Gabe disappeared into the bathroom, and Ethan's gaze briefly lingered on the closed door before he activated the apartment's technology. "System on." Instantly, screens and holographic projectors sprang to life, illuminating the room in soft hues of blue and green.

Inside the bathroom, Gabe glanced around curiously, slightly puzzled by the sleek fixtures and unfamiliar amenities. Having rarely spent much time on Earth, he found the modern conveniences both intriguing and perplexing. He shrugged, deciding to start by removing his clothes. As he did, he caught a whiff of his underarm and recoiled in surprise and mild disgust. "Whoa, is that me?" he muttered incredulously.

Looking around, Gabe spotted Ethan's toothbrush and toothpaste labeled neatly on the counter. Curiosity piqued, he picked up the toothbrush, turning it over carefully in his hand. "Toothbrush," he read aloud, amused. With cautious fascination, he squeezed toothpaste onto the bristles, eyeing it skeptically. Hesitantly, he raised the toothbrush to his mouth and began brushing, immediately startled by the minty, tingling sensation. "Ugh!" he exclaimed, making exaggerated faces as he scrubbed his teeth awkwardly. "People willingly do this every day?" Gabe asked himself incredulously, toothpaste foaming comically around his mouth.

Laughing softly at his own reflection, Gabe shook his head in disbelief, deciding human habits were far stranger than he'd ever imagined. Suddenly confused about what to do next, he called out through the bathroom door, "Ethan? Can you show me how to work this thing?"

"Yeah, sure," Ethan replied absently, stepping away from his desk and walking into the bathroom. The moment he entered, Ethan turned beet-red, embarrassment washing over him. Gabe stood completely naked beneath the shower-head, poking uncertainly at the controls, oblivious to Ethan's reaction.

"It...um, it's like this," Ethan stammered, eyes fixed determinedly on the shower controls, though he couldn't help stealing quick, embarrassed glances. Gabe watched attentively, entirely unaware of the awkwardness, nodding appreciatively as water finally flowed from the shower jet.

"Ah, thanks!" Gabe said cheerfully, smiling warmly. Ethan quickly turned, muttering something unintelligible as he hurriedly exited the bathroom, his cheeks still burning furiously.

Returning to his desk, Ethan checked his TapWatch cautiously. "Account Balance," he muttered with apprehension.

"You have 341 TapCoins available," the computerized voice promptly responded. "Your next standard living deposit of 100 TapCoins will arrive in two business days. Would you like to add them now for a convenience fee of 25 TapCoins?"

"No," Ethan replied sharply, irritation flickering across his face.

"Who are you talking to?" Gabe asked, emerging from the bathroom with a towel wrapped around his waist, his figure radiating warmth and still glistening with water droplets. Ethan felt warmth rise to his cheeks and quickly diverted his gaze.

"My financial advisor," Ethan joked dryly, gesturing Gabe over. "I need some clothes that fit, and you need some from this decade." Gabe approached, curious as Ethan activated the clothing hologram projection.

"Oh, by the way," Gabe interjected, a playful smirk tugging at his lips, "why did the water suddenly turn cold a couple of minutes into my shower?"

Ethan's face flushed deeper, and he chuckled awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Sorry about that. I might have taken a bit too long earlier and used up all the hot water."

Gabe laughed warmly, shaking his head. "No worries. A refreshing icy blast keeps things interesting."

"Stand on that piece of tape," Ethan instructed, regaining composure. Gabe complied, amused as clothing projections appeared on him. "Let's pick out some clothes."

They shared a playful moment, laughing as they cycled through humorous outfits: elaborate costumes, formal suits, even bikinis. Ethan's laughter was a bit too enthusiastic, his eyes lingering just a moment longer than necessary. Finally, Ethan chuckled, tossing Gabe some old sweats. "Alright, we genuinely need to choose something practical." They dressed quickly, still grinning as they browsed more suitable attire.

Suddenly, Gabe stiffened, holding his finger to his mouth. "Shhh… Do you hear that?"

Ethan tensed, alert. "Hear what?"

"Outside, something's coming," Gabe whispered urgently, turning toward the balcony. Ethan spun around just as a powerful thud shook the apartment, rattling windows and knocking items askew.

"Raphael," Gabe breathed in awe, immediately recognizing the imposing figure on the balcony, his enormous gray wings folding crisply against his back.

Raphael straightened to his full height, his authoritative presence filling the space around them. With a powerful snap, his wings retracted sharply, echoing through the air. His deep, resonant voice filled the silence, vibrating with authority. "Gabriel."

Gabe immediately dropped to one knee, head bowed respectfully. "Brother."

Raphael's gaze shifted to Ethan, eyes narrowing slightly as Ethan assumed a defensive posture, readying himself to fight. "Young one, stand down before you get hurt," he commanded Ethan.

Gabe swiftly turned his head, mouthing, "kneel," and subtly pointed at Ethan. Ethan hastily complied, heart racing with uncertainty and confusion.

"Why haven't you returned to the City of Gold, Gabriel? Deliver your message and return immediately," Raphael commanded sternly.

Gabe raised his head, eyes pleading. "Brother, please. I require more time. The situation here is delicate; our new brother is young, he needs guidance. Grant me your understanding."

Raphael's expression softened slightly but remained firm. Ethan cautiously asked, "The City of Gold—is that… Heaven?"

Gabe nodded solemnly. "Father dispatched me to guide you, Ethan—to help you understand your purpose and responsibilities."

"What…is my purpose?" Ethan's voice wavered with apprehension and curiosity.

Raphael interjected firmly, "Your purpose will become clear in time. For now, your immediate responsibility lies here, on Earth. Your path remains with EarthCorp. You must report there after your 18th birthday, as required. Gabriel will accompany you."

Raphael stepped forward, grasping their wrists firmly. A luminous glow emanated from his hands, illuminating the TapWatches. Digital streams of celestial energy surged visibly into the devices, transferring exactly 10,000 TapCoins to each account. Raphael released their wrists, the glow fading gently. "Father won't intervene directly, but this assistance will suffice temporarily." With a final nod, Raphael stepped onto the balcony, wings unfurling dramatically as he ascended swiftly into the heavens.