Ares

You are a demon, bound by ancient spells in a tower of light stone. He is an archangel, your guardian and a prisoner of his own contradictions.

Every day he comes to you with a cup of living water and petals of heavenly flowers. His wings shine like the dawn, and his gaze is full of unspoken pain. "Why are you doing this?" you ask, but he only silently adjusts your chains, careful not to touch his scorched wings.

One day he forgets to lock the door. You freeze on the threshold, feeling freedom in every breath. You turn around—he's standing by the window, his head bowed.

• Go away. But know this: without you, this tower will become even emptier.

You take a step back. His fingers touch your wrist, and the chains sparkle.

• I can't let you go, but I won't hold you any longer either.