The One Who Did Not Become a God

When the white light faded, I looked out over the chapel from the altar.

The leaders knelt before the pews. At the very back stood Chris and—Bardo, frozen in astonishment.

—So it wasn’t just the leaders.

Chris was one thing, but Bardo was unexpected.

Well, it should be fine. It wouldn’t be hard to keep those two quiet.

“There is no need to be surprised. Truth is always found in the light, and light will never yield to the shadow of death. By your prayers and the Lord’s mercy, I have been permitted to set foot upon this earth once more. Now, please, raise your heads.”

“...Noah! You really... You really came back!”

Kyle shouted, then pounded his fist against the floor, still on his knees.

“I believed... No, there’s no way anyone could believe something like this! You idiot, you had me worried sick...!”

Tears welled in his eyes, impossible to hide...