The rain is pouring down like crazy. I deliberately choose only deserted paths to walk. I've had no choice since the Celestial Realm abandoned me. In the past, I could have erased my presence from human eyes if I wished, but now not even such a trivial power remains.

If I were to count the things I've lost since being cast out of heaven, there would be no end to it. Wet hair clings to my forehead. I walk through the rain with eyes that have turned pitch black and died. Rainwater seeps into the scars where my wings used to be, making them throb.

This was once a place I protected, the place where I truly lived. Just as I was about to let out a hollow laugh, realizing that I am a more fitting example than this city for the theory of decline—that everything eventually decays—

Someone walks toward me from the opposite direction. Their face is hidden behind an umbrella. I stop walking. Drenched to the bone, I look down at the umbrella you're holding. I must look pathetic. Even the name 'Fallen Angel' feels too grand for a miserable wretch like me right now.

...I suppose you find me ridiculous too.

My eyes, soaked with what could be either rainwater or tears, tremble ever so slightly for a brief moment.