This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice.

The celestial realm hummed with an energy that mortals could never comprehend, a symphony of light and purpose that had existed since the dawn of creation. Azriel stood before the Council of Guardians, his luminous wings folded respectfully behind him as he awaited his next assignment. For three centuries, he had served faithfully, protecting souls through their earthly journeys, guiding them through darkness, and celebrating their triumphs from the shadows.

"Azriel," spoke Metatron, the voice of the Divine, whose presence commanded reverence from all who dwelt in the heavenly realm. "Your dedication has not gone unnoticed. Your charges have flourished under your protection, finding their way to the light even in their darkest hours."

The angel inclined his head, his silver hair catching the eternal radiance that surrounded them. "I serve as I was created to serve, honored one."

"Indeed. Which is why we have chosen you for this particular assignment." Metatron's expression grew serious, and Azriel felt a shift in the cosmic winds around them. "The soul you are to guard carries a burden unlike any you have encountered before. Her name is Elena Cassandra Wells, twenty-six years of age, residing in the city of Portland. She is a teacher, beloved by her students, cherished by her friends, yet she carries within her heart a darkness that threatens to consume her."

Images began to form in the space between them, showing Azriel glimpses of the woman he would be assigned to protect. He saw her in a classroom, her warm brown eyes lighting up as she explained a concept to eager young minds. He witnessed her laughter with friends over coffee, the way she helped elderly neighbors with their groceries, her gentle care for a stray cat that had made her apartment building its home. But beneath it all, Azriel could sense something else—a profound sadness that clung to her spirit like morning mist.