[Inias is quiet for a few moments before choosing to take a seat in the Garden itself -- leaning against the tree, careful not to crush anything, his arms loosely draped over his knees. The effect is a sudden calming feeling washing over him and Inias closes his eyes slightly.

He suddenly looks rather old.]

It was Raphael and his massive force against our own. We were outnumbered by... a large amount.

[A pause.]

Many of us died in order to obtain some semblance of freedom. I refused to attack first, but I also had to defend myself. I could not afford to die, not when the risk of doing so was so great.

[He closes his eyes completely, to think.]

God will never forgive me for the acts I have committed, nor should He. Part of me almost believes that it would have been better had the Apocalypse taken place, but I know that is also wrong. There is no decent ending to Heaven's story -- the fruit of optimism has long since run dry.

[Inias pauses again before opening his eyes to stare at Gadreel, serious.]

You asked me when you first arrived what you have missed -- all you have missed is pain. Being locked away was a curse, but it may also be a blessing.

[He averts his eyes to the ground, toying with a blade of grass.]

At least you did not need to witness the slaughter.