Her mom looked more like a slightly-older sister, just as her dad looked like potential boyfriend material to her friends -- and for the same reason: the Holiest, the Prophet and his blessings. And now it was her turn, and she found herself unaccountably worried. Just how young would she look? Would people still take her seriously? And more importantly, what the hell was going on here? Julie supported her parents and the Age of Rebirth, but the last time they'd discussed her potential induction, both her parents had insisted that she should be at least thirty, with an established career and her own fortune and influence.
Which meant they wanted something. Or the Prophet did.
Her dad led her over to where the Prophet was standing next to her mother. He was tall and strong, larger than either of her parents, with eyes like stormclouds and a face like an Old Testament judgement. If anybody was going to lead world back to making sense, she thought yet again, it was going to be him.
"Ah," he said, as she approached. "Julie. A pleasure. I realize this comes unexpectedly, but the Age of Rebirth is facing a challenge, and your mother has need of your assistance."
"I suspected so, Holiness," she said, setting aside her misgivings and miming a curtsy. "I stand ready to serve."
"Your faith will be rewarded," he said, "and your rebirth will be a benefit to all of us."
"Would it be a failure of faith to ask what blessings you intend, and what you want me to do with them? I will do your will regardless."
Her father frowned and shook his head sharply, but the Prophet smiled, unperturbed. "Your curiosity is natural, and not to be criticized when you come willingly. I will make you persuasive, like your mother, but also strong and fast like my angels. There is a young man who has caused us some considerable trouble; your task will be to trap him."
Julie considered that, but only for a moment. "As you say it, Holiness, so shall it be done."
She knelt, trying not to think of anything as he approached.
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