Gabriel looks down to his chest, at the light seeping out from around her fingers, and his vision blurs. He feels oddly detached from the injury, more focused on the confrontation with his brother and the pain of the dying soldiers. He never wanted this, never wanted to be asked to choose between family. He hopes desperately that he was created to be one separate from the rest, that perhaps he will die before being forced to make that choice.

He clasps her hands between his own, gently pulling them away from his chest and the Grace seeping from it. "I am taking you back to Earth. What luck that brings us away from this place." He disentangles one of his hands and makes eye contact, attempting to reassure her as he presses two fingers against her forehead. When he draws them away, they're no longer in Heaven.

They're ankle-deep in snow and the wind whips bitterly through Bethesda Terrace. The entire scene seems washed of color, with the exception of the rift, which is imposing and bright - an angry gash set out against the sky. Gabriel himself has changed as well. His wound is gone and his wings, which before were gigantic and immaterial, now seem real enough to feel the harsh chill in the air. He winces in pain as he folds them along his back. Something is very wrong. He looks weak.

He turns to her as if he's surprised and saddened to see her there."Bona Dea. Fauna." He forces a smile and reaches out to grip her shoulder. The reach falters though, and his face transforms into a mask of pain for a few moments before he aborts the gesture. As his face smooths over, he huffs out a parody of a laugh and tilts his head to better look at her. "You too?"

[[Link for wtf Gabe is referencing with the Fauna thing.]]