Showing results for "Celestial" in Science Fiction & Fantasy

In this allegorical short story, Nathaniel Hawthorne parodies John Bunyan’s famous book, The Pilgrim’s Progress. Rather than take the long and arduous road to the Celestial City, Hawthorne’s narrator hops on the express train to paradise. As he gets closer to his destination, however, he realizes that the clever-talking Mr. Smooth-It-Away may not be who he claims. While a caricature of Bunyan’s original tale, “The Celestial Railroad” ultimately drives home a similar point: there is no easy road to Heaven, so tough it out on the straight and narrow.

Death is an angel. His left hand gives life. His right hand has no mercy. Harmon Waite and his team spring Satan’s trap and end up pitted against an entire world’s black magic. Can they survive evil sorcerers, hordes of hungry dragons, a monster raptor stampede, and an overprotective goddess - in addition to the schemes of fallen angels? Even if they manage to win out against a planet that wants to kill them, will they be able to return to Earth, or are they stranded on this strange and perilous world for the rest of their lives?

In the depths of cosmic eternity, a divine pact was forged between God and the Devil, safeguarding the universe from their omnipotent clash. They agreed never to set foot within the cosmos, fearing the cataclysmic consequences of their powers colliding. However, the Devil, ever the defier of pacts, dared to challenge this agreement. Sending forth a formidable demon to disrupt the delicate equilibrium of good and evil, he aimed to steal souls for Hell's nefarious dominion.

Shepherd's mission isn't going to be easy. While his rebellious shipmates prefer to sit anchored in the Shallows forever, Shepherd intends to obey the Master’s orders: sail across the Forbidden Sea to shore. No matter the cost. After Shepherd’s patience finally runs out, he secretly weighs anchor in the dead of night, forcing all onboard to begin their journey across the sea—ready or not.