PART XII
Battle for the Devildom, an Interrupted Celebration
When Kagura and the others arrived at the Downtown area, they were shocked at the scene before them. The destruction of the area was immense, but what was even more shocking was the same Dark Void that had trapped the Brothers in the human world had made an appearance once again. Peering deep into the Void, Kagura and the Six Brothers saw three figures within the Void. They were surrounded by a huge mass of undead wraiths. Looking at the three silhouettes, Kagura and company recognized them. They were Lord Diavolo, Barbatos and Lucifer. All three were on the brink of collapsing from exhaustion, but they still fought despite being outnumbered. It wasn't long before Kagura and company noticed another figure in the Void. The figure lay on the ground behind the exhausted demons as still as death. Kagura and the Demon Brothers stared in stunned disbelief when they saw the bleached hair. It was Solomon. Solomon! Kagura thought in horror. Forcing calmness she didn't feel, she turned to the Brothers and said, "Please stand back. I'm going to dissolve that Void."
The Brothers nodded and stood back. Once the Brothers were at a safe distance, Kagura activated her Purification Powers and cast her "Arrows of Purification" spell that completely dissolved the Dark Void. Waving away her bow and arrow she saw the true nature of the danger the three demons were facing. Lord Diavolo, Lord Barbatos, and Lucifer were surrounded by 50 undead wraiths. Though the three demons were not sealed in demon binding circles, they were getting severely hurt, drained and weakened by the undead wraiths. If nothing was done, the 50 undead wraiths would kill the three before Kagura and the Brothers could save them. Remembering what the undead wraiths were, possessed humans with no souls, Kagura knew what she had to do. It was something she already had knowledge of. She needed to perform an Exorcism then banish the evil just like what the Catholic priests do to exorcise and banish demons from possessed humans in the human world.
The undead wraiths were also once human before Dark possession was cast on them. Before becoming possessed, they were killed and stripped of their souls. Taking advantage of the empty shells, the half-awakened Ancient Evil had cast a Dark possession on them, turning the innocent humans into Dark wraiths forcing them to destroy and kill. That was something Kagura could not forgive. He will pay for what he did, but that can come later. For now, she needed to take care of the current situation. Tapping into her awakened Powers, she searched for the spell to exorcise and banish the evil from the human husks before finding it. Kagura knew the spell could not restore their human souls, but it could change them into a Spirit. Someday their Souls would reunite with their Spirit. When that day comes, the human husks would become whole again. With that in mind, Kagura bent down and sharply hit the cobblestone road with her hand before she started the chant. "In circulo qui domi ignaros malorum abiit salus, a moenibus depelere omnium paeter. Nunc attendite me vocantem… When in the circle that is home, safety is gone and evils roam. Rid all beings from these walls. Now heed my call." As the chant finished, a silvery circle of light suddenly surrounded the 50 undead wraiths. Within the circle of light, all the wraiths collapsed with a shriek of pain. As they collapsed, a huge mass of Dark Mist was forced out of their bodies before the mass dissolved into nothingness.
Lying in the Magical Circle, the bodies started to glow with a silvery light that reached blinding heights before it subsided to reveal the truth behind the wraiths leaving everyone shocked. When they were alive, they had been humans. After they were killed and stripped of their souls, they were turned into wraiths through a Dark Possession Spell. After Kagura had cast her spell, the Evil within them had been exorcised and banished returning the humans to their original forms and changing them into Spirits. After the truth was revealed, the humans, now Spirits, flickered and disappeared after one of them thanked Kagura for saving them.
Meanwhile, the Seven Dark Entities that stood hidden in Darkness had watched in stunned disbelief at everything that had transpired. The girl had interfered again. The Ancient One will not be pleased. However, everything was not lost. The three demons had been considerably weakened. It was now the time to eliminate them. Reappearing before the three demons again they prepared to attack. Kagura had long noticed their reappearance and thought, Oh, no you don't. You're not going to touch any of them.
Kagura looked at the Seven Dark Figures, and in a cold voice she said, "Oh, no you don't. You're not going to touch any of them."
Raising both her hands, Kagura shouted, "Fluctus Inpulsa! Shockwave." The next second, the Seven felt an immense shockwave enter their bodies effectively restraining them. Furious and shocked at the same time, Lord Diavolo's Dark Double said in a cold voice, "This Restrainment Spell is not permanent. Once we get free, you'll pay dearly for that."
Looking at Lord Diavolo's Double, Kagura said coolly, "It may be temporary, but it will keep all of you restrained for the time being."
Turning to Lord Diavolo, Lord Barbatos, and Lucifer, Kagura saw their stunned expressions on their faces. Sighing but looking serious, Kagura said, "Now is not the time for this. I understand that you have questions, but they will have to wait. We don't have the time to be standing around looking stunned. You three need to be healed so that you can defeat your Dark Doubles. Levi and the others will aid you. I also have to take a look at Solomon. For now, I have temporarily restrained the Enemy, but the Spell will not last. The rest is up to you."
Lord Diavolo, Lord Barbatos, and Lucifer exchanged a look. They were thinking the same thing. Kagura had changed. The Kagura that stood before them was not the old Kagura they knew. However, all agreed that figuring out what had happened to her can come later. The situation now takes top priority.
Lord Diavolo turned back to Kagura and said quietly, "You're right. We do not have time to be standing around looking stunned. The current situation needs to be taken care of first."
Kagura nodded. "Then I'm going to cast 'Area Heal' on all three of you. Good luck."
With that said, Kagura cast Area Heal on the three demons. The spell healed all their injuries, restored their powers and strengths once more. Once healed, all three demons flickered into their demon forms once more before teleporting in front of their doubles just as the Restrainment Spell wore off. Diavolo and Lucifer faced Diavolo's Dark Double while Barbatos faced his Dark Double. As the three demons faced off with their doubles, Kagura turned back to the Six Brothers then looked at Levi and Belphie before saying, "Levi, all that's left of the doubles are your Dark twins. Are you and the others recovered enough to take them on?"
Levi nodded, "Whatever you did to us healed us of all our external and internal injuries. We can take them on. I want payback for what they did to us."
Kagura nodded. "Good luck."
"Thank you Kagura," Levi said before flickering into his demon form. The others followed suit.
As Satan and Belphie were about to leave with the others Kagura said, "Satan, Belphie, you're staying here. I have something else for you two to do. Levi, take your other Brothers with you."
Levi nodded. With a flicker, Levi and his three Brothers disappeared to reappear in front of their Dark twins. After Levi and their three other Brothers left, Satan and Belphie looked at Kagura in surprise before looking away. Never before had Kagura ever ordered any of them to do anything before. She had changed, had changed drastically. Kagura now felt distant to them, unreachable, tearing at their hearts. Satan was the first to return from his painful thoughts and asked quietly, "What is it you want us to do, Master?"
Staring at Satan in stunned amazement, Kagura asked incredulously, "M-Master?! Where did that come from? I thought we were on a first-name basis."
Without looking at her, because if he did, his heart would not have been able to handle the pain, he said, "Ever since you woke up from your coma, you changed. The night of passion we shared had turned into nothing but a fleeting dream. I do not even know you now. What has happened to you?"
When Belphie heard what Satan said, his eyes widened in shock as he stared at Satan. In stunned disbelief, he asked, "Kagura fell into a coma?! And changed after she woke up?! What in the Three Realms happened to her?"
Looking at Belphie, Satan said, "Yes, she fell into a coma after she healed me with a potent healing spell. Before we found you and the others, I was involved in my own magical battle. I was fighting with my Dark twin. He hit me with a potent Dark spell severely injuring me and I lost consciousness. When I woke up, all my external and internal injuries were healed. Lord Diavolo and Lucifer were also there. Lord Diavolo told me that Kagura had healed me with a potent healing spell then collapsed. I later learned from Lord Diavolo that the reason why Kagura collapsed was because she depleted most of her magical energy. When we situated her at the House, Lord Diavolo and Lucifer went searching for you and the others. While they were searching for all of you, Kagura fell into a coma. She was comatose for three days. After she woke up, she changed. I do not know what sparked her change."
When Belphie heard Satan's story, he paled and turned to look at Kagura and saw her eyes grow distant again. Despite the pain the distance caused, Belphie did not look away and said, "I do not know what had happened to you, but no matter the reason for your change, no matter how it changed you, you are still the Kagura I know and love."
As if Belphie's own words had given him strength, Belphie straightened up. His eyes never leaving Kagura's face before continuing, "No matter the history we have had, you are still the Kagura I had come to respect and admire, and to love. You are the same Kagura that saved me from a life of perpetual darkness, the same Kagura that I had made a Pact with of my own free will. You, Kagura, gave me Light and brought me Hope, and freed me from the Darkness of my heart. You are the Kagura I want to protect and keep safe."
As Belphie finished his speech, Kagura stared at him then felt something respond within her. The Darkness that had consumed her heart when she had remembered that Belphie had betrayed her trust and had very nearly killed her was suddenly engulfed by silvery white light. She recognized that Light. It was the Light that marked the source of her awakened Powers. The Light consumed the Darkness in her heart cleansing and purifying it. Belphie's words had saved her from the Darkness. All that was left were the Dark memories of Satan and Lucifer she had.
Returning from her thoughts, Kagura looked at Belphie and said, "Thank you Belphie for saying that. You don't know how important your words are to me," before she hugged Belphie. After the hug, a brilliant purple flame erupted from Belphie's gem shocking both of them. When the flames subsided, a silhouette of a cow was etched deep into the gem's center.
Looking at Belphie's equally stunned face, Kagura asked, "What on earth happened? Now there's a silhouette of a cow on the gem?"
Belphie shook his head and said, "I don't know Kagura. I'm as surprised as you are. We'll figure it out later. Right now, we have to get Solomon to safety."
Kagura nodded and said, "You're right. Solomon's safety comes first. It's time to retrieve him."
Belphie nodded. Kagura touched Belphie's gem and commanded, "Belphegor, Avatar of Sloth, retrieve Solomon from the battlefield and bring him here."
"As my Master commands," replied Belphegor. Belphie flickered into his demon form then teleported to Solomon's side. Picking him up, Belphie teleported and reappeared before Kagura once more.
Once Solomon was situated, Kagura said, "Thank you Belphegor. You may now join your Brothers in Battle. Go and defeat your Dark twin alongside your other Brothers until I call on you again."
Belphegor went down on one knee and bowed to Kagura, "To hear is to obey. I shall join my Brothers and bring victory to you my beloved Master."
Kagura bent over and touched Belphie's head, "Rise, Belphegor. Go with my blessing and return with victory."
"As my Master commands," Belphegor replied as he stood up. Seconds later, he flickered then disappeared to reappear before his Dark Twin.
Looking at his Dark twin coldly, Belphie said, "It's time for payback."
After Belphie left, Kagura was left with Satan and the unconscious Solomon. Looking at Satan, Kagura saw that he had heard Belphie's speech as well. The expression in his eyes made Kagura's heart wrench. The shock of hearing Belphie's true feelings for her had deeply affected Satan. He felt as if he was being placed on the loosing end of a tug-o-war game.
Kagura gave Satan a long look before saying, "Belphie's speech shocked me too. I never knew he held such strong feelings for me. His strong feelings cleansed the negative emotions he had caused in my heart. When I remembered Belphie's betrayal and how he had come close to killing me while comatose, other Dark memories I had sealed away resurfaced. Those Dark memories were of you and Lucifer. Memories of you threatening me, hurting me, and how you had come close to killing me, and memories of Lucifer who had come close to killing me multiple times. I also remembered the injuries he gave me. I'm sorry Satan, until I get the chance to talk to you and Lucifer individually, those Dark memories would never go away."
Satan went still as his suspicions were confirmed. Kagura's change was because of the Dark memories she had of him and Lucifer, her memories of how they had nearly killed her, how they had both hurt her. Agonizing pain swirled within him, his heart shattering. Doubling over in pain, Satan collapsed to his knees, his hands covering his shattered heart. There and then he wished with all his might that he could take back all the fear and pain he had caused her. Kagura's change was his and Lucifer's fault. It was their entire fault.
Kagura's eyes widened in shock as she saw Satan collapse to his knees in agonizing pain, she rushed to him and shouted, "Satan! What is wrong?"
In a broken voice, Satan said, "No! Stay back! Don't come near me! I have caused you too much fear and pain. I do not deserve you nor do I deserve to love you. Please, Kagura, leave me be."
Looking at Satan's tortured expression, Kagura felt awful. She shouldn't have revealed the truth to Satan. Kagura should have known that the truth would kill him on the inside. She had a feeling it would have killed Lucifer too. Both loved her so much. Kagura had known for a long time that both Satan and Lucifer had given their hearts to her, but she had chosen Satan because he had stolen her heart just as she had stolen his.
Looking at Satan, she couldn't help but notice how the two were so similar. Suddenly, she remembered a memory she had of Satan. Satan had taken her to a Library in the Devildom and revealed to Kagura the truth about him, a truth that wasn't how he was born from Lucifer's wrath, but something far more serious.
"…hard not to notice…the way he's featured so prominently up there looking all impressive."
"…ever since that time when I was born from Lucifer's wrath, I've always wished I could be different from him. But no matter what I do, I always feel like I'm smaller somehow. Like, I'm just a fragment of him and nothing more. Maybe it's only an inferiority complex."
"Brothers, even if they're identical twins, are their own people—with their own personalities and their own sets of skills."
"So, you're saying I'm not part of Lucifer, but my own person, you really think so? And that I can stop comparing myself to him?"
"I've always wanted to be different from Lucifer. It's all I've ever thought about. But now that you put it that way, you're right."
Remembering that conversation, Kagura went still as she finally understood why Satan had attacked her and hurt her. He was lashing out his anger from his own self-doubts. Lashing out his anger because Satan had always felt that he was only an insignificant part of Lucifer no matter what he did resulting in his hatred for Lucifer. Satan wanted to be different from Lucifer, to become his own person. During his fight with Lucifer, Satan's self-doubts and inferiority complex overcame his sense of rational judgment resulting in his uncontrollable rage. When Kagura had told him no to his first offer for a Pact, he thought she had rejected him. This rejection was parallel to Satan's unconditional belief that he was nothing more than a fragment of Lucifer, a fragment that is of no importance, a fragment that could be tossed away, which had forced Satan to go into a rage once again. Looking at Satan's pain, Kagura felt like crying inside. Oh Satan, you have suffered too much, I cannot leave you like this.
Kneeling down in front of Satan, Kagura pulled Satan close to her and held him in her arms before she surrounded him with the gentle aura of her Angel's Blessing. Soothing him, calming him, just like what she had done to the Chimera.
"I'm not going to leave you Satan. Didn't I promise never to leave you again when I awoke from my coma?"
As Kagura's Angel Blessing soothed and calmed Satan's heart, she had also healed his soul, Satan nodded then wrapped his own arms around Kagura and pulled her close. "You did promise me, but how can you still want me around? I very nearly killed you and had hurt you creating negative emotions in your heart. Everything was my fault."
Raising her head, Kagura looked at Satan seriously, and then said, "Satan, I never blamed you for anything. I understood why you had lashed out at me. Your hatred for Lucifer overcame your rational judgment. When you thought that I had rejected your first offer for a Pact, the rejection made you feel like a rejected fragment of Lucifer. You had held a strong belief that you were nothing more than a fragment of Lucifer, a fragment that is of no importance, a fragment that could be easily tossed away, which forced you to go into an uncontrollable rage once more."
Satan gently pulled Kagura away and stared at her. Kagura knew the truth to why he had attacked her. In a stunned voice, Satan said, "You knew all along?"
Kagura shook her head and said, "I never knew before, but I figured it out several minutes ago when I remembered a conversation we had at a Library in the Devildom. After I saw the portrait of Lucifer in that memory, you revealed the truth about yourself to me. Not the truth that you were born from Lucifer's wrath, but a truth that was deeply rooted to your sense of self. Do you remember the conversation? You told me that ever since that time when you were born from Lucifer's wrath, you have always wished to be different from him. But no matter what you did, you always felt like you're smaller somehow. Like, you're just a fragment of Lucifer and nothing more. I comforted you and told you that Brothers, even if they're identical twins, are their own people—with their own personalities and their own sets of skills. I also told you that you're not part of Lucifer, but your own person, and that you should stop comparing yourself to him."
Satan went still. He couldn't believe it. Kagura had remembered that conversation and connected it to why he lost to his rage and attacked Kagura, hurting her. With a low cry, Satan pulled her close to him once more and said, "Oh Kagura, you don't know how important your words had had on me during that time. I had thought you had forgotten all about it, and that you would never forgive me for hurting you. I wish I could relive that time and take back all the painful memories my actions had brought to you."
Looking up at Satan's face, her heart wrenched. Raising her head, Kagura gently kissed Satan's lips before saying, "Satan, all my memories of you had long since returned, how could you think that I had forgotten that memory. Not to mention how could you think that I wouldn't forgive you. That memory was one of the memories that had brought us closer together. It is very dear to me. And what you did to me was not your fault. I had long forgiven you. Please don't blame yourself."
As Kagura said that she felt another portion of the Darkness within her heart getting cleansed and purified. All that was left was the Dark memories of Lucifer. She knew that this Darkness would be difficult to cleanse because Lucifer had nearly killed her multiple times as well as injured her multiple times. However, Kagura will not give up. She will cleanse the last portion of the Darkness within her heart no matter what it took. Kagura will make sure the partially awakened Ancient Evil never take advantage of her Darkness. Returning from her thoughts, Kagura suddenly saw Satan's green gem surrounded by a fierce green flame. As the flames subsided, etched deep into the center of the gem was a unicorn rearing on its hind legs.
Kagura blinked in surprise. What? The same thing had happened with Belphie's gem. What on earth did it mean?
"Satan, did you see what happened to your gem?"
Satan nodded and had been surprised as well. His green metal band had responded to the flames that had surrounded his gem.
"I don't know why this happened. Maybe Lord Diavolo or Barbatos will know. For now, let's check on Solomon's situation."
Kagura nodded then looked at Satan, "Are you okay now? You had me seriously worried when you collapsed like that."
Satan slowly stood up bringing Kagura up along with him then held her close once more. "I'm fine now. I don't know how you did it, but the Angel's Blessing you cast soothed and healed all my pain and all my sorrow."
"I don't know how I did it either, but I'm glad you're all right now. I also apologize for revealing the truth about my Dark memories. I should never have done it. I caused you agonizing pain. I'm sorry, Satan."
Satan gently pulled Kagura away and said, "Don't ever blame yourself for doing that. By revealing the truth to me, you shared something personal with me bringing us even closer. If you had kept it a secret from me, I would have felt even more pain and sorrow. Kagura, you and I are bound by an unbreakable bond. Our bond is what makes us who we are. Despite the dark history we have shared, know that you are still the Kagura I had fallen in love with, the same Kagura that had become my other half, had become my life, the same Kagura I want to protect and love for all eternity."
Kagura's eyes widened when she heard Satan's speech. Oh, Satan, you don't know how happy I am to hear you say that. Then she leaned over and kissed him. Satan pulled Kagura close once more and kissed her back. As the kiss ended, Satan reached into his pockets and pulled out the ring he had carried around for a long time waiting for the chance to give it to Kagura. Now was the chance he was waiting for. Going down on one knee and taking Kagura's right hand in his, he placed the ring on her ring finger than said, "Kagura, I've been carrying this around with me for a while now, waiting for the day I could give it to you. That day has finally come. This ring is a sign of my love for you. With this ring, I swear that I'll love you forever, and I promise to devote my life to you and you alone. I love you Kagura, truly, deeply, and forever."
Kagura felt tears streaming down her cheeks. She had wanted to hear these words from Satan for a while now. Though the place and situation was hardly the right place for a proposal, it still touched her deeply. Helping Satan up, she said, "I have wanted to hear these words from you for a long time. You've made me so happy. I shall accept your pledge and return your pledge. I, Kagura will also pledge my love to you and to love you forever and devote my life to you and you alone. You are also my other half beloved Satan and have also become my life. I love you too Satan, truly and deeply."
Satan's eyes widened when he heard Kagura's words before he pulled her close to his heart and kissed her, his heart overflowing with love for her. As the kiss ended Satan said, "When this is over and peace have returned, I want to make more memories with you with the time we have. I want to love and cherish you forever and want to be with you forever."
"And so we shall," replied Kagura with a watery smile. Then they kissed again before both remembered they still had to check on Solomon. Going toward the unconscious Solomon, Satan and Kagura knelt next to him before Kagura checked on Solomon's injuries, going pale at the severity of them. They were fatal.
Looking at Satan, Kagura said, "This is really bad. Solomon's injuries are fatal and they are slowly killing him. How did he get such fatal injuries? Can you use your powers on him to find out?"
Satan's face was grim. "I can, but my powers aren't strong enough to cast that spell. I will need your help."
As Kagura nodded, she suddenly remembered the unicorn emblem on Satan's gem. Could that be the trigger to amplify Satan's spell?
"Satan, I remembered something just now. You remember the unicorn emblem on your gem? I think that may be the trigger to amplify your spell."
"I do remember and you may be right. The only way to check if our suspicions are correct is if we try it out. Do you know what to do?"
Kagura nodded.
Satan gave Kagura a long look before saying, "I know I have mentioned this many times before, but your Powers are developing and evolving at an unbelievable rate. Do you still not know the reason for this?"
Kagura now knew the answer. The answer is the other secret she had kept from everyone, but now she knew out of everyone, Satan was the one who needed to know the most as well as Solomon. She will tell the others in due time.
"Yes, I now know. I will tell you once Solomon is back with us. He needs to know too."
Looking at Kagura, Satan nodded. "I shall wait until Solomon is back with us then."
"Thank you, Satan. We're going to experiment now."
Touching Satan's gem, she closed her eyes and concentrated on the power within the evolved gem, and at the same time, tapping into her own awakened Powers. The immense power that flowed from the gem mixed with Kagura's own immense powers. As they mixed, the intensity was so strong that she gasped in shock and her eyes flew open before she started to chant, "Hear me, denizens of the darkness, thou who art born of shadow and thou who give birth to it. Hear me and do as I command! Awaken and lend thy powers to the one contracted to me. Satan, Avatar of Wrath! Ditans guttura cum potentia, evigilare faciatis Satana! I imbue thee with Power, Awaken Satan!" As the chant echoed throughout Downtown, the Power's intensity and immensity was felt by everyone present. Satan's eyes widened in shock at the intensity of Kagura's power as the gem's power combined with Kagura's. As Satan listened to the chant, he suddenly stiffened when he heard his true name. How in the Three Realms did Kagura learn his true name? All of his Brothers had kept their true names a secret. If known or used in the wrong way, they could be forced to do something against their will.
The power Kagura was giving off began to forcefully pull Satan from his thoughts. He felt Kagura's powers swirling around him stunning him once more. Satan also felt himself forced into his demon form. He shuddered at the mass of power flowing within him, far more than his own. Drawing on the massive power, he cast the spell on Solomon. As the spell was cast, a green Pentagram surrounded Solomon allowing Satan to see what had happened to him. What he saw left him shocked. After Barbatos and Solomon destroyed the undead wraiths during a battle they had, three bolts of Dark Lightning made from Dark Power suddenly targeted Barbatos. Satan recognized that Dark Lightning. It was the same Dark Lightning that had killed half of their Demon Legions during the Ancient Battle. Before the Dark Lightning hit, Solomon cast a multilayered Protective Barrier imbued with silver light around Barbatos protecting him only to be hit by a Rain of Dark Spears that had suddenly rained down on Solomon before he could defend himself. As the Dark Spears hit, Solomon had collapsed. Satan could not believe it. The Dark Lightning and the Rain of Dark Spears were the Destructive spells that had killed many of the Demons and Sorcerers during the Ancient Battle. This was a repeat of that Ancient Battle. Another catastrophic battle was about to happen, but this time, the Three Realms would not survive it.
Deactivating the spell before returning to his human form once more, Satan turned to Kagura and saw her shocked expression. "You also saw what happened to Barbatos and Solomon. The spells cast were the same as the spells that destroyed many of my kind and many of the Sorcerers during the Ancient Battle. When Solomon protected Barbatos, he was hit by the Destructive spell known as Rain of Dark Spears. The magical attack is a more potent version of the one that had killed half of the Sorcerers during the Ancient Battle. Solomon got fatally injured by that spell. I have not the power to heal such fatal injuries. I'm sorry Kagura."
"All is not lost Satan. There is a spell that can heal him. The same Healing spell I used to save your Brothers, 'Angel's Halo'. I will take care of the rest. When Solomon is healed, I will reveal the truth about my Powers to both of you. Please stand back now, Satan."
Satan nodded and stood back.
Kagura slowly stood up and closed her eyes, tapping into her awakened Powers, she cast 'Angel's Halo' once more, but this time she increased the potency of the spell by tapping into her Demi-angel Powers. As Kagura tapped into that Power, a pair of Angel wings suddenly sprouted from her back and she transformed into her demi-angel form. Her dark hair turned silvery-gray and her eyes became silvery-blue. Kagura's clothing changed into a long, silvery-blue dress that bared part of her shoulders. As her form changed into a Demi-angel, Satan stood in shock. What in the Three Realms did Kagura turn into? Before he could process anything, he saw that as Kagura was spreading out her wings, Solomon was suddenly surrounded by a silvery blue light. As the light surrounded him, he started to float. As he lay floating in the air, Kagura's wings enclosed around Solomon before she said, "Angel's Halo!" As the spell was being cast, a Halo of golden light appeared around Kagura reaching blinding heights, spreading to her wings that enclosed Solomon. Within Kagura's wings, Solomon's fatal injuries that were both external and internal healed instantaneously. After Solomon was fully healed, Kagura opened her wings, letting him float gently back to the ground before returning to her human form. Kneeling next to Solomon once again, she waited for him to wake up. Seconds later, Solomon woke up and gingerly sat up before he felt himself pulled into Kagura's arms as she hugged him in relief.
Meanwhile, in the Celestial Realm, Michael felt 'Angel's Halo' being cast by a human which left him speechless with shock. He couldn't believe it. A human had cast the Ancient spell that can only be found in the Grimoire of Heaven. How? It was impossible. That spell, including the other spells within the Grimoire can only be cast by Angels. Before he could process this knowledge, a voice he recognized called to him making him freeze in shock. It couldn't be him, it just couldn't be. How could he still be alive? He had watched him die.
Whirling around, he came face to face with the Archmage that was supposed to have died during the Ancient Battle.
"Hello Michael, it has been a long time hasn't it? I'm glad you're doing well."
"Archmage, is that really you?"
Pretending to smile, the Ancient One said, "Of course it's me."
"But I saw you die during our Ancient Battle, how are you still alive?"
The Ancient One sighed and shook his head before saying, "I don't know how I could still be alive either. I felt myself die. I had used up all my Powers to Seal the Ancient Evil during our Battle. Centuries later, I found myself waking up in my Tomb with no memories of what had happened to me. After leaving my Tomb, I wandered aimlessly in the Human Realm before I came upon a Cave imbued with magical energy. It was the perfect place for me to heal and to regain all the Powers I had lost. I have been living in that Cave ever since."
As the Ancient One told his story, Michael looked at him a moment before he quietly said, "You don't know how glad I am that you're alive and well. Come, Archmage, let's go to my Study. There is something that I want to ask you about in private."
The Ancient One hid a cruel smile. Just as he had thought, Michael's friendship with the Archmage was his weakness. They had respected each other and had offered much advice. He was one of Michael's good friends. His other good friend was the Demon Prince. Everything was going according to plan. Michael was taking him to his Study where the Third Key was. Very soon he will have the Last Key. Once the Last Key was in his hands, he could summon his main body from Hell. Once his own body was free, he will use his vessel to manifest in physical form. Once he manifests, he will take the girl and use her Powers along with the Powers of the Three Keys to finally Resurrect. The final phase of his plan was to open the Gateways of the Three Realms using the Three Keys. Once the Gateways were open, he will call forth his Dark Minions and Hell's Army to destroy all Three Realms. His Vengeance shall finally come to pass.
Returning from his thoughts, the Ancient One arrived at Michael's Study. It was a massive place, but his eyes were only on the enchanted glass case where the Grimorium Caelum was securely locked in. Returning his eyes from the case, he saw Michael motioning him to sit and he did, smoothing his Archmage robes around him, he looked at Michael before asking, "Michael, you told me you had something to tell me. You also looked worried. Is something wrong?"
Michael smiled ruefully, "I still cannot hide my emotions from you, but you are right. I do have something to tell you and am also worried."
Before seating himself behind his massive desk, Michael walked toward the glass case that held the Grimoire. Taking out his keys, Michael unlocked the case then brought the Grimoire to his desk and seated himself. Looking up at the Archmage, he said, "As you know, our Grimoire holds many Ancient spells and one of them is 'Angel's Halo'. You recognize the Spell do you not, Archmage?"
The Ancient One nodded. "I am aware of it but why are you telling me this? The Spell should only be mentioned among the Angels and in the Celestial Realm. It should not be known among outsiders like me. I am of the Human Realm and my home is my beloved Sorcerer's Guild. We should not know about the Spells from the Celestial Realm nor the Devildom. If known by other people, the risks would be too great."
"You have always carried a beautiful soul, Archmage. That was why Lord Diavolo and I were drawn to you. You have never been an outsider among the Celestial Realm nor the Devildom. That is why I'm telling you about one of our Ancient spells. 'Angel's Halo' is a spell only known among a select few of us. I am the only person along with a select few of my Archangels who can cast this spell. The other thing about that spell and all the spells that lie in our Grimoire is they can only be cast by Angels. However, before you arrived, I sensed it being cast by a human. Do you know how this came to be?"
The Ancient One's eyes widened in amazement, "Are you serious Michael? One of us managed to cast the spell that only the Celestial Realm knows about? That is impossible. My people do not know any spells from either the Celestial Realm or the Devildom. My Sorcerer's Guild only knows of the spells lying within our Grimoire. The Grimoire I created."
"That was why I asked you. You have confirmed my thoughts. No human could have been able to cast the spell, but if it was not a human. Who or what did cast it? I had hoped that you could answer this question."
"Let me think about it for a moment."
The Ancient One sifted through all his vessel's memories to find the answer to this surprising turn of events. If there was someone who knew of the spell then that meant the effort he had put into eliminating all his obstacles had taken on a drastic turn, preventing his plans from taking root. Once he found out who it was, or what, had known about Angel's Halo, they will be found and eliminated. Returning from his own thoughts, the Ancient One continued to sift through his vessel's memories before he found the answer. When the answer came to him, he paled. There was one being that could cast the spell, but they had long been eliminated by the Archangels eons ago. They were to be eliminated because the Celestial Realm feared that these beings would turn against them after they fell from Grace.
Looking at Michael, the Ancient One said, "I have found the answer you seek, but the only other being that could cast 'Angel's Halo' have long been eliminated by the ancestors of the current Archangels eons ago. I'm sure you know what beings I'm talking about."
Michael froze as the answer came to him as well. Eyes wide with shock, "Do you mean the cursed half-breeds that fell from Grace eons ago? Is it the Nephilim, the Demi-angels?"
The Ancient One nodded.
Michael's face turned cold before he said, "Then I must have my Archangels find the survivor and eliminate them for good. If we don't eliminate them now, who knows what they'll do to the Celestial Realm. The Celestial Realm's safety is top priority. Archmage, will you aid me?"
The Ancient One knew that now was the time to take action.
"I'm sorry Michael, but I cannot and will not help you. This is your own problem to deal with. I have something more important to do than to eliminate one Demi-angel that could never become a threat to the Celestial Realm."
Michael went still, "What do you mean? Wait…" Michael sharply stood up and grabbed the Grimoire before looking closely at the Archmage before him. He froze in shock. Though the figure looked exactly like his old friend, there was something in his eyes that spoke of something entirely different and familiar at the same time. Michael felt a sense of familiarity come over him as he looked at the figure before him. He also sensed something old, ancient, and evil about him. The same feeling that had come over him when he faced the Ancient Evil during the Ancient Battle.
"Who are you? You are not the real Archmage. You look like him but there is something else. I feel as if I had met you before. Reveal yourself, imposter!"
The Ancient Evil smiled coldly then made a gesture around his face, deactivating the Glamour spell he had cast. As the Glamour spell deactivated, his true form was revealed along with the Dark Power he had unsealed.
"Recognize me now Michael, Ruler of the Celestial Realm?"
Michael recoiled from the immense Dark Power radiating from the figure. He knew who it was. How did He get unsealed? The Ancient Evil had returned, but only partially awakened.
"It's you! How did you get unsealed?"
"It was so easy. That Man thought I would be sealed forever, but as I lay Sealed in Hell, the negative souls within had given me the Power to unseal myself and the Power to manifest in the human world. All I needed was a vessel and I came upon that Man's Tomb. I took control of it and now I'm back. My Awakening is at hand. When I Awake, I will destroy all Three Realms, but before that, I'm going to have to take care of you and the Demon Prince first."
With a cruel smile, the Ancient One raised his hands and a magical Sigil stained with Dark Power and sacrificial Blood materialized in his hands before he started to chant, "Sigil instructa de materiae, que est in medio meridiem, et clara: adducere humiliaret eos et tolleret, qua ulcus natum est sanguine tuo. Sigil drawn from potent materials, glow bright and contain that is inside, bring them to their knees, boil thine blood."
With a gasp of pain, Michael collapsed to his knees as his blood began to boil within him, burning him and weakening him, the Grimoire dropping from his hands.
"Now Sleep Forever, Michael. Phasmatos Somnus. Ad somnum, I send thee to Eternal Sleep."
As the chant finished, Michael collapsed and was sent to Eternal Darkness.
Smiling victoriously, the Ancient One walked toward the unconscious Michael and calmly picked up the Grimoire before he flickered and disappeared, returning to Merlin's Cave. Taking the Third Key, he brought it to the Room and laid it on the third stand. As the Grimoire lay on the stand, the Summoning Circle was finally completed. Seconds later, the Summoning Circle started to glow. As the glow got brighter and brighter, a sudden Red Mist surrounded the Circle. As the Mist settled, the Ancient One stepped into the Circle and started to chant the spell to summon his body from Hell. As the chant echoed through the walls, a huge mass of Dark Mist materialized, mixing with the Red Mist of the Circle before entering the Ancient One's body. As it entered, the physical form manifested. It was the Dark version of the Man who had sealed him. After his physical form solidified and became whole, the Ancient One stepped out of the Circle and walked toward his dais, looking at his reflection in the Mirror. The Mirror showed a man with long white hair and a white beard that reached his chest. The hair was tied loosely back with a red and black hair thong. His eyes were a demonic red mixed with black. The robes he wore were as black as midnight. On his right middle finger was a black and red skull-shaped ring. Hanging from his neck was a black pendant with a black and red Pentagram hanging from the chain. The Ancient Evil smiled at his reflection. He now had fully manifested into the human world. Now he can continue with the next phase of his plan.
As Solomon gingerly sat up, he found himself being suddenly hugged by Kagura. After hugging Kagura back, he gently pulled Kagura away and asked, "Kagura? What are you doing here? This battle zone is not safe."
Looking at Solomon, Kagura asked, "Do you not remember what had happened to you?"
Solomon went still and thought hard before it returned to him. As he was protecting Barbatos, he was hit by Rain of Dark Spears, a potent version of the attack that had killed half of the Sorcerers during the Ancient Battle. The next thing he knew, he had collapsed and felt himself dying. So how in the Three Realms is he still alive?
"I remember now. I was hit by Rain of Dark Spears while protecting Barbatos. After I collapsed I knew nothing more, just felt myself dying, so how in the Three Realms am I still alive?"
Satan had arrived just as he heard Solomon ask that question. "Kagura healed you. She used an Ancient Healing Spell. That's why you're still alive. Before we explain more, can you stand up?"
Solomon nodded and stood up. He couldn't believe it. All his fatal injuries, including his external and internal ones had all been healed. Power had also returned to him. What in the Three Realms did Kagura do?
Looking at Satan then at Kagura, Solomon said, "Can you two explain to me what is going on? All my fatal injuries have been healed and all my Powers have returned. Satan, you said that Kagura healed me with a potent healing spell. What spell did she use? The spell used could not have come from the Grimoire. The only potent healing spell in the Grimoire is the healing spell that draws on the Powers of Light and the caster's magical energy, but that spell is rarely cast because of the risk it has on the caster's body."
Satan and Kagura exchanged a look. Both knew what spell Solomon was talking about. Solomon saw the two exchanging looks, they knew something. Narrowing his eyes, Solomon said, "You two know something about the spell I was talking about."
Kagura looked at Solomon and said quietly, "Yes, we know of the spell. Satan was involved in his own magical battle as well. A group of undead wraiths had appeared by the House of Lamentation along with Satan's Dark Twin. During Satan's fight with his Dark Twin, he was severely injured. His external and internal injuries were near-fatal. I used that spell on him to heal him despite the risks. After Satan was healed, I collapsed because I depleted most of my magical energy while casting the spell. Later, I fell into a coma and was comatose for three days. When I woke up, I had gained a new Power."
Satan continued with the story, "The power she gained was Angel Powers. While comatose, that Power awakened within Kagura. However, I do not know how that came to be. Her angel blood could not have been the catalyst. If it was, my Brothers and I would have sensed it."
Kagura finished the story and said, "While comatose, I learned that Levi and the others had been severely injured and learned of where they were. They were by the Underground Tomb. I also learned that only my Angel Powers could save them. The other thing I learned was that Lord Diavolo, Lord Barbatos, and Lucifer were in danger and that after I healed Satan's other Brothers I needed to bring them here to aid Lord Diavolo, Lord Barbatos, and Lucifer. When I woke up, I told Satan about his Brothers' situation and together we made our way to the Underground Tomb. The Brothers were indeed there. Satan and I found them unconscious and severely injured so I immediately activated my Angel Powers to heal them. The spell I used on you was the same one I used on the Brothers. However, your injuries were fatal so I increased the potency of the spell and healed you. The spell I used was 'Angel's Halo'."
Solomon stared at Kagura in amazement, "Did you say 'Angel's Halo'? Impossible! That spell is only known to Michael and a select few of his Archangels. The spell lies in the Grimoire of Heaven. Only Michael and a select few of his Archangels can cast that spell. That means the spell can only be cast by Angels. Even with your Angel Powers, or even if you know the spell. No humans would ever be able to cast it. So how is it you can cast the Spell?"
Satan couldn't believe it. Looking at Solomon, he said, "Is that really true? The Grimoire of the Celestial Realm holds secrets even we do not know of. We know our Grimoire inside and out. We are also aware of the Ancient and forbidden spells in the Grimoire of the Human Realm. For the Grimoire of Heaven, you are saying that only Angels are able to cast the 'Angel's Halo' spell?"
Turning to Satan, Solomon nodded. "The spells in the Grimoire of Heaven can only be cast by Angels. That is why it is the Grimoire of the Celestial Realm. Even if the spells are known by outsiders, they will never be able to cast them unless they use Angel sigils. That is the only way for outsiders to cast any Angel magic. There is only one other being that can cast spells from the Grimoire of Heaven without the use of Sigils other than the Angels themselves. I learned of them when I was studying under the Archmage. However, eons ago, they were all eliminated by the ancestors of the current Archangels in the Celestial Realm, Beings that had existed even before the creation of the Devildom."
Satan went still as he remembered Kagura's transformation as she cast the spell on Solomon. In a tense voice, he asked, "What Beings are you talking about? I do not even think my kind knows of them."
Solomon looked at Satan and said, "Your kind does know of them, but have forgotten after they were all eliminated."
Satan looked at Solomon then said, "I think I need to know everything about these Beings. Kagura would also need to know."
Solomon looked at Satan thoughtfully then looked at Kagura before nodding. "Okay. The Beings are known as the Nephilim or Demi-angels. They are a race of beings that are half-human and half-angel. They can be the children of humans and angels, who initially appear to be perfectly normal humans, or they can be created by combining angelic energies with the human soul. Before they were completely eliminated by the Archangels from eons ago, they lived peacefully among humans while hiding their dual heritage from the human world. Many Nephilim use their abilities to hunt rogue supernatural creatures by serving as a kind of police force to enforce and keep the peace between Angels, Vampires, Shapeshifters, Fairies, Demons, Witches, Deities, and all who they refer to as Supernaturals. As more Nephilim appeared on Earth, they were soon coined as a Being that Fell from Grace or the Fallen because they were the offspring of Angels that descended to Earth and humans. The Nephilim brought changes to the human society that went over and beyond of what was allowed by the Celestial Realm. In addition, they had become powerful leaders of men. Soon the Celestial Realm had become fearful of them, afraid that the Nephilim would one day turn against them leading to the Archangels descending to Earth to eliminate every single Nephilim. After all the Nephilim were eliminated, so was their threat to the Celestial Realm."
Satan's eyes widened when Solomon told his story. Satan now remembered who the Nephilim were. They had existed even before Lord Diavolo's father's rule. "Thank you Solomon for telling us. Now I remember who they were. Before the Nephilim were all eliminated, they were friends and allies to not only the humans but also to us. When we learned that the cause of their extinction was because of the Celestial Realm, our previous Ruler, Lord Diavolo's father became furious and waged war with the Celestial Realm. After the war, our Ruler left Lord Diavolo in charge and went to sleep and have been slumbering since, leaving the Devildom to Lord Diavolo. After our Ruler went to sleep, Lord Diavolo made a peace treaty with the Celestial Realm and decided to start his Exchange Program to make his dreams and hopes come true. His dream to unite all Three Realms and his hope to bring peace and stability to all Three Realms"
Solomon nodded, "So you finally remembered. That is good to know. But returning to our earlier conversation on how Kagura managed to cast 'Angel's Halo', it would be impossible for her because she is a human. Only the Angels, or the Demi-angels, now extinct, can cast that spell. So how could Kagura have cast it in the first place?"
While listening to the conversation between Solomon and Satan, Kagura knew that her decision to keep her secret from the Angels was the right choice. Now, she also knew how the Demons would react to her news. When Satan said that the Demi-angels were not only friends and allies to the Demons, but were also friends and allies to the Humans, she was relieved. That meant that it was all right to reveal her secret to the other demons. However, her decision still held. Kagura will only tell Satan and Solomon of her secret.
Looking at Solomon and Satan, Kagura said, "There was no need to tell me who the Nephilim were. I already know. When I was a child, not only did mysteries attract me, I was also attracted to the world of the supernatural. The interest stemmed from the stories of King Arthur's Court that my parents would often tell me about before bed. While living in the human world, I would often go to the bookstores and libraries to read books about the world of the supernatural as well. From those books, I learned of everything and anything related to the supernatural."
Solomon looked at Kagura and smiled, "Wow, so that's why you knew about my powers and who I was. Well, that's good to know."
Kagura smiled shyly before turning serious again, "But returning to what you have told us that only Angels are able to use the spells within the Grimoire of Heaven. I think I know why I was able to cast the spell."
Looking at Satan, then Solomon, then back to Satan, Kagura said, "You had told me earlier that my Powers were developing and evolving at an unbelievable rate after I told you that I knew how to amplify your powers from your evolved gem to help you find out what had happened to Solomon when he was unconscious. After I told you, you asked me if I knew the answer to why this was happening. I told you I knew and would tell you once Solomon wakes up. I said that both you and Solomon need to know the truth. I am ready to reveal it."
Satan and Solomon nodded tensely.
Taking a deep breath, Kagura looked at Satan first and said, "Satan, when I cast 'Angel's Halo' on Solomon, you saw my change did you not?"
Satan remembered it clearly. He had seen Kagura transform when she cast 'Angel's Halo' on Solomon. She had transformed into something that was neither human nor angel. It was something alien and beautiful at the same time. Returning from his memory, Satan nodded and said, "Yes, I did."
Solomon stared at Kagura in amazement and said, "You transformed? Transformed into what?"
Looking at Solomon, Kagura said, "I'm getting to that."
Turning back to Satan, Kagura continued, "When I fell into a coma after I cast the healing spell on you, a figure materialized before me as I lay in Darkness. That figure was Lilith. She managed to temporarily keep the Darkness at bay and told me that there was something she had to tell me. The message she had given me sounded cryptic at first, but I figured it out fairly fast. Lilith told me that the time for my full awakening has come to pass. Before I could ask her what she meant by 'full awakening', she told me what to do for this 'full awakening'. She said that I needed to combine my human blood with my angel blood to awaken all the Powers I possess including my Angel powers. I was surprised when I heard that. I didn't know I had Angel Powers in the first place. All I know of angelic power was my 'Angel's Blessing'. Before I could get the chance to ask Lilith how I could have Angel Powers in the first place, she told me of the Brothers' situation. She told me that once I have 'awakened', I must save the Brothers. Lilith then told me that the Brothers were by her resting place and were severely hurt. She also told me that only my Powers could save them. The final part of Lilith's message was that once I have healed the Brothers, all of us must go to Lucifer. She told me that he, Lord Diavolo, and Barbatos are in terrible danger and had asked me to protect and save them before it's too late."
Satan went still and stared at Kagura, "Then does that mean my beloved Sister was the catalyst to the Angel Powers you gained rather than your angel blood?"
Kagura thought about it for a few minutes before saying, "It may be after what happened next. The next part is going to come as a shock to not only you but also Solomon. Once I reveal it, I want both of you to keep this a secret from Lucifer and the others until the time have come to reveal it. I also want you to keep this a secret from the Angels, especially the Angels. They must never know of it because it would change their perspectives to what they consider as right and what they consider as wrong. You'll know why once I reveal my secret."
Satan and Solomon nodded. A sudden suspicion had soon come to their minds. However, they kept silent and waited for Kagura to finish.
Nodding at their acknowledgment, Kagura continued, "Just before Lilith disappeared after she gave me her message, I asked her if Angel Simeon was safe and she told me yes. She said that the reinforcements had come just in time. I wasn't sure what she meant by reinforcements but I suspected that these reinforcements were from the Celestial Realm and were asked to give aid to Angel Simeon. The last message Lilith gave me was that when I 'awaken my Powers', I'll need to draw on it to save me from the Darkness that was trapping my consciousness. After the message, Lilith disappeared."
Kagura paused for a bit in mid-story before continuing, "After Lilith left, I somehow knew that in order to awaken my Angel Powers, I needed to follow the flow of Power running through my veins that led to the angel blood within me. After following my flow of Power, I came across my angel blood and sensed a Power slumbering deep within my angel blood. I recognized that Power because I had felt it in Angel Simeon when I met him during our return to the Devildom. However, the Power I sensed was far stronger than Angel Simeon's. There was a sense of familiarity to it as well. As I sifted through the memories that had returned to me, I found out why the angel blood was familiar to me. It was the familiarity I felt when I first encountered Lilith as a wandering soul. As I remembered the first time I met with Lilith's soul, my Dark memories of Belphie returned to me. Those memories were the catalysts to the Dark memories of you and Lucifer that had returned to me. After those memories returned, the negative emotions I sealed away deep in my heart resurfaced which led me to the change you and the others noticed. However, despite those negative emotions, I still wanted to remember everything about Belphie. Resealing the negative emotions, my other memories of Belphie returned including my Pact with him resulting in his gem returning to my bracelet. As all of my memories of Belphie returned including the memory of my first encounter with Lilith's wandering soul, my Angel Powers awoke from its slumber."
Kagura paused again then hesitated a little bit before continuing, "Remembering Lilith's words, 'to fully awaken, you need to combine your human blood with your angel blood to awaken all the Powers you possess including your Angel Powers,' I knew what to do. I tapped into my human blood and angel blood and combined them into one. The Power that awoke in me was immense. I felt it flow in unlimited quantities restoring all the magical energy I lost. Because I had mixed my human blood and angel blood, my Power that awakened unexpectedly changed my blood into that of a Nephilim, a half-human, half-angel being. Basically, I was turned into one by my awakened Power. The Power combined my Angel Powers with my human soul."
As Kagura finished her story, Satan and Solomon were stunned into silence. Their suspicions were confirmed. Kagura had been turned into one of the Nephilim. She was now the only Nephilim left. Now they understood why they had to keep this a secret from Michael and the Angels because if they knew, they would immediately kill her on site. No wonder Kagura had said that if the Angels knew her secret, it would change their perspectives to what they consider as right and what they consider as wrong. As to keeping the secret from Lucifer and the others, they will do as Kagura asked until the time to reveal it comes to pass.
Satan was the first to recover from his shock and said, "Kagura, I promise to keep your secret from Lucifer and the others including Lord Diavolo and Barbatos until the time to reveal it comes to pass. I also promise you that I shall never reveal your secret to the Angels. If they knew they will kill you on site. That is something I will prevent no matter what even if it means keeping your secret for all eternity."
Recovering from his own shock, Solomon said, "I shall also keep your secret from Lucifer and the others including Lord Diavolo and Barbatos until the time to reveal it comes to pass. I will also promise to keep your secret from Michael and the Angels no matter what the cost. If I also have to keep your secret for all eternity then so be it."
Kagura looked at their beloved faces with a grateful smile then said, "Thank you Satan, Solomon for promising to keep my secret. I will let you know when to reveal my secret to Lucifer and the others including Lord Diavolo and Lord Barbatos."
Satan and Solomon nodded.
After a few minutes, Solomon looked at both Kagura and Satan before asking, "But what of the Sorcerer's Guild? I think they need to know."
Kagura looked at Solomon and replied, "For now let's keep my secret from them for the time being. I have a feeling that there will come a time when my secret is necessary for them to know. I don't know how I know this. It's just a feeling."
Solomon gave Kagura a long look before nodding. "Very well, I shall not reveal your secret to them for the time being. However, if it comes to pass that they need to know, I will have to tell them."
Kagura nodded. "That is fine."
Solomon nodded.
Just as Solomon nodded, Solomon, Satan, and Kagura suddenly felt a huge surge of Power coming from the Battles that was still going on as they were talking to each other.
Kagura's eyes widened when she felt the huge surge of Power. "What was that?"
Solomon and Satan recognized what the huge surge of Power was. Lucifer and the others had activated Power Release. They were shocked. Power Release was normally not activated because the released Power could easily destroy half the Devildom. What made them activate Power Release?
Satan looked at Kagura then replied, "The surge of Power we felt is the result of activating Power Release. We never activate Power Release because the Power, if not controlled, can destroy half the Devildom. I don't know what made them activate it."
Solomon nodded and said, "Satan is right. Power Release is rarely activated because of that risk. However, we need to find out why Lucifer and the others activated it. We need to get near the Battles to figure out what had happened. Let's go."
Satan and Kagura nodded, and together with Solomon, rushed to the site of the Battle.
Arriving at the Battles, Kagura and company saw the current situation of the Battles going on. They saw Barbatos fighting his Dark Double, Lord Diavolo fighting his Dark Double, Lucifer aiding him, and the Five Brothers fighting with their own Dark Doubles. As the Battles progressed, they noticed that all seven demons were in a pinch. Their Dark Doubles had transformed themselves into their demon forms and were overpowering the seven demons. Noticing that they were getting pushed back, all seven released all their demon Powers. Despite releasing all their Powers, they still needed help. Kagura turned to Solomon and asked, "Are you recovered enough to help Lord Barbatos? He needs your help."
Solomon nodded and said, "Yes," before disappearing to reappear next to Barbatos surprising him. Barbatos couldn't believe it. Solomon was healed and seemed to exude even more power. Smiling, the two combined their powers once more and faced Barbatos' Dark twin finally gaining the upper hand. Seeing that Barbatos and Solomon were doing well, Kagura told Satan that they needed to help his five other Brothers. Satan nodded then flickered into his demon form. Kagura couldn't help but be impressed by his demon form despite his bad sense of fashion.
Looking at Satan, Kagura said, "You know Satan, your demon look is cool but I don't understand your sense of fashion."
Satan blushed then glared at her before saying, "Well, excuse me if my fashion sense looks strange. That's how I look when I transform into my demon form."
Kagura blushed, "I didn't mean to insult you. You still look good whether in demon form or human form."
Satan blushed, "Well, thanks for the complement. Don't you think it's about time we went to help my Brothers?"
Kagura nodded and said, "Yes, but can I touch your horns first? They look really cool."
Satan blushed again then sighed, "Very well, but make it quick."
Kagura was extremely happy. She had wanted to touch his impressive horns for a long time. The S-shape looked really cool. Reaching up, she touched his horns. They were smooth as she had expected and cold to the touch. Her hand traced the S-shape of Satan's horns making him blush again. After Kagura finished touching his horns. She leaned forward and gave him a quick kiss on his lips startling him.
Laughing, Kagura said, "Shall we go? Your Brothers are waiting for us."
Satan blushed then nodded, "Let's go."
When Satan and Kagura arrived, Belphie was in a serious pinch. He was being pushed back. Suddenly a Dark Energy Web was launched at Belphie. Kagura saw the Energy Web and knew what it could do to demons. Lucifer had encountered it once while shielding Kagura. As he shielded her, the Energy Web had electrocuted him. If the Energy Web hits Belphie, he would get electrocuted. She knew what to do. Kagura placed her finger on Satan's gem and sent a little of her power into the gem. As her power flowed into the gem, Kagura sent the knowledge of a Rebound spell into it so Satan would be able to cast it to protect Belphie. The spell could rebound any attacks back to the caster. As the spell's knowledge flowed into Satan's gem, Kagura chanted, "Ditans guttura cum potentia, evigilare faciatis Satana! I imbue thee with power, Awaken Satan!"
Satan was stunned as a new power suddenly flowed into him. He felt Kagura's power and a new power mix with his own powers forming into one destructive force. Raising his hands, Satan said, "Reboundus!" As the spell was cast, the Energy Web that was about to hit Belphie stopped in mid-attack and rebounded back to Belphie's Dark Double and he was electrocuted. Gasping in pain and shock, Belphie's double collapsed to one knee.
Belphie stared in shock then looked at Satan who had the same shocked expression as Belphie. Then both looked at Kagura with wide eyes.
Satan asked in a stunned voice, "Kagura, what in the Three Realms did you do?"
Kagura looked at Satan for a moment then said, "I simply transferred some of my powers into your gem and gave you knowledge on a counter spell. I somehow figured out your evolved gem can act as a conduit to channel my powers, the gem's powers, and your own so I tested it. Looks like I was right."
Satan gave Kagura a long look before saying, "You're pretty sharp for a human. I never even thought the gems could act as a conduit to channel our powers."
Kagura was thoughtful for a moment and said, "I think only you and Belphie's gems could act as a conduit because they've changed. The other gems can only amplify power. But I have a feeling that once they change, they could act as conduits as well."
Belphie nodded, "I have a feeling that you're right. Shall we continue our Battle then?"
Kagura nodded, and then in a ringing voice, she commanded. "My beloved demons bring us victory and defeat our enemy."
In unison, both Satan and Belphie went down on one knee and said, "As our beloved Master commands."
Kagura put her hands on each of her contracted demons' heads then said, "Rise, my beloved demons, go with my blessing. I shall aid you whenever you need it."
The two demons stood and returned to the Battle. Belphie's double had managed to stagger to his feet, rage in his eyes then attacked. However, Satan and Belphie, powered up by their Master's blessing gained the upper hand.
Remembering that Lord Diavolo, Lucifer and his other Brothers had been getting pushed back. Kagura looked toward their Battles and saw that Lord Diavolo and Lucifer had managed to make a comeback. Looking toward the others, she saw the white-haired one, the feminine-like one and the orange-haired one had also made a comeback and sighed in relief. Next she looked for Levi's Battle but didn't see Levi anywhere. Where was Levi? She looked around central Downtown and didn't see any sign of Levi. Worried, she touched Levi's gem and searched for Levi by pulling on her connection to him before finally finding him. For some unknown reason, his Dark Twin separated Levi from the others. Before Kagura could pinpoint the location, she saw in her mind Levi getting blasted back. Levi! Knowing that it was risky to rush towards Levi's Battle, she tried speaking mind-to-mind. It worked with the Chimera, but she wasn't sure if it would work with demons. It was worth a try. Closing her eyes, she concentrated on the power in Levi's gem and tried to communicate mind-to-mind with Levi.
"Levi, can you hear me?"
After getting blasted back by his Dark twin, Levi forced himself to stand up. As he stood up, a voice suddenly appeared in his mind. His eyes widened in shock when he recognized it. It was Kagura's voice. How in the Three Realms did she learn to speak mind-to-mind? Shaking his head from his thoughts, Levi knew now wasn't the time to think about that. Just as he shook himself out of his thoughts, another blast of energy was launched at him. He quickly shielded himself and the attack got deflected. He was temporarily safe so he could communicate with Kagura. Concentrating, Levi sent back a thought to Kagura.
"Yes, but how in the Three Realms did you learn to speak mind-to-mind?"
Kagura sighed with relief. So it does work with demons as well. "Now's not the time for questions. I'll explain later. I saw you getting blasted back. Are you all right?"
"I'm fine Kagura. That was nothing."
"That didn't look like nothing to me. How are you holding up? And you better tell me the truth."
Levi winced at Kagura's "don't mess with me" tone.
"As you wish Kagura. My Dark Double has activated Power Release. It's making him stronger. I'm also at maximum Power, but I'm not making as much as a scratch on him."
"Keep him busy, I'm coming to help you."
"No Kagura. It's too dangerous for you. I won't risk your safety."
"Levi, nothing you say is going to stop me from helping you. True friends should help each other out no matter the danger. Isn't that right? The Lord of Shadows and Henry helped each other and became close friends. Aren't we the same?
Levi went still, he was touched. Kagura was right. The Lord of Shadows and Henry helped each other out no matter the danger and became close friends. They had looked after each other's backs. He and Kagura were similar. Kagura had done the same. She had always been there for him just as he had been there for her. That was how they had bonded.
"I'm sorry for saying that Kagura. I was being selfish. I only thought about myself and what I believed was the right thing to do. True friends shouldn't think only for themselves. They should take into consideration their friend's feelings and beliefs and together decide what is right for each other. Kagura, you are my true friend. Okay, you can help, but please don't do anything risky. I don't know what I'll do if something happens to you.
Touched, Kagura smiled and kissed Levi's gem on her bracelet. After kissing Levi's gem, a sudden orange flame burst from it. Kagura's eyes widened. Could Levi's gem be changing next? It wasn't long before her suspicions were confirmed. As the flames subsided, etched in the center of Levi's gem was a figure of a snake.
"Thank you for saying that. You don't know how happy that made me. I promise I won't do anything risky. I'm coming now."
Levi blushed when he heard that what he had said made Kagura happy. If Kagura was happy then so was he.
"Thank you Kagura for always being there for me, I'll keep my Double busy. See you soon."
"Okay."
After their mind-to-mind communication, Kagura rushed toward Levi's Battle by following his gem's connection to her. When she arrived, Kagura saw that Levi had managed to keep his Dark Double busy, but was tiring. Seconds later, he collapsed to one knee breathing hard. Levi's Dark Double smiled triumphantly and launched a Dark Energy bolt at Levi. Kagura immediately acted and chanted, "I, Kagura, invoke all the four elements, Fire, Water, Wind, and Earth by my side. All that wishes harm shall not pass so mote it be! Area Shield!
As she chanted the spell, the brilliant silvery white light that surrounded Kagura flowed toward Levi encircling him again just like the time when she protected the Seven Brothers when they were in the human world. As the Dark Energy bolt made contact with the light, the bolt got deflected and destroyed. Levi's double's eyes widened in shock when he saw the same Shield that was cast while he was attacking his double when they were in the human world. Whirling, he saw that it was the same girl that ruined their plans when they were in the human world.
"It's you! My Dark Brothers and I have a score to settle with you! You'll pay for what you've done to our oldest Brother."
He raised a hand and suddenly blasted a Dark Energy bolt right at Kagura. Levi stared in horror at the bolt coming toward Kagura. He was too exhausted to protect her. Levi wouldn't be able to bear it if he saw Kagura getting killed in front of his eyes. It would forever haunt his memory just like when she was nearly killed by Belphie.
Kagura, however, didn't as much as flinch. She raised her hand and shouted, "Purification!" The Dark Energy bolt stopped in mid-attack and suddenly dissolved into nothingness as Kagura neutralized it with her Purification powers.
Levi's Dark Double was shocked speechless as he saw his attack getting neutralized. Levi was also shocked. Was that Kagura's Purification powers?
Kagura looked at Levi's double and said calmly, "Dark twin of Leviathan, you don't seriously think your Dark powers would have any affect on me do you? I have Purification powers and was the one who dissolved the Dark Voids you used to trap my friends."
Recovering from his initial shock to what had happened to his attack, he suddenly became furious. "You're the one who dissolved our Master's Dark Voids?"
Kagura calmly replied, "Yes, it was me. The Dark Voids are made from Negative energy are they not? The only way to destroy them is to purify them. You and your Master should know this. Purification powers have a huge advantage over Dark and Negative energy. It can also be used to purify Dark miasma and neutralize Demon energy. I have a feeling that the Dark Voids have those two components as well."
Dark Leviathan froze in shock. This girl, how did she know that the Dark Voids had components of Dark miasma and Demon energy? Who or what was she? Only the strongest magic users would have such knowledge like the Demon Prince's stuffy Steward. He was a very powerful demon and was one of the few who would have the knowledge. No wonder his Master wanted the girl. She was indeed very powerful, maybe as powerful as the Demon Prince's Steward, maybe even more powerful. He will take her once he finishes his Twin.
"You are powerful, girl. Once I take care of my Twin, you're coming with me. My Master wants you and I am determined to bring you to him."
Before Kagura could say anything, Levi forced himself up despite his exhaustion and said in a cold voice, "You will not touch her. I will protect her. She is my one and only true friend. If you want her, you will have to get past me. I am Leviathan, Avatar of Envy and Grand Admiral of Hell's Navy. I am one of the strongest demons in the Devildom and used to be the General of the Celestial Army. I will not be easily defeated by the likes of you."
As if his speech resonated something within his gem, the gem started to burn with fiery orange flames. Kagura immediately knew what to do next. She first had to restore Levi's Powers then amplify them in order for him to defeat his Twin. Kagura touched Levi's gem once more then started to chant, "Un praeclarum gemma qui scintille si parfaitement, donne Leviathan Serpentem plus de force. Surrecturus sit Leviathan Serpentem! A brilliant gem that sparkles so perfectly, afford the Serpent Leviathan more strength. Arise, Leviathan the Serpent!"
As the chant echoed throughout the area, Levi's eyes widened in shock as he felt Kagura's immense power swirling around him. To his additional shock, he felt Power returning to him until all his Powers were restored. As his Powers returned, his exhaustion disappeared. As Kagura continued to chant, he suddenly froze in stunned amazement when he heard his true name. How in the Three Realms did Kagura learn his true name? Never in all of history had demons ever revealed their true names to anyone because if known, the risks would be too great. By calling on their true names, demons would be forced to do things against their will. Even do things beyond what their kind allowed. Returning from his thoughts, Levi heard Kagura chanting again, "Hear me, denizens of the darkness, thou who art born of shadow and thou who give birth to it. Hear me and do as I command! Awaken and lend thy powers to the one contracted to me. Leviathan, Avatar of Envy!"
Once again the power Kagura was giving off began to swirl around an even more stunned Levi. He shuddered at the mass of power flowing within him. Seconds later, Levi was surrounded by a massive ring of orange flame. Drawing on the massive power swirling within him, Levi blasted the orange flames right at his horrified Dark twin. As the flames engulfed him, he gave a shriek of defeat as the flames consumed him, destroying him on the spot. When the flames died down, all that was left of Levi's Dark twin was his black snake pendant which had turned to ash.
As his Dark twin was destroyed, a stunned Levi returned to human form and stared at Kagura in shock. Before he could say anything, Kagura launched herself into Levi's arms and hugged him, nearly knocking him down. Managing to keep his balance, he hugged Kagura back then went red with embarrassment.
"K-Kagura, don't surprise me like that. Y-you s-should have g-given m-me some warning before d-doing that. I'm not used to s-surprise h-hugs."
Looking at Levi with a raised brow, "Oh, I think you are. You hugged me back didn't you Levi?"
Levi continued to blush and forced a glare that didn't look like a glare before saying, "That was an accident. You better forget about it."
Kagura gave Levi a look then said, "If you say so. Anyway, are you okay?"
Levi nodded and said, "Yeah, I'm fine. Thanks for your help Kagura."
Kagura sighed with relief then smiled. "No problem. Isn't that what true friends do for each other?"
Levi smiled as well then said, "Yeah. I'm glad to have you as a true friend."
Kagura smiled back, "Me too."
Looking at Kagura, he thought back to what she did. She had restored all his Powers and spoke his true name. He needed to know how Kagura knew of his true name.
"Kagura, I was surprised that you managed to restore all my Powers and was shocked speechless when you spoke my true name. How in the Three Realms did you manage to restore all my Powers and learned of my true name?"
Kagura looked at Levi with surprise, "True name? You have a true name? I thought your true name was Leviathan."
Levi stared at Kagura in disbelief and asked, "Did you not know you were speaking my true name when you cast the spell to restore my Powers?"
Kagura thought back to the spell she cast. She had said Leviathan Serpentem. That was Levi's true name?
Looking at Levi, "Do you mean the two words after the Latin word for 'Arise'? That's your true name? I thought I was just mentioning your animal symbol."
Levi couldn't believe it. It was just a coincidence?
Looking at Kagura, he said quietly, "My animal symbol is the snake, but the two words you used in the last part of the chant is my true name. Have you not read the human world Bible? There is a part in it that mentions me."
Kagura stared at Levi in amazement. She knew that part. Though her family weren't religious, that didn't mean they didn't read the Bible. They read the scriptures in the Bible mostly out of interest because the Bible uses really good allegory.
"You can't be serious. Not only are you and your Brothers representations of the Bible's Seven Deadly Sins, your world follows the scriptures in the Bible?"
Levi nodded and said, "Yes, but we don't follow everything in the scriptures. The only scriptures that parallel us are the scriptures about us demons."
Thinking about one of the scriptures regarding the demons, Kagura's eyes suddenly widened, "Do you mean the part about the Great Serpent Leviathan? The name given to you was leviathan serpentem."
Before Levi could reply, he found himself forced into his demon form.
Looking at Kagura, he sighed, "Kagura, please watch what you say. You just forced me into demon form when you said my true name."
Kagura blushed with embarrassment before saying, "So it is true. That name is your true name. Sorry about that Levi. But before you return to human form, can I touch your tail? It looks really cool. I also like snakes."
Levi blushed furiously, "Y-you l-like snakes and w-want to t-touch m-my t-tail?"
Kagura nodded and said, "I do like snakes. I find them really cool. When I was living in the human world, I went to a Reptile House. One of the staff there was holding an anaconda that could be found in the human world rainforests. After she finished telling us about the anaconda, their habitat, behaviors, and other info, she allowed us to touch it if we wanted to. I wasn't about to leave the Reptile House without touching at least one reptile. The anaconda looked really cool. Out of all the visitors there, I was the braver one. I went up to the anaconda and touched it and was fascinated by how it felt. Later, I petted it. The anaconda seemed to like being petted and touched my hand with its tongue."
Levi stared at Kagura and couldn't believe what she did. Anacondas were dangerous snakes. They kill their prey instantly by squeezing the life out of them. Despite how dangerous they were, she still touched one and petted it.
"Kagura, I can't believe you did that. Anacondas are dangerous snakes and despite knowing that, you still touched one and petted it. You're one brave normie."
Kagura blushed and said, "I wasn't afraid of it. Besides, it looked so cool. I wasn't going to skip on the chance to touch an anaconda. So, can I touch your tail Levi?"
Looking at Kagura's pleading eyes, Levi felt himself giving in. Only Kagura can have that affect on him. Sighing he said, "Very well. However, you better not tell the others. I don't allow just anyone to touch my tail."
Kagura was really happy and said, "Thanks Levi. I've always wanted to touch your tail. I promise I won't let the others know."
Levi blushed then said, "Well, go on. I don't have all day."
Nodding, Kagura went behind Levi and looked in fascination at his long serpent tail. Reaching over, she touched it. It had the same feel as the anaconda she touched. The tail was smooth and rough at the same time and felt cold just like the skin of the anaconda. She gently brushed her hand down his tail, fascinated by its texture. Levi blushed as he felt Kagura brush her hand down his tail. Her touch was gentle and warm. When she finished touching his tail, Levi was actually disappointed. He wanted to feel more of her touch. Blushing furiously, Levi shook his head. Calm down Leviathan, don't even go there. Their relationship was only that of true friends and Master and Servant. It needed to stay like that and so it will. Returning from his thoughts, Levi saw Kagura facing him once more.
"Well, happy now?"
Kagura smiled happily, "You bet. Thanks Levi."
Levi blushed then returned to his human form.
Looking at Kagura, Levi said, "Well, I'm glad I'm done with my Battle and relieved. A shut-in like me should never even consider fighting. It doesn't suit me. However, I'm glad we managed to defeat my Dark twin. You answered my second question, but still haven't answered my first question, how did you manage to restore my Powers?"
"That's what I'm going to tell you next. Before I arrived at your Battle, your gem transformed from its original look to a new look. Now the gem can act as a conduit to my powers, the gem's powers, and your own powers. In other words, the gem can now be used to channel power. I think your RPGs and MMORPGs have similar magical tools to channel power used by your characters, am I right?"
Levi's eyes widened than became fascinated, "Truly? I can actually channel power just like my characters? That's so cool!"
Laughing, Kagura said, "I knew you were going to like that information. Here, this is what your gem looks like now."
Levi looked at his gem on Kagura's bracelet and saw that it had indeed transformed. Now his animal symbol was etched into the center of his orange gem. He also sensed immense power coming from the gem. His eyes wandered to Satan's and Belphie's gems. The gems were also etched with their animal symbols. Huh! So Satan's and Belphie's gems also transformed. That was interesting to know. Levi then looked at Lucifer's gem and saw that it hasn't transformed yet.
Looking at Kagura, Levi said, "So Satan's and Belphie's have transformed as well. All that's left is Lucifer's. You also need to get back your memories of my other Brothers as well as your connection to them for their Pacts to return. How are you going to get those memories back and figure out your connection to them?"
Kagura said, "Lucifer's gem will change in due time. As to your other question, I'm not sure. Right now, the current situation is top priority. Once everything is back to normal, I'll find a way to restore my Pact with your other Brothers. For now, let's check up on Satan and Belphie's Battle along with the others. We're kind of far from them. Who knew your Dark Twin would separate you from the others? We need to return to central Downtown to see how they're doing."
Levi nodded and said, "I've also noticed it. I have no idea why he did that. Come on, let's go. I'm getting worried."
Kagura nodded, and together, they returned to central Downtown.
When Levi and Kagura returned to central Downtown, both saw that Barbatos and Solomon, Lord Diavolo and Lucifer, Lucifer's three other Brothers including Satan and Belphie were all gaining the upper hand and continued to push back the remaining six Enemies. Levi and Kagura were relieved, but their relief was only temporary. Suddenly, the Dark Doubles raised their hands and in unison chanted another Dark spell, "Terminus ignis. Igneus orbem. Boundary of fire, circle of fire."
As the chant finished, a circle of Dark Flames entrapped Lord Diavolo and the others preventing them from doing anything. If they tried to use their Powers the Flames would move closer toward the entrapped group singing them. If they tried to escape, the Flame's intensity would surge. Lord Diavolo and company were trapped and they could do nothing about it.
Looking at Kagura, Levi said, "This is bad. Lord Diavolo and the others are in trouble. We need to help them. Is there a way to help them?"
Kagura thought about it then nodded, "There's a way. Levi, it's time for you to awaken a new power."
Before Levi could say anything, Kagura touched Levi's gem and chanted, "Ditans guttura cum potentia, evigilare faciatis Leviathan Serpentem! I imbue thee with power Leviathan the Serpent!"
Once more, Levi felt Kagura's powers swirling around him stunning him once more. Levi also felt himself forced into his demon form. He shuddered at the mass of power flowing within him, far more then his own. Drawing on the massive power he cast the spell to undo the Fire boundary spell that entrapped the others, "Ponet manum super anulum, ignis subsisto. Put out the ring and fire stop." As the chant finished, the Fire Boundary spell was deactivated in seconds stunning the Dark Doubles along with Lord Diavolo and the others. All whirled around to see who had cast the spell and found that it was Kagura and Levi. Levi was in demon form while Kagura had her fingers on Levi's gem.
Dark Diavolo was the first to recover and was furious, "It's you again! How dare you interfere with us, we will take care of you once we finish with them."
Looking back at his Dark Servant and the Dark Brothers, he said, "It's time to cast our final spell to eliminate them. Once we eliminate them, the Ancient One's plan can finally go unhindered."
With that said, all six Dark Doubles started to chant their final spell. As their chant echoed throughout the area, a massive hole of Dark Energy suddenly appeared in the skies of the Devildom. As the massive hole increased in size, sparks of Dark Lightning along with several pointed blades slowly materialized from the hole. Levi and Solomon recognized the Dark destructive weapons immediately, so did Kagura.
In a tense voice, Levi said, "Kagura! We have to do something fast. Those sparks of Dark Lightning was what injured us when we were fighting our Dark Doubles at the House of Lamentation. However, these sparks of Dark Lightning is at full power. If they hit, the end result would be catastrophic. My Brothers, Lord Diavolo and Barbatos would be completely destroyed."
Kagura was grim, and then said, "I know. So will the end result for Solomon. Those pointed blades up there are the Rain of Dark Spears at full power. If he gets hit by that one more time, he will be killed immediately."
Levi stared at Kagura in shock, "Are you serious?! That is the Rain of Dark Spears?! I remember that attack. It was launched during our Ancient Battle. It killed almost half of our Sorcerer allies from the Sorcerer's Guild. This is a repeat of that Battle. If those attacks hit, it would destroy the Devildom as well. We must do something. Is there a way?"
Kagura nodded, "There is a way. I will take care of it."
Before Levi could say anything again, Kagura started to chant, "Auga capturada, Terra capturada, Lume capturada. Non enim tenetur! Captured water, captured earth, captured fire, it is bound!" As the chant echoed throughout the area, a silvery white Sealing Circle slowly surrounded the six Dark Doubles stunning them before they could complete the Dark spells. They were being sealed along with their Powers. As they were getting sealed and bound in the Sealing Circle, the massive dark hole in the sky closed and everything returned to normal. However, before the Sealing Circle could completely entrap the remaining six, the Dark Double of Diavolo and three of the remaining four Dark Brothers managed to barely escape. All that was left was Barbatos' Double and Belphie's Double, they were trapped and bound, their Powers sealed.
Barbatos and Solomon stared at Kagura in stunned disbelief. Before they could ask anything, Kagura calmly looked at them and said, "Now is not the time for questions. Lord Barbatos, Solomon. The safety and stability of the Devildom needs to come first. It is time for you to defeat your Double Lord Barbatos."
Returning to her own contracted demons, Kagura touched Satan's and Belphie's gems once more. Chanting the spell that amplified the powers of her contracted demons, Satan and Belphie destroyed Belphie's Dark double, blasting two massive flames, one green and one purple at him. Once Dark Belphegor was consumed by the massive twin flames, his Dark Cow pendant turned into ash. At the same time, Barbatos and Solomon destroyed Barbatos' Double. The Devildom was finally saved.
Turning to Kagura, Levi said happily, "We did it! We saved the Devildom. Oh man, I feel like we had just beaten the final boss in my games! You were awesome Kagura, but what in the Three Realms was that spell? I was shocked speechless."
Kagura looked at Levi and said, "I don't know if this is like any of the games you played, but it doesn't feel as if we defeated the final boss. Four of the final boss' lackeys managed to escape. They're going to return again with a new plan."
Levi sighed, "You're right Kagura, but for now, the Devildom is saved."
Kagura nodded and said, "For now it is. As to your other question, the spell I cast is called the 'Elemental Containment Spell'. The Sealing Circle is the result of this spell. It can restrain and bind anyone and anything including sealing their powers. The spell can also restrict the use of certain powers. This was one of the other Ancient magical knowledge I got from the Elemental Grimoire. The other magical knowledge I gained was the Demon Resurrection Ritual, the spell I used to bring Satan back to life when he died. The Ancient spell known as 'The Empty Resurrection Spell' that was lost along with the Grimoire."
Levi stared in disbelief, "You were the one that brought Satan back to life with that extinct spell? I can't believe it. That spell had been lost for centuries only to return along with the Grimoire. Wow, Kagura. Talk about an RPG becoming real."
Kagura nodded and said, "That was what I thought when that Grimoire made its appearance to me. That was the reason why I came to your room that night. I wanted to ask you about the in-game grimoires your characters find or get in your games so I could figure out why the Grimoire appeared before me."
Levi looked at Kagura a moment before saying, "So, you remembered. Thanks for letting me know the reason why you came to see me."
Kagura nodded and said, "You're welcome. That memory returned when I remembered you. Now all my memories have returned of you. We really did play games together before I lost my memories. We also shared a common interest in anime and manga. I remembered all of it."
Levi blushed and said, "I'm glad you finally remembered. Shall we meet up with the rest of the group? I see all of them gathering around Lord Diavolo."
Levi had returned to his human form a while ago.
Kagura nodded and said, "Let's go."
It wasn't long before Kagura and Levi joined the group. When they arrived, Lord Diavolo turned to Kagura then hugged her surprising everyone. As Lord Diavolo ended his hug, he said, "Kagura, thank you for keeping me and everyone safe. Thank you also for protecting the Devildom. If it weren't for you, all of Devildom would have been destroyed from that final attack. If I may ask, what spell did you use on the Enemy stopping their final attack?"
Kagura looked at Lord Diavolo and said, "There is no need for thanks. I had promised you that I will keep you and everyone safe and the Devildom safe. I'm glad I was able to do it. As to your question, the spell I used on the Enemy was another of the Ancient magical knowledge that was transferred to me when I unsealed the Elemental Grimoire. As I told Levi, the spell I cast is called the 'Elemental Containment Spell'. The Sealing Circle is the result of that spell. It can restrain and bind anyone and anything including sealing their powers. It can also restrict the use of certain powers. I'm sorry that four of them escaped, Lord Diavolo."
Lord Diavolo shook his head and said, "There is no need to apologize. It wasn't your fault that they escaped. Though we have weakened their forces, they'll still return. When they return, we'll defeat them too."
Kagura nodded, "You're right. There is still another chance."
Lucifer had noticed the way Kagura had said '…was another of the Ancient magical knowledge that was transferred to me when I unsealed the Elemental Grimoire'. The way she said it, other Ancient magical knowledge from the Grimoire had also gotten transferred to her. Lucifer knew that one of them was the Elemental Shield she had activated when she protected him from Dark Cerberus' Dark Flames, but what was the other magical knowledge?
Turning to Kagura, Lucifer said, "I also want to give you my thanks. You not only saved Lord Diavolo, Barbatos, and Solomon, you have also saved me and my Brothers. I'm grateful."
Kagura looked at Lucifer then slightly tensed when the Dark memories of Lucifer returned to her. Forcing the Dark memories back into her heart and sealing them, she said, "There is no need for thanks Lord Lucifer. I just kept my promise to Lord Diavolo. It was also because I wanted to protect everyone."
Lucifer went still when he heard the formality in Kagura's voice when she spoke to him. He had also saw Kagura tense as well. What in the Three Realms had happened to her? When they were fighting Dark Cerberus, they had been so close. Now, she had suddenly become formal around him, creating a distance that tore at his heart.
Before he could say anything, Kagura looked at the others again, "There is something else I need to tell you about the Ancient magical knowledge that was transferred to me. Some of you already know while others are still in the dark about it. Do you remember the time when Satan was killed by his Dark Twin and then got resurrected? The truth is I was the one who resurrected him. The other Ancient magical knowledge was the Demon Resurrection Ritual. The spell I used to bring Satan back to life was 'The Empty Resurrection Spell'."
Lucifer went still as the question that had still been haunting his mind was finally answered. Kagura was the one who had brought Satan back to life. That meant the lost Spell had also returned along with the Grimoire. The knowledge of the spell was revealed to Kagura when she unsealed it. That confirmed his suspicions. The Grimoire was indeed the catalyst to what has happened and how Kagura came to have so much power. He was stunned. Looking at Mammon, Asmo, Beel, Belphie and Barbatos, all five were just as stunned as he was.
Lord Diavolo then spoke, "I have known for a long time and I see that some of you also know. That means I can now reveal Kagura's true purpose for returning to the Devildom."
Everyone looked at Lord Diavolo in stunned silence before Lucifer broke the silence and asked, "What do you mean by Kagura's true purpose? After she returned to the Devildom, I thought her purpose here was to regain her memories and find out how she gained so much power. There is another purpose?"
Lord Diavolo said, "That was only part of what she needed to do. It wasn't her main purpose. I learned the truth about her while you fought Dark Cerberus."
Before he could continue, several golden beams of light appeared before Lord Diavolo, Kagura, and everyone else. When the glow from the lights subsided, Archangel Simeon, along with Angel Luke, and another Archangel with ash-blonde hair and blue eyes with a turquoise gradient materialized before them. In their wake was half of Michael's Celestial Army.
Kagura smiled in absolute delight when she saw more Angels. Her childhood dream was coming true all over again. The Archangel with the ash-blonde hair and blue eyes with a turquoise gradient was just as good looking as Angel Simeon.
Angel Simeon walked toward Kagura and gave her a gentle but fierce hug surprising her before stepping back. "I'm glad you're all right Kagura. In truth, I was getting really worried about you while I was fighting the group of undead wraiths by Purgatory Hall."
Kagura stared at Angel Simeon, "You were worried about me? What happened?"
Angel Simeon replied, "As I was fighting the wraiths, the leader of the wraiths spoke to me. I'm surprised that they even knew how to talk. Anyway, he told me that once he and his fellow wraiths had taken care of me, they were going to go after you. He told me that their Master's plan involves the capture of you. When I heard that, I got worried and furious at the same time. It's rare for Angels to feel rage or anger unless something provokes them. I was definitely provoked. When my fury took hold, I activated my full power which would have destroyed him on the spot. However, that was their original plan. They wanted me to release all my powers so they could activate Drain, a power they have that could drain not only powers but also the life-force of anything or anyone. Before I knew it, I was drained of almost all of my powers before Luke came with reinforcements including the other Archangel. Because my powers were almost completely drained, the other Archangel and part of Michael's Celestial Army took control of the Battle and destroyed all the wraiths. Once the wraiths were destroyed and my Powers got restored, we came here."
Kagura looked at Angel Simeon then said, "Thank you for worrying about me. I'm touched. You're all right as well. I'm glad. I wish I could say something more but my memories of you haven't returned. I'm sorry."
Looking at Kagura, Simeon felt his heart break. Kagura had been someone very special to him. When he had first met her, he had liked her immediately. She gave off warmth and gentleness that touched everyone around her. When they spent time together, he was happy. Her kindness, gentleness and warmth soon embedded itself deep inside his heart. It wasn't long before he fell in love with her. However, as an Angel, his purpose was to love everyone equally and to treat everyone fairly, but every time he was around Kagura, he wanted to only love her. Sighing, he returned from his thoughts then said with a gentle smile, "It's all right, Kagura. I can wait until your memories return."
Before Kagura could say anything, the Devildom suddenly shifted out of balance, and she and Simeon was suddenly separated from the group. Seconds later, a huge hole appeared underneath her, and with a gasp, she felt herself fall in. It would have been fatal if Simeon hadn't acted quickly. In an instant, Simeon grabbed Kagura pulling her to safety and into his arms. As she was embraced by Angel Simeon, a sudden memory she lost flashed in her mind followed by a conversation between her and a shadowy figure of a man. The figure exuded gentleness, kindness, warmth, and a barely concealed love.
"I really wish to spend a little time together with you, Kagura…"
"May I hold you…?"
"…it's like a party just for the two of us…enjoy each other's company…"
"…what should I do? My desire to touch you has me burning up inside…"
"Do you have any idea how much I want you…more than you can imagine…So much that I can hardly control myself…"
"…you showed me what is most important…"
"I love you, Kagura. More than anyone…before I came here, I never thought that I would end up falling so deeply in love with a single human. Angels are supposed to love everyone equally and treat everyone fairly. But I want to give all my love to only you, Kagura, and want you to feel satisfied with my love alone. I've never felt such powerful emotions for anyone before…"
"If you'll accept it, I want to keep pouring out my love for you. My only wish is to stay with you forever…so please continue to stay by my side."
As the memory returned, the shadowy figure was finally revealed, it was Simeon who had for a very long time kept his love for her deep inside his heart until he revealed it at a get together party with the Demon Brothers. The conversation they had while in Simeon's room revealed Simeon's deep love for her and the conflict his love had brought to the original purpose of Angels, to give love to everyone equally and to treat everyone fairly. Kagura's eyes slowly opened. She saw the worry and relief in his eyes as well as a deep hidden love for her.
Looking at Simeon's concerned face, Kagura said, "I'm all right dear Simeon. Thank you for saving me."
Simeon looked at his beloved Kagura and said in a voice filled with tears of happiness, "You finally remembered me. Oh, Kagura. You finally remembered me."
The next second, Kagura was pulled into his embrace once more. Leaning against the warmth of Simeon's chest, she said, "Yes, Simeon. I remembered you. You revealed your deep love for me at a get-together party you set up for me and the Brothers."
Simeon looked at Kagura then said quietly, "Yes, that's right. Does that mean you remembered everything about me?"
Kagura nodded then said seriously, "Yes Simeon, but if there comes a time when you have to choose between your love for me and your Angel duties, I want you to choose what's right. You're an Angel and Angels have duties they must do, but that doesn't mean all Angels should complete the duties without question."
Simeon went still when he heard what Kagura said. There was something in her tone that spoke of something more serious. What is it that you're trying to tell me Kagura? Before he could ask, Kagura continued, "However, I'm happy to hear that you love me. I love you too. I love your kindness, gentleness, and warmth. I love all that is you. For now, it is enough to just be by your side and to spend as much time as I can with you, Simeon."
Simeon's eyes widened at what Kagura said then give her a gentle smile, pushing aside his questions for the time being. "Thank you for saying that, Kagura. For now, that is what I want as well. I also want to be by your side and spend as much time as I can with you, Kagura."
Kagura smiled then said, "Then let's seal it with a kiss."
Simeon nodded. He pulled Kagura to him once again and kissed her. Kagura kissed him back. As the kiss ended, they stayed in each other's embrace for a while before Kagura raised her head and asked, "Returning to the shift in the Devildom, do you know what could have caused it? I didn't think the Devildom could shift like this. Not to mention holes suddenly appearing. Do you know what's going on?"
Simeon stood up then helped Kagura to her feet before saying, "I have a suspicion but let's check on the others first."
Kagura nodded, and together they made their way back to what they think looked like central Downtown. Looking around, everyone seemed okay, but they were shocked at the shift. Rejoining the group, they saw Lord Diavolo looking grim. Raising his head, he saw Simeon and Kagura and sighed with relief.
Looking at Lord Diavolo, Kagura asked, "Lord Diavolo, do you know what is going on? Why did The Devildom shift like that?"
Before he could answer, another shift happened. Simeon managed to steady himself and Kagura while the others steadied themselves.
Lord Diavolo looked serious and grim. "I have a feeling that this has something to do with the Grimoires. The Three Realms balance each other from their respective Grimoires. The Human Realm connects to the Celestial Realm and the Devildom through Gateways found in and around the Human World in hidden locations. So if something happens in the Celestial Realm and/or the Demon Realm, in this case, the Devildom, it won't be felt as strongly compared to the Celestial Realm and the Devildom. The reason is the Celestial Realm and the Devildom is connected by one Gateway. If anything happens in the Devildom, it would be felt in the Celestial Realm and vice versa. I think something may have happened to Michael and/or the Celestial Realm that made the Devildom shift out of balance."
Simeon was serious and grim as well. "I also have that suspicion. Something must have happened to Michael and/or the Celestial Realm to cause the shift."
Just as Simeon gave his suspicion, a member of the Celestial Army appeared before Simeon.
"My Lord, we just received an urgent message from the Celestial Realm. Michael was found injured and unconscious in his Study, but we have another bigger problem."
Lord Diavolo and Simeon froze in shock. Simeon quickly recovered, but looked pale, "Michael is hurt? How did this happen?"
"We don't know My Lord, but as I said, we have a bigger problem. It's the reason for the sudden shift in the Devildom."
Lord Diavolo went still as a horrifying suspicion came to him, "Tell us immediately."
The Angel hesitated a bit then looked at Simeon.
Simeon looked at him seriously and said in a commanding voice, "Tell us."
The Angel bowed respectfully before straightening. He looked directly into Simeon's eyes then said, "It's our Grimoire. The Grimorium Caelum has been stolen."
End of Volume Two
