RageSage says "The cover fic reminds me of Yang from RWBY…"

And now that I look at it, she kinda does huh. Just more foxy

If this chapter doesn't blow your mind, or at least, make you go 'hot damn, alright danzy,' and make you do the obama 'not bad' nod, then i've failed, and it is my destiny to dig up a hole and bury myself in it and to never raise expectations

Yea nah. Still, hope you'll like this chapter at least half as much as i like this one.

Lucifer: Yearning of Armageddon

Chapter 14

|| The Infinite that Yearns for Nothing ||

Sparing no time for introductions or greetings, the Ouroboros Dragon led Lucifer and his companions deeper into the desolate halls of Castle Black, her steps echoing in the eerie silence. The castle, while surrounded by a bleak and barren landscape, was surprisingly well-kept, Rossweisse couldn't help but remark.

As they ventured further through the shadowy corridors of Castle Black, the tendrils of darkness that Rossweisse assumed to be Ophis's "snakes" worked diligently, sweeping the floors and walls clean of dust and debris. It was a sight that should have held a certain level of amusing absurdity, given the ominous surroundings. However, the lack of sound was profoundly unsettling. The sweeping and dusting should have produced normal noises, yet there was nothing but eerie silence, turning the once-comical spectacle into a surreal experience.

Eventually, they arrived at a dimly lit hall with a long, ornate table. The room was sparsely decorated, with faded tapestries adorning the stone walls, depicting scenes from ages long past. The living quarter they had entered was just as bleak as the rest of the castle, but the diligent work of Ophis's "snakes" kept it remarkably clean.

Rossweisse and Gabriel exchanged uncertain glances, curiosity and trepidation in their eyes, pondering what had led Lucifer to this enigmatic Dragon God and what he might be seeking from her.

Once they took their seats, with Ophis at the head of the table and Lucifer directly opposite of her, she wasted no time in cutting to the chase.

Her obsidian eyes bore into Lucifer as she asked, "You, have remained hidden, from me. Why?"

Lucifer took notice of Ophis' disjointed words and smoothly replied, "I've never hidden from anyone. Perhaps you've been looking for me in the wrong plane, Ophis."

"Impossible," she simply mutters, no shock evident in her words. "I, see everything, within this universe."

"The one you're able to observe, yes."

The tension in the room grew palpable, like a storm gathering on the horizon. Rossweisse and Gabriel shifted uncomfortably in their seats, feeling the weight of the unspoken confrontation between two beings of unimaginable power. But it was Ophis who was beginning to sense the true nature of this meeting, a realization that made her skin crawl.

Ophis's hands tightened involuntarily, a sensation of unease creeping over her. She, the Infinite Dragon God, the ultimate observer of existence, had encountered something that defied her omnipotence.

Her voice, when it finally came, was a low, almost guttural murmur, carrying with it a subtle undercurrent of disbelief. "Transcendence... You, Lucifer, have transcended?" Her tone was equal parts incredulity and realization, a weighty revelation that sent shivers down the spines of those present.

Lucifer leaned back in his chair, the corners of his lips curling into a sardonic smile.

The room seemed to contract around them, as if the very walls were closing in, squeezing out any remaining semblance of comfort. Ophis, the Infinite Dragon God, the entity who had observed the cosmos since time immemorial, remained stoic and emotionless, her eyes betraying no sentiment, but beneath their surface lay a hint of vulnerability, a crack in her infinite knowledge.

"You ascend beyond my reach?" Ophis muttered, her voice now carried a hint of frustration, a sensation she had never experienced before. "I, am the Infinite. There is no realm, no existence that can escape my gaze."

The very foundations of reality seemed to tremble as the room itself struggled to contain the weight of their meeting. Ophis' immense power began to radiate throughout the room. The darkness deepened, casting an even more oppressive atmosphere. Lucifer's crimson eyes smoldered amidst the growing darkness, their fiery intensity the only source of light.

Lucifer's stoic countenance remained unyielding. Her aura, once an intangible concept, had now manifested into a tangible force that bore down upon them all.

The silence hung in the air like a guillotine blade, poised to fall at any moment. Rossweisse and Gabriel exchanged worried glances, their faces etched with concern, their breaths shallow in the face of such overwhelming power. They felt like insignificant insects caught in the tempest of higher beings, mere observers of a negotiation that could reshape the very essence of existence.

"And yet, here I am."

Ophis went quiet for a moment, the darkness dissipating away as she breathed. "...And yet, here you are."

She then spoke with detached resolve, her voice devoid of any emotion, "Tell me, how?"

"Nothing less than patricide, apparently," he chuckled. "But mind your serpentine nose, Ophis. My Creation shall remain beyond your reach."

"Your… Creation?" Her eyes narrowed in recognition. "...I, see… your, infernal dominion."

"Currently without a formal name," Lucifer added.

Ophis considered for a second, and the conclusion dawned on her in a blink. "You, Morning Star, is a threat. A variable, I, have not considered."

So the Infinite God finally acknowledged him? Lucifer would be touched, if he ever considered the opinions of those beneath him.

She paused again for a moment, not exactly as bothered by the fact Lucifer hadn't said anything in response to her evaluation.

"My, goal," she said. "Are you, aware?"

"I'd rather hear it directly from you."

The room seemed to shrink further, as if it were a fragile vessel straining to contain the immense forces at play. Ophis continued, her tone unchanging, "Will you, stop me?"

Lucifer leaned in subtly, his unwavering gaze never faltering. "Your proposition first, then I'll present my terms. If we find common ground, then we can proceed into negotiations."

"A deal, with The Devil," she considered, her words echoing through the room like a distant thunderclap.

Uncertainty saturated the air, every word, every pause a step closer to a pivotal agreement or a catastrophic clash of celestial might. In the dimly lit hall adorned with ancient tapestries, two beings of immeasurable power confronted each other, their destinies intricately woven together in a precarious balance. The world held its breath, awaiting the outcome of this momentous meeting between The Devil and the Infinite Dragon God.

"You, are here to try and stop me?"

There wouldn't be a 'try' if he so wished to.

"No," Lucifer said just as bluntly as her question as he took out his amulet, and placed it on the dark table. "I'm here to ask you about this."

Ophis's gaze fell upon the amulet, recognition flickering across her otherwise emotionless face. "The Nine-tailed Fox, trapped," she observed. "And yet, I have yet to achieve silence."

Lucifer, displaying his characteristic wit, furrowed his sharp black brows. "While I do agree she can be a bit 'yippy' at times," he said plainly, much to Yasaka's growing annoyance, since she was currently being muted by Lucifer's magic, "putting her in a rock is a bit excessive."

"I, disagree," Ophis's answer was as blunt as it was enigmatic. "I, see, that it is you, who has thwarted my pawns." Her emotionless voice reverberated in the dimly lit chamber, her words cutting through the tension like a blade. An answer shrouded in an air of mystique that left Gabriel and Rossweisse in bewilderment, as the two sought clarity as they looked to Lucifer.

"The heroic bunch, you mean?" Lucifer said. "All I did was give them a door that leads them straight to Great Red."

Ophis's demeanor darkened, her cosmic presence casting an ominous shadow in the room. "I see… Then, they have lied."

"Lied?" Rossweisse couldn't help blurting.

"They, told me, they were able to defeat him," Ophis revealed with an air of inevitability. Her words hung in the air like an unspoken judgment. "They, have perished. They, have lied. The True Longinus, it appears, is overvalued."

Lucifer fought back a chuckle that threatened to escape. Of course it was. Many believed the divine artifacts and weaponry, the Sacred Gears, especially those endowed with his father's miracles, had their efficiency effectively curtailed since his 'death'. Or more correctly, since Lucifer had his soul encased in purgatory, his Creation.

But that was only part of the story.

The true intrigue lay in the fact that Yahweh, their flawed yet perfectionist Creator, would never have allowed his creation to falter in his absence. The System was designed to be flawless, a reflection of Yahweh's own sense of infallibility. Any deviation from this perfection was an anomaly, and anomalies were unacceptable.

Then there was Michael, the unwavering guardian of their father's legacy. Like Lucifer, his younger brother was a master of deception, a virtuoso of veiling true intentions behind a façade of righteousness and virtue. Michael, just as Lucifer had anticipated, would never permit anyone to access the full extent of the Creator's power. He had meticulously woven layers of manipulation and control into the very fabric of the System, all disguised under the convenient label of a 'glitch.'

Lucifer had confirmed these 'glitches' when he visited Heaven, when Gabriel unwittingly fell due to her anger. The visit had been enlightening, to say the least. Let it be known that the Archangel Michael was far from the benevolent figure he appeared to be. Both he and Lucifer had been molded by the same Creator, after all. While Lucifer might have been more indiscreet in his methods due to his little care of others' opinion of him, Michael, who must care of others' opinion of him, was just equally adept at maneuvering behind the scenes, manipulating circumstances to serve his own hidden agenda.

In the grand tapestry of Heaven and Hell, light and darkness, Lucifer and Michael were two sides of the same coin. They both sought the best, but their definitions of "best" were irreconcilably different. One sought personal gain, while the other yearned for the betterment of all.

Unaware of Lucifer's enigmatic musings, Rossweisse couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. She pressed on, her voice laced with a mixture of skepticism and intrigue. "Why did you imprison the Kyuubi? And what motivated you to seek the defeat of the Great Red?"

"I, seek, to attain Silence."

"...Silence?" Rossweisse's voice echoed with a palpable confusion, her brows furrowing in response to Ophis's cryptic revelation.

Gabriel, however, had a quicker grasp of the situation. Her sharp mind had connected the dots swiftly, and her blue eyes bore into Ophis with an intensity that reflected her comprehension.

"To attain Silence," she repeated, her voice carrying an undercurrent of realization. "In the Dimensional Gap, I presume? The Kyuubi was only a key to open the path that leads to the Great Red. By subduing him, you intend to impose a state of tranquility, a Silence that reigns over the Gap."

Ophis's dark eyes met Gabriel's with a subtle nod, an acknowledgment that spoke volumes without words.

"But that is not all. The Gap, is not sufficient," she muttered. "Silence, is not merely the absence of sound; it is the cessation of all existence. The ultimate serenity." Ophis then elaborated, her words coming out in her unique detached manner, "I, tire, of the lesser struggles, of their incessant noise. Great Red. The Devils. The Fallen Celestials. The Gods. Humans. All are but noises, to be silenced."

In that moment, the room was suffused with an aura of foreboding, as those who had gathered grappled with the enormity of Ophis's intentions. Rossweisse felt an unpleasant feeling gripping her neck. Being with Lucifer, she had grown a distaste over cryptic replies.

Finally, a subtle grin tugged the edge of Lucifer's lips. "And how do you plan on attaining this 'silence' of yours, Ophis?"

Ophis's obsidian gaze shifted to him, devoid of emotion. Her response was chilling in its simplicity, a declaration of her relentless determination.

"To reach 'Silence,' Trihexa must be unleashed. The Beast shall reduce everything into nothingness, including the Great Red. Whoever survives, I, Ophis, shall snuff. Until there is only me."

The room seemed to grow colder as her words settled in, hung in the air like a dark omen, and the weight of Ophis's revelation bore down heavily. Rossweisse's face contorted with horror, her voice trembling as she voiced her protest, "Unleash Trihexa? Are you insane? That would be catastrophic! It would bring about the end of everything!"

Gabriel, her usually serene countenance marred by disbelief, added her voice to the growing protest. "Ophis, such an act is beyond recklessness. It's madness! The consequences would be unimaginable!"

Lucifer, on the other hand, appeared mostly entertained by the idea of unleashing Armageddon. His lips curled into a sardonic smile as he leaned back in his chair. Ophis' plan was as non-convoluted as bizarre as it was, truly reflecting her simplicity.

Ophis remained detached and unmoved by their protests. Her eyes bore into each of them in turn, a cold and unfeeling gaze. "In Nothing, there is Silence. To reduce all existence into Nothing. It is the only way, to cull their noise, permanently."

"Fascinating," Lucifer chuckled, a mixture of amusement and admiration in his tone. "The Infinite that yearns for Nothing."

Acknowledging The Devil's apparent fascination and his apparent lack of worry, a sense of desperation filled the room as Rossweisse and Gabriel exchanged frantic glances.

Rossweisse's voice quivered as she slammed the table, rising from her seat to emphasize her urgency. "You must understand! If you plan to let Trihexa loose, everyone, every faction, every force in existence will come down upon you! There will be no escape from their wrath!"

Gabriel's usually serene demeanor was now replaced by urgency as she added, "The balance of the realms will be shattered. The consequences will be dire, and you'll face not just opposition but annihilation!"

"My 'Allies' shall keep them occupied," Ophis replied cryptically, her grand scheme already set in motion and unyielding to deterrence. Her gaze shifted to Lucifer, the only variable she hadn't fully accounted for. Her obsidian eyes bore into his, and with an air of command, she demanded, "The Star of Morning, how will you act?"

All eyes in the room were fixed on him, and an eerie silence enveloped the chamber. Ophis was measuring him, undoubtedly having her own action ready. But instead of offering a direct answer, Lucifer countered with a proposal of his own.

"Take off your seals from the amulet. Do not destroy it. Leave it and its functions intact. I may have other uses for the trinket," he said, his voice steady and measured, "Do that, and I, and only I, Lucifer, will refrain from interfering with your plans."

"I, Ophis, agree."

Before Gabriel or Rossweisse could retort, Ophis immediately sealed the deal, recognizing that Lucifer now held a power beyond her equation. His reputation as the one who had slain The Creator, Yahweh, his own father, lingered in the cosmos. Ophis had no desire to repeat the mistakes of the past, to not allow The Devil to tamper with her grand design. She understood implicitly that the less she interacted with him, the safer her plans would be. Lucifer must not be allowed to become a part of the equation.

The immediate agreement sent shockwaves of horror through Gabriel and Rossweisse. The realization washed over them like a relentless tide, emphasizing the stark truth—Lucifer, despite any temporary collaboration, remained an enigmatic force, neither wholly ally nor adversary.

As Yasaka's amulet began to glow with renewed life, the stage was set for a grim and uncertain future. The ethereal light cast eerie shadows across the room, illuminating the strained expressions on the faces of those who had gathered to discuss the fate of existence itself.

"Brother…? …Why…?" Gabriel's voice cracked, her eyes searching his with a mixture of disbelief and sorrow. "...Why? How could you…?"

Lucifer could read the disappointment in his sister's eyes, a bitter sentiment that had become all too familiar. He met her gaze with a measured look, his crimson eyes betraying little emotion. "Armageddon is the grand finale of his 'grand plan,' Father's grand plan… mind you… One that he has postponed for nearly a millennium. His Universe's life has long exceeded its expiration date, Gabriel."

"But…!"

Then, like a harbinger of destiny, golden lights surged from the amulet, casting a dazzling radiance that bathed the chamber in an otherworldly glow. Yasaka materialized in all her regal splendor, her presence commanding attention and respect. Her kimono shimmered with gold and blue accents as her five golden fluffy tails bloomed like a flower.

Yasaka inhaled deeply, her delicate nose scrunching in distaste. "Ugh. This stench of death— how long do we have to stay here?"

"And," he added as he extended his hand. Yasaka accepted it with a regal grace, stepping down from the table with the poise of a true deity. The nine-(currently five)tailed fox wasted no time in nuzzling the crook of Lucifer's neck, her embrace radiating warmth and gratitude. A rare, tender smile graced Lucifer's lips, a testament to the genuine affection he held for the Kyuubi. "Because of her."

"Lucifer…" Yasaka sighed in relief, her voice a melodic whisper. She had been liberated from her prison, and the contentment in her eyes was mirrored in the delicate dance of her five tails, each one swaying gracefully in the ethereal light.

Amidst the bitterness etched on the faces of Rossweisse and Gabriel, there remained a poignant sweetness in the reunion between Yasaka and Lucifer. As the two of them stood together, united once more, they seemed to exist in their own bubble of solace and security. Yasaka had little regard for the fate of those who would confront Armageddon. She had secured her own and her kind's sanctuary within Lucifer's Universe, a realm where no facile Infinite Dragon God or other entities would ever disturb their tranquility. She had been brought back to Lucifer, just as he had promised her, and in his presence, she found not only solace but the promise of a future filled with warmth and love.

But as the tension in the room escalated, it became evident that Rossweisse and Gabriel were not prepared to let Ophis's grand scheme proceed without a fight. With a sudden and synchronized burst of energy, they shot up from their seats, brandishing an impressive array of weaponry and spells. Rossweisse had dozens of magical circles ready to unleash havoc upon Ophis, while Gabriel summoned hundreds of golden lightspears, each hovering behind her like a celestial army.

"Then we will smite you down, right now," Gabriel declared with unwavering resolve.

In a blaze of fury, they unleashed their weapons and spells, a torrent of magic and light surging towards Ophis. Yet, she displayed her cosmic prowess, effortlessly absorbing and neutralizing their attacks. Her superiority was evident as she remained unscathed, her expression unchanged, her dominance absolute.

"N…no…" Rossweisse muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

With an air of indifference, Ophis turned her gaze to Lucifer, her obsidian eyes filled with a detached serenity. "Our, talk, has concluded. Leave, Morning Star… with, my gratitude."

Lucifer had erected a protective barrier sparking with black and red destructive energy, primarily to shield Yasaka from their futile struggle. With a glance at Gabriel and Rossweisse as they lamented their powerlessness, Lucifer shifted his crimson eyes to meet Ophis's obsidian gaze one last time, and gave the serpent a nod.

"Until Armageddon."

There was the slightest curve of a smile on Ophis' lips.

He then turned to Yasaka with a subtle smile. A smile of pride. "Let's get you home, vixen."

Break

Lucifer, with a wave of his hand, conjured a portal that materialized in Yasaka's domain, leading straight into her bedroom. The familiarity of her own sanctuary enveloped her, and Yasaka breathed a sigh of profound relief. As she stood there, she began to absorb a portion of the ley line energy, and the rest of her tails sprouted almost instantly, each of the golden brushes quivering with renewed vigor, representing the return of the Kyuubi's missing power.

In the quiet intimacy of Yasaka's bedroom, Lucifer and Yasaka shared a tender moment that transcended words. With a gentle smile, he wrapped his arms around her, drawing her close. Yasaka nestled against his chest, her tails swaying lazily in contentment. The room was bathed in a soft, golden glow, the essence of her presence radiating warmth and comfort. Their closeness conveyed a sense of solace and security, as if the chaos of the outside world couldn't touch them here.

Lucifer ran his fingers through Yasaka's lustrous golden hair, his touch light and affectionate. He pressed a soft kiss to the top of her head, his lips lingering for a moment, a silent promise of his protection.

Yasaka, in turn, nestled closer to him, her nine tails curling around them both like a protective cocoon. She sighed contentedly, her eyes closed as she basked in the tranquility of the moment, the weight of her imprisonment finally lifted. Still nestled in his embrace, she tilted her head upward and pressed her lips to his in a quick, tender kiss.

As their lips met and then parted, Yasaka whispered softly, her voice filled with sincerity, "Thank you."

After a while, Rossweisse and Gabriel followed suit, and Lucifer finally shut the whirling Gate shut. Their expressions grim and laden with the gravity of the situation. While Lucifer basked in a lovey-dovey moment with Yasaka, his companions stepped forward, determination etched in their grim features.

Rossweisse cleared her throat, her voice steady but laced with worry.

"I've seen enough, Lucifer…" she declared, her gaze unwavering. "I'm… I have to warn every faction I can reach. I… need to go back home. Warn King Thor… I— I'm sorry but I can't follow you around anymore."

Gabriel nodded in agreement, her expression mirroring the weight of the decision. "Brother… I… happy as I am that you've taken me under your wings, but Armageddon must be prevented… There is still hope. If this is part of Father's grand design, then there must be a reason why He had postponed it so… I cannot let His legacy turn over into dust."

"I did specifically say only I will keep myself out of her serpentine business," Lucifer, his eyes still locked on Yasaka, nodded casually. "You're not me. Feel free to do as you please," he continued, his tone as nonchalant as ever. "Just remember, you're both welcome to return to me anytime. Although do try not to get yourselves too hurt out there — I quite fancy the both of you."

Rossweisse and Gabriel exchanged a respectful glance, their demeanor carrying a blend of determination and melancholy, and left with a bittersweet smile.

"Excuse us, Lady Yasaka," Rossweisse said with a bow. "...And…welcome back."

Yasaka responded with a soft smile, her affectionate gaze lingering on The Devil. "Mhmm… Best of luck to you both."

With heavy hearts, Rossweisse and Gabriel turned away from Lucifer and Yasaka, their resolve unwavering. They understood that relying on The Devil to take care of things was an uncertain gamble at best. As they each stepped outside the room, each step they took was a commitment to the mission ahead. The weight of the impending crisis hung heavy in the air as they ventured forth, determined to rally every faction they could reach and avert the looming catastrophe.

Once they were out of the room, Lucifer let out a soft chuckle, the tension of their departure dissipating. "You're awfully unbothered," he remarked with an amused grin, his fingers burying themselves around Yasaka's furry ear that twitched and flicked.

Yasaka leaned into him, her affection for him evident, taking a not-so-subtle whiff of his ever delightful scent. He made a face, but let her anyway. Kyuubis and their smell.

"My Gods will do what they please… fight or flee, nonetheless my obligation is only my people," she murmured, nuzzling him again almost like a mix of cat and dog that hadn't seen their owner. "And I know you're far too prideful to go back on your promise."

"That I am," Lucifer muttered. He then shifted his attention to the more personal matter at hand. "How's our baby?"

Yasaka's face lit up with maternal warmth as she gently stroked her baby bump. Though it wasn't very apparent due to her kimono, she could feel their child growing inside her.

"She's fine," she reassured him. "I'm reconnected with the ley lines. With my stress dealt with and with my helpers around, bringing her into this world shan't be an issue…"

Lucifer hummed in agreement, but before he could plant a kiss on his Old Fox, Yasaka's vulpine ears perked up as she remembered something. Or rather, someone.

"Kunou!" she exclaimed, her heart brimming with excitement and joy to be reunited with her kit.

Without wasting a moment, Yasaka zipped away from his embrace and gracefully left her room, leaving him in her glittering dust, her elegant stride carrying her in search of her adopted child. The news she carried held the promise of new beginnings, and Yasaka couldn't wait to share it with Kunou, who would soon have a sibling to share her adventures and dreams with.

Lucifer, now alone, couldn't resist a chuckle as he followed Yasaka outside the room, eager to witness the joyous reunion between mother and adopted daughter

But just as The Devil took his first step outside the room, he was suddenly ambushed by a kitsune with vibrant pink hair.

"Luciferu-sama!" With a delighted and relieved cry, Tamamo threw herself at him in an exuberant hug, her eyes glistening with tears of joy as she clung to him tightly. She had been burdened with the responsibility of being Lady Yasaka's body double during her absence, and the weight of that duty had taken its toll. "L-Lady Yasaka—! Sh-she's baaack…! I'm so glaaadd…! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I am one happy fox—!"

Lucifer smiled warmly, his arms encircling Tamamo in a reassuring embrace.

"You've done well, vixen," he praised her. He brushed away a stray tear from her cheek with his thumb, his touch gentle and affectionate. Impressed by her dedication and commitment, Lucifer leaned down and pressed a quick peck on Tamamo's lips. A small gesture of appreciation and gratitude.

"For now," he whispered with a playful grin, "this should suffice. I have a mother-daughter reunion to attend."

"Mikoon~!" Tamamo blushed at the unexpected kiss, her heart fluttering with emotions she had long harbored. She couldn't help but smile through her tears, her love for Lucifer shining in her eyes. She nodded in agreement, her heart now considerably lighter with the knowledge that Lady Yasaka was safe and her efforts had not been in vain.

With a final squeeze, savoring her lingering look of affection, Lucifer released her from his embrace, and Tamamo stepped back, her cheeks still flushed. Her twin fox tails swayed gracefully from side to side, an elegant and silent dance that mirrored the swirling emotions within her.

"M-may I join…?" Tamamo hesitantly inquired, her voice trembling with a mix of longing and hope.

Lucifer offered a warm smile and a nod. "Why can't you?"

Sniffling and unable to contain her emotions, Tamamo gently linked her hands with Lucifer's, her eyes glistening with unspoken feelings. It was a love that had grown quietly but intensely, deep within her heart. Tamamo's heart brimmed with affection and gratitude, cherishing the moments they had shared and the events that tied them together.

Lucifer and Tamamo walked hand in hand through the grand shrine, the hallowed halls illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. The air was filled with a sense of reverence and tranquility, a sacred atmosphere befitting the home of a deity. They navigated the intricate corridors, following the faint, radiant trail of power that emanated from Yasaka, the only being in this world with such an awe-inspiring presence, owing to her status as a Kyuubi.

As they drew closer to their destination, the tender sound of laughter and the warmth of a long-awaited reunion began to fill the air. There, in the heart of the shrine's inner sanctum, they found Yasaka, radiant and ethereal, tenderly hugging a bewildered six-year-old kitsune.

Kunou, her innocent eyes wide with confusion, found herself enveloped in the warm embrace of her mother. It was a moment she had longed for, but the sudden outpouring of affection in public left her completely baffled. She looked up at her mother's tear-filled eyes, unable to comprehend the reason for Mother's uncharacteristic display of emotion.

"I've missed you so much…" Yasaka whispered, her voice filled with love and longing.

Kunou blinked in bewilderment. "...But, Mother, we had breakfast together just this morning."

"...I know, sweetling… I know…" Yasaka sniffled, her tears of joy unabated. "I know…"

Lucifer and Tamamo observed the heartwarming scene from a respectful distance, privy to the profound secret that lay hidden behind this touching reunion. Only Yasaka, Tamamo, and Lucifer himself were aware of the role that Tamamo had played as Yasaka's double during her absence.

It was a reunion filled with boundless love, tenderness, and the unspoken understanding of a mother's profound affection for her child. As Yasaka held Kunou close, her tears mirrored the emotions of all those who had played a part in reuniting her with her beloved daughter. The grand shrine, steeped in history and tradition, bore witness to this poignant moment, a masterpiece of love and family reunited at long last.

Yasaka's eyes sparkled with joy as she gently informed Kunou of the impending change. "Kunou, my love, you're going to be an older sister soon!"

Kunou's face lit up with excitement, her youthful exuberance shining through her amber eyes as her fluffy tails swayed in delight. "R-really, Mother?" she stammered in sheer excitement, "K-Kunou is going to be a sister?!"

Her tail slapped the air with such enthusiasm that it created a rhythmic sound, like a heartbeat of joy.

While Kunou bubbled with enthusiasm, Tamamo stood in shock beside Lucifer, her expression a mix of surprise and curiosity. Her eyes darted between Yasaka and Lucifer, a knowing acknowledgment of the obvious fact that there was no one else in this world who could possibly be the father of Yasaka's child.

"Wha- huh? What? How?!" Tamamo sputtered in disbelief, her vulpine ears twitching in confusion.

"It's a long story."

Tamamo's playful nature couldn't be contained, and she couldn't resist a sultry, yet hopeful proposal. Her voice was a soft, enticing whisper as she leaned in closer to Lucifer, her ears lightly tickling his jaw. "...I want to be the mother of your baby too," she breathed, her eyes gleaming with a hint of mischief and desire. "...Or maybe two…"

Lucifer chuckled softly, his response enigmatic and filled with unspoken possibilities. He left her proposal hanging in the air, a tantalizing notion that added an intriguing twist to their already complex relationships.

Tamamo, persistent and unyielding, couldn't resist pushing a bit further. "...Is that a no?"

Lucifer's response was equally enigmatic. "It's a maybe."

A mischievous grin played on Tamamo's lips. "Good enough for me!" she purred, her twin fox tails swaying with delight.

As Yasaka and Kunou continued their heartwarming reunion, the young kitsune's curiosity bubbled to the surface. Unable to contain her excitement any longer, Kunou blurted out, "Mother, who's the father?"

The rejuvenated Kyuubi smiled tenderly at her daughter's innocence and pointed gracefully to the enigmatic figure of The Devil himself, Lucifer.

Kunou's eyes immediately widened with hope and wonder, her heart filled with anticipation. She beamed at Lucifer, her young face a canvas of excitement, and asked with childlike enthusiasm, "Does that mean he is going to be my father too?"

Yasaka cast a slightly worried glance over to Lucifer, her expression a mix of concern and curiosity. She was unsure of how he would respond to such a request, given his enigmatic nature.

To her relief, Lucifer gave her a nonchalant shrug, a silent acknowledgment that Kunou could believe whatever made her happy.

Yasaka smiled down at her daughter, her fingers gently stroking Kunou's quirky golden ponytail. "Looks like he is, sweetling," she said softly. "What do you think of him?"

Kunou, suddenly feeling a bit nervous under Lucifer's smoldering crimson eyes, shifted her gaze back to him. Her voice wavered as she replied, "Um… I think he'll do okay."

Lucifer couldn't help but chuckle at the young kitsune's assessment. "Just okay, hm?"

As he stood in the grand shrine, enveloped in the warmth of the moment, Yasaka's joyful tears, Kunou's childish response and Tamamo's playful affection filled him with a sense of contentment that he rarely experienced. The tranquil surroundings of the shrine seemed to echo with the laughter and love that permeated the air.

Tamamo, ever the affectionate and playful one, had taken it upon herself to mark her presence, nuzzling and smushing herself against him in a display of her affection, each gesture an enthusiastic proclamation of her love.

The Devil couldn't resist the rare sense of accomplishment washing over him. His quest to free Yasaka from the amulet was finally complete. At the possibilities of their unconventional family expanding, Lucifer understood that this was a moment worth savoring. The complexities of his existence, the battles and schemes that had defined his existence, all seemed to fade into the background in the presence of this simple, heartfelt reunion.

With a contented smile, he stepped back, allowing Yasaka and Kunou to share their joy without his looming presence. The weight of his journey had been lifted, and in this moment of tranquility, Lucifer found a rare sense of peace that had long eluded him.

The grand shrine, with its sacred aura and the bonds of family that had been rekindled within its walls, seemed to offer a glimpse of the Heaven he had once lost.

As Lucifer contemplated the possibilities of his future, the warmth he received in Old Kyoto, the glances of respect and gratefulness from its residence, the reverie he received as their silent protector as opposed to the constant scorn he'd found elsewhere, The Devil couldn't help but wonder if, in this place and with these people, he might have found his own small piece of Heaven once more.

Break

Rossweisse's heart raced as she stepped through the Bifrost that transported her back to Asgard. Lucifer's encounter with Ophis and the revelation of her grand plans had left her with a profound sense of urgency. The looming threat of Trihexa, the apocalyptic beast that could bring about the end of all existence, weighed heavily on her mind. Beside her, Gabriel, the fallen Seraph, shared her determination. They were now on a grand quest, a mission that transcended the boundaries of their respective pantheons. The fate of not just Asgard, but all of creation, rested on their shoulders.

The journey ahead was perilous and fraught with uncertainty. The alliance of factions they needed to form, the battles they would have to fight, and the sacrifices they might have to make—all of it loomed ahead, a daunting challenge that would test their resolve to the limit.

As the portal deposited them in the heart of Asgard, Rossweisse couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and determination. This was her home, a place where she had found purpose and belonging. But now, it was threatened like never before. With Gabriel by her side, she knew they had a chance—a slim one, perhaps, but a chance nonetheless. They would seek allies among the gods and beings of Asgard, and then they would journey to other realms, rallying forces from every corner of the cosmos.

Their footsteps echoed through the grand halls of Asgard as they hurried toward the throne room where King Thor held court. The looming threat of Trihexa could not wait, and they could certainly use the Asgardian king's support and strength.

As they neared the entrance to the throne room, Rossweisse encountered the disapproving gazes of other Valkyries and Thor's personal Huscarls. Their unannounced entrance was both a surprise and an annoyance to them. The Valkyries, known for their order and decorum, were not accustomed to one of their own rushing into the presence of the king without formalities.

Ignoring the judgmental looks and whispers that followed her, Rossweisse pushed open the massive doors to the throne room. Her eyes immediately fixed on Thor Odinson, perched upon his majestic throne, looking like he was about to blow up from boredom.

"My King!" she began, her voice firm and unwavering as she knelt down in reverence, "I apologize for this abrupt intrusion, but urgent matters demand your attention."

Thor, a formidable figure with his regal attire and his mighty hammer, Mjolnir, looked down at her with a mix of curiosity and mild irritation. He was not accustomed to such impulsive behavior from his Valkyries.

"What is the meaning of this, Rossweisse?" he inquired, his voice carrying the weight of authority. "I thought you're hired by Lucifer?"

"I— I was… Or… rather… I still am b-but—!" Rossweisse took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts and resolve. "My King, a grave threat looms on the horizon—the return of Trihexa. We must act swiftly to gather allies and prepare for the impending cataclysm."

The mention of Trihexa sent a ripple of unease through the room. Even the Valkyries, who had initially disapproved of Rossweisse's abrupt entrance, now exchanged concerned glances.

Thor's expression shifted from annoyance to concern. He knew the gravity of the situation and the potential devastation that Trihexa could bring. The words of his father during the day Lucifer arrived in this place firmly echoed in his mind that was usually swirled with ale and beers and his ex.

"Are you certain? And who is this fallen angel next to you?"

Rossweisse rose from her kneeling position, her eyes resolute. "Yes, my King. I am certain. Trihexa's return is imminent, and it poses a threat not only to Asgard but to all the realms. And this is Gabriel, a fallen Seraph who has joined our cause. We bring crucial information regarding the scheme orchestrated by Ophis, the Infinite Dragon God."

Thor's eyes bore into Gabriel as he waited for further elaboration from Rossweisse. Gabriel, her demeanor unwavering, began to speak, her voice laced with the gravity of the situation.

"King Thor, Ophis, the Infinite Dragon God, seeks to unleash Trihexa—The Beast of the End Times. Her plan is to bring about 'The Silence,' an event according to her in which Trihexa will reduce everything to nothingness, including the Great Red. The Khaos Brigade is merely a distraction. She believes that achieving this 'Silence' will somehow serve her greater purpose."

Rossweisse interjected, her voice carrying the urgency of the matter. "We believe that Ophis's plan could lead to catastrophic consequences for all realms. Trihexa's power is beyond comprehension, and the devastation it could bring is immeasurable. We must gather allies, pool our strengths, and find a way to thwart Ophis's scheme before it's too late."

Thor furrowed his golden brows, the weight of their words sinking in. Just as the Allfather had prophesied… if there was a chance to prove himself as the true king of Asgard—this was such the time.

His gaze swept across the room, meeting the eyes of Valkyries, warriors, and advisors alike. Each one could feel the weight of his words, the gravity of the impending battle.

Then his voice thundered through the grand hall of Asgard, a powerful proclamation that shook the very foundations of the realm. His words resonated with the authority of a true king, and every soul present could feel the weight of his command.

"Send messengers to all Realms!" Thor's voice roared, echoing off the walls. "To all Pantheons, to all beings who call these realms home. Let them know that the fate of existence itself hangs in the balance! Those who choose not to act shall bear the consequences of their inaction!"

The very air seemed to tremble with the intensity of his speech, and the room was filled with the resounding boom of his command. The call to action had been sounded, and the realms would soon unite in a battle against a threat that could bring about the end of all things.

To be continued…

Mmmmm I love Ophis here. She doesn't think much of Rossweisse and Gabriel, knowing their charisma is far from Lucifer's

The world be ending and he's like 'i just wanna cuddle with my sapient fluffs bro'

And about Michael and the System's 'glitches' — are you surprised? Did you like it? He's a crafty lil bastard who learned to be crafty lil bastard from the best; dad and Luci

Btw check out my other shit in my profile. There's an OC Riser fic I've recently released, it's pr funney