I do not own Fate/ stay night or High School DxD.

"There is no more insidious poison than hubris." - C.A.A. Savastano

As the forces of my nature calmed, having spread across the entirety of the courtyard, a nigh-palpable tension settled between us.

I watched them, neither one of us making any form of advancement against the other. However, I received a derisive sneer from the bespectacled woman.

Tilting her chin up, she spoke. "That old fool did not train you well, mutt." She spat. "Do you realise whose presence you are in?"

She grinned, proudly, as her aura fluctuated, accentuating her already menacing presence. Though it was great, far above those of the creatures I often battled, it was nothing more than what I could handle.

I decided against riling her up by calling her weak.

I gripped my scythe firmly. "I don't really care, to be honest." I whispered. "Neither one of you are getting past me. And if you try, you will die."

Pushing myself off the ground, a cool breeze whipped my hair back back as I dashed towards the woman. She stumbled backwards, surprised, but managed to conjure those serpents born of death. As they tore through the space between us, I swiftly cut into them in a show of dexterity, leaving shock marring her trepidatious visage.

I shot a glance to the side, immediately spinning my weapon to defend myself from a series of elemental spells. Cutting through one of ice, as it was the fastest, my spinning blade cast an illusion of a barrier, defending against the countless elements that were sent towards me.

Peering through my creation, one of sheer speeds and proficiency, I witnessed the man curse as the last of his make was destroyed. However, the largest of his circles gained an extra layer before releasing a glowing mist that caused my senses to scream to me.

I sank into a shadow, one that Jin must have created, and escaped, reappearing before the school building.

Upon my resurgence, I witnessed death incarnate as the mist devoured the dozens of corpses spread across courtyard. The pavement I once stood upon sank and decayed at an excruciatingly slowed pace.

It was a terrible sight.

The woman whipped her head, baring her teeth to the man. " Creuserey!" She hissed.

The named man glared towards his partner, his arm still outstretched. Then, the mist receded, slowly, leaving the ground scarred by its short presence.

Pulling his hand towards himself, he cursed. "He's dangerous, Katerea." Creuserey warned. "We have to be extremely cautious around that Sacred Gear of his."

I quietly watched as the two bickered amongst themselves, with Katerea claiming to have had the situation well within her control and Creuserey claiming otherwise. I allowed myself the respite as my mind sorted through any information I may have been supplied with concerning Devils of their calibre; Ultimate-Class.

I drew nothing.

"Katerea Leviathan, Creuserey Asmodeus." A familiar voice spoke. "I did not believe that I would ever meet the two of you again."

I glanced over my shoulder to find Grayfia and Shirō nearing me.

The woman walked with a refined poise, one of aristocratic birth, while the boy followed closely behind, a weapon belonging to a hunter within his hold. Strangely enough, he released the handle of his bow, and I witnessed it disintegrate into tiny flecks of light before it reached the ground.

A Sacred Gear?

Supernatural beings wielded powers of every kind, but only humans had been blessed with God's gift. But of the countless of them, only a few would return to their original forms. If that weren't the case, I fear that the many shadowed blades Jin and I created could be found and used by any who came across them.

I was thankful that that was not the case.

Katerea and Creuserey ceased their squabbles, immediately turning to my allies. The woman sneered, her visage twisting in disgust as though the stench of the rotting corpses only now reached her senses, yet I knew that was not the case. Her fists tightened by her sides, whitening, and she bared her teeth towards us.

But it was the man who voiced their vitriol, spitting in disgust. "The traitor finally decides to make her appearance." Creuserey hissed. "What sick fulfilment have you gained from this? Posing as a maidservant to the impostors that stole our right from us, Grayfia?!"

Grayfia took several steps forward, Shirō stopping by my side, and caused the two Devils to pause. They took to their guard, instinctively, seeing as they were now outnumbered, especially with one of their natural enemies being within their midst.

Grayfia, strangely, sounded amused. "Sick fulfilment, you say?" I watched quietly. "My House swore allegiance to Lucifer. Is thus performing my sworn duty as the Head of the Lucifuge Clan self-fulfilling and wrong?"

Katarea glared, demonic power escaping her being and breaking the pavement on which she stood. She was aggravated, that much was certain, and the barely significant control on her energy told of her weakness.

Seeks power, denies mastery.

Katerea hissed. "Duty? Spare me that drivel, Grayfia." She spat venomously. "You betrayed us at the peak of the Civil War. All so you could bed that bastard Sirzechs and claim a spot for yourself in their hierarchy."

The ground quaked and the pavement beneath where Grayfia stood collapsed, a boundless energy nearly forcing me from my crouch to my knees. I held on, strong, mustering up my own dark power so as not to show weakness.

Its sudden appearance had caught us off guard, so much so that I glanced to my side, and found the Angel stiff with his amber eyes widened minutely.

The air around Grayfia stilled. "You know not what you speak of, insolent child." She whispered, her subtle words tainted with a layer of fury. "Quiet yourself."

Creusery shifted his wand and conjured a body of water, his being driven to the edge by the battle of insidious wills. He manipulated the terrain, forcing Shirō and I to evade his ability, however, Grayfia remained: unperturbed and unshaken.

Jin relayed his caution, but I ordered him to remain within his shadow as I willed my magic to stay afloat. Grasping, then tightening my hold onto my magic, I weaved a platform in the very same manner I has been taught. I balanced onto the platform, glad that it was becoming simpler, only to bite back a childish sense of envy as silver wings flapped nearby.

It was at such a time that I despised my normalcy in the world of the supernatural.

Suddenly, my attention was drawn to the forming sphere within the now-formed lake. An incredibly malevolent power was encased in its body and my hairs stood on edge in anticipation.

And it was growing.

Grayfia approached us. "This may be troubling." Her eyes narrowed. "She may be weaker than her ancestors, but we cannot allow her to assume that form. Especially now that she has a territorial advantage."

Water gushed fiercely around the sphere, but his whisper caught my attention. "Do we kill them?"

Grayfia paused and glanced towards Shirō, worry flickering for a passing moment.

"Spare Creusery. He is no threat." She ordered. "We lack the information which he will have in surplus."

We nodded in agreement.

Shirō reached out, and I watched with strange fascination as a bow of a dark and sturdy make materialised in his grasp. It was strange indeed, that, instead of an invocation of Holy Power, I sensed Mana in its purest. However, the arrow was an object of Light.

A curious case indeed.

As he strung his bow, Jin prepared to act while Grayfia waited patiently. And a moment passed, then another, and the Angel released his bow.

Jin roared with the viciousness of a predator, launching himself onto the distracted Creusery, who faltered at the suddenness of the wolf's assault. He casted a quick, meagre spell in retaliation – a barely self-sufficient orb of fire – but it withered into wisps of smoke as the wolf braved it.

Jin sunk into a shadow before appearing behind the panicked Devil and tore into his shoulder. Creusery wailed his agony but was silenced as he was dragged into the ephemeral darkness that stained the waters.

Shirō's arrow whistled as it tore through the air at nigh-untraceable speeds, brimming full with energy as it approached the sphere. However, as it was about to strike, a premature explosion rattled my senses.

I shielded my eyes, squinting painfully as the white light had caught me off guard. A torrent of winds billowed and a tremor shook the earth beneath, and the water showered due to the magnitude of the opposing forces.

That…that was powerful.

When I was younger, I learnt the extent of how truly powerful Light Weapons could be. Even amongst other Fallen Angels, Kokabiel had gained such a mastery over them. And once, I witnessed him pierce through a mountain with a single spear.

Yet that single arrow was, perhaps, stronger than that spear.

As the winds and waves stilled with every passing moment, and the water regaining its tranquility, a figure appeared from within the obscuring mist. He stood, heaving, with a shattered barrier and a bloodied hand before him.

The man sighed tiredly. "You fools." He glanced to his side before glaring upwards, his visage twisting into a fierce scowl. "Not only did you not follow my orders, you dared challenge the mightiest servants of the Three Factions without any preparation."

Suddenly, the ground shook, and creatures rose from beneath the waters: human-sized golems whose forms were licked with flame-like shadows. One, two, six, a dozen and some, continuously rose with their singular red eyes emanating an ominous power.

Amongst them, I noticed, were a variety of beings. Magicians, Devils, Ghouls, even Fallen Angels. Their increasing numbers forced me to grip my scythe in anticipation.

Grayfia sighed. "Asmodeus, Beelzebub and Leviathan." She whispered. "They serve their ancestors' wills and endlessly desire to wage war, irregardless of the age. Truly despicable."

My eyes narrowed. "They have a Longinus within their ranks." I frowned. "One of the more dangerous ones, too."

As a member of the Grigori, I had access to their nigh-endless knowledge and information of the world, and it was through that I discovered the truth of their endless goal. They sought out wilders of the Longinus-class of Sacred Gears of every generation, studying their nature to ascertain whether they would pose a threat to the livelihood of others.

Considering the world-ending capabilities of even a single Longinus, their sacrifices had ensured the continuation and longevity of humanity.

But now, with the sudden appearance of this Longinus, the fears of the Grigori have become a reality.

Our enemies were far more dangerous than we initially suspected. And with the whereabouts of six of them being unknown, the chances were high that they had been found by this organisation.

"Annihilation Maker, huh?" I glanced over my shoulder. "This indeed is troubling."

Azazel levitated behind me, a grim interest settled onto his visage. Behind him, Michael, Serafall and Sirzechs surveyed with a critical eye. The appearance of a Sacred Gear often shifted the scales of the battlefield, after all.

"While facing Leviathan and Beelzebub should not be much trouble, it is imperative that we find the wielder of the Longinus Sacred Gear." Michael assessed. "We may suffer a continuous onslaught should we ignore them."

Azazel nodded. "And that is hoping that the wielder won't activate the Balance Breaker." He said.

It's designed with a long-range usage, so it's possible that the wielder isn't even in Kuoh. Is it even possible to track the source when it emanates the same power as the creations?

"I can see them." Shirō announced. "North-west, towards the mountain range. My familiar can see an unfamiliar barrier there."

Michael nodded. "Very well." He said. "If you will, please."

Shirō nodded.

"Capture." Sirzechs emphasised. "What we lack is information. So, the more that we have to question, the better."

Creusery should be enough, but it doesn't hurt.

Grayfia turned to the leaders. "Shalba Beelzebub and Katerea Leviathan are risks, Sirzechs-sama. We must eliminate them." Her eyes narrowed. "I do not wish to repeat my mistakes."

A short moment of silence passed as both King and Queen gazed into the other's eyes. They conveyed an emotion that I could not describe, but I understood the gravity of such a decision.

It would result in an ending of yet another lineage.

Sirzechs nodded. "Very well."

I released the platform beneath me and dropped, shaking the ground as I landed heavily onto it. Before me, the advancing troops halted, as Grayfia descended gracefully.

Above us, in a show of brilliance and speed, Shirō shot into the distance within a blink of an eye.

Jin appeared by my side and roared, causing the living beings to be wary. I spun my scythe before gripping it in a downward fashion and glancing over my shoulder.

"Please remain here while I open a path for you, Grayfia-dōno." I said. "Jin and I are more than enough to handle these numbers, but you have personal matters to resolve, no?"

Grayfia gazed at me with a hint of surprise and curiosity.

She tipped her head. "I am in your debt, Tobio-dōno." She thanked.

I took a step forward and a line of shadowed blades cut into the ranks of the enemy forces. Jin also reappeared within them and tore into their numbers.

"Think nothing of it, Grayfia-dōno." I said before dashing towards the enemy in a show of speed. "Let's get to work."

Yona fluttered to my side and perched herself onto my shoulder as I approached my destination.

In the morning, I had summoned Yona and sent her to monitor the city from above. This routine had become a habit lately, but today it had been a necessity as a safety precaution more than anything.

And as predicted, there would be resistance to the birthing of a new alliance.

She had noticed the sudden appearance of several beings outside the city and had reported the sudden erection of a barrier, as if she had been spotted.

It was strong enough an oddity to report, especially after the sudden influx of magic within the schoolyard. Now, I hovered above the barrier that covered a limited area.

Trace, On.

I considered using Caladbolg II, but it's destructiveness would hinder my missive. And considering that my senses were barred by the barrier, I would require a finer approach.

We did not know why Humans sided with this organisation. There were chances of them being manipulated or coerced into such actions, too. Destruction was unadvisable in this situation.

No, this requires finesse.

I reached my arm out and grasped the blade I had recently learned of, one that laid within the vastness of my Reality Marble. It was a strange blade, one that Counter Guardian EMIYA had come across over the last five centuries – I had reason to believe that it was still used in my time, too.

A terrible premonition can bring about a terrible reality.

It was a blade belonging to a murderer – murderers – who slew creatures of all kinds, even man himself. Yet it's Mystery remained untainted and had even gained the ability to destroy barriers by merely unsheathing it.

Kuji Kanesada.

Gravity ascertained it's dominance and within my hands, I unsheathed the blade. It unleashed a refined power that shred into the layered barrier as though it were but paper.

I crashed onto the ground, causing my foes to scurry for several moments as I remained within a cloud of dust.

Soon, the cloud dissipated and I found myself at the epicentre of a barrage of elemental spells directed by staves and wands. As I deflected the spells, causing my enemies to pause in caution, my attention was captured by the boy bound in chains and screaming in a soundless agony.

Monster.

I found myself cutting into the closest magician, then, into the next.

As the second one fell, I dashed towards another who fumbled to command a defensive spell. My blade pierced through his throat, and as he choked on his own blood, I slashed into the next, then another.

The act of murder turns into the act of slaughter. They are two different things.

Those words echoed through my mind as I danced with death, cutting through the enemies that opposed my mission.

One magician, in particular, had managed to regain his bearing, and from the corner of my eyes, I witnessed him summon two human-sized golems. The creatures struck the ground, causing it to quake and that lapsing moment allowed the other magicians to command offensive spells.

Utterly futile. Useless.

I blitzed behind the two golems, bisecting them and causing their earthen mould to fall into the swamps they had created. I tilted my head to the side, ducking beneath the serpent of ice as it soared past and dug my blade into its bottom. As the two halves fell apart, I pierced the heart of its conjurer.

Frost spread across the forest floor, but I stomped with a mana-enhanced foot, shattering it. The woman took a hesitant step back, but her body collapsed as her head landed beside her.

What is left is just emptiness.

The two remaining Magicians panicked, the Earth Magician taking a shaky step backwards, his mouth agape and his visage stricken with terror. The other, who continued to enforce their magic on controlling the boy, hesitated, his attention split between us.

Then, the former flickered a hand behind them, summoning a Transportation Circle. "We have to go!" He called to his partner, his eyes flickering between us. "Hey!"

I gripped my hold on the manipulator's neck as he tried to free himself from my hold. He paled, and from the corner of my eyes, I watched his friend back-pedalling before he mustered the courage to teleport away.

My eyes narrowed as they assessed the man of caucasian descent who struggled in my hold. His pale skin turned pink as he weakly attempted to loosen my hold. I loosened it somewhat, but immediately felt him still at the sight of my glare.

My eyes narrowed towards the struggling magician. His hood had fallen over and I noted his features to be of Caucasian descent. His skin turned pink from my hold, and his hands weakly attempted to break it. I loosened it, but I felt him still at the sight of my glare.

"I will ask and you will tell me everything, understood?"

His blue eyes widened slightly before he quickly nodded in agreement.

"I've no need for your identity nor your reasons. However, I want to know who this boy is, and why it is that your organisation, that is supposedly an amalgamation of the supernatural and non-supernatural, forces children to take part in this farce?"

The man choked fearfully and my hold on his neck tightened as I sensed mana surge within him. His eyes widened further and sweat dripped down from his bald head to his sunken sockets.

"H-His name is Leonardo!" I loosened my grip and he coughed out. "Beelzebub-sama stole him from the Hero Faction because Leviathan-sama and Asmodeus-sama initiated the attack preemptively!"

I paused. "And what of this Hero Faction?" I questioned. "Don't they care about one of their own?"

I forced him to turn with me, his body light in my grasp, to the boy who laid on the ground, coughing weakly as he tried to crawl away. He was bruised, violet scars patterning out the chain that laid on the forest floor onto his skin.

His dark skin was dry, cracking, and his grey-blue coloured hair was dampened, laying flat onto his scalp. His body was small with tell-tales if a poverty-stricken upbringing, and guessing by his name, I suspected he was Italian.

I tightened my grip. "Well?"

A white-hot fury threatened to burn through me as familiar anger skyrocketed within me.

Children were never meant to fight wars, nor were they to be instruments of it, dying for a cause they could not even comprehend. I had seen much of it in the supernatural world and from Archer's memory of my own.

Forced to fight, to kill, to die and to be killed in return.

Disgusting.

But I will save this boy. Even with my heart aching as I watched him weakly crawl to his freedom. His nails digging into the earth, dragging him to the patch of tainted grass ahead.

A terrible premonition…

"I was just following his orders!"

I blinked, once, then twice.

…can bring about a terrible reality.

And a moment later, I found my blade buried into the Magician's heart.

I will lead him to the freedom he so seeks.

I ripped my bloodied blade out of the man's chest and flicked it, letting the body crumble to the forest floor. I sheathed the katana and thanked it for its assistance.

It was a ritual so familiar, one I found to belong to an individual named Ryōgi Shiki, and in their honour, I would give the blade the respect it so deserved.

Turning back to the boy as my blade dissipated, I frowned as he experienced an episode of ceaseless coughing. His small, weak body shook, his movements growing weaker with every attempt to move forward.

But when I stepped forward, he froze.

I raised my hands placatingly. "Leonardo-kun." I appeased. "Don't be frightened. i'm here to help."

He remained frozen, unmoving even as I went around him.

I crouched before him and found his purple eyes gazing at me with such trepidation and scrutiny , it caused my resolve to falter. Even so, he raised a weak hand and gestured towards me.

"Who are you?"

Oh.

There is a single, yet most efficient, perk that belonged to supernatural beings. It was what allowed them to understand any and every being on the planet, and those in separate realms without difficulty.

Omnilingualism.

It was the innate ability to understand and master any known language. It was also how Gabriel had seemed to understand me, despite my Japanese being somewhat different to this world's version. Though it took a while, I had learned to speak it nearly as well as my original tongue.

Yet it was my experience that dawned the realisation upon me, despite the blessing of Omnilingualism.

Leonardo was deaf.

I smiled softly. "I'm sorry. Is this more preferable?" I gestured and noticed a hint of appreciation enter his gaze. He nodded. "My name is Shirō. I was sent here to stop the person who was creating those golems."

Leonardo lowered his gaze, the weight of my words pushing him back into his shell. He tightened his small fists and struck the ground weakly, an expression of utter despair that I was so familiar with.

I allowed him several moments to understand the gravity of his actions. Regardless of whether he had or had not been forced to, it would be best to let him know the unfiltered truth.

The first step is understanding your faults.

"I'm sorry. I couldn't stop them." He gestured. "I tried to but…"

I placed a calming hand on his head, stilling his turbulent emotions. He looked up to me, again, with unshed tears and a weak smile.

Holiness emanated from my being, as my wings spread out and cast a brilliant light upon the boy. My hand, which laid upon his head, brimmed with refined Healing Magic and I watched as the energy coursed through his being, causing his body to glow a pale green light.

"That should do it." I patted his head.

Leonardo blinked a few times in confusion, before trying to move his arms. His childlike wonder and dexterity forced him into a seated position, his eyes wide with surprise.

Healing Magic was not my forte, yet it came naturally to me due to Avalon. It had surprised Raphael, so much so that he had taken to teaching me every technique he could with utter glee.

I was grateful for his lessons.

"I stopped you, didn't I?" I gestured amusedly. "If you don't have a place to go, then I know somewhere filled with good people who will treat you nicely."

Leonardo's curious gaze drew on for far longer than either one of us realised, but as his eyes shifted to his hands, I knew his answer. So, I offered him my own, allowing him to choose freely.

He shed silent tears, and my heart ached.

I felt my smile waver as my mind twisted in turmoil, in wonder of the kind of life this boy had led, of how he was treated by others, and why such a simple gesture led him to tears. He attempted to wipe away tears from his eyes, trying his best to get a hold on his emotions. But I did not lose patience with him, allowing him to feel all he had to.

Then, as if it were the painting of the Creation of Adam, our hands joined between us.

At that moment, I vowed.

"I'll take care of you."

My personal crest formed and blocked the torrent of Disintegration Magic until the volatile energy dissipated.

Shalba growled distastefully.

I shot a glance to the side, finding Tobio and his wolf, Jin, thinning down the enemy forces with their shadowed blades. The unnamable powers of the Canis Lykaon even severed the bonds that tethered their very souls to their bodies, utterly destroying every one who dared to challenge them.

Absolutely terrifying.

"You dare turn away from me, Grayfia?!" Shalba roared as he conjured another beam of energy. "How arrogant of you!"

The Devil grinned viciously as his spell tore through the air, it's very nature disintegrating even the elements that hovered in the air before it.

I raised a hand and released my crest. "It is not arrogance, Shalba." I said, halting the beam's advance. "Arrogance is believing me to be your peer."

I tightened my hold over the torrential energy and crushed it, my gaze never shifting from his own as it fell into utter terror.

Before I could act, however, the sphere behind him exploded and showered over the entire area. I focused onto the coiled creature that fell from within its confines, and instinctively, my eyes narrowed and my guard tightened.

It barrelled into me not even a moment later.

Even with my defences strengthened by my Queen attribute, I was forced some distance away, skidding to a halt before regaining my bearings. The cloth that covered my forearms melted, a venomous acid burning it's simple make.

I looked up and the draconic beast hissed, it's venom dripping onto the battlefield.

Katerea had transformed herself into the accursed form that belonged to those of her clan. A serpentine creature of legend, once covered with scales not so dissimilar to those of a dragon, and fashioned with rows upon rows of vicious teeth. Its golden eyes peered at me, pure contempt emanating from its gaze.

Leviathan.

The Leviathan hissed. "I promised you death for your treachery, Grayfia!" It spat. "I will slaughter every single one of you here, and take my rightful place as Leviathan."

Its heated venom fell onto the waters and caused steam to raise, obscuring the creature little by little.

I approached her slowly. "Is this what you wish for, Katerea? An endless war?" I frowned. "Our ancestors failed yet you believe yourself capable of what they could not?"

Katerea hissed. "We could have! We could have won that damned war hundreds of years ago!" She roared. "Loathe as I am to admit it, you were the strongest of us. That bastard Rizevim had no desire for conquest, and none amongst us would have objected had you become our Lucifer."

I paused my trek and shook my head. "I was a child, Katerea. A fool with delusions of grandeur. I had no knowledge of what it truly meant to be powerful." I gestured to my side. "Look at that human boy. Do you believe we could have conquered this world? A world loved by God himself?"

Tobio was locked in battle with Shalba and the Devil was losing, his entire being defensive upon losing an arm to the boy. He was determined, driving his enemy to the edge with every attempt at his life, even his unique Disintegration Magic was useless as it was severed to nothingness.

Another misstep and his lost his remaining arm. "Shalba!" Katerea cried out.

I blitzed in a show of speed, appearing between the serpent and the decisive battle behind me. Katerea hissed but I stood my ground, unaffected by her threats.

I touched it and it became alive.

I took a step forward. "You have grown stronger, Katerea. But you still fail to see the world for what it truly is." I said as I prepares myself. "You are nothing but a spoiled child. A coward that is unable to fend for herself."

Katerea glared, her form leaking venom in her fury. "How dare you!?" She roared. "I'll kill you!"

The Leviathan charged and I met it, clashing in the middle of the created lake and causing the water to part from the force. My hands gripped both the top and bottom maw, shutting it with strong pull, causing the beast to stare with unfiltered terror.

I sighed tiredly. "I apologise, Katerea. For my treachery." I whispered as I gazed into those gilded eyes. "But I did promise Milady that I will make restitution for my past deeds until my dying breath."

Her eyes widened with horror, her body shaking in a feeble attempt to escape my grasp. But I closed my eyes as I gathered my power, undisturbed by those actions.

I was born with a single ability, one so vast it had even allowed me to stand above the children of the Original Satans. And yet, it had utterly failed me the day I battled her, the only time in my life that I had come to face death.

Construction. Deconstruction. Reconstruction.

And it was that same power that earned me the moniker of Silver-Haired Queen of Annihilation.

"Young one, does it amaze you so, that my power far exceeds your comprehension?"

I couldn't believe it.

Many in the Underworld had fallen to my ability to command Annihilation and I could only count on one hand the very few who could contest me and survive. And those two belonged to the Anti-Satan Faction.

Serafall Sitri had battled me for ten days and ten nights, her power over her unique Ice Magic having been honed to the highest degree. And the other, Sirzechs Gremory. The man who had reached the pinnacle of the Bael's Power of Destruction.

Yet before me stood an Angel who had all but negated my strongest ability.

"You are quite a powerful child, you know?" She spoke truthfully. "It truly is unfortunate that I have to kill one as young as yourself."

The Angel pointed her rapier towards me, and I watched the top of the simple heavenly blade burn with an indescribable power. With certainty, I knew it would pierce through me and not even leave behind any charred remains.

Just as she had done earlier.

"No!" A masculine voice called out. "Please, Lady Gabriel. Have mercy on her."

The energy before me dissipated as the woman turned to face the sudden intruder. My heart was beating heavily in my chest, so much so that I could hear it ringing through my ears, and yet, I had recognised that voice.

One I knew to command with vigour in the mornings, roar with fury during the day, and whisper quiet promises through the night.

"Sirzechs?" The woman asked, her tone curious. "My, how you have grown. It has only been a few years, yet you've grown bigger than I."

"Forgive me for my insolence, Lady Gabriel, but please do not kill this woman." Sirzechs begged. "I understand that she came to the earth with a force, but please. I beg of you."

Sirzechs knelt, and around him, were countless corpses of High-Class to Ultimate-Class Devils that made up the numbers in my personal forces. Many were individuals from clans that had sided with our faction, sworn fealty to the Houses of the Satans, and yet, died for nothing. Father was correct.

Lucifuge, the House dedicated to Lucifer and his descendants, knew the pointlessness of conquest.

"Why must I do so, Sirzechs? This girl has threatened this budding village." Gabriel responded. "They cried out to us, the children. The innocent souls that can sense the tainted nature of Devils as though they can see it with their own eyes."

I tried to move but the rapier burned once more. I knew with certainty that I was going to die, and that no one, not even the man I was coming to love would be able to stop it. But a miracle happened.

Sirzechs stood above me, protecting me from the searing blade whose proximity caused my hairs to rise and my instincts to scream in terror.

"Please, Lady Gabriel. If she is to die, then I will die with her." Sirzechs muttered softly. "I see no point in protecting an Underworld where she does not exist."

My heart pounded within my chest with a terror like no other. I understood fully what he said, the conviction he had just made showed how much of a fool he was. And yet, my heart swelled at the knowledge that he would go to these lengths to protect me.

And he had shown this by killing Damaidosu Zereikel Asmodeus and Zaorama Nebiros, the ones to cause my father's death.

"I have taught you many things during the short time you walked on this earth, Sirzechs, but I never taught you any kind of foolishness." Gabriel sighed. "Though, I do understand that love does make one a fool."

I felt the scalding heat of the rapier and the unimaginable amount of Holy Power vanish as though it had been a figment of my imagination, drawn from my worst nightmares. I heard Sirzechs sigh deeply in relief and watched as he stood tall before turning to me.

"Come." He offered a hand to me. "And I will show you the real world, my Love."

"Division By Zero."

The Leviathan collapsed upon herself, her entire being caving from the unimaginable forces that infinity afflicted upon her. Her mouth widened yet none of her muted cries were heard, neither to me nor those around us.

And next, there was nothing.

I wish you had seen what I did, my friend.

At the end of the days that followed my loss to the Seraph, I had learned of the vastness of the world, and it granted me the understanding I lacked to grasp the truth of my father's words. And it was then that made a vow, to repay her kindness by living a life of repaying to those that I once wronged during my youth.

It was why I had sworn fealty to the Gremory Clan, why I lost the seat of Leviathan to Serafall, and why I chose to dedicate my life to being my lover's Queen.

I had even adopted the traits of a maid and often dressed as one. It had led to many questions over the centuries yet I paid them no mind. Because I was happy; delighted to right my wrongs.

I am a servant to Grace.

Upon my return, battle had already concluded, and strangely enough, the courtyard was clear of the countless corpses I expected to find.

As I surveyed from above, my wings flapping at a sedated pace, I took note of several Angels and Devils tending to the terrain and the remains scattered across the schoolyard. Leonardo's grip tightened on my shoulder as he pointed towards the Angel that approached us.

The Cherub bowed. "Lord Shirō." He greeted. "Lord Michael and the Faction Leaders await your return."

I nodded as I landed on the ground. "Thank you." I said. "Please send a group to attend the North-Western Forest."

The Cherub bowed, again. "At once, my Lord." He said before flying off.

I released the manifestation of my splendour, my wings receding into my back, and crouched to place Leonardo on the ground. Though I had a bit of trouble flying with him, I had chosen that method rather than instant teleportation due to the possibly dangerous situation I had left.

It did help that he was small.

Offering a hand to the boy, we walked into the building and I noticed him marvel at the architectural design within. There were decorations, that I had missed earlier, which now caught my eye and I further awed by the extent of grandiosity that this Devil-owned school would reach.

A short while later, we reached the open doors of the meeting hall.

As we stepped in, we fell subject to the scrutiny of numerous gazes. The room now hosted both the Gremory and Sitri peerages, and I felt Leonardo's grip on my hand tighten in discomfort. I made way to stand beside my leader, oddly aware of Serafall's gaze that solely focused on my being.

I shot a glance to her and found her eyes swarmed with intrigue.

I bowed. "I have dealt with the enemy." I gestured. "This is Leonard: the wielder of the Sacred Gear Annihilation Maker."

Silence pervaded the room and I wondered what it was that surprised them so. Was it the boy's build? His tattered rags for clothing? Or was it his cowering behind my leg? Much like a child would do?

Surprisingly, one of my musings were correct. "I didn't expect him to be so young." Azazel sighed.

His age raised the correct questions that carried grim answers. And though they were curious, their stern countenances required no explanation.

"This is troubling indeed." Sirzechs added.

I glanced towards Michael and found his gaze set on Leonardo, his eyes brimming with an unhindered curiosity. The usage of Heaven's System allowed the user access to the knowledge of the countless number of humans who had lived, from their conception to their deaths. Such knowledge, though vast, helped Heaven in many a way.

Such as this moment, as I witnessed Michael's eyes widen in remembrance.

He smiled. "I know of this boy." He mused. "Leonardo Corsi, a descendant of Leonardo da Vinci. He awakened a Sacred Gear nearly two years ago, at the tender age of eight."

I glanced down to the boy, curiously. He did not look his age.

Azazel raised an eyebrow. "I did hear of a boy, of that same name, with a prodigious talent for sculpting." He hummed. "Though, does not explain why he isn't restrained."

My eyes narrowed towards the man.

While his worries weren't unfounded, I believed, his methods were some that often would disagree with. Especially when it involved children.

I calmed myself. "Shalba Beelzebub stole him from the Hero Faction and enforced mind control to gain access to his Sacred Gear." I informed. "I suspect they wanted to, eventually, activate his Balance Breaker."

He scratched his temple. "Can he use it?" He asked.

I paused.

From what information I had, he did not have much experience wielding his Sacred Gear, especially as it was a Longinus-class. Considering his age, and the confirmation of it awakening two years prior, I doubted that he had skill with its usage.

I shook my head. "No. I don't believe that he can." I replied. "He hasn't had it for long, after all."

Azazel frowned. "Can't the boy speak for himself?"

My fist tightened. "He's deaf." I stated sharply. "So, no. He cannot speak for himself."

My eyes narrowed at the man who gained a hint of amusement in his own. I watched the Fallen Angel furtively, prepared to engage with him, whether it be through sharp words or not.

"Shirō." Michael whispered.

I paused, realising my error.

My gaze wandered back to Michael and I found a frown settled upon his brow. My eyes lowered as I acknowledged his admonishment, that I was acting out of line.

After my reincarnation, I had been tutored and trained by the Church and Heaven's most qualified individuals. And through them, I learned and understood the nature of Angels.

It wasn't that my reincarnation would turn me into a different person, rather, it was that I was inclined to a more righteous nature. Any slight or insult to those one believes to be good would incur the urge to not be wronged.

However, that had always been whom I was. That much was certain.

At times, it made me wonder if I was human after Kiritsugu saved me from that endless fire; if I had once wished to become something righteous and the grail had granted me that. It was a fruitless endeavour because, though he had not been much of a teacher, my father had taught me how to be a good person.

And even though I gad been reborn, I would still act the same as I had as a human. I would run off to save anyone who cried out to the Heavens in need, train myself to a point of exhaustion, and at times, gather the finest of ingredients to make a meal that would contest the best cooks back home.

It was with this information that I knew the truth of what I was feeling.

"My apologies, Azazel-sama." I turned to the man. "This boy's situation has aggravated me."

I will have to weather it.

I tried to ignore the varied expressions towards my recent outburst and apology, but failed to lessen my senses. Shock, surprise, sadness and amusement. The idea to find out who felt saddened flickered through my mind, but I failed to act on it.

"Think nothing of it." Azazel waved me off. "Perhaps Michael was right about you needing a break."

Perhaps, Michael was right after all.

The lifestyle I led in this world was familiar yet somehow unnatural to me. It was a far-cry from my relatively simple and straightforward life, yet not so dissimilar to a future where I was an immortal guardian of the world.

Irregardless, I was not trained as a warrior in a far future nor was I a contracted killer from childhood like my father. Nor was I born a supernatural being that faced death on a daily basis. I was normal.

But even with seventeen years of simplicity, I had been thrown into the midst of a secret war and had come out of it a relatively dangerous sword.

Serafall hummed amusedly. "What do we do about the boy? It would be risky to just let him be." She deduced. "If his membership to this Hero Faction, and the entire organisation at large, was through manipulation, that makes him an innocent."

Sirzechs nodded. "That is true. There is a high possibility of him being sought out by their members."

"I'll take him in." I said, and found myself at the centre of attention. "Heaven is unreachable in comparison to the Underworld and Grigori."

Azazel narrowed his eyes. "That is true. But his Sacred Gear is relatively new." He informed. "Wouldn't it be best that we take and help him master his abilities so that he won't pose a risk to any of us?"

I frowned because his argument made sense. Grigori governed an institution of their making for Sacred Gear users. Tobio himself had mentioned that he was a product of the system, and going by what I saw of his skills, the training was highly effective.

I glanced towards Leonardo and though his face was expressionless, I took note of how he tried to read the lips of the leaders as they spoke. I highly doubted that he could understand what they were saying, but it was an impressive ability to learn for someone his age.

"That isn't necessarily true." Michael started and I turned to face him. "We own the Sacred Gear System, as such, we have access to its inventory. Our researchers have been studying its records for a very long time, but we hadn't any need for the information."

Azazel rolled his eyes. "I really dislike it when you make solid arguments."

Michael smirked. "However, given that we are allies and that Azazel has offered to train those of the heiresses' peerages, we will share the information we have with you." Michael turned. "Is that acceptable, brother?"

Azazel shot a dirty look towards Michael who merely stared with amusement. It was at times such as these that I remembered they were brothers.

Sirzechs hummed. "That would open up a way to strengthen this alliance, given that many Reincarnated Devils are wielders of Sacred Gears." A small smile settled onto his lips. "Was this your intention all along, Michael-dōno?"

Michael waved the suspicion off. "No, it was only a thought." He smiled. "We have had no reason to divulge the systems information, but one of our researchers suggested this as a way forward. It is only fair as you have shared your knowledge with us."

"It's not as if we don't know what these Sacred Gears can do." Azazel muttered. "Although, I suppose Father's records will serve to complete my research."

I decided to join in. "You haven't given your answer, Azazel-sama." I said, a smirk settled on my lips.

The man heaved a tired sigh as he ran a hand through his locks. Tobio watched with amusement before sending a slight grin to me. As his guard, I could only conclude that he was familiar with his master's quirks.

Azazel tossed his hands in the air. "Damn it, fine! Keep the kid with you." He groaned. "I don't feel like prying him off of you anyway."

I nodded amusedly and turned to my charge, nudging his shoulder to alert him. The boy looked up to me with a wondrous expression hinted with confusion.

"I'm taking you to my home." I indicated, pointing a single finger upwards.

"Heaven?" He asked with widened eyes.

I nodded and watched his awe turn to a subdued excitement . I turned back to the leaders and Michael offered me a soft smile. I returned a similar one, elated with the developments.

"I suppose this concludes our meeting?" Michael asked.

"I believe so." Sirzechs responded. "Grayfia has returned to the Underworld with Creuserey Asmodeus for questioning. Thanks to you, Tobio-kun."

Tobio tipped his head in acknowledgment.

"Indeed." Serafall smirked deviously. "Knowing you cut through his will, that bastard will sing. You really live up to your moniker."

Cut through his will?

I shot a glance towards the dark haired boy who continued to wave off the praise he was receiving.

This world truly is filled with strange and powerful abilities.

Michael followed Sirzechs and Azazel to the side, while I made my way towards the ruined fountain in the courtyard. I noticed Issei making his way towards the three men.

Tobio offered his farewells as soon as the Cherub from earlier descended. And he had mentioned that he had an interest in sparring, with me in particular, so I entertained the suggestion. I was curious of his abilities, after all.

The Angel beside stood somewhat taller – by about several inches – than myself, with blonde-coloured hair and clear sea-green eyes. He was in-charge of the Cherubim that I saw earlier, and led the division that dealt with the aftermath of battles.

I could see the Angels and Devils separated and gathered in sects as they destroyed the bodies through exorcism or rites by purging with Holy Magic.

I blinked, twice. "Yael." I started. "Have all the bodies been dealt with accordingly?"

The Cherub nodded. "Of course." He responded. "It is unadvisable to leave them be. Though this may be a territory governed by Devils, the nature these corpses could taint and affect the humans in the surrounding area."

I shook my head. "I do not like it."

"Neither do I nor many of us." Yael smiled amusedly. "But it is a duty Father assigned to us. It would dishonour our promise if we do not perform it to our utmost best."

"I suppose so." I sighed.

Yael was God's first and most trusted Cherubim. He oversaw the aspects of ascension and descent after death, a duty that kept him at work due to the frailty of humans. My worries for him quelled when I remembered that he was not alone and had a force of Cherubim to his aid.

"Shirō-kun." A familiar voice called out.

Rias walked with a familiar gait, one of pride and elegance, with little Gasper in tow – the boy, strangely, garbed in the masculine version of the school uniform. It completely took me by surprise – more so the fact that I had not noticed – because I knew that the boy fancied a more feminine collection.

"Rias." I greeted before turning to the Cherub. "Yael, please gather the others. We should be leaving within a few minutes."

Yael bowed. "Very well, my Lord." He said before taking to the sky.

Rias stared at me with a questionable expression. It was becoming a terrible habit of hers, one I would often notice and receive a variety of responses. Such as this moment, as the girl succumbed to a light fit of giggles.

She chuckled ever so softly. "I apologise. It surprised me that you are, seemingly, a high-ranking Angel." A devious smirk. "I do wonder, though, how your subordinates will react to the knowledge that their superior bends to the whims of a Devil heiress during school hours."

I rolled my eyes. "Fortunately, I don't have subordinates." I replied. "Yael often clears up after me. He's a good guy."

Rias laughed lightly. "Aren't Angels naturally good people?" She commented. She paused before proceeding once more. "I thought that I should check up on you. Are you okay, Shirō?"

I tilted my head at her curiosity and a light blush landed onto her cheeks, her eyes shooting towards the ground. Another habit.

I nodded. "I'll be fine, Rias." I said, patting Leonardo's head. "A bit of rest should do the two of us some good, especially the kid."

I glanced down to find the two boys locked in a staring contest. Gasper's crimson eyes were wide with curiosity , while Leonardo stared back with a odd confusion. Neither spoke a word nor gesture to each other; they merely studied the other as though they were a complicated, unsolvable puzzle.

That stopped, however, when Rias flicked the Dhampir's ear. "Gasper, be nice."

His hand shot to the reddened ear and retorted with a pout. I couldn't help but find the entire situation both adorable and hilarious.

I raised a curious eyebrow. "What? Are you jealous, kid?" I asked, amused by his actions.

"I'm not jealous, Senpai!" Gasper jumped, pointing an indignant finger towards Leonardo. "I just don't know to speak to him."

The single downside of Omnilingualism, or rather, Language, in a Devil's case, was that they weren't all-knowing. Indeed, the instant comprehension and understanding of a spoken language was its finest ability, but sign language was not of the tongue. It was skill learned through application, a reality that made me grateful that it was multiversal.

Leonardo, realising the boy's dilemma, reached out a hand and grabbed Gasper's own, confusing him with his suddenness. Surprise soon turned to realisation and excitement, leading the two boys to shake and offer each other smiles, or in Gasper's case, a wide fanged grin.

Rias patted his head. "Shirō-kun, about what you mentioned a few days ago..."

I turned back to my friend, curious. "Hmm. A few days ago?" I wondered. "I don't recall, Rias. Was there something strange that I said?"

Suddenly, I sensed a wave of disappointment emanating from the girl, worrying me because she avoided to meet my gaze. But as I was about to enquire, I noticed Sōna approaching with the others following closely.

Two fingers – a tell-tale sigh that she was not impressed – set her spectacles into place. "You mentioned this being your last week at the Academy, as well as Kuoh itself." She said. "You also said that you would not attend this meeting. I am now inclined to believe you to be a pathological liar, Emiya-kun."

Momo gasped audibly, panicking. "Wouldn't that cause you to fall, Emiya-senpai?" She asked, her mount covered and brows furrowed with worry.

Tsubasa squinted. "His wings haven't changed, you know?" She corrected. "They'd become black if he did. Like Azazel-sama."

"Indeed." Sōna stated simply. "From now on, I choose not to believe any assumptions that you may have about the future. It is clear that you're not a reliable source."

Under her sharp glare, for a reason unknown to myself, a laugh suddenly tore through my throat. And I laughed, wholly, at the manner in which each of them worried over me.

What a relief.

I wiped at the corners of my eyes. "I'm sorry." A chuckle escaped me again. "But I never lied about any of those things you mentioned. As for my being here today, my brother asked me to."

Koneko looked up to me, her face stoic yet tinged with worry. "Don't you want to stay here, Emiya-senpai?" She asked, curious.

I quelled my humour, the posed question being one of contention that had bothered me for the last few days.

The truth is that my mission is complete.

I had protected this group from imminent dangers, defeated the traitorous Fallen Angel who threatened their lives, and prevented the dawn of another Great War.

I placed a comforting hand on the small girl's head. "I don't know. It's not up to me to decide."

Though I hadn't spent much time with them, I had befriended a few amongst them. Even then, I was delighted to call every one of them a friend, and I would have loved to stay longer. To learn more about them, their aspirations, their reason for being.

Though the future held many uncertainties, I had played a role in their lives that would influence their futures.

"I do not see why not." I glanced towards Michael who approached along with Issei and Asia. "If it is your wish to return here, little brother, then I will allow it."

Michael's gaze softened at my surprise, his love and care encompassing me with a warmth they gathered within the confines of my chest.

I welcomed it wholly.

I turned back with a smile. "I suppose I will come back, some time." I informed the Devils and a few amongst them beamed. "Are you ready to leave, Onii-sama?"

Michael nodded. "I am." He said, gesturing to the Devils beside him. "Issei has requested something of me. I wish to return to allow it as soon as I can."

I raised a curious eyebrow, wondering what it is that the boy asked for, that Michael would so willingly accept without question.

Issei bowed deeply. "I can't thank you enough, Michael-sama." He announced and the girl beside mirrored his posture.

Michael shook his head. "It is the least I can do to amend my failure to you, Asia." He placed his hand on his chest and tipped his head. "Your ceaseless faith and devotion is a blessing of unquantifiable value."

Asia blushed, panicking and bowing repeatedly. "T-Thank you, Lord Michael." She stammered. "And no, you did not fail me. I am quite happy with the life I lead now."

Michael smiled softly. "You truly are a maiden of the highest order, Asia Argento." He tipped his head once more. "I thank you."

Ah, I see.

Devils were unable to pray to God nor the Heavens above, yet Asia had still done so through utter devotion. None of her words would halt my brother's praise, for unlike many who stumbled and fell, she had remained steadfast in her devotion. A true Holy Maiden indeed.

The others watched with a certain fondness that I would not expect from those labelled to be Devils.

I glanced up to the sky in realisation, taking note of the Light gathering above. "This is it." I turned back to the group. "I'll see you guys in a while."

I offered a firm nod to Sōna, one which returned stiffly, and patted the heads of both Gasper and Koneko who offered their subdued farewells. Rias gazed at me, a soft smile tending to her lips.

I summoned my splendour once more, my wings brimming with a certain joy and anticipation. Taking Leonardo into my arms, I shot to the sky, and hovered beside Yael who waited patiently.

He bowed again. "Our missive is complete, my Lord." He said, glancing down to the group. "Is this a suitable farewell to you?"

My gaze softened as I found the Devils bidding their farewells to me, waving their hands and even, in Saji and Issei's case, shouting out their goodbyes.

I smiled softly. "It's more than enough, Yael." I said.

Michael hovered before us, his strong form carrying the weight of Heaven itself. The three leaders were gathered in the air, hovering above their subjects while brimming with energy.

Then, in a show of absolute brilliance, Michael pointed his arm to the skies and they parted as an arc of pure Holy Power extended to the heavens.

And a crimson arc followed, one that caused my body to freeze stiff in its presence. Unadulterated Demonic Power wrestled with the comforting element of Holy, clashing in a battle of wills for all the world to see.

But a third joined, one as black as obsidian, the darkness of the void itself, yet touched with golden radiance of Holy.

They clashed once more and tore the skies asunder, winds billowing sand thunder clapping as they birthed a unity long forgotten to the world. Yet a voice, one that commanded nature itself, spoke its vigour, it's desire.

"Heed my call, O Four Winds that reach the Four Corners of the Earth!" Michael announced, his voice mightier than a tempest. "As it was in the Beginning, so shall it be until the End!"

Thus, the Reformation of Eden ensued.

It was quite a vivid memory, the one of the very first time that I walked through the Pearly Gates of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Admittedly, it hadn't been the very first, but I had initially entered in a state of unconsciousness.

Gabriel told me, that I had reacted strangely to my reincarnation, so much so that I stood out as an oddity. Though my body had been in perfect condition, it was my mind that was afflicted and I had been comatose.

But upon regaining my mobility, as I ventured through this realm, I asked to see it.

Despite being agnostic, I was not unfamiliar with Abrahamic Lore. Much of Christianity was deeply rooted in every day life, the habits of people, and episodic international shows that aired on networks. And, more often than not, that random stranger in a suit that would approach you with tellings of the Gospel.

So, I had asked to see it.

Even as I stood before them, the structure being many times taller than myself, made of gold, and embedded with countless precious stones, I was awed once more.

The Street of Gold that led to the grand structure was manned with lesser-winged Angels that performed a brassy orchestra. Trumpets that sang of Victory, an ageless song that predated even the creation of Man, welcomed the Master.

The Angels played with a passionate vigour that extended to the depths of my soul, inciting the Holy within. I was invigorated by the beauty of the performance once again.

I am home.

As we walked along the path, the Angels bowed in reverence to their leaders. I offered kind nods in greeting and I was elated to be graced by their beautiful smiles.

Leonardo watched with such reverie, I wondered if he felt the weight of the privilege, the honour, which he had been granted. Many wished, many dreamed, and many failed to reach it. I was grateful that my brother granted this soul the greatest of humanity's wishes.

It warmed my heart to witness his elation, his curiosity of the angelic warriors, or his wonder to the instruments that sounded through his deafened hearing. He never fell too far behind, always keeping close despite his reverie, and whenever he did, I trusted Yael to lead him in the right direction.

Soon, we stood before a single man who manned the Pearly Gates, a Saint I had come to learn more about in this world that I ever knew in mine.

Michael smiled softly, his voice elated. "Good evening, Peter." He greeted.

He fell to a knee, bowing in a show of absolute reverence to the Archangel. His curly, umber hair coiled to his shoulders, and his strong, powerful body belied of a countless age of hard labour. His arm, the one crossed above his knee, held within its mighty grasp the fabled Keys to Heaven, a set collection that transformed with every passing moment.

His voice reverberated. "Good evening, my Lord." He greeted. "And to you, Lord Shirō."

I bowed deeply, in a show of respect. "Saint Peter." I greeted. "You honour me yet again."

Saint Peter was, perhaps, my brother's greatest friend – both in life and afterwards. He had garnered my unconditional respect quite early, too. How could I not respect the man who pledged to guard the Kingdom? To deny an eternity of rest alongside his brothers and sisters, and to accept one to serve his beloved friend endlessly?

Peter laughed heartily, slapping a strong arm onto my shoulder. "You needn't bow to me, boy. Though, if you do insist, I will not stop you." He smiled. "You are much like your sister in that respect. Have you been well?"

I smiled kindly. "Of course. I completed my duty and even managed to make a few friends despite our differences." I informed. "How have you been?"

Peter grinned widely. "Ah! That delights me so, my boy. I've been well, too, despite manning these Gates oft becoming tedious." He pulled me close to him, whispering conspiratorially. "I reminisce of the olden days, of travelling the known world, spreading the ever-living Gospel, whilst fleeing from the ceaseless pursuit of the Romans! I tell you this again, my boy, it was a time to be alive."

Through conversation, I had come to learn of Saint Peter's love for adventure, so much so that I could compare it to Iskandar the Great, and that man had conquered half of the world.

I frowned slightly. "Were they not the same people who crucified you?" I asked.

It was how he met his death, yet this was another fact that increased my respect for this man: he held no grudges nor remorse.

Peter nodded sagely. "Aye, they were. But look at them now!" He said, gesturing about. "They are the reason many have discovered Truth."

It was the truth, despite the crude methods of their spreading of the Gospel.

"You are always welcome to come into the inner sanctuaries, my friend." Michael offered. "I am certain there are others who would gladly take your place."

I would too.

Peter shook his head, his smile never wavering. "No, no." He said. "I made a vow to you, did I not?"

Every time I saw the man, my respect for him grew to greater heights. He who had denied him three times had sworn to serve for an eternity. To guard his dearest friend's greatest treasure.

Michael sighed tiredly. "That you did." He said, his soft hand grasping his friend's larger one and pulling him into an embrace. "It is always good to see you, my friend."

Peter returned the gesture. "I, too, my friend." He said, his grin broadening with unadulterated joy.

Letting go of each other after a moment of respite, Saint Peter turned to the Pearly Gates, his strong hands inserting the shapeless key. With a show of herculean might, he roared as he pushed the wide gates open, before turning to us with a joyous grin marring his visage.

"Behold! Behold! Heed my words, O Children of the Most High. Blessed are we, O Sons of Man." Peter cried out, his voice accompanied by Victory. "For in our presence stands the Holiest Man. Master of the Highest Place. Governor of the Dawn of the Universe. Worthy! Worthy! Worthy is the Lamb that was slain."

The Angels that manned the walls chanted alongside the Saint. Many fell to their knees, bowing in piety to their Master.

"O Son of Man, His Beloved Creation, the Mightiest of all the Heavens, I, Simeon, the one you named Peter, welcomes you home." Peter cried out before gazing to me. "O Mightiest of the Ascended, Child of the Unknown, Attendant to our Lady Gabriel, I welcome you."

Peter turned once more, his broad form invigorated by Holy. I glanced to my brother, noticing a warm smile settled onto his lips, before the man cried once more.

"The Heavens sing with your return! Hear me all! Righteous Man, Woman and Child." Peter whispered. "Our Master has returned."

And, as if the Heavens themselves were alive, the clouds parted as every being cried out in reverie. Whether they belong to First Heaven, the boundless Third Heaven, even the Seraphim within Sixth Heaven. Every single being sang the song of Victory.

"Praise the Lord!"

Saint Peter stood off to the side, and so did we follow his lead. The Leader of Heaven stepped forward, a hand raised to appease his people. Despite the vastness of the Kingdom of Heaven, I knew that every soul could see him with as much clarity as I could.

Michael placed a hand above his heart and bowed. "I thank you, my beloved brethren." He said, his voice echoing to the ends of his Kingdom. "I have returned with a revelation of which I am certain you have heard. But I will speak it once more."

Breaths abated and hearts thumping heaving in our chest, we waited with stunned silence, waiting for those words. His voice, soft and tender, ushered a belief, a trust in him, that this wish would become his will and none would deny it so. None would go against the wishes for he had sacrificed all so that we could live and dwell beside him in his eternal kingdom.

The Son who sacrificed Divinity for the sake of Man.

Michael pointed a finger towards Fourth Heaven. "Eden will be reformed." Michael whispered. "And we will dwell within it until the end of time alongside our brethren. This, I promise you."

The Heavens shook, hearts echoed their joy as the trumpets sounded as the voices sang and uttered the most venerated of words found within the scriptures.

May his will be done.

First Heaven was home to the lesser-winged Angels, and most recently, many borne of the Brave Saints System. Multiple structures, of stone, floated upon the clouds housing these ranks of heavenly warriors. They were the mansions of promise, the first of their kind.

But a single structure stood out when compared to the rest.

There stood a tower, one that flowed every known and unknown colours of the universe. Bright and Dark blended so seamlessly, one would believe it to be a pure white upon first glance. Untainted and precious, it was the very same that Man had envisioned before God orchestrated it's destruction.

The Tower of Babel, the Stairway to Heaven.

Michael turned to the Cherub in our company. "Thank you for your work, Yael." He said, tipping his head.

Yael bowed. "I am merely acting on my duty, my Lord, but your words do honour me." He said. "We will now take our leave. Do take care of yourself, brother." He relayed, his gaze softening.

Michael smiled. "You too, brother."

The Cherubim took to the skies before flying into the tower of light, sending them to Third Heaven, where they governed over the souls of the deceased. Its vastness was immeasurable, but I had learnt that Yael was able to count its multitudes, a testament of his determination to continue his assigned duty to the utmost.

We watched until the last of the Cherubim flew into the tower, and I was reminded of how much Michael respected his siblings, despite being the eldest.

God had fashioned their creation in a particular order, with the Seraphim being the first. Yael was born in the fifth group, and the first of his kind, after the Fall of Man. Though many had lost their lives since time immemorial, they remained steadfast, bound to their duty even when some amongst them fell, too.

There was one, however, but they never spoke of him. It wrenched their hearts to not know of the fate of one of their own.

Michael turned to me. "Shirō, I will head to the Seventh to resume my duty. But I would like to inform you of a ceremony that will be held two day from now." He said, reaching out a hand to pat Leonardo. "Take the boy to the Fifth, I trust they will care for him. And you go to rest. That is an order."

Michael's orders were akin to a scalding flame, or a vicious heartache, because they were so rare, yet born of necessity and woe.

He was a man who took the weight of the world onto his shoulders without complaint and his asking for one to perform a certain duty was similar to how I had failed to save that young girl from her death at the hands of a king.

He wished to help but he could not.

I pulled Leonardo to my side. "You worry too much, Onii-sama." I said, smiling kindly. "I will pay you a visit tomorrow morning."

Then, I took to the without waiting for a response, which I was certain would be to deny any kind of assistance so that I would rest. But I wouldn't allow it. His selflessness was harmful, but so was mine.

I will help in any way that I can.

Author's Note: Good day to all! And welcome back to the latest installation of this religious journey. Another long chapter here and we've tackled a few origin stories. (I swear the length is because of the responses below)

It is recorded that Grayfia as a front liner for the Satan Faction serving as their ace. Her powers? Eh, not so much. I think this one suits her given that she has Annihilation as her moniker. OP? Maybe. But everyone else is kinda cracked.

It is somewhat distasteful how the female characters in DxD hardly every get their opportunity in the spotlight. They can be as powerful as Serafall, Grayfia and Gabriel yet somehow their clothes are made out of wet paper? Come on? In any case, I hope to do them justice in this story and so far, we have caught a glimpse or their true powers.

I rehearsed the fight scene several times over the last few days yet I still think it wasn't as incredible as I would have imagined it to be. Though, I can forgive myself for that since I've set this arc to be more character driven. I would appreciate tips and advice with writing the fight scenes.

Anywho, I do appreciate your reviews. You guys are putting in nearly as much work into dissecting my story as I am into writing it and it's always a thrill to dance around your discoveries.

[03/21 Edit: This one took a while, about a month perhaps? Hopefully the next will be quicker. Also, I've started writing again.]

To mg1147:

[Oh, absolutely! But then, Shirō only knows what he knows, you see? From his time in the world, supernatural beasts were things of fairy tales and myths, and though he sees truth in their words now, he doesn't know how far off from the truth he might be.]

To AscendedHumanity:

[Sorry about that! I'm still going through a trial and error kind of thing with writing from the first person's perspective.]

To DaDragon562:

[Yep, Shirō is a complete mystery to those around him. Azazel is an extremely smart individual and he will figure out whatever draws his curiosity, one way or another. I've never read Slash Dog (The VN at least. I read the few manga chapters though) either but the idea of it and those characters is so interesting to me. I'm considering reading it and other DxD LN. Thank you for reading!]

To The Black Kraven:

[He hasn't met this one, is what Michael said.]

To negi83:

[He is bound to blow their minds when he comes across their versions.]

To Midako:

[No, it is a different world after all. So, the concepts of the Throne of Heroes, Servants and all those do not apply to this world since Alaya isn't in control of it. I know next to nothing about creating a discord server or even using the app lol. Though, I am connected to my Grand Cross guild server on it.]

To guiltyr2:

[Excalibur? Maybe. But Ig-Alima? I don't know really. There are some things he will be incapable of, especially Divine Constructs. Parcasious implemented it kinda nicely in his story by letting God be the basis of Shirō's power, but my version of him is not a divine being.]

To HehLikuHei:

[FACTS! But then, these are the Two Heavenly Dragons, emphasis on Heavenly. They are close to divinity and aren't really the same as the ones that could be slayed in Nasuverse lol. Thanks for reading!]

To Xian0451:

[You see, involving Rin will make the plotline predictable. I'm trying to make this story as unique as it can be. While I do like the idea of them finding each other, more can happen if they do not find each other. I can't even lie, I have drafts somewhere in my notes where Rin does come and find Shirō. Let's just say that anything is possible, yeah?]

To bobking01:

[I'm gonna be honest with you. When I read the first line of your review, I LITERALLY laughed out loud. I'm glad that my story was able to change your mind, and the title is something I took from the DxD canon. That reference was purely coincidental and I only realised it later on as I read through the chapter again. I do try to point out that a it has changed to a different person's perspective, but I will try solving that. Anyway, thank you for reading!]

To TheStrangeCanadian:

[Yes, his abilities aren't originally what they used to be. I could be attributed to the Gap or his reincarnation, but picture it like this. He does project them but they aren't entirely projections because his current constitution makes them more powerful. Human Shirō had limited Magecraft ability and Od, but Angel Shirō has a magic core that makes his projections more realistic in a sense.]

To SentinalSlice:

[No, it was from Grayfia to Michael then to Tobio. POVs are such a tricky thing but I do try to point out who it is that is in control, like how I mentioned Shirō's name through Grayfia, Azazel speaking directly to Michael and a scythe in Tobio's case. Exactly! The more and more I delve into Nasuverse lore, the more I see how absolutely broken some of their abilities are. While I was writing this chapter, I had to look up what a Leviathan looks like and ended up searching Lævatein, a weapon god-slaying weapon. Just another calamity chilling on top of someone's dresser. Hey, when Shirō is determined, anything is possible. Even Heavenly Dragons don't terrify him. Come to think of it, I haven't really found use for Rho Aias which is truly unfortunate. That's a beautiful weapon. HEAVENLY FUNDS LMAOOO. I think I'll have to watch that after finishing up Squid Game. I only got a sore arm for like a day or so, nothing major. But hopefully in the near future, I'll be able to stick a coin to my shoulder since its magnetic and stuff. (These theories FINISH me) Anyway, thank you for reading and likewise!]

To Dslayer19:

[Tobio is disgustingly powerful. Records say that he's the only one to have mastered his Sacred Gear which is a little known thing called a LONGINUS! I'm sure he sleeps with his feet out of the covers because he knows no one can touch him. That's an alpha male right there. I tried my best not to nerf him I can't lie. It's why I gave the battle MVP status to Grayfia for character driven reasons and made sure that Tobio wasn't challenged at all. All in all, its good to find another Tobio fan.]

To Random Reader:

[Think of Shirō as a seed that has been planted onto God's personal garden. That is how much potential he has. He admits it himself that he still is learning and given that he hasn't even had UBW for over a year, I find it fair that he has room for improvement. I will have to revisit Records Of Zebel volume one soon. I've been working on volume two and I'm rectifying both ability and skill ranks. But the EX ranking of UBW is because within his Reality Marble in Nasuverse, there are weapons that range from C to EX (in some versions of Archer). Balmung is around A with Excalibur and the like, and he was looking for something to utterly destroy the Fallen Angel after all. Very interesting applications indeed. Not getting with Rin would make it awkward because it would not give him incentive to be with her even if they are able to find each other, you know?]

To OriChar:

[Exactly! Shirō belongs with those three but as it is now, he is unable to be with them, no matter how much he wishes for it. There is a vast cast of characters to choose from, but I will pick (that is if romance is possible) the one that works best, and as this isn't canon DxD, who knows what kind of relationship Issei has with the rest of his peers? It would be a comical interaction if that ever happens LMAO.]

To angrycritique:

[Good God, are you the person in charge of the Type-Moon wiki? That's a LOT of information. And I read through all of it LMAO. Honestly though, at first I thought "He's reviewing the wrong fanfic." I don't (didn't?) know as much about that but I'm glad that I do now. And you're right. Nasuverse lore dictates that their supernatural are basically mind-boggling, well-ending eldritch monsters that Lovecraft could never imagine in his wildest fantasies. While I am a fan of his works, that is not how they are portrayed in DxD. You're also right about the Gap not being the actual root seeing that the DxD world is not one of the countless parallel universes in Fate. I merely used it as a device to get the story going, you know? Regardless of how much of a reach it may be lol. And Shirō being scared by Great Red would make sense because he's just a dude. An average everyday guy who happened to come across his immortal future self and learn his skills much earlier. You know what? I think you might be the right person I need to advise me with some ideas that I have. Anyway, thanks for reading!]

With that said, I wish you all a blessed and productive week ahead.