Basangoa, Belial Castle
"Dame Sitri!" shouts a voice. Serafall just arrived at the Belial Castle, located in the centre of the city of Basangoa. Built on one of the few hills of the entire territory, the castle manages to have a great view of all Basangoa and its 49000 inhabitants, a small city compared with other Pillar capitals.
"Lord Belial... how is the situation?" asks Serafall to the ruler of the territory. Lord Nutoch Belial, together with his son and heir Diehauser, formed a special squad and passed the last days searching for the Sitri Heiress, disappeared after the engagement between her army and the Lucifuge one. "The Glasya-Labolas Heir was right, after your army fought the Lucifuge, another one has been spotted marching towards Basangoa. They retreated to support their comrades so we avoided being attacked" explains the situation Lord Belial to the injured Sitri.
"You need to visit the medics Dame Sitri" says the Belial, but Serafall refuses his aid. "I need to speak with Falbium. Now" she says not wanting to accept a refusal. "Of course, Lord Balam has been moved here to prepare a counterattack and search for your position. But it seems you managed to return by yourself" informs Nutoch.
Serafall, aided by Diehauser who arrived soon after, goes to the room Lord Belial prepared for the Anti-Satan Faction strategic meetings. "Sitri are you alright? It's unusual of you being so silent" notices Diehauser. Diehauser Belial is a young man with grey hair and eyes, a soft smile always on his lips and a tendernlook in his eyes.
Once an arrogant and stubborn boy who wanted nothing, but to bring his Clan back to the lost glory. Now, after years and years of experience, a much more reasonable and calm man who, however, didn't lose his desire to make his Clan a true beacon for the Underworld.
He too, just like many other heirs and heiresses, grew a resentment towards the Satans' descendants and their arrogance.
"Yeah Diehauser... I'm fine. I just need to speak with Falbium... and Sirzechs" says the Sitri. Diehauser nods his head, accepting momentarily her answer and deciding to not pry further. As soon as they enter the newly appointed war room of the castle Lord Balam turns his head, surprised by Serafall's presence.
"Heiress Sitri, we've been searching for you for ten days. You are injured, what happened?" asks Sigmar stopping the pleasantries almost immediately. "I fought with Grayfia... the Lucifuge army splitted in two: it was not Euclid Lucifuge the one to lead the offence" says Serafall. "Yes. We found it the hard way. Without your presence your army was without a proper general and when the forces of Euclid Lucifuge reunited with the rest of his army... few survived, but Basangoa hasn't been attacked at least" says Sigmar with a bitter tone.
When Serafall hears of her army's fate her eyes go wide in shock.
Serafall
What? A massacre? No! No! No! I didn't want it to happen! I should have stayed with my troops, but I didn't want them to fall in the crossfire between me and Grayfia... why didn't I question myself about Euclid Lucifuge's location!? BY SATAN!
"Serafall! Calm down. These things happen in War. The important is that Basangoa and you are safe" says Lord Balam. How can he say something so cruel? They were my soldiers and I abandoned them... "No, nothing is good! Hundreds of soldiers died because of me!" I shout. What is that look on Lord Balam's face?
"Sitri, it's better if you rest" I hear Diehauser as he tries to take me away. No! I can't leave! I have to do something... to apologize... "Leave me Diehauser" I say trying to free myself. "Heir Belial is right Serafall. We'll talk after you regained your energies". "Wait" I say before Diehauser can take me away.
"Damaidosu Zereikel Asmodeus appeared before I left... he could be marching here right now" I say. Lord Balam hums. "Thanks for the information, now rest" he says dismissing me. I want to speak with dad... he always knows what to tell when I'm feeling down. I want to go home. "Let's go Sitri" says Diehauser as still holds me as we exit the room.
Sigmar Balam
"That girl is too emotional" I say looking at the leaving Sitri Heiress. She's in a bad shape, not just physically, but mentally. This is why I didn't want those youngsters to lead our special battalions. They can be as strong as you want, but they lack experience. And in a War like this experience is all.
"Lord Balam, what should we do about Asmodeus' son?" asks me the general of Basangoa's Garrison. He's a commoner, a man who lived in the harshness of the Great War and the poor conditions of Basangoa's common folk. The role of a noble, of a Pillar, should be protect their people. Yet we can't even protect ourselves. I can't forgive the Satans' descendants, killing your own nobles is something insufferable, but killing your own people is even worse.
"If he comes here I'll deal with him personally. Meanwhile fortify the city and inform Lord Belial of my decision" I tell him as he dutifully obeys. If Damaidosu Zereikel Asmodeus arrives here how many chances do I have of defeating him? He killed Lord Gaap, a proficient mage and tactician. His Ruby Flames will be a problem, but if Heiress Sitri is able to recover in time, together we should take him down without many casualties among our troops. The enigma lies in Euclid Lucifuge and his sister, Serafall didn't confirm she killed her. Right, Damaidosu must have arrived before she could finish her.
"General, we have news about Asmodeus' location. He has been sighted by Serafall Sitri here in the Belial territory. After a fight with Grayfia Lucifuge it seems he has come to her aid and Heiress Sitri was forced to retreat" I say over a communication circle to the Glasya-Labolas Heir. The boy really surprised me and Lord Amon. His way of thinking is commendable and his plans are clear and simple. If it wasn't for his apparent narcolepsy who makes him sleep for most of the day he would be the ideal general.
I hear a yawn. Oh, the boy just woke up. "Thanks for the information. Over and out" he answers, ending the communication before I can add anything. I can just sigh.
Bael Territory
"What does it mean Grayfia and Serafall fought!?" shouts a male voice belonging to the red haired heir of the Gremory House: Sirzechs Gremory. "Sirzechs!" another man tries to stop his friend from making a ruckus. Ajuka Astaroth, a green-haired young man as tall as Sirzechs is holding the Gremory by his shoulders.
"Ajuka I need to go to the Belial territory immediately! Grayfia could be needing me!" says the other man, tears forming under his eyes from the worry. "Sirzechs I need you to sit down and think for a second. If Damaidosu Zereikel Asmodeus stopped the fight between Grayfia and Sera and she is alive it must mean Grayfia is alive too. Not even the Satans' descendants are so stupid to let one of their strongest assets to die" says Ajuka trying to reason with Sirzechs.
"As much as I would like to believe you I have a bad presentment... like, really bad Ajuka" says, now much calmer, Sirzechs. "I understand. However we have orders and said orders will help Grayfia too. Sooner we end this war sooner you can be together again" says Ajuka, his right hand on Sirzechs' shoulder. "I know it" says Sirzechs gritting his teeth. "Ajuka, Sirzechs. I heard some commotion from the lower floor and decided to check. What are you two doing?" asks a woman voice. An attractive woman in a long silk dress with purple eyes and brown hair.
"Mother!" says surprised Sirzechs. "Nothing we were just discussing" he adds. "We dealt with it Miss Gremory" says politely Ajuka. Venelana smiles seeing the two younger devils behaving like this. "You are still like when you were children. Now tell me, don't lie. What were you two talking about?" she asks, but sees the look of discomfort in her son's eyes. "It's about Grayfia right?" Venelana's question startles Sirzechs. "Like I thought. Listen Sirzechs I've had an idea a couple of days ago. I'm going to speak with Lord Lucifuge" says thw woman shocking both Ajuka and Sirzechs.
"Miss Gremory, do you realize how dangerous this is? And besides what makes you think Lord Lucifuge will listen?" asks Ajuka. "Mother do you want me to die? I'm already worried for Grayfia I couldn't stand thinking about you in the mouth of the enemy!" shouts Sirzechs.
The Gremory matron shakes her head amused by both his son insistence and Ajuka's coolness with this. "Boys, me and Lord Lucifuge know each other. Ancestor didn't try enough to convince him to stand on our side, but I'm sure I can convince him. Lucifer's son does not care about this War so he doesn't have any real obligation to follow the Satans" explains Venelana, calmly reassuring her son.
"Mother, Lucifaad brims with enemies, you can't go there". Despite Sirzechs' protests Venelana does not listen to him. "Dear, your mother isn't a fool" she says. "I never thought it!" replies Sirzechs. "Let me finish. Lord Lucifuge isn't a coward, he's a man of his word. If we don't find an agreement he will just let me leave, moreover I can say hi to Grayfia for you and see if she's back in Lucifaad. What do you think?". At the mention of Grayfia's name Sirzechs' expression becomes smoother, he really wants to know about Grayfia's conditions. "Fine, mother" she eventually tells. Venelana smiles and hugs her son reassuring him all will be fine.
"I don't want to waste your time anymore, you have important rhings to do right?" she asks looking at the two best friends. "I can only wish you good luck Miss Gremory" says Ajuka making Venelana giggle.
"Thanks Ajuka".
Grayfia
Where am I? Am I still in the Belial territory? No, I feel a warm and soft sensation around my body. A blanket, I'm tired...
"Wake up, you have many things to tell me". What is this voice? I open my eyes and see myself? but with a burn scar on the side of her cheek laying on the bed besides me with a carefree expression. I get back on my bed startled by this sudden vision. "Who are you?" I ask. An illusion? "Ah, kind of" she answers, is she reading my mind? "More or less, I can read all your thoughts" replies... myself?
I'm in my room in Lucifaad. Who brought me here? "Your brother" replies the other me. "Listen girl. I don't know what the fuck this world is. Apparently you consider yourselves devils yet you seem fucking humans to me. Moreover we are in 1512. Before you say anything. I saved your life by taking possession of half your brain, but know this: I'm keeping you because you are useful. I need to blend in this strange society of yours so I can find and kill Chainsaw Man!" says the other me getting up from the bed and walking around my room.
"Chainsaw Man?" I ask. What does it mean? "My sworn enemy! A fucking horrible useless disgusting dickhead of a dog-chainsaw devil!" shouts the other me in rage. "Devil? I never heard of chainsaws least of all devils being related with said things". What are chainsaws? My head still hurts. I lay down on the bed looking as a huge smile appears on the other me's face. "That's a useful information! Yeah I've become stronger in this place because here people still fear war! And they fear it so much! If no one knows Chainsaw Man they can't fear the Hero of Hell AHAHAHAHAHAH" she's laughing creepily. I try to cover my ears with my pillow, but it doesn't quiet down. Have I gone mad?
"Definitely not. I'm much real, now stand up. Your father and brother are waiting for you. Mention me and you are dead. Are we clear?" she asks me. This is not an hallucination? The other me shakes her head in some kind of disappointment then I can't feel my body anymore, but I can see it move without my consent. What is happening!?
"I'm taking over Grayfia. As you see your body belongs to me, this was our contract right? I save you and in return I own your body". Wait! That bird I didn't dream it, it was real.
The door of my room is opened and Euclid looks at me with a bright smile. "Grayfia. Oh Good Satan! It's so good to see you are fine!". I get control of my body back and I hug back Euclid. "Euclid...". He shushes me. "Don't worry Grayfia all is good. You are fine" he tells, not leaving me. "Disgusting" I hear the other me say. "Tell him to go. We still need to talk girl" she adds. She really has control of my body... what was that bird? "It was me. War Devil" states War Devil? "War Devil?" I ask. "Grayfia are you okay?" questions Euclid hearing what I said. "Yes, sorry I was just absent-minded" I answer. "You can go I'll reach you and Father soon" I say to Euclid as he leaves my room. "It is just me in the residence for now. Father has been called by the Satans" says Euclid before closing the door.
I sit on the bed and look at War Devil. "What do you want from me?". It's clear this thing saved me for something and not only my body, she talked about Chainsaw Man right?
"Clever girl. Listen up, when we devils die in Hell we get transferred to Earth. However, it seems now I'm in this fucking place where the concept of devils as I know it doesn't exist and five centuries in the past" she tells me with annoyance. "What does it mean? What is your concept of Devil?" I ask her. "Devils are fear. Each Devil is born around a concept. I'm War Devil, if people fear my name. If people fear war I become stronger simple as that" she explains rapidly.
"And my role in that what is it?" I obviously ask. "I both need someone who knows how this place works and a body to collect weapons to fight Chainsaw Man. If we are lucky he too is here somewhere. When he's dead I leave you alone. Deal?". I don't have much choice don't I? I'm alive... I can see my family again I can see Sirzechs again. I search for the ring... Where is it? No! "Did you see a ring? Was I wearing a ring when you took my body?" I ask War Devil. "A ring? Oh I used it to kill a blonde stranger. Damathing or something like that I don't remember the names of fodders".
Eh? She killed one of the Satans? With a ring? "Not only with your ring, but yes I killed him and turned him into a weapon. This one". War Devil takes over my body and takes a strange gruesome weapon made of flesh and bones. "This is a flamethrower I made with his arm. Fascinating isn't it?". When she gives me back my body I have the urge to throw up, but I can hold it. "Aren't you a war veteran? It's just a flamethrower come on" whines War Devil.
"What is this? You made a weapon with an arm!?". This is disgusting I can't describe it anyway else. War Devil puffs. "It will be what will free you from me. Look at it that way. Now, you want to stay with that partner of yours right? Let's deflect to his side then, bring your family with you. I can kill all those Satans if you prefer so that this civil war will be over. What do you think about it?". Going to the other side? Now that I think about it... the Satans will soon know about Asmodeus' death and if they pinpoint it to me... I'm done for.
"See girl? Now you are starting to reason. Accept my deal or you will probably be executed for treason". War Devil is smiling, she's enjoying this. "You can bet on it" she says laughing at me.
I shake my head and get up. "Quick. I don't want to draw any suspicions. If your family becomes an hindrance it will just delay my revenge".
Sirzechs
I broke my piano... It is being really difficult to stay calm. My hands are trembling with anxiety and anger, not even music, a safe haven for when I am like this, is doing any help.
"Son. Do you want to talk?". Father enters the room. Oh, I know that look on his face. "I think so. Playing the piano isn't really doing me any help".
Father nods his head with a complicit smirk printed on his lips.
"Spit it out and tell your old man what's troubling you" he says. "Mother didn't tell you?". Probably she did, or else Father wouldn't be here given his duties as the Archduke Gremory. "Your mother didn't say anything to me, I was just passing by and saw you... Well, so nervous that you broke the piano you so much loved" says Father pointing at the broken keys of the piano.
"You are right" I sigh. "It's about Grayfia, her and Serafall's armies faced eachother in the Satans' attack of the Belial territory". Father's eyes light up like he just heard a joke. "Only that? Oh, let me tell you a story. It is back from when me and your mother were newlyweds almost 200 years ago. Oh the memories!".
Father I don't need a story right now. However I can't stop him as he immediately starts his narration, he can be very nostalgic at times.
"First of all you must imagine your old father as a young, brave and strong man" starts Father. Who is going to say him we are devils and, especially for a devil his age, he probably looks the same as he was 200 years ago?
"One of these glorious old days - not considering the Great War - the Great King, as the coordinator of the Pillar armies, called your mother. Oh in the old day Venelana was a literal blazing fire, like the Sun of the Human World I tell you! You had to see that one time when Venelana had to deal with the advances of Lord Sabnock! May Satan bless his and his House's memories! Another ti-". Ok, now I have to stop him.
"Father you are derailing" I say. "Oh, were you listening? It seems you are interested in my story then!". Oh good Satan, Father sometimes you are unbearable. "Yes Father, could you get to the point?".
"Sirzechs you see, stories are like a journey. It does not matter the destination, but what it's in between".
"Yes Father I agree with you, but I am quite sure yours are considerable ramblings" I say. "I understand how are you feeling Sirzechs. You are so worried you can barely breathe, am I right?". Father's observation... he really hit me in the right spot. "Yes Father, you are completely right" I answer sighing.
"Then don't be! Simple no?".
"Easier said than done Father". Then Father gets up. "I know what to do" he then pivots his head towards the piano. "I will call for someone to substitute it later. Let's take a visit to the theatre in town together, you usually go there in your free time no?" he asks. "I don't think anyone is performing due to the Civil War".
Father looks at me, still woth hsi smirk. "Oh Sirzechs I thought you between all the people would have grasped what I plan". My eyes wide open. You know me well Father. What better way to relieve the morale of your people than with some good music. I only hope the orchestra didn't flee the town, not that I can blame them for doing it.
Lucifaad
Outside the Lucifuge Residence the atmosphere in the capital isn't by all means peaceful. The disappearing of Damaidosu Zereikel Asmodeus has been soon noticed, with him not returning along with his army. The death of the holder of the title of Asmodeus has not only created conflict within the rest of the Loyalist Army due to the absence of a supreme leader. Moreover the other Asmodeus descendants are now fighting to claim the place which belonged to Damaidosu.
"I want an answer and I want it now!" shouts Bidleid to the council of the head of the Sox Houses. "My lord" tries to say Phodekai Satanachia, but he stops himself after seeing the gaze of the Beelzebub and feeling an heavy weight on his shoulders.
Tsufaame is leaning on the wall in the back of the room, biting her own fingernails in frustration and anger. Instead of showing her rage by shouting and being noisy like her colleague she's silently thinking about who could have killed Damaidosu.
"Who were the witnesses!? Who reported back the news of Damaidosu's death!?" roars Bidleid, a swarm of tiny flies buzzing around him. "My son" replies Lord Lucifuge in a stern tone. "And? I want the details Lucifuge!" barks Bidleid.
"It's useless shouting like that Bidleid. We stand here after the traitors killed the legitimate inheritor of Asmodeus' seat. An humiliation we can't ignore or let go unpunished. Killing one of the Satans isn't a declaration of war against our rule, but to the devil race as a whole" says Tsufaame, venom well hidden in her voice as she mantains cold reason.
"What have you said?" growls Bidleid, but instead of focusing his anger on Tsufaame he decides to take a breath and concentrate on the ones who caused all of this: the traitors. "Who is the culprit?" asks Tsufaame looking at Genome.
Genome Lucifuge
Killing one of the Satans? I thought the Pillars only wanted to capture them, but I hardly see how they managed to kill Asmodeus' son with no casualties. Euclid reported he made the Anti-Satan Army withdraw and Grayfia was injured when he found her. What is missing? Grayfia was fighting the Sitri Heiress so I doubt she was the one killing Lord Asmodeus.
Another treason? No, I can count the people able to kill Damaidosu on the fingers of my hands and none of them could have been there. Someone from outside the Devil Race? An enemy taking advantage of the Civil War to strike us? It's not out of the realm lf possibilities sure, but I hardly see it happen at least not after only fifty years after the ending of the Great War.
The circle is narrowing down, the hypothesis of another traitor killing Asmodeus is the most plausible. I share a look with the other lords of the Six Houses before Lady Leviathan faces me, they too have probably come to the same conclusion as I. "The culprit is probably from pur own ranks" I reply. Immediately I hear a click of Lord Beelzebub's tongue.
"Someone backstabbed Damaidosu?" Leviathan puts her hand under her chin. "This is unacceptable!" Lord Beelzebub shouts in anger once more. "Find this traitor now! And prepare to march towards the Bael Castle! We will end this useless charade once and for all!".
This is undesirable. Lord Beelzebub exits the room immediately after ordering a suicide attack soon followed by Lady Leviathan. Without Lord Asmodeus we lack a leader for the army and one of the strongest devils. Grayfia is injured too and the Lucifuge army hasn't regained full energies.
"Who could have been able to eliminate the son of one of our former masters?" asks Lord Fleurety. Whoever killed him defeated him in a fight, Euclid said there were clear signs of a battle. "Could it really be an assassin sent by our enemies?" asks Lord Agaliarept. "Angels aren't ones to send assassins and Fallen Angels would gloat their achievement if they managed to take down one of our leaders" observes Lord Satanachia.
"Where is the Army of State located right now?".
"They returned to Lucifaad using teleportation magic, luckily the majority of the soldiers don't know yet of Asmodeus' death. Who knows what could happen of they discover it" I answer the question. Oh Lord Lucifer guide us through these hard times.
War Devil
This place is even more boring than I expected it to be. Aren't they in a Civil War? The girl is wasting her time eating breakfast with her brother... Boring. At least now I have time to ruminate on something. When I tried to turn her brother Euclid in a weapon, J fainted. And I am certain it wasn't fue to the tiredness from the fight against that fodder of Dama... I do not remember his name.
The girl is able to assert a certain control on her body even when I am in control. This can be problematic. "Grayfia how are you feeling now? Something still hurts?" asks the girl's brother. Spare me from your chatters. "I am feeling better now, thanks for worrying Euclid" replies the girl. I will die of boredom.
"No problem Grayfia". They continue making small talk for a while. "Girl ask him about the leaders of your race". Let's at least get some useful information. Chainsaw Man will show himself soon, that nauseating dog is an exhibitionist. Until then I will collect powerful weapons. These 'devils' are stronger, leagues stronger than the average human even ones with devil contracts.
"Brother, what has Father been called for?" asks the girl. "The Satans want to know how Asmodeus died. The traitors managed to kill one of our leaders" the girl's brother clenches his fists in anger. Oh, he doesn't even imagine it was his sister the traitor he's talking about. "I wonder how he would react knowing the truth" I say causing the girl to flinch. Amusing.
"By the way girl. It's only a matter of time before they start to suspect you, it doesn't need an genius to figure out it wasn't your enemies who killed the fodder. If I was in you I'd start packing".
"Did Father found something?" asks the girl, her voice barely keeping itself from shaking. She's scared. But why the fuck would she be scared? She has the best opportunity of her life offered on a silver plate. Is she scared of dying by the hands of the other fodders? Like I'd make it possible. I need her alive until I find a way to restore my original body and understand more of this absurd place.
"He desired to ask you some questions, but after seeing you injured he decided to postpone it" replies the brother.
"I understand..." replies the girl. Fleeing now would only raise suspects on the girl, probably it could lead to her being tracked down. This scenario could lean on my favour. If, for some forsaken reason, I can't turn her family members into weapons my only other way is by defeating strong opponents. "When your Father will be back it will already be too late for you". The girl turns around to look at me. What? Did I say something to hurt you sensibility?
"Grayfia?" asks her brother. What a nuisance. "I need a moment Euclid". The girl finally stands up and leaves her brother.
"I can't leave my family... not now" says the girl when we are alone. "You are on limited time girl. There is a peaceful way and a not so peaceful one to get out of this. Either you go away now or drag your entire family into it labeling them too as traitors" I reply. "What happened to the part of bringing my family with me?" she protests. Oh for fuck sake!
"That was before knowing that your leaders already know what I have done". Buy it, I do not have time to waste into this. "They can't possibly pinpoint Lord Asmodeus' death to me...". Is she in denial? "Ok! Fine! Do what you want, just know that when time will come you will regret it".
"No... wait" she says. She's dubious. She knows I am ber only hope to see her fiancé. "Girl, you will be considered a traitor, a traitor who killed royalty. There isn't much choice for you. Where does your lover live? I will make sure no one sees us and before you'll know ot we'll be there".
I could just force her by taking her body, but unfortunately I need her to be cooperative. Annoying. Moreover there is still this unknown factor that makes her able to get back control of herself without my consent.
"I... fine". Finally.
Venelana
This place surely brings me memories. I just entered the Hall of Lucifuge, a large room in the shape of a pentagram located in the heart of the Palace of Lucifer and, also, the first gift the Creator of Devils made to his Prime Minister. You could define it as the first brick of the Lucifuge Residence.
I am probably the only Pillar who has ever seen this place, maybe Ancestor Zekram did but I wouldn't bet on it. Who knows, if everything goes right Sirzechs will be here when he and Grayfia will marry... Ah, the dreams of a mother, and now I sound like Zeo's mother.
"Dame Bael". Here he is, Lord Lucifuge, always the authoritative presence. Someone worthy of loyalty, differently from the Satans' descendants. "Lord Lucifuge, it's Lady Gremory now. Actually, it's been a while since the ceremony and I think to remember seeing yourself there during my wedding" I tell him with an easy tone.
Lord Lucifuge hints a chuckle. "I know, still it's strange to hear from you. Especially during the current... peculiar situation". Peculiar? Really a strange way of defining a Civil War. "I thought it could do us both good having a reunion after many years. How long has it been? A couple decades or so" I say. "We have remained in contact through our children. However I agree it's somewhat soothing seeing an old friend again Dam- Lady Gremory" says Lord Lucifuge.
"However I guess there is some other reason for you to take such a risk come here right in enemy territory" he adds. He's right, I have more than a reason to be here. "I heard Grayfia clashed with one of the Pillar armies, I wanted to know how is she". First of all let's ask the simpler questions, then we can pass on the... harder matters.
"She is fine, tired, but Euclid is making sure she is alright. Was it was Sirzechs who asked you to check on her?" he answers. "Yes, he was".
Lord Lucifuge seems to grimace, has something happened? He turns his head towards one of the statues in the hall. He locks his eyes on the statue of the original Lucifuge. "The days I am wondering more and more what would our predecessors think. We didn't survive the Great War to then kill ourselves in a petty Civil War" says in a melancholic tone Lord Lucifuge. How to blame him?
"I am sure this is a common thought between all the devil race" I say. "I only hope there will be a devil race able to live and tell the tale". The look in Genome's eyes is tired and full of sorrow. He almost lost his daughter after all. How would I react if something happened to Sirzechs? I can't even imagine it.
"Lord Lucifuge. Ancestor already told you so before the start of the Civil War. Join the Anti-Satan Faction. The Lucifuge House was born to serve Lucifer and the Devil Race, not to follow the other Satans into the suicide of our kind. Even if they win and the pillars will be destroyed what would happen then? Another war against Heaven or the Fallen Angels. Devils cannot live of war anymore Lord Lucifuge and you know this better than anyone else".
Lord Lucifuge looks down and sighs. "It's not that simple Lady Gremory. We of the Six Houses of Lucifer already know this. However as devils we are prideful beings, we can't plainly deny our natural duties and turn our backs on the Satans' descendants" he says.
Before I can retort he adds. "Still there is a question I want you to answer. Was someone from the Anti-Satan Faction to kill Lord Asmodeus' Son?". I freeze. What? Lord Asmodeus' Son? Damaidosu Zereikel Asmodeus? Dead? Lord Lucifuge would never lie on such a matter, but if someone really did kill him the I would surely know it.
"No..." I do not have any better answer than this. Only few people could defeat him in a straight fight and nor Sirzechs or Ajuka could have done it as they were in the Bael territory. Serafall was too injured and Falbium almost never leaves his command room. Ancestor too is to be crossed out from the list.
"I figured as much. Then there is really a traitor between our ranks...". Genome's tone sounds defeated. "The situation is not safe even for you Lord Lucifuge. Someone who killed a Satan descendant can't be underestimated". Can I even convince him to reason? Lucifaad is now a time bomb, is only a matter of time before a new fight sparks between the House of Asmodeus.
"I don't think we have other topics to discuss here Lady Gremory. It's been a pleasure speaking with you. I bid you farewell" Lord Lucifuge turns around. I shouldn't have put so much hope in this. I still think we have found some common ground, he didn't give away the information of Asmodeus' son death by chance. In his own way Lord Lucifuge is helping us. "Thanks for agreeing to have a talk with me. I wish yourslef a pleasant day too Lord Lucifuge".
Lucifuge Residence
Grayfia is frantically preparing herself mentally to leave her home. She agreed with War Devil idea of departing as soon as possible. 'They already know about it' thinks Grayfia. "Yes, we've been talking about it for too long. What else do you need to understand your situation?" asks War Devil as she leans on the door of Grayfia's room. "It isn't easy as you might think War Devil. This is my family! My House!" protests Grayfia.
"And soon you won't see it again if you stall like that, girl" retorts War Devil. "Can't you sto calling me Girl? I have a name" says Grayfia a bit annoyed by War Devil's scornful behaviour. "You don't call me by my name either".
"I can't call you War Devil, if someone hears me say that what are they gonna think?". War Devil looks at Grayfia with an offended look. "You really care what others think of you? Once again I don't find any difference between you and humans" says War Devil.
"However if you really find 'War Devil' that difficult to say you shall call me Yoru. If that helps my quest to kill Chainsaw Man I will suffer everything you say, Grayfia".
Grayfia
Chainsaw Man, Chainsaw Man, Chainsaw Man. Is there anything else War De- Yoru cam think about? "No. Anything else ks secondary, Chainsaw Man is my sworn enemy. Just like you're at war with the other faction I'm af wat woth Chainsaw Man" says Yoru.
I stand up. Fine, after all I too don't care about aniother than see Sirzechs again. If I stay here I will be a danger for my family too, right? It won't be long before I am found as the killer of Lord Asmodeus, even if it was Yoru to kill him.
"Even if you were to spill the beans about me to the other two fodders, which I heartily recommend you don't if you value your life, I don't think they'll believe you" says Yoru. Of course, who would believe a 'Devil' took control of my body.
I make to the handle of the door. It's time to go... "Wait Grayfia, aren't you forgetting something?" asks Yoru pointing to... the weapon. Flamethrower? Was it? "How can I carry it?". "Simple, the fuel tank and its connected tube are detachable making it easy to carry" explains Yoru. She has a problem with weapons, she treats them like children. "Yeah, obviously. I am War".
Now I have to leave everything behind. I need to reach out for Sirzechs or maybe Ajuka and Serafall. Trusting other Pillars would be foolish without having some guarantees I'd be safe. "Pfft coward, if they try to stop us we kill them" says Yoru. "I don't want to put more targets on my back". Really can't she resolve problems without violence. I am so tired of it. "The strong rules Grayfia and you know it. You saw the marvels of War and its inevitability". I scroll my head. I do not want to think about it.
"Grayfia". I hear the voice of my father. Oh no, please Father not now. "Annoying" snorts Yoru. "Father...".
"Can I speak with you?" he asks. What should I tell him? I can't ignore him and go away! "Of course Father" I eventually say. "Are you stupid Grayfia?". I don't listen to Yoru, he's my father I will resolve this alone.
We sit down in Father's office. He orders one of the servants to bring us something to drink and pours two cups of liquid for us. "I am so relieved you are fine Grayfia" says Father. Something in his voice is different he's... I don't know what it could be.
"Thanks Father, but you don't have to worry too much". Father sighs. "You know Grayfia. When Euclid came back to the residence and I saw you fainted not responding to any kind of treatment I assumed the worst. I lost too much of myself in war" confesses Father. Should I really leave? I can clearly hear Yoru growling in frustration.
"Grayfia, I don't know what will happen now. However I promise you I will make all I can to let you and Euclid have a good life". Oh Father...
"Grayfia there is someone approaching, more than one person" informs Yoru. I turn around. "Wha-". And then there was an explosion.
"GRAYFIA!". Yoru and Father... what happened?
"How you dare attack the residence of the Lucifuge House!?". An attack? I can barely see...
"Stand back Lord Lucifuge. You daughter is the traitorous killer of His Highness Lord Damaidosu Zereikel Asmodeus". Who's this? I remember his voice... Lord Sargatanas?
"And you storm inside my office? Have you gone mad Maruthar!?" when Father calls the other lords of the Six Houses by name it means he's angry. "Grayfia, can you stand up? Leave me control. I will deal with them" says Yoru. I can't feel my body anymore. Yoru has taken control.
Yoru
Today has been a total pain in the ass. Wake up, blah blah. Meet your brother, blah blah. Feel uncertain, blah blah. The girl doesn't know how to have fun.
"I am simply doing my job as the enforcer of Lord Lucifer Genome, now please stand aside" says the guy who's apparently leading the group of bats. Seven of them, they are underestimating me.
"Maruthar! What is the meaning of this? Explain it!" shouts the girl's father. They want to kill me because I killed Damathing isn't that easy to understand. I guess it's an hard concept for a father to grasp.
"Your daughter is a kingslayer. She is the one who killed Lord Asmodeus, the remnants on the battlefield proves such. The 'Warden of Cocytus' is easy to recognize". Oh they found the ice spear I pierced his torso with.
The girl's father stand between me and the others. What a sweet view, he will make the finest of weapons. However, once again my hand doesn't obey me. Why can't I turn her family into weapons!? Argh...
"You won't harm my daughter!" shouts the girl's father protecting Grayfia with his body. Touching I'd say, but I don't need protection. "It shouldn't have resulted in this Lord Lucifuge. I am sorry". A dozen or so of strange circles appear all around. Ah right, their 'magic' is channelled via magic circles bearing the crests of their respective houses.
"Step back" I order the girl's Father shoving him away with my hand. "Now burn boring meatbags" I declare pulling out the Left Arm Flamethrower and setting it to its maximum output. What an harmonic prchestra their screams are! "Sing for me!". They fall to the ground... Oh, I think I might have underestimated Damathing, he put up a fight at least.
"Ice: Axe". Without wasting much time I chop off their heads, it isn't much but at least I'll have some new weapons. "Random 'Devil': Head Hand Grenade". I create seven grenades made out of their skulls with their hair acting as the fuze.
Just for fun I throw one of these newly made grenades towards the wall. Mah... the explosion is mediocre at best. I couldn't expect much from it after all.
"G-Grayfia?". I can't turn him into a weapon... I should have put more thought in what I was doing, damnit! If I am discovered Chainsaw Man will know my location and know I am here too! Fuck! I can't lose the surprise effect. "Ice: Mace". Ok, I can knock him out. "What are you doing!?" shouts Grayfia. Oh now you react girl. However the mace in my hands shatters immediately as Grayfia takes back control. Shit.
Grayfia
"F-Father I can explain" I say, my hands trembling as I look at Father. "Wow! Good job Grayfia, you are still in time. Knock your father out and get away" says Yoru. Shut up!
Father's eyes look at the death, carbonised, bodies on the floor especially at Lord Sargatanas. He then looks at me. "Is it real... did you really kill Lord Asmodeus?" he asks. I gulp. Telling him about Yoru is pointless now, I would only risk her killing me... "Yes".
Father is... disappointment? Defeated? I don't understand.
"Go" says Father. Go? What does it mean. "Father?".
"I said go Grayfia". I nod my head.
Hours later
"It didn't end as bad as I thought. Well done Grayfia" says Yoru. She couldn't care any less about all of this. I am probably already wanted in all the Satans controlled Underworld and to be executed on sight. My Father and Euclid are probably going under suspicions of treason too.
I've run to the Borderlands, a no-one's land between the Devil's Underworld and the Fallen Angel's one. A place where no one lives and where no one goes to. Perfect for hiding.
"What's with that long face? You are alive" says Yoru. "My family is probably risking being beheaded right now! And I am here! Why did I listen to you? Why did I accept this at all?". I sit down, the situation is dire, very much so.
I need to find a way to reach the Gremory Territory without being noticed by both the Satans and the Anti-Satans Factions. I can only trust Sirzechs now, he's my last and only hope.
I turn to Yoru. "Let's make things clear. If we find ourselves in front of some of the Pillars' armies you are not allowed to kill anyone. Understood?". I simply can't risk making an enemy out of both Underworld's factions. Yoru scoffs, but nods her head. "Fiiiine" she whines.
Let's hope for the best, Sirzechs... I hate War. Both of them, the concept and its devil.