What If: God’s Arrival P2

The Seraphic System.

Omake.

What If Kai was summoned to the original world of highscool dxd during the meeting between the three Factions? 

(Daddy’s Home}

-{Uriel}-

Uriel stood in the throne room, his hands clenched at his sides. A frown firmly set on his face as he readied himself to receive the worst of news. For what news that would be, even he didn’t know.

His fingers clenched and unclenched as Uriel was left with only his thoughts. 

Perhaps he would receive an announcement about how the Devils had broken their side of the deal? He wouldn’t be surprised.

Though the current Satans had shown that there was less of a chance of that, there was a chance still. Looking back, that was why he even agreed to such a notion. Had the Devils still been ruled by the descendants of the Old Satans, he would have led their forces down to rain Holy Fire and retribution on them.

He would still do it, if only Heaven was able to withstand the consequences.

Perhaps, his worries were for nothing. Maybe, he would receive word that they had entered an alliance. Either situation was undesirable to Uriel. Though he would take his brother’s safe return any time. 

He sighed and his pacing slowed down. The silence of the peaceful Seventh Heaven pressed against him, broken only by the distant hum of Heaven's surroundings. There was always zither music being played by the younglings.

His hand trailed to his spear, and stroked it with a burning sense of anticipation. Oh, what he wouldn’t do to protect these simple things.

Michael was down there right now, sitting at a table with Devils and Fallen Angels, discussing terms for an alliance. The thought made his jaw tighten. The lives of his brothers hanging on a thread while the Devils did their best to leech of them.

He despised this. Or despised it as much as an Angel could despise anything. They were meant to be above such feelings, but being forced to negotiate with the enemy tested even an Angel’s patience.

The Devils weren't subtle about their nature. 

Their Evil Pieces system had shattered the balance between the factions and they'd immediately abused that power. Not that it was a surprise and the current Satans had attempted not to do it so blatantly at least.

Church members had been disappearing for months. Some turned up later as Stray Devils, having rebelled against their forced reincarnation. 

Others simply vanished forever. His spear started to grow hotter at the thought of the suffering those humans must have gone through. Their chance at an afterlife, gone forever.

Yet here they were, pretending the Devils could be trusted as allies. They could act with enough decorum and offer as many promises as they wanted. At the end of the day, they weren’t doing this with Heaven’s interests in mind. 

And it wouldn’t be fair to assume they would. 

But it meant they needed something. 

He shifted his weight, wings rustling with barely contained agitation. 

The enemy sat at their table, smiled with their false courtesy and Michael had to pretend it was acceptable. All because Heaven couldn't afford another war.

Uriel let out a breath and let the fire in his veins dissipate. 

Perhaps his sister was right and he should try being more positive. It was hard when he had seen the sheer depravity devils would stoop to. What they did to the male and female Angels caught in war was nothing short of despicable.

He had made sure to hunt all of them and burn them to a crisp. It still didn't erase the suffering his siblings endured.

He had no doubt there were still some locked up out there and it was that thought that made it so hard. Knowing they had probably thought Father had abandoned them for hundreds of years. 

Uriel stood like that for a few minutes, then shook his head with a frown. 

It wouldn’t do good to focus on this.

The new Satans were…. Acceptable. So he should prepare himself for an alliance. It’s all for the benefit of Heaven after all. His thoughts came to a screeching halt as the hairs on his arms stood on end. 

That was the only warning he got. 

The throne suddenly erupted.

A pillar of golden light shot upward, startling the Seraph greatly and so bright that Uriel had to shield his eyes. The Heavenly System, dormant since Father's death, roared to life. 

Energy cascaded through the room in waves, making the very air sing with power. It was as if the Zithers in the background were suddenly accompanied by flutes and bells, creating a symphony that reminded him of the better times.

Of times when ‘He’ was still here.

Uriel's eyes widened in pure shock and not a small amount of hysteria as his mind tried to comprehend what was happening. Had Michael done this? Or was it a remnant of Father’s will showing its anger at this situation?

The System’s panels came to life and he felt a powerful presence echoing through heaven.

Uriel looked around in minute alarm and confusion. 

There was only one explanation. 

Only one being who could awaken the System like this, yet it didn’t make sense. At all. 

Father had returned? He didn't even want to consider that thought. He wouldn't survive the disappointment.

It was more of a question that floated through his mind dumbly, the shock at such an abrupt occurrence making him unable to feel or even think properly.’

A screen materialized before him, divine magic locating the source. The image crystallized, showing the meeting room where Michael sat with their enemies. 

And there, unmistakably, was Father.

It wasn’t the form, nor his appearance. It was the clicking of his angelic instincts, the way the world seemed to vanish as chaotic emotions raged within him.

The barest hint of his eyes all but confirmed the identity for him. It was as if his whole body knew it before his mind could even form any theories.

Uriel found himself stunned, his vision was flashing and so much was felt in moments. He felt more emotions in these few seconds than the last few centuries. The shock finally drained from Uriel's face after a full minute, replaced by worry. 

Somehow Father was back… Father was surrounded by Devils and Fallen Angels, in the middle of negotiations he knew nothing about. Whatever had brought him back, whatever state he was in, this was dangerous.

Uriel vanished in a burst of white feathers, racing down just as a wave passed through him.

At the very least the army of Heaven had to be assembled. To hell with not letting Mortals know of them. If it meant protecting their Father?

Uriel would unleash Heaven’s full might in the Mortal Realm.

-{Azazel}-

"We should have a chat."

God’s proclamation was met with a brief silence that stretched for longer than he was willing to admit.

Azazel’s ancient heart was shaken and he inwardly cursed, the feelings of guilt, hope and love coming up as his mind unwittingly revealed just who floated before three powerful Faction leaders without a care.

It had been going well, finally talks of peace after so much war. The devils and Fallen had been planning this for a while. It hadn’t been easy in the slightest to pressure his siblings up in Heaven but it had finally happened.

Beyond peace, allying with heaven would open up an avenue of opportunity. With their reputation, the sins by the devils and Fallen would hopefully be swept under the rug. Allowing for more Factions and Pantheons to come into trading agreements. 

And that had all come falling down due to Kokabiel’s currently unknown actions… the peace talks had been smooth, with Michael seemingly resigned and ready to play ball. 

Only for Kokabiel to curse him beyond the grave, using his soul to perform an unknown action. 

He had thought it was an attack at first and he couldn’t deny he wanted to curse his brother. He would be able to sort it out but it would massively hinder the progress he was making.

Now, he was wondering if that would have been better. Looking at the unfamiliar but familiar figure floating almost languidly. 

Azazel hadn’t wanted to accept it. 

But then the way Michael and Gabriel had reacted…

Father was back and his infamous kindness was nowhere to be found. 

What had Kokabiel done?

Azazel watched as Sirzechs stepped forward, giving the Devil credit for maintaining his composure. The Satan's crimson aura had settled, though anyone with experience could sense the tension coiled beneath his diplomatic exterior.

Azazel sent him a warning look, they had been in contact for a while and thus a mutual respect had been drawn between them. Enough for him to convey the message.

Not that he needed it, Sirzech looked ashen at the realisation that God had somehow come back from the dead. 

"Of course," Sirzechs replied smoothly, inclining his head after sending Serafall a brief concerned glance. "Though I should point out that we were in the middle of rather important negotiations when... this interruption occurred."

His eyes flicked briefly to where Katerea had disintegrated.

"Perhaps it would be prudent to continue our scheduled meeting, given that all parties are already present," he offered. "Though you still have yet to reveal who you are."

Azazel raised an eyebrow at Sirzechs' attempt to maintain some semblance of control over the situation. Admirable, if futile, considering what they'd just witnessed.

Sirzech knew exactly who he was, it wasn’t an actual desire to know. It was more for Father to confirm it himself and push him to answer their question. A small needless political play. 

Before the stranger could respond, a sharp cry cut through the tension.

"Gasper!" Rias exclaimed suddenly, her eyes widening in realization. "His time ability is still active!" She spun toward the school building, clearly intending to rush inside.

"Vali, go with her," Azazel commanded immediately, his tone brooking no argument. The situation was volatile enough without leaving potential problems unchecked.

Sirzechs sent him a curt nod of agreement.

"Perhaps it's best if we reschedule," Michael spoke up, still standing protectively near the newcomer. "A lot has happened, and a recess of sorts could be in need."

Azazel hid a grimace. 

He had a feeling no such meeting would come anymore. 

Michael looked like he wanted to drag Father back to Heaven and keep him there. 

His mind went to work.

Michael was shocked and Gabriel was on the edge of tears, the only thing stopping her being the Angel he knew during the war. 

Good, it meant he hadn’t arranged this. Kokabiel had done something and Father was back, he would have to see just what type of resurrection had transpired. 

Azazel needed to manage the first impression of Father’s… return. No doubt someone would tell him of what had transpired and a first impression worked wonders if he could just explain both sides. 

Azazel narrowed his eyes, letting a smile spread across his features. "Why not now?”

Michael frowned. As did Gabriel. The resigned air around him was gone and an almost hostile aura began to converge due to his response. It keyed him in on how Michael had been truly feeling about the meeting. 

“This is a joyous occasion isn’t it brother? It seems Kokabiel has somehow managed to accomplish what Heaven has been trying for so long.” Azazel said with a lazy smile.

Michael twitched. 

It wasn’t meant as an insult. 

But even if Kokabiel had done it to spite him, the Fallen could take credit.

The Devils seemed to get increasingly agitated as they tried to identify who had arrived without looking stupid. They failed miserably. They were stupid, or in denial. Or both really.

“I don’t believe they were on your orders, Azazel.” Michael replied calmly, his sweet sister occupied with staring at Father with barely contained emotions. 

“Why not.” Azazel said cheekily, trying to hide the unnerved feeling he felt. “Maybe I wanted to give Heaven an alliance present.”

Michael looked unamused but seemingly didn’t know what to do. He was uncertain. Thrown off as much as him and unable to proceed. Heaven had been in a bad position but they still had some to gain. 

“Oh?” Father replied, as if finding something funny about that statement. 

“It’s good to see your back pops, I knew death never suited you.” Azazel said, forcing his eyes to meet his Father’s alien orbs. 

There was a visible wave at his words, as if when even Michael had said it that they hadn’t been able to believe it was true, but with his words it had suddenly been confirmed. 

Sirzechs’ stance somehow became even more tense and barely restrained shock was practically radiating off him. Serafall, who had been looking confused and abnormally serious, had the same amount of shock radiating off her.

“I see. As the current Lucifer and representative of the Devil faction, allow me to greet you in this unexpected situation.” Sirzechs said with a respectful incline of his head and Azazel mentally cheered at his demeanour despite being thousands of years old.

Azazel could tell it was said as a chance to regain his mental bearings. He was glad the young Lucifer was leading. He had an honest aura around him and a genuine desire for peace, even if he had a tendency to flex his power in order to get what he wanted for his faction. 

The God of the Bible tilted his head in response, and smiled as if he was looking at children playing house.

“As for Lord Azazel's desire to continue the meeting despite the abrupt attempted attack and your.. reappearance, both large events. We were in the middle of an important and far-reaching meeting.” Sirzech said, his voice becoming more confident by the moment, as God just stared and said nothing. “While we would normally delay such a thing due to this attempted attack and the strange situation, I don’t think it’s necessary, especially when you seem to be in… perfect form.”

‘He’ raised an eyebrow and asked, with amusement lacing his tone, “You know my perfect form? Do you, now?”

“I merely meant to say that your presence matched legends and that I don’t believe there’s anything preventing you from joining in the meeting.” Sirzech said quickly, turning to Michael, who was completely silent.

Michael’s reaction was concerning. He floated like a drone, his eyes occasionally staring at Father before flickering back at them, as if they were going to attack at any moment. 

Azazel honestly couldn’t tell what was going through his mind.

He could only imagine the joy sealed behind that facade, that peaceful expression he had worn like a mask was destroyed, Azazel figured he probably didn’t feel the need to use it. 

“You think?” God asked lazily, as if he hadn’t just stated that a serious discussion was in order. 

“Yes.” Azazel took over. “There are many matters that would benefit from your perspective. And I imagine there is perhaps confusion that is shared with us.”

Sirzech nodded seriously. “This is a matter that will change the three Factions' current political structure after all. And many things have changed, if I assume you have only been revived now?”

“Mm.” God replied disinterestedly, completely ignoring the joint attempt to pressure him into agreeing. 

Serafall stood beside him, her usual playful demeanor replaced with a calculating assessment. Her eyes traced over the floating figure with the precision of a warrior gauging an opponent. 

She and Sirzechs had only heard stories of the Biblical God, legends passed down from the Great War. Azazel could practically see them measuring, evaluating, trying to determine if the reality matched the myth. 

Sirzech even seemed to be viewing him as an equal, which was absurd for the different reasons the average devil may believe compared to Azazel. 

To them, this was an unknown variable to be analyzed and, if possible, controlled. 

To Azazel, who had known God, who had served Heaven before his Fall, this was something else entirely.

He wanted the meeting to be now, God had just returned. Meaning he was possibly frazzled and disoriented, along with having no information of what had transpired. 

God’s gaze swept over them with profound disinterest. Those eyes held neither warmth nor hostility. Just... boredom. And something darker. Disappointment, perhaps.

"So that’s what you were doing," God said and strangely enough his eyes lit in recognition, while his voice carried an amused tone. "And Kokabiel was the one to summon me… where is he?”

“Dead. We believe he sacrificed his soul to perform this… act. We are still not sure about the specifics of what he did.” Azazel informed. 

Surprisingly, a frown began to form on Father's face at the mention of Kokabiel’s potential death. Oh.. right. He must not be aware that Kokabiel fell after his death. 

For him, a loyal Angel of his died, with no way of revival available.

Azazel's mind raced. He needed to salvage this, somehow.

The peace talks had been years in the making. Getting Michael to agree had been like pulling teeth. The political capital he'd expended to make this happen was enormous. If this fell apart now…

It was messy. 

Normally at least a day or two would be taken to reconvene. The news of the old Satan Faction trying to start an ambush was big news. And even though this was far larger and bigger news than those annoyances could ever hope to be, they needed his ear.

Michael, as if hell bent on not letting this go any further, spoke to ‘Him’.

“Father.. they don't lie. This was supposed to be a… negotiation for three-way peace and collaboration. A meeting for a mutually beneficial alliance to put an end to the long war.”

“Mhm.” He turned to Michael. “Michael, did they really have Heaven’s best interests in mind? I doubt that.”

No no no, this can't go on. Father would never agree to such a peace. Fuck. Azazel regretted not pushing back on the Devils when they were putting forth those ridiculous demands on Heaven.

He needed to keep God engaged. He needed to find the right words to convince him to not just go away.

"We're all here anyway," Azazel continued. "The Fallen, the Devils, the Angels. Might as well make use of the opportunity. No need to reschedule when everyone's already gathered. I am sure we can come up with modifications to the deal to better suit the current situation."

Sirzechs nodded in agreement. "Precisely. Such gatherings require extensive coordination. It would be inefficient to disperse now."

God's expression didn't change. He looked at them the way someone might look at insects arguing over crumbs.

"No," he said simply.

The word hung in the air like a death sentence.

Azazel felt his stomach drop. 

No? Just like that?

"We'll reconvene in four hours," God continued, examining one hand with mild curiosity as if he'd never seen it before. "If I feel like it."

Azazel gasped. He actually gasped. The sheer casualness of it, the complete lack of concern for their carefully orchestrated diplomatic effort, it was stunning. 

This was bigger than any individual faction. This was about the stability of the entire supernatural world, and he was treating it like an optional social engagement.

"What if in four hours time we find our schedules busy?" Serafall tried, her voice carefully controlled but with an edge of steel beneath it. 

A subtle reminder that the Satans weren't powerless players to be dismissed.

God turned those bored eyes toward her, and Azazel saw her stiffen slightly.

"Then you will find the Sacred Gears, the ones you have stolen from humanity, back in Heaven," he said with the tone of someone discussing the weather. “And you can go about doing whatever it is you do. Without the addition of your territories in the underworld, considering they will no longer exist. You know, to perhaps free up your schedule?” 

The temperature seemed to drop ten degrees.

Serafall and Sirzhecs were stunned by the words. He was as well. While he knew his Father wasn't one to mince words, this was too blatant of a threat to throw at people as powerful as Sirzech Lucifer.

Was his Father confident enough to take him down? He didn't doubt his capability to do so. God was the strongest being to walk this plane, after all.

Father ultimately didn’t seem to care for an answer to his question, disappearing in a flash of light.

“We shall be leaving as well,” Michael said and looked at Gabriel.

Suddenly, both of the Arch-Seraphs teleported away as well. It was at that moment the purple shine covering everything vanished. The time pausing effect shattered, leaving a very confused coalition of Angels and Fallen. 

Just what had happened?!

-{Kai}-

I looked at the faces of the various leaders boredly, hiding my annoyance and gave Gabriel a wink before teleporting into Heaven… or what I suspected was Heaven, since this was an alternative reality.

I flashed into Heaven in an instant, materialising in the throne room of the Seventh Heaven. Curiously, I couldn’t help but notice the small differences on the throne. 

Seriously, this was such a bizarre destination. 

Not what I had in mind when deciding to travel to a different world.

The moment I arrived, I felt it. 

Something was off.

The Angelic Empowerment… 

My aura. It had turned itself off? 

Maybe because this was a different reality? That made sense, actually. Moving between universes probably reset some things, or didn't carry over. I reached inward and flipped the switch, so to speak, letting my presence flow outward again.

The room shook and I felt that connection snap back. The effect was immediate and massive. Golden light exploded from my position, washing over Heaven in waves. I felt it, as it connected to every angel, every sub-system, every part of Heaven that had been running on fumes since the original God died.

Power surged through the realm like blood returning to a sleeping limb.

The Heavenly System roared to life properly for the first time in who knows how long. I could feel angels across all seven levels of Heaven suddenly standing straighter, their strength returning, their powers magnifying in scale.

They all looked up, eyes wide and alien emotions flashing through them. Before they did what self-respecting Angels did… swarmed and attempted to get up onto the Seventh realm.

I chuckled with genuine amusement. I guess some things never change.

It felt good. Like everything was clicking into place. Perhaps this would prove to be a boon… 

This was going to be fun. 

I’d never say no to having two Heavens…. Better yet, two Gabriels. I perked up. 

Did Azrael exist here? I’d have to find her if she did.

I was examining the throne, curious about how it worked in this universe, when the doors to the throne room slammed open hard enough that they honestly should have broken.

Uriel burst in.

He looked ready for war. Full armor, spear blazing with holy fire, twelve wings spread wide. His eyes were wild with a mix of emotions I couldn't quite parse. 

Then he saw me and just... stopped.

For a long moment, we stared at each other.

"F-father," he said, and his voice cracked on the word.

Then he was across the room, dropping to one knee in front of me. His spear clattered to the ground. His hands were shaking.

"You're really here," he said. "You're really back."

I reached down and pulled him to his feet. 

"Hey Uriel.” 

Uriel looked at me like I might disappear if he blinked. Then he hugged me. Just straight up grabbed me in a bear hug that would have crushed a normal person.

I patted his back contentedly. "Hey, it's okay."

"I thought... we thought you were gone forever." His voice was muffled against my shoulder. "I felt your presence.” 

"I'm back." I gently pushed him back so I could see his face. I grinned and he had the bearings to return it. Even if it was a bit strained.

“What were you doing, bursting in here like the place was on fire?"

"I was summoning the Heavenly Army," Uriel said immediately, straightening up. His warrior mode was kicking back in. "The full Host. Every Angel that’s capable of combat. I was preparing to deploy them to the mortal realm if needed when I sensed your presence and saw your situation. I thought the devils had tried some sort of trickery or well, I don’t know what I thought. Maybe you had never died and they had you imprisoned, or many other ideas…”

He rambled.

I patted his head. “Don’t worry about that. It seems like Kokabiel had sacrificed his soul and performed some sort of ritual to revive me, at least that’s what it seems like. Beyond that, the situation seems to be quite unique.” 

“Kokabiel…?” Uriel said, his eyes shining. “It seems my brother has truly redeemed himself.”

There was joy in that statement and I found myself sad that once more Kokabiel proved to be more than he seemed behind the Fallen facade.

“So what did you need the Heavenly Army for again?” I questioned.

"To protect you, Father." Uriel said it like it was the most obvious thing in the world. "You were seemingly surrounded by Devils and Fallen Angels. In the middle of this… meeting. I thought..." His jaw clenched. "I thought they might try something."

There was true hatred in his voice when he said "Devils." Not hot anger, but cold, righteous fury. The kind that came from seeing terrible things done by terrible people and never forgetting what happened.

He said the word “Devil” like it was a slur.

"What's happening?" Uriel asked. "Michael and Gabriel are still down there. Are you planning to return? Should I mobilize the forces?"

I walked over to the throne and sat down, gesturing for him to relax. "I left Michael and Gabriel at the meeting. And told everyone that I'd come back in two hours if I felt like it. But I don’t know whether Gabriel and Michael are making their way here or not. They probably are.” 

"If you felt like it?" Uriel's eyes widened. "Father, this was a diplomatic summit between the three factions. It's been in the works for years…”

He grinned. 

“Do you wish to destroy that?”

See, that question should sound concerned and warning, but it came off more as a hopeful child trying to guess what present was under the Christmas tree. 

Uriel really didn't like this meeting.

"I wouldn’t go that far yet but they definitely seemed arrogant in their attempts to pressure me." I commented with a hint of annoyance, sitting down in the familiar yet unfamiliar throne. “I can’t say I know the whole story just having got back—”

The doors burst open once more, making me wonder just what the hinges were made of, giving way to Gabriel and Michael. They both barely registered Uriel as they rushed towards me. Reality itself parted, as a burst of wind bellowed out and the two Arch-Seraphs practically wrapped themselves around me. 

“Father!” They both called.

“Michael, Gabriel.” I greeted. “As much as I want to rejoice at our reunion, aren’t many of the Angels down there panicking in the Lower Heavens?”

“Y-yes Father, I’ll get on it right away” Michael apologised.

Gabriel nodded rapidly, seemingly unable to find words. 

I pulled them both into a hug. “We will have our time, trust me. You both should help calm them down. As I am afraid the hinges of this poor door wouldn’t be able to withstand their onslaught.”

My hands slid down Gabriel’s back and her blush made me suppress a grin. 

I pulled back. “Calm the Angels down in the lower Heavens for now and we shall have our time later.” 

“Yes my Lord.” They both said fiercely.

“What about me, father?” Uriel questioned.

“For now I wish for you to remain with me, I imagine it’ll make your siblings feel more at ease, at the very least.” I commented with a knowing smile towards the aforementioned siblings.

Gabriel and Michael blushed slightly, turning to the exit and quickly making their way out.

“I shall remain as long as you wish for my presence!” Uriel said, the ecstatic smile betraying his emotions. He truly did want to stay with me. 

"Then to continue with our conversation, it seems the Devils and Fallen thought they could pressure me into sitting through their little political theater. The Devils especially. Didn't appreciate that." I revealed, my eyes flickering to the door. 

I looked at Uriel, really looked at him. The way he stood there, trying so hard to seem professional while clearly wanting to ask a hundred questions. It reminded me of how Gabriel got sometimes.

"Something on your mind?" I asked.

Uriel hesitated, then the words came out in a rush. "You're different. Not ‘bad different’, just... different. I wanted to make sure you were alright."

I could see the concern in his eyes. The worry that maybe something was wrong with me, that the resurrection had changed me in ways they couldn't fix.

"I'm fine," I said, and I meant it. "Look, I know I'm probably not exactly what you remember. Things happened. I changed. But I'm still me, just... a different version, I guess."

"Different how?"

"Does it matter?" I asked, keeping my voice gentle. "I'm here. I'm back. That's what counts, right?"

Uriel was quiet for a moment, then nodded slowly. "As long as you're okay. That's all that matters to me."

The relief on his face was obvious. He'd been worried I'd be upset at the question, or worse, that I'd be someone else entirely, just wearing their Father's face.

I reached up and ruffled his hair, the same way I did with the younger angels sometimes. He looked startled, then almost embarrassed, but he didn't pull away.

“What do you plan on doing? Would it not be best to recuperate? Perhaps we can reschedule the meeting for a few years or maybe never…” Uriel suggested.

“No, there’s much to be done. I didn't like how those Devils were looking at me and my Angels," I added. “What do you know of these new Devils? They are no doubt different and the self-proclaimed Lucifer and Leviathan don’t share any blood ties to the originals, that I can sense. I’m assuming something changed after my death?”

Was I taking the chance to act like God? Yes. I could have told them the truth, but they needed this more than the truth that their God was dead, and I was just someone who was travelling through Dimensions and ended up here.

Uriel’s face scrunched up. “A Civil war happened, as is natural for their race. They couldn’t hold back their desire for war. Which eventually birthed the Civil War between the Old Satan Faction and the New Satan Faction.”

“So is it safe to say the new Faction won? The Gremory does seem to have quite a bit of power on him.” I said calmly.

“Yes. But the old Satan Faction remains in their shadows, attempting to reclaim their thrones.” Uriel informed me.

I titled my head.

“What’s your opinion on the Devils?” 

There was a moment of silence and I could see Uriel warring with himself.

“The old Satan Faction is made of evil.” It was a plain statement but one that informed me of everything I needed to know. “The new Satan Faction is… both better and worse.”

“How so?” I asked. 

“They are better in general and have stopped the mass harvesting of souls, or even the ritual human sacrifices. In turn, they have created artefacts capable of turning other races into devils.” Uriel explained slowly. “I do believe they want peace, or at least the new Satans do. But they do it through pressure and displays of power. I would not say they want the best for anything other than themselves. While that's not bad, they are best described as leeches, albeit ones that preach of peace and promise wealth.”

“So they drain others to empower themselves but aren’t as bad as they used to be.” I said interestedly.

“Yes.” Uriel nodded, and then asked. “Should we prepare for the resumption of the Great War?”

He didn’t seem to know whether to be excited or worried. I could see him thinking about how many people would die. It made me smile that he could hold such compassion even with his dislike for the likes of the Devils. 

"I don't think there will be a need for that but hold that thought, champ." 

I stood up and walked over to him. He was still hovering close, like he was afraid I'd vanish if he wasn't within arm's reach. It was kind of endearing actually. This powerful warrior Angel acted like a clingy kid.

He was similar and yet different from the Uriel I knew.

"First, help me catch up. What's been happening since I died?"

Uriel's face fell. "I... I must apologize, Father. The Heavenly Army is not what it once was. We've been weakened. We lost so many in the Great War, and without you, we couldn't create more angels. We've been maintaining numbers through the church but it's not the same and it’s always temporary."

I felt myself take a breath and nod. 

Don’t overreact. 

It was never a nice concept to walk upon and that didn’t change with realities. 

These were my Angels.

He looked genuinely distressed about this, like he'd personally failed me.

"We've done our best to keep Heaven running," he continued. "Michael has been shouldering the burden of maintaining the system. Gabriel has managed to maintain high morale. Raphael and I have defended our borders and rescued who we could. But we suspect there are still Angels out there, who were captured by Devils during the war and held prisoner. We've tried to retrieve them but..."

His hands clenched into fists.

"We weren't strong enough," he finished bitterly. "Without you, we couldn't risk an all out confrontation. Heaven would fall."

I listened, filing away the information. This universe was different from mine. The politics, the power balance, the history. All of it was slightly shifted.

Interesting.

"Where are they being kept?" I asked. 

Uriel looked up sharply. "We have a preservation hall. We've recovered some over the centuries. Their bodies are suspended, kept in stasis…”

"Show me."

He didn't hesitate. Uriel led me through Heaven's corridors at a quick pace, still staying close enough that our shoulders almost touched.

Angels were starting to appear near the mansion, staring at me with awe but not approaching. 

We reached a massive hall deep within Heaven's structure. The doors were sealed with powerful wards, but they parted at Uriel's touch.

Inside, the sight was as heartbreaking as I remembered seeing when I walked into the Heavenly Crypts.

Rows upon rows of angels, suspended in columns of soft light. Hundreds of thousands of them. Their bodies were preserved perfectly, their faces peaceful, but their eyes closed. 

Some were missing wings. 

Others bore wounds that had never healed.

I sighed, then walked down the center aisle, looking at all of them. Young angels, old warriors, some I recognized from my own Heaven.

"How many?" I asked.

"Three hundred and seventy two thousand, four hundred and sixteen," 

Of course he knew the exact number. I could see as his eyes took in this disheartening sight and looked red with wrath and grief.

I reached the center of the hall and closed my eyes, gathering my power. 

This should make a statement.

I let my power build, drawing from my immense reserves easily, the air began to glow. The hall was soon filled with golden light that grew brighter and brighter.

Green energy began to seep out in spades and possessed a light of its own. Seeing the sudden changes in the environment, Uriel let out a shout of surprise. 

"Resurrection," I casually said, letting the word echo as it did.

My power exploded outward in a wave that washed over every suspended angel. The columns of light shattered. Wings began to move. Eyes opened. Gasps and cries filled the hall as hundreds of thousands of angels returned to life in an instant.

It took that moment for Gabriel and Michael to rush in, followed by a host of all the Seraphim. 

Uriel stared at the scene emotionally and as expected there was mass confusion, hundreds of thousands of angels were slowly waking up from a daze and that needed to be taken care of.

I felt multiple presences of Seraphim heading our way and as much as I wanted to indulge, I had some things I considered priority for the incoming meeting with the devils. 

“Uriel, stay here. I will be back.”

“Where are you going?” Uriel questioned urgently.

“I have something to take care off, I’ll be back in less than two hours. In which time I’d like to hold a conference before the meeting with the Devils and the Fallen in four hours." I said easily. 

“Wait Father, shouldn’t I come?” Uriel  questioned. 

“That won’t be needed, I assure you I’m just going to sort some issues out.” I dismissed his concerns easily. 

-{Kuroka}-

Kuroka stretched out on the plush couch in her section of the Khaos Brigade fortress, one leg draped over the armrest while her tail swayed lazily behind her. 

The whole place was massive, sure, but this particular wing had been taken over by her team. So it was rare to find anyone coming to disturb them other than giving orders on new tasks to do. 

Perks of being a relatively powerful figure in a powerful team of quirky individuals.

She bit into a snack she'd stolen from Bikou’s section of the fridge, thinking over the rather big event taking place today. 

The Old Satan Faction was making their big move today, attacking the three factions during their little peace meeting. Stupid, really. Those old fossils were living in the past, thinking they could just waltz in and reclaim some glory they never really had.

Living on a bloodline that had been all but wiped out and going against the scary monsters that called themselves the New Satans. Along with the Fallen and Heaven was just an add on. 

Still, with Ophis' power backing them, they'd at least be annoying. Might even cause some real damage before getting crushed. It depended if Lucifer or Levithan wanted to play around. 

She was sure they would be leading the charge as the balance of power had come to determine. 

Kuroka yawned, finding the whole situation more boring than exciting. 

Vali had gone off to do whatever Vali did when he wasn't looking for strong opponents to fight. She'd offered to tag along but he'd waved her off, saying something about wanting to see how things played out.

So here she was, lazing around as a cat did, getting her beauty rest. 

The door to her wing opened.

Kuroka's ears twitched. She hadn't sensed anyone approaching, which was weird. She sat up slightly, ready to be annoyed at whoever decided to bother her nap time.

Then she saw him.

A man walked in, and she had to admit, he was hot. 

Really hot. 

Tall, confident stride and there was something about the way he carried himself that immediately caught her attention. It was akin to someone who just didn’t care and under those eyes shimmered a hint of annoyance. 

Not many people could surprise her, but this guy had just appeared out of nowhere.

Teleportation perhaps?

He must be a known member in that case. 

"Well now," Kuroka purred, sitting up properly and letting her kimono slip just a bit. "Didn't know we were getting new members. And such a handsome one too, nya."

The man smiled, easy and relaxed. "Sorry to intrude. I'm a bit lost actually."

His voice matched his appearance. 

Smooth, warm. Kuroka found herself genuinely interested, which didn't happen often.

"Lost? In the massive fortress?" She stood up, walking closer with that natural sway she knew drew attention. "I don’t blame you, I’m pretty sure they made this a maze on purpose.”

"Yeah, talk about a complex building plan" he said, meeting her gaze without any of the usual nervousness men got around her. "I doubt even… the Architect of this place knows the way around.”

There was a strange sort of amusement he expressed in the last sentence, as if there was something funny that only he understood.

She laughed. "What are you looking for then? Maybe I can help, nya."

"The Old Satan Faction. I've got… news about their attack." He smiled. 

That made her pause. News about the attack? The guy didn't look like he belonged to those fossils. Too young, too modern. But then again, appearances could be deceiving.

"Oh?" Kuroka circled him slowly, taking in every detail. No fear, no tension. Just calm confidence. "That's pretty important news. What kind of information are we talking about?"

"The kind they'll want to hear directly," he said. "But I need to find them first."

She stopped in front of him, close enough that most men would've started stammering. He just smiled at her, like he was enjoying the game as much as she was.

"You're interesting," Kuroka said, genuinely meaning it. "Not many people can keep their cool around me, nya."

"You're interesting too," he replied. "Though fluffy cat ears will do that and I do need those directions if you would please.”

Kuroka considered for a moment, then shrugged. 

Why not? If he had news about the attack, the Old Satan Faction would want to know. And if he was lying, well, they'd deal with him. Either way, it wasn't her problem.

"Down the main corridor, take the third left, then straight until you hit the war room. Big ugly doors, can't miss it." She tilted her head. "Though I'm curious now. What's your name, handsome?"

The man's smile widened just slightly as he turned to leave.

"Kai," he said.

Then he was gone, walking down the corridor like he owned the place.

Kuroka stood there for a moment, tail swishing thoughtfully behind her.

Something about that whole encounter felt off. But in an interesting way.

She'd have to ask Vali about him later.

-END-

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