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When The Devil Adores The Angel: The Fallen

Following the tumultuous war incident in Bethlehem, Lucifer, infamous as the Devil, bore the weight of his dark and malevolent reputation. Yet, an unforeseen twist of fate unfolded as he crossed paths with Jophiel, the archangel of beauty, also hope, charm, and love. Their destinies, once divergent, became entwined anew by the red strings of fate, initiating an extraordinary metamorphosis within Lucifer. Gradually, a profound transformation overcame him, ushering forth a refined persona, one defined by empathy and compassion. In a dramatic defiance of his sinister nature, Lucifer evolved into a gentleman of unparalleled grace, thereby challenging the very essence of his diabolical identity.

CharleeMaigne · Fantasie
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35 Chs

Chapter 1: Gone and Began

After God's magnificent creation of heaven, earth, and the vast universe, His angels reveled in the divine splendor of His kingdom. Their joyful praises echoed through the celestial realms, where peace and harmony prevailed alongside the celestial creatures. Among these celestial beings stood Lucifer, a Seraphim of the highest order, who had been one of the first angels to grace God's creation. His place in the hierarchy was close to God's very throne.

In this divine hierarchy, Michael stood as the sole Archangel, while other orders of angels, such as Cherubim, Thrones, Dominions, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, and Angels, all existed in awe of God's creation. Among them, Lucifer shone as the brightest, his beauty and power earning him the highest reverence and praise among the angelic host.

Yet, despite the perfection of God's creation, an evil entity began to sow the seeds of discontent in Lucifer's heart. Pride grew within him, and he dared to confront the Almighty about the nature of humanity. His pride, an insurmountable mountain of arrogance, dared to challenge God Himself.

"I will raise my throne above the stars of God," Lucifer declared in his heart. "I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High."

With each word, Lucifer's pride swelled, blinding him to all else but his own desires. Jealousy and ambition led him down a treacherous path. He sought to surpass God, to become superior, and in this dark descent, Lucifer corrupted his brothers and sisters, turning trillions of angels to his cause.

In that fateful moment, sin entered the universe.

"Awake and arise, or forever be cursed to insignificance!" Lucifer's voice echoed through the heavenly realms.

With arrogance as his banner, Lucifer led a rebellion against God. He marshaled legions of angels to his side, believing himself invincible.

Michael, the resolute Archangel, confronted Lucifer. "Those who defy God's commandments are not worthy even in their own right."

Lucifer mocked, his laughter a bitter retort. "Can't you see that death lies in wait on your path, ready to consume all hope?"

Michael's reply was unwavering. "All of you will be deposed from this heaven."

As the followers of Lucifer descended upon Michael, the archangel spread his wings and extended his hands, invoking his ultimate power:

"May the power of God be with me."

The celestial battlefield quivered with anticipation as Michael prepared to unleash his ultimate ability, "Like of God: Heavenly Push." 

Lucifer and his followers caught badly on the Golden Magnetic Force from Michael's power that caused them to fall into heaven. 

Lucifer and his followers, caught in the relentless grip of Michael's Golden Magnetic Force, plummeted from the heavens. The power was overwhelming, causing Lucifer's blackened wings to smolder with the searing marks of their descent. His angelic appearance remained, a stark contrast to his followers who were transformed into grotesque figures with bat-like wings. They were now known as the fallen angels, forsaken and cursed.

Yet, as Lucifer and his companions landed in this newly created realm known as Hell, he found himself undeterred. The flames of rebellion still burned in his heart. He seized control of this infernal domain, and the fallen angels and devils bowed to his will.

Days passed since Lucifer's betrayal, and God, in His infinite wisdom, decided to replenish the ranks of angels who had fallen. He assembled the Seven Archangels, the embodiment of the Seven Heavenly Virtues, with Michael as their leader. These high-ranking angels were tasked with protecting the righteous against Lucifer's damnation.

Thousands of years passed, marked by humanity's fall from grace when Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Two millennia later, God made a promise to Abraham, a covenant that his descendants would multiply like the stars in the sky. God's blessings were to shine upon Abraham's descendants, a promise to bless all the families of the earth through them. God's plan was to restore His glory within and through humans.

However, Lucifer watched with displeasure as humanity began to turn away from his temptations. Satan, in his fury, desired to destroy humans, but Lucifer sensed an opportunity.

"The earth's continent is divided in two," Lucifer mused, his eyes fixed on the lands of Nazareth and Daleth. "The Nazareth remains firmly on my Father's side, while the Daleth, some still don't care for the legacy of His only begotten Son, Father gave to them. Perhaps this is the opportunity we've been waiting for."

"Commence Conquest!" Lucifer's command resounded through Hell, and the devils mobilized, heading for Daleth.

In a cunning move, Lucifer and his devil comrades disguised themselves as humans, manipulating the sinful desires that lay dormant in the hearts of men and women. Gambling, drug use, debauchery—these sins spread like wildfire as people willingly indulged. When the priests attempted to intervene, they were met with fierce opposition, even violence. The purity of humanity began to wane, and darkness crept across the land.

Lucifer reveled in his victory. "Yes, precisely."

He gazed up at the heavens. "As I told you, Father... your great creation will forsake you, and they will choose their own paths."

Weeks later, the priests of Nazareth, concerned for their brethren in Daleth, embarked on a journey to save them. What they found was a land marred by sin and corruption. The priests of Daleth, desperate for salvation, set sail with their Nazarenian counterparts, seeking refuge in the land that still clung to the teachings of God.

The battle between light and darkness raged on, as Lucifer's influence spread further, and the faithful sought to protect the flickering flames of their faith in a world slipping into abyss.

In the 19th century, after Lucifer's conquest of Daleth and its renaming to Netherus, the land had become a dark and foreboding realm, reminiscent of the underworld. The Present Day had arrived, and a solemn gathering occurred in the Celestial Kingdom. The horns of the kingdom rang out, calling all the celestial beings to assemble before God's throne. Every being, from the mightiest angel to the humblest creature, bowed in reverence as a saint ascended the tower behind God's majestic chair, unfurling a sacred scroll.

"Celestials of heaven," the saint proclaimed, "The Almighty Creator wishes to reveal His prophecy concerning the current events unfolding not only on Earth but throughout the entirety of creation."

Amongst the angels, murmurs of anticipation and curiosity rippled through the assembly. One voice dared to speculate, "Fallen?"

"Could it be a message from Lucifer?" another angel pondered.

The saint continued, "Now, let us heed the words of God's prophecy." With great solemnity, he unrolled the scroll and began to read aloud.

"After had depraved, it got arise."

"Someone will be pardon, and opted for."

"The prophecy shall commence when the thunder roars four times and the rains fall."

A hushed reverence settled over the assembly as they absorbed the words of the prophecy. It was a message of hope and redemption, shrouded in mystery.

The saint called upon Michael, the leader of the Archangels, who had interacted closely with humanity. "Michael, the Almighty Creator has entrusted the people and the Earth unto you. He shall not interfere in the destined events that lie ahead."

Michael humbly knelt before the tower, ready to accept this profound responsibility. Metatron, the celestial scribe, stepped forward and presented him with a powerful weapon, the Sword of the Divine Rapier.

"The Almighty has decreed that this sword symbolizes your likeness to Him," the saint explained. "The leader of the Archangels."

With gratitude in his heart, Michael accepted the divine sword, aware of the great honor bestowed upon him. As the saint vanished, God's throne bathed all of heaven in its radiant blessings.

Meanwhile, in the abyss, Lucifer, the fallen angel once known as the prince of heaven, and now the Demon Lord of Hell, gathered all the devils for a grand council. In the imposing throne hall of Netherus, the Seven Deadly Sins and the high-ranking devils of Hell convened to set in motion a sinister plan known as "Domination." Darkness and malevolence gripped their hearts as they conspired in the shadows, awaiting the unfolding of God's prophecy and the challenges it would bring.

The Arch Demons (Seven Deadly Sins):

Lucifer – Pride (Also Punish)

Beelzebub – Gluttony

Satan – Wrath (Also Wreck)

Leviathan – Envy

Mammon – Greed

Belphegor – Sloth

Asmodeus – Lust (Also Seduce)

The High Rank Devils:

Mundus – Pride 

Pythius – Despair 

Merihem – Lust 

Dis – Wrath 

Mephistopheles - Pride (also Wrath) 

Dagon – Envy 

Belial - Sloth (also Wrath)

Bael – Wrath 

Barbelo – Pride 

Astaroth - Sloth (also Gluttony) 

Abaddon - Sloth (also Wrath and Discord) 

Amaymon – Wrath

Levistus – Wrath (also Envy) 

Dispater – Pride

Samael - Wrath (Also Poison)

Other Arch Demon and High Rank Devil:

Lilith, Lilia/Diane - Pride (also Lust and Wrath) 

Amidst the foreboding shadows of the infernal abyss, the conference of devils convened with a sense of sinister determination. Lucifer, the fallen angel and now the reigning Demon Lord, stood at the helm, addressing his malevolent assembly.

"My fellow devils," he began, his voice echoing through the cavernous depths of Hell, "We have achieved a great feat. As I foresaw, humanity continues to embrace its darkest impulses, proving themselves to be truly wretched."

Lucifer's crimson eyes bore a cold, calculating gleam as he continued, "The time has come for us to expand our dominion beyond the confines of Hell and Netherus. We shall set our sights on Nazareth, beginning with the invasion of Bethlehem."

Beelzebub, his grotesque form quivering with excitement, acknowledged Lucifer's plan. "A magnificent plan, your highness. We shall follow your lead."

Satan, the embodiment of Wrath, chimed in, his voice a rumbling storm, "Indeed, sin is but an illusion, a feeble construct. Humans revel in their carnal desires without consequence, and it is our duty to show them the path."

Mammon, representing Greed, sought permission to speak. "Your majesty, I propose that we focus on the preparation and fortification of our armies. The angels will surely act in defense of humanity, and we must be ready to face them."

Lucifer nodded, granting Mammon permission to continue. "We must ensure that our forces are well-prepared, for we can be certain that the angels will respond with righteous fury."

Lucifer couldn't help but laugh as he spoke of their readiness. "Indeed, our Mad Dragons are ever-hungry for the flight of white doves, and our armies are poised for any eventuality."

Leviathan, the envious one, spoke up, "Let our Lust for conquest drive us forward."

Asmodeus, the master of Lust and Seduction, added, "Indeed, my lord, our desires will fuel our ascent."

With a resolute gaze, Lucifer rose to his feet, his presence commanding the attention of all present. "This time, my brethren, we demons shall conquer not only the Earth but also Nazareth itself. We shall make them turn to us, worship us, and I, Lucifer, shall become superior to my former Father."

A chorus of fervent cheers erupted from the assembled devils, hailing Lucifer's vision.

Lucifer designated Levistus to journey to Bethlehem to capture the priests, turning them into hostages for their nefarious purposes. As the devils dispersed, disappearing into the shadows to prepare for "Domination," Lucifer gazed upon the Earth, a malevolent smile curling upon his lips.

Meanwhile, in the celestial realms of heaven, the angels conversed with a sense of growing concern. It was a turbulent time, and their leader, Michael, took charge. Blowing his celestial horn, he summoned the Archangels and high-ranking angels to gather for a conference in the hallowed Angel's Hall. It was time for them to devise a plan of their own—something they called "Restoration."

The Archangels (Seven Heavenly Virtue):

Michael (Like of God) - Justice (also Humility, Faith and Charity)

Gabriel (Strength of God) - Faith (also Kindness and Diligence)

Raphael (Heal of God) - Temperance (also Justice and Humility)

Jophiel (Beauty of God) – Hope, (also Love and Charm)

Uriel (Light of God) - Wisdom (also Retribution and Chastity)

Camael (Sight of God) - Fortitude (also Love)

Zadkiel (Righteousness of God) Loyalty (also Righteousness)

The High Rank Angels:

Azrael (Retribution of God) - Generosity (also Charity and Patience)

Cassiel (Speed of God) - Temperance (also Respect and Justice)

Raguel (Friend of God) - Justice (also Fairness and Harmony)

Remiel (Thunder of God) - Compassion (also Kindness and Mercy)

Selaphiel (Prayer of God) - Truth (also Honor and Spirituality)

Jegudiel (Determination of God) - Determination (also Courage, Diligence, Hard-Working)

Barachiel (Lightning of God) - Fortune (also Love and Duty)

Phanuel (Face of God) - Hope (also Formality, Truth and Judgment)

Ariel (Lion of God) - Confidence (also Family and Protection)

Anael (Grace of God) - Joy (also Love, Humility and Protection)

Sariel (Command of God) - Morality (also Protection, Chastity and Leadership)

Amenadiel (Will of God) - Peace (also Loyalty and Justice)

In the celestial sanctuary of the Angel's Hall, Michael, the resolute Archangel, ascended to the forefront, his presence commanding the attention of the gathered angels. His voice, infused with a sense of duty and determination, rang through the chamber as he began to address his celestial brethren.

"My brothers and sisters," Michael began, his voice a steady beacon of strength, "I stand here today with a heavy heart, witnessing the events that have befallen Daleth, now known as Netherus. Our Almighty Father looks upon these developments with a disapproving eye, and for a time, His presence has withdrawn."

A solemn hush fell upon the assembly as they absorbed Michael's words. It was a moment of reckoning, a call to action. Michael continued, "In light of these dire circumstances, I propose the initiation of a plan we shall call 'Restoration.' Our mission is to restore Father's legacy upon Daleth, to guide those who have faltered back onto the righteous path."

Raphael, the angel of healing and wisdom, spoke up with a touch of sorrow in his voice, "Indeed, Brother Michael. It is disheartening to witness the choices made by the inhabitants of Daleth. They have been granted the precious gift of Free Will, and yet, they have chosen to abuse it, turning away from God's commandments."

The angels in attendance shared a collective sense of sorrow and resolve. The mission before them was a challenging one, for they would need to reclaim the hearts and souls of those who had strayed into darkness.

As the conference in the Angel's Hall unfolded, the angels began to discuss the details of the "Restoration" plan, a sacred undertaking aimed at bringing light back to the fallen world of Netherus and, with it, the possibility of redemption for those who had strayed from the path of righteousness. 

The angels gathered in the hallowed Angel's Hall, their concerns and determination evident in their voices as they discussed the dire situation unfolding on Daleth, now known as Netherus.

Camael, the angel of divine strength, expressed his displeasure, "It's truly disheartening to witness what has transpired."

Jophiel, the angel of wisdom, added a note of hope, "I pray that one day, the Earth will return to normal, as it was in the time of Abraham's covenant."

"I strongly agree with that sentiment," chimed in another angel.

Gabriel, the messenger of God, pointed out a harsh reality, "Abraham's descendants are still present on Earth, yet they are vulnerable to manipulation by the devils."

Uriel, known for her fiery disposition, voiced her frustration, "Stupidity is truly one of Father's worst creations. Chaos can end, evil can be vanquished, but stupidity seems to endure, much like His glory. What's worse is that many of our angelic brethren have fallen prey to such corruption..."

Zadkiel, the angel of mercy, attempted to soothe Uriel, "Calm down, milady. Your beauty will be tarnished if you remain so grumpy."

Raphael, the angel of healing and wisdom, acknowledged their concerns, "You both have valid points, Uriel and Zadkiel."

Amid the discussions, Uriel turned to Michael, seeking guidance, "Michael, your highness, when should we commence the 'Restoration' plan?"

Michael, the leader of the Archangels, spoke with a heavy heart, "I cannot provide a clear answer at this moment, for Daleth is firmly in Lucifer's grasp. We must proceed with caution."

Zadkiel cautioned, "The devil is surely making moves as we speak."

Gabriel concurred, "We must be vigilant in our actions. Our adversaries have keen eyes and will be watchful of our motives."

Raphael offered words of unity, "Then let us proceed with care and wisdom, as we embark on this daunting task."

The angels knew that the path ahead was fraught with challenges, but their commitment to restoring Father's legacy and guiding humanity back to the path of righteousness burned brighter than ever. 

In the aftermath of their discussion, the angels considered their options carefully. Disguising themselves as humans seemed an impractical choice at the moment, so they decided to prioritize the strengthening of their celestial warriors in preparation for potential future conflicts.

Michael assured the assembly, "Our Heavenly Hosts stand ever ready for any such eventuality, and our numbers remain steadfast."

With a sense of unity and resolve, Michael addressed his brethren, "For now, my brothers and sisters, the 'Restoration' plan will be put on hold. We must trust that the presence of our Almighty Father will always guide us."

With those words, Michael concluded the meeting, and the angels dispersed to carry out their assigned tasks.

Michael then tasked Cassiel with a mission to patrol Bethlehem, where the presence of devils was suspected. As Cassiel arrived in Bethlehem, he observed priests going about their duties, distributing fliers to the local residents. However, danger lurked nearby as the devils, acting on Levistus's orders under Lucifer's command, moved to capture the unsuspecting priests.

With swift precision, Cassiel intervened at the critical moment, utilizing his remarkable speedster ability to whisk the priests away to safety. The priests found themselves in a small, abandoned town, far from the clutches of the devils. The sudden disappearance of the priests left the bystanders in shock and disbelief.

"Did the priests just vanish?" one person wondered aloud.

"Why did they suddenly fly away like that?" another questioned, bewildered by the inexplicable turn of events.

As Levistus grew increasingly angered by Cassiel's interference, he wasted no time in pursuing the swift high-rank angel. Cassiel, aware of the potential danger and feeling the weight of being tracked, made a quick decision to seek refuge in the shadows, out of sight from his pursuer.

He found a concealed, dark corner where he could momentarily hide, hoping to elude Levistus and his relentless pursuit. Cassiel's unease weighed heavily on him as he contemplated his next move.

Meanwhile, Levistus pressed forward, his determination unwavering. He traced Cassiel's celestial wings and eventually arrived at the abandoned place where Cassiel had hidden the priests. However, Cassiel had taken precautionary measures. He had placed an unbreakable spell on the priests, rendering them invisible to the devils' prying eyes.

Cassiel, his voice a soft whisper carried on the air, urged the priests to flee. The sudden, eerie command frightened the priests, who took off running in fear, leaving behind the devil-infested area.

Levistus, undeterred, ordered his devilish minions to scour every building, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to locate Cassiel. One of the devils, sharp-eyed and keen, spotted the telltale feathers on Cassiel's wings and zeroed in on his location.

Cassiel, realizing that his hideout had been compromised, made a hasty retreat upstairs. However, as he ascended the stairs, they betrayed him, groaning and giving way beneath his feet. Cassiel tumbled, his cover blown.

The devil who had spotted him wasted no time, raising the alarm for his comrades. Levistus, alerted to the situation, arrived promptly, encircling Cassiel with his malevolent forces.

Cornered and with no other recourse, Cassiel unfurled his celestial Shield of Respect, preparing to fend off the encroaching devils. It was a tense standoff, a battle between light and darkness, unfolding in the shadows of the abandoned building. 

In the midst of the intense battle, Cassiel realized that he had been tracked and cornered. With resignation and a touch of irony, he quipped, "Well, I guess I have to fight back since we've been tracked and caught. Silly me!"

Channeling the divine power within him, Cassiel invoked the "Speed of God: Flash of Temperance." In an instant, he became a blur of motion, executing a zigzag pattern of blinding speed that left the devils in his wake, vanquished before they could react.

Levistus, observing the dazzling display of speed, couldn't help but find the battle intriguing. He quickly launched an attack, summoning an Ice Sword of Rogue to clash with Cassiel. Their confrontation turned the once-abandoned town into a battleground, with immense casualties and destruction that threatened to reduce the town to rubble.

Amidst their fierce clash, Levistus taunted Cassiel, acknowledging his swiftness. "A high-rank angel indeed, and swift as well. But know this, our Demon Lord is even greater in speed!"

Cassiel met Levistus's taunt with a confident smirk. "We'll see about that."

The battle between Cassiel and Levistus raged on, each combatant pushing their abilities to the limit. In a daring move, Levistus stepped back and hurled his Ice Sword high into the sky. The sword transformed into massive clouds, casting the town below into darkness and bringing a bitter chill to the air.

Levistus unleashed his wrathful power, creating a tempestuous "Wrath of Demon: Ice Storm of Envy." The town was swiftly engulfed in a furious blizzard, with winds howling and the temperature plummeting. Cassiel found himself struggling as the icy storm threatened to freeze his very being, and the thick mist rendered him blind to Levistus's movements.

With a triumphant tone, Levistus taunted Cassiel, "Now, angel of God, is that your furthest ability? What a shame!"

Cassiel, trapped within the icy maelstrom, knew he had to dig deep and find a way to overcome this formidable adversary. 

Levistus, though encased in ice, continued to exude a chilling confidence. He reveled in his own ambition, even as he laughed heartily at Cassiel's predicament.

Cassiel, determined and unwavering, struggled against the relentless Ice Storm of Envy. His body threatened to freeze over entirely, but he refused to yield. With immense effort, he managed to break free from the icy prison that bound him, starting with his feet and then his entire body, using his celestial shield to protect himself from the biting cold.

Ascending into the stormy sky, Cassiel reached the eye of the tempest, where Levistus was situated. With resolve in his heart, Cassiel invoked the "Speed of God: Cast of Justice" and unleashed a spell from his shield. He commanded the shield to execute the devil in the name of their Father.

The celestial shield streaked through the icy barriers Levistus had conjured, shattering them into countless pieces. The collateral damage caused a small-scale catastrophe in the abandoned town below. The shield struck true, cutting Levistus in half.

In his final moments, Levistus's voice trembled as he spoke of the impending war and the potential dominion of his Demon Lord. With a last incantation, Levistus met his end, vanishing like a piece of paper consumed by flames.

Cassiel, relieved that the priests had escaped unharmed, surveyed the now calm and clear sky. The weather had returned to normal, and the immediate danger had passed.

Returning to the heavenly realm, Cassiel sought out Michael to deliver his report. With a heavy heart, he approached his leader.

"Your highness, I have some bad news for you," Cassiel began.

Michael, bracing himself for the news, replied, "Carry on, Cassiel."

Cassiel recounted the events in Bethlehem, explaining how he had encountered the devils' attempt to capture the priests and engaged in a fierce battle with Levistus. He conveyed the devil's ominous final words, "The war will break out, and the Bethlehem will be in my king's domain, as well as the Nazareth."

The grave implications of Levistus's words hung heavily in the air, leaving the angels to contemplate the challenges that lay ahead in their ongoing battle against the forces of darkness.

As Michael contemplated the grim situation caused by Lucifer's actions, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of displeasure. He inquired about the safety of the priests, eager to ensure their well-being.

"What about the priests?" Michael asked, his concern evident.

Cassiel provided reassurance, saying, "They are in a safe place, far from the reach of the devils."

Michael issued a directive, instructing Cassiel to return to the priests and advise them to stay within the church's confines. Cassiel complied, and, owing to his angelic appearance, the priests trusted him implicitly. He led them back to Bethlehem, their place of sanctuary.

Unbeknownst to them, a vigilant devil had observed the incident and promptly returned to Hell to report what had transpired.

Meanwhile, Jophiel approached Michael, her concern mirrored in her words. "Big Brother, I've heard Cassiel's report a while ago."

Michael listened attentively as Jophiel continued, "If the devils are indeed hunting the priests, and there is a looming war set to invade Bethlehem and subsequently the entire Nazareth, I suggest we build a classified underground establishment in Bethlehem. This way, people will have a safe haven and remain unharmed."

Impressed by her idea, Michael agreed, "That's a brilliant suggestion, Jophiel. Once you've initiated the construction, I will communicate an announcement to Bethlehem through Uriel, Gabriel, and you."

Jophiel nodded in acknowledgment and descended to Earth with her subordinates. They began the construction of the classified underground establishment, working swiftly to ensure the safety of the priests and the people of Bethlehem. However, unbeknownst to them, a group of devils had been tracking their movements.

As they worked on building the underground refuge, Jophiel inspected the area and stumbled upon a previously unnoticed secret passage. Puzzled, she wondered aloud, "How strange! I checked this ground a while ago and saw no flaws, yet now, there's something devilish here."

Ignoring a seemingly vintage rope on the ground, she inadvertently triggered a trap. A large sack containing sleeping potion descended, ensnaring her and causing her to fall into a deep slumber. The devils quickly seized the opportunity, using the rope to kidnap her.

Witnessing the abduction, one brave angel attempted to rescue Jophiel but was confronted by two devils. He skillfully dodged their attacks but was unable to prevent the devils from escaping with Jophiel, heading to the dungeon of Netherus. There, she would join other kidnapped priests, their fate hanging in the balance. One devil returned to Hell to report their successful capture.

The two devils hurriedly returned to Hell and reported their findings to Lucifer. Eager to hear their news, he demanded, "What's the rush? Spit it out."

 

The two devils hesitated for a moment, recognizing that they had both good and bad news to share. Finally, one of them spoke up, "We have some good news and bad news, our lord."

Lucifer, clearly annoyed, reluctantly replied, "Tell me the bad news first."

The devil who had witnessed Levistus's defeat in Bethlehem reported, "Levistus failed to capture the remaining priests in Bethlehem and was killed by a high-ranking angel."

Lucifer's displeasure was evident, and his black aura surged with anger. The two devils trembled, fearing his wrath.

"So, we've lost a potential captive. No matter, we have time to achieve that. As I've said, there's no need to rush," Lucifer commented dismissively.

Eager to provide some good news, the other devil stepped forward and revealed, "Fortunately, my lord, we've captured a female angel at the location where they were constructing an establishment."

Lucifer's interest was piqued, and he declared confidently, "A female angel, you say? A weak one, I presume. How pitiful."

The devil's tone indicated that he cared little for the angel's strength.

Lucifer decided to visit Netherus to inspect the captured angel in person. As he arrived, the priests and other prisoners cowered in terror at the sight of him. Lucifer reveled in their fear, savoring the sensation of being a Supreme Being who inspired fear in many. The devils knelt before him, ready to provide their reports, along with the atheists who had betrayed their faith and aligned with the priests.

"Your, Majesty! Reporting for duty," one of the devils proclaimed.

Another devil continued, "As Lord Beelzebub suggested, we've also captured some atheists who betrayed us and aligned themselves with the priests."

Lucifer regarded the atheists with disgust, and one of them pleaded for mercy while the others followed suit. The stage was set for Lucifer to assert his dominance and further his plans for domination.

The atheists, realizing the gravity of their actions and the consequences of betraying Lucifer, began to beg for forgiveness.

"My Lord, forgive us for breaking faith with you," one pleaded.

"Yes, yes, our Lord, forgive us, and let us make amends to you!" another implored.

Lucifer, with a sense of contempt for their betrayal, responded coldly, "Oh! So this is how our beloved atheists beg..."

He contemplated their words for a moment, then continued, "I guess you're of no use to us after you break faith in us."

With a sinister glint in his red-blooded eyes, Lucifer ordered the devils in attendance to immediately exterminate the repentant atheists. The devils carried out the grim task without hesitation, ending the lives of those who had once aligned with the priests.

As the atheists met their unfortunate end, the captured priests trembled in fear, imagining their own grim fate. Lucifer relished the terror he instilled in them, his laughter echoing through the dungeon as he continued his dark descent into malevolence.

Lucifer and the devil ventured into the cell where Jophiel lay in a deep slumber, the effects of the sleeping potion still holding her in its grip. However, what Lucifer didn't expect was the sheer beauty of the angel before him. Jophiel possessed a goddess-like beauty that captivated even his own eyes, and he found himself strangely drawn to her, an unfamiliar feeling coursing through him. Yet, he refused to acknowledge these emotions, as his pride and resolve took precedence. Without uttering a word, he left her cell, sealing it with an enchantment barrier.

The devil accompanying Lucifer noticed something amiss and inquired, "What's the matter, your highness? You have a bit of red on your cheeks. Are you feeling well, your majesty?"

Lucifer abruptly halted in his steps and took a deep breath. The devil's curiosity persisted, and he attempted to speak once more, only to be met with Lucifer's fury. The devil quickly understood the gravity of the situation and wisely chose silence, valuing his own life.

Lucifer wasted no time and ordered the execution of the captured priests, including Jophiel, by the following day.

Meanwhile, one of Jophiel's subordinates returned to heaven and urgently reported the incident to Michael.

"What?! Did Jophiel get kidnapped?" Michael exclaimed in disbelief.

"Yes, your highness. Archangel Jophiel is in the custody of the devils in Netherus, along with the priests who were also captured," the subordinate confirmed.

Michael was taken aback. "But how did this happen?"

The subordinate explained, "We didn't anticipate that the devils were already roaming the Earth, and they outnumbered us when they kidnapped Archangel Jophiel. It seems they set a trap primarily for the priests."

Michael absorbed this information and said, "So the devils have made their move, and they've already captured our priests and Jophiel."

"They acted swiftly, catching us off guard," the subordinate added. "There's no sign of Cassiel yet, but he may be on his way to Bethlehem, possibly with the priests he rescued."

Michael contemplated the situation, realizing that their struggle against Lucifer's forces had begun in earnest.

Michael gathered Gabriel and Raphael for an emergency meeting, knowing that Lucifer's actions had thrown their plans into uncertainty. He wasted no time in addressing the situation.

"My brothers, it appears that Lucifer has set his sights on our priests and Jophiel, and they are now in the clutches of Netherus. We need to determine his intentions and plans," Michael explained.

Gabriel and Raphael couldn't hide their concern at the dire turn of events.

"Do you think this will impact Jophiel's proposed plan?" Gabriel inquired.

Raphael responded, "It seems likely, given the circumstances."

Gabriel suggested, "Shouldn't we try to open a line of communication with them? To ensure the safety of our priests and Jophiel."

Michael nodded and replied, "If it serves the greater purpose and allows Jophiel's plan to succeed, then we will pursue negotiations. However, if our efforts are met with hostility, we must be prepared for the possibility of war, even if it's not our desire."

Raphael acknowledged, "We have little choice but to follow your lead, your majesty."

With their decision made, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, accompanied by a few angels, descended to Netherus during the setting sun. They encountered a group of devils in the Naggaroth Sea, who blocked their path. Michael instructed the angels not to engage in combat, emphasizing their intention for peaceful negotiations.

Michael addressed the devils, "Armies of Netherus, or Hell as you may call it, we have come not as aggressors but as envoys for negotiations with your Lord. If it pleases you, you may guide us or observe as we enter Netherus to speak with your Lord."

One of the devils relayed the message to Lucifer, who was overseeing the dungeons in Netherus. Upon hearing the news, Lucifer unleashed a violet aura, causing the priests in his custody to faint and silencing their cries. He then ascended into the sky and arrived at the Naggaroth Sea just as Beelzebub was returning to Netherus.

Beelzebub nervously greeted Lucifer, "Your highness, what an unexpected encounter."

Lucifer's presence in this moment raised tension, and the fate of the negotiations hung in the balance. 

Lucifer, with his characteristic confidence, addressed Beelzebub's concerns about the unexpected encounter with the Archangels.

"Do not worry, my brother," Lucifer reassured him, keeping his demeanor composed. "They have come here with the intent to negotiate."

However, Beelzebub remained skeptical, his weapon trained on the angels. He voiced his uncertainty, "I understand that they are here for negotiations, but I have no knowledge of the nature of their terms."

Lucifer, ever cunning, couldn't help but speculate about the motives of the Archangels. He suspected that they might be driven by a desire to save their priests and people. With a sly smile hidden behind his regal facade, he contemplated the unfolding situation, always staying one step ahead in his mind.

Gabriel, always the diplomat, extended an offer to Lucifer. "Lucifer, if I may suggest, we should find a more suitable place to hold our peace talks. This way, both parties can be more comfortable during our negotiations."

Lucifer's response was swift and dismissive. "I refuse."

Gabriel, somewhat taken aback by the brusque refusal, sought clarification. "I beg your pardon?"

Lucifer reiterated his stance firmly. "I refuse. We are perfectly fine here in the middle of the ocean. There's no need to waste time searching for a more comfortable location."

Raphael, while displeased by Lucifer's tone, heeded Michael's silent signal to remain calm. Meanwhile, Beelzebub and the two devils received orders to keep a close watch on their surroundings.

Michael, undeterred by Lucifer's initial rejection, presented his proposal. "Lucifer, if it is allowed... I suggest that you consider imprisoning the priests and our angel as part of a peace agreement. In exchange, we, as celestial supremes, could jointly rule over Nazareth and Netherus, promoting equality among our respective people, even though the inhabitants of Netherus may have committed sins. They shall be forgiven."

Lucifer's eyes blazed red as he contemplated Michael's offer. He found it intriguing but could not resist the opportunity to taunt his brother. "That suggestion of yours, Michael, is indeed splendid! 'Both ruling Nazareth and Netherus.' But, you see, I have a different vision. I prefer the idea of 'both ruling the Earth.' Isn't that magnificent and poetic?"

Michael sensed a darker undercurrent in Lucifer's words and questioned him. "Why, then, did you capture those priests, who have no bearing on your vision?"

Lucifer revealed his true intentions with a chilling resolve. "Why, indeed? I captured them because I intend to eliminate all of them. To achieve my grand vision, I must first exterminate the priests, who would continue to preach God's Words. The Nazarenians will follow, as I am well aware that Father's legacy still endures. They pose a threat to my supremacy as the next Eternal Supreme."

Michael remained resolute. "Lucifer, our sole intention here is to negotiate peace in Netherus and save your people from the seductive whispers that lead them to the abyss. We do not desire war, as it would result in casualties on both sides—our people and yours."

He continued with a reminder from their Father's teachings. "War is not the path to realizing great dreams, as Father has taught us. I still regard you as my brother, Lucifer."

Lucifer responded with a dark laugh, his amusement intensifying in the face of Michael's earnestness. Their conversation remained charged with tension, as they stood at the precipice of a crucial decision.

Lucifer's voice echoed with a blend of confidence and arrogance, filling the tense atmosphere, "Humans, the fragile ones but also knowledgeable beings. Innumerable talents, but some use them for chaos, while the few channel their passions wisely. But those aspects will be in my domain, Archangel!"

Michael, ever the voice of reason, responded, "Lucifer, we seek peace, not dominion over humanity. Our goal is to guide them toward the path of righteousness."

But Lucifer's ambitions knew no bounds, and he continued, "Create a new earth! Where all the devils and humans worship me, and the so-called 'God's legacy' will vanish... for eternity! And I'll ascend my throne in Hell among the stars of our Father!"

He then attempted to offer a twisted form of compromise, saying, "But rest assured, Archangels, just obey me, and your existence will still live on, as well as your precious priests and Nazarenians. But in order to achieve that, be my slaves. Simple as that.