Chapter 17

Himejima Shrine.

There were moments in life when Alex has felt himself completely and utterly powerless. More times than he could remember did he feel himself so miserable and useless that even if he had died, then it wouldn`t change a single fucking thing. However, now was different, all because back then he was a child and he had no powers to talk about, no knowledge or techniques to utilize. That was when he was nothing more but a victim of fate, but now he was building it himself. He swore that wouldn`t be powerless and there won`t be a moment when his friends were in trouble because of him being powerless. Because of that he has strived to learn so much and become more and more powerful, because he understood that without power in this world and without the way the way to use it, he`ll always be powerless against all of his opponents, no matter how weak or powerful they may be.

However, now, when Alexander`s powers were far above those of an average Angels and High-Ranking Devils, when he was a possessor of a very powerful Sacred Gear known as Forsaken Regalia… he was still powerless to stop what has just happened: Gilgamesh, one of Alexander`s longest and worst enemies, has killed two young women that he grew to love, Sona Sitri and Akeno Himejima. It happened quickly and without any sort of hesitation, practically instantly, as the weapons have materialized from the Gates of Babylon and pierced their hearts, killing them instantly and leaving their bodies to fall freely on to the ground. And Alexander was there, watching in horror and terror how that son of a bitch just did, while he was chained up inside of his Final Liberation Armor, at his most powerful, even without his Power of Annihilation, and yet, Gilgamesh`s Chains of Heaven were stronger and the pain they were causing was almost insufferable, but even that compared to the typhoon that was raging inside of Alexander`s soul. That golden prick has just murdered two of his best friends, both of whom he loved and cherished. And he`ll be damn sure to pay for both of them.

Alexander let out a feral growl and scream, resisting the powers of chains, unable to break free or even absorb the powers of chains, as they were too much to handle to Galeran. Gilgamesh only stood there and watched in delight.

"So, how does it feel, mongrel: to be unable to do a single thing to save your pathetic friends` lives?" King of Heroes mocked his opponent. "It must be infuriating, for a descendant of Lucifer, to bow down to me, but that`s where your and everyone`s place, on their knees before their one and only King!"

"I swear… I`ll kill you myself!" Alex shouted and struggled more and more , but then the output of energy from chains became even more powerful, leading to Alex screaming on top of his lungs as pain from Holy energy was burning him alive.

"Hah, you think that you have to power to even lay a finger on me, mongrel?" Gilgamesh relished this agony of his enemy. "These chains were created by Biblical God himself and are capable of holding in place anyone of Demonic origin. But their greatest power is the ability to destroy their prisoners with unimaginable pain, the same one you are feeling at the moment. Not even Forsaken Regalia will be able to save, for it can`t absorb the power of God himself."

Alexander`s pain was truly out of this world, as he was torn inside out with all this Holy, no, Divine energy. He could feel that his armor was no help at all and the sight of his dead friends was an even more torture, as he couldn`t lay eyes to their breathless frames, ashamed and sorrowed because he couldn't save them and now they fell victims to Gilgamesh`s weapons and twisted amusement. And Alex was right next to them. His friends won`t be here in time to save him, but he was certain that they would have the power to foil all Gilgamesh's plans, but in the end, it wouldn`t bring back Sona and Akeno… Alexander`s screams were becoming louder as the pain was intensifying almost to impossible to even withstand. He was close to finally breaking down and giving up on his0 life, as there was nothing that could be done, all was said and done. At least, he didn`t go down without leaving a mark to his world and avenging his mother.

Alexander`s eyes were closing in and he was ready to embrace his demise despite being in unimaginable pain. A few more seconds and…

"ABSORB!" Suddenly, like thunder during the storm, boomed Galeran`s voice, signaling his actions.

And then suddenly, Alex felt how pain was dying down piece by piece and his powers were growing immeasurably, even if it was painful, as he was at the breaking point of his capacity. Then he also witnessed that Final Liberation was glowing more and intensely, but that was not all that Alex have noticed. He felt the strange feeling inside of him, as if something was… breaking apart or being destroyed from inside. Alexander immediately turned to his mentor.

'Galeran, what the hell are you doing?! You can`t take this much energy, we both can`t handle it!' Alex screamed at his friend.

"ABSORB!" A new wave of power was coursing through Alexander`s body.

"Alexander, I know that." Galeran spoke suddenly. "But I can`t allow this son of bitch win this battle without you going all out, nor can I allow you simply die here, not now, when you haven`t even revealed to the world your true potential!"

'What are you blabbering about, fool?! Even if you absorb all this energy, I`ll die! The Holy energy is my worst enemy, have you forgotten about it?!'

"No, but that`s not what`s important." Galeran continued to absorb more and more. "Listen to me, Alex. The power you possess hasn`t been fully released yet. 2 out 4 Seals still remain inside of you, still chaining up your fullest potential and not allowing you to fight at your fullest! You`ve broke 2 of them, those that held off your potential as a Devil King Lucifer`s grandson, but those 2 others… They hold your other half of powers, the heritage of both your father and grandfather at the same time! They suppress your Holy Powers, the same once that are killing you at the moment. But not for long…ABSORB!" Even more energy went inside, Galeran screaming in pain and armor began to break apart, cracks appearing on it. "Just a little more…"

'Wait… No! What the hell do you think you are doing?! Are you trying to kill yourself by overflowing Regalia?! You`ll only kill both of us! Let go of it, you`ll find yourself another host and…' Alex realized what his partner was trying to do and was trying to stop him at all costs.

"Alex, I`ve never told you this, but I`m tired of this endless cavalcade, being tossed from host to host, unable to finally die and rest in embrace of death." Galeran confessed. "I`ve lived like this for over 25 centuries and most of my hosts weren`t even able to summon Final Liberation. I was often forced to spend decades and decades in nothingness, unable to reach out to my host. In those damned hours, all I wished is to finally gain peace I was deprived off. And then I`ve ended up with you, Alex, my most powerful and greatest host, someone whom I came to respect and admire for your determination, for your will to fight and fight on, no matter what odds are. I witnessed how your rose through the Hell and went on to show the entire world who you are. I couldn`t be prouder to have known you and be grateful for this chance to shine in my fullest right now. I thank you for all that you`ve done, Alex, and in gratitude, allow me to release your soul from shackles of those seals!"

Alex was absolutely stunned by what his partner has just said to him and how he was proud of working with him and for all that Alex has done. To think that Galeran was like that… Never had Alex actually imagined what torment it must be for him to live as nothing more but a tool for others to use, unable to finally die and rest in peace… Lucifer really was sorry to his partner and understood him desire. To finally find peace through sacrifice, to finally be free of Regalia and it`s curse for being constantly put inside of someone else. Lucifer respected his partner and would honor his decision. It didn`t even matter that Alex would lose his power to absorb and never be able to do so. So what, he`ll simply surpass everything and everyone with his own powers and potential, determination his was strong and unwavering.

'Galeran, thank you, for all that you`ve done for me.' Alex showed gratitude to his friend. 'I promise not to let this gift go to waste, nor to ever forget you, my partner.'

"You truly the best partner a Dragon could ask for, Lucifer." Galeran praised him for the last time.

Alexander grabbed the chains himself and roared with his partner.

"ABSORB!" And at that very moment, something that Gilgamesh wasn`t expecting happened.

In the flash of pure silver light, Chains of Heaven completely broke off and Alexander`s armor disintegrated without a trace, leaving only small draconic scales behind, but they were quickly turned into nothing but ashes and were spread by winds. Alexander fell on to his hands, but slowly was rising. However, now everything was different, nothing ever shall be the same. He felt it in his blood, in his soul and in his heart.

Forsaken Regalia, Galeran… They were gone now. No trace of their existence was left in this world, as they`ve dissolved into nothingness and Galeran was finally liberated from his endless torment. Alex will always remember his mentor, but he won`t morn his passing. No, instead of wailing and crying, he shall honor him by one way Dragons knew: through a real battle, no holding back or mercy for this matter. Gilgamesh has taken away from Alexander Sona and Akeno, both for whom had nothing to do with him or their personal grudges. No, they were just ruthless casualties inflicted by this son of a bitch. Casualties for whom he shall pay a thousand fold. Alexander rose up, standing above the ground and looking with righteous fury at his enemy, who was shaking with fury and fear at the same time.

"No, that`s impossible!" Gilgamesh shouted to his enemy. "No one was ever able to break the Chains of Heaven, not even Satans could do that! How did you do that?! And how are you still alive?!"

"Fuck you, that`s how." Alex responded, causing Gilgamesh to materialize a sword out of his Gate and send it at Alexander.

The sword was going to pierce Alexander`s skull, putting him down for good and leaving nothing to be found in his dead body. Or, that`s how Gilgamesh would imagine it would happen. Instead of witnessing his nemesis` imminent demise, Gilgamesh was forced to witness something that he thought was impossible. Alexander didn`t even move away from the spot he rose up. Instead, he was standing there and patiently waiting for the sword to come flying at him, and once it was near of Alexander`s chin, Lucifer demonstrated just what his partner meant by heritage from his father and grandfather. Gilgamesh`s sword was suddenly thrown away by a new object that appeared from behind Alexander`s back. Gilgamesh`s eyes widen at the sight he was looking at: behind Alexander appeared 8 wings, not golden or white as with normal Angels, nor black as with Fallen Angels, but those wings were completely different. Alexander`s wings were akin to silver and platinum, grayish and slick, glowing and radiating with energy, feathers falling from them. Alexander took a look at the wings and was actually amazed to see them himself.

'They aren`t what I was imagining in his mind…' He said in his mind.

"Indeed they are not." Lucifer suddenly appeared near of Alex, observing his new wings. "As I was suspecting, you`ve inherited not only my Demonic potential, but also my Angelic powers as well. When I was Right Hand of God, I myself had these wings, for I was also his Angel of Death, the single Angel granted the power to rain judgment by the name of God and hold more powers than any other Angel, as I was God`s sword. You`ve inherited my long abandoned powers as well as my Power of Annihilation, Alex. I must say, I`m very, very impressed with this development."

'Then what that makes me to be? I hold both Demonic and Divine powers inside me, but I don`t feel like I`m neither Devil nor I`m an Angel. I feel like I`ve became something… different. Something completely different from all other races."

"Because you have, my boy." Lucifer said. "You`ve become one thing that God has ever feared and one thing that I myself once was. His greatest nightmare and greatest creation, his first child. You`ve become a Nephilim, Alex. You are no longer confined by either darkness, or light, but you embrace both of them and embody them, just like I once did." Lucifer stated proudly. "And now, as Lucifer and your grandfather, I give you an order, Nephilim Alexander."

'This is the first time I hear you being so high and mighty, not to mention giving me an order.' Alex mentally smirked.

"Consider it one of those rare occasions when I do so." Lucifer smirked himself and looked at trembling Gilgamesh. "That arrogant bastard has mocked and tarnished our name and has dared to kill our friends. For that and many other crimes, I condemn him to death at your hands. Show him the true power of Lucifer."

"With great pleasure, my lord." Alex replied and raised his head, looking at Gilgamesh. "Gilgamesh, you asked me once what I was and back then, I didn`t give you an answer. Now, allow me to satisfy your curiosity." Alexander began to walk towards the shrine building, where Gilgamesh was standing in front of. "I am neither follower of Light nor the child of Darkness. I am the one that resides in both plains at the same time the embracer of Divine and Demonic at the same time. I am what God has feared and what has became his demise." Alex has already passed between Sona and Akeno, standing just 5 meters away from Gilgamesh. "I am Alexander Lucifer, grandson of the original Lucifer, God`s Right Hand and his first son! I am God`s First Child! I am a Nephilim, that`s what I truly am! And for all the crimes you`ve committed, for all those lives you`ve taken, I`ll send you to the lowest pits of HELL!" And with that, Alexander charged at his enemy, his full power radiating from inside of him, wings letting him to fly towards his opponent.

Gilgamesh only scoffed and spoke himself.

"You think some low life as yourself can threaten a true King?" Several Gates were opened and swords were sent flying at Alexander. "Die, you mongrel!"

Lucifer only saw how they were coming at him and how many more were on the way. With his bare hands he grabbed two swords in the air and with their help he began to block and deflect all the other weapons incoming. Their speed was way higher than before, faster than Kiba and Arturia`s reactions, but Alexander`s body was now moving in a whole new way, his muscles flexible and nothing was holding back him now. All of seals were broken now, his fullest potential realized and embraced to its fullest. And his body was now fighting at its fullest, eyes catching all that could be caught and his senses attuned to their strongest. And his powers… He had believed that there was nothing more that he could learn and obtain, but now he feels like a damp was destroyed and his powers, like restless river or waterfall flowing with unimaginable power and strength. Confining his being decreased all aspects of Alex`s powers, both Demonic and Angelic, but now he was feeling the same power that his grandfather felt.

And it was a damn incredible feeling. Lucifer deflected well over a dozen of various weapons and set both swords flying into the Gates, closing two portals. With a single thought, his image inside of his mind was taking form and energy was taking form and shape, materializing in his hand in form he was most accustomed to. In the next second, Alex held in his hand a sword, made of the pure silver energy and he charged once again at his opponent. Gilgamesh was sending weapons and weapons after him, but Lucifer easily deflected all of them, reaching his prey in one second. And in the next moment, King of Heroes was sent flying into the building, destroying the door and walls. Alex followed after him and was about to put an end to him, until he witnessed the something that made him snap back to the reality and remember the ultimate purpose of his being here.

They were in the big empty living room, in the center a magical circle was drawn, draining of the powers a small, 9 year old girl with pure white hair and bright red eyes, dressed in white dress. She wasn`t screaming or crying for help, but helplessly lying there, while a black staff with green gem on top of it was slowly draining her of powers. Alex immediately understood what it really was and what was happening with the girl: she was the sacrifice and the source of living force. Alex didn`t even look at the dead frame of Malaya, as she was already rotting in the corner, having been killed by Gilgamesh. Alexander decided that it was time to end this whole nonsense and he simply walked past the defeated Gilgamesh, who was coughing blood and trying to get up, but unable to, as Alex`s strike crippled him and broke his spine. He was immobilized below the belt completely. Alexander looked down on girl, who also seemed to have noticed him and was trying to tell him something, but failed to do so.

Alex only smiled reassuringly to her.

"Don`t worry, it`s going to be over very soon." Alex turned his gaze to Necroa Scepter. 'This Scepter serves as a catalyze for massive Reanimation, feeding off the girl`s life force and then spreading it through the giant circle, to raise an army. But, I`ve got no idea on how to destroy it and not cause a catastrophe…"

"Use the sword you are holding and strike at the middle of the scepter`s hold." Lucifer instructed him. "You won`t damage the source of his power, but it will cut the link and scepter will be useless afterwards. That`s how I`ve managed to destroy it last time."

And Alex followed the instruction precisely and did as his grandfather instructed. One clean cut in the middle and the scepter broke in two, falling on the ground. Alex felt through his energy sensing how the entire area was cleared off the magical fields and negative energy. Zombies should`ve been also stopped, as they were no long receiving the life force from the girl. And speaking of her, Alex keeled down and took her caringly in his arms.

"Hey there." Alex addressed her with a smile. "It`s okay, you are safe now. No one is going to hurt you, I promise."

"A-are you… m-my p-papa?" Girl weakly asked Alex, stunning both him and Lucifer.

"Not only is she a child with no parents, but I can definitely say that she is a Dragon too." Lucifer commented. "I can feel that she is a very powerful creature, even by Dragon`s standards, but, as a parent, I sense that she feels loneliness and desperate. This little cutie… Alex, she longs for care and love."

'Yeah, I can tell that by her eyes.' Alex wasn`t kidding on that one. 'She has the same eyes that I had, desperate and lonely, devoid of almost all hope and with nothing inside to keep her from falling in to the pit of darkness. Even if she is a Dragon, I can`t shrug off this feeling coming from her. She is just like me…'

"I understand that this your call and it`s your decision it the end, but I think that…" Lucifer was about to reason with his grandson, until…

"Yep, that`s right, cutie." Alex said to the girl, who looked with at him wide opened eyes. "I`m your daddy." Alex simply embraced his new daughter, who accepted the hug and hugged him back.

"You know what?" Lucifer commented from the sidelines. "I`m freaking proud to have such an incredible and great grandson! I now have an adorable great-granddaughter, you just look in those big cutie eyes~! Her cuteness level is over 9000!" Lucifer squealed like a girl himself. "If only Alexandra and Lucia could see you two at the moment…"

"You were saying something, father?" Suddenly, familiar frame of Lucia appeared before Alexander and Lucifer, startling both of them. "My, what a lovely little girl. I`m so proud of you, Alex. To actually go so far as to name a little girl whom you`ve first met your own daughter…" Lucia was blushing herself. "And what a cute little granddaughter I have now~."

Alex actually chuckled to that one mentally, until he realized one very important detail he forgot about for a moment. He caringly petted girl`s head and brought her face to his own.

"Say, what`s your name, sweetie?" Alex asked her. "I can`t have such a beautiful and cute little daughter like you without a name, can I?"

"Illya…" The girl said shyly.

"My, what a beautiful name you have, Illya." Alex smiled to her, making little girl radiate with happiness that her new daddy liked her name. "Now, I know this may be painful for you and frightening, but could you please tell me how did you end up in such trouble?"

"I was… given away." Illya was trying her best not to shake, but failing. "A bad old man gave me to gold buy and then…" Illya was about to cry, but Alex stopped her by petting her head and hugging closely

"Hush, Illya, it`s alright now. Nobody is going to hurt my little girl here, right?" And as a quo, Alexander`s new wings deflected several weapons thrown at him from Gilgamesh.

Alex covered his new daughter in by his wings and turned to a broken demi-god, who was still struggling with his broken back and pride. Alex sternly glared at him.

"I give you just one chance to tell me everything from the start, Gilgamesh. I know that you aren`t a fool and you don`t do things without a reason, plus nobody had any idea that this place was an ancient cemetery, not you especially." Alex spoke grimly. "If you spill everything right now, then I`ll see it that Arturia doesn`t kill you."

"And what if I don`t speak up, mongrel?" Gilgamesh spoke in his usual tone. "Have you considered that before threatening?!"

"I did." Around Gilgamesh and Alex appeared white flames, consuming everything. "I wouldn`t like to use it in front of Illya, but you should know by now that I`m not someone you would like to joke with."

Gilgamesh looked around and considered his own options and then came to one decision that he found reasonable. Especially considering that this whole debacle had very little to do with him in the first place. Pride be damned, it wasn`t worth his life, he knew that from his previous life.

"Very well, I`ll talk." Gilgamesh agreed, flames dying down. "Truth to be told, I never even considered crossing paths with you again, not after you`ve… saved my life back there." Gilgamesh ashamedly spoke. "I`ll say it right away: I`ve had no intention of hurting you or your friends, but… I was left with no choice. It was either killing you and every other Devil in town or having Gillian die."

Alexander cocked his brow upwards as he remembered Gilgamesh`s younger brother. So, his old enemy was blackmailed by someone to do this whole dirty work? Alex knew that Gilgamesh was one of the most arrogant persons in the world, but today he really was going overboard with his arrogance and trying to hurt Alexander thing, not to mention using children like that… Even Gil wasn`t this hell bent on killing Alex and he had believed that they had settled their differences long ago, thought it was one hell of a tedious work. Besides that, Alex still respected Gilgamesh for a single fact that he did care about his young little brother and wasn`t bringing him into their whole debacle with supernatural world. Alex hugged Illya tighter and spoke to Gilgamesh.

"Who has him? Someone from an Old Satan Faction?" Alex asked him.

"No, not those damned Devils." Gilgamesh hissed. "Are you familiar with Himejima Clan by any chance?"

Alexander almost widened his eyes at that one. Was it Akeno`s former clan?

"Yeah, you`ve actually killed a member of their family just 10 minutes ago." Alex glared at Gilgamesh. "What do they want with me?"

"They? Nothing, but their patriarch, Zouken, has taken you very seriously once he heard that you`ve brought back is daughter from being dead." Gilgamesh was explaining. "He was almost hell bet on killing you, so he sold your location to Phenexes and when that failed and he learned that you are Lucifer`s grandson, he decided to use my family to his advantage. He kidnapped Gillian and gave me this little girl as a way to lure you here and kill you. He even managed to convince Malaya to do the ritual. Shrewd ancient bastard with his damned Crest worms…"

"I see…" Alexander spoke, and that moment a pair of hero descendants charged in and was already observing the room.

Arturia and Cuhullin were looking at the two of them and noticed Gilgamesh. Arturia roared with anger.

"Gilgamesh, of all the damned people…" She brought up her Divine Excalibur and prepared to deliver the justice to Gilgamesh. "For betraying us and committing such crime vile crimes, I`ll have your life!"

"Hold your sword, Arturia!" Alex commanded, drawing the confused looks of Cuhullin and Arturia. "We have an interesting situation here and killing him right here wouldn`t do us any good at the moment."

"Hm… Okay, I`m sold." Cuhullin agreed, drawing Arturia`s glare at him. "Hey, do you recall the last time Alex saved our douchbag number 1 without a pretty good reason? Besides, you can`t kill him right now."

"And why in blazes is that?!" Arturia asked angrily.

"Do that in front of my daughter here and I`ll be sure to inform Arthur about such transgression." Alex simply said to her, scarring her, because Arthur wouldn`t ever let go of that.

However, in the next moment they`ve suddenly realized that something was actually wrong about. Both Cuhullin and Arturia traced the entire sentence through and through and found what felt wrong.

"YOUR DAUGHTER?!" Both screamed a top of their lungs, looking at the small girl sitting in Alex`s arms.

"Since when, bro?" Cuhullin asked him serious.

"Since now and forever, bro." Alex replied petting his daughter`s head and cheek. "She is a victim of it and I can`t simply hand her over to the services, as she is also a cute little Dragon."

"Oh… okay then." Cuhullin spoke, looking at the Illya. "And you are right, she really is a cutie."

Unbeknownst to both of them, Arturia internally sighed as she found out that Alex basically took her in as his daughter. To learn that Alex had a daughter… She would seriously concede her defeat in her personal quest that she set for herself. It was here serious intention to become not only an important person in Alexander`s heart, but also his wife and a mother to their child. It was no big secret among her friends that she had a significant crush on Alexander ever since they met, which was when he and Baraquel saved her from church`s clutches. That was the real reason why she was training him and made sure to spend more times than other girls. Or to accidentally close up Medusa in the closet, tied up and with a clap in her mouth. In Arturia`s defense, she shouldn`t have worn all those 'vulgar' dresses in front of Alex and show off her… significantly more developed parts.

Alexander turned away from his friends and towards his defeated enemy. And after that, he spoke.

"Guys, get him up and walk him from here." Alex said to them, moving with Illya through the destroyed building.

Outside, he was already seeing his comrades, grieving and some even crying over the bodies of their fallen friends. Rias was holding herself together, but it was clear that she was about to lose it; Kiba and Issei were standing with grim expressions; Asia crying out loud, along with most of Sona`s Peerage, only Tsubaki holding up, even though barely. Raynare was only glancing at Alex and at the dead bodies. Alex also took a look at them. Even with Illya and everyone saved, there were still casualties. The fate has decided to fuck him up once more…

No, not now nor ever again! He shall never be a pawn of fate. And if even the entire world decides to stand against him, he`ll break through and destroy all those that dare to stand in his way and a way of his friends. He already conquered Death once.

Time to do it again…

'Lucifer, what`s my life span as a Nephilim?'

"With all your current abilities and my blood flowing inside of you, you have 40 thousand years of life, which is four times that of a normal Devil, even Satan class have at best 15 thousand years of life." Lucifer replied, standing near of Lucia. "Tell me what are you going to do?"

"Conquer the Death itself." Alex said out loud and handed Illya over to Raynare. "Watch over her for me." Raynare only nodded to that and complied.

Alex stood proud and spoke in firm and powerful voice.

"EVERYONE, LISTEN UP!" He immediately drew everyone`s attention. "All of you are to stand back from Sona and Akeno and keep quiet! If anyone even dares to interrupt me, you`ll blow the only chance of bringing them back to us, got it?!" He drew everyone`s attention and they nodded, stepping away from the bodies.

Alex nodded to them and stepped closer to the bodies. With a single palm gesture, a magical circle formed underneath their bodies, symbols in Latin and emitting Alexander`s energy. This was his personal Reincarnation circle, one that has he used to bring back Shuri Himejima. And he succeeded; despite her long rehabilitation afterwards because of prolong departure from soul. Now was another situation, but he was also different. He knew the formula and his powers alone were significant enough to tie up their souls in their bodies, his life span was longer than most as he was a higher being and their soul were only away for several minutes, leaving out the need for a powerful anchor as it was used when body has lost all of its connection to soul. But, most importantly, he was determined. It may`ve been impossible to do in theory, but he himself was someone who defined the impossible in himself and his own life.

He was a Lucifer, his damned heir!

Alexander kneeled down and placed both his palms at Sona`s and Akeno`s hearts, healing up their bodies with his Flames. He was strong enough to reverse the effect of pierced heart, now he had to do something that has never been done before. With a breath taken, Alexander began to chant his spell.

"From darkest pits of void my voice calls out to souls of those that have fallen before their true time was upon them." Pentagrams were glowing up. "My word is your voice; my will is your shield; my power is your weapon. With my name I conquer the very depths of desperation and Death shall stand back from my word and will. In my name I, Alexander Lucifer, command the souls of fallen Sona Sitri and Akeno Himejima to find their way back in the world of living, for your time is not yet upon you!" Circle glows and radiates the energy, bodies begin to react as well, but only minor moves can be seen. "My power restores your bonds between body and soul, for I give 10 thousand years each of you to live out your lives! In my name, I RESSURECT YOU BACK INTO OUR WORLD!"

And the radiating became the most intense, others closing their eyes because of the circle`s power. Alexander`s life force transferring equally to Akeno and Sona, their hearts beating once more and eyes finally opening. Alexander looks upon them and sees that it was almost complete. The grand finale.

"In my name, I conquer your Deaths and grant you gifts of Life! LIVE ON!" And both girls snap out of their trances, back in their bodies, alive and well.

The radiating light died away and everyone looked again to see something that wasn`t possible for them to comprehend. All took a look and saw Sona and Akeno standing up, with the help of Alexander, who also rose up. Everyone`s eyes looked in shock and both seemingly alive girls also were surprised. Sona was the first to speak up.

"Are… Are we…" Sona couldn`t understand everything at first, but then it came to her. "Alex, we are…"

"Welcome back, ladies." Alex welcomed them both of them back. "Feeling alright? No nausea, headaches or something of those sorts?"

"N-no, but I feel like I was… I can`t even describe it." Sona said, making a couple of steps towards her Peerage. "It`s like I`ve suddenly got loss of my body and then was pulled back… Honestly, I wouldn`t want to repeat this experience."

"My thoughts exactly." Akeno responded. "Also, how did we got back here?"

At that moment everyone finally cheered and ran to their respective friends and comrades. Alex simply stepped back for a moment and at that second he almost fell backwards, but was stopped, thanks to Cuhullin, who grabbed him and supported him. Alex looked at him and said weakly.

"Thanks for the save, bro."

"Hey, after what you`ve just pulled out here, I would be the last dick if I let my bro fall on to the ground." Lancer responded, helping him to stand up. "You never learn, do you? Still can`t let go of those that are close to you?"

"Never." Alex simply stated, standing up and catching running to him Illya.

"Papa!" Illya worriedly ran to her new father. "Are you okay? You almost fell there and…"

"Oh, I`ve just missed my step there for a moment, dear." Alex reassured his daughter. "But thank you for care, Illya."

At that moment, Arturia and Gilgamesh, who was handcuffed and standing, walked out of the destroyed building and looked at all of the commotion. Saber took a quick glance at now revived Sona and Akeno, guessing that there was a powerful magic involved, especially the one that she knew was in possession of Alexander. She then took a glance at Alexander and understood everything: Alexander`s face was now slightly sharper and his entire frame was a little bit thinner. An obvious side effect of using Necromancy, especially using your own life force as a toll. Gilgamesh also noticed that and chuckled to that one.

"Of all things, only one thing nor I nor my father was able to gain, but this guy has managed to conquer the laws of Life and Death themselves." Gilgamesh scoffed at himself. "Damn it. Even I can`t help but respect him."

"Talk all you want, Gilgamesh, but nothing will save you now for betraying us and this transgression." Arturia said threateningly. "Once we get back, I`ll personally see to your execution, King of Heroes."

Gilgamesh glared back at her.

"I`ve already told you and Lucifer here: I was forced to do it all! I didn't even lift a finger here for resurrecting those damned corpses, but I had to comply and give them Necroa Scepter." Gil was defending himself. "Zouken had me by balls. ME! The King of all Heroes- was subjugated to a wrinkled ancient worm filled bastard! All because he has my younger brother in his possession!"

Arturia was about to retort to that, but decided to refrain from any comment on this topic, as she could understand his motivation and why would he go against them. As much of an arrogant bastard Gilgamesh was, he was still a human and had feelings towards others. Not to mention that when things came to his mother and younger brother, he would go all out to save them, even by becoming an enemy to his friends. And while he and Alex weren`t the best friends and did start out as enemies, but they did made up after they`ve ended up trapped in Alps during the snowstorm and Alex managed to save both himself and Gilgamesh, which did made things a lot warmer between them. In full honesty, Alex was the closest friend in Grigori and among the heroes` descendants. Seeing both fighting each other like that was something strange, at best.

Alex noticed the both of them walked out of the building and he went to them with Cuhullin and Illya. He looked at Gilgamesh and asked right away.

"I thought I`ve broke your spine?" Alex said right away, on which Gilgamesh replied.

"Hermes Scepter `s power can heal any wound or broken bone, no matter how grave they may seem." Gilgamesh stated proudly, turning to his serious side. "Now, what`s your plan now, Lucifer?"

"I would like to know that myself." Cuhullin spoke as well. "Our job was to destroy that Scepter and prevent any more outbreaks from happening and now we`ve done it, but we can`t just leave Zouken and Gillian alone like that."

"For once, I do agree that we have to deal with it as well." Arturia stated. "Alex, as a governor of the governor of this region and our superior, it`s up to your judgment and decision. What`s our course of actions shall be?"

"There is only one thing we can do in this situation, Arturia." Alex walked to Gilgamesh… and destroyed the handcuffs. "That mongrel has forced our brother-in-arms to fight us, kidnapped children and has ordered the execution of a mother and her child, not to mention that he has disregarded the safety of Kuoh`s people and integrity of supernatural world`s existence. For all of that, there is only one thing left to do…"

Himejima Family Estate. 2 hours later.

Zouken Himejima, once of a Matou Family, was clenching his own fists at the anger and fear that were filling him fully. For an old patriarch of Himejima Clan, this was a total disaster. Not only did his plan failed, it backfired at him. Seriously, just what it took to kill that damned Alexander?! He has challenged Zouken`s powers by bringing back that damned bitch Shuri, who was arrogant and foolish enough to rebel against his will and marry to Baraquel and give birth to that hybrid filth Akeno. Their execution was absolutely necessary as it undermined his power, and even with Akeno escaping his grasp, Shuri was dealt with and her womb won`t produce any other mongrels for Fallen Angels. And now, she was alive and Alexander was also alive as his pawn failed to kill him. Once Zouken learned of that, he was about to deal with Gillian and see how was his progress on Sakura.

Only that wasn`t an option now. Just as Zouken was about to do so, somebody had the mordacity to attack his estate out of the blue and now that attacker was closing in on him. No Crest Worm enhanced guard, familiar and all his magical barriers were no match to this black-clad attacker and his black glowing with red line sword. It was as if this damned bastard was unbeatable and untouchable and all of his strikes were not just mortal, but absolutely unavoidable as his speed and precision was that of a God. Just who the hell was he?!

And as Zouken was contemplating, the doors in his room were destroyed and the dark warrior walked inside, sword with him. Zouken only growled at him.

"Do you even realize whose house have you broke in?" Zouken spoke with poison. "To what mage family do you belong? Or are you from those mongrels in Grigori?"

Dark warrior only stopped just 3 meters away from the old man and spoke.

"Neither of the above, wretched fool." Zouken could see that he was smirking. "I`m here on my other`s business, true, but the will of my master aligns with mine."

"What interesting pronunciation for a lowly assassin." Zouken said with a smirk. "Whatever you want, I can assure that all of those defenses were nothing more but a mere child`s show compare to what you are about to face."

And with that, Zouken summoned all of his insects and bugs out of all the grounds he owned in town, smiling evilly. He ordered them to attack the assailant and devour him. Such idiot shall make a fine meal for his pets. In one second, the swarms seemingly swallowed the entire frame of this assailant and Zouken was already preparing to relish in his screams. Only…

"Is this all you`ve got?" Suddenly, assassin spoke through the thick mass of insects, surprising Zouken.

And in the next second, a quick burst of dark energy was released from there, all of Zouken`s servants disintegrated in an instant, leaving the warrior and his more radiating sword alone, giving him the path to Zouken. Old man was already seeking to get away out of the house through his own means, but… No, no, impossible! That sword- it was disrupting the magical energy around itself?! Zouken was shaking with fear and looked up at the dark warrior, who smiled evilly, revealing his face through the hood.

"Rizevim Livan Lucifer sends you a message." Sword went closer to Zouken. "Cross paths with Lucifer`s Heir- suffer the consequences." And warrior`s sword went right at the old man`s throat, cutting it in one swing.

Assassin took a step back as the body of this wrinkled old bastard dissolved into a mass of his Crest Worms and they began trying to run away, but another burst of energy from his sword was all that it took to destroy them in one go. His job here was done and now…

"Well, I wasn`t expecting you here so soon." Dark warrior turned around and saw a familiar group standing at the doors.

Arturia, Cuhullin, Gilgamesh and Alexander were all there and looking with surprise at him. Especially Arturia.

"That sword… It can`t be…" Saber muttered soundly.

"My apology, but I cannot remain here any longer, so I have to take my leave now..." Assassin said, flicking his sword. "Also, Alexander." Said person looked at him. "Lord Rizevim wishes to inform you that those that took your mother as a trophy and slave have paid dearly for it. He also expressed a desire to meet you." Warrior swung his sword and created a portal in front of him. "Farewell, we shall meet again." And with that, warrior has disappeared within the portal, leaving the stunned audience behind and many questions as well.

Lucifer`s Estate. Late evening.

Grayfia brought a cup of tea to the table in front of her, sitting in the coach and sipping her tea. Alexander was sitting on the other coach and was looking down on the table, his right hand was caressing Illya, who was by now already asleep and used his lap as a pillow. Alex didn`t mind that at all and wasn`t even going to move a muscle to disturb her sleep. Grayfia could only watch and be amazed at how very alike they both looked, but not as siblings, but like an actual parent and his daughter. She was actually surprised just how easily Alex just decided to take Illya as his daughter and was already acting accordingly, but that didn't mean that she disapproved. In fact, just the fact that he did it without the slightest hint of hesitation and resistance only showed that he was ready to take up the responsibility and was going to do it with dignity. Honestly, seeing him like that reminded herself a lot of her own father, with whom she has finally reconciled and were on family terms once again. He expressed great interest and desire to see Millicas, his another grandson, but he specifically stated that he absolutely hates Sirzechs and practically the entire Gremory family, save for Venelana, as she was a beloved granddaughter of Zekram Bael, her father`s longest and best friend.

Honestly, Grayfia herself was considering to divorce her husband, after learning about what role he played in Lucia`s fate and just how forced her nephew into an unwanted marriage agreement with Rias. Young future head of Gremory family was serious about marrying Alex and didn`t wanted to hear another thing against it. Grayfia herself was against it as well, as she saw it as nothing more but Rias getting what she wanted and Sirzechs with Zeoticus indulging all her whims. Someone had to remind this little lady that world wasn`t her own playground.

Alex soundly sighed, drawing Grayfia`s attention. He was most certainly tired and deserved some rest after everything that happened to him. She did notice that he seemingly lost about 10 kilos or so and seemed just a little more pale then he used to, even with his silver hair. She was aware that Alex has performed Necromancy to resurrect both Akeno and Sona, which has to be the first time in history when a Necromancer resurrected two Devils at the same time and without even slightest side effects, save for subsequent weakness and tiredness. She knew that he had to give up half of his life time, but still she was immensely proud of him today.

"All things considered, you`ve done greatly today." Grayfia praised her nephew. "It`s very fortunate that Serafall and Sirzechs have managed to alter the town`s memories, so we won`t have to worry about the consequences."

"I`m just glad that this entire nightmare is over." Alex replied, looking down at his sleeping daughter. "Any longer, and this little sweetie might not ever be able to walk again. I just hope that she`ll be able to forget this whole situation soon enough."

"I believe that with you as her father she is in best care possible." Grayfia sipped her tea. "I believe Rias wasn`t too happy about your decisions?"

"Oh, she did throw a hissy fit alright." Alex simply chuckled at that. "She stated that as her husband and a future member of House of Gremory, I have no right to act so irrationally and must first consult with her or other members of Gremory household, not to mention she even had the gall to insult Illya."

"How so?" Grayfia was curious on what punishment she would deliver upon her.

"She stated that: "random children brought in distinguished families always end up badly reflecting on the house`s reputation and prestige". Alex reported. "Illya almost ended up crying at that, but I`ve retorted, stating that: "…certain distinguished families have no idea how to raise their children, while House of Lucifer puts their children above all other values". And after that I`ve simply took my little girl and kissed her in the cheek."

"So true…" Lucifer, who was sitting near Grayfia, nodded eagerly. "Spoken like a true Lucifer and a true badass father. Did I mention that I`m freaking proud of my grandson?"

"I believe you did, at least 50 times over." Grayfia smiling said. "So, what`s going to happen with Gilgamesh now?"

"Arturia and Cuhullin have taken him and Gillian back to Grigori HQ, for Azazel and Shemhazai to decide Gil`s fate." Alex stated firmly. "With them, I`ve sent my own message to Azazel, regarding the incident and why did one of his top fighters turned against him. Knowing him and how he hated Himejima clan, Gilgamesh is going to have it relatively easy, but there are still going to be certain repetitions for him to pay. However, that`s not what I`m concerned about at the moment."

"Care to share your worries?" Grayfia asked him.

"According to Arturia, a significant number of heroes has either gone rouge, like Cao Cao and Heracles, or are missing to unknown reasons. Among those that are unaccounted for several of my close friends, like Sasaki, Kojuro`s heir, and Diarmuid, Cuhullin`s cousin and direct heir to Diarmuid, First Knight of Fianna." Alex reported. "Not only that, but there was no word from Arthur and Le Fey as well in some time."

"You suspect there might be some kind of plot going around the descendants of heroes?"

"Probably, but there is nothing certain about it." Alex sighed. "Serafall said that Azazel has made an offer for Serafall to come in Zurich, as a gesture of good will and as an opportunity to negotiate some agreements. She gracefully accepted the offer and has already made reservations for me, Sona, Akeno and, much to everyone`s dismay, Rias to come along. I think she wants to reward me for all the hard work and how I`ve saved Sona from death."

"It's a good thing that both Sirzechs and Serafall took well the news about you being a Nephilim and your mastery over Necromancy." Grayfia stated, sipping more of tea. "Still, I can`t believe that Sirzechs has managed to turn this entire situation to the favor of his family. You would think that it were Gremory members that saved the city from zombie outbreak."

"Nah, it`s alright." Lucifer retorted. "I`ll bet that Zekram and Diehauser will see clearly who did all the dirty work and saved the day. And once those two hear about, you can expect that they`ll take a deeper interest in you, my boy." Lucifer stated. "However, there is still one issue that I think we need to discuss. The black swordsman that killed Zouken… I have to admit that he really left an impression on me."

"Not on you alone." Alex said. "Arturia was also affected by his mere presence. All because of that sword he wielded."

"I`ve sensed a whole lot of Demonic power coming from it, not to mention that black mist it produced." Lucifer sighed. "That sword is capable of disrupting any form of magic around itself, but by itself has enough Demonic powers to safely go toe to toe with Divine Excalibur, and let`s not forget about his dimension cut… I can safely state that none of 6 Cursed Demonic Weapons have this sort of power; neither do any Holy Swords known to me."

"Yeah, all because this sword is Divine Excalibur`s brother." Alex stated, drawing attention of Lucifer. "When Arturia was 10 years old, Catholic Church has taken her away from her family under the pretext of training her as Holy Sword user, ignoring threats from Pendragon family. In reality, however, Arturia was imprisoned all because of her Sacred Gear, Infinity Forge."

"The Sacred Gear that creates any weapon and armor that are capable of rivaling the Gods` creations?" Grayfia inquired. "I`ve heard rumors that each and every weapon or armor created are of perfect quality and almost indestructible, but each creation requires time and focus to build it."

"Yeah, and Church has forced Arturia into creating them weapons for their Exorcists and Heaven." Alex sighed. "For over 11 months, Arturia was able to create only two swords instead of a dozen as Pope and Bishops demanded, but those two are on par with both original Excalibur and Caliburn. One of those swords became known as Divine Excalibur, sword that strikes all with his immense Holy power, for it was forged with using all of Arturia`s hope and good that she had. But the second one is a polar opposite of the Divine Excalibur, for it uses Demonic energy as its power and is the single sword that capable of destroying all of magic around and rip through dimensions, just like it`s prototype. That blade is known as Caliburn Chaos, for it was forged from all the sufferings and chaos that Arturia experienced. It appeared at the same time as Divine, being the embodiment of all torments that Church put Arturia through. When Baraquel and I rescued her from Vatican, we managed to also get Divine, but Chaos was left behind and remained in Church`s hands, or so we believed…"

"That dark knight stated that he is from Rizevim." Grayfia pointed out. "It would appear that he did take notice of you and is the one responsible for Phenex family demise. Serafall told me that only youngest daughter of Phenex household, Ravel, survived the slaughter. Everyone else is dead."

"Good riddance, if you ask me." Lucifer grunted. "Rizevim may have issues with his attitude, but when it came to Lucia, he was always the one to defend her and preserve her. All because she somehow managed to break that Lilith's hold on him and let him choose his own way."

"I won`t lie: I am glad that they are dead and if I ever meet him, I`ll think for that." Alex admitted. "But I`ll better be on my guard with him."

"Wise decision." Grayfia approved. "Also, we do have one more matter to settle…" Grayfia pointed at Alexander`s left side, which was also occupied.

Alexander turned and looked at a purple-haired 7 year-old girl, dressed in purple dress and sleeping on Alex`s lap and caressed by his left hand. Alex smiled looking at her sleeping so peacefully, especially after he witnessed the horrors that damned bastard Zouken put her through. To send her in to the pit filled with those damned Crest Worms, to be tormented and broken piece by piece… Alex wished that he himself had killed that bastard. He was grateful that his Flames of Annihilation were powerful enough to cleanse the entire pit of the worms and he later used them to heal the girl and cleanse of worms inside of her. Little poor thing clung onto him just as tightly as Illya if not tighter. Naturally, Alex took her in and treated her just as he did Illya by feeding them, buying clothes and playing with both of them. And now, they were peacefully sleeping on his lap, feeling protected and safe with him here. Alex simply chuckled and spoke.

"Well, there is no issue about it." Alex shrugged. "I think Sakura wouldn`t mind having Illya as sister, would she?"