DXD: The Awakening Of Phenex

In the Gremory mansion

Grayfia opened her eyes, her expression hardening as she decided what needed to be done. She looked at Millicas one more time, ensuring he was comfortable and safe before silently rising from the bed. She walked over to the window, gazing at the darkness of the Underworld outside, and raised her hand, activating a magic circle for communication.

The soft glow of the circle illuminated the room as Riser's figure began to form before her. He seemed relaxed, sitting in his office, but raised an eyebrow upon seeing Grayfia. A faint look of surprise crossed his face before he gave a contained smile.

"Grayfia, I wasn't expecting contact so soon," Riser said, his voice filled with curiosity and a hint of satisfaction. "I hope you've made a decision."

"Riser-sama," Grayfia began, her voice calm but firm, "I would like to discuss your proposal in more detail. But first, I need to ensure that Millicas will be safe and protected from any interference from the Gremory family."

Riser tilted his head slightly, his gaze growing more interested. "Ah, I see... Zeoticus is making decisions on his own, isn't he? That's something I expected. Millicas is a powerful orphan; of course, he would be seen as an important piece."

Grayfia pressed her lips together, briefly glancing at the sleeping boy.

"My son is not an orphan; he still has me, and I will do anything for him, including joining you. I need your word that Millicas will be beyond the reach of Zeoticus or anyone else who tries to manipulate him."

"You have my word, Grayfia. Millicas will be safe under my protection. I won't allow anyone to approach him without my permission."

Grayfia slowly nodded, her eyes meeting Riser's through the hologram. "Then I accept, Riser-sama. I am willing to join you, provided my priority is to protect Millicas."

"Excellent," said Riser, his voice smooth but authoritative. "I knew you'd make the right decision. I will make the necessary arrangements for you and Millicas to come to my mansion. Here, you will have the support and protection you need."

Grayfia maintained her serene expression, though a silent sadness was in her eyes. She knew she was making an immense sacrifice but also knew she had no other choice. "Thank you, Riser-sama. I will be ready when you call."

Riser gave a slight nod before the hologram vanished, leaving Grayfia alone in the room, with only the soft sound of Millicas's breathing filling the silence. She looked at the boy once more before walking to the bed and kneeling beside him, her expression softening as she gently stroked his hair.

...

Riser was in his office. He activated a magic circle, sending a message to Merlin, summoning her to the office.

A few seconds later, a soft glow illuminated the room as Merlin teleported into the office, her robes lightly fluttering as she materialized before Riser.

"What do you require, Riser-sama?" Merlin asked, her voice soft and respectful, as she gave a slight bow.

"Prepare a room for Grayfia and her son. Grayfia will be joining Sona's Peerage."

Merlin nodded quickly, her gaze showing understanding. "Yes, Riser-sama. I will prepare everything to receive them."

Riser made a gesture of approval. "Make sure Grayfia has everything she needs and that Millicas is comfortable. We cannot allow anything to happen to them."

Merlin gave another bow and disappeared in a flash of light, leaving Riser alone in his office once more.

...

Time passed, and finally, the day arrived for the farewell ceremony for Sirzechs, Ajuka, and Falbium. The event was held in a grand hall in the Underworld, decorated solemnly and elegantly, with soft lights creating an atmosphere of respect and mourning.

Representatives from various factions were present. Angels, Youkai, members of Norse Mythology, and even gods from Greek Mythology gathered in respect for the leaders who had fallen. Each of them had their own reasons for being there, but they all recognized the impact of the losses the Underworld had suffered.

Grayfia stood beside Millicas, her hands firmly holding his. The boy, though young, seemed to understand the gravity of the moment, his gaze fixed on the altar where the tributes were being made. Grayfia knew this was important for him, to understand the legacy his father had left and the sacrifice he had made for the Underworld.

Riser stood at the center of the hall, his imposing presence drawing glances from all sides. He wore formal attire, his golden flames absent, but the aura of power emanating from him was undeniable. Beside him, Sona maintained a firm posture, watching each movement and every look directed their way.

Serafall was near the altar, giving an emotional speech about the deeds of Sirzechs, Ajuka, and Falbium, her words laden with sadness but also hope. She spoke about the sacrifices made and how the Underworld must unite to honor the legacy of the fallen leaders.

"They gave their lives for us, so that we could continue fighting, so that the Underworld remains strong. We cannot let their sacrifice be in vain. Today, we promise to continue the work they began, to protect our home and our families."

Serafall's words echoed through the hall, followed by a respectful silence. Those present nodded, many clearly moved. It was a moment of unity, and everyone there knew they needed to strengthen themselves in the face of the losses they had suffered.

Riser observed closely, knowing this was a crucial moment. The ceremony was not only a farewell but also an opportunity to show the world that the Underworld was rising, that they were still a force to be reckoned with.

After the speech, each representative gave their own tributes, and then the leaders of the Underworld families approached the altar to pay their respects. Grayfia led Millicas to the altar, kneeling beside him as the boy placed a small white flower in honor of his father. His eyes shone with tears, but he held his posture firmly, like someone who understood the importance of that moment.

Riser looked at Grayfia and Millicas, his gaze softening briefly. He knew that Grayfia had made a difficult decision, and this was only the beginning of a new chapter for her and for the Underworld.

As the ceremony came to an end, Riser approached Sona and held her hand, raising it slightly as he looked at those present. He knew that, from that moment on, his responsibility was even greater, and that he needed to lead the Underworld towards a new era.

"Today, we bid farewell to our heroes," said Riser, his voice echoing through the hall, firm and determined. "But we also welcome a new era. An era of unity, strength, and determination. I, Riser Phenex, promise to continue the work they began and protect the Underworld with all my might. May their legacy live on through each of us."

Clap, clap, clap.

Applause echoed through the hall, filling the atmosphere with respect and emotion.

Riser raised his voice again, his eyes shining with determination. "This is the beginning of a new era! The Maou system is over. Now, the Underworld will be governed centrally, to ensure our forces are united and our future secure. There will be no more divisions, only a single purpose: the prosperity of the Underworld!"

The devils present began exchanging confused glances, some clearly hesitant, others pondering Riser's words. The proposed change was drastic, and many were uncertain about the future.

"To put it simply, from today on, I will be the King of the Underworld," Riser said, his voice sharp, making it clear there would be no room for questions.

The hall fell silent, his declaration echoing as everyone processed the magnitude of that change.

"As my first act as King, I will allow anyone who is against my rule to speak out. Raise your hand now."

Silence dominated the hall, and no one moved. The devils present remained quiet, many of them with apprehensive looks, but no one dared raise their hand.

Riser smiled. He knew no one there would have the courage to oppose him. He had crushed the traitors and was the only Maou who had fought and survived the war against Rizevim. His strength was unquestionable.

"So be it. Today marks the beginning of a new era of power and unity for the Underworld. From now on, we will march together toward a future of glory!"

"Long live the King!" exclaimed Athena.

"Long live the King!" echoed Latia.

"Long live the King!" repeated Iryuka.

Grayfia approached Riser, accompanied by her son. "Long live the King."

Clap, clap, clap.

Applause resonated through the hall, followed by the devils present repeating words of support for Riser. The atmosphere was charged with emotion and respect as everyone acknowledged the new leadership and the promise of a united future for the Underworld.

Clap, clap, clap.

Riser was pleased with the reaction of the devils. It was as clear as spring water that many there were not truly satisfied, but now it was too late.

To read 15 chapters ahead, go to

pat reon.com/22Mirko22