Reborn As Millicas Gremory

Chapter 3:

Millicas's eighth birthday was just a month away, and his mind was already set on what he hoped would happen between now and then. His Aunt Rias's birthday was in two weeks, and he had a plan. He would challenge her on that day, making his intentions clear to the family and the entire Gremory House. He wanted to face her in a formal match, one that would take place ten days later. His ultimate goal was to defeat her in that battle, proving that he should be made the rightful heir to the Gremory family. And with any luck, the announcement would be made on his own birthday.

For the past eleven months, Millicas had poured himself into training. He and Koneko had spent countless hours honing their skills, not just in the Gremory estate but also during their visits to the human world. Contracts in the human realm had provided real-world practice, and though he couldn't dedicate all his time to them due to his responsibilities to the family, his efforts had paid off. He had surpassed Rias in level, positioning himself as her superior in terms of raw power and combat potential.

Despite this, Millicas knew that surpassing Rias in level wasn't enough. The match wasn't just about their individual strengths-it was a peerage match, and that meant both of their teams would play a role. Rias had recently added a new knight to her peerage, a human boy named Isaiah. The boy had caused some trouble at first, resisting Rias's authority. Still, after being saved by his swordmaster Okita Souji his Father's knight during a dangerous encounter, he had come to trust her. He had taken on the name Kiba Yuuto, solidifying his place in Rias's peerage.

Millicas wasn't concerned about Kiba, though. He had watched him carefully and was confident that Koneko could handle him. Both Kiba and Koneko were classified as low-class devils, but Koneko had something Kiba didn't months of rigorous training and a combat style that could neutralize Kiba's speed. Millicas was sure she could win. Still, after Koneko took down Kiba, he planned to retire her from the match. He needed to beat Rias on his own. The heirship was a position he had to claim without relying on his pawn too much otherwise, people might doubt his strength and question his ability to lead and take the position.

Name: Rias Gremory

Tier 3: Middle-Class Devil

Level: 261

Race: Devil

HP: 34,700/34,700

Demonic Power: 48,500/48,500

He called upon his status:

"Status"

Name: Millicas Gremory

Age: 7 years old

Tier 3: Middle-Class Devil

Level-264

Race: Devil

Hp:40,600/40,600

Demonic Power: 48,000/48,000

Stats:

Strength:59

Speed:61

Endurance:62

Mental:30

Powers:

Power Of Destruction/ 10 demonic energy

Ice Manipulation/ 5 demonic energy

Summary: The son of Sirzechs Lucifer and Grayfia Lucifuge. Second in line to the Gremory Heirship. Member of the House of Gremory. He also has Sin of Wrath, Sin of Greed, and Sin of Pride.

Peerage:

Pawn=Shirone

Quest: [Becoming Heir]

One afternoon, as he and Koneko trained in the courtyard, the serene hum of the surrounding gardens was broken only by the rhythmic sound of Koneko's strikes against a training dummy. Millicas leaned casually against a stone pillar, observing her every move. Despite her small stature, her strikes were sharp and deliberate, each one landing with a solid thud.

"How are you feeling about the upcoming match?" Millicas asked, his voice calm yet curious.

Koneko paused, letting her arms fall to her sides as she glanced over her shoulder at him. "Confident," she replied simply, her tone steady but with an undercurrent of quiet determination. "Kiba is fast, but I've been watching him closely. He relies too much on his sword and speed. He's not used to someone like me with strength and endurance."

Millicas smiled faintly, impressed by her insight. "That's exactly right. He's a swordsman who thrives on distance and precision. Your strength lies in closing that distance. You've trained to counter his kind of fighter. Focus on that, wear him down, and don't give him a chance to recover."

Koneko gave a slight nod, wiping the sweat from her brow. "I won't let you down."

"I know you won't," Millicas said, his tone encouraging. "But remember, confidence can be a double-edged sword. Kiba may surprise you. Fighters with something to prove can be unpredictable."

She turned back to the training dummy, resuming her strikes. "I understand. But I've worked hard for this. I'm ready."

Millicas watched her for a moment longer, appreciating the quiet resolve that radiated from her. Despite her young age and her low-class ranking, Koneko carried herself with the kind of poise that belied her experience. "Good," he finally said. "Keep refining your form. Small improvements make a big difference."

Koneko paused, glancing at him. "What about you? Are you ready to face Rias?"

Millicas's expression didn't falter, though there was a flicker of amusement in his crimson eyes. "Rias may have the advantage of experience, but I've been preparing for this for months. She doesn't know what's coming."

Koneko raised an eyebrow slightly, her lips curving into a faint smirk. "Confident, aren't you?"

"Always," Millicas replied smoothly. "But unlike Rias, I don't underestimate my opponents. I know what she's capable of, and I've planned accordingly. That's the difference."

Their conversation was interrupted by a servant approaching with a tray of refreshments. Millicas waved the servant over and handed Koneko a glass of chilled water. She accepted it with a quiet "thank you," taking a sip before setting it aside as both made their way to the estate.

As the two approached the entrance to the manor, their conversation settled into a comfortable silence. Millicas glanced at Koneko, a small smirk tugging at his lips.

"You've done well, Koneko. Rest up. Tomorrow's another step closer to the match."

Koneko gave a small nod, her usual stoicism intact. "I'll be ready."

With that, they parted ways, each heading to their quarters, the weight of preparation still lingering in the air. Millicas couldn't help but feel a growing sense of anticipation. The match was drawing closer, and with it, the moment that could shape his future.

As the days passed, the tension surrounding the upcoming challenge began to build. Millicas spent most of his time preparing, his mind constantly running through strategies and tactics for the match. He wanted everything to be perfect when he issued the challenge on Rias's birthday. The timing was everything, and the announcement of his intentions would make waves throughout their family and the underworld.

One evening, as he made his way through the halls of the Gremory estate, he ran into Rias herself. She was coming back from a talk with his father, Sirzechs, and she looked preoccupied. Millicas noticed the way her brow furrowed as if she were lost in thought. "Millicas," she greeted him, her tone polite but a bit distant. "You've been training hard, I see."

"Always," Millicas replied, his tone light but purposeful. "You've been busy as well. You have your first peerage member."

Rias smiled, though there was a hint of unease in her expression. "Yes, Kiba. He's proven to be a valuable addition. Strong, loyal. He'll do well in any upcoming matches."

"I'm sure," Millicas said, nodding. "Koneko's been working hard too. She's ready."

There was a moment of silence as Rias studied him, her eyes narrowing slightly. She knew something was coming; Millicas could sense it. The tension between them was thick, an unspoken understanding that soon, things would change.

"Do you have something on your mind?" Rias asked, her tone measured.

Millicas paused for a moment, then smiled. "Not yet. But I will, soon enough."

Rias's expression remained neutral, but Millicas could see the gears turning in her head. She knew he was planning something, and he wasn't about to give anything away just yet.

After their conversation, Millicas nodded to Rias, signalling the end of their brief exchange. Without waiting for a response, he turned and walked down the hallway. His footsteps were steady and purposeful, echoing in the silence of the Gremory estate as he processed the conversation. He could feel the tension between him and Rias, but it only fueled his resolve. He would soon make his intentions clear, and then the countdown to his challenge would begin.

The next few days passed in a blur of anticipation, with Millicas focusing solely on preparing for the challenge. Though the conversation with Rias lingered in his mind, he made sure to keep his plans to himself, even from Koneko. The time for speaking was over; now it was time for action.

In the mornings, Millicas and Koneko continued their training routines. The two spent hours refining their combat techniques, with Millicas offering occasional advice and pointers. Koneko had become stronger and more confident in her ability to defeat Kiba, but Millicas knew she still needed to maintain her focus. The match would be a test of everything they had trained for over the past year.

Though Millicas was absorbed in the details of his plans, he still managed to check in on his family. He spent time with his grandfather, though their conversations were mostly about the usual matters of the Gremory household contracts, politics, and the ongoing preparations for Rias's birthday celebration. Millicas kept his interactions with his father neutral, careful not to reveal anything that might give away his intentions.

The household was busy in the days leading up to Rias's birthday. Servants scurried about, preparing for the lavish celebrations that were a tradition for the Gremory family. The manor was decorated with vibrant banners and flowers, the scent of fresh roses filling the air. Millicas had little interest in the festivities, but he couldn't deny the sense of excitement that buzzed through the estate.

One afternoon, Millicas wandered through the grand halls of the manor, his footsteps echoing in the silence. He passed by the dining room, where the table was being set for Rias's upcoming birthday feast. The sight of the elaborately set table with golden utensils and ornate decorations reminded him of the power and wealth his family wielded. The reminder served as fuel for his resolve-he was about to make his move, and he wouldn't allow anything to distract him.

Later that evening, Millicas found himself on the balcony overlooking the estate's sprawling gardens. The night was clear, the stars twinkling brightly overhead. He leaned on the stone railing, allowing the cool night air to calm his mind. His thoughts drifted to the match, to the challenge he would issue tomorrow.

He knew that when he challenged Rias, it wouldn't just be about combat. It would be about showing the entire Gremory family, and the devils from other noble clans, that he was the one who deserved to be heir.

For too long, Rias had held that title, and while she was undoubtedly strong and capable, Millicas knew that it was his time. He had spent the last year building his strength, honing his skills, and preparing for this moment. This wasn't just a battle of physical abilities- it was a battle of wills, a challenge to everyone who had doubted him.

But Millicas was aware that the path would not be as simple as defeating Rias in combat. There were other forces at play that would move against him. His father, Sirzechs, was a powerful figure in the underworld, and Millicas could already sense the weight of his father's influence. Sirzechs was a protective brother, and while he would never outright deny Millicas his chance, Millicas knew his father would try to persuade him to back down.

Sirzechs had always been an advocate for peace and unity within the family, and this challenge could be seen as a threat to the delicate balance of power in the Gremory household. Millicas knew his father would likely intervene, suggesting that he wait, that it wasn't the right time. His father might even use his authority to try to convince Millicas to reconsider, to soften his resolve towards "family".

And then there was his mother, Grayfia. Millicas had no doubt that she would support him in her own way, but she would also try to steer him in a direction that pleased Sirzechs. Grayfia was pragmatic, always balancing duty with personal emotions, and while she would never go against his wants, Millicas knew she'd have reservations.

She would try to dissuade him, to keep the peace, to protect him from what she would see as a potential challenge to his safety and stability. She might even try to coax him into reconsidering the timing or the method, but Millicas was determined. He couldn't afford to back down now, especially due to the levels he would miss out on.

Then there were his grandparents. His grandfather was traditional and would see his challenge go through. His grandmother may not be so supportive but she certainly wouldn't get in the way, not like his father. They would watch his challenge with a detached curiosity, maybe offering a word of advice or a nod of approval should he win, but they wouldn't interfere. Their opinion regarding who the heir was was largely unbiased and uncaring.

The challenge needed to be public, not just for the sake of honour but for the very reason that would make it impossible for anyone, especially his father, to undo. If he issued the challenge in private, there would always be the chance for Sirzechs or Grayfia to intervene.

They could argue that it was too early, that Millicas wasn't ready, and that it would cause disruption in the family. But if he issued it in front of others-his peers, and high-ranking devils-it would force their hand. It would make his decision binding. If Millicas presented his challenge in front of a gathering of high-ranking devils, the challenge would hold weight.

The public nature of it would give him leverage, a tool he could use to ensure that his father couldn't stop him. He could not be denied in front of the assembled guests; the pressure of the family, and the expectations of the underworld, would leave little room for his parents to do anything but accept the terms.

Even if Sirzechs tried to intervene, Millicas would have the power of public perception on his side. His challenge would be official, and undeniable, and if Sirzechs attempted to talk him out of it, he would risk looking biased and would seem as if he interfered with the pillar families' internal policies which would offend the families who supported his rule.

Millicas was ready to use that. He knew his father's respect for the family's image, and for maintaining a sense of authority and dignity. Sirzechs could not afford to look as if he were playing favourites or trying to prevent his son from issuing a perfectly acceptable challenge. The public nature of the challenge ensured that Millicas's challenge would occur regardless of his father.

As for his mother, Grayfia, Millicas knew she would try to keep the peace, as she always did, and while she would not actively oppose him, her guidance would come in the form of careful words.

She would caution him to think of the consequences, to consider what the match would mean for the future of their family, but Millicas was beyond being swayed by words. His decision had already been made. He had prepared for this moment for far too long to back out now and he needed those levels. He would face Rias, and he would defeat her publicly.

It was a delicate game, but Millicas was playing it well. He had already thought ahead, anticipating every possible move, every potential roadblock. The only thing that remained now was execution and Millicas was prepared for whatever came next.

With that thought settling in his mind, Millicas retired to his quarters for the night. As the sun rose the next day, marking the arrival of Rias's birthday, the Gremory estate was alive with activity. Servants bustled through the grand halls, carrying decorations, arranging lavish spreads of food, and finalizing preparations for the grand celebration. The air hummed with anticipation, and the estate sparkled with the luxurious flair befitting the noble Gremory family.

Millicas stood by his window, gazing out at the sprawling gardens where preparations were well underway. Nobles from the highest circles of the underworld would be arriving soon, their carriages rolling in with their peerages in tow. The Gremory domain, usually serene and dignified, was now buzzing with a vibrant energy.

Millicas exhaled, steadying his thoughts. Today was the day. His challenge, his moment, would soon be upon him. But he couldn't let his nerves show—not yet. For now, he needed to blend into the festivities, to play the part of the dutiful nephew. He stepped away from the window, adjusting the cuffs of his finely tailored suit, a deep crimson that matched his family's colours. Every detail mattered today, including appearances.

As he made his way to the grand hall, he passed Koneko, who was already in her formal attire. Despite her usual stoic demeanour, there was a flicker of acknowledgement in her golden eyes as she caught sight of him.

"Ready?" she asked quietly.

Millicas gave her a small smile, his voice calm. "Always."

Koneko nodded once before falling into step beside him. Though her expression didn't betray much, Millicas knew she understood the weight of what was to come. She had been by his side during countless hours of training, and her confidence in his plan was a steady source of reassurance.

As they entered the main hall, the grand space was already filled with music and laughter. The towering crystal chandelier bathed the room in warm light, illuminating the grandeur of the gathering. Nobles were beginning to arrive, their ornate garments and regal presence adding to the spectacle. Conversations floated through the air, and the scent of fine wines and delicacies filled the room.

Rias was at the centre of it all, the star of the occasion. She looked every bit the noble devil heir, her crimson hair flowing down her back in waves, and her dress a striking blend of elegance and authority. She greeted the arriving guests with practised grace, her smile warm but regal.

Millicas watched her from a distance, studying her as she charmed her way through the room. She has no idea what's coming, he thought. His expression remained composed, though inside, he felt a flicker of satisfaction. The moment was approaching.

"Millicas!" Rias's voice cut through his thoughts, and he turned to see her approaching him. Her smile was genuine, though there was an unmistakable glint of curiosity in her eyes. "You've been awfully quiet today. Are you planning a surprise?" she teased lightly.

Millicas chuckled softly, the perfect mask of innocence. "Just enjoying the festivities, Aunt Rias. It is your day, after all."

She tilted her head slightly, her sharp gaze lingering on him for a moment longer than necessary before she let the matter drop. "Well, I'm glad you're here."

With that, she was swept away by another group of guests, leaving Millicas to his thoughts once more. He took a glass of wine offered by a passing servant, holding it idly as he observed the room. The hall was nearly full now, the most prominent families in the underworld mingling and exchanging pleasantries. The time was drawing near.

He felt a nudge at his side and turned to see Koneko standing there, her expression as unreadable as ever. "You're staring too much," she murmured. "People will notice."

Millicas smirked, setting his glass down. "Let them."

The sound of a bell echoed through the hall, signalling that the formal celebrations were about to begin. Everyone turned their attention to the centre of the room, where Sirzechs and Grayfia had taken their places to deliver a few words in honour of Rias. Millicas stood at the edge of the crowd, his heart steady as he waited for the right moment. The spotlight would soon shift, and when it did, he would make his move.

Sirzechs raised his glass, his voice carrying effortlessly over the crowd. "Today, we celebrate not just the birth of my dear sister, but the strength and future of the Gremory family. Rias, you have grown into a fine young woman, and I have no doubt you will continue to bring honour to our name."

The crowd erupted into polite applause, and Rias beamed, her confidence radiant. As the applause died down, Sirzechs gestured for the festivities to continue, but before the room could fully return to its lively chatter, Millicas stepped forward.

"Father," he called out, his voice firm but respectful. The room fell silent, all eyes turning to him. Rias froze, her smile faltering slightly as she looked at him with a mix of surprise and curiosity.

Millicas met her gaze, his crimson eyes unwavering. "I have an announcement to make."

A ripple of murmurs swept through the crowd, but Millicas ignored them. His focus was solely on Rias. He could feel the weight of his parents' gazes on him, but he didn't falter.

Millicas turned to face his aunt, his crimson eyes steady and unwavering. "Aunt Rias," he began, his voice firm and deliberate, carrying a weight that belied his age. "I have something to say."

Rias tilted her head slightly, her expression a mix of curiosity and caution. She had been expecting something unusual from her nephew today, but not this.

"I, Millicas Gremory, formally challenge you to a Rating Game," he declared. His words were sharp and precise, cutting through the silence of the hall. "For your position as heir to the Gremory family."

Gasps rippled through the assembled nobles. The weight of his words hung in the air, heavy and undeniable. Rias's eyes widened in surprise, but the shock quickly melted into something more calculating. She studied him intently as if assessing his resolve.

"A Rating Game," Rias repeated, her tone thoughtful but laced with an edge of anger. "You're challenging me for the heirship?"

Millicas nodded once. "Yes. While you may have been born into the position I believe I deserve it more."

For a moment, the room was silent, the tension so thick it felt like it could snap. Then, Rias's lips curled into a smile—not a warm one, but a smile of recognition and challenge. "You've thought this through, haven't you?"

"For months," Millicas replied calmly, his gaze unwavering.

Rias folded her arms, her crimson hair shimmering under the chandelier lights. "Very well, Millicas. I accept your challenge."

Before the murmur of excitement could rise again, Lord Gremory's deep, commanding voice cut through the room. "The challenge has been made, and it has been accepted. As per tradition, the Rating Game will take place in ten days' time."

All eyes turned to the head of the family, his regal presence commanding respect. "This will be a private affair," he continued his tone firm. "Only family and select witnesses will be allowed to observe the match. The results will be formally announced on Millicas's birthday."

The announcement sent another wave of murmurs through the crowd. The private nature of the game was a clear indication of the gravity of the situation. It wasn't meant to be a spectacle for the underworld-it was a defining moment for the Gremory family.

Grayfia's gaze flickered toward her son, her expression unreadable. Millicas could feel the tension radiating from her, though she said nothing. Sirzechs, standing beside her, had a frown on his lips, one that hinted at a mixture of anger and dissatisfaction.

The air in the hall was heavy after Millicas's bold declaration and the formalization of the challenge. Though the Gremorys resumed their composed demeanour, the ripple effect of the announcement lingered. Conversations between the nobles took on a more hushed, speculative tone, and the festive energy of Rias's birthday had noticeably shifted. The celebration continued, but shakily, the undercurrent of tension was impossible to ignore.

Grayfia's gaze stayed on her son for a moment longer before she turned away, her face unreadable as she resumed her place beside Sirzechs. Her silence spoke volumes, her usual composed exterior betraying no signs of her thoughts, though Millicas could feel her disapproval simmering beneath the surface. Sirzechs, on the other hand, did not bother to hide his displeasure. The furrow in his brow deepened as he avoided looking at his son entirely, turning his attention to Rias with a forced smile, attempting to steer the event back to its celebratory purpose.

As the music played and servants moved through the hall, refilling glasses and offering trays of delicacies, Millicas found himself the focus of many curious—and bold—young heirs. One by one, they approached him, their words wrapped in polite tones but laced with intrigue and, at times, thinly veiled criticism.

"Quite the move you've made, Millicas," remarked a boy around his age with sharp features and dark, calculating eyes. He was from the Astaroth family, one of the great noble houses. "Challenging Rias for the heirship… Bold, but perhaps reckless?"

Millicas straightened his posture, his crimson eyes sharp. "Reckless for those who act without preparation. I am not one of them."

The boy smirked, clearly enjoying the verbal sparring. "Perhaps. But you've made things complicated for yourself—and your family. I imagine your father isn't thrilled."

"Family matters are for my family to handle," Millicas replied coolly. "This is about what's best for the Gremory lineage, nothing more."

The boy tilted his head, clearly impressed by Millicas's composure, before stepping back into the crowd, leaving Millicas to fend off the next curious heir.

A young girl with white hair and pink eyes approached him next. She was from the Agares family, another prominent house known for its diplomats and strategists. "You must be confident to make such a move, Millicas," she said, her voice light and teasing. "Though I wonder… do you truly believe you can defeat Lady Rias? She's not just your aunt—she's older and has more magic."

Millicas met her gaze evenly. "Age is an advantage, but it doesn't make one unbeatable. I've trained for this, and I know what I'm capable of. The rest… will be seen in the Rating Game."

She chuckled softly, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Well, I, for one, am excited to see how this plays out. You've certainly given us all something to talk about." With a playful smile, she drifted away, disappearing back into the crowd.

The evening wore on, and while many of the other heirs approached Millicas, offering a mix of scepticism, praise, and thinly veiled warnings, he maintained his composure, deflecting their comments with poise. Each interaction only fueled his determination. This was what he had expected—a swirl of speculation, doubt, and intrigue. But he would let his actions speak louder than any words.

Meanwhile, Rias managed to return to the spotlight, smiling and engaging with the guests, but her interactions were tinged with a certain sharpness, her usual warmth tempered by the challenge that hung over her birthday like a storm cloud. It was clear to Millicas that she was already strategizing, her mind working to ensure her victory in the upcoming Rating Game.

As the night wore on, Grayfia and Sirzechs stayed mostly to themselves, exchanging only a few quiet words. Millicas caught his mother's gaze once or twice, her expression still unreadable. His father, however, avoided looking at him altogether, his displeasure as palpable as the tension in the room.

When the event finally began to wind down, Millicas excused himself from the mingling nobles and made his way to his quarters. The conversations and probing questions of the night replayed in his mind, but they only reinforced his resolve. He had set the wheels in motion, and now there was no turning back. Ten days stood between him and the match that would define his future position.

As Millicas closed the door to his room, he let out a slow breath. The muffled sounds of the party continued downstairs, but he knew it was only a matter of time before his mother came to speak with him. He wasn't wrong.

A soft knock echoed through the room. When he opened the door, Grayfia stood there, her crimson eyes cool but laced with a faint tension.

"May I come in?" she asked, her voice calm but pointed.

Millicas stepped aside silently, letting her in. She entered gracefully, the door clicking shut behind her. For a moment, she said nothing, simply studying him with a gaze that held both understanding and disapproval.

"You've put your father in a difficult position tonight," she finally said, her tone steady but carrying a hint of sternness.

Millicas crossed his arms, his own crimson eyes unwavering as he met her gaze. "I didn't have a choice. He wouldn't have let me challenge Rias otherwise."

Grayfia tilted her head slightly, her expression unreadable. "You're correct in that. But do you understand what this means for him, Millicas? Sirzechs loves you as his son, but Rias… Rias is his little sister. You're not just challenging her position tonight; you've struck at the one person he would do anything to protect."

"I'm not striking at her," Millicas said firmly. "This isn't personal. It's about the future of the family and who's most suited to lead it. Rias may have been born to lead the Gremory family. But I do have the right to challenge her for this position."

Grayfia's gaze hardened slightly, her tone cooling. "Your father won't see it that way, Millicas. To him, this is an attack on Rias—on her pride and her place in this family. You know how protective he is of her. He has always loved her more than anyone, including you."

The words hit Millicas like a sharp blade, but he didn't let it show. His jaw tightened, and his voice was steady when he replied, "I know. I've always known. That's why I couldn't let him get in the way of this. He would've stopped me to spare Rias any discomfort, no matter what it meant for the family."

Grayfia sighed, stepping closer to him. Her expression softened slightly, though her tone remained sharp. "You're not wrong about Sirzechs. He would protect Rias even if it meant ruining you. And now, you've forced his hand. He won't be able to stop this match, but he will come to you tonight, Millicas. He will demand answers, and he will ask you to withdraw."

Millicas clenched his fists at his sides. "I won't. The challenge has been made, and it's public. There's no taking it back now, even if I wanted to—which I don't."

Grayfia regarded him quietly for a long moment before speaking again. "Your determination is admirable, but your father's reaction will not be one of understanding. Be prepared, Millicas. He is angry, and his anger will not be restrained by his position or the fact that you are his son."

"I'll face him," Millicas said firmly. "I'm not afraid of what he has to say. I've made my decision, and I'll see it through."

Grayfia nodded slightly, though there was a trace of sadness in her eyes. "Very well. But remember, no matter what happens tonight—or in the days to come—Rias will always be at the centre of your father's heart. That will never change. You must decide how you will handle that."

Millicas let out a quiet breath as he stared at his mother, Grayfia, knowing she was right. The road he had chosen was full of risks, but he had made up his mind. As the conversation shifted, a fleeting thought crossed his mind—a thought about Grayfia's true power, and what he had learned from his own training.

Without thinking much about it, Millicas mentally commanded, Observe.

"Observe"

Name: Grayfia Lucifuge

Tier: 7: Satan-Class

Level: 601

Race: Devil

HP: 84,000,000/84,000.000

Demonic Power: 68,500,000/68,500,000

He paused, his eyes narrowing slightly as he read over the numbers. It was far beyond what he had expected of his mother. Satan-Class was already a level of power so far out of his reach that it made him feel like a child, but the most surprising thing was the Minor God[?] label next to her tier. He clicked on the [?] with curiosity, wanting to understand more.

A small description popped up: Devils cannot ascend to Godhood unless they surpass the peak of Super Devil. As such, Grayfia is classified as Satan-Class, a status earned through extreme mastery of demonic power. The label 'Minor God' indicates a level of power which is classified as Satan-Class.

Millicas stared at the description, his mind processing what he had just seen. It made sense, in a way. Grayfia's power was formidable—more than formidable. The strength of a Satan-Class devil was a massive feat. He now understood why his mother could feel so untouchable at times, even though she seemed so composed and calm.

The thought lingered in the back of his mind. If she's so powerful, how much more so is Father? Millicas shook his head, unwilling to be distracted from the larger goal. This was all part of the complex world of devils and the expectations that came with it. But the temptation to push his limits, to observe more of the world around him, gnawed at him.

Before he could delve further into his thoughts, the door creaked, and Millicas knew it was time for a much different conversation. His father, Sirzechs, was approaching. A heavy feeling settled over Millicas's chest, knowing that Sirzechs would likely have a very different stance on everything.

"Millicas," Sirzechs began, his deep voice drawing Millicas's attention immediately. His crimson eyes were sharp, though not unkind. "We need to talk about your blatant and public challenge."

Millicas straightened, ready for whatever his father would say.

Sirzechs stood in the doorway, his imposing presence filling the room. His usual calm demeanour was replaced by a deep frustration, his eyes narrowing as he surveyed his son. The air between them was heavy, thick with the tension of impending words.

"I never thought it would come to this," Sirzechs began, his voice firm but with an underlying trace of disappointment. "Challenging Rias for the heirship. You know what that means, don't you?"

Millicas didn't flinch. He stood tall, his own gaze unyielding. "I do. And I'm prepared for whatever comes with it."

Sirzechs crossed the room, his steps deliberate. "This isn't just a challenge for a title, Millicas. This is about tearing the Gremory family apart. Do you understand what you're setting in motion? If you win, you'll humiliate her in front of everyone—the family, the other noble houses, the devils who have watched her grow and support her. She's the one who's been the face of the family for years. To defeat her in public, to strip her of everything she's worked for… You'll be

destroying her. And you'll be destroying the unity of our family."

Millicas swallowed the rising bitterness in his throat. "She hasn't worked for anything, Father. She's been handed everything on a silver platter. She's never had to sacrifice, never had to prove herself. I'll admit I've never had to either but I do understand what it takes. She's been the centre of attention for no accomplishment of her own."

Sirzechs' jaw tightened, his voice dropping lower, more dangerous. "That's not your place to decide, Millicas. You have no right to diminish the effort she's put in, the responsibility she's carried as the next in line. Yes, she's the heir, but you don't know the burdens she's had to shoulder, the pressure she's been under."

"I know enough," Millicas countered, his voice rising slightly. "She's had everything handed to her, while I've been pushed aside. I've done more than she has to earn my place here."

Sirzechs sighed deeply, rubbing a hand over his face in frustration. "You're my son, Millicas. But what you're proposing is an act of cruelty. Not just against your aunt, but against the family. If you succeed, if you take her position as heir, you won't be doing it because you're better suited. You'll be doing it because you've humiliated her and taken something that was never truly yours. You'll be forcing yourself into a role you weren't born to. And that will never sit right with anyone, including me."

Millicas gritted his teeth. "I'm not born into the role, no. But that doesn't mean I can't have it. I'll prove I'm worthy of it, and I'll do it with the right I have to challenge her as a member of the main family.

Sirzechs stepped closer, his tone darkening. "This is about more than just proving yourself. You're talking about destroying your sister's future, and her reputation, and in the process, you'll fracture this family. Do you really want to live with the knowledge that you've torn apart the very people who raised you? And if you win, you'll take her place—but you'll never be able to maintain peace. You'll be in a position that doesn't belong to you, a title you were never meant to have. And no matter how much you want it, you'll always be seen as the one who took it through force, not through merit and proving yourself to your Grandfather to take the title."

Millicas clenched his fists at his sides, a bitter anger rising in his chest. "I don't care what people think. I care about what I deserve. I won't sit back and let her have everything simply because she's been given it."

"Then you're more foolish than I thought," Sirzechs said, his voice shaking with frustration. "Do you think that if you humiliate her, if you take what's hers, that you'll truly be respected? That you'll be able to handle the responsibility? The devils who've supported Rias all this time won't simply follow you because you've won a game. If you win, you'll only inherit a hollow title, and the family will be fractured beyond repair. The respect you're seeking won't come. It'll only bring resentment."

"I'll make them respect me," Millicas shot back. "I'll prove I can lead."

Sirzechs' eyes hardened. "You're wrong. And you'll see that soon enough. You're not thinking about the bigger picture. I never wanted to have this conversation with you, but you've forced my hand. Prepare yourself, Millicas. I'll speak with you again soon but know that you'll have to face the consequences of your actions. I'm still your father, and I won't let you tear this family apart."

Without another word, Sirzechs turned and left the room, his steps heavy with the weight of the conversation.

As his father left he mentally commanded, Observe.

"Observe"

Name: Sirzechs Lucifer

Tier 9: Super Devil/Chief God

Current Tier: 8 [Peak Satan Class/Major God]

Level: 889

Current Level:789

Race: Devil

HP: 784,000,000/784,000.000

Demonic Power: 686,500,000/686,500,000

Millicas stared at the screen in disbelief, his mind trying to process the information flooding into his consciousness. Sirzech Lucifer, his father, wasn't just a powerful devil he was The Strongest. No, his true form was something far beyond anything Millicas had imagined. The data that appeared in front of him gave him a sense of the vast gulf that separated them—not just in rank, but in raw, unimaginable power.

Tier 9: Super Devil/Chief God—Millicas could hardly wrap his mind around it. He'd always known Sirzechs was strong, but this... this was beyond comprehension. He clicked further into the information, feeling a mixture of awe and fear creeping through him as he read more.

His father's current tier was already at the peak of Satan Class, the level most devils could only dream of reaching. Yet, Millicas' eyes widened as he saw that Sirzechs had not even ascended to his true form. The potential in that information was staggering.

Current Health: 784,000,000/784,000,000...

Current Demonic Power: 686,500,000/686,500,000...

Millica's own power paled in comparison. There was no doubt now—his father's true form, the one he was holding back, was incomprehensibly strong. A being of pure destruction. The thought of facing that kind of power made Millicas' stomach churn, and a sudden feeling of dread washed over him.

If he ascended to his true form, Millicas thought, His power would multiply tenfold. I wouldn't stand a chance.

This wasn't just about him challenging Rias for the heirship anymore. If his father decided to intervene directly, Millicas would have no hope of standing against him. Even in his current form, Sirzechs could easily crush him he was little more than a bug in front of him.

Millicas gritted his teeth, the fire inside him burning brighter. He wasn't afraid of this power, but he needed to be smarter. The odds were stacked against him in ways he hadn't even considered. Still, it didn't change his resolve.

I won't back down, Millicas thought firmly, a storm brewing in his chest. If I want to earn the title of heir, I'll need to prove myself. Even if it means facing everything... everyone.

With one last glance at the stats, Millicas forced himself to focus on the task ahead. The challenge was set, and he couldn't allow fear to dictate his actions. Rias, his aunt, the Gremory family—it all came down to this moment. But as he stared at the numbers, he couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning of a far more dangerous game.

He knew one thing for certain: He wasn't ready to back down from this fight not with Rias. Millicas had already made up his mind. The Gremory name was his to claim and he would become a High Class devil providing him a huge powerup.

The days seemed to stretch on endlessly until the moment of the Rating Game finally arrived. The quiet anticipation in the Gremory estate had grown palpable, with each passing minute making the tension in the air thicker. Millicas spent those days training, refining his strategies, and mentally preparing himself for the battle of his life. There was no going back now. He would either win or lose everything tarnishing his image.

The morning of the fight arrived, and the house was unusually still. The grand estate, usually filled with servants and staff bustling about, was eerily quiet, as though holding its breath. The Rating Game would take place privately, far from prying eyes, with only those directly involved in the battle present. No one else would witness it—this would be between Millicas, Rias, and their respective teams.

Millicas stood in front of his bedroom mirror, staring at his reflection. His red eyes burned with the intensity of his resolve. He had been preparing for this moment for weeks, but the weight of it was more oppressive than he'd ever imagined. This wasn't just a match—it was his future, his legacy, his chance to prove that he could lead the Gremory family, even if he wasn't born to be its leader.

A soft knock on the door broke his thoughts, and before he could speak, the door creaked open. Grayfia entered the room, her silver hair flowing like a silken veil behind her. Her crimson eyes met his, and for the first time in what felt like forever, Millicas saw something soft in her gaze.

"I wanted to see you before the match begins," she said quietly, walking towards him with slow, deliberate steps. "You've made your choice, Millicas. I can't say I'm pleased with it, but I will support you."

Millicas met her gaze, his heart tightening slightly. "Thank you, Mother," he said simply. There was no bitterness, no anger in his voice, just a quiet determination. This wasn't the conversation he'd imagined, but he was grateful for her words.

Grayfia looked at him for a long moment before she spoke again, her voice tinged with concern. " Rias is still your aunt. No matter what happens today, don't forget that family is everything."

Millicas nodded, his eyes hardening with the resolve that had fueled him for so long. "I know what I'm doing, Mother. I've thought about it endlessly. I need to do this."

She sighed, her expression softening slightly. "I understand, Millicas. But even if you win, the consequences may be more than you're prepared for. Your father..." She trailed off, and for a moment, Millicas saw a flicker of concern in her eyes, a vulnerability he rarely saw in her.

Grayfia took a step closer, placing a hand gently on his shoulder. "Just be careful. I know your heart, and I know you're not doing this out of malice. But your father may not see it that way. He might never understand."

Millicas's mind wandered for a moment to his father—Sirzechs's anger from the night they'd spoken still lingered in his mind. But he pushed the thoughts aside. He had already made his choice. There was no turning back now. His gaze met his mother's again, and he saw the quiet worry there, though she tried to hide it.

"I'll be fine," Millicas assured her, his voice firm. "This is my fight, and I will win. I have to."

Grayfia studied him for a long moment, her eyes filled with a mix of pride and sorrow. She didn't speak right away, as though weighing her words carefully. Finally, she gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. "I believe in you, Millicas. No matter the outcome, I will always be here for you."

The words, simple yet profound, caused something to stir in Millicas's chest. It wasn't comfort, not really, but it was enough. For the first time in days, he felt like he wasn't alone in this. His mother may not have agreed with his decision, but she was still his ally.

Millicas took a deep breath, steeling himself for what was to come. The clock was ticking, and soon he would be facing Rias in a battle that would decide not only the future of the Gremory family but his own path as well.

Later that day, Millicas stood outside the arena, Koneko by his side, the tension in the air nearly suffocating. Koneko, who had been silent for most of the preparations, now looked up at him, her usual calm demeanour replaced by a rare flicker of anxiety.

"You're ready, right?" she asked, her voice low, almost uncertain, though she tried to mask it.

Millicas nodded, though a part of him still grappled with the enormity of what he was about to do. "I'm ready. But it's not just about the title anymore. It's about my reputation. I can't back down now."

Koneko's sharp eyes met his, and she said nothing more, her stance resolute. She had been his support through all the training, and now, she would stand by him in this. Even if it meant everything could be lost.

Before Millicas could speak again, the familiar figure of Sirzechs appeared at the entrance, his imposing form a stark contrast to the calm atmosphere. His eyes locked onto Millicas, an unreadable expression on his face. There was no warmth in the way he looked at his son, only cold professionalism.

"I trust you're prepared," Sirzechs said, his voice thick with barely contained emotion. "When the game begins, there will be no turning back. No matter who wins, things will never be the same."

Millicas stared at his father for a moment, holding his gaze without wavering. "I'm ready. Let the game begin."

Sirzechs said nothing in reply, only giving a small nod before turning away.

As Millicas stepped into his teleportation circle with Koneko, his heart began to pound. This was it. He had made it this far, and there was no going back. He would either emerge victorious, claiming what was rightfully his, or he would lose the respect of the family and the underworld.

The area was silent. No crowd, no cheering. Just the cold,

unforgiving atmosphere that seemed to hang in the air, heavy with the weight of the challenge ahead.

Rias stood at the other side of the battleground, her expression unreadable, her eyes locked on him. She looked every bit the dignified heir she was, but there was something else in her gaze—a flicker of sadness, perhaps regret. She had always been the centre of the Gremory family. Now, it was Millicas's turn to prove himself.

Koneko gave Millicas a brief nod, stepping back to take her place on the sidelines as Rias's own knight took the position. The quiet before the storm was almost unbearable.

And then, the signal was given. The game had begun.