Chapter 3.1: Persevere and Interfere

Lyam, with a mischievous glint in his eye, couldn't resist whispering to Ennemond, "You owe me a beer."

The two friends shared hearty laughter, enjoying the camaraderie and shared moments of their reunion. 

The door creaked open, and Lyam prepared to leave. "Well then, I should be going," he announced, raising his hat in farewell.

Ennemond bid him goodbye warmly. "Take care, old friend."

Jophiel waved her hand and called out, "Bye, Mr. Lyam! See you tomorrow!"

As Lyam's car engine roared to life, he drove off with a sense of purpose, leaving Ennemond and Jophiel behind. Ennemond couldn't help but comment on Lyam's driving skills. "That old hag never changes when it comes to driving," he chuckled.

Jophiel reminded them of their impending journey. "We should start packing right now because we have a long ride."

Ennemond glanced around and furrowed his brow in concern. "What's the matter, granpabi?" Jophiel asked.

Ennemond's voice quivered with worry. "Where's Lucifer?"

Jophiel's face registered surprise as she replied, "He's on the rooftop."

But when they checked, Lucifer was nowhere to be found.

Asmodeus, Leviathan, and Beelzebub, on the other hand, had made their way to Nazareth after their long journey from Hell. As they walked through the streets, the crowds chattered around them.

"Perhaps we should stop here and have some booze," Leviathan suggested, feeling the need to unwind.

Beelzebub agreed, saying, "I agree, because we've been nonstop roaming here in Bethlehem since we came up from Hell."

"Alright," said Asmodeus.

Their attention was diverted when a lady approached them. Asmodeus couldn't help but whistle appreciatively. "Wow, look at those well-shaped curves."

Beelzebub kept things straightforward, ordering drinks, "Six beers, please."

The lady serving them gave Asmodeus a playful wink. "Coming right up, gentlemen."

Asmodeus couldn't resist making a risqué comment, saying, "I never thought here in Nazareth has also god-tier ladies."

Leviathan chimed in with his own thoughts. "Only in Netherus will you find a war-freak-hot lady. But here is different, much naughtier."

Asmodeus contemplated using his lusty abilities on the ladies around them but was reminded of their mission by Beelzebub. "Perhaps I should manipulate them with my lusty ability."

Leviathan burst into laughter. "Not now, Asmodeus. We still have a mission to do."

Asmodeus chuckled and acknowledged the wisdom of Beelzebub's words. "Oh yeah, I almost forgot that."

With their mission still ahead of them, the three demons set aside their distractions and focused on their dark purpose.

The lady returned with their drinks and presented them to the demons. "Here you go, gentlemen," she said with a smile.

Beelzebub handed over a sparkling diamond as a tip, surprising the lady. "Oh! I didn't see this coming," she giggled.

Asmodeus, always one to charm, kissed the lady's hand and said, "Thanks for the booze, Mademoiselle."

They all raised their glasses in unison, offering a collective toast. "Fremitus!" they exclaimed as their cups clinked together.

Leviathan savored the drink, exclaiming, "Ugh, this is refreshing!"

Asmodeus, ever the flirt, couldn't help but comment, "I'm gonna hook up with that gal later."

Beelzebub shot Asmodeus a disapproving look, to which Asmodeus relented. "Alright... alright. Mission first," he agreed.

Just then, the door to the establishment banged open, drawing the attention of the other patrons. One of the men shouted, "If it isn't the Architechy!"

The men erupted in laughter as Louis approached the bar and slammed his money down. "One Winston Cocktail!" he demanded.

The man serving Louis didn't hesitate to engage in some teasing banter. "Hey! I've heard you've failed?" he teased.

Louis accepted the jibe with a resigned sigh. "What else could it be?" he replied.

Meanwhile, outside, Lucifer was panting as he desperately searched for his fellow demons. "Beelzebub? Asmodeus? Leviathan?" he called out.

"Good Hell!" he muttered, realizing that he had finally found them. He rushed toward them, eager to reunite with his companions.

However, as Lucifer attempted to embrace Beelzebub, the demon stopped him in his tracks. "Wait... who are you?!" Beelzebub demanded, his guard up.

Lucifer let out an exasperated sigh, realizing he needed to reveal himself. "Oh come on! It's me! Your king!" Lucifer declared, hoping his true identity would be recognized. 

The demons, still skeptical, challenged Lucifer's identity. "If you're trying to make fun of us, just back off," Beelzebub cautioned.

Leviathan echoed his sentiment, saying, "Yeah! We don't have time for your jokes, fella."

Lucifer sighed, realizing the gravity of his situation. "Hmm, I forgot… I've lost my powers when I got hit by your Halberd," he confessed.

Beelzebub, alarmed by this revelation, abruptly stood. "What did you say?!" he demanded, his eyes widening.

Lucifer clarified, "The 'Domination' thingy!"

In response, Asmodeus attempted to stab Lucifer, but his blade failed to penetrate. A mixture of awe and respect washed over the three demons as they promptly bowed before him. "Your highness!" they exclaimed in unison.

The other patrons in the bar observed this unusual scene, puzzled by the sudden change in the demons' behavior. Lucifer, feeling the need to diffuse the tension, instructed his loyal subjects to rise and sit.

He laughed heartily, dismissing their display. "It's nothing, gentlemen. Just a role-play," he explained with a mischievous grin.

As the demons regained their composure, they shared the purpose of their visit with Lucifer. Beelzebub spoke up, "We came here to rescue you, sire."

Lucifer acknowledged their loyalty, saying, "Okay, that's noble to hear. Thank you!"

However, he reminded them that now was not the time to execute their plan. "But now's not the time to commence!" he cautioned.

Beelzebub nodded in understanding. "We understand, your highness, due to the loss of your powers," he replied respectfully.

Leviathan, seizing the opportunity, posed a question to Lucifer. "Mind if I ask, your highness?" he began, "Why did you protect that archangel back then?"

Lucifer found himself grappling with the age-old query. "Bloody hell, this question again…" he muttered. He then continued, "I don't know. I just acted on my own instincts and… that's it."

He redirected their focus, emphasizing their immediate concern. "Now's not the time for that. What we need to know first is how to get back your power," Lucifer declared.

Beelzebub praised his king's wisdom. "As expected of the right hand of the king," he remarked.

Just then, Louis, intoxicated, stumbled toward them. He laid a hand on Lucifer's shoulder, slurring his words. "Long time no see, ruins," he mumbled.

Beelzebub promptly slapped Louis's hand away, warning, "Back off, human."

Lucifer intervened, attempting to maintain some semblance of civility. "If it isn't Mr. decent-but-embarrassment," he greeted Louis.

Louis, fueled by liquid courage, broke a bottle and pointed it menacingly at Lucifer's face. "You were the reason why I didn't get Jophiel!" he accused.

Lucifer, his expression one of surprise, could only respond with a resigned "Oh!"

Louis's accusations and revelations sent shockwaves through the room. As he mentioned Jophiel's name and the devil's involvement, Beelzebub, Asmodeus, and Leviathan exchanged puzzled glances.

Lucifer attempted to clarify his intentions, stating, "I wasn't planning to sell her off. I came up with a plan to save her before they could take her aboard the ship."

Louis, wracked with guilt, continued to explain himself. "I'm just playing my part because that devil manipulated me," he admitted.

Lucifer, now thoroughly confused, sought clarification. "Wait... you said devil?"

Louis raised his voice, confirming, "Precisely! She even strangled me with her chains and threatened me."

Lucifer turned to Beelzebub, Asmodeus, and Leviathan, whispering, "Did Lilith escape from her cell?"

Beelzebub replied, "I'm afraid not, sire. Only you and Satan have the ability to unlock her cell."

Lucifer contemplated the situation, considering the possibility that Satan might be involved. However, Louis provided another piece of the puzzle. He mentioned that the devil in question was jealous of Lucifer and Jophiel's relationship.

Leviathan sighed, recognizing the name. "It's Diane," he explained. "That enamored, obsessed one."

Lucifer grimaced at the revelation. "That would be a problem," he muttered.

Louis, overwhelmed by the situation, was on the verge of a breakdown. His hands trembled uncontrollably as he admitted, "But I failed, which means... I'm good to be dead." He laughed manically, clearly distraught.

Suddenly, Louis unleashed his frustration, charging at Lucifer with reckless abandon. Lucifer acted swiftly, restraining Louis's flailing arms. However, Louis managed to land a powerful kick to Lucifer's stomach, sending the fallen angel flipping over the bar.

Jophiel, who had just entered the bar and witnessed the chaotic scene, rushed to Lucifer's side, calling out, "Lucifer!" 

Jophiel, concerned for Lucifer's well-being, helped him get up as he groaned, "See me beaten up again, Jophiel."

Inside the bar, Louis was in a state of panic, pleading desperately, "No please! Please! Please! Please!" Jophiel peered inside and witnessed the intense demonic aura radiating from Beelzebub, who appeared ready to exact vengeance upon Louis. Acting quickly, Jophiel pressed a charm to Beelzebub's forehead, causing him to immediately calm down.

With the situation defused, Asmodeus greeted Jophiel with a smirk, saying, "It's good to see you again, archangel."

"Get out of here now," said Jophiel.

The three Arch Demons followed the command of the Archangel, leaving the bar.

The owner of the bar showed up, shocked at the mess in her establishment. She asked Jophiel, "What happened here? How may I help you?"

Jophiel apologized, "Um, about that, Ma'am. I should be the one apologizing because those are… my friends. I will pay for the damage they've done."

Beelzebub handed over three diamonds to the owner, saying, "That should be enough."

Jophiel asked the owner if it was acceptable, and the owner winked in response.

Louis approached Jophiel, attempting to engage her in conversation, but she dismissed him for the time being.

The Arch Demons joined Jophiel and Lucifer outside, and Lucifer asked, "So the blood-wrath is over?"

Jophiel requested a private conversation with Lucifer, leading him to a tree and inquiring, "What are they doing here?!"

Lucifer reassured Jophiel, his voice carrying a note of sincerity, "Relax, archangel. They're just here to find me."

But Jophiel's doubts lingered as she pressed on, her voice filled with concern, "What if this is part of your plan? What if that moment ago was just an act to distract me?"

Lucifer took a deep breath and exhaled, emphasizing his honesty, "Trust me, archangel. My 'Domination' plan has been out of my mind ever since I became human."

He continued, "But I'm still immortal. There's something I'm wondering about myself that I can hardly find."

Jophiel was taken aback, her curiosity piqued. "Then what is it?"

Lucifer's gaze met hers as he replied, "The same question you've always ranted at me."

Jophiel was stunned into silence for a moment before finally asking, "Can I trust you?"

Lucifer reached out and patted Jophiel's head affectionately, his voice gentle, "You have my word."

Unbeknownst to them, the Arch Demons observed the interaction, and Leviathan couldn't help but notice something unusual in the air.

Leviathan chuckled mischievously, asking, "Did I just smell love in the air?"

Beelzebub joined in, saying, "On what you saw, maybe that is it."

Asmodeus added with a knowing grin, "Now I know why Diane is making a move."

The three Arch Demons shared a hearty laugh over their observations.

Lucifer turned to them, extending an invitation, "Arch Demons, would you like to accompany us?"

Perplexed, Beelzebub inquired, "To where?"

Lucifer revealed their destination, saying, "To Anadem."

The Arch Demons looked puzzled, prompting Lucifer to explain further, "You see, Jophiel wants me to come, and I don't know why she asked me. I can't say 'no' to her either. If Diane is indeed hunting either me or the archangel, then this might be a good opportunity to capture her, even if it means I'm the bait."

Lucifer commanded them, "I want you, Arch Demons, to accompany me. Take a little break here on Earth, brothers."

Asmodeus agreed, saying, "If that's your majesty's plan, then we'll get along."

Beelzebub affirmed, "As you wish, your highness," as the three of them bowed.

Lucifer discussed their plan, stating, "We're going to head to her house," and he pointed towards Jophiel.

Leviathan couldn't resist making a playful whistle at the sight of Jophiel. Meanwhile, Lucifer was momentarily caught off guard when Jophiel shouted, "Lucifer! Help me buy some snacks!"

A hint of embarrassment colored Lucifer's expression as he chuckled and touched his head, admitting, "I didn't see that coming."

The Arch Demons continued to watch Lucifer with interest as Jophiel called him again, "Lucifer!" 

"Right away, Jophiel," Lucifer replied with a sense of urgency.

Beelzebub couldn't help but ask, "Did our king just call him 'Lucifer'?"

Leviathan chimed in, "Yeah..."

Asmodeus inquired, "Is that bad?"

Beelzebub considered the matter, replying, "It depends on the pride of our king."

Meanwhile, Diane silently trailed behind them, but Beelzebub noticed her and observed her motives. Asmodeus and Leviathan also became aware of her presence, but they left it to Beelzebub to handle.

Lucifer and Jophiel went shopping for their journey, with Asmodeus and Leviathan tagging along. Beelzebub opted not to join them, reasoning that he wasn't into that sort of thing, but he kept a watchful distance, fully aware that Diane was following them.

As Lucifer and Jophiel briefly parted ways, Diane seized the opportunity to make her move. She silently approached Jophiel with a knife in hand, intent on attacking her from behind. However, Beelzebub intervened, swiftly grabbing Diane and leading her out of the store with a set of beetle-shaped handcuffs.

In a secluded alley behind the store, Diane taunted Beelzebub, saying, "Fancy meeting me, Seraphim?"

Beelzebub didn't mince words, responding, "I know your obvious motive, Diane. But killing the archangel is the dumbest move you've got there. Remember, this knife of yours is not strong enough to take down a high-ranking angel. However, I will take you back to Hell because our king has an important meeting with the archangel. No interference from the enamored-devil."

Diane scoffed and clanked the beetle handcuffs, retorting, "I don't think so." In a swift motion, she executed a flying kick that caught Beelzebub off guard, displaying immense strength that overwhelmed him. He couldn't restrain her, and he was instantly knocked out.

Diane took advantage of the situation, placing the handcuffs on Beelzebub and propping him up against the wall, unconscious. She then fled the scene.

Back at the florist shop, Lucifer and Jophiel had purchased snacks for their journey and arrived to find Ennemond surprised by the presence of Lucifer's friends.

"These are the companions of the handsome devil," Ennemond remarked.

Leviathan leaned over to Asmodeus and whispered, "Does this old hag know our identity?"

Asmodeus considered it and replied, "Perhaps it's just a metaphor since our king is truly fine-looking."

Leviathan agreed, saying, "I guess that's it."

Jophiel turned to Lucifer and asked, "Um, Lucifer... Can you take care of the store for a while? I'm going to accompany granpabi back to his house to help him pack his things for the trip." 

"Very well," Lucifer agreed.

As Jophiel left with Ennemond, hours passed, and Beelzebub suddenly burst into the shop, clearly rattled and alarmed.

The door banged open, and Beelzebub urgently inquired, "Where's the archangel?"

Lucifer was taken aback and asked, "Hold on. What happened to you?"

Beelzebub explained, "When I captured Diane, I was about to take her back to Hell. She easily broke my beetle handcuff and kicked me with a brute force that only we Arch Demons possess. I immediately lost consciousness, and when I woke up, my own handcuffs were on my hands. I rushed here because I thought the archangel would be in danger."

Lucifer was visibly displeased with the news. He questioned, "Does she plan to harm the archangel?"

Beelzebub confirmed, "Indeed, my lord."

Just then, the door opened again, and Ennemond entered, laughing.

"That was bizarre, sweetheart," he said to Jophiel.

Jophiel looked concerned and asked, "Are you sure you're alright?"

Ennemond replied with a chuckle, "I may be old, but I can still lift a mountain," as he slowly laid down on the sofa, already dozing off.

Jophiel sighed, and Lucifer couldn't help but comment, "Why are you so quick?"

Jophiel explained, "Granpabi pleaded with me to fly him back and forth, and now he's..."

Ennemond's snores confirmed his state of slumber, prompting a joke from Asmodeus, who asked, "Dead?"

Jophiel clarified, "That's not it. Anyway, thanks for looking out for the store."

"Don't mention it," Leviathan replied.

Lucifer then requested a moment with the Arch Demons, and they agreed.

"Excuse us for a while, archangel," Lucifer said as they exited the store.

Once outside, Lucifer began discussing their plan. He acknowledged Beelzebub's earlier assessment of Diane's strength.

"Okay, since Diane has enormous strength, just as you said, Beelzebub..." 

Lucifer explained the plan to the Arch Demons, emphasizing his lack of divine and demonic powers.

"As you can see now, I don't have my demonic ones right now," Lucifer stated. "I want you to accompany me...us back and forth, as you're our guard momentarily."

The three Arch Demons understood and acknowledged their orders. However, Beelzebub couldn't resist teasing Lucifer about his newfound closeness to Jophiel.

"But it's unusual, seeing you clinging to the archangel," Beelzebub remarked. "Did you develop some affection for her?"

Lucifer fell silent for a moment, clearly uncomfortable with the question.

"No way!" Leviathan exclaimed.

"So the devil is in love with the angel..." Asmodeus mused with a smirk.

Lucifer sighed, realizing that his emotions were more complicated than he wanted to admit. 

Lucifer assured the Arch Demons that his closeness to Jophiel was merely a part of their grand plan.

"That's not it," he explained. "I'm just playing along, so that our grand plan will be executed at the finest time possible."

Beelzebub acknowledged Lucifer's strategic thinking, saying, "As expected of the Demon Lord."

Asmodeus also chimed in, "If it's necessary to play along in order to pave the way for our plan, then it would be a clever move."

Leviathan pledged their support, saying, "Command us on what we can help you with, your majesty."

Lucifer instructed them to disperse for the time being to avoid arousing suspicion from Jophiel. The Arch Demons promptly vanished, leaving Lucifer to return to the shop.

In Hell, a lonely figure yearned for Lucifer's return, lamenting the absence of their beloved. Meanwhile, in Bethlehem, the townsfolk praised Archangel Jophiel for bringing happiness to their town and fulfilling Ennemond's wife's wishes.

"Bloom the Bethlehem," Warren remarked, appreciating the positive impact Jophiel had on their community. 

As Dennis and Warren discussed their plans for Bethlehem, they marveled at the generosity of the mysterious man who had commissioned the fliers and paid a substantial amount of diamonds for them.

"I can't imagine what Bethlehem will look like when it happens," Dennis mused.

Warren nodded, realizing the potential these resources held for the town's development. "Thanks to that handsome man who requested these fliers, and he pays this much of diamonds? This could help us develop the hall and undertake various projects in the future."

Dennis and Warren, leaders of the town, felt a strong commitment to support Archangel Jophiel in her endeavors. They saw it as a repayment for her assistance, which included providing them with an underground basement to protect them from being caught up in the conflicts between Angels and Devils.

"I love her, man," Dennis confessed with deep admiration.

Warren concurred, "Everybody loves Archangel Jophiel."

As they continued their discussion, Warren noticed that evening was approaching, casting its gentle shadow over Bethlehem. 

Of course, I'll provide a revised version of the scene with the necessary changes to ensure it doesn't violate any content policies:

"I'll continue this tomorrow," said Warren.

"I'll be heading in first," replied Dennis.

"Okay, see you tomorrow," they exchanged these words as Dennis closed the door.

Jophiel kindly offered to drive Lucifer home in gratitude for his company during their shopping trip. As they arrived at Lucifer's place, he began packing his belongings for their upcoming journey. While sorting through his clothes, Lucifer heard someone whispering his name repeatedly. Startled, he stepped outside, thinking it might be coming from there, but he found nothing. Confused, he returned indoors only to be surprised by Diane's sudden appearance.

"Lucifer, there's something I forgot to tell you..."

Just as Jophiel opened the door, she caught a glimpse of what appeared to be a compromising situation, causing her to quickly close the door and exit. Lucifer hurriedly followed her outside, and Diane watched their argument with a satisfied grin.

"I'll just pretend I didn't see something," Jophiel remarked as she tried to downplay the situation.

Lucifer, still catching his breath, explained, "Diane is infatuated with me and forced herself on me. I couldn't restrain her because her archdemon strength surpasses mine."

Jophiel sighed in understanding and asked, "Why are you overreacting?"

Lucifer paused briefly before admitting, "You're right, I shouldn't have overreacted."

"By the way," Jophiel continued, "Granpabi told me we're leaving at dawn."

Lucifer nodded and said, "Got it."

As Jophiel glanced at Lucifer, she added with a smile, "It was nice meeting you, Diane."

Diane remained silent, observing them, and Jophiel concluded, "I'm heading home now. See you tomorrow."

Lucifer offered to accompany her, but Jophiel politely declined, saying, "No, it's okay," as she got into a waiting taxi.

Lucifer's home was now empty, and he couldn't help but let out a frustrated sigh. He knew that Diane's presence was unpredictable, and he needed to remain vigilant.

Meanwhile, as Jophiel rode in the car, she stared blankly out of the window, her mind in turmoil. The driver noticed her distant expression and became concerned.

"Archangel?" the driver called out, trying to get her attention.

Jophiel snapped back to reality, her thoughts scattered. She forced a smile and replied, "Oh yes, yes, I'm fine, thank you." She chuckled nervously, trying to shake off her unease.

As the car continued its journey, Jophiel couldn't help but touch her own head, as if to clear her thoughts. Deep down, she couldn't deny the strange emotions that had stirred within her upon seeing Lucifer with Diane. Envy was a feeling she hadn't expected, and it left her feeling conflicted and uneasy.

Diane, perched high on the tower of Bethlehem, gazed out at the picturesque scenery below. She held her knife in hand, idly toying with it as her thoughts raced. The city sprawled beneath her, oblivious to her presence.

A janitor passing by happened to spot her and became concerned. He approached the young woman sitting dangerously on the edge of the tower.

"Hey, miss, you shouldn't be up here. It's dangerous," the janitor called out, genuinely worried for her safety.

However, Diane had other plans. With a subtle manipulation of her powers, she compelled the janitor to forget about her entirely. The janitor's face turned blank, and he simply turned and walked away, as if he had never noticed her.

Diane watched him go with a disdainful click of her tongue. "Tch! Humans," she muttered to herself, her frustration simmering beneath her cool exterior. She had no patience for their interference or their feeble attempts to protect her from herself.

As the sun began to cast its warm, golden rays over Bethlehem, Lucifer arrived at the train station. The three Arch Demons had wisely disguised themselves as ordinary travelers, donning different clothes and blending in seamlessly with the crowd. Jophiel and Ennemond arrived shortly thereafter, greeted by the unexpected sight of the demons in their human disguises.

"Well, that's a good morning to you, Archangel," Lucifer greeted Jophiel with a charming smile.

Jophiel couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of the Arch Demons in their peculiar attire. "Why are those three wearing...?" She started to ask but then realized the situation. "Oh!" She smiled, catching on to Lucifer's plan.