I'm The Devil - Chapter 263

Chapter 263: Return 1

“It has been centuries since we retreated to this Realm,” declared a woman whose presence exuded immense power, addressing a group of individuals who shared the same formidable aura. “I believe it is time for us to return to the world and ascertain whether the great purge has finally ended.”

These were the Nephilim, who had withdrawn from the world during the great purge at the command of Semjaza, the then leader of the Watchers, to ensure their survival.

“Celeste is right,” said Lord Aurelius, the regal old man and leader of the Nephilim, as he addressed the assembly. “Although we have made this place our home, it is not truly our home. It is time for us to return to the mortal world.”

Seraphina, her gaze piercing and unwavering, interjected sharply. “And what exactly do you propose we do? Remember, we were part of the reason the great purge was initiated. What will make this time different?”

The room fell into an uneasy silence as everyone exchanged uncertain glances, each waiting for someone else to speak. No one could find the words, fully aware that Seraphina’s statement held a harsh truth, well except for someone.

Celeste’s words caused a ripple of discomfort among the Nephilim. “This time, we won’t interfere with humans. Instead, we’ll live among them, blending into their world while keeping our true nature hidden. We’ll maintain our secrecy and, under no circumstances, will we assert our authority over them, despite our inherent superiority,” she declared. Her tone was resolute, but it drew frowns from the assembled Nephilim, including Lord Aurelius.

Seraphina’s eyes narrowed, and she spoke with a touch of defiance. “We are the superior race. Why should we hide among what you call ‘weaklings’ simply because we fear the creator? If our only choice is to remain in hiding, then perhaps it’s best we stay in the Realm where we can be ourselves.”

Celeste responded with a knowing chuckle, her gaze steady. “It’s not about hiding from the creator. Even within this Realm, we’re not immune to his will. He could erase our existence with a mere thought if he chose to. Our goal is to blend in with mortals not out of fear, but to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. It’s a strategic choice to ensure we’re not caught in the crossfire of larger cosmic conflicts.”

Seraphina and Aurelius exchanged glances, understanding the deeper implications of Celeste’s reasoning. The high-ranking members of the Celestial Council were aware of the broader context: the interactions between their kind and other powerful beings, including the vampires, werewolves, and other entities bound by their own agendas. Despite the creator’s overarching influence, these beings often acted independently, following their own paths and decisions.

Aurelius, his expression grave, finally spoke. “Celeste’s plan makes sense in terms of strategy, but it challenges our pride. We must carefully consider the implications of living among mortals and remaining under the radar of other powerful entities.”

Seraphina’s eyes remained fixed on Celeste. “I still wonder if the risks are worth it. The Realm offers us safety and freedom, but if we venture into the mortal world, we risk entanglement with forces beyond our control.”

Celeste’s gaze was unwavering. “Our decision isn’t about rejecting our superiority but about adapting to a changing world. The mortal realm holds opportunities and risks in equal measure. By blending in, we can navigate this new era without provoking unnecessary conflicts. It’s a strategic choice to ensure our survival and relevance in a world that has evolved beyond the great purge.”

The room was quiet once more, each Nephilim processing the weight of the decision before them. The future was uncertain, and while Celeste’s plan promised a new way of existing, it also came with its own set of challenges and moral dilemmas.

Elsewhere

“Lord Cain, the preparations are complete. We are ready to return to the mortal realm,” announced Eamon, his piercing blue eyes fixed on the man seated upon the throne. Eamon’s voice was steady, a reflection of the confidence that came from his skilled craftsmanship and his own transformation into a vampire to escape the great purge.

The man on the throne, draped in shadows and the aura of ancient power, slowly opened his eyes. Their intense red hue gleamed with an unspoken promise of dominion and age-old wisdom. This was Cain, the vampire progenitor, the first son of the primordial couple—an entity whose legacy spanned epochs and whose influence had shaped the world in ways few could comprehend.

Cain’s presence was both formidable and serene, his black hair cascading like a dark waterfall around him. His gaze, now fixed on Eamon, held a depth that seemed to encompass the entirety of his long existence. “Is it truly time?” Cain’s voice was a low, resonant murmur that reverberated with authority.

Eamon nodded, his posture respectful yet firm. “Yes, my lord. Everything is in place. The barrier between our realm and the mortal world has been re-established. We can proceed whenever you are ready.”

Cain’s eyes narrowed slightly, considering the implications of their return. “After centuries of seclusion, we re-enter a world that has likely changed beyond recognition. I can’t wait to see you brother.” Cain said as his face slowly turned into a terrifying grin as he thought his brother, Seth, the only one who could match him in terms of strength.

“Wake the others,” Cain commanded, rising from his throne with a deliberate stretch that seemed to release the tension from centuries of stillness. His voice, though firm, carried a subtle undercurrent of anticipation. “It is time we return to the world. We have lingered in this sanctuary long enough, and our patience has been tested by the constraints of our isolation.”

Eamon, ever attentive, inclined his head in acknowledgment. “Yes, Lord Cain,” he responded, his tone respectful and resolute. Without delay, he turned on his heel and departed the grand hall, his footsteps echoing softly against the cold, polished floor.

“I hope you miss me too, brother.”