LAW OF POWER by knightwalker722

Year 1943

For the first time in thousands of years, gods from different pantheons have entered the land known as India with their armies. Olympian, Roman, Egyptian, Shinto, Jade Court, African, American, Sumerian, and Persian—all the minor pantheons of every continent—have come to wage war against Sanatan Dharma, also known as the Hindu pantheon.

It's not just the gods. The different pantheons have brought inter-mythological species of every kind: dragons, vampires, werewolves, fairies, yokai, titans, devils, demons, fallen angels, angels, and more.

Most of the army does not know why they are attacking the Hindu pantheon, but everyone believes it will not survive the war. No pantheon or faction has ever faced such a vast and overwhelming army. Even if they manage to some how win, they still have to face one of the Dragon Infinity Gods: Orobos. She is only weaker than two beings—the Beast of the Apocalypse, Trahaxa, and the strongest being, Great Red, also known as the Dragon God of Dreams or the Dragon of the Apocalypse. Aside from those two, no one can match her.

No one knows what the Hindu pantheon did to draw her ire. But the moment she created an army to destroy them, every pantheon and faction joined the cause.

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Sirzechs' POV

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"How is the war preparation going?" I asked Ajuka with some wariness in my voice. As much as I don't want to be here, I can't deny that it's a great opportunity to obtain resources quickly.

"It's going well. In a few hours, we'll reach Mount Kailash," Ajuka replied in a dead tone.

"Ajuka, do you think what we're doing is right for the devils?" I asked, my disgust toward myself increasing. I know I'm not doing this for the well-being of devilkind but because of the greed of our higher-ups.

"Sirzechs, you know why we are doing this. But you also know why it must be done," he said as he stood and prepared to leave. "We need them now because we're political to weak—but that won't be for long."

"Yes, we just need to wait," I said as I stood, ready to leave the tent, with Grayfia following me.

As we walked, I began memorizing everything in our path before the battle began and everything here is destroyed. I felt ashamed of myself for doing exactly what the old Satan faction did in the past.

There was a human who once said, 'You either die a hero, or you live long enough to become the villain.' Those words fit me perfectly now.

As we approached the main tactical camp, I asked, "Grayfia, what do you think of this war?" I already knew her answer, but I needed to hear it to know I wasn't the only one who felt this way.

"You already know the answer," she said, holding my hand. "What we're doing is wrong. We should not be in this war—we should be rebuilding devil society." She squeezed my hand tightly.

"But Sirzechs, you should know that acquiring resources from the Hindu pantheon is an opportunity we cannot pass up." After saying that, she released my hand and added, "You know what we are doing is wrong, and you won't enjoy it like many people in this army will. That's what makes you better than them."

"Because you are Sirzechs Lucifer—the man who will lead devilkind in a better direction. For that, you need to do this." Her words helped me understand what I needed to do.

---

FLASHBACK

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Few months ago

I saw Azazel, Shemhazai, Michael, Gabriel, Ajuka, Hades, Athena, Odin, Thor, Aten, Anubis, Amaterasu, Susano, Lugh, Scáthach, Ahura Mazda, Angra Mainyu, Tiamat, Tannin, Carmela, and leaders of the American and African pantheons—all gathered here.

"Thank you all for waiting," I said, taking a seat next to Ajuka on the Biblical faction's side of the table.

"We weren't waiting for you, devil," Hades said with contempt.

Before I could respond, Odin interjected. "Hades, you shouldn't speak to your allies that way."

"You may be right, Odin," Hades chuckled, "but what guarantee do we have that none of us will try to kill each other once the war starts?"

No one argued. Everyone understood that Hades was right. Targeting a faction leader would be easy in the chaos.

"Yes, the possibility is high. That's why I suggest we make a binding oath," Azazel said with a grin.

"That is reasonable, but I have a question for the Biblical faction. Where is the God of the Bible?" Amaterasu asked in an accusing tone. "He's said to be as strong as Shiva—maybe stronger. His absence doesn't inspire trust."

This was the question I hoped wouldn't come up. Neither Azazel nor I can answer that question, and the angels can't lie.

"Father will not be attending or fighting in this war" Michael said politely. "I am prepared to take an oath on his behalf, if needed."

Hearing this, I reached a conclusion I hadn't considered before. I may be stronger than them, but they have more experience in politics and war. They likely have ways to counter me. It was good I got this reality check now.

My thoughts were interrupted by Athena. "That's all well and good, but you haven't answered the question. Why is he not here?"

"Let me ask a question. Why don't we see all your troops or notable figures here either?" Gabriel said with a smile.

Her words held an underlying warning, and the room fell silent until a voice broke through.

"Are you all done arguing?" came Ophis's voice.

Just being in the same room as her made me feel like a child. Her mere presence could kill me. That's her power—when she's doing nothing. I don't want to imagine her in battle.

"Lady Ophis, why do you need this army when you could destroy the Hindu pantheon by yourself?" Tiamat asked respectfully.

I have to admit, dragons are truly fearless to question Ophis like that while everyone else remained frozen in fear.

Ophis looked at Tiamat with cold, empty eyes. "I don't want any survivors. That's why you're all here." After that, she looked around the room.

When her gaze landed on me, I wanted to run and hide.

"Lady Ophis, can we take anything after you're done with them?" asked the head of the American gods. They might not be as well-known as the Olympians or Asgardians, but they felt powerful.

"Yes, you can. You can discuss that among yourselves." With that, she left, and many of us sighed in relief.

"Ophis is agitated," said Tannin with fear in his voice.

"Whatever the Hindu pantheon did to her, we must ensure none of us get in her way," Azazel added seriously, and we all agreed.

"As much as I'd like to discuss Ophis's behavior, we should focus on the war," I said neutrally.

"Lucifer, are you serious? Ophis is one of the three strongest beings to ever exist. If she goes mad, none of us can stop her," said the leader of the African pantheon.

"I understand, but let's not forget—she told us to hurry."

"Lucifer is right. Let's prioritize the war for now," said Ishtar. "We can talk about Ophis later."

Most leaders agreed, and the rest stayed silent.

"Alright then. Let's begin. What do we know about the Hindu pantheon's firepower?" asked Ajuka flatly.

"They are ancient—older than most primordial gods. Except for the Trimurti and Indra, they don't have many who can challenge the top ten," Ishtar said seriously.

"Let's not forget what makes them powerful," said Odin.

"You mean their multiple authorities and the Astras?" Azazel added, his voice tinged with excitement.

I knew Azazel well. He's a mad scientist on the same level as Ajuka. To get his hands on divine weapons would be a dream.

"Yes. Even the minor gods of their pantheon have multiple authorities," said Ra. "As for the Astras, you shouldn't fear them too much."

"Lord Ra, may I ask why? According to the Vedic texts, those weapons are described as being on another level compared to any other pantheon," Ajuka asked calmly.

"Devil, what you've read is a lie. No one has ever seen them use those weapons—not even when the human-formed Biblical faction invaded India with angels. They still didn't use them," Ra replied, his voice emotionless.

"Even if those weapons exist, they won't be more powerful than the ones major gods already possess," said the evil god Angra.

"I want to know what the dragons know about them. After all, one of the Dragon Kings came from the Hindu pantheon," said Athena.

"Yes. Vritra was part of the Hindu pantheon," Tannin began. "But he doesn't like talking about them. According to him, the Hindu pantheon is divided into two factions—Devas and Asuras. Indra leads the Devas. As for the Asuras, no one knows who leads them now. They're constantly fighting among themselves or committing crimes, and most were either killed by the Trimurti or Indra. That's why the Asuras have had many leaders, like Vritra, Ravana, and others.

"Both groups are highly combat-oriented, so everyone should be cautious when facing them."

Just like that, the meeting ended a few hours later.

---

FLASHBACK ENDED

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"Grayfia, we need to do something about the devil faction's reputation—and fast," I said, though I couldn't help but wonder if it was even possible.

"Sirzechs, I think it'll take at least a few hundred years to repair the damage," said Grayfia, her tone somber.

"We don't have that kind of time. Once the Hindu pantheon is done, we'll be next."

"You're right. But the Hindu pantheon has the best reputation among all factions. They're allied with many groups who might betray us at any moment."

"As for our reputation—yes, it must be fixed. But it can't happen in just a few years. We need to change the mindset of the devils who commit crimes across factions out of greed. That will take time. Until then, you and Ajuka must remain in the top ten. That alone might be enough to deter an attack."

"What you say is true... but no one truly hates the Hindu pantheon. The devils, though—we're hated by everyone. Our power might not be enough if they turn against us."

"Yes... Their hatred might unite them. But don't forget—the factions still fear the God of the Bible and the original Satans," Grayfia reminded me.

The mention alone gave both of us a headache.

"As long as they think those two are still around, they won't risk it," I said with a sigh.

---

HADES' POV

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"Athena, what do you think of the other leaders?" I asked as we approached the Greek camp.

"They know this won't be much of a fight. The only reason they've brought their best warriors is to send a message to the rest of the world—that they are not weak," Athena replied after analyzing the army's formation.

"Yes. After this war, there will be a massive power vacuum. That vacuum will lead to a new cold war."

"I agree... but what do you want from me, Uncle?" she asked with a smile.

"You know what I want."

"And what do I get in return for helping you?"

"I'll support your claim to become the next ruler of the Olympian gods."

"..."

"I will not be your puppet," Athena said coldly.

"I don't need a puppet. I need someone who can turn the Olympians into a true powerhouse. But you're not that person—yet."

"What do you mean? I'm the best choice."

"How do you think I've remained in the top ten while Zeus and Poseidon fell?"

"You acted like a coward." She said the words, but I could see the displeasure on her face.

"Exactly. I became a coward to ensure our pantheon still had influence. You won't do that. That's why you'll always be second-best."

Athena entered a deep thought.

"It's my pride that's holding me back..."

"Yes. Pride caused our downfall. Poseidon and Zeus knew this too, but they still refused to act."

"So that's why you held the succession ceremony..."

"Yes. Even though they hate me for it, they can't oppose me. The rest of the Olympians agree with me."

'Uncle Hades is right... but that doesn't mean he's not trying to make me a puppet,' she thought.

"Fine, I'll help you. But I don't want your support. I want the souls of our pantheon's dead heroes."

"Very well. I'll give you the souls after you fulfill your part of the deal."

"I'll do my part. But before I leave—who do you think is the best candidate for the throne?"

"Hephaestus."

"I see. Then I'm leaving."

As I watched her go, I thought, You're Hephaestus' greatest threat—and the one he fears the most.

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AZAZEL POV

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"Azazel, is it really a good idea for us to stay so far back from the front line?" Shemhazai asked, his voice laced with worry.

"Shemhazai, it's the best idea for us to be here," Azazel replied, his eyes never leaving the horizon.

"Kokabiel and most of the Fallen might think we should be on the front line, showing the might of the Fallen. But you and I both know the truth—we don't have the firepower to take down a god from the Hindu pantheon without suffering massive casualties."

"Yes, but by staying here, we're showing the devils that we're weak," Shemhazai said in a defeated tone.

Azazel remained calm.

"Shemhazai, my job is to lead our people to the best of my ability—even if that means doing the most cowardly, or the most inhumane thing possible."

As those words sank in, Shemhazai understood something.

The man standing before him wasn't just his old friend.

He was the Governor General of the Fallen Angels.

"What's the plan, Azazel?"

Azazel's voice was low but firm.

"Simple. Just survive."

---

WITH THE DEVILS

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"Falbium, is everything ready?" Sirzechs asked, his voice calm but laced with tension.

"Yes," Falbium replied. "In a few minutes, our forces will enter Hindu pantheon territory."

"Then let's move."

As the two entered the battlefield, what greeted them was not war-torn land or defenders—it was beauty. Peaceful, untouched plains stretched before them, with no enemy in sight. It almost looked as if the enemy had fled, leaving their territory unguarded.

But something felt wrong.

As the army pushed deeper into the territory, it happened.

Without warning, a massive elephant emerged from the horizon—divine in appearance, crackling with lightning and surrounded by swirling torrents of water. It charged into the army, unleashing devastation before most could even react.

In mere moments, hundreds of devils were slain, drowned or electrocuted by the beast's divine fury.

Sirzechs and Falbium rose into the air, preparing to strike the divine creature—but before they could attack, a blinding force struck them. It was so immense, so sudden, it sent them crashing through the sky, tumbling across the battlefield like meteors.

The rest of the army barely had time to process what had happened.

Then came Indra.

Descending like a god of vengeance, his aura alone turned the battlefield into a furnace. With a wave of his hand, entire squadrons of devils were reduced to ash, their screams silenced before they could echo.

It was not a battle.

It was a slaughter.

Absolutely! Here's your scene rewritten with improved grammar, clarity, and dramatic flow while keeping your tone and style intact:

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ODIN'S POV

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The Hindu pantheon played us—brilliantly. With a simple teleportation spell, they orchestrated a devastating sneak attack, hiding it so flawlessly that no one even sensed it coming.

"Father, I request permission to enter the war," Thor said, excitement gleaming in his eyes.

"No," I replied firmly. "You're the strongest in our pantheon. We can't afford to waste your power on some divine beast."

I could see Thor physically restraining himself from charging into the battlefield. As much as it pained him, he obeyed. It was still too early for him to join—not when the true gods of the Hindu pantheon hadn't even revealed themselves. If the divine beasts were already this strong, then what awaited us was far worse.

Just as I contemplated how to restore morale to the army, two bodies crashed near me—one severely injured, the other only slightly so.

I recognized them immediately: Sirzechs and Falbium.

Before I could ask what had happened, the culprit emerged—Indra, walking toward us with a terrifying calm, as if nothing in the world could stand against him.

Several of my warriors charged him.

All of them died instantly.

At that moment, I knew I had only one choice left.

"Thor, get ready. This might be our final battle if we're not careful. Devils—prepare yourselves. We're about to face someone who is at least as strong as a Heavenly Dragon."

I readied Gungnir. Thor gripped Mjolnir. The devils beside us enter there true form.

And then, we moved.

Our speed exceeded what mid-tier gods could even perceive. Sirzechs, his body now fully composed of Power of Destruction, was the first to reach Indra. He struck with a punch that could have killed even Thor.

Indra redirected it effortlessly and countered with a blow so strong we heard bones shatter as Sirzechs was launched into the sky.

Thor was next. He brought Mjolnir down on Indra's head with all his might. It didn't even scratch him.

Cold sweat ran down my back. I knew that even Zeus would have died from that strike.

Thor suffered the same fate as Sirzechs, sent flying.

Without hesitation, I threw Gungnir and activated its full ability—rewind time.

In an instant, we were back to where we had started: all four of us, unharmed, facing Indra.

We didn't move. All of us retained the memories of what had happened. Indra looked confused, sensing something was wrong but unable to tell what.

I glanced at the devils and Thor. They looked uncertain, but I didn't have time to explain. I formed a magic circle in front of them—it displayed my plan. They understood without words and nodded.

Gungnir's true ability is misunderstood. People believe it never misses because it locks onto its target. They're wrong.

It rewrites fate.

If I throw it east and the target is west, it alters the past so that I either threw it west—or the target was in the east all along.

I threw Gungnir once again at Indra.

He dodged it effortlessly and sneered. "Is this the spear that never misses?"

I ignored him.

Because Gungnir's power activated again.

Thor and Sirzechs, who had been standing beside me, vanished—and reappeared right in front of Indra.

He had no time to react.

They struck with all their might—Mjolnir and Power of Destruction landing a combined blow.

I thought we'd won.

But Indra countered. He severed Sirzechs' arm and slammed him with his mace. Thor was struck by Indra's spear—a massive chunk of his body vanished.

I turned toward Falbium, but his head was already being smashed into the ground.

Before I could react, Indra's spear pierced my chest, surging electricity through my body.

My vision blurred, and I collapsed.

Even through the pain, I heard Indra's voice:

"Gungnir is truly a terrifying weapon. It can rewrite time—not just to ensure you never miss, but so others around you can land their attacks. You are clever, Odin. But you underestimated me. That's why you lost."

With those words, he shattered Gungnir, then called out to his men:

"Take them off the battlefield."

And then, everything went dark.

---

Indra pov

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As I looked at the broken pieces of Gungnir, I couldn't help but think—if this weapon didn't have a seal that prevented its use without Odin's permission, and if it hadn't instantly returned the moment he called for it, I would've taken it for myself.

I sent the shattered remnants of Gungnir to Vishwakarma, hoping he could create something similar.

Turning my focus back to the battlefield, I saw Lady Durga, Lady Kali, and Suriya leading the Devas against the combined armies of the Greek, Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Persian, and Shinto other pantheons.

On the other side, the Asuras were locked in combat with the coalition of Devils, Angels, Fallen Angels, Demons, Yokai, Vampires, and other factions.

Looking over the battlefield, it was clear: everyone except the dragons was being pushed back.

I considered stepping in to deal with the dragons myself. The Trimurti couldn't enter the battlefield yet—the entire Hindu pantheon had agreed that we must win this war without them, to prove that even in their absence, we are still the strongest.

But just as I was about to confront the dragons, I stoppeYear 1943