Locked out of phone, asking for "password." How to get around this without factory reset/destroying data?

My Galaxy S4 decided to password protect itself... no idea why. I usually use the Lock Screen pattern, when I screw that up enough it prompts me for a PIN. I guess that's what happened, but after I got in after doing entering the PIN, I didn't reset my PIN or pattern, so now it's asking me for a password to get into the phone.
I've tried using Android Device Manager to send the phone a new password... it doesn't work. When I send an integer only password the phone prompts for a PIN, but it doesn't accept the PIN I send, and when I send it a alpha-numeric password, it prompts for a password, but doesn't accept that either. Clearly the phone is acknowledging the receipt of new protocol.... but it's not adhering to the new directions.
Anyone know how get around this? Or another method that doesn't require me destroying all of my data? Or a way for me to retrieve my data without having to manually select "Use as Media Device" (can't do this since I can't access the drop down menu).

    Thanks for trying all those steps already, Salos. We don't have a way to retrieve any passwords set up on your phone for the lock codes or accounts. Based on your description, it sounds as if it may be asking for your Google account password. It's the fallback for many Android-based devices when a lock passcode/pattern/PIN is entered incorrectly too many times. Try logging into Google.com with the Gmail email address you set up as your main account for the phone to ensure you have the correct username and password combination. Then try entering that same information on the phone when prompted. It's important to also make sure the phone is in an area with a good data signal (WiFi or 3G /4G LTE). If you are unable to access the phone using any passwords or PIN that you created, then the reset would be the final step but will result in the loss of the data on your phone.
JenniferH_VZW
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