Highschool DxD: Adventure Of Black Flash

by DarkDracul1252

Nawin Makasha, a boy, changed after a dark event occurred in the past that left him scarred. He and his family moved to Japan to start a new life, but when Nawin joined Kuoh Academy, things began to change for him when he is thrust into the world of supernatural by force. Past will come back and haunt, Evil will rain down, Bonds will be severed. Will Nawin and his friends be ready?

172. Battle in Land of Ends, Broken Hope

Hi everyone! Man, it sure has been a while! I hope all of you are doing well so far this year.

I know this update took a very long time, and I apologize for that. The start of this year hasn't exactly been the best for me. Beginning of January, I sprained my ankle quite badly by falling over while doing my regular morning exercises. I also managed to cut my palms quite severely on the landing, and the cut was in the worse place that pretty much made any daily activity painful to do. So for much of January, I couldn't really do much. Even something like eating was challenging because holding the utensils puts pressure on the cuts. Therefore I didn't get much writing done that month.

February was a bit better, but I was still recovering and got a bit busy with other stuff. Also, my birthday was approaching near the end of February, and considering my January was terrible, my family decided to take me out of a city on a week of vacation to relax, which honestly helped me in the long run.

Truthfully this chapter was a tough one to write. It may be the most challenging chapter I have ever written. I underestimate how difficult it would be to write a battle like this with Nawin going against the group. It all had to make sense, and everyone needs to play a part that fits their characters. This story could have taken so many turns, and that's why it was tough to write it. I have scrapped so many pages that I lost count as I either ended up not liking what I wrote or found the direction I took to be weak.

Anyway! All that matters is that I managed to finish it, and I am satisfied with what I have written.

I won't delay all of you any further. Thanks again for being so patient! I hope you all enjoy the chapter, readers!

"Issei!" Hunter's booming and stern voice snaps Hyoudou out of his thoughts.

After taking an audible gulp, he moves his head up, those brown orbs refocus on the tall woman in front. A look of irritation is plaster on the Archdevil's striking face. "Get a hold of yourself."

"T-that can't be," Issei stutters a response, and Hunter's eyes narrow in more irritation. Her student is in clear denial. "Am I one to jest?" "This is Nawin!" Issei yells, then takes sharp steps forward until getting face to face with his teacher. He glares up at her with fury. "You don't know anything about him! He'd never do su-" Issei is interrupt by a stiff punch connecting to the side of his face.

With a harsh grunt, Hyoudou crashes rear-first onto the solid floor. Wincing in pain, he clutches his right cheek with one hand. Looking back up at Hunter, Issei's eyes show shock by her bold action. "Even the purest soul in this world can be tainted, Issei," Hunter confidently affirm, resting a hand on her hip. "As the saying goes… If there is light, a shadow will perpetually lurk in the background."

"Ophis has successfully swayed Nawin Makasha in joining her. And that is the reality," Hunter's tone hardens, "Face it. Denying it only makes you a child."

Staring down at the gray floor with anger and grief, Issei takes a sharp whiff before slowly rising to his feet. Hunter's word hits him deep and helps him realize that he cannot waste time moping. Not anymore.

That look of resolution and determination appearing on Issei's face cause the faintest of smirks to appear on Hunter's face.

"Where is he?" "What is your plan?" "To stop him, of course!" Issei retorts, "Even if you are forced to battle him?" Hunter pushes, wanting to hear the correct words out of her student's own mouth.

The Archdevil's words manage to have Hyoudou pause, but only for a few seconds. With his hands clenched and his expression firm, Issei looks up to his teacher. "I'll walk that bridge when I get there, but... If it comes down to force, then I will battle him if it means saving him from Ophis. I won't let her have him. Never."

Issei's words hold no hesitance, and Hunter's sees that clear. To protect Nawin from Ophis's grasp, Issei is willing to even battle with a person he looks up as a brother. 'You truly care for him... Like the others.' Hunter cannot help but feel some sense of warmth by the bonds she sees Nawin have with his friends. It is an extraordinarily strong bond that can't easily be broken.

'However, their result is still murky... Even with Issei there, I cannot confidently claim he can beat Nawin Makasha. Even with all the training I have provided him so far, he hasn't yet reach Balance Breaker level... If he had, he could defeat Nawin Makasha, who I have no doubt got some added strength from Ophis.'

"Hunter-sensei," Issei speaks up to gain the woman's attention. "Do you know where he is?" "Land of Ends," Hunter swiftly answers. "Matter of fact, Rias Gremory and her group are heading there as we speak. They may have already reached there." Hearing his girlfriend's name takes Issei aback, "W-wait, Rias and the others are trying to stop Nawin?!" "Your lover and Akeno Himejima were the ones that discovered Nawin's decision to defect. They've tried to stop him in Kuoh but failed."

All this news causes Issei to take a moment to digest. He is shocked. Learning that Rias and Akeno tried to stop Nawin but was unsuccessful. And discovering that Akeno has finally unlocked herself from her room. He cannot believe how so much has happened while he was gone for just a short time.

"I need to get to there then," Issei firmly asserts and readies to summon a teleportation to the Underworld until Hunter lifts her right hand, signaling him to halt. "Flying there will take you at least two hours. The battle will well be over by then." "I have to at least try!" "Calm yourself," Hunter raises her voice and successfully has Issei close his mouth, controlling his emotions.

Stretching her right arm to the side, Hunter opens her fingers. A circular shape portal expands into existence, showing a world of abyss on the other side. Dropping her arm to the side, Hunter watch Issei staring at the pathway with wide eyes. "That's a pathway. Though not instantaneous, it will guide you to the Land of Ends."

Issei stands in front of the pathway, gazing intently into the shadowy world. "That's what your friends used to get there." "You helped them," Issei realizes and looks over. "I did what I must. Your lover managed to convince me." Issei is surprised by that last fact. A soft chuckle leaves his lip, a fond smile spread across his face. "That sounds like Rias. When she has her mindset on that one thing, no one can stop her. She'd..." Issei returns to face the pathway. "She'd do anything to get Nawin back. You know, she would always joke about viewing him like a little brother, but I know she really meant it. Even though Nawin is someone that tends to keep to himself, he somehow managed to make people want to stand by his side and fight alongside him."

"He's an interesting person," Hunter abruptly states, which makes Issei look over, surprise. "I can tell from all the things I've heard about him. But that also brew trouble for Nawin Makasha." "What do you mean?" "Tell me, if you had a choice before you to pick three different Sacred Gears. And there is one that is obviously more powerful than the rest… Would you go for that one?" "Of course," Issei answers without hesitance, "Clearly I would pick the strongest one" "Indeed. And that exactly is why Nawin Makasha has caught the eyes of Ophis. He is that special and powerful piece she perceives to be a great asset to her. Not only does he hold a tremendous potential to grow, but he holds that charisma within him that can draw others in. In other words," Hunter gazes at Issei straight in the eyes, "Nawin Makasha is a comprehensive tool for Ophis to achieve her goals."

Closing his eyes, Issei remains silent for a moment. Giving a nod, he turns around to again face the pathway. His eyes open, revealing the fire within those now emerald orbs. "As I said, I won't let Ophis have Nawin. I will bring him home."

Hunter stares at Issei for a moment, knowing he is ready in mind. There's not much else for her to say. "Very well."

Turning to his teacher once more, Issei offers an appreciative smile. "Thanks for helping my friends, Hunter-sensei, and now me. I'm in your debt." For a moment, the Archdevil remains silent. She stares at her student and sees for a rare moment; he is wholly serious. Those fire in his eyes is burning brighter than she has ever seen before.

'Perhaps you can finally reach it...'

"Don't need to thank me. Now," Hunter shift gaze to the pathway, "Best you start moving, Issei. You still have ways to go" "Right." Issei faces the portal and takes half a step in. He glances back with that trademark grin of his. "I'll see you soon, Hunter-sensei!"

Watching her student vanish within the portal, Hunter closes it.

"... I hope you do succeed, Issei."

Dragath

A cold and tense silence descends on the dimly lit throne room. Akame and her friends are frozen in place, gawking at the very spot that Nawin was supposed to arrive through the gateway. Look of disbelief wears on all their faces

"O-open..." Senna stutters at first before mustering the strength to talk and promptly faces Kuroka. "Open the gate!" Kuroka offers no replies. Instead, she rests her hands on her hips, shifting over to look at Ophis with apprehensive eyes.

The look on Kuroka's eyes only brew more worry within Senna. She snaps her gaze towards Ophis and opens her mouth. "Don't you want him?! Open th-" Suddenly, glove covered hand comes from behind and swiftly chop Senna by the rear of her neck. Instantly, the Princess is knockout and collapses forward to the ground before Erza catches her.

"Erza!" Momo shouts and rushes over, "Why did yo-" "Quiet," the Knight sharply hiss out, which have Momo come to a halt. Laying Senna gently on the carpet, Erza spares a glance over to the throne and sees Ophis staring directly at her. Meeting eyes with those silver orbs is enough to send goosebumps all over Scarlet's body. Thankfully, it is brief as Ophis's gaze shifts over to Kuroka.

Exhaling the air she did not know she was holding, Erza looks over and see Momo kneeling on the other side. "Remember what Nawin said to all of us?" Erza reminds, drawing the rests' attention, "Don't do anything to risk upsetting Ophis." Erza looks at Momo and Misako, "If she desires us dead, then we will absolutely be."

Taking hold of her sister's hand, Momo slowly nods in understanding. Erza's swift action was justified and may have very well saved Senna's life. "Sorry for my hasty reaction, Erza... Thank you for doing that. Senna is always driven by her emotions" "It's fine."

"Summon the projection, Kuroka," Ophis calmly orders while resting her chin on the knuckle of the right hand. "I want to see how this plays out"

Sharply sucking air into her lungs, Kuroka builds the courage to speak out these next words. "... With all due respect, Lady Ophis," the Nekoshou drops to one knee and bows her head, "Would it not be wise for you to send me out there to aid, Nawin Makasha? Even he will struggle against such unfair odds."

On the sideline, Erza and the group is taken aback by Kuroka's response. However, they agree with her words internally.

"No."

Ophis short response shatter that hope within the group. Kuroka inwardly grinds her teeth before lifting her head to stare at the Deity with stoic features. "If Nawin Makasha cannot overcome this battle, then he shall not be worth my time. I have provided him more than enough power to accomplish such a task."

'You merely wish to test his resolve... To see if he can truly go through his friends to get here,' Kuroka spats in her mind. She loathes the fact that Ophis views this as a mere game. Wanting to see how her new and favorite toy fair under such odds. It sickens Kuroka in her stomach.

On the sideline, Akame's keen eyes study Kuroka. She can comprehend that Ophis's words greatly bothered the Nekoshou.

'Kuroka... Just what are you after?'

Bowing her head once more in respect, Kuroka opens her mouth. "Understood."

Standing up and turning around to face the other side of the room, Kuroka slaps her palms together then closes her eyes. She focuses on creating a connection to the many seals surrounding within the Land of Ends.

Gradually, a rift begins forming above the room. It promptly snaps sideways and expands to become a broad projection. An image comes to life, and the group feels their hearts freeze for a moment when seeing Nawin standing before Rias and her group. He is indeed horribly outnumbered.

"Nawin-kun..." Misako worryingly whispers and clenches her hands together near her chest, her eyes focus solely on Makasha. An expression of prominent concern plaster on her features.

Erza frowns and places a hand on her hip. "Even he will struggle with this," she bluntly but firmly states, staring at the scene with calculative eyes. "Nawin is one to use his brain," Jellal inserts while crossing his arms over his chest. "Honestly, it comes down to if he will go all out... If he can bring himself to."

"Nawin-kun is too kind," Momo softly comments, "Can he really battle them?" "He needs to." Everyone turns to Akame, who is staring solely at her King. "If he wants to protect them in the end... He will need to defeat them here."

Akame's words remind everyone of Nawin's intention. As all of them return to look at the projection. They wait to see if their King can push through and continue on this path he has chosen.

Land of Ends

The cold and hollow wind circling the Land of Ends, it creates an audibly howl that carries throughout the ravine. The only additional sound audible in the area is the water tide washing within the single stream that cuts through the ravine, leading down a massive waterfall at the very edge.

Rias and the group stand before Nawin. All of them can hear their beating hearts pounding in their chest—all afraid and hesitant at what is to come next. Some more than others.

On the other end, Nawin maintains that stoic and cold expression of his. The hand holding the Twisted Etcher stays firm, pointing it straight at the group. He pierces them with his icy red orbs. Yet even though he shows stoic outside, within, he bears reluctance.

'... I can't teleport to Akame,' Nawin notes. Teleporting to his peerage was the last sensible chance for him to get away from here. But at attempting to do so, he is hit with an invisible barrier that is impossible to bypass.

'Ophis... She must've installed a powerful barrier around her realm to block intruders.' Nawin internally cusses at the Deity. He is not oblivious to the fact that Ophis may very well be in favor of this scenario he is now stood in. Desiring to test his resolve.

Nawin closes his eyes. An image of Akame and the others dances in his mind.

'I cannot afford to lose here. If I fail, all of their lives will be under Ophis's mercy. And,' Nawin reveals his eyes to gaze at all the faces before him, the faces of his dear friends 'To protect them... I will have to push through. Even if by force.'

"I will ask this one time," Riser steps forward to stand in front. His hands clench tightly to the sides as a faint orange hue glows to life around them. "Are you going to stop this madness and return home with us, Nawin?"

"Nawin-kun," Akeno's voice draws Makasha's attention. She flinches faintly when meeting eyes with those piercing red orbs. "Please..." She begs and clenches her hands together near her chest, "Don't do this. Please come home with us. With me."

"Nii-chan..." Koneko softly whispers, staring at Makasha with pleading eyes. Standing by her side, Gasper wears an identical expression, silently begging for his brother figure to come to his senses.

However, even with all the looks thrown his way, Nawin remains unchanged. "I've made myself clear to you, Akeno. Same goes with you, Rias." Nawin's expression hardens. "My future does not lie with the rest of you anymore. I am heading to Ophis. Nothing you say will change my mind."

"Senpai..." A crestfallen expression bear on Xenovia's features. Those words pierce her heart like a sharp arrow. Many share the same look, hurt by the harsh words that left Nawin's mouth.

"Fine," Riser does not falter and smash his right fist into the left palm. Orange flames trigger to life, surrounding his arms. "Then we will knock some sense back to you, and if need be... I will fucking drag you back kicking and screaming!"

Stopping on Phenex's right, Yuuto holds the light-blue blade forward. A gust of winds comes to life and swirls around it. His firm eyes rest on Nawin to show, like Riser, he is ready to go to blows if it means saving his friend.

Striding away from the group and halting next to the boys. Xenovia gracefully twist the Excalibur Destruction down then stabs it into the earth. The massive blade radiates and shatters from existence. Extending her right arm to the side, unclenching the palm. A long Kris like blade morph into reality, and Xenovia snatch it by its sturdy handle, lifting it forward to point it straight at Nawin.

'Excalibur Rapidly...' Yuuto sneaks a glance at the silver blade in his lover's hand. A blade she has mastered along with Excalibur Destruction. 'That's good. Rapidly will enhance her speed greatly. She may be able to overwhelm Nawin enough for Riser and me to take advantage.'

"Ice Glacier Storm."

Everyone jerks in alert when Nawin utters those words, lifting his left palm forward. A storm of chilling ice pours from the hand—ice shards in the dozens glint within the white clouds as it sours straight toward the group.

"Riser!" Rias shouts, snapping her sight towards Phenex.

"I got it!"

Slamming both palms to the floor, Riser creates a wall of flames that stretch wide enough to cover the whole group—ice clash with fire and cancels out. The entire area promptly gets surround by the sound of hiss and thick steam.

"Yuuto. Get rid of the mist," Rias orders. Her sharp eyes are scanning the surroundings, observing the possibility of Nawin making a surprise assault.

With one swift swing, Yuuto waves the steam away with his blade. In seconds, the area clears up and becomes visible again.

"Urgh!" Everyone's eyes snap wide by Nawin emerging over the wall of flames. His left arm extends down at them. "Red Flame Cannon." A sizable flaming orb discharge from Makasha's palm and sours towards the group below.

Pushing her right arm up, Rias locks her gaze at the incoming orb. Harnessing the Power of Destruction within her, Rias unleashes it in the shape of a condensed energy blast.

Nawin watches his attack get vaporize in seconds within the crimson energy, then notice the blast is now heading his way. Rushing up higher in the air, Nawin narrowly avoids the Power of Destruction.

"Riser, Yuuto, Xenovia," Rias calls out her friend while keeping a steady eye on Nawin. "You three know the plan." "We'll do our part," Riser asserts, dispelling the wall of flames before throwing a glance back at his childhood friend. "Just do not make a mistake on your part, Rias. We only got two shots at this" "I know..."

Descending back to the ground, Nawin drops a fair distance away from the group. He keenly watches Riser, Yuuto, and Xenovia making advancement towards him while the rest stays behind.

'I need to keep an eye on Gasper. I'm not positive if I can even break out of his Forbidden Balor when it's fully charged.'

Shifting his gaze past the advancing trio, Nawin meets eyes with Gasper, who lightly gasps. Inside, Nawin's heart aches when seeing those pink orbs looking back at him with sadness and hesitance.

"Gasper." The Dhampir tears his eyes away from Nawin to look at Rias "Y-yes?" "Begin gathering mana. Remember, wait for my signal to activate it." "Of course... Um, Buchou, I will need to close my eyes to concentrate on gathering enough." This new information makes Rias pause for a second. "... Then you must keep your senses lock on Nawin's mana then face his direction when the time comes. Is that possible?" "It should be. Yes!" Gasper offers a more confident response in the end, earning a smile from his King. "Good."

"Koneko, Akeno," Rias shift over to the pair, "Cover Gasper's sides and rear. I have no doubt when the given a chance Nawin will try to take him out of the battle." "Understood," Koneko softly reply while Akeno only offers a silent nod.

Rias stares at her best friend getting into position, and her eyelids lower in sadness when seeing Akeno has one hand clenching on the necklace that Nawin gifted her. Rias acknowledges there is nothing she can say to make the situation better. She has already said all that is needed to be said.

'Bear with it, Akeno,' Gremory faces ahead to watch Riser, Yuuto, and Xenovia standing before Nawin. 'Hopefully, we can end this before it could become worse.'

'With Speeding Shadow God in his arsenal,' Yuuto keeps a firm eye on Nawin, watching to see if he decides to even move a muscle. 'He can discard one of us in a blink of an eye if we aren't careful.'

Yuuto's brows furrow as hearing his own words simply help him realize just how difficult this battle will be. He, along with the rest, has never faced someone like Nawin. Nawin may very well be the fastest being in the supernatural world; furthermore, he possesses a diverse arsenal that allows him to be comfortable in both short and long-range combat. Yuuto could even confidently state that Nawin may be the most perfect and well-rounded warrior he has ever laid eyes on.

'But,' Yuuto's eyes sharpen with determination. 'Even he can be pushed to his back against overwhelming numbers. We just have to be smart and don't act reckles-'

"Riser!" Yuuto yells out when Phenex's kicks off the ground to propel himself straight for Nawin. Charging in without even discussing a strategy with them.

"That idiot!" Xenovia shouts in frustration then breaks off in a sprint to follow Riser, providing him backup and covering his flank if need be.

Yuuto remains where he stands and lowers his blade to the side for a moment. He decides to use this moment to observe how Nawin will counter the assault, watch for any opening he could display against uneven odds.

Snapping his palm wide, Riser plants his feet to the ground when he is just a dozen feet away from Nawin. Letting out a roar, Riser thrust his right arm forward and discharge a massive fireball that instantly lights up the entire land in a bright orange hue.

Calmly watching the fireball hurling towards him, Nawin can see it is physically impossible to get away from it with its sheer size dwarfing over him by a dozen times.

Summoning a shadow dagger in his right hand, Nawin spins it around, then swings his arm forward to throw the sharp object straight into the flames.

When the large fireball draws near enough that Nawin can feel its raw heat, he swiftly vanishes in a blank flash.

Riser observes as his fireball connects to the side of the cliff and digging into the earth. He knows that Nawin has managed to avoid that, but the question is how.

"Urgh!" Riser gasps by a dagger bursting out of the flames. He watches it heads straight for him at a rapid pace.

"Move it!" Riser gets shoved aside by Xenovia. The Knight keeps her eyes on the dagger, then with both hands on the hilt, she quickly swings the Excalibur forward.

Nawin appears in existence and charges up the Demonic Lightning in the right hand while snatching the dagger to his left hand. He catches the Excalibur's blade with the hand engulf in the deathly black electricity, successfully stopping its momentum.

Xenovia grits her teeth in frustration, feeling her strike just get stop by a concrete wall. She pauses when seeing Riser moving ahead from the corner of her eyes.

Nawin sees this and sneakily throws the dagger under his arm, masking it completely from Phenex's sight. The weapon sinks right to the center of Riser's chest and momentarily stun him.

With his other hand freed, Nawin pushes the Excalibur further to the side, then step forward, passing the blade to snatch Xenovia by the neck. Lifting her off the ground and releasing the blade, Nawin slams Xenovia straight to the ground in a whiplashing manner.

Riser rips the dagger out of his chest and throws it aside. "Nawin!" He shouts and rushes toward with his right arm raised for a strike. Nawin barely takes note of the incoming assault and swiftly counters it by shooting his right feet up to deliver a sidekick that connects directly at Phenex's abdomen.

The grip Yuuto has on his blade tightens as he watches both Xenovia and Riser lay on the ground. Nawin managed to overpower them without conferring any difficulty or displaying an opening. Even though Xenovia and Riser hold no chemistry when it comes to teamwork, it is still shocking to see how Nawin can overwhelm the two of them in such a manner.

'As I suspected. Going in recklessly without a plan between us is pointless. Nawin will notice all the space in between and use it against us... We need to all be on the same page.'

"Xenovia, Riser!" The pair perks by their name being called and glance back to Yuuto. "Regroup."

Xenovia listen and quickly jumps back to return to Yuuto. Her eyes remain on Nawin, and she sees he isn't making a move to intervene.

Riser momentarily grunts at first but complies with the Kiba's words. Getting off the ground and returning to his feet, Riser heads back to regroup with the Knights.

"Fucking moron!"

Riser suddenly gets pulled by his shirt's collar and finds himself facing Xenovia's heating glare. "The hell do you think you were doing charging in like that?!" "Back off!" Riser swats Xenovia's arm off him and retorts with a glare of his own, "You two were just standing around like statues. Therefore I decided to do something!"

"Enough!"

Yuuto's booming shout instantly shuts the pair up. Both rear their sight over to look at the blonde with mild shock. Rarely does Yuuto raise his voice like that.

Keeping his eyes firmly at Nawin, Yuuto spares it towards Riser and Xenovia for a moment. Looking at them without an ounce of the usual warmth.

"Riser, you can't take him on alone. None of us can."

Phenex lets out an annoyed grunt at the comment but does not offer a retort as the Knight's words hold the truth in it. Though he may be arrogant when it comes to his powers, Riser knows he does not stand a chance against Nawin even at his best still. The brutal battle in Vamhaven proved to him that.

Yuuto continues when Riser does not give a snappy retort. "We have to work as a team. You two already saw what happened when charging in there without a solid plan. So," Yuuto leaves his eyes from Nawin for a moment to look directly at his two companions, "Can we work together?"

"Of course," Xenovia immediately answers and wears an apologetic look "Sorry for getting hot there for a moment, Yuuto" "It's fine. I know you are on edge... All of us are."

Yuuto shifts to Riser and sees him eyeing Nawin. He recognizes that look on Phenex's face. Frustration and desperation.

"Ri-" "What's your plan?" Riser cuts Yuuto off and turns to him. His sapphire eyes brimming with determination. "We'll save him," Yuuto says in hopes it'll help ease Phenex's mind. "We will," Riser retorts, "That's why I'll go along with your plan. So tell us, Kiba."

Turning around to face Nawin. Yuuto frowns faintly when seeing no movement made. 'He's just waiting for us... Is he that confident?'

Shaking that thought out of his head, Yuuto lifts his blade forward while creating a link to both Xenovia and Riser.

'Here's the plan...'

Phenex raises a brow by the voice of Yuuto invading his mind. He opens his mouth but halts. 'Even at this distance, Nawin can hear our conversation clear,' Yuuto informs when seeing Riser's expression. 'Right. Go on.'

'Our role here is not to defeat Nawin. We need to distract him long enough for Gasper to use the Forbidden Balor. Gasper told us it takes at least three seconds for the ability to fully activate. For someone like Nawin, three seconds is plenty of time.' 'So what is your plan, Kiba?' Riser sharply inserts, standing around is making him grow more agitated.

'We have the number advantage. Best we use that to our fullest. If all of us go in, then even Nawin will struggle. But we need to work as a team. Riser, you are more of an outsider as you never worked with Xenovia and me. I know this will be hard for you, but you have to make an effort to follow us instead of taking the lead. Xenovia and I work best as a team. We will give Nawin everything we have, and your role is to be there ready when Nawin starts giving an opening. That ok with you?'

Xenovia glance over to see Riser staring silently at Yuuto with a thoughtful expression.

'... Fine,' Riser nods. 'Like I said, I am placing my trust in your plan, Kiba.' 'Thanks.'

"So," Xenovia starts as Yuuto stops by her side. "How are we doing this?" "Keep him on his toes. Try not to let him get any room of breather" "Got it."

'You can be done with this without much difficulty if you don't hinder yourself by holding back, Kid.'

A frown makes its way on Tairex's face. Hesitation is the feeling that courses through Makasha's mind and Tairex picks it up clearly.

'Kid, Ophis just bestowed you with more power. Don't risk insulting her by having your feelings involved. Your precious peerage may be the one paying the price.'

'You are awfully talkative,' Nawin sharply retort though he does not try to dismiss the Dragon's words.

An amusing smirk dances on Tairex's lip as he lays down on the matt. One eye lazily opens to watch the scene unfolding from Nawin's eyes. 'You failing here will end badly for all of us. And honestly... I'm getting sick of watching you being down in the dumps. If Ophis does kill your peerage, I doubt you'd ever recovered, Kid. And let's be honest,' Tairex voice becomes sharper. 'Not only will your peerage suffer but expect those friends in front of you to also get her wrath. Either way, you need to win this battle with conviction, Kid.'

Though his words are harsh and painfully blunt, Nawin knows it is the cold-hard truth. He needs to not hold back and finish this battle as swift and decisive as possible. He knows that Ophis is observing all of this with keen eyes.

'Sayomi...' Nawin pictures his dear lover. 'Like once you did. The pain you had to go through in that path. I will now feel it too. I need to hurt the people I love to continue down this path. But, unlike you... I won't fail. For all of them, I refuse to fail.'

With a piercing and cold expression donning over his face, Nawin stares straight at the trio.

The second that expression is worn on Makasha's face, Yuuto and Xenovia burst forward and vanishes from sight. Riser remains where he stands, waiting for that moment to interject himself.

Flashes of Yuuto and Xenovia are clear in Nawin's eyes as he can read their movements as clear as day. Leaning to the right, he breaks off into a sprint to head for the side of the ravine.

Yuuto comes to a halt and watches Nawin jumps onto the side of the wall and stands on it. Xenovia burst past him, intending to follow Makasha.

Pouring mana into the blade, Yuuto delivers a swing to unleash a lance-shaped gale blast aiming straight for Nawin. But Yuuto is not done yet and produces more swings to fire four more shots.

Nawin jumps back to avoid the first blast. The second his feet touch the earth, he jumps again to perfume a backflip and misses a strike from behind delivered by Xenovia.

Touching the ground, Nawin launch forward and shoots a front kick to Xenovia's back. The kick held enough force to sends her off her feet and straight down to the earth.

Summoning a wall of shadow weapons around him, Nawin watches the gale blast impact them and breaks away to a harmless flow of wind.

Nawin averts his attention when a flicker of orange hits the side of his peripheral vision. He glances to the right to see a barrage of medium-size fireballs flying towards him.

Dispelling the weapons, Nawin breaks into a dash to the left to gain distance from the incoming fireballs.

Hopping to the sides and jumping ahead, Nawin dodges all the incoming attacks. He looks ahead and is caught with surprise by Yuuto appearing in front with the wind sword launching forward.

Coming to a stop and pushing his shoes to the earth, Nawin bends his knees to narrowly duck under the sword while sliding past it. Yuuto lands on the wall and turns around to deliver an upward swing that unleashes a massive wind blast that connects at Nawin's back and sends him blasting to the air.

Riser emerges from the sky and begins blasting downward. With his right hand clenched tightly into a fist, Riser swings it down to deliver a vicious punch that connects perfectly to the side of Nawin's face.

The sight of Nawin crashing brutally down to the earth causes Akeno's heart to ache. To give her some small comfort, Akeno brings her hand up to clench tightly on the necklace. She can feel the Lightning Gemstone's raw power emitting against her palm.

'Nawin-kun...'

With a strong swipe from his right arm, Makasha blast the cloud of dust out of existence.

The noticeable bruise lingering on the right side of his cheek already begin healing until nothing is left. Nawin feels the stinging pain also vanish soon after. 'My healing ability... It's faster than before.' 'And,' Nawin turns to the side to watch Riser landing not far from him, 'That punch was weaker than I expected...'

A satisfied smirk makes its way on Makasha's lips as he feels firsthand just the kind of power Ophis has gifted him.

Grabbing his coat, Nawin pulls it off him and tosses it to the side. Though it may provide additional protection, it still does restrict some of his movement. If he wishes to end all of this swiftly, he needs nothing to hold him back.

Hearing a sound from behind, Nawin throws a glance back to see Xenovia standing not far from him.

Vanishing from existence, Yuuto and Xenovia reappear from Nawin's side with both swords swinging forward.

Nawin lifts his hands to the side and catches both blades in his palm. Black Lightning coursing around his arms. The earth beneath cracks by the sheer force following the strikes.

"I hope you two can keep up," Nawin smirks and stares at the Knights. "Yuuto, Xenovia."

Spark of black lightning crackles and explode around Nawin that forces the Knights to withdraw.

Their withdrawal is short as the moment Yuuto and Xenovia touch the ground, they launch ahead and begin attacking Nawin with speeding strikes.

Disappearing and reappearing a few feet away, Nawin lifts an arm to block to parry an attack from Yuuto by stopping his motion. He pushes Yuuto back, then ducks to miss a launch strike by Xenovia.

Bending up while sneaking past Quarta, Nawin swings a kick that connects to her side from behind, sending her barreling away. Yuuto comes from above with a downward slash, but Nawin sees it coming and lift his feet up to kick the sword right out of Yuuto's hand.

Jumping up to the air, Nawin knees Kiba center at the of his stomach then sends him down with a downward kick to the top of his head.

Riser appears behind the moment Nawin's feet touch the ground, going in for a surprise attack. He throws a fire right hook but gasps when it hits nothing as Nawin fades from existence.

Reappearing on Phenex's rear, Nawin charges up the Demonic Lightning and smacks him away with it.

Riser is send hurling towards the river with the Demonic Lighting and plunges straight into the water. Electricity discharges within the stream and surges wildly.

Nawin rears his head towards the right to watch Xenovia slowly returning to her feet. With both hands clutching tightly at the pummel of the Excalibur Rapidly, she peers at him with those fiery eyes, determined and unwavering.

"Senpai..." "You aren't naive, Xenovia," Nawin calmly inserts. "You're well aware that at your current level," Nawin's expression turns colder, "You stand no chance against me."

For a few seconds, there is silence. Xenovia hangs her head low that it forces the front bangs to conceal her eyes. Nawin's eyes narrow as he watches those strong shoulders lower ever faintly as if showing that the Knight has given up.

"You are right, Senpai," Xenovia softly mutters. Her shoulders rise again, along with her entire posture. "But if there's one thing I learned from you, Senpai." Xenovia pulls her head up and glares ahead with those glowing yellow orbs. "Is that no matter what the odds, I will never give up!"

Nawin remains impassive through those heartfelt words. However, he takes notes at how steadily Xenovia's mana is rising.

Exhaling a sharp whiff, Xenovia pulls the Excalibur Rapidly off the ground and holds it high above the shoulder with her left hand. "I've always looked up to you. In ways, I wanted to be just like you, Senpai. Just as kind and strong as you!"

Yellow aura discharges around Quarta's body, demolishing the ground beneath. Slowly, Xenovia extends her right arm to the side then unclenches the hand.

Lifting himself to all fours, Yuuto looks up, his eyes going straight towards Xenovia when sensing her mana skyrocketing. His eyes widen at the posture she has taken.

"Xenovia!" With great urgency, Yuuto raises to his feet then rushes to his lover.

Gaining distance, Yuuto suddenly stops and is push back by the unruly wind current surrounding Xenovia. The wind continues to build and build to the point the pieces of the earth begin lifting off the ground.

Yuuto brings an arm over his face to block the draft from hitting his eyes. He tries to push on only to propel back by the monstrous wind.

"Stop, Xenovia!" Yuuto yells through the howling current, "Your body can't handle two Excaliburs at once!"

"I don't care!" Xenovia retorts, not sparing a glance back at her lover. Her focus is steadfastly set on Nawin.

"Xenovia..." Rias softly whispers as she watches her Knight with great anxiety. She can see what Xenovia is about to do is dangerous, judging by Yuuto's reaction. 'You are willing to go this far, Xenovia...'

The Excalibur Destruction morphs into existence, and Xenovia promptly snatches it with her right hand, lifting it up past her shoulder. As with the Excalibur Rapidly, the Excalibur Destruction begins emitting a dense and raw aura that looks to be seeping into Xenovia's body.

'I see now...' Nawin's pupils narrow in intrigue. 'She's not merely wielding those two blades... She is drawing all of its power into herself.'

Realizing what Xenovia is planning, Nawin can understand Yuuto's sudden distress.

Nawin watches Xenovia's body become rigid, shaking ever faintly to show she's pushing it beyond its limit. Her muscles grow more prominent, her yellow eyes radiating blindingly, and her mana soars well over a High-class Devil.

Feeling all of the Excaliburs' power within her, Xenovia clenches the hilts as tightly as she can. Then, with a low growl to suppress the whimper that's threatening to escape, Xenovia slams her right feet down to the ground to catapult herself forward.

Nawin gets to a stance, but he is quickly taken aback by Xenovia abruptly vanishes in the middle of the air. He looks around, unable to pinpoint her presence.

Instead of going for a sneak attack, Xenovia appears right in front of Nawin. With the Excalibur Destruction ready by her side, she delivers a full horizontal slash.

Sensing the sheer force behind the strike, Nawin jumps high and narrowly avoids the large blade.

The earth behind where Makasha once stood simply erupts in destruction by Quarta's strike. A swing alone from her manage to change the landscape.

Nawin does not miss just the amount of power Xenovia now holds in her swing. 'I need to stop her first...'

Bolting from the front, Riser comes hurling at Nawin and throws a fist. Nawin manages to bring both arms up to block the strike.

Yuuto comes down from above and launches a swing to produce a powerful gale blast. Nawin looks up and instantly gets hit by the wind and is send shooting down, crashing onto the earth.

Laid on the crater, Nawin snaps his eyes open and hastily rolls to the left. Bursting into the cloud of dust, Xenovia comes down with both Excalibur slamming into the earth. Her glowing yellow eyes snap straight toward Nawin as he stares back at her with slight surprise.

"Senpai," Xenovia pulls the swords out of the ground, then raises the Excalibur Rapidly up, pointing it directly at Nawin. "Surrender... Please."

Makasha notices pain flickering in those yellow orbs. His expression returns stoic. "It's too late, Xenovia." Nawin slides his right leg up and pushes himself to his feet.

Bringing his right arm forward, clenching the hand into a fist, Nawin powers up. Black mana comes to life and shoves away the dust, scattering it into the wind.

Yuuto and Riser drop from above and lands on Xenovia's sides.

The trio tenses by Nawin's mana skyrocketing to a whole different level. It is a clear sign he intends to take this battle to its climax.

"How long can you maintain that form?" Riser spares a quick glance over at Xenovia, impressed by the raw energy emitting from her. "That destructive power will be useful now." "Not too long," Xenovia answers through gritted teeth. She tries to suppress the grunts that threaten to escape from her throat. The burn coursing through her body begins to grow even hotter, the aching pain on her muscles steadily becomes more severe, making it more challenging to ignore.

'Riser,' Yuuto converses through telepathy, 'You and I will charge in and try to get Nawin distracted. Xenovia, when the opening appears, jump in and deliver the Moon Fang with all you got.' 'All I got...' Xenovia shows confliction 'Yuuto, that's...' 'Set aside your worry, Xenovia,' Yuuto firmly but cordially reply 'Remember, Nawin hasn't even begun using the mark's power. Plus, his regeneration ability is effective. What I hope is that your Moon Fang does enough damage that it'll leave Nawin in a vulnerable state enough for Gasper to strike.' 'I see... Alright.'

'Bout time you get serious,' Tairex grumbles within Nawin's mindscape. He's aware of his wielder's plan.

Watching both Yuuto and Riser bolt forward, advancing straight for him. Nawin waves his right arm to face Phenex then proceeds to extend both the index and middle finger.

"Six Heaven Prison Rod."

Six golden light rods blink to existence and slams straight into Riser's midsection, instantly halting him in place.

"Fuck!"

In a moment of impulse, Yuuto takes his eyes away from Nawin to look at the now immobilize Riser. He returns forward to meet a fist smashing straight at the center of his face.

Drawing his right arm back, Nawin launch a sharp left elbow to the side of Kiba's head. Yuuto stumbles to the right; his vision blurs for a moment by the stiff blow to his head. Blood begins dripping down from the left end of his head from a cut.

Nawin sends Yuuto away with a kick to the side, then turns his attention towards Xenovia.

Xenovia grits her teeth and tries to remain focus on Nawin even though the concern within her wants her to go check on Yuuto.

"Damn it!" Riser thrashing violently to try to break through the rods, but it proves near impossible as he can only manage to budge a few inches.

Suddenly, a destruction orb flies from the right and smashes into one of the rods, shattering it into bits. It swiftly moves onto the next until it completely obliterates through all of them, setting Riser free.

Eyes showing a hint of annoyance, Nawin spare a glance over to see Rias staring at Riser, her left arm raised.

"Thanks, Rias!" Riser shouts, then thrust both arms forward to unleash a wave of fireballs toward Nawin.

Watching Makasha jump to the air to avoid the barrage of flames, Riser takes to the sky and charges up mana into his right hand. When reaching a higher height than Nawin, he swings his right arm down and releases a stream of flames that spread wide enough that it is physically impossible to dodge it.

Not done, Riser turns attention to the hail of fireballs. He lifts his index and middle finger up to redirect their destination upwards. Sending them straight for Nawin to take his rear side.

Pushing himself to his feet, Yuuto grunts at the blood dripping down and covering his left eye. He takes hold of his sword with both hands. Generating mana into the blade, making it radiate blue, Yuuto snaps his eyes up and swings a wide slash above to unleash a massive burst of gale blast.

Riser smirk at the sight of Yuuto's wind magic washing through his fireballs, effectively giving it more power. The end results being doubling the size of the fireballs and further increases their heat.

'His sides are still open,' Yuuto sees Nawin remaining calm even with the attacks growing closer to him. He perks when hearing footsteps from the side. Turning to look, Yuuto gasps when seeing Xenovia rushing past him then catapult high into the air, heading straight for Nawin.

"Xenovia!"

Pouring mana into the Excalibur Destruction. Blue mana erupts around the blade, coating it to enhance its strike. Xenovia pulls her arm back then throws the large blade straight at Nawin's right.

Makasha sees this, and his eyes widen faintly when Xenovia vanish from his sight.

'... She's...'

A look of shock promptly dons on Nawin's face as he figures out Xenovia's plan. Hastily facing toward the left, he sees Xenovia appears with both hands holding the Excalibur Rapidly above her shoulders.

Pure mana already swarms around the blade and shooting high up to the sky. Relentless and fierce that the clouds get beaten away by Quarta's mana.

"R-Rias... That's too much!" Akeno speaks up and takes a step forward. Her heart sinking in fear when seeing the precarious position Nawin is in.

Rias remain impassive. She response to Himejima's concern with a lift of her arm, signaling her to stop. "Gasper, be prepared for my signal." "O-Ok."

"I'm sorry, Senpai."

Xenovia stares at Nawin's shocked expression one last time before taking a deep breath and swings her blade down in full force.

"FULL MOON FANG!"

Like a sudden explosion appearing, the entire valley suddenly becomes eclipsed by the blinding blue light created by Xenovia's signature attack. The slash made of pure mana is easily ten times the size of its normal state and can cover an entire small village.

"Nawin-kun!" "Nii-chan!" Akeno's and Koneko's worried voice boom from below.

Rather than panicking, Nawin's eyelids lower as a look of stoic return to his expression.

'Sairex... Lend me your power.'

Spreading his arms to each side, Nawin slowly reopens his eyes to reveal those cold golden orbs.

Next, a supersize explosion erupts in the sky the instant the attacks collide simultaneously.

The whole sky paints in an orange hue as violent tremors go rampant throughout the valley: the stream ripple, the pieces of earth collapse from the side of the cliffs, and the land below shatter and split open—the piercing sonic boom echoes throughout the land, drowning all other sounds.

Bringing her hands to her mouth, Akeno stares at the mushroom shape smoke-cloud with wide eyes. Horror clearly visible in those violet orbs.

"N-Nawin-kun..."

Rias clench her hands tightly that the knuckle turns white. Her eyes undividedly focus on the sea of black clouds, awaiting for Nawin to come into view. She suppresses that concern nature deep down to concentrate on finishing this once and for all.

"Xenovia!" Yuuto dashes towards his falling lover. When in reach, he jumps up and catches her in his arms.

Groaning in pain, Xenovia muster all her strength just to open her eyes. Her entire body feels heavy, and that sensation of burning has intensified. "D-Did we g-get him?" she quietly whispers, looking at Yuuto's face. "Yeah," Yuuto offer a warm smile, "We got him. You did great, Xenovia. Go ahead and rest now."

Xenovia provides the faintest of smiles. "B-Bring S-Senpai home, Yuuto..." With those pleading words whispered, Xenovia allows her eyes to shut and instantly slips out of consciousness.

Leaning down to place a soft kiss on Xenovia's forehead, Yuuto looks up at the sea of darkness circling in the sky. His brows furrow at the absence of Nawin. 'He hasn't fallen yet?'

Hovering above and staring intently at the smoke, Riser finds himself going tense. An impending sensation suddenly crawls down his spine.

"You should watch your back more, Riser."

Riser feels his heart freeze by that unmistakable coming from behind. Not a second later, an arm burst out of the center of his chest. That deathly black lightning shines vividly near Riser's face.

"Riser!" Rias shouts in horror as the others look on in speechlessness at the spotless appearance on Nawin. There's not so much as a scratch on him; it's as if none of the attacks even landed on him. "H-How?" Akeno finds herself whispering. That moment of relief she felt seeing Nawin is swiftly replace with shock and dread. It is becoming like a neverending nightmare.

Ripping his arm out of Phenex's chest, Nawin sends him spiraling down with a stiff kick to the back.

Yuuto's expression tightens when those blazing red eyes shift to him. Without removing his eyes from Nawin, Kiba gently places Xenovia to the ground.

Heaving up to return on his feet, Yuuto closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. Only a second pass, and Yuuto reopens his eyes. He smiles faintly when seeing Nawin now standing before him.

"Was never going to be easy against you, Nawin-kun," Yuuto calmly utters. "And you plan to continue?" Nawin curiously asks, "Of course... You did not give up on me when I was consumed with revenge," Yuuto's eyes sharpen. "Therefore, I'm not planning on giving up on you here, Nawin-kun. Never."

Lifting his right arm up, pointing it straight at Nawin. Yuuto unleashes his mana to power up. The destroyed ground beneath further split and burst by the dense pressure pushing down on it.

Nawin's eyes gleam in understanding. He feels Yuuto's mana skyrocketing to near Satan-class. Surpassing even Xenovia's.

"So, you finally decide to use Balance Breaker? I almost believed you weren't going to."

"I wish it wouldn't have to come to this," Yuuto state. A broad shape blade glows into existence. "This blade was meant to be used to protect my friends... Not used against them."

Seizing the black and gold sword firmly in his hand, Yuuto sharply stares directly into Nawin's eyes with glowing blue orbs. "But I will use it now, here... To save a friend."

"Yuuto..." Rias whispers her Knight's name as she watches on with great anxiety. For a moment, her eyes drift toward the unconscious form of Xenovia. 'Don't worry, Xenovia.' Rias shift back to the battle at hand. 'We will win this.'

With Yuuto releasing his Balance Breaker, it has managed to restore some confidence back into Rias and the group.

Calmly observing the blade radiating with mana, a blue-whitish hue emits from it. Nawin is aware that the sword in Yuuto's hand is not one to take lightly.

'Holy Demonic Sword... Very rarely would I ever witness Yuuto bring it out. Best I keep my distance then strike when there's a chance.'

Lifting his right arm and pointing the index finger forward, Nawin generates mana around the tip.

"Push."

Yuuto vanishes out of sight just before the telekinetic blast could collide with him.

Nawin's eyes lightly widen, noting that the Knight's speed has increased drastically. He promptly hops backward in instinct, narrowly avoiding a sword strike coming down from above.

Landing on his feet, Yuuto does not slow down and hasten forward, ramming the sword forward like a lance. Nawin summons the Twisted Etcher and brings the blade up from below, intending to intercept Yuuto's strike and reverting its trajectory.

However, the instant the Twisted Etcher collides with the Holy Demonic Sword, it shatters into tiny shards. The sight of his signature weapon being obliterated in such a casual manner manages to momentarily stun Nawin.

Yuuto sees the opening and kicks his right feet down to blaze forward and pass Nawin in a blur.

Not a moment later, blood explodes from Makasha's side. The thick red liquid splatter onto the ground and paint onto the gray shirt.

Aware of the deep slash wound on his side, Nawin does not have time to worry about it. He hastily turns around and brings his left arm up to summon transparent shield magic, blocking the incoming strike at the last second.

The shield cracks on the exchange, and Yuuto draws his sword back quickly to deliver another downward swing. Nawin knows this strike will shatter his defenses; therefore, he quickly dispels the shield then jumps aside to dodge the blade.

Landing on one knee, Nawin brings his hand onto his side. He can feel his healing factor is already beginning to take care of the wound.

Nawin perks by the heating sensation below his feet and look down to notice the ground reddening in a faint orange hue. Eyes widening in realization, Nawin kicks off the ground and hovers back just as the earth erupts below, and a pillar of flames shoots out of it.

With his right arm leaning too far out, it gets caught in the flames. Nawin lets out a deep grunt, wincing at the burning sensation. Flying further away from the pillar, he descends onto the other side of the stream that cuts through the valley.

Riser emerges from the pillar of flames and lands beside Yuuto. The pair have their eyes steadily fixed on Nawin.

"Can still go?" Yuuto calmly questions Phenex. "Yeah, I can. Though my mana reserve is below average now. Can't afford to keep getting injured now," Riser informs, then rests a hand on his chest. The hole that previously was there has completely been healed.

Riser studies Nawin. For the first time since this battle, he is sweating. "We have the higher ground now. Need to keep it up." "Yeah," Yuuto nods and lifts the Holy Demonic sword forward, "Don't let up. I see Buchou is ready, so we just need to give her that opening."

Looking at the wounded state of Nawin continues to brew more pain for Akeno. Her hands shake ever faintly from the desire to move and be there for Nawin. Her eyes flickering with many emotions that it is impossible to pinpoint.

'This can't continue. I need to do something...'

Pushing himself up back to his feet, Nawin exhales a long sigh before lifting his eyes up to the pair in the distance. The stinging pain from the Holy Demonic blade and Phenex's flame has subsided.

'Ophis ain't going to be impressed with that performance, Kid,' Tairex casually comments, sounding board as usual. Nawin does not bother with replying, yet the Dragon's words do ring true. He cannot afford to be caught off-guard like that again.

'Time to finish this...'

Slamming his palms together in front of his chest, black mana triggers into life, then implodes around Nawin. Flaring widely, the mana slowly narrows into a condensed pillar that reaches high into the sky, scratching the clouds.

Everyone tenses by the immense pressure pushing down on them; they all feel Nawin's mana skyrocketing to Satan-Class.

Slowly within the dark aura, Nawin unveils his eyes; the pupils sharpens as the blood-red iris radiates brightly. The expression donning his face is one of malice.

Yuuto and Riser adjust to their battle stance, preparing for whatever the Makasha next move is.

Pulling his palm apart, Nawin straightens himself and returns his arms to the sides. Taking one deep breath and exhaling, he opens his eyes once more to look at the duo.

"Don't go believing that you have got the upper hand..."

That confidence brewing within Yuuto's and Riser's heart plummets ever faintly by the sound of Nawin's cold voice emanating from their sides. Almost in fear, they shakily glance over to see Nawin standing there, directly between them. His newfound speed leaves them speechless.

Snapping out of their shock, Yuuto and Riser promptly retaliate. The Knight launches a sweeping swing while Phenex swings a downward punch.

In near-instantaneous, Nawin catches the two's offense by seizing them by their wrists. Yuuto and Riser attempt to pull away but finds that the Makasha's hold on them is utterly solid. His strength has too increased.

"Y-you," Riser clenches his teeth while trying with all his strength to get himself free. "You weren't serious from the beginning?!" "Why should I?" Nawin coldly retorts.

Releasing their hands, Nawin snaps his fists further out and connects them to the side of Yuuto's and Riser's faces.

The Knight and Phenex are send crashing into the ground, barreling away by the momentum created by the punch. Nawin appears above Riser and snatches him by the top of his head. He lifts him up only to slam him facefirst into the ground.

Yuuto appears from behind and launches a piercing strike. Nawin sidesteps it and, without looking back, extends his right arm behind to elbow Yuuto at the center of his chest.

"Gah!" The Knight promptly collapses to his knees and loudly heaves by getting the wind knocked out of his lungs. He hunches over, feeling his own heart thumping rapidly by the stress.

Hastily trying to gulp down air to fill his burning lungs, Yuuto shakily looks over and gets greeted by a boot smashing to the side of his face.

"As I stated," Nawin calmly and vocally starts, shifting his sight over to Rias's party. All of them looking at him in shock. "You shouldn't have given them false hope, Rias."

However, the stoic expression donning Nawin's face flickers to alert, noticing a person missing on Rias's party.

'Akeno...'

Nawin observes Rias looking to her side, startled by the absence of Himejima. Evidently, there was no plan for this.

"Chain of Light!"

Makasha's eyes widen at those words yelled from above. He looks up and sees Akeno souring over him, her right palm aim directly at him while the left held onto the right's wrist.

Electric orb generates upon the palm before it discharges a yellow tendril in blind speed. Nawin does not even have time to move a muscle before the thick lightning tendril is ensnarling tightly around his midsection, trapping his upper body movement entirely.

"Yuuto, Riser!" Akeno screams to get the boys' attention while raising both arms into the sky. The sound of thunder roars above as the clouds begin to darken and whirl violently, crackles of lightning flicker ominously within. "Get away from him now!"

Forcing their aching bodies to move, Yuuto and Riser hastily spring to their feet then jump away, putting distance from Makasha.

Very aware of this restriction spell from his previous lover, Nawin begins forcing his way out of it by jerking his arms wide. Though it may have speed, it lacks in strength.

The tendril begins losing its hold and fainting in color as Nawin manages to loosen it with pure force.

"Four-Pillared Light Weights!"

"Urgh!"

For the first time in battle, an anxious expression form on the face of Makasha. He jerks his eyes up and witnesses the tall and thick pillars forming in the sky, circling Akeno's sides. It radiates brightly in electric yellow, hovering right above him.

"Akeno..." Nawin mutters with a heating glare. Akeno can only return that look with a sorrowful one, recognizing that this will be something Nawin will hold against her. But she rather that be than losing him to Ophis.

"I'm sorry, Nawin-kun."

With a downward wave with her arms, Akeno commands the pillars to descend from the sky.

Nawin tries to move with his legs only to be driven off balance when the tendril ensnarling him suddenly jerks forward, throwing him face-first onto the ground.

Everyone watch the pillars slam down on Nawin with such brute force that it rattles the entire valley.

From above, Akeno musters out a faint smile at the success of her plan. Through the dust, she sees Nawin being fully pinned to the ground by the four pillars. Two on the back of his shoulders and the two others behind his legs. Even someone of his caliber will have a difficult time getting out of there.

"Rias!" Akeno shifts to her friend, "Do it now!"

"R-Right," Rias shakes away the shock at the sudden turn of the event. She turns to her Bishop. "Gasper! Now!"

Nawin's blood goes cold the instant he heard those words left Rias's mouth. Dragging his face up from the ground, Makasha looks ahead. His world momentarily slows down when witnesses Gasper unveils those eyes.

'Failure here and your dear peerages' blood will be on your hands, Nawin Makasha.'

Nawin's breath hitch and his heart momentarily stop by those sinister words uttered from Ophis. The Draconic Mark pulse to life. Makasha's eyes stretch wide by the sudden scene of Akame, Misako, Senna, and the rests laying there before Ophis. All of them bloodied on a pool of red. Their cold, dead eyes staring straight at him.

"AAAAHHHHHH!"

Everyone jerks in shock by the roaring scream coming from Nawin.

However, their shock is soon replaced with a gasp of horror by the sight of that sinister purple mana exploding around Makasha. The mana rages so intensely that it lifts the pillars off of Nawin.

"GASPER!" Rias shouts with haste, then snaps her eyes back to see Gasper staring straight ahead. His eyes wide open and gleaming in bright yellow.

Then, silence befalls the area. The purple mana that was raging moments ago vanishes in a blink of an eye.

Everyone has their sight fix on the cloud of dust whirling around the four pillars. They sense no mana signature within there, giving them hope that their plan is a success and Nawin is now immobilized.

"Ga-kun!" Rias swiftly looks back and sees Koneko rushing over to Gasper, who has fallen onto his knees. The Bishop whimpers in pain as tears of blood trickles down from his closed eyes.

"Koneko, try to heal him," Rias orders and focus back on the cloud of dust. Her attention remains on Nawin until she is positive he is down for the count.

"Yuuto!" Rias turns to her Knight. Yuuto respond with a knowing nod.

Sucking a deep breath to strengthen himself, Yuuto delivers a powerful swing to create a gale slash that promptly pushes away the dust.

When the dust is gone and the view visible. What greets the group leaves them gasping in shock.

"I-Impossible..." Rias stutters in horror, her hands covering her mouth.

"H-How can that be..." Akeno whisper through quivering lips. Her wide eyes staring down at the prone body of Riser lying underneath the pillars. His eyes gape to the side, unmoving just like the rest of his body, revealing he is trap under the Forbidden Balor's spell.

"Yuuto-senpai!"

Koneko's shrilling cry catches everyone out of their stupor, and they hastily turn to see Nawin looming behind the Knight.

Yuuto feels chills crawl down his spine. With the Holy Demonic sword ready in hand, he swiftly turns around only to immediately eat a vicious fist smashing right across his face. Instantly plummeting to the ground by the wicked blow, Kiba lays there still as a stone—his bluish-gray orbs lose some of their light, showing him slipping out of consciousness.

The Holy Demonic sword resting beside the Knight radiates brightly before shattering out of sight.

Standing over the prone Knight, Nawin stares at his friend with an ice-cold gaze. Half of his body masks in the Draconic Mark; it pulses in menace purple like some kind of curse.

Slowly, Makasha slides his right feet to the side to rears his head over, setting sight on the shellshock Gremory.

"Naw-" Rias is cut off by six light rods slamming directly into her midsection, knocking the air out of her lungs. Letting out a discomforting grunt, Rias shakily lowers her head to see Nawin has his index and middle finger pointing at her, discreetly from his side.

Leaping to the right, Nawin eludes a figure coming from above in rapid speed.

Dust pours from where Makasha stood. Akeno burst out of it and charges for Nawin, intending to restrain him. Summoning a chain, Nawin whips it forward in speed that Himejima fails to register. The chain ensnarls itself around Akeno's arms and waist, securing a tight enough grip to immobilize her.

Nawin watches Himejima smack front-first onto the solid ground. She managed to shift her head to the side to minimize damage to her face.

Lightning promptly cracks around Himejima's arms, and she starts to thrash around, pushing against the link. However, Nawin utilizes the mark's mana and pours it into the chain to strengthen its durability before letting its end go. He shifts his attention to Koneko and Gasper.

Realizing that Nawin is striding over to them, Toujou pushes to her feet and stands in front of her friend. Gasper is still on the ground with his hands covering his bleeding eyes, whimpering in pain.

Stopping a few feet away from them, Nawin lowers his eyelids lowers ever faintly from the fear brewing behind Koneko's yellow orbs when looking at him. Cast by no doubt from the Draconic Mark covering half his appearance.

Koneko gasps when the Draconic Mark suddenly glows to life. However, rather than it spreading further, it begins slithering backward, unclenching itself from Nawin's body until it is entirely gone. It returns to its slumbering state residing on his neck.

The fists that were held high and ready to fight begin lowering when Koneko notices Nawin's red eyes losing the coldness in them. Replacing them now is that familiar warmth that she has grown to love.

Seeing that look is enough for Koneko to quiver, her eyes become glossy from the burning sensation, her lips trembling.

Taking several more steps forward to end directly in front of Koneko, Makasha sinks to one knee to look at her straight in the face.

"Nawin! Don't!" Rias yells out then begins generating Power of Destruction to break through the binding spell. However, the urgency in Rias comes to a shocking halt when Nawin draws Koneko into an embrace.

"N-Nii-chan," Koneko chokes out in shock. Her eyes become glossy, and tears begin to flow out freely. Tears that she had tried to hold within since the beginning. Koneko brings her arms up and returns the embrace without hesitation, hugging Nawin tightly as if scared he'd disappear before her eyes.

"Forgive me, Koneko."

Koneko's eyes grow, hearing those softly spoken words filled with sadness. Her heart throbs in pain, a very familiar pain she has felt before earlier in her life.

'Forgive me, Shiro...' Those were the last words Koneko heard from her older sister before she was abandoned. She can never forget the sight of Kuroka leaving that door and never returning.

"N-No, please not again..."

"K-Koneko," Akeno whispers with wide eyes at what she is seeing. Rias don the very expression.

Feeling the hold on him turn even tighter, Nawin tries to pull back but is stopped dead on his track by something swaying before his eyes. He lets out a gasp at the sight of a white tail waving in front of him.

'That's?!'

"Koneko..." Nawin whispers and feels the grip on him loosens, allowing him to pull back. The instant he sees Koneko's face, he regrets even pulling away. Her tearful eyes stare back at him, carrying immense sadness within them, her nose turning slightly reddish from all the crying. However, one thing that is impossible to ignore is the two fluffy, white cat ears protruding from her head.

Even though the expression Koneko wears hurts him more than words can describe, Nawin carries a faint smile filled with pride. He lifts his right hand up and softly cups Koneko's wet cheek, brushing the tears away.

"So this is your true self," Nawin's smile widens. "I am happy to see it finally. You should be proud of your true self, Koneko. Don't ever let fear stop you."

"Please don't go..." Koneko silently begs, then brings her hand up to hold onto Nawin's wrist. Although his words bring some joy in her aching heart, Koneko knows Nawin well enough that the words that are now leaving his mouth are nothing but goodbyes. She refuses to have these sincere words be the last here.

Toujou's hold over his wrist is iron-tight. Nawin takes note that her strength has increased exceptionally. He notices some fire burning in her eyes that had been absent earlier. However, he does not wish to participate in another battle, especially against someone he regards as his precious little sister.

With his other hand place firmly on top of her head, Nawin smiles warmly at Koneko. "Grow strong, Koneko. Do not allow the past to chain you again. Please do this for me... Goodbye." Toujou's eyes widen in fright at those parting words. She attempts to stop Makasha, but a fist ramming straight toward her abdomen stops her dead on track.

Choking out air from the stiff blow that knocks all the wind out of her lungs, Koneko feels her eyes become heavy and collapses forward. Nawin catches Toujou and holds her close. His gold eyes revert to the shade of blood-red; they gaze down at the unconscious girl with sorrow.

"Stop, Gasper," Nawin peers up to see the boy staring at him with those radiating eyes. Trails of dry blood coat his pale cheeks. "Do not damage your eyes any further. I'll only teleport away."

Carrying Koneko in his arms, Nawin stands up and makes his way over to Vladi.

The sound of shatter has Nawin come to a stop and turns around to see Rias has broken through the binding spell. She immediately charges toward him with a Power of Destruction orb concentrating in her hands.

With his hands still holding Koneko, Nawin snaps his index finger forward and discharges a telekinesis blast that collides at Rias in full force, propelling her far away to crash on the other side of the stream.

"Nii-chan..." Gasper watches with uncertainty when Makasha stops in front of him. Dropping to one knee, Nawin places Koneko down on the ground right in front of her friend's feet. Gasper's shoulders lose some of its tenseness by the gentle display Nawin shows when dealing with Koneko.

"You are still in pain, aren't you?" Nawin asks the Dhampir, and that seems to remind Gasper of his reddish eyes. He flinches at the burning sensation stinging his eyes.

Nawin lifts his right palm and rests it over Gasper's eyes. "Relax," he says when seeing Gasper tense up again. Slowly, a gold aura fades to life around Makasha's hand and pours into Vladi's orbs.

The rigid expression riddling Gasper's face begins to disappear by the pain slowly fading. His breather slows to an even pace, and not long after, the pain vanishes as a whole.

Nawin removes his hand and bears a soft smile when Gasper opens his eyes. The reddish veins that plagued the corners of his eyes are now gone, along with the bleeding.

"Nii-chan..." Gasper looks up at the black-haired man with a mix of hope and confusion. He lets out a short squeak when Nawin brings a hand down on his head, affectionately ruffling his soft platinum lock. "You did good, Gasper."

"Please come home with us, Nii-chan!" Gasper grasps Nawin's arms, staring at him with begging eyes. "I'm sorry, Gasper." The smile on Makasha's face dwindles, "I need to walk down on this path. But do me this one favor," Nawin leans in to press his forehead against Gasper's own. "Do not ever underestimate yourself. You are much stronger than you think, Gasper."

Tears well in the eyes of Gasper by those sincere words. Hearing it from the person, he looks up to most truly hits him deeply. But, it also hurts him knowing what's going to happen next.

"Nii-chan..." Nawin smile at the sight of Gasper's eyes radiating. His pupils slowly morph into a different pattern. His last attempt to stop him.

"Goodbye, Gasper." Before the Forbidden Balor has the chance to activate, Nawin knocks the Dhampir out with a stiff chop to the rear of his neck.

Catching Gasper's fallen form, Nawin places him gently down beside Koneko. He takes a moment to study the two young members, memorizing their sleeping faces that help remind him why he is doing this. He is walking this gray path for them and the others. And though it may hurt him and them now, Nawin believes it will be worth it in the end.

"You don't want to leave, do you, Nawin-kun?"

Breathing a silent sigh, Makasha pushes up to his feet then turns around to face Akeno. The warm gaze he held disappears the moment it left Koneko and Gasper.

Rias comes from behind and stops beside Akeno. Her rough state brings some surge of anger within Makasha. He mentally cusses at her for being so reckless. It is evident to anyone's' eyes that she should not be here.

"Do not mistake yourself, Akeno" Nawin's voice grows sharp. "I gave all of you a chance to leave here. You forced my hands."

"You don't really want to leave... I know it," Akeno whispers while looking straight into Nawin's eyes as if trying to search within his heart to prove her claim.

Nawin closes his eyes for a moment. He feels his composure slipping by Himejima's desperate gaze. She is one of the few that can break him if he is not careful.

"I'll say this once more..." Nawin looks dead into Rias's and Akeno's eyes. "Step aside and let me through. You both can't stop me from reaching Ophis."

"We are not giving up," Rias finally speaks up after regaining her breather. With that sharp expression returning to her face, Rias draws a step forward. Crimson aura morphs into life. "You are coming home, Nawin. Everyone has given their all to try to stop you. I refuse to have their efforts be for nothing!"

"Then I'll have to go through the two of you."

With those clear words uttered, Nawin triggers his mana. Black aura explodes to life, rocking the land below his feet.

The noise of wind howling shoots throughout the trembling valley.

Akeno and Rias stand their ground and unleashes their aura to protect it against Nawin's. The pressure pushing down on the area is strong enough to cause the earth to crack and split.

"Rias..." "Don't give me that look," Rias swiftly interject while keeping her eyes fixed firmly on Makasha. "I can handle myself. Concentrate on Nawin, Akeno. If we fail here, then he is gone for good."

Hearing those words from Rias's own mouth is what Akeno wants to hear. Now she can focus completely on Nawin without worrying about anything else.

"I never want to raise my hands against you again, Nawin-kun. But to save you, I will need to this once.'

Nawin watches those striking violet orbs of Himejima's alter to electric yellow. Her mana skyrockets to the next level. And with Rias being in a weaker state, Akeno's power is noticeably dwarfing over hers.

'So, you plan to truly battle me, Akeno...'

The electric aura encompassing Himejima emits a loud crackle, and the instant later, she arrives in the face of Makasha. Nawin successfully catches the incoming lightning punch and keeps a firm hold on the wrist. He turns around and throws Akeno over his shoulder, slamming her straight onto the solid ground.

Letting go of the wrist, Nawin extends his legs to jump high and avoids a crimson orb soaring past from behind. He glances behind to see Rias discharging more Destruction Orbs. Five of them speed towards him.

"Red Flame Cannon."

With his right palm extends forward the incoming orbs. Nawin discharge a massive red energy sphere that collides with the Destruction Orbs and swallows all of them. With two destruction energy merging, the result causes a huge explosion to erupt.

Rias plants her feet firmly to the ground to keep herself steady against the shockwave. She looks ahead at the cloud of smoke. Rias's body tightens, and she lets out a gasp when a dozen of shadow weapons emerge out of the smoke, all soaring towards her.

Before the weapons can reach their target, a lightning strike comes from above and obliterate all of them from existence.

Rias sighs in relief, then look ahead to see two figures going at it within the smoke.

It's not long till Akeno comes bursting out of the smoke and crashes in front of Rias. She quickly rolls over to bounce back on her feet. The two looks as Nawin emerge from the dark cloud.

Stopping on his track, Nawin lowers his eyelids by the sight of Rias's state. She is now panting heavily while her eyes are losing that focus. He can see she is nearing the point of collapsing from fatigue.

"We cannot lose here..." Akeno whispers to herself. Her hands clench tightly to her fist in frustration, knuckles turning white. She tries to push away that feeling of hopelessness creeping into her heart. But with where she stands, she can see the outcome terrifyingly clear. Taking into account Rias's current condition and her still feeling the effect of secluding herself for so long, Akeno acknowledges that she cannot go all out as it'll risk her hurting her own body by recklessly emitting so much mana at once. Her body hasn't been put through a fierce battle since Vamhaven. Furthermore, unlike the rest of the group who continued training in their spare time, Akeno has largely ignored that to focus on her time with Nawin.

"Aaahhh!" In a burst of frustration and anger, Akeno extends her right arm out and unleashes a gigantic beam of electricity.

"Urgh!" Nawin gasps in shock by the sheer size of the blast. Never has he seen Akeno produce something that massive before. Plus, with her not being at her best, he wonders how it is even possible.

'Wait,' Nawin draws his right hand ahead and quickly activates the Void Shield. The gold barrier blinks into existence and covers his entire front. 'The necklace!' Before the beam collides with the barrier, Nawin manages to catch a glimpse of the Lightning Gemstone radiating with electricity.

The beam erupts into an enormous explosion upon impact. The eruption is powerful enough to send tremors across the entire valley. The shockwave booms thunderously while pushing the clouds in the sky, scattering them into nothingness.

"Akeno!" Rias screeches in concern when seeing her friend suddenly drops to her knees. Falling to one knee, Rias plants a hand on Himejima's shaky shoulders, watching her taking deep breathes. Her eyes peer down, and it widens over the sight of the Gemstone producing faint electricity. Though it only stays like that for a couple of seconds before it dies down to its idle state.

"A-Akeno, did you use the Gemstone's power?" Instead of replying, Akeno grabs the precious stone and brings it up to her face. "I-I don't know. But I felt a sudden new surge of power within me just before I released the attack."

Akeno quickly releases the necklace when remembering what she did. She looks ahead at the massive cloud of smoke. Worry sets onto her expression. "Nawin-kun! I-Is he ok?!"

Himejima's question is quickly answered when they see a figure walking within the smoke. When Nawin emerges out of the dome of smoke, Rias and Akeno let out a gasp at his appearance.

The gray shirt that Makasha wears is now in tatters and hangs loosely by his left shoulder. The right side of Nawin's chest and abdomen is cover in horrific burns. His skin is either burning red or still bubbling by the heat. Yet, even with how painful the injury looks, Nawin's stoic expression does not deter as he stares at the stun girls.

"I-I'm sorry..." Akeno finds those words leaving her quivering lips. Her expression shows great remorse for what she did—knowing that she has given Nawin those injuries brings pain to her heart.

Makasha says nothing and instead takes hold of his shirt and rips it off his body, throwing it into the wind. The Draconic Mark pulse to life, and immediately, the burns begin to heal themselves.

'Interesting...' Nawin gazes down to his wounds. 'My endurance appears to have increased. The pain is not as bad as it looks...'

When his attention returns to Rias and Akeno, Nawin takes a single step forward and vanishes in a blur.

Not a second later, Nawin comes to stand right in front of the two girls. "It's over."

"It's not," Rias steps in front to stand face to face with Nawin. Her eyes still hold that sharpness, gleaming in crimson. "Not until I am down for the count, Nawin." That signature Gremory's crimson aura comes to life once more. Though she still can draw some mana out, Nawin can see Rias's breathing turns heavier by the second, her eyes gradually losing some light in them. She is pushing herself to the absolute limit.

A ghost of a smile forms on the face of Makasha when witnessing the determination still brimming in Rias. He does not think he has ever seen this much fight and fire in Gremory's eyes before. And recognizing that only continues to provide him the confidence that going to Ophis is the correct path. It will serve Rias along with the others in the long run.

"Thank you, Rias... For everything."

Those sincere words momentarily stun Gremory, and her guards leave her body. Nawin uses this opening and drives his fist forward, smashing it squarely onto Rias's abdomen.

"Rias!" Akeno shouts, watching her friend collapse onto the ground beside her. She quickly crawls over and sees Rias's eyes are shut, but her breathing is steady.

"... You did not want to hurt her," Akeno turns around to look at Nawin while resting a hand on Gremory's shoulder. Rather than a look of frustration and grief on her face, Akeno glares up at Nawin with fire in her eyes. "Just like with the others. Tell me why you are really doing this, Nawin-kun?!"

In silence, Makasha stares down at his once lover with stoic eyes. He looks on ahead and begins walking away, passing by Akeno without a word to say.

"Don't be silent with me!" Nawin suddenly feels a hand snatch his wrist, and he is pulled over to come to face with Akeno. Those violet eyes are now glossy from the tears welling within them. "P-Please," she chokes out, "Make me u-understand this, Nawin-kun..."

"Stop it," Nawin mutters and yanks his hand away, but Akeno refuses to give up and collides against him, wrapping her arms tightly around him. "No!" Akeno cries out, burying her face on Nawin's chest. "I won't let go until you snap out of this, Nawin-kun!"

Makasha openly grits his teeth at the sound of sobbing coming from Akeno. His heart throbs in pain at the sound. The stoic masks Nawin bears cracks ever slightly to reveal the look of grief in those red eyes.

"Don't go..." Akeno softly begs, desperately holding onto Nawin. Her legs begin feeling weak by the flood of emotions surging through her already tired body. "Please don't leave me. I-I have already lost enough people in my life. I can't lose y-you too."

Hesitant at first, Nawin eventually gives in to the desire within him. He lifts his arms, wrapping them firmly around Himejima's trembling form. Akeno's grasp only becomes tighter by the gesture, her cries still fresh and loud.

There are many things Nawin can say at this moment to help ease Akeno. To stop her worry. However, he cannot. And that hurts him when looking at the state Akeno is in now.

"Forgive me, Akeno."

Hearing those words cause Akeno's blood to go cold. She shakily rears her head up, more tears flow down her wide eyes. Nawin stares down at her with sorrow in those red orbs. A single teardrop escapes from his right eye.

Akeno opens her mouth to speak, but a hard strike connects to the back of her neck stops her. Feeling her vision go cloudy, Akeno stumbles her footing. Though she desperately tries to cling onto him, Akeno feels her strength leaving her arms and ultimately unclench from Nawin. Dropping to her rear, Akeno collapse onto the solid earth.

Nawin stares down at the barely conscious Himejima with sadness. He opens his mouth and whispers. "Goodbye, Akeno."

Seeing Nawin walking away, Akeno's eyes slowly widen, her heart strongly throbs with pain. Mustering up every last remaining strength she has left, Akeno flops herself over to lay on her front. She tries desperately to extend her right arm out and grab onto Nawin but only manages to graze him with her fingers.

'No... D-Don't go,' Akeno begs in her mind, unable to even muster enough power to speak. Her eyelids grow heavier by the second. 'P-Please... Please, someone, stop him! S-Save Nawin!' Akeno begs out to anyone that can hear her plea. Tears stream down from her eyes, trickling onto the ground. Nawin's figure grows ever further from her.

'PLEASE SAVE HIM!'

A sound comparable to broken glass suddenly booms from above the valley, and it brings Nawin to an abrupt stop. He detects another signature entering the field. His eyes slowly widen in shock at the unmistakable sense.

Unable to keep her head up anymore, Akeno lays her cheek on the cold ground. She tries hard to look upwards even though her eyes begin to close themselves. Though before it completely shuts to give way to darkness, Akeno catches a glimpse at the figure landing in front of her, donning that striking crimson coat.

'S-save him...'

"Issei," Nawin stares coldly at the person standing across from him. Hyoudou returns the stare with those emerald orbs of his radiating brightly. Various emotions rage within them. Yet, one emotion stands out above the rest. Determination.

"Nawin..."

Next Chapter: Nawin and Issei