Chapter 30: Gremory vs Sitri: the clash of dreams Pt1.
*Gremory Castle*
The night before the game with the Sitri family.
We all had a meeting in Azazel's room after the mess in the forest.
The matter of Koneko's sister, Kuroka, and Bikou's attack was settled fot them time being since I managed to repell them alongside Tannin-shishou.
There was talk of Rias getting a higher assessment after repelling Vali's team and that I attained Balance Breaker for Boosted Gear.
"Vergil, how's the state of your Balance Breaker?", asked Azazel.
"Good news is, I can use it now, and the power is tremendous compare to before. The not-so-good news, is that there a several conditions for its' usage"
I begin to tell them about the conditions.
"To transform, there's a time delay, the time until the transformation is displayed on my gauntlet's jewel. Moreover, when I have entered that waiting period, I can only use 10 boosts, but [Transfer] is impossible. I can transform for how many times I want, but at whatever point I cancel it, the next transformation will last with the remaining count from the previous timer. The Boosted Gear's recharge time varies depends on how much time I had left, but in the case of the power cell fully dried out, then 20 minutes until it's 100% operational again"
"Hmm, it's almost like what the data says. Half of these are like the past Sekiryuuteis, but with you being the host, several advantages have been achieved over your predecessors, like your time limit for example. How much time do you need for the transformation in your case?"
"It varies from either 30 seconds to a whole minute. No more than that."
"I see. The time shortened thanks to your training and getting used to it. However, that time delay is a matter of life-and-death. Luckily, you're an excellent fighter to begin with. And since only a few people in the games can beat you, the delay isn't much of an issue. So how's your time on the Balance Breaker?"
"According to Ddraig, 3 hours. Usage of power will decrease the timer slightly, but not significant"
"That's an excellent timer. A clear testament of your training. Though, the only type of game you will have to worry, is the kind that will stretch the time beyond your timer. We have no choice but to increase your time limit from now on."
However, Balance Breaker also depended on the time and situation. I had attained the power I wished for, but depending on the circumstances during battle, there would also be times when skillfully using the normal doubling and transfer ability would be better than using Balance Breaker.
I could use the transfer ability while in Balance Breaker as well, and since the gas consumption rate is low, the chance of me running out of fuel is rather low.
"Rias, Sona Sitri knows about the Gremory group to some degree, right?", asked Azazel as Rias nodded.
"Yes, she understands us roughly. For example, she knows the main weapons of Vergil, Kiba, Akeno, Asia and Xenovia. Video recordings of our battle with the Phoenix group were partly open to the public, after all. Furthermore, Gasper's Sacred Gear and Koneko-chan's background have also come to light."
"Well, she roughly knows about you all then. So, how much do you know about her side?"
"I know the abilities of Sona, of her Queen the vice-president, and of several others of her servants. Though some of their abilities haven't been confirmed yet."
"So you're at a disadvantage in that regard. Well, such a thing is fine for a game or an actual battle. That is often the case in both the games and in actual battles. There are also cases of a Sacred Gear evolving and transforming during battle. You should pay careful attention. The number of your opponents is eight."
"Yes, one King, one Queen, one Rook, one Knight, two Bishops, and two pawns, for a total of eight enemies. It seems she still doesn't have a full set of pieces yet, but it's the same numbers as us."
Azazel then wrote onto a white board he had prepared.
"The Rating Game classifies players into different particular fighting-types. Power, technique, wizard, support. Out of these, Rias is a Wizard-type. The type that is superior in demonic power in general, so to speak. Akeno-san is the same. Kiba is a Technique-type. He fights with speed and technique. Xenovia is a Power-type that excels in the area of speed. A player that aims for a one-hit-certain-kill. Asia and Gasper are Support-types. Also, if you classify them with even more detail, Asia is closer to a Wizard-type, while Gasper is closer to a Technique-type. Koneko is a Power-type. And lastly, Vergil, you're an all-rounder, your power, skills and magic knowledge are without question. And there's also the Boosted Gear Gift to support your allies. You're basically this team's trump card."
He made a cross and put our names on our positions. I was right in the middle. Kiba was in the technique area that inching towards power. Xenovia and Koneko was in power, Rias in wizard that was inching close to power with Akeno close behind her. Asia and Gasper was at the support, but Asia was closer to wizard while Gasper was closer to technique.
"The things that Power-types have to be most careful of are… counters. A troublesome class among the Technique-types. That is the counter-type ability. There are counter-types even among the Sacred Gears, but when fighting an opponent who carries one, power-types like Koneko and Xenovia can have their situations turned around by a single counter blow. It's because counters return the opponent's power to them plus the power of the one who counters. When one is strong, it's natural for there to be damage just as strong."
No surprise, I even enjoy parrying and countering strikes from fools as well.
"If there's a counter, I just have to overcome it with power.", said Xenovia. As expected, Azazel shook his head immediately.
"It's possible to overcome it with that, but it's another story when your opponent is a genius in that field. Avoid attacking as much as possible. It's better to face counter-users with the spell-user Akeno, the technique-user Kiba, Gasper with his special vampire abilities, or Vergil like I just said before. Everything is a matter of compatibility. Power-types are simply strong. But the risk is big for them when fighting against Technique-types."
"Vergil, you have Balance Breaker now, but do you think you can win against Kiba?", asked Azazel.
"I've yet to discover all of Kiba's tricks, especially his new ones. But I won't let my guard down to him, that's for sure", I replied. I already acknowledge that Kiba is a good swordsman, but to reach the ranks of master, he is still far from it.
"Well that's good. You can analyze what your opponent is capable of and counter accordingly. That is what battle compatibility means.", said Azazel.
"By the way Vergil, the fact that you attained Balance Breaker for Boosted Gear was noticed by people nearby during the attack of Bikou and the others. Sona Sitri should also know about it. You should be thoroughly careful."
Well, it wasn't exactly discreet when I transformed, you know? I even appeared in front of all of them in the armor, let alone the fire pit we made.
Anyway, the game will be starting soon.
Saji, Sona, if that dream of yours is what you both hold dear, show me your resolve.
*Day of the game*
There was a magic circle underneath the Gremory Castle for the exclusive use of transporting us to the game area. The group gathered on top of the magic circle, ready for transport.
The others wore the school uniform execpt for Asia and Xenovia. Asia had her nun clothes and Xenovia had her battle suit that she had worn the first time we met. Both of them seemed to be full of fighting spirit. The Sitri side was also wearing the school uniforms.
Those who would be watching were Rias' family, Azazel, Alex and the Fallen Angel sisters. They spoke from outside the magic circle.
"Rias, you've lost once before. Win for sure this time."
"Fight a battle that won't make you ashamed as the next head of the family as well as letting Vergil-sama down. Everyone else as well, okay?"
"Do your best, Rias-nee-sama!"
"Well, I've taught you about the things you needed to be informed about this time. All that's left is to exert yourselves and go all out."
"Raise hell, Vergil", said Alex. I'll do it even without you saying.
Sirzechs and Grayfia aren't here, but they're in the exclusive VIP spectator lounge. It was said that not only were the leaders of the three great powers present, but also VIPS from the other powers were invited. It seemed that Sensei would be heading there after this.
Our game was getting a lot of attention… As expected, among the promising young devils, the fight between the two little sisters of the Maous was being basked in attention…
The magic circle shone brightly as our game's about to begin…
So it begins…
It's time.
*Battlefield: Local Department Store*
The place we arrived at was the restaurant that I'm familiar with. There were tables everywhere. I look around to see that we're at the food court after I got out of the restaurant.
"I didn't expect that the department store near Kuou Academy would serve as the stage.", said Rias. I then heard an announcement in the store.
[Everyone, I, the "Queen" of the Lucifer group, Grayfia, will be carrying the role of arbiter in the "Rating Game" between the Gremory group and the Sitri group on this occasion.]
So Grayfia is once again our mediator aye.
[In the name of my master, Sirzechs Lucifer, I will watch over the battle between these two families. It's a pleasure to be here. To get right to the main topic, the battlefield for today is the department store within the neighbourhood of the school "Kuou Academy" that Rias-sama and Sona-sama attend, which has been prepared within a separate space as the game field.]
So both teams have an advantage with the playing field. The two-story department store each and every one of us usually go to for getting groceries.
This department store which had become our battle stage was a two-storied building. It wasn't that big in terms of height.
However, it was a long shopping mall across its two floors and the atrium, so it was considerably large horizontally. The rooftop was a parking lot. Besides that, there was also a multi-story parking garage elsewhere.
[Both groups have been transported to their respective "bases". Rias-sama's "base" is on the second floor of the east side, while Sona-sama's "base" is on the first floor of the west side. In order for "Pawns" to promote, please go to your opponent's "bases".]
Our base and our enemies' base were on opposite ends of the department store. We were on the most eastern side of the second floor. The opponents were on the most western side of the first floor. Around our base, there was a pet shop, an arcade centre, a dining floor, a bookshop and a drugstore. On the first floor beneath our base, there was a branch store of a major second-hand bookshop company, and a sports-supplies shop.
Over on the opponent's side, there was a grocery shop, an electrical appliance store, a junk food shop, and a general goods store.
During the battle, each side would have to respectively head towards the other end of the department. That was simple and clear, but it wouldn't go like that.
[This time, there will be special rules. Documents on this have been sent to each group, so please check them. A single bottle of the healing item "Phoenix Tears" has been provided to each team. Furthermore, the time to strategize before the battle is thirty minutes. Contact with the opponent during this time is forbidden. The game is scheduled to start after thirty minutes. Then, let the strategy time begin.]
"The battlefield is modelled on the department store near Kuou Academy. So it's an indoor battle.", said Rias as she looked at the map. The map was divided into chess squares in Rias' hands. So the fighting with be indoors, fits for close combat than long range.
We then read the document containing the special rules.
"The rule this time states [Don't destroy the department store which has become the battlefield]; in other words, we can't do any showy battles.", said Rias. So no property damage.
"...I see, so to me, the fuku-buchou, and Ve… Takeru, this is a disadvantageous battlefield. We can't do attacks that affect a wide area.", said Xenovia.
"No, just you two. Although I can't use the Boosted Gear to its' fullest, I won't have problems fighting indoors. Also, I've tuned the transformation so the fire pit the other night won't happen again", I replied.
I have too many fights indoors, being in a pinch like this isn't new. With this situation in consideration, Ddraig and I already reconfigurated the transformation to ensure it does not excess surplus power so violently like the first time. Also, Xenovia can't use Durandal for a place like this.
"Gasper-kun's eyes also won't be as effective. There are too many places to hide within the department store. All the goods and products have also been exactly reproduced, so there is an overflowing amount of objects to obstruct his vision. There is also the possibility of surprise attack in the dark…It's troubling. This is a disadvantageous battlefield for our special characteristics. Because the Rias Gremory group's forte is to battle showily, we're completely sealed.", said Akeno as she had her hand on her cheek with a troubled look.
"No, Gasper's eyes couldn't be used from the start. They put in a restriction on it here. [The use of Gasper Vladi's Sacred Gear is forbidden], it says. The reason is clear and simple. Since he still can't perfectly control it yet. They judged that it would be problematic if the entire game was spoiled by his eyes going out of control. Giving him Takeru's blood is also prohibited. It seemed that they've provided him with Sacred Gear-sealing glasses developed by Azazel. [Since it was made for Gasper's exclusive use, it won't have any particular bad influence on his body]—so it says here. Really, he likes to prepare."
"So Gasper can only use his vampire powers and magic?", I asked Rias and she nodded.
"That's right. From the beginning, his time-stopping power carried a lot of risk. The other side has not only the counter-types I mentioned before, but also Saji-kun, who possesses a Sacred Gear that absorbs the ability of others, so we don't know what kind of counterattacks they'll use. Like suppressing it with Genjutsu. There are also other techniques to take away a person's vision. When talking about such things, it becomes impossible to use that power in either the games or actual battle. Using meticulous caution is only natural."
Just like what Vali said. Gasper has that weakness if he's blinded. I then saw Gasper put on his glasses.
"…The Rating Game isn't something you can win simply by having a lot of power. The battle situation changes completely according to the battlefield and rules. Because this is a ground where even devils that lack strength can depend on wisdom and rise higher, it has become popular in the Underworld and among the other powers. The rules this time may be disadvantageous to us. However, if we can't make up for this, we won't be able to win and advance in the games from now on. [Even a "Pawn" can take down the "King]—this is not only a basic rule in chess, but also a proverb of the Rating Games. In other words, it implies that [anyone can win with the proper method].", said Rias.
"That's right. There may be indoor battles like this on true battlefields as well from now on. If that were the case, we wouldn't be able to completely display our power like today. This may be a good opportunity for us. Today's battle is most suitable for getting used to indoor team battles.", said Akeno.
"Hmmm, I can manage these conditions just fine. So what's the plan?", I asked.
"Even if we attack, the atrium of this shopping mall is a problem. You can grasp the progress of the opponent from both the first and second floors. It's the same for the other side.", said Rias.
"I've considered an attack from the parking garage as well, but they would also be looking out for that too.", said Akeno.
"Yes, it's the same for moving from the rooftop. Whether it be breaking through the centre, from the rooftop, or from the parking garage, we have to advance along these routes. Since we can't leave the department store itself."
"There should be cars in the parking garage as well. That's what I feel, after seeing that they reproduced even the merchandise and merchandise shelves. They may have copied the cars that were parked there."
Akeno and Rias were discussing with diligence. Then they look at me.
"Takeru, do you have anything in mind?", asked Rias.
I then look at the map for a while, before saying.
"Hmmm… Gasper is definitely going to be a sacrifice, they will likely to ambush him at the Grocery Store, with the garlics available. There's an ambush spot at the rooftop and parking garage. They can't use the cars as they will receive penalty if even one is damaged. By sending Kiba and Xenovia to check those places, the expecting loss would be one of them. Last is Saji"
"Can you beat him?", asked Rias.
"Right now, none of the opposing team has any capacity to beat me head on. But Sona's group by basics, is about tricks. So we can't be careless"
"Is there any way we can avoid losses?"
"Unfortunately, no. There will definitely losses of Gasper, either Xenovia or Kiba, and me. They won't win head on, but this is a game, they'll have the rules by their side", I answered.
"I see. I understand.", said Rias.
Kiba then raised his hand.
"Buchou, I'll check out the rooftop and parking garage. Since there are stairs nearby, I'll go check them out.", said Kiba.
"Please do, Yuuto.", she nodded.
"Gasper, please change into bats and fly to every location within the department store. In the opening of the game, you'll inform us of the situation within the department store in detail."
"R-Roger!", said Gasper in high spirit.
"The game will be starting fifteen minutes from now. We'll gather here again in ten minutes. Everyone, please remain on standby with your respective methods of relaxing until then.", said Rias as the others left but me.
"Takeru, since you attained Balance Breaker, the power of the eight mutated [Pawn] pieces I placed in you have all been forcibly released."
"I know, I'll manage my power carefully"
"Really, you already knew what I was going to say…", said Rias with a wryly smile.
After that, Rias was drinking tea at the dining shop, Gasper at the donut shop eating donuts, and Asia and Xenovia enjoying hamburgers. I noticed Kiba was rummaging for medicine. I remember that Asia wanted to be a nurse for a career. Well she does have Twilight Healing, so it would make sense. With her and Kiba managing the medicine, we'll be fine. As for me, I went to a bookstore nearby.
I went to the corner of the store that had poems. Although I went through all the stacks, none caught my eyes for long.
"Vergil-san. What are you doing?", she whispered as she hugged me from behind.
"I'm looking for something to read, but there seem to be none that worth the attention here", I replied.
"I see."
"So what are you doing?", I asked.
"...I'm getting courage from Vergil-san.", said Akeno in a pained voice.
Courage huh, Rias said a similar thing at that time in the peace conference.
"Well, if you're fine with me, then do it for as long as you need"
I grasped her hand as she spoke with a smile.
"When I bring out my power of light, will you watch, Vergil-san? If Vergil-san is watching, I will be able to use it."
Yare yare, you really are helpless.
"In that case, I'll be right beside you when you use it."
"...I'm happy. If I'm together with Vergil, surely...You belong to Rias, but even so I will always... by your side..."
"…"
Always by my side huh…
I don't deserve that, you know?
She moved away for a bit. I can see that her eyes were moist. She brought her face close to mine. What is she doing.
"...Vergil-senpai, it's almost time to gather.", said Koneko.
"Yeah, we'll be right there", I replied.
"Ara-ara, Koneko-chan. You saw us. Ufufu. Vergil-san, thank you. I'm already okay now.", said Akeno as she smiled and left.
"...Next time, for sure...with you..."
I faintly heard what Akeno said before Koneko grasped my hand.
"…Please give me courage too.", she said.
"Hmmm… sure"
I grasped her hand back.
"…Vergil-senpai, aren't you afraid of me, as a nekomata?"
Koneko asked me this with an anxious expression.
"No, not at all."
I replied with a stone face.
"But…"
"Kid, I faced worst things. Mundus and Argosax are the biggest examples for that, so don't you worry about me. Besides, what's the reason for me to hate such an innocent little girl like you?"
, I said as Koneko looked surprised.
"...I'll use my nekomata power.", she said as she hugged me.
…
This is… fuzzy.
"Keep doing what you can. Master the powers within you. You might become a true Hellcat"
"...Hell cat?"
"You are the strongest kind of Nekomata, a Nekoshou, as well as being a reincarnated Devil of the Gremory, isn't it fitting?", I said.
I then patted her head.
"Don't worry about your sister, or your powers go out of control. I'll put a stop to both of them when it becomes necessary. So smile and stand tall, okay?", I said as she nodded.
"...You really are a gentle Sekiryuutei. A gentle Dark Angel…"
*Game Start*
…It was the appointed time.
We had gathered at the dining floor and were waiting for the starting time.
Then, an announcement streamed through the store.
[It is now time to begin. Furthermore, the time limit for this game will be a blitz-style of three hours. Then without further ado, game start.]
"Your instructions are just as we agreed on before. Takeru and Koneko, and Yuuto and Xenovia will split into two separate groups. Takeru and Koneko will advance through the store interior. Yuuto and Xenovia will advance forward via the parking garage. Gasper will transform into many bats and do surveillance and reporting inside the store. According to the condition of your progress, me, Akeno and Asia will go by the route of Takeru's group.", said Rias as she stood up.
"Now then, my cute servant devils! We won't lose again! This time, we'll win!"
[Yes!]
"Then, Xenovia, let's go."
"Yes, Kiba."
Kiba and Xenovia headed out to the parking garage. They rushed out from the dining floor and headed down the path that connected to the parking garage. According to Kiba, it was confirmed that there were cars in the parking lot. However, they seemed to be mere imitations. So charging using the car was apparently impossible.
Now then, we were next to leave after Kiba and Xenovia.
"Koneko, let's go."
"Yes."
Rias' reading was this. With some of what I said, we're playing as if Sona already knows our plan. After I face Saji, I would go to their base and promote to [Queen]. Kiba and Xenovia would be going through the parking garage to disturb their formation and attract the attention of the enemy. In order to promote to [Queen], they would quickly distract and lead the enemy away from their base. When I became [Queen], everyone would temporarily pull out and then attack once again. Rias would also move out at this time.
Knowing Sona, she most likely expects us to have me as the main attacker. But that would be the feint, our true main offence was Kiba and Xenovia. The main objective is to get them understaffed on protecting Sona for us to get her.
"Takeru, good luck"
"Ve… Takeru-san! Do your best! Don't lose!"
"Ufufu, I expect to see your cool side."
Such high expectations, these kids…
*Sigh*, once again, I guess I can't disappoint them, especially her.
Koneko and I move out silently. That way, they won't be able to gauge our distance since a loud noise and acoustics of this place would give away our position. We walked for about five minutes without contact.
—!
I activated "Elemental Senses" by instinct and sensed movement.
"Koneko, use your nekomata power", I said as she nodded.
"Do you sense them?"
"...Yes, they're moving. There are two people ahead moving towards us. Does your… ability tell you their pieces?"
"Hmm… judging by the render of the pieces shape… two [Pawns]. One of them… has 4 pieces, it's Saji. Koneko, you take the other one, I deal with him"
"Yes"
We then stood in position. After a good 10 minutes…
"…Above!", said Koneko.
I looked up top to see Saji swinging in with… a girl on his back?
"Senpai! The first attack is ours!"
Saji said as he prepared a knee kick.
"Naive"
I deflected their combined assault by diverting the direction of their combined kinetic force. They fell off track, but soon regained their balance.
"Yo. Senpai"
Saji had appeared. The girl with him must be a member of the Student Council. She has to be someone capable, or Sona would never let her in.
Saji's right arm… had a black snake wound around it several times. Its shape was different from before. Did his Sacred Gear change?
I then noticed that there was a black snake wound around my gauntlet on my left arm as well, and it was connected to Saji's Sacred Gear. He must have put it on me when he attacked before.
There was also a line connecting to my right hand, but…it wasn't connected to Saji's Sacred Gear. Rather, it seemed to be tied to something far away.
How strange… it didn't feel like my power was being sucked away.
Saji noticed that I was looking at his Sacred Gear, and spoke while smiling bitterly.
"Well, I did some training. The result of that is this. So, when I had stuck a line in the ceiling and rose up in order to observe the store interior from above, I saw two people hiding under cover further away. Since you didn't notice me, I used that brief chance to do a Tarzan attack."
[One of Rias Gremory-sama's Bishops, retired.]
"Poor Gasper. He really has to suffer the Garlic by you kids huh.", I said.
"That's right. We were contacted and told that Gasper-kun's Sacred Gear was sealed according to the rules. As such, it was inevitable that he would use his vampire powers instead. Kaichou knew that he would be on surveillance. So we utilized our base. First, one of our members moves suspiciously at the Sitri base. Then, Gasper-kun who was doing surveillance would naturally be interested and follow them, you know? Then, when we showed more suspicious behaviour, he would call the other bats he had launched and start to observe with several of them. When all the many bats had gathered, that's when it happened. If something happens to the bats when all of them are gathered, they revert back to Gasper's body. Near the place where the bats had assembled together was—garlic, a vampire's greatest dislike. Our base is a grocery store on the first floor of the west side. There were large quantities of garlic left there. It was easy to catch Gasper with that."
"So you used the environment to your advantage. As expected, you all trained well. Though I did expect that Gasper will be out soon."
"Yeah. Kaichou that that you would know that as well. A monstrous fighter plus a keen mind, what a terrifying combination", said Saji.
"Come, Boosted Gear"
I brought out Boosted Gear and started the timer for Balance Breaker. Doubling my power would do no good since Saji would gain that power, in that case, I have to remove it by using Balance Breaker.
[Count Down!]
The time until Balance Breaker was displayed on the jewel and the count had begun. One minute, that's fine, time for some CQC.
"So you intend to fight, Senpai!?", said Saji as he went for a kick. I grabbed his leg to counter and threw him down.
He then regained his balance and shot a line into a store.
"Nimura! Put on the sunglasses we got at that store just before!"
Saji and the girl took out sunglasses from their pockets and put them on
What is he…
—!
"Koneko! Close your eyes, now!", I said as I covered my eyes with my arm.
KAH!
A blazing light glowed from the store light. I channeled a pulse of demonic power on my right hand, with a single swinging motion, the light dissipated completely.
"What the…!", exclaimed Saji in surprise.
"A little trick I learned", I replied.
It was a basic technique I used years ago, but a sudden memory of pure coincidence of Kiba used the Holy Eraser Demonic Sword guided me to use this.
How lucky of me. Had it been for another second late, and we would both be blind for a few seconds.
"Tch!"
Saji clicked his tongue as he charged up magic on his finger and fire it. The shot he fired was huge.
"Not bad.", I said.
"Takeru-senpai. I'm serious. I'm going to seriously defeat you, the Sekiryuutei.", said Saji as his eyes were filled with resolution. He not holding his punches, that's for sure. He then fired another high-powered magic shot.
"Careful Saji. If you missed, you'll lose points for property damage. So how did you manage to get that much power into that shot?", I asked. I then saw a line on Saji chest going to his Sacred Gear.
"See this Senpai?", said Saji as he pointed at his chest.
Saji's Sacred Gear had its line connected to his chest… to his heart.
"Hoh? So you're using your own life force? You really wish to die huh."
"Yeah, Senpai, I intend to die. I intend to beat you with the intention of dying… Do you understand our frustration, having our dream laughed at! Do you understand our desperation as we believe in our dream? This battle is being broadcast across the entire Underworld. We have to show the seriousness of the Sitri group in front of those guys that laughed at us!"
Such resolve… you're a brave one Saji.
As me and Saji were going through a fierce battle. I noticed that the girl, Nimura is holding her ground surprisingly well against Koneko. However…
After Koneko's fist grazed her opponent's cheek, a change occurred. The body of the girl shook just a little. Her eyes also seemed to be swimming just a bit.
Koneko didn't miss the opening. She cladded her fist in a pale white aura and drove it into her opponent's chest!
BANG!
A crisp noise rang through the surroundings. At that instant, Nimura dropped to her knees.
"…I drove a fist clad with spirit energy into you. Since damage was also dealt to the blood vessels flowing inside you at the time, you won't be able to build up demonic power anymore. Furthermore, the damage also pierced through your insides…You can't move anymore.", said Koneko.
Then I remembered what Azazel told me.
[Koneko's true fighting style, which mixes senjutsu and hand-to-hand combat, will certainly become a weapon. An attack that not only deals damage to the opponent's body, but also their blood vessels that circulate within their body will break the enemy's aura from its foundation. However, if she becomes consumed by power, she must stop using it immediately. Senjutsu can read and handle spirit energy, but it also takes in the malice and ill will that floats in the world. Koneko's sister became like that because she absorbed too much malice as well.]
An attack that strikes the internals of an enemy. An excellent power indeed.
"…Saji-senpai, I'm sorry."
After she let just those few words leak out, the girl, Nimura, shone and disappeared. She had retired and been transferred away because she had sustained serious damage.
[Sona Sitri-sama's [Pawn] retires.]
We heard another announcement. With this, each team had lost one person.
"...I have become a hellcat. I won't lose!", said Koneko.
I was deflecting each magic shot Saji fired at me. Koneko just watched as she knew that she can't interfere in our fight. Saji was now getting exhausted from his constant firing of magic using his own stamina.
"Haahaa...Haahaa..."
"Nimura fought well, Saji. It's commendable that she held on for so long against Koneko. She wasn't expecting the blow to be filled with spirit energy.", I said.
Still, why did Saji connect a line to not only my Sacred Gear, but also me directly on my right arm?
[He wants to prevent your Sacred Gear's doubling ability from being restored and then flowing into him at the same time as he sucks away your own power. He knows that, if he sucks away both your own power and the Sacred Gear's power at the same time, his body won't be able to take it and will blow up. He plans to stop the Balance Breaker countdown and return you to your normal form instead.]
'As if that's going to work'
[Indeed, your own powers are too potent for the current him. Vritra's Sacred Gear must be preventing the destructive flow of your energy from assimilate him. Since you didn't double up as well. He's gaining nothing.]
"This is going nowhere, huh…", said Saji as he gathered more magic power. This time, it looks much stronger and larger.
"With this, it won't affect the surrounding area, and it will completely destroy just your body."
So he intends to blast me with a dense shot of magic power. His killing intent sure is high. I then saw Saji smile a bit.
"I was jealous of you. The pride of your master and kouhai. The Sekiryuutei. Everyone knows about you. But, even though I'm the same [Pawn] as you, I have nothing. Nothing! That's why, I obtained pride and self-confidence. I will kill you, the Sekiryuutei!"
Huh… you have no idea how much I wanted the normal you all possess.
"So you saw me as a rival huh, Saji? Then come on! Show me what you got!"
I tried to dodge but Saji released the line on the Boosted Gear from his end and fired it towards my foot. I can't move since the line is tied to the floor.
DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!
The demonic power bullet hit me. The moment it hit, the demonic power bullet burst open and its aura spread throughout the surroundings.
At that instant.
[Divide!]
An elegant white wing with 7 energy feathers appeared on the right side of my back.
Half of the demonic power of the bullet was annihilated by the Hakuryuukou's power. And the other half was dismissed by me.
"—! My demonic power bullet was halved!?"
Saji was shocked.
"I was able to tentatively activate this power during my seclusion in the mountains. But, it has several conditions. First, the chances of activating it are less than ten percent. This is close to a gamble. Second. This also requires resolution. It's my life-force. Regardless of whether the activation succeeds or fails, my life-force is shaved off when I try to use it. A risky gamble, isn't it"
Though the price pales in comparison to Saji's. I then saw the timer… was finished!
"Enough fooling around. Shine! Boosted Gear!"
[Welsh Dragon Balance Breaker!]
A dazzling red and extra-large aura surrounded me and changed into armour.
At the same time, overflowing power welled up inside me.
Now, I'm wearing the Boosted Gear Scale Mail.
"Let's end this, Saji"
I then restarted the fight with Saji.
*Waltz, Kiba's POV*
It had been several minutes since the game had begun. I—Kiba, and Xenovia entered the multi-storey parking lot.
We advanced forward while cautiously looking through the dimly-lit parking lot. Because we had both encountered a lot of spies in our missions, moving forward like this was our strong point.
I walked in front, and then, after I confirmed that there was no one hiding under cover ahead of us, I called back to Xenovia behind me for her to move forward as well. We repeated this many times and gradually advanced through the parking lot.
The plan was to descend down the car passages on the second floor and go down to the first floor. The elevator was also functioning, but we feared being attacked while we rode it down.
We had no choice but to advance with the most reliable method.
We advanced down the passage from the second floor and set foot on the first floor of the parking lot.
—There was a silhouette before us.
Looking closely, it was a glasses-wearing girl with long black hair—.
I knew her. Kaichou's [Queen], the "vice-president of the student council", Shinra Tsubaki-senpai. She held a naginata[1] in her hand.
That's right, I had heard that she was a naginata-user. And she held a considerably high-rank with it as well.
"How do you do, Kiba Yuuto-kun, Xenovia-san. I knew that you would come here."
Shinra-senpai spoke indifferently. There were two girls at her side—. A girl with a tall figure and a slender girl carrying a Japanese sword.
The tall girl was called Yura-san. A [Rook]. The girl holding the Japanese sword was called Meguri-san. A [Knight].
Yura-san excelled in hand-to-hand combat techniques, while Meguri-san was a member of a clan that made their living on the extermination of evil spirits.
I see, so you stationed three people at the parking lot, Sona-kaichou. She read us well. She had secured this place… She predicted that we would be the ones most likely to attack.
Xenovia unsheathed the sword that she carried on her back and I also produced a holy demonic sword in my hand.
Xenovia didn't use Durandal. With that special rule, she wouldn't be able to act well with Durandal. Since its power couldn't be controlled, it would recklessly destroy the building.
[Rias Gremory-sama's [Bishop"] retires.]
—! The defeat of one of our comrades was heard from the announcement. It was difficult to think that it was Asia-san. I didn't understood how it happened, but Gasper had likely been taken out.
"How calm you are."
Shinra-senpai said that.
"Yes, since I won't be able to endure if I don't get used to something like this."
I responded extremely calmly. Inside, though, my heart was seething. Because even I felt the frustration and regret in losing a friend.
Gasper-kun. Most likely, he was taken out before he could display his power. I'll swing my sword for your share as well.
"Geez, it's because he didn't train his body enough."
Beside me, Xenovia sighed as well. She was also calm—or so it seemed, but her eyes were still.
"But even so, they took out my cute kouhai. I'll have to avenge him."
Dreadful pressure was being given off from her. The pressure was even transmitted to me, her ally. She's surprisingly soft towards her friends as well. Despite appearances, she also felt that Gasper-kun was cute. Being notified of his defeat was unforgivable to her.
Together, we prepared our special weapons and while shortening the distance between us and our opponents—we sprang forward!
GIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNN!
Me and Shinra-senpai, and Xenovia and Meguri-san crossed swords. Sparks flashed from the force of the blades clashing, and intense clangs rang out.
At that instant, Meguri-san noticed what Xenovia held in her hand and took a step back.
"…A holy sword!?"
She let out a voice of surprise.
Yes, Xenovia was holding a holy sword. Moreover, it was a legendary one.
"Yeah, this is Ascalon. Takeru-senpai loaned it to me."
[!?]
Azazel-sensei had noticed Ascalon, which was assimilated into the Boosted Gear.
"Vergil, can't you remove it?"
Due to these words, the fact that Ascalon could be detached from the Sacred Gear was uncovered. Sensei had then hurriedly handed Xenovia a training plan to get accustomed to Ascalon.
It seemed that she had practiced handling Ascalon while training outside. As both dragon-slaying powers and the Sekiryuutei's power were now imbued in Ascalon, it had changed into a specialised weapon that boasts enormous power.
Due to Vergil-san's tremendous power, it evenly matched Durandal's destructive power, taking into account its ease of use, it had a wider range of uses than Durandal.
However, that meant that Vergil-san didn't have Ascalon at present. That shouldn't backfire on us this time, but…
After that, me and Xenovia entered an intense slashing battle with our opponents.
We made sure to avoid each other, but it was the other person on the opponent's side, the [Rook] Yura-san, that I was concerned about.
Depending on her movements, we would know whether she regarded either of us as dangerous and was aiming at either me or Xenovia.
While remaining vigilant of Yura-san, I continued firing my holy demonic sword at the vice-president! My and Xenovia's swords emitted a holy wave. If we landed a blow on our opponents, big damage would be definite. If that happened, they would have to retire, as healing techniques were restricted.
A single stroke of the sword. If they suffered a single stroke of our swords, it would become our victory!
As she switched between offence and defence, Xenovia suddenly made a hole in space. Normally, anyone would think that she would materialise Durandal here—. But that wasn't it.
A holy aura drifted out from the tear in space and wrapped itself around the Ascalon that Xenovia held.
"—! While keeping Durandal locked up in the space!? You're taking out only its holy aura!"
Shinra-senpai was shocked as she understood. Xenovia smiled.
"Yeah, I was suggested an interesting way to use Durandal. I somehow managed to achieve it in my training. Now, I can use it more than sufficiently."
Buchou and Azazel-sensei had also highly regarded Xenovia's Durandal. At the same time, they felt that it was wasteful that she couldn't control the sword.
Durandal was a holy sword that boasted a tremendous sharpness. Therefore, when its owner couldn't control it, it became an assassin's blade. In reality, Xenovia used Durandal, but it was also a fact that she was also considerably tossed about by its destructive power.
She may become able to control it eventually. However, until then it was also dangerous to simply swing such an assassin's blade recklessly. Therefore, sensei had an idea.
"Can you not release only Durandal's aura from the separate space? You could then clad it on Ascalon or a holy sword that Kiba creates."
I was also wonderstruck by such an amazing idea of using Ascalon and my swords like this.
Durandal was simply kept in that space and it continuously emitted its mighty holy aura. Only the aura was taken out from the separate space and the power was poured onto other swords.
It wasn't Durandal itself, but a power equal to its own was limitlessly poured onto a different sword. That—was the new power of the Ascalon that Xenovia held in her hands.
The Fallen Angel Governor Azazel. He had showed all these possibilities to us. Such a fallen angel had been our enemy. I was delighted that he was now on our side.
Xenovia attacked her opponent with Ascalon + Durandal's aura!
GIIN! GIIIIIIIN!
Silver light and sparks flashed in the darkness of the parking lot. The skill and sword possessed by the [Knight] Meguri-san were quite special, but she was gradually being cornered by Xenovia's speed and power!
"Take this!"
Not overlooking an instant of opening, Xenovia instantly cornered her opponent! She had got her!
But, there was someone who stepped into the space between them—the [Rook] Yura-san!
As she put out both of her hands in front of her—.
"Reversal!"
Xenovia let out her attack, but the holy aura had disappeared and changed into a demonic aura!
Xenovia's slash became an attack trapped by momentum, and in that moment her sword was caught by Yura-san and flicked away. Yura-san tried to pursue her in that state, but Xenovia regained her balance and avoided her kick.
GASSHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!
The kick blew away several cars with its force. A direct hit would be dangerous.
I had become speechless from the phenomenon just now. A holy aura become a demonic aura!?
Yura-san had called out "reverse". In other words, she transformed a holy aura into a demonic aura? Was that Yura-san's ability? Or a Sacred Gear? I didn't understand the reason for it, but this was troublesome.
It was a kind of those so-called counters. It's a special case, but it would be bad if that counter was used while Yura-san and Meguri-san worked together.
Ascalon's holy power was reversed and turned into demonic power. Only ordinary damage would be given to a devil from demonic power. Since a devil's origin was from demonic power. It became just an ordinary slash.
Xenovia also possesses incredible skills, but her battling would be disturbed because she had trained and fought based on holy swords. If she received a counter, even Xenovia would fall.
…Well done, Sitri group. If it's like this—.
"Xenovia! Switch with me!"
By my shout, me and Xenovia switched places and exchanged our respective opponents.
This was fine. With my holy demonic swords, the effect of their "reverse" would have no meaning. Because there was nothing to reverse when the power of holy and demonic were blended together.
Yura-san also didn't display her "reversal" stance, and she started to attack me along with Meguri-san.
Next to us, Xenovia and Shinra-senpai had started slashing at each other. Xenovia's furious attacks were intense and at last she managed to corner Shinra-senpai in front of a wall!
—She had her!
Xenovia, decide it instantly like that!
As if my thoughts were transmitted to her, Xenovia raised Ascalon and entered a posture for the finishing strike! She can do it! If we take out the [Queen], the whole situation will become considerably easier!
"With this—this match is decided!"
As Xenovia swung down the sword at Shinra-senpai and dealt a direct hit—at that instant.
"—Sacred Gear, [Mirror of recollection], Mirror Alice!"
A huge ornamented mirror appeared in front of Shinra-senpai!
Xenovia's slash continued without stopping and crushed the mirror.
ZUOOOOOOOOOON!
"—!?"
A wave was released from the broken mirror and attacked Xenovia!
With a bewildered expression on her face, Xenovia spurted out blood all over the place.
"When this mirror is destroyed, the impact on it is doubled and returned to the opponent. —I am a counter-user. Kiba Yuuto-kun, it was a mistake to send the Power-type Xenovia-san against me."
Shinra-senpai gave a sneer.
"Gahah!"
Lying on the road surface, Xenovia coughed out blood from her mouth in apparent pain.
—They got us! Her ability was different from what I had heard. Had she accomplished change and growth and attained a new ability!?
"The only one remaining is Kiba Yuuto. You're the only one left."
The three of them approached me. I picked up Xenovia and then swiftly hid myself within the shadows nearby.
I placed Xenovia in the shadow of a car and took out the medical supplies we had gotten at the drugstore a short while before.
We had completely lost just now. That she would station two counter-users here… It seemed that Sona-kaichou intended to completely crush us first. So she had naturally predicted that we would be the likely attackers.
Certainly, they were a threat to just us who were quick on our feet and users of holy swords. Kaichou had supplemented for their respective weaknesses by having them team up against us and spurred us to use power.
—Had she predicted everything to this point?
Xenovia… was in serious condition. She had received double the power of Durandal and Ascalon.
If Shinra-senpai's Sacred Gear was a type that countered holy attacks perfectly, it would be an instant retire for us. If it was handled poorly, Xenovia could have died.
With these injuries, her withdrawal from the battlefield won't be long now. She'll completely retire with the next attack.
Buchou was the one who had the "Phoenix Tears". We couldn't use healing techniques here either.
Xenovia grasped my hand as I treated her and spoke.
"…Abandon me, Kiba. I'll disappear from this place anyway when I retire soon because of these injuries."
But I took my hand away from hers and continued treating her.
"Yeah, I know that. But, you know, I promised that I wouldn't abandon an ally so easily."
"…How soft. In a small sense, you're just like him."
I gave a smile at those words.
"That makes me happy. Because part of me also thinks that I'd like to become like him."
That's right, I wanted a spirit that would never give up like Vergil-san. He was amazing.
Despite being weakened, even when facing stronger enemies. he still confronts them head on to protect us.
I wouldn't be a match for him in terms of overall abilities. His efforts and guts entered into the territory of immense admiration.
"Become like him? You mean becoming a hero?"
"That is something only he can achieve. I want to obtain his guts and willpower."
At those words, Xenovia let out a strained laugh.
"…That doesn't suit you best, though."
I also thought that.
"True. But, as long as I can move even a single finger, I won't fall!"
"…I see. Are you telling someone like me to move since I can still move a single finger? What a cruel guy."
"If I fall down, I'll do what I have to do, even if I can move only a single millimetre or inch. Because otherwise—the regret of not doing anything would be so painful that I'd die!"
[Sona Sitri-sama's [Pawn] retires.]
An announcement. It seemed that someone had taken out one of the opponents. We also had to hold on.
The sound on the enemies' footsteps approached.
—Xenovia.
You'll retire from here soon. But before that, I think that I'll show it to you. I appeared in front of the three opponents.
"Have you resolved yourself?"
Preparing to use her naginata, Shinra-senpai approached.
A small tear in space appeared behind me. Xenovia was making it form. It couldn't be seen like this, as it was in the enemies' blind spot. Then, Durandal's aura flowed into me.
Now then, Xenovia. I'll show it to you.
This technique created by you and me, Rias Gremory's two [Knights]!
ZAZAZAZAN!
Holy demonic swords sprang up everywhere within this parking lot. The holy demonic aura that covered them might have been little. But, if Durandal's aura is also added to them, it's another story entirely.
"—Durandal Birth!"
That attack pierced through Yura-san and Meguri-san. Just as they began to shine, they disappeared from this place.
Two down. Shinra-senpai—seemed to have escaped and left the parking lot.
In my arms, Xenovia's body began to shine.
"Kiba. That was a nice attack."
Her expression was covered with a smile as she was disappearing from here. So I also smiled and saw her off.
"Yeah, when you and I work together again, we can make more holy swords bloom."
Her weight had disappeared and then she herself disappeared as well.
PARIIIIIIIIN.
After making a short-lived noise, the holy swords that had bloomed all over the place crumbled and dissolved into nothingness.