Legend of the Alpha and the Omega

by BlackDevil999

Follow the MC on his adventure to discover his past, learning of the supernatural and protect the new life that has been bestowed to him. *Note: the universe of this story won't limited to only mixing DMC and DxD, you'll see as you read it. Also, my characters won't completely be the same as their vanilla counterparts, so my apologies to the hardcore fans.

62. Chapter 47: The Terroristic Heroes

Chapter 47: Arrival of the Terroristic Heroes.

*Morning*

"Good! Continue!"

"Yes!"

It was early morning and it's almost sunrise. Asia and I were on the hotel roof for training. We were doing some basic practice. Asia was working on how to use her reflexes to release magical power for close combat. As for me, I was working on my own reaction time.

It's natural for my reaction speed to be dulled, as I'm weaker than I was in the past. This training, while isn't something special, allows me to slowly hone it back again, albeit very slowly. After all, there hasn't been a world-collapsing event that pushes me to be react faster recently, other than the one with Loki, which was more of a contest of power.

This preparation is partly for the match against Sairaorg as well.

"Sorry Asia. Taking up your time to help me train even on the school trip.", I said as Asia shook her head.

"No problem. It makes me happy to be together with Vergil-san in Kyoto from early morning.", said Asia with a radiant smile.

"It's more efficient to have a training partner, right?"

I turned to see Kiba, Xenovia, Alex, and Raynare

"I need to brush up on some close quarter combat.", said Alex.

"Me too.", said Raynare.

"Since I already bought a wooden sword, shouldn't we train ourselves to the degree of just barely not destroying this place? The upcoming match with the heir of the Great King's family will be here soon.", said Xenovia as she held a wooden sword.

Hmm, is she intends to bring it everywhere? At least it's better than causing collateral damage with a real Holy Sword. I then saw Kiba created a short sword in his hand.

"Xenovia, if anything happens, just use this to fight."

"Ah, a holy short sword? This will be easy to conceal in a school bag. Thanks."

Receiving the short sword from Kiba, Xenovia twirled it around in her hands skillfully. When Kiba entered Balance Breaker, he could not only create Demonic Swords, but could also produce Holy Swords of a certain caliber. However, compared to legendary Holy Swords, Kiba's were still quite lacking...

Put that aside, we're all on a timer.

"Alright. Let's get started, before you kids have to answer your morning roll call."

[Yes!]

And like that, our joint morning training began once again.

*Later*

"—So, kids! Let's go!"

" " "Yes!" " "

Aika Kiryuu's eyes sparkled as she pointed at the bus station, and the kids shouted in response.

However, I have a strong doubt

"Hold on a second, why the hell are we going with all of you?", I asked.

Yes…

Right now, we are taking a bus from near the Kyoto railway station to the stop at Kiyomizu-dera. I was dragged by Alex onto this bus, with the kids helping him.

"Oh come on, Vergil, since we're in Kyoto, just relax a little", Alex whispers in my ear.

"Alex, we are here for the mission, not to go sightseeing", I whispered back.

"I know, but this is Kyoto, we can take a small break. Besides, our itinerary, other than the order differences, will still be in the same places as the kids, so we'll go there anyway."

"But…"

"Besides, it would be better if we stick together as a group, since we're facing terrorists after all."

…

He does have a point…

…

Hmm?

I then noticed that Asia has a troubled expression.

"Vergil-san… are we a bother to you?", she asked.

…

"*Sigh*, No, none of you are. I just don't want to mix work with leisure."

I replied. It's just exactly what I said.

Alex and I are on the mission to find the kidnapped Kyuubi, the kids are the ones that needed to enjoy their precious school trip, not us.

"Oh come on, Takeru-senpai, it's not that every day you get to walk with beautiful teenage girls", said Aika Kiryuu with a mischievous smile as she does weird poses.

…

Do I look like I care?

After a while of appreciating the old capital's scenery, the bus reached its destination. After some searching around, we found the sloped path up to Kiyomizu-dera.

"I heard this was called the Three-year Slope. If you fall over here, it means you will die in three years, eh?", said Kiryuu.

"Oooh waaaaaa! So scary!", screamed a terrified Asia.

Hmm, Asia was a clumsy child and often fell over, so it was natural for her to be afraid. Grabbing my arm should be a little safer. —But then, Xenovia grabbed my other arm as well.

"What's wrong?", I asked her.

Xenovia then muttered to herself.

"...The Japanese sure put some scary spells in their sloped paths."

How the hell do you believe that? Did you already forget that we fought an Evil god not long ago?

This is ridiculous.

I then felt Raynare hug me from behind.

"Don't let me fall..."

…

I can only facepalm in my head.

You know what, let's move on.

At the end of the sloped path, the massive gates appeared. After passing through the entrance, the Niou gate, we entered Kiyomizu-dera.

"Look, Asia! This temple gathers the essence of pagan culture!"

"Yes, yes! You can feel its history from its appearance!"

"Cheers to pagans!"

In their excitement, the Church Trio were making some very inappropriate comments.

*Sigh*

I told them not so long ago… and they already forgot…

Raynare only makes a bitter smile, seeing them like that.

I was on the stage of Kiyomizu. Falling from here would be dangerous, but you could get away with a few broken bones. For me, this would be nothing.

"There seems to be many who fell down and were saved.", explained Kiryuu.

Within the temple, there was a small shrine used for praying for passing grades and love wishes. The kids, along with Alex then paid respects for the gods and Buddhas.

"Senpai, why don't you try the love compatibility prediction with Asia, Xenovia, Irina, and Amano-san?"

…

Love… huh…

No.

"Not interested", I bluntly said.

Why should I sought for something that I have been ruining my entire life? Why should I sought that which can't be near me?

And then… once again, the girls surrounded me with puppy eyes.

…

…

Tch... Every damn time…

"Ok, fine, just this once.", I said.

I then drew the prediction without thinking. Whatever, make it quick.

My bet is on tragedy and incompatible.

After all… that's the curse of the blood of Sparda…

As I look at the content…

"…"

I was silence, it says highly favorable and auspicious…

Is this a joke?

""Oooooh!""

Both Kiryuu and Alex shouted in unison as they peaked on my draw.

"Kids, his says highly favorable and auspicious. Good for you", he said loudly.

You little…

[We're so happy.]

"This is great."

"Eh eh, wonderful."

"I can be with Senpai."

"I'm...so happy!"

"I feel a bit relieved."

The four girls were going on their own as Kiryuu was nodding.

…

Why?

…

"...Are we being left out?"

"No way! It's unbelievable! How could Senpai have good drawings for four girls!?"

The Perverted Duo were sulking gloomily in a corner. We made a quick round of the temple, bought some souvenirs, and then walked to the bus station.

"The next stop is Ginkaku-ji, the Temple of the Silver Pavilion. If we don't hurry, time is going to fly away in the blink of an eye.", said Kiryuu as she checked her watch.

Good, finally, some real work. I then also looked at my watch, it was already ten in the morning. It's fine, those place will still be open by then . We boarded the bus and left Kiyomizu-dera for Ginkaku-ji.

"It's not actually silver!?"

After reaching Ginkaku-ji and seeing the temple, those were Xenovia's first words. Of course it's not made of silver. Silver is a good conductor for heat and electricity, it's also very expensive, making the whole temple out of that metal, is basically asking for death. Imagine a lightning bolt struck or a summer day with intense heat, we'll either have burnt barbeque monks or roasted hamburger monks.

"...Xenovia-san's eyes were shining back when she kept saying to herself 'Ginkaku-ji is made of silver, and Kinkaku-ji is made of gold. They must be very dazzling.'", explained Asia as she hugged Xenovia's trembling shoulders.

"You can't be serious.", said Raynare.

Well, Xenovia did have a good fantasy.

"Rumors abound, such as the death of the monk Ashikaga who was involved in building the temple, or because the Bakufu government ran out of money at the time. Anyway, it's not silver.", explained Kiryuu.

She must have done a lot of research.

But that's none of my concern.

At least, Kyoto's autumn scenery with all the mountains and trees with Ginkakuu-ji to add, was truly a beautiful sight.

I then walked to Alex.

"Did you get anything on the scanner?", I asked.

"Nothing, this place is filled with Holy flows, nothing out of the ordinary"

Nothing?

I then turn around to look around the whole area, using my "Eidos Senses"

Come on, two places already and nothing came up?

There has to be someth…

…

?

What is that?

I then looked at uppermost roof of the Ginkakuu-ji… to see a shinning metal object that stands out from the wooden temple.

I then put on a forensics glove on my left hand and use telekinesis magic to specifically draw the object to me.

Come on…

…

Yes.

I have retrieved it.

I then look at the metal object.

Hmm…

…

I see…

No wonder why the scanner didn't pick up a thing…

"Did you find something, Vergil?", asked Alex as he was near me.

"Yes, this", I said as I showed him the thing.

"Huh? Is that… a broken shard of a blade?"

"Not just any blade, a European Holy blade, no wonder why the scanner didn't get any read. Let's keep it in the evidence bag, we'll analyze it once we're back at the hotel."

"Got it"

I then put the blade shard into the evidence bag that Alex brought out. We then catch up with the kids as we made a few rounds at Ginkaku-ji, we stopped for lunch nearby and continued to the next destination, Kinkaku-ji. Of course, we also bought related souvenirs at Ginkaku-ji.

"Gold! This time, it really is gold!"

After reaching Kinkaku-ji, the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, those were Xenovia's first words that she screamed. Completely different from just now, she seemed very excited. No, it was extreme happiness.

"It's really gooooold!"

Xenovia raised both her arms, her face full of radiance. Kinkaku-ji really is shining and golden.

Other students were also here and was busy taking photos. One of the Perverted Duo, Matsuda, snapped photo after photo as if in a trance. Alex also took some photos to commemorate. We then sent the pictures to those back at home. We toured the place, bought souvenirs, and then stopped at a teahouse for a break.

"Please enjoy."

The kimono-wearing lady prepared the powdered green tea and served it to us. There were also some Japanese snacks. Tasting the tea—wasn't as bitter as I imagined. Rather, I should say that savoring the tea along with the Japanese snacks made the taste just right.

"Yes, very good."

Irina seemed to be enjoying it too.

"It's a little bitter."

Asia was a little unaccustomed. However, she still drank it little by little, so it shouldn't have been too bad for her.

"...It really is gold and shiny."

Xenovia seemed to be in a dream-like state and was still enamoured by the golden glamour of Kinkaku-ji. Her eyes were shining with splendorous light and she did not even touch her tea.

"Xenovia, let's have a prayer to commemorate.", suggested Irina.

"Good idea."

"Let's pray!"

The church trio started praying. It was already two in the afternoon. The kids even rang the bell, but I guess the long lines took longer than expected.

RING RING.

My phone rang, I, upon opened the phone to see who's calling… it's Akeno.

"Hello. Is something wrong, Akeno?"

[Hello, Vergil-san. No, it's nothing serious... Just now, Koneko-chan brought up some concerns.]

"Concerns?"

[Yes. You just sent those photos, right?]

"Yeah, the ones at Kinkaku-ji. Is there a problem?"

Akeno replied.

[On that photo, it looks like you caught something.]

"Caught something?"

[Yes, in the background scenery, there seem to be a few fox Youkai. What is going on? Although fox Youkai are not that rare in Kyoto...]

Akeno's voice was somewhat worried.

"No, we are fine. Ah, Asia seems to be calling me, so let's talk later."

[...If anything happens, will you contact me?]

"Don't worry, I'm here, the second years will be fine. I promise"

I hung up after that. ...Being called by Asia was a lie. Checking those photos from just now, they looked just like normal scenery from Kinkaku-ji...

I turned "Eidos Senses" on again, and…

Hmm…

Just like Akeno said, fox Youkais appeared in the photos.

As I was about to tell the others about the new information. Looking back at the teahouse—the Perverted Duo and Kiryuu were fast asleep. It can't be because they were too tired... It's impossible that they fell asleep within the time I took the call. Asia and the rest were awake, but Xenovia was glaring at the waitress. She had revealed her animal ears and tail... A Youkai. Taking a look, more Youkais have appeared and all the normal tourists are asleep.

Here we go again…

As I was in the middle of summoning my jet-black demonic sword…

BUZZ BUZZ

I suddenly noticed that black and red-magenta lightning started running across the blade.

What the…

"Please wait."

Hearing a familiar voice, I glanced over. Appearing there was—Rossweisse.

"Rossweisse. Why are you here?", I asked.

Panting, she answered.

"Yes, I was called by Azazel-sensei to welcome you guys."

"Called by Azazel? What happened?"

I asked as I surveyed the surroundings... Thinking about it, there was a lack of enmity. It was different compared to the Youkai who attacked us yesterday.

"A ceasefire. Or, in other words, the misunderstanding has been cleared. The Kyuubi's daughter wants to apologize to you all."

Thus answered Rossweisse. So the misunderstanding was cleared huh…

As if responding to my lingering doubts, a fox-eared lady approached and bowed her head deeply.

"I am the fox Youkai who serves the Kyuubi monarch. We are most sorry for last time. Please come with us, as our princess would like to apologize to you all."

Come with them? To where? The fox-eared lady then continued to speak.

"To the Inner Capital where we Kyoto Youkai live. Maou-sama and the Fallen Angel Governor are already there."

*Later*

What we stepped into—was a place with infrastructures resemble those of the late Edo period. The ancient houses were lined up, and different youkai revealed their faces from the doors, windows and passageways. We passed through a secluded torii at Kinkaku-ji and entered this place. A dark space with a unique atmosphere.

Those creatures I just mentioned. The many residents welcomed us… A single-eyed Youkai with a large face, kappa-like Youkai with dishes on their head, tanuki walking upright and other creatures from legend, all was watching us with curiosity. We followed the fox lady towards the princess' residence. It was rather dark, and the only light source was a lamp moving along the road in front of us.

"Wooshashshasha!"

"…"

I could only look at it with my eyes half-shut. And then…

"Boo"

I simply said with a low voice, and the Lantern Youkai that tried to scare us just hurriedly ran off with its' tail between its' legs.

Pathetic.

"Ara, for you not to be scared of that? My apologies. The Youkai here love to play pranks...though I suppose none of them are able to pose a threat to you all..."

The Kitsune who guided us apologized as we walked.

"This is the world of the Youkai?"

This was my question, though I realised that this space was connected to Kyoto. Our guide gave the following answer.

"Yes, this is the place where most Kyoto Youkai live. I remember you Devils have used bounded fields in the Rating Game. So why don't you think of this space as something created in a similar way? We call this place the 'backstreets', or the 'Inner Capital', and other names. Of course, just like Devils, there are those who live out there on the surface of Kyoto."

The Inner Capital? I see. It was something similar to the game fields of the Devils.

"...Are they human?"

"No, I've heard that they're Devils."

"Devils, eh? How rare to see them here."

"Is that pretty foreign girl a Devil too?"

"A Dragon, that must be a Dragon's presence. Devils and Dragons..."

Judging from the gossiping of the Youkai that could be heard around us, Devils must be rare here. True, this was Youkai territory after all, so it was natural. Passing through rows of residences, we entered a forest with a river flowing through it. Venturing deeper, a massive red torii appeared. Before us was a huge mansion, giving off a feeling of ancient majesty.

In front of the Torii, I saw Azazel and Serafall in a kimono standing there.

"Oh, you have arrived."

"Ah, hello, everyone!"

Even though they have come to the Youkai world, both of them acted the same. Between them was a blonde girl. The one who led the attack against us yesterday, the Kyuubi's daughter. Instead of a priestess outfit this time, she was wearing a fancy feathery kimono like a princess from the warring states era.

"Kunou-sama, I have brought everyone here."

The fox lady reported—and then disappeared in a burst of fire. Fox fire huh…

The princess stepped forward and began to speak.

"I am Kunou, the daughter of Yasaka, the administrator of the Youkai living in Inner and Outer Kyoto."

After her self-introduction, she bowed her head deeply.

"I am really sorry for last time. I attacked you without investigating deeply. Please forgive me. We didn't know that the Son of the Legendary Dark Knight, Sparda-sama, was sent alongside his friend to help with the investigation"

Hmm, she was raised well. And Sparda-sama huh… father's influence, even outside of Christianity, never ceases to amaze me.

"It's fine. Isn't it great that the misunderstanding is cleared? I don't mind as long as we get to enjoy our trip in Kyoto without any further incidents."

Xenovia said so.

"Yes. A heart of forgiveness is very important for Angels. I have no grudge against princess-sama."

Irina followed up. Asia also spoke, full of smiles.

"Yes, peace is very important."

"I just want to enjoy my trip. That's all.", said Raynare.

Hmm, they all say what was in their mind.

Alex then urges me.

"Vergil, you should say something as well, though try to ease out a little bit, you're scaring the other Youkais around here."

I then look around to see the other Youkais nearby have a tense expression.

No surprise, it's me after all.

I then slowly walked at the Kyuubi's daughter, Kunou.

As my heavy footsteps made by my boots came closer to her, she gulped while sweated a bit, so was the other Youkais, who seem to be her attendants.

Oh don't worry, even I have no interest in fighting any of you.

I then knelt down as I was right in front of Kunou.

"It's alright, you can lift your head.", I said while lessen the intensity of my voice.

"But, but..."

Hmm, that incident actually troubled her more than us. I then made eye contact with Kunou.

"So, you're called Kunou, right? then Kunou, you're really worried about your mother, right?"

"Yes, of course."

"If that's the case, then making a mistake is understandable. Of course, this could cause problems and make it unpleasant for others. But Kunou, you have already apologized. You apologized because you understand you were mistaken. Is that right?"

"Of course."

I then patted the little princess' head.

"Then none of us would blame you."

After hearing my words, Kunou's face went red, and she spoke with a timid voice.

"...Thank you."

OK. Misunderstanding cleared. I stood up, but Azazel gave me a poke.

"As expected of the Oumaryuutei. You sure have a way with kids."

"Do you have a death wish?", I retorted.

"Don't be shy, you're living up to the name of the Dragon Lord."

"Yes, truly the Oumaryuutei, the Dragon Lord! I am so touched!"

"Really, you're great with kids."

"Yes, Senpai is indeed a great person"

Xenovia, Asia, Irina, and Raynare were giving me praise while nodding.

"You really surprised me there. As a teacher, I am proud of you."

You have that bad of an impression huh, Rossweisse? Oh… right, why did I forget? I just said it minutes ago.

"Vergil-chan is really great. But I won't have you promoting your show in such a place! My television show 'Miracle Levi-tan' won't lose!", said Serafall.

"The Youkai nation doesn't have to restrict to only one show, you know?", I replied.

Why is she blushing?

Whatever. Looking very embarrassed, Kunou spoke.

"...Though I am very sorry for my mistake...but please, I beg you all! Please lend me your strength to save my mother!"

The painful cry for help from a young girl.

"Let's get inside to begin the meeting.", I said.

Upon getting inside the mansion that Kunou's family lived, all of us, along with the Youkai executives, started the meeting.

The leader of the Youkai in Kyoto was the Kyuubi, Yasaka. She left her house a few days ago to meet with Sakra's messengers from Mount Meru. However, Yasaka failed to show up at the meeting place. The Youkais began to investigate and discovered one of her dying guards, the karasu-tengu. With his last breath, the karasu-tengu told the other Youkai that Yasaka had been attacked and kidnapped. It was at that time they started investigating suspicious newcomers and attacked our group. Afterwards, Azazel and Serafall negotiated with Kunou, denying Underworld involvement, as well as providing clues that it was likely the work of the Khaos Brigade.

"...Seems like things have become more serious.", I said.

"*Sigh*, once the various factions decided to ally, this kind of thing has been happening. Last time with Odin, Loki came, right? This time, the enemies are the terrorists."

Azazel complained unhappily.

On Kunou's side were the fox lady from before and a long-nosed old man. The old man was the leader of the Tengus, and had a deep relationship with the Kyuubi since ancient times. He looked sincerely worried about the kidnapped Yasaka, as well as her daughter Kunou.

"Governor-dono, Maou-dono, Vergil Sparda-dono, could you help us find a way to save Yasaka-hime? No matter what, we pledge our full cooperation."

The old Tengu made such a request. He handed over a portrait for us to look at. A blonde beauty in a priestess outfit with Fox ears and 9 fox tails.

"This is the portrait of Yasaka-hime."

So that's the Kyuubi, Yasaka.

"What we can be certain of is that the kidnappers are still in Kyoto.", said Azazel.

"Because the leylines are still stable?", asked Alex.

Azazel nodded and then answered.

"The flow of ki in all the regions of Kyoto is still stable. The nine-tailed fox is an existence responsible for maintaining the balance of ki flowing from the different areas of this land. Kyoto itself can be considered a large-scale force field. If the Kyuubi had left this land or had been killed, then Kyoto would have undergone dramatic changes. Since there are no signs of that, it means Yasaka-hime is still fine, and that the kidnappers are likely still around."

"Serafall, what level of investigations have the Devils over there been undertaking?"

"I've ordered them to investigate in detail. Devils familiar with Kyoto have also been mobilised."

Azazel shifted his gaze and looked at each of us.

"It looks like you guys will likely be involved this time due to lack of manpower. Especially since you are experienced in fighting strong beings, we will be needing your power against the Hero Faction. It's a shame, but please be prepared for the worst. I will be responsible for contacting Kiba and the Sitri servants who are not here. Before that, please continue to enjoy your trip, Vergil and Alex will continue the investigation, but we will be counting on you in an emergency!"

[Yes!]

The kids shouted in unison.

Kunou then placed her palms together and bowed her head deeply. The fox lady and the old Tengu also bowed with her.

"...I beg you all. Please...please lend us your power to save my mother... No, please lend your power to me. I beg you."

…

Do not worry, child.

Your mother will be saved, you have my word.

"Do you still have the carriage that the Kyuubi rode when she was attacked?", I asked.

"Eh? Yes, we do. We retrieved it immediately once we found it.", replied the old Tengu.

"Is it still untouched?"

"Yes, after we carried it back here, no one was allowed to touch it."

"Show me the carriage", I demanded

"Eh? Oh, yes, please, this way", said the old Tengu.

We then followed the latter to an inner chamber of the mansion. Inside, there was a massive, regal Edo-era carriage… or what's left of it anyway.

"I may be rude to ask this, Vergil Sparda-dono. But what are you going to find in this wreckage? We have tried many times, using spiritual magic to search, but there's no result."

Huh… I appreciate that they actually care to not soil the evidence. But if they think that Spiritual magic is the only way, then they are dead wrong.

"We'll take it from here, Alex"

I called Alex. He nodded and started using the scanner.

"You're going to use it?", he asked.

"Yeah, we have the biggest piece of evidence right here. There isn't any opportunity more perfect than this to use it."

I closed my eyes as I once again activated "Eidos Senses"…

But this time… something that will go beyond that the simple readings I've had before.

I opened my eyes to see the scenery of the chamber has changed considerably.

The colorful surroundings have now become completely black, with the outlines and distinctions are marked by glowing white lines. But the chamber isn't the focus, the carriage's remains are. The latter was highlighted with absolute accuracy in every detail, even a simple thing as a nail.

Now, show me your last moment.

I then focus further and go against the time passage, viewing the changes in the Eidos logs, and reconstruct the crime scene.

Hmm…

The carriage, carried Yasaka along with her escort through a narrow path with forests on both sides…

A perfect place for an ambush…

BUZZ BUZZ

I took a blink due to the distortions in the data stream.

[Partner, you alright?]

Ddraig asked me.

'Yeah, I'm fine, but these distortions…'

They're like… attacks.

So effects that cause destruction will create distortions in the Eidos logs huh…

I paused the record to note that down immediately.

Four attacks, two from the side forests that go from the high side, maybe from the trees, one from the back that was ground level, and one from the front… that missed.

Someone has a lousy aim… or they intentionally missed.

That one must have been fired first, a warning shot. I check the time of the logs… and I was correct.

The second attack was the one from the back. Crippling the carriage by aiming for the wheels, clever.

The last two that aimed for the escort team… They weren't magic blasts, but two melee combatants who went for a frenzy, according to the data of the air resistance and matter mass.

Hmm…

I then resume the record.

After the assault, a total of four assailants came out of hiding. All have magic traits that are equivalent to… special humans.

That means that the attackers are likely the Hero Faction.

But it can also be other attackers that we do not know about.

…

Huh?

Suddenly, the object that the one who stands at the front was holding caught my attention.

It heavily distorted the Eidos data stream, I tried to restore what I can, and when I observe it again… no matter how much you looked at it, the data gap… just take the form of… a lance?

No, not the medieval horse calvary lance, but the kind that is closer to a spear or a javelin.

Hmm…

Let's take the data back.

I then turned off "Eidos Senses" and transfer the data I've collected to a hard drive we carried.

"Did you find anything?", asked Azazel as he came towards me.

"Quite a few things actually."

"I got loads of Holy and Demonic signals at the damaged areas of the carriage", said Alex as he showed us the

"Then we'll discuss when we're back at the hotel.", he said.

We all nodded, before leaving the Youkai capital…

*Night*

"That was a good meal.", I said.

It was night and I already returned to the hotel after the meeting with the Youkais. I was on my bed in my room after having a delicate dinner served by the restaurant in the hotel. After experiencing the youkai world, we returned to Kinkaku-ji and regrouped with the sleeping students, continued the tour, and bought souvenirs. We also met up with Kiba and the available Sitri group to plan our next step. The investigation will be continued tomorrow, but with the kids in order to have a full team. Kunou volunteered to be the guide for the students' tomorrow tour. It seems like Kunou wanted to apologise by being our tour guide. Originally, we were about to decline, but she insisted it was fine. Since she wanted to do it no matter what, we could only accept her offer, though it was Azazel that recommended it.

He suggested it because this is the first step of cooperation between the Underworld and the Youkais. Basically our mission parameter have changed: to make sure Kunou, who is the Kyuubi's daughter, remain unharmed throughout the trip.

By the way, our personal meeting with Azazel was postponed due to him having something to deal with back in the Underworld and Alex had to return to Heaven a bit for tasks assigned by Michael.

As I was about to get up and started analyzing the evidence we have collected on my own…

KNOCK, KNOCK.

Someone was knocking at the door.

"Who is it?"

"Vergil-san, it's me.".

It's Asia's voice, why is she here?

"Come in."

Asia entered. She was wearing just a nightgown.

"What's wrong Asia?", I asked.

"I came to play. Xenovia-san and Irina-san are coming shortly. So is Raynare-san. Kiryuu-san said she was busy gossiping with the girls from other classes, so she's not coming."

But I have work to do.

"...Vergil-san, when you were with Rias-oneesama at the Tokyo railway station platform...you kissed, right?"

She noticed that? She's pretty sharp.

"Oh, that. That was a goodbye kiss..."

"...I-I see. To kiss so intimately... True, Vergil-san and Rias onee-sama are... But I am also—"

Asia looked straight at me.

"Can you...give me a kiss too?"

As she finished her words, Asia's face drew near. The second kiss. I tried to back away, but somehow, naturally—our lips came together most naturally.

A kiss meaning that we care about each other…

I can't do this… but I also don't want to hurt her feelings…

What a predicament…

Just as I was thinking of a way to get out… the door of the room suddenly opened.

"Ahyaya! Umm, Xen-Xenovia, come look quickly!"

Her hair let down and wearing her nightgown, Irina had pulled open the door, and we started staring at each other.

"What is it, Irina? Ooooh, this is Asia's precious kissing moment. Asia, so this is what you meant by coming to play in Vergil's room. I am impressed."

"For Asia-chan to get ahead of me, you're very good."

The ones speaking was Xenovia and Raynare, who were also in their sleepwear.

…

*Sigh*…

What the hell is this situation? I quickly separated my lips from Asia's.

"Looks like it's not the first time? Hmm... Asia is always ahead of me..."

"Yes yes! Asia is sometimes very daring, and advancing rapidly in this area!"

"I remember that Asia got a kiss from him in the sports festival and even back then, after the open house."

Xenovia and Irina were discussing something with their faces turning red. Raynare was starting to blush.

BANG!

I then looked at Asia and her face was turning red… and she exploded.

"Ah, ah wa ahahahahahahahah, fuwuwuwuwuwuwuwu..."

Her eyes were spinning from embarrassment and she went out cold!

"Asia! Hey, Asia, pull yourself together!"

"Sorry to disturb."

"Same here."

"Excuse me."

As I attended to Asia…

Xenovia, Irina and Raynare all entered and locked the door.

Hey hey hey, what are you three doing?

Xenovia slowly approached me.

"What are you doing, Xenovia?"

"I am after Asia. Is it going to be a kiss or something sexier? Next is Irina, then Raynare."

"Eh!? Me too!? You must be joking!", said a surprised Irina.

"Ufufu. Maybe we should just do it already Senpai.", said Raynare.

What the hell are they talking about?

"This is a great opportunity, Irina, you should use it to understand men."

"Understand, won't that make me a fallen angel?!"

"Well, you must overcome this with spirit. Perhaps you won't change into one after all."

"If you 'fall', you can ask Azazel-sama for assistance."

You're not exactly helping her, Raynare.

"No, I'll remain with Michael. I'll use spirit. Yes, yes it must be like that... But, but, if, if I do something vulgar, how can I, as Michael-sama's Ace...!"

And Irina is struggling with herself.

"Vergil is a great choice. He's a good man, the Son of Sparda, and also the Sekiryuutei. If you bear the child of the legendary Dragon and a Nephilim, perhaps it may contribute to Heaven's battle potential in the future?"

"...Vergil-nii's...Sekiryuutei's child... Heaven's battle potential..."

"I agree to Xenovia", said Raynare.

What the…

!

No no no! We're not going to go there.

"This is going too far!", I said.

"But you kissed Asia of your own accord, Senpai", said Raynare with a mischievous but also seductive smile.

But. I. DIDN'T.

"Ok, how should we do this? We have one man with four women. Oh, and don't worry, Vergil, we already used our angel and devil powers to seal this room in a barrier. Nothing will happen no matter who approaches. No problem. Even if moans come from this room, no one will enter."

"I don't quite understand it, but this space is currently filled with holiness and demonic power!"

"It's also filled with Fallen Angel power."

Xenovia, Irina, and Raynare did a thumbs-up.

…

What? Are you three idiots?

"Ok...First... let's start with kissing?", said Xenovia.

"Eh!? Xenovia, you're already going to kiss!?", said an unprepared Irina.

"Yes. I have to practice making babies with Vergil. Didn't Kiryuu say that doing this on a trip feels extra special?"

…

Grhhh! I'm so going to take that glass-eyed pervert's head!

"That, that's right! This is important! But, I am an angel, as well as Michael-sama's subordinate... A Christian! This, this kind of thing..."

"Then you can just watch from the side. I will be making babies under the gaze of an angel. Hohoho, doesn't this feel like making a child chosen by heaven? Irina, you can watch the precious scene of devils making babies. Please grant this scene your holy blessing if you can."

"I'm going to join in on this if you don't mind Xenovia."

Xenovia and Raynare started to strip! Irina revealed her wings and halo.

"- Please leave this to me! I have always wanted to witness, like Gabriel-sama, the mysterious moment when life comes into being! Ah ah, this also pertains to the three factions, to heaven, and to faith in the Lord!"

Don't you dare bring mother into this, Irina!

PLOP!

Xenovia and Raynare removed their bras. They then went to each side of me and embraced me without noticing Asia. Not good.

"This is a rare opportunity. You must also hug her like this when Asia wakes up. Since it's the first time for you and Asia, it might be tragic if you are unskilled. Learn about women through me and then embrace Asia with that knowledge. This is for Asia's safety."

"Having this happen will make things easier for her."

"Ah ah, Xenovia! You are so self-sacrificing!"

Those two were caressing my body. They took my hand and they put it to their thighs.

"...Ahh... Truly, a man's skin - your skin makes me feel so good. Touching you really makes me feel like a woman."

"Senpai, feel free to go further than that."

…

I need to stop this… stupidity. As I was about to push them away…

"Oooo, mmmm... Eh, I..."

Asia woke up! Worst timing ever!

"Oh - Asia, you're awake. Raynare and I were just about to extract some genetic material from Vergil here."

"Ufufu, he'll do both of us at the same time."

Oi!

"Gene, gene, gene, genetic material...!", shrilled Asia.

"Just a little bit. Relax, I won't take it all. Perhaps I might get pregnant after a few rounds of extraction?"

"It's not that easy Xenovia. For devils, it's quite difficult. As for me on the other hand, I can bear his child quite fast."

You little bunch of…

"No, no way! Vergil-san's... not allowed!", pouted Asia tearfully.

"Come on, what's the matter with sharing a bit with me and Raynare?"

"Don't be stingy Asia-chan."

The three girls started to fight.

"No, no that's not the issue! But to extract it... then, then you need to do 'that' with Vergil-san... Not allowed!"

"Asia you're surprisingly knowledgeable. You've graduated from believing storks delivered babies."

"Great job on your medical studies Asia-chan."

"You, you two don't go looking down on me. I understand everything! If you want it that much, then I will announce it right now!"

Asia then hugged me and shouted.

"I want to bear Vergil-san's child!"

…

I became shocked alongside the other three at Asia's statement…

She then started to remove her nightgown off!

"Amazing... this is the battle between women for genetic material. How amazing...!"

"Vergil-san. Since we are to be together forever, isn't it natural to have children?"

"…"

"Ok, Xenovia, Raynare, I will also have Vergil-san's babies! I will have many many babies!"

I then had my arms grabbed by Xenovia and Raynare. Their breasts are resting on my arms!

"No, if it's like that then you must give me a round of genetic material. I want children too. I am a woman as well, and want the experience of having a child. I also want to experience raising a child."

"Asia, I won't back down from this. I also want Senpai's genetics too, you know?"

…

They started hitting each other like idiots. I need this opportunity, to get away. But the three who are fighting started moving around a lot, and they bumped me forward…

Wait… why is my hand feel so soft?

"...Wa, I, Vergil-nii..."

—In front of my eyes was Irina with her face all red. As I fell upon Irina—my posture was now on top of Irina. I glanced down; her nightgown was open, with her pure white breasts clearly open to view.

"...I, this is the first time... So I don't know what to do, Vergil-nii... You, do you want me to become a Fallen Angel...?"

"Sorry!"

I said as I moved away from her…

!

What is this… agitation…

"Grhhh!", I growled.

"Vergil?"

"Vergil-san?"

"Senpai?"

I can't be here…

I then immediately used "Dark Trick" to teleport out of the room…

A moment later, I ended up in a random street in Kyoto, filled with large trees.

"Grhhhh!"

I growled even more at this… unusual sense of Agitation.

"Arghhhhh!"

I shouted as I swing my arm to the side…

DOOON!

In that instant, a massive tree was brought down by the impact force of my swing.

Haa…haa…

Calm down… calm down…

[Partner, are you alright?]

Ddraig spoke to me in my head.

"Hgrrhh… what is going on with me…"

[I'm not sure how to say this to you, partner…]

"Oh just spill it"

[…but you seem to have suffered a severe… arousal attack…]

…

"I suffered a wha…"

Suddenly… I noticed that a lot of pedestrians are surrounding me, either curious, or frightened.

…

I facepalmed immediately.

What a blunder…

I let my emotions to get the better of me… and now tons of normal humans just witnessed me brought down a massive tree with bare hands.

[If you're thinking of fixing the situation, then you need to be quick, some of them already took pictures.]

"Right."

I then stand up, put the tree back into the original spot where it was hit off by me, and casted healing magic to repair it.

As the pedestrians started to get noisy…

"Remember nothing"

SNAP

I said as I snapped my fingers, hypnosis magic was activated, and the memories of all of those who is around a mile radius of this place within the past half an hour are erased.

I feel sorry for those who has to remember something important, but this is also equally, if not even more important than their job.

All the pedestrians pondered why they stood where they stood, before keep on moving through the street while talking random stuff again.

*Sigh*

Good that it didn't escalate. I need to go back and get them out of the room and back to their hotel.

The last thing I need, is Alex and Azazel suggesting something stupid.

Especially…

When it relates to relationships…

…

*Next day*

The next day, we set off from the hotel to Kyoto station.

What a hectic night, it took me more than two hours just to get those four back to their hotel. Alex did not come back last night, and this morning he texted me that he'll be late, so he told me to go first. I prepared everything in a bag as I went to meet up with the kids.

The first thing in the morning when I met them was that they all apologized to me, I brush it off by telling them that it's okay, but I also scolded them a little, so that they won't repeat such a thing again.

…

Though, Asia declaring that she wants my children as well as the others… that frightens even me…

Not just them…

But also Rias, Akeno and the others at home…

They don't understand… my secret…

But I also don't want them to… for like I already told them, only the dark path will await them if they do…

"Vergil-san, what's wrong?", asked Asia who is next to me.

"Hmm? No, it's nothing"

Yeah… it's better this way…

Ok, focus. We'll be going to Tenryuu-ji today.

"We're taking the Kyoto station and we'll take the stop closest to Arashiyama. Then walk in that direction.", said Kiryuu.

"We can take the buses and streetcars to reach Arashiyama.", I said as Kiryuu nodded.

After reaching our stop at the nearest stop for Arashiyama, we took the streetcars to get there.

"This is it."

We got off and walked to Tenryuu-ji. There were signs, so it was impossible to get lost. And so, we finally arrived at Tenryuu-ji. The elegant gates greeted us.

Hmm… now that you mentioned it, Tenryuu-ji.

'This is Tenryuu-ji. Does the name have any special significance, Ddraig?', I telepathically talk to Ddraig.

[Who knows. Perhaps we once fought a battle here, perhaps not.]

Perhaps Ddraig's memories were fuzzy. Even if they had fought here, it must have been eons ago and the scenery would have been completely different from now. It was probably natural to forget. Just after we had entered the massive gates and were paying the entrance fee—

"Hello, you bunch came along."

It was the young voice I'd heard before. Turning my head, I saw behind us the blonde girl cladded in a Miko outfit, Kunou.

"It's Kunou."

"Yes, as agreed, I will be your tour guide for the surroundings of Arashiyama."

Today, she had her ears and tail hidden. Of course, that was because there were normal humans all around us.

The Perverted Duo, who looked like shit by the way, probably been beaten by the female students for peeping, were surprised to see Kunou.

"Wow, what a cute girl!"

"...So loli, really adorable... Haha..."

… So a perverted grunt and a incurable Lolicon, what a combination… of sheer idiocy.

However, someone pushed them aside and hugged Kunou. It was Kiryuu.

"Ah! So cute! Senpai, how did you meet her?"

She was hugging her and rubbing their faces together.

"L-Let go of me! Don't act so familiar, you lowly girl!"

Kunou was very reluctant, but Kiryuu got even more excited.

"Protesting while using a princess' manner of speech is the best! What a perfect image!"

*Sigh*

...This glasses perverted girl is hopeless. I then pulled Kunou away and continued the conversation.

"This is Kunou. She already knows me and Asia and the others."

"I am Kunou. Pleased to meet you."

Kunou was surprisingly serious. What a princess. Her attitude carried a certain air of nonchalance.

"Ah, you know Gremory-senpai? I've heard that the hotel is related to the company that Senpai's parents manage."

"Something like that."

Kiryuu's quick conclusions were useful for once. This way, I don't have to explain too much.

"So, Kunou, you said you will be our tour guide. What will we be doing?"

Kunou proudly puffed out her chest and spoke with confidence.

"I will accompany you all and tour these famous sights!"

"Then, show us around this Tenryuu-ji first."

"Of course!"

With that said, Kunou showed a bright and happy smile.

My escort mission begins.

Under Kunou's lead, we toured Tenryuu-ji. Kunou confidently related stories she heard from others and tried very hard to present them to us. The garden inside the large abbey was very beautiful. Decorated by the red leaves of autumn, the Japanese-style garden's shades of the autumn season were quite intoxicating. The carp swimming in the pool was an excellent touch that completed this scene.

"This view is extremely good. After all, it's a World Heritage Site."

Kunou explained.

Hmm… in that case, I'll take a picture, so that Alex can have something to look at when he came back.

After touring the garden, we were taken to the teaching hall. Entering, I lifted my head to look at the ceiling. Instantly, a most spectacular Dragon design came into view. It was an eastern Dragon with a long slender body. I felt like it was glaring at me.

"This is the famous Unryuu-zu, or 'Image of the Cloud Dragon', no matter which direction, you will feel like the dragon is staring straight at you. It's the so-called 'Watching the Six Directions.'", said Kunou.

It was exactly as Kunou described. No matter which way you looked at it, the Dragon was staring straight at us.

[Yes, they are mostly like that. This reminds me of the Dragon King Yu-Long, the Jade Dragon.]

Hmm… another Dragon King, and one from the "Journey of the West".

Unfortunately, photos were forbidden at the Unryuu-zu, so no photo for Alex. After touring Tenryuu-ji, we went outside.

"Kunou, where are we going next?"

I asked. Kunou pointed to numerous directions, and happily said.

"Nison-in! The Bamboo Path! Jojakko-ji! We will take you everywhere!"

How full of Spirit…

Like the other girls younger than me, she reminds me of Mia, a lot…

And so, under Kunou's lead, we continued to tour around Arashiyama.

*Later*

"Wow, we really visited a lot of places."

Matsuda of the Perverted Duo let loose a sigh of relief. We were having lunch at a tofu hotpot place recommended by Kunou. After leaving Tenryuu-ji, Kunou took us on a tour around Arashiyama. Seeing Siddhartha Gautama and Amitābha's Buddha statues worshiped at Nison-in, riding the rickshaws through the Bamboo Path, and hearing the sound of wind rushing through the bamboo leaves was all indeed, very elegant. The person who pulled the rickshaw was very talkative and described the scenery as we went along.

"I say, the tofu hotpot here is quite a delicacy."

Kunou fished tofu out of the pot with her chopsticks and distributed them on to our plates. Kunou seemed very happy. This must be her usual smile. Still, you can sense her strong desire to bring her mother back. Do not worry, we'll get her back. I've already resolved myself to accomplish the task.

The tofu Kunou gave to me had to be eaten straight away. Hmm, Kyoto tofu was very fragrant. And this was even better than the hotel. After all, tofu is best eaten freshly made. It looks like this was made just now.

"This has a very Japanese flavour. Nice."

"Yes, it's different from the usual tofu. Its taste is very fresh and delicious."

"This tofu is good..."

"It's tastes so good and fresh."

Xenovia, Asia, Irina and Raynare's faces were full of joy. Though when I looked at Irina...

"..."

Her face went red. This must be from the blunder of last night.

"Ah, Ve… Takeru-senpai."

Suddenly, someone called me. This voice was—

"Kiba huh. Right, your class was going to Arashiyama today as well."

Kiba's group happened to be having lunch on the neighboring table.

"Yes. You guys went to Tenryuu-ji already?"

"Yeah, there was a spectacular Dragon on the ceiling."

"We were planning on visiting Tenryuu-ji after seeing the Togetsukyou . I'm looking forward to it."

"Togetsukyou huh. We'll be going there after we finish eating."

As we spoke, another familiar voice was heard saying 'autumn at Arashiyama is really quite elegant'.

"Oh, so you guys are enjoying Arashiyama?"

Azazal, he's here, and he's… drink in the middle of the day.

"Oi, Azazel, a teacher shouldn't drink while in duty.", I said.

Then, the silver-haired teacher, Rossweisse who is sitting opposite to him, agreed.

"This person, I don't know how many times I've told him that, but he just won't listen. I keep telling him not to act so irresponsibly in front of the students..."

Her forehead veins were bulging in anger.

"Come on, this is just a short break after investigating Arashiyama."

So he investigated Arashiyama. I hope that he remembered the evidence he found.

"But then again, Rossweisse, you really must learn to act cuter. Isn't this why you haven't been able to find a man so far?"

CRASH!

After hearing Azazel's comment, Rossweisse's face went red and her fist struck the table.

"T-T-This has nothing to do with boyfriends! Don't mess with me! If you're going to drink, then so will I!"

She grabbed Azazel's cup and began to drink…

"Puwaaa... Shay, your ushual attitude ish no good..."

…

Wow.

She's drunk already. And she can't even speak properly.

"Y-You're drunk from one cup?"

Azazel was shocked, but Rossweisse poured another cup and downed it instantly. Her eyes staring straight, and she began to harass Azazel.

"Am not drunk! I've been drinking with him ever shinsh I became Odin, that old man's bodyguard. ...Thissss remindsh me, that old man. I ssssspent so much effort taking care of him during hish tripssss, but like an idiot all he shays is rubbishhhhh like 'ah, ladiesss! ah, booooooze! ah, breastssssss!'. Completely shhhhhamelessss! All the other Valkyriessssss at Valhalla called me the old man's ssssservant girl. With my pitiful ssssalary, I even had to shupport his daily life? It's all hish fault! Thatsssss why I have no boyfriend, no boyfriend, no boyfriend! Ooooooooooh!"

…

She's flushing all her dissatisfaction…

Azazel scratched his head and said.

"I understand, I understand. I will listen to your complaints, so just let it all out."

Hearing his words, Rossweisse suddenly became happy.

"Really? Azazel-ssssensei, I didn't know you had shum good pointssssh in you. Waiter, ten more bottlesh pleasssssse."

More? I think you had enough.

"You guys, leave as soon as you finish eating. I'll handle this.", said Azazel as he sighed.

We quickly ate and left the scene. I could heard one las thing from Rossweisse.

"100 yen ssshopsssss are the best! Ah hahaha!"

She even let out a drunken laugh…

A sad, drunken Valkyrie…

Leaving the shop, we reached Togetsukyou.

"Rossweisse-chan sure made quite a scene."

"Yeah, who knew she was such a poor drinker?"

The Perverted Duo were most disappointed. I heard that Rossweisse was very popular among both the boys and the girls, it must be very hard for these kids to accept the image they just saw.

"Don't be swayed by how young she looks. Rossweisse-chan definitely had a tough life. Following that Azazel-sensei around, anyone would want to spill out their discontent."

Kiryuu nodded, feeling very sympathetic towards Rossweisse.

Well, you can't blame Rossweisse. Her original employer was a lecherous old man, plus the fact that she had been mistreated in Valhalla ever since she became old man Odin's follower... Unexpectedly, it looks like she has been through much hardship.

"The servants of the Gremory Peerage seem to have it tough?"

Kunou asked.

"Maybe"

Each and every member of this team have their own peculiarities, after all.

The next stop was Togetsukyou. Leaving the restaurant and walking along the sightseeing streets for a few minutes, the Katsura River appeared in front of us. That traditional-style wooden bridge, full of historical feeling, must be Togetsukyou. The view of the mountain from here is good. The red all across the mountain gave a heavy sense of autumn.

"Did you know? It's said that you shouldn't turn back in the middle of crossing Togetsukyou."

Kiryuu said. Asia asked.

"Why is that?"

"Asia, it's like this. If you look back while crossing the bridge, intelligence granted by the heavens will be taken back. If the pervert trio looks back, it will really be over for them. They will become utter fools."

""Shut up!""

The Perverted Duo retorted simultaneously. Kiryuu was unfazed, and even continued.

"Another legend says that if you look back, lovers will be separated. Hmm, but this one's a bit inauspicious—"

"I will never look back!"

Asia interrupted Kiryuu's explanation and tearfully grabbed my arm.

"*Sigh*, Asia, that's a fake legend, don't believe it.", I said.

Though I comforted her, Asia shook her head and went 'unacceptable', grabbing my arm tighter.

As we started crossing Togetsukyou, Kiba's group could be seen not far ahead. While crossing the bridge, Asia was determined not to look back.

"Damn, Senpai and little Asia, they totally look like a pair of lovers...!"

"It makes me furious, but it seems like they will soon enter the stage of passionate fools in love."

The Perverted Duo were commenting behind my back. Whatever.

"I don't think you need to mind it. The legend about lovers is just superstition."

Though Kunou said that, Asia is very innocent in these things. We finally finished, and peacefully crossed over to the opposite shore. Asia exhaled deeply, as if very much relieved, but we have to cross again when we go back.

"!"

Suddenly, a warm, slippery feeling enveloped my entire body. ...What was that just now...?

I looked around, only to see that other than me, Asia, Xenovia, Irina, Raynare, Kunou and Kiba over there, the others had disappeared.

Hmm… an attack?

We all then prepared ourselves. Though we surveyed the surroundings, there were no suspicious characters nearby. After a while, a strange mist seemed to be floating up from under our feet.

"This mist is..."

Upon seeing the mist, Asia was very surprised.

"This feeling, there's no doubt about it. When I was taken by Diodora, the device deep in the temple that imprisoned me had this kind of mist."

"...Dimension Lost."

So said Kiba as he walked over.

"One of the Longinus. Didn't Sensei and Diodora Astaroth mention it? I fear this is..."

Kiba knelt down and tried to touch the mist with his hand.

Another Longinus…

"Hey, are you all okay?"

"Sorry for being late, kids."

A voice was heard from the sky. Looking up, Azazel was flying in the sky, flapping his black-feathered wings, Alex was next to him. They landed where we were and put away their wings as Azazel spoke.

"Everything except us has disappeared completely. Most likely, we were forcefully transferred to an alternate dimension and sealed within it... From the way things look, this is an alternate dimension that is an exact replica of Togetsukyou and its surroundings."

Hmm… Once I felt that warm feeling, we had already been transferred here.

"So this is made in a way similar to the Devils' game field?", I asked.

"Ah yes. The techniques of our three factions were most likely leaked. This place likely applies game field methods. -So, the power of the mist should also be transferred to this replicated territory. Can Dimension Lost's mist transfer anything that it wraps itself around? ...To be able to transfer me, mine and Rias' servants all together at once to this place without any warning signs... A Longinus truly is terrifying.", explained Azazel.

Beside me, Kunou spoke in a trembling voice.

"...On the verge of death, mother's dying guard reported that they were also trapped by mist without warning."

So, this phenomenon was...

"Hmm?"

Over at the Togetsukyou, there stood a few new presences. They revealed themselves to us from the mist.

"Pleased to meet you for the first time, Governor Azazel and the Sekiryuutei."

The one who greeted us was a black-haird man with a school uniform and Han Dynasty clothing. He looks to be at the same age as me. He was carrying a spear in his hands... The spear gave off a most unpleasant feeling.

…

Wait…

Could it be…in that data we collected…

His companions were also wearing clothes similar to school uniforms. They were a mix of male and female, also around high school age.

Azazel stepped forward.

"Are you the rumored Hero Faction?"

The youth in the middle patted the spear on his shoulder as he answered Azazel's question.

"I am Cao Cao, the descendant of the famous Cao Cao, Cao Mengde, who was recorded in the Records of the Three Kingdoms. Something like that."

Cao Cao? The king of Wei of ancient China? And this youth is the latter's descendant?

This is new.

"Azazel, the spear, is it also a Longinus? I'm getting abnormal distortions in the data stream right now"

That's right, the spear that guy is holding is causing glitches in my "Eidos Senses"

"It is. Listen well, everyone, be careful of that man's spear, True Longinus. The most powerful Longinus said to be able to pierce through God. I have not seen it for a long time... But to think it has now fallen into the hands of the terrorists.", answered Azazel without taking his eyes off his opponents.

"-!?"

Azazel's words made the others else terrified. The man was intriguing enough, but that spear…

So that's the Holy Spear created by grandfather…

This is serious.

"That is the holy spear that the Seraphim of Heaven fear...?", said Irina as she trembled in fear.

"I also heard about it ever since I was a child. The spear that pierced Jesus. The spear carrying Jesus' blood - The absolute spear which pierced the body of God!", said Xenovia.

"That's definitely not good.", said Alex.

I did come across the spear once when reading the bible back in those days… to think that I would meet it here.

"That is the Holy Spear..."

Beside me, Asia's gaze seemed to be drawn to the spear as if her consciousness was being sucked out, mesmerised—

CLAP.

Azazel quickly covered her eyes with his hands.

"Asia, people of faith should not stare at that spear. They will lose their sanity. After all, it is one of the Holy Relics among the True Cross, the Holy Chalice, the Holy Nails and the Shroud of Turin."

Kunou angrily yelled at the spear-wielding youth, Cao Cao.

"You, boy! I have questions for you!"

"Arara, little princess, what's the problem? If I can, I will try to answer all your questions."

Though Cao Cao sounded calm, he clearly knew something.

"Are you the ones who took mother away?"

"That is correct."

He admitted it so openly. It turned out to be them after all.

"What are you planning on doing to mother?"

"We wish to have your mother cooperate in our experiment."

"Experiment? What are you planning to do?"

"To grant the wish of our benefactor. That is the main idea."

Hearing that, Kunou bared her fangs, extremely angry. Her eyes glimmered with traces of tears. She was furious. Not only was her mother taken away, but she will be used for some kind of nefarious experiment.

"Benefactor... Is that Ophis? And why have you appeared before us?"

Azazel interrogated sternly.

"No, there is no need to hide anymore. We just decided to say hi before the experiment. Let us cooperate for a bit. I also wished to meet Governor Azazel and the legendary Sekiryuutei."

...This bastard sure has a way with words. Azazel then formed a spear of light in his hand. Alex and Raynare followed suite.

"Let's keep this simple. Please return the Kyuubi leader. We are trying hard to join forces with the Youkai."

I took out the Boosted Gear.

By the way, where's Rossweisse?

"Azazel, where's Rossweisse? Don't tell me that she's still drunk."

Which is highly likely.

Azazel made a long sigh at my question.

"That fellow was also transferred here, but she is still sleeping at the restaurant. I placed a strong barrier over her, so it should be fine for now."

Well, at least she'll be fine as long as the barrier is up. For her to fight in that condition is a fool's errand. In contrast to our state of alert, the other side made no signs to prepare. ...Are they that confident? Or do they have some sort of secret weapon? After all, the Hero Faction has gathered many Sacred Gear users. Then, a short boy stood next to Cao Cao. Cao Cao said to him.

"Leonardo, I'll let you handle the Devils with your monsters."

Only one request, but the boy remained expressionless and lightly nodded. Instantly, shadows appeared from under his feet and rapidly expanded.

The shadows grew and covered the entire bridge. I then saw an assortment of appendages coming out of the shadows.

"Guuuu..."

"Chomp!"

"Gobble!"

Monsters appeared from the shadows with a deafening roar. Rather than appear, perhaps created or 'made' was a better description. These monsters had black skin and were standing upright on two legs. Their bodies were solidly built with rough and thick hides. They also had very sharp claws and bared their teeth. These monsters formed a line and stood in the forefront.

"Annihilation Maker...", said Azazel softly.

"Another Longinus?", I asked.

Cao Cao laughed in response.

"Correct, this child carries one of the Longinus. A different threat compared to my True Longinus, but a most deadly Sacred Gear nonetheless."

Azazel then automatically began to explain.

"Like you, that boy possesses one of the Longinus. Currently, there are thirteen confirmed Longinus. Among the Grigori, there are also Longinus possessors. And amongst all these Longinus, the properties of that one over there, in other words, its abilities, are deadlier than Boosted Gear or Divine Dividing's."

"Hoh? So this boy is stronger than me?"

"In terms of pure power, of course your Boosted Gear and Vali's Divine Dividing are far ahead. However, in terms of abilities… Well. Annihilation Maker create countless demonic beasts. For example, those massive fire-breathing monsters over 100m tall you see in movies can be recreated by sheer will. The ability to create monsters from imagination. Isn't that a disaster? This ability, depending on the user's capability, can create on the scale of hundreds, or even thousands. Like Dimension Lost, this is one of the worst bugs in the Sacred Gear system. Dimension Lost is also extremely dangerous depending on the user. Once the mist reaches the scale of countries, it can transfer an entire country and its people into the Dimensional Gap to be destroyed."

"Well this is going to be a hassle"

Azazel could only force a laugh.

"Well, up to now, none of them have reached such levels, although there were a few close calls in the past. However, it is unprecedented to have gathered three of the four top-tier Longinus, True Longinus, Dimension Lost and Annihilation Maker. From birth, these possessors should have been under surveillance by the Fallen Angels, Angels and Devils... But twenty years have passed, so were we too careless...? Or someone deliberately hid them... Compared to the past, almost all current Longinus possessors have been very difficult to find."

He then looked towards me.

"...There must be some kind of cause-and-effect relationship going on in the current age? It could be said that the first Longinus Sacred Gears were bugs or errors of the system. In turn, these Longinus have their own tumultuous developments beyond our expectations? Though this is just a hopeful but not far-fetched hypothesis... Watching Vergil's development, makes one feel like all the current Longinus as a group are undergoing incredible changes... Bugs, errors, no, evolution? No matter what, though it includes me, perhaps those in charge of researching and maintaining the system have been too naive? Michael, Sirzechs."

And there he goes into a monologue.

Hey, we still have terrorist over here. Focus.

Hmm…

"Judging by the recent events, as well as the time that Khaos Brigade has existed… this kid still hasn't mastered his Longinus yet, right?", I asked.

"You're sharp, Vergil. Yes, you're right, if he did, then they would have been sending demonic beast armies to every faction by now. We'll have to defeat him before he matures.", said Azazel.

Cao Cao smiled wryly after hearing Azazel's words.

"Arara, it feels like Annihilation Maker has been figured out. It is as you say, Governor of the Fallen Angels. This child still has not matured his imagination or productivity—except that he has focused on one specialty; monsters that target the opponents' weaknesses, the antimonsters. The current demonic beasts are ones which counter Devils."

Cao Cao pointed his finger at a shop in the area. A monster opened its mouth—

Bzzzzzt!

A beam of light appeared. And in that instant—

Boom...!

The shop was blown away by an intense explosion.

"An attack of light! This fellow is...!"

Amidst the strong wind of the explosion, Azazel snarled angrily.

"Cao Cao, you bastard! You sent assassins to all the major factions to collect data for the antimonsters!"

"You are half-correct. Weren't there black-clad members among the Sacred Gear users we sent out?"

…

!

Those black combatants we faced which dispersed into mist when hit. So they were getting hits to collect data.

"Those are also monsters created by this child. These things deliberately took on the attacks from the various factions of Angels, Fallen Angels, Devils, Dragons and Gods from all mythologies. Though they were wiped out, they gathered plenty of good data for this child's Sacred Gear."

"Those strange black men were for collecting data!"

"Not only did the number of Balance Breaker users increase, but the development of the antimonsters also advanced. Thanks to that, antimonsters targeting Devils, Angels and Dragons have been created. At maximum output, the current anti-Devil antimonsters can produce light equivalent to that of a Mid-class Angel."

Collecting data to make antimonsters and increasing the number of Balance Breakers amongst the Sacred Gear users. They really thought it out pretty well. I then saw Azazel glared with contempt, but immediately begin to laugh.

"But Cao Cao, that means you have yet to create god-killing beasts."

"..."

Cao Cao didn't deny that. Well, that's obvious, if he already succeeded in doing so, then there is no reason they wouldn't attempt it if they have the resources to launch simultaneous attacks at the different factions. Though this is all we know, it is still important news.

Though I doubt any of these will be effective towards Urizen though…

Cao Cao pointed his spear at us.

"If it's a God, then I will kill it with this spear. Come, the battle begins—now."

This was the declaration of war.

"Gobble!"

Kiba and Xenovia stood in the front-lines as the antimonsters charged at us.

"Kiba, please make me a holy sword."

"Understood. After all, you're more suited to a two sword style."

Kiba quickly made a holy sword and threw it to Xenovia who was already advancing. atching the Holy Sword in mid-air, Xenovia wielded it along with Ascalon and dived straight into the ranks of the enemies. Slashed by Xenovia's sweeping attacks, huge numbers of antimonsters were easily vanquished.

She's getting better each day.

Another antimonster opened its mouth and released a beam of light…

BZZZT!

The beam travelled to just before Xenovia, but Kiba deflected it with his Holy Demonic Sword, sending it into a building in the distance and causing it to collapse.

"If it's this level of light, it's fine as long as we don't get hit."

"No, let's just kill them all before they hit us."

Slicing and pulverising the monsters with Ascalon and the holy sword, Xenovia answered like that. Though they were both Knights, their battle styles were entirely different.

Still, both of them have good points. But just one person doing each job won't be enough, we need a balance of defense and offense.

"Cao Cao, would you like to be defeated by me?"

Azazel took out the Dragon gem, Fafnir's jewel, and then his entire body was wrapped in the golden armour of the artificial Sacred Gear. At the same time, he extended his twelve black wings and rushed at Cao Cao with high speed.

"To be able to fight the Fallen Angel Governor recorded in the Bible, that would be a great honour!"

Cao Cao landed on the shore of the Katsura River, his face smiling fearlessly as he raised the Holy Spear. The front portion of True Longinus opened to release a golden aura which shaped itself into the blade of a spear. The instant it opens, it was as if the entire air shook. ...It could only be described as holy and solemn.

Hmm… is this what God's radiance feels like? I have no idea.

As Azazel's spear of light clashed against Cao Cao's Holy Spear, violent shockwaves were created. This impact created waves and disturbances in the Katsura River, splashing water everywhere. Water droplets fell upon Togetsukyou like a violent rainstorm. As the two of them attacked each other and carried out their battle, they gradually moved downstream along the shore of the river.

I'll leave Cao Cao to Azazel, we need to deal with the rest. The first priority was the key to our group battles; setting up the defensive wall for Asia who was responsible for healing. Normally our team had Rias mostly commanding, with Akeno- supporting her and providing suppressive fire, Koneko providing offense and support, and Gasper in the role of scouting and support. Even long-range bombardment from Rossweisse was not here. Though we had Azazel and the Irina providing powerful offence, the balance of the team has been broken by the absence of those five. We needed a new formation. Kunou also needed to be protected at all costs.

Hmm…

…

After a while of thinking, I finalize my strategy, and start to issue commands. In the absence of Rias, this, will have to do.

"Xenovia! You will go with Kiba and Irina on the front-lines! Take out as many as you can!", I said as I pointed at Xenovia.

"-Acknowledged!"

She moved with Kiba and Irina to take out the enemy.

"Kiba! Make Holy Erasers!"

I issued another command.

"Eh? Yes, I see!"

Kiba quickly understood. Under Kiba's feet appeared several of those swords of darkness he used during the Church battle, he then tossed them to us.

"These swords only have a hilt in their normal state! You have to channel demonic power into them to form the blade of darkness!"

Kiba supplemented. At the same time, I continued giving orders.

"Xenovia, use the Holy Eraser as a shield against light! Asia, I know you're not good with swords, but hold onto it! It's better than nothing!"

"Got it!"

"Yes, yes!"

Xenovia and Asia answered as Xenovia put the sword in her skirt pocket.

"Raynare, stay and protect both Asia and Kunou! Alex, long range support"

"Understood Senpai!"

"Understood!"

Raynare positioned herself close to Asia and Kunou to defend them. Alex flies high to the sky, and starts firing his Holy rays and Holy spheres.

"Kunou, step back, we'll take it from here."

"S-Sorry."

Can't let the little princess gets hurt. Alex was spamming with Holy rays and spheres, bombarding the hordes of black antimonsters. Raynare twirls her spear of light skillfully as she parried and killed dozens of approaching antimonsters. A bit far away, Xenovia, Kiba, and Irina were swatting antimonsters like flies.

However, the shadows stirred beneath that kid and created new monsters again and again. To mass produce these things, there must be a limit to stamina and concentration. But the rate this kid is going is way too fast. The occasional attack from the antimonsters hit members our team, but Asia could heal them instantly, so it wasn't a problem.

Up until now, those Hero Faction bastards have done nothing other than dodging our attacks. Hmm… must be that they are trying to gather more data of each of us. Well, I haven't done a thing since I issued my orders, as the others were doing their part rather too well.

Good…

Soon… I will no longer be needed… and they'll be free…

…

Just as I was thinking deeply, a few shadowy figures suddenly advanced towards me. They were uniform-wearing girls.

"Let us handle the Sekiryuutei!"

Spears, as well as swords, flashed with light as they attacked me.

"-Stop. You cannot win against the Sekiryuutei.", said a silver haired man.

Too late.

I then took a glance at the approaching attackers. In my perspective, they are moving in slow motion.

Hmm…

A joint attack huh?

One from the right...

One will come at me head on...

And one from the left.

…

*Sigh*…

Amateurs.

Let's make it quick.

DOON!

I delivered a single, crisp roundhouse kick that hit the first one, who collided with the other two in my planned trajectory, and flew back altogether.

"Impossible! In one strike!? How could he know all our movements!?"

One of the girls was very surprised.

"Impossible, how could we have been read!? Our joint attacks should have no openings!"

I lifted an eyebrow with a bored expression.

"You call that joint attacks? Rookies, just like open books, too easy to read."

I said as I shook my head to the sides.

With this level of skills, it'll be a bloody waste to use my "Eidos Senses" on them.

"A-Amazing! He only did one kick!"

Kunou was completely awed by my move. She's a kid, it's natural for her to react like this.

"Truly, it is impossible for us to win against the current Sekiryuutei with that approach. He will quickly read our movements and make deadly counterattacks effectively.", said the silver-haired man.

"Everyone be careful. He is the Current Sekiryuutei. The most talented and strongest in all of history, with strength that can reach the gods. He's strong, yet he doesn't indulge in power and is a dangerous Sekiryuutei who doesn't lose control. A person who holds great power but does not fall to arrogance is one who has nothing to fear. Do not be careless."

Huh…

"...To be described that way by enemies."

"What do you mean?"

"Oh nothing really, I was expecting some big-mouthed idiots to rambling on and on and on for hours, that's all"

Yeah… that's the reality of most enemies I faced… full of arrogance.

The man tilted his head slightly upon hearing my words.

"Is that so? Current Sekiryuutei, from our point of view, you are far too dangerous. Similarly, your companion, Vali, is the same."

Yeah yeah, I get that a lot.

Still, they are cautious of me. I have to be careful in respond.

"Next, I guess it's time for me to act."

The man took a step forward and released his swords from his belt.

"It's a pleasure to meet you for the first time, Gremory servants. I am Sieg, the descendant of the Hero Siegfried. My companions call me Siegfried. What you choose to call me is up to you."

Siegfried? The hero who killed the dragon king Fafnir, who's soul now resides in Azazel's artificial Sacred Gear?

Siegfried's face made Xenovia realize something as she showed shock and surprise.

"...I felt I've seen you before somewhere. It was true after all?"

To Xenovia's question, Irina nodded.

"Yes, it must be. Judging from the multiple Demonic Swords on his waist, there is no doubt."

"You two know this guy?", I asked.

"That man is an exorcist - a former colleague of Irina's and mine. A top warrior in the Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox Churches. 'Demonic Emperor Sig.' He has the same white hair as Freed because they were trained by the same organization. It seems to be the side effect of some kind of experiment..."

From the same organization Freed was in… he doesn't seem to be a lunatic like Freed, but still dangerous regardless.

"Sieg-san! You betrayed the Church, betrayed Heaven!?"

Irina screamed. Siegfried's lips curled happily.

"I guess you could call it betrayal. I now belong to the Khaos Brigade, that's why."

Hearing those words, Irina became angry.

"...Why!? Betraying the Church and joining an evil organization leads to eternal damnation!"

"...This is making my ears hurt."

Siegfried laughed.

"What's wrong with that? Even in my absense, the Church still has the strongest warrior. As long as that someone stays, the loss of me and the Durandal user Xenovia can be covered. However, who could have expected that person to become the Joker candidate for the Brave Saints? Anyway, enough of the chitchat. Aren't you sword wielders very capable? Xenovia, the Durandal user, Shidou Irina, the Ace of Michael, the leader of the Angels, and Kiba Yuuto of the Holy Demonic Sword. I'm will also be honored if you can join as well, Takeru Silver the Sekiryuutei, after all, even Arthur respects you."

Arthur?

Oh, the descendant of King Arthur, who is now in Vali's team. Those two know each other?

Challenging the swordsmen, no, the three who were related to the Church, Siegfried's sword in his hand began to gather demonic power. Hmm… demonic sword.

I saw Kiba suddenly rush him with immense speed. But Siegfried blocked it with his demonic sword directly, no damage.

"Demonic Emperor Sword Gram. For the strongest demonic sword, a strike from the holy demonic sword was nothing."

The two entered close combat. An intense battle took place. The two retreated and readied their stance. Immediately, they began clashing violently, making sparks fly.

"...Not good...Kiba is being suppressed."

Kiba was having trouble facing Sig. His god-speed movements… were being captured. With movements and slashing attacks faster than normal eyes could follow, the opponent was still keeping up in a composed and matter-of-fact manner. The latter can see that level of speed. Even Kiba's feints were useless. On the other hand, Siegfried used the minimum necessary movement to evade Kiba's attacks. When he thrust the Demonic Sword in his hand, Kiba had to dodge with his full attention. There was no room for counter-attacking.

One of the Hero Faction members step up to explain.

"In our organisation, though they reside in separate factions, 'Holy Royal Sword' Arthur and 'Demonic Emperor Sword' Siegfried are equally renowned. Holy Demonic Sword Kiba is not their match."

An equal to Arthur of the Vali team. In that case, Kiba will need support. Just as I was going to order Xenovia to go in there...she already moved in to join in their duel and assist Kiba.

"Xenovia!"

"Kiba! You cannot win alone! Even against your wishes, I have to participate!"

"...Uh, thanks!"

Kiba put his swordsman pride aside and attacked Siegfried with Xenovia.

"I will join in too!"

Irina also entered the battle, forming a three-on-one situation. Xenovia's dual wielding, Kiba's Holy Demonic Sword, Irina's sword of light, the three of them attacked at once. But even against three opponents, Siegfried only used a single sword. Kiba created afterimages as he repeatedly tried to disrupt Siegfried's attacks from blind angles. From above, Xenovia was slashing down with a massive holy aura. Furthermore, Irina was gliding through the air rapidly as she thrust her sword of light towards the back of Siegfrie''s hand.

At first glance, it seems to be a certain victory… However, Siegfried flipped his hand and casually blocked Irina's attack without even turning his head back. At the same time, he drew another sword from his waist using his free hand. With a flash of silver—one of Xenovia's downward slashing swords was broken. That was the Holy Sword Kiba created.

Siegfried calmly spoke.

"—Balmung. This is the power of one strike from the Demonic Sword of Norse legends."

Gram and Balmung? Aren't those Norse Demonic Sword? And aren't Balmung just an alternate name for Gram?

No, scholars only translate the scribbles of history in their capacity of understanding. The possibility of the names of different swords does indeed exist, and Siegfried just proves it.

Now that we go with that, where's Nothung?

Kiba's dead angle attack still hasn't ended. There was an opening and it shouldn't be possible to evade, for both of Siegfried's arms were already wielding Demonic Swords. With a horizontal flash, Kiba sliced towards his abdomen. In that instant—

CLANGGGG!

The sound of metal. Kiba's Holy Demonic Sword was just stopped by the Demonic Sword Siegfried drew out from its' sheath.

"Nothung. This is also a legendary Demonic Sword."

… There it is.

But something on Siegfried's body caught my attention…

A third arm had grown from his back to draw that sword, blocking Kiba's attack. An arm covered in silver scales. It was almost like my left arm when it became the arm of a Dragon's, but less Demonic.

"That dragon arm you have. Is it...?", asked Raynare.

"This dragon arm? It's Twice Critical, a very common Sacred Gear but mine is a little different, a subspecies. It grows something like a dragon's arm from my back."

A Twice Critical. If I remembered correctly, then it's a common Sacred Gear ranking below my Boosted Gear. A Sacred Gear that should be in the shape of a gauntlet... A subspecies. Growing an arm out of one's back. Siegfried held two Demonic Swords in each hand, with the arm on his back holding a third. ...A three-sword stance. Hmm… he looks a lot like an Asura.

Witnessing this scene, Kiba's expression became even more serious.

"...We are both Sacred Gear users. However, even ignoring the attributes of his swords, am I unable to surpass him even in the use of the Sacred Gear...?"

"By the way, I haven't entered Balance Breaker yet."

Hoh?

Constantly repeating their experiments, members of the Hero Faction could not possibly be unable to use their Balance Breakers. To be able to dominating Kiba, Xenovia and Irina all at once in just his normal state… he'll be a troublesome opponent.

Though… To be honest, compare to father, even Arthur and this guy joined force, they still look like babies. And I have more than my share with father's rigorous training, one that can easily kill a cowardice weakling.

I then heard a rustling thud. Azazel landed in front of us while we're in the middle of this battle. Cao Cao returned to the center of his group, the Hero Faction. I took a glance downstream at where they had come from…

The ground had turned into a smoking wasteland. Arashiyama's scenery has been entirely destroyed. At least this place is an artificial space. Azazel's armor shattered in a few spots. The black wings were also in a messy state. Cao Cao's uniform and Han Chinese attire was also torn in many places...

For a pure human, he really did fare out well against Azazel.

"Don't worry. Neither of us went all out. We were just testing each other out a bit."

Be a little grateful that this isn't the real Kyoto. Or else we would have all suffered from cleaning up the mess you two created. Cao Cao cracked his neck audibly and said.

"What a great devil servant team. I guess these are the servants of Rias Gremory, well known amongst the new generation of devils. We were intending to have a fight without exerting ourselves, but you guys have turned out with great performance. If my theories are correct, the one who gathered this unnaturally strong group is Takeru Silver- your power. You have great talent and massive amount of demonic power that it's ridiculous. And your ability to attract others by holding dragon powers is top notch amongst all the past Sekiryuutei. Look, aren't the dragons gathering power right now? It is truly conspicuous in both good and bad situations. As all kinds of legendary existences attack, and you encounter each of the dragon kings, and gather all these Oumaryuutei supporters. These are all evidence of that. Even in the absence of their King, you handled the situation and organized the servants with outstanding calmness. You even have a good sense of strategy. I'm sure you may turn out to be a terrifying opponent if you train well in the future."

Cao Cao then pointed his spear at me.

"That's why, we don't intend to make the same mistakes as the Old Maou faction. We truly believe, in the future, you will become the most dangerous Sekiryuutei. This applies to the other servants as well. If we eliminate you all now, perhaps we may even gather some useful data for analysis."

Huh… if you can, then try it… I doubt that would work though… since I'm already cursed.

…

Azazel then questioned Cao Cao.

"One more question. What are the motives of your Hero Faction?"

Cao Cao narrowed his eyes and said.

"Governor of the Fallen Angels. You may find it surprising, but it is incredibly simple; we just want to know the limits of what it means to be 'human' and challenge them. Furthermore, humans will be the ones to defeat Devils, Dragons, Fallen Angels and other supernatural races. No, definitely, it is humans who will win."

"You want to be heroes? After all, you are the descendants of, cough, heroes."

Cao Cao raised an index finger and pointed to the sky above his head.

"—This is just a little challenge presented by frail humans. Under the heavens, how far can humans go? That is what we wish to try."

…

Hearing that, Azazel sighed and said to me.

"...Takeru, do not be too careless. This guy is an enemy worse than the Old Maou Faction and Shalba Beelzebub. All your opponents here are very strong, especially this guy, who is just as dangerous as Vali… Takeru?"

Kukuku.

Oh I heard you, Azazel. But this… this is just too… laughable.

"Kukukuku…", I made a creepy laugh.

"Kukuku…HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

My whole team looked at me with surprised expressions as I covered the upper half of my face and laughed louder.

"Why is he laughing?"

"He is creeping me out"

Opinions like that came back and forth between the Hero Faction members. I didn't care as I continued to laugh loudly.

"HAHAHAHA! SO THAT'S WHAT THIS IS ALL ABOUT! YOU!? HEROES!? HAHAHAHA!"

"Takeru…", said Alex, who is flying in the sky with a worried face.

Do not worry Alex, all of you kids as well.

This is perfectly laughable.

Cao Cao tried to say something, but he instantly stopped as he saw my expression.

From my maniac laughter face… I immediately gave the Hero Faction a cold glare that jolted all of them.

"You've overexaggerated your importance, you cowardly low lives"

My words created a chilling atmosphere that forced the Hero Faction members to take a few steps back. Cao Cao and Siegfried still stood firm, but they both slightly sweated as they glared back at me with cautious eyes.

Heroes? You? How rich, considered that you little shits kidnapped the mother of an innocent little girl.

The decree for you… is death.

Right in that moment, the Boosted Gear shoned brilliantly. The timer that I started beforehand has ended. Perfect timing.

"Balance Break.", I said with a cold voice.

Upon my command, immense red aura quickly enveloped my body.

[WELSH DRAGON SUPER BALANCE BREAKER!]

Those were the words that the gauntlet spoke… but then…

[EVOLUTION!]

"[Huh?]"

Ddraig and I both became surprised at the same time.

The Scale Mail Omega armor, my Super Balance Breaker, formed around my body. But… it's different.

The dominant color of the armor is no longer red, but black. There are parts and trims that are golden in color. A few spots on the armor: the fingers, the plates near the elbows, the ribs, the clavicle armor plates, as well as some areas of the legs remained red. All the gems now glowed in a golden Divine glow with golden lightning coming out of them. The gems on top of my hands now relocated at the center of my palms, making space for 2 extra pieces of solid hand armor, while the biggest gem at the center chest armor miniaturized, it's still the biggest gem, but smaller than it originally was, and now bearing black ornaments resemble those on the Mjölnir replica I absorbed. The lower portion of the legs from knee point down has changed from the usual 3-toed dragon legs to a pair of heavy armored boots, somewhat resembles the… MCU Iron Man? Also, there's no longer a big, segmented, wiggling tail on my back, but a slimer, sleeker, retractable tail in place of the original. The only things that remain unchanged are the overall shape of the armor, and the green-glowing optics.

"Ddraig, can you check the logs? Why the hell does it look like this?", I asked.

[Already on it… Wow.]

Ddraig gave out a surprised tone.

"What is it?"

[It seems that we have overlooked the assimilation of the Mjölnir replica back then. Turns out, that hammer wasn't fully assimilated by us yet, the recent logs indicated that it has upgraded the chassis and internal system of the Scale Mail Omega, resulted in this current form]

"So this is the further upgraded Scale Mail Omega?"

[It's more precise to say that this is the True Scale Mail Omega, it's final basic evolution.]

"Hoh? So what's new that we can do now?"

[You have full access to the Divinity that was part of the Mjölnir replica, resulting in the golden glow and lightning from the gems]

I see… this is certainly an interesting development… so now I can even imbue Divinity into my attacks huh… Nice.

Cao Cao, witnessed the changes, switched from his cautious face, to a rather excitingly amused and intrigued face.

"You evolved just like that? Hahahaha! The Sekiryuutei of this era is certainly full of surprise."

As we prepared to charge toward each other… A shining magic circle appeared... The crest on it had never been seen before.

"—This is."

Azazel seems to know who this is. Who? A Fallen Angel? As we watched with surprise at the light before us— a young foreign girl appeared, dressed like a mage. She wore a huge hat and a cape, and her age looked like a middle schooler's. Her body was quite slim. The girl turned towards us, who had gathered around in a circle, and deeply bowed her head while smiling radiantly.

"Nice to meet you all for the first time. I am Le Fay, Le Fay Pendragon. I am the mage belonging to Vali's team. Please take good care of me."

Vali team? Why are they here? Azazel asked the girl, Le Fay.

"...Pendragon? Who are you to Arthur?"

"Yes, Arthur is my elder brother. He always takes care of me."

Hmm, so she is Arthur's younger sister. Le Fay… isn't that also the name of Morgan Le Fay? King Arthur Pendragon's half-sister?

Azazel scratched his chin and said.

"So, Le Fay. Like that legendary Witch, Morgana Le Fay? It has been said that Morgana and the hero king, Arthur Pendragon, were blood-related..."

There were twinkling stars in Le Fay's eyes as she looked towards me.

"U-Ummm..."

She walked to me and held out her hand.

"I-I-I am a fan of the Dragon Lord, Oumaryuutei! I-If you're not too busy, can you shake hands with me!?"

…

This is… surprising.

For something like that to be said in the middle of this battle... Still, I went "sure..." and shook her hand.

"Thank you!"

She seemed extremely happy... Hmm... What did this child want? Cao Cao's side was shocked and puzzling over the matter, looking very much troubled... Finally, it was Cao Cao who scratched his head and asked.

"So, it's Vali's side. What's the matter?"

Without any hesitation, Le Fay responded to Cao Cao in all smiles.

"Yes! I came to bring a message from Vali-sama! 'I thought I told you not to disturb me!', that's the message oh . You need to be punished for trying to put us under surveillance, oh~~."

CRASH...!

After Le Fay's announcement, an earthquake started. Asia and Kunou were unable to maintain their balance and fell onto their bottoms.

Crack!

It was the sound of something sliced open. Looking towards there, the ground had swollen up, as if something huge was about to burst through. Tearing the ground apart and creating clouds of dust, what appeared was—

"Guuuuuuuuuuutz!"

A massive Golem, with a height of at least 10 meters.

Azazel then looked up to it and yelled.

"-It's Gogmagog!"

"Yes. This is one of the strong characters in our team, Gogmagog or Gogz-kun~", answered Le Fay.

"Oi, Azazel, tell me something I don't know.", I said.

"Gogmagog. It's something like a golem that was placed in the Dimensional Gap and was floating there in a state of suspension. It seems to be a mass-produced weapon of destruction created by ancient Gods... They should all have been deactivated by now."

"This thing sleeps in Veldora, the Gigastorm Dragon's home?", I asked as he wasn't paying attention.

"Ah, this is the first moving one I have encountered, I have too many questions. Though it was said that they were deactivated and placed in the dimensional gap... But to be moving! This makes me so interested...!", said Azazel as his eyes sparkled.

Oi, don't drown in you fantasy now.

However, he immediatly recovered and started muttering to himself.

"I see. Last time, what Vali was checking out when hanging around the Dimensional Gap wasn't just Great Red..."

Le Fay answered Azazel's concerns.

"Yes, it was Vali-sama who detected Gogz-kun's existence. Ophis-sama once mentioned discovering this giant that could move in the Dimensional Gap, so we went there again to search for it."

"Hmm… so who are the current members of Vali's team?", I asked

"Yes... Currently, there's Vali-sama, Bikou-sama, brother Arthur, Kuroka-san, Fenrir-chan, Gogz-kun, as well as me, seven in total."

Huh, a group full of criminals… except this girl.

"I see… So Azazel, why is that golem in the Dimensional Gap?"

"The Dimensional Gap is quite troublesome to handle, but there is actually quite a bit of leeway. All Veldora wants to do is swim around freely in the Dimensional Gap and does not pose any real threat. He is a special existence, so none of the factions place the Gigastorm Dragon in their rankings and categories. All he cares is swimming freely unhindered in the Dimensional Gap..."

Just as Azazel spoke to this point, the golem raised its giant fists at the Hero Faction.

ROAR!

Accompanied by an ridiculously loud sound of smashing, the golem smashed Togetsukyou in one hit. Thankfully, this is just a dimension that replicates Arashiyama. The golem's attack slaughtered massive numbers of antimonsters while the members of the Hero Faction retreated, hiding on the other side of the river.

"Hahahaha! Vali's angry! It looks like our surveillance was discovered!"

Cao Cao laughed in a loud voice, and pointed his spear at the golem.

"Extend!"

WOOSH!

The tip of the spear suddenly extended, piercing the shoulder of the golem. The giant golem lost balance and fell onto the ground. That golem must have a lot of mass. Just by falling over, it created such a huge shockwave, and everything nearby was shaking.

Such a versatile spear…

I wonder how grandfather will react if he sees this…

The bridge is wrecked, but we can fly over. As I thought of taking another step, a figure entered my view on the shore. In front of the Hero Faction, there was someone shaking and staggering, unable to walk properly. She was a silver-haired woman—Rossweisse.

"...Hey. Itsh sssooo noisshy people can't ssssleep (hic!) properly here!"

—She's still drunk!? And she's angry to boot.

The arrival of the drunk made the members of the Hero Faction look at one another in puzzlement. However, they intended to attack whether she was affiliated with the Gremory servants or not.

Shit. She's no good in this state. As the others went to help her…

"Whatssh the matter? You want a fight? Sho! I'll ssshhhow y'all the power of old man Odin's former bodyguard Valkyrie!"

As Rossweisse yelled, a ridiculous number of magic circles appeared all around her.

"Tassste my Norssssh magic which countersssss all attributessss, all fairiessss, and all divine exisssstencessss!"

From all the magic circles, out spewed a massive number of magical attacks which filled the sky, changed their trajectories, and finally fell upon the Hero Faction like a heavy rainstorm. Fire, light, water, thunder and magical attacks with all sorts of attributes swept everything aside and approached the Hero faction. Whether it was houses, shops, roads or electrical poles, everything turned into dust and disappeared without a trace. Though it felt like the magical attacks were about to hit the Hero Faction, a youth wearing a uniform with a feathered cape produced mist from his hand and deflected all the magic.

So that's the mist user. Mist slowly spread from the mist user's hand, eventually covering the entire Hero Faction. Cao Cao spoke from within the mist.

"There are a bit too many interferences. However, it was a fun opening ceremony. Governor Azazel!"

As if enjoying things, that guy announced to us.

"Tonight, we will be using Kyoto's special leylines and the Kyuubi leader, and turn Nijou Castle into a great massive experiment! In order to stop us, please come and participate!"

The mist thickened. The mist that started out beneath our feet spread to the chests and approached our faces. And then slowly, our entire view was blocked by the mist and everything disappeared.

"Hey, everyone has returned to the original reality! Put away your weapons!"

Azazel reminded us. So we'll be returned to the real Arashiyama.

I quickly released my armor.

...

In the blink of an eye, the mist disappeared—and we were back at the crowded streets next to Togetsukyou. Other than us, the tourists crossed the bridge as if nothing had happened. ...The bridge was intact. We were back to the original world.

The other, with their weapons dismissed, all had serious expressions, so was I. it's too soon to revert our mood. Le Fay was gone, alongside that golem. They must have disappeared at the same time as the mist.

CRASH!

Azazel angrily struck an electrical pole.

"...Speaking rubbish...! Experimenting on Kyoto...? Don't underestimate us, kids!"

"...Mother. Mother didn't do anything...but why...?"

Kunou's body trembled. I patted her head in silence.

I then look to the other side of the bridge, at the position that the Hero Faction disappeared altogether.

You little shits…

Just you wait…

I'll make every single one of you disgracefully crawl in all fours and pathetically beg me to end your life…

Author's note: What a long chapter. For anyone's ponderance, the True Scale Mail Omega is based on Iron Man's Omega armor from Avengers Assemble Season 3 episode 13: Into the future. I actually had this idea ever since I made Vergil's Heavenly Dragon Glyph a mix between black and red glow back in Volume 7, and that I've watched the aforementioned episode makes me want to implement that color scheme into this, to differentiate the Scale Mail Omega from Issei's True [Queen] further, even if it's just a bit. Next: Kyoto Showdown.