Chapter 61: Gremory vs Bael Pt1.
[So then, will the two [Kings] step in front of the stands.]
Being urged by the arbiter, Buchou and Sairaorg-san stand in front of the stands.
[We will start the first match. We will choose the combatants who will be appearing. Will both of you hold the dice.]
Buchou holds the die.
What value will come up? Whether it's a small or big number, no one will be able to predict before the value actually comes up, unless you can see the future that is.
[Shoot!]
After the arbiter's call, both of them roll the dice!
Dice are rolling on top of the stands! The dice rolled on top of the stands until it stopped moving. The monitor shows the image of the dice and the values that came up.
And the values are…
[The value combatant Rias Gremory rolled is…2! On the other hand, the value combatant Sairaorg Bael rolled is 1! That is a total value of 3. They will be able to send out their servants within that value! In this case, since the value of the [Pawn]'s on both sides is large, they will only be able to send out 1 [Knight] or [Bishop] which have values of 3! So, which members will both sides send to the field!?]
The broadcaster says it with enthusiasm.
A 3 right off the bat huh. So we can send our [Knights], which is me or Xenovia, or our [Bishops], whichs is Asia-san or Gasper-kun, both are out of the question.
The arbiter then announces.
[You get 5 minutes of planning time. So please choose the combatant who will be participating within that time. Also the promotion for the [Pawns] will be available once they arrive at the field. The promotion will be deactivated every time a match ends, so please use promotion every time you get on the field.]
Five minutes huh… Like that, the planning time for the Gremory team began.
The moment it became planning-time, the bases of both sides were enveloped in a mysterious barrier.
"The soundproof barrier. It's used to stop our plans from leaking outside."
Akeno-san says that.
"It's also to stop people outside from reading our minds, so a special mark is placed onto the faces of each combatant."
I look at the monitor to see our faces covered with the Gremory-group magic circle. Pro leagues sure have everything set up.
We sat on the standby chairs. Buchou says while looking at all of us.
"The opponents must have predicted that we will be sending Yuuto out."
Since the value of 3 was rolled, there are only four of us who can be sent. Me and Xenovia who are the [Knights], and Asia-san and Gasper-kun who are the [Bishops]. We can't send Asia-san and Gasper-kun who are support-types by themselves. They are originally rearguards who show their true strength only when they pair with warriors who will become the vanguard. They are the members who should be sent when a value of 6 or greater is rolled. Since that is the case…
"Sending Xenovia is a no-go. She is a power-type [Knight], since she would have to battle either a [Knight] or a [Bishop] of the opponent's team, there is a high risk that she could get hit with a technique… a counter."
Xenovia nods.
"…Yeah, it seems like it would be hard to win without taking any damage. But, I still won't be defeated by a technique-type."
Buchou continues speaking after the confident Xenovia.
"But, even if she were to win, there is a high chance that she will reveal the specifications of Ex-Durandal. The identity of the Ex-Durandal will be seen through if she shows even a single ability. We also want to reserve it until much later in the game. During mid-game, after rolling a large number, the match will most likely turn into a fierce battle. If we have to show it to them, that would be the time. It would be a waste to use it from the start. That's why it's Yuuto. The one who is able to fight in various situations while having their ability already known, that would be Yuuto and not Xenovia."
Yes, I can fight even with my abilities known. Adaptation is one of my suites, it was further bolstered after my harsh lesson sparring against Vergil-san, who is truly the pinnacle of the balance between power and technique. For Xenovia's case, her main arms, Ex-Durandal has one more severe weakness: it needs to charge up before dealing critical blows, and it's not that fast after it's been unleashed, so it could be stopped or dodged. Buchou made a logical choice sending me first.
But to be honest, the trump card I possess at the moment… I want to reserve it for later, more important use. However, no one here can tell how powerful the person I will face. Let's keep my expectations low.
"I'll go, even if they know my abilities. –I'm going."
I took a step forward while fixing his collar.
"Hmph, just don't lose from the start, okay?"
Xenovia immediately picked on me. such provocative words.
I smiled in confidence hearing that.
"I will definitely win."
After our little exchange, the arbiter continues.
[The five minutes are about to be over. Combatants participating in the match please make their way to the magic circle. The magic circle is a transport-type. You will be transferred to a battlefield prepared in a different dimension. The match will then be fought on that battlefield. The battlefield will be randomly picked from the ones already prepared. Until the combatants are transferred to the different field, the bases of both sides will be placed in a barrier so the bases will become invisible. And that barrier will only be taken off every time a match end.]
A special field is already prepared in another dimension. So this place won't turn into the battlefield.
neither of the bases will be able to be seen, from the outside, until the transfer is over. We'll also not be able to know our opponents until they are transported to the field.
"…The reason why it's invisible is to prevent changing your 'piece(servant)' after seeing who will be sent from the opponent's team. Observe, and then change, and seeing again and then changing again. Rather than the match, that itself would be a problem. And we are also under surveillance to prevent us from doing anything unfair while under this invisible state."
Koneko-chan comes in with her knowledge of the rules.
"The reason why you won't know which combatants will be sent, until they are sent to the field, is probably to please the crowds as well."
Rossweisse-san says.
As we converse, the barrier covering our base gets denser, and it cuts us off from the outside area.
"I will be going then."
With a communication ear piece on my ear, I stood on top of the magic circle. That instant, the magic circle glows, sending the scenery into bright light…
I was sent off to face our first opponent.
*First duel*
Above the Gremory's base, several visions showing certain scenery appear in the sky. One of them shows the crowds.
And in the largest-size vision, scenery of an unknown place is shown… It's a very wide green land.
And Kiba Yuuto is there. Near him… is an armored knight riding on a horse which is emitting blue-white flames.
[Oooo! The combatants for the first match have appeared! As you can see, the field is a vast green land! And this vast green land will be the stage for the first match! The ones chosen from both sides with the value of 3 are…. The young noble man of god-speed from the Gremory team! It's combatant Kiba Yuuto! Princess Rias's [Knight] has appeared!]
" " " " " " " "Kyaaaaaaaa! Kiba-kyuuuuuuun~!" " " " " " " "
Having been agitated by the broadcaster, the women in the crowd yell happy cheers.
The young [Knight] of the Gremory received immense admiration from his female fans.
[And from the Bael-group…]
Before the broadcaster introduces him, the armoured knight has his horse walk ahead and he takes off the mask of his helm to show his face.
He was present during the match between Sairaorg Bael and Glasya-Labolas.
A powerful [Knight] of Bael group.
[I'm one of the [Knights] that serve our master Sairaorg Bael-sama, Beruka Furcas!]
A magnificent introduction.
"Furcas is the household that has a trait to rule horses.", said Rias Gremory from inside her team's base.
Furcas, the 50th among the 72 pillars of the Underworld, recorded in Ars Goetia, one of the five books in The Lesser Key of Solomon. Generations to generations, they commanded 20 legions of Devils, and were famed for their power over some of the most vicious horses of the Underworld.
[I'm Rias Gremory-sama's Knight, Kiba Yuuto. Nice to meet you.]
Kiba responds by introducing himself to his opponent.
Today, the descendant of that clan, Beruka Furcas, is the first opponent of the Gremory team. The first opponent that Kiba will have to defeat, to keep his promise.
Beruka Furcas points his metallic jousting lance up high.
[…I have luck being a swordsman because I was given the opportunity to exchange swords with the infamous Kiba Yuuto-dono of the holy-demonic sword, by my master.]
[I also look forward to having this duel with you.]
Kiba responds back fearlessly.
[Governor-Azazel, will you please explain about that horse covered in blue-white flames?]
The broadcaster asks Azazel, the Governor-General of the Fallen Angels.
[-[Pale horse]. That's a high-level beast that lives in the deepest part of hell, Cocytus. It's been said that famous devils and grim reapers ride on it. It's also said that it's a horse that brings death and destruction. It's not an easy task to master riding on it. It has a violent nature. It's said that it will kick to death those it doesn't like, including its master.]
The governor explained swiftly with his extensive bank of accumulated knowledge.
[My favorite horse, Altobrau's legs are God-speed. Kiba-dono. I wish for a serious fight with you.]
Furcas was already in a battle position.
The arbiter appears on the field through a magic circle, and he stands between the two combatants.
"The first match, starts now!"
Both of them took a distance when the signal was given.
The Rating Game against Bael has started!
[I challenge you! Let us see if the speed of Altobrau and I can match you!]
They disappeared when the blue horse made a cry!
[-Fast!]
Kiba uses his eyes… no. He takes a stance as if he is trying to feel the presence of his enemy. Then…
GIIIIN! GUUN!
The sound of the metal colliding echoes. Kiba didn't move from the spot, but he is warding off the attacks coming in fast speed.
He took a distance, and he went towards the enemy with fast speed after feeling the presence of the enemy for quite some time.
GIIIIN! GUUN!
Both of them are in a state where it only looks like two moving things are colliding at very fast speeds. The things which become visible on the field are the sparks created when the weapons collide and the sounds of metal colliding.
There are deep holes created in the field due to the waves created by several swords and the charging of the lance.
Both of them finally show themselves when they are using the lance and swords to push against each other.
[A draw even against the legs of my Altobrau… You are truly frightening indeed, Princess Rias's Knight!]
Furcas laughs fearlessly.
[You also have an excellent combination with your horse. If I were to try to cut the horse down, your lance will stop me and even if I try to take you down, the horse won't allow it. Seems like I have to destroy your footpath!]
Kiba who said that forms an aura around his body, and he made his eyes sharper.
That instant, many holy-demonic blades appear from the earth surrounding Kiba! The swords of flowers blossomed in the field!
The pale horse might be stopped in its' tracks like this!
…Or so it seems.
THUD!
In the moment after, Furcas's horse jumps up high!
It was running in midair!
Not letting his chance slide, Kiba swings his holy-demonic sword down without giving a moment to spare.
[Holy-demonic sword of Thunder!]
FLASH!
The sky flashed, and thunder comes down towards Furcas! The thunder was taught directly by Akeno Himejima! While it isn't as strong as the latter's, with one glance, its' potency is without a doubt.
[Not enough!]
Furcas threw his lance up towards the sky, and he survived the thunder by using the lance as a lightning rod. Furcas who has lost his weapon puts his hand inside the mane of his horse which is made of fire. It seems like he is trying to take something out of it. The mane creates a swine in the atmosphere. It seems like that mane is connected to a different dimension.
Coming out from the fiery mane… is a second lance. A spare weapon.
Beruka Furcas so far have managed to ward off all of Kiba's attacks. A clear indication of how well the Bael peerage have studied their opponents.
Kiba's sword is the holy-demonic sword, possesses the attribute of [Holy]. Devils aren't able to evade the fate of receiving heavy damage if they get cut with it. Because of that, not being hit by the holy-demonic sword is a must for opponents in order to win. It's easier said than done. To be able to pull that off without a scratch while having Kiba as his opponent means that Furcas is quite formidable.
It's a common situation, that the enemy is slain when Kiba makes his move. But that hasn't happened yet.
[Even if your holy-demonic sword has a deadly effect on devils….!]
Furcas makes a stance.
[It won't mean a thing if it doesn't hit!]
At the same time as he jumped… many duplicates of Furcas and his horse were created!
Having several Furcas duplicates in front of him, Kiba… has his swords stiff, and his face looks stern.
Several Furcases move randomly in high speed, and they start attacking Kiba.
At the beginning, he fended off the attacks with his swords, but Kiba receives damage which comes from all directions!
[Ku!]
Kiba created a second holy-demonic sword, and he creates a huge aura with the two swords. The surrounding grasses are blown away by it, but Furcas dodges it and takes a distance.
That move was originally meant to make Furcas step back.
Furcas returns back to only himself after making the phantoms vanish.
Kiba took a breath, and put on a fearless smile.
[...I didn't want to show my trump card from the beginning... But it looks like I will lose more stamina if I continue to hold back. I am in no position to say things to Xenovia.]
With less stamina than some members of his team, it would only be a matter of time before Kiba's legs suffer, affecting future matches.
The young [Knight] steeled his resolve to finish the battle, even if it means showing his best play.
He made the holy-demonic sword vanish before created a Holy Sword within his hand and declare boldly.
[I am stronger than you. In this match, I will eventually grasp your movement. But for that, I would consume a lot of stamina. Thinking about later fights, it's better to take you down in a blitz.]
Hearing Kiba's declaration, Furcas smirks.
[Looks like you are confident in yourself. Certainly, your talent will eventually surpass me and Altobrau. But I won't go down just like that! For the later matches, I will cut one of your limbs to take your stamina away!]
Immense determination. Furcas resolved to grind down our manpower as much as possible.
[Yes. That's why you are scary. There isn't anything scarier than an opponent who is resolved. I'm…thinking of showing my other possibility.]
Kiba makes a stance with his Holy Sword and mutters quietly.
[-Balance-Break.]
At that moment, an atmosphere different from the holy-demonic sword is emitting from Kiba and he gets wrapped with a holy aura. Then, several holy-swords appear from the earth, and at the same time, mysterious armored beings are created, molded into a familiar form.
The form they have taken… is the form of the Sekiryuutei, or more precisely, the form of the most recent, most powerful incarnation of the Red Dragon, the blackened dragon armor, Scale Mail Omega. Only that they are much less regal and kingly in appeal, they also have a weirdly huge and thick armor piece on their rear waist, seemingly for a mysterious purpose.
These draconic armored knights take the Holy Swords growing from the ground into their hands, and they gather around Kiba.
As he is followed by the knights, Kiba invoked the appearance of a valorous knight captain leading his troops to glory.
Seeing that, Furcas gets shocked.
[…..! Im..impossible!? Balance-Break!? Your Balance-Break is supposed to be the [Sword of Betrayer]! How can you use another Balance-Break!?]
Yes, Kiba's original Balance-Breaker is the [Sword of Betrayer]. But that's the Balance Breaker for the [Sword Birth]. That guy also has an ability that he acquired afterward.
Furcas then says it as if he finally understands.
[…! Don't tell me that it's a Balance-Breaker of the "Blade Blacksmith"!?]
Kiba nods quietly at his words.
[[Glory-Drag Omega Trooper], it's the Balance Breaker of [Blade-Blacksmith] and is a sub-species.]
During the Kokabiel incident, Kiba gained the factors to become a holy-sword wielder from his former comrades. He also received a Sacred Gear ability which lets him wield and create holy-swords. As a result, he became an exceptional swordsman who has the Sacred Gear abilities of both the Sword Birth and the Blade Blacksmith.
[My own tribute… to the hero who saved us all.]
A slight tint of sadness mixed in his voice. Indeed, the knights' appearance was a tribute to Vergil, the Dark Angel who sacrifice himself for a better tomorrow, even though it wasn't for him. A loss of such is still too much for Kiba to get over. Same with the others of the Gremory.
"Vergil would definitely be proud, Yuuto. Thank you…"
In response, Rias muttered with her small, warm voice.
Vergil-san, with my irregular powers, do you think I will be able to awaken another special power?
That was what the young [Knight] asked the Son of Sparda. With his hero's advice, and months of hellish training, the idea came to fruition. The trait of Kiba's new ability is that the user's speed and techniques can be copied onto the knight troops. Right now, it can only copy his speed, but it can still grow. The only known disadvantage, however, is that he won't be able to use his holy-demonic swords in this state and vice versa.
[To reach this stage, I had to fight the Dark Angel with just holy-swords, but… Fufufu, I was truly scared. I was even prepared for my death. That's because Vergil-san came at me while intending to kill me for real, he was a man with the strength that can kill gods, after all. Though, thanks to that I was able to attain a second Balance-Breaker.]
On another vision, Governor Azazel, who is a commentator, puts his hand on his chin as if he finds it amusing.
[Naturally, the Balance Breaker for the [Blade Blacksmith] is the [Blade Knight Mass] which creates several armored knights who are wielding Holy Swords. It seems like combatant Kiba was able to alter it to his taste and materialize it as a sub-species. On top of that, it's dragon knight troops! Kaa~! It sure is a situation that adult women will get fired up about!]
With a lively, but a lecherous expression, he commented.
Kiba stands in front of Furcas while taking his knight troops with him.
In his current situation, he doesn't hold that much offensive power compared to the holy-demonic swords, but since he is controlling the knight troops, he has manpower. If those attack at the same time, then Furcas's phantoms will…
[Furcas-dono! Here I come!]
Kiba sprints ahead with his knight troops! Several of them heading towards Furcas were very fast!
[Ku! I can't fall here yet!]
Furcas shouts, and kicking the blue horse's stomach, he leaps forward. At the same time, he creates several phantoms!
Kiba's knight troops and Furcas' phantoms collide!
GIIIIIIIN!
A single deafening sound of metal echoes.
Kiba and Furcas exchange a single strike while having the knight troops and the phantoms disappear.
A moment passes… and Furcas gets covered with light. There is a crack on his armor from his shoulder down to his stomach, and there is smoke coming from his wounds due to the damage from the Holy Sword.
That's the light when you retire! Kiba caught the real Furcas within the phantoms, and he conquered the speed battle!
[…Splendid.]
Furcas disappears along with the light from the field after saying that.
At the same time, the arbiter announces it.
[Combatant Sairaorg Bael's [Knight], retires!]
The crowd cheered with that announcement, all were overjoyed.
For the first battle, the one who gained victory is the house of Gremory!
*Second match*
[The team which dominated the first match is the Gremory team! Now then, what will happen in the next match!?]
While the broadcaster agitates the crowds, I return using the magic circle.
I was able to win using my trump card. Although my new technique has been seen, nevertheless, there are special features of it that have yet to be revealed, so let's call it a success.
At the same time I returned, the barrier lightens up and we can be seen from the outside now.
The time for Buchou to roll the dice has come again.
Once again, the two [Kings] started to roll the die. The value rolled was… 6 by Buchou and 4 by Sairaorg-san! It's a total value of 10! This time it's a big value!
[Oooo! This time the total value is 10! Both sides will be able to send out combatants within the value of 10! Of course, it's a value where you can send several combatants!]
It's like what the broadcaster said. It's a number where you can send out a team.
I just went so I can't go out again since the rule forbids one from continuously being sent.
The magic circle gets covered in a barrier again, and it closes itself off from the outside world.
"Let's go with solid. Rossweisse. And for the support, Koneko. I will leave this to you two."
A double [Rook] formation, an interesting setup. [Rook] has a value of 5. It's a combination where she used the maximum value allowed.
"Understood."
"…Roger."
Both of them are full of spirit. Each excels in heavy ranged combat and heavy melee combat respectively, with Rossweiss-san being an expert magician and Koneko-chan being a Senjutsu user. A formidable double front lineup by standards.
We'll send them, but who will Sairaorg-san send?
Both Gremory servants are transported by the magic circle. The field which appeared on the vision this time is inside a dark shrine. There are giant pillars inside, an altar deep within can be seen. The ceiling is crumbled, and everyone can see outside through it. An indoor battle.
"This shrine… it's like the one Diodora Astaroth used.", said Akeno.
Following her, we twitched our eyes. Yes, such construct brings back bad memories, torments of Asia-san who was tricked by fake love.
Anyway, now, for their opponents….
A blonde-haired gentle-looking man equipped with light armor and a sword. Also, a giant man stands 3 meters tall.
[I'm one of the [Knights] of Sairaorg-sama, Liban Crocell. This big one here is the [Rook], Gandoma Balam. We two will be your opponents.]
[….]
A silent giant… The [Rook] Gandoma Balam has a good build. His arms are especially huge down to his fingers. His face is more like a monster than a human.
"Balam, a household with a trait of having superhuman strength."
"Yeah. Even on the video recording, Gandoma Balam's strength was tremendous."
Buchou and Akeno-san conversed with one another.
This [Rook] has his family's specialty combined with his trait as a servant. Definitely a man who mastered his key card.
[…Crocell, one of the former 72 pillars. The descendant of an extinct house.]
Koneko-chan mutters like that at the introduction of the opponent [Knight].
The broadcaster continues with the introductions.
[Yes! Combatant Sairaorg Bael's servant, combatant Liban Crocell, is a descendant of the now-extinct house of Crocell!]
I know that the extinct household reappears in another new way. Vali Lucifer is also a descendant of the old-Maou after all.
The current government is searching for the descendants of the extinct households which became extinct due to many reasons. There were households that sought to go to the human world, and the high-class devils that live in the human world have a duty to look after those descendants.
So like this, descendants still remain. But it also seems like there are many of them who have very complicated issues as well. So there should be a reason why a descendant from the house of Crocell is following Bael… Sairaorg-san.
[The second match starts now!]
The arbiter announces.
[…Since the opponent is formidable, I will be serious from the start.]
As Koneko-chan says that, she covers herself in Touki. At the same time, ears and tails appear, now there are two tails.
This is Koneko-chan's new technique. [Nekomata-mode level 2]. By using Senjutsu to cover her whole body in Touki, she can have explosive power for a temporary time. Her physical ability also increases, and she won't go berserk.
Koneko-chan leaps forward very fast, and she strikes at the giant's…at Balam's face!
DON!
A lively sound echoes… but it doesn't even bother Balam. It doesn't seem like he took any damage from the looks of it. Is it the testament of his trait? I did hear that he possesses unreal defense among modern Devils.
But there is no way that Koneko-chan will do an ordinary punch, so she must have sent ki into his body which she heightened using her Senjutsu. Even if it doesn't show any effect with a single hit, she should be able to destroy his insides if she keeps on hitting him.
[…Ngh!]
Balam swings his massive arm to the side. I can tell that it vibrated the air even though the vision. Koneko-chan dodges that immediately, and from behind her Rossweisse-san shoots out magical attacks at Balam's body!
Countless magic blasts of multiple attributes such as fire, lightning, ice, and wind, rained down simultaneously on the giant!
But…it doesn't seem like Balam has any visible damage.
[…His magical defense is also high. I don't know why, but I've been fighting opponents of this type lately!]
Rossweisse-san must be referring to Heracles whom she fought back in Kyoto. His defense was also insanely high.
ZUUUUUUN!
Then Rossweisse-san and her surroundings blurred. Is it just a bad camera vision? That's what I thought, but Rossweisse-san fell to her knees.
CRACK!
At the same time, the floor around Rossweisse-san starts to dent as if it's being pushed down by something!
There is some pressure pushing down on it? I see, it's that guy. In the video we watched, that guy had an ability like that! The [Knight] Crocell!
[You have too many openings, sister.]
Crocell says that while his eyes glow.
[…The ability of gravity…]
Rossweisse-san tries to activate a magic circle under her foot while under the gravity field.
[I won't let you! I will also freeze you!]
Crocell activates a magic circle in his hand, and ice was formed on Rossweisse-san's feet! The ice wraps around Rossweisse-san's legs!
[…If I remember correctly, you are a magic swordsman!]
Rossweisse-san smiles fearlessly at Crocell who is charging at her with his sword drawn.
[I'm a Crocell plus a mage, and a mix-blood who has human blood running through me! Add to that, I'm good at swordsmanship! And one more thing, the power of gravity is my Sacred Gear! [Gravity Jail]!]
"His Sacred Gear causes gravity changes to the place he looks! His ability will continue until he has you out of his sight! Be careful!"
Buchou says that to Rossweisse-san through the earphone. His ability is similar to Gasper-kun's ability. It's not like it stops time, but it's enough to stop the movement of his opponents.
Next to them, Koneko-chan was dodging Balam's attack swiftly, and she was giving him Senjutsu punches one by one.
[…I know. I've already been told about Crocell's Sacred Gear ability from Governor-Azazel. Also, an ability that uses sight has a weakness that is very easy to exploit!]
Even though she's under the gravity field's influence, Rossweisse-san activates a magic circle with her trembling hands!
FLASH! A flash lightens the surroundings.
[You are too naïve, sister! Mirror!]
A mirror appears from the magic circle which is in Crocell's hand, and he tries to block the light.
[Due to the characteristics of my ability, I have powers to cover those weaknesses. That's why I have summoned a mirror.]
Crocell smirks.
Rossweisse-san's attack was seen through…?
No, that isn't it! Rossweisse-san made the magic circle under her foot glow stronger! The flash which was reflected by the mirror… hits Balam! That instant, Rossweisse-san and Balam glowed, and the light envelops the surroundings. When the light stopped, the one under Crocell's gravity was Balam! Rossweisse-san was at Balam's location now instead!
"Terrific! A magic spell to swap each other's locations! Having the mirror reflect that magic was just a requirement for its activation! It's a swap done where she already read through the opponents' next step!"
I applauded to Rossweisse-san's genius counterattack! The opponent already had a countermeasure for when the enemy would try to blind his eyes from the beginning. So instead, she used that to her advantage!
[Koneko-san! Has your attack gone through!?]
[…Yes. I disrupted that huge man's aura and insides so his defense against magic won't be active now.]
[Roger that! Full-burst, eat this both of you!]
Rossweisse-san created many magic circles in front of her! This is Rossweisse-san's special…
DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!
Magical attacks with mixed attributes fall on Crocell and Balam! A full burst assault that can destroy the current battlefield!
The attack stops, and waste spreads around the surroundings. When that calms down, the one who was on the ground was… Crocell.
…Only Crocell? Where is Balam? It happened when I was thinking about that.
[…I've been telling you…since before that you have your guards down…remember? The moment you…think you defeated your enemy, that's when it creates an opening…]
Crocell who is in a critical situation has his eyes glow mysteriously.
Then Rossweiss-san and Koneko-chan's movements get stopped for a moment by the gravity.
And the one who appeared is Balam covered in wounds and blood!
[…Ngggggggh!]
BUUUUUUUUUUUN!
Along with the sound of the wind, a massive fist which seems like it's his last attack hits Koneko-chan.
…I closed my eyes when I saw that scene.
Crocell, Balam and Koneko-chan start becoming covered in the light for when you retire.
[Koneko-san…!]
Rossweisse-san takes hold of Koneko-chan. Koneko-chan has a battered body because of receiving a deadly strike from the giant.
[…I'm glad. If Rossweisse-san is still active, Gremory can still fight…]
Even though you can tell that she has serious injuries just by looking, Koneko-chan was smiling. Her smile seems like she is satisfied.
[…I'm sorry, Koneko-chan.]
[…Please don't apologize, Rossweisse-san. I'm glad… I was able to become useful…since we were able to defeat the two of them…]
Saying that, Koneko-chan, Crocell and Balam were covered in light for transportation.
Koneko-chan…
You did well…
Leave the rest to us.
I bit my lip and kept my anger and sadness inside me.
These feelings, this anger…
Were these what Vergil-san had to live with every day of his life? In his conquest for vengeance?
They must be… No, I'm sure that they are far greater, far more than the magnitude I am experiencing now. There's no way I can match up to him, not at this moment.
Still, not yet.
Don't release it yet…
This feeling, it's still too early to release it.
[Combatant Sairaorg Bael's [Knight] and [Rook], combatant Rias Gremory's [Rook] retire.]
The arbiter announces.
The second match. Even though we were able to dominate it… we finally had a casualty.
*Third match*
[With the second match finished, the Bael side had 3 members and the Gremory side had 1 member retire. Gremory is in the lead, but we don't know the outcome yet! The game has just begun!]
The broadcaster says.
"You sure are calm, Yuuto-senpai. You didn't let any emotion out even when Koneko-chan was defeated."
Gasper-kun says that to me.
"…I am frustrated, Gasper-kun, there's no denying that. But I have to keep my cool. Losing it now means making us become more predictable to our later opponents."
"B…But if Vergil-senpai was here, h-he might lose it."
…
Vergil-san…
Kuku, I see.
"Kukuku"
Hearing my junior's honest opinion, I make a small, gentle laugh.
"That is certainly a scary thought. But I agree with that opinion."
Yeah, Vergil-san might lose his cool if he sees this. Though I doubt that he'll lose it so quickly, although he might not be the calmest person in the world, he's still the calmest out of all of us, after all.
If he was here, he would keep it in, and release it all on the main course, later, in this case: Sairaorg-san.
And even now, I trying to imitate him…
…
No, now isn't the time to be drowning in memories and past speculations.
For the third match. I wonder what kind of number will appear.
Both [Kings] rolled the dice. –The total value is 8!
"8 huh. I will go then."
Xenovia took a step forward. Xenovia who is a [Knight] has a value of 3, so she can obviously participate.
"Yes, you are right. It's about time I should leave this to Xenovia."
Buchou also agreed to it. But there are still 5 values remaining. Buchou then looks at me and Rossweisse-san.
"It might be appropriate for Kiba or Rossweisse to go with Xenovia."
Yes, a turn has passed since my roll, I can go again. Me or Rossweisse-san tagging with Xenovia, either one is a good combination.
But… there is someone who has his hand up. It's Gasper-kun.
"…I…I will go. U… Ummm, it's almost the mid-game… so we won't know what will happen…and since Yuuto-senpai and Rossweisse-san are strong, I think we should reserve them for much later…"
Everyone opened their eyes wide at Gasper-kun's words… No one predicted that he would say such a thing himself.
Although I am somewhat dejected that I won't be going out again… Gasper-kun has a point. In addition, he's actually manned up even without Vergil-san to encourage him. His eyes are filled with determination.
Buchou then smiles.
"Then Gasper, will you support Xenovia? I want you to support Xenovia using your evil-eyes and vampire powers."
Having Buchou say that, Gasper-kun mutters.
"…I… I'm a boy, so I need to take revenge for Koneko-chan!"
He said that while his whole body was trembling.
"Yup, I'm depending on you, Gasper."
"Y-Yes, Xenovia-senpai!"
It was the birth of the tag team of Xenovia and Gasper-kun.
*After prep*
For the fourth match, the battlefield the two of them arrived in is a wasteland that has rough rocks around everywhere.
…It's a place where the footing is terrible. I will definitely in a disadvantage, no matter small or big in this terrain. Fortunately, Xenovia is more of a power-type despite being a [Knight], so terrain won't be much of a problem for her.
ZUUN!
The sound of the teleportation magic circle echoed… and their opponents appear in front of the two of them.
A tall lanky man and a bishounen carrying an eerie-looking demonic staff.
High probability of a [Rook] and [Bishop] lineup.
[From the Gremory team, it's the combatant Xenovia the [Knight] who wields the legendary Durandal, and the combatant Gasper the [Bishop] who is a girl born from a man who is popular amongst a certain group of people!]
"""Uoooooooooooo! Gya~~~~~kun~!"""
Just like the broadcaster said, there are male fans from a certain group of the crowd who gave their cheers to Gasper-kun. Hmm, so he's popular amongst those kinds of people huh. I sure can't take Gasper-kun lightly.
And it seems like there are more women fans than guys for Xenovia. Maybe female [Knights] tend to gather more support from the women.
[From the Bael-team it is… Oh my! This is very astonishing since both of them are descendants of extinct households! Combatant Ludora Bune the [Rook] and combatant Misteeta Sabnock the [Bishop]. Both of them are descended from now-extinct households of the former 72 pillars! Governor-Azazel, it seems like there are several of those who come from extinct households on the Bael-team…]
Sensei answers after being asked by the broadcaster.
[If they have potential, he will take in anyone from any background. That's the way Sairaorg Bael thinks. It means that the descendants of the extinct households responded to that call. Even though the descendants of the extinct households are under the protection of the current government, the reality is that they are being despised by a group of higher-ups. There are many among the devils who value the importance of pure blood so much, that they want to make those who survived by mixing blood with different races as if they never existed from the beginning.]
Sensei made a serious comment like that. Even the broadcaster looked troubled by Sensei's words.
[Hahahaha, that is definitely true.]
Though Emperor Belial was laughing.
Then the tall lanky man speaks.
[That is correct. Our master Sairaorg-sama welcomed our clans who survived by means of breeding with humans.]
[Sairaorg-sama's dream is our dream.]
The boy also has a strong belief.
Both servants from the Bael side have their eyes burning with a sense of purpose.
[The fourth battle starts now!]
The arbiter gives the signal for the start of the match. Then both sides take stances immediately and start their attacks.
"Gasper, transform into a bat! Xenovia, you attack after that!"
Buchou gives an order from the base.
Gasper-kun transforms into several bats which spread throughout the field, and Xenovia released many pulses created from Durandal towards the enemy [Rook] and [Bishop]!
The sharp waves from the holy-sword fly ahead while gouging deeply through the rocks!
Both of them dodge the attack, and the [Bishop] Sabnock releases a hot fire created from Demonic powers! If I remember, that [Bishop] also specializes in Demonic powers.
[I won't let you!]
The bats which are flying around the field have their eyes glowing red, and it freezes the fire! The frozen fires remain up in the air! And Xenovia creates a wave from her holy-sword which wipes the enemy's attack away! Good combination!
[Ladora! I received an order from Sairaorg-sama! We will take down the swordswoman first! I will prepare for it!]
[Roger!]
Receiving Sairaorg-san's order, the [Bishop] took a step back, and has aura running through his body! An ominous aura is rising from him…! It's an ominous aura which gives me the chills.
And the [Rook] steps in front of the [Bishop] as if protecting him, and he took off his clothes.
BON! DON!
…The [Rook]'s tall lanky body suddenly buffed, and it becomes an abnormal shape. Build up? No, it isn't! The tall lanky body gets even more buffed, and now a tail and wings have started to grow from his back! His mouth is covered with fangs, and his nails get sharper!
The Bael [Rook] is getting bigger!
GYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAON!
A giant black creature makes a howl…. A dragon appears in front of Xenovia and Gasper-kun!
That tall lanky [Rook] turned into a dragon!
"…Even though Bune is a devil, it's a clan which rules dragons… But only a small group of people in their clan can transform… And he happens to be one of them…!"
Buchou puts on a bitter expression.
The 26th Pillar! The house of Bune! They were famous for their power over dragons, and some of their family members are capable of dragonification, through the compatibility with the dragon blood they regularly consumed!
To think that someone like that would be recruited by Sairaorg-san!
[There wasn't any information about him transforming into a dragon! That Sairaorg…, he trained that servant and made him awaken it!]
Sensei made a comment like that. So he trained until he was able to transform!
Then the battle between the dragon and Xenovia began!
Xenovia used both the wave and direct attacks with her Holy Sword on the dragon, but because of its hard defense she can't give a decisive blow.
The Durandal cannon might be able to cause it damage, but that needs quite some time for charging.
[Gasper! I will take that down! Buy me some time!]
Xenovia asks for support from Gasper-kun. So she's planning to use it!
Xenovia stepped back, and Gasper-kun's bats surround the dragon.
[Aye! Aye!]
Gasper-kun covered around the dragon and tried to make it get away from Xenovia.
"Buchou, will Gasper power up if he drinks that dragon's blood?"
That's my opinion. We have him carry a pack of Vergil-san's blood just in case, but he might be able to power up by biting it since he is already covering around him. It will save the pack of blood, since… it's the last one we got before his death…
Buchou shook her head.
"We don't know what the blood of Bune will do to Gasper. He might get something better than we expected, but it's also possible for the opposite to happen. Having him drink Vergil's blood that we gave him will be safer and more accurate."
Well, that's true. If he gets a stomach ache by drinking that dragon's blood, he won't be able to participate in the match.
The dragon which is finding the attacks of the bats bothersome breathes out a huge ball of fire, but Gasper-kun dodges it magnificently.
Xenovia raised her Ex-Durandal up high. It happened when she was about to charge it.
The opponent [Bishop] shouts.
[This is it! Holy-sword! Seal your power!]
That moment, the [Bishop]'s staff gave a mysterious glow, and it captured Xenovia.
Xenovia gets surrounded by the eerie light. Then ominous-looking marks appear on her body.
Xenovia's hand trembles. She drops her Ex-Durandal.
[…What is this… Durandal isn't responding…!]
What!?
I became speechless at the phenomenon that occurred to Xenovia's body. So the holy-sword isn't responding to her! Xenovia is a natural-born holy-sword wielder. That factor…disappeared?
Bael's [Bishop] then says it with a tired expression.
[…I also carry human blood within me. -Sacred Gear [Trick Vanish]. It's a cursed ability that I recently became able to use…]
Sacred Gear! And he became able to use it recently! That's why even though we watched that video, I am seeing this for the first time! Is that also the result of their training?
[Trick Vanish, it's a Sacred Gear that can completely seal the ability of a specific person temporarily by consuming a large amount of the possessor's stamina and mind. –It seems like the Bael [Bishop] sealed the ability of combatant Xenovia to wield the holy-sword temporarily in exchange for his power.]
Sensei says that! Like I thought! He took away Xenovia's ability to wield the Holy Sword! As a payment, the opponent consumed his stamina and such, and now he looks tired!
[…Ku!]
Xenovia is carrying Durandal as if she finds it heavy. So it isn't working at all…
[…I actually tried to give damage to her from the after-shock created by sealing the holy Sword… It seems like her talent as a holy-sword wielder is denser than I thought…]
The opponent [Bishop] smirks while being wobbly. So Xenovia isn't able to use Durandal, but she didn't receive the damage from the aftershock of sealing her ability.
GOOOOOON!
Then the dragon came to attack without any mercy! Xenovia couldn't do anything, but many bats wrap around Xenovia!
DOOOON!
The dragon stomps on the ground where she was, but there is no one under it.
Xenovia who was covered by the bats get moved behind the rocks! So Gasper-kun evacuated her! Nice support!
[…I'm sorry Gasper. But looks like I will be useless now.]
Xenovia says that apologetically.
[N-no, you are wrong! Xenovia-senpai will be more useful to Buchou than me!]
Gasper-kun encourages Xenovia, and he removes a small bottle and chalks from his pochette.
[I…I know a couple of ways to remove curses like this!]
He activates a small magic circle in his palm and places it on Xenovia's body. It seems like he is checking the curse on Xenovia through the magic circle.
[I won't let you get away! Where are you!]
The dragon is looking for Xenovia and Gasper-kun in the rocky area while making the earth rumble… It's only a matter of time until they are found!
"Gasper, does it look like Xenovia's curse can be removed?"
Buchou asks.
[…Yes, it seems like I can manage it with my own way of uncursing it with the items I currently have.]
After Gasper-kun says that, he uses the chalk to draw a magic circle with Xenovia in the center.
He draws an unfamiliar symbol and he holds the small plastic pack in his hand at the end.
…
It's the pack with Vergil-san blood in it…
That is an item that increases Gasper-kun's power…
[By mixing Vergil-senpai's blood with the magic circle I just drew, I think I can uncurse it. But it seems like it will take some time for it to be removed…]
He says that to Xenovia… So he's going to use Vergil-san's blood…?
[W-Wait Gasper. If you use that blood, you will…]
To the confused-looking Xenovia, Gasper-kun showed a big smile.
[Xenovia-senpai, I found out what my duty is.]
[Gasper…?]
Xenovia questions him. Gasper-kun who has completed the magic circle leaps out from the rocks.
[I…I will buy time! Once the curse is removed, please continue to charge the Durandal!]
-!
Is he trying to charge ahead by himself without his power-up!?
"It's reckless! Gasper! Hide!"
Buchou shouts, but Gasper-kun runs forward with a determined expression.
[No! I…I have to buy some time! For Buchou to win, Xenovia-senpai is needed!]
Buchou shouts again.
"I'm telling you run away immediately!"
The dragon and Bael's [Bishop] come in front of Gasper-kun.
[I've found you, vampire. So you hid that swordswoman I see. But she's somewhere nearby, right? She will appear if I spread my flames around here.]
Having the dragon approaching him, Gasper-kun's body is trembling. But he shows no signs of running away, and he made a stance to shoot demonic-power by putting his hand forward.
[I… I won't let you go berserk!]
Is he trying to charge forward in order to protect Xenovia!?
[Coming ahead by yourself, huh. I respect that courage of yours. Though you are shaking, you can't stand in front of a dragon without any courage.]
The dragon who gave his respect to Gasper-kun… by breathing out a flame from his mouth!
GOBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!
Gasper-kun tries to defend it by using a defense magic circle! Run! It's reckless! But he continues to act as a shield for Xenovia so he can buy some time!
[Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!]
Gasper-kun screams. Having the defense magic circle destroyed, he gets pushed back by the flames. Even though he gets burned by the flames, Gasper-kun stands up weakly.
[…Not yet. I can still continue!]
[Gasper! Don't overdo it!]
Xenovia's voice.
[The swordswoman's voice? She's nearby? That swordswoman, where is she?]
Hearing Xenovia's voice, the dragon looks around!
[Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!]
Gasper-kun spreads his devil wings, and he grabs onto the dragon's arm.
[-! Let go! Unlike you whom I can beat anytime, I have to take down the Durandal wielder immediately! That curse is temporary after all!]
He gets caught by the dragon's other hand, and he gets crushed very strongly by it! A disturbing sound echoes through the field!
[Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!]
Gasper-kun screams in agony.
Buchou looks away from that scene.
"…Please stop!"
Asia-san covers her face and screams.
The dragon throws down the crushed Gasper-kun.
The latter is still trying to stand despite having intense pain to the point where he can barely breathe now! Even in that situation… he is going towards the dragon.
[…It hurts…It hurts… But… I'm a boy from the Gremory group… Please hold on Xenovia-senpai…]
Xenovia doesn't respond to Gasper-kun's call. She should have heard his shout.
On the vision, Xenovia killed her presence and her voice probably because she understood her junior's determination. Her eyes are covered with her tears.
[You are in the way!]
Gasper-kun gets kicked around by the dragon. Even so he doesn't give up.
[…Lesson 1…a true man has to protect what… and those… who are important…!]
He somehow lifts his body which is trembling due to the shock and pain…and Gasper-kun stood up.
That lesson… was what Vergil-san taught us as the men of the Gremory.
[…Lesson 2… a man has to stand up… no matter what…!]
He tries to activate another magic circle on his hand, but…
BANG!
Bael's [Bishop] carrying a staff came while being wobbly and used his staff to hit Gasper-kun from the side.
[Give up, you won't be able to beat us.]
Heartless words. Even a strike from the wobbling guy would be like a deadly attack to the current Gasper-kun.
Even after hearing that, he grabbed onto the rocks, and he tried to stand up again.
[…Lesson… number… 3…]
Gasper-kun faces forward with his swelled-up face and he mutters to himself.
[…Don't give up…no matter what… I have to protect… Xenovia-senpai…]
STOMP!
A heartless attack. The dragon stomps Gasper-kun without any mercy….
The dragon removes his foot. Gasper-kun was already battered and squashed. He is no longer in a state where he can fight. He will be retiring soon.
-!
I trembled at the scene I am witnessing.
…That's because Gasper who is in a critical situation moved his body a bit. And he tries to move from that spot.
[…I am from the Gremory… I have to…make Buchou…win…]
In his struggles, he pulls out an object that is too impactful for us to ignores
A black-colored, edgy, demonic mask.
It's Vergil-san's anti-magic mask… he gave it to Gasper-kun when he encouraged our little Kouhai to have more courage in himself.
Gasper-kun then puts it on his face. The moment he puts it on…
ZUUN…
Magic in the air suddenly drawn towards him, his wounds healed a bit… and he slowly stands up!
Seeing, and knowing that, a tear dropped down from my cheek.
Along with my tears, I bit my lip so hard that blood is dripping from it.
[Gasssssssssssper!]
Xenovia's scream echoes throughout the battlefield because she felt the shock on the earth of Gasper-kun being stomped.
Vergil-senpai, Yuuto-senpai. Will I also be able to become useful for everyone?
Idiot…! You idiot! Idiot!
You are following through… what we told you very stubbornly….! There is no one who will call you useless after seeing you right now…!
You… you are…! You are a fine man from the Gremory group…!
"…"
Buchou faces away from the vision.
I told Buchou, while not holding back my tears…
"…Buchou, I ask you. Please look while not facing backward. He's fighting that hard for you while preparing for death… Right now, he is fighting harder than everyone when he was just a hikikomori and a scaredy-cat before…! So please watch over him…!"
Buchou was about to shed her tears at my argument, but she holds it in and looks forward.
"I understand. I'm sorry Yuuto, Gasper…"
Buchou acts strong. Asia-san and Akeno-san are crying. Rossweisse-san also has some tears in her eyes.
[You can still move, huh. That strong will towards victory. It really shocks me. Attacking any more than this will be cruel. Very well, I will make you better with this last attack.]
When the dragon was about to breathe out flames…
[-I won't let you.]
Xenovia shows herself while emitting an enormous aura. The holy aura running through Durandal. It's so strong that it gives me chills.
And the cursed marks on her body are gone. It seems like the removal of the curse was a success!
Xenovia approached Gasper-kun, and she held her junior who had already lost consciousness.
[-You did well Gasper. You are a man. -I'm sorry because I was worthless, I made you go through this…]
Xenovia apologizes to Gasper-kun while shedding tears.
[So the curse was removed!]
The Bael's [Bishop] points his staff at Xenovia. The dragon also has his wings spread.
Xenovia got up quietly and mutters.
[…I was lacking it.]
She slides the Ex-Durandal from the sheath and changed it to the attack form.
[I lacked determination, unlike Vergil who thinks ahead and won't hesitate. I was caught by an attack like that. I lacked resolution, unlike Gasper, for placing my life on the line, for my master… Buchou and my comrades. This guy was standing here with a stronger resolution than me! I'm ashamed of myself…! I just can't forgive myself…!]
Xenovia's words also pain me. Yeah, we should have more determination but we are still lacking it.
-And Gasper-kun told us that by using his body.
[Then, what should I do? How can I give my answer to this guy?]
Xenovia wipes her tears while saying curse-like words.
[Yeah. This is the only thing I can do. I'm sorry Gasper. –At least let me defeat these guys for you! I think that's my answer to you!]
GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!
The pillar of holy light goes high up the sky. That's the enormous aura created from the Ex-Durandal. Even a high-class devil won't be able to endure if they get hit by it.
[I won't let you! This time I will sacrifice my life to seal that swordswoman's ability!]
The Bael's [Bishop] makes a stance with his staff and he tried to activate his Sacred Gear… but his body froze along with his consciousness.
The dragon looks at Gasper-kun! Even though he is surrounded by the light for retiring, he has his eyes glow red despite losing his consciousness! Even more, the mask is glowing black and purple, resonating with him, giving him strength!
I see… so you're really helping him…
You're helping our adorable Kouhai, Vergil-san…
Even just for a few seconds…
Gasper stopped the opponent [Bishop]!
[The evil eyes that freeze time! Impossible!]
The dragon shouts. Xenovia swings Durandal up high!
[You guys lost to Gasper!]
Xenovia who said that swings Ex-Durandal towards the dragon and the [Bishop]….
ZABAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!
A huge amount of holy aura devours both the opponents…..
[Combatants Sairaorg Bael's [Rook] and [Bishop], and combatant Rias Gremory's [Bishop] retire.]
The arbiter announces the end of the fourth match.
We have lost our two juniors by the end of the fourth match. The two juniors we had to protect fought harder than us.
Koneko-chan, Gasper-kun.
You did well, my juniors. I promise you both. We will definitely win!
Definitely! We will definitely bring victory for Buchou! That's why I want you to rest.
Look forward to our victory, for we will definitely repay this debt… a thousandfold!