High School DxD: Inheritor of Malevolence

by dvdryms

There exist infinite universes, infinite possibilities. In one of them, an almost normal first-year high school student will discover that the world around him is far more than it seems following a certain encounter. But where will his path lead him when the forbidden power sleeping within him awakens?

6. Escalation

Chapter 6 – Escalation

"How many does this make with that? Give me a break already…"

Takeshi muttered with a fed-up expression as he crumpled the piece of paper he was holding into a ball and tossed it into the classroom's garbage bin with a dexterous throw.

"What's the matter, Ryuugamine? Your expression is looking nastier than usual."

Issei commented with a smirk as he entered Class 1-C, flanked by his buddies Matsuda and Motohama. Upon taking note of the several papers scattered all over Takeshi's desk, Motohama picked one and started reading it with a curious expression.

"This is…a request from a student to introduce him to the female members of the Occult Research Club?" Motohama said with an incredulous expression on his face. "Seriously? Don't tell me all these papers are the same?"

"They sure are." Takeshi said while crumpling another piece of paper and throwing it into the bin. "Somehow, someone had the bright idea of using me as a middleman, or rather as a matchmaker between them and the Occult Research Club's girls, hence the overflow of these introduction letter-like papers scattered on my desk. I mean, why me?"

"Well, it makes sense if the senders are fellow unpopular guys." Matsuda remarked. "No way they're going to ask the girls directly, and no-one wants to owe a favor to a handsome bastard like Kiba. That leaves you, the new member, as the only logical choice, Ryuugamine. But since you are…like you are, they can only make their request like this. Not that it seems to be working out that well for them."

"Damn straight." Takeshi said as he tossed another paper into the garbage bin. "Like Hell I'm going to bother with people who don't have the guts to speak to me face-to-face. Though I'm a bit impressed at how fast they managed to place them on my desk when I wasn't here."

"So, if we were to ask you face-to-face to put in a good word for us…"

"Sorry, still not happening, Hyoudou." Takeshi crossed his arms in an X. "If you want something to happen, then you have to work for it yourself. Plus, I'm not that close to the girl members to offer them any sort of romantic advice or suggest potential boyfriends to them."

"Worth a shot." Issei shrugged. "In that case, we'll let as many students as we can know that you don't take such requests and that they shouldn't waste their time for nothing. Maybe they'll stop pestering you after that."

"Thanks, that would be a big help." Takeshi said as he stood up. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have club activities."

"Even though you said all these things about not being close to the girls, you're still one hell of a lucky bastard, Ryuugamine." Motohama said. "You get to spend time with the school's Two Great Ladies, and to top it all off, you get to experience Koneko-chan's cuteness on a daily basis. That's quite the privilege, you know? Many students would kill to be in your shoes."

"Lucky, am I…?"

Takeshi snorted as he left the Perverted Trio behind. Compared to the average individual, his luck could be considered pretty abysmal as far as he was concerned. After all, not everyone had the 'privilege' of hosting some of the most dangerous monsters that had ever walked the Earth in their body.

Stupid hormonal teenagers and their insignificant love troubles. Takeshi grumbled in his thoughts. They have it so easy, and they don't even appreciate it. Perhaps if I turn this school, no, this whole town into a smoldering ruin and hang their half-dead bodies around it, they might—

Takeshi froze on the spot upon realizing his thoughts were heading towards a very dark place, something that had been happening frequently as of late. Although he hadn't paid much attention to it at first, the extremity of his most recent thought made him suspicious. If those musings somehow weren't his, if some external factor was influencing him, then the only logical conclusion was…

It's you, isn't it? Takeshi directed his thoughts to one of the entities dwelling within his Sacred Gear. Nidhogg.

[Hm, I was found out.] The voice and subsequent malicious laughter of the Evil Dragon resounded in Takeshi's head. [Too bad. I was hoping I would be able to play around with you a bit more, whelp.]

Unfortunately for you, I'm not in the mood for mind games, corpse-breath. Takeshi thought. Did you really think I wouldn't notice this eventually?

[Certainly, I figured you would sense my presence at some point.] Nidhogg said. [But here's the catch; how many of these thoughts were implanted by me, and how many were actually your own? None of them? Some of them? Or perhaps all of them?]

Nice try, but I'm not that gullible. Takeshi thought while snorting. I know all these violent outbursts and thoughts were your doing, you overgrown lizard.

[Don't be so sure, whelp.] Nidhogg chuckled. [As I've come to realize over the years while observing your kind, humans tend to bottle up their most vile and feral instincts deep into their subconscious. Truly a waste if you ask me. That is why I've learned to give them a little…stimulation over the ages.]

So, you claim that you're dragging out my suppressed thoughts or something? Takeshi asked. Nice bluff, but I'm calling it.

[That's what several of your predecessors who had the misfortune to awaken me first said.] Nidhogg said. [Want to take a guess what happened to them? I'll give you a little spoiler; none of their stories had a very pleasant end.]

You don't scare me.

[Now that's a definite lie if I've ever heard one.] Nidhogg laughed. [Even though I cannot read all your thoughts, the fear that's gnawing at you in the recesses of your mind, it's as clear as day to me. I'm looking forward to see whether you'll succumb to it or to your suppressed urges first, so make sure to give me an entertaining performance like the good toy you are.]

Nidhogg fell silent after this. As for Takeshi—

"Damn that overgrown snake…!"

Smashing a large rock underneath his foot with a frustrated expression on his face, Takeshi cursed the Evil Dragon. Although he didn't want to admit it even to himself, Nidhogg's words about bringing out his repressed violent thoughts had rattled him. The Evil Dragon could certainly not be trusted, but as long as the possibility he was telling the truth wasn't zero, he couldn't relax. If he somehow went on a rampage and harmed his parents or the members of the club or some innocent bystanders…

"No, no, this won't do…" Takeshi took a deep breath, slapping his cheeks. "Getting all worked up is exactly what that slimy snake wants. I bet he's laughing his rotten scales off from inside the Sacred Gear. Well, there's no way in Hell I'm losing to you, Nidhogg. I'm not going to give you the satisfaction of seeing me getting all worked up and paranoid."

Nodding to himself, Takeshi started making his way to the Occult Research Club once more, although his steps felt heavier now and his mood darker.

"But man, the sun is especially annoying today…"

Takeshi grimaced as the rays of the midday sun stung his skin. Due to his Devil physiology, his body had become very sensitive to light, with his strength also being somewhat sapped during the day as well. Although Rias had stated that this was a temporary state and that his body would acclimate to it soon, it didn't make it any less irritating, especially in his current condition.

After arriving at the old school building and stepping inside the ORC clubroom, Takeshi was surprised to see two unexpected, but familiar faces being present along with the rest of the club's members. The first one was the Student Council President, Sona Sitri. The other person was a bespectacled girl with long black hair that extended almost to her knees and heterochromatic eyes, with the left eye being violet and the right light brown.

"Student Council President…and the Vice President?" Takeshi raised an eyebrow before turning to Rias. "You called them here, President?"

"That's right." Rias nodded. "I figured Sona and Tsubaki should listen to your account first-hand before we decide our next course of action."

"It's a pleasure to meet you in person, Ryuugamine-kun." Sona said as she stood up, making a small bow. "Though I go by Shitori Souna while attending this academy, my true name is Sona Sitri, a Pure-blooded Devil and heiress of the Sitri clan. This is my Queen, Shinra Tsubaki."

"Nice to meet you."

Tsubaki made a small bow as well. As for Takeshi, he had an incredulous expression on his face.

"Wait… you don't remember me?"

"Remember…you?" Sona frowned. "I'm sorry, have we met before?"

"Figures you wouldn't…" Takeshi hissed. "I probably failed to even make an impression in the reigning and undefeated champion of Kuoh's local chess tournaments… Still though, we've faced each other three times so far! You don't even have a small recollection!?"

"Now that you mention it…I seem to recall a contestant who seemed particularly frustrated every time he lost to me." Sona rubbed her chin. "Oh, are you perhaps the fellow I faced in the finals a couple of months ago? The one who was rumored to have thrown a temper tantrum and was screeching like a cat being strangled in the men's bathroom afterwards?"

"That's not really what I wanted you to remember!" Takeshi exclaimed as the members of the ORC snickered, prompting him to shoot them a nasty look. "What are you guys laughing about!?"

"Ara, ara, no wonder you said you don't like the Student Council President." Akeno giggled. "You're a bit of a sore loser, aren't you, Ryuugamine-kun?"

"Hey, I'll have you know it's not fun to be a few steps away from victory, only to be thoroughly and mercilessly crushed." Takeshi huffed. "The fact that she has me beat even in academic performance makes this even worse!"

Takeshi seethed as he spoke. For him, Sona Sitri was something akin to an archnemesis, or more accurately, a tall wall impossible to scale so far.

[Are you jealous of her? Then just annihilate her.]

Shut up, Nidhogg.

"As interesting as all that is, we should get back to the matter at hand." Sona said. "Ryuugamine-kun, could you describe once again what happened two nights ago?"

"There's not that much to say really." Takeshi said. "I was out in the woods surrounding Kuoh for a request when I sensed a disturbance. Once I got to its source, I stumbled upon two groups of Youkai fighting. One side was comprised of Oni serving Izanami, and the other supposedly belongs to some Kanto Youkai Faction or whatever. I helped the former drive off the Oni, they tried to attack me for being the Evil Dragon User and not coming to their aid sooner, I talked them out of it, and they took their leave without explaining anything, but assured me the Oni would likely trouble us no further. That's the gist of it."

"I see." Sona said while straightening her glasses. "Thank you, Ryuugamine-kun. I understand the situation now."

"What's your opinion, Sona?" Rias asked. "Do you think this is linked to the Stray Devil incident from a few weeks back?"

"From the information we have so far, I find it very unlikely." Sona said. "It's not completely out of the realm of possibility, but I can't see a connection for now. Therefore, we should treat it as an internal Youkai issue that's in no way connected to us."

"If the East Youkai Faction is involved, I doubt we'll learn anything more about this." Tsubaki added from the side. "The Youkai under Nurarihyon are especially secretive and reclusive after all. Still, I would advise that we don't let our guard down until we're sure they're out of our territories. There's still a chance their clash could involve this town."

"Agreed." Rias said. "Better safe than sorry."

"Tsubaki-san, do you have any thoughts or insight about this situation?" Akeno asked. "You'd been a part of the Five Principal Clans, who often deal with Youkai, for some time after all. Longer than me in any case."

"Nothing but educated guesses I'm afraid." Tsubaki shook her head in denial. "Oni love causing trouble and disasters, but to work in such a large group… Perhaps they attempted a coup that failed, and these are the survivors?"

"Question." Takeshi raised his hand. "If Oni are villainous figures, why were there Oni on the 'good guys' side as well?"

"Long ago, a tribe of Oni who were dissatisfied with their way of life spilt off from the main group and escaped from Yomi, dedicating their services to the Shinto Gods." Tsubaki explained. "They and their descendants have been dubbed Guardian Oni, tasked with protecting important locations and individuals. Their presence is one of the reasons why Oni are sometimes considered protectors that ward off bad luck in certain areas of Japan."

"I'm surprised the Shinto Gods and the other Youkai trusted them." Takeshi said. "I would have been leery of them."

"I'm sure those Oni had to undergo rigorous trials to prove their sincerity." Tsubaki said. "They wouldn't have been accepted otherwise."

"In any case, the plan is simple." Rias said. "We should move together as much as possible and keep our eyes open for any sign of suspicious activity until we're certain that those Youkai have left the Kuoh area behind."

While Rias was talking, Takeshi noticed Koneko sitting in the corner with a troubled expression on her face.

"Is something the matter, Koneko-chan?" Takeshi leaned and whispered to her. "You're not looking too well there."

"…It's nothing." Koneko whispered back. "I'm fine."

Takeshi wasn't so sure about that, but this wasn't the time or place to press the matter.

"I'll inform my Peerage about all this, and I'll contact you later so we can coordinate our watches." Sona said with a sigh as she stood up. "Honestly, it's like some sort of malignant karma is haunting us, what with all these issues we've been dealing with lately…"

Sona glanced at Takeshi, prompting the latter to scowl.

"Don't give me that look, Student President." Takeshi said. "I'll have you know that I have absolutely nothing to do with this."

[Oh, I wouldn't be so sure.] Nidhogg said while snickering. [By their nature, Dragons attract both allies and adversaries to them. But us Evil Dragons are especially adept at attracting disasters and conflict. That means this whole issue could very well be your fault on some level, whelp.]

Seriously, shut the Hell up, you overgrown lizard.

Once Sona and Tsubaki had left, Rias turned to her Peerage members.

"Yuuto, Koneko, Akeno, I will have my familiar scout the town's perimeter, so please send out your familiars as well to join it." Rias said. "I'll be monitoring their progress from here, so I'd like the rest of you to move in groups of two for the time being."

[Right!]

Everyone nodded together. Then, Yuuto, Koneko and Akeno conjured magic circles, out of which emerged a small bird, a white kitten and a palm-sized Oni. At the same time, a crimson-colored bat appeared next to Rias's shoulder.

"These are familiars, eh…?"

"That's right, this must be the first time you've seen them in person, Takeshi." Rias remarked as the familiars jumped inside the large magic circle and vanished. "A familiar is something basic for Devils, and can be used for information-gathering purposes like we are doing now. Of course, their main function is to act as helpers for our Devils' job by handing out the leaflets in our stead."

"I see." Takeshi nodded. "When am I going to get one as well?"

"In the earliest available opportunity, which will take several weeks at least though." Rias said. "The person responsible for setting us Devils with suitable familiars accepts Peerages only during specific dates, and we missed the most recent one due to the higher-ups' deliberations about your fate."

"That's a shame." Takeshi said. "It would have been nice to have a cool familiar. Like an oversized bat. Or a large stingray that I can ride on. Oh, oh, an armored bull wouldn't be too shabby either. The possibilities are endless…"

"…That crazy shine is showing up in Senpai's eyes again." Koneko remarked with narrowed eyes. "Try to stay with us, Chuuni Evil Dragon-senpai."

"Aw, but he's so cute when he's acting all excited." Akeno giggled. "Makes me want to spoil him a bit, ufufu."

"Then, I'll be heading out first." Yuuto said as he moved towards the door. "While the sun is still up, I'd like to scout the redevelopment area and the former hideouts of the Stray Devils for any signs of hostile parties. You know, just to be on the safe side."

"I'll join you as well, Yuuto-kun." Akeno said. "If the Oni have passed through these areas recently, I should be able to pick up their lingering aura signatures."

"That means you and I will be moving together, Koneko-chan." Takeshi said as a small smile appeared on his face. "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

"…It depends. Are you thinking that today is the day of reckoning for you?"

Koneko's fighting spirit was evident as she stared at Takeshi, prompting the latter's smile to become wider.

"Oh, it's definitely on."

---

Later on…

"Seriously? There's a client who asks you all the time to give him a princess carry? Where the Hell has his dignity as a man gone?"

"…Who knows? Morisawa-san enjoys it and the pay is good. That's all that matters."

"I guess so…oops, two enemies are coming from your right!"

"…I see them."

Such a conversation was taking place inside the game center Takeshi and Koneko frequented the past couple of weeks. After competing against each other in several games so far, the two of them were now playing together, holding gun-shaped controllers and shooting the numerous zombies that filled the screen before them. Despite playing for quite some time, the two of them hadn't received a single 'Game Over' so far, a testament to their skill.

"…What about you, Senpai?" Koneko asked as she brought down three more zombies with successive headshots. "Any strange clients? Any difficulties on the job?"

"No, it's been smooth sailing so far, something that I'm grateful for." Takeshi said as he raked up more kills by rapid firing his gun. "But progress is so slow. It's going to take forever for me to raise my rank like that."

"…It can't be helped." Koneko said. "For us Low-class Devils, receiving a promotion is very difficult. Barely twenty people each time receive a recommendation for the promotion exam."

"Only twenty?" Takeshi grimaced. "Makes sense though. Those High-class Devils wouldn't want many Reincarnated Devils to reach their level. Maintain the status quo and all that. When do promotion exams take place?"

"…Usually once every ten years, unless the higher-ups decide to push the date back or forward for some reason." Koneko said. "The next one should be taking place sometime within this year."

"That doesn't matter much unless we somehow deal with several world-ending events in rapid succession and rake up achievements." Takeshi grinned as he barely took down a zombie that had approached too close for comfort. "Since I don't see that happening, I guess putting on a good show in future Rating Games is the only reliable way after all…"

The duo was eventually overwhelmed by the zombie horde, receiving a 'Game Over'. After getting two cans of melon soda from a vending machine and sitting down on a nearby bench, Takeshi turned to Koneko and spoke.

"This might be sudden, but I'm still concerned about your attitude when the President and Student Council President were discussing about the Youkai. Are you afraid of them? Perhaps you have some sort of grudge towards them or something?"

"…Why do you care?"

Koneko asked Takeshi with a guarded expression.

"Aside from needing to know if you're going to fly into a rage or freeze mid-battle should we encounter them?" Takeshi said. "We're friends, aren't we? If you're concerned about something, then I'd like to help you. That's what friends do…or at least I think that's the case? Maybe I'm being too overbearing right now?"

Takeshi frowned during his last sentence, with a small smile appearing on Koneko's face as she spoke.

"…That bluntness is somewhat refreshing, clumsy Senpai."

"Hey, don't make fun of me." Takeshi crossed his arms while huffing. "I'm seriously trying my best to help here."

"…I can tell." Koneko said, and then her expression became serious. "Senpai…do you know what Senjutsu is?"

"The term sounds familiar…" Takeshi said. "Is this a power exclusive to Youkai?"

"…For the most part." Koneko said. "Senjutsu is similar, yet different to the demonic power of Devils and the holy power of Angels. It can't match them in destructive power, but its applications are more varied."

"Varied how?"

"…Senjutsu enables one to manipulate ki, the flow of life energy in living beings." Koneko said. "A skilled practitioner can reinforce their bodies, sense one's energy flow to accurately grasp their position or cause grave interior damage to an enemy's body by damaging their internal organs or their spirit directly."

"That last one sounds pretty ominous…but also really useful as well." Takeshi said. "Is it possible for non-Youkai to learn Senjutsu?"

"…Perhaps some aspects of it." Koneko said. "But don't try it, Senpai. Senjutsu is far more dangerous than you think."

"Dangerous?" Takeshi asked. "Dangerous how?"

"…When using Senjutsu, one must open themselves and harmonize with the energy flow of their surroundings to manipulate ki." Koneko began explaining. "Doing so leaves them susceptible to the malice of mankind and nature's inherent savagery mixed in the life energy flow. An unprepared practitioner…or one who recklessly pursues power…can be overwhelmed and be driven into madness."

"That's one hell of a downside." Takeshi remarked while frowning. "Koneko-chan…did you perhaps witness something like that firsthand? Is that why you seem so leery about Youkai?"

"…You could say that." Koneko said with a dark expression. "But please…don't ask me more than that. This issue…isn't something I feel ready to share with you just yet."

"I understand." Takeshi put his hand on Koneko's shoulder. "Just remember, if you want to talk about it, I'll be here anytime."

"…Thank you, Senpai."

Koneko placed her hand on Takeshi's own with a gentle expression on her face. After several seconds had passed, she stood up.

"…What do you say, Senpai? Ready for round two?"

Takeshi grinned at Koneko's words.

"You took the words right out of my mouth."

The two of them continued playing against each other in several games. Once the sun had set, they left the arcade, Takeshi with a satisfied expression on his face, and Koneko with a displeased one.

"Ah, that was a nice showdown." Takeshi grinned as he made a V-sign. "Shame for you though, Koneko-chan. This makes it what? Twenty-five to sixteen?"

"…Just you wait, Senpai." Koneko made a fist. "I'll get you one of these days and take the lead."

"Someone's fired up." Takeshi said with a grin. "In that case, the gaming tournament that'll take place in a couple of weeks is the perfect opportunity. The perfect opportunity for me to further widen the gap between us, that is."

"…Not a chance." Koneko said. "You're going down."

"Challenged accepted." Takeshi smirked. "You'd better not run away."

"…Right back at you."

"Let's hope there won't be any problems coming up by that time." Takeshi said. "Speaking of problems, shouldn't we be patrolling the area as well? I feel bad leaving everything to Kiba-kun and Akeno-san."

"…Don't worry, Senpai." Koneko said. "Our familiars are handling the brunt of this work. We're only going to this extent just to be on the safe side like President said."

"True enough. This is—"

Both Takeshi and Koneko froze at that moment as they felt a chill going down their spines. Before they had a chance to react, several oversized bone pillars erupted from the ground around them, with small streams of blood flowing out of them and forming a circular barrier around the two Devils.

"A trap!?" Takeshi cried out as he summoned his Sacred Gear, brandishing his ash-colored axe while also trying to form a teleportation magic circle. "Tch, and teleportation is blocked! So much for not getting us involved, you stupid lightning mutt!"

"…Heads up, Senpai." Koneko said. "They're coming."

No sooner had Koneko spoken than several shadows dropped from the sky, crashing around her and Takeshi. Once the dust settled, the forms of a dozen Oni could be seen staring at the two Devils with a savage glint in their eyes.

"Well, well, what have we got here, boys?" One of the Oni, which had three horns growing from its forehead, let out a sinister laugh as he said so. "It's the meddlesome brat that took down two of our comrades a while back. What say we return the favor!?"

[Aye!]

The Oni shouted and charged while brandishing their clubs. Koneko and Takeshi jumped backwards as the clubs smashed the asphalt they were standing on. Wasting no time, Takeshi summoned a wave of ashes to keep the Oni from advancing while Koneko conjured a communications magic circle and spoke in a hurry.

"…President, can you hear me!? Takeshi-senpai and I are being attacked!"

After a couple of seconds, Rias's panicked voice came from the magic circle.

[Takeshi, Koneko, you too!? Akeno and Yuuto are also being attacked right now, and Oni have shown up here in the Occult Research Club as well! Sona, Tsubaki and I are busy dealing with them, so we won't be able to come to your aid any time soon!]

"Then we have to hold out on our own!?" Takeshi said as he molded the ashes into bullets, unleashing a barrage that forced the Oni to step back. "That's just great!"

[Where are you right now!?]

"About two streets away from Kuoh's town square!" Takeshi shouted. "Why!?"

[Listen closely to me, Takeshi!] Rias said. [The area you're in is currently enemy territory! You know what that means, right!?]

"Sure do!" Takeshi grinned. "Promotion, Rook!"

As an Oni charged at him, Takeshi ducked underneath his club. Before it had a chance to react, Takeshi swung his axe, splitting the Oni's head in two with a single strike thanks to his enhanced strength.

[That's all I can do for you right now!] Rias said. [Don't die, you two!]

"…Roger that!"

Koneko said as she jumped on top of an Oni's shoulders and wrapped her legs around its throat. Before it had a chance to shake her off, Koneko twisted her legs, breaking the creature's throat and sending its corpse crashing down.

"…Two down, ten to go."

Koneko remarked as she landed next to Takeshi.

"Right! Let's keep that momentum up and eradicate them without fail, Koneko-chan!"

"…Yes!"

Takeshi and Koneko dashed towards their opponents. Magic circles appeared on Koneko's hands as she struck another Oni, blowing its head off with fire magic. As for Takeshi, he slid underneath another one, kicking it at its nether region. The Oni fell to its knees screaming, but was silenced as several ash stakes formed around it and pierced its body in numerous spots.

"Damn Devils!"

An Oni tried to punch Takeshi, only for a wall of ashes to stop his punch and wrap around it, burning and cutting it in several places. Takeshi took advantage of this to form a spinning ash spear that drilled though the Oni's chest. Another Oni tried to strike Koneko's unprotected back, only for Koneko to jump above it and smash its skull with a two-handed blow. Despite its comrades' deaths, the three-horned Oni smirked.

"You'd be wise not to look down on us, Devil brats!"

The three-horned Oni slammed its foot, which was surrounded by black aura, on the ground. The ensuing shockwave made Koneko and Takeshi feel queasy and lose their balance. Before they could recover, the three-horned Oni was upon them.

"Ha!"

A nasty-backhanded blow sent Koneko tumbling backwards, while the Oni's aura-clad spiked club smashed on Takeshi's raised axe. He let out an ear-splitting scream as the blow shattered the bones on his right arm. A second blow from the club sent him flying backwards with almost all of his ribs crushed.

"…Takeshi-senpai!" Koneko rushed to his side with unsteady steps, blood dripping from her mouth. "Are you alright!?"

"Urgghh…" Takeshi groaned as he spat out a mouthful of blood, his Sacred Gear working on his injuries, but slower than usual. "Did anyone…get the number of the skyscraper that fell on me…?"

"Hoh, was it that heavy for you?" The three-horned Oni laughed as it brandished its weapon. "The weight of our clubs' blows is proportionate to the evil deeds the receiver has committed. You must be burdened with quite a lot of terrible sins, Devil brat."

"Terrible sins…?" Takeshi muttered as he stood up with Koneko's help. "That's not possible…unless…"

[I know what you're thinking, whelp, and the answer is…guilty as charged.] Nidhogg chuckled. [The Oni's weapons are responding to our evil deeds as well, and the things all seven of us have done…well, I don't need to say it, do I?]

Figures you'd be the cause of my troubles once again, you rotten lizard!

Takeshi cursed the Evil Dragon, wishing he could somehow strangle him. At the same time, he was grateful for the Rook trait, whose heightened defense had absorbed some of the damage. While he and Koneko were struggling to stand up, the Oni surrounded them.

"Don't waste your energy, little Devils." The three-horned Oni said as he gazed at Takeshi before moving to Koneko. "My corrupted ki is coursing through your bodies, inhibiting your functions. You two aren't—"

At the moment, a cracking sound was heard, with the bone pillars being blown away and the barrier shattering. Before anyone present could do anything, a shadow leapt through the air, tearing through the jugular of one of the Oni and killing it instantly.

"Who dares!?"

The three-horned Oni cried out in outrage. Once the dust settled, the form of a familiar girl with Oni characteristics could be seen standing, blood dripping from her fingers. Upon catching sight of Takeshi and Koneko, she grimaced.

"Tch, it's you again." Chiharu clicked her tongue in irritation while creating a small magic circle and pulling her club out of it. "Just my luck. I don't want to be in the same space as you for long, so I'll end this quickly."

"One of Nurarihyon's dogs and a filthy domesticated blood traitor, eh?" The three-horned Oni growled. "I won't let you interfere!"

"What you want is irrelevant, damn lowlife!" Chiharu said. "All of you brutes will die here!"

Chiharu's legs were surrounded by pale light as she surged forward. One of the Oni tried to crush her with its club, but she was much faster, evading it and smashing his skull with her own club instead. Two more Oni came at her from both sides, their clubs raised in an attempt to strike her.

"Too slow!"

Before they could reach her, the ground beneath Chiharu's feet swelled up as a root erupted from it, propelling her upwards. While they were confused, she kicked away the first Oni's club and smashed the second's chest with her fist. The first Oni tried to fix its balance, but her club morphed into a whip that wrapped itself around its neck, breaking it with ease.

"Looks like we've lost this round." The three-horned Oni remarked with a frustrated expression before turning to his remaining companion. "We're retreating."

"Leaving so soon!? Here's a parting gift for the road then!"

Takeshi shouted as several ash spikes formed around him and were launched towards the two retreating Oni. Without missing a beat, the three-horned Oni grabbed its comrade by the nape of its neck, using it as a meat shield against Takeshi's projectiles.

The Oni let out a guttural cry as the spikes pierced its body, killing it in a matter of seconds. Tossing its comrade's lifeless body aside, the three-horned Oni entered a nearby magic circle and vanished. Takeshi fell on his knees, panting as the effort took its toll on him.

"Damn, one got away…" Chiharu muttered with an irritated expression before turning to Takeshi. "And you, wipe that nasty smirk from your face. I know that bloodbaths make your ilk excited, but the rest of us aren't obligated to look at your foul expression."

"Huh?"

Takeshi felt the edges of his lips, which had indeed curled into a smile. He wasn't sure what the big deal was though.

"As expected from such a loathsome creature." Chiharu's expression was filled with disgust as she spoke. "You must've really enjoyed yourself, no?"

"Enjoyed myself? Now listen here, you—" Takeshi started saying, and then groaned as he felt stabs of pain all over his body. "Oh, forget it… It's not like you're going to listen to me. More importantly, President and the others are also being attacked right now! We need to help them!"

"Relax, it's already being taken care of."

Chiharu pointed at the general direction of Kuoh Academy. As if on cue, several bolts of lightning lit up the sky and struck that area, sending out a ripple of energy that caused all three individuals to shiver.

"What did I tell you?" Chiharu said with a smug look on her face. "Kumowatari has probably barbecued all the enemy Oni there by now. On that note, I'm taking my leave now. I really don't want to be around the Evil Dragon User more than necessary. My comrades will treat you."

Chiharu snapped her fingers, with two Oni emerging from the shadows.

"Hey, wait just a second!" Takeshi said. "You can't just waltz off without giving us some explanations! Why did those Oni attack us!? Didn't you guys say that—"

"I don't have time for this." Chiharu raised her hand to silence Takeshi. "Kumowatari will probably arrange for a meeting with your master to explain the situation. Save your questions for then."

After finishing her sentence, Chiharu jumped towards the sky and vanished.

"I have a feeling this girl has trouble listening to others…"

Takeshi said while rubbing his temples with a fed-up expression on his face. The two Oni Chiharu had called forth approached Takeshi and Koneko, a pale light emitting from their hands that spread throughout the two Devils' bodies. Takeshi barely stifled a blissful sigh as he felt the Youkai's technique purging the corrupted ki from his body, leaving him feeling refreshed. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed that Koneko was frowning at the Oni treating her, her body trembling slightly, but she said nothing.

"That should be all." One of the Oni said after a couple of minutes. "We used Senjutsu to push out the corrupted ki and accelerate your body's natural healing process. Are there any problems or other abnormalities with your bodies?"

"No, everything feels fine." Takeshi said as stretched his limbs. "More than fine in fact."

"…Good."

Koneko said, eyeing the two Youkai with narrowed eyes.

"Then we must be off to rendezvous with our comrades."

The Oni said as they entered into a magic circle and vanished.

"Let's get back as well, Koneko-chan." Takeshi said. "I'm worried about the others."

"…"

Instead of responding, Koneko was staring at Takeshi with a guarded expression.

"Hey, Koneko-chan?" Takeshi asked. "Is something wrong? You're looking a little pale there."

"…No…it's nothing." Koneko said after a brief pause. "We should go."

"Right." Takeshi said as he tried to form a teleportation magic circle, only for it to fizzle and shatter. "Damn, teleportation is still blocked. Looks like we'll have to take the scenic route."

As both Devils spread their wings and took flight in the direction of Kuoh Academy, some of Koneko's whispered words flowed into Takeshi's ears.

"…the same as my sister then…?"

Did she say her sister? Takeshi wondered. What's she talking about?

[Hoh, looks like it has already begun. The erosion of trust, that is.]

Nidhogg's mocking voice only served to heighten Takeshi's sense of unease.

---

The next day…

"You guys were attacked near the town's borders then?"

"That's right. Akeno-san and I were surprised by this ambush to say the least. Fortunately, we were able to hold our own until the Youkai reinforcements intervened."

"Not to mention you didn't have to deal with the aftermath and collateral damage. President had me and Koneko-chan go back and work with her in order to erase any traces of our battle. I never knew cover-up would be such tedious work…"

"It can't be helped. We can't very well let ordinary people suspect the existence of us supernatural folks."

"That's true."

Such a conversation was taking place between Takeshi and Yuuto. After classes had concluded, the two of them met in the hallway and made their way to the ORC clubroom together.

"By the way, did something happen between you and Koneko-chan?" Yuuto asked. "She seemed to be avoiding you for some reason yesterday, and today as well."

"That's what I'd like to know as well…" Takeshi sighed. "Was it because of yesterday's battle? I think that's most likely, but maybe I did something to offend her without realizing it before that?"

"Could be that too." Yuuto said. "Perhaps you got a bit too obnoxious after beating her in a game? You tend to go overboard at times, and Koneko-chan is good at holding long grudges."

"I do not go overboard—" Takeshi started saying, only to stop upon noticing Yuuto's raised eyebrow. "OK, fine, I can get annoying at times. Sorry that I can't be a prim and proper gentleman like you, Kiba-kun. Also, really? Koneko-chan is the type to hold grudges?"

"Like you cannot imagine." Yuuto said. "One time, I absentmindedly ate a couple of sweets that belonged to her. She wasn't speaking to me after that for almost two weeks."

"That's harsh." Takeshi said. "Bottom line is stay away from Koneko-chan's treats then?"

"Precisely."

Upon entering the clubroom, Takeshi noticed that the other members had already arrived. Sona and Tsubaki were also present, standing next to Rias and Akeno. Much to his displeasure, Takeshi noticed that Koneko was still avoiding him, standing in a spot that was the furthest away possible from him.

"President, our guests haven't arrived yet?"

"No." Rias responded to Yuuto's question. "They should be here shortly though. I'm sure I don't need to remind anyone, but I'll say it nonetheless. All of you should be in your best behavior. We don't want to cause any issues between us and the Youkai world."

Everyone in the room nodded. At that moment, the magic circle in the middle of the clubroom reacted, with a small torii-like structure rising from it. Kumowatari, Chiharu and two Karasu-Tengu stepped out of it.

"Greetings, Devils of Kuoh Town." Kumowatari made a small bow. "Some of you have already met me, but for the sake of those who haven't, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Kumowatari, a Youkai working directly under the ruler of the Kanto Youkai Faction, Nurarihyon-sama. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"…I'm Chiharu, a Youkai of the same faction." Chiharu spoke with a neutral expression. "A…pleasure to meet you."

"My name is Rias Gremory, heiress of the House of Gremory and the High-class Devil responsible for this area." Rias introduced herself before gesturing towards Sona. "This is Sona Sitri, heiress of the House of Sitri and overseer of the neighboring territory."

"A pleasure to meet you as well, Kumowatari-san, Chiharu-san."

Sona made a small bow. After that, Rias spoke once again.

"Before we begin, allow me to express my gratitude for your assistance yesterday. Were it not for your help, it's possible that both us and this town would have received a lot of damage."

"Think nothing of it." Kumowatari said. "It appears we have a common foe, so offering our assistance is the natural thing to do."

"About that, I believe it's about time you give us some explanations here." Sona said. "Despite your assurances to Ryuugamine-kun about leaving us out of your conflict, Oni attacked both mine and Rias's Peerage yesterday. Why is that? To begin with, what's their goal and why are you pursuing them?"

"Let's start from the beginning then." Kumowatari said. "About three weeks ago, a group of Oni loyal to Izanami launched an assault at Hakone Shrine. While such harassment isn't uncommon from time to time, the force that had been amassed this time was abnormally large, requiring a lot of effort and many sacrifices to repel."

"I assume this was a diversion then? The real purpose of this raid was something else?"

"Correct." Kumowatari nodded at Sona's words. "While we were busy dealing with the frontal assault, a second group led by an Oni named Hisaya and his partner, a three-horned Oni named Rengokuki, infiltrated the shrine and stole one of the most dangerous items held there; a magatama jewel containing remnants of Hinokagutsuchi-sama's divine flame."

"His…flame?" Rias frowned. "Does that perhaps have something to do with the God's death? If I remember correctly, Hinokagutsuchi-sama was beheaded by his father and sliced into pieces for burning his mother after being born."

"It is as you say." Kumowatari responded. "Since his divine core remained intact, Hinokagutsuchi-sama was able to reconstitute himself through worship and faith like all Gods are able to once several centuries had passed."

"…Gods can do that?"

Takeshi whispered to Yuuto, who nodded.

"…Yes." Yuuto responded. "It's one of the reasons why they covet human faith so much."

"However, apart from the well-known aftereffects of his death, there was also a less-known and quite dangerous one."

"And the plot thickens…"

Takeshi murmured as Kumowatari continued speaking.

"During his birth, Hinokagutsuchi-sama's flames mixed with Izanami-sama's divine aura, with several embers containing this mixed aura scattering across Japan. Some of them were eventually extinguished on their own, but others remained. Both we and the Western Youkai Faction spent a lot of time and effort in the past to find and seal these flames away."

"Small as they are, they are still remnants of divine power from two Gods after all." Chiharu added from the side. "There's no telling what would happen if they fell into the wrong hands."

"Unfortunately, it appears that's what ended up happening." Rias remarked. "So, the Oni stole the jewel and fled. What I don't understand is why they targeted us. Surely it can't be revenge for my servant aiding you before?"

"To be honest, I cannot understand the reason either." Kumowatari frowned. "I would think they would prioritize lifting the seal on the jewel, which prevents them from using the flames contained within in any way. Perhaps there is something in this area that can help them with that, and they want you Devils out of the way to acquire it?"

"That sounds like a plausible explanation." Sona said as she straightened her glasses. "Whatever that method or artifact is though, I believe I speak for both Rias and I when I say we have no idea what or where that could be."

"More importantly, what's their endgame?" Rias asked. "What do the Oni want to use those flames for?"

Kumowatari and Chiharu briefly glanced at each other before the former spoke.

"As you should know, this land and our realm of the dead are separated by a powerful barrier that doesn't allow denizens of Yomi to cross over, at least not in large numbers." Kumowatari began explaining. "We believe that the Oni intend to use the flames' power in an attempt to open a dimensional rift that will pierce through the barrier. The result…would be a connection forming between the world of the living and Yomi, something which would have catastrophic consequences."

[Oho, things are finally starting to get interesting!]

Takeshi didn't even respond to Nidhogg's excited thoughts, too horrified by the implications of what Kumowatari had said like everyone else present.

"…Excuse me?" Akeno said, fear evident in her tone. "Are you saying we might be on the brink of a full-scale invasion from Yomi? That Japan and everyone living in it might be eradicated in the worst-case scenario?"

"If we fail, yes." Kumowatari said with a grave expression. "That's why we won't. None of us is willing to give Izanami the pleasure of wiping out all life in this land and turning it into her realm."

"We'll definitely stop them." Chiharu declared while clenching her fists. "And we'll definitely avenge all of our fallen. That bastard Hisaya won't get away with what he did."

"What about the Shinto Gods?" Sona inquired. "If the situation is so critical, shouldn't they intervene? And the Western Youkai Faction? Won't reinforcements be dispatched from Kyoto as well?"

"The Kyoto Youkai are dealing with a series of disturbances in their territory, so they can't afford to send personnel to aid us, at least for now." Kumowatari said. "As for the Gods, Amaterasu-sama's decree is that they will intervene only if the situation escalates past the point of no return."

"Why?" Takeshi asked with an incredulous expression. "If they just let loose and zap the Oni, this whole mess would be dealt with in no time."

"Spoken like a true fool." Chiharu snorted. "You think Amaterasu-sama hasn't considered this? The Gods are reluctant to move because this whole incident might be a giant trap set by Izanami to take down one or more members of our Pantheon."

"That's a good point." Takeshi said. "Also, rude. Again."

"Oh, my deepest apologies." Chiharu smirked. "It's just that I have trouble holding back my opinion when it comes to incompetence, Evil Dragon User. Especially when it leads to my comrades' deaths."

"Then you must be launching into quite the tirade every time you look yourself in a mirror."

"Enough." Rias clapped her hands upon noticing that Takeshi and Chiharu seemed ready to duke it out. "What did I say, Takeshi? Let's focus on the problem at hand and not do the enemy's job for them, yes? Do we have any leads on the Oni's whereabouts?"

"None whatsoever I'm afraid." Kumowatari said. "It's possible that Izanami herself is shielding them through some art of hers. They could be camping outside town right now and we wouldn't even know it."

"That's just great…" Rias rubbed her temples as she spoke. "For the time being, I think it's safe to assume that we're all in this together. Therefore, I'm proposing a united front to deal with this crisis."

"Agreed." Kumowatari nodded. "As reluctant as I am to work with Devils, we'll take all the help we can get if that means we can bring Hisaya and his grunts down as quickly as possible. Isn't that right, Chiharu?"

"…Yes." Chiharu spoke with a reluctant expression before pointing at Takeshi. "However, I don't want to be anywhere near him if possible."

"You won't find me arguing there."

Takeshi said, narrowing his eyes at the female Oni.

"Then, it's settled." Sona said. "We, the Devils of Kuoh Academy, will cooperate with the agents of the East Youkai Faction to subjugate the Oni and retrieve the stolen artifact. For the time being, I suggest placing watches around the town's borders and scout the area for any sign of whatever it is the Oni are looking for."

"I'll inform my subordinates and have them set up a perimeter." Kumowatari said. "I'll also leave a squad of Karasu-Tengu behind to patrol the town's skies. Chiharu, can I leave tracking the Oni's aura signature to you?"

"Of course." Chiharu nodded. "No matter what, I'll flush them out without fail."

"Don't overdo it." Kumowatari cautioned her. "I know you have a personal stake in this, but you can't let your emotions rule you."

"I know." Chiharu said with a sour expression. "I will perform my duties. But once we find them, Hisaya is mine. I won't compromise on that."

After saying so, Chiharu formed a magic circle underneath her and vanished in a flash of light.

"Is your friend going to be alright?" Rias asked. "She seems to be driven by a personal vendetta."

"She'll get the job done." Kumowatari said. "What about your servants?"

"My servants are scouting the area they were attacked in the neighboring town for any clues." Sona said. "Tsubaki and I will be joining them just in case the Oni show up again. But if something happens, don't hesitate to call us."

"In that case, my Peerage and I will handle Kuoh Town." Rias said. "Once we're certain that the Oni haven't holed up in here somewhere, we'll join the Youkai in searching the surrounding area."

"Sounds like a plan." Kumowatari said as he placed several talismans on Rias's desk. "Keep these with you. We modified them so that your communication magic circles will be able to connect to us. They will also transmit your general location to us in case you find yourselves in trouble and can't contact us."

"That's handy." Rias said. "You wouldn't spy on us through them though, would you?"

"Please." Kumowatari snorted. "What do you take me for, a Devil?"

Once the Youkai had taken their leave, Rias spoke.

"That went a lot better than I expected. Then again, when the situation is that dire, there's no room for infighting or old grudges."

"I must admit I didn't expect something like this." Sona said while straightening her glasses. "A full-scale invasion from an Evil Goddess… We must prepare immediately and crush these Oni as quickly as possible."

"Right." Rias nodded. "There's no way I'm letting this beautiful land turned into a cursed one. Everyone, you are dismissed for now, but keep your guard up and be ready to move out at any time."

[Right!]

The members present replied together as one. Once they exited the clubroom, Takeshi followed after Koneko, determined to straighten things out with her. However, the white-haired girl quickened her step, seemingly intent on avoiding him.

"Koneko-chan!" Takeshi called out to her. "Wait just a minute! I only want to talk to you!"

However, Koneko paid no heed to his words as she entered a nearby empty classroom. Takeshi followed after her, but found out she had vanished much to his surprise.

"Did she teleport away…?" Takeshi wondered. "Damn it, what's wrong with her? If she's that freaked out by something I did, why won't she give me a chance to explain myself?"

[They've already started judging you based on nothing but preconceived notions.] Nidhogg said. [Don't feel too discouraged, whelp. It was bound to happen sooner or later.]

Is that concern I spot in your tone? Takeshi snorted. Good one. I almost thought you cared for a moment there, Nidhogg.

[I don't, and you know it.] Nidhogg said. [But you deserve the truth at least, no?]

The truth? Takeshi asked. Or perhaps your truth? Whatever it is, spare me. You and the rest of the lizard herd nesting in there are responsible for my state. That's the only truth that matters.

[The only truth that matters is that no-one will ever trust you.] Nidhogg said. [No matter what you do or say, everyone will always condemn you first, ask questions later. It's already happening. You smiled a bit during battle and what was the result? The Oni wench and the white-haired brat drew their own conclusions and judged you to be unstable without giving you a chance to explain yourself, no?]

Chiharu aside, you don't know Koneko-chan. Takeshi countered. I'm sure she has her reasons.

[Sure she does.] Nidhogg's voice was dripping with sarcasm. [It's not like I have seen the same attitude from those around our previous hosts in the past. Since we're on the subject of truth, here's another one for you; gratitude, friendship, loyalty, affection, all those things you people treasure? They mean nothing in the face of self-preservation. Their fear of you will override all those lukewarm feelings, and before you know it, your so-called friends will turn on you and cast you aside.]

You sound very sure of your views, but not all people are like that. A monster like you can't possibly understand that.

[Of course not.] Nidhogg growled. [What we understand is only what we experience ourselves. Just like my users, I too was judged to be a grotesque monster when I was born and was exiled to Niflheim by the Norse Gods, trapped beneath the roots of Yggdrasil. I had done nothing wrong, but I was deemed to be too much of a threat simply because I was born from Ymir's vengeful thoughts when Odin and his brothers cut him apart.]

I'm sure your sunny disposition didn't do you any favors.

[Joke if you wish, but heed my words, whelp.] Nidhogg said. [The world will never acknowledge you to be anything other than a calamity. No matter what you accomplish, no matter how hard you struggle, there will never be any true recognition for you. All because you were saddled with a fate beyond your control. You know it's unfair, don't you?]

Even if it is…there's nothing I can do about something already done. Takeshi said. What matters is the future.

[We agree on something at last.] Nidhogg said. [However, it's unfortunate that the conclusion is already set in stone. You can never become like the heroes you so admire. No, even a normal life will forever be out of your grasp. So instead of fighting it, why not just make peace with it?]

Make peace with it? Takeshi frowned. What are you talking about, corpse-breath?

[Embrace the spite towards the unjust world that cursed you.] Nidhogg said. [Let go of your inhibitions and show the world how deep your hatred runs. That's what you want deep down, isn't it? It is why those vengeful thoughts are swirling in the dark corners of your mind.]

That's you! Takeshi shouted in his thoughts. That's always been you! I told you before, I'm not falling for this crap!

[How adorable.] Nidhogg chuckled. [You still refuse to acknowledge the resentment you harbor. You think being ostracized for so long had no effect on you? That you don't resent the world on some level? That you're not envious of those who were blessed with a normal life while you weren't? Emotions like that cannot be fabricated, not by me, not by my peers either. They've always been there, lurking beneath that cheerful façade of yours.]

I'm not… Even if that's true…I refuse to go down that path! Never!

[Suit yourself.] Nidhogg huffed. [But never say never. I'm sure you'll come around soon enough, and it will be glorious. Until then, have fun playing house with those Devils who would turn on you at a moment's notice.]

Nidhogg fell silent after that, but his words continued to ring in Takeshi's head.

"Bastard's really good at this…" Takeshi grimaced, a troubled expression on his face. "Can it be…?"

"Takeshi?"

Turning his sights towards the classroom door, Takeshi noticed that Rias was standing there, a concerned expression on her face.

"President…?"

"I saw you chasing after Koneko, so I followed after you." Rias said. "What's the matter? You look troubled."

"…It's nothing." Takeshi lied after a moment's hesitation. "I'm fine. If you would just—"

"Oh, no, you're not getting away that easily." Rias said as she approached Takeshi. "Something definitely happened. If you want to talk about it, I'm here to listen to you."

Takeshi bit his lip, a conflicted expression on his face, before speaking.

"President…are you sure that taking me in was the correct decision?"

"Where did that come from?" Rias frowned. "Is it because of how that female Oni views you? Or because of Koneko's attitude? Or both?"

"As much as I hate to admit it…Chiharu has a good reason for hating me." Takeshi said. "When I chanced upon their fight in the forest, I did take my time intervening, which resulted in the death of one of her comrades. I didn't think of it too deeply at the time…but maybe I was actually enjoying the fighting? Could that be the true reason for me not acting sooner? As for Koneko, perhaps she sees something in me that I do not? Something…evil?"

Takeshi looked Rias straight in the eye before speaking with an unsteady voice.

"I thought I knew who I was…but I'm starting to have doubts. If that's the case…maybe leaving this Peerage is for the best. Before I do something…irreversible."

Rias said nothing for a few seconds. Then, she suddenly embraced Takeshi, burying his face in her breasts.

"Eh, President…?" Takeshi said, feeling his cheeks growing hot. "This is…?"

"Idiot." Rias said in a soft tone as she caressed Takeshi's head. "You're part of this family until the bitter end. There's no way I'll abandon you. What purpose would that serve other than driving you to become that which you fear?"

"But the danger…"

"That's something we're all aware of, and we accept it." Rias said. "We took a vote after all, and everyone was in favor of you joining us despite the potential danger."

"A vote?" Takeshi frowned. "First time I'm hearing that."

"It was a major decision that would affect all of us." Rias said. "It was only right that Yuuto, Akeno and Koneko had a say in this."

"Even so, how can you say you trust me despite my…baggage?" Takeshi asked. "This is just too risky for you guys."

"Tell me something." Rias said, forcing Takeshi to look her in the eyes. "Do you feel responsible for the death of that Youkai? If you could go back and change things, would you do it differently?"

"What kind of question is that?" Takeshi narrowed his eyes at Rias with a quizzical look on his face. "I do feel responsible. Not acting fast enough is what got him killed after all. If I could do something to change that…you can be damn sure I'd do it in a heartbeat."

"Then I don't really see what all the doom and gloom is about." Rias said. "From what I can see, your morals and sense of responsibility are still intact. You're still the same good-natured person who came to our rescue while ignoring the danger to himself."

"How can you know that? What if I'm lying to you right now?"

"Because I can tell you're always wearing your heart on your sleeve." Rias smiled. "That's why I can trust what you say. Plus, you're my adorable servant, so I have faith in you that you'll be able to prevail in the end no matter what the Evil Dragons within your Sacred Gear throw at you. So, have a little faith in yourself as well."

"Faith, you say…?" Takeshi sighed. "I don't know if faith alone is going to cut it here."

"I wouldn't underestimate its power if I were you." Rias said. "Faith is what sustains and empowers Gods after all."

"Good point."

Takeshi let out a small smile. Rias matched it with one of her own, and then her expression turned serious.

"About Koneko, don't let her reaction trouble you so much. That girl…she's had a very difficult life, and even the tiniest inkling that someone close to her might go out of control scares her. She'll come around once she realizes you are still the same as always."

"Someone close to her…" Takeshi murmured. "Senjutsu's risks… That comment about her sister back then… Could it be…?"

"What's that?" Rias asked. "Did you say something, Takeshi?"

"No, I was just thinking out loud." Takeshi said. "I should be off. We've got a battle coming and all that."

Just as he was about to exit the classroom, Takeshi turned to Rias.

"President…thank you. For hearing me out and everything."

"Any time." Rias smiled. "You can always depend on me, just like how I'm depending on you."

"I'll do my best to live up to your trust."

Takeshi said as he exited the room.

[Don't be deceived by her sweet words, whelp.] Nidhogg's voice echoed in Takeshi's mind once again. [She might be buttering you up now, but once her losses outweigh her gains, she'll cut you off without a moment's hesitation. There is no safe haven for you, and no-one you can believe in. The sooner you realize this, the more grief you'll spare yourself from.]

Should I be deceived by your bitter words then? Takeshi scoffed at Nidhogg's words. Sorry, but in this case, I'll place my bets on red.

[Young fool.] Nidhogg scoffed. [You may not want to understand now, but you will be forced to soon. There's only one path available to you.]

"We'll see about that, Nidhogg."

Takeshi said out loud as he left the Occult Research Club behind him.

---

In an undisclosed location…

Sitting cross-legged inside a spacious chamber filled with worn-out tubes and machinery in various states of disrepair, Hisaya observed various holographic images formed through magic circles, his brow furrowed in concentration.

"Are you still here, Hisaya? You know what they say about all work and no play."

The one who had spoken was Rengokuki, the three-horned Oni, a wide smile on his face. Hisaya briefly glanced at him before returning his attention to the arcane projections before him.

"I'll 'play' once the mission is complete." Hisaya said. "Something which has become a lot harder now that the Devils have been thrown into the mix as well."

"That was inevitable the moment we found out the key to unlock the seal was in their hands." Rengokuki said. "Looks like the info from that masked man was right once again."

"It would have been a lot easier if he had told us of its identity from the start instead of being all cryptic about it." Hisaya frowned. "We wouldn't have lost so many of our comrades in the earlier battle to ascertain its aura signature had he done so."

"That was unfortunate." Rengokuki remarked. "I don't get why we had to attack now though. Couldn't we just wait until the ritual formation is complete and grab the key then?"

"That wasn't an option." Hisaya said. "The Youkai will surely sense the energy emanations from the ley lines once the formation for the seal's removal is close to completion. Waiting until then to confirm the key's location and seize it would be riskier. Identifying aura signatures is a time-consuming process after all. More importantly though, I'm still concerned about that mysterious benefactor. If only we knew his true motives…"

"You think he's planning to backstab us?" Rengokuki said. "Let him try. It's going to be the last thing he ever does. Izanami-sama will see to that once she finally crosses to the world of the living."

"Either way, we should still keep our guard up." Hisaya said as he stood up. "The goal is finally within reach. We can't afford to stumble here."

"Right you are." Rengokuki smiled. "However, I must admit I'm impressed with you, kid. You were born and raised as a domesticated one, yet you turned out to be every bit as cruel and savage as us natural ones. Tell me, did you really feel nothing when you slaughtered your little girlfriend during our raid in Hakone Shrine?"

"No." Hisaya said. "She was a disgrace to our kind, just like all the other blood traitors that follow the Shinto Gods and their lapdogs. Killing her was a mercy."

"I knew there was a reason I liked you!" Rengokuki let out a hearty laugh as he slapped Hisaya on the back. "Once we pull this off, Izanami-sama is sure to give us a hefty reward. You and I will be going places, Hisaya."

"Let's not get ahead of ourselves." Hisaya said. "First, we need to claim the key."

"That's going to be a tricky one." Rengokuki rubbed his chin. "With the Devils being on guard now and the Youkai on patrol, simply swooping in and securing it will be difficult. We'll lose even more forces in a direct attack, and the possibility of us being annihilated is a little too high for my liking."

Hisaya was silent for a bit, but then a sinister smirk appeared on his face.

"I just thought of a good idea." Hisaya said. "That Chiharu brat is part of the pursuit squad, no? In that case, that's perfect."

"Oh, I like that expression." Rengokuki chuckled. "Seems like you've come up with something nasty."

"If this works, the key will fall to our hands with little trouble." Hisaya said. "After that, this country. Then, the whole world will bow to the might of Yomi."

"All is for the sake of Izanami-sama's cherished desire."

Rengokuki said so as he and Hisaya took their leave.

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This concludes Chapter 6. First, in response to your questions.

—To Guest (1): About Juggernaut Drive, it doesn't work exactly the same as in the case of the Heavenly Dragons' Sacred Gears. If a user succumbs to an Evil Dragon's influence, they awaken their respective Sacred Gear's Balance Breaker in an uncontrolled manner similar to Juggernaut Drive. The transformation in this case is always fatal, and the main reason past users of Cataclysm Zone headed to an early grave. Takeshi won't have some special talent to tame Evil Dragons like Asia, so it will be an uphill battle for him to retain himself and be acknowledged by them. As for the Boosted Gear's current user, he's a guy.

—To yliaster: Thank you for your kind words! As for your question, yes, Takeshi was mimicking Ren/Kamen Rider Knight when posing.

—To Guest (2): Takeshi's Balance Breakers will have alternate forms inspired from Illegal Move Triaina, but they won't work exactly the same. The Boosted Gear wielder will show up later down the line, so your question will be answered in due time. Vali will definitely mark Takeshi as a rival for more reasons than one, but he won't neglect the Boosted Gear's current wielder, who will also prove to be a challenging foe. Regarding the Azazel Cup, Takeshi will probably have his own team, but that's subject to change.

In this chapter, the goal of the Oni serving Izanami has been revealed, and the Devils of Kuoh have joined forces with the East Youkai Faction's warriors to combat this threat. At the same time, Takeshi has to deal with Nidhogg and his attempts to have him head down towards the same path as his predecessors. As to whether his efforts will bear fruit, that remains to be seen.

Well, that's all for now. As always, please read, review, but most of all, enjoy!

See you all next time!