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?

7. Division

Chapter 7 – Division

The roar of a motorcycle's engine echoed through the night as it sped on the roads circling the forest outside Kuoh Town. Both riders had matching expressions of intense concentration on their faces while scouting their surroundings.

"How's it going, Akeno-san?" Takeshi asked the girl seated behind him. "Are you picking up anything?"

"Nothing so far." Akeno replied, and then conjured a small magic circle next to her ear. "What about our eyes in the sky? Any disturbances or anything of note?"

[We've got nothing here either.] One of the several Karasu-Tengu flying high above the two youths said. [Let's make a couple more rounds and call it a night. I don't think we'll find anything today as well.]

"That's been the case for the past five days." Takeshi grumbled. "This is the worst. Because of those Oni camping somewhere around Kuoh, we're forced to cut precious time from studying and training. Plus, all Devils' Jobs are on hold until the crisis is resolved. When I get my hands on these bastards, I swear I'll make them rue the day they were born…"

"Ara, ara, so impatient." Akeno said. "No-one said this was going to be a quick affair, Takeshi-kun. Why don't you try focusing on the bright side instead?"

"Bright side?" Takeshi raised an eyebrow. "If there is one, I fail to see it, Akeno-san."

"Riding a motorcycle with a gentleman is a fresh and exciting experience for me." Akeno said. "An entirely new sensation can be considered a bright side, don't you think?"

A mischievous smile appeared on Akeno's face as she leaned on Takeshi's back, tightening her embrace around him. Takeshi felt his cheeks flaring up at the lovely scent emanating from Akeno's body and the feeling of her bountiful breasts pressing against his back.

"What's the matter, Takeshi-kun?" Akeno whispered next to his ear. "You became awfully quiet all of a sudden, ufufu~."

"Like you don't know why, you little vixen…" Takeshi muttered. "Not that I'm complaining for the treat…"

"Oh, did you say something, Takeshi-kun?"

"I said that I'm speeding up a bit." Takeshi said with a smirk. "You might want to hold on tighter."

"Ufufu, don't mind if I do~."

Akeno rested her head on Takeshi's shoulder, with him struggling to control himself and keep his eyes on the road and his surroundings. Despite his best attempts, he always ended up being overwhelmed when dealing with his playful Senpai. However, he was determined to turn things around at some point.

[Eh…you want us to give you two some privacy?]

Takeshi chose not to respond to the Karasu-Tengu's remark, focusing instead on something he had been curious about.

"Akeno-san, I've got a question if you don't mind answering it."

"If you want to know the color of my panties, I—"

"Nothing like that!" Takeshi almost screeched. "For crying out… When we first met with Sitri-senpai and Shinra-senpai, you mentioned something about you and Shinra-senpai being part of the Five Principal Clans or something in the past. I was wondering what these clans were."

"The Five Principal Clans are five prestigious families composed of Shinto mystics that have served the Shinto Gods for generations." Akeno began explaining. "Their members have been blessed with supernatural powers connected to the five traditional elements due to their devotion and connection to the Five Sacred Beasts, which are wielded by the respective clan head."

"The Five Sacred Beasts?" Takeshi said. "You mean the ones guarding the cardinal directions, right? Genbu of the North, Seiryuu of the East, Suzaku of the South, Byakko of the West and Ouryuu in the center. Are they strong?"

"Very strong." Akeno said. "Through them, each clan head can display power that rivals, or in some cases even surpasses that of an Ultimate-class Devil."

"That's impressive." Takeshi whistled. "If they have that much power though, how come they're not helping us?"

"The clans have a…very antagonistic relationship with all foreign factions and a neutral relationship at best with Youkai due to their strict traditional values." Akeno said with a frown. "It's unlikely they'd work together with us."

"This country is on the verge of being invaded by Yomi and they can't see past their stinking prejudices?" Takeshi growled. "Looks like stupidity and shortsightedness isn't something exclusive to humans."

"To be fair, they are humans as well, just ones connected to the supernatural." Akeno pointed out. "Plus, I'm sure that, just like the Shinto Pantheon, they're observing the situation from afar and will come to the rescue should we fail."

"But not before we're all dead, I'd wager…" Takeshi sighed. "No matter. We'll make things work out on our own then. I assume that two of those clans are Himejima and Shinra, right?"

"Yes." Akeno said. "The other three are Kushihashi, Doumon and Nakiri."

"I see." Takeshi said before conjuring a small magic circle in front of him. "President, it's Takeshi. We've come up empty so far. Any news from the other fronts?"

[No luck here either.] The projection of Rias shook her head. [Akeno, Takeshi, you two should head back. We'll try again tomorrow when reinforcements from the West Youkai Faction arrive.]

"Would be nice if we had some reinforcements from the Devil side as well." Takeshi remarked. "Why aren't we getting any back-up again?"

"Blame the Shinto Pantheon for that." Akeno said with an annoyed tone. "They explicitly told Kumowatari that they 'won't allow more filthy Devils to enter and pollute this land any further' or something to that effect. My guess is they don't want the Underworld to hog the accomplishment of stopping the Oni's plot and hang it over their heads as a bargaining chip in the future."

"Devil King forbid they make things easier for us." Takeshi clicked his tongue in irritation as he turned the motorcycle around, driving back towards town. "I really hate politics…"

"Tell me about it." Akeno said. "Our leaders are trying to negotiate with the Shinto Gods, but they haven't had any luck changing their mind so far."

"No surprises there." Takeshi said. "So, where am I dropping you off, Akeno-san?"

"Follow the road and make a left at the next intersection." Akeno said. "Then, make a right turn, and we'll be there."

"Got it."

After a couple of minutes, the two youths arrived at an old, but well-maintained shrine. Parking his bike at the bottom of the steps leading to its entrance, Takeshi turned to Akeno with a quizzical look on his face.

"This is where you live, Akeno-san?" Takeshi asked. "I thought Devils couldn't approach sacred places like this without receiving damage."

"That's usually the case, but thanks to several under-the-table negotiations, Rias was able to secure this place for me." Akeno said as she dismounted. "The last generation's priest passing away and having no-one to succeed him also helped matters. With the lack of divine power permeating its walls, this shrine is now the same as any other building."

"Somehow, this place really suits you, Akeno-san." Takeshi said. "Maybe it's because of your mother's background? Truth be told, I'd like to see you in a shrine maiden outfit. I'm sure you'd look lovely in it."

"Ufufu, then I'll make sure to show you next time." Akeno giggled as she put her finger near her mouth. "Maybe I should throw in something extra for my hard-working Kouhai? Hmmm?"

"There you go teasing me again…" Takeshi said with a faint blush, unable to stop his mind from imagining various scenarios before controlling himself. "But something extra… Since we've had two not-dates so far, how about an actual date then?"

"Oh, someone's getting bold." Akeno smiled. "I suppose I can consider it, but only after Takeshi-kun shows me that he's a truly reliable man."

"Reliable?" Takeshi raised an eyebrow. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"That's for me to know and you to find out." Akeno winked. "Good night, Takeshi-kun."

Once Akeno climbed up the steps and disappeared from Takeshi's sight after passing through the torii, he sighed.

"Nothing rattles Akeno-san, eh? I thought the date suggestion might get some flustered reaction out of her, but she didn't even flinch a bit. I can't believe I said that though. What would I have done if she had accepted? I've got zero experience in that kind of thing…"

Takeshi turned his bike around, leaving the shrine behind.

"I wonder though…" Takeshi muttered. "Senpai's mother must have been a member of the Himejima family. How did she end up dead, and how did Akeno-san end up in President's Peerage? There should have been other relatives to take her in like her father. It's strange…"

Takeshi was curious and certain there was a story there, but, much like with Koneko's circumstances, he didn't feel it was the time or place to step on that particular landmine. Not at until this incident was concluded at least.

"None of that will matter if we're all dead and this country is in ruins after all."

Takeshi said as he arrived home. At about the same time, in the Occult Research Club, Rias was dismissing a magic circle with a frustrated expression.

"What's the matter?" Kumowatari, who was next to her, asked. "You seem irritated. Is it because of our lack of progress? If so, rest assured that the feelings are mutual."

"There's that, but it's mostly about the message I received from the Bael family just now." Rias said while fuming. "It pretty much said 'the previous manager from our side told you everything you need to know about this area, so stop pestering us'. What the Hell is their problem!? Don't they understand how serious the situation is!? Every little detail they might have omitted matters!"

"You believe they're hiding something?" Kumowatari asked. "Something related to the mysterious key Hisaya and his bunch are looking for?"

"Maybe…" Rias sighed as she leaned back on her chair. "Or maybe some illegal acts or dealings took place here that the Bael family doesn't want us or the government to know about. Or they are just doing this to piss me and my family off. Either way, we can't count on our side for more information."

"We've got people back home scouring our archives, but they've come up empty so far." Kumowatari said. "On the plus side, with the reinforcements coming from the West Youkai, we can expand our search perimeter. It's obvious by now that they've probably camped somewhere further outside this town's borders. Otherwise, Chiharu would have picked up something by now. She's our best tracker after all."

"Speaking of that girl…there's something that's been bothering me." Rias said. "She is clearly very driven to see Hisaya dead. What sort of history do these two have?"

"Why do you want to know?"

Kumowatari regarded Rias with a look filled with suspicion.

"To gauge how far she's willing to go."

Rias responded. Kumowatari was silent for a few seconds except for the lightning that crackled in his cloud-like fur, but eventually spoke.

"In the past…Chiharu and Hisaya were close, almost as close as siblings. He was the one who instructed her in the arts of war. But everything changed after his betrayal and the assault at Hakone."

Kumowatri's expression became dark as he spoke.

"One of the many Youkai slain during that battle by Hisaya's hand was Azusa, a female Guardian Oni that was leading the forces defending the shrine. She was also Hisaya's fiancée…and Chiharu's older sister."

"Oh."

Rias said with a sorrowful expression as Kumowatari continued.

"We found out the circumstances behind Azusa's death and Hisaya's role in it from one of the few survivors. Chiharu was devasted and furious to say the least, swearing to avenge her sister's death by killing Hisaya."

"She's driven by vengeance, and you thought it was a good idea to bring her along while knowing that?" Rias said with a frown. "That's almost always a recipe for disaster."

"I have no doubt she can handle herself." Kumowatari said. "She's given me no reason so far to believe otherwise. Youkai warriors like us were raised to put our duties above personal feelings, a concept I'm sure is foreign to a Devil like you."

"That may be so, but a Devil like me knows a thing or two more than you about letting one's passions get the better of them." Rias countered. "Stoking and manipulating them is our job after all. If she slips up and does something stupid because of her rage, we—"

"I wouldn't be that worried about Chiharu if I were you." Kumowatari cut off Rias. "I'd be more concerned about finding out how the Oni went past your security measures and snuck into town. You do have security measures in place, right?"

"Of course we do." Rias said. "Especially after a recent incident we had, we placed even more detection and alarm spells around the town's limits. Even if the Oni were assisted by Izanami's arts, it should have been impossible to enter the town without triggering any of these spells."

"And yet they did." Kumowatari said. "That means there must be a flaw in your defenses. If we can find it, we can use it to locate their hideout. Or perhaps find some clues that will lead us to them at least."

"Let's try narrowing the possibilities down." Rias said. "All rivers, lakes and marshes are situated outside the town's limits, so there's no way they could use them to infiltrate."

"Obviously."

"The sky is also off for obvious reasons." Rias continued. "As for underground…there's no way in Hell they could use the hidden underground route exclusive to Devils. But perhaps…"

Rias pulled out a map of Kuoh Town from one of her desk's drawers, her finger tracing several patterns on it.

"What is it?" Kumowatari asked. "Did you come up with something?"

"Yes." Rias said as she placed her finger on the map. "This might have been our blind spot."

Kumowatari peered at the map with narrowed eyes.

"The town's sewer system?" Kumowatari asked. "You left that area unattended? This seems like a major oversight, Rias Gremory."

"I did not." Rias said. "There are safety measures in place there as well. However, a part of the sewer network collapsed a while back and was closed down. If they opened that path again, they could have used it to sneak into town, bypassing our defenses."

"Looks like we have a lead at last."

Kumowatari said with a fierce expression.

"Right. When the reinforcements arrive, it'll finally be our turn to go on the offensive. I'll make those beasts rue the day they decided to invade this town and try to harm my adorable servants."

Rias's eyes burned with fighting spirit as she said so.

---

The next day…

"What's wrong, Kiba-kun!? You're slower than usual today!"

"Or maybe that's what I want you to think!"

The sounds of weapons clashing echoed behind the old school building as Takeshi and Yuuto exchanged blows. With a powerful swing, Takeshi shattered Yuuto's Demonic Sword with his axe and went straight at him. Yuuto conjured a new blade, which emitted a bright flash of light that blinded Takeshi.

He had little time to regain his bearings as Yuuto summoned a segmented blade with fang-like protrusions, swinging it like a whip and attacking from different directions. Slamming his axe on the ground, Takeshi formed an ash barrier that enveloped him, warding off Yuuto's blade. His brow furrowed in concentration, Takeshi shaped the ashes into numerous spikes that launched themselves at Yuuto.

Although surprised, the Knight deftly evaded most of them. The rest, he countered by creating daggers and throwing them at the incoming spikes. Summoning a new sword with a long and thin blade, Yuuto pointed it at Takeshi. Much to the latter's surprise, the blade shot out from the hilt, almost piercing his shoulder. Takeshi was forced to step back to dodge Yuuto's following charge.

"Let's try this…"

Gathering his demonic power in his left arm as beads of sweat dripped down his face, Takeshi thrust it forward. A large mass of demonic power shot out of it, forcing Yuuto to fly up to evade. Takeshi responded by shooting out a large ash torrent at him. Hastily summoning an earth-attribute Demonic Sword, Yuuto encased himself in a rock barrier to shield himself as the ash wave enveloped him, sending him crashing to the ground.

"Chance!"

Takeshi exclaimed as Mayhem Striker split the makeshift barrier in two with ease. But Yuuto was nowhere to be found. While searching around, Takeshi's instincts screamed at him to dodge. The ground beneath him rumbled and cracked, with Yuuto coming out from beneath. His blade missed Takeshi, who had jumped backwards, by millimeters.

As the two fighters kept their distance, eyeing each other for the slightest hint of a suspicious movement, Yuuto spoke.

"I think that's enough for now. President is expecting us shortly after all."

"I guess so…"

Takeshi looked dissatisfied as both he and Yuuto lowered their weapons, dismissing them. Sitting down with their backs on the wall, they took out their respective bottles of water and started drinking, letting out a content sigh afterwards.

"I have to say though, your form's looking better and better, Takeshi-kun." Yuuto remarked. "Not to mention, you're finally starting to utilize your demonic power in battle."

"Yeah, but it's not going as well as I want." Takeshi frowned. "I'm alright when it comes to day-to-day stuff like short-range teleportation or communication. But it takes a lot of focus to even manage a half-baked attack that will only serve as distraction at best."

Takeshi took a large sip before continuing.

"The time lag between gathering and shooting my demonic power is also atrocious, which means effective long-range attacks are difficult. Using my imagination to change demonic power into elements or even manipulating said elements…that's out of the question for now. All in all, it's disappointing."

"Don't you think you're being a bit too hard on yourself?"

"In this line of work, I don't think any of us can afford not to be." Takeshi said. "I need a lot more practice to master both my demonic power and my Sacred Gear, but circumstances insist on getting in my way. I haven't even had the chance to properly practice the new moves I thought of…"

"While I understand your frustration, you really didn't have to drag me out of class when lessons were over." Yuuto said. "You made quite an impression back there."

"Don't I know it…"

Takeshi sighed. His forceful manner of bringing Yuuto with him had caused quite a stir in the surrounding students. He had caught hushed conversations ranging from this being a shakedown to a secret lovers' rendezvous. However, he chose to ignore them. If he paid more attention to people's nonsense than necessary, he would be on the verge of a major nervous breakdown by now.

"Honestly though, I can't help but be a bit jealous of your Sword Birth, Kiba-kun." Takeshi said. "Not only does it give you a wealth of options in battle, it doesn't come with annoying baggage attached to it like my Sacred Gear. I'd really love to create an endless supply of weapons as well."

"It's not endless per say." Yuuto said. "There is a limit to the number of Demonic Swords I can create, which is tied to my energy reserves. If I run out of energy, I won't be able to produce even a small dagger. That's why I have to always be mindful of my state during battles. Furthermore, my blades can't match genuine Demonic Swords in any aspect."

"Your blades also seemed more brittle when you were distracted." Takeshi remarked. "I noticed that during one of our past spars. Does that mean the durability of your swords is tied to your concentration?"

"You got me." Yuuto grinned. "You could say the blades are an extension of my soul. If it wavers, so will they. Because of that, I've been honing my abilities as much as I can ever since I joined President's Peerage."

"Ever since you joined, eh?" Takeshi said. "Since you brought this up, how did you end up in this merry band of Devils, Kiba-kun?"

Yuuto's previously cheerful expression darkened in an instant and his trademark refreshing smile vanished, leading Takeshi to suspect that he had stumbled into yet another painful history.

"…President chanced upon me a few years back when I was on the verge of death." Yuuto spoke with a voice that barely concealed resentment and rage. "Using one of her Knight pieces, she brought me back to life as a Devil, and I have been serving her ever since."

"I see…"

Takeshi could tell there were a lot of details missing from his senior Devil's tale, but judged it was better not to push him at this point. Most likely, he wouldn't get anything out of Yuuto and would only make his mood fouler. As such, he opted for a change of subject.

"Say, Kiba-kun, do you mind if I ask you about something that President told me a few days back?"

"What is it?" Yuuto said, his expression back to normal. "If it's something I can answer, I've got no problem doing so."

"Is it true that you guys took a vote about whether I should join this Peerage or not?" Takeshi asked. "And that the vote was unanimous?"

"Why are you asking me something like that?" Yuuto raised an eyebrow. "Don't you trust President's words?"

"I want to, but there's always the chance she's not telling me the whole truth." Takeshi said. "For instance, one of you guys might have disagreed with me joining, but was outvoted. President might be covering for that person."

"Assuming that's the case, what will you do after finding out?"

Yuuto eyed Takeshi with suspicion, causing the latter to chuckle.

"Don't give me that look, Kiba-kun. I don't intend to do anything. I just think I deserve to know."

[Yes, we deserve to know who our enemies are.]

Takeshi ignored Nidhogg's comment, focusing on Yuuto.

"Then there's no need for you to worry since President spoke the truth." Yuuto said. "We all agreed with her decision. How could we not after what you did for us? Honestly, it's a little insulting that you think so little of us, Takeshi-kun."

"I'm sorry for that, but can you blame me?" Takeshi said. "More importantly, do you still feel the same way, Kiba-kun? Can you trust me without any reservations?"

"Why me specifically?"

"Because you're the one standing before me right now?" Takeshi said with a lopsided smile. "Also, because I trust you'll give it to me straight and won't try to spare my feelings with a half-baked answer. The girls would probably try to weasel their way out of this if they were in your place."

"You're not wrong there…" Yuuto chuckled in an awkward manner. "Alright. But remember, you asked for it, Takeshi-kun. The truth is, I want to trust you and accept you as a comrade wholeheartedly…but I'm not sure if I can. Not yet at least."

"Oh?"

Takeshi raised an eyebrow as Yuuto continued speaking.

"Regardless of what you've done for us, you are still dangerous. I cannot disregard the possibility you might lose control or turn against us. Until then, as President's Knight, I must remain vigilant, keep an eye on you…and deal with you if I have to. I'm sorry if this upsets you, but everyone's safety is my top priority."

"No, it's fine." Takeshi made a dismissive gesture. "If anything, I'm relieved to hear that. I'll be counting on you to put me down if I do become a threat."

"I hope for both our sakes that it doesn't come to that." Yuuto said as he stood up. "We should go. The meeting with the Youkai will begin in a few minutes."

"You go ahead, Kiba-kun." Takeshi said. "I'll clean things up a bit here. We don't want President getting angry about leaving a mess after a spar again."

Yuuto nodded and took his leave. After remaining motionless for a few seconds, Takeshi stood up and began manipulating his demonic power, using it to erase the traces of battle around him. While he worked, Nidhogg's voice echoed once again.

[The kid fancies himself the brave knight shielding the princesses, eh? How disgustingly gallant. At least we know whom we'll start with when the time comes.]

If it's the usual drivel, I'm not in the mood for it. Takeshi said. Also, I'm trying to concentrate here, so take a hike.

[Aw, what's the matter?] Nidhogg chuckled. [Truth's getting a bit unbearable for you? Finally starting to realize how fragile their trust in you is? How easy it's going to be for it to break?]

I never thought this was going to be easy. Takeshi said while filling the hole on the ground that Yuuto had made. My situation is also not as terrible as you're trying to present it, Nidhogg.

[Is that so?] Nidhogg said. [Let's do a recap, shall we? The Knight brat just outright said he doesn't trust you and will run you through at the first sight of trouble. The white-haired girl is avoiding you, and that sadistic Queen implied that she doesn't think you're dependable. Yes, quite the solid camaraderie we have here. Only your red-haired master isn't outright hostile, at least as far as we know.]

In that case, all I have to do is show them I'm worthy of their trust. Takeshi reasoned. Piece of cake.

[Huh, I actually can't tell if you're lying to me or yourself right now.] Nidhogg said. [By all means though, keep doing what you're doing. Your failure and eventual awakening to the truth will be all the sweeter. That has always been the most entertaining part with all of you.]

"Give me a break already…"

Takeshi muttered as he put the finishing touches, restoring the area to its prior state. Then, he spread his bat-like wings and took off, leaving Kuoh Academy behind him.

"If I remember correctly, we'll be meeting them near the station…"

Although he was curious about why Rias had arranged for everyone to assemble there, Takeshi assumed there was a good reason for that. Checking his phone, he smirked.

"Well, since there's still a little time left…"

Folding his wings, Takeshi started freefalling, a wide smile on his face. When he was only a few meters short of hitting the ground, he spread his wings once again, flying horizontally for a while before shooting upwards. Passing through several clouds, he started pulling all sort of wild maneuvers while laughing, enjoying the feeling of freedom and the exhilaration his newfound flight abilities had given him.

As far as Takeshi was concerned, his new wings were one of the biggest perks being a Devil had offered him. That was why he had put a lot of effort during his first days as a Devil to familiarize himself with them. It hadn't been easy, but his hard work was rewarded by his current prowess.

He had also got into the habit of going for a flight around town at times when he couldn't sleep at night. Thankfully, Devil activities were undetectable by human eyes, or else he was certain at least a dozen people would have taken notice of him with all the crazy stunts he pulled while flying.

"Oops, it's almost time." Takeshi remarked after checking his phone once again. "Better stop here for now."

Saying so, Takeshi changed direction, heading towards Kuoh Town's train station. While approaching, he noticed that the rest of the Peerage was here, but there was no sign of the Youkai yet.

"Looks like I arrived in time." Takeshi said as he landed next to his fellow Devils, furling his wings back into his body. "Our allies aren't here yet?"

"No, they're greeting the compatriots from the Western Youkai Faction and will be joining us shortly." Rias said before directing a pointed look at Takeshi. "I heard that you and Yuuto had a spar just now. Did you clean up after yourselves?"

"No worries, President." Takeshi gave her a thumbs-up. "You wouldn't be able to tell we were sparring just a few minutes ago if you didn't know."

"Good." Rias nodded. "I very much approve of your drive to become stronger, since I can't stand the idea of my servants being weak. However, I also prefer it when you don't leave our club grounds looking like a warzone."

"Not my fault that my Sacred Gear leans on the destructive side…" Takeshi muttered before looking around. "So, why did you bring us here, President? Did something happen?"

"I'll tell you once…oh, it seems like they've already arrived."

Rias turned her sights to the alleyways behind the stations. Following her line of sight, the members of her Peerage noticed the familiar figures of Kumowatari and Chiharu approaching them, flanked by several Karasu-Tengu and Guardian Oni.

Walking a short distance behind them were several unfamiliar figures clad in the traditional attires of Shinto priests, who wore fox masks and were carrying an assortment of weapons. Takeshi might have mistaken them for actual priests or cosplayers if it wasn't for the otherworldly aura drifting around their bodies.

"Rias Gremory, I hope we haven't kept you waiting." Kumowatari said as he gestured at the unfamiliar Youkai. "These are the reinforcements dispatched to assist us from Kyoto."

One of the fox priests accompanying them removed his mask, revealing the face of a young man with spiky blue hair and matching eyes. His eyes scanned Rias's group, briefly narrowing at the sight of Takeshi.

"We are well-met, Lady Gremory and Devils of Kuoh Town." He said after a few seconds as the other Youkai removed their masks as well. "My name is Yasuhiro, leader of this expeditionary force. The esteemed Lady Yasaka, leader of the Kyoto Youkai, sends her regards and hopes that our united front will be able to deal with this crisis. She would be fighting alongside us herself if she could, but her circumstances and Kyoto's current state do not allow that."

"It's the thought that counts." Rias said. "Rest assured that we'll do our best to live up to Yasaka-sama's expectations, Yasuhiro-san. What about the rest of your companions though? I was under the impression that at least a hundred Youkai would arrive, but I only see a dozen people."

"The others have joined Kumowatari's troops and Lady Sitri's Peerage in guarding the town's borders and scouring the area." Yasuhiro said. "So, what's our next course of action? Kumowatari didn't say much about it."

"Investigating the sewers." Rias pointed at a nearby manhole cover. "It's possible the Oni cleared an area that had collapsed a while back and used it to bypass our defenses when they attacked us a few days ago."

"Going through an underground route we didn't bother with because of its state…" Akeno frowned. "It's possible, and also a big blunder on our part. I should have thought of that when setting up the extra detection spells."

"The fault is mine as well, so don't beat yourself over it, Akeno." Rias said. "I should have been more mindful of potential openings."

"But aren't the manholes and the passages a bit too small for them?" Yuuto noted. "Taking into account the Oni's stature, they shouldn't have been to use them."

"No, they can." Chiharu said from the side. "A branch of Youjutsu deals with transformation magic. Even for them, it would be a simple matter to adjust their size in order to navigate the sewers."

"Let's hope this is the lucky break we've been waiting for." Kumowatari said. "Shall we?"

"Of course."

Rias motioned at Yuuto, who removed the manhole cover and entered the sewer, with the rest of the group following behind him. Kumowatari was last, his body shrinking into a leaner form to fit as he placed the manhole cover back to its place before coming to stand next to Rias.

"…Stinks."

Koneko remarked, her lips curled in disgust as she gazed at the tunnel-like structure filled with leaking pipes around them. Although they said nothing, all Youkai present mirrored her sentiments judging from their scrunched-up faces.

"No kidding." Takeshi said, covering his mouth and nose with his hand. "You once said that a Devil's job could sometimes get dirty, but I didn't think you meant that literally, President."

"Hush, you." Rias said as she conjured several small balls of lights, with Akeno following suit. "Let's move on, everyone. Remember to be alert at all times. We never know when we might get attacked."

Everyone present nodded. Rias and Akeno sent the floating balls of light ahead to fully illuminated the dimly lit sewer, with the group following after them.

"How is it, Chiharu?" Kumowatari asked his companion. "Are you picking up anything yet?"

"It's faint…but I can sense traces of the Oni's ki signature." Chiharu said, an intense expression on her face. "They've definitely been here at some point. Whether they're still hiding somewhere here or not…I can't say yet."

Chiharu's words caused everyone to tense, with those that had weapons out tightening their hold on them. Yuuto conjured a Demonic Sword, while Takeshi brought out Mayhem Striker. He didn't miss the wary expressions that appeared on the faces of the Kyoto Youkai when he did so.

Figures they'd react like that…

[Disappointed?] Nidhogg said. [You should get used to it sooner rather than later. Be glad they didn't skewer you on sight. Oh, that reminds of a time when one of our hosts wandered into a Greek demigod camp in Sparta and—]

Not interested.

Takeshi shut off Nidhogg as the group arrived in front of what appeared to be a collapsed passageway filled with rubble and marked with warning tapes.

"This is it." Rias said after consulting her map and running her hand over the debris. "Beyond this point is the area where the cave-in took place. But it seems to be undisturbed."

"To the untrained eye, perhaps." Yasuhiro said. "All of you, stand back."

Yasuhiro stepped forward, his hand enveloped in a pale aura. He snapped his fingers, sending out an energy pulse that caused the debris to shimmer before vanishing, revealing a passage.

"An illusion spell…" Rias muttered. "And a pretty sophisticated one to boot if it could fool my sense of touch as well."

"The stench of the savage ones has gotten stronger." Chiharu said with narrowed eyes. "We have you now, Hisaya…"

"Everyone, be ready." Kumowatari said. "A battle could break out at any moment."

"I'll take point alongside Chiharu." Yasuhiro said. "If the Oni have left us any more surprises, I should be able to sense them. And just to be on the safe side…"

A pair of fox ears appeared from the top of Yasuhiro's head, while four tails materialized seemingly out of thin air from his backside.

"A four-tailed Kitsune." Akeno remarked. "That's reassuring to say the least. Your power should be on par with that of a High-class Devil."

"More or less." Yasuhiro said. "With Kumowatari, who's on the same level, and your master here, we should have the advantage. Still, I doubt it's going to be that easy."

"Since you're on the lookout for supernatural traps, we'll handle the more mundane ones." Rias said. "Akeno, assist me please."

"Yes, President."

Both girls raised their hands, conjuring several magic circles that formed a makeshift barrier around the group.

"This should give us some breathing space if they try to cause a cave-in or have some sort of crushing wall trap prepared." Rias said. "Better safe than sorry."

"A wise policy."

Yasuhiro said as the group began moving again.

"I'm also designating this entire underground space as enemy territory." Rias said to Takeshi. "Should the need present itself, you can promote whenever you want."

"Much appreciated, President."

Looking around after saying so, Takeshi noticed that the tunnel was slowly becoming wider and taller as they proceeded. The eerie silence and the shadows cast by the floating orbs, the only source of light available, only served to make him more nervous. Judging by everyone's tense expressions, he wasn't alone in that regard.

After several minutes of walking, the passage led the group into a massive semi-circular cavern. On its walls, several openings could be seen, forming passages that led to who-knows-where.

"That's quite the remodeling." Rias remarked as she and Akeno spread the floating orbs around the cavern, illuminating it. "Now what? Which passage should we take? Can you sense anything coming from them, Chiharu-san?"

"The ki signatures are too muddled." Chiharu said with a frustrated expression as she looked around in an agitated manner. "They've covered their tracks well."

"Or perhaps you're just too incompetent to smoke us out, hm?"

A mocking voice echoed across the cavern, with everyone flinching.

"You!"

Chiharu growled as Rengokuki emerged from one of the passageways, a wide smile on the three-horned Oni's face.

"Welcome, the united front of Devils and Youkai." Rengokuki said, spreading his arms wide. "Welcome…to your final resting place. I see you've also brought the key to us. Good. Rest assured we'll put it to good use."

"What are you talking about?" Rias asked. "We've brought no key here."

"Oh, but you have." Rengokuki said. "And now, it will be ours."

A large number of Oni appeared from every passageway, savage grins on their faces as they brandished their clubs. Banding all together and forming a circle, the group readied themselves for battle.

"Where's Hisaya!?" Chiharu shouted. "Where's that bastard hiding!?"

"Unfortunately, he couldn't be here for this." Rengokuki said. "He's rather busy setting up the ritual. He does send you his love though, and hopes you'll die in a less messy way compared to your sister. The whole crying and begging for mercy thing before her life bled out of her, Hisaya said it was just plain embarrassing to watch."

"You scum!" Chiharu said with an outraged expression. "My sister would never act in such a disgraceful manner! Tell me where he is, and maybe I'll leave you with one of your limbs attached when all is said and done!"

"Tempting, but no deal." Rengokuki said. "I'm afraid we have the advantage here, my dear."

"You must be joking." Yasuhiro snorted. "Is this ragtag group of brutes really the best you have?"

"Well, now that you mention it…"

Rengokuki snapped his fingers. The entire cavern began shaking as sounds of something grating against rock echoed throughout it. Bursting out of the ground, three oversized slithering forms resembling centipedes surrounded the group, their mandibles clicking in a way that sent chills down everyone's spines.

"Omukade!" Kumowatari shouted at the sight of the centipede Youkai. "Curses! To think you'd employ such beasts as well!"

"End their miserable lives, my brothers!" Rengokuki shouted. "But remember, the white-haired Devil girl is not to be harmed!"

Koneko is not to be harmed? Takeshi thought. Why?

He didn't have the chance to ponder this further as their enemies were upon them. Two of the Omukade slithered towards the group, with Kumowatari and Yasuhiro rushing to intercept them. Evading the poison that the centipede Youkai spat at him, Kumowatari's hand was enveloped by thunder as he thrust his fist forward. The Omukade was sent flying by the Raiju's blow, twitching as it landed on its back.

"Filthy beasts!"

Yasuhiro shouted as he brandished his katana, pale light enveloping it. As the Omukade tried to bite him, Yasuhiro swung his blade, severing several of its legs at once. The centipede hissed in pain and spat poison at the Kitsune, only for Yasuhiro to counter it with a stream of golden flames that shot out of his tails' ends. The flames singed the Omukade's carapace, melting it in several places.

Taking advantage of its state, two Kitsune soldiers attacked the writhing centipede from the side with their naginatas, aiming to bring it down. However, the Omukade moved faster than they thought possible, slashing their torsos with its legs and spewing poison on their bodies, killing them instantly.

"Accursed demon…" Yasuhiro said through gritted teeth before turning to his subordinates. "Focus on the Oni and leave this one to me!"

The four-tailed Kitsune moved to attack his foe once again while the Kyoto Youkai engaged the Oni alongside their brethren.

"How annoying!"

Rias exclaimed as she shot her Power of Destruction at the third Omukade. The centipede was unable to avoid every blast sent at it, with the Power of Destruction outright erasing every spot it hit. The Omukade howled, but its unique body structure and robust constitution allowed it to keep going. It spat globules of venom at Rias, who formed several defensive magic circles to shield herself. Seeing that Rias was distracted, a group of Oni rushed towards her, their clubs raised.

"Not so fast!"

Akeno pointed her hand in the ground. As the Oni stepped over some puddles, they turned into ice instantaneously alongside their legs, locking them in place as they stumbled.

"Ara, ara, what should I do with these naughty children that tried a sneak attack at my dear President?" Akeno licked her lips in a suggestive manner while the Oni struggled to free themselves. "Oh, I know just the thing~."

Pointing her hand at her foes, Akeno rained numerous thunderbolts down that turned the Oni into masses of charred flesh. A trio of Oni jumped from above in an attempt to smash Akeno with their clubs. The raven-haired girl barely glanced at them as she blew them aside with wind magic, sending them crashing on the cavern's walls. Before they could get up, three fireballs engulfed them, incinerating them in a manner of seconds.

"Stay behind us, Koneko-chan!" Yuuto said as he fended off an Oni's club with his blade while Takeshi severed another's leg, sending it tumbling to the ground. "Takeshi-kun and I will keep you safe!"

"…I can take care of myself."

Koneko said as she lifted a nearby boulder and tossed it at a downed Oni, smashing its head. More Oni headed towards Koneko, but several Karasu-Tengu dove at them from above, thrusting their staffs into the horned monsters' bodies.

In this situation, with enemy and ally packed together, I need better control to avoid friendly fire. Takeshi thought while surveying the battlefield. Let's go with this then.

"Promotion, Bishop!"

Takeshi let out a deep breath as he felt the Pawn Pieces within him altering their characteristics. Pointing Mayhem Striker at the group of Oni fighting the Karasu-Tengu, he formed a large number of ash bullets around him. His brow furrowed in concentration, he shot them. His aim was true as only the Oni's bodies were struck by the bullets, distracting them long enough for the Karasu-Tengu to take them down. One of them nodded at Takeshi before heading towards another group of Oni alongside his companions.

"Watch out, Takeshi-kun!"

Thanks to Yuuto's warning, Takeshi avoided an Oni's club just in the nick of time. As three more headed towards him, Takeshi pointed Mayhem Striker towards the ground. A large pile of ashes gathered underneath him, with Takeshi riding on the ash cloud as it slid on the ground, giving him enough speed to evade the charging Oni. Two of them tried to flank him, only for Takeshi to have the ash cloud he was on spin around, forming a makeshift ash tornado that opened deep gashes on their bodies.

"Stay still, you blasted Devil!"

One of the Oni shouted, only for his expression to morph into one of shock as a sword with note-like runes on it protruded from its abdomen. Removing his blade from it, Yuuto wasted no time in severing its head, sending its headless corpse crashing on the ground. Tapping the blade of his sword several times, he released sonic waves at three nearby Oni, which howled and clamped their hands over their ears as blood started dripping from them.

Before they had a chance to recover, Takeshi, Koneko and Yuuto were upon them. A makeshift ash blade that formed around Takeshi's axe bifurcated one of them, Koneko's haymaker broke the second Oni's neck, while the third fell to its knees after Yuuto's blade severed its leg tendons before slicing its head in two.

"You move well, you snotty brats!"

Rengokuki shouted as his large body smashed in the midst of the area the three young Devils were standing, sending them skidding backwards. Before Takeshi could regain his bearings, he received a powerful blow from a corrupted ki-enveloped fist that cracked his ribs. Spouting out blood, he was sent flying backwards.

"You!"

Yuuto attempted to slash Rengokuki, but the three-horned Oni brought his club up, shattering the Demonic Sword. At the same time, he kicked the charging Koneko, with the white-haired Rook letting out a pained gasp as she crumbled on the ground. Yuuto tried to form a new sword, but Rengokuki grabbed his head, his hand surrounded by corrupted ki, and smashed him on the ground.

"Looks like our plan won't be needed after all." Rengokuki said as he tossed the dazed Yuuto aside. "I'll be having our prize now."

Rengokuki started walking towards the downed Koneko, only for his instincts to scream at him to dodge. He jumped to the side, with several ash tendrils shooting past the spot he stood. Turning his sights at the direction of the attack, he spotted Takeshi on his knees and heaving, but with evident fighting spirit in his eyes.

"Stubborn one, aren't you?" Rengokuki smirked. "Despite your condition, you're still trying to fight. As expected of the Evil Dragon User, I suppose? Then, as you wish, I'll start with you first!"

Rengokuki dashed towards Takeshi, raising his club to smash him. However, a magic circle appeared in front of Takeshi, shielding him from the blow.

"Ara, ara, Oni-san, that's no good." Akeno said. "Bullying my cute Kouhai isn't allowed. Now I have to give you some harsh punishment!"

Akeno started shooting a large number of thunderbolts at Rengokuki, with the Oni using his club to deflect them as he moved backwards.

"I'm really starting to hate Senjutsu…"

Takeshi groaned as he struggled to get up. In his peripheral vision, he spotted another Oni rushing at him. Moving on instinct, he gathered as much demonic power as he could, wrapping it around his leg. Sidestepping the charging Oni, Takeshi threw a roundhouse kick at it. The Oni howled as the blow sent it crashing on the cavern's wall, leaving a gaping hole and a nasty burn mark on its back.

"Ow, ow, ow!" Takeshi started hopping with tears streaming down his eyes, cradling his now singed and broken leg. "Damn, that's what you get when you don't properly test these things beforehand!"

Although his regeneration started working on it, the process was slower due to the corrupted ki still circling within his body. As he surveyed the battlefield, he noticed that a group of Oni was heading towards the still dazed Koneko. Before he could do anything, Chiharu was upon them, copious amounts of ki surrounding her whole body. Her fists, kicks and club sent the enemy Oni flying.

"I don't know what you want with this Devil, but if she's that important to you, then I'm definitely not letting you have her!"

"Don't interfere, you damn blood traitor!"

Chiharu started fighting the five Oni that came at her. Looking to the side, Takeshi noticed that the High-class members' battle against the Omukade was drawing to a close.

"Disappear!"

With massive amounts of lightning surrounding his arm, Kumowatari thrust it inside the Omukade's mouth. The centipede Youkai screeched as its insides were vaporized, leaving only its empty shell behind. Next to him, Yasuhiro sheathed his katana, with the Omukade he was facing having turned into a pile of charred carapace and flesh.

"The finishing blow!"

Rias exclaimed as she formed an oversized sphere of destruction above her head. The Omukade she was facing, wounded all over, was too slow to avoid the blast. Its upper half vanished without a trace after receiving Rias's attack, and the rest of its body collapsed on the ground, twitching for a bit before ceasing all movements.

All around the cavern, the fighting was dying down as one Oni after another fell at the hands of the allied Youkai and Devils.

"Curses." Rengokuki clicked his tongue as he deflected yet another thunderbolt from Akeno. "Looks like this is the limit. I'll play with you all later!"

"Wait!"

"Stop right there!"

Akeno, Rias, Chiharu, Kumowatari and Yasuhiro all attacked Rengokuki. However, the Oni was faster, slamming his club on the ground and disappearing with a crimson mist. The remaining Oni also followed suit, disappearing from the area.

"Damn it!" Chiharu slammed her club on the ground with a furious expression on her face. "He escaped again!"

"Perhaps, but at least we learned something important." Kumowatari said as his gaze turned to Koneko. "The identity of the key Hisaya seeks."

"Let's hope it was worth the sacrifices we had to endure."

Yasuhiro remarked with a vexed expression as he looked at the bodies littering the ground. Apart from their enemies, several corpses belonging to both Youkai Factions could be seen there as well.

"Don't worry." Kumowatari said, placing his hand on Yasuhiro's shoulder. "We'll make sure their deaths weren't in vain."

Signaling at a group of Karasu-Tengu that had just arrived from the surface as reinforcements to come closer, Kumowatari addressed them.

"I need you to scout these passages for any traces of the Oni or clues that could lead us to their base." Kumowatari said. "Are you up to it?"

"Of course."

One of the Karasu-Tengu responded. After watching them take off, Kumowatari headed towards the injured Youkai. Meanwhile, Rias rushed to Takeshi, who was walking unsteadily while using Mayhem Striker as a makeshift crutch.

"Are you alright, Takeshi?" Rias said. "Here, let me help you."

"I…can manage." Takeshi said, making a dismissive gesture. "Once the Youkai purge this rotten ki from my body…I'll be right as rain. How are the others?"

"Banged up, but still alive." Rias said, her gaze focused on Yuuto, who was standing now with Akeno's support, and Koneko, who was helped up by Chiharu. "We should head back to the clubroom. There are a lot of things we need to process."

"Isn't that the truth…"

Meanwhile, in the outskirts of Kuoh Town, Rengokuki, who had successfully evaded pursuit alongside the surviving Oni, conjured a magic circle. After a few seconds, Hisaya's face appeared on it.

[How did it go?]

"Just as planned." Rengokuki said. "Unless they're all brain-dead, they should be aware what we're after now. But are you sure this will work? Because if it doesn't, we'll be stuck in a rather difficult position. This attack did cost us quite a few comrades, and after the battle of Hakone and our diversionary maneuvers, our numbers and quality of troops aren't looking that good."

[Trust me, it will work.] Hisaya said. [I know how Chiharu thinks. She often gets too emotional for her own good. It's a flaw she never managed to completely overcome. With the right incentive, she'll make the fatal mistake necessary we need to capture the key.]

"I hope you're right." Rengokuki said. "Otherwise, we'll have to fight our way into this town, and I don't really like our chances if it comes to that."

[Should it come to that, I have some ideas for that as well.] Hisaya said. [But I'm confident it won't. Come back to base, Rengokuki. We'll soon find out if our little scheme has borne fruit.]

"I hear you."

Rengokuki dismissed the magic circle before forming a teleportation magic circle and stepping into it, vanishing from this place.

---

A while later…

"I see. This is certainly interesting."

Sona remarked. Currently, Rias's Peerage, Sona, Tsubaki, Kumowatari, Yasuhiro and Chiharu were gathered at the Occult Research Club. Having finished treating the wounded and recounting the battle to their comrades, the group was ready to discuss their next step.

"The Oni are targeting your Peerage's Rook, Rias Gremory." Kumowatari said. "After checking her ki signature, I believe I know why. That little girl is a Nekomata, no? And not just any ordinary Nekomata, but a Nekoshu. Isn't that the case?"

Everyone's gazes focused on Koneko, especially Chiharu, who was appraising her with an inquisitive look. The young Rook looked downcast and uncomfortable, but eventually, she nodded, saying nothing else.

She's a Youkai? Takeshi thought. Why was she keeping her true nature hidden? Dies it have something to do with what happened to her in the past?

"A Nekoshu…" Yasuhiro said. "However, her powers are woefully underdeveloped, to the point where her Devil aura overshadowed them. No wonder I wasn't able to sense anything. But if that's the case, how did the Oni find out about her?"

"That's of secondary importance." Rias said. "Tell us, why does it matter so much that Koneko is a Nekoshu? Why would they target her?"

"Because the seal placed on the magatama was created by one of our venerable elders, Magari-sama, who is the head of all Nekomata." Yasuhiro said. "Due to its nature, it's possible to undo it if Youjutsu fueled by Nekomata ki is used on it."

"The fact that your Rook is an immature Nekomata makes things even worse." Kumowatari said. "If they get their hands on her, it would be a simple matter to force her into undoing the seal since her resistance to Youjutsu should be almost zero compared to her brethren."

Koneko shivered at that, prompting Rias to put her arms around her in an attempt to calm her down.

"Why isn't she using her abilities?" Yasuhiro asked. "Is there some special reason?"

"Personal reasons involving her family." Rias said. "Her sister is Kuroka if that name means anything to you."

"It does." Kumowatari frowned. "I see now."

"Since we know what the Oni are after now, can't we just send Koneko to the Underworld until we've dealt with them?" Takeshi suggested. "Their whole plan kind of falls apart without her here."

"I agree with Ryuugamine-kun." Sona said. "That seems like the best course of action."

"The problem is that the Oni will sense it if the girl isn't present." Yasuhiro said. "If they do, they'll move to a different location and we'll miss our chance to retrieve the artifact."

"You're suggesting that we should endanger the wellbeing of my servant?"

Rias said with an even tone, but it was evident to everyone that she was starting to get angry.

"Easy there, Rias Gremory." Kumowatari made a placating gesture. "Risking the life of a member of an endangered species isn't something we want either. But in the long run, it's better for everyone if we stop the Oni here."

"How so?"

"If they feel they can't get their hands on Toujou Koneko, they'll probably leave this area." Yasuhiro said. "Should they do so, it's possible that they could escape from our pursuit. Worse, they could find another method to break the seal in a place where our eyes do not reach. They must be dealt with here, or the consequences—"

"I'm aware of the consequences." Rias cut off Yasuhiro, and then turned to Koneko. "What about you, Koneko? What do you wish to do?"

"…I…want to stay here." Koneko said after a few seconds, her voice trembling. "Before they hurt more people…we have to stop them."

Rias sighed at that, embracing the shivering Koneko for a few seconds before turning to the Youkai.

"Alright, we'll do it your way." Rias said. "But Koneko will be guarded at all times and will not participate in our searches."

"Of course."

"That goes without saying."

Kumowatari and Yasuhiro said. Then, Sona spoke.

"In that case, I'll have my Peerage join you and increase the security here. It seems there's no point in investigating the neighboring town. We should also collapse the tunnels the Oni used to invade us and place more detection spells in the entrance to that area just to be on the safe side."

"Agreed." Kumowatari said. "I'll give the order once the investigation is complete."

"As for Koneko, it's better if we prepare several safehouses within Kuoh Town and move her at random intervals to keep her hidden." Rias said. "For today, I'll have her stay here in the Occult Research Club, and as for tomorrow…"

Rias turned to Takeshi, a mischievous smile on her face, prompting him to raise an eyebrow.

---

The next day…

"…Thank you for having me."

In front of the Ryuugamine residence's entrance, Koneko made a small bow to Takeshi's parents. Takeshi was by her side, an uncomfortable expression on his face due to the matching grins on his parents' faces.

During yesterday's discussion, it had been decided that Koneko would stay in Takeshi's house first as part of the planned rotation. Since several warding and detection spells had been placed around his house during the Stray Devil incident, it made perfect sense to move Koneko here until Yuuto and Akeno's places could be fortified as well.

Takeshi also suspected that Rias had arranged for this so that the two of them could have some alone time to talk and clear the awkward atmosphere between them. Whether that was the case or not, he didn't intend to waste this chance.

"My, Takeshi said that a Kouhai of his would be staying with us for the night, but he never mentioned you would be such a cute girl." Shiori said with a wide smile. "Don't just stand there. Come on in, my dear."

Koneko nodded as she followed after Shiori. Hiroto turned to his son and gave him a thumbs-up while grinning.

"So, this is your type, eh? Not bad. Your mother was a bit like her back in the day. Looks like you took after your old man after all when it comes to your taste in women."

"The one time I didn't want you guys to be home, you just had to be here…" Takeshi let out an exasperated sigh. "I'm going to say this once, Dad; don't you dare embarrass me in front of Koneko-chan or you'll regret it. She's just a friend, nothing more. Got it?"

"You're no fun." Hiroto pouted before smiling. "In all seriousness, I'm glad you've started making more friends, Takeshi. Looks like coming to Kuoh has done wonders for you."

"Yeah, in more ways than one…"

Takeshi muttered as he and his father made their way to the living room.

"I'll tidy up the guest room a bit." Shiori said. "Is there anything I should prepare for you, Koneko-san?"

"…No, thank you."

"Also, Takeshi, if you play video games with your friend, try not to break the console again."

"That only happened twice!" Takeshi shouted. "Stop bringing it up every time, Mom!"

"…Twice?"

Koneko looked at Takeshi with a curious expression. Takeshi groaned before answering.

"The first time…I was really pissed at one of my old friends beating me in a close match. I tried to toss the controller at him, but I missed and hit the console instead, breaking it."

"And the second time?"

"I was trying to play Guitar Hero…with a guitar controller…"

"…Say no more."

Koneko said, and then opened the television. After browsing through several channels, she eventually settled on a particular one much to Takeshi's surprise.

"You like mixed martial arts, Koneko-chan?"

"…Yes." Koneko said. "It's entertaining, and I can copy some techniques for my fighting style."

"Huh." Takeshi said as he sat next to Koneko. "I'm more of a basketball fan myself, but maybe I should give this a try as well."

Sitting next to Koneko, Takeshi started watching the various fights alongside her. Both of them engaged in small talk as they shared their opinions about the fighters and their particular styles. Although she still seemed somewhat wary of him, Takeshi was glad they could at least converse like this. Before they knew it, the sun had set and the time for dinner had come.

"…That was great."

Koneko remarked with a satisfied sigh after emptying her fifth plate in a row.

"Someone's got an appetite." Shiori said. "If I had known that, I'd have prepared more portions."

"…No, this was more than enough." Koneko said as she got up. "I'm a bit tired, so I'll be going to bed early if that's alright."

"I'll show you to the guest room."

Takeshi said as he stood up and headed upstairs, with Koneko following behind him.

Now is as good a time as any.

Takeshi thought as he turned to Koneko.

"Koneko-chan, do you mind coming to my room first?"

"…What for?"

Koneko eyed Takeshi with a suspicious look, prompting him to sigh.

"Don't give me the same look you're giving the Perverted Trio. I'm not going to do anything to you. I just want to talk. Please?"

"…Alright."

Koneko seemed a bit reluctant, but followed Takeshi into his room. After taking a look around and taking note of the various figurines and tokusatsu-related merchandise, she let out a small smile.

"…Somehow, this is exactly how I imagined your room would be like, Senpai."

"Oh?" Takeshi let out a sly smile. "And in what context did you imagine my room—whoa!"

Koneko tried to karate-chop Takeshi's head, only for him to stop her by grabbing her arm.

"Easy there, girl." Takeshi said. "I was just joking."

"…No innuendos allowed."

Koneko said with a huff as she withdrew her arm.

"Alright, I'm not good with beating around the bush, so I'm just going to go ahead and say it." Takeshi said. "You started avoiding me after our encounter with the Oni? Why? Are you afraid of me? Does it have something to do with your aversion to Senjutsu even though you're a Youkai? I also heard you muttering something about a sister back there, which I assume is the Kuroka Rias mentioned. Is she connected to this?"

Koneko remained silent, a conflicted expression on her face. Seeing this, Takeshi continued speaking.

"I understand this is probably something difficult for you. If you really don't want to talk about it, I won't force you. But, if possible, I want to understand you better, so I can get you to trust me as a comrade, no, as a friend."

[A futile effort.]

Takeshi ignored Nidhogg's voice, focusing on Koneko. She was silent for a while before eventually speaking with evident reluctance.

"…I lost my parents when I was very young." Koneko said. "I never learned the specifics, only that they were involved in some sort of accident. The one who took care of me after that was my elder sister…"

"You mean Kuroka."

"…Yes." Koneko said. "At times playful and free-spirited, and at other serious and caring…she was everything to me. She raised me in my parents' place, becoming the servant of a Devil that was an acquaintance of our parents to earn our living. But then…everything changed."

Koneko's expression darkened as she continued speaking with a low tone.

"…As a Nekoshu, my sister naturally excelled in Youjutsu. Her talents further bloomed when she was reincarnated into a Devil, mastering Senjutsu and the use of demonic power. But then…she drowned in her newfound power and lost herself. Kuroka…she killed her master and fled, annihilating all pursuit squads that were sent after her. Even now, she's one of the most wanted Stray Devils, a criminal with an SS rank classification."

"That's why you're so leery towards Senjutsu…"

"…Yes." Koneko nodded. "As for me, who was left behind…I was imprisoned out of fear that I would turn out like my sister. What I went through during that time…the isolation, the feeling of abandonment and constant fear for my life…I don't want to remember it…"

Koneko shivered as she brought her knees closer to her chest, hugging them.

"It's alright." Takeshi said, placing his hand on her shoulder. "You're not there. You're here now. If you don't want to say anything else…"

"…No…I'm alright." Koneko said as she grasped Takeshi's hand. "Just when I was about to be executed, President's brother, Sirzechs-sama, intervened on my behalf. He persuaded them to let me go and entrusted me to President. She helped me get back on my feet, gave me a family once again. Thanks to them…I'm here now."

"President's brother?" Takeshi raised an eyebrow. "He must be quite the influential person if he could talk the higher-ups out of that."

"…He is. President's brother is one of the Four Great Devil Kings."

"…I'm sorry, what?"

Takeshi was sure he had misheard her.

"…Sirzechs-sama is one of our currents leaders." Koneko repeated herself. "He holds the seat of Lucifer and is renowned as the strongest Devil alive, bearing the title of Crimson Devil King."

"…I've really become part of an amazing family…" Takeshi muttered with an astonished expression before focusing his gaze on Koneko. "OK, I think I understand what the problem is now. You are afraid that I might turn out like your sister? That I'll lose control of my power and go on a rampage?"

"…I want to believe in you." Koneko said with a trembling voice. "I know it's not fair to let your circumstances bother me… But…what I went through when my sister abandoned me…I can't go through it again… If I let us grow closer, and you leave as well or turn on us…"

Takeshi found her attitude understandable. After being betrayed by her sister, her only family, there was probably a deep mental scar left inside Koneko. Befriending someone who was liable to go on a rampage like him was not advisable. If he was a third party, he'd probably suggest to her to stay away from him.

That doesn't solve the problem though. Takeshi thought. What am I supposed to say here? How am I supposed to dispel her worries?

"I…"

Just as Takeshi started to say something, he felt drowsy. Across him, Koneko was barely stifling a yawn. She tried to stand up, but stumbled and fell on her knees.

"Sen…pai…"

Koneko muttered before falling unconscious.

"Don't tell me… An enemy attack…?"

Takeshi tried to move, to summon his Sacred Gear, to do anything, but the drowsiness was overpowering. Soon enough, he was also on his knees, falling unconscious shortly afterwards next to Koneko.

At the same time, the room's window was opened from the outside, with Chiharu stepping inside the room. After glancing at Takeshi once, she grabbed the unconscious Koneko and jumped outside. While leaping from rooftop to rooftop, she was joined by one of her fellow Oni, a well-built young man with grey hair, blue eyes and a single horn growing from his forehead.

"The guards around the house were neutralized?"

"Yes." The Oni responded. "We used Youjutsu techniques to make them lose consciousness like the occupants of the house. It should take some time before the others figure out what happened. But was that really the right choice…?"

"I'll take full responsibility for everything that happens from this point on, Akira." Chiharu said. "Hisaya's actions have dragged the name and reputation of us Guardian Oni through the mud. Taking him down on our own is the only way to fix this. And after what he did to my sister…I won't be satisfied unless I kill him with my own hands."

"I suppose it's too late for regrets either way…"

Akira said with a sigh as he and Chiharu reached the town's outskirts. Waiting for them there was a large group of Oni comprised of about thirty individuals.

"Good, everyone is here." Chiharu said as she landed in front of them. "First of all, I want to thank you all for going along with my selfishness."

Chiharu bowed her head, prompting the surrounding Oni to smile.

"Don't concern yourself with that." One of them said. "We understand how you feel. Many of us lost friends and family in the Hakone Shrine battle and we're itching for some payback. If we can avenge them, we're ready for whatever punishment the elders decide for us."

"Plus, even of we didn't cooperate, you'd find a way to do this on your own." Another said. "You're stubborn like that."

"If our leaders and the Devils had some backbone, they'd have come up with this plan themselves." A third one said. "Using the Nekomata as bait to draw out Izanami's lapdogs is the best strategy instead of wasting our time trying to smoke them out."

Murmurs of assent could be heard from all the Oni. Chiharu clapped her hands to get everyone's attention.

"Thank you…" Chiharu said with a small smile before making a determined expression. "Let's not waste any more time. It won't be long before the others discover what we've done. We have to settle this before they try to stop us."

[Right!]

The Oni said together as one. Then, following after Chiharu, they left Kuoh Town behind them and entered the forest surrounding it. After travelling for several minutes by leaping from branch to branch, they arrived in a clearing where marks of battle were still evident. Chiharu's expression hardened as her eyes were focused on a specific spot.

"Suguru… I swear I'll avenge your death as well…"

"Are you sure this will work, Chiharu?" Akira asked. "We don't know if Hisaya and his goons will come here."

"Oh, I'm sure they will come." Chiharu said. "They're probably keeping track of everything that happens around Kuoh town. Chances are they've already noticed our movements. They won't pass the chance of getting their hands on the Nekoshu. But they won't be expecting our surprise."

"Let's hope so…"

Akira said as the Oni formed a circle with the unconscious Koneko in their midst and started scanning their surroundings for signs of enemy presence. After almost fifteen minutes had passed, Chiharu frowned, turning her gaze towards a certain area of the forest.

"I know you're there! Stop hiding and come out, Hisaya!"

There was no response at first. But then, a sarcastic laugh echoed throughout the area.

"Nice one, Chiharu. Your senses are as sharp as always."

Emerging from the forest was a large group of Oni with Hisaya and Rengokuki at their forefront. Upon taking note of the unconscious Koneko, Hisaya smiled.

"I see you've brought me a present. How thoughtful of you. And here I am, empty-handed. Now I just feel terrible."

"Don't worry." Chiharu said as she brandished her club. "Your head will suffice."

"If you want my head, you'll just have to come and take it." Hisaya said. "Seeing as my side has the advantage in numbers though, that might be a bit of a tall order for you."

"Is that what you think?" Chiharu smirked. "Unfortunately, I, no, we came here prepared!"

Chiharu snapped her fingers. Immediately afterwards, several magic circles appeared around her, with about three hundred Oni emerging from them and landing next to Chiharu's squad. She turned to Hisaya with a triumphant expression on her face.

"Looks like the tables have turned, Hisaya." Chiharu said. "After yesterday's battle, I contacted some of my brethren and asked for their assistance in this ambush. As you can see, they were more than eager to help wipe your filthy existence off the face of the earth. We've also deployed an anti-teleportation barrier on this area, so there's no escape for you. Now, prepare yourself, murderer!"

Hisaya was silent for a few seconds, and then burst into laughter.

"What's so funny?" Chiharu frowned. "Have you finally gone completely mad?"

"Oh, you sweet, poor, naïve girl." Hisaya shook his head in exasperation. "You think you've cornered me, yet all you've done is dig yourself into a deeper hole with this. But I am thankful for the extra manpower you've provided us."

Hisaya took out something resembling a deformed fruit from his pockets that was oozing dark aura. Upon seeing it, Akira's expression stiffened.

"This is bad!" Akira exclaimed. "Everyone, run!"

"Too late!"

Hisaya smashed the fruit, with a torrent of malicious aura erupting from it and enveloping the area. At first, nothing happened, prompting Chiharu to raise an eyebrow.

"What was that supposed—"

Before she could complete her sentence, Chiharu felt a chill going through her body, followed by a splitting headache that made her scream and fall to her knees.

"What…is this!?"

Chiharu could feel a plethora of negative emotions flowing into her. Anger, despair, lament, fear, malice, it felt as if a tidal wave of negativity was trying to swallow her. Resisting its pull was taking everything she had. All around her, her fellow Guardian Oni were writhing on the ground as well, clutching their heads, screaming and clawing their bodies as dark aura enveloped them.

"Looks like it went well." Hisaya said as he passed the downed Chiharu, grabbing the unconscious Koneko and throwing her over his shoulder. "You were always a skilled warrior, but never really managed to curb that impulsive streak of yours, Chiharu. Because of you, we have what we need now. Truly, thank you."

"I… My comrades… What…have you…done to them…?"

"Ah, this?" Hisaya said while pointing at the thrashing Oni. "Nothing much. They were simply exposed to a highly concentrated dose of Yomi's miasma contained within the fruit. It's similar to the ones Izanami-sama ate when she was cast into Yomi, so I can guarantee its potency. We are used to such amounts of evil aura, but for domesticated ones like you with low resistance to it, it's enough to drive you crazy."

The smile on Hisaya's became wider as he continued talking.

"If the other Youkai were with you, they could have used their techniques to suppress it and shield you from its effects. Alas, because someone chose to venture out alone, you are now helpless before it."

"You…bastard…"

Chiharu glared at Hisaya with evident hatred on her face as tears streaked from her eyes.

"You have no one to blame for this but yourself." Hisaya said. "You may be able to resist the miasma to some extent since you're a high-ranked Oni, but as for your comrades…I'm afraid they're now mine."

Hisaya snapped his fingers. In response, the fallen Oni all stood up with matching feral expressions on their faces. Chiharu also noticed that their skin had become darker, their features had become deformed and their eyes were now pitch-black.

"Everyone…"

"Let it be known that I don't leave my debts unpaid." Hisaya said. "For all you've done for me, your death will be quick and painless. As an added bonus, I'll let your former friend do the deed."

Hisaya beckoned at Akira to come. The former Guardian Oni obeyed without objection, raising his club above his head. Chiharu could only stare at him, an anguished expression on her face as she shed more tears.

"Akira… Everyone… I'm sorry… I'm so sorry…"

"Goodbye, my foolish would-be sister."

Chiharu resigned herself to death, her eyes turned to the starless sky. But just as Akira was about to bring down his club, a shadow leapt out of the trees, bisecting him with a single strike. As the two halves fell to the ground, the shocked Chiharu was able to see her savior's face clearly.

"Evil Dragon…User…?"

"My name is Takeshi, not Evil Dragon User." Takeshi shook his head in exasperation. "Learn it already."

Following Takeshi's words, several aura blasts were launched from the forest, bringing down several Oni around him and Chiharu. The rest of them scattered at once, evading the next attacks.

"Time's up, eh?"

Hisaya grimaced as he noticed the members of Rias's Peerage and the Youkai led by Kumowatari and Yasuhiro emerging from the foliage. Upon taking note of the unconscious Koneko in Hisaya's arms, Rias's expression hardened.

"You must be the mastermind behind this incident." Rias said. "I would say nice to meet you, but that would be a lie. Now return my servant at once, or death will seem like a mercy compared to what I'll do to you."

"Ominous." Hisaya said. "But if you want to get to me, you'll have to get through them first!"

Hisaya snapped his fingers. In response, the dark aura surrounding most of the Guardian Oni intensified as they rushed towards the Devils and Youkai while snarling.

"Tch, they've gone berserk!" Kumowatari said as he blew one's head off with a thunder-enveloped punch. "Everyone, go for killing blows! In this state, they'll keep charging at us regardless of injuries on their person!"

"Have fun slaughtering each other, lapdogs of the Shinto Gods and filthy Devils!"

Hisaya said as he and his followers vanished into the trees, accompanied by some of the now corrupted Oni.

"They're getting away!" Rias shouted as she vaporized the upper half of a charging Oni with the Power of Destruction. "Someone, stop them!"

"I'm on it, President!" Takeshi shouted. "Promotion, Knight!"

The properties of the Evil Pieces within Takeshi were altered to match those of a Knight. Feeling his body becoming lighter, Takeshi spread his wings and took flight, rushing above the charging corrupted Oni. Despite receiving several gashes on his body and having his arm broken from Oni who jumped at him and tried to drag him down, Takeshi gritted his teeth, powering through the injuries and pain to push through. Once he had left the Oni behind, he began pursuing Hisaya's group while his Sacred Gear mended his injuries.

"Not something I'm looking forward to go through again…" Takeshi said with a wince as his arm was reset. "Now, where are they…?"

Takeshi scanned the forest below him, frantically looking for any sign of Hisaya and his group. If they reached an area outside of the anti-teleportation barrier, he would lose them.

"There!"

Spotting the group of enemy Oni making their way through the forest, Takeshi gathered a large quantity of ashes and launched them towards them. As if sensing the attack, Hisaya aimed his club upwards, releasing several thunderbolts that clashed with the ashes, dispersing them.

"Looks like the Evil Dragon User wants to play." Hisaya smirked as he turned to one of his subordinates and tossed Koneko at him. "Take her back to our hideout."

"Understood."

The Oni made a small bow as he joined his comrades in retreating.

"Wait!"

Takeshi tried to fly towards them, only for Hisaya to suddenly appear before him. He barely had time to bring up his axe to defend himself as Hisaya's blow sent him crashing on the forest floor with several fractures all over his body.

"Damn you and those clubs of yours…" Takeshi cursed as he stood up, his regeneration working on his wounds. "I don't have time to waste with you!"

"Too bad because you're not going anywhere."

Takeshi charged at Hisaya, only for him to easily dodge his slash. The Oni tripped Takeshi, sending him tumbling down. Raising his club, he attempted to smash his head, but Takeshi formed an ash barrier to block the attack. Shaping an ash cloud underneath his body to slide away, Takeshi shot a crescent-shaped ash blade at Hisaya. The Oni jumped on a tree to evade the attack before unleashing more thunderbolts.

Weaving through the bolts with his Knight speed, Takeshi placed the axe blade down, dragging it on the ground to send out three lines of ash blades that shredded everything in their path. Hisaya avoided them and grabbed the felled tree he was standing on, throwing it at his opponent.

"Tch!"

Takeshi grimaced as he split it in two with a single blow, but Hisaya emerged from behind it, his hand enveloped in corrupted ki. Knocking away Takeshi's axe, he aimed at his chest, but Takeshi countered with a demonic power-covered kick. Fist and kick clashed, with the ensuing shockwave pushing both combatants back.

The corrupted ki didn't reach me this time?

Takeshi wondered as he pressed the attack once his leg had mended itself. A series of reverse hook kicks kept Hisaya, who used his club to block, on the defensive. Takeshi shaped his ashes into a large number of small bullets, shooting them at Hisaya. However, the Oni swatted them aside with ease and performed a palm strike, with the ensuing air pressure sending Takeshi skidding backwards.

"Not bad…but there's something missing in your technique." Hisaya remarked. "Yes, the unrestrained killing intent is absent. Do you really think you can beat me by holding back?"

"Who the Hell's holding back?" Takeshi glared at Hisaya. "I'm one hundred percent serious in taking you down."

"Doesn't seem like that to me." Hisaya said. "You…are you perhaps afraid of your power? Of losing control?"

"Sorry, but I don't have time for your nonsense." Takeshi said as he brandished his axe. "I'm taking you down and getting Koneko-chan back!"

"Oh, just indulge me." Hisaya said. "After all, my companions have already exited the barrier. Your friend is out of your reach."

"In that case, I'll just have to beat Koneko-chan's whereabouts out of you!"

Calling every last ounce of his Knight trait's speed, Takeshi practically teleported to Hisaya's location, slashing at him before he could react. However, Hisaya's figure flickered and vanished, much to Takeshi's shock.

"What the…?"

Before his mind could register what had happened, he felt a sharp pain at this side of his abdomen. Next to him was Hisaya, his hand thrust inside his body. Takeshi attempted to move, but felt a familiar feeling of sickness washing over him as Hisaya's corrupted ki permeated his body. Hisaya removed his hand, with Takeshi falling to his knees, struggling to remain conscious.

"How…?"

"Illusions aren't my forte, but even I can manage a simple one to fool a young Devil."

Hisaya said as he kicked Takeshi, forcing him on his back. Takeshi tried to lift his weapon, only for Hisaya to smash his arm with his club. Takeshi's scream caused the Oni to grin.

"Nice lungs you've got there." Hisaya said as he kneeled next to Takeshi. "Since it'll be some time until your friends come here, why don't we have a little chat until then?"

"Screw…you…" Takeshi wheezed out. "You and I…have nothing to say…"

"Oh, I don't think that's the case." Hisaya said. "In fact, I think we're more alike than you think, Evil Dragon User."

"Bull…shit…"

"Don't be in such a rush to dismiss me." Hisaya said. "Once, I was also a loyal warrior of the East Youkai Faction. But despite my prowess and accomplishments…I was always treated with scorn and suspicion. You see, some of my ancestors betrayed the Nurarihyon of that time by staging a coup. Because of that, my family was exiled in the borders of the Kanto region and kept under constant surveillance. I was the first in a long time to be accepted as a warrior of the East Youkai Faction."

"Wrong decision…" Takeshi said while wincing. "The apple…didn't fall far from the tree…"

"It wasn't always like that." Hisaya said. "At first, I was eager to prove myself and serve my superiors along with the Shinto Gods. But always, always, no matter what I accomplished, the praises would be accompanied by back-handed insults and expressions of mistrust. It wears down the soul, you know, constantly being judged for something that isn't your fault. I think you know what I'm talking about, right?"

Takeshi remained silent, prompting Hisaya to grin.

"I thought so." Hisaya said. "You're the same as me, trapped by the world's bias towards you. I was fed-up with it, so I made my decision. Everyone expects me to be the villain? Then I'll oblige and show them a monster to be feared. What about you?"

"I…am not like you…"

"So you say, but you must know the world will never acknowledge you as anything other than a threat." Hisaya said. "Just like me, you will be isolated and treated with doubt and scorn at every turn. How about this? Why don't you join me?"

"What…?"

"I'm certain Izanami-sama would welcome the Evil Dragon User in our ranks." Hisaya continued. "Convincing her to spare those close to you from the coming apocalypse would be an easy matter. Instead of perishing in an already-decided battle, you can save them and obtain a place where you can belong. Men like you and me deserve this as much as every other living being."

[Hoh, this is certainly a fascinating proposal that sounds highly amusing.] Nidhogg's voice echoed from the Sacred Gear. [This could be your ticket out of the miserable fate awaiting you, whelp. If I were you, I'd consider this very carefully.]

"The Evil Dragon within you speaks wisely." Hisaya said. "I'd listen to him if I were you."

Takeshi didn't say anything for a few seconds. But just as he opened his mouth to respond—

"Takeshi!"

Rias's cry echoed across the forest, followed by a sphere of Power of Destruction aimed at Hisaya's head. The Oni jumped up, dodging the blast with ease. Turning his sights to the direction of the attack, he saw Rias and her Peerage rushing towards his position accompanied by their Youkai allies.

"Looks like we must put this discussion on hold." Hisaya said. "I'll hear your answer to my offer the next time we meet, Evil Dragon User!"

"Wait…"

Takeshi tried to stand up, but immediately fell on his knees gasping. As Hisaya disappeared into the forest with the Youkai pursuing him, Rias rushed to Takeshi's side.

"Takeshi, are you alright!? What happened!? Where's Koneko!?"

Unable to respond, Takeshi felt his strength leave his body. He collapsed on the ground, his vision dimming. The last thing he heard before losing consciousness was Nidhogg's taunting voice.

[What do you say, whelp? Do you still feel like playing the hero?]

---

This concludes Chapter 7. First, in response to your questions.

—To Guest (1): No, Takeshi won't have something like Juggernaut Drive, but his Balance Breakers will have alternate forms similar to Triaina. As for Ascalon, no, Takeshi won't receive it. Someone else will be wielding it.

—To Guest (2): I'll keep the identity of the person who'll replace Crom in Rias's team a secret for now. I haven't read Hajime no Ippo, so I'm not sure what the 'animal instinct' is. Takeshi will develop some abilities of his own though. As for manga recommendations, what comes to mind apart from the common ones is Kaiju No.8. It's pretty interesting in my opinion, so give it a try. About the harem, yes, there will be about ten girls in it.

—To Guest (3): Takeshi won't be learning Senjutsu since his arsenal is already big enough without it.

About the Evil Dragons' power levels in this fic, Nidhogg, Ladon, Grendel and Orochi are above Dragon King-level, while Crom Cruach, Apophis and Azi Dahaka are Heavenly Dragon-level. Due to their ability to resurrect after death, all of them apart from Apophis would tour the realms to seek for challenges before being sealed, resulting in their overall level being somewhat higher than canon. Apophis, on the other hand, grew stronger by constantly fighting against the Egyptian Pantheon in his attempts to consume Ra.

The cover of this fic is Tekkaman Blade from the similarly named anime, one of my favorite characters. The cover picture might change into something more appropriate down the line. As for the Boosted Gear's wielder, he'll show up later down the line. Regarding Sona, perhaps Takeshi will beat her at some point, but even if he does, I'd like to point out that won't automatically result in marriage. I think many people tend to misunderstand this part in the novels. Sona only said that she challenged her arranged marriage partner in a game of chess to break her engagement, not that whoever random guy beat her from that point on would instantly marry her. Sure, she'd probably hold a favorable impression of a man who could beat her in chess, but she'd probably consider other things before accepting him.

—To Guest (4): Yeah, there will probably be a trio of Takeshi, Vali and the BG wielder. Tannin will still be Takeshi's trainer. Regarding the Evil Dragons merging, no, that won't happen. They'll remain separate entities. As for Takeshi having an embarrassing nickname, I don't think he'll get anything worse than Chuuni Evil Dragon, but that could change. Vali ending up with someone in canon…ehhh, small chance of that happening in my opinion. Almost all single males around Issei seem more interested in him than the opposite gender, and Vali is no exception. But I'll probably try to pair him up with someone here.

Well, that's all for now. The next chapter will be the climax of this arc. Depending on its size, I might have to split it into two parts, but we'll see how it turns out. As always, please read, review, but most of all, enjoy!

See you all next time!