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?

9. Transformation

Chapter 9 – Transformation

"Take this!"

Flying above the Reiki she was facing outside the makeshift fortress, Rias conjured a large sphere of Destruction and threw it at its feet. The giant avoided it and opened its mouth wide, shooting out a mass of corrupted ki. Rias evaded it along with the Reiki's swipe and smiled upon seeing the state of the ground beneath her.

"Perfect."

Rias landed on the ground and slammed her palms on it, channeling a pulse of demonic power throughout it. The ground, already unstable due to being riddled with holes and cracks thanks to Rias's previous attacks, collapsed, burying the Reiki up to its waist. The monster was briefly stunned, but would easily dig itself out given the chance. Rias wasn't about to give it one though.

"All brawn, but no brains." Rias said, forming a massive sphere of Destruction above her. "Sorry, but you won't get the chance to carry out your revenge. Now, disappear!"

Rias's attack vaporized both the Reiki's head and the upper part of its torso, leaving the rest of it buried in the ground.

"This is a challenge, but nothing I can't handle."

Sona remarked as she manipulated water with elegant and graceful moves. Making a slashing gesture, she shot a blade of pressurized water at the Reiki, opening yet another large gash on its massive body. The Reiki was already bleeding profusely from a large number of such gashes and was panting. Letting out a bloodcurdling howl, it charged at Sona once again.

"You never learn."

Several tendrils of water took the form of serpents and wrapped themselves around the Reiki's legs as Sona formed a magic circle. The serpents turned into ice, binding the giant's legs and sending it tumbling to the ground.

"I've already analyzed your moves and attack pattern, and have gathered enough water from the surroundings." Sona said while fixing her glasses. "Time to end this."

A large volume of water gathered around the Reiki, lifting it up in the air and forming a large sphere with it in its center. The giant tried to open its mouth in order to unleash an aura blast, but Sona had ice form around its mouth, clamping it shut. The creature struggled for a few seconds, but eventually stopped moving. Sona released her spell, sending the Reiki's body crashing on the ground, and severed its head with a water blade for good measure.

"You did it, Sona."

"So did you, Rias." Sona responded to the smiling Rias. "From what I can see, our allies are almost done too."

Rias and Sona turned their sights to Kumowatari and Yasuhiro, who were fighting together against the remaining Reiki. Yasuhiro was moving in astounding speeds, his body surrounded by a torrent of white aura, as he cut the two giants' bodies in several places. Each time his sword struck them, the malicious aura surrounding them was weakened and their moves became slower.

"He's using Touki to augment his physical abilities and Senjutsu to negatively affect the Reiki's bodies and damage their insides directly." Sona remarked. "Youkai can be frightening foes indeed…"

Following after his fellow Youkai, Kumowatari's body was surrounded by both white aura and thunder as he charged. One of the Reiki tried to swat him aside, but the Raiju tore through its hand, turning it into a bloody, charred mess. The Reiki howled as it fell on its knees. Not letting up, Kumowatari raised his thunder-clad fists overhead and smashed them on the Reiki's head, pulverizing it.

The remaining Reiki unleashed an aura blast, but Kumowatari easily evaded it. Pulling his arm back, Kumowatari thrust it forward, shooting a powerful thunder wave that struck the Reiki head-on, briefly paralyzing it. Before it could shake off the paralysis, Yasuhiro was upon it, his blade surrounded by foxfire. With a single stroke, he decapitated the beast, setting the wound of fire. The now headless Reiki fell to the ground, raising a cloud of dust as it did so.

"This settles it." Yasuhiro said, sheathing his katana as the other three joined him. "We should—"

A large outburst of aura came from the direction of the fortress at that moment, causing everyone's hairs to stand on end. Though it had a different feeling compared to that of their opponents', it was unmistakably malicious and incredibly potent.

"Let's get there on the double." Kumowatari said in an urgent manner. "For better or for worse, something big is happening."

[Right!]

Rias, Sona and Yasuhiro said together, with all four of them rushing towards the fortress as fast as they could.

---

"Gah, what's this!? Did that Evil Dragon User do something!?"

Rengokuki shouted. The explosion of unfamiliar aura had distracted him as he looked towards the direction of its source. However, the Devils facing him were in no position to take advantage of that. Akeno was kneeling on the ground, her uniform torn in several places and her left hand broken. A short distance away, Yuuto had fallen unconscious, the remains of several broken blades scattered around him. Tomoe had also been knocked out next to him, while Reya was mostly unharmed, but was panting and trembling from exertion, her energy reserves almost depleted.

"Hisaya had better not screwed this up." Rengokuki growled as he turned to Akeno and the others. "Sorry, Devils. It's been fun and all, but now I really need to hurry up. Therefore, die!"

Rengokuki's club was surrounded by a large quantity of corrupted ki as he raised it overhead. Akeno tried to move, but was instinctively aware she wouldn't be fast enough to evade this blow, and she didn't have enough power to shield herself against such a powerful attack either.

I guess this is it. I'm sorry, Rias, everyone.

Akeno apologized to everyone in her thoughts. But just as Rengokuki was about to smash the downed Queen, a familiar figure stepped in front of her.

"Send that attack back, Mirror Alice!"

A large, ornate mirror appeared in front of Akeno's rescuer, with Rengokuki's club smashing it. The next moment, the three-horned Oni was engulfed by a wave of energy that came out of the broken mirror and howled in pain, falling on his knees and throwing up blood as numerous wounds opened throughout his body.

"Tsubaki!"

Akeno said with an elated tone. Indeed, the one who had come to her rescue was the Sitri Peerage's Queen, a satisfied smirk on her face.

"How…?" Rengokuki wheezed out. "How could you…damage me…?"

"Sacred Gear Mirror Alice." Tsubaki said. "When the mirror is destroyed, the damage from that attack is doubled and returned back to the opponent. You looked down on us a bit too much, monster."

"You…bitch…" Rengokuki spoke through gritted teeth. "A lowly Devil…dares to do this to me…!?"

"Let's end this!" Tsubaki shouted. "Can you do it, Akeno!?"

"With pleasure!"

Both Queens rushed at Rengokuki once again. This time, the Oni was too slow to react as both girls evaded his clumsy blows and plunged their arms into his open wounds. Drawing out every last bit of their demonic power, Akeno and Tsubaki unleashed thunder and wind respectively into the Oni's body, turning his insides into minced charcoal. Rengokuki screamed in pain once again as his body rapidly expanded, exploding into a million pieces and showering the two girls with blood and bits of his flesh.

"Ugh, disgusting." Akeno grimaced as she wiped the blood from her eyes before turning to Tsubaki. "Your timing was impeccable…though a couple of seconds earlier wouldn't have hurt."

"Sorry, but that brute's attack knocked me out for a bit." Tsubaki said. "It would have been far worse though if I didn't have this."

Tsubaki pulled out a paper talisman and showed it to Akeno.

"A talisman of the Metal element that makes an object or person sturdier, eh?" Akeno remarked. "Fitting for the Shinra family that's blessed by Byakko, the Sacred Beast associated with the Metal element."

"Even though my family was exiled from the clan, we retained some knowledge of their practices." Tsubaki let out a self-deprecating smile. "Never thought a day would come when they would save my life…"

"Akeno, Tsubaki!"

The two girls turned to see Rias and Sona approaching them, accompanied by Kumowatari and Yasuhiro. Upon seeing that their subordinates were still battling the Oni, the two Youkai leaders changed course and rushed to support them.

"What happened here?" Sona asked as soon as she landed. "You two look like Hell. And the others…"

"One of the Oni commanders, that three-horned one, proved to be quite the challenge." Akeno said. "We won by the skin of our teeth. The others are wounded, but still alive."

"Wait, we're missing one person." Rias said with a frown as she looked around. "Where's Takeshi?"

"For better or for worse…I think he's responsible for whatever's happening in the fortress's innermost area." Akeno said. "We thought he had betrayed us and sided with the Oni, but now…now I'm not so sure."

"The Youkai seem to be handling themselves." Sona remarked upon taking note of the state of the battles raging around them. "If Ryuugamine-kun is indeed fighting for us in there, he and Koneko-san will need help sooner rather than later."

"Right." Rias nodded. "Akeno, Tsubaki, can you tend to the wounded? Sona and I will head to the inner area of the fortress."

"Leave it to us." Tsubaki said. "But be careful, you two. There's no telling what you'll encounter in there."

Both girls nodded as they spread their wings and rushed towards the center of the fortress.

Takeshi, Koneko… Rias thought. Please, be safe…

---

Meanwhile…

Only the crackling sound of the still-burning flames around the altar could be heard as friend and foe alike were transfixed by Takeshi's sudden change. Uncertainty and a mounting sense of dread prevented everyone from making a move. Even the night wind had died down, as if the world itself was holding its breath.

As the smoke that surrounded Takeshi's body dispersed, the features of the armor slowly became more visible. It was colored ash-gray, with black gems attached to the chest, shoulder, forearm and foreleg portions and several blade-like protrusions growing from various parts of it. The helmet was shaped like a Dragon's head, with two horns extending backwards, while the face was covered by a black mask with two crimson gems covering the eyes.

Everybody present flinched as the four wings on the armor's back moved. The top pair sild underneath the armpits and came to rest on the chest area, while the bottom pair moved downwards and attached itself to the side of the hips, forming makeshift faulds.

"…Senpai?"

Koneko was the first to break the tense silence, speaking in a fearful manner. Having heard the stories of what usually happened to Evil Dragon Users who proceeded to the next stage, she was terrified that her Senpai had lost his mind. Takeshi was silent for a few seconds, but then a whisper was heard.

"…s…"

"…Eh?"

"Yes!" Takeshi screamed in joy, making a fist pump. "My very own power suit, complete with a jingle! Dreams do come true! I could have done without the Shin-style transformation, but who cares!? Not the guy who has an awesome armor! You are good for something after all, you cretin of a Dragon!"

"…It's still you." Koneko sighed in exasperation. "…Chuuni Evil Dragon through and through."

"I should be offended here, but I'm way too hype to care!" Takeshi said in an excited manner. "It's truly Phase One, complete! With this power, I don't feel like I'm going to lose to anyone!"

"Impossible…" Hisaya grimaced. "It can't be…the forbidden move? Balance Breaker?"

"Balance Breaker?" Takeshi said, tilting his head to the side. "Is that what this thing is called? Because the name Dead Shore Advent just popped into my head. Oh well, terminology comes later. First, all of you will be eradicated without fail!"

"It won't be that easy." Hisaya said. "You lot, I will deal with the Evil Dragon User. The rest of you, grab the Nekomata and prepare to resume the ritual."

[Yes!]

The Oni shouted together. But before anyone could make a move, a massive shadow obscured the moonlight. Turning their gazes up, the Oni were horrified to see a giant fist made out of ashes hovering above them.

"Take this!"

Takeshi brought the construct down, smashing eight Oni and the altar with ease.

"Sorry, but no-one is allowed to touch Koneko-chan." Takeshi declared. "You'll all be dealing with this Devil now!"

The Oni howled in rage as they charged at him. Takeshi slipped past their swipes and blows with graceful movements. Forming a curved ash blade to the side of his foreleg, he slashed two Oni in half with a single kick. Bringing around his axe, he cut another one's arms mid-swing, and a fourth one, he kicked it away with all his strength, sending it flying and crashing on the wall with almost all its bones broken.

"You brat!"

The four remaining Oni tried to smash him with their clubs together, but Takeshi was faster. A large amount of ashes gathered in front of him, blocking the blows and sending their weapons flying. Before they could gather themselves, Takeshi was upon them, his legs covered in black miasma. The Oni were brought down by successive kicks, with Takeshi dropkicking the last one and planting his head on the ground.

The downed Oni attempted to counterattack, but started screaming as the miasma permeated his body, rotting its skin and causing it to start convulsing. The other three were in similar condition, writhing on the ground as the miasma corroded their bodies. In a manner of seconds, they were all dead, their bodies in an advanced state of decomposition.

"Ugh, nasty." Takeshi remarked at the sight of the corpses, feeling a bit queasy. "To be expected from an Evil Dragon's power, I guess?"

Takeshi turned to his sole remaining opponent, Hisaya, who was watching the proceedings with an impassionate look.

"Enjoying the show?" Takeshi said. "There's no need to be so reserved through. Come and join us on the stage!"

Miasma gathered around Takeshi's axe as he swung it, letting loose a large crescent wave aimed at Hisaya. However, the wave passed harmlessly through the Oni's body, which flickered and vanished.

"Tch, more illusions?" Takeshi clicked his tongue. "Aren't you the sneaky one…"

"Are you perhaps calling me a coward?" Hisaya's voice echoed all around the area. "I prefer to think of it as seizing the advantage. After all, you can't fight what you can't see."

"I don't need to see you."

Takeshi said as he moved his miasma-clad left hand with a lightning-fast motion, grabbing the incoming ki-clad fist that would have struck his head.

"I can smell you."

Hisaya was momentarily surprised, both by Takeshi's swift response and the fact that his corrupted ki seemed unable to enter his foe's body. He raised his thunder-clad club to strike Takeshi, but he proved faster once again, bringing his axe down and shattering the club with a mighty blow.

A kick to his solar plexus sent Hisaya skidding backwards and grasping for breath. Barely evading a large number of claw-shaped ashes aimed at his torso, Hisaya vanished once again. He could feel the miasma trying to spread across his body, forcing him to use Senjutsu to expel it while keeping a distance from Takeshi as he cloaked himself once again.

"How…?" Hisaya wheezed out. "My Senjutsu…should have affected you…"

"Simple really." Takeshi said as he scanned the area. "To counter Senjutsu if you're not a user yourself, you simply have to prevent the enemy user's ki from entering your body. I stumbled upon that when we last fought, sought for confirmation in the club's library and applied it."

"The miasma…" Hisaya said. "You covered your hand in a large amount of dense miasma…forming an obstruction that my ki couldn't go through."

"Bingo." Takeshi smiled under his helmet. "I was planning to do that with demonic power at first, but this miasma works just as good, if not better. Also, enough hide and seek. I can locate your position just fine."

To prove his point, Takeshi formed numerous ash stakes and launched them at a specific point. He was rewarded with a surprised gasp and a few droplets of blood as one of his projectiles opened a gash on Hisaya's cheek.

"Alright then, no more petty tricks." Hisaya said as he made himself visible, wiping the blood from his face and covering his body in large amounts of ki. "I'll pummel you to death the good, old-fashioned way!"

"Bring it on, you scum!"

Both combatants rushed at each other, their clash creating a powerful shockwave that almost sent Koneko flying once again. The young Nekomata could only remain crouched and watch with wide eyes as Hisaya and Takeshi went at each other, exchanging furious blows that caused the very ground to shake.

Pushing Takeshi away, Hisaya bit his arm, infusing his blood with ki and launching it at Takeshi. An ash wall rose in front of him in response, scattering the blood. The ash formed several clawed arms that aimed straight at Hisaya. Launching bolts of thunder at them, Hisaya scattered them. But Takeshi was undeterred, closing the distance and aiming kick after kick at the Oni.

"Tch!"

Hisaya grunted, sweat gathering on his brow as he struggled to parry. Focusing the thunder in his hands in the shape of the spear, he aimed at Takeshi's torso. However, he merely grabbed the spear's tip and clenched hard, shattering it. Hisaya barely had time to avoid the incoming axe, but couldn't evade the ash stakes that followed after that pierced his abdomen and shoulders. Hisaya growled, unleashing as many thunderbolts as he could, but Takeshi swatted them all aside, forcing the Oni to step back to evade another potentially fatal blow.

"Sorry, but Akeno-san's thunder is much more potent than yours!"

Takeshi smirked underneath his helmet as he dragged his axe to the ground, sending out several jagged waves of ash and miasma. Hisaya fortified himself by increasing the amount of ki around him, barely shielding himself from the attack.

"Don't compare the blessing I received from Izanami-sama to the paltry powers of a mere Devil!"

Hisaya roared as his entire body was covered in thunder. Crouching low, he started running around the walls so fast that Takeshi had trouble seeing him. In response, the young Devil slammed his axe on the ground and gathered all ashes in the area, forming an oversized dome around him with spikes growing out of it. A large amount of ashes also surrounded Koneko to protect her.

Fool. Hisaya thought as he kept moving. If he thinks he can protect himself with such flimsy measures, he's in for a nasty surprise!

Hisaya let out a savage grin as he kicked off the wall, concentrating all his power in his right arm, and tore through the ash dome, his fist piercing through Takeshi's figure.

"What…?"

The feeling of triumph was replaced by confusion once Hisaya noticed that what his fist had struck through was a replica of Takeshi's armor made out of ash. Before he could register what had happened, a sense of danger made him turn his head up, only to see Takeshi descending upon him, his axe raised overhead.

Hisaya wasn't fast enough to dodge Takeshi's slash, which broke one of his horns and severed his right arm, while also opening a deep gash on his torso. Screaming in pain, Hisaya unleashed a large number of thunderbolts from his body, forcing Takeshi back.

"I see…" Hisaya said through gritted teeth cradling his stump. "As expected…of the Evil Dragon User. This is…a truly dreadful power…"

"Didn't you know?" Takeshi said. "The first time a transforming hero fights with his new upgrade, he's invincible. You had no chance from the start."

"It's true…that my prospects for victory are low as things stand." Hisaya admitted. "However, to use your words, what will happen if the villain 'upgrades' himself as well?"

Hisaya opened his remaining hand, revealing the pulsating magatama within.

"That's…!"

"The seal might not have been lifted in its entirety, but I can still use some of the power contained within the jewel." Hisaya said with a solemn expression. "My lifespan will probably be shortened drastically…but that's an acceptable price to pay for killing you and everyone else here!"

"Wait!"

Takeshi rushed at him, but wasn't fast enough as Hisaya jammed the magatama inside his chest. An explosion of fiery aura ensued, setting the entire area aflame. Takeshi changed directions at once and landed next to Koneko, spreading his wings to protect both of them from the raging conflagration.

"Are you alright, Koneko-chan?" Takeshi asked once the flames died down a bit. "Hurt anywhere?"

"…I'm fine." Koneko said. "The Oni? What happened to him?"

"Not sure." Takeshi said, turning his gaze to the pillar of fire a few meters away from him. "I'd like to believe that he burned up, but there's no way we're—"

Cutting his sentence abruptly, Takeshi pushed Koneko away. The next moment, a wave of crimson flames struck him, blowing away his left hand and a part of his left side abdomen.

"Senpai!"

Koneko cried out in shock.

"I'm…I'm alright…" Takeshi wheezed out as he struggled to remain standing, the damaged areas regenerating almost instantly and the armor forming once again around them. "Just…caught by surprise…"

"I wanted to blow your head off, but this power is still difficult to control. Let's just call it payback for my arm then."

The pillar of flames dispersed, revealing the form of Hisaya, who had undergone several changes. His body had grown almost twice as muscular as before, while his skin had taken a dark brownish hue with several crimson cracks running throughout it that spewed flames. Where his severed arm used to be, there were now crimson flames in the shape of an arm. His broken horn had also been replaced by a flaming one, while his hair had transformed into a fiery mane.

"So, this is the power of a God, if only a tiny fraction of it." Hisaya said, marveling at his new arm. "Ah, now I'm the one who doesn't feel like losing, Evil Dragon User."

"OK…I didn't expect that." Takeshi let out a cramped smile underneath his helmet. "This could be a little troublesome. Too much damage or a blow to my head and I'm done for…"

"Now, perish at the hands of the God-killing flames, Evil Dragon User!"

Hisaya extended his arm, launching a torrent of crimson flames on Takeshi. In response, Takeshi slammed his axe on the ground, erecting a massive ash wall that stopped the flames in their tracks.

"Physics 101!" Takeshi yelled. "Ash doesn't burn!"

"Supernatural 101!" Hisaya laughed. "That doesn't apply to flames that transcend the limits of nature!"

True enough, the crimson flames burned through the ashes, forcing Takeshi to dodge for dear life. Hisaya's flaming arm took the shape of a blade as he started chasing after Takeshi. Covering his axe with a large amount of miasma, Takeshi met his attack head-on. At the same time, he formed several spinning ash disks around him, hurling them at Hisaya. The Oni laughed as the flames surrounding his body became more intense, burning away the ashes. His flaming blade started hammering Takeshi's axe, forcing the young Devil back.

[Look at you.] Nidhogg laughed. [You acted all high and mighty, yet you're now being brought low by a brute with the tiniest trace of divine power within him. Truly, a pitiful sight.]

If you don't have anything useful to say, shut your trap! Takeshi shouted in his thoughts while dodging and parrying Hisaya's blows. I'm trying to concentrate here!

[Suit yourself.]

Forming four oversized ash fists, Takeshi brought them down on Hisaya. The Oni merely swiped his hand, letting loose a large wave of flames that vaporized them. Pointing his finger at Takeshi, he shot an orb of condensed flames that tore through his foreleg, causing him to cry out in pain and fall to one knee.

Hisaya charged, aiming to bash Takeshi's skull. Spreading out his wings, Takeshi took to the sky, with Hisaya following after him by making flames shoot out of his legs for propulsion. After almost reaching the top of the barrier encircling them, Takeshi reversed directions and ceased flying, falling down instead. Hisaya followed after him once again. Just as he was about to catch him, Takeshi's tail wrapped itself around his neck. Before he had the chance to react, Takeshi spun Hisaya, using the Oni's own momentum to send him crashing to the ground hard. Spreading his wings, he came to land a few meters away from his opponent.

"Ha!" Hisaya shouted as he burst out of the ground. "Not bad, but you're just prolonging the inevitable at this point. Give up, and I'll make your death swift."

So he says, but he doesn't seem to be doing that well. Takeshi thought as he observed his enemy. The cracks on his body are starting to multiply. He probably can't contain that power for long. Guess this is the time to go all out and hope for the best.

"Your fighting spirit doesn't seem to be abating." Hisaya said. "If you don't want to surrender, do you have any last words?"

"Just two." Takeshi said. "Promotion, Queen!"

Takeshi flinched as he felt the Evil Pieces within him reacting and power flowing into his body. From what Rias had told him once before, it was possible for a Pawn to promote multiple times and take the characteristics of another piece in the middle of a battle. However, a set amount of time needed to pass before that was possible. Furthermore, successive changes of one's trait placed a heavy strain on the body, which was why Pawns settled in one Promotion per battle.

"Guh…!"

Takeshi winced, feeling his already sore muscles screaming in pain, along with a burning sensation spreading throughout his body. He had to settle this as quickly as possible, or else he was certain he would keel over from the toll both his Balance Breaker and his Promotion were taking on his body. Abandoning all inhibitions, Takeshi raised his aura to the max, ignoring the added strain to his body.

"Here I come…!"

Takeshi crouched and shot forward, his movements only a blur to the casual observer. Surprised by the burst of speed, Hisaya wasn't able to fully avoid Takeshi's slash, which opened a gash in his lower abdomen. Takeshi didn't stop there, moving from point to point and attacking Hisaya from every blind spot possible.

"Stop buzzing around!"

Hisaya roared, smashing his fist on the ground. A large wave of flames erupted around him, forcing Takeshi to stop moving and cross his arms to defend. Not missing this chance, Hisaya charged, his arm enveloped by both flames and thunder. Coating his legs in both miasma and demonic power, Takeshi met his charge head-on, kicking away his fist and countering with a spinning kick to the head, breaking the Oni's second horn.

Giving the howling Hisaya no chance to catch his breath, Takeshi willed the ashes he had spread below ground beforehand to move. They erupted, lifting Hisaya up into the sky. A large quantity of flames burst out of the Oni's body, vaporizing the ashes once again. Having followed after Hisaya, Takeshi gripped his axe tight and swung, releasing a crescent-shaped wave of miasma and demonic power.

Hisaya was too slow to react, with the wave severing his left leg as he screamed in pain. Generating and gathering all the ashes he could, Takeshi unleashed them in the form of a massive serpentine Dragon. The Oni released another wave of flames to repel it at the cost of worsening his body's condition, which was staring to resemble fractured glass. Despite his efforts, he was unable to fully neutralize Takeshi's attack and was struck by the wave, which sent him crashing to the ground with several cuts opening throughout his body.

"This…can't be…" Hisaya wheezed out, struggling to support himself with his remaining limbs. "I've come so far…sacrificed so much… I will not be denied my prize and my vengeance!"

"Cry out to someone who cares." Takeshi said. "Time to end this!"

Driven by the information that his Sacred Gear had provided to him, Takeshi pressed the buckle's sides.

[Charge! Malice Overflow!]

Takeshi's body trembled as large amounts of demonic power and miasma gathered around his right leg.

[Your outlandish tastes seem to be influencing the Sacred Gear in a rather peculiar manner.]

Nidhogg remarked. Takeshi ignored him, a wide smile appearing on his face underneath his helmet as he spread his four wings to their full length.

"No!" Hisaya screamed in outrage. "I will not be brought down by the likes of you, Evil Dragon User!"

Gathering all the power he could spare, Hisaya pointed his flaming arm at Takeshi, shooting a condescend blast of crimson flames at him.

"Go!" Takeshi shouted as his wings propelled him downwards. "Christened-in-the-spur-of-the-moment, Abyss Blast Fever!"

Takeshi's flying side kick clashed with Hisaya's blast, unleashing a shockwave that caused cracks to appear on the walls around them.

"Victory…was never an option for you!"

Gritting his teeth, Takeshi shouted as he forced out every last bit of his power. The aura around his leg intensified as his kick tore through Hisaya's attack, scattering the flames and striking the Oni's chest.

"Im…possible…"

Hisaya croaked out as Takeshi's attack sent him crashing on the wall behind him, followed by a massive explosion that engulfed his body and brought down that section.

"Perfect!" Takeshi exclaimed as he landed, making a V-sign. "Finally got it right…"

His elation was replaced by intense exhaustion as the armor covering his body vanished. Takeshi fell to his knees, gasping for breath and feeling a sizzling sensation in various areas of his body.

"Yeah… I'm not going anywhere for a while…"

"…Senpai…" Koneko said, having crawled to his side. "Are you…alright…?"

"Still alive for now." Takeshi smiled. "Don't worry…about the rest, Koneko-chan. It's nothing a good sleep…or two won't fix."

"…I'm glad." A small smile appeared on Koneko's face. "I was really scared for Senpai back there… If you had died, I…"

"But I didn't, and neither did you, so let's not dwell on that." Takeshi said. "Instead, let's dwell on how awesome I looked back there! Was I cool, or was I cool!? And that finishing move was something else, right!?"

"…Give it a rest already…"

"Takeshi, Koneko!"

The two youths turned towards the source of the voice, only to see Rias rushing towards them. Before they could react in any way, she was hugging them both, pressing them tightly against her.

"Thank the Devil Kings you're both alright…" Rias mumbled. "I was so worried. I'm sorry we couldn't get here sooner, but we had trouble destroying the wall and the barriers around it."

"President…not that I don't appreciate the display of affection, but as I am now, my body can only take so much squeezing…"

"Oh, I'm so sorry, Takeshi." Rias said as she hastily pulled away from the two. "You're both wounded. We should get you back to the clubroom as soon as possible."

"An intense battle seems to have taken place." Sona said next to Rias while surveying the surroundings. "What exactly happened here?"

"…Takeshi-senpai fought the Oni and their leader." Koneko said. "During the fight…he attained Balance Breaker…"

"Balance Breaker?" Sona frowned. "And you're still sane despite that? No, it must be one of the few cases when the first Balance Breaker awakened in a controlled manner…"

Takeshi was about to ask what she meant when he noticed the rest of the Kuoh Devils and the surviving Youkai also rushing towards them.

"You gave us quite a scare back there, Takeshi-kun." Akeno said with a disapproving expression. "We thought you had gone and turned on us."

"Sorry, but that was the only way to deceive them and get to Koneko-chan in time." Takeshi said. "You know, to fool the enemy, you must fool your allies first and all that."

"It was still very reckless of you, and this could have blown in your face big time." Akeno said, but then smiled. "Seeing as you pulled it off though, I'll refrain from saying anything else…or giving you one of my 'special' punishments, ufufu."

Takeshi felt a shiver going down his spine as his mind went through several scenarios regarding Akeno's 'special punishment'.

"More importantly however…I was wrong about you." Akeno bowed her head. "I was too hasty to judge you and let my fear get the better of me. I'm truly sorry, Takeshi-kun. If it wasn't for you, we might have failed to stop the Oni."

"Eh, don't sweat it." Takeshi made a dismissive gesture. "Like you said, it's only been a short while ever since we became comrades, and trust takes time to build. Besides, it wasn't just me. We all pulled our weight tonight."

"You're a good man, Takeshi-kun…" Akeno muttered. "Perhaps, for me, you…"

"Not all of us performed to our best though." Yuuto, who was carried by Reya, said with a disheartened expression. "I was of almost no use against our opponent…"

"I think that goes for almost all of us, Kiba-kun." Reya said, a slight blush on her cheeks. "Don't beat yourself up over it."

"That's right!" Tomoe said with a bright smile. "What matters is that all of us are safe and sound, Toujou-san was rescued and the crisis was averted."

"What my servants said." Sona said. "Whoever feels dissatisfied by tonight's events, learn from them and be better next time."

"Looks like I was proven wrong once again, Rias Gremory." Kumowatari said. "My judgment must be getting dull. The Evil Dragon User came through for us after all."

"Of course." Rias spoke with evident pride. "There was never any doubt in my mind about that."

"All that remains now is retrieving the magatama." Yasuhiro said while looking around. "Where is it?"

"About that—"

Before Takeshi could speak, a rumbling sound was heard at the moment, coming from the part of the wall that had collapsed. The one who clawed his way out of the pile was the gasping Hisaya, his body in a horrid condition. Compared to its previous state, it had shrunken to the point he resembled a malnourished person, the cracks on it had become even more numerous and a massive black spot leaking miasma was prominent on his chest.

"Stubborn bastard." Takeshi said as he forced himself up, lifting his axe. "Don't know when to quit, do you?"

"No…I'm most definitely spent…" Hisaya wheezed out, a resigned smile on his face. "The battle…is yours, Evil Dragon User… But I'm the one…who's going to have the last laugh…"

"You can laugh all you want in the next life, Hisaya!"

Kumowatari shouted, dashing forward with the intent to finish off the rogue Oni. However, Hisaya merely grinned as a semi-transparent barrier appeared around him, shielding him from the blow.

"As things stand…we cannot go through with the original plan…" Hisaya said as he bought his hand over his chest. "But at least…I can funnel the remainder of my power and lifespan into the magatama…to do this!"

Hisaya plunged his hand inside his chest, ripping out the magatama embedded inside him. The glow coming from it intensified as wisps of aura flowed out of Hisaya's body and into it.

"Don't tell me!" Yasuhiro shouted, an alarmed expression on his face. "Everyone, take him down at once!"

"To you, I offer this land, Izanami-sama!"

A beatific smile appeared on Hisaya's face as he pointed the magatama towards the sky. A large pillar of light erupted from the jewel and shot upwards, unleashing a pulse of energy that reverberated throughout the area. At the same time, Hisaya's body turned into ashes and crumbled, with the night wind scattering his remains.

Then, a sound as if something was being ripped apart resounded throughout the area. Turning their gazes upwards, everyone noticed that a small rip had appeared in the night sky. Said rip started expanding slowly, revealing the image of a polluted, black land filled with ruins and crimson rivers running through it. Assembled on these plains was a large army comprised of numerous demonic creatures that began snarling all at once upon taking notice of the tear.

"No…" Kumowatari spoke, fear evident in his voice. "The two worlds…have been connected…"

A massive shadow appeared behind the assembled army at that moment, releasing an overpowering aura that had everyone feeling like their life was slowly being sucked out of them. Everyone fell on their knees, their whole bodies trembling and their breaths coming out in short gasps. The shadowy figure extended its hand towards the tear, but at that moment—

"My apologies, Esteemed Mother, but I cannot allow you to enter this land. Father would be most upset."

A silver streak of light tore through the darkness, striking the rip in the sky. The tear stopped expanding and started becoming smaller and smaller. Izanami wailed in outrage as she tried to reach the tear, but was too slow. The tear in the sky vanished, severing the connection with Yomi.

"I suppose that is the end of that."

The one who had spoken was a man seemingly in his mid-forties floating above the group with long silver hair and golden eyes, whose pale skin seemed to be radiating light. He was clad in a pure-white kimono with a purple haori over it, and wore a crown with a crescent moon on its center. In his left hand, he held a longbow almost as tall as himself. Upon catching sight of his figure, Kumowatari, Yasuhiro and all the other Youkai prostrated themselves before him.

"Tsukuyomi-sama!" Kumowatari exclaimed. "We are most humbled by your presence here, and most thankful as well! Thanks to your aid, a major crisis was averted!"

Tsukuyomi? Takeshi wondered. The Moon God himself?

"Yes, it did, though dealing with this crisis was originally something that was left to you in its entirety." Tsukuyomi said with a severe tone. "I do not appreciate having to clean up after incompetence."

"My deepest apologies, my lord!" Yasuhiro cried out, looking like he was trying to bury his head into the ground. "It was not our intention to trouble you with this affair!"

"…Sheesh, guy's complaining when he showed up for the easy part…"

"Despite appearances, this was far from a simple feat, Evil Dragon User." Tsukuyomi said, turning his sights on Takeshi. "I had to overcome Yomi's foul aura that was permeating the crack and reverse time in that specific area in order to successfully seal the breach. That, plus the fact that I acted contrary to my sister's directives and am most definitely getting an earful for that, is why I am somewhat miffed about all of you stumbling in the finish line."

"Oh…you heard that…"

"I most certainly did. I am a God after all."

Tsukuyomi approached Takeshi, who couldn't help but flinch. Despite not being as suffocating as Izanami's aura, Tsukuyomi also possessed an overbearing presence and aura that made Takeshi want to drop to his knees again. However, he forced himself to remain upright and meet the God's gaze. The rest of Kuoh Academy's Devils gathered next to him, as if to shield him from the God.

"Such a unique display of solidarity for Devils." Tsukuyomi said, the traces of a smile on his face. "Be thankful that Orochi wasn't the one who had awakened within you, young man. Otherwise, I would have vaporized you on the spot regardless of the consequences or the collateral damage."

"Why…Orochi specifically?"

"Ah, yes, a former human such as you wouldn't know." Tsukuyomi said. "After my brother Susanoo slew that vile creature and he eventually revived himself as all Evil Dragons do, Orochi set out to avenge himself. With Izanami's help, he invaded Takamagahara, poisoned a large number of our fields and killed numerous lesser deities before he was slain once again. It took us centuries to recuperate from the damage wrought by that attack."

"Ouch…" Takeshi winced. "Yeah, I would be sore about that too."

"Quite." Tsukuyomi said. "In any case, despite your blunder towards the end, you all performed well all things considered. Even you Devils actually proved yourselves useful in something other than trespassing and corruption for once."

"We humbly accept your praise."

Rias made a small bow as she said so, her voice strained. Sona chose to remain silent.

"I shall take my leave with that." Tsukuyomi said. "My sister will be anxious to hear the exact details of this battle, and my brother will probably want to grumble about missing the chance to go on a rampage. I shall leave the post-processing to you."

After saying so, Tsukuyomi vanished in a flash of silver light. A collective sigh of relief could be heard coming from all parties present once the God's oppressive aura vanished.

"This…went a lot better that I thought." Yasuhiro said, wiping the sweat and dirt from his brow. "Tsukuyomi-sama isn't as temperamental as Susanoo-sama, but his rare outbursts are a sight to behold if the rumors are true."

"I had no wish to confirm the veracity of the rumors, so I'm grateful things ended without any further bloodshed." Kumowatari said. "Wouldn't you agree, Rias Gremory?"

"Definitely." Rias said. "It would be a tragedy if our first encounter with a God ended in a disastrous manner."

"I hope this has also taught you a lesson, Ryuugamine-kun." Sona said, turning to Takeshi. "You need to mind your words, and at times, even your thoughts, around Gods should you encounter more in the future. They will be predisposed to judge you severely on account of your status as the Evil Dragon User. The last thing you want to do is give them an excuse to act against you."

"Same thing with most High-class and above Devils." Rias added from the side. "You can't afford to let your guard down at all times, Takeshi."

"Sheesh, when did this turn into a lecture?" Takeshi said. "I only—"

Takeshi stumbled as his sight became blurry all of a sudden. The concerned voices of his fellow Devils became distant noise in his ears as the ground rushed towards him. After that, there was only darkness…

---

"Well, that's just fantastic. Back in one of my favorite places."

Takeshi remarked in a sarcastic manner while surveying the foggy shore filled with corpses. He was currently sitting cross-legged on a rock that was jutting from the ground. Although he was certain he had lost consciousness, he was unsure how much time had passed and for how long he had been here.

"I have to say though, love your new accessories, you rotten lizard. Very fashionable."

Across from Takeshi stood Nidhogg, several glowing runes engraved in the scales around his neck that formed a makeshift collar connected to several glowing chains. The dragon's expression was one of irritation, his eyes filled with hatred that was directed at the youth before him.

"What's the matter?" Takeshi grinned. "You seem to be in a foul mood, Nidhogg. I wonder why?"

[Drop the sarcasm, brat.] Nidhogg growled. [It is not wise to antagonize someone who can swallow you in one bite!]

Nidhogg rushed at Takeshi, his jaws opened wide. However, Takeshi clicked his fingers, with the chains around the Dragon's neck tightening in response and pulling his head down. Nidhogg howled in outrage, but found himself unable to move. Takeshi wasn't sure how that worked, but he somehow knew that he had a certain amount of control over the Dragon as things stood. He assumed it was another part of the Sacred Gear's functions.

"And you should not antagonize the guy holding your leash." Takeshi said, placing his foot on top of Nidhogg's snout. "You play by my rules now, Nidhogg. I'm the master, you're the faithful steed. Are we clear?"

[Such a haughty attitude.] Nidhogg laughed. [It will be as you say…for now. However, don't delude yourself. You're not anything special as things stand. Just one of the few hosts who've cleared the first hurdle. But this just means you're in for more pain and suffering in the future.]

"Do tell. I couldn't have guessed it myself. But I will overcome it all regardless and emerge on top."

[That's a nice resolve.] Nidhogg said as he lifted his head slightly, his eye gazing upon Takeshi. [But keep this in mind, boy. Resolve can be a fragile thing. There is more than one chink in one's mental armor, more than one way for someone to break. And you will break, just like all the others before you.]

"You don't know me." Takeshi countered. "You've had, what, about fifty hosts so far? You believe that's given you a keen insight in human nature? If so, you and the rest of the lizard herd think way too highly of yourselves."

[We know far more about human nature than you could ever hope to know in a measly sixteen years of life.] Nidhogg said. [Persist down this path of defiance if you wish, but don't delude yourself about what a human truly is.]

"Maybe you have some experience, but I'm more than just human." Takeshi smiled. "I'm a Devil now, remember?"

[Human, Devil, it makes no difference.] Nidhogg said. [If anything, that makes you even more liable to see our point of view. Devils are notorious when it comes to being ruled by their vices.]

"Talking about hypotheticals isn't going to get us anywhere." Takeshi said. "My way of life will prove my strength. Now, I've had quite enough of you for one day, so I'll be taking my leave."

[Don't be a stranger.] Nidhogg grinned. [You're free to remove these chains once you've realized where you should stand.]

"That will never happen."

Takeshi snorted as his surroundings dimmed and his body grew heavy. Next thing he knew, he was lying down on a soft surface, his eyelids closed.

"Ugnh…"

Groaning a bit, Takeshi opened his eyes with some difficulty. He was met by the familiar scenery of his room, illuminated by the first rays of the morning sun. This caused him to let out a sigh of relief, as well as experience a sense of accomplishment. Against all odds, they had survived, saved his Kouhai and protected their home.

"If that's not a reason to be grateful, I don't know what is." Takeshi smiled. "Thank all Gods above and below…except the evil ones, I guess…"

"Mmm…"

A sweet-sounding whisper came from Takeshi's side, causing him to flinch. He had not immediately noticed due to his grogginess, but there seemed to be another person on his bed judging from both the sound just now and the warm weight he felt pressing at his side. Turning his head with some difficulty, he beheld an extraordinary sight.

"President…?"

Sleeping next to Takeshi was Rias, her crimson hair scattered over the pillow—and not a single article of clothing covering her body. Her snow-white skin, her sleek thighs, her nicely shaped butt, her ample breasts, everything was laid bare before his eyes. Despite his best efforts, Takeshi was unable to contain both his rising excitement and the flushing of his cheeks. The sight of his naked master's body was simply too stimulating.

"Hmm…is it morning…?"

Rias let out a cute yawn, opening her eyes and rubbing them. Upon noticing that Takeshi was awake, she smiled.

"Ah, good morning, Takeshi. You—" Rias started saying, but then frowned. "Your expression looks pained. Are you feeling alright? Does it hurt anywhere?"

"…I'm sorry, President." Takeshi said through gritted teeth, his eyes wide open and staring at Rias's body. "I'm trying my best to avert my gaze…but my body isn't obeying my brain's commands."

"Oh, it's just that?" Rias let a relieved sigh, and then smirked. "If you want to look, go on ahead. I don't really mind."

"You don't…no, no, I mind though despite how this looks!" Takeshi said in a hurried manner. "Could you…please put some clothes on? Or at least cover yourself with the blanket?"

"Very well, though I don't see what the problem here is." Rias said as she pulled the blanket over her. "After all, you're naked too."

"Huh?"

Takeshi looked down, only to find out that he was indeed naked as well. Not even his underwear was on, though his lower half was mercifully covered by the blanket.

"…OK, I'll bite." Takeshi said. "Why are we both naked? Usually, when a guy and a girl are in this position, it involves sex. But I don't recall anything like that happening?"

"No, there was no sex or anything like that." Rias said. "I only used the Devils' method of healing by transferring demonic power to your body to stimulate its natural recovery. It's more efficient when there's full body contact without any obstructions, especially in serious conditions, which is why we're both naked."

"Is that so…?" Takeshi said, a sly smile appearing on his face. "For some reason, I feel like I'm going to get injured on a much more regular basis from now on."

"Oh my, that would be a problem." Rias said, a faux troubled expression on her face. "Treating you on my own would be too much in this case. I'd have no choice but to ask Yuuto for help."

"Never mind!" Takeshi quickly said. "I'll take extra care of myself from now on!"

"That's what I want to hear." Rias smirked, but then her expression became serious. "All jokes aside, you were in a pretty bad condition. The strain placed on your body by your Balance Breaker and your two successive Promotions left several of your organs on the verge of shutting down. Our Youkai allies spent quite some time and energy treating you until you were stable enough for me to resume healing you. You've been out for two days. At one point…I was really afraid you wouldn't wake up."

"I'm sorry about worrying you, President." Takeshi said, lowering his head. "However, in order to save Koneko-chan and stop the Oni, there was no other way."

"There's always another way." Rias said, stroking Takeshi's cheek. "You're one of my precious family members, Takeshi. I don't want to see you risking your life like that again. If I lost you, it would be devastating."

The heartfelt tone in Rias's voice made Takeshi's heart flutter. He couldn't help but admit it was pleasant to receive care and affection from someone other than his parents. But along with that came a question.

"…Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why do you care about me?" Takeshi clarified. "Why do you trust me so much? You know what I can become, the danger I represent. How could you say with certainty to both Akeno-san and Kumowatari that I wouldn't turn on you?"

"Ah, so you heard all that." Rias said. "I guess you snuck into the adjacent classroom then?"

"I did." Takeshi admitted. "I apologize for eavesdropping, but I had to know."

"Well, I don't know if my answer will satisfy you." Rias said. "You see, you remind me of my brother and my cousin in some aspects. Both of them have this sort of…dependable and steadfast atmosphere around them. When it comes to their principles, both of them will stand their ground and keep on fighting no matter what."

"And you believe I'm like that as well?" Takeshi said. "That's why you're putting your faith in me?"

"I know you're like them as well, and they're among the strongest people I've known." Rias said. "That's why I believe in you. Maybe it's foolish of me to trust my feelings without proof, but that's the way I am. So far, I've proven myself to be a good judge of character."

"I see…" Takeshi said, a small smile on his face. "In that case, I swear to you once again that I'll do my best to keep proving that your faith isn't misplaced."

"I'm expecting great things from you, my adorable Takeshi." Rias said. "You've already managed to awaken your first Balance Breaker in a controlled manner after all."

"About that…just what exactly is a Balance Breaker?" Takeshi asked. "Is it some sort of power-up for the Sacred Gear?"

"Balance Breaker is the evolved form of a Sacred Gear that releases its true potential and full power." Rias began explaining. "It's supposed to be a rare phenomenon triggered by intense feelings, but Evil Dragon Users tend to awaken their respective Sacred Gear's Balance Breaker with greater ease compared to the average user."

"Let me guess." Takeshi said. "When they do so, they go berserk and start rampaging?"

"Most of the time, yes." Rias said. "However, in some cases like yours, the hosts were able to retain control of themselves and utilize their first Balance Breakers with no issues. By the second or at most third though, all would inevitable lose themselves."

"I wonder why." Takeshi said, rubbing his chin. "More importantly though, would this be classified as a base form or an upgrade form…?"

"Hm?" Rias said. "What are you muttering there, Takeshi?"

"It's nothing." Takeshi said. "Shouldn't we—"

"Takeshi, are you there?" Shiori's voice was heard coming from outside. "I know it's not a school day, but you've been gone for two days and…eh…?"

Before Takeshi could say or do anything, his mother had stepped inside his room, her voice trailing off as she took in the scene of the two youths lying naked in bed. She remained frozen for a few seconds, a small blush appearing on her face.

"Erm…my apologies, you two…" Shiori eventually said, coughing in her fist. "I didn't mean to interrupt. I will take my leave now. Just…just remember to always use protection. No matter what your father says, it's way too early for children, Takeshi."

Shiori quickly left, closing the door behind her.

"I can't believe this just happened…" Takeshi groaned, burying his face in his hands. "I'm never going to hear the end of this. President, could you perhaps…?"

"Leave it to me…is what I want to say, but didn't you expressly say that you didn't like me using my demonic powers on your parents?" Rias said. "That's why I made up a story that we were out for an Occult Research Club trip while treating you."

"This is serious enough to warrant an exception." Takeshi said. "Please, President?"

"Don't worry, I'll take care of it." Rias said while putting on her underwear. "Come and join us downstairs when you're ready. Unless you're still feeling weak?"

"There's no problem. It'll take more than a near-death experience to keep me down."

Takeshi gave Rias a thumbs-up while smiling, prompting her to smile as well. Once she was all dressed up and left his room, Takeshi's smile morphed into a grimace, wincing as he rubbed his aching left abdomen.

"Not exactly my best day… Then again, I did see President in her birthday suit, something most of Kuoh's male population would kill for, so that's a win."

The images of Rias's naked body flashed through Takeshi's body, eliciting yet another erection.

"OK, first is a cold shower, and then it's straight to 'relieving' myself a bit." Takeshi decided. "Maybe both at the same time."

Grabbing his discarded clothes, Takeshi headed straight for the bathroom.

---

Later, at the old school building…

"Once again, I'm very thankful for your assistance, Devils of Kuoh Academy. Without your aid, we wouldn't have succeeded in our mission."

Kumowatari said, making a small bow. He and the other Youkai were gathered outside the old school building, bidding farewell to Rias and Sona's Peerages.

"I'm grateful as well, but this has been such a mess for our side." Yasuhiro said with a dejected expression. "The blunder with Chiharu and forcing Tsukuyomi-sama to step in and clean after us… I'm sure Nurarihyon-sama and Yasaka-sama will have a few choice words about our overall performance back home. I am not looking forward to that sermon…"

"Speaking of which, I think someone among us has something important to say." Kumowatari beckoned at Chiharu to step forward. "Come on, let's hear it."

"I'm sorry for everything." Chiharu said, bowing to Koneko. "Because of my clouded judgment and rash actions, you were captured and put through agony you shouldn't have had to endure. If you want my life in exchange, I—"

"…I don't need your life." Koneko cut her off. "I'm alive and well. That's all that matters now."

Chiharu nodded before turning to Takeshi.

"I must apologize to you as well, Evil Dragon User, no, Ryuugamine Takeshi." Chiharu said while bowing. "I thought you were a danger to us all, yet you proved a far better person than me. More useful as well. Also, you have my gratitude for avenging my sister's death by killing that monster Hisaya."

"Technically, he killed himself in the end." Takeshi pointed out. "Still, I will accept your thanks and apology. While I can't empathize with what you did, I can sympathize. Who knows, maybe in your shoes, I would do the same."

"I hope you never have to find out." Chiharu said. "I'm grateful to both of you for being so magnanimous towards the worthless me. Assuming I'm not sentenced to death or imprisonment for my failings, I will do my best to assist you should you ever need my help."

"The same goes for us all." Kumowatari said as he extended his hand. "I hope that if we meet again in the future, it will be as allies once again."

"That is my, no, our desire as well." Rias smiled, shaking the Raiju's hand. "Perhaps this can be a small first step towards closer cooperation with the Youkai."

"Let's not get too ahead of ourselves." Yasuhiro said. "You might have proved yourselves better than most Devils, but that doesn't change the fact that most of your race is still comprised of hedonistic, duplicitous backstabbers."

Way to bring down the good mood…

Takeshi thought. Fortunately, neither Rias nor Sona seemed to take offense to the Kitsune's words.

"I won't deny these sorts of pure-blooded Devils are still the norm, but even we are changing slowly but surely." Sona said. "You might be pleasantly surprised after a couple hundred years."

"Perhaps." Yasuhiro said. "Farewell, Devils of Kuoh Town. May fortune smile upon you."

A large torii-like structure rose from a magic circle that formed on the ground at the moment. The Youkai group passed the torii and vanished in a flash of light.

"I guess it's officially over with this." Sona said before turning to Takeshi. "Good to see you up and about, Ryuugamine-kun. You gave us quite a scare back there. Now, if you'll all excuse us, we had best get back to compiling our report for the Devil Kings."

"Ugh, that's right, there's that." Rias grimaced. "Akeno, Yuuto, come with me please. I'm still feeling a little tired, so I could use your help."

"Of course, President." Akeno said.

"What about us?"

Takeshi said, pointing at himself and Koneko.

"You two should focus on getting some rest." Rias said. "Perhaps I should also cancel your contracts for at least a week or so."

"No way!" Takeshi complained. "There's no need to take things this far, President! I don't know about Koneko-chan, but I can work just fine."

"…I'm up for it too."

"If you say so." Rias said. "But make sure to take it easy, you two."

" "Yes, President." "

Once Rias, Akeno and Yuuto had taken their leave, Takeshi turned to Koneko.

"How have you been doing, Koneko-chan?" Takeshi asked her. "Is your body alright? Forcibly using Senjutsu like that must have been quite hard on you."

"…It was…but I'm better now." Koneko said. "Thanks to you as well. Because you came to my rescue, I avoided the worst. Thank you, Senpai."

"There's no need to thank me." Takeshi grinned. "We're friends, right? It's natural for me to help you."

Koneko let out a small smile, but then her expression darkened a bit.

"What's wrong? Why the gloomy expression all of a sudden?"

"…Senpai…can I ask you something?" Koneko said. "It's about your Sacred Gear. Its power…doesn't it scare you? How can you fight knowing that one small misstep might lead to you changing into a monster?"

"What, this little thing?" Takeshi said, pointing at his waist. "No, it doesn't scare me. It terrifies me."

"…Eh?"

"I'm not going to lie to you, Koneko-chan." Takeshi said with a serious expression. "The thought of losing control of myself…it's always gnawing at me day and night. No matter how much I distract or reassure myself or try to go about my life in a normal manner…the fear's always there, haunting me."

"Then how?" Koneko asked. "How can you keep going like you do? With my power, when I think about the consequences of failure…I…"

Koneko's voice trailed off, a distraught expression on her face. Takeshi leaned down a bit so that their gazes were even and spoke.

"I keep on fighting…because it's my choice. Because I want to believe in myself. Because I want to triumph over the evil beings within Cataclysm Zone and tame their power. Perhaps I will fail in the end…but I would never forgive myself if I gave up without a fight."

"…Senpai is strong…much stronger than me or my sister…" Koneko said. "All these years…I've never once found the courage to confront my power. The thought of turning into a monster like Kuroka-neesama…hurting President and my friends…it's unbearable. And yet…my weakness almost cost us everything… I know it can't go on like this…but I'm just so scared…"

"Aren't you looking down on yourself a bit too much?" Takeshi said, earning a surprised look from Koneko. "You keep saying you're weak and powerless, yet you were able to resist Senjutsu's corruptive influence when those bastards forced you to use your power. I think you're much stronger than you give yourself credit for."

"…I…am strong?" Koneko wondered. "But I…"

"No if or buts." Takeshi said. "You're not your sister, Koneko-chan. Her mistakes and failures won't be yours. That's why, you should believe in yourself and move forward with courage. After all, you have something she doesn't have."

"…I do?"

"Of course." Takeshi smiled. "You have people next to you that will support you no matter what. President, Akeno-san, Kiba-kun and me, we'll all be there for you if you need us. Should you lose your way, we'll pull you back for sure."

Koneko said nothing at first, but then, a determined expression appeared on her face. Clenching her fists, she turned her attention inwards, accessing her power. A thin sheet of white aura surrounded her, followed by the appearance of her Nekomata traits. Koneko kept that form for almost a full minute before releasing it, returning to her former appearance.

"That…was a bit tiring…and scary." Koneko said, letting out a deep breath. "But perhaps…I will be able to fully control that power one day and use it without any fear. No, I definitely will."

"That's the spirit, Koneko-chan." Takeshi said. "Just one step at time. There's no need to rush."

"…Unless another apocalyptic event strikes this town."

"Come on, what are the chances of that happening?" Takeshi grinned, but then scowled. "…Damn it, I just jinxed it, didn't I?"

"…That you did." Koneko said, and then smiled. "But we'll get through it one way or another."

"Now that's a good expression." Takeshi grinned. "You really should smile more often, Koneko-chan. It makes you look even more lovely than usual."

"…There you go again." Koneko mumbled, a faint blush on her cheeks. "Are you doing it on purpose, or are you just oblivious…?"

"Did you say something, Koneko-chan?"

"…I was wondering if you'll be able to participate in the gaming tournament like we promised before." Koneko said. "It's tomorrow, but can your body handle it?"

"Don't worry about it. I'm in tip-top shape and ready to continue my winning streak."

Takeshi smiled and made a V-sign, prompting Koneko to glare at him.

"…You'd better not change your tune and start making excuses later when you lose."

"Right back at you." Takeshi said. "In fact, since we have the day off, why don't we go and warm up a bit in the arcade? Unless you don't feel like you can't handle it?"

"…Lead the way, Senpai."

The two youths started chatting as they left the old school building behind them…

---

Later at night…

The area where the Oni's ritual would take place was now barren and empty, with all traces of the decisive battle between them and the alliance of Youkai and Devils having been removed. Only the rustling of leaves in the nearby trees due to the night breeze could be heard.

Suddenly, a thin white line appeared in the middle of the field, extending upwards and stretching to the sides, forming a rift in space. Stepping out of it was a tall individual holding an ivory cane who was dressed in a black suit with a black trench coat over it, matching shoes and gloves, and a top hat. Their features were concealed by a white helmet with two crescent-shaped slits in the eye area and a larger one where the mouth was that was shaped like a smile. A thin jagged line was running down the right side of the mask, giving the impression of a scar.

The masked person knelt down and scooped some dirt from the ground while muttering something, letting it fall from their hand afterwards. A disappointed sigh escaped their lips.

"I take it there's nothing of use left?"

Another figure stepped out of the portal and said so in a distorted voice, their features entirely covered by a black cloak that billowed in the night breeze. Their face was also concealed by a mask, only theirs was made of a reflective material resembling a mirror.

"No, but that was to be expected." The person in the black suit said, the voice unmistakable male. "The Shinto Gods and the Youkai serving them are nothing if not thorough. But there was always the small chance of them missing something, Megrez."

"Do we still have to use these ridiculous code names?" The one named Megrez huffed in annoyance. "No-one but us is here."

"True, but you can never be too careful. Eavesdroppers could be hiding anywhere."

"Understood…Alkaid." Megrez said while surveying the area. "You don't sound too disappointed about this failure. I thought you'd be more incensed."

"Please." The one named Alkaid chuckled. "Providing information about Hakone and the young Nekomata to Izanami's lapdogs was nothing more than a mere side project, a prelude to the main act if you will. Whether it succeeded or failed, it would not affect our future plans in the slightest. We got what we wanted out of it already."

"Only you would call the utter annihilation of an entire country and the downfall of a Pantheon a mere side project." Megrez said. "But since you say we have what we need, that means the true purpose of the Hakone raid was fulfilled?"

"Indeed." Alkaid said as he got up. "It appeared to be another false lead at first, but the true location of one of our targets was hidden within. Truly fortuitous."

A small magic circle appeared on Alkaid's hand, with a scroll emerging from it. Megrez opened and stared at it for a few seconds before returning it to his comrade.

"I see." Megrez said. "I trust that the real deal will begin soon then?"

"It won't be much longer." Alkaid said. "All the pieces are almost in place. Once the chaos begins, we'll have all the time in the world to claim the final two pieces of the puzzle without interference."

"This had better be worth the effort." Megrez said. "I would hate to think we have been wasting our time so long for nothing."

"If it fails, we'll simply adjust." Alkaid said. "I've waited for so long that I can afford to be patient for a while longer. In any case, there's nothing else for us here. We should take our leave before someone notices our presence."

"Understood."

The two mysterious individuals stepped inside the portal, vanishing as quickly and as silently as they came.

---

This concludes Chapter 9. First, in response to your questions.

—To yliaster: An insert song, eh? I'd probably go with Hatenaki Inochi (Boundless Life/Hope) from Kamen Rider Ryuki. I believe it's quite fitting for Takeshi.

With this, the second arc has come to an end. Takeshi has attained his first Balance Breaker and the Oni have been defeated after a harrowing battle. The God Tsukuyomi also made a brief appearance, mainly to show that Gods and faction leaders can and will step in if a situation becomes too dire unlike in canon, where the only time they really helped was in Volume 21. There's also a small inkling about things to come with the two masked individuals in the end of the chapter.

Well, that's all for now. The next chapter will be a downtime one before we move to the altered Fallen Angel arc. As always, please read, review, but most of all, enjoy!

See you all next time!