Chapter 56: The Next Level

Akeno's breath tickled my bare skin, her hands sliding to my back too much to be platonic. What really made me worry was that the heat of her womanhood was so inviting... so very inviting.

Our hearts pounded so hard that we hear each other's heartbeats. In a room where no one else, not to mention the fact that I became hard again despite just going wild with my wife, our bodies told us to indulge and nothing else. Akeno wasn't restraining herself anymore, she's ready to take me in no matter what.

"Daisuke-kun..." Holding me tightly, our lower parts made contact, the Queen breathed deeply and desperately, "I want you."

My tip went inside her pu-

"NO!"

I forcefully pushed her away in time, backing away in distress. Before I knew it, I was hyperventilating from almost betraying Miho. The pulsing sensation in my lower half throbbed for entrance, but my heart and mind told me this wasn't right. This isn't want I wanted.

The ravenette stared at me in pain and horror, tears welling up. Himejima Akeno, the yamato nadeshiko and desire of men, was on her knees and couldn't face reality, "Daisuke-kun why? You don't have to love me but please, grant me this one request."

She pushed up her chest to me, "Are my breasts not big enough? I promise they'll get bigger, I'll even enlarge them through surgery if you want."

Her hands went to trace her hair, "Or is it my hair? Do you like pink like Miho-chan's better? If that's what you want, I'll dye it for you."

"Or do you want cat ears and tail like Koneko-chan?" Her eyes wondered around herself frantically, "I can become any girl you want, I'll even become your loyal servant. We can have unprotected sex as much as you want. So please..."

"Akeno..."

Her quiet voice screamed loudly in desperation, her tears wouldn't stop and she began to hiccup. Akeno couldn't think straight nor keep up her appearance anymore, miserably crawling to cling onto me, "Please, make this pain go away. Please... don't leave me..."

"How can I? I could never leave you Akeno."

Instead of the steady resolute voice she was expecting, Akeno heard a feminine gentle one. A voice she never thought she could hear again. Akeno lifted her head to see a face which greatly resembled her own. The Queen widened her eyes in astonishment, recklessly throwing herself into her mother's arms, "Kaa-sama!"

"Shh, it's okay Akeno. I'm here." Shuri hugged back, rubbing her daughter's back as Akeno cried out. They stayed like that for a while, the daughter emptied out her anguish while the mother sat silently and accepted it all, "I'm sorry Akeno, for making you worry."

By the time Akeno calmed down a bit, she was in her child form sitting on Shuri's lap. The scenery changed, it was tranquil yet nostalgic. The warm rays of sunlight blessed as they sat at their porch. The younger ravenette didn't let go, she was too afraid to let go. The comfy feeling and scent from her mother, it was just as she remembered all those years ago, "Kaa-sama, I missed you."

The childish yet innocent yearning tickled Shuri's maternal instinct, "I missed you too. I missed you and your father so much."

Tiny hands clenched onto the older ravenette's blouse, "I'm sorry... I'm sorry... Because of me, you were..."

"It was not your fault. Not once have I ever blamed you."

"I... I..." Akeno chocked up a bit, "I wanted to be with you again. I wanted to be with tou-sama again. The three of us together as a family, I..."

Shuri's gaze was downcast, "Akeno, I'm so sorry for letting all this happen. What ever happens, please believe in your tou-sama. He may be clumsy and has done bad things in the past. However, your tou-sama loves us with all his heart."

"It really hurts, remembering what happened that night really hurts me. Tou-sama was never at fault yet I couldn't accept your death. I couldn't accept of losing you forever. I wanted to see tou-sama more often, I wanted him to pet my head more... I wanted to go back to those happy days."

Eventually, the little Akeno calmed down somewhat though still latching onto her mother. She sniffled, burying into the nostalgic softness that always comforted her, "Kaa-sama, I treated tou-sama so terribly, he never did anything wrong and I still blame him. Will he forgive me...?"

"Of course. Your tou-sama is very strong in both body and heart, you mean the world to him. You are not alone anymore, you have precious friends supporting you, and I will always live in your heart to watch over you. Although it may be difficult now, I know you two someday can be happy together again."

"Kaa-sama, there's so much I wanted to tell you. I made a lot of friends, they all act cheerfully and we do club activities together."

"Yes."

"I became a popular girl in school where everyone calls me an onee-sama, though sometimes I just want to act childishly and be normal."

"Yes."

"I met tou-sama's old friend. Azazel-sensei is a troublemaker but he tries to look after us in his own way."

"Yes."

"I always try to eat healthily and get enough exercise."

"Yes."

"I went on a lot of adventures and met scary people, but my friends are always there for me so it was fun."

"Yes."

"I befriended a few fallen angels. It was awkward and I disliked them at first, yet they are actually nice people."

"Yes."

"I hang out with my best friend often and we always do girl stuff. She's also like my sister and I enjoy teasing her."

"Yes."

"I cook for my friends. They praise me and say my food is delicious, it makes me happy and want to cook for them more."

"Yes."

"I also found a boy I like, though my best friend and a few other girls also like him so I have quite the competition."

"Yes."

As Akeno told her mother what she always wanted to tell, she became increasingly relaxed. The sound of her mother's voice replying back made her heart feel lighter. Shuri simply sat and listened to everything what her daughter wanted to say. Time moved on, the pair were lost in their own little world and the Queen was able to overcome some of her trauma. Finally, they both knew they had to say goodbye again.

"And kaa-sama... I love you."

They shared one last hug, "I love you too Akeno."

The ambient scenery vanished in a swift flash of white. Akeno opened her eyes to meet mine, smiling softly at my doujutsu, "Daisuke-kun, thank you."

Wasn't sure if showing an illusion of her mother would've insulted the memories they share together, but I guess it worked, "Glad to see you're okay."

Now for the other problem, the hot busty ravenette was still hugging me while we're both naked and she was reluctant to release. After a few seconds, Akeno finally returned me my personal space, "It must have been unpleasant for you, I'm sorry for forcing myself onto you Daisuke-kun."

"Well, I preferred your usual playful flirting."

She giggled at my attempt to quell the tense atmosphere, "Ara ara, I did not know you like playing with me so much. You make me want to give you my virginity you know."

'Yeah, that mischievous lighthearted smile suits her best.'

"The first time's got to be more passionate and memorable than this, don't you think?"

"Ufufu, do I hear you implying that you want my first time?"

"Nope."

"Such a fast and blunt response." Our bantered was the same as ever, just the two of us trying to one up each other. A slightly more serious smile appeared on her features, "What if... I am only stating hypothetically... What if I did successfully force myself on you? Would you hate me?"

"That's a good question." I pondered on it, "First I'd feel creeped, then enraged, then I'd go back to normal as if nothing happened. You have your own problems but I won't truly hate you for it. More like, you would regret your actions in the future and I'm sure both us wanted it to be special."

Silence permeated. Akeno shifted herself to lean onto me and unlike before, it felt more romantic than needy, "It really is strange. Although you don't love me, I can't help wanting to stay with you. Just being here like this is so relieving."

"Miho would explode if you overdo it though."

"Daisuke-kun, what do you think about yourself?"

"Myself? Someone who needs to train and get stronger while enjoying a normal life whenever possible."

"For whom?"

"You guys, I don't want to lose anymore people I care about. Why do you ask?"

"... Why do you always..."

"Sorry, I didn't hear that."

Akeno separated from me, shaking her head in denial, "It's nothing, I should leave before I overstay my welcome. Thank you Daisuke-kun, for everything."

A familiar pair of lips met my cheek, Akeno then proceeded to leave the room. Once she exited, my body slackened while falling down back to the bed. So many thoughts are drifting through my mind, though at least the Queen is now more level headed. However, Odin's and Baraqiel's words echoed, prompting me to wonder just how much longer can I let this go on.

Waiting for them to get bored of me isn't a viable option anymore, I can't afford to be gentle and let them down easy. I should have just been more forceful and push them away from me from the start... or... I could start a harem, 'Fucking hell, the latter would be the more logical approach after everything that's happen, but-'

"Hanwei-sama." Miho returned from the shower, a towel wrapped around her body. The pinkette slid to my side and enveloped me, "I am proud of you, Akeno looked much better."

"... Miho, do you..." I wanted to ask if she was genuinely fine with me getting a harem though if I do that, it would mean I don't trust her undeniable love and loyalty towards me. Changing my words at the last second, "Do you want to go a few more rounds? I know I said to focus on training but Akeno left me hard-"

My mate pounced and rode me like a sex demon.

"Ohmm... Ohmm... Ohh-pai! Oppai!"

"Partner, your thoughts are drifting again."

"Give me a break Ddraig." Issei broke from his meditative stance, exhaling in chagrin, "I've never really tried meditating this much. The closest was when Akeno-san first taught me magic and I still got a good view."

"Whether my sanity or my spirit will completely deteriorate first is beyond me. Your obsession for breasts exceeds whatever sentience you possess in that body, and I am stuck to it."

"We really need to ask Azazel-sensei for that doctor." The pervert sweat dropped as he heard spontaneous sobs mixed in the dragon's proud voice, "Maybe I should focus on oppai to concentrate instead, Daisuke did say to not force it."

"*Sniff* At this point, I am willing to try anything. My fate was sealed the moment I am bound to you."

Issei breathed, deciding to do it his way. Otherworldly desires were unleashed as the Pawn chanted 'oppai' in his mind repeatedly like a mantra. He better hurry and dive into his Sacred Gear's space before Ddraig breaks down again.

The surrounding environment blurred out as Issei connected his existence to the amazing softness of round flesh. Images of oppai entered his mind, starting from his girlfriend's, to Xenovia's, and to Asia's. Recognizing the owner of those oppais was now a piece of cake by remembering the shape, elasticity and skin color. Gone was the rationality chaining down his libido and Issei embraced the horny.

His body was light, floating in the recesses of his desire which was filled by oppai. From his instincts alone, Issei knew he was naturally going deeper into his core uninhibited. Detached from his own mind, his soul reached a state where he can unconsciously feel the oppai he loves so much. And then, the pervert felt the tug from the legendary dragon.

Opening his eyes, the Sekiryuutei was welcomed by a vast whiteness all around him. He cheered, "See Ddraig, oppai can solve anything."

"I do not know whether to be impressed or depressed that you managed this so easily."

The Sekiryuutei peered, spotting people covered in hoods sitting on rows of seats. That's got to be the consciousness of the previous wielders, driven to insanity from the Boosted Gear's power. Issei straightened himself and walked towards them, doing his best to give a good first impression, "It's nice to meet you, my name is Issei Hyoudou. I hope we can work together."

...

"...(*￣０￣)ノ Um, hello?"

"..."

"Are you creeped out by my perverted expression? But the girls are also covered so I can't check out their oppai. Wait, that didn't come out right."

"..."

"Or are all the previous wielders guys?"

"..."

Hesitant, he waved his hands in front of the sempais, only to receive no response, "It was something I said, wasn't it?"

"It is as you can see partner, they cannot answer you."

Issei inclined his head up to where he heard Ddraig's voice before shifting back to the consciousnesses, "What happened to them?"

"Reduced to fragments of their former selves. In exchange for tapping into Juggernaut Drive, they have surrendered their minds and souls to power and became husks who can only think of that power."

"So Juggernaut Drive made them like this?"

[Juggernaut Drive]

A sudden chant of that name in tandem surprised the current wielder. Issei tested out once more for confirmation, "Juggernaut Drive?"

[Juggernaut Drive]

"It that all they can really do? Just sitting there and chatting those words over and over? No talking? No walking around or other stuff?"

"I'm afraid not. They hardly have any will of their own anymore. After years of indulging in the Boosted Gear, their consciousness have been intoxicated by power, fueled by their own greed for more and desired more regardless of the consequences, such as poison taking grasp of their bodies. Slowly, unknowingly, yet permanently. Take a look at this one."

Guided my the legendary dragon, Issei followed the mental tug, walking around to meet one of the hooded figures. For some reason, this person was smaller than the others. Peering under the hood, the Pawn felt his spine chilled from what he saw. Underneath was a young boy, his eyes hollowed as the life was sucked out of him, dark lines circling them as if he was high on drugs for a lot longer than a few days.

However, there was something about the boy bothering Issei, it's on the tip of his tongue but he can't quite place it. Inspecting one more time, the current Sekiryuutei narrowed his gaze for some more time, and widened from shock, "Wait a second!? This kid only looks five, six at most! He died before even going to elementary school!?"

"That is correct." Ddraig didn't sugarcoat his words, dropping the cold harsh truth, "This boy, Inka, was one of the most talented wielders among the other wielders and unlocked the Boosted Gear at the age of four. Discovered and coveted for his potential, the boy was taken to be trained and unlocked Balance Breaker merely weeks later. He was thrilled and used it for his own benefit."

"Although much was already attained, he was unsatisfied. Inka's instinct told him there was more what the Boosted Gear had to offer yet denied by his guardians because of the risks. He heed not of their warnings and rebelled, believing that they were attempting to suppress what he seemingly deserved. Thus, he threw a temper tantrum and crushed anyone who stood in his way. His immature mind led to a hasty access to Juggernaut Drive."

"Once his armor mutated into one of a biological dragon, he rampaged. At first he had control but as time passes, the negative emotions and consciousness of other wielders influenced his mind, whispering him to do as he please, to carry out what they couldn't achieve. Inevitably, he indiscriminately destroyed whatever in his sights, be it friend or foe. I tried to warn him as well but he didn't listened, eventually he died and was known as a monster by everyone around him."

That's really scary... though also really sad. Issei gave another glance at the little guy. Back when he was a kid, he was playing pretend as Dra-M Ball characters with Irina and going fishing with his dad, not bloodying his hands and going crazy. Because of getting drunk on power, the child had to die so soon.

"Was everyone else here like that?"

"Most, some have retained mental stability for a time before succumbing. There is another I want you to see, Zaphaiel."

Issei found another consciousness, peeking to check out a young adult male. While not appearing as horrid as the other one, there was something about this guy the current Sekiryuutei didn't like. Not the scared kind of vibe, more of wanting-to-punch-him-in-the-face vibe.

"Have you noticed partner? This one held great malice and used the Boosted Gear for his own evil deeds."

"Hold on, one of the previous wielders was a jackass villain!?"

"Indeed. Did you assume none of your predecessors hold darkness within their hearts?"

Scratching the back of his head, Issei surveyed his sempais before uneasily answering, "I didn't think about it."

"You have a kind heart partner, but reality does not always go the way you wish to believe. He was a cunning man, pretending as a kind individual in public yet never thought twice about committing sins for his own greed."

"Did you ever try to stop him?"

"Once or twice. I had no control over choosing my host and he did not care about my advices either, only my abilities. I grew fed of his annoyance and let him do as he please. He was as meticulous as he was shrewd, no one suspected of his true intentions and those did were swiftly silenced. Whether it was money or power, he had them all within his grasps as his people worshipped him as a savior."

"It was only when the Hakuryuukou of his generation declared a fight, he had met his end. I do not know the specifics when I ignored him for years until Albion's presence drew my attention. The Hakuryuukou at that time had superior combat abilities, ruthlessly wounding Zaphaiel with the intention to kill."

"Desperate for more power and angered for being humiliated, Zaphaiel entered Juggernaut Drive. At that time, I did not bother to warn him of the perils, knowing he would not listen to me as he always does. Relishing in the fight and blood of the battle, the Hakuryuukou reciprocated and entered Juggernaut Drive as well. However, the outcome was the two killing each other. There was neither a victor nor a loser, only deaths."

That was two for two of dying from power lust. Issei gulped, "Is there anyone here who didn't go crazy?"

"Only two. Their cases are special and they are currently unable for you to meet."

The current Sekiryuutei scanned the place again, feeling a pit in his stomach from one specific detail, "None of them lived very long, did they?"

"No, there was no exceptions that any of my hosts had ever lived to old age, cursed to a fate of endless battles as the title of the Sekiryuutei shackled them forever."

"But I don't feel like wanting to fight to the death, and Vali doesn't seem that crazy to me either."

"Your existences are special as Albion and I never had hosts with devil blood flowing through their veins. In the time I have observed you since my awakening, you displayed no signs of craving for battles, to seek powerful opponents to test your might aside from your friends. You are the most docile host I have the pleasure to bound to. Perhaps this might signify a change of your fate."

"Hopefully for the better too. So, if I want to control Juggernaut Drive-"

[Juggernaut Drive]

"That's getting annoying quick- without shaving off my lifespan. I have to do something about their negative emotions?"

"Yes, if you can erase their hatred and regret, you will able to achieve a power far greater than what you can imagine. Possibly enough to rival Daisuke."

"That's one motivation I can get behind. I'll definitely sleep well if I can kick his butt for once. You think I can do it?"

"It depends on you partner, I have reasons to believe it is possible as you are the first to unlock a sub species when none of my other hosts could. But be warned, I did not show you your predecessors for the sole reason of telling their tales. Whether the wielders may be cunning, benevolent, or even proclaim their own superiority, Juggernaut Drive has always overwhelmed their mind and claimed their lives. Do not take it lightly, nor go down this path regardless of whatever situation."

"Got it, thanks Ddraig." Issei turned one last time to his senpais for the day, "It was nice meeting you, I need to get going now."

...

"At least I tried."

Shrugging, the Pawn closed his eyes and returned to the real world. Some stretching later, he inspected the others to find them still doing their own training. The only member from Team Vali here in their personal training ground was Kuroka helping Koneko with senjutsu, agreeing that the other terrorists wouldn't do anything rash when one of their members are completely separated from them. Besides, the little nekoshou did go to her older sister first for help.

Issei went to his other training this time; improving his Promoted capabilities. He received intel about his future powers from the dimensional traveler, saying that he's been going as an overpowered Pawn instead of a proper Queen. If he wants to get stronger, he'll need to concentrate on working one by one.

Among the three, Rook strength and defense came easier for the Pawn, so he'll work on Knight attribute this time. Grabbing his makeshift skateboard, Issei flew to a cliff which resembles the closest to a ramp for his newest plan to get faster. Daisuke said if he wants to gain speed, he needs to feel speed. Seriously, even as a training freak, the number of training methods he can think of is almost scary.

Peeking from a height several hundred meters above ground somehow looks scarier than when he was flying in the sky. Issei never went skateboarding before but he's seen people on TV doing it effortlessly. How hard can it be?

"AAAAHHHHHHHHHH!"

I turned to find the source of the bloodcurdling scream. Issei wasn't even halfway down the cliff before his feet was separated from his skateboard, his body bending into a ring as he uncontrollably rolled down at breakneck speed before crashing into a boulder. The noise attracted the resident healer's attention, prompting her to hurry.

Yuuto sweatdropped, "Perhaps Issei-kun should start with a smaller cliff."

"Nah, we're on a time limit, got to get whatever we can before Loki comes back." I gratefully accepted the Knight's creation of another Dream Sword, he's able to make one faster now after training a lot with his gear compared to the first time. The damned wolf breaking my original sword still pisses me off. Giving it a few swings, the increase in weight and durability was considerably noticeable, "I want to believe that I'm not gonna lose this one, though Fenrir's claws aren't exactly blade-friendly."

"My apologies Hanwei-kun." The blonde Knight had a sad smile, upset about his lack of ability, "I would be more than happy to forge a Holy Demonic version of Dream Sword for you-"

"But I'm a devil with no affinity for holy swords whatsoever, I'll just be burning my hand if I try to hold one." Channeling demonic magic, I fired a getsuga and easily cleaved through the ground several miles in front of me, "I'll just have to make do with what we got."

"What about asking Buchou to search for a swordsmith? Or for a client to acquire a better sword?"

"Already did. Rias said you're better than what the underworld has to offer, none of them are able to produce a custom sword that can absorb and launch my magic. Devils aren't exactly known for their swordplay and prided themselves more in magic. Besides, even if I can get a better sword, it'll take too much time to get here and I need to train a bit to get used to it."

He did a quick check around us before carefully speaking, "Do you have any future knowledge regarding high quality swords you can obtain?"

Legendary demonic blades popped in my head, "I know a few, yet they're all taken. I'll ask Azazel and see what he can find, but I'm afraid of what kind of trade he'll ask from me in exchange."

"Come now Hanwei-kun, this time I can confidently say Azazel-sensei would not go that far."

"Yeah, I guess he might not troll me under such circumstances but better safe than sorry." Doing a quick triple combo sword strike, I sheathed my new Dream Sword back at my waist, "Thank you Yuuto, you've really helped me out. I'll make sure to put this to good use."

"Of course, please do not hesitant to ask from me. You have saved me more than I can ever repay."

After nodding in acknowledgement to the Knight, I went ahead to attend to my next appointment with the Valkyrie. I found Rossweisse in her battle armor, sending waves of Norse magic with Xenovia as her sparring partner. Scheduling some time with the Chief North's bodyguard wasn't easy, mostly because both Odin and I had a hard time convincing her to take a break from her job. The perverted old god was actually glad to be away from her.

It didn't take long until they took a breather, allowing me to speak to her, "I apologize for troubling you Rossweisse-san with your busy schedule and all."

"(￣▽￣)╭ There is nothing to be sorry for. It is my pleasure to help you for taking much of your time to protect Odin-sama. I only hope he doesn't get into too much trouble during my absence..."

"Can't blame you for that." I took a seat and paid attention, "As I asked before, could you teach me how to use Norse magic?"

"If it is only the basics, then I am sure we have enough time before Loki-dono returns." Rossweisse answered confidently, not minding Miho spectating beside me. A magic circle formed on her palm, "As with other magic, Norse magic requires you to know basic magic first as well as knowledge of Norse letters to construct the arrays necessary for the spell."

Three magic circles appeared in front of me, each with a core of different polygons, "The first one here has a triangle core, each end has a a Norse letter surrounded by a outer layer of letters in a circle. For Norse magic to work, you need at least a triangle to contain the magic and have the magic to flow as a circuit. As the number of core letters increases, the complexity and special properties increases as well, just like this square core and pentagon core."

"However, more complex cores should be resonating with a stronger outer layer." Two circles with pentagon cores are lined side by side, displaying clear differences in efficiency with more outer layers. Rossweisse is really getting into her teacher role, grinning and straightening her posture, "There are certain exceptions such as the star cores but we will get into those at another date. Do you have questions so far?"

"Are there any special Norse magic relating to space, time, and dimensions?"

"That is one of the most advance forms of magic even for the Norse, it is not something we can cover in a short time. Is your question related to your New Longinus?"

At least I have a plausible excuse instead of saying that I want to travel through worlds to get back home, "Something like that. Spacetime burst alone is enough for me to rival gods but I can only use it a few times and the backlash is too harsh to continuously sustain it."

"I am afraid that I alone cannot help you with this, you at least need a Sacred Gear specialist and a professional trainer to augment your body. This concerns more than just magic."

"That can be worked out later, wanting to know about space time is enough for now."

"Well..." The silverette knitted her eyebrows, "That is something even beyond my ability though it is possible. What you see here are two-dimensional magic circles. For what you need expands more into the world itself, a three-dimensional magic circle would be the bare minimum."

Flabbergasted, Miho piped up "There are magic circles in three dimensions?"

"One must have god level power and control, but yes. It can be done by overlapping multiple two-dimensional spells or creating one three-dimensional circle from the start."

"Did Loki evade and block our attacks at that time with three-dimensional spells?"

"There were no records of Loki-dono possessing that ability in public, yet I have no doubt it could be."

Makes sense. The level of magic control and technique was nothing like I've ever seen, it looked like he was blending too well to reality itself and vanished. Tracking him down would mean I need to expand my ocular abilities beyond what is just in front of me.

"Our lecture ends for now. Here." Accessing her pocket dimension, Rossweisse grabbed a few pieces of paper with Norse magic circles on them, "These are 'training tickets' if that makes sense to you. Channel normal magic into these and they will light up. They have a multi-classification function which tells you according to the letters and intensity of the light. Normally, we would start by calling forth raw Norse magic, but I'm sure someone as powerful and experienced as you can skip a few steps."

Inspecting the ticket, it has an outer layer along with a star core, each having numerous characters which are presumably the elements. I silently gulped, no matter what I tried, even normal basic magic was impossible for me. I decided to get it over with and closed my vision, focusing on getting this ticket to light up. Breathing to get a better feel, I funneled my magic and got...

Nothing... Fucking nothing...

"Ah!" Miho squealed out in surprise, her ticket radiating brilliantly in a mix of reddish orange. The flickering light gave an illusion that the ticket itself was on fire yet not burning at all.

"Incredible." The valkyrie went wide eyed, closely analyzing the results, "I have never seen anyone with such intense and pure affinity for fire before, and you can also use your element in different forms, even healing. Despite having only one nature affinity, the talent you possess is more than I have ever seen for your age group. You will be coveted and become successful in the future in almost every job for Norse magic!"

"Thank you."

"As for Hanwei-san- Have you not started yet?"

... Suddenly, my self-confidence just dwindled. Maybe I can try a bit harder. Gripping tighter, I got the flow of my magic to travel through my systems, only to show no change. A grunt of exertion came out as my ticket began to crumple from my grip, the wind shifting from the force of my magic. Yet, all the extra effort still didn't change anything. Annoyed, I kept pumping out-

"Hanwei-san! Stop! Stop!"

I snapped back to reality, realizing the debris flying everywhere around me, as well as the rocks... and the boulders in the air... and the ten meter radius crater with me as the epicenter. Before the tons of stone could rain on us, I created a gust to gently set them down.

Rossweisse and Miho were staring at me, their clothes ruffled and hair frizzy. I hastily apologized, "Sorry, I didn't mean for that to happen."

"It's okay, accidents can happen to anyone. However..." The valkyrie was puzzled by my ticket's lack of reaction, staring unsurely, "That's very strange, I know they work properly the night before. There should be at least a bit of glowing with how much you exerted."

"Maybe I'm just not meant to learn Norse magic."

"It's not that. Those tickets were functioned to work on anyone regardless of how little magic they have. Even a child who never had prior experience to magic can make it lightly dim. A case like this is utterly abnormal."

Correction: they work on anyone who was born in this world. This pretty much confirms once again that I can't utilize any special powers besides the ones ingrained into my soul. In other words, I can't gain touki or senjutsu no matter how much I train either. My options for combat are severely limited.

"Here, let me get you a different ticket."

"No need Rossweisse-san." I attempted to ease her tension, hiding my disappointment, "I've already benefited enough by learning this much. Is it really not possible to use Norse magic with demonic powers?"

"I am afraid not." She wasn't totally fine with this development, yet didn't push it. We don't have the kind of time to work on something not so promising when Loki is involved, "Demonic powers can manifest externally by the users imagination and desire, runes or letters are not necessarily required compared to normal magic. Unless you have a completely empty mind, your thoughts will interfere with the normal arrays and even if it succeeds, the results are less than normal. You will need to study on specific devil letters if you want to have any real effect."

"Can't say I didn't see this coming." The ticket in my hand definitely had a reaction all right; it reacted and became wrinkled from me clenching too hard.

"Um... Please cheer up." Rossweisse grabbed a healing tag I gave her in preparation for our future sight, "You undoubtedly have a talent for sealing magic, it is quite remarkable to see such a complex work when devils specialize more on immediate pay-offs, to say nothing of your unique wind spells. How are you making all these spells without knowing it is possible?"

My thumb dully pointed at the Oppai Dragon, "If he can create a spell to literally communicate with breasts, I refuse to believe that I can't do what I've been doing so far."

"Wait, Issei-san can... Perhaps it would be better if I do not know."

Chuckling, "Yeah, it's a long story."

Miho stayed next to my side, confidently placing a hand on her chest, "Hanwei-sama, please do not be disappointed in yourself. If you cannot learn magic, I will do so in your stead and help you achieve your goals. Space and time is an arduous subject, that's why please rely on me to help you reach your final destination."

"Thank you Miho." I smiled, warmed by her endeavor to make a portal to send me home herself, "But there are some things I got to accomplish myself. I'll still rely on you when I need your help, that's for sure."

The valkyrie watched our interaction, conjuring a Norse circle and contemplated, "A highly diluted yet controlled demonic energy might work somewhat, though I suppose weakening your prowess internally isn't something easily doable."

...

Blinking, I willed my gear to set the multiplier to less than one before conducting my demonic magic into the crumpled ticket. It began to glow, flickering like a lightbulb about to die, before glowing solidly again.

A shit eating grin was plastered on my visage, "Or is it?"

We gathered in a meeting room in one of the underground floors of the hotel. It's been a while since we last went to school since Odin still needs bodyguarding and we should rest enough for the confrontation. We have our familiars disguising as us for attendance in school or in cases like mine and Issei's, asking other familiars to disguise as us. I wanted my clones to go yet got denied to save my strength.

Sona however, was not taking it that well compared to the rest of us. The student council president was really agitated for not managing any possible problems herself. She muttered, "Club budgets, school work, complaint of perverts-"

That one made Issei gulp even though the leader of the Perverted Trio is in the same room as her.

"Come now Sona, the school will be fine. It's not like the building is going to grow legs and run away."

I watched her friends attempting to calm the president down, definitely a rare sight from the usual cool devil. Azazel and Odin arrived, the latter having a proud expression.

"Alright brats, feast your eyes on this baby." He flicked his wrist, ejecting a specific legendary hammer in front of us, "It's a replica yet got almost the same power you want in the original, the Mjölnir. You better be grateful, it wasn't easy trying to lend this thing to outsiders."

A wave of energy was around the weapon, the ornaments around black outer frame resembles Norse aesthetics. There's a lot of hidden potential locked up in that, the majestic feel clearly isn't for show.

Bikou whistled, "Oh, that's a big shiny toy. So we can beat Loki by smacking him with this?"

"Not as easy as it sounds. Mjölnir is a legendary weapon which originated from the Norse, anyone who isn't worthy enough with the same origins is gonna be lugging this around the battlefield like a sack of ten ton potatoes. The Two Heavenly Dragons along with some backup will be the one to take on Loki, one of you is gonna be it."

"External sources of power does not befit me. I am not appealed to use something that isn't my own power to win."

"Wait, you mean I gonna lift this ten ton hammer?" Issei darted to meet my gaze.

Holding my hands up, "What are you looking at me for? I gotta distract the wolf. You want to trade places then I'll be happy to."

The Pawn flinched, reluctantly accepting the hammer. Grabbing with both hands, Issei pulled with all his might, only to hardly haul it above ground before loosing his breathe. Mjölnir slammed back to the ground with a loud bang.

"You sure you can't find someone else to do this?"

"Believe it or not, you're the best person to wield this." Azazel denied, "You'll be able to carry Mjölnir in your Balance Breaker, and your Transfer has the ability to draw in external sources of energy. Amplify yourself with Mjölnir's lightning like you do with Ascalon's holy aura. Just make sure to keep it under control, one mistake and we'll be barbecued crisper than what Baraqiel can dish out."

"I see, that would be a good method to utilize it." Sona pushed her glasses, "Then why not have Saji absorb Mjölnir's power and distribute it to everyone, it would bolster our overall firepower."

"A good idea, except I'll be upgrading his Sacred Gear. He has another role that can help out much better. You mind me borrowing your Pawn for a bit?"

"It is fine. Where are you taking him exactly?"

"To the fallen angel's research institute in Grigori." Azazel's got his familiar annoying smirk, the same smirk that always spells trouble and irritation for us, "I've been wanting to test Vitra's other gears with Absorption Line. Don't worry though, the side effects only include mental retardation, uncontrollable bladder and permanent baldness."

"... (＃°Д°) Sorry, what did you say will happen to me?"

"Daisuke, Miho, and the rest of Team Vali, you guys will be the core members for the other opponent."

"Please don't ignore me..." Saji received a sympathetic hand from Forcuis, the fallen already knowing what kind of antics his boss will put the Pawn through. The battle hardened warrior has endured so much from the Governor General to the point he would openly express his pity to the younger boy.

"Once Loki makes his appearance, we'll make a force teleportation to an abandoned place where you can fight without worrying about destroying everything. Midgardsormr gave us the info we need to hold down even Fenrir, a magic chain created by dwarves and further enhanced by dark elves, Gleipnir. Wrap the chains around him and his movements will be sealed."

"Azazel-sensei, we have seen how fast Fenrir can move. Hanwei-kun could barely react in time, is there a special strategy to stop him long enough so we can capture him?"

"The chain's already been programmed to attach to Fenrir automatically so don't worry too much about it, though just to be on the safe side." Azazel threw me an armlet, the one we've planned beforehand, "It's ready, don't use it unless it's absolutely necessary. Even I don't know how bad the repercussions will be."

"What's that senpai?" Gasper curiously peeked, "I-it looks like the same thing sensei gave me before."

"That's right, this is the same armlet Azazel gave you in case you need to suppress your gear, and also the same one he gave to Issei for his temporary Balance Breaker. Except it's way more strengthened."

Instead of a simple bracelet, this one has multiple spirals and cores, "If worst come to worst, I'll put this on and be able to spam spacetime burst almost as much as I want."

"Woah! Hold on! You mean the same technique that almost killed me in one shot when we last fought?" Bikou stiffly pointed at me with his staff, actually scared for a bit, "Can you even control that much power?"

"Who knows? Though it isn't the time to be thinking whether I can or cannot do it. Azazel, how long can this last?"

"Two minutes. I squeezed in as much healing and augmenting properties, the cost and materials to make this isn't funny. You only have one chance, a modification like this only works once or the Sacred Gear System in Heaven will go haywire. Michael's already been informed so he can prepare to fix the system. What I'm really disturbed about is your body."

Just using either spatial or temporal powers is enough to make my nerves fire off randomly, taking this will cause my body to... "Hopefully, we won't be needing this."

"Alright, I'll reconfirm the strategy. Loki will definitely appear at the meeting place, Team Sitri will transport him and everyone else with a group collaborative teleportation spell, monitoring the situation and relaying as communication. Rossweisse, Baraqiel, Forcuis, Raynare, and Tannin will tag with the Two Heavenly Dragons against Loki, Saji will join in later after his upgrade is done. The rest of Team Gremory and Team Vali will handle Fenrir. I know you've undergone crazy enemies before but Gods and the Top 10 are in a completely different league. I've taught you how to survive, now put them to good use."

Our meeting adjourned with Azazel dragging Saji to Grigori. The moment I exited, I found Alicia waiting in a corner for me, "Daisuke-sama, how was the meeting?"

"We just discussed some strategies and to prepare for the fight. The date of the battle is soon so watch the place for us."

"... Yes."

The silverette oddly veered her stare back and forth, from me to Miho to everyone else and back to me. She was still standing in front of me, thumbs twiddling indecisively. I furrowed my brows in wonder, "What's wrong? You look like you have something to say."

"... Should I... Should I not prepare for the battle as well?"

"You want to fight?"

"I am your maid and servant, it is my obligation to assist you in your endeavors."

My gaze softened, "No, you don't have to."

"Wha-what?"

"You've already been through a lot and forced to fight for Diodora. You just got your freedom, putting yourself on the line in a fight with gods isn't exactly a way to go on with your new life. Live however you want."

"... Very well." Alicia bowed before resuming to her duties.

Miho wasn't satisfied though, "Hanwei-sama, are you sure it was right to deny her?"

"Probably not, that wasn't the response I was expecting." That wasn't the look of someone who found what she wanted to do, "If she wants to fight, they are many more opportunities in the future. For now, this one is a bit too much for her after retiring from devil society."

"Alicia-san's emotions were the same as when we first met, it was the one when I wanted to prove my worth to you, to fight by your side. I can understand why she waited and came to you."

I glanced at my familiar before glancing at where my servant just left, an empathetic sensation bubbling in my heart, "She'll get her chance, one day."

"Why does it have to be so fucking heavy? I can barely swing it."

"Beats me, you didn't have that kind of trouble from what I remember. Then again, season 3 was butchered. How many times have I said that sentence by now?"

"At least three times from what I remembered."

Issei and I were on our way to find Odin and Azazel respectively. The former is to get some tips on swinging Mjölnir better and the latter was to borrow the Norse magic books again. We haven't seen them anywhere so we can only assume that they're in the Governor General's office together.

*knock**knock*

"Azazel, it's me and Issei. Are you in?"

We entered anyway before we could hear a reply, it's not like that the perverted old crow cares about formality anyway. In the grand and well decorated office, was not Azazel.

"Vali? What are you doing here?"

The Hakuryuukou didn't bother to peer away from his book, "Studying Norse magic. If you are seeking Azazel, he will return shortly."

A weird mood permeated the room as the silverette didn't say anything else. Issei silently turned to me, pointing at the terrorist in question. I simply shrugged and walked to him first, "This is a good chance anyway. Vali, thank you for saving me back in the Dimensional Gap, I would've been wiped without a trace had you not been there."

"You can extend your gratitude to Great Red, he was the one who saved you first."

"So... you're learning Norse magic too? Is it that good?" Issei approached tentatively, still not fully trusting him.

"Yes, certain aspects of this type of magic cannot be found in other religions." Placing the book on the table, he casually summoned at least an intermediate-level Norse magic circle on top of his palm, "With this much understanding, I can hold against Loki for some time. I heard you were attempting the same with the bodyguard."

"Not exactly Norse, though..." I grabbed the book, it's the same one I borrowed before from Azazel all right, "my objective has changed to develop something more unique."

"Think you can go toe to toe with Loki after learning that?"

"As much as I would like that, I am still quite lacking to do so." Vali answered Issei's question, "It would be exhilarating. Gods who hold might denser and more potent than anyone else, my blood rushes to experience the sensation of clashing that power with my own."

"At least you're not thinking of fighting me this time." The Pawn rolled his eyes, "I couldn't beat you by myself before though I still want to kick your ass after what you pulled."

"Ah yes, I would be pleased to test your subspecies myself. Our fight was never clearly decided." Vali interlocked his fingers, smirking cockily, "Do you still want a two versus one like last time?"

"Okay, now you're just shit talking to rile me up, and it's sort of working." Issei's features were flat as a board before he got fired up, "Enjoy it while you can because I'll knock you off your high horse someday, and I'll become the Ultimate Pawn."

"It would be interesting to see where my spacetime burst stand against your Juggernaut Drive, though I prefer a fight where neither of our lives are at stake. Just don't make any drastic measures to force us to fight."

"Oh, no promises."

"Yes, yes. I can feel the abundant youth from you three." Our attention was drawn to the newcomer, Odin. He stroked his beard in thought, "Aoi Arashi aside, it's quite a sight to see the Two Heavenly Dragons not killing each other even when they're in the same room. The red wants booba-licious babes and the white wants muscle headed powerhouses."

He somehow slid his way next to Vali, "By the way Hakuryuukou, which part do you like?"

I can already feel a headache coming, "Vali, don't-"

"What are you referring to?"

"A woman's body part of course."

"-get sucked into his pace..." I rubbed the bridge of my nose.

"The Sekiryuutei over there loves breasts. So what makes you tingle?"

"Inconceivable, I am not the Oppai Dragon."

"Surely there's something, you're a man after all. Isn't there something about women that's always on your mind? Some part of those curves where you can't help moving your eyes to, some part that makes you exited and want to get a closer contact?"

"My interest lies elsewhere... If I have to make a choice, it would be the hip. The line from their waist to their hip is what symbolizes the beauty of women."

"Ah ha, the the rival of Chichiryuutei is Ketsuryuukou."

"WHAAAAAAAA!"

"NUUUUOOOOO!"

"Oi, geezer! Don't say those stuff like that. Ddraig's already in a delicate state."

"Isn't this rich, this will go down in history as the Two Heavenly Dragons becoming renowned for their fetishes. So then Arashi, which part of the body made you propose to your-"

"Rossweisse-san, he's over here!"

"Thank you Hanwei-san. Odin-sama, stop running away!"

"Yikes, time to book it."

The perverted old god turned tail with his bodyguard hot on his trails. I groaned the moment he left, spectating the devils trying to comfort their dragon partners. They were troubled on how to comfort the millennium-old prideful dragons who were now reduced to tears. Even Vali have a hard time comprehending how much their honor has crumbled.

"Issei Hyoudou, how do you dissolve their agonies?"

"Ask Daisuke, he's Ddraig's therapist. He can cheer up your partner too."

"Tan Han Wei, could you..."

"On it." I sat next to my patient, meeting directly to his Divine Dividing. Before that, there was something I've been meaning to ask the terrorist, something after I recalled from the anime, "Vali, I know you have your own agenda in this alliance, but at least answer me this. Will you turn on us or use it on innocent people after you got what you want?"

"... My intent is to fight strong opponents. If you do not stand in my way, I will not stand in yours."

"Could you at least promise not to surprise attack us anytime soon."

"That can be arranged."

Under such circumstances, we still need as much help as we can get to take on that wolf, "Close enough."

"WAHAHAHAAAAA!"

"Right, Albion. I know you're sad about what Issei did but you're not alone. You still remember Khaos Brigade calling me a groper even though I didn't mean it?"

Guest: Thanks, glad you like the emojis, especially the one on Azazel.

AN: Okay, really sorry about the late update, but I'll still be late with the future updates. Been doing a lot of school work and stuff. It took a while to find the energy and motivation to keep writing and we're getting closer to the end. Next chapter will be the epic clash with God-level beings, or at least I think so. Not sure if it'll fit everything I want to write. Hope you all like it. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.

Ja Ne