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 there is more to the world around him than meets the eye following a certain encounter. But where will his path lead him when the forbidden power sleeping within him awakens?

31. Quickening

Chapter 31 – Quickening

"Is there no end to them…?"

Leon said with a grimace as he cut down another Magician while firing a light spear through a four-armed monster at the same time. He had long since lost count of how many opponents he had taken down so far, the whole battle being nothing but a blur. Out of the corner of his eyes, he noticed a sphere with four people inside them being launched towards the old school building, but couldn't afford to dwell on that as he slammed his shield on a monster that had approached too close for comfort. Opening his mouth wide, he let out a stream of holy flames that incinerated the beast.

[Boost! Boost!]

Raising his power, Leon released a large number of light bullets from his six angelic wings, bombarding the area around him and eliminating a large number of opponents. However, more magic circles appeared all around him, with Magicians and monsters emerging from it. A larger magic circle also appeared further back, with a massive black centipede-like monster that had electricity crackling around its limbs emerging from it.

"That's new." Leon remarked. "Whoever the user of Annihilation Maker is, they're probably experimenting with different types of monsters. How annoying…"

Leon brandished his sword as he prepared to face the new enemies. However, a white streak of light passed by him, releasing several energy waves that consumed most of the Magicians and monsters. Vali, who was the one responsible, aimed his wand at the centipede monster and spoke.

"Check."

A white bullet flew out of his wand, striking the centipede and solidifying into the form of an energy cone. The monster shrieked as it released torrents of lightning from its body, but Vali blocked the attacks by conjuring several defensive magic circles around him. Then, he dashed forward as he aimed a flying kick at the beast, his leg enveloped in aura.

"Exceed Charge."

Smirking underneath his helmet, Vali struck the energy cone embedded on the centipede's body, tearing through it and landing behind it. The two halves of the monster fell on the ground as red-colored flames spread through them, with an explosion consuming them as a blue triangle appeared in its midst.

"Show-off." Leon said as he landed next to Vali. "But why Delta's finisher of all things?"

"Personal reasons that I'm certain you will understand soon." Vali said as he swung his wand, with several monsters a few meters away being cut in half as a result of the ensuing space rending. "Now then, shall we continue enjoying this feast?"

"Times like this, I'm really envious of the way you relish fighting…"

Leon said as he swung Fragarach, unleashing a twister that blew away several Magicians.

"Looks like everything's still under control outside." Azazel remarked while observing the Dragon Emperors' battle. "If Rias Gremory and the others were successful in their endeavor, the time-stopping spell should be lifted right about…now."

At that moment, the oppressive feeling bearing down on everyone vanished all of a sudden. At the same time, the frozen members were released, matching confused expressions on their faces as they looked around.

"Welcome back, Sona-chan~!"

Serafall said with a cheerful expression as she rushed to hug her sister.

"S-Sister, what do you think you're doing all of a sudden!?" Sona shouted. "No, to begin with, what just happened!?"

"Where are Rias and the others?" Akeno asked while looking around in confusion. "And outside…what's happening outside? Are we under attack?"

"Pretty much." Azazel said. "You five were stopped by the Dhampir's Forbidden Balor View, which the terrorists attacking us had been using. Rias Gremory and the other members of your Peerage mounted a rescue attempt, which was a success by the looks of it. Right now, we're waiting for the enemy's next move since their time stop strategy has failed."

"…Gya-kun." Koneko muttered, clenching her fists. "These terrorists have better not hurt him."

"Are the Red and White Dragon Emperor fighting outside?" Pandora asked. "Shouldn't we help them?"

"Nah, these guys can handle things out there for now." Azazel made a dismissive gesture. "Best to save our strength for when it's really needed, namely when the masterminds decide to show up. It shouldn't be long now."

"Until that time, I would appreciate it if you gave us some additional information." Michael said. "What exactly is the aim of this Khaos Brigade, and where did they come from? In all the years I have been active as leader of Heaven, I have never heard of them. Is it a recently formed coalition?"

"Our side first came across them during an incident four years ago that involved another rogue Cadre of ours, Satanael, the Five Principal Clans and the rogue Magician organizations Hexennacht and Wizards of Oz." Azazel said. "At first, we thought Satanael was the one who had gathered and organized these rogue elements, but subsequent investigations proved that to be false. Khaos Brigade has been active for an indeterminate period of time, and they've proven themselves to be quite elusive. The scarce evidence we've come across indicate that they have been involved in quite a few incidents that plagued various factions in the past centuries."

"But to what end?" Sirzechs asked. "Do they seek world domination, or something else?"

"That, I cannot say for sure." Azazel said. "What I do know is that they have gathered dangerous elements from various factions and quite a number of Sacred Gear wielders, including some Longinus possessors as you've seen. However, the identity of their current leader is the greatest cause for concern, and why I believe this Khaos Brigade is a much greater threat than we estimated at first. Sheesh, I never expected the most dangerous Dragon would have taken the reins of a terrorist organization…"

"Most dangerous…" Michael frowned. "Azazel, you can't mean to say…the Ouroboros itself stands at the top of Khaos Brigade?"

"Unfortunately, that's the case, Michael." Azazel said with a grave expression. "The almighty Dragon God that represents Infinity, the being whose entry into the formless void from the Dimensional Gap billions of years ago caused the Big Bang that led to the formation of the universe we live in. The undisputedly strongest existence in the world, Ophis."

Everyone showed matching grim expressions on their faces following Azazel's words. At that moment, an unfamiliar voice echoed in the clubroom.

[As expected of the renowned Azazel. Nothing gets past you, eh?]

A magic circle with a complex pattern in it appeared in the middle of the lounge, with the members present scowling at the insignia engraved in it.

"I've seen this pattern before in the Vatican's library…" Kaori muttered while tightening her hold on Kusanagi's hilt. "It's the seal of the original Leviathan."

Following Kaori's words, three figures emerged from the magic circle. The first was a tall, bespectacled woman with tan skin, long brown hair tied into a bun, purple eyes and a voluptuous figure, who was clad in an extremely low-cut dress that left little to the imagination. The second was a young man with long cherry blossom hair tied in a ponytail, light blue eyes and a pair of horns protruding from the sides of his head, who was wearing a simple combat suit with pieces of armor attached to it. The last one was a burly, bald man with a small moustache and goatee, dark green eyes, pointed ears and three vertical scars running down the left side of his face, who was clad in expensive-looking clothes and was holding a sinister-looking broadsword.

"How do you do, current Devil King Sirzechs Lucifer and the rest of the Three Factions' higher-ups?" The woman smiled, lifting the edges of her dress and curtsying. "I am Katerea Leviathan, descendant of the true Devil King Leviathan. The gentlemen next to me are Alistair Belphegor of the Belphegor clan and Orgus Mammon of the Mammon clan. It's a delight to make your acquaintance, short as it will be."

"Katerea…" Sirzechs frowned. "So, the descendants of our former Devil Kings have also joined the Khaos Brigade. But Belphegor and Mammon… I was under the impression the Extra Demon clans were abstaining from taking sides in the Underworld's political turmoil. Am I to take your participation in this raid as a sign that your families have revised their policies?"

"Wouldn't that be ideal…" Orgus sighed, tapping the hilt of his sword with his finger. "Unfortunately, our respective clans' leaders lack vision and decisiveness as always. They insist on maintaining their foolish stance of total neutrality instead of working to restore the power and authority once wielded by our respective illustrious families."

"In other words, we are the radicals that didn't quite agree with our clans' mandates." Alistair smirked. "We desire far more than languishing in some Devil-forsaken corner of the Underworld until the end times because of torn loyalties. Or, Hell forbid, turning into some sort of circus act to please the crowds like my dear cousin Roygun has in that clownfest you call Rating Games. No, we will restore the Underworld to its rightful state and make our families see reason."

"Heh, looks like hard-headed idiots stuck in their old ways are a pain every side has to deal with." Azazel remarked with a smirk. "So, you guys all came together under Ophis to do…what exactly? Conquer the world or some other cliched nonsense like that?"

"Not exactly conquer." Katerea said. "More like…put it back into the right course. Restore the natural order the current Devil Kings have trampled upon."

"What do you mean by that, Katerea?"

"Do I have to spell it out, Sirzechs?" Katerea said with narrowed eyes. "The Devil race was created to serve as the arms and legs of the Devil Kings and their descendants until the end of time. That was the ancient covenant and the Devils' sole purpose for existing. But you…with the creation of that damnable Evil Piece system, you've introduced foreign influences and thought patterns into our species. You went against the natural order ordained by our creators by orchestrating a rebellion and deposing our honored fathers and mothers before driving the rest of us away. Do you think such blasphemy would remain unpunished forever, Sirzechs?"

"What are you saying, Katerea-chan!?" Serafall cried out. "What we wanted was—"

"You be silent, Serafall!" Katerea howled. "The pretender who dared to steal my birthright has no right to address me, or even look upon me for that matter! I am the true Devil King Leviathan, the one ordained by our ancient laws to sit upon that throne! By the end of this night, I will have you return what you took from me!"

"Katerea-chan…I…" Serafall said with a quivering voice, before steeling herself. "I didn't want to steal anything from you! I wished there was another way to settle this! But if we didn't act back then, the previous generation would have destroyed the Underworld and everyone living in it by restarting the Great War!"

"That's right." Sirzechs said. "You can hate and despise us all you want, Katerea. You probably have that right. However, I will not allow the Underworld to revert back to the times of our forefathers. Noble or commoner, everyone deserves to live their lives to the fullest and not be treated as a disposable piece to be cast aside at a moment's notice by the whims of four people. Freedom of choice is the right of all sentient beings, and that includes the Devils."

"That right there is why I say you've been corrupted, Sirzechs." Katerea sneered. "Trying to force those pathetic human values on all of Devilkind is an abomination of the highest degree. That's why we will be the ones to guide this world into the proper path. We didn't have the power at first, but with Ophis's aid, we can now destroy this distorted Underworld you are trying to create and return back to our true roots. Following that, we shall change the whole world into an image that better suits us."

"The more I hear her speak, the more it makes me want to vomit." Azazel said with a fed-up expression. "Return to the true roots? Create a new world? Please. All I see is a bunch of brats throwing a temper tantrum because no-one wants them around and they just can't admit their time has long passed. It's so pathetic I'm not even sure whether I should laugh at you or pity you."

"How about you die for us?" Alistair said before the enraged Katerea could respond. "You were the one who killed my honored ancestor during the Great War, so I've been itching for a shot at your head, Governor-sama. So, how about we skip the chit-chat and head straight to the main course?"

"Yes, there is no point in dragging out this pointless conversation." Orgus said, pointing his blade at Michael. "Our goal here is to eliminate the leaders of the Three Factions as the first step towards the world we envision. Katerea-sama, perhaps we should use 'that'?"

"I suppose keeping it in reserve with the current line-up would be foolish." Katerea said as she took out a vial with a small serpent writhing inside it. "Everyone, allow me to show you a small part of the power Ophis has bestowed us with. Witness it and despair!"

Katerea said as she swallowed the snake, with Alistair and Orgus taking out similar vials and doing the same. The next moment, an explosion of aura erupted from the trio's bodies, ravaging the room and breaking every window in it. The leaders conjured barriers in haste in order to shield themselves and the weaker members. Smirking, Katerea unfurled her six pairs of Devil wings, with a single beat from them destroying the wall behind her. She, Alistair and Orgus flew out and came to hover above Kuoh Academy, waiting for their opponents.

"Twelve wings…?" Pandora remarked with a frown. "How? I thought Devils don't get more than a single pair regardless of their strength."

"The Devil Kings and their descendants are an exception." Akeno explained. "Due to the Devil Kings' former status as Angels, they retained the trait of having multiple pairs of wings despite their transformation into a completely different kind of being. Said trait was passed to their descendants as well."

"Looks like they do not intend to back down." Sirzechs said, closing his eyes for a bit and opening them with a determined expression. "It can't be helped then. I will do what I must."

"You mean we will do what we must." Azazel said with a grin, stepping next to Sirzechs. "Don't try to act all cool on your own, kid. You'll make us senior citizens look bad if we leave everything to you."

"What my mischievous brother said." Michael said, stepping forward as well. "They called all of us out, so we shall deal with them together. That sudden increase in power could be problematic though. I wonder, what exactly is the deal with that snake Ophis gave them?"

"We will find out soon enough, I guess." Sirzechs said, turning to his fellow Devil King. "Serafall, can I leave handling the defenses to you? We might have to exert ourselves a bit, so I'd rather avoid damaging the surroundings as much as possible. Also, Ajuka's counter-formula should almost be ready. When it's done, deploy it."

"You got it, Sirzechs-chan~!" Serafall said with a wink before becoming serious. "Be careful out there."

"I will." Sirzechs said, turning to the other Devils. "The rest of you, I would like you to assist the Dragon Emperors with the Magicians and monsters outside. We will soon deploy a countermeasure for them, but if they catch wind of it, they might direct their attacks here. Please keep them out until Serafall is done."

[Understood!]

Pandora, Akeno, Koneko, Sona and Tsubaki said together.

"Warrior Dia, warrior Kaori, please assist them as well." Michael said. "This is the time of our counterattack."

"As you wish, Michael-sama."

Kaori said, while Dia simply nodded. After that, Sirzechs, Michael and Azazel spread their wings and took flight, facing Katerea, Orgus and Alister respectively. Meanwhile, the Devils and Exorcists jumped out of the building as well and headed towards the enemy forces.

"I bear no grudge towards you, but this is unavoidable." Kaori said as she unsheathed Kusanagi while facing a group of Magicians and took her stance. "May the Lord forgive me for the sin of taking your life, and may your souls be judged with leniency in the afterlife."

After saying so, Kaori was enveloped by a storm of holy aura that was sucked back into her body. Before the Magicians could even blink, she vanished and reappeared behind them. The next moment, fountains of blood spurted from the Magicians' bodies, with their severed halves falling on the ground. Several monsters attempted to pounce on her, but Kaori vanished once again, with numerous bolts of holy lightning striking and vaporizing them mid-air afterwards. Wasting no time, Kaori turned her focus to another group of enemies, dispatching them with high-speed strokes of her blade.

"…Begone."

Speaking in a low tone, Dia pointed at a group of monsters that were charging towards her. A large pillar of light in the shape of a cross erupted from the ground, eliminating the opponents at once. Several Magicians aimed their staffs at Dia, unleashing a barrage of darkness spears and bullets at her. However, she turned into particles of light and vanished from her position, rematerializing above the Magicians. Before they could react, Dia shot an orb of condensed light in their midst. It exploded with the force of a high-grade bomb, taking them down at once.

"Ara, ara, the Church has some scary warriors in their ranks." Akeno said as her lightning bolt tore through another monster heading for her. "However, we won't fall behind here!"

Akeno raised her aura as electricity enveloped her whole body. Then, with a burst of speed courtesy of her Knight trait, she appeared before a monster and kicked its head off. Turning around, she thrust her fist into a Magician that attempted to attack her back, sending him flying. Another monster's blades aimed at her back, but were unable to penetrate the electrical barrier surrounding Akeno's body. Smirking, Akeno channeled her Rook trait to split the monster in half with a chop before taking down two more Magicians with her lightning whip.

"…Akeno-san is moving better than usual." Koneko remarked as she landed next to Akeno, pummeling a monster to oblivion with her Touki-enveloped fists. "New technique?"

"Yes." Akeno said as her high kick destroyed the upper half of another charging monster. "I'm boosting my muscles by channeling electricity through them for a greater increase in strength, and I'm wrapping an electrical barrier around my body for added defense. It's still a bit taxing through…"

"…I see." Koneko said, tearing through a Magician's defensive magic circle and smashing her face into the ground. "Looks like I can't slack off either."

No sooner had Koneko spoken than a monster came charging at her, its blades having morphed into chainsaws. However, the blades harmlessly passed through Koneko's body, which flickered and vanished. Before the monster could understand what had happened, it was brought down by a number of ki bullets. The next moment, the space to the right of the monster flickered, with Koneko appearing there all of a sudden.

"Youjutsu, eh?" Akeno remarked while blasting a trio of Magicians with an oversized lightning blast. "I see you've been expanding your repertoire, Koneko-chan."

"…It doesn't come easy to me." Koneko said as she grabbed a monster from its head, lifted it up and slammed it into another group of monsters before finishing them all off with slashes from her Touki claws. "Not my style. But it could be useful down the line."

"I really should start working into developing my powers a bit more." Pandora said with a dissatisfied expression as she bound several Magicians with thick roots and crushed their bodies. "Feels like all of you will leave me behind at some point…"

A group of monsters unleashed a barrage of energy blasts at Pandora at that moment. However, she was unperturbed, evading them thanks to her superior speed. Pointing her hand upwards as she moved, she unleashed a downpour of icicles on them, shredding them to pieces. A Magician tried to attack Pandora from the back, but Gin emerged from her shadow, its claws enveloped in demonic power. Before the Magician could react, the Cath Palug had torn through his throat, sending his lifeless body crashing on the ground. Seeing that another group of monsters was heading for her, Pandora tapped her foot on the ground, with several rock stakes emerging from below and skewering most of her opponents. At the same time, Gin opened its mouth wide, unleashing a demonic power blast that eliminated the surviving monsters.

"Tsubaki!"

"Yes, Student President!"

Following Sona's command, Tsubaki rushed forward utilizing her Knight trait to avoid enemy attacks. She dove into a group of enemies, each swing of her naginata bringing down an enemy fighter. At the same time, Sona conjured numerous whips made out of highly pressurized water and used them to cover Tsubaki's blind spots, cutting down enemy after enemy. Even when a group of Magicians attempted to fire a concentrated salvo at the two Devils, Tsubaki brought out Mirror Alice, with her Sacred Gear countering the attack and sending the damage back to the Magicians.

At that moment, a monster resembling a cross between a serpent and a crab erupted from the ground next to Tsubaki and attempted to skewer her with its pincers. However, several Holy Demonic Swords came flying at it, piercing its body all over. At the same time, a massive wave of holy aura vaporized the majority of the enemies surrounding the Devils and Exorcists, giving everyone a brief reprieve from the relentless waves of enemies.

"President! Everyone!"

Akeno called out to the approaching group with a smile. Rias waved back with an exhausted smile, with Takeshi, Yuuto and Xenovia trailing behind her. Gasper was still unconscious in Takeshi's arms, oblivious to the surrounding chaos.

"…You rescued Gya-kun, but what's wrong with him?" Koneko asked with a concerned look. "Why's he unconscious?"

"My fault." Takeshi said with a frown. "Or rather, my blood's. He ingested a few drops to power up, but the corrupted draconic aura in it didn't agree with him. Hence, his current condition. On the plus side, it doesn't seem to be life-threating, something that I'm grateful for."

"You guys look exhausted." Sona remarked upon observing the newcomers. "Was the battle that fierce?"

"It was." Rias said with a somber expression. "One of the enemy combatants could have very well killed us if it wasn't for Grayfia's interference. She's still fighting him back there."

"I see." Sona said. "In that case, you and the others should stay back, Rias. Let us handle the rest of the cleaning-up."

"Hey, I still have energy to spare." Xenovia said. "Don't count me out just yet."

"I…could honestly use a nap right about now." Yuuto said with a grimace. "Despite the Phoenix Tear, my head is still ringing from that fellow's blow…"

"As much as I hate to admit it, none of us five are exactly in tip-top shape right now." Rias said as she turned her gaze to the sky, where explosions of light could be seen all over. "Wait, is that…my brother up there? Who's he fighting?"

"Katerea Leviathan of the Old Devil King Faction." Akeno said. "She and two other rogue Devils from the Belphegor and Mammon clans are our apparent masterminds behind this attack."

"The old Leviathan…" Rias muttered. "Even so, no matter who the opponent might be, I'm sure my brother will triumph."

"There's no doubt about that." Takeshi said. "He's not the current Lucifer for nothing."

Rias nodded as she turned her attention to the fight above. Each of the three leaders seemed to be holding their own for now despite the sudden increase in strength from their opponents.

"Not bad, leader of the Angels!" Orgus laughed as he launched blasts of demonic power at Michael, who countered with several oversized light spears. "You haven't lost your touch that much despite being absent from the battlefield for several centuries!"

Michael didn't answer, pointing his right hand at Orgus. A powerful beam of light shot out of it with such speed that the burly Devil barely avoided having his right arm vaporized by it. Conjuring several magic circles around him, Orgus summoned a large number of crystals from them and sent them flying at Michael. The Archangel frowned as he used his wings to bat them aside, but the crystals exploded the moment he came into contact with them, sending him flying backwards. Orgus charged at him at the same time, his blade enveloped by demonic power. Michael conjured a broadsword made out of light and engaged his snarling foe in a furious swordfight.

Despite Orgus' apparent skill, Michael's more refined swordplay, which focused on feints and precise counters, was superior. Eventually, after almost receiving a fatal cut on his torso, Orgus was forced to retreat while shooting several chains made of demonic power at the Archangel. Michael was unperturbed, summoning several light rings to cut through the chains and aim at Orgus, who destroyed them with a swing of his blade. He yelped in surprise as he dodged in haste to avoid another oversized light spear, which sailed past him and struck the barrier, causing a ripple to go through it.

"Damn, as expected of the Angel capable of matching Lucifer-sama himself…" Orgus grunted, but then smiled as his hand was surrounded by green aura. "However, my preparations are complete. With this, it's over!"

Orgus swung his hand, unleashing a wave of green aura. Although the wave enveloped Michael's body, it didn't seem to have any noticeable effect on him at first. However, Michael frowned as he felt a sense of loss, like something had been removed from him against his will. Having an inkling of what had just transpired, Michael tried to create a light spear, but nothing came out.

"I see." Michael said. "Snatch, is it not?"

"Got it in one, you rotten Archangel." Orgus grinned. "Our clan's ability allows us to steal an opponent's ability and use it as our own for a brief amount of time. Thanks to the boost I received from Ophis's snake, I was able to steal your ability to generate light. While I can't use it myself due to being a Devil, that doesn't matter here. The main purpose was to weaken you. Tough luck, eh?"

Orgus brandished his blade, a cruel smile on his face.

"Looks like I, Orgus Mammon, will be having the honor of taking the great Michael-sama's head." Orgus said. "With such an accomplishment under my belt, I'm sure to claim a seat among the new Devil Kings. Now, will you surrender, or will I have to make a mess out of you?"

Michael was silent at first, and then sighed in exasperation.

"Goodness, arrogance can be a scary thing indeed…" Michael said before addressing his opponent. "Orgus Mammon, though I am certain it is a waste of time, I will ask nonetheless. Will you not stand down? There is still a chance for you to walk away from this fight with your life intact."

"Hey, hey, what the Hell are you saying, you bastard?" Orgus burst out laughing. "Can you not understand the situation? I've got you cornered here. If this is some sort of pathetic attempt to save your miserable life, then I'm sorry to say that it's not working!"

Orgus conjured a large number of magic circles, shooting out a barrage of demonic power blasts aiming for Michael. The Archangel sighed as he pulled out an ornate gold cross from his robes, which transformed into a blade made out of golden flames. With a few strokes, he dispersed the blasts, which scattered around him harmlessly.

"That blade…" Orgus grimaced as he focused on the flaming blade. "The Sword of Judgment used to guard Eden?"

"Why are you so surprised?" Michael said as he brandished his blazing sword. "I often used this sword during the Great War after all. It's a given it would be on my person, no? Now then, if you will not retreat, I suppose you have prepared yourself!"

Michael said as he beat his twelve wings, creating a strong gust of wind that almost blew Orgus out of the sky. Struggling to stabilize himself, Orgus was barely able to bring up his sword to block Michael's slash. Even then, the force behind the slash sent him crashing on the barrier, with the Devil spitting out a mouthful of blood from the impact.

"Don't get carried away, you flying maggot!"

Orgus snarled as he swung his blade, unleashing crescent-shaped waves of demonic power at his opponent. Michael avoided most of them with ease and knocked aside a couple before engaging Orgus once again. Much to the Devil's shock, Michael's slashes were even faster than before, with his flaming blade hammering his own from multiple directions. It was taking all of Orgus's concentration to keep the blade away from his body by utilizing his own sword and well-timed defensive magic circles. Even then, he couldn't help but be pushed back.

"Shit!" Orgus cursed. "How is this happening!? With Ophis's snake and my own skill, I should be superior! Why am I being overwhelmed!?"

Instead of answering, Michael executed numerous thrusts that bombarded Orgus's body. This time, Orgus wasn't able to keep up, with the flaming blade burying itself in several areas of his body. Orgus shrieked in pain and rage as he gathered a massive amount of demonic power around his sword, aiming for a final, desperate attack. Michael didn't give him the chance though. Swinging his sword with blinding speed, Michael severed both of Orgus's arms. He screamed in agony, but Michael silenced him by thrusting his blade through his chest, incinerating his body in a matter of seconds.

"A pity." Michael said as he dismissed his blade, feeling his stolen power returning. "Had you trained more, perhaps you would have been able to match me, Orgus Mammon. You should have taken my offer."

At the same time, several meters away, Azazel was busy dodging Alistair's attacks while doing his best to counter with his own light spears.

"Come on, is that the best you can do, Fallen Angel Governor!?" Alistair laughed as he pointed at an incoming light spear, with a tear appearing on it as it shattered. "If so, just give it up already and spare yourself the embarrassment!"

"Give me a break, will you!?" Azazel shouted as he launched another light spear at Alistair, which broke apart into a multitude of smaller light spears. "It's been some time, so I'm a little out of practice here!"

Alistair growled as he swung his arm, with tears appearing in each light spear and breaking it apart like the previous one. He dashed at Azazel, but the Fallen Angel evaded Alistair's outstretched arm and struck him with his wings, sending him falling towards the ground. Alistair spread his wings and steadied himself, only to grimace upon seeing Azazel performing a kick. Several light stakes shot out of it, aiming straight for Alistair. However, he extended both his hands, with numerous tears appearing on the incoming stakes and shattering them.

"Sheesh, that Crack trait of the Belphegor clan is still a huge pain in the ass…" Azazel clicked his tongue in irritation. "Still, even excluding the first Belphegor, I think even the Rating Game's second-ranked is using it better than you. It's not as refined as it should be."

"Big words from someone who's been forced on the defensive so far." Alistair snorted in derision. "But I guess I can't expect too much from a foolish Governor like you. So much power and influence, and yet you refuse to exert it in order to mold the world to your ideal image. That's why, it's time for you to step aside. We are the future, one that will start by eliminating you, Azazel!"

Alistair clapped his hands together, with a massive tear in space shooting out of it and aiming for Azazel. The Fallen Angel conjured a multitude of defensive barriers, with the tear smashing on them and shattering them one after another. Azazel was unperturbed as he conjured even more defensive magic circles along with light walls, stopping the attack before reaching him. Then, he let out a sigh.

"Well…you may have a point there, Alistair." Azazel said. "I'm definitely a no-good Governor that can't function without Shemhazai's assistance and constant nagging. But even someone like me can see that the future you guys are aiming for is only going to cause heaps of trouble for everyone. That's why, I'm stopping you here for good."

"Stop me?" Alistair smirked. "You? How? With the snake granted to me by Ophis, I have surpassed my ancestor's power despite your claims to the contrary. There's no chance for you to win here, Azazel."

"As expected, you understand nothing." Azazel shook his head in exasperation. "You were granted power you didn't work for, or even bother to properly acclimate to, and you think you are my equal? There's a limit to bad jokes, youngster. I could kill you quite easily by exerting myself a bit more, but I figure I might as well get some useful combat data out of this."

After saying so, Azazel reached into his coat and took out a gold spear-shaped dagger with a purple gem on its hilt while grinning.

"That's…?"

"My hobby." Azazel said while caressing the spear. "You know about it, don't you? I have an avid interest in Sacred Gears and their workings. However, I've gone beyond the level of a mere enthusiast. Thanks to my research, I've reached the stage where it's now possible to create replicas. This is my most stable prototype so far."

"That thing…is the rumored Artificial Sacred Gear?" Alistair said with a shocked expression. "Impossible! Your research shouldn't have progressed to the extent where you can field functioning prototypes without them having adverse effects on the user!"

"Ah, I see someone must have blabbed to you fellows about my work then." Azazel smirked. "No doubt that's the work of your spies in Grigori. However, I'm afraid the full details and inner workings of our Artificial Sacred Gear research are only known to me and Shemhazai. If you thought the unstable prototypes Kokabiel's goons stole a while back were our current limit, you were sorely mistaken."

"You bastard…"

"Oh, don't be like that, Alistair." Azazel smiled. "You should be grateful I'm showing this to you as a parting gift."

Azazel raised the dagger high as copious amount of light gushed out of it.

"Balance Break!"

Following these words, Azazel's body was enveloped by a golden radiance, which solidified into the form of a full-body golden armor with a Dragon motif that had several purple gems embedded in its shoulders, arms, legs and chest. Azazel's twelve black wings expanded to their full length, while a two-pronged spear made out of highly condensed light appeared in his right hand. The amount and quality of aura coming out from the armor caused Alistair to frown as sweat rolled down his face.

"I studied the Vanishing Dragon's Balance Breaker and other Dragon-type Sacred Gear in order to create this masterpiece." Azazel said. "This is Down Fall Dragon Spear in its pseudo-Balance Breaker state, Down Fall Dragon Another Armor. One of the Dragon Kings, Gigantis Dragon Fafnir, is used as the power source. Now then, Alistair Belphegor, I'll have you assist me for a bit in this test of its effectiveness!"

"To think you had something like this up your sleeve…!" Alister scowled. "Even so, I will not be brought down by the likes of you, Azazel!"

Alistair conjured several magic circles around him, with several energy lines shooting out of it and binding Azazel. Alistair rushed at the immobilized Fallen Angel and struck him with his aura-clad fist. Contrary to his expectations, no tears or cracks appeared on the surface of the armor. Three subsequent attempts on different spots had the same result.

"What the Hell…?"

"Durability when channeling Fafnir's aura is good enough." Azazel remarked. "Now, as for strength…"

Azazel exerted his aura a bit, vaporizing his restraints. Before Alistair could react, Azazel backhanded him, sending him flying and crashing into the gym in the distance. He then waved his arm, with numerous light spears appearing above the gym and raining down on it with the force of meteors. The gym and its surroundings were obliterated in a manner of seconds.

"Is he dead?" Azazel wondered. "Perhaps I overdid it a bit…"

At that moment, a battered figure emerged from the wreckage, his body trembling. Alistair, who had used his Crack and Devil magic to the limit in order to shield himself from the bombardment, was gazing at Azazel with a fearful look.

"Screw that…" Alistair wheezed out while heaving. "There's no chance…I can beat that… I'll live…to fight another day…"

Alistair tried to conjure a teleportation magic circle, only for it to shatter. At the same time, teleportation magic circles appeared underneath the Magicians and monsters, sending them outside the barrier. There, the unfrozen troops from the Three Factions engaged them, taking down terrorist after terrorist.

"What…?" Alistair looked around in confusion. "What the Hell just happened!? Why isn't teleportation working!? And why were our troops sent outside the barrier!?"

"Looks like Ajuka Beelzebub's formula was successful in rewriting your own." Azazel said as he landed a few steps away from Alistair. "Too bad. Looks like it's the end of the line for you, kid."

"Damn you! Azazeeeeeeeeel!"

Alistair howled as he attempted to attack the Fallen Angel Governor, demonic power enveloping his hands. However, Azazel struck first, his lance piercing Alistair's head. The young Devil didn't even have time to scream as his body was vaporized in an instant. A few seconds later, Azazel's armor broke apart, with only a single purple gem remaining behind.

"Hmm, looks like this is its operational limit." Azazel said. "Well, I did force it into a Burst-like state, so it can't be helped for now. Plus, as long as the core jewel is intact, I can remake it as many times as I wish. I'll have you keep company with me a little longer, Fafnir-chan."

Azazel smirked as he kissed the gem. He then turned his attention to the only battle still raging above Kuoh Academy. Katerea was summoning numerous gigantic water serpents and hurling them at Sirzechs, but was making no progress. A large number of condensed spheres of Destruction that were hovering around Sirzechs would counter Katerea's attacks, vaporizing them upon contact.

"This is pointless, Katerea." Sirzechs said. "You cannot win here, and there is no need for you to throw your life away senselessly. Surrender, and I swear on my name that you will be treated fairly."

"Silence!" Katerea snarled as she shaped the water around her into numerous lances and monstrous deep-sea fish that aimed at Sirzechs. "I will not be bested by the likes of you, Sirzechs! I will kill you here, then Serafall, and then that bastard Ajuka who took down my mother during the Civil War! After that, me and the others will finally be able to reshape the Underworld according to our vision!"

"Tsufaame's death was unfortunate, but it was also avoidable." Sirzechs said as his Destruction spheres once again vaporized Katerea's incoming attacks with little effort. "Ajuka offered to spare her life, but she turned him down. Please, don't make the same mistake, Katerea. You can still walk away with your life intact."

"Such arrogance." Katerea scowled. "Your power might be great, Sirzechs, but I haven't played all my cards yet either. Behold the true power of the Leviathan clan!"

Katerea's aura increased as her body began transforming. Her limbs were sucked into her body, which started to swell and elongate as deep blue scales began replacing her skin. After a few seconds, a massive sea serpent could be seen hovering in front of Sirzechs, opening its maw wide and letting out a resounding howl that caused everyone present to wince.

"Sea Serpent of the End…" Sirzechs muttered. "So, you've developed your clan trait to this degree, Katerea. Or is this due to the power you gained from Ophis's snake?"

[That's right.] Katerea said. [This is but a mere fragment of what the Ouroboros's power is capable of. You people don't stand a chance against us. Now then, I think I'll begin my cleansing by drowning you and everyone else here!]

An uncountable number of magic circles appeared all around Kuoh Academy, while Katerea opened her maw wide as copious amounts of aura gathered in her mouth. However, just as she was about to unleash her full might—

"You made the wrong choice, Katerea."

After Sirzechs said so, numerous Destruction spheres shot out of his body, destroying all magic circles around campus at once. At the same time, several spheres went through Katerea's body, riddling it with holes.

[W-What…?]

That was the only thing Katerea had the chance to mutter as a slightly larger Destruction sphere came to hover in front of her head. The sphere expanded without warning, disintegrating her serpent-like head in a flash. The now headless corpse of Katerea's monster form started falling towards the main school building, but Sirzechs waved his hand. Several Destruction orbs surrounded the corpse and expanded, vaporizing it without leaving even a trace of it behind. Sirzechs looked at the spot for a few seconds with a forlorn look, then let out an exhausted sigh as he descended to the ground to join the others. Unbeknownst to him, a wisp of darkness lingered behind in the spot Katerea's body was annihilated before vanishing.

"As expected, Katerea was no match for you, Sirzechs." Azazel remarked once Sirzechs landed next to him. "Her transformation was kind of a shocker, but you handled it no problem."

"Katerea-chan…" Serafall, who had joined everyone else as well, said with a downcast expression. "Was there really no other way? Was the seat of Devil King so important to her that she would throw away her life like this?"

"Different people will have different priorities, and even if we can understand them, there is no way to avoid conflict at times." Michael said. "Compromise simply is not an option in such cases, unfortunate as that is."

"There's still someone fighting in here." Leon, who had joined his Church comrades, remarked. "I sense auras clashing in the direction of the old school building."

"Is Grayfia still fighting against that Vortigern fellow?" Rias frowned. "Shouldn't he have been teleported outside alongside the Magicians and monsters?"

"He must have resisted the teleport somehow." Azazel said. "No matter. Let's go help Grayfia. Once the troops outside are done mopping up the terrorists, we can finally say this battle is over."

"Over? That's hardly the case, Azazel. Why, the climax begins from here!"

A barrage of aura blasts bombarded the group out of the blue, forcing them to dodge or block in some cases. Leon, who found himself separated from the others due to the barrage, was trapped within the confines of a semicircular barrier all of a sudden. Turning his head towards the direction where the attacks had come from, Leon scowled as he dismissed his helmet.

"What's the meaning of this—Vali!?"

The White Dragon Emperor dismissed his helmet as well, revealing his smirking face.

"Come now, Leon." Vali said. "What other meaning could my current actions have apart from the obvious?"

"Vali…" Takeshi grunted, taking a few unsteady steps towards the barrier. "You…are the traitor?"

"Indeed, Takeshi." Vali said. "My apologies, but this side seems more interesting for the time being. That's why, I joined the Khaos Brigade."

"In hindsight, I should have expected something like that…" Azazel said while sighing. "I'm getting careless in my old age… I'm surprised that the Vanishing Dragon capitulated to Ophis like that though. Unless you have some other reason, Vali?"

"It's nothing that complicated." Vali said. "Khaos Brigade wishes to go to war with the established order, meaning I get to fight a plethora of powerful opponents in the process like the Chief Gods of each Pantheon. That can't happen if this peace of yours spreads throughout the factions, Azazel."

"I really should have done something earlier on to curb your lust for battle." Azazel grimaced. "I raised you to be strong, but I'm certain I told you not to destroy the world with your power. At least I'm relieved you're not rebelling for an even dumber reason like reclaiming your lost throne."

"His…lost throne?" Leon frowned. "What is he talking about, Vali?"

"I suppose the time has come to reveal my true heritage as well."

After Vali said so, four pairs of Devil wings sprouted from his back, much to the shock of everyone present.

"My name is Vali Lucifer." Vali said, placing his hand on his chest. "I am a descendant of the Devil King Lucifer from my father's side, and I acquired Divine Dividing due to the human blood inherited from my mother."

"Lucifer…" Rias muttered with a shocked expression. "Is this real…or a dream?"

"Oh, it's real alright." Azazel said. "With his bloodline, talent and Sacred Gear, Vali could very well become the strongest White Dragon Emperor of all time. Seriously, what's wrong with the Two Heavenly Dragons of this era? Both of them are such ridiculous existences that I can't help but think fate is playing a cruel joke on us."

"I would view it more as a blessing or a miracle." Vali smirked. "Though I am sure you wouldn't share that opinion, Azazel."

"All that doesn't matter now." Sirzechs said with a severe expression. "Vali Lucifer, if you are our enemy, then we shall use our full power to neutralize you as well. You don't actually believe that barrier you've created will hold me back?"

"You or the other leaders?" Vali said. "No. But I reckon you will be too busy to intervene while I settle the score with Leon."

Before Sirzechs could question Vali about that, a rift in space appeared above the new school building, with three cloaked figures emerging from it and landing on the ground.

"More members of Khaos Brigade, I assume?" Michael said, several light spears forming around him. "If so, just like your now deceased comrades, you are not welcome here."

Michael launched his light spears at the newcomers. However, Megrez raised his palm, with the spears stopping at midair. He then clenched his fist, with the spears shattering in response.

"My, such a violent greeting uncharacteristic of the great Archangel-sama." Alkaid said, tapping his cane on the ground. "I suppose I cannot blame you though after everything you have been through tonight so far. Still, I hope you will find it within you to entertain us latecomers for a bit."

"If you are looking for entertainment, you've come to the wrong place." Sirzechs said. "I will only say this once; leave while you still have the chance."

"Ooooh, scary!" Adam laughed, dragging his hand through his hair. "Hey, hey, can I fight him, Alkaid? For some reason, he's getting on my nerves, that bastard!"

"I do not think you are a match for him, my boy." Alkaid said. "I shall be the one to test our young Devil King."

After saying so, Alkaid thrust his cane forward, with the ensuing air pressure blast sending Sirzechs flying backwards. The crimson-haired Devil quickly steadied himself and enveloped his hand in Destruction, knocking aside the incoming cane that was aiming for his head.

It wasn't eliminated by the Power of Destruction?

Sirzechs frowned, but had little time to ponder this as Alkaid's cane aimed for him again. Sirzechs evaded him as he surrounded himself with Destruction orbs once again and sent them after his opponent.

"In that case, I shall take on the united front of a Seraph and a Cadre."

Megrez said as he flew up, making a pulling motion with both hands. Azazel and Michael let out surprised gasps as they felt their bodies being pulled towards their opponent by some unknown force. Both of them conjured light spears and aimed to skewer their opponent, but Megrez's body transformed into a flock of ravens that spat out noxious fumes. Azazel and Michael beat their wings to disperse the fumes, forming light barriers to block Megrez's incoming darkness spears. Although they tried to counterattack, Megrez vanished and reappeared a few meters away from the two, with several darkness serpents aiming at them.

"What sort of movement was that?" Michael asked while cutting down the incoming serpents. "It seems like teleportation, but it's too instantaneous."

"Hell if I know." Azazel grimaced as he formed a light scythe, slashing apart the incoming attacks. "Be careful, Michael. There's something off about this guy."

"Oh, come on!" Adam complained from the ground. "Seriously!? You're leaving me here to play house with the kids!? Fuck you! I wanted to fight one of the leaders! Tch, way to spoil my fun!"

"Keep talking, you unguarded fool!"

Kaori shouted, Kusanagi aiming for Adam's throat. However, the black-haired youth merely lifted his arm, with a scythe blade emerging from it and blocking Kaori's slash.

"Ah?" Adam glared at Kaori. "Don't interrupt me in the middle of my tantrum, you bitch!"

Adam's kick sent Kaori skidding backwards. Red aura surrounded his fist as he smashed the ground, with an explosion occurring that forced everyone back.

"Well, at least the Devil King Leviathan is still here." Adam said, licking his tongue. "You'll make for a fine course, lady!"

A multitude of blades appeared around Adam and flew towards Serafall. She waved her staff in response, with every blade turning into ice and shattering. At the same time, Dia conjured twelve large spheres of light around her, shooting a barrage of light blasts at Adam. Then, they transformed into twelve towering pillars of light that trapped Adam within their confines, causing a massive explosion that raised a large cloud of smoke.

"Ara? Arararararararararararara? What's this disgustingly familiar power? Could it be? Could it be, could it be, could it be? Have I actually hit the jackpot?"

Once the smoke cleared, it revealed the cackling form of Adam, who was surrounded by red aura and seemed unharmed.

"It's you, isn't it?" Adam grinned, plunging his hand into his chest and pulling out a large scythe oozing dark aura. "Yes, I'm sure of it. The Church's prized child, Subject Ten of the Theotokos Project! In that case, this is perfect! I will bury you with my own hands and deny those bastards their little puppet God!"

Dia said nothing at first as an oversized magic-circle like halo manifested above her and eight golden wings sprouted from her back. She pursed her lips, and then all of a sudden started talking in a rapid-fire manner.

"Excuse me? Who are you calling a puppet God? I am a bona-fide person, you know? I've had enough of that nonsense from the Church personnel, so I won't stand for it, you know. To begin with, I don't really like being gazed like that by a creepy guy like you. Ah, but it's against the teachings to judge others, so that's my bad. I apologize, but I can't really help but feel like this when I see you. Still, I'm sure that some great tragedy in your past must have the reason you turned out like this. Want to talk about it? I'm not a good talker, but I've been told I'm a great listener. Oh, but maybe people are saying that just to be kind to a social outcast like me…"

After saying all that, Dia fell silent once again, dropping into a stance.

"…Hah?" Adam raised an eyebrow. "The Hell? Did someone press your play button or something? Well, no matter. You're dying either way!"

"Not so fast!" Serafall said as she tapped her staff on the ground, with a wave of ice heading towards Adam. "Miracle Levia-tan won't allow bad children to do as they please!"

"If you want to join too, you're welcome!" Adam said as he slammed his scythe on the ground, with a wave of foul aura shooting out of it and countering Serafall's attack. "The more the merrier!"

"In that case, I shall participate as well." Kaori declared, spreading her six white wings. "I will not allow you to harm Dia-san!"

Adam started laughing as he rushed forward to engage the trio.

"We should also…"

Takeshi said as he tried to move forward, but stumbled as Rias and Akeno rushed to catch him.

"Half of us aren't in any position to do much at the moment." Rias said, glancing at the unconscious Gasper and the winded Yuuto and Xenovia. "The others can handle it."

Takeshi looked dissatisfied, but couldn't offer a counterargument. Meanwhile, Leon, who was watching the proceedings with an anxious look while clenching and unclenching his left hand, turned to Vali.

"Take this barrier down right now, Vali." Leon said. "This isn't the time for a rival showdown. I need to help the others asap!"

"You know, Leon, I have always felt proud and elated for having been born with so much power and potential." Vali said, seemingly ignoring Leon's words. "But along with that joy of mine came a certain fear as well. If I was so strong, how could my destined rival possibly match me and give me a thrilling battle? I thought fate was cruel…or that was the case until I found out about you and Takeshi."

"I don't care about that right now!" Leon shouted. "Take the barrier down right this instant, Vali!"

"Don't be so impatient." Vali grinned. "Like I was saying, the current Red Dragon Emperor proved to be a most pleasant surprise. Not only are you a powerful hybrid like me, but you are also the son of the Archangel Michael, the chief rival of my ancestor. I literally could not ask for a more perfect match. As for Takeshi, sure, he was an ordinary human before reincarnating into a Devil, but he was drawn to us from an early age. Not to mention, he's currently gone further than any of his predecessors have. His potential is formidable, which means this generation's Evil Dragon User is sure to give me one hell of a battle in the near future."

Vali opened his arms wide, a beatific expression on his face as he spoke.

"Among Heaven and Earth, I truly am the most blessed one." Vali said. "By overcoming such powerful rivals, I will rise even higher and take several steps closer to my goal. That's why, I'm taking you down right now, Leon. I would have preferred it if you had grown a little more, but as annoying as it is, I have to follow orders from above to an extent."

"I thought I'd made this clear before, Vali." Leon said. "I refuse to kill my friend! Even if you're a terrorist now, my conviction won't change!"

"How adorable." Vali sneered. "However, the barrier surrounding us is quite sophisticated and powerful. The only way to dispel it and rush to your comrades' aid is by defeating me. In other words—fight, or you and they won't survive!"

Vali vanished from his spot with a burst of speed and appeared next to Leon, aiming a kick at him. Leon barely had time to lift the Shield of Evalach to protect his body, with the blow sending him flying back.

"Fine then!" Leon said in an exasperated tone, his helmet forming around his head. "If that's how it's going to be, I'll knock some sense into you, Vali!"

"That's more like it, Leon!"

Vali said as he conjured several magic circles around him and unleashed a barrage of highly condensed demonic power blasts. Leon raised his shield once again, forming three defensive magic circles filled with holy aura. Vali smirked as silver-colored light gathered around his wand, forming an energy whip. Vali began swinging it, with each strike eroding the shields at an abnormally fast rate. After one final blow, the barriers were destroyed, with Vali forming numerous swords made out of the same silver light and hurling them at Leon. He attempted to counter with a large number of light spears, only for Vali's blades to tear through them with ease, becoming even larger in the process. Leon was forced to dodge to the side, swinging Fragarach and unleashing a violent tempest. Vali swung his wand, lifting a wall of earth to shield himself.

"That light…" Leon said, his eyes narrowed. "Could it be…the Lucifer clan's trait, Evil Light?"

"Of course." Vali said. "The sinister light that is poisonous to both Angels and Devils and can consume holy power to grow even more powerful. But that's not all."

Vali raised his hand high, with a large sphere of azure flames forming above it. Giving a mental command, Vali unleashed a barrage of flaming bullets at Leon.

[Boost! Boost! Transfer!]

Raising his power and transferring it to Fragarach, Leon swatted aside every single fireball aimed at him with slashes so fast that were almost invisible. The lower portion of his helmet then vanished as he opened his mouth wide, unleashing a stream of gold-colored flames. Vali did the same, with his flames being colored azure. Both breaths clashed in the middle, resulting in a huge explosion that raised a large smoke cloud. A flash of light dashed through it, aiming for Leon. He slashed at it with his sword, only to be surprised at the fact that it was an Evil Light construct. Driven by instinct, he spread his holy aura-covered wings and aimed above. His blow struck the charging Vali, sending him crashing on the barrier's walls.

However, Leon was too slow to notice that several Evil Light threads had been wrapped around his wings, with Vali using them to pull Leon to him. Leon raised the Shield of Evalach, blocking Vali's kick, and aimed a slash at him with Fragarach. However, Vali blocked it with his azure flame-enveloped wand and struck Leon with an azure flame-coated punch, shattering his helmet and sending him tumbling backwards. Several waves of azure flames came at him next, but Leon discharged a massive amount of holy power from his body, vaporizing them and forcing Vali to create a sphere of Evil Light around him to protect himself.

"Damn, you can also use Origin Blaze, the azure flame of Hell?" Leon said, spitting out some blood and reforming his helmet. "I thought it was difficult for Devil King descendants in general to manifest their predecessors' clan traits, and you got both of Lucifer's abilties? Did you also receive power from Ophis, Vali?"

"Please." Vali scoffed at Leon. "Do you take me for a weakling like Katerea, who needed Ophis's power to awaken the Leviathan clan's trait lying dormant within her? No, I was born like that. Some of us are simply destined for greatness."

"It would be nice if you used that 'greatness' of yours for the benefit of others instead of your selfish whims." Leon said. "Is becoming a terrorist hunted down by all factions really an acceptable cost for battling strong opponents?"

"It is." Vali said. "But do you believe this is really the time for a discussion, Leon? After all, we are in the middle of a fight!"

Vali formed two azure flame broadswords and crossed them, a smirk underneath his helmet.

"Waste Extermination – Blaze Dystopia!"

Vali shouted as he unleashed two massive flaming slashes that broke apart mid-flight into a large number of serpentine Dragons. At the same time—

[Divide! Divide! Divide! Divide! Divide!]

An announcement came from Divine Dividing's wings, with Leon feeling as if his strength was being sapped.

[He's using it at last.] Ddraig's voice echoed from Boosted Gear. [The Vanishing Dragon's ability to halve the opponent's strength as long as he has the stamina for it and their reserves aren't too massive.]

Leon didn't answer, creating an explosion of holy energy beneath his feet and using it to propel himself upwards. The Dragons, as if they had a mind of their own, changed directions and chased after him.

[Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost!]

Regaining his strength and then some, Leon aimed a kick at the incoming Dragons.

"Photon Spiral!"

A spiral of holy energy erupted from Leon's foot and tore through the incoming Dragons, aiming for Vali. The White Dragon was unperturbed as he enveloped his wand in Evil Light, forming a lightsaber that he used to tear through the spiral. Taking advantage of the momentary lull, Leon dashed at Vali, aiming his sword at his chest. Vali formed his two flaming broadswords again and began a furious exchange with his foe.

However, it quickly became apparent that Leon was the better of the two in swordplay. Blocking with his shield and parrying Vali's furious slashes with ease, Leon went past his guard and slammed the flat of the blade on his helmet. Dazed by that blow, Vali was too slow to react as Leon's kick sent him crashing to the ground, followed by several wind blades from Fragarach that broke Vali's armor in several places. Conjuring several magic circles around his opponent, Leon had a multitude of energy chains erupt from them and bind Vali as he landed close to his opponent.

"Alright, did you have your fun?" Leon said. "If so, take the barrier down right now. I don't have time for your dumb games, especially not when my friends need help."

"Too bad, because I am not finished just yet." Vali grinned. "Also, you don't really believe this level of Angel Magic can hold me, do you?"

No sooner had Vali finished talking than an explosion of silver light and azure flames erupted with him as the epicenter, sending Leon skidding backwards. Emerging from the smoke was Vali, his armor having restored itself to its former condition.

[Divide! Divide! Divide!]

Activating his ability once more, Vali spread his energy wings wide as several magic circles appeared on them and unleashed a barrage of numerous energy bolts at Leon.

[Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost! Transfer!]

Leon raised his strength just in time and transferred it to his shield, arranging its magic circles in a circular formation to protect himself from the bombardment.

[That brat…] Ddraig said. [Is he actually manipulating and shaping the excess energy expelled from the wings through these magic circles into an attack? That's a first. Some White Dragon Emperors in the past tried to do the same, but couldn't manage the complex and precise calculations required for such magic, and also couldn't overcome the interference of Divine Dividing.]

[It should come as no surprise.] Albion's voice was heard from Divine Dividing. [Vali is an exceptional talent that appears once in a millennium. It stands to reason that he would accomplish what my past possessors couldn't.]

"Why, thank you, Albion." Vali said. "But it looks like our opponent isn't done yet. Are you, Leon?"

Instead of answering, Leon channeled more power to Fragarach, whose blade was buried in the ground. At that time, a tornado erupted from the ground beneath Vali, enveloping him and sending him crashing to the top of the barrier, with Vali spitting out some blood.

[Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost!]

"Judgment Ray!"

Leon shouted as a massive wave of holy and draconic energy erupted from his left hand, aiming for Vali. The descendant of Lucifer had azure flames erupt from his wings, propelling himself away from the attack. The blast struck the top of the barrier, with the ensuing explosion unleashing waves of holy aura that forced Vali to conjure several defensive magic circles to protect himself. As Leon spread his wings and unleashed numerous light bullets from them, Vali also spread his wings wide.

[Half Dimension!]

Following that announcement, a dazzling glow came out of Vali's wings. At the same time, the incoming light bullets began shrinking. A couple of lampposts in the distance, the rocks around, everything started getting halved. Leon grunted in pain as he felt like his body was being squeezed from all sides by a hydraulic press.

"This is…!" Leon said through gritted teeth as he struggled to remain standing. "The ability…to halve the size…of everything in the White Dragon's…surroundings…?"

[Yes, it's one of Albion's most troublesome abilties.] Ddraig said. [You either have to counter it with a similar technique, or power through it.]

"In that case…!"

Leon howled as he unleashed a massive explosion of holy and draconic aura from his body. Vali's technique was blown away, with the man himself conjuring several barriers made out of Evil Light. Even then, Leon's raw power was enough to destroy most of them, leaving only a single half-cracked barrier once it subsided. Upon witnessing the sight of the scorched ground, as well as the small cracks all over the barrier trapping the two of them inside, Vali laughed with evident joy.

"As expected of my destined rival!" Vali smiled underneath his helmet. "Even when not using the Boosted Gear, your power is quite formidable. In pure potential, I can tell you will surpass your father for sure. Yes, this is how it should be. And since things have reached this stage, why don't I show you something even more impressive?"

[What are you thinking, Vali?] Albion said, a hint of concern in his voice. [This is not the place where you should lift the seal. Not to mention, the risk—]

"I am aware of all that." Vali said, cutting off Albion. "Still, I can't help but want to see if Leon has reached that stage as well. Releasing our full power will force him to get serious. That's why, I'm using it here."

[Stop this at once, Vali!] Albion said with an urgent tone. [While you can control it to an extent, entering that state while Ddraig is present is extremely dangerous! Even if your life isn't drained, the past possessors will consume your will for sure! Do you really wish to be thrown around by my power like your predecessors until nothing remains of you!?]

"You forget one thing, Albion." Vali said. "I am not your predecessors, and this is yet another challenge for me to overcome. Now, let's go!"

[Foolish child.] Albion growled before addressing their opponents. [Ddraig, Leon Ainsworth, I suggest you prepare yourselves. Vali is about to unleash the full power of my Sacred Gear, and nothing I say to him is going to get through his thick skull.]

"Full power…" A look of horror appeared on Leon's face. "Don't do it, Vali! If we unleash it here, this area and everyone living it in will be reduced to an ocean of fire!"

"Unfortunately, I have made up my mind to enjoy this to the fullest." Vali said as he conjured a wall-like barrier between him and Leon, separating them. "I estimate you won't be able to break this before my transformation is complete. If you want to stop me now and live, there is only one way."

"Damn it, Vali…!" Leon gritted his teeth in frustration. "Always getting tunnel vision when you get all excited. Ddraig, I'm sorry…but it looks like we have to do it after all."

[While I do not fancy dying without a fight, I'm still obligated to inform you that what you're going to attempt is extremely dangerous.] Ddraig said. [We have never tested this in actual battle, much less against our destined rival. Even though you can exert some sort of control over the form, it's possible you will get overwhelmed.]

"I know, but I don't exactly have a wealth of options with mister battle maniac over there forcing my hand." Leon said. "We just have to be quick and efficient, knock him out of that form before too much damage is done."

[Easier said than done.]

Leon said nothing, spreading his wings and coming to hover at the same height as Vali. As if obeying some unspoken signal, both of them started chanting at the same time.

"I, who am about to awaken,"

"I, who am about to awaken,"

[It has begun.] [They are going to be blasted away!] [It looks like it's starting.] [They certainly are going to be blasted away!]

Along with the chant coming from the two youths' mouths, curse-like voices could also be heard alongside them. A torrent of blood-red aura erupted from Leon's body, while a mass of pure white aura enveloped Vali's body, causing the whole area to start shaking.

"What's happening!?" Rias cried out in alarm. "What are these two doing!?"

[Now that's what I'm talking about!] Nidhogg said while letting out a sinister laugh. [These crazy bastards are finally going at it seriously!]

Takeshi said nothing, gazing at his two friends with mounting dread.

"Am the Heavenly Dragon who has stolen the principles of domination from God."

"Am the Heavenly Dragon who has taken the principles of supremacy from God."

[It was always like that, no matter what.] [The dream will end!] [That's right, it was always like that.] [The illusion will begin!]

"I laugh at the infinite, and I grieve at the dream."

"I envy the infinite, and I pursue the dream."

[The one the world seeks…] [Everything!] [The one the world rejects…] [Give us everything!]

Both Leon and Vali's armors began changing shape, becoming sharper and more organic, with claws growing from their hands and feet and their wings becoming wider, while their necks started getting longer and their bodies hunched. All in all, their appearance was starting to resemble that of Dragons.

"I shall become the Red Dragon of Domination."

"I shall become the White Dragon of Supremacy."

[It was always power.] [It was always pride!] [It was always love.] [It was always grief!]

[ [ No matter what, you always choose the path of destruction!] ]

From the jewels in both armors, scream-like voices of old, young, male and female individuals were mixed in a cacophony that sent chills down everyone's spines.

" " " "And I shall sink you to the depths of the crimson purgatory!" " " "

" " " "And I shall take you to the limits of white paradise!" " " "

[ [Juggernaut Drive! ! ! ! ! !] ]

The ensuing explosion of aura shattered the barrier trapping the two youths within its confines, with almost everyone being sent flying from the shockwave. The barrier surrounding Kuoh Academy still held, but everyone there doubted that would be the case for much longer. Once the smoke cleared, two Dragon-like creatures, one red and one white, could be seen hovering, glaring at each other while letting out low growls. Then, they howled and vanished in a burst of speed as they started clashing, with the aftershocks gouging the ground beneath and causing cracks to appear on the school building.

"What the Hell is going on!?" Rias cried out as she, Akeno, Sona and Tsubaki did their best to shield everyone by erecting barriers around them. "What did these two do!?"

"Juggernaut Drive…" Sona said with a trembling voice while the red and white streaks continued clashing above them. "I have read about it before. It's a technique exclusive to Boosted Gear and Divine Dividing that temporarily releases the seal on the Heavenly Dragons, granting the users immense power for a brief period of time. However…"

"However?"

"The users…they always lose their sanity and have their lives devoured by the power." Sona responded to Takeshi's question with evident hesitation. "Judging from Ddraig and Albion's words, these two can somehow control Juggernaut Drive to an extent…but it's still very possible they will end up killing themselves and everything around them in this state. They haven't got serious yet from the looks of it, but once they do…"

The implications of Sona's words left everyone speechless and terrified. Takeshi looked at the two Dragon Emperors clashing above him, a conflicted expression on his face as he bit his lip. Then, hardening his resolve, he created a small magic circle and pulled out the small box Michael had given him. At the moment, he felt a tug at his sleeve. Turning around, he saw Koneko gazing at him with a concerned expression.

"…I know that look." Koneko said. "What kind of dangerous and ill-advised idea have you come up with this time, Senpai?"

"There might be…something I can do about this." Takeshi said with some hesitation. "It's risky…but that's the only way I can think of to stop them as things stand."

"Stop them in your condition?" Rias said with an incredulous expression. "What are you saying, Takeshi? You still haven't fully recovered from our fight with Vortigern and you want to throw yourself in the middle of that? Do you have a death wish or something? Either way, I won't allow it!"

"I have no wish to die." Takeshi said. "Far from it. I'm doing this so everyone, including these two idiots up there, can walk away from this with their lives intact. I didn't want to use this if possible, but they've left me with no choice as well."

"What is that object?" Akeno said, eyeing the black box in Takeshi's hands. "I know it's what Michael-sama gave you, but you never told us what it does."

Instead of answering, Takeshi crushed the box, revealing the ornate black and gold key with several energy lines running through it that was contained within.

"It's a control unit that will temporarily unlock the majority of Cataclysm Zone's functions just once." Takeshi said. "In theory, this should grant me access to the final Balance Breaker, which should give me enough power to stop these two."

"Even so, there's no guarantee your body will be able to handle that much power without breaking." Pandora pointed out. "And what if whatever Evil Dragon comes along with that power drives you just as insane as these two? You'll only be making the situation worse."

"Pandora is right, Takeshi-kun." Yuuto added from the side. "This is a very dangerous gamble with a low possibility of success. There has to be some other way."

"There is no other way." Takeshi insisted. "I won't just stand here and watch my friends die while there's still something I can do. I can't."

"We won't also stand here and watch you throw your life away." Xenovia said. "Sorry about this, Takeshi!"

Xenovia moved to restrain Takeshi, but having predicted that, he stomped his foot on the ground, unleashing a soundwave that forced her and everyone close to him back. Then, having conjured a short-range teleportation magic circle in the meantime, Takeshi teleported outside the barrier the four girls had conjured and right in the midst of the chaotic battlefield.

"Don't do this, Takeshi!" Rias cried out. "Come back!"

Ignoring Rias and everyone else's cries, Takeshi grabbed the key with both hands and stabbed it into Cataclysm Zone's middle gem. As sparks and copious amounts of corrupted draconic aura came out of it, Takeshi turned the key left as he shouted.

"Cataclysm Zone…all limiters unlocked!"

The next thing he knew, Takeshi found himself floating in the middle of what looked like a massive mechanical city filled with all sorts of strange devices that wouldn't be out of place in a high-budget sci-fi film. What dominated the landscape however was an oversized pillar in the middle of this technological monstrosity that seemed to be the core of the superstructure.

"This is…inside Cataclysm Zone?"

Takeshi wondered as his body floated towards the pillar against his will. Looking closer, Takeshi noticed that two massive rings surrounded the pillar. The first one had four core-like structures embedded in it, out of which three seemed to be active. The second, which was below the first, had two, both of which seemed to be inactive. However, Takeshi's body was drawn to the bottom of the pillar, where another large core-like structure was giving out faint energy pulses. Before he could react in any way, Takeshi was sucked into the core and found himself in an unexpected place.

"This is…"

Takeshi landed in the midst of a mountainous terrain enveloped by wisps of fog, with a large volcano rising in the distance and the sea spreading out a bit further back. Looking around, Takeshi noticed that an assortment of weapons, banners, pieces of mythological creatures and other such items had been scattered throughout the area. Most of them were in a state of disrepair, with stains, burns and scratches all over them.

"This doesn't really look like a Dragon's usual hoard…" Takeshi remarked. "They usually keep their treasures in better shape. Are these perhaps…the remains of past challengers?"

[An astute observation, little one.]

A powerful voice echoed throughout the area, causing Takeshi's whole body to tremble. Then, a massive black shadow flew out of the volcano and landed a few meters away from Takeshi, causing the latter to take several hurried steps back and almost fall on his rear if it wasn't for a nearby broken sword. Grabbing onto it for support, Takeshi gazed at the Evil Dragon before him.

"Holy hell…"

Takeshi whispered in shock. The creature that was facing him had the form of a majestic jet-black western Dragon with small patches of gold on his body that was at least thirty meters tall. He had golden eyes, two horns protruding from his head and extending backwards, a pair of large wings growing from his back and a long tail flicking behind him. His entire body was surrounded by black and gold draconic aura, further adding to his imposing presence.

Despite having faced three Evil Dragons so far, this one instilled a sense of profound terror on Takeshi, with the young man barely keeping his wits in front of that creature. He could already tell there was a large difference in power between him and the other Evil Dragons he had faced, and that if he so wished to, this Evil Dragon could extinguish his consciousness with little to no effort.

"You're him…" Takeshi forced himself to speak. "The greatest of the seven, Crescent Circle Dragon, Crom Cruach."

[That I am.] Crom Cruach said as he took a step closer. [And you are the first visitor I have had in almost a thousand years. How curious. I can sense that not all of my brethren have awakened, so how exactly did you find yourself here, little one?]

"I…I accessed the depths of Cataclysm Zone using an artifact left behind by Deus Trinity." Takeshi said. "I did so because I have need of your power."

[Is that so?] Crom Cruach let out what appeared to be a toothy grin as he stepped even closer, with Takeshi having to muster all his courage in order to not turn tail and run. [That strange God left behind something like that? Quite the dangerous game he is playing. However, why should I, Crom Cruach, bother with your insignificant problems, little one? Why should I not crush you like the gnat you are and return to my rest?]

Better choose my next words carefully. Takeshi thought. I don't think he'll appreciate being sassed at…

"Because, right now, Ddraig and Albion's hosts are engaged in a death battle outside." Takeshi said. "I want to stop them, and I believe this is an ideal chance for you to demonstrate your superiority over the renowned Heavenly Dragons. Show the world once more who's top dog, or in this case, Dragon, you know?"

[Hmmm, so Ddraig and Albion have also been sealed inside Sacred Gears then?] Crom Cruach said, lifting his head up. [True, among the several nostalgic presences I am sensing outside, theirs stands out. They appear to be going at it like the old days. Truth be told…this makes me crave for some action as well.]

"You are the Evil Dragon who presides over battle after all." Takeshi said. "Since our goals are aligned, will you let me borrow your power?"

[While I am tempted to snuff out your soul and be done with it…a small break from this monotonous everyday life would be most welcome.] Crom Cruach said. [Very well. Taking the present circumstances into account, and as also a reward for being the first and probably last person to reach this place, I shall grant you some of my power.]

"You have my gratitude, Crom Cruach."

[But heed my warning, little one.] Crom Cruach growled. [I shall not allow anything else but a complete victory over the Heavenly Dragons. Should you waste my time by losing to them in the end and somehow live, I will personally see that you experience a Hell beyond your worst nightmares before I send your miserable soul to the void. Do you understand me?]

"You don't have to worry about that." Takeshi said. "When I fight, I always fight to win."

[See that you do.] Crom Cruach said. [Farewell, little one. We shall most likely never meet again.]

Takeshi felt a tugging sensation in his back as he was pulled upwards. As such, he only heard some of Crom Cruach's parting words.

[However, should by any chance…once again…then, at that time…]

---

This concludes Chapter 31. First, in response to your reviews.

—To RyukiPendragon: I've got some a title or two in mind for Takeshi, but that's for later down the line, when his fame and power grow further.

—To yliaster: So far, I really like Fuuto PI. I understand what you're saying about the original actors, but I don't really have an issue with it. Maybe it's because I've played Memory of Heroez several times and got used to the new voices.

Several battles took place in this chapter as we approach the conclusion of this arc. At first, I intended to finish the conference with this chapter, but before I knew it, it was starting to get too big, which is why I stopped it here.

Next, a few clarifications regarding the Devil King descendants and the clan traits they demonstrated here. The way Katerea used Sea Serpent of the End and her transformation into a sea serpent came from the manner Tsufaame Tereaku Leviathan used the clan trait in DxD Zero. While the relation between the second-generation Devil King descendants that appeared in DxD Zero (Bidleid, Tsufaame, Daimadosu) and the ones that appeared in DxD (Shalba, Katerea, Creuserey) isn't clear, my headcanon is that the latter ones are the former ones' sons and daughters, making them the third generation along with Vali's father Razevan.

As for Vali and the Lucifer clan's traits, we know from DX7 that the Lucifer clan's trait is called Demonic Brilliance of Evil Light, shortened to Evil Light here for convenience's sake. Since we have no information on it as of yet, Evil Light here allows Vali to generate a silvery light that is poisonous to Angels and Devils alike, along with being capable of absorbing holy power-fueled attacks until a certain point to increase its power. I also gave the Lucifer clan a second trait, Origin Blaze, which allows them to conjure azure-colored flames of high intensity that can consume demonic power-fueled attacks to a degree in order to grow in intensity and power.

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

See you all next time!