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?

35. Invasion

Chapter 35 – Invasion

[You're doing well then, Takeshi? From what you've told me, it sounds like you're having fun with your friends in your trip. Oh, make sure to take lots of pictures if you have the time. I've never visited Mito myself, so this is a good chance. But most of all, take care of your body and don't overwork yourself like you tend to do at times. You sound tired though, so maybe it's too late for that. I hope you're getting plenty of sleep at least. Copying my and your father's work ethic is a big no-no at your age.]

"Relax, Mom. Everything's great. Like I said, we're all having a wonderful time here. Lots of sights to view, and plenty of beautiful regions to explore."

Takeshi said, trying his hardest to inject as much enthusiasm as he could into his voice in order to reassure Shiori. After all, the situation he and the others had found themselves in was as far from the carefree and relaxing club trip he was trying to portray as possible. His personal circumstances only added to the overall doom and gloom, making it even more difficult for him to play the part of a typical high school student in a fun outing with his friends. Still, as much as he hated lying to them, he wasn't about to let his parents worry about him on top of everything else.

[That's good to hear.] Shiori said. [So, when will you back? Come to think of it, I don't think you ever us told us your exact itinerary.]

"Well…that's because it's kind of…uncertain as of yet." Takeshi said with some hesitation. "There's been some stuff here and there that delayed us and threw a wrench in our plans. We're probably going to be back around next week at the latest though."

[Next week, eh?] Shiori said. [That's quite the lengthy excursion there. When I think about the cost of accommodations, transportation and everything else, I can't help but be glad that Rias-san's family is sponsoring all these club trips of yours. With such privileges, I'm surprised that you don't have a massive stream of applicants wishing to join your club.]

"Rias is a bit particular about who can join the Occult Research Club." Takeshi said with a small grin. "She doesn't tolerate people who blatantly want to take advantage of the club's perks without being willing to put in the work as well."

[That's how it should be.] Shiori said. [Regarding the remaining duration of your trip, I can't help but feel a bit uneasy about it. However, that new club advisor of yours seems like a dependable individual, so I trust he'll take good care of you.]

"I'm not sure you'd be saying that if you got to know him better…"

Takeshi muttered in a low tone. While Azazel could be very helpful in certain circumstances, his lazy and playful attitude at times left a lot to be desired.

[Anyway, I shouldn't keep you any longer.] Shiori said. [I'm sure you have lots to do. Give my regards to everyone, and make sure you have a good time there, Takeshi. Trust me, memories like these are what you'll look back to fondly when you become a full-fledged adult.]

"Will do, Mom. Say hi to Dad for me as well."

Takeshi said, ending the call and letting out a small sigh as he leaned on the wall behind him.

"If I reminisce fondly about chaotic days like these, I don't even want to imagine how messed-up my life will be in the future…"

Taking a few seconds to compose himself again after saying so, Takeshi opened the sliding door behind him and entered the training area inside the Kanto Youkai Faction's fortress. Within it, the members of the Gremory Peerage were engrossed in their respective training menus while clad in their jerseys. Pandora was sparring with Xenovia, the latter having wrapped a thick sheet of demonic power around her body to fortify herself. Yuuto was facing Akeno, his Holy Demonic Swords clashing against her lightning armor. On one side of the room, Gasper was doing his best to stop several floating orbs coming at him from different angles, while on another, Koneko was sitting cross-legged on the ground with white aura enveloping her body as she meditated. The Nekomata elder Magari was next to her, observing her progress. As for Rias, she was downing a bottle of water near the changing rooms. Taking notice of Takeshi, she beckoned at him to come closer.

"How's Shiori-san doing?" Rias asked. "Is everything alright back home?"

"More of the same." Takeshi shrugged. "I'm more interested in what Student President had to say. You spoke with her this morning, no?"

"I did, but all's quiet on the supernatural front as well in Kuoh." Rias said. "One less concern for us is always good news."

"You can say that again." Takeshi said, putting his hands behind his head. "Now, if only we could find some trace of these savage Youkai, we'd be golden. It's been four days, and yet there's been no sign of them. What the Hell are these guys planning?"

"I fear we'll only find out after their plan has been put into effect." Rias said. "Azazel and Nurarihyon have formed some theories about it, but they've got nothing concrete as of yet. Tobio-san and Lavinia-san have been out scouring the prefecture for any signs of dimensional distortions that could lead us to the artificial dimension, but they've come up empty so far."

"What about the investigation of the territories the descendants of the Great Three Evil Youkai lived before?" Takeshi asked. "Did Kumowatari-san find any leads there?"

"I spoke to Chiharu-san earlier, and she said that, so far, they haven't found anything there either." Rias said. "We didn't expect any results, but we couldn't very well leave any stone unturned."

"Yeah, I guess finding some hidden memo from the Khaos Brigade that would detail their plan was too much to hope for." Takeshi grinned, and then sighed. "It seems there's no end to our worries…"

"Speaking of worries, how are you holding up, Takeshi?" Rias said with a concerned expression. "Those nightmares of yours, are they still plaguing you?"

"Unfortunately, they haven't gone anywhere." Takeshi frowned, rubbing the slightly aching scar on his right hand out of habit. "If anything, they've become more…varied."

"Varied how?"

"Well…I've been experiencing quite a few creative ways to die over the past nights." Takeshi let out a bitter smile. "Getting my skin, muscles and organs slowly torn apart by raging winds was definitely the highlight so far…"

"If only I could go in there and give those damn Evil Dragons a piece of my mind…!" Rias growled, wrapping her arms around Takeshi. "I'd make them rue the day they decided to make your body and mind their plaything."

[Hah!] Grendel laughed in Takeshi's thoughts. [I'd like to see this scrawny, red-haired bitch try! They'd be scraping bits of her from this mindscape for years to come!]

[She's courageous, I'll give her that.] Nidhogg said. [However, I wonder if she'd be singing the same tune were she to actually come face-to-face with us. Bravado tended to go out the window when many so-called 'heroes' of old confronted us.]

[Ah, if I only I still possessed my physical body.] Orochi lamented. [I could respond appropriately to her insolence, but what to do. I'll settle with putting the fear of death in these savage Youkai. Like Hell I'm going to let some upstarts become more infamous than me. Though it's a shame that Tamamo girl has to die as well…]

"I appreciate the sentiment, Rias." Takeshi smiled as the two separated. "But I'll manage one way or another. You know how stubborn I can be."

"Oh, I know that, which is why you sliding back into old behaviors is worrying me." Rias said with a stern expression. "Separating from Yuuto and Koneko to engage this Tamamo girl on your own was not a smart move. I know full well that you're strong, but if she had led you into a trap or an ambush, even you might have been overwhelmed."

"This again…?" Takeshi groaned under his breath. "Like I've said several times already, it was a lapse of judgment. I'll make sure not to repeat that mistake. Don't make me say the same thing over and over."

"I'm sorry, but I can't help but be concerned about why you acted like this in the first place." Rias said, peering into Takeshi's eyes. "What's happening to you, Takeshi? I can tell your mood and the atmosphere around you are slowly getting darker. Your usual enthusiasm has diminished, and there are moments when it seems you're trying to drift away from us. I know the nightmares are taking their toll on you, but it can't be only that. Please, talk to me. If I can't fully understand what's happening, the others and I can't help you."

"I…"

Takeshi bit his lip, unsure about how to respond as the images from his nightmares flashed before his eyes once again. But right when he was about to continue, Pandora and Xenovia approached the two of them while talking about their spars.

"Your technique is slowly getting better, Xenovia-san." Pandora said. "Getting through your demonic power armor became progressively more difficult as our spars continued. Trying to wrap Durandal's aura around yourself while in that state during our last bout was quite innovative as well."

"Shame it didn't quite work as intended." Xenovia said with a somewhat embarrassed expression. "I never thought there would be such a volatile reaction… Do you think the Youkai will be angry about the burn marks on the floor?"

"I'm sure they expect such mishaps, what with this being a training area and all." Pandora said, taking notice of Takeshi and Rias at that moment. "Ah, President, Takeshi. Were you two perhaps…in the middle of something? Did we interrupt you?"

"No, don't worry about it." Rias said, giving Takeshi a pointed look. "We'll continue this conversation later. Now then, what's this I hear about a new technique and burn marks?"

"There was an idea Azazel-sensei suggested a couple of days ago, and I tried putting it into practice." Xenovia began explaining. "Since I still can't control Durandal very well and have issues with channeling its full output, he proposed a different way of utilizing the unused aura. The idea was to coat myself with Durandal's excess holy aura while surrounding myself with demonic power beforehand in the way Amakusa Kaori told me in order to shield my body from its effects. Theoretically, this should further enhance both my offensive and defensive capabilities, but…"

"Let me guess, it's more challenging to put it into practice than you first thought?"

"Unfortunately, that seems to be the case." Xenovia responded to Takeshi. "It's difficult to keep the aura stable enough…which is why the end result was an explosion. There's also the fact that I've yet to master my demonic power fortification technique."

"You've only been using it for a couple of weeks thus far, so it's only reasonable." Rias said. "What about you, Pandora? Any progress in your handling of your Spirit Magic?"

"Azazel-sensei has refined the sealing formula, meaning I can use my abilities for longer periods of time now." Pandora said. "He also said he has a couple of ideas about how to further develop my powers, but the preparations for that aren't complete apparently."

"You're plenty skilled as things stand." Xenovia said. "Although you're no sword wielder like me and Kiba, you're still very difficult to deal with in your own right. The versatility and power of Spirit Magic is no joke, especially on power spots like this whole city. I confess I am a little envious of our group's Knights."

"Xenovia-san is plenty strong herself." Pandora said with a small smile. "There's no need to put yourself down. As things stand, you're far more useful than me. I could barely use my powers inside the artificial dimension…"

"Speaking of which, I couldn't help but shudder when Sensei explained Dimension Lost's capabilities to us." Takeshi said with a frown. "I mean, being able to transport entire countries into the Dimensional Gap if the user is skilled enough? That's some ridiculous overkill right there. The possessor could kill all of us before we even realized something was wrong if they master their Longinus. The terrorists sure have a lot of advantages over us."

"They do, which is why neutralizing the possessors of Annihilation Maker and Dimension Lost is among our top priorities." Rias said. "We can't let the terrorists keep misusing them."

"Easier said than done." Yuuto said, having joined the others alongside Akeno and Gasper. "If they're smart, they won't expose themselves until they've honed their skills to a satisfactory degree. What troubles me more is the rumor that the user of the True Longinus, the first and mightiest among the thirteen, is also a member of Khaos Brigade."

"The members of Grigori have been very negligent these past few years." Akeno said. "They usually keep tabs on all Longinus possessors to assess their threat level, but they somehow failed to locate the three strongest ones in time."

"Maybe s-someone hid them?" Gasper suggested. "M-Maybe Ophis found them first and recruited them b-before Grigori could do anything."

"That's the most likely scenario, but it doesn't change the situation." Takeshi said. "Knowing our luck, it's a given we'll cross paths with them. That's why, we have to ready ourselves for the moment we will meet them in battle. Sensei should have information on them based on the data the Fallen Angels have gathered from past users, so at least we won't be going in totally blind."

"True, but our focus should be on the current crisis." Rias said, looking at her watch. "It's almost time. Azazel and I have to give our report to the rest of the Three Factions' heads, and then we have to meet with Tobio-san and Lavinia-san once they return alongside Nurarihyon-sama later on. Everyone else, I think you've worked hard enough these past days. Take the rest of this day off and relax a bit. Maybe go around the city and explore the sights for a while. Who knows when we'll get the chance to do that again."

"Will you be alright on your own, President?" Akeno asked. "Shouldn't I at least come with you as well?"

"No, I'll be fine, Akeno." Rias said. "Chances are, there won't be any new information. We're most likely just going to spend most of our time going over the data we've acquired thus far and coming up with more theories about the enemy's goal. If something changes, I'll be sure to notify you all."

After saying so, Rias left the training area.

"You heard the boss lady." Takeshi said. "I, for one, wouldn't mind taking a stroll around town for a while like President suggested. A change of scenery and some sightseeing would be nice. Who else wants to join me?"

Akeno, Pandora and Xenovia raised their hands, with Gasper also raising a trembling hand after a couple of seconds. Takeshi turned to Yuuto, a questioning look on his face.

"While going out as a group sounds great, I want to take this chance to visit the castle's library." Yuuto said. "The history and tales of the East Youkai Faction are kept there, and I'd like to study them. Perhaps I might be able to get some ideas for the books I intend to write at some point down the line."

"Suit yourself." Takeshi said before addressing Koneko, who was still meditating under Magari's guidance a few steps away from them. "What about you, Koneko-chan? Not done yet?"

"…No." Koneko said, opening her eyes as the aura around her dispersed. "Everyone should go ahead, and I'll join you later. I'd like to practice with Magari-sama for a little while longer since she won't be participating in the meeting."

Takeshi nodded as he and the others left the training area. Magari's gaze followed after them for a bit before turning her focus to Koneko.

"The Evil Dragon User, I can sense your ki imprint on him." Magari said. "Is he perhaps your mate, young one? And is it for his sake that you requested guidance regarding advanced Senjutsu healing techniques, including our 'special' method, from me?"

"…Yes…to both questions." Koneko nodded, a small blush on her face. "Is there a problem, Magari-sama?"

"No, I'm simply astounded by how much alike you and Fujimai are, right down to your preference for dangerous men." Magari said, her eyes narrowed. "Be warned, a dark shadow hovers around him, and a harsh path is laid down before him. I can sense that much at least. If you follow him, bind your life to his, you might experience a considerable amount of misfortune down the line. Enough to even claim your life."

"…I know all that." Koneko said. "Even so, I won't abandon Takeshi-senpai. My love is not so weak as to be shaken by the possibility of disaster. I believe in him and his strength. No matter what fate has in store for him, Takeshi-senpai will triumph in the end."

"Quite the admirable resolve, young one." Magari said, patting Koneko's head with her paw. "As I thought, you are a strong kitten. I hope your love has a better conclusion compared to Fujimai's. Now then, time to get back to training. You've managed to connect to the land's ley lines, but you're still far from using their power properly."

"…I can touch the power, but it disperses before I can wield it." Koneko said. "Why?"

"That's because you're not regulating the influx of ki properly." Magari said as she jumped on Koneko's lap. "You're taking in too much power, so your body subconsciously severs the connection with the ley lines to prevent damage. Let's take it from the top. I'll assist you with regulating the power this time."

"…Yes, Magari-sama."

Koneko said as she closed her eyes and concentrated once more.

---

A while later…

"Ah, that was really interesting. Never thought I'd get the chance to see Youkai performing in a Noh play."

"I'll say. It gave off a truly unique and mystical feeling."

Takeshi and Akeno remarked. After roaming around for a while and checking the local attractions, the group had sat down to rest in one of the city's many gardens. Despite the absence of natural light, the plants and trees were growing up just fine, which had led Takeshi to speculate that the Youkai were using Senjutsu to maintain the various gardens. Several Youkai were also strolling around, with some playing with their children.

"The whole thing kind of went over my head to be honest." Xenovia said. "I'm not very much into art. Irina might have appreciated it more if she was in my place."

"It was certainly very strange compared to the theatre plays I watched a couple of times in my homeland." Pandora remarked. "But there was undeniable beauty and grace in it. I couldn't help but be captivated."

"Unfortunately, I have to agree with X-Xenovia-senpai here…" Gasper said, his back hunched and his eyes darting around nervously. "Not to mention, being in that tightly packed place with all these p-people around, I was this c-close to changing into a bat in order to get away…"

"Looks like we still have a long road ahead of us…" Takeshi sighed, rubbing Gasper's head. "Hm, perhaps this could help a bit?"

After saying so, Takeshi took out a black Oni mask with crimson markings he had purchased earlier on and gave it to Gasper.

"This is…?"

"Try this on." Takeshi urged the young Dhampir. "Perhaps you'll feel a little more relaxed if others can't see your face."

While he looked uncertain, Gasper picked up the mask and put it on after a brief moment of hesitation.

"W-Wow, this actually feels a lot better!" Gasper said with an enthusiastic tone as he stood upright, his red eyes glinting through the mask's eye holes. "It feels like strength is welling up from within! B-But does it suit me though, I wonder…?"

"It's a…unique combination for sure." Pandora remarked with a frown. "But can this really be called progress…? Gasper-san can't be walking in public while wearing a mask all the time after all."

"True, but throwing him into the middle of a crowd as he is, it seems a bit cruel to me." Takeshi said. "That's why, he should get used to them in his own pace. You could say the mask is something similar to training wheels, though it's true that his appearance is a bit haunting. A Vampire with an Oni mask isn't something you see every day."

"At least Gasper doesn't look out of place in here." Akeno said as she stood up. "Now then, I don't know about everyone else, but I am getting a little hungry. Perhaps we should—"

"Oh, if it isn't the Devils of Rias Gremory's Peerage."

The group turned around to see Himejima Suzaku standing there, a bright smile on her face that fell somewhat at the sight of Akeno.

"Himejima Suzaku-san…" Akeno said, her expression unreadable. "Fancy meeting you here. Do you need something from us? If you're looking for Rias, she should be with Nurarihyon-sama and Azazel back at the castle."

"No, this was a chance encounter…but it's also a good opportunity." Suzaku said, a determined expression on her face. "Akeno…may I have a few minutes of your time if possible? I would like to speak with you."

"I suppose this was bound to happen sooner or later…" Akeno murmured before turning to the others. "Since this is the request of the Himejima family's head, I can't very well turn it down, can I? The rest of you should go ahead, and I'll catch up with you in a bit."

"Will you be alright, Akeno?"

"Don't worry, Takeshi." Akeno smiled. "It's not like we'll start fighting or something. Truth be told, I wanted to have a discussion with her at some point after everything Tobio-san told me."

"In that case, maybe we should get started on that lunch?" Pandora suggested. "I'm starting to feel hungry as well."

"We passed by a lovely little place on our way to this garden." Xenovia said. "You know, the one close to the hot springs?"

"Sounds like a good suggestion." Takeshi said. "Everybody in favor?"

The group nodded their assent as they left the area, leaving Akeno and Suzaku behind. The two girls remained silent for a while, both of them unsure on how to begin. Eventually, it was Akeno who spoke first.

"Once again, thank you for the other day." Akeno said. "You know, when you shielded me from Shuten-doji's blow."

"There's no need to thank me." Suzaku said. "It was the least I could do for you. More importantly…"

Suzaku bowed her head to Akeno, much to the latter's surprise.

"Suzaku-san?"

"I'm sorry for being unable to protect you and your mother." Suzaku said, a sorrowful expression on her face. "Even though I had been chosen as the successor of the Vermillion Bird at the time, I was powerless to oppose the former head's edicts. Because of that, several members of our clan that didn't fit in suffered unjust treatment. I wish to make amends in any way I can…though I'm aware nothing can truly compensate for Shuri-san's death."

"And what if my preferred way of you making amends is for the Himejima family, and by extension you, to stay away from me and my loved ones for the rest of my life?"

"If that's your decision, I would accept it." Suzaku said. "It would sadden me, but I have no right to ask anything from you. I'm curious though, would that include Tobio? From what he told me, you two seemed to be getting along just fine."

"Tobio-san would probably be an exception to that." Akeno said. "He's a pleasant individual and a good man from the looks of it. Is that why you made him your fiancée?"

"That was one of the reasons." Suzaku said with a small smile. "I was drawn to his strength and his kindness, and he was one of the very few men at the time who saw me as an individual. Moreover, that was the only way to circumvent the objections of the Himejima family in bringing him back to the fold at the time. It was a win-win situation for everyone involved."

"Is that so…?" Akeno said, her eyes narrowing. "Suzaku-san, I'm inclined to believe that, as a person, you're deeply regretting what happened to my mother and I. However, what about as the head of the Himejima clan?"

"As the head?" Suzaku raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about, Akeno?"

"I'd like to hear the official explanation you gave to the rest of the clan about wanting to bring the shunned family members back." Akeno clarified. "You may be an individual, Suzaku-san, but you're also bound and influenced by your duties as the current head. I find it hard to believe that the only thing driving you is regret, and I'm sure the rest of the clan wouldn't change its rigid policies for such a reason. That's why, I want the whole truth."

"My, you're quite the distrustful person, Akeno." Suzaku said. "I suppose that's another thing we're partially at fault for."

"I'm serving a King who tends to be driven by her emotions many times, so that played a part too." Akeno smirked before becoming serious once again. "In any case, unless I can come to understand your intentions completely, I can't bring myself to trust you and open up to you, Suzaku-san. Or even consider returning back to the main house without going on a rampage in the process."

"That's understandable." Suzaku said, turning her gaze upwards. "As the clan head, the official reason for wanting to change our family's policy is the danger exiled members represent to us and to this country as a whole. A few years back, the Utsusemi Agency, an organization comprised of outcasts from the Five Principal Clans, caused several incidents, one of which led to Tobio's awakening and recruitment by Grigori. To prevent an organization like that from emerging again, the other clan heads and I put pressure on our respective families to alter the old traditions and cease banishing clan members that don't fit the mold."

"They agreed to such a suggestion?" Akeno raised an eyebrow. "I mean, stopping disgruntled members from forming terrorist organizations is a valid reason, but I would think they'd instead push for adopting a…harsher policy towards atypical individuals within the clans."

"You mean eliminating the so-called abnormal ones instead of exiling them." Suzaku said. "It's true that such a suggestion was brought to the table, but we shot it down quickly, citing it would be a waste to remove individuals who can offer divergent talents that can strengthen the clans."

"You mean to take advantage of my unique lineage and power to strengthen yourselves then?" Akeno frowned, glaring at Suzaku. "Is that the true reason people like Tobio-san and I are welcomed back? So that you and the Himejima family can exploit us after having tossed us out?"

"That's not it, Akeno." Suzaku said in a hurry. "I'm more aware than anyone that you owe nothing to the Himejima family, and I would never demand that you wield your strength for our sake. Tobio has even scolded me a couple of times for refusing to call upon him when the Himejima family had to deal with issues in the past couple of years. No, like I said before, this is my small way of making amends. Nothing more, nothing less. My duties as the clan head will not, in any way, interfere with my wish. If they do…I'm prepared to abandon both my position and power, and exile myself from the family."

"Are you really willing to go that far?" Akeno said, a tinge of amazement in her voice. "Familial devotion should only go so far, especially when we're practically strangers at this point. So why?"

"Because my life was once saved by one of these exiled members." Suzaku said. "When I was about six years old, I received a powerful curse from a being of Yomi that was eating away at my body and soul. Despite their best efforts, the practitioners of the Himejima family were unable to heal me using their techniques. At that time, a member of the branch family came forward and used western-style Magic to treat me. Thanks to his efforts, the curse was broken…but he was exiled shortly afterwards for daring to dabble in foreign practices."

Suzaku had a sad smile on her face as she continued talking.

"That person must have known what would happen to him if he revealed his knowledge, yet he still chose to save me." Suzaku said. "It's because of his kindness and fortitude that I'm standing here today. It's a debt I can never replay in full."

"That person…what happened to him after he was exiled?" Akeno asked. "Is he…?"

"Dead?" Suzaku said. "I'm not sure since I wasn't able to keep track of his movements, but I don't believe he is. He's probably joined some Magician organization somewhere in the west. I only hope he's doing well, and if I'm allowed to wish for it…I would like for my desire to welcome back all members of the Himejima family to reach him one day and for him to return so I can properly express my gratitude."

"I see." Akeno smiled. "I think I understand now why you're so passionate about this, Suzaku-san. I want to trust that sincerity of yours. While it's a little too early to talk about coming back to the family…I wouldn't mind spending more time with you and getting to know you better in the future."

"Thank you so much for giving me a chance, Akeno." Suzaku let out a wide smile as well, taking Akeno's hands in her own. "I promise you won't regret this. I have to admit though, it does pain me a bit that we're only going to be able to spend a brief amount of time together by your standards. You are a Devil that will live for thousands of years after all, while I'm a human who will at most live to around a hundred years."

"If you're interested, President still has an Evil Piece available." Akeno said with a grin. "I'm sure she'd be more than willing to welcome you as a comrade, ufufu~."

"As tempting as that sounds, I don't think the Himejima clan would be willing to accept a Reincarnated Devil as their clan head." Suzaku smirked. "Moreover, I would hate outliving my future husband Tobio by a wide margin. Having to compete with four other girls for his attention is painful enough on some degree already."

"I understand what you mean." Akeno said. "There's a selfish part of me that hates sharing Takeshi with Rias and Koneko-chan and wants to monopolize him. I know it's unfair to them, but I can't help feeling this way sometimes. Polygamous relationships can be really complicated…"

"You can say that again…"

Both girls let out a dispirited sigh. Then, Akeno slapped her cheeks and turned to Suzaku.

"Alright, that's enough moping around." Akeno said. "The others must be getting anxious, so I should be getting back. Do you want to join us for lunch as well, Suzaku-san?"

"I would love to, but I have to return to the castle." Suzaku said with an apologetic expression. "Tobio and Lavinia will be back soon, and I need to listen to their report along with the others. The burdens of being a leader."

"I understand." Akeno said. "Then, perhaps we could—"

Akeno's words were interrupted as what appeared to be raindrops started raining from the ceiling, prompting Suzaku to frown.

"It's raining underground…?" Suzaku said as she caught one of the drops in her open palm, her frown deepening upon noticing the black substance in it. "This is…don't tell me!? The enemy has—!"

The rest of Suzaku's words were drowned by the sound of explosions that shook the massive cavern.

---

Meanwhile…

"Can't we ever visit a place without everything blowing up around us in the process!?"

Takeshi shouted as he, Pandora, Xenovia and Gasper were running through the streets of the Youkai capital, busy dodging large fireballs that had started raining down from the sky and flaming debris. The group had only sat down and given their orders at the local restaurant a few minutes back when all Hell broke loose, transforming the idyllic scenery of the underground city into a warzone in a matter of seconds.

While dodging several black droplets and conjuring a circular barrier above him through Hesperides Fort, Takeshi turned his sights on their attackers. Flying high above them was a massive three-legged crow wreathed in pitch-black flames. With each beat of its wings, a rain of fireballs would descend from above, bombarding the city. Several bat-like constructs were flying around it, releasing energy blasts from the crimson orbs in their bodies.

While the non-combat-oriented Youkai scrambled for cover, several combat-oriented ones could be seen forming defensive magic circles and trying to snipe down the flying enemies with little success. The strange black rain made the situation only more difficult due to its eroding properties, slowly dissolving the magic circles it fell upon.

"How did they get into this city!?" Xenovia shouted as she swung her Durandal, unleashing a holy aura wave that consumed three fireballs heading for them. "Is there a traitor after all!?"

"It could be due to Dimension Lost's abilties!" Pandora said, manipulating the earth to form a makeshift bunker to protect a Youkai child that had sprained her leg and had fallen by the side of the road. "They might have bypassed the city's defenses through it!"

"That doesn't matter right now!" Takeshi said as he shaped a barrier into the form of armor around his body before kicking away several flaming debris that were heading for them. "We need to take down that oversized crow first! Gasper-kun, think your eyes can reach it from here!?"

"T-That…it's too d-difficult!" Gasper cried out, freezing an incoming fireball. "In this d-distance, I can't affect it! I'm sorryyyyyy!"

"We'll have to try something else then!" Takeshi said, forming a wide semi-circular barrier that covered all four Devils, shielding them from several fireballs coming their way. "If we fly closer to it, maybe if we could—!"

Takeshi's words were cut off by a resounding screech as an imposing firebird collided with the monstrous crow, with both beasts slashing at each other with their talons. At the same time, several bolts of holy lightning coming from the firebird's back struck the three-legged crow's body, forcing it to cease its bombardment and focus on the enemies attacking it. The next barrage destroyed a large number of bat constructs, forcing the rest to also focus on their new opponent.

"That's…Himejima Suzaku-san and Akeno-san?" Pandora said. "Great timing. If it's the two of them, they should be able to hold that oversized crow off."

"W-What kind of Y-Youkai is that though?" Gasper wondered. "I don't think t-there was a report about such a c-creature being present during the p-previous battle…"

"The enemy's identity doesn't matter right now." Xenovia said, brandishing Durandal. "We can analyze it after we slaughter it. Since Akeno-san and Himejima Suzaku are keeping it occupied, let's take this chance to bring it down."

"Yeah, I don't see that happening." Takeshi said, his eyes narrowed as he looked past his friends. "We'll probably be very occupied ourselves for the next few minutes or so."

Gasper, Pandora and Xenovia turned around and were shocked to see that the numerous black raindrops were converging together a few meters ahead of them, having turned into several amorphous black masses. Said masses transformed into bizarre creatures with deformed serpentine bodies that had tentacles protruding from them, skull-like heads and two wing-like appendages growing from their backs. Most of the creatures pointed their tentacles at the Devils, with magic circles forming at their tips. A barrage of elemental attacks erupted from them, bombarding Takeshi's barrier.

"A new type!?" Takeshi grimaced, sweat rolling down his face as he struggled to maintain the barrier. "Is there no end to them!?"

"The user of Annihilation Maker has quite the nasty imagination." Xenovia remarked with a scowl. "If I ever get my hands on them…!"

"Let's worry about getting out of this bind first." Pandora said, with several light orbs appearing around her. "Take this!"

A large number of fire lances formed outside the barrier, with Pandora shooting them at their enemies. However, the creatures in the back formed several defensive magic circles, blocking the incoming attacks. Then, they slammed their tentacles on the ground, forming summoning magic circles. One bright flash of light later, several katana-wielding constructs emerged from it, accompanied by a group of new humanoid constructs. Said constructs had the appearance of two-meter-tall knights clad in full armor with horns protruding from their helms that curved upwards and glowing eyes. Each of them held a segmented cleaver-like blade in their hands.

"Great…" Takeshi groaned. "They've brought their friends too!"

The armored knights swung their segmented blades, striking Takeshi's barrier from several angles. Unable to withstand this much pressure, the barrier shattered, with the four Devils being sent skidding backwards. The katana-wielding warriors leapt at them, but Pandora raised a large earth wall to shield the group. As the mage-type monsters unleashed yet more energy blasts to bring down the wall, Gasper approached Takeshi, taking off his Oni mask.

"G-Give me your blood, S-Senpai." Gasper said. "We'll need e-everything we've got to w-win this."

"Are you sure…yeah, you're sure." Takeshi said upon seeing his junior's determined expression. "I hate doing this to you…but you have a point. Just be careful, Gasper-kun."

Gasper nodded as Takeshi made a small cut on his hand, letting several drops of his blood fall into Gasper's mouth. The young Dhampir's eyes shone as his aura swelled, with the shadows in the area seemingly becoming longer. Takeshi, Pandora and Xenovia felt a chill go down their spines for some reason.

[You know, for some reason, that brat's aura feels oddly familiar.] Grendel remarked. [Can't put my finger around it though. Hey, whelp, fight him. That should help jog my memory a bit.]

Takeshi was about to respond when the earth wall shattered, with the assassin-type constructs pouncing on them. However, almost a third of them froze in midair after being caught in Gasper's Sacred Gear. Before they could dispatch them though, the knight-type constructs rushed ahead, brandishing their blades as they aimed to bisect the four Devils. Takeshi formed a wall of hexagonal barriers to block their attacks.

"Follow me, Pandora!"

"Yes, Xenovia-san!"

Both girls jumped over the barrier, with Pandora enveloping both their legs in wind to boost their speed. About four knight-types were brought down by Xenovia's Durandal slashes, while Pandora formed a fire cloak around her and used her superior speed to slam on three assassin-types in rapid succession, setting them on fire. Two assassin-types aimed at her back with their blades, only for a circular barrier to stop their attacks and form into a sphere that enclosed them within its confines. Before they had a chance to teleport, Takeshi clenched his fist, compressing the sphere and crushing the constructs. Running his hand over his shield, Takeshi formed a long, wide and extremely thin blade-like barrier, using it to slash at three knight-types charging at Xenovia. Although the attack appeared to be ineffective at first, the knight-types' top halves slid off after a couple of seconds and vanished.

At the same time, Xenovia enveloped herself in demonic power and increased the concentration of holy power around Durandal's blade, slashing apart two charging knight-types with a few rapid strokes. Several assassin-types aimed at her while teleporting from one spot to the next, only for a powerful tempest courtesy of Pandora to blow them off course and send them towards Takeshi, who pelted their bodies with bullet-shaped barriers that shredded them. Propelling himself with soundwaves beneath his feet and enveloping his body in an armor-shaped barrier, Takeshi tore through four knight-types in his way, landing next to Xenovia. She swung her blade, unleashing a powerful holy aura wave that destroyed two more knight-types along with a couple of houses behind them.

"Careful!" Takeshi hissed as he stood back to back with her. "There might still be Youkai trapped in the area!"

"Sorry." Xenovia said. "But as you know, controlling this problem child is quite the ordeal!"

Following these words, Xenovia drew most of her demonic power into her body and thrust Durandal at an incoming knight-type, tearing through its blades and armor with ease. Next to her, Takeshi conjured his blade-like barrier again, bifurcating another charging knight-type. Meanwhile, around the two Devils, a high-speed battle was also taking place as Pandora utilized her superior speed and wind manipulation to bring down assassin-type after assassin-type. With their stances and attacks disturbed by random gusts of wind buffeting them, the assassin-types were too slow to react as rock stakes pierced their bodies and fire lances struck them. Apart from dealing with the assassin-types, Pandora would also occasionally launch elemental attacks that distracted the knight-types to support Takeshi and Xenovia.

[This much is nothing!]

Gasper, who had transformed into a swarm of bats in the meantime, was busy dealing with the mage-types. Despite their attempts to shoot him down, Gasper's Sacred Gear was faster, freezing their magic attacks in midair. The bat swarm converged together and transformed into a silver wolf that tore through five mage-types before they could react in any way. The mage-types counterattacked by casting gravity magic, stopping Gasper's movements. However, just as they were about to crush him with their tentacles, the wolf transformed into mist, with the tentacles freezing and breaking upon passing through it. Transforming into his default form once again, Gasper used his Sacred Gear to stop all the constructs in his line of sight. Then, the glow in his eyes intensified, with the mage-types' bodies beginning to slowly crumble. After a couple of seconds, they turned into dust and scattered in the wind, with Gasper letting out a cry of pain as blood dripped from his eyes.

"Ow…" Gasper grimaced as he wiped the blood from his swollen eyes. "I guess it's s-still too much even with S-Senpai's blood…"

"Watch out, Gasper!"

Gasper yelped in surprise, barely avoiding an energy blast shot by one of the remaining mage-types thanks to Xenovia's warning. Before they could attack again, Takeshi grabbed the four of them with a vice-shaped barrier, restricting their movements. Xenovia and Pandora were upon them in a matter of seconds, slashing them apart with Durandal and a pair of flaming broadswords respectively.

"Are you alright, Gasper-kun?" Takeshi asked with a concerned expression after rushing to his junior's side. "What was that just now? Is it a new power from your Sacred Gear?"

"Y-yes, sort of…" Gasper said as he stood up. "It's an application of my S-Sacred Gear's time-based p-powers, accelerating the time of everything in m-my field of vision to cause weathering… I can s-somehow pull it off with S-Senpai's blood, but it causes t-too much strain and energy drain…"

"Even so, this can become a terrifying technique in the future." Xenovia said, looking around. "There don't seem to be any more enemies left. Should we head back to the castle or assist in the aerial battle?"

"You should be more attentive of your surroundings, my dear Devils."

Everyone flinched as they turned towards the source of the voice. A few meters away from them, sitting on top of a debris pile and drinking from his gourd was Shuten-doji, a relaxed expression on his face as he observed the battle above.

"Man, Sutoku sounds really pissed from down here." Shuten-doji smirked as he wiped his chin with the back of his hand. "Can't say I blame him. He was so excited about burning the Youkai capital to the ground, and the two Himejima ladies just won't get off his back…figuratively and literally from what I can see."

"You!"

Xenovia shouted, brandishing Durandal. Takeshi and Pandora also dropped into their stances while Gasper prepared to use his Sacred Gear.

"Looks like we meet again, young swordswoman." Shuten-doji grinned, raising his gourd in greeting. "As for the rest of your friends…hm, I see the Evil Dragon User is here. Poor Tamamo. She was looking forward to meeting you again, but it seems she won't get her chance. Oh, well. Her loss, my gain. Truth be told, I was always a big fan of the Evil Dragon User."

"My fan?" Takeshi raised an eyebrow, dismissing Hesperides Fort and summoning Mayhem Striker. "Gee, I don't know what to say. I'm a little short on a pen and paper for an autograph though. Would you mind if I used my axe and your skin as substitutes?"

"My apologies, I didn't make myself clear." Shuten-doji said, taking another sip from his gourd. "I was referring to your predecessors. They and their rampages were quite the hot topic among us, especially when the dreadful Orochi, one of the worst monsters this country has birthed, was involved."

[Aw, it's so nice to hear someone appreciate your hard work.] Orochi said in a pleased tone. [Really makes all the terror and destruction I spread all the more worth it.]

"You, on the other hand, are something of a disappointment." Shuten-doji said, jumping down from the debris pile and landing in front of the four Devils. "Tamamo may have some strange fascination with you, but I fail to see your appeal. After all…you're only a coward who runs away from the truth of what he is and your true potential, and that makes you weak. That is why you are destined to lose everything you strive to protect."

"Spare me the moronic lecture." Takeshi narrowed his eyes at the Oni, tightening his grip on Mayhem Striker. "Also, make sure to remember well those words you just said right now. Will you be able to spout the same nonsense with my axe buried in your head, I wonder?"

"At least you have spirit!" Shuten-doji laughed, smashing his club on the ground. "Come then, Evil Dragon User and his companions! Show me a good time before I send you to Yomi along with these worthless domesticated Youkai!"

"Time for one hell of a rowdy festival then!" Takeshi shouted. "Balance Break!"

[Malice Rise! Abyss Rage Awakening!]

The ash gray armor of Dead Shore Advent enveloped Takeshi's body. At the same time, Gasper, Pandora and Xenovia readied themselves.

"Will you be alright, Takeshi?" Pandora said, eyeing Takeshi with some concern. "Using this Balance Breaker with your lifespan as is…"

"I know, but the other two are a little too destructive and prone to collateral damage." Takeshi said, glancing at Gasper. "More importantly, can you fight in your state, Gasper-kun? Maybe you should step back and let me, Xenovia and Pandora handle this."

"I-It'll be alright…" Gasper said, clenching his fists. "I want to f-fight too!"

"In that case, let's take this brute down!"

Following Xenovia's cry, the four Devils charged at the grinning Shuten-doji.

---

Back at the castle…

"Just how many of these constructs are there!?"

Yuuto exclaimed as his Holy Demonic Sword sliced yet another assassin-type construct in half. Having been engrossed in reading within the castle library for the past few hours, he had almost missed the alarm that had resounded throughout the underground city, warning its inhabitants of the enemy attack. He had rushed out of the library, Holy Demonic Sword in arm, only to find a scene of chaos unfolding all around him. Youkai forces were engaging Annihilation Maker's constructs both inside and outside the castle grounds, with all sorts of attacks flying left and right. Meanwhile, said constructs had also appeared in the city, while a massive three-legged crow was circling above, bombarding the city with black fireballs.

"I hope the others are alright…" Yuuto said with a grimace, evading a knight-type's swing and using Grudge Dent to pierce its helmet before delivering three quick strokes that split it into five pieces. "For now, I have to find President and Koneko-chan."

Yuuto started running, using Gravity Nail and Cyclone Call to further boost his speed. Cutting down three assassin-types on his way, he arrived at the castle's courtyard, where Chiharu and Retsuza were leading several Guardian Oni, Tanuki and Okami against a squadron of knight-types, who were supported by several mage-types. Despite their valiant efforts and relentless attacks though, the knight-types seemed impervious to all ki-based attacks, which dispersed on their armors. Worse yet, the knight-types' bodies started emitting ki themselves, further enhancing their power. Their attacks, coupled with the constant magic attacks launched by the mage-types, were steadily driving the Youkai into a corner.

"Don't tell me…these knight-like constructs were designed as anti-Youkai monsters, siphoning ki and using it to boost themselves?" Yuuto grimaced. "Damn Annihilation Maker. No wonder it's considered a top-tier Longinus. In that case…!"

Several drill-shaped blades formed around Yuuto, with cracks and rampant demonic energy enveloping them next. Despite wincing from the drain to his energy reserves due to conjuring several hybrid Holy Demonic Swords through the mix of Spiral Chaos and Blast Ogre, Yuuto was satisfied by his handiwork. Taking aim, he shot his hybrid blades towards the mage-types. The drill-shaped swords sailed through the sky, bombarding the mage-types before anyone had time to react. A series of resounding explosions echoed throughout the courtyard as most of the mage-type constructs were blown to pieces.

Upon noticing this, several knight-types turned their attention to Yuuto, rushing at him with their weapons raised. Yuuto conjured a new Holy Demonic Sword, dashing at the knight-types. One of them swung his blade at Yuuto's sword, but the latter's blade turned transparent, slipping through the knight-type's weapon. The blade turned solid again just in time to slice through the construct's throat.

As I thought. Yuuto thought as he avoided a pincer attack by using a burst of wind from a newly conjured Cyclone Call to propel himself sideways before slicing apart two more knight-types with the new Specter Shift. They can absorb ki and use it to somewhat empower themselves, but they are complete novices when it comes to utilizing ki-based techniques. Still, there's no guarantee they won't evolve further mid-battle.

As if having read Yuuto's thoughts, the knight-types formed a circle around him and aimed at him, shooting dense ki bullets from their hands. At the same time, they swung their segmented swords, their whip-like blades aimed at Yuuto. A large explosion enveloped Yuuto, raising a large cloud of smoke. However, when it was gone, the young Knight was nowhere to be found, with only the tattered remains of one his hybrid Holy Demonic Swords laying there.

"Up here!"

Yuuto, who had used Instant Swap to switch his position with one of the hybrid Holy Demonic Swords he had launched earlier and hadn't set it to explode, shouted from above as he conjured several hybrid Holy Demonic Swords around him. He shot them at the ground, forming a barrier with increased gravity within its confines. As the knight-types struggled to move, Yuuto mixed Needle Edge and Starlight Flash's properties together this time, forming several hybrid Holy Demonic Swords above him whose blades were aimed at the knight-types. Said blades flew from their hilts at high speeds, penetrating through the knight-types with ease due to the entirety of their power being focused on the tip. As Yuuto landed on the ground heaving, dismissing all swords present, the heavily damaged knight-types collapsed on the ground before dispersing.

"That was…rather exhausting…" Yuuto heaved, wiping the sweat from his brow. "But I need to get used to combining my blades' properties…if I want to further enhance my Sacred Gear's power…"

"Yuuto-san!"

Chiharu called out to Yuuto as she rushed to his side alongside Retsuza.

"Chiharu-san, Retsuza-san, I'm glad to see you're alright."

"It's all thanks to you and your excellent timing." Chiharu grinned, giving a light punch to Yuuto's arm. "If you hadn't distracted the majority of the enemy's forces here and allowed us to mop up the rest, we might have been in a real pinch. Very nice and much appreciated assist there, Yuuto-san."

"What Chiharu said." Retsuza made a small bow. "My comrades and I are in your debt, young Knight. However, the battle is far from over yet. The castle is still under siege, and our city is burning."

"At least Himejima Suzaku-san is keeping that oversized crow and its pals occupied." Chiharu pointed at the sky above, where the Vermillion Bird was fighting against the black flame-wreathed crow. "That foul creature resembles Yatagarasu-sama, but it can't be him."

"The identity of that beast is of little concern right now." Retsuza said. "Chiharu, take the forces here and lead them to Nurarihyon-sama's last-known location. His safety and that of Magari-sama are our top priority. As for me, I'll head into the city and try to organize our forces there. Not to mention…"

"Say no more." Chiharu said with a sympathetic expression. "Go to your family's side and make sure they're safe, Retsuza. Leave the rest to me and the others."

"…Thank you, Chiharu." Retsuza said, making a small bow before turning to Yuuto. "What about you, Knight of Gremory?"

"I need to ensure President's safety first and foremost." Yuuto said. "After that, we'll do our utmost to drive the enemy out of the castle."

"Very well." Retsuza said. "Let us not waste any more time then. Make sure that you survive no matter what!"

"Likewise!"

"Right!"

After the three of them separated, Yuuto rushed towards the eastern part of the castle. Although he hadn't fully grasped its layout yet, Rias had mentioned that she and Azazel would head to one of the meeting rooms there whenever they made their reports to the top brass. At that moment, an arrow of Destruction tore through one of the castle's buildings, sailing in the sky for quite some distance before dispersing.

"Over there!"

Yuuto shouted as he made haste towards the direction of the attack. Cutting down several constructs in his way while running, he eventually arrived at his target. He jumped inside through the hole created by Rias's attack, pausing for a moment to inspect his surroundings. Inside the now wrecked room stood Rias and Azazel, facing a large number of constructs pouring in the room seemingly out of nowhere. However, despite their large number, all of them were disintegrated by Rias's Destruction beams and Azazel's light spears. The latter even had a bored expression on his face as he brought down construct after construct with ease.

"You're here, Yuuto!" Rias said with a smile on her face as her Destruction lances tore through four knight-types, two assassin-types and three mage-types. "Thank the Devil Kings you're alright!"

"Yes, you got here at just the right time, Kiba Yuuto." Azazel said as he pointed his fingers at the charging constructs, with several light beams shooting out of them and tearing them apart. "I would have headed out much sooner, but I couldn't leave Rias on her own here."

"Head out!?" Yuuto asked, conjuring a Thunder Call and slashing two assassin-types as they teleported above him with the thunder-clad blade. "What for, Sensei!?"

"We have to find and shut down the enemy's teleportation method." Azazel said, his hand enveloped in holy aura as he delivered a palm thrust that released an energy wave which obliterated several constructs at once. "I have no idea how many constructs the savage Youkai have brought with them, and I don't fancy facing potentially thousands of monsters. Eventually, this war of attrition will overwhelm us. That's why, I have to stop them from teleporting here."

"Then go!" Rias shouted. "Yuuto and I will be fine! The sooner you stop further reinforcements from being brought in, the faster we can put an end to this battle!"

"Will do." Azazel said as he pulled out his Artificial Sacred Gear from his yukata. "Just don't die in the meantime, kids! Sirzechs will have my head if something happens to you!"

One flash of light later, Azazel was enveloped in his golden armor. Swinging his two-pronged spear, he vaporized several constructs and the wall behind him. He then spread his twelve black wings and flew outside, spinning his spear as he launched a barrage of light bullets that destroyed a large number of constructs inside the castle.

"Times like this, I'm glad he's on our side." Rias said as she turned her attention to the remaining enemy units. "Come with me, Yuuto. We'll break through them and head towards Koneko's—"

Before Rias could complete her sentence, the constructs stopped moving, and then rushed out of the ruined room, vanishing in a matter of seconds.

"…What just happened?" Yuuto wondered with a puzzled expression. "Why did they retreat all of a sudden?"

"Tch, it's only a couple of Devils? And here I thought I had finally found Takeshi. I should have refined my aura sensing further…"

Both Rias and Yuuto scowled at the sudden appearance of Tamamo-no-Mae, who seemed to emerge from the room's shadows. As she took a look around, her gaze zeroed on the two Devils, a sly smile appearing on her face.

"Hey, would you two be so kind as to tell me where the Evil Dragon User currently is?" Tamamo asked, clasping her hands together. "I was really looking forward to meeting him today, but I can't seem to find him anywhere in this castle despite a trace amount of his aura being scattered everywhere here."

"What business does someone like you have with my servant?" Rias said with a stone-cold expression, the Power of Destruction wrapping itself around her body. "Whatever it is, I'm afraid I cannot allow you to meet him."

"Oh, so you're the possessive type then, little princess?" Tamamo smirked. "That's no good, you know? You're going to get hated if you keep such a tight lease on him~."

"Funny, I don't recall asking for advice." Rias said, narrowing her eyes. "Especially when it comes from someone obsessed with my boyfriend."

"Heh, so you're also involved with Takeshi?" Tamamo's sinister smile became wider. "How wonderful. Not only do I get to kill the renowned heir of the Gremory family, but I can also reduce the competition—"

Tamamo interrupted her sentence as she performed a backflip all of a sudden, barely evading Koneko's straight, who had been aiming for her back.

"…Shoot." Koneko grimaced as she landed next to Yuuto. "I wanted to break your spine."

"The whole gang is here." Tamamo opened her arms wide, her fox ears and nine tails becoming visible. "Well, all Devils currently in the castle at least. You'll make for a fine appetizer before I move to the main course~."

Instead of answering, Rias pointed her fingers at Tamamo, launching a stream of Destruction bullets at her. Yuuto conjured two boomerang-shaped blades and threw them at her, while Koneko unleashed a barrage of ki bullets. Enveloping herself in a dense Touki, Tamamo evaded or deflected the attacks and jumped out of the ruined room, landing on the wrecked courtyard below. The three Devils followed after her, with Rias shooting several Destruction arrows at her. Tamamo took out a shakujo from one of her tails and swung it, conjuring several spectral foxes from it that intercepted the arrows before heading for the three Devils. Rias pointed at them, shooting several crimson bolts from her fingers that stopped the spectral foxes mid-air. Koneko smashed them with her Touki-enhanced fists, while Yuuto conjured Magnet Pulse to manipulate the metals around them and send them flying at Tamamo.

"Weak!"

Tamamo shouted as a torrent of fox fire erupted from her body, melting the incoming metals. The Touki around her tails became even denser as they shot forward, aiming at the three Devils. Rias shot several crimson bolts, locking five of them in place, while Koneko dashed forward, punching aside two of them. As for Yuuto, he conjured several Stalwart Forts, forming several barriers in front of him that stopped the remaining two tails. He then conjured a new sword with a large triangle-shaped blade. After he tapped its hilt once, the blade broke apart into a multitude of shards that Yuuto directed at Tamamo. She grimaced as she batted them aside with her shakujo, only for Koneko to take advantage and close the distance, her Touki claws aimed at Tamamo's throat. However, Tamamo transformed into a small nine-tailed fox, evading Koneko's punch, Yuuto's shards and Rias's Destruction lance. Switching back to humanoid form, she buried her shakujo in the ground, unleashing a massive wave of fox fire in the shape of claws that headed towards the three Devils.

"I won't let you!"

Rias shouted, stepping in front of her servants as her aura swelled. An oversized ribcage with four skeletal arms protruding from it formed around her, shielding her from Tamamo's attack. A large Destruction longsword formed in each of its hands, with Rias swinging them down at Tamamo. Her Touki-clad tails rushed forward to intercept the blades, with their clash creating a large shockwave that shook the area. As Yuuto and Koneko dashed at her from the sides, Tamamo attempted to disengage and move back, but found that her tails were stuck to Rias's swords.

Damn red-haired brat! Tamamo cursed in her thought as she increased the amount of Touki covering her tails to prevent them from being disintegrated. She used her Lock Control to 'lock' my tails on her swords!

Acting fast, Tamamo created several clones and sent them towards Yuuto and Koneko. While the two Devils were busy taking them down, Tamamo released a burst of ki from her tails that dissolved Rias's technique, allowing her to retreat. However, one of the construct's swords transformed into a bow, with Rias nocking one of the blades in it. The oversized Destruction arrow was released at Tamamo, who jumped to the sky to evade it. Having predicted that, Yuuto sent most of his blade's shards at her. Unable to evade all of them, she received a couple of small cuts on her body.

At the same time, Koneko propelled herself up with a ki burst from her legs, evading Tamamo's tails and opening several shallow cuts on her abdomen with her Touki claws. She then twisted her body mid air and delivered a powerful jab that broke Tamamo's shakujo and sent her crashing to the ground. Rias and Yuuto pounced on her, but Tamamo released a wave of corrupted ki from her body. It eroded the ground around her, forcing her opponents to dodge her attack by jumping backwards.

"Ara, how scary." Tamamo said as she stood up, wiping the blood from one of her wounds with her hand and licking her fingers. "The young Devils of this age are real powerhouses. Perhaps I should—"

Tamamo stopped talking as she glanced up, dashing to the side. Moments later, the corpse of an oversized eastern Dragon fell from the sky, destroying the already damaged tower next to the courtyard before turning into ashes and vanishing. Next, Nurarihyon descended from above, holding a bloodstained wakizashi in his right hand. His clothes were torn in several places and several small cuts could be seen throughout his body. Standing on his shoulder was Magari, whose fur had been singed in several places, but looked otherwise unharmed.

"Hm, looks like we have intruded on someone else's battlefield. My apologies for that, young ones."

The one who had spoken was the old man who had been accompanying the savage Youkai leaders, his red-rimmed sunglasses reflecting the light of the flames around him. Gathered around him were several Oni-like creatures wearing crimson samurai armor, three Reiki-like creatures and four black eastern Dragons with six eyes and dense corrupted ki coming out of their bodies. Glancing at the spot where the Dragon that had fallen from the sky had disintegrated, the old man sighed.

"That wasn't very nice, current Nurarihyon." The old man said. "It takes a considerable amount of time to create shikigami with that much power, and this one was also one of my favorites. Not to mention, there's also all the other ones you've destroyed. How do you intend to compensate me for these losses, I wonder?"

"Don't make me laugh, you conceited brat." Nurarihyon spat out with evident hatred. "You caused so much damage and brought so much death to our city, and you dare to ask for compensation? It seems you really wish to make me angry!"

After saying so, Nurarihyon swung his blade, letting loose a crescent-shaped thunder wave that destroyed a Reiki shikigami. Opening his mouth wide, he spat out a stream of poison that eroded three Oni shikagami, with the old man creating a barrier through one of his talismans to shield himself from the stray drops. Next, Nurarihyon spat out oil from his mouth, dousing several Oni shikigami. Following with a fire breath, he set them on fire.

"As always, Nurarihyon's special ability is so troublesome." The old man said while rubbing his chin. "Copying the special powers of the Youkai that are part of his Hyakki Yagyou and using them as he pleases is a fitting skill for you though."

While the old man talked, Magari conjured several spike-shaped ki bullets at the tips of her tails, launching them at her one of the Dragon shikigami. Its body pierced all over, the Dragon howled in agony before disintegrating. Nurarihyon and Magari enveloped their bodies in Touki and, evading his shikigami, charged at the old man. He merely smirked as his arm transformed into a demonic-looking appendage, with his corrupted ki-infused punch sending the two chief Youkai flying backwards.

"I knew it…" Magari narrowed her eyes after she and Nurarihyon fixed their stances. "It shouldn't be possible, but this corrupted ki…I can recognize it from objects left behind from that turbulent time period by my predecessor. You are…Ashiya Douman, are you not?"

"Ashiya Douman!?" Rias shouted from below with a shocked expression. "The wicked Onmyouji who was the rival of the venerated Abe no Seimei!? But he should have died centuries ago!"

"Oh, I assure you, I'm quite alive, though not quite as much human as I was before." Douman smirked. "The power of a never-ending grudge can be both great and terrible. My hatred has sustained me and allowed me to transcend humanity, unlike Seimei, who died a pitiful mortal's death from old age."

"Why are you doing this, Douman?" Nurarihyon asked. "Why have you allied yourself with the descendants of the Great Three Evil Youkai? What exactly are you trying to accomplish here?"

"You have much more important things to worry about right now than my reasons for waging war against you." Douman said, turning to Tamamo. "My dear, how about we work together to eliminate all these pests?"

"Cooperating with others doesn't sit well with me, but I'm willing to make an exception for today." Tamamo smirked. "After all, the sooner I'm done cleaning up here, the faster I can go after my real target."

"As if our current state was difficult enough already…"

Yuuto groaned as he brandished his blade and rushed to engage his foes alongside his fellow Devils and the Youkai leaders.

---

Back at the city…

"Ah, this feels great! Nothing like a good fight along with some fine booze to get my blood flowing!"

Shuten-doji laughed as he swung his club, striking Xenovia's Durandal and sending the young Rook skidding backwards. Deflecting Pandora's rock bullets and fire arrows, he aimed at Takeshi, who brought up Mayhem Striker to block his club. The ensuing shockwave from their clash extinguished the flames in the area and sent a large number of debris flying. As he struggled to overpower the evil Youkai, Takeshi formed the surrounding ashes into numerous claws that aimed at Shuten-doji. He smirked as he opened his mouth wide, infusing his voice with ki and letting out a howl that scattered the incoming ashes. The soundwave sent Takeshi flying backwards and crashing into the ruins of a nearby house.

Shuten-doji chased after him, but stumbled as his leg froze in place all of a sudden. Gasper had used his Sacred Gear at that moment, with the young Dhampir squeezing out every last bit of his remaining power to affect the Oni. Taking advantage of Shuten-doji's broken stance, Pandora bombarded him with a rain of massive fireballs, while Xenovia unleashed a powerful holy aura slash from Durandal. A large explosion enveloped Shuten-doji, raising a large cloud of smoke.

"I-I'm sorry…" Gasper said, falling on his knees as tears of blood ran out of his swollen eyes. "This is my limit… I…can't…"

Gasper fell on the ground unconscious, the strain, fatigue and the effects of Takeshi's blood having caught up with him. At that moment, Shuten-doji emerged from the smoke cloud, his steps somewhat unsteady and several burn marks all over his body. Despite that, he maintained his jovial attitude, letting out a boisterous laugh as he took a large sip from his gourd while singing some strange tune in a low voice. He almost stumbled and fell to the ground, but steadied himself in the last second, laughing all the while.

"This guy…" Xenovia narrowed her eyes. "Our attacks must have caused some damage. Does he not feel pain at all?"

"Could it be…?" Pandora narrowed her eyes. "Is he drunk right now? If so, him not showing any discomfort makes sense. All that alcohol must have numbed his sense of pain."

"I'll sober him up with this then!"

Takeshi shouted as he emerged from the wreckage, spreading his wings and releasing a massive wave of miasma from them. Shuten-doji grinned as he unleashed a large amount of corrupted ki from his body, dispersing the incoming miasma. Undeterred by this, Takeshi brandished his axe and charged, with Pandora and Xenovia following behind him. However, Shuten-doji's bizarre movements, reminiscent of a drunk person's swaying, made it difficult for their attacks to reach him. At the same time, the Oni's own attacks had become faster and even more unpredictable than before.

Is this some sort of Drunken Fist style? Takeshi wondered in his thoughts as his axe sailed past Shuten-doji's head, with the Oni's counter barely missing his arm. This isn't good. He's throwing our rhythm off. If it keeps going like this…!

Takeshi's fears were realized right after Pandora distanced herself from her two comrades in order to attack Shuten-doji from afar. The laughing Oni dashed past the other two Devils before they could react and slammed on Pandora, knocking the air out of her. Grabbing her leg, he smashed her on the ground hard before kicking her in the abdomen. The force of the blow sent Pandora flying through a wrecked house, falling unconscious with blood dripping from her mouth and head.

"Pandora!"

"You bastard!"

Both Takeshi and Xenovia shouted in outrage as they charged at Shuten-doji. He grinned as his skin was enveloped by a thick metal layer, parrying both Durandal and Mayhem Striker. Stomping his foot on the ground, he raised several rock spires that aimed for the two Devils. Takeshi and Xenovia sliced them apart, with Xenovia aiming Durandal at the ground and shooting holy aura from it to propel herself upwards. Swinging her blade, she released a massive wave of holy aura at Shuten-doji, while Takeshi had several ash tendrils erupt from below and immobilize the Oni. Shuten-doji received the slash head-on, with his metal skin shattering and several cuts opening on his body. Not wasting this chance, Takeshi pressed the sides of his buckle once.

[Charge! Malice Overflow!]

A mass of miasma and corrupted draconic aura enveloped his leg as Takeshi aimed a flying side kick at Shuten-doji.

[Abyss Blast Fever!]

Just as he was about to strike Shuten-doji, the Oni's body suddenly swelled and bulked up, his skin turned blood red, his hair became a long mane, three more horns sprouted from the sides of his head and forehead, and an extra pair of arms grew from his sides. Crossing all four of his arms together, Shuten-doji blocked Takeshi's kick. He then delivered a powerful straight that sent Takeshi flying backwards, shattered his chest armor and broke several of his ribs. He buried his wings and tail on the ground to stop himself, spitting out a mouthful of blood as he mended his wounds and armor while doing his best to purge the corrupted ki from his body.

"Are you alright, Takeshi?" Xenovia said in a hurried tone as she rushed to Takeshi's side. "That seemed like a nasty blow."

"Definitely…among my top five…so far…" Takeshi wheezed out as he used his axe as support to steady himself. "More importantly…is that this fellow's true form?"

"Looks like it." Xenovia said with narrowed eyes. "His strength seems to have grown even further. This isn't good at all…"

Meanwhile, Shuten-doji was flexing his extra arms, an irritated expression on his face.

"Tch, this is why I hate assuming this form." Shuten-doji clicked his tongue. "My buzz is gone now. Too bad for you, young Devils. Playtime is over."

Before Takeshi and Xenovia could react, Shuten-doji swung his arms, releasing several ki slashes. Acting on instinct, Takeshi formed a makeshift barrier using his four wings, which were shredded to bits, sparing most of his body. Xenovia, on the other hand, received the full force of the Oni's attack head-on, screaming in pain as her body was slashed on various areas despite her Rook defense.

"Damn…you…"

Xenovia cursed as she fell on the ground unconscious, Durandal slipping from her bloodstained hands.

"Xenovia!" Takeshi shouted as he rushed to check her vitals. "Thank the Devil Kings, she's still breathing…"

"And then, there was one." Shuten-doji said as he walked towards Takeshi, each of his steps causing a small earthquake. "Don't worry though, I won't kill you yet, just render you immobile. Tamamo wants to have some fun with you first. Your friends however…I'm afraid it's time to bid them farewell."

Takeshi said nothing, the vivid images of his friends' mangled bodies flashing before his eyes once again. He tightened his grip on his axe as he stood up, facing Shuten-doji.

"Don't joke with me…" Takeshi muttered in a low tone. "No way in Hell… There's no way in Hell I'm ever letting that nightmare become a reality!"

Copious amounts of miasma and corrupted draconic aura exploded from Takeshi's body as he howled. He dashed forward, attacking Shuten-doji with suicidal abandon, his axe strike and kicks raining down on his body like a heavy downpour. Surprised by his opponent's sudden ferocity, Shuten-doji was forced back and into the defensive.

"That's more like it!" Shuten-doji laughed as his four arms parried Takeshi's furious blows. "That's how it should be, Evil Dragon User! You can do it after all! Let it all out and stop holding back! Become the monster you're meant to be!"

"You talk too much!"

Takeshi snarled, smashing his forehead on the Oni's nose and piercing his shoulder with his miasma-clad tail. He then opened his mouth wide, unleashing an ash cloud that enveloped Shuten-doji. Before the Oni could regain his bearings, the spinning Mayhem Striker buried itself in one of his arms. Takeshi rushed out of the smoke cloud, pressing the sides of his buckle twice.

[Charge! Malice Overflow!]

Corrupted draconic aura, miasma and ashes enveloped his arm as Takeshi pounced on Shuten-doji.

[Abyss Impact!]

Takeshi delivered a flurry of punches at Shuten-doji, breaking one of his arms as the Oni howled in pain. With one final blow, he sent his opponent flying, breaking one of its horns. Recalling his axe back, he charged Shuten-doji, only to stumble and fall to his knees as intense fatigue assaulted him all of a sudden, with sparks coming out of his belt.

[Error.]

Following that announcement, Takeshi's armor broke apart, leaving him gasping on the ground as blood dripped from his mouth.

"What…what the Hell happened…?"

[You expended too much power too fast, forcing Cataclysm Zone to shut down in order to prevent major damage.] Nidhogg said. [Such a shame. Thanks to your little rampage, I was able to consume a significant amount of your remaining lifespan. Oh well, you're on your last legs either way from the looks of it.]

While Nidhogg spoke, Shuten-doji stood up, a grimace on his face as he cradled his broken arm.

"You really did a number on me, but it seems this is far as you go." Shuten-doji said. "Now, once I make sure you'll behave, I—"

Shuten-doji's words were cut off as several ice vines suddenly erupted from the ground, binding his body and immobilizing him.

"I'm sorry for being late, Tak-kun."

"Lavinia-san…?"

Takeshi croaked out with a disbelieving expression. Walking towards him was the familiar figure of Lavinia Reni, with Absolute Demise hovering next to her. Looking around and taking note of the injured Devils in the area, Lavinia glared at the bound Shuten-doji as she spoke.

"It looks like you had it rough." Lavinia said. "But it's alright now. We're here, and we're putting an end to this battle."

Several bolts of thunder struck the vicinity of the castle following Lavinia's words. Descending from the sky, Kumowatari and the Youkai accompanying him began taking down Annihilation Maker's constructs in the area. The shadows also seemed to become longer and denser in the Youkai city, with several black dogs carrying blades in their mouths emerging from them and attacking the enemy forces all around the underground city.

"That's…"

"Tobi's technique." Lavinia said. "When he's serious, there are very few opponents that can match him. Constructs of that level are no match for him. The Governor General has also sent us a message, saying he's close to shutting down the enemy's means of teleporting in here."

"Time's up then." Shuten-doji said all of a sudden. "We've accomplished most of our goals, so we'll be taking our leave now. But don't worry, I reckon we'll meet each other again soon."

Shuten-doji's body burst into flames following his words, melting his restraints. Lavinia formed several giant ice blades and hurled them at him, but purple mist enveloped his body, transporting him away. All over the city, the same clouds of purple mist would appear out of the blue before vanishing, taking the enemy forces with them.

"They escaped." Lavinia remarked with a frown. "As expected of the infamous Dimension Lost, it let the savage Youkai slip past this city's barriers like they were nothing. Each faction's research department will be very busy coming up with countermeasures for it in the coming days…"

Takeshi said nothing, observing his surroundings with a grim look. The once pristine city had become a complete wreck, with fires still burning all over the place and who knows how many Youkai trapped or dead under the numerous debris littering the streets. The castle that served as Nurarihyon's residence had also received a lot of damage, with smoke coming out from various sections of it.

"So much destruction…" Takeshi said, the bitterness in his voice evident. "These bastards got us good."

"They did, but payback will have to wait." Lavinia said, with Absolute Demise picking up Xenovia, Gasper and Pandora at her command. "Right now, our focus should be in saving as many lives as possible. Can you stand, Tak-kun?"

"Always." Takeshi said as he used his axe as support to stand up. "Lead the way, Lavinia-san."

Lavinia nodded as she and Takeshi started making their way back to the castle.

---

This concludes Chapter 35. First, in response to your questions.

—To Rai of bladeebge: As of now, I don't have any plans to introduce Takeshi's future children.

This time around, the enemy Youkai took the initiative to attack the Kanto Youkai Faction's stronghold with some aid from Annihilation Maker's new constructs. The identity of the old man accompanying them was also revealed here as the infamous Onmyouji Ashiya Douman, the rival of Abe no Seimei. For those of you familiar with the Tokyo Ravens anime, his appearance is based on Ashiya Douman's first form from that show.

Well, that's all for now. Since I will be having surgery the day after tomorrow, it may take me some time to respond to your reviews and PMs. As always, please read, review, favorite, follow, but most of all, enjoy!

See you all next time!