Chapter 17: Calm Before the Storm.
"Questions?" Danhauser Belial winced whenever another icicle crashed into the wall. "None? Good, let's get started."
Siegfried nodded and dropped his weight to the floor, quickly crawling to the end of the store.
Danhauser exhaled. "Okay, okay, I can do this…" He breathed in and out, closing his eyes and covering his body with demonic energy. It was a weird experience, as warm as standing in front of the fire.
Even if Danhauser was enjoying the sensation, it quickly vanished in exchange for nothing, yet there was something wrapping around his whole body, he knew better than anyone.
He fluttered his eyes open. "It's show time," He jumped out of the counter and rushed to the wall of smoke, spear in hand.
"There he is!" Danhauser heard behind the smoke. Quickly, lightning and ice changing to another route.
But Danhauser never backed out—he just kept running and took the attacks head-on, smirking whenever the spells pigmented to gray and dissolved like ashes.
"W-What?!" The Stray Magician nearly shouted, augmenting the strength of his ability. "Our Magic… it can't touch him! R-retreat!"
"Now!" Danhauser called as he trespassed the wall of smoke with a fist cocked. He punched at the first hooded Magician he came face to face with, morphing his face from surprise to one of pain.
He gasped as his figure ripped through the cemented wall of a building, dispersing small chunks of stone skyward.
Danhauser dodged the dagger of ice and gripped their wrist, tightly. Letting his House trait wrap around the warlock's arm, he brought him closer and batted him away with the butt of his spear.
"Uff!" The mage tried to stop himself with a conjure, but nothing happened. His body felt empty, something was blocking his circuits, his cheek just met the floor and his consciousness met darkness.
The sounds of pain and swings coming not so far away, Danhauser peeked behind his shoulder, his eyes stretching slightly when a Magician froze like a statue.
Danhauser followed the Magician's gaze, spotting the tip of a sword poking from their chest.
The fresh corpse fell as the blade left, the Knight moving forward with an inquiring frown. "Master, where's Tobio and Valerie?"
The Heir never had the chance to respond, summoning his wings and shooting upwards to dodge the purple flames thrown by the Longinus User hovering above everyone.
"Tch," she clicked her tongue and waved more flames around her fingers. "Damn, you're fast." She smirked and fired a torrent of purple inferno at the Knight.
Siegfried grinned and with a lick of his lips, he became a blur to the weak eye, dodging the incoming attacks, much to the girl's dismay.
Landing on the roof, Danhauser spun his spear and focused on the witch up to the skies, completely distracted by the Knight.
The Heir spotted her hair adorned by various ribbons and the gothic clothes. "Walburga," The gray-haired blew Worthlessness' aura off from his body and quickly surveyed the area, scowling when no sight of them appeared. "Where are they?" He mumbled, but quickly shook his head and stretched his wings, bolting toward the biggest threat.
The girl growled. "Why won't you stop moving?!" She demanded while whacking lilac projectiles at the former Exorcist. "He's fast, too…"
Siegfried held a chuckle and found his master stalking the fumbling girl from behind, he tightly gripped his three swords and flew toward the Longinus User.
Walburga blinked as the Hero Descendant made it instantly in front of her, the tips of his weapons speeding at her form. The worst part is that something was coming behind her, too.
She smirked insolently. "… So I am!"
Danhauser winced when his spear smashed into something solid, a vibration coursing through his arms. "What? Her barriers are that strong?"
He wasn't the only one, Siegfried growled and slashed at her once again, only for his sword to bounce away.
"Hyahahaha!" Walburga cackled inside her barrier, offering a stained grin over her shoulder, ignoring the Knight's failed attempts. "Aren't you a sneaky little—WHAT THE HELL?!"
Danhauser disregarded her smugness and watched her barrier turning gray and shatter like plain grass, quickly reaching for her with a hand engulfed of Worthlessness.
"Burn!" Breaking from her short-lived shock, she invoked her flames around her, building herself some space as both Devils flew away from her cocoon-like creation.
Both King and Knight leaped back on the floor, glaring the vast ball of fire illuminating the dark sky.
"This will be challenging," Siegfried muttered beside him, glaring at his melted weapon. "Just by getting close I could feel my skin boiling, just imagine getting a mere burn on your finger." He tossed the handle away. "I dare to say that it may knock you out or even worse, end you."
Danhauser could only nod, "My Clan Trait isn't going to work here against those flames."
"Boss!" He heard a familiar voice, he looked behind his shoulder as Tobio, Jin, and Valerie stopped behind them. "What happened? We never received your order." He then looked up, whistling. "Whoa."
Danhauser curved an eyebrow, keeping an eye out for Walburga. "I did tell you guys to rush at them as Siegfried and I distracted them."
"Mr. Ikuse is right, Mr. Belial," Valerie sided with Tobio. "In fact, you left the channel from… what's its name again?" She pursed her lips, mentally groaning. "This thing." She gestured inside her ear.
"The earpiece," Siegfried responded, earning a thankful nod from her. He hummed. "I thought I was the only one who saw that disconnection, luckily I was right behind Master."
Danhauser blinked when all eyes lingered on him. "I swear, I don't even know how I left the transmission…" It took him a while, but it hit him, he slapped his forehead. "…I think I understand, I had engulfed my body in Worthlessness to nullify the Magician's spells back in the store…" He blushed slightly. "… I may have forgotten that it could also affect objects…"
"Really," Tobio deadpanned.
"That tiny mistake could cost us a lot," Siegfried strongly pointed out. "Fortunately, we've trained for moments like this one."
"I'm sorry, okay?" Danhauser grunted, annoyed. "Look at the bright side, we finished off the Stray Magicians, now we are only against the boss."
"Ehehehehe…" Valerie giggled behind her hand.
"It took me an amount of time to discover which Clan you belonged to, Belial," Walburga's voice rang in their ears. Everyone sharply looking upward as her shelter of fire diminished. "As a former legal Magician, my duty was to know the cultures of multiples creatures, mostly the—!"
She quickly brought a hand in front of her, blocking all the demonic orbs. She flexed tiredly an eyebrow. "What? Didn't your rich family taught you to never interrupt someone, little bat?"
Valerie tapped her lower lip, studying their foe intently, mostly her purple, gothic garments. "… I really like that dress."
Danhauser clicked his tongue in return. "Don't hold back, but keep a safe distance from her, those flames are nothing to scoff at."
Siegfried snickered quietly and unsheathed an extra sword from his lower back, sinking into a low crouch and disappearing from sight.
Walburga narrowly parried his attack with another barrier, looking around whenever the silver blur hunted for her back, legs and even the neck, all swings ending with the same consequences.
She had stalled the Knight's strike once again. A wretched, taunting grin split the witch's lips as his three swords shivered at the compelling strength he was using. "If you think you can kill me with cheap weapons then think twice," she throatily crooned, pressing closer to his face.
Siegfried never looked away from her pink, challenging eyes. His Twice Critical flashed as he brought the sword over his head and growled when he brought it down.
The stray girl brought an arm atop her hair, blocking the hit, but to her surprise, her frail body quivered after the blow, her magic shield cracking slightly.
She gaped. "H-How?!" Her heart skipped a beat when she spotted a figure behind her through the sword's reflection.
Walburga gritted her teeth and summoned fire pillars around her, buying herself space and taking off.
"Damn, I was so close," Danhauser whispered, sparing a scolding glance at his palm. He peeked up and rolled aside just in time to dodge a fireball. "She has sharp senses," He brought his hands up as lightning bolts rained at him, erasing them from existence. "Her Sacred Gear is going to be so damn irritating."
Nonetheless, he flapped his wings as he soared high toward a roof's building, summoned a dozen of demonic circles and launched his whole arsenal!
Spheres, lances, and even some of them were shaped like swords, they fired off faster than bullets from a machine gun.
Danhauser spared a glance behind his shoulder, patting himself on the back as his eyes fell over the twelve ripples he just made. His progress was slowly bearing fruits.
"Don't think so!" She exclaimed and pointed a finger in the air, handily molding a ring made of lilac fire, spinning it around, she shoved it directly at Danhauser's attack.
The outcome was obvious, the moment the bolts of demonic power clashed with the frisbee of holy fire, they burned from existence, Walburga's godly spell kept spinning onward.
Danhauser clicked his tongue, stretching his wings and lifting himself off the roof just in time for the spiral fire cut through the unfortunate edifice, he could literally feel the tips of the fire tickle his shoes, he spared a look over his shoulder, seeing the slashed half crumble in slow motion.
"Move!" Valerie sprouted her wings and took off, leaving the bemused Japanese boy behind.
He rapidly shook his head. "Shit!" Tobio increased his speed as the ring finally landed on earth, exploding and sending waves of holiness around a huge radius.
"Hyaahahaha!" The Gothic girl eyed the purple mushroom cloud with glee. "What's the matter, bats? Afraid of fire, eh?" With a finger's snap, she redirected the course of the approaching shadows and ceased Siegfried's blows, much to the latter's irritation.
She brought a hand to her temple. "Hurry up you imbeciles!"
"We're on our way, Soror Shien!" Came the hasty reply.
The former Exorcist charged once more, only to fail. "Damn it!" He cursed, speeding up his massacre over the girl's shelter. "If I had Gram, everything would be so different!"
Tobio clicked his tongue, bent his legs and brought his sword close, but was stopped by a hand on his shoulder. "What now?" He asked, eyebrow curved in both impatience and curiosity.
Valerie broke her grasp and pointed forward.
Frowning, the brunet followed her finger, eyes widening in horror. "Oh no…"
Countless of magic circles appeared from the sky, uncovering various figures in enshrouding robes, masking their genders perfectly. The worst part is that they also emerged from the ground, teenagers with blank stares and student uniforms, each one of them carrying a green lizard with a large tongue.
"Utsusemi," Danhauser breathed out, looking downward. "So it is true, the Utsusemi Agency is working with the Wizards of Oz…"
The laughter coming from the gothic terrorist brought him back. "… Wizards of Oz?" She trailed off when her chortles died down. Her eyes darkened. "No more! We burned that name long ago! We are the Walpurgis! THE HEXENNACHT!"
Danhauser nodded at Siegfried who returned the gesture, quickly swirling around and hunting the nearest Magician he could find in the air.
Meanwhile, the gray-haired boy invoked his demonic circles and fired to the distracted witch, only to be stopped by approaching Stray Magicians.
Danhauser eyed the three Magicians. "I suppose we can't sit down and sort this out?"
They smirked under their hoods, hands tweaked by magic.
He sighed. "Thought so. Unfortunate." Instincts triggering, Danhauser cocked his head to the side as the orange glimmer grew closer. Feeling its warmness kiss his neck and shoulder blade as it flew past him, he shortly took off and concentrated on his two opponents, only to spot them charging their next attack.
He lifted his hand to dismiss their weak spells with Worthlessness, watching as another stray Magician joined the fray, purple fire wrapped around her slender arms. He could see her pink eyes reflecting the holy flames.
When he saw her wicked grin, he finally understood. He brought a finger to his ear. "Siegfried, you're in charge while I give four Stray Magicians a tour of the town."
The heir of Belial ignored his servant's reproaching by spinning around and flying far away from his teammates, with four Magicians heartily joining the chase.
It's still nighttime, dark, the perfect night for a honeymoon, but they're coming. They're coming, Danhauser never looked behind, but he could hear the faint spells slowly shaping and the holy flames giggling quietly. He wouldn't have a problem fighting the Stray Magicians off, in fact, he believes he could finish them off easily. But when Walburga decided to tag herself in, that's when his plan directly jumped inside a dumpster.
His breath came in small spurts, hot and nervous. Soaring through the air and continually switching pattern as he evaded the lightning bolts and holy flames, now and then tucking in his wings. Getting practically safe from becoming ashes or earning clipped wings.
He rounded another building, the cold evening air shocking his throat and lungs as he inhaled deeper, faster. Behind him, he could hear the haunting cackle of Walburga and jeering laughter of her squad.
"I need space," He curled his sweaty fists and flapped his wings vigorously, roughly piercing through the air as he boosted his speed.
Finally, after building some distance, he spun around with his Demonic Gate of Babylon right behind him and fired.
Walburga had to squint her eyes to see the incoming missiles, she snickered and shook her head. "How many times you're going to repeat the same trick?" She murmured to herself while conjuring her barriers, the Walpurgis copying her movements.
Her smirk turned into a full-blown grin when the projectiles approached, but her ego shattered when the barrier vanished instantly. "What the—!" She was interrupted when a Stray Magician fell off with a pleading scream—she caught a small glimpse of his torso as he dived into a pool's house.
A gray seal.
Her eyes widened in realization. "His Clan Trait!" She glared at her allies. "Don't let his attacks hit you, he can nullify our magic!"
Danhauser growled from his place, not stopping his firefight. "Damn, she found out so quickly and I just made it!"
Nonetheless, he never let that thought push him down. Fluttering his wings, he continued flying backward from his pursuers while shooting his demonic power. He also had to dodge to the side as the holy fire lunged after him or change the trajectory of his attacks to annul the other incoming spells.
Seeing the Devil not halting his tracks, Walburga heated and launched her purple flames against the weapons-shaped Worthlessness, sometimes just going up and down like a roller coaster to dodge them.
"He's different." She had been slaying Stray Devils and Pure-blooded ones since the day Mephisto Pheles exiled them, most of her fights ending in mere seconds, the gray one has lasted long enough for her tastes. "He's keeping his distance, color me impressed." Whenever Augusta sent her to hunt down Stray Devils it would be the same tale: taunt, flex their muscles, show-off all his powers from the beginning and get burned.
She doesn't mind, though.
"This one seems to have diversity," she noted as she incinerated another ball of Worthlessness. First, he went after her with a spear, which last time she'd heard from her Mater, Devils only stuck with their Clan Trait and Demonic Power because of pride. Then he'd attacked her with those glowing demonic ripples shaping in the empty air, all of them shooting constructs molded after weapons that left little to the imagination, now he mixed Worthlessness and that previous spell.
While most of his spells caught her off-guard, none of them were quite enough to match against the might of Incinerate Anthem.
"In the end, he'll burn like the rest," Soror Shien signaled at the remaining Magicians. "After him! I've got a plan!"
The Walpurgis nodded briefly before summoning spears made of pure ice.
Danhauser saw them lunging forward, he aimed his Worthlessness at them, but Walburga dispatched them swiftly with holy fire.
"Not good," Danhauser muttered, pulling his spear out just in time to parry the chunk of ice.
Wrapping Worthlessness around his weapon, Danhauser whistled when the ice slowly disintegrated from the Magician's grasp, drops of water falling from their empty hands.
"I—!" Nothing else left his throat as Danhauser bashed the butt of his spear to the side of her head, bolting harshly atop of a tree.
He swore he'd heard his neck cracking after his hit.
He blinked when the thought struck him. "Did I just kill some—!" He stopped after seeing another one charging with the same glazed spear.
Danhauser shook his head.
Belial dodged the unprecise thrusts by tilting his head to the sides, carefully floating backward to make a gap between them, he grabbed the chunk of ice and yanked the Magician closer.
Before Danhauser could cast Worthlessness over them. He caught a small glimpse of purple slowly expanding, he looked up, eyes-widened as a giant cross came nearer.
Danhauser acted quickly. He sheathed his spear and pulled the terrorist closer as they tried to slip away.
"G-Get off!" He heard her young wailing, slapping his chest and kicking the air as her magic circuits suddenly expired, feeling the heat approximate made her scream angrily. "GET OFF ME!
Danhauser Belial tightened his grip. "I'm sorry, it's you or me.".
She stopped. "W-What—?"
He just whirled and pushed her at the hungry flames.
Her cries of pain just lasted a split-second when the fireball had digested her slender figure and clothes.
Then a blinding flash came from the point where the flames struck its victim and a purple cloud rose in the air.
Danhauser saw the nearby structures shaking. "Shit!" He crossed his arms over his chest and moved his wings in front, summoning a four-layered barrier as the shockwave clashed against his shield.
While his skin was protected from any wounds, the weight of the force was powerful enough to send Danhauser unsteadily diving to the ground.
The world rushed by in a blur and he knew pain was next on the list. It goes by fast, yet slow, almost suspended. He spun around just in time to see a roof drawing closer.
Then impact.
Valerie Tepes had stopped in her tracks long ago, just like anyone else stuck on this stupid battlefield, all of them concentrated on the pillar of purple flames and smoke painting the dark sky.
"Holy shit," She ignored Tobio cursing beneath his breath, sword coated in Utsusemi's black substance.
"…" Siegfried kept his lips sealed, fist clenched, he turned to his foes with a glare. "Keep fighting!"
Finally, the Dhampir broke from her trace and relocated her previous enemies, they were still admiring the smoke with awestruck expressions.
She took aim and brought her pale arms up and formed an "X" across her chest, immediately a pair of black arms came from her own shadows and sneaked toward her prey.
Their gasps were enough to confirm her capture was a success, her shadowy limbs harshly moved them up and then down.
The impact was strong that both Magicians coughed blood when their backs crashed atop a car, window's shards scattering around and activating its alarm.
Before she could pull other tricks from her sleeve, a familiar scent tickled her nostrils.
Valerie's eyes widened and quickly concealed her nose, slowly looking down just in time to see a trail of crimson slowly making its way to her.
"No, no, no…!" She shook her head, walking backward until her back met a wall. "Not here…!"
She yelped in surprise as a tongue wrapped around her slender arm, she pulled back, only to be brought on her butt as the Utsusemi used more strength.
"Got you!" Tobio suddenly appeared, cutting the tongue with ease. He spared a looked over his shoulder. "All good?"
She took relaxing breaths and nodded, dusting her dress. "I-It was nothing."
The Utsusemi watched its tongue drop on the floor like a bag of meat. Growling, it lunged at them, only to be slashed in half by a black dog, its halves soon joining its tongue.
"Good one, Jin!" Tobio cheered, grinning at his Sacred Gear. "Keep it up, buddy!"
The dog barked happily and wiggled its tail and ran after his partner.
Siegfried landed beside them. "All the Magicians are taken care of," he reported, eyeing the Utsusemi slowly crawling at them. "They're our last adversaries."
Jin growled and took a stance, a blade erupting from its forehead.
"What happened to boss?" Tobio spoke, slowly bringing his sword in front of him, back to back with his teammates. "Think he's… you know…"
"Let's hope not," Siegfried prayed, Twice Critical gripping tightly the third sword.
"Have you tried contacting him?" Valerie asked, four dark arms sprouting from her shadow as she also frowned at the Utsusemi. "He has that earpiece of his, doesn't he?"
"I tried, but he hasn't responded," Siegfried replied. "Maybe he wrapped himself in Worthlessness once again."
"Hmm," Valerie hummed and peeked at the distanced torrent of smoke. "Or perhaps his body charred along the earpiece? That would justify his absence... I wonder what does the smell of burning flesh smell like."
Siegfried paled at her words, immediately placing a finger to his ear.
He took a deep breath.
[Master! Are you awake?! Say something!]
Danhauser's body shook slightly, he groaned quietly. "Don't yell…!" He whined out, trying to lift himself up to answer the call, but he couldn't. "Why I can't move…?"
He blinked, closed his eyes, and blinked again, as Siegfried kept shouting. Streaks of light coming from the roof and blinded him.
The Heir hissed and looked away, discovering through the corner of his eye a bookshelf lying over him, Danhauser grunted and pushed it away, dusting the paper sheets off his body.
He picked himself up from the scattered books and rubbed a single eye, scanning his surroundings. "Bookshelves, computers, books, this has to be a library, yes or yes." He continued gazing around until he spotted the sign on the counter. "Ryoukuu Library." He read aloud, chuckling tiredly. "Pretty sure Tobio and Sae would feel nostalgia."
[Master!]
Danhauser winced and dug his digit into his earlobe. "I'm here, I'm here…"
Multiples sighs of relief erupted from the device.
[Good, you're in for the action, boss.] Tobio greeted, Danhauser could swear hearing how brunet was slashing at… whatever they were fighting.
[Welcome back, Mr. Belial.] Valerie simply said.
"Thank you, thank you guys," Danhauser coughed out, waving the dust floating over his face. "Status, Siegfried?"
[We have defeated the Walpurgis.] His Knight explained briefly. [We're against the Utsusemi now, and you?]
"I still have a pyromaniac, gothic german chasing after me," Danhauser massaged his temple, eyes fixated on the floor.
[She seems problematic, yes?] Valerie pointed out the obvious. [I'm baffled you could keep up with her.]
"You and me both, Valerie." Danhauser agreed. "I don't want to distract you guys, best wishes."
[Same.] Tobio said before ending the transmission, followed by the others.
"Walburga's coming," Danhauser yanked his finger and scowled, inspecting his surroundings as fast as he could. He knew she had definitely survived the explosion, why else would she use such technique otherwise? Or maybe she's still waking up from her own attack, too.
The gray-youth tapped his chin. "Her reflexes are top-notch, mixed with Incinerate Anthem you get a strong user." His right eyebrow twitched. "Her use of magic is better than mine, but physically? I dominate her, without a doubt."
Danhauser has rendered her barriers worthless, but she could still weave energy on her digits, Danhauser needs to land a punch on any part of her body to stop her from casting spells. Sure, his Clan Trait lasts mere seconds, but for each successful attack, his House trait resets back to zero.
He understands that as a member of the Belial Clan, his fighting style mostly resorts to making sure his opponent has little to defend themselves against Worthlessness. The moment his Clan Trait has done its part, he must shift closer and continue his assault, not leaving his prey room for breathing.
Unfortunately, his opponent is none other than Walburga. Of the Purple Flames. The Longinus User.
She could just invoke a wall of holy fire around her with a hand's sway, which was good enough to push Danhauser far away.
He bit this thumb. "I need to catch her by surprise, then." He almost drew blood from his finger. "But how?!"
…
"Perhaps…" Danhauser pulled his spear out of his back, he traced his hand over it as he pictured his plan working out, cringing slightly.
He bit his cheek and hesitantly nodded. "…Let's… let's see if it works out."
Walburga descended from the roof, exactly from the hole where Danhauser had fallen through.
She cupped her hands around her mouth. "Hello! Is the little bat hiding here?" A hand sneaked behind her ear, smugness written on her face as she kept analyzing the old library with disinterest. Pretty sure she had read half of these books.
…
…
…
Walburga chuckled sourly. "Now, now." She playfully shook a finger. "I'm just here to make a deal! You have a dumbass that is on our team, his name is…" She tapped her chin with a small pout. "Oooh! Kazuhisa Doumon! Pretty sure you heard of him? He had a black kitty as an Utsusemi, you also gave him the beating of his life!"
The cackle that left her throat echoing in the empty(?) room was the only sound that brought life into the library. Walburga's stance had loosened slightly since she'd entered from the roof, she had made sure that there wasn't any kind of seals under her or nearby, is he hiding in a different room?
Her mouth shifted into a snarl but gridlocked midway, a forced smile taking its place. "Oh, I get it! Little bat wanna play hide and seek, eh?"
She softly hummed a song and twirled in mid-air. Moving like ribbons in the wind, she felt timeless. Elegance at its finest and pain in its true form. "Lucky you, I really love playing games, but!" She stopped dancing and fired purple fire at a pile of books, grinning like a hyena. "Let's make it more interesting!"
Fire licked around the library like it meant to play, turning the once pretty timber floor into a maze of flame. The alarms sounded, an odor of smoke in the air.
Soror Shien grunted, displeased as suddenly water drops began bathing the room, desperately trying to dispose of the powerful inferno.
She passed a hand straight to her now wet silver hair, her shoulder lying on a pedestal. "Sooner or later you'll have to—!"
Walburga now felt a familiar demonic presence in the room, she searched the energy and her eyes widened in surprise. She yelped and by a narrow margin dodged the spear, impaling itself on the pillar behind her.
"I almost lost my fucking head!" She spotted the devil vaulting out from the counter, multiples ripples of energy warped behind him, he never wasted time on firing his creations.
A blue vein popped on her temple as she triggered her Sacred Gear, a wall of purple that kissed the roof appeared and evaporated his spells alongside the rain.
"Don't you understand?!" She snapped behind her obstruction, teeth clenched together. "Your spells are FAR inferior against my—!"
Her words died out inside her throat. Something wet, black and viscous wrapping around her neck, rendering her unable to even scream.
The tendril of resin hauled her back, smashing the back of her head against the concrete pedestal hard, knocking her lights out.
The wall of flames popped out, just in time for Danhauser to hold sight of Walburga slowly landing on her butt unconsciously, his Malebranche trait crawling back inside the embedded spear.
Before the Heir could launch his finishing move, a sudden light blinded him—Danhauser felt it like getting stunned by a flashbang right between the eyes. It was without a single doubt a distasteful feeling.
Once the brightness expired, he blinked the black dots out of his vision, searching for the gothic girl just to find her figure gone from the room.
The tension that had clutched him up for like an hour straight melted into nothing. He placed his hands on his knees and greedily took a deep breath, taking note that the purple flames also evaporated. "Good thing I had mixed my Malebranche trait with my Belial trait."
He slowly walked after his weapon, scowling. "She's right." He muttered, passing a sweet finger over his lance. "My demonic powers were mediocre against her—sure she has Incinerate Anthem, but…" He paused with a grunt, almost punching the wall. "I could've done better, way better. I need to train WAY more."
He pulled his spear and sheathed it, rubbing his eyebrows angrily. Flashbacks of how he'd fell inside a library repeating before him. "Fucking hell… I can't believe I also killed someone, fuck me…"
[Hey boss.] Tobio's exhausted voice rang inside his brain, Danhauser calmly answering the call with a hum. [We were having the lead during our fight, but the Utsusemi disappeared into that flashy light…]
[Again.] Valerie added briefly.
"Same here," Danhauser sighed out, glaring daggers at the stain of blood imprinted on the pedestal. "Walburga disappeared with the same technique."
[So Walburga is her name...] Siegfried made a mental note. [If you allow me to guess then the Holy Fire User is still alive?]
"Correct, Siegfried," The King confirmed. "I defeated her, but before I could give the final blow, she disappeared."
[You… you were trying to kill her?] Slash Dog carefully asked.
Danhauser pursed his dry lips, eyes roaming around. "I…I don't even know what I was doing, I just let adrenaline control me and… and…"
[What's the matter?] Siegfried chimed in. [I don't see any problem with that.]
Tobio snorted in distaste. [… Of course, you don't.]
[We should leave.] The Dhampir intervened. [It has been a long night, I think we deserve a rest, won't you agree, Mr. Belial?]
Danhauser nodded in agreement and thankfulness. "… Of course! Like always, you guys did amazing, I'll meet you there don't move, understood?"
[Understood, Master.] Siegfried answered before ending the conversation, followed by the light-blonde girl and the brunet.
Danhauser pocketed his hands, tracing his shoe across the floor. "… I have the feeling that this is going to be a thing."
"So, what's up, boss?" Tobio Ikuse inquired, rolling a shoulder. "What're we doing in the forest now? It's morning still and I highly doubt we're here for a picnic party."
"Have you forgotten the fight we had yesterday, Tobio?" Siegfried spared him with a quick side glance before turning to admire nature's beauty. "We're here to hone our skills masterfully."
"Again?" Tobio almost facepalmed, sticking with a tired groan. "Can't we just celebrate our second victory against the Hex… Hex… whatever their name is?"
"Remember, we're in the middle of a war," The silver-haired boy reminded his fellow Knight. "Time respects no one. We don't have the hour to commemorate the occasion." He paused. "It's Hexennacht, by the way."
"Yeah, I get that, but we're not machines." The brunet rolled his eyes, making sure Jin is not meandering away. "I'm not saying that the whole day should be wasted by slacking off, but a few hours wouldn't affect us."
"I have to concur with Mr. Ikuse," Valerie Tepes finally joined, putting a hand above her head as sunlight struck her. "If time respects no one, then why should we respect it? An hour or two of discovering the wonders of this world wouldn't hurt anybody."
"In the end, this is boss' call," Tobio looked forward, specifically at his master's back. "So? You wouldn't mind, yeah? If you agree then leave the rest to me! I know a great place to have a great time."
Danhauser Belial, finally, gazed over his shoulder, his Knights, and Valerie, waiting for his orders. He bit his lips and looked back onward, carefully keeping his brown flowerpot close to him. "… This is the plan. Training is a must, so we won't avoid it, no matter what."
Tobio sighed in defeat, scratched his head. "Damn… and I was looking forward to—!"
"Don't sing defeat yet, Tobio," Danhauser said with a slight chuckle, clearing his throat. "When we're done punching our guts out. We'll pay Bova a visit in his territory—I have special amends to attend with his father." He paused and pun around, also stopping his followers. He clashed stares with the Japanese's light-gray eyes.
The Devil smiled slightly. "You have the perfect time to find a good place for us."
"I could use some distraction," Danhauser held back a sigh. "While I don't want to celebrate how we killed people… I think it would just erase those thoughts… hopefully." He studied each one of them. "How're they not traumatized? I can understand Siegfried and to an extent, Valerie, but Tobio…? We stole someone's life, damn it! Or maybe he is?"
Tobio fist-pumped with a huge grin. "Leave that to me, boss! I won't disappoint you at all!"
"Then it's decided," Valerie toyed with a pigtail.
Siegfried, on the other hand, grunted. "… I'm still against the idea, but if Master is alright with it then I concede."
"Don't be a party pooper, Sieg." Slash Dog said flatly. "Just relax! Trust me—we'll have the greatest day!"
"You should stop frowning, Mr. Exorcist," Valerie said whilst her smile turned wry. "Or you'll give yourself wrinkles."
"Tsk." The hero descendant folded his arms. "Either way, are we going to outset our training here, Master?"
"Yes… and no," Danhauser drawled. "This is where I'm going to train—you guys are going to move far away."
"This is out of context, but is it necessary to bring a flowerpot with us?" The Dhampir fixed her crimson eyes over the flowerpot.
The Heir nodded. "This is the next part of my training." He said while carefully putting the vase on the grass, patting Jin's head along the way. "… It's time to put my hand over Senjutsu."
Tobio, Siegfried, and Valerie shared mutual, idly glances, the female shrugging slightly.
Siegfried took the courage to speak for everyone. "… Excuse me Master, but what?"
"Senjutsu," Danhauser repeated nonchalantly, "Sage Arts is another name."
"… Okay," Tobio trailed off. "What's that?"
"To keep it brief, it's like another magic system that is available to anyone who has a soul and a spirit. Just like Devils uses demonic energy and Angels weave light." Their master responded.
"What does it do?" Siegfried promptly asked.
"Control the flow of life energy," the gray-haired boy replied, sitting cross-legged on the soil. "I could grow plants and all that stuff."
"There must be a seed inside then…" Valerie theorized to herself, eyeing the vessel curiously.
Tobio cocked an eyebrow. "So what now? You'll build your own farm? Or save the earth by growing trees?"
"Not really." Danhauser shrugged. "Just another method to fight back," he brought his pot closer. "For that, I need to meditate and concentrate on my state of mind."
"That explains why we must practice far away," the former Exorcist caught on, nodding. "Understood, Master. All I can do is wish you the best."
"Thanks," Danhauser nodded back. "Follow Siegfried, he'll find an appropriate place for all of you to train."
"Sure thing boss," Tobio saluted lazily and followed after Valerie and Siegfried.
With one last lick at Danhauser's fingers, Jin ran after his partner in crime.
Danhauser waited for them to disappear behind the bushes, he sighed. "Time to work." He scanned his surroundings, humming in approval. "… Trees, the smell of nature, birds chirping… I only need a waterfall behind me and this would be the best meditation spot."
The Heir rubbed his hands together. "Let's see if I can do it." Then he paused, sparing an apologetic look at the flowerpot. "Sorry, we."
Danhauser fought the urge to facepalm "Fantastic, I'm apologizing to a seed," he said under his breath. "Let's get back to the point, shall we?" He awkwardly patted the dirt inside the vase. "If my memory serves me right, Kuroka once had explained the basics ways of using Senjutsu, which was through meditation." He said either to himself or the seed. "… I also found in the library a book about it, it explained the same thing and advanced methods… obviously, I'll start from zero."
What he'd read in a book was what Danhauser already knew about. Unlike Demonic Power and Light whose purpose is literally destroy anything with ease, Senjutsu focuses more on sprouting life or decaying it, something that common magic can't do. A good example is the keen detection of aura, as long as it has a soul or a spirit, it can be detected by Sage Arts users.
Unless their foe is a master of Senjutsu and masks their presence.
To his surprise, the book also mentioned who's the strongest Senjutsu user, Danhauser thought that it may be Sun Wukong, Yasaka or even a Buddha, but to his shock, it's someone that he has seen since he was a toddler, in fact, he's sitting atop of it.
The planet earth, as dumb as it sounds.
It was amazing what you could find in a library, sometimes Danhauser would drop a few pessimistic comments here and then, but soon he would shut up when the book he was urgently seeking was getting nearer as he'd continued his searching. Unfortunately, when he'd spotted the book, it was in Japanese, so his new objective was to find a translator, for an unknown reason, he went after Tobio's childhood friend: Sae Toujou.
He doesn't even know why he would ask her. He and she aren't in a friendly relationship per say, not as bad as Rudiger Rosenkreutz and Danhauser Belial, but it could bloom into that sooner or later, but to his surprise, she accepted to translate him a few pages, mostly the ones that he needs to dominate before jumping to the next phase.
Danhauser knows the power that Senjutsu has and the fatal flaw that comes up with it. At first, he was thinking that it shouldn't be a good idea to try and unlock his ki in the Underworld, after all, this place is literally where harems, incest, treachery and many other horrible things are a Tuesday for Devils, Fallen Angels, and possibly Grim Reapers.
In other words, Danhauser could accidentally tap into the ill and malice of the Underworld's roots, his mind would be far easier to corrupt than someone who's been practicing in the Human World or even in Heaven.
"But if I see it that way, shouldn't I get instantly corrupted then?" Danhauser tapped his chin in wonder. "I'm already a creature of corruption and sin, the moment I let-off my ki, wouldn't my demonic power retaliate…?" His eyes widened slightly. "Or… Siegfried's former sword, Gram? Or any demonic weapon at all?"
"Screw it," Danhauser closed his eyes and pressed both clenched fists together, leg crossed. "It's not like I'll release my ki on the first try, as long as I keep trying, it's what matters. Patience, Danhauser, patience!"
Thus he just sat there, taking calm, deep breaths of nature's sweet perfume, the only sound that neared his ears were the leaves slowly falling into the grass, it was almost inaudible and the sound of clashes from a safe distance.
…
…
…
Danhauser's eyes opened like two flashlight beams, taking sharp breaths. "… This." He paused to chuckle nervously. "This is going to be difficult… mostly if I still have the images from yesterday on my head, unlucky."
Difficult? Definitely. Impossible? Unlikely. So, Danhauser continued his meditation regardless if flashbacks of his previous sins reflected over his vision.
Once more, Danhauser stopped to rub the bridge of his nose.
"This is going to be a long day."
"Wake up."
"Pouah!" Danhauser gasped, rolling across the rough and shaggy grass as something wet splashed on his face. Glancing around, he squinted his eyes as sunlight struck him, staring back at the blurred figure above him.
"Hello there," The familiar voice said with a hint of amusement, shaking an empty glass. "Hope you had a pleasant nap."
"Diehauser?" Danhauser moaned out, rubbing his eyes and slowly pushing himself out of the ground.
The Emperor's smile widened. "In the flesh, little brother." He offered a hand, which Danhauser gladly took it.
Dusting his pants, the Heir passed a finger across his cheeks, he glared tiredly. "You really had to use water, didn't you?"
Diehauser pocketed his hands, shrugging. "Hey, I was here like ten minutes to stop your hibernation." He countered. "Mom was getting worried and I decided to pick you back to the manor. Nice flowerpot by the way."
"Glad you liked it," Danhauser said with a yawn, picking up his pot. "How long was I out?"
"Around three hours, I suppose," he looked up. "It's still daytime, so don't worry about the time."
"Where's my Peerage and Valerie?"
"I found them and sent them back to the manor," Diehauser replied, arms folded. "They told me you were practicing Senjutsu, is that true?"
Seeing the Champion turned his heels and walk away was enough for the teenager to move beside him. "Yes, yes I was."
"Why though?" Diehauser asked, gazing down at him. "Why do you want to learn Sage Arts now?"
"Weed," Danhauser returned the stare. "I want to sell hardcore weed across the Underworld."
Diehauser snorted, looking away with a chuckle. "Oh good. Keep practicing and you can take your big brother out of his job."
"Yeah, you wish."
…
"… Have you told mother about this?" Diehauser finally dropped the bomb. "I mean about your fight against the…?"
Danhauser broke eye contact, looking down. "No, not yet."
"You have to, Dan."
"I will," He suddenly found the grass interesting. "Just… just give me some time to prepare everything."
"The more time you keep her in the dark, the poorer the situation it'll be."
"Hey, I need a favor," Danhauser quickly changed the subject. "Can you take me to the Dragon Mountain, today?"
Emperor Belial curved an eyebrow. "Is something wrong between you and Tannin?"
"Not at all," Danhauser assured him, looking up to the sky. "It's time to pick up my new Peerage member."
Danhauser Belial never understood why Dragons loved mountains so much.
In a way, it shares a similar method akin to a watchtower, but with an expandable view. It is useful to keep an eye out for intruders trying to do something nasty or stupid, maybe even both.
Maybe they adore mountains because they feel like Kings of the world? Which makes sense, if the book he had read about them speaks the truth, most authors see them as kings of the world, because of their selfishness, pride, and strength.
There are few dragons that prefer to stay in a cave, their whole bodies wrapped in gold and beautiful stones, mostly those are the ones that don't want to have any kind of business with outsiders. They temporarily push their introverted side to fetch some food and water, if the book he had read was correct.
In the end, Danhauser and his team went to Tannin's territory with the help of Diehauser Belial, the latter leaving to give a brief update at the Council of Ars Goetia and Mephisto Pheles, obviously informing first the Dragon Saint that visit is going to invade his home.
"So this is what a mountain looks like…" Valerie Tepes gushed out, shielding her eyes from the sun.
Danhauser followed her gaze. "Yeah, amazing isn't it?" He looked at the awed girl. "You never saw a mountain before, right?"
"Never," the blonde girl whispered. "I wonder how it would feel to be on top of one…"
Danhauser smiled slightly. "Well, if you want to be closer to the sun…"
"…At night time."
The gray youth weakly chuckled. "Easy, you'll be freezing off."
"Why?" The Dhampir questioned.
"… Let's just say that the temperature of the air is lower at higher altitudes due to the low air pressure." He saw her confused look. "Pressure decreases with temperature."
"The lower the pressure, the lower the temperature," Siegfried elaborated. "… I think if its night time the climate's coldness intensifies."
"You two have been atop a mountain before?" Tobio Ikuse joined the conversation whilst scratching Jin behind its ear.
"No, but we have internet, literally our best friend," Danhauser replied with a shrug.
"… The world is weird," the light-blonde girl muttered behind a hand.
All of them hastily looked up after the powerful roar that was kindred to that of a dinosaur shaking the skies, they shielded their vision when gigantic creatures landed along with a cloud of dust.
"Ah, Danhauser Belial," a deep, gruffed voice greeted. "It has been months since I've seen you... you've grown up. I can see you're stronger than before, too."
Valerie kept her mask on, but her eyes told another tale.
Jin took a stance and growled.
"Holy shit," Tobio felt dread at their presence. "Am… am I the only one feeling nervous?"
"Don't worry, Tobio," Siegfried said beside him. "Let Master handle the situation."
Danhauser lowered his arms. "Nice seeing you too, Tannin." He turned to the two dragons with biological traits similar to their father, one of them was familiar to him.
He waved at the smallest of the two. "Hey there, Bova."
Bova Tannin grinned goofily, tail swishing happily. "Danhauser!"
"So, this is the Devil that Bova highly speaks about…" The tallest dragon muttered with arms folded, snorting a puff of smoke. "I don't see anything special about him."
Bova rushed to the group, instantly gripping Danhauser's arm and shaking it strongly. "Danhauser!" He laughed."Heh-heh-heh! My rival! You really came to my home!"
Danhauser held back a pained chuckle, softly stealing his arm back. "I said I would meet your family, didn't I?" He rubbed his wrist tenderly, noticing someone approaching. "I suppose he's your brother."
"You got that right, Imp." Tannin's eldest son growled, shifting his younger brother behind. "And you're the one who wants to put a collar on my little brother, right?"
Danhauser winced, rubbing his neck. "Well, that's not a good way of saying it…"
"…"
"… Um," Danhauser trailed off, not clashing stares with his glare. He offered an unsure handshake. "My name is Danhauser Belial, nice to meet you and you are?"
The dragon stared blankly at the outstretched hand before glaring up. "… None of your business, Imp."
"Oh, I-I see," Danhauser lowered his arm, stifling a nervous chuckle. "I heard from your brother that you don't agree with me recruiting Bova into my—!"
"No, I don't, Imp." He interrupted Belial. "Who you think you are to take someone from our family away from us?"
Bova just grunted, annoyed.
The Heir looked up to Tannin, to his surprise—the Reincarnated Queen was also expecting an answer. He sighed and returned to the eldest brother. "I won't be taking Bova way from you, if he joins my Peerage, I'll promise each one of you that he can visit as much as he wants, however, when I need my whole set of chess pieces on a meeting, I would love if he was with us."
The purple dragon stared for a long time, he finally faced his father. "Father, we can't let this Imp take our brother away!"
Bova finally faced his oldest brother with a bad eye. "I speak for myself, brother!"
His brother pressed his forehead against his, pushing him down and snarling. "You're still a hatchling, you can't speak still!"
"… My eldest son is right, Danhauser Belial," Tannin finally spoke, looking down at the Devil. "I won't just toss my son away just like that, even if you are his childhood friend—!"
"Childhood rival!" Bova shouted with a small blush.
"... You need to prove yourself worthy if you wish to recruit him."
Danhauser bit his lip and nodded. "You… You want me to fight your son or you?"
To his surprise, the Dragon King shook his head. "While it sounds convincing, that's not what I'm searching from you."
"… Then what?"
"Figure it out yourself."
Danhauser balled his fists. "…I need to prove myself worthy, but how?" He could practically feel the impatient stares of everyone paling his insides.
He clenched his eyes with teeth gritted, seeking deeper in his mind about Dragon's culture. He had found somewhere that when a female dragon lay eggs, the parents leave their breeds behind to survive alone in the harsh nature. In a way, they were like sea turtles, it also reminded him of the Darwinism's theory.
"Oh well, some of them at least," Danhauser looked up at the patient Saint Dragon. "This could explain why Tannin's eldest son is pissed at me, which I fully understand." Danhauser shook his head. "They want to see if I'm worthy of having someone from their kin part of my peerage… but how?"
The gray youth finally gasped quietly. "The dragon way…?"
"What is it, Imp?" Tannin's oldest son taunted. "The Nekomata got your tongue?"
"I can do it," Danhauser Belial cleared his throat, shot one last glare at him and faced Tannin, lazily pointing a thumb at Bova's older brother. "I don't care what this moron thinks. Your youngest son has the right to choose what to do with his life, no matter what."
"…" Tannin stayed quiet, studying the teenager who had just called his creation an idiot. He serenely spoke. "I can smell the fire… and from a Devil shockingly!" He chuckled softly. "Expected from someone who has the blood of a Malebranche, what a disgrace most Devilkin choose to whine like pups nowadays…"
His eldest son clicked his sharp tongue. "Actions speak louder than words! I stand in full denial! He still hasn't proved himself respectable yet, father!"
Meteor Dragon heaved a sigh. "My tolerance is burning out, but my eldest son isn't wrong in any way." He turned to his youngest son. "Bova, do you see him trustworthy? Are they going to kill and die on your side?"
Before Bova could stretch his jaw, Danhauser replied. "Bova will give the Tannin Clan the pride it deserves on my team. Give us a target, and it will die."
The Dragon Saint grinned, arms outstretched. "Well spoken! Outsiders, and to an extent some dragons, do not understand our old-fashioned traditions. I imagine you do, Danhauser Belial."
Danhauser gave a neutral nod, mentally cheering for himself.
Someone, however, stood in disagreement. "Outsiders don't know strength, especially the Imps!" He intruded Danhauser's personal space. "Only we, the dragons, were born with it. This is just a waste of time, father. Why should we listen to someone—!"
"Shit, what should I do know?! What a dragon would do?!" Danhauser's gray orbs were still locked with Bova's eldest brother—he noticed Tannin from the corner of his eye gazing at his rambling son with a look of interest.
He mentally groaned. "I… I have an idea, fuck me—this is going to hurt a lot…"
Belial left his inner world, seeing the Dragon still reproaching.
Danhauser gulped quietly. "Hey, dumbass."
The Dragon stopped and sneered at him. "What did you just—!"
Danhauser headbutted the Dragon.
…
A heavy silence settled over them, it was the terrifying part. Like before a bomb. It's a time for hope to grow or wither. He swore to hear someone whistle behind him, mixed with startled stares cast over his figure.
Danhauser ignored them and the excruciating migraine that burned across his temple and neck, masking his expression of agony with a blank face.
He awkwardly folded his arms and waited for the Dragon to shake the ache from his snout.
The Gargantuan creature had his orbs closed as he rolled his neck. "You…" He trailed off with slitted, red eyes and bared fangs, ready to chew the Imp ahead him. "You dare to challenge me…?"
"BWA HA HA HA!" Tannin openly boomed a laugh, shaking the nearby trees and scaring off the birds. "I like this Devil! He knows our ways!"
His son stared at him wide-eyed, slowly turning to Danhauser with a feral growl, taking a step back. "I won't revoke my refusal. I don't like you nor your race, Imp."
Danhauser internally screamed in pain.
He then turned to his younger brother disapprovingly. "You're making a mistake, Bova."
Finally, he unfolded his wings and took off.
The Meteor Dragon chuckled, handing out Danhauser a small smirk. "You have provoked a dragon. Reason enough for me to trust you." He faced his hatchling, nodding. "Don't let your brother's words discourage you, deep down they still care for you, so do I. This is your path, do as you please."
"I wish each one of you the best in your future and dreams." Tannin declared, invoking his herculean wings and flying away.
When there was no sight of Tannin, Danhauser dropped to the grass, cursing. "Oh fuck, my head fucking hurts!" He laid a hand on his forehead, immediately pulling away with a hiss.
"That was amazing!" Bova roared out exaggeratedly. "Knowing that you knew my race's tradition, I would headbutt you all the way through!"
Danhauser shuddered, chuckling whenever Jin licked his face.
Bova grinned proudly. "Now, Danhauser. How do you feel? Must feel great headbutting a dragon, isn't it?
"I feel like shit," The Heir answered. "Hope the brain damage I'll get afterward was worth it."
"I think you're exaggerating," Tobio said with a nervous chuckle, comfortingly patting his shoulder. "But, I'll beat around the bush and say that was retarded from your part, boss."
"Nonsense, that was an interesting method of using your head," Danhauser looked up just in time to see the amused girl crouching down and cast her healing spells. "Don't move."
Danhauser gave a quick nod, patting the playful dog one last time.
Siegfried pinched his nose. "I have to side with Tobio here, that was reckless, Master."
"He looks good," Bova waved off their concerns. "Heh, the advantage of having a six-layered skull!"
"Yeah, Devils don't have that," Danhauser informed.
The Dragon smirked. "Ooh, that must've hurt, then."
"Done," Valerie took a step back, letting Danhauser slowly stand up. "How do you feel?"
"Still like shit, but without blurry sight."
Valerie smiled dryly. "Well, quite the progress."
"Great! That means we can go out!" Tobio clapped twice. "Let's not waste time anymore! Let's go, team!"
Danhauser took a deep breath and nodded. "Alright. Show us the way, Tobio."
"… An Arcade Room?" Danhauser Belial said aloud to keep up with the noisy machines.
"Yeah!" Tobio Ikuse also raised his voice. "Awesome, isn't it?"
"Loudly is the word I'd use," Valerie Tepes retorted, adjusting the bag hanging on her shoulder.
"I know right?" Sae Toujou agreed with a sigh. "The place is obnoxious in so different ways, but for an unknown reason, I find myself coming here more than I should."
Valerie kept inspecting the zone. "I... have never seen such a collection of machinery and people before."
"Come on, girls!" Tobio groaned. "Don't start judging the place, you'll love it!"
Bova Tannin pulled his head out of Valerie's bag. "Remind me why I need to be in a bag?"
"Animals are not allowed in here," the Dhampir calmly answered, shrugging. "Yes, that includes dragons."
Bova growled. "Not fair." He sank inside once again.
Danhauser simply massaged his aching temple. "Hey, Tobio. Could you please tell whoever runs this place to put some loud Dubstep? My headache is barely reacting."
Slash Dog rolled his eyes. "Stop whining, boss. There's a place to sit if you're not ready to play, not so far away from here."
"I think I've seen it when we stepped inside," Siegfried finally spoke, turning around and walking away. "I'll keep an eye out. Have fun."
Danhauser bit his lips and looked behind his shoulder, just by looking at the brunet's face made him feel bad. "… I'll make sure he doesn't do anything stupid, in a second I'll join you guys." He looked at Tobio in the eye. "When I come back, I'll beat you in any game of your choice, sounds good?"
The Japanese blinked, twice before breaking into a laugh. "I'd love to see you try, boss!"
Belial smiled and playfully punched his shoulder. "You did well in making this event. I figured you should know that." He pulled out his wallet, lending it at Tobio. "Here's the fatty, play as many games as you want, buy toys, food, you know the drill. Thank you."
The Japanese rubbed his arm, wincing and taking the King's cash. "Go find the idiot."
Danhauser nodded and walked away.
Tobio addressed the silent group, tossing the wallet into the air. "So anything you want to try out first?"
"What do you mean?" Sae curved an eyebrow, cocking her hip. "Aren't you going to play your shooting games?"
Tobio paled at her words.
…
Sae's green eyes softened, she reached out. "… Hey, Tobi are you alright?"
Slash Dog quickly shook his head. "Huh?" He blinked. "Oh, sorry, I just… remembered something unpleasant. Everything's good now, though!"
Valerie frowned. "Are you certain? You'd looked as if you'd saw a… ghost."
The Japanese laughed it off weakly. "Yeah, completely fine over here! I just don't feel like playing those games."
The girls shared a mutual glance.
"Anyways!" Tobio pocketed the wallet. "Why don't we play that game you love so much, Sae?"
Sae blinked in surprise. "You wanna play Just Dance?" Her eyes widened slightly at the eager nod. "You told me you hated that game!"
He moved his hands over her shoulders. "Well! People change perspectives now and then! Don't you think?"
Before Sae could voice her opinion, the brunet began thrusting her forward. "H-hey! I can move on my own! Stop it!"
"…" Valerie just watched the fumbling girl getting pushed away by her childhood friend.
She felt a harsh movement coming from her bag, she glanced down to see the head of a lizard glaring at her.
"What's wrong with him?" Bova said, pursuing them with his gaze. "He's acting weird."
"I know," the light-blonde muttered, following in a slowish pace. "Hm. You'll have to ask Mr. Belial about this, Mr. Tannin."
Bova spared her with a questioning stare, conscious of the Dhampir not sharing her thoughts made the Dragon grunt and sank deeper into the bag.
"So, what's up?" Danhauser dropped on the seat beside the silver-haired. "Why the edgy attitude?"
Siegfried frowned, arms folded. "I'm afraid I'm not following, Master."
"First, don't call me 'Master' in public places, the odd stares we're getting are turning annoying," Danhauser grunted, making the peace-sign. "Second, why'd you leave? Tobio took his time to make this for us, you know?"
The Knight broke eye contact with a huff. "Well, maybe I'm feeling edgy today."
"I'm sorry, but, there can only be one edgelord on this Peerage." Danhauser wiggled his eyebrows. "Guess who has earned that title?"
Siegfried grunted and rested his chin on a balled fist, watching the Arcade Machines with the slightest interest. "… You wouldn't understand."
Danhauser shrugged. "Try me."
The Knight snorted indignantly. "You'll make fun of me."
The King scoffed. "Please, remember how you were defeated with a tiny knife by…" Danhauser stopped after seeing the warning glare. "Right. The point being, I won't make fun of you, you're my Knight, my job is to make sure everyone's fine."
The former Exorcist took deep breaths and spared constant, suspicious glances at his Master. Siegfried cocked his head down like a scolded child and muttered something that not even Danhauser's enhanced hearing could translate.
Danhauser blinked, putting a hand behind his ear and shifted his head closely. "Sorry, what?"
The swordsman angrily massaged his nose. "… I don't know how to play."
Belial jerked his head back, blinking. "… Really? That's the issue?" He saw his Knight nod insecurely. "… Why?"
He rubbed his neck, drawing some air. "The Orthodox Church prohibited distracting ourselves from any kind of entertainment," he responded. "Back then, it was wake up in the morning, train, eat, missions, train, sleep and repeat." He hummed. "That was our cycle."
Danhauser stared unblinkingly. "You guys are not machines," he pointed out. "I get why your training was strict, after all, I'm doing the same thing. But at least I let you guys have a rest and have fun."
Siegfried frowned. "I didn't mind honestly," he glared the building's entrance. "That's what worries me a lot, every time the thought of kicking a ball did cross my mind here and then, but it was immediately replaced by the Church's regimen." He bit his cheek. "But why?"
"What would happen if you tried to have fun?"
"…" He glanced upward, his mouth pursed but slightly open and loose. "In the Orthodox Church, everyone has the same hair color and eyes. Silver and red respectively with the exception of the higher-ups. We were known for our soldier-like attitude amongst the many Churches Installations. Some of them, however, began asking particular questions…"
"… Remember any of them?" Danhauser softly asked.
"How we ended up here?" The former Exorcist instantly answered. "Who are our parents? Sometimes they asked about what it feels to fall in love, play games, and many other things. Whenever someone asked or spoke about those subjects, they were promptly sent into a room that no one dared to enter, including myself." He snickered humorlessly. "They'd stayed there for the whole day, sometimes two—some of them were brave enough to take a peek or eavesdrop, only to be pulled inside, too."
Siegfried's hands started to shake a bit, but he continued. "Whenever they came back, they were different from what we knew from them. No one questioned it, we didn't want to face the same thing, we just stayed quiet, but deep inside, the questions bombarded us…"
"They were brainwashed," Danhauser answered.
"Those were one of my many assumptions," Siegfried massaged his temple.
"He looked frustrated, trying to articulate it, but I could still see his point." Danhauser stayed silent, he didn't obviously know the answer to that question, even if he had read the Lights Novels, much to his surprise and chagrin. He could only awkwardly pat his knight's shoulder, offering a small sign of comfort. "They're hiding something."
The Heir looked back at the quieter Knight, retracting his hand. "In other words, you're following orders?"
Siegfried nodded nimbly.
Danhauser hummed and stood up, dusting his pants. "I see." He looked at his Knight with a smile. "I order you to have fun, then."
Siegfried wore a puzzled expression.
Belial chose to ignore it. "What? Have you forgotten who your leader is?" Danhauser asked with a small chuckle. "You don't have to follow their orders, not anymore."
His mind was still a surging perplexity.
Danhauser, however, continued. "Stand up and let's go with the others. I promised Tobio that I'll crush him in any game, but..." He shot him a wink. "… If you order now, I'll throw in a second beating only for you, absolutely free."
Siegfried let his words sink in, suddenly finding himself leaning back on his seat, laughing heartily.
Finally, waving his apology, he stood up with a grin. "Just because you're my Master doesn't mean I need to hold back against you, as the descendant of a Heroic Figure, I can't just back down from a challenge, even if I'm at a disadvantage."
"Let's see what the future Strongest Swordsman can do, then."
He walked through the list of places she could be in his mind, checking off the ones he had already searched. As he gazed around the building. As much fun he had with his Peerage, Sae Toujou, and Valerie Tepes, it was the time to return back to the Belial Territory and ready themselves for any incoming attacks from either the Agency or Hexennacht.
"Bova told me she was around here," Danhauser softly yawned as his eyes darted from empty Arcade Machines to one full of teenagers.
He frowned when sights of her haven't made it in his vision. Then it occurred to him that you often find something as you tidy up. He sifted and sorted his eyes were constantly on the look-out for any gorgeous blonde girl that might be part of the picture frame he was looking for.
Lucky him, his head at least is now finally healed, no headache that appeared whenever it pleases.
"There she is," Danhauser curved an eyebrow after catching sight of her, he began walking. "Never thought she'd be interested in that game."
"Claw machine, eh?" Danhauser said, standing beside her. "I see these games more of trying to empty out your pockets than rewarding you."
He looked beside him, wincing after regarding the small scowl featured on her face. "Sorry, never meant to scare you."
Valerie inhaled, parting her hand away from her heart. "It is fine." She assured him, focusing on the cabinet again.
Danhauser folded his arms, gesturing at the plush toys. "One of them peeked your interest?"
"… Yes." Valerie responded uncertainly.
Danhauser grinned and shifted his hands to the glass, even with that horrendous background of hers, she's still a curious girl from the inside.
He blinked those thoughts away, focusing on the toys. "Which one? The cute dog? Or the little pig with a hat? Or perhaps the princess with—!"
"The spider with a skull on it."
"…Oh." Danhauser located the plush toy, just as she'd said, it was a fluffy, black tarantula but with a white, skull-like drawn on the abdomen. "Huh, the Skulltula?"
Valerie tilted her head, moving closer to the cabinet. "Skulltula?"
"Yeah," the gray-haired yanked his palms away. "It's from a video game I played long ago. Good times."
"I see."
"Right," Danhauser drawled with pursed lips.
…
An idea popped into his mind, he brought a hand inside his pocket, paying no mind at Valerie's constant side-glances.
Finally, he pulled his wallet, shaking it at her. "Let's give it a shot, shall we?"
"…" The Dhampir just blinked those, dark, red orbs that tweaked with curiosity as the Devil inserted a single coin.
Danhauser wrapped a hand around the joystick, giving it a few pulls to the side to test it. Nodding in acceptance, he began hunting after the stuffed arachnid.
"Do you know how to play this game, Mr. Belial?" Valerie questioned, eyes locked on the metallic claw.
Danhauser playfully winked at her. "If my brother is known as the Emperor of the Rating Game, then I am the Emperor of the Claw Crane."
Valerie scoffed in response, though she was sporting a small grin.
"How was your night yesterday?" Danhauser asked without looking away from the game. "Hopefully no ghosts trying to tickle your feet?"
"It was alright," Valerie responded with a shrug. "Unfortunately, a single spirit still decided to make its presence known."
Danhauser paused the claw, slowly resuming. "I never heard your screams."
"Because I didn't," the doll affirmed. "I knew this one from quite a time now, they're different from others."
The Devil spared her a quick side-glance. "Really now?" He noted her cute hum. "What makes it different then?"
"They never asked for freedom," the blonde girl replied, chewing her lip. "They just keep babbling with that distorted, fearful voice, almost impossible to understand, sketchy messages, describing me… a weird creature."
"A creature?"
"A creature," she repeated. "A massive monstrosity as big as a mountain, multiple, colossal wings that could hide the sun and bring forth dark times, for each step, earthquakes and volcanoes fissures ripped open in response to its tyranny." She took a pause. "They always called it Beast."
"…"
"…"
"…"
The blonde girl continued watching how the claw began descending after the toy and makes an attempt to grip it… only to grab the air.
The teenagers saw the claw move over an opening in the corner of the case and release absolutely nothing.
…
"Wow," Valerie feigned awe. "Your remarkable skills are truly showing off, Emperor of the Claw Crane."
"Ha-ha," Danhauser glared whilst breaking into a sudden smile as he tucked another coin. "How...?"
Once again, he targeted the very same toy, his thumb teasingly caressing the trigger button as the claw awaited for next orders.
As if an omnipotent being snapped their impatience, Danhauser pressed the button and observed the claw dived hungrily after the toy, successfully snatching it from the ground.
"Done and done," Danhauser mentally patted himself on the back, observing the claw discarded the prize into the opening and dispensed through a chute into a hatch for collection.
Belial dropped to a knee and took his reward, slowly standing up. "You know? It looks nice," he commented, carefully inspecting the Skulltula. "As much as I hate insects…"
"Congratulations," Valerie said with a cramped smile. "I take my words back, you are good playing with this machine."
Danhauser watched the toy then at the girl, repeating the same action before shaking his head. "I was just joking. The Claw Machine is a game of luck, that's all." He smiled and offered the fluffed tarantula, shaking it. "Take it, it's all yours."
Her eyes widened slightly, pointing to herself. "… Pardon me?"
"You told me you liked it, right?" Danhauser never waited for her response, rubbing his neck. "Then take it as a memory of this time, or… yeah."
Valerie gave a wry look, her arms reluctantly went after the toy, gripping it. "I...I am uncertain what to say. You must wish something in return, certainly."
Danhauser waved her off. "It's simply a present. For you."
The Dhampir hummed discreetly, hugging the spider closer to her chest and sniffing it quickly. "I have... never received a gift. Not one that did not also come with a price attached."
She looked up at him. "Perhaps there is a price to pay, yet?" She chuckled sardonically but gave the warmest smile she could shape. "Ehehehe… If so, its deserved. Thank you, truly."
"No problem," Danhauser gave an awkward cough. "It's time to go back to the manor, Valerie, are you ready?"
Valerie nodded softly. "Right behind you, Mr. Belial."
…
…
…
"Is that all, Danhauser?" The black-haired woman asked, sitting in the middle of her own bed whilst facing her youngest son.
"Yes, mother," Danhauber Belial shuffled on the sofa and nodded, looking back at those red, narrowed eyes of hers. "I'm fighting a group of terrorist and Stray Magicians with the help of Mephisto Pheles, Valerie Tepes, and my Peerage. I speak the truth and only the truth."
"…" Calcabrina Belial kept her blank expression. "You killed someone?"
He looked away from her gaze, finding comfort in his shoes. "… Yes. Two Magicians and a lion. It was all self-defense, I swear."
For a second he thought Calcabrina was about to get loud, vent, blows off her steam and press Danhauser's guilt buttons without mercy. He was colored impressed when his mother slipped from the bed and left without a word. When she'd closed the door, he felt his face morph into relief, then fear, and finally curiosity.
He doesn't understand why. Why is he still afraid of her? Gilles of Rais is a different case, but why her of all people? He had fought a dragon multiple occasions, a group of terrorists, a Longinus User with Holy Flames, he even looked at Rudiger Rosenkreutz in the eye! But against her? He felt like a scolded dog. It made him feel pathetic.
He looked up at the door when a soft click echoed across the gigantic room, it was his mother walking casually with her longed trident on her clenched hand.
Danhauser stirred and gulped.
Calcabrina traced her finger over the black painting of the weapon. "School is over until further notice. From Monday to Friday in the morning, you'll be training with your spear and Malebranche trait with me. Afternoon, you'll be under the care of your brother or go with your Peerage. You choose."
Danhauser was white as a chalk. He rapidly shook his head. "Wait, what? Why are you doing this?"
Lady Belial curved an eyebrow, spinning her trident. "Because my brother isn't going to come here for a long time. Your mastery over the spear and your Malebranche Clan Trait will decrease drastically."
"Not that," Danhauser gaped. "Aren't… aren't you not going to scold me, punish me or something?"
Calcabrina laughed bitterly. "Castigate you on what, exactly? For killing people to save your skin? Dear, your behavior differs from other teenagers. You only train, interact with us and sleep the rest of the day, there's nothing I can forbid you to do." She paused, staring deeply. "You want me to prohibit you from getting stronger? I can't because you need it now than ever… I'm just disappointed."
Danhauser felt his heart twist. "I… I don't know what to say."
"Then don't address the subject and move on to the next one," She said firmly. "What I want to know next is what's your wish? What do you want to become when you become a full adult?"
"My wish?" Danhauser parroted, eliciting a nod from his mother. "I don't have a wish, but I have two goals. I want to become a Super Devil." He noticed her eyes stretching. "… and I want to be the next Champion of the Rating Games."
"… Like Diehauser and Malacoda, you'll compete in the Rating Games." She muttered to herself, almost disappointed. "Becoming a Super Devil is by sheer training, but become the next Champion? You understand that you'll have to defeat your brother and his Peerage filled with the third most powerful team right behind Beelzebub and Lucifer?"
Danhauser rubbed his neck. "I understand."
Calcabrina heaved a sigh. "Then let us jump quickly to the next topic… a nickname."
Danhauser curved an eyebrow, arms folded. "I already have a nickname, its Dan or Danny."
His mother shook her head. "Those are more of an affectionate nickname between close ones. What are we seeking is a nickname that makes you known in the Underworld. Your brother is known as The Emperor of the Rating Games. Malacoda is infamously known as Evil Tail. Gilles? Bluebeard. Myself? Grace Stomper…"
"I see," Danhauser bit his cheek, tapping his chin whilst putting his mind to work.
He snapped his fingers. "How about Dan the Man?"
Calcabrina deadpanned. "No."
Danhauser winced. "Fine. Give me some time, please."
…
…
…
It took him a while before cracking into a small laugh.
The raven-haired gazed at him confusedly. "What is it?"
"I think I have one." Her son slowly perked up from the sofa, facing her. "How about Heir of the Rating Game?"
Lady Belial blinked unexpectedly. "Huh, what a cocky title." She planted her trident in the floor, arms folded beneath her bust. "What makes you think you'll be the next Champion?"
"I'm a Belial," he said.
Calcabrina looked amused. "Good enough." Her expression dropped and quickly ripped half of her long skirt, exposing her endowed legs.
"Mom!" Danhauser looked away, raising a hand to hide the woman before him. "W-what are you doing?"
She tossed the shredded silk behind her shoulder. "My dress is long and it prevents me from moving faster." She sat on her bed and struggled on pulling out her high-heels. "If I had my full-body outfit then things would be so different."
"Well, at least her underwear isn't showing." Danhauser sighed.
With the last grunt, she raised her footwear to eye level, glaring. "I hate these so much." She stood barefoot, hands over her hips. "… These are the rules, you will not call me mother during our sparrings, I am Calcabrina Malebranche, not Belial. Understood?"
"Yes, moth… Lady."
Calcabrina pursed her lips. "… I'll be honest with you. I don't like the idea of you participating in the Rating Games …" She gritted her teeth, harshly yanking the trident out from the floor. "… How both Peerages injured one another for the pleasure of the spectators, those bastards, and to think half of the family is involved."
"…"
She pushed a few locks behind her ear. "Like Malacoda and Diehauser, I won't support you nor watch any games you participate."
Danhauser never had the change of speaking, quickly moving aside just in time to narrowly evade the incoming swing of his mother. "What the hell!" He crouched to dodge the next one. "W-wait! I don't have a spear with me!"
Calcabrina never hesitated her attacks. "Mistake number one, Danhauser! Always carry your weapon!"
"This crazy old—!" Danhauser yelped when he tripped on the bed, rolling to avoid decapitation at the hands of his mother.
His butt and hands dragged him into the nearest wall, he clutched tightly the sheets underneath him. "You almost killed me!"
Calcabrina chuckled quietly, the glint on her orbs sent a chill on his spine. "Good thing the Sephiroth Graal is here, hmm?"
He felt the sweat on his temple. "Want to play that way?" He bent his leg whilst his mother readied her weapon. "Fine by me!"
Faster than he could ever blink, Danhauser rocketed his feet at Calcabrina's cheek and to his surprise, the woman was sent flying into an obstruction, cobwebs had been formed on the wall after her landing.
"Shit," Danhauser watched wide-eyed as she fell limply on the floor. He carefully moved out of his bed, gulping. "Hey, mom are you—!"
"You have good reflexes," Calcabrina complimented, slowly picking herself up. "But you're holding yourself back. You can't soften your attacks against your foes."
She rolled her neck and spat a small drop of blood, taking a fighting stance. "Get ready."
Danhauser watched his own reflection in her blood-red eyes, in attempts to see if she's just making a mere jest.
She's a crazy woman.
So crazy that this training could become handy.
Danhauser took a deep breath and nodded gravely, snapping his fingers as multiples ripples formed behind him, different constructions slowly aiming at her threateningly.
"Right," he said, quietly. "I'll make sure you regret this."
Congratulations for those who founded the reference.
Yeah, not gonna lie. When I was making this story, I was thinking on nicknaming Danhauser "Dan the Man." That was until I asked my family and friends thoughts. Holy damn, that was one of my biggest regrets of all times.
But seeing this on a good light. Their reactions were good enough to make me think this deep in thought. I will not use it. I fucking cringed when I said it loudly. Maybe I will, but not taking it seriously.
So, I went with the "Heir of the Rating Game." Yeah, I'm not really that good making nicknames, who knows? In the future maybe I will.
Nothing else to say here. Cheers.
Next Chapter: One Thing After Another.
