This is the 2nd chapter of the 4-chapter update.


Chapter 45: The Closing Curtains

While Sairaorg dealt with getting the cure, Vali decided to do her own investigative work.

She'd had her suspicions as to how and why Sairaorg and his peerage were sent on such a perilous mission. It made no sense. Marching over to Sirzech's office, Vali entered.

"Is something wrong, Vali?" Sirzechs asked.

"I'll assume you've heard the news? It's related to your cousin, after all?" Vali asked.

"What news?" Sirzechs raised a brow.

"Kuisha was poisoned. Sairaorg and his peerage were sent on a mission to deal with trouble in Italy. Now, Kuisha's lying in a hospital, slowly dying in agony." Vali pointed out.

Sirzechs had a disturbed look creep across his face.

"What?" He flatly asked.

"Then you weren't made aware either. That does it." Vali said.

"What're you thinking, Vali?" Sirzechs asked.

"I'm thinking about the whole scheme behind this. Someone tried to have Sairaorg killed and make it look like it was a casualty in battle. For a fact, if so many people were injured going after such a threat, then you'd send more experienced and powerful devils after it." Vali noted.

"What threat? We didn't even assign any hunts within the past week." Sirzechs calmly said as he stood up.

"What?!" Vali was baffled.

"It's as you suspected. Then again, I had a feeling that someone would do something sooner or later. Ever since the Rating Games between the youth ended, I had my suspicions that someone would try something. People tried to defame you and the Lucifers, to start. And now, Sairaorg was targeted for death. It makes sense with the both of you, since you're both from the two strongest families among the 72 Pillars. You're also both the direct heirs to your houses. Either there are people who want to claim your positions or they want to eliminate you because your credible threats to your enemy's plans." Sirzechs explained.

"But why Sairaorg, specifically? If it were an outsider, then that would mean that they could've gone after the rest of the family as well or they may have not gotten to them yet. But on the off-hand that it's not…and it's someone from the inside…" Vali trailed off.

"Then it's also obvious that they want Sairaorg out the way so that they can take back what they may have lost." Sirzechs finished.

"And they must have a relatively high position in order to keep things from reaching your attention." Vali surmised.

"They must also have connections with the outside world in order to have such a mysterious creature show up in the middle of nowhere outside our realm." Sirzechs continued.

Vali pivoted, about to continue her investigation.

"Hold on just a moment, Vali," Sirzechs stopped her.

"What is it?"

"Where's Issei?" The Satan asked.

"He disappeared the moment he found out about the attack. He went with us to the hospital and as soon as the others told us everything, and the symptoms Kuisha showed, he disappeared." Vali replied.

"Any idea what he might be up to?" Sirzechs asked.

"He's probably out looking for a cure. He looked really interested in what happened and kept asking questions. It was as if he knew or had an idea behind everything, at least." Vali answered again.

"I see. Regardless, I think it's best that we keep this between us right now. Let no one know about our discussion. There may be eyes and ears about us. Also, tell the others to keep quiet as well. We don't want the perpetrators to be alerted by our awareness." Sirzechs warned.

"What're you thinking?" Vali asked this time.

"I'm thinking we should hide our intentions in plain sight. Let's play dumb until we can catch them. I want you to take this. It's something that I had Ajuka make." Sirzechs handed her several talismans.

"Talismans for good luck. I think it's something you'd all like." Sirzechs smiled reassuringly.

"But why so many?" Vali asked.

"Give them to everyone involved. Now that you all are aware of this, the enemy might try to kill you all if they know you're onto their schemes. I want you all to be safe since every citizen here is extended family to me." Sirzechs answered.

"Thanks, I'll make sure to keep my head on straight." Vali nodded.


When she returned to the hospital, Kuisha was now panting. Her face was flushed as sweat dripped down her face as if there was light rain.

"How's her condition?" Vali asked Corianna.

"Not good. She's only getting worse." She nervously said.

"I brought these. Sirzechs said that they're for good luck." Vali shrugged.

"So, any word on Sairaorg?" She followed up.

"No. He's still gone. I think he called your grandfather but he said not to worry about him." Ladora shook his head.

"I see. In any case, I should go talk to his family, first. They'll want to know what's happened to Kuisha, especially Misla." Vali said.

She then turned to her peerage.

"Stay here and keep an eye on things. If something happens, make sure to call me." She said.

"You got it." Kuroka nodded.


Misla was waiting at Sairaorg's home, preparing some food and drink. She had yet to be told of what had transpired, but thankfully, Vali was there to do that. She entered the house and into the kitchen, greeting Imbara.

"Hello, Lady Vali."

"Hello, Imbara. Where's Misla?" Vali asked.

"In the kitchen. She is still waiting for the return of Lord Sairaorg and the others." The Maid said.

"I see."

"S-Sir, Issei isn't with you, is he?" Imbara nervously asked.

"Hahahaha! No, he's not. He's taking care of other stuff right now." Vali shook her head, giggling.

"Thank the forefathers." Imbara muttered.

When Vali entered the kitchen, she waited for Misla to put her kettle down. She might drop it after hearing the news.

"Ah, Vali, welcome." Misla walked over for a hug.

"How are you doing?" Vali asked.

"I'm doing quite well. Thanks to your Pawn, I've never felt better." Misla gestured for Vali to sit.

"Where's Sairaorg and the others? They were supposed to have been on a mission and left earlier today." Misla said.

"That's the thing, Misla. I know what I'm about to say isn't easy to hear, but…" Vali trailed off.

Misla could already imagine what it was that Vali would say. Her hands went to cover the incoming gasp and yelp.

"Kuisha's been poisoned. She was wounded taking a hit for Sairaorg and they're trying to find a cure for her." Vali solemnly said.

"No…" Misla shook her head in disbelief.

Vali walked over to envelop her in a hug.

"It'll be okay, I promise."

If Issei and Sairaorg were out on the move, then she was certain that they'd get everything done as quickly as possible. She knew that everything would be okay. If Issei was on the job, it'd all be alright.

"She's become like a daughter to me." Misla sighed.

"I'm sure. That's why we'll all do what we can for her." Vali promised.

"How can I help?" Misla asked.

Vali was tempted to ask questions, but she recalled what Sirzechs said. There may be eyes and ears listening in on their every move. She had to be careful.

"For now, just be patient. We're doing the best we can." Vali said.

She wanted to reprimand herself for wasting the opportunity, but she had to approach things this way.

"How about you go stay with my grandma for now? I'm sure they'll be of great comfort for you. I also don't like the idea of you being here alone for who-knows-how-long. It's never a good idea to be alone in a house with no one proper to talk to. Maybe you should take Imbara too for company." Vali suggested.

She wasn't sure if the other servants were betraying them either.

"I-I can't just leave the manor empty till the others get home." Misla shook her head.

She had made it her mission to provide a warm hearth for everyone to return to after every outing and task. She wanted to be the mother of the home who was always waiting with a warm meal, an ear to lend, a shoulder to cry on, and a source of comfort for Sairaorg and his peerage. It was one of her only ways to compensate for her long years of sleep.

"I know, but that won't do as you are now. Besides, the others may stay at the hospital to watch Kuisha. So, for now, I think it's best that you stay with my family so that you have someone you know and share a bond with to talk to. One thing my best friend always says is that it's good to talk about your feelings and to get things out. If not, it'll be like poison for your mind and heart." Vali winked.

"And who's your best friend?" Misla asked curiously.

"It's Issei Hyoudou, the same man who got the cure for you." Vali giggled.

"I see. It's very fortunate that you got a hold of him when you did. His big heart could probably span the continent." Misla laughed.

"It probably does." Vali nodded in agreement.


When she, Misla, and Imbara returned to the Lucifer Mansion, Vali pulled her grandparents to the side with a mere glance. It seemed to be a sign of deep trust and familial care if anyone in the Lucifer House could communicate with eye contact. It wasn't that they were telepathic, rather, it was because they just knew each other that well.

'We need to talk.' Vali looked at Rizevim and Ezagyra.

The three went into Rizevim's office.

'Let's ensure complete privacy.' He looked at Vali.

Snapping his fingers, magic circles appeared all over the walls and objects in the room. Vali looked at the talisman in her jacket.

"Ah, one of Sirzech's good luck charms." Rizevim chuckled.

He snapped his fingers, removing the magic circle on it.

"No reason to negate a good luck charm." Rizevim smirked.

"So, what's going on?" Ezagyra asked.

"I think a conspiracy is going on. Someone's trying to have Sairaorg killed." Vali said.

"Tell me everything." Rizevim narrowed his eyes.

After summarizing the events that had happened thus far, Rizevim and Ezagyra understood what was happening.

"I see. Well, I've seen this kind of thing before and it wasn't uncommon in the past after many of the original demons died. There were a lot of battles, assassinations, and wars held for the selection of new House Leaders. This isn't something that I can exactly rule as an assassination attempt. It's a tad bit far-fetched." Rizevim stood up, pacing.

"But it's no coincidence that Sirzechs doesn't know a thing about it." Vali said.

"That's also true. Which is why I think we should continue until we have new prompts. I think you're a little quick to point the finger." Rizevim remarked.

"I'm just trying to- " Vali was cut off by Rizevim.

"I think you should go out and relax. You're obviously winded from the very long past few days. It wasn't long before you and Issei got back from your trip with the Amazons too. How about you go to Azazel, hm?" Rizevim suggested.

"I've got some medicine that I wanted from him, actually. Think you can go drop it off?" Ezagyra handed her an envelope.

"Why're you two acting so calm?" Vali asked.

"Well, we think you're overreacting. Just go out there and get some fresh air. I promise, you'll think more clearly." Ezagyra winked.

"Fine." Vali groaned.


The trip to Grigori was simple in goal. Azazel had become a good friend to the family within the past several years. All she had to do was go to his office.

"Making another crazy invention?" Vali asked.

"Ah, Vali. Come on in." Azazel grinned.

"My grandma wants a prescription filled." Vali shrugged.

Azazel read the letter, smirking as his eyes blazed through it.

"Your grandma wants to have some fun tonight." He grinned.

"TMI, Azazel." Vali sighed.

"Well, anyways, I'll get the medicine ready for her. It should help for their nightly activities. Heck, Sirzechs wants the same thing too." Azazel chuckled.

"What is it?" Vali asked.

"It's a muscle relaxant and stress reliever. My scientists love it. It helps with long shifts and such." Azazel nodded.

"I see. Well, I guess I'll be heading out now." Vali said.

"Be careful tonight. Your grandma and grandpa are gonna make a lot of noise." Azazel called over.

"Ugh! Too much information!" Vali groaned.

"You might get an uncle or aunt who's younger than you soon!" Azazel continued.

"Azazel, I swear I'll Half Dimension the hair on your scalp!" Vali threatened.


After she left Grigori, she headed for the next place that she felt that she would get useful information. The Bael Central Estate.

It was a massive place, rivalling the Lucifer Estate in size, though with more servants and security. When Vali looked at it, it seemed more like a prison rather than anything else. It didn't have a shred of homeliness that Sairaorg's abode had.

When she stepped up to the gates, two guards stood fast. However, one look in her eyes, and they knew what to do. They opened the way for her.

"And to what do we owe this pleasure?" Someone said.

Vali only scowled before turning around. A woman with long black hair and green eyes walked up to her. She wore a noble's dress that was colored red with gold designs and jewelry. However, what made Vali despise her were the arrogant and detesting eyes this woman had. This woman was none other than Lady Ophelna Bael, the mother of Magdaran Bael, the former heir to the Bael Clan. She was also Sairaorg's stepmother.

"Welcome to the Bael Manor, Lady Vali." Ophelna bowed.

"Yes, it's a pleasure, Lady Bael." Vali curtsied in response.

"Do you have any business with anyone here?" Ophelna asked.

"Yes, I wanted to speak with Magdaran." Vali said.

Ophelna's brow twitched at the sound of his name.

"Yes, he's in his garden, tending to his plants." She calmly said.

Vali didn't miss the disapproval in her eyes and body-language, however.

"I see. Then, please excuse me." Vali Bowed politely before walking away.

She hated dealing with the Bael House and its members. They were horrifically arrogant and prideful. They were capable of nothing, mooching off past achievements and yet, they claimed to be superior to others. Most of all, she'd never forgive their treatment of Sairaorg, Misla, and Magdaran Bael.

The Bael Garden was massive, with fauna and little animals of all kinds from all over the Underworld being there. In the distance, in the farthest corners of the area, was a greenhouse. It was plated with tiles, with transparent glass and a simple metal frame.

Vali knocked on the entrance before entering. Inside, she found a young man that was a bit younger than her in there. He had short black hair and green eyes and wore a purple long-sleeved jacket with white pants and black shoes.

"Hello, Magdaran." Vali politely greeted him.

"Hello, Vali." Magdaran returned to his several rows of potted plants.

"Wow, they've certainly grown since the last time I saw them." Vali said, admiring the flowers and fruits.

"Well, it wasn't easy, but they're doing well." Magdaran nodded.

"Has your family been treating you well?" Vali asked.

Magdaran was quiet for a moment.

"They mostly just ignore me like usual." He replied.

"I see. Has Sairaorg been here yet?" Vali asked.

"Yeah, he still visits often. He even offered to be the mascot for Bael's apples again during my next expo." Magdaran answered, a small smile on his face.

"That's great!" Vali exclaimed.

"Still, I'm sure you didn't come here just to admire the plants." Magdaran said, giving her a look.

"No, I didn't. I wanted to ask if you've got some herbs. My grandma wants some medicine and I'm here to get some herbs that you've got." Vali said.

"Of course. Do you have a list?" Magdara asked.

Vali handed him the paper. When he saw it, he raised a brow and nodded. The ingredients that Vali wanted were necessary for a basis for all healing potions. It was a formula that Magdaran knew well.

Bagging the herbs, Magdaran handed them to Vali.

"It's a shame that your family doesn't appreciate your talents. Your herbs help countless people." Vali remarked.

"It's fine with me as long as they don't cause me trouble. Ever since Sairaorg told them off, they've avoided me. It's a bit liberating, but I'll admit, it's sad." Magdaran said.

"You still want your family together, no matter what." Vali voiced his inner thoughts.

Magdaran only nodded.

"I used to do whatever I could to please my parents. I wanted the family to get closer. I would think back to how Sairaorg was with Lady Misla and how others were with their families. I used to be envious." Magdaran sighed.

"Sadly, I realized that'd never happen a long time ago. That envy turned into resentment towards Sairaorg. I resented him because I felt that he took away any sort of happiness that the family had by being born or by being the source of my parents ire. When he left, I thought they'd transferred that ire to me. My parents even convinced me to loathe him for not inheriting the Power of Destruction. But, now I know better. I was wrong. It was always my parents that were in the wrong. You're typical Pure-Blood, High-Class, arrogance." Magdaran derisively chuckled.

"It wasn't your fault. It was your parents' fault. We're only products of our environment." Vali shook her head.

"But I still took part in it. When Sairaorg beat me in a fight to inherit the right to succession, I loathed him even more. I felt like everything I'd done was for nothing, gone within an instant. That was also wrong of me. It was a feeling of self-entitlement that I'd developed. Now, I know better. The only ones who cared about me were my peerage, my brother, and my stepmother. They're my real family." Magdaran said.

"The only one who recognized and encouraged me was Sairaorg. He never held anything against me and kept pushing me forwards. That's why I'll always stand by my brother. No matter who threatens him. Of course, I can source all of this to my father." Magdaran said, giving Vali a certain look.

Vali paused. When he looked at her, it was kind of similar to the way she and her family and peerage would look at each other. It was like trying to talk with eye contact. Magdaran was trying to tell her something.

"My father always resented him because he brought shame to the family's name. My mother hated him because he symbolized the fact that she couldn't keep my father's attention for herself. Even the entire clan hated him because he didn't live up to their ridiculous expectations. I'm sure my father's out there, right now, just brooding." Magdaran said.

"I see. He certainly does hate Sairaorg a lot." Vali nodded.

"Still, I'm sure he'll be okay. My brother isn't so weak that he'd drop out simply because people hated him." Magdaran said.

"No, he's not." Vali agreed.

Giving Magdaran thanks, Vali left.


Vali went walking in the streets of Lilith, thinking to herself.

'So, it's Sairaorg's father who's involved. Arcturcus Bael. It makes sense. Because of the incident with his succession, he lost his position. When Magdaran was defeated and stepped down from his position as heir to the Bael House, Arcturcus lost any hopes of having any control in the family. That means he's trying to strike back at Sairaorg.' Vali said to herself.

Now, she needed to get concrete evidence on him to persecute him. That meant she'd have to go to Italy to look for evidence. Just as she was about to head there, she got a call from Issei.

"Where are you?!" Vali demanded, upset.

"I'm in Italy right now. I want you all to be on the lookout. I don't know what's happening, but I've got a bad feeling. That's why you need to warn Sairaorg and stick close to him." Issei said.

"Actually, Issei…" Vali started.

She explained to Issei what her and Sairaorg's plan was.

"I see. If that's the case, then someone needs to go deal with the other head of the snake. I'm currently gathering evidence right now. I'll be sure to send it to you soon." Issei said.

"Wait, Issei!" Vali tried to stop him before he ended his call.

Something was off. He seemed so much broodier and serious than usual. He didn't have a pleasant and passive face on. He was frowning as if someone had just crossed him and he even looked a bit stressed.

Suddenly, a box materialized in front of her, courtesy of object teleportation from Issei. Opening it, there was a vile with wispy essence inside. It was similar to that crimson and black energy that came from the Power of Destruction and there was a piece of…

"IYAAA!" Vali shrieked, tears peppering the corners of her eyes.

It was a box of flesh! It was blue and scaly with blood still dripping from it. There was also a note attached to it.

This is a gland from the serpent that poisoned Kuisha. It's secreting venom. Get this analyzed and tested for an antivenom. The poison's weakened but don't touch it. Use it to help cure Kuisha.

Issei,

Vali sighed in exasperation. She was not expecting a hunk of poison flesh to be mailed to her.


She returned to Grigori, meeting with Azazel and calling Rizevim.

"So, what did you want to talk about?" Azazel asked.

"Issei sent this to me. It should help with curing Kuisha." Vali said.

"I see. Well, an antivenom makes sense but I don't know how long it'll take to make it. It's unlike anything I've seen before." Azazel said, inspecting the fleshy sample while levitating it.

"Please do it as quickly as possible." Vali pleaded.

She then took out the bottle in her pocket.

"Issei also sent this."

Rizevim took a glance at it and narrowed his eyes.

"How did he obtain this? It should be impossible." He muttered.

Azazel took hold of the bottle, taking out massive goggles that made him look like he had the eyes of a fly.

"Hm…indeed. It should be impossible to have this. The Power of Destruction is inside this bottle. As for what this bottle is…it's rather special. It looks like the same material that comprises the metal of Issei's Sacred Gears. In other words, it's Bahamut metal." Azazel said.

"I see. Well, call me when the cure's ready. Sairaorg might be coming with another ingredient any time now." Vali turned around.

"Where're you going?" Rizevim asked.

"I forgot to take out the trash, so I'm heading out to do it now." Vali replied.

Rizevim chuckled.

"Alright, go ahead and do it. I'll help you with the rest of the trash once I'm done with work."


Vali went to Falbium Asmodeus' office. He was the head of warfare planning and tactics. He also had control over mission deployment, security, and matters involving conflicts.

Thanks to her connection to Sirzechs, she was able to bypass the gigantic lines of paperwork that awaited him, meeting with him directly.

"So, how can I help you?" Falbium asked, sighing.

He was currently skimming through mountains of paperwork.

"I wanted to ask you about the mission that Sairaorg and them were assigned to. They were sent to Italy to deal with a creature that was terrorizing the area." Vali said.

"No missions came to me today nor yesterday. Nor did I sign any papers that warranted them going there. The Roman gods hold dominion over there and they haven't even said a word to us at all about such matters. Whatever happened, Sairaorg and them went off on their own." Falbium shook his head.

"That's not what I heard. I was told by Sairaorg and his peerage that due to countless failures, they were the last resort since they were stronger than all of the teams that had been sent to deal with the threat. All missions and dispatches go through your approval before they can happen." Vali replied.

"So, you think I sent them out on a suicide mission? That I did it under the table?" Falbium asked.

"No, but do you know anyone that would do such a thing? You have any assistants that handle smaller missions?" Vali asked.

"I've got one. He helps deal with work that doesn't require my immediate attention." Falbium answered.

Vali saw no reason for Falbium to go after Sairaorg. The two had no bad history and Falbium was already at the top of the devil world. He wasn't the petty type either and if he were corrupted, the other Satans would've already been onto him, given how closely they all worked together.

"What's his name?" Vali asked.

"Teldone Oriax. He's currently in his office right now." Falbium said, his eyes not moving from his papers.

"I see. Thanks." Vali walked away.


Vali knocked on Teldone's office door.

"Come in."

Entering, Vali was met with a middle-aged man. He had long green hair with a goatee and brown eyes. He wore a black suit with a white shirt and green tie.

When he saw her, he immediately stood at attention.

"It is an honor, Lady Vali."

"At ease, Mr. Oriax. I simply came here to talk." Vali said.

That was a lie. Depending on what Oriax said to her, she might possibly hurt him.

"How can I be of service?" Teldone asked.

"I wanted to ask if you had contact with Sairaorg Bael and his peerage within the past day or earlier today." Vali said.

"Yes, I did. I received a form earlier today requesting aid. There was a creature in Italy that required extermination, so I had Lord Sairaorg go. With his great strength and his need to rebuild his reputation, I thought it would be good for him." Teldone replied.

"I see. I was curious about the case and I went to Falbium Asmodeus earlier today. He didn't handle the paperwork, however, and had me come talk to you." Vali said, not breaking eye contact.

She knew he was getting nervous. His foot started tapping and he kept his hands close to himself. He gulped his spit down a few times and he shifted his gazes a few times. He was nervous and he was in trouble.

"What can I answer for you?" Teldone asked.

"I wanted to ask if you could tell what the creature was?" Vali gently asked.

"I'm not sure. The reports said that it was a serpent of some kind. I didn't receive any reports about its abilities." Teldone said.

"I see. And how many other teams had gone before Sairaorg's?" Vali asked.

"I sent 4, all of them were beaten."

"Why was it that it was Sairaorg's team, then? Surely, after 4 peerages were defeated, you'd send a higher ranked Peerage or maybe even had collaboration from other pantheons and factions. Four dead peerages is quite a number in this situation." Vali pointed out.

Teldone cleared his throat, trying to speak.

"Well, it was because I thought Lord Sairaorg was strong enough. His strength already outmatches that of several High-Class Devils. As I mentioned before, I thought he was capable of defeating the serpent."

"Yes, because he needed the help." Vali repeated his reasoning.

Teldone began to sweat, now moving his hands as he spoke.

"The mission was simply a kill mission that the Roman Pantheon asked us to help with. End of story. I don't know anything else." Teldone politely said.

"And any reason why they asked us to?" Vali asked.

"I don't know. Perhaps they wanted to test us and see if we'd be willing to do it." Teldone shook his head.

"I see, but now someone has been wounded and gravely, so. As the dispatcher, you may lose your position and face many legal and financial troubles for your debacle. As the heir to the Bael Clan, having one of his peerage members get poisoned will surely turn many gazes your way. The Bael House is a very important factor in the Underworld" Vali noted.

"Wait! No, please! I didn't know things would go so wrong! I didn't think the serpent would attack Lord Sairaorg or poison Lady Kuisha!" Teldone froze.

"So, you knew about its abilities? I thought you didn't know? Even more so, you even know the names of the targets and who got injured and in which way." Vali glared.

Vali had been pushing Teldone's composure as far as possible and now, he'd slipped up.

"That makes things simple now. Who ordered you to send them on that mission? Why did you agree?" Vali asked, glaring at full capacity.

Teldone froze. Looking into her eyes was like looking at a frozen tundra that would freeze him solid. He could feel her aura growing more intense along with her aggression. Her power was barely seeping out but he could already tell she could end his life in an instant.

"I-I can't…" Toldone shook his head.

"I can promise that you won't get hurt if you tell me the truth. I might also be able to help you, depending on your reasons and circumstances. I swear on it." Vali calmly said.

Teldone bit his lip. He knew that if he slipped up, he could land himself in even more trouble. Teldone stayed silent.

"It's Arcticrus Bael, isn't it? He's blackmailing you." Vali guessed.

Teldone refused to make eye contact with her. He kept his limbs close to himself now too. He also didn't seem malicious, given the guilty look on his face. As of late, she had gotten good at sensing the vibes around someone, especially if they were lying to her.

"Teldone, I can't do anything until you tell me the whole story." Vali sighed.

She wanted to avoid using intimidation. That just wasn't something she liked to use. She wanted to negotiate and come to a peaceful resolution.

"Teldone, I know that the Bael's have a lot of influence and wealth, but is it really worth it to ruin your future? Is it really worth it to have your family name go down in shame? Money can't buy back taken lives and I'm sure you also understand that you're not a bad person nor are you irredeemable. I need your help to make sure that this stops so you can go free. I need you to tell me all that you know so that I can end this. So that other people don't have to go through what you went through and so that you don't have to keep doing it." Vali gently said.

It took a long silence before Teldone sighed. Vali's appeal to his morals had worked.

"Okay…okay…I'll tell you. You see, Arcticrus approached me and offered me a large sum of money in exchange, I would send Sairaorg and his peerage off to Italy. He wouldn't tell me why, but he said that all I needed to know was information needed to fabricate a report. When I refused, he blackmailed me. You see, I'm not a pure-blooded devil. I'm actually a quarter devil due to a mixed bloodline. For the government and my associates, I'd be an outcast and might even lose many of my connections. Others might even try to oust me from my position. The records of my past family members would also be smeared with shame. I have a family to support and mouths to feed. So, for the sake of my family, I did what Arcticrus asked." Teldone explained.

"And do you have anything that he used against you? Recordings? Papers? Money?" Vali asked.

"I don't. When he blackmailed me, he also retracted the money he offered." Teldone shook his head.

"I understand. I'll be on my way. I'll do whatever I can to make sure things go well. However, you and your family should pack your things and go on vacation. I will have my family contact you shortly." Vali promised.

Teldone only nodded as she left.

That was all Vali needed to know. With a witness, Vali would be able to have Arcticrus arrested once trials began.


Vali returned to the Bael Manor, obtaining audience with Arcticrus Bael.

He was a tall man with long black hair that was slicked back. He wore a purple mantle over a gold and purple vest with a black shirt and black pants. He wore rings and decorative items that went to symbolize his heritage, complete with a cane.

Even with his title as head of the House taken, he did all that he could to put on airs and appear important. His level of arrogance disgusted Vali to the core.

"Welcome, Lady Vali. To what do I owe this audience?" He asked.

"I simply wanted to visit to seek some enlightenment." Vali bowed.

"Of what matters?"

"Of Sairaorg's mission earlier today." Vali said.

"Yes, I heard of the incident. One of my servants just told me that he and the others are at the Sitri hospital." Arcticrus nodded.

"Can you tell me where you were within the past few days?" Vali asked.

"I was here, simply. I no longer have my titles, so I simply spend my days here and there on the grounds." Arcticrus derisively said.

"I see. Have you gone to see Sairaorg?" Vali asked.

"No, what has happened to him?" Arcticrus asked.

"Kuisha was poisoned during the mission and is now laying in bedrest." Vali said.

Arcticrus raised a brow.

"Wounded by a mere serpent?" He scoffed.

"Yes, she is poisoned and there is currently no cure." Vali said.

"I see. And what of Sairaorg?"

"He has left to go and find a cure for her." Vali answered.

"I see. And what would you have me do?" Arcticrus asked.

"I'd like for you to answer for your crimes." Vali said.

"Excuse me?" Articrus raised a brow.

His ego was ignited. Vali found it laughable with how easy it was to rile these people up.

"Tell me, just how much do you despise your son that you won't even visit him or those close to him? How much do you view yourself so far above others that you won't lift a finger when they're in trouble?" Vali asked.

"What are you getting at?" Arcticrus growled.

"I'm talking about all distress your son is feeling and your refusal to show him any love. I'm talking about all your numerous attempts to sabotage Sairaorg and Misla." Vali said.

"I don't know what gave you the idea that I want him dead nor conspired against him. If you continue to insult me, then expect consequences, child." Arcticrus growled.

Vali knew how to play this man. Arrogance was his vice, after all.

"You conceived a son who didn't inherit your Power of Destruction. When that happened, you pretended as if Misla wasn't your wife and wrote her off in the records as a mistress. You then took a second wife and made it look as if she were the original spouse. Then, you kicked Misla and Sairaorg to the curb in the countryside. You wouldn't even allow anyone to help them. Then, when my grandfather and Sirzechs came after you, you pretended as if nothing was wrong, scrambling as quickly as possible to bring them back so that you could maintain your innocent façade. And now, you plotted to have Sairaorg killed so that the position of leader and heir to the clan will be open again." Vali said.

"And where is your proof of these claims?" Arcticrus sneered.

"The proof of your past crimes has already been proven. As for your newest crime, I have witnesses and testimonies to back it all up. Do you want me to show them to you?" Vali threatened.

"That's if you live long enough to leave this place." Arcticrus sneered, realizing that playing coy would only prove more bothersome.

Out of nowhere, dozens of guards appeared inside the room where they were, with countless others floating outside.

"I've always despised your family. Trotting everywhere like you own everything, doing as you pleased wherever you went. You lost your honor and pride as devils the moment your father married your whore of a mother and spawned a half-breed mutant like you. Your family, once the pride of the devils, now nothing more than figureheads and disgraced worms. I'll do you the honor of sending you to your forefathers to repent." Arcticrus snapped his fingers.

A magic circle appeared underneath Vali. It began to shrine brighter and brighter as a familiar crimson radiance shone brighter.

Vali had been waiting for an incentive to try something new she'd been working on.

As soon as the bomb filled with the Power of Destruction went off, it continued to swirl nonstop, creating a sphere around her. Suddenly, Arcticrus' grin faded as a bright light grew brighter and brighter. The entire manor began to tremble as particles of blue light began shimmering in thin air. With one loud bang, the destructive sphere burst apart as the light from Vali's wings blinded the area, blasting all of her enemies away.

This was Vali's newest technique: [Ivory Decree]. An adaptive technique where light and her own demonic energy could be molded together to destroy anything by dissolving and exploding the atoms of whatever it came into contact with.

Despite her desire, Vali held back. The technique that she'd just used was intended to be a fully concentrated burst of light meant to penetrate and destroy anything she targeted. After Issei nearly died, she knew she needed something overpowering and quick to destroy anything that would dare harm anyone or anything close to her.

Arcticrus backed up when he felt the overwhelming radiance coming from Vali. It was unlike anything he'd ever sensed before. To begin with, his powers were never that strong in comparison to his son, so his luck with Vali was nonexistent. Only Sairaorg and Issei could rival her in battle power.

"I'm going to give you this one chance to surrender." Vali warned.

"You won't get away with attacking me. Once the world finds out that you attacked me unprovoked, your family's name will be drawn into the mud. I may no longer have my title, but my connections within the judicial system and among the military will make it so that your family will be finished. The press are also our pawns. Tell me, do you want your family's assets, reputation, history, and hard work to all go to waste?" Arcticrus threatened.

"I wouldn't worry about that, Arcticrus." A familiar voice said.

Emerging from a red magic circle, was Sirzechs.

"Ah, Sirzechs." Arcticrus breathed a sigh of relief.

"You've been doing quite a lot of work, Vali." Sirzechs said.

"How'd you know I was here?" Vali asked.

"I'll explain that in a bit." Sirzechs turned to look at Arcticrus.

"So, it looks like you've been busy." He said.

"Yes, mostly with fending her off." Arcticrus tried to play innocent.

"You can stop pretending, Arcticrus. You might have thought yourself clever, but it's quite the opposite. People like you, who've never worked hard a day in your life, don't actually measure up to the level you hold yourselves to. There has been enough evidence gathered to make it obvious that it's over. The government and myself have been suspicious of your activities for a while now, but this seals the deal. I'm sure you know what's going to happen next." Sirzechs raised a brow.

Arcticrus grit his teeth. He had no way out. His agents had been unable to move as quickly as he'd wanted, and the opposition was more competent than he'd expected.

Just then Magdaran walked into the room.

"Magdaran, help me prove to these people that I'm innocent."

"I'm sorry, but I can't do that."

Magdaran held up a magic circle that functioned as a recorder, courtesy of Azazel.

"And once Sairaorg has reached Italy, he and his peerage are to be killed by the creature I planted there." A recording of Arcticrus played.

"You sniveling lout!" Arcticrus spat.

"For a long time, I was just a pawn to you and my so-called mother. However, I achieved enlightenment when I met Misla and my brother again. That's why I'll side with and protect my family."

"But I'm your father!" Arcticrus barked.

"You were my father. I no longer consider you as such. The only thing you care about is yourself. That's why you need to go." Magdaran countered.

Vali could see the rage boiling in Arcticrus' eyes. He trembled in pure rage as everything he'd planned came crashing down, with his power and connections being nowhere near good enough to get through this.

Then, Arcticrus' eyes immediately trained on Vali. His rage hit its breaking point as he glared at her intensely enough that it looked as if he could hurt her with it. Slipping past, Sirzechs, he dived right at Vali.

With her palm, she blasted him backwards with a weak attack of light, slamming him into the wall with a bone-shattering strike.

"Do you understand now? Status, family history, and blood purity mean nothing. Vali, who is a half-demon, can easily defeat you. In the end, your blood status and inherited powers mean nothing. You can't even measure up to my mother, who is from a branch family. All of your aspirations mean nothing and never amounted to anything. Your life was handed to you on a silver platter. Everything was tossed into your lap and everything you couldn't have, you used you connections to coerce and blackmail into your hands. What you were done with or didn't need, was callously thrown away. And now, all your actions and hideous mindset have come back to bite you." Sirzechs said.

Arcticrus could barely speak as he was still reeling in pain from Vali's punch.

With the arrival of his forces, Sirzechs arrested everyone allied with Arcticrus, save for Magdaran.

"Thank you for spying on him, Magdaran. I know it was hard and a divisive thing to do." Sirzechs turned to him.

"It was the least I could do. I couldn't let him go through with this and I couldn't let it come true, either." Magdaran said.

Sirzechs then turned to Vali.

"I'm sure you have a lot of questions." He sighed.

"Not really. I kind of connected all the dots. You all are terrible actors." Vali crossed her arms.

"What?" Sirzechs raised a brow.

Vali held up Sirzech's so-called good luck charms.

"You were using this to listen and record everything I said and what others said. You had me gather evidence for you without having to lift a finger. The others were also in on it too, since I read between the lines of what everyone said. My grandfather sent me to places where I could get clues. My grandmother had me deliver a potion recipe to Azazel, who nudged me in the direction of Magdaran, who had the necessary ingredients. He then tipped me off as to who was behind all this. Because Falbium heads the department that handles missions and combat, I went to him. He didn't know a thing but ended up giving me the name of the only other person who could help orchestrate all this and put the final nail in Arcticrus' coffin." Vali recounted.

"Caught red-handed, I see." Sirzechs sheepishly chuckled.

"I had to get sharper since everyone's developed a habit of locking me out of the loop." Vali said.

"Well, I do admit, it was wrong to be so indirect and to send you on a wild goose chase, but you're at higher liberty to move about. And if things went South, there's always your grandmother's plan of you running away with Issei." Sirzechs tried to joke.

Vali only glared at him.

"Why is it that everyone wants to hide things from me? Am I that unreliable?" Vali growled.

"It's not that. This was a matter we'd been investigating for months. However, we couldn't alert Arcticrus that we were onto him. That's why we had you go out. You had no prior interaction with him, so you were a factor that he was less weary of. I genuinely apologize for deceiving you, but this was the best way to ensure Sairaorg and Misla's safety while ending Arcticrus' plans. If you wish, then feel free to strike me for my deception." Sirzechs stood seriously and waited.

Vali sighed. This wasn't worth it. It was not worth it to have a tantrum. As much as she wanted to be angry, she found no point in it.

"Just stop keeping me locked out of the loops. I hate lies." Vali said as she walked away.

"The Party's still this weekend. Don't miss it." Vali called out as she walked away.

Sirzechs could only smile shamefully.

"Even when she's irritated, she still can't hold a grudge." Sirzechs scratched his head.


While Sairaorg and Vali were dealing with the mess, Issei was off doing his own thing.

Currently, he was standing in front of a steaming corpse of the serpent that was identical to the one that Sairaorg and the others had killed. The difference was, Issei had just killed this one.

It was long and scaly with light-blue skin. It had glowing yellow eyes, two sets of elongated fangs from its mouth and spikes running down its back. To boot, it was the size of an airplane. The area around them was steaming as a putrid and rotting smell densified in the area.

"I didn't think you'd become this strong now." Rexis proudly noted.

Issei, however, was staring at the serpent, watching as it uttered its last words.

"Your time is almost over…my masters…are waiting…The day…of…awakening…is coming…You will die…" The Serpent wheezed out as it dissolved into nothing.

"Don't worry, I'll see them soon enough." Issei coldly.

Just as he spoke, Issei could hear the sound of the bells from the distant town.

Ding! Ding! Ding!

He had already went to the carcass of the other serpent and had procured its venom to create an antivenom. Thanks to his [Abyssal Arsenal], he was able to create a vial to contain the Power of Destruction that lingered from it as well. Whoever sent this thing, had the power to use it. He also packaged some of its flesh for more data.

"I'm amazed that that thing was able to pop up out of nowhere. It was as if it was waiting for you." Rexis said.

"I'm sure it was. It's exactly as I was afraid of. The Aviturs are getting smarter or they're remnants from the First Galaxy and made it here. Regardless, the Aviturs are increasing their activity." Issei grimly said.

"This is unprecedented. Even in all our past lives, they never showed the ability to plan. They were mindless beasts that killed anything in sight when they awoke from slumber. After we killed them, they'd be reborn in a new cycle after we died." Rexis said.

"That's what's got me wondering. What if they got smarter after each cycle?" Issei suggested.

"You don't mean…" Rexis trailed off.

"They're evolving. Like how I remember my past lives, what if they're learning tactics like me?" Issei asked.

"Then we need to speed things up. We can't afford to play around anymore. The more time we waste, the stronger they'll get." Rexis decided.


When Issei returned to the hospital, everyone was waiting.

"Where've you been?" Lefay asked as he walked down the hall.

"Dealing with some problems. Has anything happened?" Issei asked.

"They're about to give her the cure right now." Vali said.

Inside Kuisha's intensive care room, the doctors injected the antivenom cure into her bloodstream and waited. Sairaorg waited silently, not taking his eyes off her. If this didn't cure her, then he'd have no idea what to do.

Sairaorg closed his eyes and hoped to whatever higher power there was that Kuisha would be saved. Then…

He heard a deep breath draw. Opening his eyes, Kuisha met his gaze.

"Sairaorg." She softly said.

"Kuisha!" He held her hand, holding it tightly.

"She'll recover but it'll take time for her to get back to 100%. We should let her rest." Azazel advised, ushering everyone else out of the room except for Sairaorg.

When the door closed, the two could talk.

"Why did you take that blow for me?" Sairaorg asked.

It had scared him out of his mind when he saw her wounded so grievously. It made him realize things that he hadn't expected to and it made him want to slap himself.

"Need I tell you?" Kuisha smiled.

Sairaorg bit his lip.

"It's because I love you, Sairaorg. I always have. Ever since we were younger, from the moment you accepted me into your peerage. I was just some nobody that no one wanted to do with. Yet, despite knowing about my family's past, you took me in and treated me equally. I thought we'd always be friends but I realized that what I felt for you wasn't friendship. I fell in love with you as a woman." Kuisha smiled as she exhaled.

Having said those things was like having a breath of fresh air for the first time in years. It was so relieving for her.

"I know that your interests are with Vali. I'm willing to wait as long as it takes for your answer. Not only that but…well…I wouldn't mind being second fiddle, either. I just want to be with you for the rest of my life." Kuisha confessed.

Sairaorg was stunned speechless, completely at a loss for words at this outcome. Soon enough, Kuisha fell asleep, leaving Sairaorg to think to himself.

'Yeah, I…I need to make my decision now.' He swore to himself.


And onto the next chapter.

I decided to keep this chapter quiet since there weren't any songs that I wanted in here. I felt like the silence kind of helped it out better since it's a very slow-energy chapter.