Darksiders DXD

by MysticVegito

The Horsemen of the Apocalypse have expunged all those who would imperil the Balance over the eons. Now humanity is in peril as outside forces plot a premature Endwar that could potentially wipe out the Third Kingdom before it's time. Will the Council's enforcers succeed in rooting out the perpetrators before it's too late?

11. Chapter 11

~A Dragon's Fate~

For two millennia, the archangel Michael anticipated and thus dreaded every single day for the eventual arrival of the Council's enforcers. And it would seem that the day of his reckoning has finally arrived. Now Michael, Xenovia, Irina and Akeno are having a silent and serious staredown at Death and War, waiting in anticipation of what the horsemen's next move will be. Akeno, Xenovia and Irina were rather nervous at the murderous gazes the horsemen give to Michael, while the archangel himself could only do so much to keep his composure without falling to despair. But not without reason, for the very presence of the horsemen means a bad omen, especially the Reaper's.

"Leave us." Michael said seriously, much to the disbelief of Irina and Xenovia.

"What?" Irina said in fear of her chief's wellbeing.

"But, chief Michael…"

"No buts, children." Michael interrupted Xenovia in a serious tone before he glanced at Xenovia. "I would not have you involved with this. This matter is solely between me and the horsemen."

"I concur. Akeno, wait for us outside with the Church females." Death said seriously.

"Me? But why?" Akeno asked in confusion.

"Because I said so." Death said in dead serious tone, not feeling in the mood to make excuses, especially to so called sadist like her. Akeno flinched in fear when the Reaper locked his angry gaze at her, which was enough for her to nod silently in comply and walk outside, followed a few moments later by Xenovia and Irina. When they left, Michael, Death and War were finally alone inside a large wooden house.

"Give us some privacy." Death said. Michael said nothing as he waved his hand and magically sealed the entire interior, where even if they were to scream at the top of their lungs, no one would hear a thing outside the house.

"It is rather troubling to see not just one, but two of the Horsemen of the Apocalypse on Earth. The situation must be pretty dire if the Council decided to send two of their enforcers." Michael said seriously.

"Not as dire as it will be for you, angel." War said in dead serious tone.

"You better have a very good reason as to why you would spend all these centuries among the humans. If you don't, then I will drag your broken body for the Council to decide your fate." Death said grimly, sending chills down the archangel's spine. Even demons dread the thought of being judged by the Council themselves, making that scenario all the more unnerving for Michael.

"I do have a reason pale rider, more than one in fact. The main purpose of my presence on Earth is to safeguard humanity with a more direct approach, so that they might actually have a future." Michael said seriously.

"Is influencing humanity's religion for your own purposes one of them?" War asked seriously in an accusing tone.

"It was a religion on the cusp of being extinct, so it was a perfect opportunity to capitalize on it, and in doing so guide humanity to brighter future. It was a much needed course of action to prevent the Third Kingdom from collapsing on itself before it could be even close to being ready for the Endwar." Michael said seriously before he glanced at War. "Especially after Lucifer's master plan to corrupt humanity through Animus, as you and your brother Strife have seen firsthand eons ago."

"Yes, seems like a brilliant idea that the humans believe in this 'God' that doesn't even exist and destroy each other all the more." Death said sarcastically.

"It is unfortunate, the lord of all hells corrupted the humans far more than I imagined. Even with something to truly believe in, nations continued to wage war on each other. Philosophical and religions differences, political power mongering and material needs are but one of many reasons for years of destruction and bloodshed against each other. Even so, you are wrong in the assumption that God doesn't exist. You may not know it, but it is actually a different name for none other than our almighty Creator." Michael said seriously.

"Say that again?" War said in slightly baffled, yet infuriated tone. For the first time in eons he was caught completely off guard with someone's statement, including Death, probably how incredibly ludicrous it was.

"You are saying that this 'God' is in fact the Creator? That is what you based this religion on?!" Death exclaimed angrily.

"Basically, yes." Michael said seriously.

"I cannot even begin to put in words the sacrilege you infected the humans with." War grunted angrily as he started to approach the archangel in a threatening manner, but Death immediately grabbed his brother's demon-carved pauldron, stopping him in place. The angels of the White City were known to venerate the Creator, despite the fact that he was long gone after he put the Council in charge, but for the first time in eons War was completely baffled, how this angel would dare to infect the humans to be as delusionaly faithful in Creator as the angels themselves.

"You must be seriously out of your gourd, if you think the Creator will spawn from the ether if the humans believe enough in him and worship his very name, unlike the other gods that formed on this planet. You angels really need to cease and desist with your delusions that the Creator will come back." Death said sternly, something that Michael didn't take kindly as he frowned in frustration, though not daring to utter a word in fear of the Reaper's wrath. "Not that it matters because we know of your true intention, archangel. You mean to bring about the Apocalypse by shattering the Seven Seals using the Armageddon Blade." He said as he pointed at the archangel in accusation.

"Why would I attempt to commit such atrocity? It would only serve to gain the Council's ire and to suffer their wrath through you horsemen." Michael said seriously in almost accusing tone.

"So you deny that you are seeking the blade's shards?" War asked seriously.

"I do not War. Like I said, I had more than one reason of being here, another reason being the search for the shards of the Armageddon Blade. You are probably aware of the events that transpired in the past concerning the fabled weapon, but from what I've learned during my time on Earth, for reasons even I do not fully comprehend, the Council decided not to destroy the blade in its entirety. Instead the blade was shattered and then sent to one place in all of Creation where no demon or angel would dare to set foot without consequences." Michael said seriously. It only took a moment or two before the riders figured what he meant by that, as they had no idea up until this point the whereabouts of the blade's shattered pieces.

"On Earth?! Why would the Council place such a dangerous artifact in humanity's hands?! Even through the sword is in pieces, they may harness the power of the shards to destroy each other even further!" Death exclaimed angrily.

"Humanity is heavily reliant on technology, what mystical prowess the humans had centuries ago is now an extreme rarity, if not completely extinct. So you need not worry that the humans will use the power of the shards for their various, yet selfish purposes. And besides, the shards themselves cannot be so easily found by any curious mind. From what I was able to gather, they are hidden in a place where none that walk in the light could find them." Michael said seriously.

"The Shadow Realm." War said.

"Yes. And from what my fellow angels discovered, there are those who plan on assembling the broken pieces of the blade and reforge it for only one purpose. The purpose that you voice out a minute ago." Michael said seriously.

"And by 'those' you mean demons?" Death asked.

"Not necessarily. Aside from the demons of Hell, it isn't farfetched to consider the ambitious devils and fallen angels, at least those who do not strive for peace like the Governor General Azazel and the devil king Sirzechs Lucifer." Michael said seriously.

"Speaking of the two, I discovered that you plan on holding a peace summit between the three factions. I have told both Azazel and Sirzechs before coming here that you will not hold this summit on Earth. Instead this treaty will be held in the Underworld." Death said seriously.

"It is out of the question, horseman. We already had enough casualties dealing with demons, fallen angels and renegade devils over the centuries. I will not further endanger myself and my fellow angels by venturing into their home territory." Michael said seriously.

"We are not asking angel." War said in a serious, threatening tone.

"I already have enough misplaced moralities not to kill every single angel, fallen angel and a devil for trespassing in humanity's kingdom in the first place. Do not make me stick to that original plan." Death said grimly as he took a few steps towards Michael in a very threatening manner, every step deliberately made to imply that he is not fooling around, while a sense of dread washed over the archangel's entire being.

Michael really wanted to continue the argument with the horsemen and try to talk them out of their decision, but since he indeed defied the Council by venturing to Earth and entrenching himself among the humans for two millennia, anything he even tries to say would most likely end in his death at this point. Had it been Azazel or Sirzechs standing in front of him and not Death and War, things would have been much easier for him, he would have remained to his obstinate decision to hold the summit on a neutral ground, which before the riders arrived was the Third Kingdom. But now that option is not even remotely possible.

"I assume that you riders will attend this summit as well?" Michael asked after he gathered his wits.

"We will." War said in his usual, serious tone.

"Then if we are to be assaulted, which is a scenario that will most likely occur in the Underworld, will you lend your blades in our defense?" Michael asked.

"As long as we are there, not a single feather will drop from your wings. At least until we deem otherwise." Death said seriously.

"Very well. If that is your wish, then I will attend this summit in the Underworld." Michael said reluctantly as he closed his eyes and bowed his head slightly in defeat.

"And when the summit is over, I will decide whether you'll continue to live or answer for your crimes on the spot." Death said strictly.

"You can't be serious. You are actually considering to let him live, even after defying the Council for so long?" War grunted in angry disbelief.

"I had my say War. No arguments." Death said strictly as he looked at his brother from the corner of his eye.

War gritted his teeth angrily at his brother, on the verge of attacking Death for silencing him as if he was some kind of infant, while the Reaper continued to glare at the red rider with his usual, ice cold and deadly serious gaze. It was a gaze that War got used to over the eons and at this point is not even making him flinch, but the reason why he didn't even move from his spot is that it would be stupid to attack his brother solely to hasten Michael's judgment, which will inevitably come. For that reason he decided to play along and see what is Death up to this time. After Death noticed that War calmed down, he glanced back at Michael.

"Tell me Michael. Have you heard of the plague that struck the nation called France three centuries ago?" Death asked curiously.

"A plague?" Michael asked curiously before he looked down in thought for a few moments and then looked again at Death. "Yes, I heard of such a thing occurring, it was known even till this day as the Black Plague. What of it?"

"What can you tell me of it?" Death asked.

"Only that not even the angels of Heaven were safe from its corruptive influence, which is why we cleansed whatever trace of that plague remained after you defeated the angel in the church you battled her in. Along with the humans who were irreversibly infected by the corrupted angel herself." Michael said seriously as he had a flashback of those moments of thorough purging, how he first purged Makhala and the infected humans in holy light. Then how he and his fellow angels proceeded to cleanse the corruption and the infected humans across France, not leaving a trace of it and thus saving the Kingdom of Man from its dangerous influence.

"Apparently you didn't bother to investigate the Underworld. It is there that this corruption managed to endure after three centuries." War said seriously.

"What? That is not possible." Michael said as his eyes widened a bit in surprise and shock.

"Fortunately, we have put a stop to it when we slew the beast responsible for spreading the corruption. If the devils are as competent as they presume themselves to be, they should be able to cleanse it before things turn to worse." Death said seriously.

"It is fortunate indeed. Were it not for your interference, i could only imagine the chaos it would create if it were to spread it's influence across the Underworld, to taint the beings far more powerful than humans." Michael said seriously before he smiled a bit. "You have my gratitude for putting a stop to this plague horsemen."

"We have no need of your thanks archangel, only your presence in this summit." Death said sternly before turning sideways. "Make sure that you arrive on time."

"Horseman." Michael said, stopping Death and War in their tracks as they turned sideways and glanced at the archangel curiously. "Before you leave, there is something I need you to take with you." He said before he lifted his hands, forming flashing rays of light in all directions before it engulfed the entire room. The riders squinted their eyes a bit to shield them from the light before the light itself died down, revealing a peculiar sword hovering in front of the archangel.

"Behold, riders of the Apocalypse. Ascalon, the Dragon Slayer." Michael said seriously.

"We already have weapons Michael." Death said bluntly.

"This sword is not meant for you, but for Issei Hyoudou. Due to the reputation of him being the weakest host in history, we hope that the might of Ascalon might aid him in his future battles." Michael said seriously.

"You are not wrong archangel, not even a bit." Death said as he let out a slight, muffled chuckle in amusement to that statement.

"And why would you hand over such a powerful weapon to that pervert? Don't you have someone more capable to entrust the blade to, to wield it in battle effectively?" War asked in slight confusion.

"The time has come for all of us to work together. Angels, fallen angels and the devils. Although the Great War ended with massive casualties, as you may know we still have small skirmishes to deal with." Michael said seriously.

"Like the bout with Kokabiel." War said seriously, with Michael nodding silently with a serious expression of his own.

"If we do not forge a pact between these three powers, divided as we currently are it would be much easier for the forces outside the three factions to bring about an early Apocalypse, the legions of Hell being one of many examples." Michael said seriously.

"Still finding it hard to believe that you three will get along in the future." Death said skeptically.

"It wouldn't be the first time to unite against a common enemy. Before you horsemen arrived, angels and fallen angels united to fight against the Heavenly Dragons Albion and Ddraig. And to our surprise, a large army of demons who were wise enough to see a larger threat in the midst of the chaos that was the three way war." Michael said seriously before he smiled a bit. "I beseech you pale rider, help align the goals of the three great powers." He then telekinetically hovered the sword in front of the Reaper. After a few moments of silence, Death took the sword in his grip.

"We'll consider it." Death said.

"Consider it?" Michael said in slight surprise.

"As War pointed out, it would be foolish to entrust a weapon of such potency to someone still wet behind his ears, who's barely tasted the heat of battle." Death said as he showed Ascalon to Michael before dematerializing it from his grip for later use. "We'll see what we will do with this blade. Until then, archangel…" He then walked towards the doors.

"But horseman…"

"Unless you have a problem with that." Death interrupted in a grim voice as he glanced at the archangel from the corner of his eyes. Michael flinched a bit in fear at Death's piercing gaze, silencing him on the spot, preventing him from saying anything that might get him killed, especially since he is guilty of breaking the law.

"I thought not." Death said before he opened the doors and walked outside, followed later by War with a conflicted look on his face. When they did, Death stopped near Rias' queen.

"Akeno, you go back to the club house alone, War and I will arrive there later." Death said, not even giving Akeno a glance before he continued to walk forward while donning his human disguise, with War doing the same. That being said, Akeno didn't hesitate as she used her magic to teleport herself to Rias and the others, while Irina and Xenovia slowly walked inside the house towards Michael.

"What will happen now, chief Michael?" Irina asked in great worry.

"I do not know, child. The future seems now very uncertain, for all of us." Michael said grimly, while at the same time Death and War reached the bottom of the long stairs.

"What was that abo…"

"Not here." Death interrupted War before he continued to walk forward. War gritted his teeth and clenched his fists in anger at that, it was really getting on his nerves for being interrupted repeatedly. But Death may have a point again as there are too many people around, so it's not the best place to berate his brother.

---

As the two riders slowly walked in silence, they both contemplated on the history of the infamous Armageddon Blade, the very problem they will need to resolve as quickly as possible in days to come. Over the eons that passed in service to the Charred Council, there were many who tried to bring about the Apocalypse prematurely before the humans were even ready. Countless plots, plans and schemes both demons and even angels have concocted in their minds prevented by the horsemen themselves. And one of those schemes, possibly one of the greatest atrocities was through the forging of the Armageddon Blade. Not even the riders know every single detail regarding the events that lead to the sword's conception, but from what they were able to gather, a group of Hellguard angels plotted to end the demonkind once and for all. It is not unknown that Abaddon, along with the rest of the Hellguard had mutual desire to eradicate the demons and end the eternal war. But these group of angels had no intention of having their hands being tied any longer, although till this day Abaddon remains the prime suspect to his involvement behind this crime, especially how he once openly demanded of the angels to take initiative and take a fight to the demons. But so far there wasn't any proof that would indicate he was guilty, so for now he was in the clear.

And so, the obstinate decision of these angels lead to their cooperation with a very skilled Maker known as Ulthane Blackhammer, and to the creation of the ultimate weapon capable of cutting down even the most powerful of demon lords with ease. The Maker was told by the angels that this weapon was the only hope they had in stopping a demon that threatens all of Creation. At first Ulthane was unconvinced as he believed that the horsemen can easily deal with this demon if he was truly a threat to the Balance. But with a rather extensive persuasion, due to the Maker's stubbornness, in the end Ulthane proceeded to forge the blade for the angels to aid them in their righteous quest before it was too late.

However, Ulthane discovered the hard way that the sword was never meant to destroy a powerful demon threatening all of Creation. It was meant to destroy the Seven Seals, hence why it was given it's infamous name, the Armageddon Blade. Fortunately, the conspirators were discovered on time and were thus arrested and all brought to the Charred Council for judgment.

The angels responsible were given the worst sentence imaginable, and that was the banishment into Oblivion, but Ulthane on the other hand was saved by the timely arrival of his brother Thane, and Eideard, the eldest of the Makers who once laid foundation for many worlds across Creation, who once built the dark halls of Hell and the cities of Heaven. The elder Maker pleaded the Council to show Ulthane mercy, pointing out that he would never betray his people or threaten the Balance, that his actions were mislead by the vengeful angels determined to kill the demons no matter the cost. It was extremely difficult to convince the Council, but due to Eideard being a highly respected individual and a Maker of immense wisdom, since he was older than even the Council themselves, the Council begrudgingly spared Ulthane of the dreaded fate that is Oblivion, but was banished into the distant fringes of Creation.

The horsemen still wonder till this day why didn't the Council simply threw the Armageddon Blade itself into Oblivion as well, considering it was forged for the sole purpose of shattering the Seals. But for reasons the riders will probably never know and understand, the Council deemed that the blade is to be destroyed instead and it's shards scattered across Creation. At least that was something they believed until today. They also added the reasoning that the Oblivion portal was meant solely to punish the criminals who committed the most heinous crimes against the Balance, which sounded really stupid since Death had no problem tossing the cylinder of Ravaiim blood in it, albeit in secret. That is basically inviting calamity to come to the humans, considering that there are ambitions demons out there who might venture to Earth to recover the pieces. Fortunately, the only failsafe that the shards have is that the sword can only be reforged by the smith that created it in the first place, so that's some kind of consolation to the riders. Still, considering the intriguing powers they discovered over the few weeks, they'd rather not cling to that belief and instead search for the shards as well, for everyone living's sake.

---

Sometime later that day, while the dark clouds covered the sky, Death and War stood on the grassy hill not far from Vulgrim's shop overlooking the Kuoh Town.

"Why Death?" War asked simply with folded arms that spell accusation, but Death kept his cool as he continued to look towards the city and the horizon beyond.

"Because I feel lenient today." Death said bluntly.

"You have been excessively lenient in the past few weeks. First towards the Gremory devils, and now Michael. Tell me the truth Death. And don't try to lie or mislead me brother, because I know you better than that." War said sternly.

"You are not even close to knowing me War." Death said in cold, strict tone as he turned sideways and looked at his brother.

"I know that you are deliberately keeping these devils alive, despite the fact that they have long since outlived their usefulness. And it certainly isn't like you to keep Michael alive, the very criminal that broke the law for all these centuries. Tell me the true intent behind your mercy brother, because it is not like you, for someone of your name to be as overly lenient as you were up until now." War said in frustration as he took a few steps closer towards the pale rider.

The two riders then locked their stern gazes at each other, feeling as if two unstoppable forces have collided with each other with a gaze alone. Death and War have had this silent, yet intense staredown for several, silent moments, the only sound that can be heard from where they stood was the wind continuously blowing in their direction. Knowing that look, Death knew well that War will not even budge from his spot unless he knows some reason behind his uncharacteristic behavior, at least from War's perspective. At times it can be really annoying, but not much of a surprise, especially since the day when he was forced to even beat War into the ground just to try to keep his secret to himself, eons ago on a necrotic planet in the Abyss itself that was the Ravaiim's homeworld, during the Abomination Crisis. Even after all that he remained strong and steadfast, which was one of the reasons why he revealed his motivation behind the Grand Abominations that threatened the entire universe at the time.

However, this situation is nowhere near as personal as with the Grand Abominations, so Death has no problem revealing his thoughts to War of the current predicament.

"I came to the realization War." Death said simply.

"Hmm?" War raised his eyebrow slightly in curiosity and slight confusion to his disturbingly calm tone.

"Although we can handle any abomination the universe is capable of spawning, there were times over the eons where despite the incredible power we possess, we can't be in many places at once. That fact has been abused by the demons many times over, almost disrupting the Balance and causing unimaginable chaos across Creation. Some even rivaling the destruction our people wrought before the battle at Eden." Death said before turning sideways and looking at his brother. "This summit presents us with the opportunity to make allies of our own. The true allies after countless millennia. Ones that might aid us in future endeavors if we are not there in time to stop one threat or another."

"The horsemen have no need for allies Death, we are more than capable of dealing with any situation ourselves." War said seriously.

"Did you even listen what I said or was I talking with Fury just now? We are powerful, but we can't fight on many fronts at the same time." Death said in frustration.

"I refuse to have anything to do with the dregs like devils and fallen angels." War said angrily as he waved his hand in refusal.

"This is not a suggestion War." Death said sternly, while War gritted his teeth and clenched his fist, really being on the edge of tolerance with Death's behavior towards him today. "Don't get the wrong idea. I have no soft spot for them either, but as I've said, if we ally with them, they might prove useful like Rias and her servants did thus far. Even if their use wasn't substantial."

"You do realize that the Council would not condone your mercy Death, or the idea that we are making allies behind their backs. Especially with those parasites that are the Watchers eager to make us look bad in front of them at first opportunity." War said in caution after he calmed down.

"That is another reason why I refuse to let this summit happen on Earth. If that were to happen, the Council would be enraged if they knew we deliberately let the three factions have their little meeting in the Kingdom of Man, which would give the two of us some serious trouble." Death said as he looked down in thought with folded arms before he looked at War. "That is why I moved their meeting in the Underworld. Although what Michael said is true, that realm is indeed a home territory of the devils and fallen angels, but with the two of us present in that summit there won't be a single interruption from anyone wishing to behead our vassals."

"You are letting them proceed with this because there is some benefit to be had with their alliance, aren't you? I doubt that having pairs of eyes and ears is the only reason you are allowing this to happen." War asked curiously.

"You are as perceptive as ever brother." Death said simply before he turned around and started to walk away.

"That didn't answer my question Death! Where are you going?!" War asked angrily.

"Back to the club house." Death said before he glanced behind him at War. "Try to keep up, we wasted enough time chatting in this place. We still have preparations to make for the summit itself." He then continued to walk away, while War grunted in annoyance and frustration. Yet again he will have to find out for himself what Death's true intention is behind this three faction summit, one of the things that really annoy him about his eldest brother.

---

The next day, while Rias and Akeno were taking care of all the necessary preparations for the summit, Asia and Gasper are currently waiting for Issei to come out of the club house, who is currently having a conversation with Death and War in private.

"Tell us Hyoudou. What use would you possibly have with the halfbreed child? I know you are not taking him in out of the kindness of your heart, at least not entirely." Death said as he folded his arms.

"Are you kidding?! Do you even realize the countless potential possibilities by me teaming up with Gasper? Imagine all the girl's skirts I'd be able to peek under, so much pantie time! On top of that, I can freeze Rias and play big old boobie bonanza whenever I wanted! And don't forget about Akeno, I'd have a full on nipple palooza with her!" Issei said in excitement, a moment or two later starting to breathe heavily from the intense ecstasy he is experiencing right now before he grabbed his head. "Imagination blueballs!"

A moment or two later after he finally snapped out of his intense, perverted desires, he glanced at Death and War, both who looked at the young pervert in mixture of confusion, disgust, annoyance and frustration all at once.

"Ugh." Death groaned in disgust and frustration as he facepalmed himself, while War only grunted as he shared his brother's sentiment. "I should have known that was the reason why you wanted to take the boy under your wing."

"Yeah, I know. I'm sorry, I really am a perv." Issei said as he bowed his head in shame.

"Understatement of an eon boy." War said in frustration.

"As long as your lecherous motivation can teach him to at least prevent him from using his powers at random, i suppose I can allow you to proceed." Death said reluctantly.

"Yes! I promise I won't let you down." Issei said as he pumped his fist in excitement.

"We'll hold you onto that promise then. That said, you better yield adequate results from your 'training' by the time we return." Death said before he and War turned around and departed, but this time Issei didn't even flinch from Death's stern, somewhat threatening statement as he was too taken in to his lecherous thoughts.

"Don't worry sir, I'm on it!" Issei exclaimed in excitement, eager to teach Gasper how to reign in his powers as soon as possible.

Several minutes later, Issei, assisted by Asia commenced his training with Gasper in a school gym. But he quickly discovered that no matter his efforts, Gasper just couldn't get even a basic understanding of his powers, constantly freezing everyone on sight instead of a specific target like the basketballs or handballs, mostly due to his incessant cries. Though he can somewhat understand his dilemma, he realized that he has to make good on his promise and help Gasper to at least not use his Balor View by instinct whenever he gets scared by something. But as minutes and even hours passed, that mission seemed impossible, but Issei is not the one to give up without giving his all.

---

Later that night, Issei continued to train Gasper to the best of his abilities, currently having Gasper stop the handballs in their track whenever he would throw them at the vampire child. After who knows how any attempts, Gasper finally managed to stop one of the balls mid-air with his Balor View.

"Awesome." Issei smiled before Gasper tiredly cancelled his Sacred Gear, while the handball dropped on the ground.

"Good work Gasper, you are able to catch it once every twenty tries now." Asia smiled.

"Which is a big improvement from zero." Issei smiled, trying to compliment the sensitive boy. Gasper smiled in relief that he was finally making a progress with all the exhausting training Issei is putting him through. "Alright, next ball." Issei said as he took another ball from the basket. "Ready or not, here we go!"

"Okay, I'm ready." Gasper frowned in determination and readied himself to try again. But this time Issei threw the ball too fast and he made it slam right on Gasper's face, knocking him down in turn.

"Are you okay?" Asia asked worryingly.

"Issei, I think I'm done for today." Gasper whined a bit as he rubbed his face for the pain to subside.

"Don't puss out yet Gasper, we got a dream to turn into a reality here, and I can't do it without you!" Issei said in determination.

"But I'll never be able to get it right, and then I'll die by that scary masked man with scythes! He will kill me, I know he will and all because I'm so useless!" Gasper despaired before he started to cry incessantly in fear of the rider.

"Huh?" Issei blinked in shock and surprise as he glanced from Gasper to Asia in realization. "So that's why he was so dreadfully afraid the whole day." He then glanced back at Gasper. "Poor guy, he's been immensely pressured by Death to control his power, even though he's not here."

"What are we going to do Issei?" Asia asked as she looked worryingly at the young pervert.

"Whatever it takes to prevent Gasper's demise." Issei frowned in determination as he looked at Asia before he marched towards Gasper. When he was close enough, he knelt down and placed his hands on Gasper's shoulders.

"Listen Gasper. Even if you don't manage to master your powers, we are still here for you. Me, Asia, Rias, Akeno and Kiba. All of us are here for you. And if Death even lays a finger on you, I promise I will be there first to protect you from him." Issei said with a serious and determined look on his face.

"You… you mean it?" Gasper said sadly as he sniffed a bit.

"Yeah, of course dude." Issei smiled confidently.

"But I'm bad at being a vampire, I'm lousy at being a devil, and I hate always letting everyone down!" Gasper cried out again.

"Stop that dude, seriously!" Issei shouted a bit in frustration, already being fed up of almost an entire day of Gasper attacking himself repeatedly.

"Stop what?" Gasper asked as he ceased his cries momentarily.

"Criticizing yourself damn it! If you think like that, you've already lost! Don't whine about your problems, you face them head on, just like I did!" Issei exclaimed in frustration.

"What? You did? Even against that masked man?" Gasper said in surprise as he blinked his tears away.

"Yeah, even against him." Issei said as he frowned in determination to at least lift Gasper's spirits.

"Wow, really? You fought before against that scary man when he picked on you too?" Gasped smiled in amazement as he stood up from the ground.

Issei wouldn't really call it a fight, it was more like a one sided pummeling. Especially when he remembered how Death sliced his left arm clean from his shoulder socket, which the memory alone sent chills through his entire left arm.

"Yeah, I guess you can say that." Issei chuckled nervously as he scratched his right cheek before he smiled confidently. "But either way, we're rooting for you kiddo, me and Asia both."

"That's right, I believe in you Gasper." Asia smiled as she walked close to the vampire child, pulled out her handkerchief and wiped Gasper's tear stained face. "It's true, because you're my friend silly."

"Yup, same here. Hell, we are basically like family, the Gremory chess pieces always stick together no matter what." Issei smiled.

"Thanks you guys. And I swear I will never be a quitter again." Gasper said with newfound determination.

"Hell yeah, let's do it for the team awesome!" Issei cheered.

"Right! Let's do it you guys!" Gasper proclaimed, reinvigorated with hope and determination thanks to Issei's and Asia's encouraging words. Issei and Asia nodded before they continued with Gasper's training.

Although, Issei's face went serious as bit as he was inwardly worried greatly for Gasper. As he had seen back at the club house, if Gasper were to make a slip with his powers or if he is abducted by any chance, Death or War will have no qualm in killing him, would have been like squashing an annoying mosquito for them. That's why he has to make sure that Gasper is well trained to at least get a basic grasp of his time stopping ability, enough to keep him alive.

---

The next night, the three faction summit is soon to commence. Currently, Death, War and the ORC devils have currently gathered up in Rias' clubroom.

"It is time." War said seriously, with Rias and the other devils nodding silently in turn.

"I don't understand. I'm still against the idea to bring Gasper with us to this meeting, whether he knows how to control his ability or not." Rias said seriously, but Death remained silent as he went towards the box where Gasper closed himself, knelt down and started to open it.

"Please don't hurt me, I didn't even do anyth…" Gasper's cries were silenced when Death pressured the back of his neck and knocked him out.

"I will not take any chances with this boy. He will be closely guarded by War and myself during this meeting." Death said as he closed the box and held it below his right armpit. "If there are no more objections, I suggest we go to the Underworld at once."

"Very well then." Rias said reluctantly in defeat before she conjured a magic circle below her. When she did, everyone gathered at the center of the circle before they all vanished from the spot.

A few moments later, the entire group arrived inside a large, well-protected angelic stronghold in close proximity to the Gremory territory, where they were immediately greeted by a squadron of angelic soldiers who anticipated their arrival.

"Horsemen. Lady Gremory. You arrived not a moment too soon. The meeting is due to begin, so please, this way." An angelic soldier said formally, though not so much to the riders as he gestured in the direction where the meeting will be held before he walked ahead of the group.

After a few minutes of walking, the soldier guided the group to the double doors leading inside the expected meeting, guarded by two angel champions sporting large shields and halberds. Death didn't bother with the ceremonial entrance as he summoned his ethereal, skeletal arms and slammed the doors wide open, catching everyone inside by surprise. Then they calmed down when they noticed that Death, War, Rias and her servants have entered the room. When they did the soldier closed the doors behind them.

After they entered, they all noticed that everyone of note has been gathered in the room: Azazel and Vali, the latter that smirked at the Reaper for reasons only known to him. Sirzechs and Grayfia, Michael and his bodyguards Xenovia and Irina, and even…

"Azrael?" Death said in slight surprise as he noticed the archangel hovering behind Michael and his retinue.

"What brings you here, angel of death?" War asked curiously.

"I am the Steward of the Underworld horsemen. It is only natural that I would be present to any major event in the realm, this summit being one of them." Azrael said seriously.

"Admit it big bro, you finally got tired of playing the bookworm and came to support your little brother." Azazel smirked.

"We ceased being brothers when you gave in to your cardinal desires and fell from Heaven's grace." Azrael said seriously as he looked at Azazel in disappointment.

"Something that I'm not regretting in the slightest even till this day. Though the only regret that I have is that I'll never grope on Gabriel's breasts." Azazel smirked as he looked at his elder brother, or former in Azrael's case, while the archangel himself shook his head a bit with a serious and disappointed look on his face.

"Wait, they're brothers?!" Issei said in surprise.

"That's right. Now please keep it down, we're trying not to embarrass ourselves in the meeting as important as this one." Rias said in slightly serious tone.

"Right, sorry." Issei composed himself a bit, but couldn't help but glance from Azrael to Azazel. "Still, they look nothing alike. Wow, talk about weird family relations."

"This is my sister Rias and her retainers. They, along with the riders have fought Kokabiel during his surprise attack a few days ago." Sirzechs said seriously.

"Your sister and her followers have all put up a valiant fight, but were it not for the Council's enforcers to assist them, Kokabiel might have succeeded with his nefarious plans." Michael smiled a bit in appreciated the riders' help, even though it was to their benefit.

"Once again, I apologize. It seems one of my boys caused you a bit of trouble." Azazel said casually.

"A bit?" War asked in annoyance.

"A sarcastic remark War." Death said casually to his brother.

"Now that all the representatives are here, let the summit commence." Sirzechs said seriously.

Outside the meeting room, the entire stronghold was patrolled by Michael's and Azrael's forces, while the devils and fallen angels have made their garrison inside the compound to reinforce the defenses against any intruder that would interrupt the meeting. And the stronghold itself was shrouded by an illusion placed upon by Azrael to make it completely invisible, so that there would be no outside interference from anyone. But not all are fooled by the incantation as an unknown, female individual with sunglasses stood on the plateau overlooking the shrouded stronghold below, accompanied by four soldiers wielding halberds and devil wings.

"So, has the vampire brat been confiscated?" The woman asked sternly as she looked down at where the angel base is.

"I'm afraid not mistress. The horsemen probably anticipated his capture, so they took the boy with them to the meeting currently in session." The devil soldier said as he looked down as well.

"Very well then. That leaves us with only one choice, to raze this place to the ground and deal with the leaders ourselves." The woman said seriously.

"What?! But that's madness mistress! With the three leaders and the two of the Four Horsemen, we can't possibly..." Another soldier panicked, but was quickly silenced with a black and orange blast drilling through his chest, killing him on the spot as the soldier's limp body fell backwards on the ground.

"Anyone else?" The woman asked strictly, but the three remaining soldiers looked at each other and sweated nervously a bit, not daring to utter a word. "Good. Now get moving and ready our forces, the hour of retribution has come." She commanded. The soldiers wasted no time as they took to the skies and swooped down, leaving the woman alone as she looked down and smirked wickedly.

Back inside the meeting room…

"The rest of the incident regarding Kokabiel and my household can be found in my official report." Rias said seriously as she placed a sheet of paper on the table in front of Sirzechs.

"That would be all, thank you very much." Sirzechs said formally before he looked at Azazel. "Perhaps the Governor General of the fallen angels would care to share his opinion of her report?"

"Kokabiel went rogue, therefore my thoughts of the incident are irrelevant." Azazel said.

"So he acted entirely on his own?" Michael asked curiously.

"Well he never had my permission, if that's what you're asking." Azazel said before he grinned slightly in amusement. "But something tells me had that idiot realized that I was staying in that quaint little town, especially the Horsemen of the Apocalypse, I doubt he would even think of going there, let alone try to destroy it."

"Yes, it has proven most fortuitous that the pale and the red rider were present during the beginning stages of Kokabiel's rampage." Sirzechs said seriously.

"Same can't be said for that warmongering bastard." Azazel shrugged with a smirk before he pointed at Vali behind him with his thumb without even glancing back. "I had sent the White Dragon Emperor to try to resolve the issue, but as you may all know at this point, the horsemen beat him to it. Especially War as he was the one who engaged him in combat and killed him in turn."

"Indeed. But what I find most troubling about the attack itself is his motivation. It seems he was rather dissatisfied with the current status quo." Michael said.

"Yeah, the Great War ending so abruptly really stuck in his craw. Although, up until recently, he didn't even think of setting foot on Earth after the vicious display the Horsemen indulged in centuries ago against the three factions, especially the Heavenly Dragons who threatened everything in sight in their incessant duel." Azazel smirked before his face went serious a bit. "And speaking of which, that brings us to a… complication."

"And what complication would that be?" Sirzechs asked curiously.

"This summit does not solely concern the three factions present, but also the forces that are equally if not more destructive that are the Red and the White Dragon Emperors. And let's not even mention the most dangerous beings in all of Creation, those currently present being the pale rider Death and the red rider War. So I'd like to hear their thoughts on the matter." Azazel said seriously.

"A wise proposition. The horsemen would have voice their opinions either way." Azrael spoke seriously.

"Yes, one of the reasons why I voice that part out." Azazel smirked.

"What I want is to fight someone as strong, if not stronger than me." Vali shrugged with his typical, almost arrogant smirk.

"Yes, but you can still find a lot of powerful opponents without having a war." Azazel chuckled slightly in amusement, having expected that kind of answer from Vali.

"I suppose." Vali shrugged again.

"And you, Red Dragon Emperor? Thoughts?" Azazel asked, catching Issei off guard a bit with that question as he glanced from Asia to Akeno.

"I'm not really good with coming up with stuff on the spot." Issei said nervously as he rubbed the back of his head, while Akeno couldn't help but giggle cutely a bit from Issei's nervous attitude.

"Ugh, for pity sake." War grunted in frustration.

"Pay attention Hyoudou!" Death exclaimed angrily, making the boy flinch in fear. Azazel couldn't help but sigh a bit, so much for having his fun of fooling around with the infamous pervert.

"Give us a simple answer. Would you have peace, or war?" Death asked strictly.

"What? Of course I'd go for peace, why would you ask me that question?" Issei asked in almost baffled tone. Having heard from his father of the First and Second World War, of the Great War between the three factions and taking into account the recent events, Issei wouldn't even think of anything else but peace. After all, if they were to have war, he wouldn't have his way with Akeno no matter how he sliced it.

"There you have it." Death said impatiently to Azazel.

"There's no need to treat him as if he is some kind of lapdog." Akeno defended Issei in slightly serious tone.

"Your opinion was not required halfbreed, so remain silent." War said in frustration, about as fed up as his brother that this meeting is talking longer than it should.

"Halfbreed? What do you mean by that?" Issei asked in frustration, while Rias frowned seriously as she didn't like where this was going.

"She didn't tell you? This specimen is a spawn of a human and a fallen angel." Death said coldly, making Akeno gasp in shock that he revealed that repulsive secret, and to Issei of all people.

"What?!" Issei exclaimed in shock and surprise before he looked at the devil queen. "For real Akeno? You're a daughter of a fallen angel?" He asked, but Akeno said nothing as she stood petrified in place while her body started to tremble a bit, which worried Issei and especially Rias.

"Great. Baraqiel is worried enough as it is that Akeno is under the horsemen's leash to begin with. Now all he needs is for his daughter to have a mental breakdown." Azazel thought sarcastically as he continued to look at Akeno.

Now that Issei found out who she really is, she bowed her head down in realization that he might start hating her guts now, something that she couldn't even begin to bare, not after all the wonderful times she shared with a perverted, yet kind-hearted and honest young man with a heart of a lion like Issei. And when tears started to flow from her eyes, she stormed towards the doors and fled outside.

"Akeno, wait!" Issei shouted as he ran after her.

"Why did you had to bring up something like that when it had nothing to do with the summit itself?!" Rias exclaimed angrily at Death. But before she could say anything else...

"Rias, stand down!" Sirzechs exclaimed seriously, drawing Rias' attention. "Now is not the time to seek quarrel with the riders."

"But, big brother…"

"No buts Rias." Sirzechs interrupted in a dead serious tone. "You've seen for yourself that they will show no mercy if you go on their bad side, so I suggest you stay quiet."

Rias hated to admit it, even inwardly, but her brother was right. If she were to try and pick a fight with the riders, then things would quickly go downhill for her, so begrudgingly she remained quiet and stayed up.

"Horsemen, I would ask of you to remain focused on the topic at hand. Now, if you'd please, let us hear your opinion on the matter." Sirzechs said seriously, while the riders remained silent.

---

Outside the meeting room…

"Akeno?! Akeno!" Issei called out as he ran through the hallways, desperately trying to find her while the angel bystanders watched in confusion as to what's happening. When he reached the corner of the hallway, he noticed that Akeno was leaning on the stone fence with her face pressed on her folded arms, barely restraining herself from breaking down in tears, not wanting to cause a scene more than she already did.

"It's okay guys, I got this." Issei said to the nearby angelic soldiers before he slowly walked towards Akeno. The soldiers looked at each other and shrugged before they carried on with their duties, seeing as the situation is not worth any attention, at least to their eyes.

"Akeno? Are you okay?" Issei asked sincerely as he also leaned on the stone fence. But Akeno said nothing, too ashamed of her own reviled heritage that she can't even look at Issei, let alone respond to his question. "Look, I know that Death can be a real dick sometimes. Well, most of the time, but… is it really true what he said? Are you really a daughter of a fallen angel?" He asked as softly as possible, trying not to upset her further than she already is.

After Akeno calmed down a bit, she lifted her head a bit and started to unbutton her shirt, much to Issei's confusion. When she did, she turned her back on Issei and two completely different wings sprung from her back. Her left wing was that of a devil, while the right wing was a fallen angel one, which confirmed Issei's question.

"Yes Issei. It's true." Akeno said in utterly sad and cracked voice, which broke the young man's heart to hear her speak like that. "My human mother Shuri was a young shrine maiden. One day she found a wounded fallen angel, my father Baraqiel, and nursed him back to health. Overtime they fell in love, and before you know it, I came along." She then turned around with a sad look on her face. "These corrupted wings… I hated them so much that I chose to become a devil. But now, with both the devil and fallen angel wings, I am more of an abomination that I was before." She then let out a sad and rather dry, brief chuckle. "I suppose it is fitting for the one with sullied blood flowing through her veins."

"Don't say that Akeno, you're only hurting yourself." Issei said, trying to make her feel better, but it failed miserably as she only looked down with still present sad look on her face, which made Issei feel worse.

"I wanted to tell you this for a long time, but you hate fallen angels. After all, they were the ones responsible for killing you, and for kidnapping Asia before the demons of Hell finished the job. Not to mention their attempt to destroy the entire city and everyone in it. It's not too hard to guess what you think of them after the atrocities they committed." Akeno said sadly.

Issei was really thrown off his loop from Akeno's current, sad and distraught behavior. For as long as he knew her, she always had that damn cute smile and a giggle that would make any man go crazy and have butterfly feelings all over. While it is true that she had her sadistic side as well, mostly shown when she electrifies her opponents, for the most part she was always positive, making humor of Issei's perverted tendencies and even teasing him to the point of insanity. But now, after Death bluntly revealed her heritage, Issei's heart broke when he witnessed firsthand how much pain and suffering she had to endure behind that cute smile. He knew that there was much more to be revealed then from what she said, but he doesn't want to wound her any more than she already is, so he dropped it for the time being.

"You're right. I do hate fallen angels." Issei said in serious and somewhat bitter voice.

"I thought so." Akeno said sadly as she bowed her head down in sorrow and hopelessness.

"But not you Akeno. You're nothing like those murderous bastards, not even close. And because of that, you're the only fallen angel that I like." Issei said seriously, making Akeno gasp in shock and surprise as her eyes widened at Issei's statement. However, it didn't do anything to lift her spirits as her sorrow yet persisted.

"But I have fallen angel blood in me, how are you okay with that? Maybe I only tried getting close to you because I didn't want you to hate me. No, that just makes me… the worst kind of woman." Akeno said in very sad and cracked voice as she closed her eyes and placed her hand on her face, on the verge of crying on the spot. But Issei had enough of Akeno needlessly hurting herself so much as he frowned seriously and stepped closer to her.

"That's bullshit Akeno!" Issei exclaimed as he grabbed her by her shoulders, making Akeno look at Issei in slight shock and surprise. "Stop attacking yourself already, I don't care about any of that. It's true, I hate fallen angels, and you might have a fallen angel blood in you." He then smiled gently. "But in the end it doesn't matter because you are still you, the cute and charming Akeno with a killer rack that I first laid my eyes on when I first got into Kuoh Academy. And because of that I like you till this day, that much hasn't changed a bit." He said in the most sincere voice possible.

Akeno couldn't believe what she was hearing. When her lineage was discovered, she adamantly expected from Issei to scorn her in every shape or form solely because she was a fallen angel, a faction as voiced out, responsible for ending his life and kidnapping Asia so the demons can steal her Sacred Gear. And yet here he is, openly stating without a moment of hesitation or doubt that he likes her. Those words made Akeno's heart melt with joy and relief, so much so that even tears started to flow from her eyes.

"Ahh shit, I made you cry, didn't i?" Issei panicked a bit before he bowed his head. "I'm sorry, i'm so sorry Akeno, I never meant to…"

Before he could repeatedly apologize to her, Akeno leapt forward and hugged Issei tightly, while the pervert himself lost his balance and fell down on the floor, his back hitting the pillar behind him.

"There's no need to apologize for anything. You've said everything right. And now that you have… what's a girl to do but be serious with you." Akeno smiled gently through her sniffs.

"Akeno?" Issei said in confusion, but before he could say anything else, Akeno suddenly lifted her head and kissed Issei on the lips, catching him completely off guard. After a few moments passed which felt like an eternity, Akeno broke the kiss and looked at Issei's now flustered face.

"That was my first kiss." Akeno smiled gently as she blushed a bit.

"Wait, it was?!" Issei exclaimed in shock before he chuckled nervously. "How about that? So was mine." He said, while Akeno giggled cutely at that.

"You like Asia, don't you?" Akeno asked.

"Uhh… yeah, I do." Issei stammered a bit, still stunned by Akeno's sudden kiss, a first kiss at that, though not sure where she is going with that question.

"So being your one and only is out of the question then, since Asia is being serious with you too." Akeno sighed a bit in disappointment before she smiled alluringly. "Oh well, being second best sounds just as wonderful. It like having an affair, which makes me so hot."

"Whatever you're talking about, I'm so on board." Issei said in now lecherous voice.

"Yes I can tell. Feels like little Issei woke up and wants to come out and play." Akeno said in now seductive voice as she pressed her large breasts on Issei's chest, her butt grinding on his crotch and her lips dangerously close to Issei's lips.

"Horniness… reaching critical overload!" Issei thought in insane, cardinal bliss, completely paralyzed in place while Akeno remained on top with her now really seductive and cute face.

"Devils!" A strict male voice suddenly exclaimed, drawing Issei's and Akeno's attention to him. "Lord Azrael would prefer that you do not perform any unwanted, cardinal acts on holy ground." An angelic soldier said sternly.

"My apologies." Akeno answered as she giggled cutely.

"Sorry." Issei said nervously as he rubbed the back of his head. But the angelic soldier only huffed in annoyance and frustration from their foul act as he continued to carry on his duties.

---

Minutes earlier, back at the meeting room…

"Devil king Sirzechs, Archangel Michael and Governor General Azazel. You are all currently questioning as to why I spared your lives on Earth, and I will reveal to you why. The only reason I allowed this summit to be held in the first place is because I have conditions of my own to put to the table." Death said in his usual, serious and cold tone.

"So that was the reason, when you could have killed us at any given opportunity. Yup, that's the lethal, yet shrewd rider I'd come to expect." Azazel smirked. But Death said nothing as he simply continued, while War listened behind his brother what exactly Death had in mind for the three factions.

"You are all aware that we are the Council's enforcers, that we will slaughter anything or anyone who threatens the Balance. However, given certain things into consideration, the time has come for the horsemen to form allies. And this summit has given us the opportunity to forge pacts that we haven't bothered to form in the past." Death said seriously.

"So the Council has finally decided to form allies to aid them in their endeavors?" Michael asked curiously, while Azrael carefully listened what the Reaper had to say.

"We do not have the Council's approval, so this alliance is something solely between the Horsemen and the factions currently present. If you agree that you will provide resources and manpower for our current and future endeavors for the Balance, and that neither faction would even think of threatening it, then the Horsemen will do what they can to aid you in yours, as long as that threat is substantial and it doesn't distract us from our own objectives." Death said seriously.

Azrael was inwardly in complete surprise at Death's proposition. Eversince the horsemen came to be, the four of them individually were more than capable of handling any angel or demon that threatened the Balance, no matter how powerful or dangerous they were. And because of that, the riders were never in real need of allies. Never in his eternal lifespan would he ever thought to see the day when they would actually ally with someone. It was nothing new, that's for sure, the horsemen have allied with many angels and even demons over the eons, including Samael the Blood Prince, but all of those alliances were shaky, and were immediately terminated as soon as a certain objective was done and over with. But this time it's different, this time the riders clearly want this alliance to last, which only confused the otherwise immensely wise archangel like Azrael. Even till this day Death was an enigma to him with his true motivations.

"Quite demanding conditions pale rider." Michael said seriously.

"Indeed. Putting those into consideration, we have conditions of our own before we can all make peace." Sirzechs said seriously.

"You clearly misunderstood me. You are in no position to bargain, devil king. As I've said, I allowed this meeting of yours to occur solely because we have use for it. Make no mistake, we can still easily deal with you all here and now and carry on with traditional means. But I'm giving you a chance to benefit the Balance instead of constantly trying to threaten it. So take it, or leave it." Death said sternly.

But before any of the three leaders or Azrael would say anything, suddenly an orange magic circle formed near the faction leaders, prompting Death to draw his scythes and crouch slightly in preparation for the newcomer.

"What? I know that magic, but from where?" Sirzechs said while the magic circle dropped down, while a feminine figure materialized from the said circle.

"I'd say they leave it. The unworthy devil kings are only fit to die." A woman with sunglasses said.

"What is the meaning of this?! Who are you devil?!" War demanded angrily.

"Katarea Leviathan, descendant of the first Leviathan." Sirzechs said seriously.

"Leviathan?" Death asked curiously, remembering how Serafall also goes by the last name of Leviathan. Could those two be related somehow? That one he doesn't know, at least not yet.

"My lords, the stronghold is under attack!" An angelic soldier stormed inside.

"Go figure, little angel." Katarea said before she fired a blast of energy from her staff, drilling through the angel's torso before the angelic soldier crumpled and died on the ground.

At the same time, Issei's and Akeno's attention was drawn to the sudden commotion outside the spire, immediately getting up and looking down below, only to notice an army of demons and what look like the renegade devils besieging the stronghold.

"Cease this madness devil, or I will be forced to put you down." Azrael said strictly.

"It would be interesting to see what a bookworm is capable of. Wise and talented with magic as you are, you're certainly not a warrior like the rest of your kin." Katarea said arrogantly before she waved her staff above her head.

But before she could unleash her blast, Death sheathed his scythes and dashed towards the devil so quick that only Azrael, War, and to some extent Sirzechs, Michael and Azazel could follow his movement. Katarea was paralyzed in place that Death appeared almost instantly in front of her with a murderous glare behind his executioner's mask. That moment when he did, Death grabbed her hard by her chin and slammed her on the wall, making it crack and collapse a bit from the sheer force of the collision.

"Why would you be so foolish to come here, devil? When you know that your chances of winning here are slim to none." Death asked in a cold, dead serious tone which admittedly sent chills down Katarea's spine, but she will not be deterred.

"Instead of telling you, allow me to demonstrate the power I recently acquired." Katarea smirked arrogantly before she unleashed her magic in orange rays of light, illuminating the entire interior.

Then the top of the spire was completely demolished in massive explosion, while Issei and Akeno were caught in the blast's radius. While Akeno only received minor injuries due to not being so close to Katarea when she unleashed her attack, Issei was severely wounded as his bloodied and seared body was sent plummeting down towards the ground.

"Issei!" Akeno shouted sadly as she quickly swooped down and caught Issei mid-air, and soon after flying upward. "Issei! Issei, are you okay? Say something!" She asked sadly, but Issei gritted his teeth to fight the pain before he looked at Akeno.

"Don't worry… I'll be fine." Issei smiled through the searing pain to ease her worries before he looked down. "Man, what happened?"

After the smoke cleared, Sirzechs, Michael and Azazel created a defensive barrier that protected everyone from Katarea's blast, which they cancelled soon after. The rogue devil herself was shocked and horrified to discover that her attack didn't even made Death flinch from his spot, and he appeared from the smoke without a scratch, still looking at her with a murderous glare that definitely spell the saying 'if looks could kill'.

"Big mistake." Death said coldly as he started to apply more and more pressure on his grip, with intent on crushing her head into a bloody pulp.

"Death!" Azazel suddenly stopped him, drawing the Reaper's attention. "Why don't you let me have some fun with her? Your scythes would be of much bigger use against those demons that are giving out troops trouble." He smirked as he pointed with his thumb downwards. Death looked down and indeed noticed that Sirzechs', Michael's and Azazel's forces are having trouble with the invading army on two fronts, along with the angels under Azrael's banner.

"Why?" Death asked curiously. He knew inwardly that Azazel may have a point, but he would still want to know the reason of why he would duel with this female wretch.

"Because I've felt an unusual chill when she unleashed that blast back there, which is not a common occurrence. So just to be sure, I have to personally fight her head on and discover the truth behind her newfound power." Azazel said seriously, but Death remained unconvinced as he stood perfectly still on his spot. "Better hurry before this whole place is overrun. I'll deal with the four eyed bitch myself." He smirked a bit.

After a few moments of silence, Death eventually let Katarea go while still looking at Azazel.

"Very well. Make sure that she doesn't live to see the end of this day." Death said grimly.

"You can bet on that." Azazel smirked.

"War, let's go!" Death said as he unsheathed his scythes and held them in reverse grip while running towards the edge of the platform and jumping down afterwards.

"Gremory." War said seriously, drawing Rias' attention. When War was close enough, he dropped the box right in front of Rias. "The boy is in your care now, see to it that our enemies don't take him." He said. Rias frowned seriously and nodded silently to the red rider. War nodded back before he drew his Chaoseater and performed a mighty leap, jumping high in the air before he started to plummet towards the ground like a meteor, with Azrael flying down with War.

"Vali, why don't you go down there and upset their ranks a bit? Seems you got a little too relaxed over there." Azazel smirked.

"Of course." Vali smirked a bit before his white and blue wings formed from his back. When they did, Vali took to the skies and dashed down to aid Death, War and Azazel.

"You will regret for that insult Azazel." Katarea said angrily while an orange aura formed around her body.

"I'm simply stating a fact. The other one being that your breasts clearly compensate for your lack of brain." Azazel smirked as a yellow aura formed around his body, infuriating Katarea further while they hovered higher and higher in the air.

"Rias!" A female voice called out from above. The entire group, minus Azazel and Katarea looked up and noticed that it was Akeno carrying the wounded Issei in her arms.

"Issei!" Asia exclaimed worryingly as she quickly ran to their side. "Don't move, I'm going to heal you." She said as her Twilight Healing rings formed in her hands and started to mend Issei's wounds in green, soothing light.

"What made you think you can just waltz in here and deal with all of us with just you and your 'army'? Even if you were to beat us by some miracle, you're clearly no match for the horsemen." Azazel smirked with folded arms.

"That might be true, but killing the leaders of the three factions would be more than enough for the coming of the new world." Katarea grinned wickedly before she charged at Azazel, with the fallen angel general doing the same before their elbows collided, with orange and yellow auras.

"I'm going to enjoy this." Azazel smirked in excitement.

"Huh, the real fun is yet to begin Azazel!" Katarea said before she dashed back and fired black and orange blasts at Azazel from her staff.

Down below, War and Azrael assisted the soldiers on one front, while Death did the same in another as he killed the mercenary demons, renegade devils and swarm of duskwings on the other.

"Here we go. Balance break!" Vali said before his entire body glowed in blue light.

[Vanishing Dragon, Balance Breaker!]

The glow around Vali's body started to shape and solidify into a draconic armor very similar to Issei's. When the transformation was done, Vali wasted no time as he immediately drilled through dozens of devils above Death, while the Reaper himself hacked and slashed through the hapless demons. Hundreds of renegade devils and duskwings turned their attention on Vali, and the devils fired their weapons, but Vali crossed his arms and easily blocked every single blast. Then he retaliated by forming a white orb on his hand and unleashed it in a circular arc, firing chain lightning that killed nearly all of the devils and duskwings surrounding him.

From down below, Death noticed that Vali was indeed powerful. Not as strong as he gave him credit for, but he could be still dangerous if he's not careful when push comes to shove. After that momentary distraction, he returned to his dismembering of the demonic horde, while Vali continued to kill any renegade devil or a flying demonic beast in the sky.

"Thanks a lot Asia, you're a life saver." Issei smiled gratefully, making Asia blush a bit and smile gently.

"Big brother, me and my servants will go down there and assist the horsemen in any way we can." Rias said seriously.

"I think that would be wise, the numbers of the invading army is indeed considerable." Sirzechs said seriously as he looked at the massive army that continue to press the attack, slowly starting to kill the angels, fallen angels and loyalist devils.

"Xenovia, Irina, I want you to go with them and lend your blades to the riders as well. Sirzechs and I will remain here and ensure that Azazel succeeds in defeating Katarea Leviathan." Michael said seriously.

"Yes, chief Michael." Xenovia and Irina nodded in comply, with Xenovia holding a new holy sword called Durandal, and Irina clutching her own, thin yet wickedly sharp holy sword called Ortho's Talon.

That being said, Rias, Akeno, Issei, Kiba, Xenovia and Irina all swooped down to repel the invaders, leaving Gasper in Sirzechs' and Grayfia's care.

On the first front, War decimated the demonic army, while Azrael summoned his weapon, the Spear of Storms and pointed at the devils and duskwings in the air, unleashing a chain lightning that killed the enemy swarm by the hundreds as well. Then he used his free arm to fire a rain of holy blades, impaling the demons below. Those who survived charged at the red rider. War then plunged his Chaoseater into the ground and used the signature Blade Geyser ability, shredding the demons in wide radius in blood and gore before he pulled his sword out and charged at the demons at incredible speed, ramming through the dozens before he continued to slaughter them.

On the second frontier, Death continued to kill every single demon and renegade devil in droves, but for some reason Vali was nowhere to be seen. The loyalist devils, angels and fallen angels cleared their enemies within the stronghold now that they were assisted by Kiba, Issei, Xenovia and Irina. Then Death ceased with his slaughter when suddenly, multitudes of demons were struck by a yellow lightning, resulting in searing death for all of them. When the Reaper looked up, he noticed that it was Akeno who was responsible for that sudden attack.

"Took you long enough." Death said bluntly.

"I just wanted to let you have some fun before I step in." Akeno smiled before she giggled cutely.

"How generous of you." Death said sarcastically before he looked at the invading demons. "You clear the skies while I continue my work here." He ordered.

"On it." Akeno nodded before she flew up again high in the air, while Death attacked again and swung his scythes in a blade dance again.

"Now bring out thunder!" Akeno shouted as she unleashed a chain lightning at the devil soldiers and duskwings above, killing them by the dozens.

On the first front, Rias arrived to the battlefield and immediately fired her destruction blasts on the demons surrounding War. The red rider looked up and noticed that it was indeed her as she landed on the ground next to him.

"Your assistance was not required." War said seriously.

"I know, but it doesn't hurt to have an extra pair of hands." Rias smiled a bit.

"Then make yourself useful and destroy the demons behind the front lines. It would seem they are intent on deploying their siege weapons." War said seriously as he noticed several positions where the ballistae are currently being set up.

"Right." Rias nodded seriously.

But before she could take action, War and Rias, along with Azrael heard a beastly roar coming from behind the lines. Then the beast jumped high in the air and latched onto one of the large boulders. War recognized the beast to be Suffering, a four armed creature of the Abyss legendary for it's swift and brutal ferocity and strength. At the same time, another Suffering emerged to battle Death and Akeno on the second front, roaring loudly before it charged.

"Quickly Gremory, take to the skies and destroy their siege weaponry. I will deal with this simple creature." War commanded sternly.

"But War, I can…"

"Now!" War interrupted Rias, worried statement sternly, making her flinch in fear before she quickly did what he said and flew up.

The Suffering leapt high in the air and was about to ram at Rias mid-air. Thankfully she managed to dash sideways and avoid the beast, while from the ground War dashed backwards and avoided Suffering's four arm slam, leaving only a wide crack on the ground from the sheer force of the beast's seismic landing. Immediately after did Suffering chased after War, ferociously flailing it's four massive fists in attempt to crush the red rider. So far War managed to avoid every single crushing blow from the beast by jumping and dashing about, but in his attempt to avoid the beast, he was distracted from the gate leading inside the stronghold. Azrael was left alone to defend the gates, until Xenovia and Irina jumped from above the gate and leapt on the demons below.

"Not to worry Lord Azrael, we got your back." Xenovia smiled a bit.

"Hold them off, they cannot be allowed to overwhelm us." Azrael said seriously before he lifted his spear, conjuring storm clouds above the demons and firing a powerful thunderbolt, striking and killing dozens of demons, duskwings and renegade devils. Xenovia and Irina fought as a tag team against the demons, thus the trio is successfully keeping the demons and renegade devils at bay.

Rias flew above the demons and fired her destruction blasts at the enormous ballistae set up by the demons, while disintegrating duskwings along the way. She didn't waste a moment as she proceeded to destroy the ballistae one by one, until all six of them were destroyed. After that, she flew back to the base before she could be overwhelmed. At the same time, Death and War continued to avoid the blows of the Sufferings. With Death distracted, only Akeno was left to defend the second gate. But that didn't last long as the remaining loyalist soldiers were dying, eventually leaving her alone to defend the gate.

"Dragon shot!" a crimson blast suddenly hit dozens of demons, exploding violently and sending them flying backwards from the gate. When the smoke cleared, the newcomer was…

"Issei!" Akeno smiled brightly.

"Don't worry Akeno, we got this." Issei smiled as he waved at her before he looked at the demons seriously. "I may not be able to pull off a Balance Breaker, but I'll do my best to help you."

"Don't forget about me!" Another newcomer said as he dashed above the gate and landed next to issei.

"Kiba!" Issei smiled brightly.

"We pushed back the enemy inside the base, so we have to make sure that no one goes through this gate." Kiba said seriously.

"Right, let's do it." Issei said in determination as he, Akeno and Kiba lined up to defend the gate.

[BOOST!]

"SWORD BIRTH!" Kiba roared as he plunged the blade on the ground and conjured a row of swords towards the demons, impaling them in droves in the process, while Akeno fired her chain lightning, killing the renegade devils and duskwings in the sky, assisted by Issei with his Dragon Shots.

On the other side of the battlefield, after a while of fast paced dodging, Suffering finally smacked War and sent him flying backwards, making him slam onto a nearby boulder and pinning him on it, while the beast roared and then charged at the red rider. War gritted his teeth in anger and glared at the beast, having enough of running like a coward as he decided to now go for a counterattack, freeing himself from being pinned in place. When Suffering raised his top right hand to smash the red rider, War jumped and quickly sliced it's arm clean from it's socket, making it roar in agony. It quickly turned around and roared at War, with it's skull-infused tongue whipping about, but War impaled his Chaoseater through the beast's bottom left hand, pinning it on the ground before he grabbed the beast's tongue with his prosthetic gauntlet and viciously ripped it from it's mouth, making the beast roar and wail in excruciating pain while puking out blood and bile. Then Suffering tried to grab War with it's bottom right hand, but War grabbed it's arm and broke it's elbow in a sickening crunch, making the abyssal beast roar louder in pain and agony while it's arm went completely limp. But War was not finished yet as he now formed a Tremor Gauntlet in his right arm and clenched it, pulling his trembling fist back while sparks of lightning crackled around his weapon. While Suffering raised it's final arm in an attempt to crush the rider, War roared as he threw his fist and punched the beast so hard that it's torso exploded, blood and gore spraying in the direction of War's punch, leaving only the beast's arms, stubby legs and head to collapse on the ground and go limp, finally killing the beast. With the deed done, the red rider sheathed his gauntlet, took his faithful blade, turned around and quickly headed back to help the others.

At the same time when War started his execution, Death also continuously flipped and dashed at a fast pace, outmaneuvering Suffering's ferocious blows as the beast flailed it's arms wildly in attempt to crush the Reaper. Then the beast finally caught the rider as it's four arms grabbed each of Death's arms and legs, about to tear him apart. Death quickly reacted though as he summoned his armblades, the Frostforged Twins, slicing the beast's top arm hands in the process and making it flinch backwards and roar in pain. He then dealt with bottom arms by using his right armblade to throw a crescent energy blade to slice the beast's right arm from it's socket, and his left armblade to slice off the left arm. He then raised his right hand above his head, summoning his massive scythe Harvester above the beast. Suffering roared in pain and rage at the Reaper, but as soon as he moved, Death swung his hand down and the Harvester impaled the beast on it's back, pinning it on the ground and thus killing it in place. With the deed done, the Harvester dematerialized, Death unsheathed his armblades and he pulled out his dual scythes, immediately going back to aid Akeno, Issei and Kiba against the enemy army.

Meanwhile above the battlefield, Azazel continued to duel Katarea.

"Are you as excited about your final moments as I am?" Katarea smirked.

"And clichés just keep lining up." Azazel mocked with folded arms. This only infuriated and maddened Katarea further as she just remained silent and conjured what look like black and orange tendrils from her arm, its tentacles slithering around her entire body, her skin briefly going purple before reverting to her normal skin color.

"A snake?" Azazel said seriously to himself, somehow recognizing the eerie aura emanating from the snakes enveloping Katarea. The devil herself fired an enormous black and orange blast at Azazel, but when it cleared, he wasn't anywhere to be seen.

"We should clear something up before moving forward." Azazel said with folded arms behind her, but Katarea didn't waste a second as she threw a left backhand, which Azazel blocked. "You got a lot of aura. Seems to be more than the devil king's descendant should possess. Where did you get this power?"

"I would love to answer that question, but why bother when you are about to die?!" Katarea grinned wickedly before she unleashed a burst of explosive, orange energy, knocking Azazel back, but he immediately recovered.

"Yeah, that might be the case if I were not to take this fight seriously all the way. But now that I'm bored, I might as well do just that." Azazel smirked as he started to pull something from his jacket's inner left chest pocket, which looked like a lance-like golden dagger with a purple jewel at the end of the handle.

"What is that?" Katarea asked curiously.

"Something far more interesting than war. Call it my hobby." Azazel said before his face went serious. "Balance break!"

And then the dagger's jewel glowed in purple light before enveloping Azazel in a dome of regular light. This unusual transformation even caused Issei's green jewel in Booster Gear to glow.

"What?" Issei said in surprise before he looked up where Azazel and Katarea were fighting.

When the light died down, Azazel's entire body was sealed in protective, yellow suit of dragon-looking armor with purple glowing orbs, very similar in appearance to Issei's and Vali's Scale Mail Balance Breaker forms.

"What?! But how?!" Katarea shouted in shock and surprise.

"You probably didn't now, but my hobby is researching Sacred Gears. And my research on the dragon based Sacred Gears lead to the creation of my very own artificial one. Introducing the mock Balance Breaker form of my Downfall Dragon Spear: Downfall Dragon Another Armor." Azazel said.

"A dragon's armor? He can pull of a Balance Breaker too?" Issei said in surprise.

"An artificial Sacred Gear?! But that's impossible." Katarea said in disbelief.

"Apparently it is." Azazel said as he chuckled in satisfaction to his work's success while clenching his fist.

"But why would you do that? You are already immensely powerful." Katarea gritted her teeth in frustration.

"Huh, that's rich coming from someone who imbued herself with the power of the Ouroboros Dragon." Azazel said seriously, making Katarea's eyes widen a bit from the discovery. "Yeah, the snakes were kind of a giveaway that you are in cahoots with her."

"I am Katarea Leviathan, I carry the blood of the illustrious true Leviathan! There is no way that I will lose to a foul fallen angel like you!" Katarea shouted in anger and desperation.

"Bring it." Azazel taunted as he gestured silently for Katarea to come at him.

"DIEE!" Katarea roared as she unleashed an enormous black and orange blast at Azazel.

But with a single swing of his light spear, he negated the blast and inflicted a grievous wound on Katarea. Not willing to give her a moment to recover and retaliate, he threw the light spear and it went right through her head, cleaving it in two and thus killing the descendant of the Leviathan bloodline.

"No thanks, I feel like living for at least a couple of millennia more." Azazel said before he cancelled his Balance Breaker form, reverting back to normal. But when he did, he noticed that the dagger was slightly cracked and damaged. "So that's the limit of a mere imitation." He then smiled a bit. "Even so, there is still plenty of room for improvement." He then kissed the jewel of the dagger. "Stick with me a little while longer, dragon king Fafnir." Then he looked down and glanced between Death and War as they slaughtered the stragglers who are now retreating. "With the two horsemen around, we will need all the help we can get."

Suddenly everyone could hear and, for those who are on the ground, feel a rumbling noise that got louder and louder.

"What is happening?" Michael said in concern.

"I don't know, but it feels like it's coming below us. Move!" Sirzechs cautioned as he took the box containing Gasper and to the skies along with Grayfia, followed by Michael with Asia in his arms.

Then what's left of the spire was completely demolished as a massive, demonic looking beast erupted from it, the ruins of the spire ranging in size destroying the fortifications below and scattering the loyalist angels, fallen angels and devils.

"What the fuck is that?!" Issei exclaimed in shock as the demonic-looking monstrosity bellowed out a loud, howling roar.

"A Hollow Fiend! Get back!" War shouted in caution as he quickly waved Rias, Xenovia and Irina to be behind him. Not long after, Sirzechs, Grayfia, Michael, Asia and Azazel arrived, but Azrael then disappeared from the spot, much to the confusion of Rias, Xenovia and Irina.

On the other side, Death, Akeno, Issei and Kiba were about to rejoin the others, until Azrael suddenly appeared next to them.

"Horseman. To me, quickly." Azrael urged. Death didn't waste a second as he quickly ran to his side, followed by Issei, Akeno and Kiba. When they were all gathered, Azrael teleported themselves back to War and the others on the plateau overlooking the stronghold below.

The Hollow Fiend bellowed out it's roar again as he now unleashed a rain of combustible slags from it's hollow horns and back, showering the stronghold and demolishing it entirely, decimating the angels, fallen angels and the loyalist devils in it's wake. Those few who survived managed to reach the riders and the others in the group.

"Hollow Fiend. I thought that those beasts were only legend." Michael said in slightly nervous tone.

"Who could command such a thing?" War asked seriously.

"Either the Lord of the Hollows, or someone just as powerful if not more." Death said grimly as he looked at the beast before he glanced at his brother. "We have to stop it now, or it will go rampant across the Underworld." He said. War needed no further convincing as he nodded seriously to his brother.

Then the two riders jumped down from the plateau and summoned their phantom steeds from the ground. When they landed on their saddles, they quickly galloped towards the demonic beast. But as they got closer and closer, they noticed white lines zipping around the Hollow Fiend, who turned out to be Vali. As the beast swiped it's right claw and sent a ball of orange energy, Vali dashed sideways and punched the beast right on it's head. The punch itself did no damage to the beast, but that was all Vali needed as he quickly dashed backwards while the Hollow Fiend swiped it's left claw to kill him, but failed.

[DIVIDE! DIVIDE! DIVIDE!]

After three divides, the Hollow Fiend was severely weakened and it collapsed on the ground below. The Reaper, being the opportunist that he is, quickly jumped high in the air, unsheathed his scythes and merged them together, the scythe's blade elongating a bit and bending into a spear. Then Death raised his scythe above his head and swung it down, decapitating the Hollow Fiend. With the beast killed, it's body slid down the hole where it came from. After that, a titanic geyser of flame erupted from the hole before it quickly died down, sealing the hole where the Fiend came from, leaving only it's head to rot near the riders. With the deed done, Azrael, the three faction leaders and the others teleported near them.

"Well done horsemen." Sirzechs said.

"That was extremely unpleasant." Michael said in slightly nervous tone.

"Yeah, I don't want something like that to occur ever again." Azazel said seriously.

Suddenly Sirzechs, Grayfia, Michael, Azazel, Azrael, Death and War noticed a white blast of energy heading straight towards the pale rider. The Reaper noticed the blast coming from the corner of his eye, and in almost an instant, Death swung his scythe backwards without even turning around and cut the blast in half, sending it flying upward and exploding harmlessly from everyone. Afterwards, Death turned around and looked up at the assailant.

"So you are the traitor." Death said grimly.

"You figured it out then." Vali shrugged as he hovered high above the pale rider.

"I know that Azrael's magic is far from sloppy, it would take someone from the inside to reveal the location of this outpost, otherwise it would have never been found. I had a few suspects, and you were among them." Death said grimly.

"Well deduced Death. Seems that your scythes are not the only things that are sharp." Vali said in amusing tone.

"Can't say that I'm surprised, though there is something i'd like to ask you." Azazel asked seriously as he hovered higher and higher in the air until he reached Vali's level. "You know Shemhazai, my Vice Governor General? He recently informed me of a faction that has been gathering dangerous individuals from the three great powers. And I think they go by the name of Khaos Brigade." Azazel said seriously.

"Khaos Brigade?" War asked curiously before he turned to Azrael. "You know of this, angel of death?"

"I have heard rumors of this organization, but up until recently they haven't been that much of a threat to spark so much attention." Azrael said seriously.

"And judging from my duel against Karatea Leviathan, their leader is none other than Ophis, the Ouroboros Dragon." Azazel deduced.

"What?! Ophis?!" Death and War said as their eyes widened in surprise, for the first time in eons genuinely shocked. And that kind of reaction made the others present very nervous, especially Rias, Akeno, Issei, Kiba and Asia. If even the horsemen were shook by the news, then they can only imagine how cosmically dangerous and powerful this Ophis is.

"Uhh, guys? Now you're really getting me nervous, more than usual. Who's this Ophis? Is he really that powerful?" Issei said in slightly shaky voice.

"More than you can imagine." War said ominously in grim tone.

"He, or rather it, is the Infinite Dragon God. An entity as ancient as the Old Ones, but was considered too dangerous to roam the universe that the Creator himself sealed him in the Dimensional Gap, eons ago before even the Charred Council was formed, let alone the Four Horsemen. To think that it is free…" Azrael explained before he trailed off ominously at the end, which only worried everyone present all the more, except Death and War as they are both aware of who and what he is.

"Yes, it is true that I have sided with Ophis, but believe me, neither of us have a slightest interest in world domination, unlike the foolish devil king descendants." Vali said in a disinterested tone before he clenched his fist. "Ophis asked if I wanted to fight the Aesir gods, and it seemed like a nice way to test my strength." He then looked down at the riders in front of the group. "Although, facing the Horsemen of the Apocalypse, especially the Reaper seemed far better than anything this realm or any other could offer. It could arguably be even better than facing the Great Red himself."

"Vali! I have told you to get stronger, not sign your death warrant. Because that's exactly what you'll be doing if you face the Reaper. The pale rider is the most powerful of the Four and the most dangerous being in all of Creation. If you fight him… you will die." Azazel warned in very serious tone, which is a rarity for his charismatic personality.

"That was my plan anyway." Vali shrugged before he looked down at Issei. "Just look at that pathetic excuse of a human. It only goes to show how fate can be cruel. I have waited for so long to face my rival Sacred Gear wielder in all-out combat, and this is what I get. A brat who isn't even an impressive student in high school, let alone the formidable Red Dragon Emperor that I'd come to expect. Without it, his worth would have been as that of a speck of dust beneath a fingernail." He said in very disappointed tone.

Issei gritted his teeth angrily and clenched his fists, really getting frustrated that he's shrugging him off like he's an insignificant pest that is only fit to be exterminated. If only he was stronger, then he would have brought his ego down a few pegs.

"I can agree that he is nowhere near as strong as he should be, but fighting the horsemen themselves is not the remedy." Azazel said seriously.

"I've made my decision Azazel. And I'd advise you that you stay out of it." Vali warned before he started to hover downwards. "Now then Reaper, do you accept my challenge?! Or are you not as 'dangerous' as you would have us all believe?!" He taunted openly for all to hear as he pointed at Death.

"Damn that kid! He's deliberately digging his own grave." Azazel thought in frustration before he glanced from Vali to Death. Yup, the pale rider now has that murderous glare about him, he doesn't intend to back down or show pity towards the battlelusting lunatic like Vali.

"So be it." Death said grimly as he took his scythes from his hips and held them in reverse grip, slowly walking towards a massive crater formed when the Hollow Fiend was killed.

After he leapt forward and landed at the bottom of the crater, Vali did the same soon after as he hovered down and landed not too far from the Reaper. War and the others in the group made a safe distance from Death and Vali, mostly cause of the weaker devils because they noticed that this bout will be quite destructive.

[Vali. Are you absolutely certain that you are ready to face Death himself? This might very well be your final battle.] Albion cautioned as Vali's blue wings flashed repeatedly.

"Yes, it will be a glorious battle indeed. Finally, someone I can truly go all out against!" Vali said excitedly. For the first time in many years, he had never felt this excited for a fight, and he intends on making the most out of this bout before his end, or the Reapers.

"There is nothing glorious about satisfying a battle whore like yourself. Unlike War, I don't plan on dragging this fight for my own amusement. I am going to end this quickly." Death said grimly as he crouched slightly and held his scythes in reverse grip.

Death's words struck a nerve as Vali charged at the Reaper like a flash of light. But even with his almost instantaneous speed, Death casually sidestepped to dodge Vali's right fist, surprising the White Dragon Emperor as he slid through the ground with his feet in an effort to stop himself.

Death seemingly overestimated his speed, that blow was almost too easy to dodge. But, this is the wielder of the White Dragon Emperor he's facing. And if he were to touch him that would be very bad for him, considering Vali's Sacred Gear ability that is Divine Dividing, which even in the past against the original White Dragon Emperor was proven to be troublesome. Especially for Fury, since in her recklessness she was almost killed due to the dragon repeatedly cutting her power in half. Even War was nearly defeated in same fashion, since he has a bad habit of taking the enemy's attacks head on, which is why it was for the best that Vali challenged him and not his brother. He didn't make that mistake back then and he certainly doesn't plan on making a slip now. So long as Vali doesn't touch him, this fight will be a walk in the park for the Reaper.

When Vali finally stopped, he blitzed again in a white flash, dashing sideways before he again charged forward and tried to punch the pale rider, but Death casually stepped backwards, again dodging Vali's attack. And so Vali proceeded to strike at the rider again and again at lightning speed, zipping about in all directions, but Death continued to stay in place while avoiding every single blow Vali threw. Then Vali added white energy blasts to his assault. The Reaper immediately noticed them and used his scythes to cut them in half, making them explode harmlessly away from him. Now Vali continued to try and punch Death at lightning speed, while at the same time firing his white blasts. Alas, that didn't do much as Death was still too quick for Vali to even touch his foe, let alone damage him as Death either slices his blasts, avoids his blows or both at the same with his incredible acrobatic movements.

"Amazing. The Reaper is dodging every single blow from the White Dragon Emperor with the slightest of ease." Sirzechs said in amazement.

"The horsemen are the veterans of eons of battles devil king. What you are witnessing here is a simple routine for the riders." Azrael said seriously.

Vali was now starting to be furious. Even with all those lightspeed attacks, Death is still toying with him. He stopped with his fruitless attacks, and it was only then that he noticed he had blade cuts across his entire armor while he tried to hit the Reaper, which angered him all the more. He then blitzed upward, creating two white orbs in his hands before unleashing at the pale rider, forming a wall of lightning that crackled about. Death moved from his spot so fast that he appeared like a blur, his movements followed by War and Azrael, along with Sirzechs, Michael and Azazel with some difficulty, and emerged behind Vali before the White Dragon wielder could register where he went. The moment he did, the Reaper latched onto Vali's back with his Death Grip and yanked himself towards him. Immediately after that he readied his scythes, and when he was close enough he plunged both of his scythes on Vali's back, making him scream in agony like puking out blood. Death then flipped forward, swung Vali overhead and threw him down, making him slam on the ground hard while the Reaper landed and immediately stoop upward, ready for another offensive from Vali.

"Holy shit. And here I thought Vali was stupid strong, but Death is making him look like a complete amateur." Issei said in shock and amazement.

"I knew that he was powerful, but I never would have guessed that Death would toy with Vali so casually." Rias said in awe and amazement.

"Let this be a reminder that the horsemen are not to be trifled with." War said seriously.

"Same can't be said for Vali, it would seem." Azazel said seriously, though inwardly sad for reasons only known to him.

Despite Vali's bloody injuries, he managed to quickly get up on is feet.

"Fine! If I can't hit you, then I will drain your power another way!" Vali shouted in anger before he flew up and sprung his wings wide.

[HALF DIMENSION!]

But as Vali was about to raise his hand and start halving everything in sight, Death also raised his hand and summoned a flock of crows to distract Vali. The White Dragon Emperor waved his left hand and fired white blast of energy, making the crows explode in rain of floating feathers. But that moment of distraction was all Death needed as an instant later the Reaper was right in front of Vali. Before he could even react, Death already commenced his attack as he repeatedly sliced through Vali's armor and injured the young man, causing him to bleed profusely. Then the Reaper connected his dual scythes into one and impaled Vali right through his chest, drilling the blade of the scythe further inside Vali before he swung overhead and tossed him down again, making him slam into the ground so hard that Vali's Scale Mail armor completely shattered.

When Death landed, he noticed that the boy was bloodied and beaten. Believing that the fight was over when he saw his seemingly lifeless body, he turned around and was about to depart. But then he heard him barely chuckle, despite the excruciating pain, which confused the rider as he turned around and looked at Vali again. The young White Dragon wielder then pulled out of his pocket a tiny vial and sprayed it's contents on his chest, afterwards glowing with pink, soothing light, instantly healing him completely.

"What did you just do? What kind of liquid was that?" Death demanded.

"Phoenix Tears. Extremely rare to come by, but incredibly useful in tight spots." Vali smirked before he once again formed the Scale Mail armor on him. "Guess I made a mistake that I didn't go all out on you from the start Reaper. Be certain that I won't make that mistake again."

"Fine. Know that there will be no second chances in our next round." Death said grimly before he crouched slightly again and held his scythes in reverse grip.

"You think that I am a simple demon or angel you can shrug off? You will have a completely different opinion when you face against the Juggernaut Drive." Vali said angrily. Death merely raised his eyebrow in interest at that, having no idea that there was a power above Balance Breaker.

"That idiot. He is actually going to use the Juggernaut Drive." Azazel said in frustration and worry.

"Not a single step, fallen angel." War said sternly, stopping Azazel in his tracks as he looked at the red rider, while War looked at Azazel. "The wielder of the White Dragon sealed his fate when he provoked Death to a fight. And he is not known to show mercy when openly challenged. You try to interfere and he will deal with you as well." He warned in low and strict tone.

Azazel frowned seriously at War, really on edge to just forget any sense of self-preservation and go out there to stop the fight, saving Vali in the process. But Azazel's body froze in place by itself after the rider's warning, mostly from the fact that War is telling the truth. Even as the Governor General of the fallen angels, he is still no match for the horsemen, especially Death, so charging in blindly in attempt to save Vali would only end up in his demise by the Reaper's hands. And if he were to die, then the peace between fallen angels, devils and angels would never occur. Which is why he stayed put, however reluctant and difficult the decision was, inwardly hoping that Vali will survive by some miracle.

[Forget it Vali. The Juggernaut Drive is too dangerous for prolonged fights like this.] Albion warned.

"That's why I intend to end it as fast as possible, before he beats me to it." Vali said in determination.

[This has gone on far enough! While you did your best to even try to harm the Reaper, he toyed with you every step of the way! Continue opposing him and you will die for sure!] Albion scolded.

"I didn't expect you to suggest that we run from a fight." Vali said in annoyance to Albion's cowardice.

[Usually I wouldn't, but this is the pale rider we are facing. Against Death himself, there is no victory.] Albion said.

"If so, then let us go out with a bang." Vali concluded before he finally raised his right hand and proceeded to activate the ascended form of the Balance Breaker.

"I, who shall awaken…"

"I am the Heavenly Dragon who has taken the principles of supremacy from the Creator."

"I envy the infinite and long for the dream"

"I shall become the White Dragon of Supremacy"

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

"Juggernaut Drive!"

With the incantations done, Vali completely glowed in white light, blinding Death for a bit as he tried to shield his eyes. When the light died down, Death noticed that Vali has grown immensely in size, his body now far more draconic than humanoid, slightly larger than the abyssal dragon Frostbane when he fought him many millennia ago in Argul's Tomb.

"His power. It's even greater than the White Dragon's that we fought centuries ago." War said in slight surprise.

"Are you saying that Vali is more powerful than the original White Dragon Emperor?" Rias asked in shock and awe.

"So it would appear. However, Death is yet to take this fight seriously." War said in his usual, serious tone.

On the battlefield, the Reaper finally had enough. Now he intends to show Vali that no matter how powerful or dangerous the enemy is, none are beyond Death. Vali roared loudly before he charged at the Reaper, with the pale rider doing the same. As Vali raised his right fist, Death slid beneath him and jumped high in the sky, while at the same time Vali slammed his fist through the ground, causing a seismic destruction that shattered the entirety of the crater and beyond. And in the sky, a purple, soul like smoke enveloped Death's entire body before the energies within the pale rider imploded outward in a cloud of black and purple. When it cleared, Death finally transformed into the dreaded Reaper Form. But Vali, due to the side effect of the Juggernaut Drive, was consumed by rage and blitzed towards Death like a white blur. Death in his Reaper Form also moved like a blur, and both fighters zipped through the sky like purple and white lightning bolts, while the bystanders continued to gaze at the fight at hand from the ground. After a brief tussle, they both appeared, with Death slicing Vali's right arm before he quickly turned around and plunged the Harvester onto Vali's back, making him wail in agony. He then viciously ripped it out and made some distance from Vali, while the White Dragon wielder turned around and roared angrily. Death then immediately went on a quick finisher. In a similar fashion like he did with Frostbane, he decapitated Vali mid-air, dropped from his Reaper form and landed on the ground, followed by Vali's body, and afterwards his head rolled on the ground not far from the body and dropped from Juggernaut Drive to Vali's original, human form.

And with that act, Vali was no more. Despite being considered the most powerful White Dragon Emperor in history, that wasn't enough to stand against the might of the pale rider. However, Death had no idea himself why he didn't end the fight from Vali's first attack, but it turns out that accidental decision was a wise one as he now discovered about the transformation beyond Balance Breaker, which in this case is the Juggernaut Drive. Something he should keep in mind should Issei try to do the same, if he ever comes close to Vali's level of power. Then again, who's to say that this ascended form is exclusive to the wielders of Red and White Dragons? For all he knew, other Sacred Gears might have their own, unique form beyond Balance Breaker.

When he sheathed his scythes, he noticed a blue gem near the remnants of the broken armor that he shattered when he previously slammed Vali to the ground. He silently walked towards it and picked it up, his thoughts his own as he gazed at the gem in his hand.

Suddenly Azrael teleported himself and the others near Death, afterwards walking towards him in silence.

"He did it. He actually beat Vali." Issei said in amazement.

[Rather fortunate for you, boy. In your current state, he would have made a short work of you if he were to fight you instead of the rider.] Ddraig said bluntly.

"Well gee, thanks for the vote of confidence." Issei said sarcastically.

There was no congratulations from anyone in the group, the horsemen certainly didn't kill the White Dragon wielder for their sake. But the one that was deeply hurt inside was no one else but Azazel, the fallen angel slowly but surely walking closer and closer towards Vali's severed head.

"Goddamn it Vali." Azazel said in serious, yet sad and heartbroken tone.

Little did others knew that Vali was like a son to him. He was the one who found the young man years ago, took him under his wing when he was a child after the severe abuse he suffered from his family, raised him as his own for years until today and taught him how to control his power. How sad that his lust for battle was in the end his own undoing.

"I wouldn't harbor any thoughts of vengeance if I were you, fallen angel. His battle lust was his own undoing." Death said coldly, recognizing that symptom in his own sister Fury. War is also known to relish combat, but after slicing his arm, he gained the discipline not to lose himself completely in his rage. He only hoped that he doesn't have to deliver that kind of message to Fury as well.

"I know. I realized that battle crazy lunatic would go to any lengths to have a serious fight since the start, but I never would have imagined he would challenge you of all people." Azazel said in serious, yet slightly heartbroken tone as he glanced from Vali's severed head to his body.

"It would not be the first time, and it certainly won't be the last." Death said in serious, yet somewhat compassionate tone before he turned around and faced Sirzechs and Michael, still gripping his scythes, which unnerved them a bit. But that disappeared when a moment or two later Death sheathed his weapons. "As you may have seen, there are forces that conspire against all of us, Ophis and this 'Khaos Brigade' being one of them. The Horsemen protect the Balance against those who seek to threaten it, while the angels, fallen angels and the devils under your banners only desire for peace. The end result is the same for us all. Neither of us would want chaos and destruction to ensue in the Kingdom of Man and beyond. And against Ophis, we would have a better chance for survival if we cooperate. Now, leaders of respective factions… what say you?" He said in as formal voice as it is possible for him.

Now everyone waited in silent anticipation, glancing from Sirzechs, to Michael, and to Azazel, and noticed that they all have a slightly conflicted looks on their faces, their thoughts being their own in those moments. Allying with the riders might end up being ruinous for them, since they mostly act to benefit themselves, but it's a lesser evil compared to facing alone against someone infinitely dangerous as Ophis. However, on second thought, cooperating with the horsemen might not be as bad as it seems. Their incredible power will definitely give them a chance against Ophis and other dangerous powers out there. And with that alliance in force, the riders would not be able to kill them, which in some twisted way made them feel safe, even if it is in the horsemen's shadow.

"You may have a point Death." Sirzechs said in serious, formal tone.

"Brother?" Rias said curiously.

"Given what we have to face in the future, we might as well fight as one, or die alone. Taking the formation of the Khaos Brigade into consideration, if Ophis truly intends to bring about total annihilation to everything and everyone we have ever known, then we may need all the help we can get to stand a chance against the Ouroboros Dragon." Sirzechs said seriously before he glanced at Death. "So I, Sirzechs Lucifer, one of the Four Devil Kings, as a representative of my people, say unto you that we accept your terms."

"I, Michael, the Archangel of Divine Faith, also accept your terms horsemen. In times of tribulation, only together we can stand against the powers that threaten our very existence." Michael said formally.

"I, Azazel, the Governor General of the fallen angels, agree with your terms as well. Best to have you horsemen as allies rather than enemies." Azazel said formally too.

"Then it is decided. In the spirit of cooperation, with the Creator as our witness, all the conflict between the horsemen and the three factions is hereby forbidden." Azrael said formally.

"Azrael, take them all somewhere more secure to sign the peace agreement. War and I will rejoin you later to finalize the ceremony." Death said.

Although slightly confused, Azrael nodded silently before he hovered near Michael, Xenovia and Irina, with Sirzechs and Grayfia and other devils walking towards them. Azazel on the other hand didn't bother to come with them. Instead he picked up Vali's head, went towards Vali's body and then silently formed a green magic fallen angel circle below him, teleporting to a location only known to him. Azrael was slightly surprised by that act, but immediately understood the reason, since he noticed that Vali's death troubled Azazel deeply.

"We sure make a good team, don't we?" Rias smiled.

"Winning a few skirmishes side by side does not make us a 'team' Gremory." War said with a plain disdain in his voice, implying to their battle with Riser in the Rating Game, their bout with Kokabiel and today's conflict with the Khaos Brigade.

"Still, I'm glad that we will be allies in days to come." Rias smiled gently.

"I am not." War said sternly, making Rias look at him with an almost heartbroken look on her face. "But for the sake of the Balance, I will tolerate your kind and honor the peace agreement that we made. For now." He said before he finally glanced at Rias with his usual, very serious look on his face.

"Lady Rias. It's time to go." Grayfia said seriously as she approached the ruin princess.

Rias looked down for a moment with a conflicted and almost sad look on her face before she frowned seriously and looked at Grayfia, nodded silently and then followed her. Rias and Grayfia reached the others waiting for them, and when they all gathered, Azrael used his magic to teleport themselves, disappearing from where they stood.

"That devil is really starting to annoy me with her behavior." War thought in frustration.

When they all finally left, War walked towards his brother, who was looking towards the horizon in thought.

"Now I understand Death." War suddenly said, drawing his brother's attention as he looked at the red rider. "You have seen how dangerous the Sacred Gears can be in the hands of our enemies, so through this alliance you plan to utilize them for our cause for the Balance, instead of going up against them."

"Yes. They may not have world-shattering potential like the Grand Abominations, but they are very versatile and potentially dangerous even for us. As we have seen firsthand against the corrupted dragon and the White Dragon Emperor." Death said seriously before he looked up in the sky and clutched the blue gem still in his hand. "And against Ophis, we may as well use the power of these Sacred Gears to stop her. Boosted Gear, Twilight Healing, Balor View…"

"You would consider to extract these weapons from the devils for our own use? Like the demons did with Asia Argento?" War asked curiously.

"Why do you ask? Have you grown fond of the Gremory devils?" Death asked sarcastically.

"Your humor is in poor taste Death." War grunted in frustration and annoyance.

"Yet not far from the truth." Death said bluntly.

"I don't need to explain myself to you, of all the people that know me for eons on end! I will not be distracted, let alone allured by that devil or any other! As I wouldn't have been by Lilith when we searched for the Abomination weapons!" War said in angry and bitter tone.

"After all these eons, you are still holding onto that grudge?" Death said in annoyance.

"This situation only reminded me of that day. Had you only not insisted on your preposterous notion that I would be weak to resist Lilith's wiles…"

"Then you are a fool if you think you can War!" Death exclaimed angrily, finally silencing his brother, at least enough so he can continue. "Lilith is an ancient, powerful and dangerous demon. She is the one responsible for creating Absalom, and by extension us. As I've said all those centuries ago, if it means that I have to make a cripple out of you, I will not allow you to become a besotted slave of that demented harlot." He said in strict and cold tone before he looked down in thought. "Not that it matters, because Lilith is not our concern at the moment. Against Ophis, we may need to call for Fury and Strife as well."

"Ophis' power cannot be denied, but we have also grown more powerful as eons passed. Surely the two us would be more than capable of dealing with her, you in particular due to being the most powerful and durable among us." War said seriously, finding it hard to believe that she would still be too much for the surviving Nephilim to handle.

"I can't say for sure War, not until we face Ophis ourselves and discover the true gap in power between it and the Horsemen." Death said seriously before he looked at War. "Now let's go, we have much work to do in days to come." He said as Despair materialized and galloped behind him until he stopped next to him, followed by Ruin as he stopped next to War. The two riders then mounted their respective phantom steeds and rode forth into the unknown.

As the riders rode towards their destination, they started to be concerned for days to come, probably for the first time after many millennia. Although they repelled the invasion of the Khaos Brigade, bested the White Dragon Emperor in combat, and forged an alliance with the three factions, dealing with the Ouroboros Dragon himself will prove to be quite problematic. They can only hope that they have grown strong enough to stand against him after countless battles over the eons, that this newfound alliance will bear fruit and balance the odds against Ophis when the times comes to face him head on.

---

-wacko12 Thanks. Yeah, but i am yet to see what i'll do with that idea.

-It is ON Glad to hear it :)

-Gamelover41592 Thanks man. Yeah, pretty much, though he couldn't know that there was a dragon residing in Saji.

-DOOMRAIDER I don't think they will, cause as we have seen in Darksiders 2, neither Lucifer nor Lilith had to lift a finger for Corruption to do some damage across the realms, Absalom by himself did that just fine. I know that Lucifer definitely won't, cause he is crazy cunning, even fooled War and Strife in helping him fuel the Animus by killing off the demon lords he made bargain with. Actually, the start of Corruption came from Absalom himself, not the Abominations, as shown in Darksiders 2 when Absalom sinks into a black puddle after Death killed him. Corrupted Abominations sounds like an awesome idea on paper, but in practice i realized that they would totally break the story. I mean, the Abominations by themselves had enough power to destroy entire worlds, you can only imagine the damage the Abominations fully awakened and empowered by Corruption would do. So yeah, we can presume that because of the world-shattering potential the Abominations have, Death indeed tossed them into Oblivion, minus Mortis since it is in his possession. I doubt i'll do anything with it though, at least for now.

Yeah definitely. I know that some people will be pissed off that i killed off Vali in this chapter, but at this point in time it's only fitting due to his current mindset of getting the most challenging fight of his life no matter what. In anime and manga, he stated how his life was so dull and boring, and once he beat the strongest guy out there, he would kill himself or something. We all know that his life changes drastically as time passed in canon, but in this story, he doesn't get to have to get that chance for reasons i already explained.

-muddin2900 Of course, not going anywhere :D Thanks, glad to hear it.

-Lunathicc Glad to hear it. Nice name btw :D

-Lq840i I am yet to see what i'll do with Youkai, so can't say anything about that.

Don't worry, i don't mind a constructive rant. Yeah, i don't know if it's because of inconsistency between anime, manga and light novels, but Akeno seems to be all over the place with her personality and the tragic events she had to endure.

Fake smile... eh, debatable. Daddy issue i can kinda understand, when you are a child it's very easy to hate your father when he is not there to protect your mother from getting killed, whatever the reason for his absence may be, and carry that hatred with you for years to come. She thoroughly blames him for her death, but at the same time she wants to have her father by her side. I can go on and on about it, but i think you get my meaning. And holy lightning power is something Baraqiel, her father uses, and at that point she didn't want to have anything to do with a fallen angel power like that. I can agree though that she can be really annoying when she acts like she had done it before, but she's exactly that, a kissless virgin. And yeah, from what i noticed, she really is a novice when it comes to S&M. Frying enemies with lightning and getting off on it is like a beginner level of S&M, there are alot of twisted and demented ways people can get a hard on. Like in Warhammer 40k universe, the Dark Eldar get a huge wraithboner for breaking their victim's bones, flaying their skin, increasing the pain receptors in the victim's body to unimaginable degree, where a simple slap would make them scream as if they fell from a 10 story building on a concrete. And i can just go on and on just to prove a point at how pathetic Akeno's brand of S&M truly is.

Ophis is yet to make an appearance, so we'll see what happens when the time comes :)

-yesboss21 Soon enough :)

-Inferno999 Yeah he did, but i wanted to make the Armageddon Blade a MUCH bigger deal in this story than it was in Darksiders 1. I was in general really annoyed with that scene of meeting between Azrael, Abaddon and Ulthane. How in the world did they manage to get their hands on all seven seals? Surely some of them would reside in Hell, closely guarded by Samael or some demon with similar brain. Why did the Makers not question Ulthane the purpose behind the forging of the immensely powerful sword like the Armageddon Blade? Presuming he made it in the Forge Lands in the Maker's Forge and not somewhere else. There are so many questions left unanswered and i dont like it.

-Chronos0305 Thanks, glad you love it:)

-undead3 Thanks a lot, glad you like it. Yeah that would make a hillarious scene, maybe i'll add it in the future, who knows. Yeah, Death is rebellious, but he doesn't let anyone know that, besides War and probably Fury and Strife. To be fair, War would have probably killed Uriel from the get go in their second round if he didn't visit the Tree of Knowledge and gained the visions of the past and future. The only reason he spared her, especially with Nex Sacramentum, is because she had a part to play in his fight with Abaddon.

If you had read the Abomination Vault novel, in one scene, Death was inflicted such pain and agony by the Charred Council for defying them, it made the pain he felt from Affliction like a mosquito bite, and that Abomination weapon was no joke at all. It made any wound go instantly and completely necrotic, where even the angelic medicine would do no good to save Abaddon's right eye. It was something not even Death, with his nigh invincibility could shrug off. To put it simply, it FUCKING hurt. So you can presume Death kept that in mind in years to come, hence why he is now careful with his future defiances with the Council. And risking their wrath by allowing the three faction meeting on Earth was something Death was not willing to take. So yeah, it's definitely the latter.

Well deduced. Even Azrael commented to Abaddon that humanity was nowhere near ready for the Endwar, that they would be destroyed if Abaddon carried on with his plan in DS1, which he ultimately did. And from what we learned from the Lord of the Hollows (he after all served the Council, so he should know) the Third Kingdom wouldn't be ready anytime soon cause the Council and the similar high powers feared humanity, as they were meant to embody the universal balance due to them constantly evolving and angels and demons stagnating forever. So that's why they were never given the chance to reach their full potential, much like the Ravaiim, and were killed off, something the Lord of the Hollows tried to rectify by gathering of souls. The Council basically became a police department solely for angels and demons and the humans were left to bite the dust, no fucks given from their part.

Death was none the wiser about Corruption in Darksiders 2 to begin with. He knew bits and pieces about it when he traversed the Forge Lands, but not the full picture until the point where he reaches Shadow's Edge, Samael's kingdom and learn the true magnitude of Corruption. Its basically the same principle i'm doing here.

-FinisDeusExMachina Maybe, or it could be that i played alot of Dawn of War recently :D

-Guest Probably, i am yet to see what i'll do with Fury and Strife.

-DreonicNL At that time he did, so unfortunately Koneko had to bite the dust.

So i have only one question regarding future chapters for you all. Since i already added Corruption in the story, along with the Armageddon Blade and Seven Seals plot, should i add the Seven Deadly Sins as well? I feel like i already have plenty of stuff to go by and i don't know if i should do that as well. Or just use what i have and not pile up anymore plots than we already have? The choice is yours. Until then, see ya in the next chapter :)