"" - Speaking
'' - Thought
{} - Sparda
[] - Ddraig
...
The next day, Yukio was heading towards where Akeno had told him to go to which was a shrine in the town. Rias had said that once she had finished her work she would come after.
The silver haired teen's eyes caught a shadow of someone on the stone steps, before recognising it as Akeno, who was wearing a shrine maiden outfit.
"Welcome, Yukio-kun." Akeno greeted
"Hey Akeno-san" Yukio replied with a smile, using his Sonido to easily cover the steps and appearing next to Akeno before she spoke
"Sorry, Yukio-kun. Suddenly calling you out like this."
"Ah, it's no problem. I was also free with no work. But what kind of work is this? And also Buchou says she will also come later…..."
"Yes, I know. Rias has to do a final meeting with Sirzechs-sama regarding the conference matter." Yukio nodded understandingly at Akeno's reply, taking a quick moment to admit she was the very picture of a Yamato Nadeshiko.
'I guess her title as The Thunder Priestess came from this as well' He mused before asking
"Is it alright not going to the meeting along with Buchou? I was thinking that the queen's power may be required…"
"Grayfia-sama will follow up over there, not to mention if it advances by a certain degree, then even without me it will be alright. More than that, I have to meet the person whose upstairs waiting." Akeno replied, looking far up the stairs as they continued towards the Arch, Yukio aware that he would suffer damage if he crossed it. His worries were quickly laid to rest as Akeno spoke
"This place is fine. An agreement was reached under the table, even devils can enter." She passed through the archway with ease before Yukio moved to catch up with her as he looked over the shrine which looked old but there wasn't any damage he could see.
"Akeno-san, do you live here?" Yukio asked looking around, Akeno smiling as she answered
"Yeah, the priest of the last generation passed away, Rias secured this shrine which had no people remaining for me."
"Is he the Sekiryuutei?" A third person's voice spoke up, Yukio turning towards it to see a young man in an extravagant white robe, a golden halo floating about his head and…
'2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12…12 golden wings' Yukio thought surprised and shocked at seeing an angel before him, the young man giving him a gentle smile as he moved to offer a handshake as he spoke
"Nice to meet you Sekiryuutei, Hosokawa Yukio-kun." Yukio looked confused as he shook the young man's hand, who decided to introduce himself to Yukio
"Don't worry. I am Michael. I am the leader of the angels. I see, this aura's quality, it's surely Ddraig. This brings back memories."
…
Akeno lead Yukio and Micheal into the main shrine, the silver haired teen looking at the numerous huge pillars around before finding himself looking at the centre as he felt an unknown power surge and tingle his skin, setting off warning signs for him.
"Truth is, I thought of awarding you this." Michael spoke, Yukio looking confused to him before being directed to the floating sword which was oozing out a holy aura. It looked to be a western long sword which had a reddish purple grip and crosses adorning the edges of the hilt.
'A Holy Sword' Yukio thought surprised before Sparda spoke up
{Ascalon…}
"This is Georges-if I say Saint George then would it be better introduced? It's the dragon slayer's holy sword, Ascalon, he possessed." Michael explained, before Ddraig added
[It's a famous dragon slayer. A group of people who made slaying dragons their job-and also the term used for the weapon they used.]
"As a special courtesy, since I am giving this, even you a devil who has the power of the dragon can handle it. Before you can possess it, do you think you can assimilate it into the boosted gear?" Michael added, Yukio looking surprised before taking a small nod
[It depends on you. The sacred gear answers on your feelings. If you wish for it, it should be possible.] Ddraig explained, Yukio stepping towards the Holy Sword as he asked
"Why, give it to me?" Looking back he saw Michael smiling as he answered
"This time's meeting, I think there's a huge opportunity to cooperate between the 3 great powers. I hear you already know it so I am saying this but, we lost our creator-God during the last war. Our enemies also lost the old Maous in battle. The leaders of the fallen angels are reticent. Azazel also has his official stand of not wanting to create wars. This is a chance. A chance in order to get rid of the useless battles. If small scale battles continue like this intermittently, then anyhow, the 3 great powers will be destroyed. Even if that isn't the case, from the side other powers may invade. That sword is a present from me to the Maou side. Of course, I also sent presents to the fallen angel side. I got the rumoured holy demonic swords from the devil side as well, our side is very grateful as well."
'So I take it other religious systems exist then?' Yukio thought, Sparda nodding as he answered
{Yes…And there may be other powers from holy scriptures or mythological systems as well that would want a Dragon Slayer sword}
[Ordinarily, they don't walk over from their territory. Since an implicit anti-war agreement was present. However, we don't know if the others will move when they find out that the God of the holy scriptures has died. This talk is also about making sure that the three great powers don't utter the non-existence of the God of the holy scriptures outside.] Ddraig added
Michael continues to talk to him "We heard that the one who opposed us, the Welsh dragon had become a devil. As a greeting, and alongside as a present we're giving you that sword. From now on you'll probably be targeted by Dragon class opponents and the vanishing dragon. I thought that for the Dark Knight's descendant it may become a good supporting weapon."
"Why me…?" Yukio asked surprised.
"Only once have the three great powers held hands together. That's during the time they defeated the red and white dragon. Since the two dragons who trespassed into our battlefield and threw the battlefield into disarray."
[…Who knows.] Ddraig grumbled, Yukio expecting the dragon to play dumb as Michael continued
"Wishing that we hold hands together like that time, I am placing my hopes in you-in the Sekiryuutei. It's typical Japanese right?"
Yukio slowly moved his hand towards Ascalon, pushing back what worries he had over any potential damage as he would expect they'd had made sure he could hold it before giving it to him.
"There were final adjustments done on that sword in this shrine. Maou-sama, Azazel-sama, and Michael-sama's camps' ceremonies have been performed so even if a devil houses the power of the dragon, he can touch it." Akeno spoke reassuringly as Yukio gripped the hilt of the holy sword, looking over it curiously as he felt the holy aura but none of it was flowing into him.
[Partner, focus your consciousness on the boosted gear. I'll follow up after that. -Try making the sword in your hand combine with the surge of the sacred gear.] Ddraig spoke up, Yukio focusing as he summoned Boosted Gear to his hand before working his thoughts into combining the Holy sword with it.
Soon the holy aura flowed into the gauntlet, passes through the Sacred Gear as a sensation of a bad surge flowed into his body. Slowly it became familiar to him and he could feel the aura being taken in by Ddraig's power before a red flash over the gauntlet, fading to reveal that a blade was growing out of the front portion of the back of his left hand.
"It combined" Yukio spoke, flexing his left hand to get use to the change in gauntlet, Michael confirming it before he clapped his hands and speaking
"And, it's time. I have to go soon."
"I want to say something to you." Yukio spoke, trying to keep his nerves down as Michael replied
"Time to visit the conference, let's hear it after the conference. I'll definitely hear it. Don't worry."
After that Michael's whole body was wrapped by light and after a flash of a light he disappeared.
…
"Here's some tea." Akeno spoke handing over the cup of tea which Yukio accepted as he spoke
"Ah, thanks a lot."
Yukio had stayed at the shrine and they were currently having tea in what looked to be a tea ceremony room, remembering an old custom as he turned his cup three times before drinking from it.
Akeno laughed quietly at Yukio's reaction to the bitter tea before the latter asked "Did Akeno-san work with Michael-san on the sword present here?"
"Yes, in this shrine the specific modification ceremony was held for Ascalon." Akeno answered, Yukio pondering on what he could do with the dragon slayer sword before deciding to ask Akeno a question that had been bugging him since Kokabiel's attack
"Can I ask one question?"
"Yes, of course."
"…Are you the daughter of one of the leaders of fallen…?" Yukio asked, Akeno's expression changing to a cloudy look as she answered
"…That's right. Originally I was born between the leader of the fallen angels, Barakiel, and a human."
Akeno then stared at Yukio before speaking "My mother was a daughter of a certain shrine of this country. I heard that on a certain day, my mother saved Barakiel who had collapsed from injuries and from the fate of that day I was born."
Yukio pondered on what to say next before he noticed that Akeno expanded her wings from her back. They were different from a normal pair, her one wing was that of a Devils while the other was the black wing of a Fallen Angel.
"They're dirty wings…..The wing of a devil and the wing of a fallen angel, I possess both of them." Akeno spoke angrily, grabbing at the feathers of her Fallen wing as she continued
"While hating these feathers, I met Rias and became a devil. -but what was born was the feathers of a fallen angel and devil, a more disgusting creature who possessed both. Fufufu, this may suit me who has dirtied blood flowing in her veins… How do you feel, Yukio, after hearing that? You hate fallen angels, right? They killed you and Asia-chan once, and tried to destroy this city once, there's no way you can hold good thoughts about them."
Yukio sighed setting his cup down before staring into her eyes as he spoke "My Okaa-sama told me to never judge a group by the actions of a few…so even if a few Fallen have been bad to me and Asia I can't bring myself to hate them, Akeno-san"
Akeno looked surprised upon hearing that, Yukio smiling as he continued "I won't ask for any more details about your birth. I only wanted to confirm it and I'm sorry for making you sad because of asking"
"Really…?" Akeno spoke quietly as she continued
"Although I reincarnated into a devil, the fact that I have the blood of a fallen angel in me doesn't change… I may have approached you wanting to get hated, you know? No, that's definitely the case. I am the worst kind of woman…"
"No your not…You're a kind sempai and just because you have Fallen Angel blood inside of you it doesn't change who you are as a person, you're still vice-president of the Occult Research club and one of the ones who helped me open up…Don't you forget I'm half Shinigami and I've got a Hollow inside of me" Yukio spoke, never looking away from her own as he noticed tears starting to fall from her eyes before smiling and wiping them from her eyes.
"…..You said some killing words. … After hearing that….won't I really really get serious…" Akeno spoke softly to herself, Yukio looking confused slightly as he wondered what she meant by 'killing words'.
By the time he'd come out of his thoughts Akeno had gotten up and moved over to where he sat before she clung onto him, Yukio stuttering in surprise as he spoke "A-Akeno-san…?"
"I have decided. I have decided. Yukio-kun, do you like Rias?" Akeno whispered into Yukio's ear causing him to shiver slightly in pleasure as he replied bashfully
"U-um, y-yes, I like her!"
"…..That's a given, right, she's serious as well so legal wife is impossible. There's a possibility of Asia-chan being the legal wife as well so…. The first and second position can't be shaken I guess…"
'First position? Second position? What ranking would this be for?' Yukio thought to himself hearing Ddraig chuckle pervertedly.
"Hey, Yukio-kun." Akeno spoke, holding onto him tighter as Yukio looked at her
"I won't mind being 3rd position."
"…..3rd position?" Yukio asked confused as Akeno continued
"Yes, 3rd position. I think it's a comparatively good position. Above all there's the feeling of unfaithfulness so it'll be burning. Ufufu, Yukio-kun. Is it fine if I spoil you more? I'll even give you lap pillow instead of Buchou."
"R-Really!?" Yukio asked nervously as Akeno nodded before speaking
"Hey, Yukio-kun, can you call me 'Akeno'?"
"I can't call my sempai in that overly-familiar way!"
"….Then, just once is fine. Please." Akeno asked with puppy dog eyes which made Yukio cave in easily as he spoke softly
"Akeno…"
"….I am happy. Yukio…" Akeno spoke, hugging him tighter, Yukio noticing that she was acting like a normal girl rather then a school idol as he hugged her back.
Akeno soon lead Yukio to rest his head on her lap, Yukio's eyes drooping slightly from his own amounts of training getting the better of him as she patted his head, part of his mind picking up the different feeling from when Rias had done it.
"Ufufufu, I stole one of Rias' special rights, Somehow, I feel like I am doing something bad. Yukio-kun, does it feel good?" Akeno spoke with a giggle Yukio nodding slightly as he spoke relaxed
"Y-Yes"
"Um, I wonder what it is but… if this scene is seen by Buchou-." Akeno started before a voice drew both of there attention.
"What about…..Buchou? Hey, Yukio?" Yukio's eyes widened as he stiffly turned his head backwards to see Rias emitting the worst possible expanding crimson aura from where she was standing.
"B-B-B-Bu-Bu-Bu-Buchou!? T-This is um!" Yukio started, pulling himself so he was sitting next to Akeno instead as Rias pressed a hand to her forehead and sighed.
"There's no unpreparedness or chink…... To have a lap pillow from a lap other than me…!" Rias spoke, Yukio feeling her anger in her footsteps as she approached him before his cheeks were pulled by her as hard as possible.
"What about the sword?" Rias asked in a low intensity voice, Yukio quickly replied to avoid more of her anger
"I-I got it!"
"What about Michael?"
"H-He left!"
"Then, there's no business left here! We're going back!" Rias turned on her heels and left, Yukio standing up before bowing to Akeno as he rubbed his cheeks.
'Now I know how Sirzechs-sama feels when Grayfia-sama does it to him' Yukio thought absentmindedly as Akeno murmured from behind him
"I am really jealous of the number 1 candidate Rias Buchou." Yukio missed it as he caught up to Rias with ease before she started to pull him along by his arm.
As they descended the shrine's stone steps Rias' footsteps reminded Yukio of her anger, deciding to say nothing lest he trigger more of it from her. He was aware that she was a possessive girl, although she seemed alright with Asia and Koneko touching him.
Suddenly he noticed that Rias had stopped, not even turning towards Yukio as she spoke "…Hey, Yukio"
"Yes." Yukio asked nervously as Rias surprised him with her words
"Akeno is…..Akeno."
"Yes and Rias is Rias" Yukio spoke nervously, while he preferred to refer to her as 'Rias-sama' while at home as it made more sense then 'Buchou', which he only used around the rest of the group and school, something made him think that she wanted to hear him use her name alone.
Rias shuddered slightly at hearing Yukio speak without the honorific, feeling warmth grow inside her chest as she tried to hide the bright blush that covered her face, smiling to herself as she spoke
"Let's go home then Yukio" Rias then took a holding onto his arm before pulling him along.
…
"Guuuuu….. Yukio-sempai… I-I am tireeeeed." Gasper spoke while rubbing his eyes. It was early morning and Yukio was helping Gasper to train in the forest that surrounded the Old School Building.
"Well let's do some more and then you can rest" Yukio replied as he gave the blonde boy a moment before continuing to throw the balls
"Yukio-san, here are the balls." Asia spoke, passing balls to Yukio as they continued the usual training of Gasper stopping balls in mid air. At the moment he was able to succeed once every twenty times but Yukio figured persistence would pay off to figure out what caused it to trigger and it was a huge progress for Gasper.
Yukio had spent some time since he'd received Ascalon from Michael to get use to using a Holy Sword but more importantly controlling the aura the sword had, even to the point he tried a few ideas with using Amonusen with the Holy sword but found it slightly difficult with the differing sizes.
He was broke from his thoughts as he felt some discomfort from his arm, looking down to see that he couldn't move it as Gasper had accidentally stopped it.
"E, Eek, S-Sorryyyyyy!" Gasper called, leaning on the ground and curling up, Yukio only smiling friendly as he replied
"That's why, didn't I say not to mind it even if you stop me? We're in the middle of training, and you're a novice so it's fine. Well, if my whole body gets stopped then I'll be in trouble. The number of times that's occurred has also gone down, right? Let's continue this pace."
"…S-Since I am incomplete both as a human who has a sacred gear, and as a vampire as well, I only cause trouble to everyone… I-I have to control my power more….. W-What a half way incomplete existence I am…..sob" Gasper said with a complicated like expression as he cried.
"Gasper, I like you! Don't mind it! We all have to learn how to use our powers and just because you have two sides doesn't make you any less of a person…heck I've got three" Yukio spoke with a smile, taking a moment to think before adding
"We're both members of the same club, and Buchou's servants and comrades! Come at me with a bang!"
Yukio smiled at seeing Gasper wiping his tears and standing up as he spoke "Yukio-sempai, I-I'll do my best…!"
"Yeah! Till school starts I'll be throwing 100 balls!"
"Understood! Th-Then, I'll wear this paper bag and do a power up-"
"Wait a moment Gasper… If Asia sees that she'll cry!" Yukio spoke quickly, noticing Asia and Gasper's questioning looks to him
"Do your best! Yukio-san, Gasper-kun!" Asia called, Yukio smiling as he turned to speak with half vampire
"Gasper! Since Asia-senpai is cheering you on as well, cheer up!"
"Y-yesssss! Thank you very much, Asia-senpaiiiiii!"
…
"-Now then, we're leaving." Rias spoke, everyone had gathered in the club room.
Today was the day of the conference between the three great powers and the meeting was to be held in the staff meeting room in the new school building. It was late at night and a school holiday so there wasn't a chance of any normal students finding out what was going on and above all of the school was a strong barrier so they couldn't enter which meant that till the meeting is over, no one can exit as well.
Outside the barrier, angels, fallen angels, and devils' troops are surrounding the whole school.
"If by chance something happens in today's conference, if the conference breaks down, this place might become a battlefield….." Kiba spoke, Yukio nodding understandedly as he knew today was important.
The group started to leave the clubroom before Gasper's voice called out from his cardboard box
"B-Buchou! E-Everyoneeeeeeeee!"
"Gasper, today's conference is important so, since you cannot control your time stopping sacred gear, you can't participate, you know?" Rias informed gently before Yukio spoke up
"Gasper, be a good boy, okay?"
"Y-Yes, Yukio-sempai…" Gasper replied before Yukio decided to add, feeling slightly bad that the half vampire would be left here alone
"I have left my DS in the club room so you can play with that, there are sweets as well, you can have them too. I have left the paper bag as well so if you become lonely, wear it to your heart's content."
"Y-Yessssss!" Gasper called, Yukio nodding before heading after Rias who had left the room
…
Rias knocked onto the meeting room door before speaking as she started to open it "Excuse us."
Yukio looked surprised at the gorgeous looking table that was in the room before recognising some of the people who were sitting around, the whole room was quiet and everyone had a serious face.
Yukio nervously gulped, noticing that Asia had grabbed the end of his clothes to show her unease. Yukio decided to hold one of her hands to calm her down as he looked noticed Sirzechs and Serafall sitting on the devil side, the latter giving him a quick flirty wink before becoming serious again. Grayfia was on standby beside a cart which had things so she could prepare tea on it.
On the Angel's side was Michael and a unknown blonde haired young woman with white Angel wings while on the Fallen Angel side was Azazel with his twelve wings unfurled and Vali, Azazel looked slightly happy at seeing Yukio.
"My younger sister, and her family." Sirzechs introduced Rias to the other fractions as she bowed to them as he continued
"In the attack of Kokabiel a few days ago, they were active during the raid."
"I have heard the report. I give my thanks once more." Michael spoke his thanks to Rias who conducted herself coolly and bowed once more.
"Sorry, Kokabiel of my side caused you trouble." Azazel replied without any sign of being timid, Rias' mouth twitching as Sirzechs directed them.
"Sit on the seats over there."
Grayfia urged them to sit in the chairs near the wall, Sona already sitting in one of the seats which Rias sat next to before making Yukio sit on her other side, after that is Akeno, Kiba, Asia, Xenovia and Koneko sat in turn.
"Now that everyone has arrived, I'll say the preconditions for the meeting. The people present here acknowledge the most important event and forbidden subject, i.e. The Non-existence of God." Sirzechs spoke starting to direct the meeting, Yukio noting that Sona didn't react to the news, which made him think she already knew or has a really good poker face.
"Then, acknowledging that, let's continue the conversation." Sirzechs added and thus the conference began. It seemed to progress smoothly
"Like that, we Angels-." Michael spoke.
"That's true. That way would be better. If it's like now, certainly the 3 great powers will go down the road of destruction-." Sirzechs added
"Well, we don't have any particular thing to fuss over."
There were instances when talks would freeze when Azazel said a sentence occasionally as well but Yukio thought that the Governor of the fallen angels was purposely making that atmosphere and enjoying it.
Yukio tried to follow the conversation but had little luck, glancing over to Rias to see her looking slightly nervous before she caught his gaze, smiling bitterly before he took her hand and gave it a comforting squeeze as he knew she had to report in this meeting as well.
(Ara Ara, Buchou and Yukio-kun are lovey dovey in the middle of the conference.) Akeno whispered while smiling.
(I am drawing courage from Yukio's hand. This is the most effective after all.) Rias countered before it came to her part.
"Now then, Rias. Could you speak about the incident a few days before?" Sirzechs spoke, Rias, Sona and Akeno standing up as Rias spoke
"Yes, Lucifer-sama."
They then talked about the recent Kokabiel's attack so everyone belonging to the 3 great powers would understand what happened during it.
Rias talked about the summary of the incident she experienced herself plainly in a calm manner. Yukio knew that she would be nervous as her speech would change the relationship between the three great powers
Each of the faction's VIPs who heard the report, letting out a sigh, scowling, smiling. Each person had a different reaction.
"-That is all. The report which I, Rias Gremory and the household devils over there experienced." Rias spoke before sitting down as Sirzechs spoke
"Good work, sit down"
"Thanks, Rias-chan " Serafall spoke with a wink to Rias.
"Now then, Azazel. After hearing this report, I want to hear the opinion of the Governor of the fallen angels." Sirzechs asked, everyone's gaze concentrating on the black haired Governor
Azazel started talking after letting out an intrepid smile "Regarding the incident a few days back, Kokabiel, a leader of our Central Organization, Grigori, kept quiet to the other leaders, as well as to me, the Governor, and acted independently. His disposal was done by Vali. After that, in the organisation's court martial his punishment was enforced. His punishment is eternal freezing in the Cochytes. He can't come out anymore. The explanation for that, everything was written in the material that was forwarded to you, right? That is all."
"As the explanation, it is the worst category but- I know about the story of you personally not wanting to make anything big occur against us. Is that true?" Michael said with a sigh.
"Aah, I don't have any interest in wars. When Kokabiel also disparaged me, don't you have the report for that as well." Azazel replied.
Then Sirzechs asked "Azazel, I want to ask one thing but, why have you been gathering owners of Sacred Gears for the past decades? At first I thought you were gathering humans, and attempting to augment your battle potential. I even anticipated you to wage war against heaven or us but…."
"Yes, no matter how much time passed, you didn't wage a war against us. When I heard you got hold of the Vanishing Dragon, I was enveloped by a strong wariness." Michael added his opinion as well, Azazel smiling bitterly as he replied
"It's for the sake of Sacred Gear research. If that's the case, should I send a part of the research materials to you as well? Even if I did research, I wouldn't wage a war against you or anything. I don't have any interest in war at this late of an hour. I am perfectly satisfied with the world right now. I have strongly ordered my subordinates, 'Don't interfere with the human world's politics', you know? I have no intention of intervening in religion either, nor to influence the business of the devils. -Damn, is my trust in the 3 factions the least?"
"That's true."
"That's right."
"That's exactly it "
Sirzechs's, Michael's and Serafall's opinion coincided.
Upon hearing that, Azazel uninterestedly pecked at his ears "Che. I thought you were better than God or the last generation's Lucifer but, you guys are troublesome guys yourselves. Sneakily researching doesn't get along well with you, huh. Ah, I got it. -then, let's make peace. Originally wasn't that the intention as well? Angels and Devils as well?"
On Azazel's sentence, each faction was surprised for a small interval. Yukio noticed that Rias and Sona were both surprised like himself.
Michael, who was surprised by Azazel's proposal, smiled "Yes, I also planned to propose peace to the Devil side and Grigori. Even if we continue the relationship of the 3 factions like before, then it will become damaging to the world right now. I, the leader of the angels say it since-the original cause of the war, God and Maou-sama have been annihilated."
Azazel burst out laughing on Michael's words "Ha! That stubborn Michael has started to speak. Even though he was about God, God, God before."
"….I have lost a lot of things. However, there's no helping seeking for things that aren't present. It is our duty to guide humans. We members of the Seraph have the same opinion that the most important thing is to watch over the children of God from now on as well, and to guide them." Michael replied
"Hey hey, with your speech just now, you'll 'fall' you know? -I thought that but you took over the system, right. It's become a good world. It's completely different from the time when we 'fell'." Azazel retorted
Sirzechs decides to add his opinion at that point "We are the same. Even if the Maou isn't here, in order to continue the species, Devils too have moved forward as well. Even we wouldn't want war. -If we do another war, the devils will be destroyed."
Azazel nodded in agreement before speaking seriously "Yes. If we do another war, the 3 factions will definitely be mutually destroyed. And then, it will affect the human world as well, and the world will end. We can't do wars now."
"Do you think a world without God is wrong? Do you think a world without God would decay? I am sorry to say but that isn't the case. Me and you as well are both healthily living like this." Azazel added while opening his arms.
"-The world moves even without a God."
Yukio understood what he meant as long as God was believed to be there the world would carry on for the normal humans, including that the fractions had compentsated for there losses meant the world could continue fine.
"-And, is this it?" Sirzechs finished, each of the VIPs letting out a huge sigh of relief while Grayfia was serving tea as the waitress, Michael turned his gaze towards Yukio as he spoke.
"Now then, the discussion has considerably been solved in a good direction, is it alright if we hear about the matter of Sekiryuutei-dono soon."
He gulped as he noticed everyone's gaze was on him, turning to look at Asia as he spoke "Asia-san. Is it alright if I ask Michael-san about you?"
Asia was surprised but she consented with a smile "If Yukio-san wants to ask about it, then I don't mind. Since I trust Yukio-san."
"Why did you exile Asia-san?" Yukio asked calmly, everyone looking astonished as they wondered why he was talking about that now.
Michael replied in an earnest manner "I can only apologise for that. …..After God had been annihilated, only the system to govern divine protection, mercy and miracles remained. This system was, if I explain it simply, the system to perform the miracles etc. God did. God made the system, used it to bring about miracles above ground. To bring about the effect of holy things like exorcism, crosses etc. these too are the system's powers."
Yukio nodded understandingly as he asked "After God died, in that… some system trouble occurred… is what you're saying?"
Michael nodded in response "To be honest, it takes a big toll on anyone who uses it with the exception of God. With me as the center, everyone of the Seraph was able to somehow start up the system but….. compared to the time God existed, the divine protection and mercy to those who believe in God is not complete. -It's an unfortunate thing but, those who can be granted salvation are limited. For that, there was a need to keep away those people related to the church who could posibly cause an influence on the system. As an example of those who can cause influence on the system, a part of the Sacred Gear-Asia Argento's Twilight Healing is included as well. Your Boosted Gear and also Divine Dividing as well."
"Asia-san is included because she can heal Devils and Fallen Angels as well?" Yukio asked, Michael nodding again
"Yes. If there is a person who can heal Devils and Fallen Angels present within the followers, it will influence the faith of the ones around her. The source of us living in heaven is the faith of believers. Because of that, Twilight healing is a forbidden sacred gear which can cause an influence on the system. And also, as an example of influence on the system-."
Xenovia interrupts Michael and continued "The people who know about the non-existence of God, right?"
"Yes, that's right, Xenovia. To lose you is a serious wound even for us but if apart from us, Seraph and a part of the higher rank angels, a fair amount of people who know about the non-existence of God approach the place with a direct connection then there's a huge effect on the system. -I apologise. There was no other way but to make you and Asia Argento heretics."
Michael bowed his head to Asia and Xenovia as he apologized, both girls staring in wonder and troubled with how to respond. However, immediately Xenovia shakes her neck sideways, and smiles as she spoke "No, Michael-sama, please don't apologise. Even like this, till I reached this age I was brought up by the church. I somehow felt it a bit irrational but if you know the reason then there's nothing such as asking why."
"The fact that you reincarnated as a devil, that is our crime." Michael replied
"It's alright. …..I regretted a bit but the things that I couldn't do when I was serving the church, the things that were sealed from me are now brilliantly coloring my everyday life. If I say these words, I may anger the other believers but….. Even then I am satisfied by my current life."
Yukio smiled at hearing Xenovia's thought about her way of life with them before Asia added as she put her hands together
"Michael-sama, I also feel I am happy. Since I now have a lot of important people. And also I have met and talked with the Michael-sama who I admired, it's an honour!"
Michael looked relieved upon hearing Asia and Xenovia "Sorry. I am grateful for your forgiving hearts. I leave Durandal to you, Xenovia. Since it's the family of the Sirzechs' sister then I am at ease that it won't be used by those who do as they please."
Azazel was looking at Asia, who soon noticed and started to tremble, as he spoke "It seems my subordinates killed her while keeping quiet about it. I received that report as well."
"That's right, Asia-san died once as did I. It may be something that occurred in a place you don't know but the Fallen Angel girls who admired you killed her for your sake." Yukio explained calmly, noticing the look from Rias which kept his emotions in check.
"It's true we Fallen Angels are eliminating those Sacred Gear users who may cause harm to us. As an organization it's obvious right? Sensing that a person may become a threat in the future, then if we know about it beforehand, you'll want to eliminate him. And because of that you died. The reason is you could have run wild with the power of the Sekiryuutei without being able to control it, and have a bad effect on us or the world."
"Thanks to you, I am a Devil…So I guess I should thank you" Yukio spoke with a small smile, surprising those around him as Azazel smirked
"Well you seem quite happy to be a Devil. I am thinking of doing something that only I can do to make you stand on both your legs."
Yukio looked confused as Azazel decided to explain "Now then, it's time we hear the opinion of people other than us, those who seem like they can influence the world. From the invincible Dragon-sama. Firstly, Vali. What do you want to do to the world?"
Vali smiled at hearing Azazel's question before answering "If I can fight strong guys, then its fine."
"Then, Sekiryuutei, what about you?" Azazel asked turning to Yukio who took a moment to work out how he should say it
"If I can look after and protect my friends and loved ones then I am happy. Outside of that I would like peace. The power residing in me is strong and I'll use it for my comrades. Buchou, Asia-san, Akeno-san and also the other members as well, if they're exposed to trouble then I'll protect them!"
Yukio suddenly felt the sensation attack and his body freeze up, recognising it as the same as when Gasper's Sacred Gear had hit him before
…
When Yukio returned to his senses the meeting room had changed a little. Michael was looking outside from a window and Sirzechs and Azazel were in a deep serious talk for some reason.
"Oh, the Sekiryuutei has come back." Azazel said as he noticed Yukio looking around as he asked
"What happened?"
All of the VIPs were moving around as he turned upon hearing Rias' voice "It seems only me, Yukio, Yuuto, and Xenovia are able to move from my family."
Asia, Akeno, Koneko and Sona was stopped like when Gasper's Sacred Gear struck.
"It would appear the reason you're safe is because Yukio is the possessor of the Sekiryuutei and because Yuuto has an irregular holy demonic sword that has attained Balance Breaker. Xenovia invoked Durandal just before it happened." Rias added, Yukio noticing that Xenovia was holding Durandal in her hands before returning it to the space-time warp.
"The sense of time stopping was somehow remembered by my body. —When time was on the verge of stopping, I thought I could use Durandal's power to protect myself, it seems I was correct." Xenovia explained
"Buchou, what happened?" Yukio asked, looking to Rias as she started
"It seems—"
"To be a terrorist attack." Azazel interrupted, Yukio looking surprised as Azazel added gesturing out of the window with his chin as he asked
"Would you like to look outside?"
Flashes suddenly spread out across the grounds as the new school building shook subtly
"We're under fire. In any era where a power tried to form peace with other powers, there will also be a gathering of those who dislike it and try to disturb it." Azazel spoke as he pointed outside, Yukio quickly picking up human like silhouettes dressed in black robes, each were firing attacks at them which were similar to magic bullets which was doing barely any damage to the building.
Azazel gave a fearless smile at noticing Yukio's curiosity as he explained "Those guys are so-called magicians. It's a kind of magic that was originally interpreted from the magic system of devils by the legendary magician "Merlin Ambrosius" and reconstructed as sorcery…From the power of the magic they're emitting, I'd guess that they each possess the magic power of a mid-class devil."
"In short, it means that humans can use powers like those of devils. Though, of course, it also seems to be possible that they can't become devils themselves. It's especially troublesome when a Sacred Gear possessor learns magic. Well, their attacks aren't capable of damaging this school building. Because the strongest protective barrier by me, Sirzechs, and Michael is enveloping this place. Though, thanks to that, we can't leave here."
Yukio nodded understandingly as he asked "Then, what about when time seemed to stop before?"
"Most likely, they used a Sacred Gear or magic that transfers power on the half-vampire kid's Sacred Gear and forcefully made it go into Balance Breaker state. It's only a temporary Balance Breaker state, even then, to think that it even affects people present in the interior of objects in the field of vision…So that half-vampire's potential ability was this high. Well, it seems that he lacks the output to stop us top-position guys, though."
Yukio clenched his hands at the thought they had captured and used Gasper before asking "But, they transferred power? There are other Sacred Gears with that kind of ability?"
"Boosted Gear combines together both the nearly endless doubling ability and the transfer ability. There exist independent Sacred Gears with either of these respective powers. The doubling Sacred Gear and transfer Sacred Gear. All the Longinus are just a combination of one ability with another. Essentially, they combine powerful abilities that aren't supposed to be combined. "Maybe the [Longinus] are born because of a kind of bug, errors in the [Sacred Gear program] constructed by God", that's one of the opinions of us 'Grigori'. If I had to say it in an easy-to-understand way to you, it's a fact that there are other powers that can transfer." Azazel answered, Rias coming to Yukio's side as she spoke
"Gasper has been made into a terrorist weapon at the old school building…Just where did they get information on my servant…Moreover, for them to use his power to go after this important meeting…! Never have I been so insulted like this!"
"By the way, the armies of the fallen angels, angels and devils outside of this school building all seem to be stopped as well. Geez, Rias Gremory's family is just dreadful."
Azazel put a hand on Rias' shoulder with a tap, but she mercilessly brushed the hand away. The Governor turned back to the window with a sigh before countless number of spears of light appeared in the sky outside before raining down on the enemy as Azazel lowered his hand.
The terrorists attempted to protect themselves with barriers, but they did nothing to stop the spears, Yukio quietly gulping at the power the Fallen Angel had.
"This school is enveloped in a barrier. But, despite this, they appeared within the barrier. There must be a transfer-use magic circle or a person connecting with a gate to the inside of the premises. Either way, if they increase the effect of [Forbidden Balor View] any more than this, there's a concern that they'll be able to stop even people like us too. By stopping us here with their fierce attack, they intend to annihilate each school building the instant our time is stopped. They seem to be using considerable military power." Azazel spoke as magic circles appeared at various places in the school grounds, and started shining ominously. From the magic circles appeared forms that were the same as the magician group that Azazel had defeated before.
"It's a repeat from just now. They'll keep appearing even as we knock and knock them down. However, even if the timing and terrorist technique is good, it may be that they have a knowledgeable person who has inside information. Is there unexpectedly a traitor here?" Azazel said,
"Can't we escape from here?" Yukio asked, about ready to summon Amonusen and start to blast through the number of magicians until Azazel shook his head.
"We can't escape. As long as the barrier enclosing the entire school isn't dissolved, we can't go outside. But, if the barrier is dissolved, damage may be taken in the human world. We have to wait for the enemy boss to appear. If we shut ourselves in here for a while, they'll get tired of waiting and show their face. I'd like to know who the mastermind is quickly. Besides, if we go out and rampage imprudently, we may just do exactly as the enemy wishes."
"That said, we leaders can't move while making preparations. However, our first goal is to take back Gasper from the old school building which has become the terrorists' base." Sirzechs spoke, Yukio understanding what he meant as he summoned both his Sacred Gears about to speak before Rias jumped in.
"Onii-sama, I'll go. Gasper is my servant. It's my responsibility to take him back." Sirzechs suddenly laughed before speaking
"I thought I said it before. I understand my younger sister's personality. —However, how will you go to the old school building? It's filled with magicians outside this new school building. The usual transfer is also blocked by magic."
"The old school building—my base's clubroom has a remaining unused "rook" piece being safe kept within it." Rias explained, Yukio taking the moment to strap Amonusen onto his back with the sealing clothe as Sirzechs nodded and spoke
"I see, [Castling], huh. Since they would usually expect us to go take him back, this could catch the opponent off-guard. They'll anticipate some kind of trick."
"Alright. However, it's reckless to go alone. Grayfia, is it possible to transfer more than one person through [Castling] with my magic sytem?" Sirzechs asked turning to the young woman who responded
"Yes, it seems we can only deploy a simple technique ceremony here, but it's possible to transfer ojou-sama and one other."
"So Rias and someone else…" Sirzechs spoke thoughtfully before Yukio put his hand up as he spoke
"Sirzechs-sama, I'll go!" He looked at Yukio for a moment before turning to Azazel's direction to ask
"Azazel, according to a rumor, you've been researching how to freely handle Sacred Gears for a fixed time, right?"
"Yeah, that's true, but what about it?" Azazel replied
"Is it possible to control the Sekiryuutei?" Azazel fell silent for a few moments before groped in his breast pocket
"Oi, Sekiryuutei." Azazel called out, Yukio frowning as he retorted
"I'm Hosokawa Yukio!"
"Then, Hosokawa Yukio. Take this." Azazel spoke as he threw something to Yukio, who easily caught it before looking at the wide rings he had in his hand, they looked to fit around his hand as well and multiple layers of strange characters were carved into them
"Those are bracelets with the power to control a Sacred Gear to some degree. If you find the aforementioned half-vampire, put one on him. It'll help him control his power somewhat." Azazel explained
"I only need one for Gasper right?" Yukio replied
"The other one is for you. You haven't mastered the power of the [Welsh Dragon], right? If so, put it on. If it's for a short time, it'll be possible to go into the Balance Breaker state without paying any price. This will be used in place of the price." Azazel spoke, Yukio putting one on to his arm as he continued
"As a side effect, you'll also temporarily undo the seal that's been applied on you. Your [pawn] power has been blocked, right?"
"This is only my personal opinion, but in terms of piece distribution, Ddraig is four, Sparda is two and you're two, right? [Promotion] also builds the necessary foundation for the sake of manifesting Ddraig's true power. Either way, it's a fact that releasing Ddraig's power will release the seal as well, right, Rias Gremory?" Azazel spoke, Rias narrowing her eyes in response and refused to answer
"Use that ring as a last resort. Since it can't regulate its consumption of stamina, you'll just exhaust yourself wastefully if you activate it suddenly. It will consume an intense amount of stamina and magical power while in [armor]-equipped mode." Yukio nodded understanding what Azazel had said
'Could it be used with Amonusen's…?' Yukio thought, Sparda taking a few moments before speaking up
{No…My power works differently to Ddraig's}
"Azazel, just how far did you research Sacred Gears?" Michael asked with a sigh, Azazel showing a fearless smile
"Its fine, isn't it? God, the one who made the Sacred Gears, isn't here, right? Isn't it better if there's someone who can explain about Sacred Gears at least a little? I heard there are all kinds of things that even you don't know, right?"
"I think the problem is that you're the one who's researching it…" Michael replied as Rias received the special technique formula from her forehead by Grayfia
"Ojou-sama, please wait a little while."
"Please hurry, Grayfia."
While they were getting ready, Azazel and Vali were deep in talk.
"Vali." Azazel asked
"What is it, Azazel?" Vali asked
"You go catch the enemy's attention outside. If the Hakuryuukou comes out at the front, it'll disrupt their strategy a little. Also, something may move."
"So that person will also become aware of me being here?"
"If you do that, they won't expect for the Sekiryuutei to transfer over to the center using [Castling]. It'll also have the effect of attracting their attention a little."
"Wouldn't it be faster to blow away all the terrorists in the old school building and the half-vampire who has become a problem?"
"Quit that, at a time where we've united in peace. In the worst case scenario, we'll do that, but if we can save a member of the Maou's family, saving him will be of benefit for us in the future."
"Understood."
Vali agreed to Azazel's suggestion while letting out a breath before wings of light unfolded from Vali's back before he spoke
"—Balance Break."
[Vanishing Dragon Balance Breaker!]
After that a snow-white aura covered Vali's form before he was covering in white armour, Yukio looking at him as Vali glanced over to him before leaving through an open window and rushing out into the sky making shockwaves as he started to trample down the magicians
"Azazel, continuing the talk from before." Sirzechs queried Azazel.
"Yeah, what about it?"
"What are you trying to do by collecting Sacred Gears? You've been collecting [Longinus] owners too, right? Do you intend to kill God even though God no longer exists?" Azazel shook his head at the question.
"It's to prepare."
"Prepare? That's some uneasiness-inciting talk, even though you reject war." Michael said in amazement
"I said so, right? I won't go to war against you people. I also won't make war here. —However, means of self-defence are necessary. Rather, should I say we're not just preparing for an attack from you?"
"Then?"
"—The [Khaos Brigade]."
"…Khaos, Brigade?" Sirzechs furrowed his eyebrows at the unfamiliar name as Azazel continued
"I only confirmed the organization's name and background recently, but my Vice Governor Shemhaza has also had his eye on this suspiciously acting group from before that. It's said that they're gathering dangerous members from all three big powers. Some Sacred Gear-possessing humans who have attained Balance Breaker also seem to be included. I've also confirmed a number of [Longinus] possessors among them."
"Their goal is?" Michael asked.
"Destruction and mayhem. It's that simple, you know? They don't like this world's peace. They're terrorists. Moreover they're ill-natured to the extreme."
Then, could it be that this terrorist attack is…?
"The organization's leader is the powerful fiendish dragon besides the [Welsh Dragon] and [Vanishing Dragon]."
Everyone was speechless at Azazel's confession, Yukio wondering who it was as Sirzechs answered "…I see, so that person has moved. The [Uroboros Dragon] Ophis—. The dragon feared by God…The one who kept reigning over with the position of the strongest since the world began."
[Yes, Ophis is the leader of the "Khaos Brigade".] Yukio jumped slightly at hearing an umfamiliar voice, looking around for the source before a magic circle emerged on the floor of the room.
"I see. So you've come! The mastermind this time—" Sirzechs spoke as he clicked his tongue before adding
"Grayfia, transfer Rias and Yukio-kun quickly!"
"Yes!" Grayfia urged the pair to go to a corner of the meeting room and a small magic circle was created on the floor, it was the exact size to fit only about two people in it.
"Ojou-sama, I wish you the fortunes of battle." Grayfia spoke
"W-Wait, Grayfia!? Onii-sama!" Rias asked worriedly before they were both enveloped in light.
The leaders of the three great powers were shocked at the magic circle on the floor, Azazel soon laughing while Sirzechs make a sour expression before speaking
"—The magic circle of Leviathan." Kiba and Xenovia looked shocked as they looked at it.
"It's something seen in the books of the Vatican. That's the magic circle of the original Maou Leviathan."
A single woman appeared from the magic circle. She was wearing a dress that was extremely low-cut and had a high slit on it.
"How do you do, current Maou Sirzechs-dono?" She greeted with a fearless tone
"The one descended from the blood of the previous Leviathan. Cattleya Leviathan. What is the meaning of this?" Sirzechs asked.
Cattleya gave a defiant smile and answered "The members of the old Maou faction have nearly all decided to cooperate with the [Khaos Brigade]."
"So it's a feud between the new and old Maou sides that has become full-scale. Devils are also difficult." Azazel spoke with a smile as Sirzechs asked
"Cattleya, is it okay to interpret those words literally?"
"Sirzechs, it's exactly as I said. We are also taking charge of this attack right now."
"—So it's a coup d'état, huh?" She replied
"…Cattleya, why?"
"Sirzechs, we've only arrived at the exact opposite idea of this meeting today. We've concluded that, since God and the original Maou are gone, this world should be reformed."
"Has that Ophis seen that far ahead into the future? Though that doesn't seem likely." Azazel asked, Cattleya letting out a breath in response
"Aside from being a symbol of power, he just bears the position for the sake of gathering power. We've asked for his help to destroy the world and rebuild it again. —We will be the ones to manage the new world."
Sirzechs smiled very sarcastically "…So you're a gathering of angel, fallen angel, and devil rebels who want their own world and a new Earth that they rule over. The mediator of that is the [Uroboros] Ophis."
"Cattleya-chan! Why are you doing such a thing!?" Serafall shouted, Cattleya looking hatefully to he Maou Shoujo as she shouted back
"Serafall, how dare you act so shamelessly, as the one who stole the position of [Leviathan] from me! I'm descended from the original Leviathan! I was the one suited to be Maou!"
"Cattleya-chan…I-I!"
"Don't worry, Serafall. Today, I'll kill you at this place and take the title of Maou Leviathan for myself. Then, Ophis will become the god of the new world. It's fine if he's just a symbol. The [system] and laws, the doctrine will be constructed by us. Michael, Azazel, and Lucifer—Sirzechs, your era is over." The expressions of Sirzechs, Serafall and Michael all darkened at Cattleya's words while Azazel seemed pleasant and smiled.
"Ku…Kukukukuku." Azazel gave a bad boy smile which angered Cattleya as she spoke
"Azazel, what's so funny?"
"Hahaha. So you—no, you people will reform this world all together, huh?" Azazel replied
"That's right. That's exactly right, Azazel. This world is—"
"In decay? Humans are foolish? The Earth will be destroyed? Oi, oi, oi, aren't things prospering nowadays?"
Azazel held his stomach as he laughed causing Cattleya's eyes to twitch "Azazel, you're the same as ever. Even though you have so much power, you're satisfied with the current world…"
"Let me tell you. Your goal is too clichéd and harsh. And yet, people like that are limited to those who are excessively strong. Geez, it's really a nuisance for others. Descendant of Leviathan, your words are just like those of a villain who's about to die, you know that?"
"Azazel! You would ridicule us this far!" Cattleya retorted enraged, her magic aura was gushing out of her entire body.
"Sirzechs, Michael, I'll take care of it. Don't help, okay?" Azazel spoke as he stood up before beginning to release a gloomy aura, similar to doing a battle enhancement as Sirzechs asked
"…Cattleya, do you have no intention of surrendering?" Cattleya shook her head as she replied
"That is correct, Sirzechs. You were a good Maou. However, you weren't the best Maou. That's why we are aiming to be the new Maou."
"I see. That's too bad."
Azazel pointed his hand at the window and with a blast of light he blowed a large hole in the window before unfolding his twelve black wings as he spoke
"Descendant of the former Maou Leviathan. One of the [Monsters of the End]. Not a bad opponent. Cattleya Leviathan, are you dressed up for a bout of Armageddon with me?"
Cattleya responded to Azazel's intense challenge with a fearless smile of her own "I was just wishing for that, Governor of the angels who fell."
Azazel and Cattleya flew out of the room and a battle of light and devil began to unfold in the distant skies about the schoolyard
Kiba and Xenovia were left wondering what to do before Sirzechs spoke up to them "Kiba Yuuto-kun. Me and Michael will keep strengthening the barrier covering this school. Now that Azazel and Cattleya are running wild, the damage may become big. Sorry about this, but until Grayfia finishes her analysis of the magicians' transfer-use magic circle, could you deal with the magicians outside?"
"Yes, sir." Kiba replied seriously, Sirzechs smiling as he spoke
"Thank you. I'm glad that you're my sister's knight. Please use that Balance Breaker for the sake of my sister and your comrades."
"Yes! Xenovia, please come with me!" Kiba spoke, turning to the bluenette Knight who nodded before speaking
"Yeah, I'm also Rias Gremory's [knight]. Kiba Yuuto, I think we're two similar blades. Now, let's go."
With that they both jumped out of the window and plunged into the schoolyard and started to slice into the Magicians.
…
"Hah!" Kiba called as his Holy Demonic Sword cut through each magic protection barrier and into the magician's body. He didn't know how many he'd taken down but they always seemed to be more coming out of magic circles right after.
"They're endless." Kiba spoke to himself, turning as Xenovia unleashed a large slashing wave of holy aure from Durandal, slautghering magicians left and right.
Explosions from above signalled that Azazel and Cattleya Leviathan were fighting fiercely.
Azazel made multiple thick and heavy spears of light easily exceeding his own height appear, and threw them at Cattleya, who then laid out several layers of defensive magic circles and blocked the light attacks.
The schoolyard had received great damage here and there from the after-effects of those attacks and defences and Kiba knew that if the two Maous and the other fraction leaders hadn't been protecting the new school building it would have crumbled already from all the attacks as well as protecting the surrounding area due to the large barrier over the school site.
It looked that Azazel was greater in real power, but Cattleya was hanging on beyond Kiba's expectations, although it wouldn't have been strange if Cattleya had household servant devils with her as well but he'd heard that the old Maou faction had rejected the Evil Pieces.
Cattleya took a small bottle out from her breast, opening it before she swallowed what seemed like a small black snake that was present inside. In an instant space vibrated instenely and a wave of power surged throughout the whole schoolyard giving her an ominous aura.
Azazel fired countless spears of light at her, but they easily vanished just by Cattleya calmly moving her right hand sideways. Azazel received unforeseen blow and hit the Governor of the fallen angels from the side.
...
Author's Note
Next chapter will have the Heavenly Dragons duke it out. Yukio will be dualwielding Ascalon and Amonusen and his Scale Mail and Fullbring will combine. I may use the surpressing of his Hollow to have his Balance Breaker fully unlocked and then Tannin's training would be for the rest of his Bankai and fusing it with the Scale Mail.
Also thinking over whether I should have Yukio get another demonic sword so he can use that instead of Ascalon on some occasions, ratings games mostly as Ascalon would be used for the rest. The Breast of Tennis side story will be done after this arc is over.
Anyway hope you enjoy this and please review.