Numero 10 and some sad news for those whp like this story :V

Now, if you're wondering about Priscilla (which I'm sure most of you aren't) I have a reason. I'm going to be giving a Kiba (DxD) moment after Reunion.

Necro-Pen: Took me a moment to guess, but yeah I should have had Ethan do it. But it just gives a feel of, "I had a bad life, so do this for me." Which I didn't want to do. In my opinion, that's leaning more of the iffy moves in life. And thanks, I'll try my best to make the adaptations as interesting as possible. :)

UPDATE: I won't or may not be updating as often. Life's taking a turn, highschool, college, restrictions, so my updates will or may ne spastic. All thw stories I have a chapter rwady for (which is only two) will be posted. Apologize for the grammar quality but I just want to get this out. I will type but not publish chapters. Especially for this story and Kill the Red Dragon Emperor. Because I like the former the best and the latter I type on Google Docs rather than this site.

Special shoutout to the guest King of P0wers, King Hero Gilgamesh, and finally, Necro-Penm Those who favorite and follow (and suppirt) my other stories, thank you too, but I chose these specifically because I pmed the latter two on few occasions and have seen the former in multiple occasions. I hope you enjoy and I definitely hope this won't be the last time I say this

Leiseltania:

"You're pretty confident for a brat who just got up from his coma a few days ago," Daiki Hokkaido, or I know him as Hotshot, guffawed. He slapped my back when I was about to retort, "Just messing with ya. You seem stronger than before the coma, actually. Not sure if it's like working out. Putting a little more weight and eventually your body adjusts to it to make it stronger. You did exert power more recently if I recall. Against Irene, Cao Cao, and then keeping the explosion contained. Not bad, kid. Not bad at all."

"Thank," I said timidly and he smirked.

"Anyhow, I'm only here because I'm the only one not training the freshies. Just stay in contact. I'll be on the lookout for Graecus and alert you if he's heading your way. Sadly, no photo for you to give to Victoria for easy distinguishing."

"She's...actually not here. She's in the Asian countries for a tour."

He tilted his head, "Oh. Didn't know. I expected her to be with you. No matter. I could work on my own either way. I'll catch you soon, bro." He turned down the street and waved over his shoulder, to which I waved back out of instinct. I jogged backwards then faced the direction of the home of Julis, nodding at the guards who opened the gate to let me in. I traced my way back to the room I was supposed to go to.

"Sorry I'm late! I got caught up talking to my friend longer than I thought!" I exclaimed as I came through. "Eh?"

"Ah," said the red-haired male, "You must be Kichirou Sakamoto. But I think you prefer Ethan. I am Jolbert, Julis's brother. You have my utmost gratitude for protecting my sister."

I widened my eyes, "Ah, so the king? I don't need a reward. I was just doing what's right."

He smiled, "Quite perceptive. No, but I insist that you must have something in return. May we talk about this later?" I glanced at Julis, who gave a slight nod, and I turned to her brother and gave my own. "Great. Well, I planned a banquet tomorrow night as a welcome gift. Don't take this as the reward, understand?"

I smiled wryly, "I understand."

He let us leave and we walked down the corridor to our rooms. As we left and glanced out the windows, I smiled at the scenery and noticed Kirin grab Ayato's sleeve. "Wow, look Amagiri-senpai! It's so beautiful!" She noticed my questioning gaze and quickly turned away, face reddening. Julis turned to me as I walked by the window with my hands in my pocket, smiling.

"Is it like this all year, Flora?"

"Hai!" she answered, "But in the springtime, it's even better! You should see it one day! Maybe with your Highness." Julis protested and I laughed.

"Hey," Julis called and I turned, "What do you think? I just wanted you to see the country to let you relax. Hopefully nothing too stressful came up." I shook my head reassuring her and turned back out the window.

"How old is this? It seems old, yet looks so new. As if taken cared of for centuries."

She walked up to me, "Well, in fact, it is. The garden and villa here has been standing for as long as the time of the Holy Roman Empire." I nodded my approval, amazed at that small fact. "It gained independence as the Kingdom of Leiseltania, but was wiped out by German forces in the revolution. However, a Beltis meteorite of the highest caliber was found in former Leiseltania territory. Because the meteorite was an extremely rare Grade A meteorite, the Enterprise began to fight over it, but didn't want to risk a serious military confrontation. They signed an agreement to share profits and make the area a playground, recreating the country."

"Ah," I nodded, "Puppets. Must be fun, under their constant control, right?"

Julis sighed heavily and frowned as she looked at me, smiling sadly, "Yes. We are under their constant grip everyday. We get some benefits, but others..." She didn't finish and I didn't need her to. "I want to change this country."

I nodded absently as I looked back outside and smiled slightly at her concentrated face.

Walking down the street, I stopped and drew out a cigarette. I had no intention of smoking it at all, but this was what will call Daiki to me. I turned on the lighter, letting the flame hang near the cigarette, but not lighting it and held it up near my face. Seeing a person walking down the street not a minute later, I tilted my head and called, "Interesting how one small breath can ruin lives. You concur?"

"Well, cogitate about it all you want, nobody will be satisfied in the end." I dropped the cigarette and crushed it under my shoe, "He's going to make a move, but I don't know where. For sure I can say tomorrow night. No later than that. It's embarrassing, really. Seems even with us, we have our limits against the Genestella."

I laughed, "Well Hotshot, humans may not be able to match up to Genestella normally, but you and the Soldiers will be the first to be the ones who will. Because you all can."

He seemed to nod in the dark, then "Thanks. Anyhow, be on guard. The only place that Graecus will attack is that villa that houses the Riessfeld family. But who knows. He has a history of popping up somewhere else. Just be on guard. As a reminder, he doesn't fight himself, but those creatures he summons are deadly. The only thing we got a handle on is a hydra. No info on other creatures, so you may be facing the Nemean Lion at one of the worse cases. Or Scylla."

"Roger all."

He grunted then walked off into the night. I turned and watched him disappear before. Turning to the villa, I jumped over the roofs and quickly leapt to the balcony to my room before I wondered where everyone was. As I strolled down the hallway, I heard voices and recognized Claudia's. Peeking into the room, I saw that everyone was present, so I fully entered. "Ah, there you are Ethan. May we all talk? About the Festa?"

"Shoot," I replied.

"The only outlier is you for the team. They all want to participate, but there's a problem, Julis wants you to join," Claudia giggled. I glanced at Julis in surprise and she flushed at being put on the spot.

I sighed, "I said this already, I may make my own team." Everyone glanced at each other save for Claudia. "But...Julis. Understand this. You already worked with Ayato. Actually, all of you have. You guys will understand each other more than I do. I haven't worked with any of you at all, except Claudia. Each and every one of you have worked with each other at least once this year. You guys understand each other's weakness and strengths. Right?"

They nodded and I continued, "But if I join, someone must be removed and all won't end well. You all have your own wishes to fulfill. If one is left out...you get the idea. If I join, there's also the whole retraining problem. Besides, my own and only wish is already fulfilled. For those three reasons, I won't join. As to making my own team, I may. I have the people in mind already, but...I have my reason for not joining. They also want to, but they are fine with not joining. So right now, I'm still deciding, but most likely I won't make an appearance. Julis, you may want to fight with me, but stay with Ayato, all of you. You understand him more than me. If I were to join a future Festa, it's probably the year after. Lindwurm, because I have a goal in that one. So, thanks for caring, but I shall decline."

All seemed to breath a sigh of relief at avoiding a potential disaster and I smiled. "Well, I hoped the speech went well. But all that is true."

I turned to walk out the door when Claudia called, "Kichirou-kun. May I ask, who will you team up with if you do plan to?"

"Cao Cao, Lily Tang, Minato, and Siegfried," Claudia's eyes widened and she opened her mouth to speak, "Yes, they have agreed to join if I decide to, but they won't mind if I don't. It's a powerhouse, yes, and keep your hopes up that I don't join if you all are worried."

Next night:

I fixed my tie and glanced at the mirror, "Perfect!" I turned to see Flora and nearly jumped, "Don't scare me like that!"

"Sorry, Sakamoto-senpai! But I just came to remind you that weapons aren't allowed!" I glanced at Murasame and reluctantly held it out, placing it on her hands, "Thank you. Just come out and go to the girls' room when you're ready. I need to go tell Amagiri-senpai."

I nodded and when she left the room, smiled as I felt the two knives on my chest and around my ankles. A gun-type Lux on shoulder straps and on my waist. "Glad there's no frisking. With Graecus possibly coming..." I laughed and walked out to see the group coming towards me. Claudia immediately came to me and grabbed my arm.

She whispered, "Because Julis is the guest of honor and must escort Ayato, I can escort you~" I laughed as Claudia winked at Julis as she looked back helplessly and I shrugged. Julis gave a tired sigh and carried on. We entered the dining hall and I admired the giant room as everyone split paths for their audiences. I just wandered aimlessly until someone approached me from behind.

"Impressive?"

"Hell yeah." I answered as I accepted a drink from Julis. "Don't take it harshly, but I thought you had no money."

"I don't. But the country can spend on me. Besides, I'm not like my brother." She glanced in his direction, "He doesn't publicly speak nor has enthusiasm for his job. The perfect puppet and why they ignore him. He knows that, as depressing as it sounds. In addition, all those women are his lovers."

"A harem..." I muttered.

"Well, not exactly. All are sent by the Enterprise. They aren't spies...but don't really love him either." We noticed Claudia approach him, "...And Claudia's father is in charge of this area...So she's visited multiple times and why she's so friendly."

"Ah...Is her father an executive?"

"No," Julis said quietly, "Just her mother's personal subordinate. He's too human to stand a chance. He loves his daughter more than his wife, which is why can't be an executive. You need to undergo process to remove humanity, basica-"

"Hey,"I gestured to Jolbert's direction, "Brother is calling."

She seemed irritated, "Fine. It was nice just talking." Julis gave a timid grin and I squeezed her hand before seeing movement at the second floor. I natrowed my eyes and was about to move to the stairs when someone called my name.

I turned and was surprised, at the auburn-haired teen wearing a white dress with red accents and trimmings, "Hey! Asuna! How are you?"

She smiled as she took a sip of her drink, "Fine. Are you here with Sylvia?" I shook my head, "Then, Julis and the others?" I gave a nod and asked her question in return. "Ah," she laughed, "My father has a big influence, so I was invited while I was here. Kirito-kun too. But he's taking his time changing, so I had to come by myself."

She gave a heavy sigh. "I didn't even get to ask him how I look."

"Not bad at all," I grinned, "I'm sure he'll be speechless." She blushed and I nodded confirmation and saw a teen in a suit. I waved him over and Asuna peered over her shoulder. She blinked in amazement and Kirito stopped.

"What? I look just like Ethan. This is nothing."

"Nothing," Asina replied, "Just never seen you wear a suit before."

He laughed nervously, "Not comfortable. I don't like it. Is your dress just as bad?"

Asuna spun in a circle, "Not at all. How does it look?"

Kirito smiled, "Highlights your beauty more than before. You don't look like that strict commander but a wealthy daughter."

She frowned and was about to comment when there was an explosion and everyone started to panic. Asuna and Kirito's hands went to their waist and back respectively to draw their weapons but stopped. I put my hand to my chest and a hand grabbed my shoulder, "Da-Hotshot!"

The man who I saw multiple times during the party nodded and peeled off the face mask, "Yeah, that's me. Graecus is here, as you just noticed. Turns out they took your ways of contact too. Security purposes but it was necessary I suppose."

He turned to Asuna and Kirito, "You two. Keep order, get the people out. Now. Understand?" They nodded and quickly moved to control the crowd. He turned to me, "Handle the creature or creatures he summoned. I'll track him down. He's very slippery, so I need to move now too. I'll catch you later."

I nodded and he sprinted out a window when he saw someone levitate by. He crashed through the window with a loud shatter and vaulted over the balcony with ease. I laughed at his disregard for the damage but I think there is already enough tonight. I pushed through the backdoor and stepped on a shard of glass. "Claudia!" she turned, relieved and shouted something and pointed at a chimera. "Woah."

It flew onto the floor and shortly after was blown apart by explosions coming from attacks. Claudia widened her eyes and only then did I notice that the shards of glass wasn't glass, but teeth. From those rose...soldiers dressed in military fatigues. I stumbled back and they quickly moved towards the group, who were unaware of the danger. I drew the pistol from my holster and quickly aimed, inhaling and watching before shooting robotically. Grey, cargo pants, fatigues, skeletal, skull = enemy. Aim, FIRE. Turn, same look = enemy, FIRE. Next person, pink hair, dress = friend. Next.

An arm wrapped around my neck and pressed. I tried to pull the arm away, but the strength was inhuman. I heard faint shouts as I aimed the pistol at the elbow and fired, splitting the limb from its joint. I whirled and kicked between the legs of the spartoi, who was unaffected and kicked me in return. I coughed as pain flared and I fell to the ground. Seeing a foot fly at me through the pain, I barely caught it at the second kick, the first breaking my nose. Just after I grabbed its foot, it disappeared into bits of prana. I looked up to see Saya smiling slightly, "Pew."

"Thanks," I replied and quickly threw two knives at her direction and she ducked just in time for the knives to fly past her and take down two more spartoi. We went back-to-back and systematically took out spartoi advancing on us. When we finished, Saya holstered her guns and I smiled with satisfaction. Only when I saw men rushing at us when I realized I was holding weapons and quickly hurled them into the forest nearby.

When they approached me, I raised my hands up, shouting, "I had nothing on me! Pure hand-to-hand combat! Yeah!"

Morning:

Jolbert sat back, frowning, "The guy from last night is Gustave Marlowe."

"Gustave...Marlowe?" Julis frowned and Claudia looked uneasy.

"Yes, the man from last night turns out to b-"

"An internationally-wanted criminal," I finished and everyone looked at me in surprise. Jolbert opened his mouth but Claudia asked first.

"You know him?"

"Not personally," I answered, "But as you all know, I work with if not in the newly formed Soldiers of Dawn. They asked me to watch out for him yesterday night. I did see him, but I got caught up talking to Asuna and Kir-uh, Kazuto I guess since this is a bit formal. I don't blame them though. Not for anything."

Jolbert raised an eyebrow, "So you knew he was attacking but didn't mention it?"

I raised a hand, "I should have mentioned it, yes. But my contact had only suspicions and I didn't want to tighten security for a false alarm."

Claudia nodded understanding as Jolbert looked a bit stressed but understood nonetheless, "He's a member of the group behind Jade Dusk, a terrorist attack carried out in Asterisk."

Ayato was confused, "So he's a terrorist? He didn't seem to be doing anything terrorist-like."

"No," Claudia answered, "He participated in Jade Dusk for money. This time...he was carrying out the orders of someone else."

Kirin added, "Yes, he did seem to be hitting us under the request of someone. So it may be a big organization. But who would do that?"

Julis's brother dodged the question, "The police want to put you all under protection. How does it sound?" Everybody politely declined and they were silent. I glanced up and was surprised that they were waiting on my answer.

"Hey, do I look like I need protection?" Jolbert chuckled and shook his head, "So it's decided."

"Yes," he said uncrossing his legs, "I'll go tell them. Hold on a moment, Ethan. Just want to talk before you leave." I turned back around and nodded, pulling up a chair to sit on. Jolbert asked Julis to stay too and she questionably did so. We waited and were served tea from a maidservant and when Jolbert took a sip, I followed suit. Turns out it wasn't a good idea, "May I ask you to marry Julis?"

I choked on the tea and coughed, sending some up my nose. I quickly wiped my face and turned to him, "WHAT?"

Julis let the words sink in and slammed the table, "This must be some sort of sick joke!"

Jolbert smiled, "Now, if we are in agreement, why not start the engagement now?"

"Wait!" I shouted, "You have to understand, I'm fine around her...but I don't like her as much as Sylvia."

"Ah," Jolbert narrowed his eyes, "Her. But I've heard the same thing is between you and Julis."

"No!" I replied, "That's just reporters being reporters! If I were to marry one person, it's Sylvia! Nobody else!"

"I understand," he tilted his head, "But under these circumstances, it shouldn't be too big a deal. You marry a princess and can still love the idol."

"It is a big deal!" Julis shouted.

"But if you keep going, you know how things will end up..." Jolber frowned, warning her. Julis sat down, irritated and I continued.

"I don't want to marry for position. I want to marry someone I genuinely love. Yes, Julis is great in many ways and I can see if someone likes her, but my heart is mainly for Sylvia. In addition...we both have done so many things together, our bond is not something to disregard."

"Hmm," he thought, "I see. But are you sure? No matter how famous she is, a globally known idol won't compare to being the husband of a princess and queen." I stood.

"Is that all you see Sylvia as? Just a normal idol? I don't like that, you know. I don't like how the position and role in society has to do anything. I love and fell in love with Sylvia as herself. I never once judged her for her occupation. I only see her as her."

He sat back, "I see. Maybe I don't understand after all. But just to let you know, if you don't marry Julis, she'll be pawned off to someone in the Enterprise." My breath quickened and I sat down. "Now you see some light in truly why. I forgot about your global announcement with Sylvia. But this appears to be a difficult choice."

"It is," I growled. "I was about to let everything out on you for being dumb, but now I know the meaning behind the ignorance."

"Yes, since Julis won the Phoenix Festa, she had her value skyrocket. Now the Enterprise is poking its head out, watching. Since Ethan had just diverted a disaster and became a hero of the people, his value is just as high, if not higher, than a Festa winner." Julis gritted her teeth and I saw small traces of tears from frustration. I put my hand on hers just for a moment and she noticed it.

Jolbert didn't seem to, "So, how about it? You should live quite comfortably here."

"I should," I replied. "But I just freed myself from old chains. I'm not going to be locked to a new set. I will be free."

"But," he replied, "in this world, you can never be free. You can only choose what chains you."

"Yes, yes. But...I never knew her as much as Ayato. I know this," I stood and pointed, "Julis went to Asterisk to break the chains. The chains on you and on this country. I won't break free of chains and become new ones for another person. My decision is made now."

"Serious, are we?" Jolbert sighed and looked up, "But if Julis ever needs those chains, be the chains for her." I gritted my teeth softly then nodded. "Thank you. I see there's still a slight chance." We got up to leave and Jolbert held up a hand, "Hold up, there's another thing."

"If it's something dumb, I'm not listening," Julis replied adamantly.

"Please, don't participate in the Festa." Julis froze and only turned her head slightly. "If you win, I'll be boxed away and thrown out."

"No." Julis stormed out and slammed the door. Jolbert scratched his head.

"Well, that didn't go well at all. Seriously," he turned to me, "that was me begging for compliance."

"That?" I stared.

He nodded, no understanding my disbelief, "Yeah. As you know, I am only king because I am obedient and a good-for-nothing in politics and in general. If Julis becomes more popular than I...Well, it won't be a surprise if I'm eliminated within seconds. Julis then would proceed to change the country then, but the Enterprise being themselves, would make her suffer just because they know they can. Can you change her mind?"

I shook my head, "Even with me being me, I can't. I doubt even Ayato can."

He watched then gave a serene smile, "Well, I guess I'll have to be an even bigger-for-nothing. You'll find Julis at the orphanage across the lake, she's always gone there if upset."

I stood and started to walk out, "Hey. You can change yourself, you know. Don't worry about the Enterprise. Start going against them and use the meteorite as a leverage. If they attack, I have your back, along with all of Soldiers of Dawn. We are employed by the Enterprise, but we aren't under their complete control."

"Ah," he waved his hand, "Maybe. But honestly, I probably won't be able to do so. Thank you though."

"I should thank you too. I'll go to the orphanage now." I walked out and as I was going down the hallway, Ayato grabbed my attention. "Ah, going to ask about Julis?"

He nodded, "She didn't look too happy. I was wondering what happened after we all left."

I smiled, "A lot. Think you can help her? You always seem to know what to say. She's at an orphanage across the lake."

Ayato was surprised, "But...me? If you can't, how could I? Shouldn't you go too?"

"I will," I assured him, "But I need to talk to someone else. Her safety and everyone else's before anything else." Ayato stopped and smiled slightly.

"I see, then. I'll go talk to her. Don't leave me to do everything." I laughed and left the villa, going for the lake and strolling down a pier until I saw an motorcycle with the owner remove their helmet to react to a trio of thugs and accept the challenge. Seeing the surprise and fear in their faces before backing off and running as fast as they could out of the area, I laughed and hurried up to him.

"Hey, seems like you are fine," Daiki said and added, "See them? Wimps. Apparently challenging them is the equivalent if having an army by your side."

I shook my head, "You technically do, but you can beat them all up on your own anyways. They're probably used to defenseless victims."

He blew air out of his cheeks, "Yeah. Disappointments, that lot. Anyhow, Graecus escaped. Decided after toying with me, he legitimately teleported away. Pissed me off a bit, especially with that laugh of his. Asshole."

I laughed and he gave me a whack on the head, "Sorry, sorry. Everyone's good though. Nobody was injured, and the enemies taken care of."

He raised an eyebrow, "And the couple I asked to control the crowd?"

"Ah, Asuna's father was in a panic about the incident and rushed themselves all back home." Daiki rolled his eyes exasperatedly.

"Great, potential help and gone by a protective parent. Anyhow, you need to visit that pinkie of yours." I shot my head towards him, "Hey, don't give me that, I know her and she passed by fuming almost ten minutes ago. She went that way." He pointed west.

"I know, she's going to an orphanage to cool off a bit." He nodded and got on the motorcycle.

"Tell the woman to keep up her dreams and goals. Helping the poor is not something the Enterprise should disregard."

However, when I went there, I was greeted by the nuns who gave great hospitality, knowing I had kept Ophellia calm during her kidnapping and thanked me when they told me when they saw her winning the Lindwurm Festa. I declined everything with gratitude and asked for Julis. Telling me she left minutes ago with Ayato, I thanked them and at their request, played games with the children for a few moments. I gave my farewells and after I left the vicinity, felt slight tingling on my skull.

A tingling I have not felt for a long, long time.

Tingling when Ophellia gave killing intent.

"She's...here," I muttered, "Ophellia. Ophellia!" I sprinted towards the direction the tingling pointed, as if it was a glowing arrow in my eyes, shifting to the source of power my mind and power knew all too well. I sprinted quicker and quicker, until an animal instinct overtook me. The inner demons who want to feed.

Who are infinitely starving.

My feet no longer touched the floor and I flew, the trees whistling by and I became a ghost, flying quicker and quicker until I burst into the ruins of the lab where we were created, "OPHELLIA!"

She froze and looked up, muttering and finally disregarding Ayato and Julis, "Seems as you came after all. You do change the wheels of fate. Just moments ago, I saw them dying. Now you are here..."

"THEY ARE MY RESPONSIBILITY!" I shouted as I flew over her, the giant wings flapping and pushing away the snowstorm. Suddenly, a screen appeared in front of her.

[Hey, Ophellia, which part of 'don't leave the lab' don't you get? Stop fooling around.]

"I would like to, but I have an old acquaintance to handle."

[...I see. Make it quick then.]

Ophellia looked up and I saw her smile slightly, "Show me that your horrible fate has been altered completely. I saw your announcement, but have you diverted the disasters that came to you?"

I turned to see Claudia out into the clearing, I called to her and my voice echoed in the entire area, "CLAUDIA, GET THEM OUT." She started to protest, "NOW." Power rippled on the earth and the miasma hands Ophellia shook as my wings rippled and Claudia sensed the danger. But it was too late, I shoved my hand in her direction and I felt even the purity that came from it to repel the power of Ophellia.

"Hmm, why protect them? They have nothing to do with us."

"THAT IS WHY I AM DOING SO." Ophellia considered this and nodded.

"Then, Thousand-Eyed Master, stay where you are for your safety."

I dove right at her and cut to the left when a dark hand cut through the air, the ripples pushing my hair aside. I swiped with my hand and shadows gathered around it to form an enlarged fist, smashing into Ophellia's side. She only stood still with her eyebrows raised and head tilted as she held back the fist with both hands and stepped back to gain leverage.

She brought up her left hand as I gestured at her with both of mine and dropped to the floor as the shadows dispersed to gather into one giant spike. I rushed her as her attention was locked onto the spike, but when I smirked, both I and the spike flew through her. "What?"

"Either you got weaker or I grew quicker. I found out that even if the miasma doesn't have as deadly effects on your life force, it still affects your brain. You are seeing nothing but illusions now. You cannot trust your own mind as long as you continue allowing me to have free access to your system."

I closed my eyes and listened to the tingling, seeing where it was pointing. "I'm contemplating whether to kill you or not. We agreed to show who was right in a fight against each other, but we never agreed when."

I whirled to see multiple hands grab at me and I raised my arms to block, only to realize it was nothing until I was smacked from behind. "I see. So you have only gotten slightly better than before. I guess you aren't leaving your destiny on power, but in love and a meaning. It's a shame. I defeated your loved one last year, and I can defeat you too."

When I felt air moving, I ducked and I heard a satisfied hum, "Better. Now, can you win is the question."

I closed my eyes and muttered, "Shiki!" Soon, I saw everything. I saw my barrier protecting the trio, and the hands waiting patiently as Ophellia stood at the center of the field. I saw the fists merging as one as there was a grin from the mass of energy in the center. Giant fists rose to crush me and flew, but there was an explosion and a giant exhale following two roars.

"I thought your dragons were blue," Ophellia commented.

"They are supposed to be formed using my pool of prana and they are demanding," I replied, "Luckily for me, now not only do I have a nearly endless supply, but also can use the shadows as the source instead."

"Hmm," Ophellia mused, "But we both know that you don't have a bigger pool than me. That I can use to my advantage." I dashed ahead with full speed and jumped over hands coming from the ground in front of me and heard ripping as I opened my wings again, but they quickly faded in the midst of the strong malevolent force, making me twist in midair and land rolling, "Now, that is an inanimate object, Kichirou...It cannot fend for itself against the miasma unlike Kanshou and Bakuya. You need to do better than that."

As I was assaulted from all sides, the twin dragons batted away all the attempts and each time they dispersed into nothing, I brought them back. Each time, they were as energetic and lively as ever, but their force in ramming through the hands and flying speed decreased overtime. Each time, they showed how pleased they were. Each time they showed how much they trusted me to win. The pickiest twins, but not the strongest (although one of the stronger ones), who showed disdain to almost everyone who tried to claim them for the host's lifetime, showed interest in me due to the foreign blood. The most emotionless twins who were surprised I gave no effort to suppress their taunts. The most blood-thirsty ones who kept back their savageness just because I asked them too.

I fell into the floor as they blocked one more attack and launched upwards from beneath the ground, surprising Ophellia. I slammed into her and everything blew apart, "Didn't have any need for much prana this time. I think I won." Ophellia only lay on the floor, staring at me in slight surprise before narrowing her eyes.

"You think that, but you've drained yourself more than I did."

I got off of her and held out my hand, pulling her up, "Regardless, I won."

"Maybe. One day, when we both are serious, someone may die. I still don't see why you wanted to leave your path. You left a straight path and are now climbing a mountain and on the path to the most dangerous outcropping."

My eye twitched, "What's that supposed to mean? Haven't I just climbed the steepest path just recently? You should have known, our mind linked slightly."

She gave a grim smirk, then turned, "No, that was a steep slope for your lover, and for you. But both of you could have handled it. This is going to be the worst to come. In fact, I can see the two of you falling down if you don't handle the situation with vigilance..."

"Wait, Ophellia, don't give me your enigma of seeing the future! What do you mean that both of us may die if we don't deal with it correctly? What do you mean when we will handle the toughest challenge in our teen years?"

Before she disappeared into the snow, "Your feelings of love are strong, I can see the two of you...making it stronger...Goodbye for now, you need sleep." My view of her was blocked by snow. I was so exhausted, that I didn't have a chance to chase after her. I didn't even hear myself fall.

I opened my eyes wearily and tried to move, but I couldn't. "Arara~ Finally awake?"

"Of course I am..." I muttered, "You don't have to say the things everybody says in this situation..." Claudia giggled, "Is it just you at this time?"

"Yes, just me~"

I closed my eyes and sighed while smiling, "Of course...what about the others?"

"All with Ayato. How are you feeling?"

"Like Jell-O," I sighed, "It's tiring with even just my mouth. How'd you find the lab in Frauenlob? If I recall correctly, I've neutralized all powers there and set up illusions."

"Well," I heard her shrug, "It's really interesting on how you'd think it'll be hidden if you and Ophellia are fighting each other." I chuckled for a moment then stopped, waiting for my lungs to recover.

"Ugh, I feel so horrible. This is just like being dead."

Claudia touched my shoulder, "Shouldn't you have a technique to drain the prana of others?"

I shot open my eyes, "How'd you know that? I've never used it and don't want to."

"Because you are like a vampire. Your wings are like a bat's, you could become anything, an immortal. So, shouldn't you have ways to extend your life? And drain the power of others?"

My mind raced, that was technically the core of me. In addition to those abilities Claudia mentioned, I could move quicker at night or without sunlight than with sun. As for the last two... "I can drain the life of others. But as I said, I don't want to. I can kill them. That's how hungry I am."

"You won't kill me," Claudia replied, "I know you won't lose control unlike Irene." I closed my eyes again, "Also, I forgot to mention, I think you've accidentally used the drain on me before, when I first found you. You were so exhausted one day, but when I helped you up, you got so much better as I almost fell apart."

I didn't reply as I thought about that, It explained why I had the drawback of Pan-Dora. I drained her and at the same time, took in the curse of Pan-Dora. With no way to rid of it. "I'm not so sure."

"Come on, at the rate you are recovering, you would be an old man before you could walk." She grabbed my hand and I opened my eyes, "I'm sure, don't ask me this."

She gripped my hand and I felt the feeling of death enter me, I saw how I could be strangled, poisoned, frozen, burnt alive. All felt so...wonderful! I wanted more! I needed to know how to kill. How to INFLICT DEATH! How to make people miserable before dying! Pan-Dora is not the worst of Ogre Luxes. It was the epitome of "death".

Come! Teach me how to kill!

"Thank you for seeing me."

"Well, haha. We haven't talked a lot in a while. Month or two?"

"Claudia?"

"I thought you were avoiding me."

"Why would I do that?"

"Considering how evil this Lux is...I wouldn't and shouldn't have been surprised it chose me."

"Claudia...It didn't choose you because of you, it chose you because you could control it."

"...You aren't reassuring me?"

"Of course not! I know you can control it! You control me all the time! Well, not in that way, but you do!"

"Ufufufu, then you have to control yourself too. Once you pick your Lux, don't go killing people now, okay?"

"Of course."

"Now, will you walk me back to the girls' dorm?"

"Eh?"

Control...there is no such thing!

No...there is control. I control myself not this, not the doctor, not "fate." Me, and only me. The feeling of want, the feeling of need, hunger, dissatisfaction faded and when Claudia fell over, I grabbed her. "Claudia!"

"Oooh," she wobbled dangerously, "You drank more than I thought~"

"Don't act like that! This is why I don't want to drain people. My own power..."

"I thought I would die..." she whispered, "I felt so empty, I was being chased...by a monster. By the beast inside you. All your regret, your hate, your guilt." I looked at my chest, and at myself, "You hold so much more dark secrets and thoughts than I."

"Claudia," I got ready to apologize and talk, explain, but she gripped my arm.

"Are you getting rid of it?"

"I...I am. I'm trying."

She looked up and gave me a exhausted, dazzling smile, "That's good enough for me. Kill the beast, kill everything that the doctor caused you. I don't want you to crumble from the inside." But yet, as she said it, I felt it claw at me, and speak, [The worst is about to come! Let me devour everything! Destroy! Kill! Let me use what I've gained! You would be dead once I take you over! You need not suffer with Sylvia! You don't have to hate her! Do not help her! Saving Ursula Svento will lead to both of your destruction! DIE NOW AND NOT LATER WHEN YOU ARE IN THE PIT OF MISERY!]

It growled a pitiful growl as I felt familiar miasma fill my body. "What?"

"What?" Claudia looked up as she started to recover.

"What are you talking about?" There was no answer, but "I've suppressed your beast. Looks like you cannot control it as I have. You haven't bent it to your own will."

"What did you do?" I shouted, but Ophellia did not answer.

"Ethan?" Claudia sounded worried, "You are so pale, and you seem to be talking to yourself."

"Nothing...you must be hearing and seeing things," I replied as I stared at the far wall.

She nodded, "Maybe...I don't feel like myself right now."

A new voice joined in, "Then you'll have to stay here, Miss Enfield." I looked up to see a man dressed completely in black, holding a scabbard in his right hand, one at his belt, and slung a...AK-105 over his back. "Nephilim, are you good enough to move out?"

"Wait...Mayhem?" Daiki nodded.

"Glad you remember the change in my callsign. It's honestly better than 'hotshot.' I have a trace on Graecus, and I'll need you to keep any mythical creatures off of m-" There was a flash of light and loud rumbling, the entire ground shaking. We all looked out the window as Kirin ran in, "Damn, we need to move now."

Kirin was about to speak but stopped at the imposing presence of Daiki, "Ms. Toudou, please stay here and protect the villa. Can we count on you to do that?" Kirin was unsure until Daiki added, "Ayato would appreciate it." She beamed and nodded.

"Okay, leave it to me then! Make sure Amagiri-senpai stays safe."

"He will Nephilim, let's go. Miss Enfield, stay here too. The two of us have a terrorist to stop."

Daiki and I landed feet-first on the tallest building near the orphanage, the first thing in our vision is the hydra looming over the lake as if it owned the place. Flashes of light and movement could be seen near it and I heard the sound of a sword being drawn. "I know you're there, show yourself."

"Ehehehe, if it isn't the infamous 'Romanticized Samurai."" I glanced at Daiki and he bowed. "Or are you not one anymore?"

He smirked, "Say all you want, but I still follow the virtues in most respects. I may have broken respect several times, but not in large ways to break the bushido. I may generally be arrogant and rude, but my kindness is still enough to pass."

"How about, 'Loyalty?'"

Daiki laughed, "Ah, trying to rub it in my face, no? I was not loyal to the mafia, don't misunderstand. I am loyal to Hideki. Now, let's start." Lizards around us dove down and Hideki smiled slightly as he cut through them with ease, sheathing his sword and immediately engaging the spartoi that rose from the roof as the dragon teeth were dropped. He laughed and headbutted one, making it stumble then backhanded another before kicking the diaphragm of a third.

One jumped on his back and he calmly jumped back, head on its throat as they landed with a crunch, rolling off the immobile soldier. He drew a knife and slashed with such force he decapitated one and slammed the hilt into another's face, before charging at Gustave and knocking him out with an uppercut, "Meh, a bit boring if you ask me. We got him down though, just in time for the hydra to be taken down."

I shook myself out of my disbelief and turned, seeing the particles of the hydra fade away. Slinging the man over his shoulder, Daiki held up a phone and pressed a speed dial number, "Jackpot, boss. Yeah it was easy...Yeah the kid came too, didn't help though, stood there like an idiot.

"Hey!" I protested.

He smiled, "Huh? Ah, everything fell apart after Graecus was knocked out, not like the useless brat had to do anything after anyway."

Well, today is yesterday's tomorrow and now we are leaving Leiseltania. I've fought Ophelia for the first time and now I know I won't have an easy time...Gustave is in prison, Jolbert is now going to help Julis once she wins the Gryphs Festa, and a lot of things.

The only thing troubling me is what Ophelia said before she left...

"Sorry I kept you waiting~"

"..."

"Is...something wrong?"

"No...nothing."

Alright! Volume 6 done! Season 2 for the anime done! Let's get going to volume 7! Hooah!*

*Let's ignore this ironic occasion, but hopefully not to get your hopes up, I do have the eleventh chapter over halfway done haha!

Let's hope this isn't a final goodbye, but...

Regards, Brigade

Oh! Not sure if this is a good or bad sign, but I've cried while making chapter 11. Twice. *Wipes tears* I hope I can get the same reaction from the rest of you when I get around to publishing it!