Chivalry of a Hollow Cryo Dragon Devil Knight

by Gaevontracey24

Ayato Kurozakuro Sparda will enter the world of Devils and learn more about himself as Rias Gremory's Pawn & Stella Vermillion Gremory Phenex's Queen , along with his mysterious family past which allows him to wield a legendary demonic sword... and he's the next Red Dragon Emperor. Harem with Stella,Rias and Mio being the main girls.

34. Chapter 34

Chapter 34

"" - Speaking

'' - Thought

{} - Sparda

] - Ddraig

…

'Thanks Sparda…I nearly forgot about that. Why's Ddraig being so quiet?'

{Oh…I taped his mouth shut…didn't want him to embarrass you given how important this meeting is and Congrats for Winning The Seven Stars Sword Festival and Becoming a Desperado.}

Sparda answered Ayato sweat-dropping at how natural that had come across from his ancestor and thanked him for the praises.

The morning after the battle of Caldia. The plane on which Stella flew landed at the Estonian airport.

Estonia was currently part of the International League of Mages Knights , which was aware of the whole situation in Vermilion.

In an emergency, all immigration procedures were simplified and all boiled down to a simple identification of their identities.

As soon as it was over, Stella and her companions got into a rented car, which was prepared in advance for them. .

There was only one road to Edelberg. Iris Askarid, who announced to everyone that she was already there and knows the way, got behind the wheel.

However, her action was optional. Estonia was geographically located on a flat plain, so the peak of Edelberg was visible from anywhere in the country. It was impossible to get lost. Three hours later, they arrived at the checkpoint, which was surrounded by a high metal fence with barbed wire.

It was a border. Further beyond this fence was a territory that Estonia refused to have nothing to do with Edelweiss.

His country is two-winged. They went so far and Edelberg was already in front of their eyes. After a quick checkpoint procedure, the group resumed their movement to Edelberg.

Meanwhile, in the car. "Thank you for saving Otou-sama and the others," Stella said to the black-haired girl. Her name was Yui Tatara.

Once upon a time, they had a fight at the Seven Star Sword Art Festival , where the latter was a member of the Akatsuki Academy.

"I was very surprised when I saw your face in the palace," shared the surprise of Stella Ayato, who was sitting in the front seat of the car.

Stella, along with Yui Tatara, was sitting in the back seat. After the military events in Caldia, they were told that while they were gone, the palace was attacked.

But the sudden help from outside helped repel the attack. Sirius told them that the enemy who had attacked the imperial palace was called Dirty Rose.

She was a murderer who betrayed her organization and has now been declared a hunt for her. Yui Tatara personally persecuted her to kill and clear the name of the house of Abgrund .

There was no way to test this story for truth; it could have been Or-Gole's spy. But she saved Sirius Vermilion. And was not hostile to the Vermilion empire.

"... A lot has happened, between us, in the past ... but this time you helped us." Thank you very much, "Stella said with a friendly smile, holding out her hand for a handshake.

"Sarah Bladlili and Wrynn Kazamatsuri weren't bad people." You seem to be a good person too. Yui Tatara, who rested her elbows on the backseat all the time, bit a chocolate cigarette. Glancing at Stella, she also pulled her hand towards her. *Hit* Tatara, without ceremony, with all her strength hit Stella's palm.

- Ay !?

Why did you do that…!? Tatara, not at all embarrassed, spoke angrily with Stella.

"No need to say such words to me."

I, unlike Kazamatsuri and others, are not going to play friendship with all of you, okay? I came to you because I took responsibility for the person who betrayed our organization. I had no special plans to save your parents. So no need to wave your tail in front of me. All naive fools like you are disgusting to me. "Then why did you go to Edelberg with me ...?"

"I'm not going to miss such an event." To see how Two-Winged ass kicks you is the best show. I am already in anticipation of how I will observe from the first row of the stands and laugh loudly, eating candy. Hehe hehe.

- Grrrrrrr ... ! Tatara was in a good mood. An evil grin shone on her face, and devilish lights danced in her eyes. Next to her lay a bag of sweets from Bonnie's House of the best pastry shop in Vermilion. She clearly asked for this journey in order to laugh at Stella's failure. Perhaps this behavior Tatara wanted to take revenge on Stella for the previous defeat at the festival. Stella, blushing with anger, began to complain to Ayato, who was sitting in the front seat of the car.

- Ayato! This girl, as I thought, is nowhere worse! I can not make friends with her!

"Heh ... well, she's our new comrade who will fight us in the upcoming War ." I'm sure you will make friends with her. That's right, from now on they are in the same team.

Yui Tatara spoke with Astrea and asked to be included in the representatives of Vermilion. Her mission was to kill Dirty Rose, who was now with Or-Gole, who controls Cledland. This argument was enough for Astrea, and she allowed her to join the team. After that, the list of representatives from Vermilion was fully stocked. Make a truce with the former enemy to fight the new. "What doesn't happen in our world ..." Ikki thought with a grin.

"... have arrived," said Ascaris. The way she uttered the word was different from her usual indifferent manner of communication. Having parked the car at the curb, they got out of it. A small village populated by people appeared before their eyes.

Ten years ago, when Estonia entered the League and abandoned Edelberg, people did not want to leave this territory and remained here. Having carefully examined the area, Ikki took a deep breath.

- This place is impressive even from a long distance, and even close and completely mesmerizing.

"That's right," Ascaris confirmed. Edelberg's height was more than 9000 meters.

The height was so great that it was impossible to make out the peak due to the head of the clouds. In addition, the slope was very steep. With its sharp edges, it resembled a sword piercing the heavens.

"So Edelweiss lives at the very top?" "Perhaps ... I'm definitely not sure." She travels around the world, for example, not so long ago I met her in Japan. She is not the kind of person who often sits at home. We are very lucky if we meet her here, "Askarid answered Ikki's words.

- Hey, take a look!

- interrupted their conversation, Stella, pointing with his hand towards the village. She pointed to a sight that was not at all suitable for a calm small village. There were many people around who constantly came and went. A large number of them were inflated men with weapons similar to blazer devices. Their eyes burned with a strange brilliance as they carefully studied the current situation. "... I never thought that the villagers might look like that."

- You are fool? Where did you see the villagers from whom the thirst for blood would blow? Ayato agreed with the words of Tatara.

- All these people are blazers. And pretty strong.

- The name of Diptera is known throughout the world. Therefore, knights from all countries come here to fight and defeat her. They hope to become so famous, "Askarid said.

"That means how," Stella nodded. It seems that Ascaris explanation fully satisfied her. It seems that Edelweiss was now at home, so they do not need to hesitantly stomp at the foot of the peak.

"The goddess of fortune is on our side."

"We no longer need to worry that Edelweiss is out of place," Stella said decisively, glancing at Edelberg. Her fists were tightly clenched.

"Well, go ahead!" She was the first to take a step forward.

"Wait," Askarid Stella wanted to stop, but unexpectedly loud piercing beeps hit him in the back of the head.

- Hey guys! You blocked our way.

- That's right, Aniki! Get out of the way! Rude angry screams. When they looked back they saw a lot of bikers with mohawks and tattoos, sitting on motorcycles and buggies with barbaric tuning.

Also with them was a huge man, similar to a bear, with a large sword behind his back. Without a doubt, they were the sources of loud angry screams.

"The road is wide enough for you to go around us." Didn't anyone tell you that driving around a small village on such a transport is a sign of bad taste? Stella was not afraid of bikers and adequately answered them. Of course, this answer infuriated them.

- What did you say?

"Do you even understand who you're talking to, you bastard?" All bikers braked sharply in front of Stella. They started to gas as if they wanted to run into her. However,

- Enough! Shouted a bear man riding a buggy

Immediately after the leader's cry, there was a dissatisfied murmur of bikers everywhere: "Aniki?"

"Why did you stop us?"

"What got on you?" etc.

"... I thought she was an ordinary bastard, but take a closer look at her." She is a beautiful woman, don't you agree?

Having explained his minions, the bear man approached Stella.

Not at all embarrassed, he stared at her breasts. This unceremonious behavior of the leader of bikers did not end.

"... I like those." So be it, I will make you my woman, "he said, laying his huge paw on her shoulder. Naturally, Stella was disgusted with such treatment.

"Who the hell are you?" And how dare you say such things to me? - said Stella, raising her eyebrows in surprise. She did not even hide her irritation in her voice. However, the bear man was not at all offended, and even vice versa, laughed.

"You don't know me, because I live in a remote shitty village." I am Gail Raging Wave, leader of the Mercenary Guild Record of the Murder.

Having defeated Edelweiss, I will become the most powerful swordsman in the world! Now you understand everything, woman? You should be glad that a man like me paid attention to you.

- DAAAAAA ! GLORY TO OUR ANIKA ! Bear Man Gail smiled happily at the loud cries of his followers.

Ayato and the others immediately realized that this man had no idea who he was talking to at the moment.

It was even strange that he did not know the face of the A-rank knight Crimson Princess Stella Vermilion.

I wonder what wilderness he crawled out of? Chuckling to himself, Ayato moved toward Stella. Stella's wrath also subsided significantly.

"Thanks for the offer, but I will refuse." There is already a person in my heart who is dear to me.

And yes, I really doubt that you will be able to defeat the Diptera, "she said in a calm voice, shaking off a hand from her shoulder.

But, - Do not get me wrong. I do not ask for your opinion, I state a fact.

- ...! At his signal, Gail's henchmen surrounded Ayato and the others.

- Listen! If you look closely, the other heifers are also good!

- Aniki! We'll take the rest for ourselves, okay?

- So be it. But remember, the red-haired woman is mine!

- DAAAAAAAAAA ! - Bikers shouted joyfully.

"... Ahem, maybe I'm telling you too late, but it's a" land of lawlessness "in the literal sense.

Anything can happen to us here, Ascaris spoke quietly to her group.

- Really late. Hey Vermilion! Do something already, Tatara demanded from Stella.

- I was going to do this without your words

... Okay, we will assume that this is the next training session for us

... Edelberg did not belong to either the Alliance or the League.

Therefore, there was no law that forbade fighting to the fullest.

No charges will be brought against them if they attack these bikers. So Stella without hesitation began to prepare for battle. But, "... Stop if you don't want to be dishonored." Stella's right arm, which was about to summon Levatein , froze in mid-air. A voice, though not as loud as Gail's, but penetrating every cell of their body, suddenly came from behind them.

- Gyle. You can't beat this woman.

- Raab ...! And Kiba ...!

Seeing two rapidly approaching men, Gail became very pale.

One of the strangers was a bloated western-looking man. He was wearing a red suit.

Another was an Asian dressed in a traditional black kimono with a katana on his belt.

A man of western appearance quickly stood between Stella, Ayato and Gail. Glancing at Stella and Ayato , he bowed deeply.

"I heard about the courage of the Crimson Princess and The Cryo Gale Sword Emperor."

Glad to meet you, Your Majesty Stella Vermilion and Ayato Kurozakuro.

Two middle-aged men suddenly appeared in front of them. But only one of them excited Ayato.

"Kiba ... really ...?" He was familiar with one of the names that Gail called.

- Kiba? Are you the same Yoshikazu Kiba-sensei?

"Do you know him?"

A shook his head at Stella's question.

- Personally, no, but I saw the records of the fights.

Before us is the Wolfblade of Yoshikazu Kiba.

A knight mage from Japan who suddenly disappeared from the A-Rank League fifteen years ago.

He took 12th place in the world ranking and at that time was the strongest knight from Japan.

Later, his fame was overshadowed by another knight-mage,His Aunt,Kurono Shinguji with her device "World Clock".

But the nickname Wolf Blade was still on the lips of many young knights, for whom he was a hero and an idol.

Ayato was one of them. Yoshikazu Kiba was an excellent swordsman who was equally good at wielding both sword and magic.

Therefore, Ayato took responsibility and in the past learned a lot about him.

Like the Last Samurai, he earned respect in the community of knights.

While Ayato was explaining to Stella who was standing in front of them, a man of Asian appearance, dressed in a kimono and with hair tied behind his back, spoke.

- ... This is an old story

... He confirmed the words of Ayato without the least enthusiasm in his voice.

"But still, what have you been doing for such a long period of time?"

- ... Kiba met Ayato's question with heavy silence. A cold detachment blew from him, which, as it were, said "do not go to me"

- ... Hmm? Ash hair color? Are you by any chance the Black Knight? Kiba's companion, a blond with a snow-white smile, spoke to Iris Askarid, who stood behind Stella.

"Yes," Askarid nodded shortly.

"I thought so!" Haha So my intuition was not mistaken when I felt a familiar aura. How much has passed since our last meeting after the US-France conference? Two years?

"Askarid-san, do you know him?" - This is Red Scorpio Lambert Raab-san, one of the US commanders.

"Wait, are you talking about the US Secret Service?" They are elite blazers!

- In the USA we are called not blazers, but psychics. At the USFrance conference, Ascaris-san accompanied the French president. It was then that we met with her ... Now the first time I saw her real face. From her movements, I guessed that she was a girl. But I did not expect her to be so beautiful. And of course, Your Highness Stella, the same thing I think about you. "The B-Crimson Princess and the Black Knight ... !?

- Yes, you are joking ...! We did not need to attack them ...! The Gogh Sogildians, who were listening to this whole conversation, began to change their complexion sharply. Although they did not know the face of the Crimson Princess, but her name was well known to many. While the bikers turned pale and green with fear.

- What is going on? Black Knight, Crimson Princess, who are they all? - said Gail without changing his face. His stupid expression did not disappear.

"And do you seriously believe that this two-winged one of yours destroyed the Alliance and League forces alone ?"

If it was about me, then this is another matter. But she is another miserable woman! You seem to be serious people, but you believed in these lying gossip. Don't you know how the media works? For grandmas they are ready to compose any duck. Perhaps she even appeased their guidance with her body. Enough of this lying legend with me! Today I will expose the Diptera! Having done away with that woman, all the money and respect for the world will be in my hands. Come on guys! Guahahhaa!

Roughly pushing Raab off with his shoulder, Gail beckoned for his minions. He did not abandon his goal of defeating Edelweiss.

... He did not bluff or grimace. He really did not realize the real power of Edelweiss.

"There are so many different people in our world ..." Stella said perplexedly. The ignorance of this man greatly struck her.

- Ghaha, really. This man is completely ignorant of someone else's power

... And by the way, Your Majesty, are you here for the same purpose of fighting the Diptera, like him? Stella nodded because she initially did not want to hide this information.

- Right. Everyone else just accompanies me. Have you also come here for this?

- Naturally. We have the same goal ... But you are here too ... For a moment, Raab's face took on a worried expression.

- I also came here not for rest. My goal is to prove to everyone that even the strongest swordswoman in the world will not be able to break through the US shield ... However, it seems that now we have a common goal.

At the top two winners cannot stand at the same time.

Looks like we're competitors now, right?

A crooked smile instantly disappeared from Raab's face.

A furious light flashed in his blue eyes.

Sharp fangs were ready to be exposed from under his lips.

He began to resemble a predator who was about to throw himself at his prey.

"Strong…!" Behind this man is a huge baggage of combat experience.

He had a powerful aura that only a truly powerful warrior could emit.

But… It was not only he who emitted this aura. Kiba standing behind him.

Numerous blazers, endlessly dreaming around the village.

All of them were formidable warriors.

Raab's words were ... a warning.

If you have arrived at this peak, you should always be ready.

There is no room for friendly talk.

When it comes to competing with each other, you need to prepare for battle.

This is precisely what Raab subtly hinted at with his last phrase.

However, Stella had her own thoughts about this whole situation.

- Sorry, but I do not want to compete with you. My goal is two winged, so I don't have time to fight with you yet. Jumping to the side, Stella said loudly.

- " Dragon Wings "! A pair of fiery wings instantly grew from her back. Raab, Kiba and other blazers stared at her metamorphosis in surprise.

- ...? Who the hell is that?

"This is flame and red hair ... is it really the Crimson Princess Stella Vermilion?"

"... The Crimson Princess also wants to fight the Diptera ...?"

Ignoring the reactions of the other knights, Stella held out her hand to Ascarid.

Askarid-san! Grab it faster! I will fly right to the top ...!

-Ok!

- Ayato! ! If you are so confident and consider yourself strong, why don't you climb to the top yourself, phu ha ha!

- Accepted.

About 5 minutes have passed since Stella took off from the ground.

She climbed at a monstrous speed, it took her less than ten seconds to cover the 100 meter distance.

A sparkling silver white world flashed before their eyes.

"Amazing ..." Suddenly, Stella began to shrink and slow down.

The cold air that blew powerfully at them did not disturb Stella at all.

She just suddenly felt the monstrous pressure that threatened to crush her.

This feeling was completely different from Raab's predatory aura.

"I will find out ..." Yes, she knew this pressure.

The third round of the Seven Star Sword Art Festival, the battle between Ayato and Sarah Bladli.

Then Sarah using her technique created a copy of the knight. And let this copy not reach the original

... "Yes, it's definitely her ..."

The strongest swordswoman in the world Two-winged Edelweiss.

Stella had not yet met her, but it was already difficult for her to breathe.

Despite the low temperature, she was thrown into the heat.

She was soaked from tension.

This was the hallmark of all the Desperate , who broke the shackles of their fate and tasted the forbidden fruit of powerful power.

This feeling was well known to Stella after meeting with Or Gole and Nasim.

The whole body was bound with fear of absolute death, which seemed to breathe in the back of her head.

But precisely because of this, she came here. She needs to learn to resist this fear.

"I'm going to break through the clouds ...!" Hold on tight! Shouted Stella to Ascaris.

In the same second, she burst into a dense cloud, which blocked the view to the top of Edelberg.

Nothing was visible in the jelly-like cloud. A large hail whipped them with all their might.

In order to somehow protect herself from him, Stella increased the temperature of her flame.

Overcoming the entire dense curtain, a clear blue sky appeared to their eyes.

They were somewhere at an altitude of 8,000 meters above sea level.

Such a height was dangerous for a simple person.

Stella immediately felt as if her weight had increased many times.

Also at this altitude the atmosphere contained too little water.

The air was so diluted that no further flight became possible.

No matter how much she flaps her wings

..."I can't fly anymore ...! Urgent need to look for a place to land ... "

At that moment - Stella! Come on there ...! - shouted Ayato, who had been there the whole time.

He pointed to a section of the mountain surface.

If you take a closer look, you can find a slightly gently sloping place between the rocks, on which stood a small stone hut.

As soon as Stella discovered this hut, she immediately realized that this monstrous pressure that pierced her through, came from that place.

"... Thank you, Ayato!"

I will land next to her! See ya there! Fortunately, Stella managed to fly to the top and crash into the snow.

- Wow ... finally arrived

"I flew too long."

I hope that mountain sickness will not hit me.

"There is no place for people who are weak in heart and lung, are they, Vermilion?" Stella stared piercingly at Tatara, who continued to claw with her. That during their conversation carefully watched the blue sky and clouds, which remained far behind them. "What was she thinking when she built her house in such a place?"

Of course, the landscape that opened to them was amazing, but he could not cover all the disadvantages of this place.

The mountain surface to a greater extent consisted of steep slopes, so there were no forests here.

Due to the fact that there were no trees, the wind blew with such force that it threatened to blow them from the top.

In addition, the air was very thin, so everyone immediately found it difficult to breathe.

All these conditions were clearly far from normal human.

"She probably had reasons to build a hut in this place," Ayato said, carefully Absorb off the snow and ice into his Ryuuzetsu.

"If Two-Wing had built a house, like everything below, then too many visitors would visit her." She would not have time to rest.

"Hmm ... you're right." I also like to fight, but I would not want every knight to tug on me constantly. This is the price of fame. It's even a little sad.

"But now you are one of those people ... How are you going to force the Diptera to accept your invitation to battle? Are you gonna burn her hut? - Fi! I'm not going to immediately do anything like this ...!

First I want to meet her and demand an honest duel in accordance with all the knightly etiquette.

- And if she refuses? "Well then ... I will tint her hut ..." - I do not think that this will provoke her.

- Sometimes you have to use force against an adversary who does not respond to peace talks.

"For some reason, you started talking like a politician."

- Actually, I have long been one of them.

Stella understood that her act was selfish.

If possible, she would like to speak peacefully with Edelweiss.

In any case, she needs to meet her.

Otherwise, the whole journey of Stella would be meaningless.

- Well then, go ahead! Stella first went to the hut.

Ayato and the others followed her.

They quickly caught up with her.

Despite the fact that the trinity tried to walk slowly and stay behind Stella ...

- ... Stella? "Hey, are you going to see her at all or not?"

Why did you get scared at the last moment?

- No!

- Stella answered loudly to these accusations.

Accelerating her step, now she wanted to catch up with these three.

But ... the distance was not shortening. This was not surprising.

Because Stella did not take a step forward from the place where she landed.

- What is it ...!

No matter how she tried to go forward, Stella simply trampled snow on the spot.

It was as if there was an invisible barrier in front of her, against which she rested her forehead.

- Why ...? What is it…? All this did not go unnoticed by Ayato.

- What's the matter? Can't you move forward?

"Yes, it seems to me an invisible wall ... or a barrier ... in short, something like that." She did not doubt her assumption.

But… "No," Askarid suddenly entered into conversation.

- There is no wall. The reason is completely different why you cannot budge.

- What ... !?

"Your soul was afraid of the importance of this step."

- T-you're wrong ...! Stella immediately hastened to refute the words of Ascaris.

She understood that her mind was filled with fear. At the mere thought of challenging the strongest swordswoman, she was very nervous.

She refused to accept the words of Ascaris. "Askarid-san is mistaken ...! Before me is clearly an ordinary physical barrier ... I just need to kick it with all my might ...! "

At that moment, when Stella had already put strength into her legs. "... stop." If you overpower yourself, you may die ...

- It…! An unexpectedly well-set voice reached the ears of their four.

Her intonation was subtle.

You can even say majestic.

They quickly turned to the source of that voice.

She stood at the door of the hut.

Her snow-white hair fluttered beautifully against the blue sky. Leaning her back against the ajar door, she watched them anxiously.

The strongest swordswoman, standing alone not at the pinnacle of excellence. Two-winged Edelweiss.

Stella was awed by her appearance and fighting spirit, she was not even dressed in equipment.

She was so ... beautiful.

It was not only her snow-white hair, which shone like freshly fallen snow, and not in her sophisticated appearance.

Her ash-silver eyes turned to Stella shone brightly.

Her gaze filled with tenderness looked through her.

Her long, graceful, perfectly proportioned arms and legs were relaxed. But that was a trick.

Edelweiss was always ready to repel any attack directed at her from any angle at any given time.

But most of all surprised her center of gravity.

No matter how much Stella looked at her, she could not find his location.

Absolutely unarmed and with a little makeup, she went out to meet the sudden guests who disturbed her stay.

Her natural posture was without the slightest flaw.

"Without a doubt ... Before me is a real Edelweiss ...!" In appearance alone, Stella was completely convinced.

Slightly lowering the center of gravity down, Stella prepared for defense and attack.

In contrast to her, Edelweiss did not even move.

She only ... looked at Ascaris and tilted her head slightly to one side.

"Iris, did you really have to come here because of the current situation in the world?"

- Do you already know what is happening in the world?

"The league has already announced the incident between Vermilion and Cledland." And about the war between representatives of both sides.

I am approximately familiar with the current situation. She was already aware of the current situation in the world.

Therefore, Stella immediately went to the heart of the matter.

- As you know, my country is in a crisis situation. To protect Vermilion and defeat Or-Goule, I need to become even stronger. That is why I came here. I want to fight an adversary of which I am absolutely sure ...! AND…

"Please fight me in a duel ...!" She called on her Levatein device .

Pointing the tip of her blade directly at her, Stella demanded a fight. Edelweiss to her bold and brave request,

"I'm sorry you had to make such a long journey before me, but I refuse." She answered with a sharp refusal.

- P-why ... !? "I'm not in the mood right now and ..." In one motion, Edelweiss brushed her hair from her shoulders.

"... I'm a swordswoman." I refuse to fight, where to win I do not even need to draw my swords.

With a cold look, she looked down at Stella.

- ... Immediately after her words, the atmosphere around her warmed up.

The source of this heat was the Crimson Princess Stella Vermilion.

"... I don't even need to draw my swords ..." Edelweiss had just addressed these words directly to her.

"... What do you mean by that ...?"

"My words carry no hidden meaning." Sorry, but now I can kill you with just one look.

"... to kill not with a sword, but with a look ..."

It's impossible. She was bluffing. But Edelweiss said these words as if they were the obvious thing to everyone. Such an insult only further ignited Stella's morale.

"I will make you take those words back ... !" Her requests were rejected. The time has come for the power plan. No hesitation. Stella even more lowered the center of gravity and, pushing off the ground, made a powerful leap forward. But… This step was the first and last at the same time. In the same instant A strong feeling, like a powerful cold blizzard, struck Stella. She felt right away. As something went right through her neck and limbs.

- Arghhhhhhhhhh ! Reeling back, she lost her balance and fell on her back.

"Stella, are you okay !?"

Is it really ... Ayato's face, which immediately ran up to Stella, turned pale. She immediately understood the reason.

- Wow ... and ...? Is it ~~~~~~~?

Stella carefully put her hand to her neck. Her face contorted immediately in a pained grimace.

Her palm immediately felt something warm and viscous.

Blood.

A long horizontal cut appeared on Stella's neck.

"Superhigh speed attack ...?"

No, not true. All this time, Edelweiss did not move and was unarmed.

In addition, there was a considerable distance between them.

This attack is impossible.

So what happened? Stella was at a loss. But a thought crossed her mind. All the same battle between Sarah and Ayato at the festival.

"A vacuum cut ... I think she set up a bunch of such traps in the space in front of her house ..." Stella suggested, healing the wound with her dragon healing power. But,

- You are mistaken ...

- ... !? "I did not use any vacuum blades that you mentioned a little earlier." I just increased my thirst for blood a little ...

- You are lying! How can you inflict a wound on an adversary with a simple aura !?

It was fantastic. But Edelweiss only shook her head at the accusations in her direction.

"I do not deny that simple knights are not capable of something like that."

But the Desperate are people who have broken the shackles of their fate, and are now divine beings, far beyond this world ...

- Desperate ...

- Right. Looks like you heard about us. We, the Desperate , are beyond human understanding. By our own investigativecausal connection we ourselves write the history of this world.

- So ... An unexpected thought illuminated Stella. Edelweiss nodded.

- Right. What attacked you was the difference between our forces. There is an abyss between us, you understand it. If we meet face to face, the result will be obvious. Admit, deep down you understand that you cannot win. Therefore, you do not need to resist this feeling. Only one " intention " can I hurt you. The gravitational pull of my fate can suck and swallow you ...

Edelweiss shook her head at his words.

- You say that I have become a more impregnable wall ... the fact is that I have become even stronger ... my speed of development is much higher than yours. -…! Now she stood at the pinnacle of sword skill. And still she continued to develop. Ikki looked at her in awe. Stella did the same. There was only one thought in her head. "She's really ... strong. And besides, incredibly kind ... " Stella lightly touched her neck, where there was a wound a couple of minutes ago. She finally realized the true power of the Desperate . "With her" intent "she could simply behead me ..."

At that moment, she had already come to terms with her own death. But, Edelweiss didn't kill her. Why? The answer is obvious, she had no intention of killing Stella from the very beginning. Stella came to her house without warning and even aimed the blade.

But ... Edelweiss was sincerely worried about her life and only slightly wounded her. With her action, she wanted to cool Stella's head.

Ikki admired her for a reason. She was a gentle and strong person at the same time.

...

Stella understood all this perfectly. Then why did she start this stupid and rash act? How she was going to defeat the strongest swordwoman in the world when she was unable to defeat even the Puppet King. Edelweiss allowed her to leave this peak alive. But…

- I disagree…! Stella jumped to her feet. Her shining crimson eyes full of firm determination stared at Edelweiss. - I am convinced of the true strength of the Desperate . From the very first meeting, I realized that my chances of winning with such an opponent are zero. I am grateful for all your words and good intentions towards me. Of course, if I rely on Nenesensei, Ascarid-san and focus on self-defense, I can survive, but ...

- But?

- Nene-sensei and everyone else will not always be able to come to the aid of Vermilion. What if a new crisis arrives and there are none? What happens if you are the next enemy to invade Vermilion?

-… !

- 83 people died due to the fact that I was weak. Troubles always come and go, they don't ask me for permission ...!

There is no point in predicting who will next invade Vermilion ...!

But then what should I do ...?

Constantly sit for cover and run from the enemy ...?

Constantly pray to God that he again called another savior ...? NOT! I am the Second Princess of Vermilion and the sword of my empire ...!

I have to get even stronger !

- Stella, that's enough ! Ayato already knew from her voice what she was going to do next. He tried to stop her. But Stella didn't care anymore. Ignoring his words, she rushed with a sword at the ready directly to Edelweiss. At the same moment, a spray of blood gushed in all directions. The blades of causality pierced her body. Still, Stella, without slowing down, continued to move forward. Even when the cuts started to cover her face, she didn't stop. All this time, she gazed at the Edelweiss in front of her.

Despite all the numerous cuts, Stella stepped straight towards her death. Then Edelweiss remembered ... that figure and that expression on his face, completely ready for death. In the past, a young knight was already standing in front of her, who covered his younger sister with his body. Only with tremendous willpower he controlled his body and mind, which were ready to flee in the face of fear of death. This young knight was Ayato Kurogane's Mediocre Knight.

He desperately tried to save someone close to him, sacrificing his life.

That desire and determination ... were pleasing to her.

But… "In this situation, these feelings are not enough" Now Stella will not be able to get out of the gravitational pull of her fate. At best, they'll just exchange blows. But in a more likely worst case, Stella will simply die without reaching her. In order to overcome and get rid of the shackles of your fate, you need a stronger determination. This determination must shine with a proud flame. Don't flicker with any despair. And not go out with any intrigues of enemies. The current Stella did not have such determination. Even if she had this determination, it did not help her.

Her heart was too impulsive. Stella, constantly not thinking about her actions, acted rashly. And even now she threw herself at her, right towards death. Edelweiss was pleased with Stella's reaction. But what would have happened if she had rushed like that on a real enemy? We need to do something with the real Stella. "It will be hard ...

" Therefore, Edelweiss decided. "… I will accept your invitation to a duel.

"W-really ...?" Edelweiss nodded to Stella. - Yes. But you understand that I am not your friend and not your teacher? I don't have to do something for you for free. You must first do me something ... as compensation ... - Compensation ...? What other compensation ... !?

What are you talking about?

- You are already familiar with the current situation at the foot of the summit?

- Are you talking about all those many knights?

- Right. They are aware of my return here. Having gathered in a crowd in Edelberg, they want to defeat Diptera and glorify themselves ... This situation is very annoying to me ... I returned home to rest and gain strength, and not fight a bunch of knights. So I want you not to let those guys get to my house for 5 days out of 6 before the War of Representatives .

You need to hold out exactly until the morning of the 6th day.

If you succeed in all this, then I will completely devote the last day to you.

"… So I just need to defeat all those guys standing at the bottom of the cliff…?

- Right. But I have one condition for you and your friends.

- What other conditions?

- Stella asked displeased.

"You must fight alone. The condition for you is that you should not use the help of others. Conditions for your group

- whatever situation Stella is in, you must not help her ... You must swear to these conditions.

While Edelweiss was saying all this, she held out her right hand.

- The time has come, " Testament "! Illuminating everything around with warm white light, one of her two blades appeared in her hand. Swinging her sword, she thrust it into the ground right in front of Stella. Stella realized that she needed to touch him and swear.

- So that's how ... Okay, then I ...

- Stop! Black Knight Iris Ascaris abruptly stopped Stella. - Ascarid-san? - Be careful. This is not just a verbal promise, but one of her abilities. It will be bad if you take it all lightly.

- Ascarid-san, do you know the abilities of Two wings?

(Meanwhile Ayato with Edelweiss)

"But you can still properly control your breathing."

Look, you have almost restored it. This makes me happy. If you were not capable of this, there would be no talk of any training.

- So this is exactly the place where I will train?

- Right. This is the peak of Edelberg and the highest place on Earth. Well, how do you like it? There is no better place for your training. Ayato and Edelweiss were now at an altitude of 9350 meters above sea level.

The entire summit of Edelberg was entirely covered with ice shell. This place could be called the ice kingdom. The temperature here never exceeded zero degrees. Numerous rows of icicles, which were constantly sharpened by a powerful cold wind, hung menacingly before their eyes.

"As I told you before, your sword technique is perfect." Further training will not bring you much benefit in a future battle ...

However, your level of possession and use of magical power leaves much to be desired.

"My magical power ...?"

"Surprised that I mentioned her?"

- …Little.

- But the point is in it, you yourself guess about it. Your ability to control magical powers is magnificent.

However, Edelweiss did not forget to praise his control of magical power.

"Your control of magical power is perfect, but your way of using it is imperfect."

- ... !?

"Look at me carefully."

After these words, Edelweiss headed for the pointed peak of Edelberg. When the top was at her waist level, she climbed with both legs at her. Keeping her balance on such a tiny ice point, she let out a magical light that completely enveloped her body.

- As you can see, I visually reproduced your Ittou Shura and Kori Kusanagi .

Magical power is like a flame.

The fact that my magical power sparkles violently does not mean that it has any special power. The same can be said about the flame.

There is practically no difference between a calmly burning fire and violently flashing. Remember, such a furious release of magical power is not reasonable. With this action, you only quickly empty it.

- It…? While Edelweiss said all this, the cover of magical power that completely envelops her body has changed. At the very beginning of the conversation, a white flame erupted violently from her body.

But gradually this flame became weaker and weaker until it turned into a dim glow. Edelweiss weakened her magic cover? No, that was clearly not the case ...

- Now you have concentrated your magical power inside your body, while maintaining a little of its output?

- Right. Mindless release of magic power leads only to complete exhaustion of the body.

It is always important to control your raging flame, if possible using magical power inside your body.

Such control is very effective in reinforcing techniques.

However, excessive control reduces the accuracy of conventional physical movements.

Therefore, it is very important to find a balance.

Such a concentration cannot be obtained within six days with regular training. But now we are at the top of Edelberg, so ...

- ... !

Edelweiss's next action hit Ayato a lot.

Edelweiss, all this time holding back the raging magical power inside her body, touched the index finger of the pointed top of Edelberg, lifted her body into the air and made a stand.

"The pointed end of the Edelberg peak is a solid piece of ice that never melts."

With the help of a fiercely blowing wind, he sharpened to such an extent that he was able to cut through steel of any thickness. Your training will consist in concentrating your magic power in your finger, touching this pointed peak, and how I can make a stance, while maintaining balance. This exercise is the best way to develop your joint control of physical and magical powers.

It is this kind of training that Ayato needs. If he lasts in this position for an hour, his power will increase significantly.

"... Well, will you try?" Edelweiss asked Ayato, returning to her original position.

A pointless question. At the beginning of her explanations, Ayato decided everything for himself.

"Certainly" Hearing the answer of Ayato, Edelweiss left him alone and returned to her hut.

Ayato was left alone on this peak and the first thing he did was to carefully touch the pointed end of the top of Edelberg.

- ... Just a touch cut the pillow of his finger. What a tremendous pungency.

"The sword of the star, imprisoned by the storm of the firmament" Such words fit this place perfectly.

Perhaps this peak was ... damned.

Terrible weapons, painted with hatred, killed all people.

"If I at least slightly weaken my magical power, this peak will cut me to the bone ..."

Having concentrated, Ayato strengthened his body with his huge magical power.

Mana was originally used as a kind of fuel for magical techniques.

The most common way to use magical power is to resist physical shocks.

Covering their body with magical power, the knights gained a high resistance to physical attacks.

The magic cover could save the knight from fatal blows and shots from rifles and other weapons.

Without this power, it was impossible to make a fingerstand on top of the Edelberg.

- ... Increasing the pressure of magical power, Ayato tried to keep it inside the body and Sword, not allowing it to break out.

In this state, he again touched the pointed tip.

Ayato was ready to start the test, so ...

- Haaa ...! Raising his legs high in the sky, Ayato made a stand on one finger. At that moment, his face was distorted by a pained grimace. "

Everything as I expected ... although no ... it's even more complicated ..."

It was all about the wind. Edelberg was the highest mountain in the world. In other words, at such a great height, the winds were blowing with all the force, not meeting any obstacles in their path.

In order to maintain a stance, Ayato had to constantly keep his center of gravity in a strictly defined position.

But it was very difficult, since the wind blew from several sides at once.

Such physical control over his body could compete in terms of complexity with the Madoka technique, which was one of the most difficult to perform among his secret blades.

If at least a little his center of gravity moves to the side, he will immediately crash.

And besides all these difficulties, all this time he needs to maintain magical power at the tip of his finger.

The pointed tip of Edelberg was very sharp, so it is impossible to touch it without magical strengthening.

If he loses control, and his magical power just starts pouring out of his finger, he immediately springs from the top and crashes down.

At the same time, he needs to keep his magical power inside the body and maintain its power so as not to get hurt fatally.

This damn difficult training in extreme conditions was bound to improve his control over his body and mind.

- ...! Suddenly, the wind that blew violently at him all this time died down.

The overstressed body of Ayato was not ready for this and his center of gravity shifted slightly to the side.

Ayato tried in a hurry to return the center of gravity to its former position, but ...

"Heck...!"

From this sudden situation, he momentarily weakened control of magical power and that, all the while restraining himself inside his body, surged out.

Having springed from the top of Edelberg, Ayato's Steel body was thrown high into the sky.

If he doesn't do something urgently, then he will die in a collision with the ground.

He tried to grab the rock with his hand, but the wind blew it away from the mountain. He seemed doomed. But…

- Ryuuzetsu ! Without panic, he urgently took emergency action.

The Frozen Knight has already gone through numerous difficulties on his way, so even at such a moment Ayato remained calm.

Having instantly called up his device, Ayato unwound the tape from the handle and, holding tightly to it, threw his katana directly into the rock.

His action was successful.

The blade, deeply piercing the stone slope, stopped the fall of Ayato.

But… There was no sense of relief from their own salvation.

- ... Ayato was deeply disappointed. He could not hold out even a minute.

"This test is very difficult, but I'm sure that there is no better way to improve control of my physical and magical powers ...!"

"I have to try again ...!"

Ayato decided everything for himself. He needed this training.

If he learns to simultaneously control the physical strength of the body and magical power in such an extreme situation, then the effectiveness of his Itto Shura in this battle will increase many times.

Moreover, magical power can be concentrated in the blade. If he learns this.

"The power of my techniques will go to the next level ...!" He will strengthen not only Itto Shura , but Itto Rasetsu, Kori Kusanagi and Kori Kirin.

- ...!

Having regained confidence, Ayato felt his heart beat faster. Ayato can use Itto Shura only when he fully releases all his magical power, forcibly removing all the barriers of his body and Can use only Kori Kusanagi and Kori Kirin with His Cryo wind and Cryo Lightning Magics.

But with this training, Ayato got a chance to control these raging magical powers.

If he does his best, then the result will not be long in coming ...!

"I will certainly succeed ...!

Before the War of Representatives, I will fully master control of this techniques ...! "

Having set a new goal for himself, Ayato began to climb the summit of Edelberg again and Began absorbing the Harshest Cold Winds in the World then turning it into new magical Power for Ryuuzetsu to use in battle.

(Few Days Later)

So right now, she will stop Stella.

She could not allow the reckless act of the knight girl to lead to suicide.

But at the same moment.

- AND!?

A Violet whirlwind swept between Ascaris and Tatara.

- !

The dark blade, which dissolved in the violet night, was aimed directly at Edelweiss.

This blow of the sword without pity was supposed to kill its target. But even the most cunning and sudden attack is not able to hit the strongest swordswoman in the world.

Edelweiss does not hesitate to repel this murderous attack with its twin blades.

However, at the same moment, her face is very embarrassed. She clearly did not expect such actions from "this" person.

- Why ...?

Yes, it was "this" man who attacked her suddenly and stopped Edelweiss's attempt to defend Stella. Constantly training his body and his skills and Magic, he managed to get in the way of the Diptera. It was Stella's lover, Ayato Kurozakuro, The Cryo Hurricane Sword Emperor.

- Sorry, Edelweiss-san, but I can't miss you forward.

Ayato suddenly appeared in front of Edelweiss and blocked his path with his blade. Such an act from him confused all observers.

- Hey, you! What are you doing? She really wanted to help Stella!

"That's why I stopped her ..."

- But why…!? Ayato loved Stella more than his life. Therefore, he decided to explain to everyone his act.

- At first, I shared your thoughts. After the battle of Caldia, Stella lost all of her self-control.

So I made a decision ... to protect her. I specifically went on this journey with her so that no one dared to harm her.

He remembered that state of Stella in Caldia. Then Stella fell into hysteria when she learned that the soldiers of her Empire were dead. Therefore, she wanted to become even stronger. After all, all the inhabitants of Vermilion loved her. Stella wanted to stay the Crimson Princess for them. She considered herself the sword of Vermilion, which is obliged to protect everyone in her empire. For this, she went to Edelberg. This desire of Stella at first did not like Ayato. But, "I realized that all this time I was wrong ... when I swore an oath on a sword!"

"... Now I have no words for you ... I understand that you are worried about me, but please ... believe in me ... I have to do all this ..."

Then Stella spoke those words. She asked to believe in her reckless act. But why did she demand it? After all, even the inhabitants of Vermilion themselves did not want her to suffer because of them. Then why was Stella stubbornly fixated on the debt of the imperial family. Why on earth? Ikki did not understand all this. But in some ways he agreed with her.

"If Stella did all this for the sake of the Vermilion empire, I would try to stop her just like you."

But now she is fighting for the sake of her " I ", which until the last does not want to give up ...! No matter what people thought of her, she did not give up and walked forward. Just like Ikki his whole life. So how then can he not believe in it if he himself shared the same feelings?

"I, like you, swore on a sword." As long as Stella continues to believe in her " I ", nothing will happen to her ... Therefore, please, just believe in her.

Even if his actions will be condemned by all. Even if his actions lead to the most tragic end. The only way he could help his beloved ...

"My Dangerous powers can stop you ... !" Having said these words, Ayato sent his black katana directly to Edelweiss. Edelweiss looked at him carefully.

- Clear… She realized another mistake on her part. The " Rule of Grace " technique for Edelweiss was another attempt to stop Stella from doing her crazy thing. But she should not have compelled her comrades to take an oath. The guy in front of her promised the Crimson Princess to believe in her to the last. Therefore, he was ready to say goodbye to his life and his beloved. Disgusting move from Edelweiss. Why did she make him swear an oath. Now in the eyes of this guy the struggle of two feelings was perfectly read. He wanted to help his beloved and stop Edelweiss at the same time. Ikki is not the kind of person who just scatters in his own words. Edelweiss will not be able to convince him. Then only one thing remains. - Once you have decided everything, then do your best ... Enough of empty talk. To help Stella, she needs to defeat the enemy in front of her. Therefore, she abruptly lunged with a sword in his direction. Naturally, Ikki was ready for this. His superfast strike with a sword, repelled the strike of Edelweiss, causing a pillar of sparks.

"Still weak!"

- ...!

No pity. The black and white flash endlessly collided with each other. There was not much difference in strength between the incompetent and the strongest swordswoman in the world. As Edelweiss noted a couple of days ago, the art of owning a sword at Ikka is top notch. But Ayato felt very tired, so Edelweiss had an advantage in battle. All these last days, Ayato has been constantly training, unlike Stella. His training place was the peak of Edelberg, located at an altitude of more than 9000 meters above sea level, where his body and spirit energy were loaded to the limit. Therefore, the fatigue of Ayato is understandable. Moreover, fatigue was not only physical, but also magical and Spiritual. In other words, his physical and magical powers are greatly depleted. Therefore, in this battle Ayato could not use the Itto Shuro . And because of this, he was at a disadvantage from the very beginning.

- Ha!

- Gh! Having exchanged a couple of lunges, Edelweiss manages to block Ayato's Ryuuzetsu his left sword, thereby greatly reducing his defense. Immediately after this, she swings her right sword at the defenseless Ayato. The goal of Edelweiss is the torso of the enemy.

"Forgive me for neglecting your will and determination, I will apologize for this later. But I can't let the Crimson Flaming Princess's story end right here." Stella needs help. And the only one who can help her is a person who did not swear an oath. That is how Edelweiss reasoned.

Ayato is trying to get his Ryuuzetsu back, but it's too late.

Perhaps he would have managed to do this if there was an ordinary swordsman against him.

But now his opponent was Diptera herself.

She has the same excellent level of sword possession as he does.

He cannot prevent her attack.

The oblique swing of Edelweiss and her sword descends on the body of Ayato.

- AND…!? Immediately after the strike, Edelweiss's face takes on a surprised expression.

Her blade " Testament " just touched the waist of Ayato.

But the blade of her sword refused to penetrate inside. She could not inflict a wound.

It was at this moment that Edelweiss froze in surprise.

-!

A Violet blue flash ripped through the air.

Ayato did not plan to defend himself from the very beginning, he was waiting for the moment for a successful counterattack.

He sought to hit Edelweiss on the shoulder and break her collarbone.

Edelweiss, struck by an unexpected attack, was in no hurry to counterattack in response.

- ... She is the strongest swordswoman in the world, so it was in her power to defend herself with her left sword.

Nevertheless, she did not, and due to a strong blow, her body staggered back.

Yes, she took a step back.

It has been a long time since someone in a battle could have pushed her back.

"What was that just !?"

"He succeeded ...

in dropping the Diptera ... !? Ascaris and Tatara could not hide their amazement at the sight of this spectacle.

However, the surprise of Edelweiss was much stronger than the two of them. No wonder she lost. After all, even her right hand, which also held the sword, felt a strong return from the attack of Ayato. She guessed why her sword couldn't hurt him.

"Magical protection ...!"

It was a technique that, with the help of magic, protected the owner from physical attacks.

This technique in itself was not surprising.

It is only natural to use it against an opponent with a sword.

Stella had already used something similar in her very first fight with Ayato.

She allowed magic to flow out of her body and thanks to this she was able to successfully defend herself from the opponent's sword.

At the Seven Star Sword Art Festival, Moroboshi also released his magic from his whole body to weaken the onslaught of Ayato.

What Stella and Morobosi did was very similar. But magical defense can only be used if you are a swordsman with a good supply of mana.

And Ayato Kurozakuro could not boast of this.

His magic is Dangerously Powerful, and his mana reserves are Ridculously High.

Such Strong magical defense should be an obstacle to an enemy attack.

Thus protecting yourself from wounds and blood loss.

But she was the strongest swordswoman in the world, whose movement tracking is incredibly difficult.

Her attacks are quick, just so you can't see them.

Therefore, Ayato had to analyze all her movements.

From the very beginning of the battle, he had to follow all of her attacks in order to predict that oblique blow towards his waist.

Ayato Kurozakuro demonstrated truly divine work.

"Your training, Edelweiss-san, gave me an idea."

I remembered how Stella, in our first battle, defended herself against my attacks by releasing magical powers.

But I took advantage of what I learned at the top of Edelberg, namely, narrowed the magical power in a strictly defined place.

"You did ... great work." What a terrible guy was standing in front of her.

Ayato shook his head in response to her words.

"This is nothing special." I just had no other choice.

- ...!

- Become stronger and never give up.

Only for the sake of these things have I lived and still live.

I am indifferent to my family. But Stella's all different. She is loved by everyone. Everyone would like the same.

Indeed, even if she had no strength, the inhabitants of Vermilion did not cease to love her.

After all, for them she was primarily Stella Vermilion, and not the Crimson Flaming Princess.

She could live in peace and bathe in the love of her people.

But… "Despite everything, Stella never ceased to be the Crimson flaming Princess!"

Even in the most difficult moments, when it seemed that she was completely helpless in the face of heartless fate, she did not try to escape.

She always believed in her ideals and her own determination!

Only the Crimson Flaming Princess Stella Vermilion Gremory Phenex was capable of something like that.

And now this proud knight wants to overcome his limits. I'm sure she can handle it. Therefore…

"How can I not believe in my beloved at such a moment?"

Immediately after Ayato uttered these words.

Like hearing him.

From the battlefield, where Xiaoli and Stella fought all this time, there was a deafening roar.

(During Stella's Battle with Fu Xiaoli)

Stella was Struggling in her fight with Fu Xiaoli.

- ...! She easily managed to fight off all the attacks of Stella. So this time, successfully evading her attack, Xiaoli struggles with her fist in the stomach.

This monstrous force blow easily throws Stella back, and she crashes to the ground, unable to rise. Rewind It has been a long time since the beginning of their battle, but Xiaoli was of the opinion that someone was constantly rewinding their battle.

Because of this ambiguous feeling, Xiaoli's face became darker and darker.

"What a bad feeling ..." Obviously, I will win this battle.

I do not have a single injury, and Stella is exhausted to such an extent that he can no longer be healed with the help of his forces. I am sure that her whole body hurts, bleeds, and lacks strength in her limbs.

After all, when I hit her in the stomach. My fingers did not feel any resistance of her abdominal muscles, Stella's stomach was completely relaxed. My blow caused direct damage to her internal organs.

In the eyes of Stella there was not even life, her blurred gaze defocusedly looked into the void. Her whole appearance showed that another blow and she would lose consciousness.

... one more blow. "How many times have I delivered her these last blows?" Despite all the beating on the part of Xiaoli, Stella again attempts to stand up. Driving her Levatein deep into the ground, she kneels with great difficulty.

In her dark, empty eyes, somewhere in the distance, a tiny ray of light still gleamed.

... this light. The difference in their powers is too great. Stella's body is almost dead.

But still… "That tiny little light doesn't go out!"

And again, Stella gets up and tries to attack her. Stella's legs are not able to keep her emaciated body straight, she is forced to lean on her sword and with the help of it wander to Xiaoli.

There is no chance that in this state, Stella will be able to somehow inflict damage on Xiaoli. She can hardly swipe and strike. She is not able to fight.

But… "Why ... Why can't you give up ... !?"

- ~~~~~~~! Xiaoli's face is distorted in an agonizing grimace when Stella's blow reaches her body. The lunge of the Stella sword is not able to inflict at least some damage to the enemy. But her blow still carries a certain burden.

Xiaoli will certainly feel the shock wave of this attack with his own body. And with each subsequent attack, this impulse is felt harder and harder.

Xiaoli was fed up with this eternal battle, and she made a decision.

"By killing her, I will be defeated as a fighter, so I need to be careful." Her enemy still did not want to give up.

If Stella continues her endless attacks on her, then Xiaoli, not wanting to herself, can kill her.

Therefore, there was only one thing left. A flurry of quick attacks.

By this I will certainly succeed in crushing the crumbs of your consciousness!

- Ha ! Xiaoli, once again repelling the attack of Stella, clings to the Levatein and draws the sword to him.

With this movement, she brought Stella as close as possible. And immediately it strikes directly from the bottom up into the jaw. No pity.

A monstrous blow, reinforced by the mass of Edelberg, crumbles the bones of Stella. But that's not all.

- Haaaa ! Xiaoli prepared to attack with both fists.

Her opponent was completely defenseless in front of her.

The rain of many attacks that can not be caught by the eye of an ordinary person hit Stella.

Too much violence for an adversary who has difficulty keeping his feet.

Stella's hackneyed body, struck by quick attacks as if from a machine gun, bent in all directions

... but did not fall. She managed to stand on her feet.

- AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA ! - ... !? The strike by Levateyn , of unprecedented power, descended on Xiaoli, together with a loud scream that tore the mountain atmosphere. This strike was much stronger than all previous Stella.

Xiaoli, like Mount Taishan, was forced to retreat a couple of meters back, scraping her bare feet against stones.

Although Taota did not receive any damage, her surprise knew no bounds. The enemy had just launched her counterattack of unprecedented power after Xiaoli inflicted a series of blows on her. A tiny ray of light, shining faintly all this time in Stella's pupils, sparkled brighter.

Like a star scattering all the infinite darkness of the universe.

This radiance has been a source of strength supporting Stella all this time.

It was in no way connected with the duties of the imperial family and the title of Crimson Flaming Princess.

All these false aspirations and determination were smashed to smithereens by Xiaoli's fists.

Right now, a completely different person was born on the battlefield.

He cast aside all doubts and fears and was completely convinced of his absolute strength, which he had been training from birth

. The consciousness of this person was filled with only one feeling.

Thanks a lot.

To parents, to sister and all other people who lived in the Vermilion empire.

"Yes ... right." Memories from early childhood surged on Stella, completely disconnecting her from the real world. It was the day when her abilities first showed themselves. It was then that she wanted to embark on the path of chivalry.

On that fateful day, she in the kindergarten at a puppet show received terrible burns of her whole body due to unexpectedly splashing out of her strength.

A sudden fire in such a crowded place, of course, not only she alone received damage. Fortunately, the adults quickly reacted, and no one died, but still a lot of people got burns.

She was just a small child, whose abilities appeared suddenly, regardless of her will. She had no malicious intent.

But even understanding all this, it would be logical if someone harbored anger at her because of an unexpected fire.

However, there were no such people in Vermilion.

When her body was in flames, Stella cried from unbearable physical pain. But the teachers, the children who took part in the puppet production, and other adults, despite the fire, remained next to her and did not cease to cheer her up.

Yes, I always knew about that. All the inhabitants of Vermilion loved Stella.

And they never wanted their beloved princess to hurt themselves for their sake.

Stella understood all this. But still she did not give up the desire to become the Crimson Princess for all of them.

Stella convinced herself that, as a member of the imperial family, she was obliged to protect all the inhabitants of her country.

And even when another obstacle appeared on her way to the knight, she crushed her and continued to be Crimson Princess again for everyone.

But why? There was only one guess left in her head.

When all unnecessary was eliminated, Stella realized.

"I just wanted to be cool for everyone."

I wanted to be a proud daughter, and not a miserable whimpering child, enjoying the love of others.

That's where her path of the Crimson Flaming Princess began.

Gratitude to my parents, to my inhabitants of the empire.

This is the real source of her strength and determination.

I just want people who love me to consider me cool. How trite.

Her inner "I" never hesitated or surrendered, always gave her strength.

…Well? The time has come. Her body was still able to move.

Therefore, only forward. Her "I" has not yet given up.

Therefore, with my sword, I will express gratitude to all my close people and remove another obstacle in my path.

I am not driven by the duty of an imperial family.

Father, mother, older sister Roxanne. You have always loved and raised me. Now it's my time to repay you.

I will prove to everyone that that little whimpering child turned into a proud strong Knight.

- The Fiery Salamander !

Her left hand couldn't even completely defeat Levatein .

All this puzzled Xiaoli a little. The pressure of Stella's sword ... didn't disappear or even weaken.

"What's happening?" Xiaoli looked at Levatein with a surprised expression on her face .

"...!"

Cracked Sword of the Crimson Flaming Princess.

He had to split completely and collapse to the ground.

But… Through the numerous cracks of the Levatein , a bright, dazzling golden light seeped, breaking the darkness of the mountain night.

And the wider the cracks became, the more piercing the light became, which could even eclipse the bluish flame of Xiaoli.

Suddenly, Xiaoli realized what was happening.

Stella's sword did not collapse.

Yes exactly… " Levateyn " Stella ... evolved ...

"You said a little earlier that ... as heavy as a mountain."

- AND…?

- Then all I need to do is cut the mountain !

Immediately after Stella's words, even more light begins to pour out of Levatein and the sword explodes.

Righteous fire burning darkness and despair.

A huge surge of heat and fire at the same time erases the consciousness and world of Taote Fu Xiaoli.

The highest peak in the world " Kenho " Edelberg was divided into two parts.

- ... Golden light pouring from Levatein.

All the comrades of Stella who watched her battle became witnesses to an incredible sight.

The light, turning into a sword, swallowed the mountain and Xiaoli.

For a while, everything calmed down and silence reigned on the battlefield.

But an instant later, with a loud roar, a black crevice ran from their fifth camp to the base of the mountain.

Xiaoli, not trying to counterattack, immediately fell into this abyss.

Convinced of her victory, Stella raised her lightsaber high into the sky.

"Her sword ..." Stella's high-raised sword resembled her old Levatein , but had a completely different look. Double-edged blade of golden color.

Its size was much greater than the growth of Stella, and in the central part the thickness was much wider than any inflated human hand.

Despite the monstrous dimensions of the blade, which could easily chop the head of an elephant, it did not lose its elegance and was completely covered with various exquisite decorations.

- ... Levatein has evolved ...? Askarid, hearing Tatara's question, confirmed her hunch.

- The device is the personification of the soul of a knight. When any changes occur in the soul, the weapon also changes its shape.

As if answering her " I ", which until recently did not want to put up with restrictions, Stella's soul evolved, and with it her sword took a new form. Stella's sword, responding to her feelings, became even bigger and more beautiful to defeat the enemy. But…

- ... !

Suddenly, this proud symbol of Stella's soul crumbles like sand. And immediately after that, Stella's body begins to fall to the ground. She is no longer able to maintain her body in a standing position and begins to fall into her own crevice. Stella will be very lucky if she does not kill herself and can get out of her. But, fortunately, Ayato, who was absolutely sure of Stella's victory, immediately rushed to her when she raised her sword high in the sky and managed to hug her before she crashed into the abyss. -

... I ... I ...

"Good work, Stella."

In the tight embrace of her lover, Stella smiled faintly. - ... Yes ... Argh ...! Stella could not hold back a loud cry. Ayato hugged her so tightly that her crippled body ached in all places at once. "Ayato... take it easy ... my body is so badly damaged ...!" "Sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you." - AND…? Unexpectedly for herself, Stella noticed that Ayato was trembling all over. He was so afraid of losing her that he could not do anything about his feelings. "You were so worried about me?" - How else? "But still you believed in me ..." - Yes…

- That's how ... thanks ... Suddenly, a ray of light fell on Ikki's face, and the guy immediately raised his head up. Stella decided to trace the source of this light. It was the sun rising from the horizon and announcing that the morning of the sixth day had arrived. The last night of her trial was over. Stella's ears immediately caught someone's loud applause. The man who applauded her was Edelweiss, who gave her this test. "That was awesome, Stella."

"Edelweiss-san ...?" Seeing her silhouette, Stella, leaning on Ikki's shoulder, somehow managed to stand up.

"... I have completed your test." Confirming the words of Stella, Edelweiss nodded. "I watched you all the time, so I know." I am pleasantly surprised that you managed to repel the onslaught of Taote Fu Xiaoli, who is recognized as the most talented fighter of Sinryu Temple . It seems that I greatly underestimated the knight, known throughout the world under the nickname Crimson F Princess. For a moment she broke off. "... Now you are worthy of a battle with me." Having said these words, Edelweiss's eyes flashed with a bloody gleam.

- ...

- You managed to defeat the strongest opponent and cope with my test. It was for the duel with me that you arrived at this peak. Well? Are you ready? I'm not going to deny you the battle anymore. Edelweiss, increasing her thirst for blood, tried to provoke Stella. She was sure that Stella would not avoid a fight with her. However, Stella with a calm expression on her face softly refused her.

- I refuse.

"... why?" - During the battle with Xiaoli, I remembered something. Vermilion has always been a small country trying to maintain its sovereignty. I tried to protect my people and gain new strength only because ... I wanted to become cool in their eyes!

This simple ambition made me move forward. I just wanted all the people who loved and gave me good things to be proud of me ... I love Vermilion so much!

Therefore, Stella must live on. She will not be able to defeat the strongest swordswoman in the world.

Suicide is meaningless, Stella did not want to die before her loved ones.

"Now I have to do something else." I need to return to Vermilion as soon as possible in order to gain strength and heal all my wounds.

The experience and knowledge that I gained here will help me deal with that fucking bastard.

So now is not the time for empty fights with you, Edelweiss-san. I have more important things.

- …So this is how it is. I think this is a good idea. Stella's answer pleased Edelweiss. A wide happy smile lit up her face.

- To protect all the people who are dear to us ... It sounds great, but it's hard to achieve. One must have firm determination for such a great goal.

The future I want to live in depends entirely on our inner self .

As long as we continue to believe in our values, any obstacle to fate cannot stop us on our way to a great goal.

Until we give up, any action we can do. After all, people have already proved this when they reached the moon without wings.

...? Edelweiss's words addressed to Stella surprised Ayato. But Edelweiss, continuing to smile with a sly smile, brought her index finger to her mouth.

"But before you return, I suggest you go upstairs to my hut and have breakfast for the last time."

- Truth!? Edelweiss's proposal caused a stormy delight at Stella.

All these six days of testing, she had problems with food, so Stella felt very hungry. Stella gladly decided to accept the warm invitation.

- Thank you so much, Edelweiss-san ...!

However, her words of thanks were stuck in her throat.

For at the very moment when she was going to thank Edelweiss, a well-aimed snow covered his mouth.

- If you are so hungry, then eat this snow!

- Tatara! What the hell are you doing! Stella screamed, opening her mouth from the snow.

Taking a handful of snow in her palm and dazzling the snowball, she threw it right into Tatara's chest.

- Shut up! How dare you make us worry for you dumbhead !? Why don't you just die for it !?

- Haaa !? What are you talking about !? Hey, your snowball is full of stones! We didn't agree! Well, that's it! Catch !

- " Full Reflection "!

- Hey, it's so dishonest ! Stella, completely throwing out all her negative feelings in the battle, began to play snowballs with Tatar.

Watching all this, anxiety began to let go of Ayato's heart.

It was hard ... But I'm glad that we started this trip to the top of Edelberg.

Then in Caldia, Stella bitterly mourned the death of the soldiers of her empire. But now, she was about to desperately fight for all the people who were dear to her.

Having abandoned her stupid aspirations, she finally remembered the real reason for which she wanted to become a knight.

On such a happy note, Stella's sixth day of testing came to an end.

Then They went to Vermillion to combine the Welcome party of Devils and the State Funeral.

The evening of the next day, Ayato was waiting around in the parlor, dressed in his summer uniform with his red coat over it. Tonight was the night of the party and Funeral and so they had to give a good impression.

'I can't believe I slept for a half a day' Ayato thought to himself, Ddraig chuckling as he replied

[You built up a lot of fatigue from the training with Edelweiss]

{And you needed to recover all your Spiritual energy as well} Sparda added as Ayato wondered where Kiba and Gasper had gone off somewhere while the maids had took the girls away.

"Hey Ay?" Saji called, Ayato smiling as he turned his attention to his friend and asked curiously

"Gen, why are you here?"

"Ah, Kaichou will be going to the meeting place along with Rias-senpai and I followed her here. So, Kaichou went to meet with senpai and after that I inevitably ended up wandering aimlessly around the mansion, until I arrived here." Saji explained moving to take the seat opposite him as Yukio smirked

"You mean you got lost?" Ayato asked as Saji scratched his neck sheepishly with a nod before turning serious as he spoke

"The game will be taking place very soon now."

"Yeah." Yukio replied with a nod, it would be weird for him to fight a friend but it would be interesting to see how Saji stood up against him as he spoke

"I trained."

"Me too. I trained with Edelweiss based on my magic Control." Ayato countered, noting the surprised look on Saji's face as he asked

" Damn you have a hard lifestyle…I also did an extremely hard menu"

"I had Azazel to blame for that" Ayato added, Saji scratching his cheek as he spoke

"Yu, do you remember the time when the young devils gathered a month ago?"

"Yeah… What about it?" Yukio asked curiously as Saji replied with a red face

"We were serious then….My dream is to become a teacher!"

"That's great, so what will you teach, Gen?" Yukio asked with a smile as Saji answered sincerely

"Kaichou is trying to establish a Rating Game specialty school in the Underworld. It isn't an ordinary school as its open for anyone and that accepts devils regardless of whether they are high-class or low-class, aristocrat or commoner. I heard from Kaichou that things like discrimination and traditions have been softened in the devil industry little by little, but there is still a part at the root of it all that refuses to accept these changes. That's why the current Rating Game school only accepts high-class devils from aristocratic families. The games have to be equal for everyone—. This is what the present Maou-samas have decided. Though it's equal, the path of the games is far for low-class devil commoners. That's strange, right? Though even a non-aristocratic devil may be promoted to a high-level devil depending on the method. The possibility shouldn't be zero!"

"She also told me that she wants to do something about that. That she wants to teach so that even low-class devils can participate in the games. That's why she'll make a school that anyone can enter in the Underworld! Kaichou is even studying in the human world as well for the sake of that! To give a chance to the ones who never got into the spotlight! Even if it's just by 1%! Even if it's almost zero! As long as it's not zero, one might be able to become a high-class devil! Ay! Even we believe in that possibility and try to become high-class devils, right?"

"Yes, that's exactly it." Ayato spoke with a smile and an approving nod, Saji raising his fist as he declared

"T-That's why, I will work as a teacher there. I'll study a lot, fight in a lot of games, and store up various things. I'll become a teacher who teaches about [Pawns] with that. Kaichou also said that she wants to help me. Even someone like me may be able to become a school teacher… But, if it's Kaichou, I can see a dream! I will stay by Kaichou's side and help her for life! Kaichou's dream is my dream!"

"Hehehe. I kept the fact that I became a devil secret from my mother, but even so she cried when I told her about my future dream. She seemed so proud of me when I said it."

"I'll help as much as I can Gen, you know that and I understand that Kaichou wanted the best for the young and lower devils" Yukio replied with a smile, Saji nodding in agreement as YAyato added

"I think that's a wonderful goal, Gen. Become a good teacher."

"Yeah, it's also for the sake of that goal that we have to beat you guys this time!" Saji spoke with a smirk, Ayato leering at him slightly as he spoke

"Ah, I see. Then, it's no good since we're the ones who are going to win!"

"No, it's us. Since we acted so stupidly before, we have to prove ourselves with our results." Saji countered with a smirk before both laughed together

"By the way, Gen" Ayato started, Saji looking at him curiously as he asked

"What is it?"

"How are things going with Kaichou?" Ayato asked amused at seeing Saji blushing and spluttering for a moment before replying

"Difficult…but I think I'm making a little progress" A comfortable silence fell over the pair as they waited for the others before Rias' voice spoke up from the doorway

"Yukio, sorry for making you wait. Ara, so Saji-kun came." Ayato turned only to be surprised at seeing all of the girls, including Georgia, had dressed up, even having makeup and there hair done as he found himself staring at them. They all looked like princesses and all were wearing western dresses.

Yukio looked surprised at seeing Gasper with them as he asked "Why are you also wearing a dress?"

"I wanted to wear a dress too." Gasper replied, Ayato rolling his eyes as he realised he should've saw this coming.

"Saji. Saji, what's wrong?" Sona asked the staring Saji, Ayato grinning as he moved to bob him on the head as he started

"Don't worry Kaichou, he's just surprised how…" Saji stopped him from continuing with a red face as he quickly spoke

"Its nothing, Kaichou, really nothing" He gave Ayato a short look which only made the silver haired Pawn chuckle as Sona sighed silently before speaking

"Thank you both for standing up for me and Ayato I forgive you over what happened with that Katsu at school but at least try and not destroy the school next time something happens" Ayato blushed embarrassed as the Rias and Akeno giggled, Saji chuckling as loud sounds of something flying in the garden along with a soft tremor in the ground.

A butler soon arrived and spoke to the group "Tannin-sama and his family have arrived."

Heading out into the garden, Ayato smiled at seeing Tannin with ten other dragons all about the same size.

"I came just as promised, Kurozakuro Ayato" Tannin spoke, YAyato nodding as he replied

"Yeah! Thanks, Tannin-san!"

"While you all ride on my back, I'll place a special barrier around you. With that, your hair and clothes won't get messed up by the wind. Since those things are important to women." Tannin added turning to the others as Rias spoke with a smile

"Thank you, Tannin. We'll be relying on you until we get to the meeting place. The people of Sitri are also here, is that okay?"

"Ooh, Miss Rias. You're especially beautiful tonight. Please leave that matter to me." Tannin answered, bowing his head slightly to her as everyone got on, Ayato sitting atop of Tannin's head as they flew through the sky.

[For me to see this scenery from on top of a dragon. It's an experience that can't be described.] Ddraig spoke with a bitter smile

"Hahahaha, that is an interesting experience, Ddraig. However, there are only three mighty dragons that are still active left, including myself. No, since I was reborn as a devil, the only real ones remaining are Ophis and Tiamat. The rest have either been sealed, or have retired. Yu-Long and Midgardsormr never come out onto the surface anymore. And Ddraig, Albion, Fafnir and Vritra have been sealed into Sacred Gears. —In all ages, strong dragons have been suppressed. Strong dragons are a fearful existence, after all." Tannin spoke in a slightly lonely tone before Ayato asked

"Now that you mention it, why did you become a devil, Tannin-san?"

"One reason is that, in this era where there aren't any big battles anymore, I thought that I would get to fight various guys if I participated in the Rating Games. And there's another reason." Tannin replied seriously, Ayato looking curious as he asked

"Another reason?"

"…Do you know of a fruit called the dragon apple? It's an apple that dragons eat."

"I'm afraid not it's my first time hearing of it" Ayato replied before Tannin explained

"There is a certain race of dragons that can only live by eating that dragon apple. However, the ones that grew in the human world have become extinct because of sudden environmental changes. Now, that fruit only grows in the Underworld. But, dragons are hated in the Underworld. They're detested by both devils and fallen angels. There's no way they would give it away for nothing, right? —That's why, I became a devil and so the territory that grows the fruit was all made my territory. When you exceed a high-class devil, you can receive a part of the Underworld from the Maou. I had my eyes on there."

"So… those dragons that have food trouble live in your territory?"Ayato asked, wobbling as Tannin nodded before answering

"Yeah, thanks to that, they avoided becoming extinct. And I also performed research on how to artificially grow the dragon apple in my territory successfully. It's a special fruit, so the research takes time. Still, if it lets there be a future for that race, it's better to continue."

"You really are a nice dragon." Ayato spoke with a smile, Tannin laughing loudly as he retorted

"A nice dragon? Gahahahahahahahaha! That's the first time I've been told such a thing! Moreover, I'm greatly obliged to receive praise from the Sekiryuutei! However, boy. The desire for the continuation of one's race is the same among all living beings. It's the same, for humans, devils, and dragons. I only thought of saving my fellow dragons as well. That is what a dragon who has power does for dragons without any power."

"Amazing, I just want to protect those close to me… I guess I'll become High Class eventually given my abnormal power but I don't really have any plan as of yet for what I'll do when that happens"

"That kind of thing is fine while you're young and as long as you allow those around you to grow rather then rely on you as a crutch. However, Kurozakuro Ayato, it will be wasteful if you don't live for yourself as well." Tannin spoke seriously, Ayato nodding understandingly as he enjoyed the rest of the ride.

Looking down at the city they were flying towards, Ayato could see the high-class high rise hotel that was being used for the meeting place, which was located in a wide clearing of a huge forest on the edge of the Gremory territory.

Tannin started to land on what looked to be a sports match field, spotlights instantly concentrating on him from below as Ayato chuckled as he thought it would look like something from a monster movie for those below.

"Then, we'll be going to the waiting space exclusively for large devils." Tannin spoke after everyone had gotten off of him, Rias and Yukio thanking him.

"Thank you, Tannin."

"Tannin-san, thanks!"

Tannin and the other dragons then flapped their wings again and moved towards another area of the party grounds while the group was led by hotel employees who had come in an expensive looking limousine, Yukio finding himself sitting between Rias and Asia while the Sitri group sat in the back of the limousine.

"There are also facilities located around the hotel, and the army is also standing by here. It is much stricter here than in the lower urban areas, you know?" Rias explained while fixing Yukio's collar before pulling a comb out of her expensive looking handbag and pulling the elastic band that held his ponytail together before setting the comb to work on his hair.

"Rias-sama, what about Azazel?" Ayato asked, giving a short glare back to Saji which did little to his laughing.

"It seems that he will head here after joining up with Onii-sama and the others on another route. Since they're really close friends, after all…" Rias replied, ignoring Yukio's open hand and instead putting both the comb and band away in her bag as Yukio frowned

"This is an official event so you need to look smart" Rias replied, Ayato sighing as he sat back in his seat before noticing her serious face as she continued

"Ayato, you couldn't hear because you were on Tannin's head, but just before, I declared war on Sona. —Saying that [we will beat you for the sake of our dream]… A school, A Rating Game School, for the sake of building that, Sona studied the school system of the human world while living as a student there. The schools of the human world, which anyone can enter, are important for Sona, after all."

"Rias-sama, Gen also said it. That he would [become a teacher]. His eyes were shining as he said it, so it's a serious goal to him as well…" Yukio spoke with a small smile as Rias countered with determination

"Even so, we will win. We have our own dreams and goals as well."

{Looks like you'll have to go all out} Sparda spoke up solemnly, Ayato giving him a mental nod as he thought back

'Yeah…I'll feel kinda bad if he doesn't achieve it but he'd hate it if I held back against him as well'

The limousine soon arrived at the hotel and everyone clambered out to be greeted by many of the employees. Akeno went to confirm the groups' arrival at the front desk while everyone headed towards the elevator.

"It seems the party is on the huge top floor. Ayato, if you're called out to by any people from distinguished families, make sure to greet them properly, okay?" Rias spoke, Ayato nodding as he asked curiously

"Alright but Rias-sama… Tonight's party was prepared by Maou-sama for the young devils, right?"

"That is the official stance. In truth, people won't get very excited even once we enter the room. This is an annual custom. If anything, it's more like a gathering for the members of all the distinguished families to meet. We, the next family heads, are just extras, while it's really a party for our fathers to enjoy themselves. In reality, they've made reservations at the nearby facilities until the fourth or fifth after-parties. Proof of that is that they arrived at the meeting place separately from us. They probably gathered together before the young people arrived and may have already finished their alcohol." Rias grumbled in response with a displeased face, Akeno and Kiba also sharing bitter smiles.

The elevator arrived moments at the floor of the party moments later and the group stepped out, entering into a gorgeous and expensive looking hall with a large crowd of Devils and rows of tables with food on them.

"Ooh." Everyone reacted in admiration at Rias' entrance, several of them commenting to her.

"Princess Rias. You've become more and more beautiful…"

"Sirzechs-sama must also be proud."

"Uuu, there's so many people…" Gasper spoke, sticking to Ayato's back, the silver haired young man chuckling silently as he looked around only to be surprised by his master's next words

"Yukio, we're making our rounds of greetings."

"W-Wait…What?" Ayato asked surprised.

[You have a legendary dragon inside of you…your famous cause of me…] Ddraig spoke smugly, Sparda rolling his eyes as he added

{You're also one my descendants and a Shinigami which are unusual to see in the Underworld even more so in one person so they want to greet you and get into your good books}

Ayato nodded understandingly before Rias started to pull him along as they circulated the floor, partly surprised at how gentlemanly he was acting thanks to Venelana's lessons.

"Ah, I'm so tired." Ayato sighed, dropping into a seat next to Asia and Gasper, looking around for his friends before spotting Shinji and Daisuke heading over with Saji, also spotting Rias and Akeno talking to some female devils a good distance away and Kiba surrounded by female devils.

"So how did you enjoy greeting everyone, Ay?" Shinji spoke with an amused smirk as Ayato sighed

"As long as I don't have to shake another hand I'll be fine…" Shinji chuckled in response, looking around to see Saji and Daisuke chatting away with a few other male Devils as Yukio's voice drew his attention

"Hey Shinji... I need to talk to you in private" Shinji nodded, noting the concerned look on YAyato face as they moved away from the crowds as the silver haired teen's face turned serious as he continued

"We've been friends since we were kid right after I won the U-12 World Tournament…and I think things will get worse before before they get better with the Khaos Brigade around"

"Yeah…what's wrong Ayato?" Shinji asked concerned.

"If worse comes to the worse and I go out of control I want you to…" Ayato started to ask only for Shinji to interrupt him with a smile

"Don't worry I'll save you from your Hollow"

"I wasn't going to say that…" Ayato countered only for Daisuke to interrupt from behind him

"I ain't letting you die, Yu…"

"Neither am I. We'll both save you from it…" Shinji added, Ayato about to respond only for Daisuke to put his hand on his shoulder as he spoke

"We're friends right so we believe in you and you should believe in us as well and if you get in trouble we'll be there to help you"

"So what's your choice Ay?" Saji added, Ayato smiling to himself as he answered

"I guess I've got to believe in you guys like always"

"Ayato…" Yukio's eyes widened in shock, turning to see the members of gathering around him as Rias continued with a concerned look

"We all believe in you as well and I hope you believe in us too" His fellow servants nodded in agreement, concerned looks on there faces as Ayato smiled slightly as he spoke

"I do…" Ayato flushed embarrassed as his stomach grumbled, laughter breaking out amongst the group as the silver haired young man added

"I think I need to grab something to eat"

"I brought some food over, Ayato-sama" Georgia spoke with a embarrassed smile, the group heading back into the main hall and to there table as the group split off again to enjoy themselves.

After about ten minutes of eating for Ayato, he soon found himself being approached by Arisu and Ravel

"Seishinryuutei-sama!"

"I-It's been a while Sekiryuutei" The pair greeted him, Ayato smiling as he looked at the pair and spoke

"Phenex-sama, Arisu-sama…It's nice to see you again…How is your brother doing, Phenex-sama?" Arisu blushed at the formal greeting while Ravel sighed

"…Thanks to you, he's been in low spirits. It seems that his defeat and having Rias-sama stolen away by you was a great shock. Well, since he had always relied on his talent and got cocky because of it, it should have been a good lesson for him… Also I forgive you for what happened to me during the Ratings Game…"

"Well at least he should be able to learn from it…and you're pretty harsh about him...You were also part of his group, right?" Ayato replied, Arisu sitting down next to him as she watched the pair speak

"About that, I've currently finished trading, and I've now become my mother's servant. My mother traded away an unused piece she had in exchange for me. Since my mother said that she would trade me again when I found someone whose family I want to become part of, I'm essentially a free [Bishop] now. Since my mother doesn't participate in the games." Ravel explained, Ayato looking confused as he asked

"Trading?"

"Trading. According to the rules of the Rating Games, it's possible to exchange pieces between devils [Kings]. On the condition that they're the same kind of piece." Arisu explained with a smile, Yukio nodding as he understood what she meant before Ravel spoke up

"B-By the way, Sekiryuutei—"

"Seishinryuutei…" Arisu added, Ravel looking oddly at her as the former explained

"Ayato-sama uses Shinigami powers which involve Spiritual energy to use, right? So Ayato-sama should be called Seishinryuutei" Ayato nodded with a smile

"That's right, Spiritual energy is the basis of Soul Reaper Blazer techniques…although I'm still surprised the first time you called me that Arisu-sama and both of you should just called me Ayato. You're about the same age as me, right?"

"I-Is it really okay for me to call you by your name!?" Ravel asked slightly nervous as Arisu added embarrassed

"Sorry…I keep forgetting that Ayato-sama"

"*C-Cough*. T-Then, I'll oblige and call you Ayato-sama without reservation." Ravel spoke

"You don't have to speak so formally to me" Ayato spoke with a smile, Georgia frowning slightly as Ravel reddened and countered

"No, this is important!"

"Ravel-sama. Danna-sama's friend is calling for you." A familiar voice called out, Ayato finding himself looking at Isabella as another young woman next to her spoke

"Arisu-sama, Diadora-sama is calling for you"

"I understand. Ayato-sama, the next time we meet, would you like to have some tea with me? A-A-A-And if it's okay with you, would you like to have a homemade cake p-p-prepared by me?" Ravel spoke, suddenly raising the hem of her dress to curtsey as Ayato's eyes widened in shock as he stood up

{That is a fierce amount of them coming this way} Sparda spoke shocked.

"Yu! Dai!"Ayato shouted, surprising everyone one as the two looked seriouskly over to him and nodded. Loud thuds hitting against the walls and windows of the room before they smashed in and numerous Hollows stormed the room.

"Kuraokamitsu!" Ayato called, Ravel and Arisu screaming scared as the silver haired Pawn and Knight and Queen cleaved the lizard like Hollow in two easily as panic ran through the room.

"Stay down you lot, Georgia-san keep an eye on them" Yukio spoke, Georgia nodding as she replied

"Yes Ayato-sama" Ayato gave her a nod of thanks before using his Sonido to disappear and start to clear the room of Hollows along with the other Devils.

"Everyone get down!" Shinji shouted, the Devils who weren't fighting ducked down under chairs and tables before he started to fire off energy arrows at Hollows in the room.

"Roar, Zabimaru!" Daisuke shouted swinging his segmented sword towards a trio of Hollows who were about to attack some guests before speaking with a smirk at feeling Yukio standing behind him

"Well this is a party now, ain't it Ay!"

"Only you would like to fight Hollows…Underworld Creatures!" Ayato countered with a shake of his head before unleashing multiple energy insects which stormed towards several Hollows that were moving to attack Saji's back, the blonde Pawn giving him a thumbs up of thanks before going back to firing magic at another Hollow.

"Yu! We've got another group heading towards us from outside" Shinji shouted starting to fire off multiple arrows at them and picking off most of the slow ones, Yukio rushing over to him while dispatching Hollows with his cleaver shaped sword.

"Getsuga Tensho!" Ayato shouted swinging his sword towards them, once he'd reached the window, the large Violet Reiatsu slash surging outside and clearing most of the rest before Shinji finished them off.

"Looks like we got all of them" Daisuke spoke, walking over to them with a grin as Yukio sighed in relief while resting Amonusen on his shoulder out of habit.

"That's good but why would such a large group come here?"

"It's probably the amount of people here" Shinji spoke, dismissing his bow as he turned to the pair before he called over to Saji

"Is everyone alright?"

"Yeah…just a bit shaken up" Saji spoke as he approached them, Yukio finally dismissing Amonusen as he quickly swept his senses over the whole area before nodding to himself.

"Wait…Where's Koneko-san?" Yukio asked, looking around to see her missing, closing his eyes and focusing on picking up her energy signature.

"Come on, come on, come on…There!" Yukio spoke, his eyes opening as he turned to look at the forest outside as he turned to his friends

"Help the others fix everything…I'm going to see what caused her to leave"

"Right…" The trio spoke with nods, Yukio heading towards the edge of the window as Rias' voice spoke up from behind him

"What's wrong? Your expression changed"

"I sensed Koneko outside and I can't see her in here…She was following something I think" Yukio spoke seriously his eyes turning to where he was following Koneko's energy.

"I see, so you were worried. I understand, I'll go too." Rias replied with a smile, Yukio nodding as he spoke with his arm out towards her

"Come on…We best hurry" Rias blushed as she nodded, moving towards his side before finding Yukio's arm wrapped around her waist.

"Jeronimo!" Yukio called jumping out of the window, Rias gripping his uniform tightly as they fell towards the ground floor. The silver haired Pawn using his Sonido about halfway down so they would land on the ground safely.

"You enjoyed that way too much" Rias spoke annoyed, smoothing out her hair as they both started to walk towards where Yukio had sensed Koneko before Georgia spoke up from behind them, now wearing her maid outfit

"Yukio-sama, I'll coming too"

"Alright" Yukio spoke, Rias nodding in agreement as they continued walking.

"As I thought, Koneko-chan's behavior is abnormal." Rias spoke, Yukio summoning Amonusen and resting it on his back as he asked

"Yes. However, what was Koneko-san following all the way out here?" Rias thinking deeply over Yukio's question as they broke into a run at Yukio feeling something familiar nearby. They soon found the familiar places behind them and after several minutes of running Yukio pulled Rias into the shadow of a tree as he hid his aura.

Peeking out from there hiding place Yukio saw Koneko was restlessly turning her head around in the middle of the forest as if looking for something before stopping

"It's been a while, hasn't it?" An unfamiliar voice spoke up, appearing without making a noise was a woman in a black kimono and cat ears on her head, about to quietly ask Rias only for her to shush him.

"…You!" Koneko spoke, her whole body shaking violently in surprise.

"Hello, Shirone. It's me, your Onee-chan." The woman spoke, Koneko squeezing out her own words

"Kuroka-neesama…" Yukio's eyes widened in shock, at realising that woman was Koneko's older sister and the one who killed her master. Yukio's eyes turned to see a black cat snuggled up to Kuroka's feet as she spoke

"Onee-chan is very impressed that you came this far following after this black cat that sneaked into the party-nya."

"…Nee-sama. What is this about?" Koneko asked angrily, Kuroka just smiling as she responded

"Don't make such a scary face. I just had some minor business to take care of. I heard that the devils were holding a big party here, you know? That's why I was a little interested. Nyan " Kuroka waved her hand like a cat and winked cutely, Yukio wincing silently at Rias pinching his cheek while Georgia watched on

"Hahahaha, could it be that you're a member of the Gremory group?" A familiar voice spoke out, Bikou appearing and turning his gaze directly at where Yukio and Rias were hiding.

"Even if you erase your presence, it's useless. With people like me and Kuroka who know senjutsu, we can approximately detect you with just a slight variation in the flow of your spirit."

Yukio, Rias and Georgia stepped out of the shadows, Koneko looking surprised as she spoke "…Yukio-sempai, Buchou."

"Yo, damn monkey. Is Vali doing well?" Yukio asked with a smirk, Bikou laughing as he retorted

"Hahahaha, pretty much. As for you…Heh, so you've become a lot stronger, huh?" Yukio's eyes narrowing slightly as Bikou continued with a smile

"Didn't I tell you? I also have an interest in senjutsu, and I know the flow of your spirit to a degree. The volume of aura that covers you has risen since we last met."

"Rias-sama…I know this isn't the best time but what is senjutsu? I take its different from magic and the sorcery used by magicians?" Yukio asked, not taking his gaze off Bikuo and Kuroka as Rias sighed and explained

"Yes, senjutsu is different from magic and sorcery. The biggest difference is that senjutsu stresses the importance of something called chakra, the aura that is the great original power that flows into one's spirit, in other words one's life-force, and turns it into a constant current. It's a power that is both similar yet different from the magic of demons and the light power of angels. Its direct destructive power can't match that of magic or the power of light, but senjutsu can make use of the unknown part hidden within plants, animals and people. For example, if one learned senjutsu, it's said that they excel at reading the flow of someone's spirit, of their aura, and that they can also grasp the movements of a faraway target to a certain degree. Its most like the Spiritual energy you use…"

"We can also control the flow of spirit and can reinforce both the interior and exterior of our bodies, or disturb the spirits of all the surrounding trees, make them bloom, or make them wither-nyan . Senjutsu is a skill that manipulates the flow of life, after all. We can disturb our opponent's spirit, and inflict damage to their life-force by cutting it. Because the methods for repairing the disorder to one's life-force is limited for the magic of demons and the sorcery of magicians in comparison, this attack method almost always results in death-nyan " Kuroka added while winking, Yukio drawing Amonusen as he asked frankly

"Why are you here? Is this a terrorist attack?" The pair just smiled as Bikou spoke up to answer

"No, we didn't come down here for such a thing. It's just that a standby order has come out in the Underworld. Me and Kuroka are off-duty right now. When the order was given, Kuroka suggested visiting the devils' party. Since she likely wouldn't return easily, I came along with her too. Okay?"

"Bikou, who is this boy with incredible spirit energy?" Kuroka asked as she pointed at Yukio, who answered simply

"The Sekiryuutei." Kuroka's eyes widened in surprise as she spoke

"Really-nyan? Heh~. So this is the current Shinigami with a Hollow Sekiryuutei that easily repelled Vali before."

"Kuroka~, let's go back. Since we can't participate in that party anyway, it's a waste to stay here." Bikou spoke while yawning before Kuroka added

"Yes, let's return. But, I'll take Shirone with me-nyan. Since I didn't bring her with me that time "

"Arara, if you bring her back with you of your own accord, Vali might get angry, you know?" Bikou countered, Kuroka smiling widely with narrowed eyes as she replied

"When they know that the same power as mine flows within her, both Ophis and Vali will be convinced, right?"

"Well, that may be so." Bikou spoke calmly, Koneko shivering as Yukio stepped in front of her as he spoke firmly

"This girl is an important friend among us of the Gremory group. I won't allow you to take her away." Bikou and Kuroka laughed at Yukio before the former spoke

"No, no, that's very brave of you, but do you really intend to make me and Kuroka your opponents? This time, we'll leave immediately once we take this girl, so it'll be fine for you, right?"

Rias stepped forwards angry as she spoke "This child is my servant. I won't let you put even a single finger on her."

"Koneko-sama is an important member of the Gremory Household I won't let you take her" Georgia added as she moved forwards as well.

"Ara-ara-ara-ara, what are you saying-nya? She's my little sister. I have the right to love her. A high-class devil like you doesn't have that privilege." Kuroka spoke, the atmosphere changing around them as Rias and Kuroka glared at each other, the latter stopped first as she spoke with a large grin

"Since you're so troublesome, I'll kill you-nyan " Yukio frowned at the indescribable sensation that seized him, feeling as if he'd been transported to another space.

"…Kuroka, so you learned not only senjutsu, youjutsu and devil magic, but also the skill to control space?" Rias spoke while making a sour face, Kuroka soon to reply

"I didn't go as far as learning how to control time, but I have fairly picked up on how to control space. If I use the essentials of barrier techniques, it's relatively easy, after all. I covered this entire forest with a barrier and isolated it from the outside world-nyan. That's why even if we do flashy things here, it won't leak outside and devils from outside won't come in. You're going to get pleasantly killed here by us and say goodbye-nya "

Yukio's grin grew as he felt the familiar presence above them before a voice called out "When I received information that Miss Rias and Hosokawa Yukio had come to this forest and I quickly came to look, to think I would be sealed in by a barrier…"

"Tannin-san!" Yukio called happily.

"What an ominous aura. These visitors aren't suitable for this party." Tannin spoke, Bikou looked delighted at Tannin as he replied

"Oh, oh, oh! If it isn't the former-Dragon King [Blaze Meteor Dragon] Tannin! So you came! This is already a big problem, Kuroka! We have no choice but to fight now!"

"You seem happy, monkey-san. Very well. If we take down two necks that are above Dragon King class, Ophis will also be silent on the matter." Kuroka spoke as they both took fighting stances.

"Kintoun!" Bikou shouted, a gold cloud appearing at his feet which he used to flew off towards Tannin was as he added

"Nyoi-Bo!" A long staff appeared in Bikou's hands and he released it while aiming it at Tannin.

"Exteeeeeeend! Nyoi-Bo!" The staff extended to try and hit Tannin only to miss as the latter's speed.

"Once more!" Bikou called, moving his staff horizontally while still extended to chase after Tannin only to miss as Tannin dodged before blasting a large mass of fire back.

'Wow that's powerful' Yukio thought looking at the sky filled with fire before Ddraig spoke up

[No, Tannin was still holding back the power of his breath there.]

{It's because, if he unleashed his true breath, not only the party hall, but also us would disappear. He's thoughtful in his own way. Even with that, though, the number of people who can stop Tannin are limited.} Sparda added

"Ahaha! Not bad! Former-Dragon King!" Bikou laughed, his armour and clothes burning but his body seemed fine.

"Hmph! I was wondering what kind of person this Son Goku was! You seem quite happy to have received an attack from me, Tannin!" Tannin roared, Bikou grinning as he replied

"The name's Bikou! Nice to meet you, Dragon Boss!"

"Kukukuku. You talk like a true monkey. Do you really understand who you have made your opponent right now?"

"I'm also descended from a legendary demon, you know. I can't afford to lose so quickly."

"In any case, I'll be your opponent, monkey. Meanwhile, Miss Rias, Hosokawa Yukio and The Utlimate Queen's sister will defeat that cat. —They're the master of the Sekiryuutei and the Sekiryuutei, you know? You'll have to overcome them." Tannin called, Yukio smirking as he took a battle stance himself.

"Hahahah! You've really gone out big! I'm fine just by myself!" Bikou retorted, Tannin quick to reply

"Don't speak so arrogantly, monkey. You're just a single monkey. You won't be any trouble! Besides, what happened to the pig and demon sage? Did you break up with them?"

"You mean the descendants of Hakkai and Gojou? Hahahaha! They, including the people of my family, are all conservatives! Every last one of them is satisfied with the current state of things! However, I love things that are fun! That's why I happily accepted the invitation to join the [Khaos Brigade] and now act together with the Hakuryuukou Vali!" Bikou explained, Tannin frowning slightly as he spoke

"Hmph! Your temperament may be the closest to the first generation of Son Goku, but what are you scheming with the Hakuryuukou? According to rumour, only your unit is permitted to move separately from the rest! I also heard that you're the only team that didn't accept Ophis' [snake]!"

"If you'd like to know, beat me!" Bikou spoke cockily, Tannin roaring back

"Watch what you say, damn monkey! This place is the hell-like Underworld, called the [world of the dead]! Know that this is the best place for small fry like you people to repent!" With that Bikou and Tannin started to fight fiercely with each other in the air.

"Nyan " Kuroka spoke with a smile, a dark ominous aura around her body which Yukio could feel as it was completely evil mixed in with strong malice and killing intent as he flared his own Reiatsu aura, the red quickly covering his body as Koneko blurted

"…Nee-sama. I'll go with you. So please overlook these three people!"

"What are you saying—" Yukio started to speak, looking back to Koneko as Rias interrupted him

"What are saying!? Koneko! You're a servant of my group! I won't allow you to do as you please!" Rias tightly held Koneko who shook her head as she replied

"…It's no good. I understand best nee-sama's power. Nee-sama's power rivals that of an ultimate-class devil. For Buchou, Georgia-san and Yukio-sempai…Even with the power of a former-Dragon King, I don't think you can capture my sister who excels in both genjutsu and senjutsu…"

"No, even so, I absolutely won't hand you over to that person's side! To this nekomata that didn't try to help Koneko-chan who cried so much!" Rias spoke angrily while Kuroka smiled at her anger and replied

"It's because a youkai cannot help another youkai. However, this time, I simply want Shirone because I want another piece under my control. I can understand Shirone's power better than a red-haired onee-san like you, you know?" Koneko shook her heard in response

"…No…I don't need that kind of power…I don't need a dark power like that…I don't need a power that brings misfortune to people like that…" Koneko started to tremble and shed tears, Rias hugging her more tightly as she replied

"Kuroka…You who had been blinded by power left a wound on the heart of this girl that won't disappear for her whole life. After you killed your master and left, this child saw hell. When I first met her, there were no feelings left in her. Koneko was betrayed by you, who was her only family to her, lost a future to rely on, and was despised and abused by other devils, to the point where she was going to be disposed of…She saw many harsh things. That's why I will show her many fun things! This girl is Toujou Koneko, [Rook] of Rias Gremory's group! My important servant devil! I won't let you put even a single finger on her!" Koneko cried more at her words, Yukio smirking as Koneko shouted out

"…I don't want to go…I am Toujou Koneko. Kuroka-neesama, I don't want to go with you! I want to live with Rias-buchou! To live!"

After hearing that, Kuroka briefly showed a bitter smile before giving a derisive laugh that seemed to freeze Yukio's whole body as she muttered "Then, die."

A thin mist-like substance sprung out from Kuroka, gradually spreading towards the trio as Sparda shouted {Stop that mist now!}

Yukio's eyes widened for a moment before he called out "Hadō #58 Tenran!"

Holding Amonusen out before him, allowing it to levitate as Yukio hit one end making it spin in a circle before grabbing its hilt to stop it and unleashing a widening tornado like blast towards Kuroka which sucked up the mist as she frowned and dodged it.

{That mist is poison which works on Devils and Youkai…You won't be affected because of Ddraig} Sparda explained before Kuroka spoke up

"Hmmm….So you know about my poison mist but still some got past you" Yukio turned to see mist coming from behind them, his eyes widen in shock.

"—Ah." Rias called as she knelt down in pain, Georgia gasping surprised by the pain while Koneko dropping to her knees while covering her mouth as he added

"…This is."

"Hmm, so this mist doesn't work on you because you're the Sekiryuutei, huh? It's a poison mist which only works on devils and youkai-nyan. Because the poison is thin, one suffers a little while it spread throughout the body. I won't kill you quickly. I'll kill you all gradually-nyan " Kuroka spoke as she sat down on a high tree branch and looked down at them, Ayato glaring at her as Rias and Georgia started to fire magic bullets at her, hitting Kuroka only for her body to vanish.

"That was a good attack. But it's useless, useless. I can easily make a clone of myself with the essentials of genjutsu." Kuroka's voice echoed from through the forest, silhouettes appearing around them.

"…If you can't read the flow of spirit, you can't deal with genjutsu used by skilled practitioners." Koneko spoke, dropping onto her hands as Yukio closed his eyes and focused, his senses spreading over the battlefield only to find there were a fast moving signature moving around them.

"Getsuga Ten-!" Ayato called stopping his swing in mid movement as Sparda spoke up

{Blindly destroying the place isn't going to hit her…and your speed while fast isn't near her level…You need to attain Bankai now}

'But how can I do that…? We never got it through the training' Ayato mentally replied before Ddraig asked

[What had been the trigger for most of your power ups since we've started this?]

'Wanting to protect Rias-sama and everyone else…' Ayato replied, Ddraig snorting as he countered

[Don't start lying to yourself now! That reason has always been too vague for you]

"Arara, is Sekiryuutei-chan unable to keep track of me? But, I'm going to shoot-nyan " One of the Kuroka illusions spoke as it stuck its hand out and shot magic bullets at Rias, Koneko and Georgia.

"Guhah!" Ayato shouted as he took the attack for them in the chest, glad his Reiatsu dealt with most of the damage but there were still a few marks on his uniform.

"Ayato…" Rias spoke as she tried to move forwards but the pain stopped her as Ayato spoke with a small smile

"Rias-sama! Please don't move! The poison will spread through your body! Don't worry, an attack like this is noth—" He managed to block Kuroka's next attack barely with Kurokamitsu, forced back slightly by it as Kuroka sneered at him

"So this is Vali's rival? Did you really drive away Vali?"

'I…' YAyatothought before Sparda spoke up

{Asia died once…}

[Rias cried once]

{Asia was broken}

[Rias was threatened]

{[Katsu attacked you without regard for either of them]}

'I'm doing this to protect my new family…those I love and free them from sorrow' Ayato mentally spoke, Sparda and Ddraig smirking together as Ayatoraised his head to glare at one of the Kuroka clones.

'And I will not let it happen to Koneko now!' He mentally added as his reiatsu flared about wildly as he spoke

"…I won't let you touch Rias-sama, Koneko-san or Georgia-san!" Yukio deflected the next attack with his free hand, knocking it into a tree as he continued

"You may be Koneko-san's Onee-san, but…I won't forgive you for making Koneko-san cry…" Kuroka frowned in response as Koneko whispered

"…Yukio-sempai."

"Koneko-san…though I have a legendary dragon and devil lodged in my body, I can't do anything… If I had gotten stronger those times with Asia and Buchou, if I had displayed my power, they wouldn't have had such sorrowful experiences…—I'm a useless devil sometimes..."

"…Ayato-sempai isn't worthless…Did you know? Most of the previous Sekiryuuteis were people that drowned and lost their heads in their power…I think that they were swallowed by the enormous power they had…My nee-sama is the same…Even if one has power…if they don't have kindness…they'll definitely go out of control…Yukio-sempai is a gentle Sekiryuutei…Even with your dark side…You're surely the first among the previous ones to be a gentle Sekiryuutei. That's why—" Koneko replied smiling through the pain as she added

"Please become a gentle [Welsh Dragon]…" Ayato's smile grew slightly as if feeling a weight being lifted from him along with something else clicking as he turned to speak to Rias

"Rias-sama. I think I understand what I was lacking in myself to attain Bankai…I'm going to need your power to help me unlock it"

"…I understand! If you're fine with me, I'll lend you my power! So, what do I need to do?" Rias spoke with a nod, Ayato taking a deep breathe as he spoke softly

"Please let me kiss you…" Rias blushed in response, quickly nodding as she smiled and spoke

"…I understand…" Rias was turning pale from the poison and red from embarrassment as Ayato stabbed Kuraokamitsu into the ground and stepped towards her

"H-Hey! What are you doing in the middle of a battlefield!?" Tannin shouted astonished, Ayato smiling embarrassed as he replied

"Tannin-san. I need to reaffirm something in my mind…!"

"What are you saying!? What are you trying to do in the middle of a battlefield!?" Tannin shouted back, Ayarto blushing more as he replied

"If I kiss her, the possibility that I will attain Bankai is high"

"Training wasn't a waste Tannin-san but I need to get rid of my doubt no matter how small it is" Ayato replied, Kuroka looking puzzled as she asked

"Hey, Bikou! Is that some kind of strategy? Rias Gremory intends to kiss with the Sekiryuutei."

"Don't ask me! The thought process of the Sekiryuutei is in a different dimension from us, you know!" Bikou shouted back,Ayato taking a deep breathe as he looking into Rias' blue-green eyes before slowly kissing her, her arms quickly moving to wrap around his neck while he held her waist. It lasted for a minute before they parted, Rias sighing happily as she opened her eyes to see his red eyes glowing softly as he smiled.

[About time you took the initiative with her] Ddraig roared out happily, Sparda smirking as he added

{There is no truer reason for strength then to defend those you love…Now is the time to unleash your Bankai}

Ayato gently moved a strand of Rias' hair behind her ear before gently releasing her as he spoke "Thank you…"

Turning around he tugged Kuraokamitsu from the ground with ease, holding it out directly in front of him in his left hand while clothe from the hilt wrapped around his forearm. He set his right hand on his left forearm, his reiatsu exploding out of him as his eyes turned serious as he yelled out "BAN-KAI!"

Ayato was soon engulfed in a large pillar of black energy the force from it blasting wind towards everyone around him as shocked looks filled the forest. Moments later a black bladed katana dispersed it to reveal Ayato in his Bankai form.

A long high collared black coat reached down to his ankles, separated at the waist into three ragged tails, the inner lining of it was a deep crimson in color and the front was held together by a large white X over his chest and a single button at his waist. Under it he wore a white high collar shirt which had the top two buttons undone. Thin fingerless gauntlets covered his hands with a large white X over each armguard while black slacks were tucked into knee high boots which had a white X over the shin guard. His new Amonusen was a sleek black bladed katana about four feet long with four leg-like protrusions from its guard while a small length of chain fell from out of the hilt of it. He seemed to stand slightly taller then before and his silver hair seemed to have suddenly grown an two inches to frame his serious red eyes.

"Nyaha-ah. You don't seem any different Sekiryutei aside from the new outfit" Kuroka called out, Yukio smirking as he took a few steps forwards calmly.

{This is Tensa Kuraokamitsu…Its aims to increase your stats} Sparda explained with a smile.

"Really…?" He asked calmly, several feet between him and his fellow devils before he unleashed a quick blast of his reiatsu and formed a deep crater around him with ease and dispersing all of the remaining mist, Kuroka subconsciously taking a step back as Sparda spoke up again

{Why don't you try unleashing a Getsuga Tensho now?}

Ayato lifted his sword into the air, black outlined with red reiatsu pouring into his blade before he calmly called out "Getsuga Tensho"

The attack roared across the ground rending a large trench into the ground as it shot towards a mountain turning it into rubble in a matter of seconds as Tannin roared out happily

"Hahahaha! It's been a long time since I've seen that power! Hosokawa Yukio! An entire mountain far away from here completely vanished just now! Also, the barrier covering this area has been blown off as well! Fuhahahahaha! You attained Bankai at last! I see, I see! It's a surge of great power!"

"Ahahahaha!" Kuroka laughed as she looking at him as she added

"Ha! How interesting! Then, I'll also show you a mixed shot of youjutsu and senjutsu!" Two different powers were clad into her hands, Kuroka quickly shooting them at Yukio who continued to stand there and take them and not feeling any damage from the hits.

"Is that all?" Yukio asked with a small smirk, Kuroka's face turning to shock as she looked at him

"It didn't work!? No way. I built up a considerable amount of spiritual power!" Ayato shot towards her as he replied

"Don't get carried away!" Kuroka firing countless more attacks only for Ayato to cut through them with his new sword or dodging them, coming to a sudden stop before Kuroka with his sword inches from her nose as the surrounding air shook from the aftershocks of stopping his attack. Kuroka looked frightened by the halted attack as Yukio spoke

"Don't make my cute kouhai cry. If you aim at Koneko-san again, I won't stop my attack next time. You may be Koneko-san's onee-san, but you're my enemy!" When he pulled back his sword, Kuroka sprang back immediately to put some distance between them

"…You damn brat!" She cursed at him with fear in her eyes before Bikou laughed loudly

"Hyahahahahahahaha! This is really interesting! Now there are two dragon bosses! It'd be a lie to say I'm not enjoying this!" Twirling his Nyoi-Bo staff around, Bikou showed his intention to continue fighting. Yukio glanced back to see Rias, Georgia and Koneko slowly recovering from the poison mist as he turned back to Kuroka

"I'm not even using [Boosted Gear] yet" Ayato stated, Kuroka backing up slightly more as the devils noticed something strange going on only to be surprised as a tear in space appeared. Coming from out of it was two men, the first was a young man wearing a suit, glasses and held a powerful holy sword while the second was Katsu.

"That's far enough, Bikou, Kuroka. The devils have noticed." The glasses wearing man spoke calmly.

"You again…?" Ayato asked, Katsu smirking as he looked at Ayato, Rias slipping into a fighting stance at seeing him as Katsu started to speak

"I'm not here to fight…I'm just here to bring them back"

Bikou descended from the sky as he spoke "Aren't you Vali's attendant? And what are you doing here new guy?"

The man pushed up his glasses and spoke "Because Kuroka was being slow, I came to see. And even Bikou is here. Geez, what are you two doing?"

"Everyone, don't get near that guy! The thing he's holding in his hand is really troublesome!" Tannin shouted to Ayato and the others as he continued

"The holy king sword Collbrande. Also known as Caliburn. For Collbrande, called the beyond strongest holy sword, to be with the Hakuryuukou is…" Tannin bitterly laughed as he asked

"But, two swords? The one that's in a sheath is also a holy sword, isn't it?"

The young man pointed at the sheathed sword on his back at Tannin's questions as he answered "This is the final Excalibur that was recently found, the strongest of the seven Excaliburs. [Excalibur Ruler]."

"To be talking like that, you're pretty calm, aren't you?" Kuroka asked, the young man nodding as he replied

"Yes, the truth is that I also have a lot of interest in the comrades of these guys. Sekiryuutei-dono, could you please give my greetings to the holy demonic sword user and the holy sword Durandal user? I'd like to face them and yourself sometime as fellow swordsmen—you know?" YAyato frowned, holding his sword out before Katsu spoke up

"I was impressed at your speech with the higher ups"

"How do you know about that?" Ayato asked with a frown, Katsu chuckling as he replied

"I was there, exploring the underworld during my free time and picked up on your presence" Ayato looked surprised as he decided to ask

"So why did you join Vali's team?"

"I'm not with them, these guys just happen to be going the same way. Sometime after our fight and hearing your little speech I returned to my home…The House of Sparda…and just couldn't stop thinking what you said Ayato. You know the more I thought about them the more I saw the truth in your words and the people around me mostly cared for there pride and looked down at the dirtied blooded and treated their suboridantes like how I use to do" Katsu replied

"You know the shocking thing…I stood up for one of the lower class members and spoke out against the higher ups attitudes and while most agree they don't listen. I became frustrated and went on a journey to train myself to be able to fight you again for Kuraokamitsu and Yamato so I can steer the clan in a different direction."

"Afterwards I was approached by Vali and his team…Originally I refused to join but Vali challenged me to a fight with me joining if he won. I put up a good fight but ultimately lost but I still refuse to join them" Katsu added turning to leave with the others as he added

"Don't get the wrong idea…while I agree with you about how things in the Clan need to change I'm not going to give up regaining those swords from you so don't get yourself killed until we fight again"

"Now then, let's retreat." The holy sword user spoke, cutting another spatial tear with Collbrande before adding

"Goodbye, Sekiryuutei." With that the other three of Vali's team disappeared into the tear, Ayato relaxing once the tear disappeared. When they returned to the party, Arisu and Ravel embarrassingly thanked him for protecting them while Diadora giving him a half caring thanks himself for making Ayato frown before the event was cancelled because of the terrorist attack.

…

To Be Continued