Chapter 28 – Juncture

"Isn't this quite the lively place…"

A lean and fairly muscular young man of average height with vermillion eyes that had dark circles under them and long gray hair with a large black streak in it on the front that was tied into a ponytail remarked as he watched the bustle below him from his position on top of a block-of-flats. Said young man was currently in a city in the United States, waiting for his comrades to finish their task.

"I'm bored…" The young man let out a sigh. "They're taking too much time. In that case…"

A sinister smile appeared on the young man's face as he stood up, red aura seeping out from his body and engulfing the people below him. No-one seemed to be affected at first, but all that changed when two people collided due to not minding their surroundings.

"Hey, watch it, you idiot!"

"Who do you think you're shouting at, moron!? You're the one at fault here!"

"Me!? I'm not the one walking with his head buried in his cellphone!"

The two men started pushing each other, with their altercation quickly escalating when one of them punched the other, sending him flying into a woman whose drink flew off her hands and doused another passerby. Said passerby slapped her, with their confrontation also turning violent. Soon enough, every pedestrian was fighting against each other in a massive brawl as they screamed at each other with bloodshot eyes. Meanwhile, the young man was laughing, the red aura around his body intensifying, until someone put a hand on his shoulder.

"That's enough, Adam." Megrez said, his voice carrying a disapproving tone. "This display is meaningless."

"You're finally here, old man!" Adam said with a grin, his face reflected in his comrade's mirror-like mask. "What, you're concerned for these humans? Why? Aren't they all going to die sooner or later?"

"Because actions like this draw unnecessary attention, as we've had to remind you time and time again, my boy."

The one who had spoken was Alkaid, who seemed to have appeared out of thin air. Snapping his fingers, he released a nigh-undetectable aura pulse that spread all over the area. All of a sudden, the people below stopped fighting, looking at each other with matching confused looks on their faces.

"Tch, spoil my fun, won't you?" Adam pouted as he crossed his arms behind his head and laid on the terrace. "Well? What is the latest news from the front?"

"Kokabiel's failure had a rather predictable result." Alkaid said, tapping his cane on the concrete. "The leading figures of the Three Factions will be meeting in Japan's Kuoh Town in order to discuss the future course of their respective domains."

"Hoh, is that so?" Adam said, a savage glint in his eyes. "Ain't that some fine news. If they're rushing to play buddy-buddy, perhaps it's our time to make a flashy appearance?"

"It's a given that there will be movement from our side, but I don't intend to involve the entirety of the Inner Circle in this endeavor." Alkaid said. "The three of us should suffice for a greeting, and maybe our esteemed friend with the Dragon-slaying blade."

"That's what I like to hear." Adam grinned. "However, we're free to massacre them, right? Hope we're not just going there to look pretty."

"If you can, feel free to kill some of them." Alkaid said. "However, it's only a test of our opponents' capabilities in the end. This is not the stage where you should exert yourself to the fullest, Adam. The time for you to settle the score with those who made you what you are and cast you aside will come."

"Either way, I hope there'll be some strong guys there for me to play." Adam grinned, licking his lips. "I'm kinda tired of going after weaklings all the time."

"If the others aren't moving, which faction will spearhead the assault?" Megrez asked. "Are the Heroes going to move?"

"No, their leader is still busy practicing with his Longinus by hunting down minor deities, though he did say he will contribute in some way." Alkaid said. "The descendants of the former Devil Kings will be the ones to fire the opening shot, with Nilrem assisting them."

"Oh, these pompous morons?" Adam snorted. "Might as well get their gravestones ready. You can't expect these pampered princes and princesses to actually do any damage?"

"Not particularly." Alkaid said with a disinterested tone. "But their performance while using the snakes will be useful for future reference. Not to mention, their actions will serve to divert the focus of our enemies, which serves our purposes just fine."

"Poor, naive children." Megrez said. "I'm almost feeling sorry for them."

"Don't be." Alkaid said. "We all have our roles to play. They are simply the ones chosen to become the first sacrifice in this final war. Thanks to their aid, a new world will soon be born."

"But not the kind they want, I'm sure."

Adam snickered as he and the other two men stepped into a tear in space opened by Alkaid, vanishing from the area.

"Stay still and let me cut you!"

"Yeah, I'm going to say no thank you to that!"

Takeshi shouted as he avoided yet another slash from Xenovia's Durandal, which split apart a large boulder behind him. The two of them were inside the time dilation barrier in the mountains along with the rest of the group for their scheduled training. As part of it, Takeshi and Xenovia were sparring, with the former having equipped Savage Predator Incarnation.

Stepping back in order to dodge Xenovia's downward swing, Takeshi stomped on the ground beneath him, unleashing a wave of ice towards Xenovia. In response, she stabbed Durandal in the ground, unleashing an explosion of holy aura around her that shattered the ice. Placing Durandal in an iaido stance, Xenovia released copious amounts of holy aura that blasted her towards Takeshi. He was momentarily surprised, but quickly countered with a flame-covered kick at the flat of the blade, sending Xenovia flying to the side.

Straightening herself, she swung Durandal again, sending two massive waves of holy aura at Takeshi. He smirked under his helmet, slamming his palms on the ground and unleashing a massive conflagration that consumed the incoming attacks. Snapping his fingers, he shaped the flames into a massive serpentine Dragon that rushed to engulf Xenovia. She remained composed, swinging Durandal once to scatter the dragon construct.

Takeshi sent a rain of spinning icicles at Xenovia. She jumped to the side to dodge them, leaping at Takeshi next. His greaves ignited as they launched him up, with Takeshi following with a flying side kick. Xenovia countered with an upward slash, sending both combatants skidding backwards. While mid-air, Takeshi pressed the sides of his buckle once.

[Charge! Atrocity Overflow!]

As his greaves were surrounded by ice and flames, Takeshi spread his Balance Breaker's Dragon wings, steadied himself and flew at Xenovia while shouting 'Promotion, Rook!', boosting his strength.

[Violent Blast Fever!]

Xenovia barely had time to assume a defensive stance as Durandal received a barrage of bicycle kicks that sent her skidding backwards, her arms sore as she used every last bit of her Rook-enhanced strength to prevent her blade from flying from her hands. Before she could recover, Takeshi's tail shot forward, wrapping itself around her leg and tripping her, sending her tumbling to the ground. Mounting the dazed Xenovia, Takeshi cocked his fist back, ready to smash her head.

"That's enough!" Yuuto, who was observing the fight, shouted from the side. "The match is over! Takeshi-kun is the winner!"

"Looks like it's my win, Xenovia." Takeshi said as he made a V-sign, dismissing his armor and wincing due to the several sore spots and minor cracks all over his body. "To be expected from Durandal's wielder though, you didn't make it easy at all."

"Small comfort considering I still lost." Xenovia grumbled as she stood up, using her blade as support. "I guess you and Inquisitor Leon defeating Kokabiel was no fluke at all."

"No, but it was definitely our toughest challenge yet." Takeshi said. "As a member of this Peerage, you should probably get ready for all sorts of absurd encounters. It seems we have a knack for attracting danger."

"That's a good thing though." Xenovia said. "More difficult opponents mean more chances for us to hone ourselves and grow even stronger."

"A woman after my own heart." Takeshi grinned. "Let's both do our best so that we can become even more powerful, Xenovia!"

"Yes, let's."

"But don't overdo it too much, you two." Yuuto said as he approached Takeshi and Xenovia. "We still need this place as intact as possible for the future. Plus, Beelzebub-sama wouldn't appreciate us destroying his precious equipment."

"Enough about that." Xenovia said, pointing Durandal at Yuuto. "You're next, Kiba. I want to test how much stronger you are now with your Balance Breaker."

"I'll do my best not to disappoint." Yuuto smiled as he summoned a Holy Demonic Sword. "What about you, Takeshi-kun? Will you stay and watch?"

"Nah, I'll head back to the mansion." Takeshi said. "Breakfast should be almost ready, so I'm going to see if Rias and the others need any help."

"Suit yourself." Xenovia said as she took her stance. "We'll join you in a bit."

Takeshi nodded as he left the two sword wielders behind, the sounds of their clash echoing in the distance. While making his way back to the mansion, he came across a certain ravaged and ruined terrain. The few trees that were still standing had withered, the rocks and ground beneath him had melted, wisps of foul mist wafted in the area and deep cracks that sort of resembled wheel tracks could be seen all around him.

"No matter how many times I see it, the destructive power is quite impressive in its own right…"

Takeshi remarked with a grin. The decayed area before him was the result of his earlier training in the use of the new Balance Breaker that had been unlocked by Orochi's unconditional surrender a few days prior. Although part of him expected Orochi to come out and say [Fooled ya, you dumbass!] or something to that effect when he tried it out, the Evil Dragon had kept his word, giving him access to the Balance Breaker of Blight Current.

[It's a given that I would keep my word!] Orochi said with an indignant tone. [Just who the Hell do you think I am, partner?]

An unreliable savage like the other fellows taking up space in there. Takeshi thought. Still, I admit I was wrong about you in this regard.

[I am the most trustworthy Evil Dragon after all.] Orochi said, sounding pleased. [Honesty, integrity and all that is my policy. Now, regarding that large harem we were talking about—]

Give it a rest already. Takeshi cut Orochi off. I already told you that's not happening, at least not in the way you want it.

[Worth a shot.] Orochi said. [But can you blame me, partner? The only way I can taste carnal pleasures again is through your memories and feelings. The redhead is a wonderful treat, but it's starting to get boring. It's like eating chocolate parfait all the time, you know what I mean?]

Hey, who said you could shift through my memories of my intimate moments with Rias, you eight-headed voyeur!? Takeshi screamed in his thoughts. Haven't you heard of privacy!?

[Oh, don't be like that, partner.] Orochi said. [It's not like I'm peeping at you in the middle of sex, you know? Even if I have some delicacy in these matters.]

That doesn't make me feel any better! Takeshi shouted. That's it, my next goal is to find a way to keep you perverted Evil Dragons out of my memories completely.

[But that's my only source of enjoyment in here!] Orochi wailed. [Bullying!? Is this bullying!? I won't stand for this cruel treatment!]

Takeshi tuned out the complaining Orochi with a sigh as he started making his way back to the mansion, grimacing due to the soreness and pain he felt from the demerits of the two Balance Breakers he had used today. Once he was close enough, his nostrils were assaulted by the smell of food, causing his empty stomach to rumble. Emerging from the forest, he saw Rias and Akeno setting up the small table outside the mansion. A few meters away, Koneko was busy practicing her katas, while Pandora had buried her face in a thick book with ornate Devil letters on its cover. Next to her was a half-finished painting depicting two Dragons, one red and one white, fighting off what appeared to be an army.

"Oh, you're back, Takeshi." Rias said upon taking notice of him. "Breakfast is almost ready. Where are Yuuto and Xenovia?"

"Still sparring back there." Takeshi pointed at the direction he had come from. "They should be done soon though."

"What about you, Takeshi-kun?" Akeno said. "Have you got the hang of your new Balance Breaker, or not yet?"

"I think I've got a good grasp of its abilties, but it's not something that should be used carelessly when I'm fighting with others." Takeshi said. "Furthermore, it has its own irritating demerits, but that's par for the course. More importantly though, with three Evil Dragons confirmed subjugated, I've become the most unique among all past Evil Dragon Users. Number one in the whole world! Yay for me!"

"…That was only natural." Koneko said, approaching the table while wiping the sweat from her face with a towel. "But Senpai won't stop there, right? You will control all Evil Dragons in the end."

"That's the plan." Takeshi grinned. "I wonder how much stronger I'll be at that point…"

"Saying a lot would be an understatement." Rias said. "I wouldn't be surprised if Cataclysm Zone is reclassified as a Longinus once its full power is unleashed. Theoretically, it should be one from the start, but no-one's sure how much power you can draw from the Evil Dragons within it."

"I'm sure we'll find out soon enough." Takeshi said, turning his attention to Pandora. "What are you reading there with such intensity, Pandora?"

"An account of the Great War, and more specifically, the Heavenly Dragons' involvement in it." Pandora said. "Since we've crossed paths twice with their current hosts so far, and since you have a strong connection to them, I figured it would be good to know as much as possible about them and their past."

"You could have asked me if you wanted more info." Takeshi said as he sat down next to her. "I've already read all the books and related material. Like you said, it's best to be prepared. But man, for such a legendary rivalry, it's kind of weird how there's no source mentioning its origin. Did Ddraig and Albion just wake up one fine day and decided to start fighting for no reason? Well, Dragons are capricious, so it wouldn't surprise me if that was the case…"

"When the main participants themselves don't seem to remember the reason judging from the few accounts of past wielders, it's rather difficult to ascertain the truth." Rias said. "Perhaps it was simply a desire to be the best, to have only a single Dragon claim the title of Heavenly Dragon."

"I can understand that." Takeshi said. "I wouldn't want to share the number one spot with anyone. It only has meaning when a single person occupies that spot."

"What surprises me is that the Three Factions turned to them and recruited them during the Great War." Pandora said. "Surely they must have known that having such prideful and volatile creatures fighting for them could cause a disaster like it ended up doing."

"True, but the higher-ups at that time were desperate." Rias said. "The war had been going on for more than a century and there was still no clear sign of a winner. That's why agents of the Devil Kings approached Ddraig and made a contract with him, offering him rare treasures and equipment that could help him get stronger in order to entice him to their side and use him to break the deadlock."

"Of course, when that happened, Heaven rushed to recruit Albion as a countermeasure, offering him a very lucrative reward as well for his services." Akeno said. "In hindsight though, it was a terrible idea. It was difficult to have Ddraig and Albion follow precise orders, and when they sensed the other's presence on the battlefield, they would ignore everything else and focus on each other, starting fights that resulted in great collateral damage and lots of casualties from all sides."

"…The worst allies you could have." Koneko said. "Dismissing them was next to impossible since they could get offended and turn on their former employers."

"That's why, for the first time ever, the Three Factions came together and agreed to eliminate the Heavenly Dragons before their rivalry disrupted the battlefield even further." Takeshi said, letting out a derisive laugh. "How ironic, that an issue they created would force them to work together like that…"

"That's how, once Ddraig and Albion started fighting once again in the middle of another large-scale battle, the Three Factions suddenly turned on them full force." Rias said. "They brought out every piece of Dragon-slaying equipment and magic they could spare and threw them at the Two Heavenly Dragons. However, these two didn't take this lying down. Not only did they eliminate a large portion of the allied army, they also took down the Devil Kings Asmodeus and Leviathan, several Cadres from the Fallen Angels' side, and quite a few Seraphs from Heaven."

"It was a disastrous battle for all sides involved." Akeno continued. "Ddraig and Albion were eventually slain and their souls were sealed into Sacred Gears, but the cost was too high. The damages all sides incurred were so great that the war had to be put on hold for several years before they restarted hostilities. If they hadn't enlisted the aid of these two Dragons, perhaps the result would have been very different…for better or for worse."

"I see." Pandora said. "But in that case, Ddraig and Albion should be bearing quite the grudge towards the members of the Three Factions. Are Leon-san and Vali-san going to be alright as their hosts?"

"I don't know, but there doesn't seem to be a problem so far." Rias said. "Perhaps they're magnanimous enough not to blame their current hosts for their circumstances. Or, in the worst-case scenario, they're biding their time, waiting for the moment they can cause the most damage."

"That's a frightening thought…"

Takeshi remarked. At that moment, Yuuto and Xenovia joined the others, with the latter looking more exhausted and battered than the former.

"I can't believe this…" Xenovia grumbled as she took her seat. "I lost a second time in a row. How could you have changed so much in such a short amount of time? Does a Balance Breaker offer that much of a power increase?"

"That's a factor too, but your moves are a little too straightforward, Xenovia." Yuuto said. "I couldn't see it last time with my mind clouded by rage, but it was plain as day now. Still, that strength of yours is the real deal and fitting for a Rook. If I had received even a single blow, I'd have been blown away for sure."

"That doesn't mean much considering I wasn't able to even touch you." Xenovia remarked with a frustrated expression. "How mortifying…"

"Don't sweat it, Xenovia." Takeshi said. "Yuuto is the fastest member of the Gremory Peerage as things stand. Trying to catch him is quite the ordeal. I do wonder how I'd do with my new Balance Breaker plus my Knight Promotion though…"

"Maybe we should try this out at some point later." Yuuto smirked. "But spare me the poison please…"

"No promises." Takeshi grinned as he looked at his cellphone. "It's almost time. We should be getting back, since class visits are today. My parents have been really looking forward to this day."

"I'm sure President here has been looking forward to it as well, ufufu~." Akeno giggled with a sarcastic smile. "The thought of your father and brother watching over you must be making you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, no?"

"Warm and fuzzy aren't the words I'd use to describe my current feelings…" Rias grumbled. "More like annoyance and dread."

Everyone chuckled at Rias's dismayed expression. Next to Takeshi, Xenovia pulled his sleeve, motioning at him to come closer.

"What is it, Xenovia?"

"I forgot to say this before." Xenovia said. "I wanted to apologize for the other day. I didn't consider your feelings at all, and I put very little thought into my actions. Like you suggested…I'll try to think about my future more seriously from now on."

"That's good, but don't forget to enjoy yourself as much as possible in the meantime." Takeshi said, patting her head. "We Devils might live for thousands of years, but youth only comes once in our lives. It would be a waste if we didn't take advantage of it to the fullest."

"I'll keep that in mind." Xenovia said. "Perhaps we could try this bowling sport again. I have a score to settle with you there after all."

"If that's what you want, I'll take you on anytime." Takeshi said. "At some point, I'll bring you to a batting center as well. I've got a feeling you're going to enjoy baseball a lot."

"I'll take your word for it."

Xenovia said with a small smile. The rest of the time passed with small talk between the members of the Occult Research Club. Once they were done, Rias stood up, with the rest of the Peerage following suit.

"Alright, everyone, let's get this day over with." Rias said. "I must greet my father and brother, so I'll meet you all at school."

Everybody nodded as they formed magic circles beneath their feet, teleporting themselves back to their rooms to prepare.

Later…

"There are quite a few people here…"

Pandora remarked once she and Takeshi arrived at school. The courtyard was filled to the brim not only with their fellow high school students and several parents, but also a large number of middle school students escorted by their guardians. The jubilant atmosphere around them was reminiscent of a festival, though the anxious look on the faces of most high school students ruined that impression.

"Apart from everyone's parents, this is a good opportunity for middle school students to observe our classes and get an idea of how things work here." Takeshi said. "Even though Kuoh has an escalator system, not everyone is obligated to follow it. That's why our fellow students, and also teachers I'd bet, are nervous about making a good impression to them and enticing them."

"You don't seem very nervous though."

"Eh, considering what we've been through so far, class visits seem like a minor hurdle at best." Takeshi shrugged. "How are you handling it though? You didn't seem too enthusiastic about it this morning. Is it because of my parents? If so, don't worry about them. It's not like they're going to kick you out of the house if you get a couple of questions wrong or something."

"I'm always worried when there are large crowds around me." Pandora said, edging a bit closer to Takeshi. "I've made progress, but my power is still volatile. If something happens here…"

"Why are you so afraid something is going to happen?" Takeshi said. "If you don't use your Spirit powers consciously, there's little chance they'll leak out. As for your Charm, I'm here, so that won't work either, and you've been practicing with Gin so he can help you restrain it in the worst-case scenario, no? I don't understand why you're so on edge."

"It's not that simple." Pandora said with a melancholic smile. "All my predecessors were the same. When they would think they had attained a normal life, the curse would always lead them to destruction by bending their fate. Usually…by betraying those closest to them…and being abandoned and hunted down by them as a result…"

There was evident sadness in Pandora's eyes as she said that. Coupled with what she had said during their time in the pool, Takeshi could pretty much guess the full meaning behind her words back then. She was afraid that the moment she allowed herself to feel genuine, unrestrained happiness with someone, her curse would bear their fangs at them and cause her to hurt them in an irrevocable manner. In return, that would lead to reprisal that would scar her heart even further.

All these girls…what sort of feelings did they bear as they brought down misfortune upon their loved ones and died while being hated and scorned for something beyond their control? Because some rotten Titan had cursed a distant ancestor for something she was tricked into? Takeshi thought it was the very definition of unfairness. He desperately wanted to reassure Pandora, to persuade her that wouldn't happen with them, but he had a feeling she wouldn't be convinced so easily.

Words are useless here. Takeshi thought. Actions matter. I will show you…that we can both overcome our respective curses and grasp the future, Pandora. I'll make sure of it, I swear.

Takeshi didn't voice his thoughts, opting to squeeze Pandora's hand in a reassuring manner instead. Like this, the two of them entered their class, where most students had already gathered along with a small number of parents.

"Hey, you two." Aika greeted them. "Why the long faces? Did you have a fight? Or are you stressed about class visits?"

"I'm a little anxious." Pandora said. "I've never experienced something like this before, and I kind of don't like large crowds, Kiryuu-san…"

"Just imagine everyone's a vegetable and you'll be fine." Aika said, and then a sly grin appeared on her face. "More importantly, how were my swimsuit choices, Ryuugamine? Very fitting, no? Did you enjoy Pandora-san and Xenovia-san's risqué appearances, hm?"

"As much as I hate myself for admitting it…you did a good job, Kiryuu." Takeshi said while grimacing. "Both of them looked amazing in their respective swimsuits."

"I will accept your gratitude." Aika smirked, and then turned to Pandora. "So, did anything interesting happen after that? Did you follow the strategy I suggested and cornered him when the others weren't looking?"

"Strategy?" Takeshi narrowed his eyes. "What strategy? What kind of weird ideas were you trying to put into Pandora's head this time, Kiryuu?"

"Nothing!" Pandora said in haste. "Don't pay any heed to her, Takeshi. It's just more nonsense on her part. Isn't that right, Kiryuu-san?"

"Sheesh, when did a nice girl like you learn to glare like that…?" Aika grumbled at the stare Pandora was giving her, leaning close to her and whispering. "…You didn't do it then? That was a huge waste of opportunity, Pandora-san. If you had tempted him a little bit like I told you, he'd have pushed you down in record time."

"Push me…no, no, that's not what I wanted…!" Pandora hissed, though her face was somewhat red. "Please, don't make this situation more complicated than it already is…"

As the two girls kept whispering to each other, the rest of the students and a large number of parents entered the classroom. Takeshi caught a glimpse of his own parents somewhere in the back, with Shiori waving at him while Hiroto was busy fiddling with a camera. A short distance away from them was a handsome man with blond hair that was emitting small amounts of demonic power. Takeshi assumed that he was the Gremory servant who was playing the role of Yuuto's father. As for Yuuto himself, he had arrived only a few seconds ago, hurrying to his seat.

At that moment, the English teacher stepped into the class with an enthusiastic expression, carrying a large sack with him. After giving out a brief greeting to everyone, he started distributing a rectangular object wrapped in a bag to the students, much to Takeshi's confusion. Upon taking a closer look at it, he realized it was PVC clay.

This is an English class, isn't it? Takeshi wondered. What in the nine circles of Hell are we supposed to do with PVC clay? I've got a bad feeling about this…

"Everyone, try making something you like with the PVC clay I handed you just now." The teacher said after he was done distributing the clay. "An animal, a person, or a house, anything is fine. Whatever image you're thinking about in your mind right now, try making it into a shape. That sort of English conversation is also there."

Takeshi had to bite back the several retorts that came to his mind at once. How an activity fit for kindergarten students was connected to English, that was something he couldn't for the life of him understand at all.

Then again, that teacher is a bit of weirdo…

Takeshi thought as the teacher spoke again.

"Got it? If so, Let's Try, everyone!"

The Let's Try part had been said in English for some reason. Taking a quick look around, he saw that his fellow students were as confused as him, but had reluctantly started to knead the PVC. Letting out a resigned sigh, Takeshi focused on his clay as he started molding it.

"Oh, Pandora-san is really skilled with it. As expected of an artistic girl, I suppose?"

"Takeshi seems pretty determined as well. I wonder what he's going to be making…is what I would say if I didn't know him so well."

Takeshi heard the voices of his father and mother among the small discussions that had started throughout the class by the people observing, but tuned them out as he focused on his project.

Alright then. Today's Kamen Rider will be…this guy!

Takeshi said as he started working in his clay sculpture with more intensity than before, kneading it with dexterous movements. After working for about fifteen minutes, his work was done, with an almost perfect miniature of Kamen Rider Eternal standing before him in a menacing position while brandishing his personal weapon.

"Oh, this is quite nice, Ryuugamine-kun!" The teacher remarked with an impressed look. "Looks you have a talent for this. Fufu, as expected from me, I was able to draw out a student's full potential once again… Ah, and I see Othrys-san is making quite good progress on her sculpture as well! But I don't think I've seen something like this before…"

Checking out Pandora's work, Takeshi was surprised to see that she was making a replica of his first Balance Breaker, Dead Shore Advent, in a kicking position. Pandora let out an embarrassed smile, mouthing something that Takeshi didn't quite catch. However, he gave her a thumbs-up as he addressed her.

"As the one who wears the armor, it's very accurate." Takeshi whispered to her. "How much for the statue?"

"If you want it, it's all yours." Pandora whispered back. "You were my inspiration after all…"

"Thanks, Pandora." Takeshi smiled at her before turning to Yuuto. "How's it going with you, Yuuto?"

"Not good…" Yuuto groaned, looking at the amorphous pile on his desk. "I think I can safely cross out anything to do with pottery or sculpting from my list of future occupations…"

The rest of the class passed in such a manner. Once the time for lunch break came after a few more classes had ended, Takeshi and Pandora headed for the vending machine to get something to drink, encountering Rias and Akeno there.

"Hey there, Rias, Akeno-san." Takeshi said. "How are class visits so far for you girls?"

"Exhausting and stressful…" Rias let out a tired sigh. "Thank our creator that my father and brother have kept their comments and expressions of adoration to a minimum so far. I'm sure I'm going to hear a lot of gushing when we get home though…"

"Hang in there, Rias." Takeshi said as he started rubbing his girlfriend's shoulders, with Rias letting out a sigh of relief. "We've gone through several classes already, but you know which one was the most…unique so far? English. You want to know why? The teacher had us make figures out of PVC clay for…who knows why."

"Yes, that particular teacher is kind of weird." Akeno said. "Remember last year's class visit, Rias? Where he had us dissect frog corpses in class? This is tame in comparison."

"I'll say…" Pandora said, looking a little disgusted. "At least we're almost there, President. We just need to hang on a little longer, and this day will be behind us."

"That's what I keep telling myself…"

Rias sighed once again. At that moment, the group noticed Yuuto walking towards a certain direction with hurried steps.

"Yo, Yuuto!" Takeshi called out to him. "What's the matter? Why are you in such a rush?"

"Oh, Takeshi, President, Akeno-san and Pandora-san, you're all here?" Yuuto said as he changed directions, heading towards his fellow Devils. "I heard a weird rumor and was heading out to see whether it's true or not."

"Weird rumor?" Rias frowned. "What sort of rumor?"

"Apparently, there's a magical girl doing a photography event in a nearby hallway." Yuuto explained. "That's quite strange, wouldn't you say?"

"Magical girl…?" Rias said, and then her eyes opened wide. "Don't tell me…she also came here? Poor Sona…"

Next to her, Akeno was chuckling for some reason, prompting Pandora and Takeshi to stare at the older girls with a confused look.

"Well, we won't find out anything if we keep standing here." Takeshi said. "Let's go take a look. I'm also curious about this magical girl."

The five Devils started walking, following after the sounds of a crowd in the distance. Entering the school once again, they found out the source of the commotion soon enough. A large number of people had gathered at a corner of a corridor, their cellphones and cameras out as they were taking picture after picture. Weaving through the dense crowd, and using small amounts of demonic power to compel the people to move, Takeshi and the others witnessed a surprising spectacle that made them doubt their own eyes for a few seconds.

"Yes, yes, thank you for all the love~!"

A bona-fide magical girl was standing there, waving at the assembled crowd and striking poses while winking. She was dressed in a pink-colored magical girl outfit, whose skirt was short enough to reveal her panties each time she twirled, and was holding a stick in her left hand that seemed to be glowing. Although she had a childish body, her breasts were quite large, giving her a charming appearance overall. Her black hair was styled in twintails and her blue eyes seemed to be sparkling.

For some reason, she looks familiar…

Takeshi said as he observed her face while also doing his damnedest to not let his gaze drop so as not to agitate the girls next to him. Once Rias got a good look at her, a panicked expression appeared on her face.

"It's really her. How did she find out…!?"

"Ara, ara, looks like we're in for quite the amusing reunion." Akeno grinned. "I can't wait to see Sona's face once she finds out about this, ufufu~."

Before Takeshi could question either of the two girls, raised voices could be heard from behind them.

"Hey, hey, what's all this commotion in the middle of the hallway!?"

The one who had shouted was Genshirou, accompanied by Reya and Tsubasa. The girls of the Student Council started beckoning at people to move away while Genshirou raised his voice again.

"We are members of the Student Council!" Genshirou declared. "All of you, please disperse at once! You're obstructing classroom observation day with your actions! I repeat, please disperse and don't cause any more ruckus!"

Urged by Genshirou's warning and the girls' gestures, the crowd dispersed in a manner of seconds. While Reya and Tsubasa went to stand guard in order to make sure no-one else would approach, Genshirou turned to the magical girl, who was still smiling.

"As for you, are you perhaps a parent or a relative?" Genshirou asked. "Either way, this outfit is no-good. There's a strict dress code in effect, especially for today, you know?"

"Eh, but this is my work uniform~."

The cheerful girl said while still posing. Genshirou let out an annoyed growl, but just as he was about to keep admonishing her, he took note of Rias's group.

"Oh, if it isn't Rias-senpai and the others." Genshirou greeted the group. "Perfect timing. I was guiding your father and brother when we caught wind of this disturbance, and they were looking for you."

Genshirou looked behind him, where Sirzechs and Zeoticus could be seen approaching the group alongside Sona.

"What's the meaning of this, Saji?" Sona said with a stern look. "I thought I told you to handle the issue in a decisive manner befitting—"

"Found you, Sona-chan~!"

Before Sona could finish her sentence, the magical girl rushed to her and started clinging on her with an overjoyed expression, much to Sona's shock. Taking a closer look at the two of them together, Takeshi formed a certain hypothesis.

"Oh, it's you, Serafall." Sirzechs said with a cheerful expression. "You also came here?"

"Serafall…?" Takeshi muttered, and then his eyes opened wide. "Don't tell me…Sona-senpai's older sister!? The Devil King Leviathan-sama!?"

"Eh!?" Genshirou let out a shocked cry. "That's the famous Leviathan-sama!? That's the first time I'm meeting her!"

While Takeshi and Genshirou were busy being shocked, Rias approached Serafall and bowed, accompanied by Akeno.

"Serafall-sama, it's been a long time."

"I hope you're doing well, Serafall-sama."

"Ara, if it isn't Rias-chan and Akeno-chan~." Serafall said while still clinging to her sister, who seemed petrified from shock. "Long time no see~! Are you two doing well~?"

"Yes, more or less…" Rias said in a hesitant manner. "I wasn't informed you would come here as well today."

"Yes, my meanie little Sona-chan told me nothing about class visits~." Serafall pouted. "If it wasn't for Aunty Venelana mentioning it in passing, I would have never known! Geez, Onee-sama here was so shocked when she found out that she was about to attack Heaven~!"

"That's the Devil King responsible for Foreign Affairs…?" Takeshi whispered to Genshirou. "How the Hell are we not at war yet…?"

"Beats me…"

Genshirou shrugged. Then, Rias turned to Takeshi.

"Don't just stand there, Takeshi." Rias said. "You should greet her as well."

"Right, my bad." Takeshi said as he took a step forward and bowed. "It's a pleasure to meet you in person, Leviathan-sama. I'm Ryuugamine Takeshi, Rias Gremory-sama's Pawn. I'll be in your care from now on."

"Nice to meet you~." Serafall made a peace sign while grinning. "I am the Devil King Serafall Leviathan~. Ah, but feel free to call me Levia-tan~!"

"Levia-tan…?"

Takeshi was curious about that, but chose not to pry further so as not be swept up by this overwhelmingly jovial attitude. Serafall squinted her eyes a bit, sizing him up before turning to Sirzechs.

"Hey, hey, Sirzechs-chan, is that him~?" Serafall asked. "The boy that hosts the seven Evil Dragons~?"

"The very same, Serafall." Sirzechs said, apparently not minding the honorific added to his name. "He's also Rias's boyfriend."

"Oh, I see~." Serafall grinned. "He's kind of cute after all~. However, I won't give my precious Sona-chan to you~!"

Serafall said as he squeezed Sona closer to her, with the Student President mumbling something under her breath while her face was growing redder and redder by the second.

"It's good to see you're in good health as always, Serafall." Zeoticus said while observing her outfit. "However, isn't that flashy outfit a bit too much for a woman of your status…?"

"Ara, don't you know, Uncle~?" Serafall said. "This is the current fashion of this country~."

"Oh, is that so?" Zeoticus said. "It looks like I'm lacking information then. It has been quite some time since I last visited Japan after all."

"No, no, don't believe Leviathan-sama so easily, Zeoticus-sama." Takeshi said in haste. "That's definitely not part of our fashion…or rather, that's only the case in a very specialized portion of our population."

"It's as Takeshi-kun says, Father." Sirzechs added from the side. "That's just Serafall's own weird taste."

"Mou, my taste isn't weird, Sirzechs-chan~!"

Serafall complained with a pout. Meanwhile, Takeshi had approached Rias, leaning close to her.

"No offense to your brother, but are all Devil Kings as…free-spirited as Sirzechs-sama and Leviathan-sama are?"

"Unfortunately, yes…" Rias sighed. "Whether it's due to the stress of the job or their personality, all four Devil Kings are very relaxed during their private time. At least they do their job properly when it matters."

Meanwhile, Serafall seemed to have noticed her sister's state and turned to her with an anxious look.

"Sona-chan, what's wrong~? Your face is completely red, you know~? Since it's the long-awaited reunion with your sister, I think it would be better if you were a bit happier~? 'Onee-sama!', 'So-tan!', calling each other like that and embracing in a yuri way, that sort of development is fine with me as well~!"

"S-Sister, I must protest." Sona said with a trembling voice. "This is my school, and I've been entrusted with the position of Student Council President. Even if you are my sister, I cannot approve your bizarre outfit here."

"No way, Sona-chan!" Serafall cried out, tears gathering at the corners of her eyes. "Asking a Magical Girl like Onee-chan to not wear her cute outfit, that's impossible! That's her whole identity, the Magical Girl who eliminates bad Angels and Fallen Angels with this glittering stick~!"

"Sister, be serious here!" Sona protested. "If a Devil King like you 'glitters', you can wipe out a small country many times over!"

"I'm starting to see why Sona-senpai didn't want us calling her sister during the Kokabiel incident…"

"No kidding…" Genshirou sighed. "I had heard before that Leviathan-sama dotes on Student President very much. If she found out that her life was in danger back then, there's no telling how she would have reacted and what might have happened with our relationships with the other factions in that case."

Sona, who seemed to have reached her limit in the meantime, pushed Serafall away, tears gathering her eyes.

"Enough is enough! I can't take it anymore!"

Sona dashed away like a madman, with Serafall in hot pursuit.

"Wait, Sona-chan!" Serafall cried out as she ran. "Don't leave your Onee-chan behind!"

"Please don't follow me!"

"Noooo! Don't abandon your poor Onee-chan, So-taaaaan!"

"How many times have I asked you not to add '-tan' to my name!?"

Once the Sitri sisters disappeared around the corner, Pandora sighed as she spoke.

"I really hope their chase doesn't end with half the school blown up…"

"It shouldn't…probably." Genshirou said with a nervous expression. "But just in case, we should go after them, Kusaka, Yura."

"You got it."

"Lead the way, Saji."

The three members of the Student Council took off, running in the direction of Serafall and Sona.

"Ah, the Sitri family sure is peaceful." Sirzechs said with a smile. "Don't you think so, Ria-tan?"

"Don't you start adding '-tan' to my old pet name, brother."

Rias glared at her brother, with Sirzechs letting out a sigh.

"My dear Ria-tan is getting all cold and distant with her brother…" Sirzechs said with a downcast expression. "Even though you were following me all the time in the past while yelling my name and asking me to play with you. Handling a teenager in their rebellious years is rough…"

"For the name of…why must you always bring up my childhood in the worst moments—!"

At that moment, a camera flashed as Zeoticus took a picture of Rias's furious expression, a satisfied smile on his face.

"Yes, this is a good face indeed, Rias." Zeoticus remarked. "Really brings out your fiery and energetic attitude. Ah, you sure have grown well. I can't wait to show all this to Venelana, who was unable to come today."

"Don't you start as well, Father!"

Rias complained while Akeno laughed from the side as she turned to Takeshi.

"Quite the amusing show." Akeno said. "Don't you think so as well, Takeshi-kun?"

"Well, I can't help but admit this is a little funny." Takeshi grinned. "Does the same thing happen in the other Devil Kings' households?"

"I know that the other Devil Kings have their quirks as well, but as for their younger family members…" Akeno's expression darkened a bit. "Let's just say that some of them aren't as reputable and serious as President and Student President."

Takeshi was curious about that, but at that moment, his parents approached him.

"Oh, there you are, Takeshi." Hiroto said. "We've been looking everywhere for you."

"I see Sirzechs-san is here as well." Shiori said. "That means the gentleman over there is…"

"I am Rias's father, Zeoticus Gremory." Zeoticus greeted Takeshi's parents with a smile. "You must be Takeshi-kun's parents. It's a pleasure to meet you in person."

"The pleasure is all ours." Hiroto said as he shook Zeoticus's hand. "I'm starting to see why Rias-san is such a wonderful girl. It's only natural since her father and older brother give off such a noble atmosphere."

"Your words honor me." Zeoticus smiled. "Rias is my pride and joy, and so is Sirzechs."

"We understand how you feel on that regard." Shiori smiled. "Takeshi is our pride and joy as well, the most precious person in our life and our greatest accomplishment."

"Gushing over our children is all good and well, but I think we're embarrassing them." Zeoticus said upon taking notice of Rias and Takeshi's red faces. "Truth be told, I wanted to have a private talk with you for a while now, so this is a good opportunity since my work keeps me very busy most of the time. Yuuto-kun, could you lead us to a more private area?"

"Of course." Yuuto said. "Please, follow me."

"Sirzechs, I'm leaving the rest to you." Zeoticus said. "Rias, Ryuugamine Takeshi-kun, we'll be back once we talk for a bit. Don't worry, it's not anything serious."

"We'll be back soon, Takeshi."

Hiroto said as he, Shiori and Zeoticus followed after Yuuto. Then, Sirzechs turned to Rias with a serious expression on his face.

"Rias, there is something important I need to talk to you about as well." Sirzechs said. "Akeno-kun, I think it would be best if you joined us as well. Is that alright, you two?"

"Of course, brother."

"As you command."

"Sorry for leaving you here on your own, you two." Sirzechs said to Takeshi and Pandora. "But this won't take long, I promise."

"You don't have to apologize." Takeshi said. "Just do what you have to do."

Sirzechs nodded as he, Rias and Akeno took their leave, leaving Takeshi and Pandora alone.

"What was that all about?"

"I don't know, but there's no use troubling ourselves over it." Takeshi said to Pandora. "We'll find out when we find out, I guess. Come on, let's get back to class."

Takeshi said as he and Pandora returned to their classroom.

At the Ryuugamine residence…

"Hm, looking good there, Takeshi! As expected from one of the top scorers!"

"Well done, Pandora-san! That was a difficult question, and yet you answered it without missing a beat!"

"Really, watching a daughter's growth is a feeling that cannot be described with words!"

"You said it, father! Oh, Ria-tan is raising her hand to answer the teacher's question there! So adorable as always!"

In the living room, Hiroto, Shiori, Zeoticus and Sirzechs were busy praising Takeshi, Pandora and Rias for their performance with high tension while drinking sake. Grayfia was standing in the back, observing the scene and pouring the sake with her usual impassive expression, though a sigh could be heard coming from her at times.

As for the three youths themselves, Takeshi was doing his best to hold himself together and endure his embarrassment for the sake of Rias and Pandora. The former had dived into Takeshi's embrace, burying her head in his chest and groaning, while the latter had sneaked closer to him, her face beet red as she grabbed his shoulder with trembling hands. It was a stark contrast to the merry atmosphere surrounding the adults.

"Hell…" Rias mumbled. "This is…a Hell the likes of which has never been seen before."

"I understand President's feelings very well…" Pandora muttered. "I think I'd rather be back in prison or in the hidden village instead of suffering through this agony…"

"Patience, you two." Takeshi said. "It's almost over. Hang in there just a little longer…"

After almost half an hour of being subjected to this embarrassment, the videos both families had recorded were finally over, much to the relief of the ones featuring in them. After downing his cup of sake, Zeoticus spoke.

"That was certainly very entertaining." Zeoticus remarked. "Nothing quite like reliving such important moments in your child's life. You know, perhaps we should watch their performance once more."

[No!]

Takeshi, Rias and Pandora shouted together as one, prompting Hiroto to chuckle.

"I think we've tortured our children enough for one day." Hiroto said. "How about we step to the dining room for some more grown-up talk, and let the kids relax?"

"I won't argue with that." Zeoticus smiled. "Especially if there is more of this sake. It has been a long time since I've had something this delectable."

"In that case, you've come to the right place, Zeoticus-san."

Hiroto grinned as he led Zeoticus to the dining room. Once the older figures had left the room, Rias breathed a sigh of relief as she detached herself from Takeshi, with Pandora doing the same.

"Thank all Gods above and below this is over…" Rias said. "I knew it would be a harsh experience, but nothing had prepared me for this. Honestly, if you weren't here as well, Takeshi, I would have made a run for it long ago."

"Same here." Pandora said. "Although…it was a little satisfying being praised for your good performance. A welcome change from being feared and scorned…"

"Can't argue with that." Takeshi said before turning to Rias. "So, what did Sirzechs-sama want with you and Akeno-san back at school, Rias? Or is it something confidential?"

"No, and in fact, it's something that affects all of us." Rias said. "To be more specific, my brother brought us a warning, a reward and an order. The warning is in regards to Lord Vassago's betrayal that allowed Kokabiel to infiltrate Kuoh. He was sentenced to death by the Assembly and his sentence was carried out three days ago. However, he wasn't the only Devil working with Grigori's rogues. His faction might hold a grudge towards us for spoiling their plans, which is why my brother wants us to keep our eyes and ears open just in case."

"As if the enemies from outside weren't enough…" Pandora sighed. "What about the reward?"

"Thanks to our exemplary performance against the Fallen Angel Kokabiel and his cronies, the penalty we received in the past from the Assembly regarding our rewards from the Devils' Job has been removed." Rias said. "Of course, that means all profits earned from our contracts will be given to us in full once again. Oh, but that doesn't mean your punishment is over, Takeshi."

"Naturally." Takeshi said. "Even so, I'm glad we're almost back to normal."

"As for the order, with the approval of the other three Devil Kings and a large portion of the Assembly, I've been ordered to release the seal on my Bishop."

"Your Bishop…?" Pandora frowned. "That mysterious club member I've heard about in passing, but never seen around?"

"The very same." Rias said. "That child's power was uncontrollable when I first reincarnated him, which was why it was deemed too dangerous and the higher-ups demanded that their movements be restricted in order to avoid collateral damage. However, since Takeshi unlocked three Balance Breakers so far and Yuuto unlocked his irregular Balance Breaker, they believe I might be able to control them now."

"How does that even work?" Takeshi frowned. "No offense, Rias, but I don't see how our efforts in unlocking our Balance Breakers suddenly make you more qualified to control a previously uncontrollable ability."

"The exploits of a Reincarnated Devil are always attributed to their master's guidance." Rias said. "It's unfair, I know, but there's not anything we can do about it right now. Since I'm not confident about helping that child on my own, I'll be counting on everyone's help for this."

"I think I speak for everyone when I say we'll do the best we can." Takeshi said. "However, we need some more information about that matter first."

"I'll tell you everything tomorrow when we lift the seal." Rias promised. "Tonight, I just want to rest and forget this nightmarish day…"

"Ditto." Pandora said. "I'll be going to sleep first. Good night, President, Takeshi."

"Pleasant dreams, Pandora."

"I'll see you tomorrow."

Once Pandora was gone, Rias turned to Takeshi and spoke.

"We should probably retire as well. Judging from the noise coming from your dining room, your parents and my family are going to be at it for quite some time."

"It does sound like that." Takeshi chuckled upon hearing the enthusiastic cheers and laughter coming from the kitchen. "All things considered, I'm glad my family is getting along with yours. I just hope they don't get carried away too much and decide on our engagement or something."

"Would it be that bad?" Rias asked with upturned eyes. "Is the thought of you being engaged to me disturbing?"

"Disturbing? No. Too soon? Yes." Takeshi said. "Besides, you just got out of one engagement, and you want to rush into a second one already?"

"I wouldn't mind it if it's you." Rias said with a gentle smile. "You're someone who genuinely cares for me after all. While I agree that it is a bit too soon, there's also tradition to consider. I can see my mother demanding from us to make our relationship official to some degree in order to appease the rest of the family."

"We'll cross that bridge when we get to it." Takeshi said. "For now, we should sleep. Like you said before, I want this long day to be over sooner rather than later."

"Are you sure you want us to just sleep?" Rias let out a sly smirk, her finger tracing Takeshi's chest. "I know what I just said, but having some, ahem, productive time together is rather appealing…"

"While what you're implying sounds very tempting, your family is still here." Takeshi pointed out. "No matter how much they like or tolerate me, I'm not shameless enough to have sex with you while they're on the floor below us."

"…I'll say. President should learn some restraint."

Takeshi and Rias were startled by the sudden appearance of Koneko, who was sitting on the couch next to them with a small smile on her face.

"Impressive, Koneko." Rias praised her servant. "I didn't even notice your approach. Have you been practicing your stealth skills?"

"…Among other things." Koneko said. "Don't worry, Takeshi-senpai's parents didn't see me."

"What brings you here, Koneko-chan?" Takeshi asked. "It's not your turn tonight, is it?"

"…No, but I figured Takeshi-senpai could use some extra Senjutsu treatment." Koneko said. "You hide it well, but I noticed you were in pain when you joined us for breakfast this morning."

"I was found out, huh…?" Takeshi rubbed his neck with a strained smile. "There is some soreness and pain, but it's nothing I can't handle. I was going to come to you or Akeno-san if my condition became worse."

"…You should always come to us regardless of how bad your condition is." Koneko said. "There's no need for you to suffer when we can help you. If by any chance you think you're troubling us by relying on us, I'll get angry."

"What Koneko said." Rias nodded. "Sheesh, these are the only times when you're a slow learner for some reason…"

"Old habits die really hard, I suppose." Takeshi chuckled. "You ladies will have to be a little more patient with me in that regard. Sorry, but it seems we'll have to change tonight's arrangement, Rias. Oh, unless you don't have a problem with all three of us sleeping together in the same bed?"

"I don't really mind." Rias said. "Your health comes first, but I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't be sad if I didn't get to sleep next to you as planned."

"Then, it's settled." Takeshi said. "Now then, let's go and lie down, you two. I'll be counting on you for today's treatment, Koneko-chan."

"…Yes, leave it to me."

Koneko said as she, Rias and Takeshi headed upstairs towards the latter's room.

The next day…

"You know, when you said seal, I imagined something a little more…complex than that."

Takeshi remarked. He and the rest of the Occult Research Club members were standing outside a classroom on the ground floor, whose door was covered in yellow tape with 'Keep Out' written on it. Several seals were also engraved on the door, but none of them were as complex or extraordinarily powerful as one might imagine.

"There was no need for anything more sophisticated than that." Rias said. "That child isn't imprisoned after all. They are free to roam around the old school building and the grounds around it during the night when no normal humans are present, but that child refuses to do even that due to their disposition."

"Disposition?" Pandora tilted her head to the side. "Is that fellow a…how do you call it here…oh, yes, a shut-in?"

"That's right…" Rias sighed as Yuuto was busy removing the tape while Akeno worked on the seals. "That child went through some rough experiences in the past, so they turned out like this. They even refuse to go out for contracts."

"Seriously?" Takeshi said. "In that case, how do they work? Or are they exempt from the Devils' Job?"

"No, this child simply accepts and fulfils contracts through a computer." Rias explained. "There are many customers who feel uneasy talking face-to-face with a Devil, so this child's method is ideal for them. In fact, they're so successful with this method that they're among the biggest earners when it comes to new Reincarnated Devils who are using the same method. When it comes to this Peerage alone, they're ahead of you all."

"I'm beaten by a fellow who doesn't even meet their clients?" Takeshi frowned. "Looks like I have to put even more effort into my work."

"And…done." Akeno remarked as every seal on the door. "We're ready here, President."

"Excellent." Rias said as she knocked at the door. "Gasper? It's me, Rias. We're coming in."

After Rias said so, she opened the door. But at that moment—

"Noooooooooo!"

A shrill scream echoed in the dimly lit classroom, causing everyone to wince. Though it sounded like a girl's scream, Takeshi couldn't tell for sure. Seemingly unaffected, Rias stepped into the classroom, followed by Akeno.

"Good day to you, Gasper." Rias greeted the occupant of the room. "You sound very energetic."

"W-W-Whyyyyyy!?" Gasper shrieked. "Howwww!?"

"Ara, ara, haven't you heard the good news?" Akeno said. "The seal has been removed, which means you're free now. Come, let's head outside for some fresh air, yes?"

"Noooooo!" Gasper shouted. "This place is fine! I don't want to go outside! I don't want to meet any scary peopleeeeee!"

"Wow, it sounds really bad." Takeshi remarked as he, Pandora and Xenovia exchanged glances. "Just how much of a shut-in is this Gasper…?"

"…Hasn't changed a bit."

"This is nostalgic, but also kind of painful…"

Koneko and Yuuto remarked with bitter smiles as they sighed. Stepping inside as well, Takeshi looked around. The dark room was more or less clean, with several stuffed dolls and cute accessories placed around it. It seemed like a room fit for a young girl, but only if one didn't consider the large coffin placed in one corner, which gave off a sense of dread.

Looking past Rias and Akeno, Takeshi spotted the sole occupant of the room. Said person appeared to be a girl that was slightly younger than him, had platinum blond hair, red eyes, pointed ears and a doll-like appearance. She was dressed in Kuoh Academy's female student uniform, and she was shaking like a leaf, looking like she wanted nothing more than to escape from Rias and Akeno.

"A girl?" Takeshi wondered. "She's your Bishop, President?"

"That is indeed my Bishop, but despite appearances, Gasper is not a girl." Rias smiled. "He's a boy."

Takeshi fell silent, a shocked expression on his face as he struggled to process Rias's words.

"…You're…you're kidding me, right?" Takeshi said, pointing at Gasper. "Because no matter how I look at it, that's a bona-fide girl over there. Height, appearance, outfit, voice, everything's a perfect match."

"Like President said, Gasper is a boy." Akeno said. "He just has a habit of dressing in women's clothes."

"A…habit?" Takeshi frowned, looking even more perplexed. "Why? What's the point of wearing girls' clothes if you're stuck in here all the time?"

"B-Because they're super cute…" Gasper said. "And because, t-they hold important m-memories…"

"…Yeah, I still don't get it."

Takeshi said with a bemused expression. Gasper pointed at him, Pandora and Xenovia with a trembling finger.

"W-Who are all these p-people…?"

"Right, introductions first." Rias said, gesturing at the three youths. "These are the members who joined after you, Gasper. This is Ryuugamine Takeshi, my Pawn, Xenovia, my second Rook, and Pandora Othrys, my second Knight."

"Eeeek, t-the members increased by a looooot!"

Gasper shrieked in terror as he retreated further back into his room.

"Does he perhaps have anthropophobia or something?" Pandora said. "Either way, this looks pretty serious…"

"Gasper, it's alright." Rias said, extending her hand. "Like Akeno said, there's no need for you to be stuck in this room anymore. Please, can we go out, even for just a bit?"

"Noooooo!" Gasper wailed. "That's impossible, impossibleeeee! I'm scared! E-Even if I go outside, it will only cause trouble for othersssss!"

"Trouble?" Takeshi said as he stepped closer. "What are you talking about?"

"Hiiiiiii!" Gasper panicked upon seeing Takeshi approaching him. "S-Stay back!"

Suddenly, Gasper's eyes shone. As if responding to that, Cataclysm Zone also manifested, letting out a fierce glow of its own as Takeshi felt a tingling sensation all over his body. Looking around, he was surprised to see that everyone else looked like they had frozen in place. Meanwhile, the perpetrator was staring at Takeshi with a mix of curiosity and shock.

"Y-You…" Gasper muttered. "You aren't frozen…?"

"Frozen?" Takeshi narrowed his eyes. "Did you do this? Is this your ability?"

"I-I'm sorryyyyyy!" Gasper wailed, his whole body shivering as he retreated to one of the room's corners. "Please don't get angry! Please don't hit meeeeee!"

Takeshi frowned at that. Judging from his attitude, it was obvious that Gasper had been abused to some extent in the past.

"It's alright." Takeshi made a placating gesture as he took a tentative step closer. "Everything is fine. I'm not angry at you, and I definitely won't hit you. That's why, can you return everyone back to normal?"

"I-I can't." Gasper said with a fearful expression, his eyes having become swollen and red. "M-My power…I can't control it at all. B-But it will stop on its own."

Right on cue, the other members unfroze all of a sudden. While Rias, Akeno, Koneko and Yuuto let out a sigh, Pandora and Xenovia were looking around in confusion.

"What just happened? Why's Gasper-san shivering in the corner and why's Takeshi over there?"

"It feels like some sort of power was affecting me…"

"Takeshi-kun, weren't you frozen?" Yuuto said, glancing at Cataclysm Zone. "Did your Sacred Gear protect you?"

"Looks like it." Takeshi said. "Its passive abnormal condition resistance must have been triggered. So, anyone mind explaining what was that just now? Gasper-kun's eyes shone, and everyone became as still as a statue, almost like…"

"Almost like we were frozen in time?" Akeno completed Takeshi's sentence. "That's exactly it. Gasper's Sacred Gear allows him to stop the time of everything in his line of sight for a fixed interval whenever his emotions run high."

"Seriously?" Takeshi looked astonished. "The power to stop time? One of the most powerful abilties available, and this scaredy-cat crossdresser of all people has it?"

"It's not as sweet of a deal as it sounds." Akeno said. "His Sacred Gear strains his eyesight after each use, meaning he can't use in succession. Plus, like you witnessed just now, he has very little control over it. That's why the Devil Kings, the Assembly and the Archduke insisted that he be sealed when President reincarnated him."

"Makes sense." Pandora said. "That power is a ticking time bomb if it's let loose without restrictions. I shudder to think how many accidents would happen in Kuoh alone. Then again, I'm not one to talk when it comes to being a walking hazard…"

Meanwhile, Rias had moved next to the trembling Gasper, hugging him in order to calm him down.

"Allow me to introduce him formally to you newcomers." Rias said. "This boy is Gasper Vladi, my Bishop and a first-year student in Kuoh Academy. He is the possessor of Forbidden Balor View, and before being reincarnated, he was a Dhampir."

Gasper said nothing in response, blowing his nose in an embroidered handkerchief.

"Dhampir…?"

Takeshi wondered as Rias spoke again.

"This place is a bit too stuffy for all of us." Rias said. "We should resume this conversation in the clubroom. Will you come with us, Gasper?"

"N-No wayyyyyy!" Gasper shrieked. "This room is my safe haven! Everything outside of it is dangerousssssss!"

"This is really bad…" Pandora said. "We're not going to make any progress if we can't even get him to move around the building."

"…How about this then?" Koneko said, lifting a cardboard box and placing it in front of Gasper. "If we place you in here, you won't have to look outside, Gya-kun."

"No, no, there's no way that'll—"

Takeshi's voice trailed off upon seeing Gasper dash into the cardboard box, letting out a sigh of relief once he was inside and had closed the top.

"And here I thought I'd seen everything… The world is a big place."

Takeshi remarked with a sigh as Koneko picked up the cardboard box, with the Occult Research Club making their way back to their clubroom.

This concludes Chapter 28. First, in response to your questions.

—To Ryukipendragon: Crom Cruach's Balance Breaker, which combines the power of all Evil Dragons, surpasses the power of DxD mode and can even surpass the Trimurti in its perfected form. Of course, it's going to take a long time for Takeshi before he's able to bring out its full power.

Since I'm in the downtime between chemo cycles, I was able to squeeze this chapter out. Among other things, I offered my own explanation about how Ddraig and Albion were sealed by having them be active participants in the Great War. I wasn't really satisfied with the canon 'explanation' that they somehow of all places started fighting in the same area the Three Factions were having their war, hence the altered reason here. Gasper has also been introduced at last, with his Forbidden Balor View having an additional demerit here in order to balance it out a bit more.

Well, that's all for now. As always, please read, review, favorite, follow, but most of all, enjoy!

See you all next time!