Thank you for your interest in the series! If you'd like to contribute by writing to me, please don't forget to comment. In this latest installment, our hero, the 'Red Dragon Emperor,' undergoes a transformative awakening. Let's dive into the exciting developments that await him!

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Chapter 5

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Believe me, I'm stunned by what's happening to me right now. I've become the new Red Dragon Emperor of the 21st century, and I can't find the words to describe it. My left arm has almost transformed into something beyond human, and I'm hoping it won't stay this way forever. It's hard to figure out how to explain this situation to people, so I turn to my dragon companion.

"Listen to me a minute, Ddraig?"

{I am listening.}

"Will my arm return to its original state?"

Ddraig understands my concern.

{Don't worry! Just focus on the disappearance of the Sacred Gear, and your arm will return to normal.}

I follow his guidance, and the dragon arm vanishes, leaving my left arm human once more. This is how the Sacred Gear works, it seems.

With that resolved, I turn my attention to understanding this "Sacred Gear".

"Alright, Ddraig! Tell me, what does this 'Sacred Gear' do? Does it have a special name? You mentioned 'Boosted Gear,' is that its name?"

Ddraig explains:

{You're quite attentive, partner. This Sacred Gear is called the Boosted Gear, also known as the 'Red Dragon Emperor's Gaunlet'.}

"That's quite a createful name. But... I'll stick with 'Boosted Gear' for now."

{As you wish. The main property of Boosted Gear, which is my special ability, is 'Boost.' This ability allows you to double your power every 10 seconds.}

I seek clarification:

"How does that work?"

{Let me give you an example. When you punch someone with your bare hands, you only pack a normal punch. But with the Boost ability, you make your punch twice as powerful.}

"So, I could potentially break someone's bones with a single punch?"

Ddraig responds with a hint of amusement:

{Exactly... You could say that.}

"That's incredible! Without controlling it, I could seriously hurt someone. You're quite the fearful entity, Ddraig."

Ddraig chuckles:

{HA HA HA HA... This is just the beginning! With more effort, you can even enhance your abilities using Boosted Gear. It all depends on your ambition.}

His words pique my interest. However, such power surely comes with a cost, right? If you keep increasing your strength endlessly, there must be consequences. I should ask about that.

"Ddraig, what happens if I use the Boost skill continuously? I think that the human body can't handle such extreme power levels."

Ddraig acknowledges my logical thinking:

{Well done, partner. You're paying attention. You're right; endurance is very important when using this ability.}

I'm starting slowly to grasp the concept. If I overextend myself, my body could give out. There's a limit to what it can handle my body. It looks like I'll need to step up my daily physical training. If I can learn to harness Boosted Gear properly, I can protect myself and those around me. Tough training days lie ahead, but no problem, I'm up for the challenge.

"It seems like I'll need to ramp up my daily workouts. I hope you'll assist me, partner."

Ddraig appreciates my ambition:

{HA HA HA HA... That's the spirit! If you remain resolute, it won't be long before you achieve the Balance Breaker.}

One more curiosity arises. I can't help but ask:

"The Balance Breaker? What's that?"

{It's not the right time for that discussion. I'll explain when the time comes. For now, get some rest. Tomorrow will be a challenging day.}

Classic Ddraig, always avoiding my questions. If it's not the right time, why leave me in suspense? But I trust that there's a reason for it. I should prepare my things; I have an early morning ahead of me. Intensive training awaits.

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(Rias Gremory's POV)

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While going through some documents in the club room, I felt an incredibly powerful mana wave. It was intense and destructive, and it suddenly vanished. The force was so potent that my body was still trembling. The source of this mana had to be very close. I'm sure my loyal servants felt it too. The door to the room opens, and Akeno enters.

"Rias, did you feel that?"

"Yes, I'm still shaking. It was incredibly strong."

"Could it be this like mana?"

"I don't know, but it was dangerously close to the school."

"So, what should we do?"

I can't let someone with such immense power go unchecked in my territory. I'm responsible for this area, and no one should flaunt their power without my knowledge. I must locate the source of this mana.

"Let's immediately dispatch our scouts around the school. If we detect any abnormal power fluctuations in the vicinity, we'll intervene. Someone with that kind of power could be a significant threat."

"Understood!"

Now, we'll see whether this powerful source of mana is a friend or a foe.

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(Halil Bozkurt POV)

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I can't help but wonder how I ended up with such incredible power. I mean, I'm just an ordinary person. Why does a fearsome like Ddraig a dragon have a connection with me? The information in the book is still eluding me. Ddraig mentioned that the Sacred Gear I possess might attract the attention of certain individuals. Since I've only just begun tapping into this power, I might have inadvertently drawn some attention. I think I should discuss this with Ddraig; I want any unexpected trouble in the middle of the night. I bring my left arm closer to me and address Ddraig:

"Hey, Ddraig! Are you still awake?"

A green light blinks on my left hand, indicating his presence.

{What happened? What's on your mind?}

"I awakened your power, didn't I?"

{Yes, you did.}

"Could I have attracted someone's attention? You mentioned that possibility. Is it true?"

Ddraig reassures me in a relaxed tone:

{Don't need to worry, partner. You were right in your initial thought, when you tapped into my power the Boosted Gear sent out a signal that might have caught the attention of some entities. However, I've already stabilized your mana, so it shouldn't be a problem.}

Finally, some relief washes over me. I don't want to cause any unnecessary trouble moment, especially on my first day. I express my gratitude to Ddraig.

"Thank you for clarifying that. I wouldn't want to be a magnet for trouble. Now, I can get some rest."

I need to prepare for tomorrow; I have an early start ahead of me. Tough training days are on the horizon, but I'm determined to face them head-on. Sleep well!

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(Rias Gremory POV)

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I'm still investigating the source of that mysterious power around the school – an instant surge of mana that vanished just as quickly. I can't help but wonder where it came from and who possesses it. The number of mysteries keeps piling up. Firstly, Halil Bozkurt who male student fainted at school, and now this powerful mana suddenly disappears. It all leads me to think back to when I first met Halil; there was an unusual mana about him. Could they be connected somehow? I need to find out. Where does he live? It's time to pay a visit.

Checking the school records, I discovered that he's staying in a student apartment allocated for scholarship recipients, not far from the school. This only strengthens my suspicions. Since our encounter today, he hasn't left my mind. My curiosity is driving me wild, and if I don't investigate, it won't let me rest. I just hope he's still asleep.

As I leave the room, Akeno asks:

"Rias, where are you going? Still no news from the scouts."

"I have to check on someone."

"Well... who is this?"

"It doesn't matter, just my curiosity."

Akeno, amused, teases me with a mischievous expression.

"Can you explain this curious situation to me, too?"

I chuckle and respond:

"There's nothing to explain, Akeno. And this time you can't provoke me."

"ARARARA... You're no fun." she playfully sighs.

Nevertheless, I find myself being teleported to Halil's apartment. Taking in his small room, I can't help but feel a pang of guilt for invading his privacy like this. But I need answers. I notice Halil's face, tense and sweaty. Is he caught in a nightmare? He's muttering something, and I strain my ears to listen.

"Don't go, Risa! Every moment without you is like poison to me. Don't leave me alone in this life!"

Tears well up in his eyes. I wonder who Risa is; she must be incredibly important to him. Is she his girlfriend? Did she leave him? Halil mentioned her name before he fainted. I gently wipe the sweat from his forehead with a towel. He's drenched. I hope he doesn't fall ill.

After cleaning him up, he grabs my wrist, his voice trembling as he pleads:

"Please don't go! Stay with me a little longer!"

I'm torn. I shouldn't be here, but I can't bear to leave him like this. From our conversation earlier today maybe I should stay with him a while longer. Really... what am I even doing here? I had initially come to investigate, but now I find myself lying beside him. As I do, a serene expression spreads across his face. I can't help but keep my gaze on him. There's something about him for me, even though we're not in a couple. Really... he has possessed a charm that draws women in. I think I know why my mother got so close to him.

Lost in thought, Halil whispers in my ear:

"Thank you."

What was my original intention here? What do I am doing now? I'm clear that solving the mystery of Halil won't be easy. But right now, not much problem. I want to get to know him better when to unravel the secret that is Halil. I hope he can get some rest now.

Before leaving, I decided to do one last thing. If he were my servant, how many evil pieces?

Summoning my chess pieces means the Evil Pieces from my magic circle, I wait for a reaction then him. The Knight remains unresponsive, and neither does the Rook. It seems he doesn't possess that level of power. Perhaps the Pawn will be more fitting for him.

I feel a pang of disappointment, but it doesn't matter. This is all just out of curiosity. Finally, I gaze at the "Pawn" pieces. Wait, am I seeing this correctly? All Pawns are reacting to him. Is that why he unreacted to the other chess pieces?

"You... are a very unique person, Halil. To be equal to 8 pieces of Pawn is almost like being... the Queen."

I never anticipated this. Maybe you could be a savior sent to me. I won't force you, but I hope you choose to be with me. I'll do everything in my power to assist you, even if you don't join me. I swear on my honor as Rias Gremory.

With a smile on my face, I exit his room and return to the club room.

"Why are you smiling, Rias?" Akeno asks.

I maintain my smile, replying:

"Nothing, it just came a funny thing to me."

Perhaps you're the one destined to be a part of my life, Halil. Who knows?

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(Halil Bozkurt POV)

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It's 4:00 in the morning, and it's time for my exercise routine with Ddraig. I had a nightmare, the same one that haunts me, the one that reminds me of Risa, the girl who left me in this world. But something strange happened this time. Amidst the fear and anger, there was an oddly comforting sensation, as if Risa's presence was there to console me.

I snap back to reality as Ddraig calls out to me:

{How do you feel, partner? Did you sleep well?}

"First, I had a nightmare, but then I felt strangely relieved, a relief I've been needing for a long time."

{I see. Well, that's good for you.}

"It's been a while since I had such a restful sleep."

{Alright then! Are you ready? Time is of the essence, so the sooner we start, the better progress we'll make.}

"Let's get started!"

Fast forward to 5:30 AM, and I've been running through the deserted city streets since leaving my room. The cold weather doesn't deter me, and I'm aware that anyone who sees me might wonder why I'm out at this hour. But I can't afford to stop; I need to increase my strength, so I keep running.

After about an hour and a half, I take a seat on a park bench, considering my warm-up complete. It's time to move on to push-ups, shuttles, and other exercises. I asked Ddraig for guidance on my next steps:

"Alright, Partner, how should I proceed with the exercises now?"

{Don't push yourself too hard. Overdoing it will only lead to injury. Stick to your usual form, but this time, aim for 150 push-ups instead of 100. We'll gradually increase the intensity.}

"So, we'll take it step by step. When do I use Boosted Gear? I'd like to know how much Boost I can handle," I inquire.

{For now, our focus is on building your resilience.}

"Alright, then I'll start with the push-ups."

As a tip, I recommend running a bit before starting your workout to get your blood flowing and muscles warmed up. Ddraig insisted I do some extra running today for my leg muscles, and I trust his guidance; he's my training coach now.

At some point during our training, Ddraig surprised me with an unexpected question:

{Partner, I have something to ask, and I expect an honest answer.}

"What is it?"

{What do you think of that red-haired girl?}

I'm caught off guard and fall to the ground in surprise. I didn't expect him to bring up Rias, and his subsequent laughter only intensified my embarrassment:

"What are you saying? What's that got to do with anything?" I stammer.

Ddraig continues to tease:

{Come on, partner! You can be honest with me.}

"Alright, fine! It's only been a day since I met her. How could you jump to such a conclusion?"

I retort, my face still flushed. Ddraig persists:

{Why did your face turn red then?}

I struggle to find an answer. Why did Rias affect me so quickly when I barely knew her? Why does she stir up emotions within me?

"Well... maybe, I can't explain it right now, Ddraig. But... I don't know. There is a little my fallen for her, maybe."

Ddraig, in a more serious tone, suggests:

{She reminds you of your late girlfriend, doesn't she?}

"Huh?"

I react in astonishment. I never expected Ddraig to be so perceptive. His words leave me speechless. Ddraig continues:

{I may be a wild creature in your eyes, but I think you need now to confront your past. Maybe, it's not easy, but now isn't it time to start a new chapter in your life?}

I'm moved by his words and reply:

"I don't think I'm ready to start anew, Ddraig. I am not forgetting to Risa. So... it's not that simple situation for me."

Ddraig imparts some wisdom:

{I'm not saying you should forget your all past entirely, Partner. But dwelling on you won't make you stronger at any time.}

"Maybe... you're right, but isn't it a bit late to start over for me?"

{It's never too late. Start a clean slate today for you! Don't forget Risa, but get to meet Rias and other new people. I'm sure... that's how you'll grow stronger than last time ago.}

I appreciate his guidance and say:

"Thank you, Ddraig, for being there for me."

{Always, Partner! Maybe... this girl can bring a glimmer of hope into your new life. So... don't let that light go out.}

"Thank you for your wise words. But there's something I'd like to ask."

{Of course, what's on your mind?}

"Why did you bring up Rias to me?"

I ask, curious about his intentions. Ddraig bursts into laughter and admits:

{PFF... I was just curious to see your reaction.}

"HA HA HA... quite the comedian, aren't you? I should've expected already that from an overgrown lizard."

Ddraig continues to tease:

{But didn't it motivate you, Partner?}

"Well... I can't deny that. But I'll pay you back for this!"

Despite his occasional teasing, Ddraig understands me well, and it's reassuring to have someone to confide in. With our conversation lightening up, we finish our training for the day.

I head home, shower, and then make my way to school, as Ddraig suggested. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life, and my first goal is to get to know Rias better. I don't know why, but being close to her fills me with hope.

As I finish my morning classes and leave the classroom, some girls from my class inquire:

"Bozkurt-kun! Where are you going?"

I respond with a smile:

"I've joined a school club. I'm heading there now."

Curiosity piques their interest, and they ask:

"Which club?"

Without hesitation, I reply:

"The Occult Research Club."

Their reactions are immediate, "WHAT?"

Questions and jealous remarks follow:

"How did you manage to join? No one has succeeded in that."

"Do you have a connection with Rias-onee-sama?"

"Are you dating Rias-sempai or Akeno-sempai?"

"I'm so jealous!"

I better do a quick escape before they overwhelm me.

"Well... See you later!"

I say, escaping from the classroom while some of the guys yell my back:

"Don't run, man!"

With some difficulty, I make my way to the schoolyard. If Rias and Akeno have this much influence in school, I need to be very cautious.

I stand at the door of the old school building, the home of the Occult Research Club. This is my new starting point, and I knock on the door. Akeno greets me with her beautiful smile:

"Welcome back, Halil-kun! Our other club members are waiting for you."

I nod in response and follow her into the room. Inside, I see two distinct individuals seated there—a handsome blond boy and a petite girl with white hair. They're both well-known figures at school, just like Rias and Akeno. I finally understand why my classmates bombarded me with questions earlier. Is this club for celebrities or what?

I start the conversation, trying to lighten the mood:

"I thought I stumbled into a zombie movie back in the classroom. They nearly tore me apart. Rias, I think you might have given the club the wrong name. Instead of the 'Research Club,' it should be called the 'School Megastars Club'."

They all share a chuckle, and the blond boy says:

"It seems we have a pretty amusing new member."

Rias chimes in, "Alright! Then, the two of you, please introduce yourselves to our new member."

The blond boy speaks first, "I'm Kiba Yuuto, a second-year student at Kuoh Academy. It's a pleasure to meet you."

The petite girl follows, "My name is Koneko Toujou, a first-year student at Kuoh Academy."

With a smile, I introduce myself, "I'm very pleased to meet you both. My name is Halil Bozkurt."

Rias then warmly says, "Then welcome to the Occult Research Club, Halil Bozkurt!"

Gratefully, I respond, "Thank you!"

And so, my new life begins, and I have the opportunity to get to know Rias Gremory better, the woman who might bring new hope into my life.