765 cultists lezgoo — really wanna hit that 1k mark, as it's an even harder achievement with the current state of fanfic and the regressing dxd archive lurkers

So what are you waiting for. Follow and be an honorary shadowbros. don't let my dreams be dreams

Oh, and to address the critique regarding Cid's lack of headache when he's supposed to have flashbacks, it's because it's intentional. It hints at how good this 'firewall' is around Cid's memory and soul. It's soooooo good that liquid memories can't leak out, that it has hampers his memory in remembering names — implying he has those memories in the first place and this Cid is not a multiverse Cid :)

I hate to go word of god shit about Cid unable to remember names as he once easily could, but it's hard to incorporate it to the narration without making it off tune, so, here ya go

Anyway, do enjoy your feast, shadowbros


Chapter 11

I Am… Night's Entertainment⦖


Raynare couldn't shake the mounting unease that clawed at her nerves. The preparations had been meticulously laid out, every piece of the puzzle neatly in place, yet an unsettling unease had wrapped its tendrils around her.

Earlier, Penemue had alerted her to the presence of Devils lurking nearby, and as instructed, her minions had maintained an eerie silence. This silence was a part of the elaborate ruse, intended to deceive the intruders, fostering a false sense of security. It was essential that Rias Gremory and her entourage believed their "night raid" was perfectly planned and that Raynare remained oblivious to their intentions.

With calculated finesse, Raynare had ordered her loyal underlings to go underground, to "take a night off." To their delight, they had embraced the opportunity to rest and revel, completely unaware of the impending storm. Only Raynare and Penemue, along with the enigmatic figures of Shadow and Kuroka, were privy to the knowledge that Rias Gremory was targeting this very hideout. Even the Stray Exorcists, stationed upstairs in the church's sermon area, probably getting antsy because of the destroyed religious relics, remained blissfully ignorant of the grim tableau beneath them.

Graham's lifeless form remained chained to the cross, hidden from their view.

Still, despite the elaborate ruse she had set in motion, Raynare's anxiety gnawed at her. Rias and her Servants were a formidable force, not to be underestimated. Should things take an unfavorable turn, Raynare would have to rely on Penemue to right the course. But her plan was already in motion. It revolved around the "sacrifice" of the Stray Exorcists, making it appear as though she had gathered them here as a "peace" offering to the Devils, a calculated move to divert the heat away from her. The intricate web of deception was in play, but the element of uncertainty still loomed in the shadows.

Yet, a persistent sense of unease continued to claw at her. Rias and her Servants were a formidable force. The Stray Exorcists were veterans themselves, with that burly guy being the highest ranking—a Captain. Still, she doubted they'd do much trouble against the Devils, which she expected. And if things were to go awfully south, her gambit failed, then Raynare knew she would have to lean on Penemue's cunning to salvage the situation.

Nevertheless, her plan was already in motion.

The stakes were high, and Raynare's every move was shrouded in calculated risk. As the moments ticked away, the abandoned church stood as a silent witness to the unfolding intrigue, awaiting the arrival of her unwelcome guests.

In spite of the mounting tension, Raynare found her thoughts wandering to a peculiar concern—one that was as unexpected but welcome. She couldn't help but wonder about the whereabouts of Twilight.

The cat, or what she believed to be a simple feline, had been a constant presence in her hideout. A silent observer of her clandestine affairs. Raynare had grown accustomed to the sleek black cat's presence, finding some measure of comfort in the companionship she provided.

But now, with the impending threat of Rias and her Servants, her thoughts turned to the cat's owner, Shadow. The man who had disrupted her carefully constructed world and whose motives remained a mystery even to her.


Here I am, perched like an emo owl on this tree, waiting for the impending fireworks to light up the night.

My 'web'—let's call it the 'Shadow Loom' because, well, you can never go wrong with a bit of branding—does its job. It's not just your run-of-the-mill magic trick; this thing's like my personal radar, vibrating with anticipation as it weaves its digital symphony of information. It's sending me vibes about the Devil's whereabouts and, of course, the distinct lack of Fallen Angels in the whole shebang.

Fallen Angels and Devils have a certain...twang to their vibrations, like a sinister jazz beat, while ordinary humans are more like...off-key violin screeches in a high school orchestra. It's a nifty trick that helps me sift through the magical string vibration soup.

To summarize, I've got a magical spider sense, but way cooler. All thanks to my training in the Shadow Zone. Oh, right, I'm renaming the Shadow Dimension to that. Why? Because it sounds cooler, and, so far, nobody seems to be aware of it apart from yours truly.

And then, like a peculiar note in this arcane symphony, I sense the presence of a Human—a stark contrast to the supernatural cadence of the Devils and the ethereal dance of Fallen Angels. The vibrations are distinct, a jarring anomaly amidst the cacophony of otherworldly signatures.

What's a human doing here? And no, I'm not talking about the Exorcists in the church; I'm talking about the human standing next to The Spider. It's a she, and I can tell because it seems that females have a 'softer' tune in their vibrations, while males are more like...a distinct baritone. This peculiar anomaly carries a soft soprano note, chiming softly next to The Spider's haunting contralto.

Well, I mean, it's probably just one of The Spider's many minions.

But you know what? Waiting's just a snoozefest, and I don't mean the kind where you wake up with a crumpled pillow crease on your face. So I shift my gaze to Kuroka, who's looking as antsy as a cat on a hot tin roof.

She mutters her doubts in a voice that's just shy of a sigh. "They're walking to a trap... Why aren't we moving?"

I give her my best enigmatic look, because, you know, it's a prerequisite for the whole 'guardian from the shadows' gig. "Patience, Kuroka," I reply, laying it on thick. She responds in a grumbly huff. Feisty as ever.

Now, I could give her the whole speech about timing and strategy, make it sound like I'm some sort of tactical genius. But the real truth? I'm a Shadow Master—I've got an unshakable desire to steal the spotlight, appearing at the climax of this unfolding drama. Timing is everything in our (my) grand unveiling. We don't just show up; we make an entrance. A show-stopping, epic entrance.

But, seriously, the Devils are making molasses look fast in comparison to their approach to the church. It's like watching a turtle race in slow motion. Each step they take feels like an eternity, and I can practically hear Kuroka's internal feline clock ticking away, growing increasingly impatient with each passing second.

Difference is, she's not watching the Devils as a whole, just one of them. She's growing impatient faster than a kitten eyeing a dangling string, and she's got valid reasons; her sister, Koneko, is tangled up with the Devils. And the fact that the group is drawing nearer to the church, where two Stray Exorcists are stationed, is quite the anxiety-inducing combo.

For her, at least.

Me? I just want to hit the fast-forward button. Hyoudou is there too, being at the furthest in the back. Still a greenhorn Devil, I bet.

As they draw closer to the church, Kuroka's tails twitch like a feline metronome set to 'I need to do something right now.' She shoots me an exasperated look. "Shadow, you better make your move soon, or I'll just go charging in myself."

With the measured tone of a seasoned bullshitter, I remind her, making use of her own words from our previous exchange, "I thought I had your trust?"

"Urgh…" She growls in frustration, turning her attention to the crimson-haired Gremory with a furrowed brow. And then, her fiery glare melts into something softer as she sets her sights on the pint-sized puncher, Koneko. Or Shirone. Seriously, what's with the name change anyway?

My grin slowly stretches from ear to ear as the Devils finally take their first step inside the abandoned church. It's akin to the starting pistol at a track meet, and I have no intentions of missing this race — although, I won't be running in it; I'll be the one waiting at the finish line.

As soon as they cross the threshold, pandemonium erupts in all its violent glory. It's like a gruesome orchestra playing out, and I can hear the symphony of swords clashing, the rumble of unleashed magic, the heated shouts, and fantastical name-calling—'vile creatures' and whatnot—coming from the Exorcists. All of it is accompanied by brilliant sparks lighting up the building as Busty Devil No.2 gets down to business, summoning her own electric symphony of spells. She's having a blast with her thunder magic, as if she decided to host a stormy fireworks show right inside the church.

Oh, how electrifying!

I glance at Kuroka, and her ears twitch as she narrows her eyes at the ensuing spectacle. Her mood may not be any lighter, but the fiery chaos inside certainly is.

But much to her frustration, I remain unyielding. I shake my head slightly, my voice carrying the same measured calm as before. "Not yet, Kuroka."

This is just the opening act. It's like watching a pressure cooker build up steam, and I can almost feel her claws digging into the metaphorical lid. Her amber eyes, always intense, now smolder with irritation, but she restrains herself begrudgingly. Picking your moment is an art, and I'm the patient artist.

Kuroka snaps again, her impatience surfacing. "Then when?!"

Right on cue, as if the universe had scripted this moment for our benefit, one of the Exorcists - the female one - is blasted out of the church through a window, her dramatic exit marked by shattered glass and a tumble that leaves her white priestly robe caked with dirt and blood.

"Agh… ugh…" She trembles as she pushes herself off the ground, clutching her stomach in pain.

Soon after, the Devils emerge one by one, and the blondie (Kiba) forcefully drags the Captain-whatshisface-along. They're clearly using him as leverage, as Kiba then delivers a sharp kick to the back of the Captain's knee, forcing him to kneel. The female Exorcist watches in growing fear. Hyoudou's there too, still at the far back.

He doesn't look too good. He's fine, physically-wise, at least.

Kuroka heaves a sigh of relief as she observes Koneko, or Shirone, looking unharmed and disinterested in the ongoing proceedings. I mean, it's to be expected. It's two against five devils.

In this moment, I feel the vibrations from The Spider, signaling her approach along with the human. The pieces are moving into place, and it's almost showtime.


Break


Outside the church, Issei couldn't shake the feeling that things had taken a darker turn, perhaps a bit too dark for his comfort. The situation felt heavy, and Akeno's sadistic laughter back there didn't make it any easier to swallow. He cast a questioning glance in her direction, but all he received in response were eerie giggles and that sinister amusement dancing in her violet eyes.

The moonlight bathed the scene in an eerie glow, casting long shadows as Rias took the lead in the interrogation. Her imposing presence loomed over the crumpled figure like a foreboding specter. The Stray Exorcist seemed like a wounded bird, trapped and desperate.

Standing behind the older Exorcist, Kiba had transformed from his usual friendly demeanor into something far more menacing. His sword, once a symbol of chivalry, was now poised like a guillotine, ready to strike. It was as if he held a personal grudge against these holy people, a sentiment that Issei noticed. Koneko watched the situation with her usual apathy, her gaze unwavering, as if this were just another day at the office.

But for him, this was anything but.

When they had confronted the Stray Devil, it had been more straightforward, as the creature was a monstrous entity. But now, facing these Exorcists who were human like himself, an unsettling chill had crawled up his spine. These people were his fellow humans, and their fear and resolve felt all too real.

"Who provided you with information about our Contractors?" Rias's commanding voice sliced through the tension, demanding answers from their captive. "Don't bother lying. The evidence is there. You're lousy in covering your tracks."

"We lay the truth bare, because we know what we do is right, unlike you." Her face grim and determined, the female Exorcist didn't flinch. "I won't say a word."

Kiba's sword gleamed as it drew closer to the older Exorcist's neck, leaving a thin line of blood in its wake. His voice carried a low, dangerous tone as he urged, "I think you should reconsider your choice."

Issei shuddered as the brunette Exorcist, her side ponytail now hanging loosely, struggled to maintain her composure. Her brown eyes betrayed the inner turmoil she was wrestling with. The slight cut on her Captain's neck had clearly shaken her resolve.

The Captain's voice cut through the tension like a whisper of hope. "Don't, Noel," he urged, his own eyes reflecting a sense of acceptance. He noticed her wavering and spoke gently, "It's fine."

Noel pressed her lips together, tears glistening in her eyes. "But, Captain..."

"It's fine," Captain Luther whispered, offering a warm smile despite the gruesome sword-wounds on his burly figure. "This… is for the greater good. Remember, our sacrifices won't be in vain."

Empathy tugged at Issei, serving as a reminder that, despite being on opposing sides, they were all united by their unwavering sense of duty and sacrifice.

The question gnawed at him: was this the right path?

"Is it Raynare? The Grigori is behind this, right?"

"I already told you; you're not getting anything from me!" Noel spat to the dirt near Rias' loafers, and the Gremory gritted her teeth.

Oblivious to his inner turmoil, the questioning continued. With Rias' frustration mounting, she couldn't abide the stubborn silence any longer. The female Exorcist's refusal to speak grated on her nerves, and, with the distant Rating Game against Riser looming over her, Rias lost her patience.

With a surge of annoyance, Rias struck the female Exorcist across the face with a resounding slap. The sharp crack echoed through the church, plunging it into an ominous silence. Noel's head snapped to the side from the force of the blow, her ponytail swaying as she gasped, feeling the stinging pain in her cheek.

Issei winced at the sudden burst of violence but managed to keep his reaction concealed. He, along with Koneko, stood at the back, ever-vigilant for any potential reinforcements from the abandoned church.

Rias's eyes blazed with a mix of anger and frustration as she demanded answers once more. "Now, are you going to cooperate, or do I need to get more persuasive?"

On cue, Akeno stepped next to her King, crackles of blue lightning dancing between her fingers. Her serene smile never wavered; it only grew as she savored Noel's escalating terror.

Despite the red mark left by Rias's slap, the female Exorcist held onto her determination. She wiped away a trickle of blood from her lip and defiantly met the Devils' gazes, her resolve unwavering.

Rias's frustration deepened, knowing that they needed the truth to emerge. At all costs.

Flashing a knowing glance at the Captain, she then turned to Akeno. "She's all yours."

"Ara~ my pleasure..." Akeno purred with a sinister delight, the pale blue light from the crackling lightning casting eerie gleam on her ever-smiling face.

The Exorcist closed her eyes, fully aware yet determined to fight against her impending fate. She prayed to her God, hoping to be heard.

"AGHH— KYAAAAAAAAH!" But her prayer was abruptly cut with a heart-wrenching scream as Akeno unleashed a torrent of electricity.

The young Exorcist's tortured scream echoed through the church, a visceral cry that seemed to tear through the very air. Every nerve in her body felt like it was on fire, as if molten lava coursed through her veins. Her body convulsed uncontrollably, limbs flailing in the throes of voltaic agony. Her face twisted into a grimace of suffering as her vision blurred with tears and spasms.

In the midst of this torment, Captain Luther's voice, once resolute, now wavered in desperate pleas. "STOP! STOP THIS, YOU WRETCHED DEVILS! SHE'S JUST A GIRL!"

"GYAAAAAAAAHHHH—! AARRGH—!"

Akeno showed no mercy, savoring the perverse pleasure she derived from the Exorcist's agony. The relentless dance of blue thunder coursed through the woman's form, sending relentless shockwaves of pain deep into her very core. The nauseating stench of burnt flesh and singed hair hung in the air, a grim reminder of the physical suffering inflicted.


Holy Article 17 of the Geneva Convention on Prisoners of War — these Devils are bananas.

There's no better way to describe it. B-A-N-A-N-A-S. I've seen chaos before, but this one takes the cake. It's like a fireworks factory exploding inside a hurricane. My Shadow Loom is buzzing like an over-caffeinated beehive that I have to shut it down for now. I like my tea shocking, not my magical radar.

Who would've guessed their idea of a friendly chat involves a front-row seat to Electrocution Junction? They're gunning for lead roles in a supernatural horror flick, and our Exorcist guest is crisping up like a microwave burrito. Akeno's electric performance is on par with a macabre fireworks display, and I'm half-tempted to start selling tickets. It's sadism elevated to an art form, and the Exorcist's writhing around like spaghetti in a pot of boiling water. I swear I can almost smell their hair sizzling from here.

As for sympathy? It's currently on a coffee break, not that anyone here ordered a cup. If you bring a sword to a party, expect some slicing and dicing – that's the unwritten rule in this cryptic club.

The situation is hurtling into an abyss of madness, and part of me is mulling over whether I should've brought some popcorn. I'm all for a good show, but this is like turning a backyard barbecue into a raging forest fire. These guys need a crash course in interrogation tactics, seriously.

As for the enigmatic Black Cat, the enigmatic companion of the enigmatic yours truly, I can't help but wonder what's going through her mind. Maybe she got a sudden craving. So, I glance over at her, and much to my surprise, she's uncharacteristically hushed.

Kuroka's typically the type to let it all hang out, but right now, she's sporting a pensive silence as if it's the classiest tuxedo in town. Even her tails have gone on strike; there's no more swatting at invisible flies. My inner chuuni detective suspects that those lightning bolts are igniting memories she'd rather keep locked away.

As the torture continues, I'm tempted to offer some on-the-fly tips in Devil Interrogation 101, but that's hardly going to be appreciated right now. Instead, I keep my focus on the unfolding spectacle.

The Exorcist's face contorts, and I can almost imagine the steam rising from her. She might have been expecting divine intervention, but all she got was a shocking revelation. The poor girl is probably reevaluating her life choices. "Why did I bring a cross to this electric party?"

All this chaos, and I can't help but wonder: Are these Devils really this unhinged, or is this just another day in their paranormal office? Kuroka might be silent, her tails at rest, but there's a storm brewing in the shadows, and she's going to be right there with me when it breaks.

For now, we'll just let these crazy Devils steal the spotlight and sizzle the stage.


As seconds stretched into what felt like an agonizing eternity, the Exorcist's desperate pleas for mercy merged into a nightmarish symphony of torment. She was now a crucible of suffering, her anguished cries echoing through the church. Issei, a spectator to this living nightmare, could only watch in a paralyzing blend of horror and helplessness.

Noel's once defiant form eventually crumbled to the ground, her body nearly lifeless. Smoke wisped from her charred uniform, and she lay there, barely moving, a shell of her former self. Rias, once the embodiment of warmth and compassion, now regarded the veteran Exorcist with a chilling intensity that sent shivers down Issei's spine.

"If you wish to save her," Rias proclaimed with a voice that seemed to pierce through the darkest recesses of the church, "then speak."

Tears streamed down Luther's face as he gazed upon the lifeless form of the girl he had raised as his own. In this bleak moment, he couldn't help but question the whereabouts of his God. Had they been abandoned? Was this the divine retribution for their actions? Were their pleas falling on deaf ears, with no savior in sight?

Well, there were Shadow and Kuroka, but neither were exactly good Samaritans. One was a spotlight-stealer while the other was a sister-worrier.

But there was one.

Koneko's eyes widened with alarm as she picked up the rustling from the trees, "Buchou."

Rias and Akeno drew a vigilant step backwards, surveying their surroundings.

"Stop this!" cried a voice from the woods, the words tinged with desperation. Emerging from the shrubbery was a young nun with golden locks, her head veiled in the traditional manner of her order. "Please! How can you be so heartless?! Isn't this enough?!"

In a moment of compassionate recklessness, she rushed onto the scene, her green nun habit flowing behind her as tears streamed down her face. She paid no heed to her own safety as she hurried to aid the fallen Exorcist. The smoky scent of burnt flesh and the crackle of electric torment couldn't deter her; she had seen enough.

The sudden appearance of the young nun sent ripples of alarm through the Devils. They had been so engrossed in the harrowing scene before them that her arrival caught them off guard. Rias, Akeno, and Kiba tensed, their attention shifting from their injured captive to the newcomer. Koneko maintained her distant gaze, but her body subtly tensed, ready for action.

But the nun disregarded the hostility. Falling to her knees beside the dying Noel, she whispered a prayer under her breath, her hands trembling as she attempted to heal the injuries inflicted by the Devils. Her divine aura began to glow, casting an ethereal, soft green light that pushed back the looming shadows of the macabre scene.

A light from a Sacred Gear that Rias immediately recognized, as Noel's injuries were quickly healed. "Hm? Twilight Healing? Are you Asia Argento?"

"I-I am… but enough of this," she implored, her voice quiet yet resolute. "...Please."

His inner turmoil about to reach its peak, Issei felt a glimmer of hope as this unknown girl intervened. Her arrival was like a drop of purity in the sea of darkness. It was a ray of light, reminding him that, even amidst the horrors of this night, there were those who still dared to stand against the tide.

Now, could he?

"My, my," their attention was once again whipped towards the source of the sultry voice, as Raynare, in her scantily clad outfit that left little to the imagination, emerged from the dark corners of the church, stepping out into the messy front yard.

Her smile and the blue necklace around her neck illuminated by the moonlight. Her pair of black feathered wings stretched as she greeted the Devils. "You Devils sure know how to make a noise, huh?"

Without realizing, Issei had clinched his fists. This was the woman that spat on his genuine affection.

"Raynare! I should've known—" Rias immediately seethed, her dark and crimson Power of Destruction immediately taking form. "Explain! Why did you hire these people to attack our Contractors?! Does the White Peace mean anything to you?!"

"It means much more to me than you think." Raynare, in stark contrast to Rias's fury, maintained a mocking and almost nonchalant demeanor as she rested one hand on her hip. "The real question is, does it mean anything to you? You're in our territory, after all. What happens when either of us start nosing around territories that we don't belong to? Our peace becomes a mirage."

"You struck first!" Rias protested. "My fallen Contractors are evidence of that!"

Raynare tilted her head, her voice dripping with amusement. "Evidence? Well, I'd love to see it. I think you're jumping to conclusions, Miss Gremory," she chuckled darkly, her eyes locking onto Luther's hopeful gaze. And then, with a sardonic smirk, she added, "I see you've been enjoying my little peace offering, haven't you?"

Rias's anger flared, and her Power of Destruction continued to manifest, a swirling vortex of dark energy. She was determined to get to the bottom of Raynare's sinister plot.

"Your 'peace offering' resulted in the suffering of these Exorcists," Rias declared, her voice filled with a mix of anger and resolve. "You used them as pawns in this twisted game. What do you want, Raynare?"

"Oh? But aren't we all pawns in this twisted game of life?" Raynare hummed, her eyes surreptitiously flowing over to Issei. "Isn't that right, Pawn?"

"You can't hide behind your games and cryptic words any longer. Explain yourself!"

Raynare seemed unimpressed by her anger, even though deep inside, she was sweating bullets. "Hmph. You Devils and your penchant to brute strength… fine, I'll show my cards. The game's almost over anyway."

The Devils eyed her with suspicion, and Raynare knew this was the make or break moment for her.

Now sporting a smug grin, Raynare began her revelation. Her words left Luther in a state of shock, and the sense of betrayal deepened. "You see, Rias, it's all about reputation. The Stray Exorcists have been causing quite a nuisance, killing your Contractors without any regard... It tarnishes the name of the Grigori, as you being here all mad is proving."

Luther, struggling to come to terms with the reality, couldn't help but speak up, his voice trembling. "Liar! You were the one who hired us!"

"True," Raynare, on the other hand, met Luther's shocked expression with a chilling smile. "But I didn't hire you to raise unnecessary sparks, Luther. Now look at where we've gotten ourselves into?"

"So you are behind all of this!" Rias glared, her crimson hair a red banner of her rage.

"Now don't jump into conclusion yet, Rias, let me explain," Raynare calmly said, her voice steady and measured, but nonetheless inspired little trust. But her violet gaze shifted back towards the veteran Exorcist—a loose end. "He's got it all wrong. You have got it all wrong, Father Luther. While I did hire you and your… band of Exorcists, I hired you to, well, make use of you. One of your 'companions', to be precise…"

"...Graham…?" His worn eyes widened. "Graham!? What did you do to him?!"

"That's no longer your business. But, let's just say I have… no use for him." Raynare only tilted her head, the sapphire amulet around her neck gleaming. The implication was enough to silence Luther. "I gathered you and your cronies here to surrender you to these people," she purred, her voice laced with sinister amusement.

Luther's face contorted with rage, and fury of betrayal relit his eyes. He attempted to rise but was quickly knocked back down by the Knight behind him. "What's the meaning of this Raynare?! Did you betray us?!"

"Well that's on you… So desperate to find hope that you'd surrender your trust like charity." Raynare chuckled darkly, her smile never leaving her lips. "I've never been one to offer gold for nothing… But I can say this; it wasn't me who paid you to kill these… Contractors."

She turned to Rias, and the little trust she had in her words were evident. But Raynare pressed on. "It must've been one of the rogue agents of the Grigori that tipped him off. Surely you'd understand, Rias… you Devils have their own share of problems with the Stray Devils, no?"

"Prove it," Rias demanded.

"Alright, alright… It's pointless since you'll never trust me, but surely you can trust one that is bound to their oath of truth," she nudged her head towards the kneeling Exorcist. "Go ahead, ask him if we've ever met. If I've ever commanded him and his stray dogs to hunt down your precious Contractors."

As the Devils' eyes fell on him, Luther's faith was both his solace and torment. He had never met this 'Raynare' before, only through her intermediaries—implying they were hers in the first place. He realized he had been used by forces he didn't fully comprehend, and his actions had led to this nightmarish confrontation.

"She… never did…"

The Devils visibly shuddered from the admittance, their animosity towards Raynare wavering.

"And there you have it… All I know is that these… Stray Exorcists have been giving the Grigori a bad name. So, I rounded them all up nicely in the precipice for a 'new' task…" she explained, her voice deceptively calm. "Killing your Contractors is against our principles, Rias — and we do punish those who deserved to be punished. I want to put an end to their actions before more lives are lost in our name."

Rias, her suspicion momentarily shifted, demanded, "It doesn't change that you brought them here, Raynare."

"Yeah, well… It's always a gamble when you bring in stray dogs… some of them become your loyal hounds," she muttered, her eyes sweeping briefly towards Issei, who tensed up, before returning it to Rias. "If you want compensation for their murders, fine. I'll task my men to find you a new group of potential Contractors—people whose desires are strong enough to make you shiver. You may have the power, but us Fallens are… well, connections are our strongest suit."

Rias gritted her teeth. She couldn't trust Raynare fully, yet her promise was sweet. Too sweet. Like someone attempting to tap out the small fires before it spread.

And yet, being the Co-Overseer of this town, Rias knew it would be foolish of her to waive Raynare's offer. The Fallen Angel's words retained some truth, after all. Due to their age-old reputation as the evil of, well, most factions, the Devils were forced to tread the earth carefully unlike the Fallen Angels.

"If it wasn't you, then who hired these Exorcists to kill our Contractors?"

Growing ever confident, still composed, Raynare turned her attention back to Rias, smoothly deflecting the suspicion.

"Perhaps some rogue Fallen is misusing my name to give them this task, or shapeshifted into me—who knows? Identity is easily stolen, especially those who are at the bottom of the pecking order… me."

Rias finally dissipated her demonic surge of energy, her confidence shaken, now growing unsure about the truth and lies.

"But I can assure you, Gremory, that I'm a devout follower of Lord Azazel. Our Governor. And you know what he thinks about the whole peace deal between our Factions. He's the one that brokered the Great War, after all… and I'd be quartered if I tried to start a mess…"

Raynare's explanation hung in the air, and the entire group was left in a state of uneasy tension. Issei, his sense of bewilderment now compounded, stepped forward and demanded, "So why did you kill me, Yuum— Raynare?!"

Raynare regarded him with an amused, almost pitying expression, as if he were a child who didn't understand the complexities of the world. "Oh, Issei-kun, you really don't get it, do you? You were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. But hey, you're a Devil now… and Devils have their own destinies. Yours is a lot more interesting now, wouldn't you agree?"

Issei's blood boiled at her nonchalant response. He had been killed for no reason, and she spoke of it as if it were some mundane event. "Interesting? You killed me! You took my life away!"

"You were never the target. It was an honest mistake, I swear," Raynare placed a hand above her heart, lying came naturally to her. "We don't target Longinus-carriers, we're meant to watch them. I misread my orders, Hyoudou; I mistook you for someone else… I'm being punished now, to tell the truth; by managing this lousy church instead of performing my duties from a luxury hotel."

His heart was crushed. Not from the fact that Raynare had indeed murdered him in cold blood, stomping on his affection, but from the fact that, in the grand scheme of things, his life carried no meaning. The revelation struck him like a thunderbolt, shattering the certainty that had propelled him on his quest for vengeance. Her words were like a cruel joke, leaving him to grapple with a newfound reality.

"I'm sorry for killing you, really. I'll let you feel my chest if you'd like, hell, I'll pleasure you in bed if that's what it takes."

His inner pervert was jumping in joy, and yet, it failed to reach his turbulent mind. "Wh…what…? You mean… you mean my death was accidental? But… so… what does the 'gift' mean then…?"

"Gift? Raynare blinked, this time she was genuine. "I've no idea what you're talking about, but these things do happen," she then shrugged guiltlessly. "There's a reason why I'm still at the bottom rungs; admittedly, I'm not really good at my job. What I'm really good at, however, is surviving. And, do you really think I'd survive if I send out holy cutthroats on your people, Rias?"

As Issei wrestled with his own demons, Rias remained in uneasy silence, her expression marked by furrowed brows. "Then why is the Holy Maiden this far away from Italy?"

The attention shifted to Asia, her emotions were a turbulent blend of terror and anger, her gaze fixed on the Devils who had subjected the Exorcists to such torment.

Raynare, her expression crafted with the art of deception, responded to Rias's inquiries with a disarming smile. She knew that Penemue's magic was successfully subverting the Holy Maiden's mind, allowing her to maintain a facade of innocence while orchestrating a convoluted scheme.

"Oh, it's nothing complicated," Raynare explained with a mock innocence, her tone casual. "You know she's been excommunicated," she stated, as though it were common knowledge, even though Issei was left pondering the meaning of the word. "We, the Grigori, or, y'know... the Watchers, are simply doing our job—keeping an eye on Sacred Gear wielders and ensuring they have a home instead of going haywire with their powers. You can say we're the shepherds for these lost sheep."

Smoothly, she addressed Asia directly, her expression softening as she inquired, "And what about you, Asia? Enjoying life in the Grigori Institute?"

Asia, still trembling but no longer terrified, looked up at Raynare with genuine gratitude in her eyes. She replied, "Y-yes, thank you, Ms. Raynare… Everyone has been very kind. Sir Azazel has been nothing but supportive… a-although he sometimes reeks of alcohol…"

"Ah… Lord Azazel…" Raynare clutched herself, the sight making the Devils uncomfortable. "You'd think after whisking you away from those Churches, I'd get a promotion… alas, here I am because of my own negligence… because I murdered you by mistake, Hyoudou, I'm surrounded by bloodthirsty Devils instead of his grand inventions, taking refuge in this shabby church…"

Raynare's voice was filled with sincerity — because it was. For the most part. The act was so convincing that it had the Devils questioning their earlier convictions, and Shadow scratching his head, wondering who on earth was this Azazel the Governor guy.

The Devils were left in a state of turmoil, the lines between truth and lies now vicariously blurred.

Rias, once so sure of her mission and purpose, found herself questioning everything she knew. But the purity of the Holy Maiden and her genuine gratefulness to the Fallen Angel stood as a stark contrast to the web of lies surrounding Raynare.

"But," Asia's soft voice chimed in, her eyes lingering at the Exorcists. "Ms. Raynare… these people…? Can't they be helped…?"

"Nope," Raynare responded coldly, her gaze shifting to Luther, who was on the very verge of losing his hope. "They've committed a grave deed, Asia... While I know you want to help them, they have killed innocents. And those innocents had meaning for these Devils."

As Asia frowned sadly, Luther pressed his lips tightly, now doubting if he'd made the right call. All those people—died for nothing? Did he agree to 'help' Kok… Koka… who was it again?

Once again, with a quick wipe from his selective memory, The Spider tied one of the loose ends Raynare had let slip.

Nonetheless, Penemue kept her silent watch from the shadows, faintly smiling. The master puppeteer now observing her apprentice orchestrating this performance.

Unaware of her true master's interference, Raynare continued. "Good deeds often go unrewarded, but bad deeds, they get their punishment. It's the way things work." She ended as she placed both hands on Asia's shoulders. Then, she added mockingly, "Take these people away, Devils. They're yours. Although, do me a favor next time and knock on the door. Or at least shout my name when you want to play."

As the question hung, Akeno inched closer to their distraught King, seeking clarification for their next move. "...Rias…?"

"You better fulfill your bargain, Raynare."

"That I will. The Grigori always pay their debt."

"..." Rias shot Raynare one last glance, before her eyes were drawn towards her Pawn, who was visibly distressed, and swept to the rest of her Peerage. "We're heading back."

Though reluctantly, the Devils obeyed her orders, taking the Exorcists into custody. Their fate was sealed, a chilling testament to the twisted events of this night. Devastation hung in the air, and the Devils, once confident in their mission to raid the complex, were left disoriented.

Issei, in particular, felt a storm of emotions swirling within him. He had confronted her for the truth, and yet, he was once again left with more questions than answers.


Break


As the Devils departed, their captives in tow, Raynare felt the weight of her charade press down on her like a leaden cloak. The anxiety and tension she had been concealing throughout her performance now threatened to overtake her. Cold sweat poured down her brow, and her legs quivered as if they might give way at any moment. She was adept at deception, but the strain of maintaining such a complex act had taken its toll—especially when her life was on the line.

She let out a shaky sigh she had desperately been holding, and was now using Asia more as support.

Still trembling but now more concerned than ever, Asia noticed Raynare's distress. "Ms. Raynare, are you alright?" she asked with genuine worry, her green eyes filled with compassion.

Raynare forced a weak smile, though it was more of a grimace. "I'm… fine now, Sweet Pea. Just a bit overwhelmed, that's all." Her voice quivered, betraying the facade she had maintained so masterfully.

Though Asia nodded, her gaze remained fixed on Raynare, a deep concern in her eyes that couldn't be dismissed. "It's just... I've never seen you like this before. You seemed so different tonight."

Raynare swallowed hard, her facade unraveling further. She had maintained a mask of composure for so long that now, in Asia's presence, it was nearly impossible to keep up the act. "Tonight was... different. But it was necessary. You did well, Sweet Pea. I'm proud of you."

Asia's worried expression didn't waver. "You did all of that to protect me, didn't you? I'm… sorry if I stepped out of line… Ms. Penemue told me to act if I wanted to save those people, but…"

"You can't help everyone," Raynare gently chided. "It's not a healthy mindset to have."

"...Okay." Asia's worry persisted, but she nodded and offered a tentative smile. "Thank you, Ms. Raynare. I just hope everything will be okay from now on."

Raynare returned the smile as convincingly as she could, even though she knew that the night's events had set something complicated into motion. She couldn't predict where the path would lead, but she had to stay one step ahead to ensure her survival in the world of Devils and Fallen Angels.

In the quiet aftermath, Penemue materialized like a phantom, as if she had stepped out from an invisible cocoon of shadows. Her form emerged gradually, coalescing from the surrounding darkness as if it had taken shape from the very night itself.

Her presence was ethereal, like a specter given life, and her arrival held an air of otherworldly grace. The surrounding moonlight seemed to bow to her arrival, casting a gentle glow upon her silhouette. It was as if she was the embodiment of a secret power hidden in the depths of the night.

Penemue's eyes locked onto Raynare, and her lips curled into a proud smile. "Bravo," she whispered, her voice carrying a sense of approval and respect that conveyed her deep satisfaction with Raynare's performance. Acknowledging the finesse of her apprentice's art.

"Ah… haha…" Raynare let out a shaky laugh. The tension and the weight of her performance seemed to melt away with each nervous chuckle, a release of the stress that had been building within her

"Oh! Ms. Penemue!" Asia's vibrant green eyes sparkled with gratitude as she turned her attention to their mysterious benefactor. "Thank you for bringing me here... though... this place is quite..." She hesitated, glancing skittishly at the dark, unsettling woods surrounding them, feeling smaller by the seconds. "...Scary."

"Indeed," Penemue chuckled softly, her eyes offering a warm and reassuring smile. "Hardly the place for a celebration…" She then swept her magenta eyes towards her apprentice—specifically toward the amulet crowning her neck. "I'm assuming you no longer have any unfinished business then?"

Raynare's smile beamed with pride as she clutched the amulet containing Echelon's Echo. "Yes, Mastress."

"Good. Take her somewhere nice to eat outside this country… Take a rest after. Meet me in my office in twelve hours."

"I will." Raynare nodded duly. "...What about the Contractors?"

"Well, let's just say you are unfortunately demoted from the field before you can fulfill your promise."

Raynare grinned. Leave it to Penemue to remain two steps ahead. "And what about you, Mastress?"

A subtle smile graced faint red lips as Penemue glanced over her jacketed shoulder. "There's some… loose strands I need to weave. It won't take long. I'll be joining you soon, just tell me where you're heading. Good work, by the by. I'll personally deliver your achievement tonight to Azazel. No doubt he'll be wanting to check on your Sacred Gear research as well. It seems to have borne quite the fruit, hm?"

"...Th...thank you... Mastress..."

But then, Asia's voice trembled with uncertainty as she sought understanding in the midst of the night's unsettling events. "U-umm… Those Devils… are they bad people…?"

Penemue's sweet smile, though seemingly reassuring, held a hidden agenda. She crouched down to Asia's level, her magenta eyes fixed on the young nun as she whispered closely, "Yes, Asia. They're horrible people, as you've seen tonight... Regrettably. But don't worry. No more hiding for you, as I've promised. We'll keep you safe."

"...Okay… thank you." Asia nodded, her trust in Penemue outweighing the doubts that lingered in her heart. The promise of protection from the darkness she had glimpsed that night provided her with a glimmer of solace.

Penemue didn't even need to weave a false memory to convince the Holy Maiden. Asia's innocence and willingness to believe in their cause had made her a pliable pawn in their elaborate scheme. Her unquestioning nature was an asset that Penemue exploited to the fullest.

And now, with their brief exchange concluded, Penemue watched as Raynare led Asia away in a burst of black feathers. Unlike the Devils, Fallen Angels possessed the unique ability to move swiftly without the need for magic circles.

This ability was rooted in their nature as celestial beings who had fallen from grace—creatures who once presided Earth as Gods' Watchers. Now, as beings of both light and shadow, their inherent connection to both realms allowed them to channel their powers to their wings with great dexterity. Like the Angels, Fallen Angels could will their wings to unfurl and envelop them, creating a seamless transition between their current location and their desired destination. The feathers acted as conduits for their corrupted angelic powers, allowing them to move effortlessly and instantaneously through the vast expanse of the mortal realm.

This unique trait set them apart from both Angels and Devils, granting them a degree of agility and swiftness that was as elegant as it was practical. It was one of the many intriguing aspects of their existence in the intricate tapestry of the supernatural world.

Now, with her Apprentice and the Holy Maiden safely on their way, it was time to deal with the loose ends that had been left behind.

Luther and Noel… liabilities that could not be allowed to persist. They had to be eliminated tonight, their knowledge a dangerous threat to the delicate web of deception that had been spun. And, it seemed tonight, she wouldn't be having her desired meeting with Shadow.

A pity… but, uncertainty was what made their next encounter so thrilling.


Break


Well, here I am, standing around in the shadows like a bunch of overqualified statues. Seriously, if I wanted a night off, I'd have gone to the movies. But no, I'm stuck here, trying to unravel a web of mystery, and all I'm getting is suspense without the satisfying climax.

I can't help but let out a quiet sigh as I watch the Devils retreat, taking those fallen Exorcists with them like a bunch of sorry souvenirs from a disastrous vacation. The tension and drama have hit a peak tonight, but it looks like we're not getting an action-packed showdown. No grand explosions, no fiery battles, just a gloomy march through the night.

What happened to the good old days when we'd jump into action, brawl with some baddies, and maybe even save the day? Now it's all cryptic talks and moral dilemmas. Ugh, where's the action?

I mean, come on! I even considered getting my popcorn ready, but no, it's all "let's talk it out and have moral dilemmas" tonight. Seriously, this is like going to a rock concert and having the band break out into a poetry reading. It's like ordering a triple-decker burger with extra cheese and getting a plain bun instead. I signed up for the full-course meal of supernatural chaos, not a side salad of moral dilemmas. It's like being at a movie theater, but instead of the screen, I get a front-row seat to a philosophical debate. Yawn.

What happened to the good old days of supernatural throwdowns and magical mayhem? And don't even get me started on Issei's existential crisis. I mean, really? The guy dies and comes back as a Devil, and he's worrying about his moral compass? Come on, kid, embrace the dark side a little.

I've been training for this moment, after all. I wanted to unleash my own bag of tricks and give these devils a run for their money. But no, it turns out the most action I saw was some dramatic hand-wringing and intense soul-searching. What a letdown. It's like life's decided to take a vacation in a boring cul-de-sac, despite all my excitement.

I'll put on my best poker face and hope that this never-ending conversation leads us somewhere, anywhere, with a hint of adrenaline. This waiting game is aging me faster than a library of dramatic monologues.

But hey, maybe they'll pull a surprise out of their demonic hats. I'll keep my shadowy fingers crossed for a plot twist. Until then, I'll have to settle for my disappointment in the action department.

"Magic weaves, secrets unravel—tonight, they'll leave with a story to tell…" Kuroka suddenly mutters, her words carrying a certain poetic weight that I can't help but admire. Well, that was kinda cool, I gotta admit.

Then, she turns to me and asks, "Is that what you meant, Shadow? Did you know they've got it all planned?"

Oh, right. I did say that, didn't I? The whole snoozefest had temporarily erased my memory of coming up with that sweet line. But right now, I'm not exactly in the mood for a chit-chat, so I'll just execute my perfected Shadow Arts move: the tactical nod.

Kuroka lets out a grumble and mumbles, "Hmph... of course you did." It seems like she's not too impressed with my ninja-like nod, but hey, it gets the job done without unnecessary words.

As the Devils depart with their Exorcist passengers, I idly cast out my Shadow Loom, extending my magical senses to weave a web of detection in the surrounding darkness. The threads of my perception begin to reach out, creating a mental map of the area, and it doesn't take long before I pick up on The Spider's reapproach. Her presence registers as a faint blip on my magical radar.

With a sly smirk, I remark, "The night is still young, Kuroka." It's as if I'm hinting that there might be more surprises in store for us, and this snooze-fest may just get a little more interesting.

I mean, come on, Spidey, throw us a bone. Or at least light a firework to liven things up a bit.


Break


Penemue found faith to be a double-edged sword, a weapon that could be wielded for both salvation and destruction. With this understanding, she was ready to play her part—not as the wielder, however.

Having observed them for eons, she knew just how to manipulate humans and their faith and desire to be a martyr against them… and Luther was no exception. His weakened state and tumultuous mind served as the perfect catalyst for a little memory weaving.

In his mind's eye, Penemue appeared as a radiant and majestic figure, her presence suffused with a divine light that seemed to emanate from every corner of the universe. Her twelve golden wings stretched wide, each feather a glistening pinnacle of purity, and her kind eyes held the wisdom of ages and the gentleness of a benevolent deity.

The Seraph's eyes, pools of infinite knowledge, fixated on Luther with a gaze that seemed to penetrate not just his flesh but the very core of his being. They held an understanding that goes beyond words, a silent affirmation of his inner turmoil and unspoken plea.

Penemue's voice, now taking on the gentle timbre of Seraph Gabriel, echoed in Luther's mind like a chorus of celestial harmonies. The Messenger of Heaven resonated with warmth and authority as she whispered courage into Luther's troubled heart.

"My weary Captain… Luther… Luther, my child of faith, do not let despair cloud your heart... In your darkest hour, you are called to be a beacon of hope. You hold within you the power to become a true martyr, not in death, but in sacrifice for a greater purpose."

'Seraph Gabriel!' Luther suddenly looked up, the Devils seeing nothing in the skies to take note as the Exorcist went on. 'Is this the path I must tread to save Noel? To… redeem myself, for the crimes I've done? Will… you welcome me and Noel…?'

"Yes, my child. Your seat awaits in Heaven. I await you. You have shouldered too much for so little. It's enough." Penemue's voice was a sickeningly sweet honeyed word. She never liked Gabriel, but this was the quickest method. "You bear the divine artifact entrusted to you by your order. It is a weapon of immense power, capable of vanquishing evil… Use it to set your ally free, to protect those you hold dear, and to become a beacon of light in the darkness."

Luther's gaze shifted to the unconscious form of Noel cradled in his arms. A surge of resolve welled up within him. With newfound courage, he directed his attention to the Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch, a relic of immense power appearing as the tiniest ruby on the cross embroidered on his now dirtied and sullied robe.

It was a weapon, one they had failed to check, and now, it could be the key to freeing Noel and vanquishing the Devils who had tormented her… and his key to salvation.

"Seraph Gabriel," he muttered out a silent prayer, and Kiba, walking behind him, cringe in disgust. "Guide my weary hands… Let your divine light shine through me and cleanse this unholy presence from our midst…"

"Quiet him, Akeno," Rias commanded.

"My pleasure…" Akeno replied with a sinister delight.

As Akeno unleashed her thunder, the crackling energy surged through the air, and the Exorcist's prayer was silenced, replaced by a tortured cry that echoed through the eerie stillness of the night.

As the Exorcist's pained words hung in the night, Issei, ever the empathetic soul, couldn't help but voice his concern amidst the chaos. "H-hey, c'mon guys, he's just praying, I mean, it sorta hurt…"

Rias, however, was in no mood for Issei's sentiments, silencing him with a stern "Quiet, Issei," her foul mood radiating off her.

"GRRH—!" But Luther was not deterred. With unwavering determination, he channeled the remains of his power to activate the artifact. The Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch began to glow with a divine radiance, its ancient power now harnessed by a man who had found a renewed sense of purpose.

Fabricated as the purpose might be.

As the divine white light erupted from Luther and the artifact, Penemue, satisfied with her manipulations, seamlessly melded into the shadows with a sinister smile.

Yet as the blinding light enveloped Luther and the Devils grew increasingly confused and worried, two dark figures leapt into action.

In a swift, graceful black blur, Kuroka positioned herself as a shield for her younger sister. Her jet-black tails bristled, and her amber eyes blazed with defiance. A potent aura of violet Sage Magic surged around her, shrouding her lithe form.

At the same time, her violet Sage Magic surged with raw power. It wrapped around Luther like a cocoon of energy, before propelling him to the skies, lifting him higher and higher. Noel dropped to the ground with a resounding thud, her eyes opening as Luther soared, the brilliant radiance of the magic left a vivid trail against the night, like a comet streaking across the heavens.

Luther, confused and disoriented, found himself suspended high above the ground, a mere silhouette against the illuminated sky as he gazed upon the heavens.

As he gazed heavenward, at the dark skies, the stars twinkling in his eyes, Luther couldn't help but utter a plea with a voice laced with confusion and hope. "...Seraph Gabriel?"

The Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch emitted a blinding light as it reached its zenith. As the holy artifact erupted in divine power, an explosion of blinding light engulfed the entire area. The shockwave of sanctified energy rippled outward, threatening to consume everything in its path.

Clutching her sister tight, her own barrier forming over and over around her, Kuroka yelled. "SHADOW!"

With a wicked grin, and his dark trench coat billowing dramatically as he ascended, Shadow's presence became unmistakable as he finally made his grand entrance.

In a commanding stance and flourish, Shadow orchestrated his violet magic to envelope the area, creating a protective barrier that shielded the Devils from the encroaching pure divine energies of the sanctified grenade. It was a violet dome of power, a shield against the blinding light, and a testament to Shadow's mastery over the arcane arts.

As the divine explosion raged, the Devils were kept safe within the violet barrier. They watched in awe as the powerful divine energies clashed against the magical barrier, unable to breach its defenses. Throughout the celestial clash, Koneko found herself nestled within Kuroka's arms, where she felt both the intensity of the divine explosion and, oddly enough, the warmth of her sister's unwavering protection.

One thing for certain, Shadow and Kuroka had saved them from the gruesome fate that awaited.

The violet-hued spectacle unfolding above them left the Devils in a state of awe and wonder. Issei, whose inner turmoil had been dominating his thoughts, found himself momentarily letting go of his inner struggles, his eyes fixed firmly on the grand display of power.

"S...Shadow..." Rias uttered softly, her voice almost lost in the brilliance of the scene. She watched in amazement as the violet barrier held strong against the divine onslaught, her features marked by a mix of surprise and gratitude as her gaze finally fell on the dark figure floating above them—his features hidden behind the black masquerade mask, his crimson eyes flaring behind his raven bangs.

Koneko, still nestled in her sister's protective embrace, stared with wide eyes. But the display did little in shifting her attention from the whirlpool of emotions that had engulfed her just moments ago—right at the moment when Kuroka appeared.

Usually the mistress of thunder and storms, Akeno found herself in silent admiration. Kiba let a hint of a smile touch his lips as he gazed upon the luminous shield holding back the divine tempest, before darting his attention to the shifting, remaining Exorcist, his blade ready for any more surprises.

"L…Luther…?" Noel's heartbroken plea echoed through the night, her voice laden with sorrow and confusion.

But the night cared little for her, and especially not Kiba, who was upset from Luther's blaze of glory. He struck the Exorcist sharply in the back of her head with his sword's pommel, effectively knocking her out.

The very air seemed to crackle with anticipation as the violet brilliance deflected the divine energies. Their savior had emerged from the shadows to shield them from a catastrophic fate, and it was a moment that would forever be etched in their memories.

For now, in this breathtaking display of magical prowess, their troubles were temporarily forgotten, replaced by a sense of wonder at the grand entrance of the one known as Shadow.

When the brilliant radiance finally subsided, the night held its breath, a fragile moment in which the balance of power hung in the air, ready to tip in any direction. Shadow remained suspended above the Devils. His dark presence was a guardian, a protector, and a reminder that sometimes, salvation could come from the most unexpected sources.


Ladies and gentlemen, we've got liftoff.

Just what the doctor ordered for this snoozefest of a night. I mean, how much philosophy can a person take before they start counting sheep, am I right? Luckily, I had a hunch and decided to stick around. Having The Spider in the shadows didn't hurt either, although she seems to have vanished into thin air. But who cares!

And there it is – my grand entrance, served up on a shadowy platter. I weaved my violet-dyed Mana into a protective cocoon, tighter than a magician's grip on a secret. Let's dub it the Shadow's Safety Bubble – your personal shield from divine pyrotechnics and pesky flashbangs. Patent still pending.

With my The Spider-inspired curtain now securing the stage and the divine explosion duking it out with my violet wizardry, we're in for one heck of a spectacle. Down below, the Devils are more flabbergasted than Issei in a harem daydream.

But, hold on, Kuroka. Don't think I didn't notice you pulling a fast one there. You may have taken the stage before me, but this is still my moment to shine. Sharing the limelight with a feisty feline isn't so bad, though. You're the opening act, and I'm the headliner.

Koneko's wide-eyed gaze is locked on her sister, who's locked on me. The kind of look that says, "I might scratch your face off, but boy, am I grateful." Quite the combo, Kuroka.

And as for Koneko, or Shirone, or whatever she's going by these days, she's gazing up at Kuroka with those big, curious amber eyes. The kind of look that screams, "You've got some explaining to do, sis." Can't blame her; it's not every day your estranged sister swoops in to save you from divine detonation. And while we're at it, I can't help but notice that amber eyes are where the sibling resemblance ends. Kuroka's got the dark locks, she's taller and significantly blessed on the chest, shall we say? While Koneko... well, let's just say she won't be catching Issei's pervy gaze anytime soon.

Not to toot my own kazoo, but I might've just brought these sisters closer. Call me the family mediator. I might even add "therapist" to my list of shadowy talents. But let's not kid ourselves; it's not all selfless heroism. I'm a sucker for the spotlight, and right now, it's all mine. Well-deserved after the Old Kyoto letdown.

So there you have it, folks. Shadow, the show-stealer and sister-reuniter extraordinaire. Not a bad night's work, if I do say so myself. Now, if only someone would compose a theme song for my entrances.

As the divine pyrotechnics continue to dazzle, I'm up here, savoring the glory of my violet Mana barrier and the Devils' silent awe. It's almost as if I choreographed this whole spectacle to add a touch of flair to our little gathering. You're welcome for the impromptu light show, by the way.

Oh, and Kiba, my man, make sure that Exorcist stays on lockdown. I love a grand entrance, but there's no encore after the grand finale.

But just as the silent awe reached its peak, Kuroka's angry voice crashed through the scene, bringing a sudden end to the grand spectacle as she snapped at Rias, "Are you blind or just plain stupid?!"


To be continued..


Where's my clap? Clap, goddammit. Clap until it forms a review, and feed me. I've been writing this chapter non stop, and i'm hungry

Raynare scoots off to live another day, and to finally use her Echelon's Echo. Initially i wanted her to do this, but i can't figure out a way to do that without her ruining her charade. She's been raised directly by Penemue here; she needs to be competent—she can't overestimate her strength like she did in canon when it's painfully clear that her strength vs Rias is like Koneko's chest to Kuroka's.

She'll meet Shadow again, soon enough. As will Raynare, once she learns the devils are still alive and kicking, with Noel still in their captive, no doubt more than willing to lay some bombshells. Or is she?

Consider Asia thoroughly indoctrinated by The Spider. Will she ever find light, or embrace the shadows instead?

As for Issei—tough luck, kid. You're currently in a slide, and it's got split ends.

And thus conclude the first act, i guess, as we move on with the looming three musketeers of Rosaria, Irina and Xenovia, all while Rias still have the Rating Game against Riser, coupled with Issei's identity crisis.

Oh, and can't forget about Delta. She's in Old Kyoto still, howling with the wolf yōkai, Ookami Mio included, with Yae Miko going 'ara ara ufufu' in the background. No one seemed to catch on Mio's reference during their Old Kyoto escapade, which sorta makes me sad, but alas!