Here I present myself with a new translated chapter!
This time it will be a short chapter that will serve to answer the last doubts and prepare the ground for the war that is about to come.
It never hurts to say that this is a translation, so if you notice some mistakes or incongruous dialogues, I apologize.
With nothing more to add, it's time to begin.
Enjoy!
"Who would have guessed that the bearer of Ddraig is a Dragon God?"
Albion's words echoed over and over in the minds of everyone present, who were completely petrified at the newly acquired information. But the one who was most puzzled was undoubtedly the Demon man who was actually a Dragon.
Evidently, Issei knew that he was no longer a Demon, it was something that only he and Ddraig knew. But he certainly never expected to be a Dragon God, and that was something obvious, I think.
"Well, that explains a lot..." The first to break the silence was Issei himself, implying that even he didn't suspect about his true origin.
"Yes, I think the same thing. In fact, I believe we all think so." Tiamat clarified, leaning her seat forward to get a better look at her beloved's face. "But, I still can't understand how all of this just happened..."
"It wasn't as simple as it seems." Issei was still somewhat puzzled by everything that happened, but he didn't hesitate to respond instantly. "As I said, there were certain details I ignored when I talked to you about everything I had to go through to get back."
"You said that even Ddraig didn't know what was going on, though he had his suspicions." Azazel clarified, remembering the last talk he talked with Issei at dinner a few days ago.
"Actually, it all started because of Ddraig." Those words made everyone take special notice of him, except for Ophis and Great Red, who knew what happened.
"And what exactly did Ddraig do?" Penemue asked the question they all wanted to raise, causing Issei to lower his gaze.
"The reality is that it was impossible for me to survive when I was sent to that place. I was completely unconscious and had injuries that would kill me in a very short time. Furthermore, I was sent to the territory of one of the most powerful beasts that ruled the Twelve Gates of Hell." Issei's narration caused many to be distracted from the main focus, as pity and fury welled up in each of them for all that Issei had suffered.
"Sons of bitches..." Tiamat's so beautiful, but also venomous lips were not long in cursing the Demons.
Luckily, the dragoness was sweetly comforted when Issei placed a hand on her shoulder, causing her to blush slightly for letting herself get carried away in the face of her rage.
"This was narrated to me by Ddraig, so I will tell you as he told me..."
"Can't he tell it to us directly?" Rossweisse asked very curiously, interrupting Issei.
"I don't think that's possible." Albion spoke again, making it quite clear that he already made up his mind about everything that happened. "Ddraig won't be able to talk anymore, due to the fact he fused his soul with Issei's in order to succeed in converting his body to a dragon's." Everyone was quite surprised at such a statement.
"That explains the change in your aura." Tiamat commented, remembering that rather important detail that had been piquing her curiosity these past few days.
"Your extreme affinity with dragons, those strange powers you presented at various times, it's all because you were a sleeping Dragon God. That's really fascinating..." Penemue thought out loud, genuinely impressed to learn that the man she loves is much, much more than everyone thought.
"That's amazing! It's awesome to think that you're a God, Issei! You're a God!" If it hadn't been enough to make it clear once, Rossweisse did it twice, hugging her beloved with much love, being very happy for him.
"You're not only a God, you're a Dragon God! You're a Dragon, just like me!" Tiamat showed her happiness and love as she hugged him from the other side, making Issei roll his eyes.
He had no problem with being a Dragon. But it was obvious that being a God was something that was completely beyond him.
Meanwhile, Ophis looked between the two women with a slight pout. Now that she had them so close, she could sense that Issei's scent was permeating them, and for some reason she didn't like that one bit.
"This reaffirms the last part of the Prophecy." Michael's comment distracted everyone present, causing them to turn their full attention on him. "In addition to being a Dragon God, Issei will also be the last Sekiryuutei."
This fact was a point that should not interest anyone, as the Prophecy had been put on the very back burner as of now. But everyone knew that those words meant much more than that, and the earnestness they all presented made this abundantly clear.
"Ddraig..." The one who spoke was Tiamat, and it was not for less the surprise that everyone showed, since the dragoness didn't call him with that insulting title as she always did.
Moreover, her expression showed a great deal of gratitude and even a little pity.
"Thank you for what you did. I don't think other people would have done what you did. It's because of you that Issei is still alive, so..." Tiamat moved a little closer to Issei to take his arm, the arm where the Sacred Gear once resided. "Really, on behalf of everyone, we thank you."
A rather delicate silence came over the room. A silence that was accompanied by a somewhat curious expression from Issei, who for some reason rolled his eyes.
"I'm not going to tell her that!" Issei's shout made everyone look at him very curiously, and he noticed this.
Issei settled back in his seat and began to rub his hair sheepishly.
"Ddraig says he doesn't need your condolences and pity. He said that..." Issei paused for a moment to think, something that caught everyone's attention. "He knows well that he's amazing, and he doesn't need other people to remind him. Especially if it's a lady as sensible and not at all crazy as Tiamat." This last sounded very suspicious to everyone, especially to a certain dragoness who narrowed her eyes with great suspicion.
"He didn't exactly say that, did he?" Tiamat's eyes narrowed even more as she saw Issei's smile tighten even more.
"Well, I changed certain words..."
CHAPTER 83: THE WAR PLAN!
"So that's all happened..." Azazel commented as he rubbed his chin, thinking carefully about the whole story Issei told.
"This part of the future is the part that Elohim couldn't develop very well. It's true that there is a plan, but exactly how much power Issei can achieve is unknown." Great Red spoke again, getting everyone to look at him. "From what he told me, there is a strange variation in your dragon transformation, as you not only fused with that Heavenly Dragon, but you also fused with the Sacred Gear." These words made Issei and everyone else's curiosity flare up. "Have you felt anything strange about before? You know, taking away the fact that your magic reserves seem to have reached an impressive limitlessness."
"Now that you mention it, I think there is something odd." Issei lowered his gaze, placing a hand on his chin. "Every time I use or want to use that power, the Sacred Gear changes color."
"That's a curious thing, since the Sacred Gear wouldn't have the need to activate if you're going to use your power. It's most likely a side effect of that fusion you suffered." Great Red's response was more of a hypothesis, though Issei seemed to agree with this. "Have you undergone any other noticeable changes besides that, such as when you use your dragon form?" That last question caused Issei to close his eyes tightly.
"I'm sorry, but I only used my dragon form once, and I remember absolutely nothing. The other time I used my power it only activated the dark gauntlet, and that was more than enough. Anyway, I can assure you that I could have used even more power, but I didn't see it necessary." Issei cleared up all the doubts of Great Red, who seemed to be satisfied after listening to him, although there was one doubt that still lingered.
"Do you think being able to use all your power without any problems?" That question made Issei quite doubtful, who visibly showed it.
"To be honest, I know I can use it, but I don't know if I can control it." Issei made his doubts clear, and Great Red received it with a slight nod.
"That's all the information I needed." Clarified the dragon, catching Issei's interest after what he heard. "Before we proceed with the plan, are there any last questions you'd like to ask me?"
"If you don't mind, there's something that's plaguing me." Penemue raised her hand, gaining everyone's attention.
"Go ahead." Great Red gave a slight nod, letting her proceed.
"I know there's surely a reason for this, but I'd like to understand why you didn't destroy that mind control device if you technically always knew of its existence." That question caused many to sink into thought.
"Actually, that's a very good question. But it's a bit difficult to explain." Great Red folded his arms after saying those words.
"It's like the magic black instant delay box." That statement made everyone look at Ophis with palpable confusion.
"You mean the TV?" As usual, Issei was the only one able to understand her, and it was confirmed when the little woman nodded.
"That magic box works with a control. You can make it work thanks to that control, and you can also turn it off." Ophis settled into Issei's lap to continue talking. "The mind control device works exactly like that magic box, although there is only one small difference, and that difference is that it doesn't have an off button. The only way to turn off the magic box without a control is to disconnect or destroy it. That is, the mind control will go away once we destroy what keeps it connected, or we can also kill her."
"The problem is that we don't know exactly how that device works. We know the functions of the control, but we don't know what part of her body it's attached to. Unfortunately, the elaboration of that device was created before the Holy War, and Elohim could only travel to the future, so it's impossible to know." Great Red cleared up the final doubts, leaving everyone present satisfied.
"Thank you for taking the time to answer us, Red." Odin bowed as he lowered his head. "I think we're all ready to hear that plan now."
"Agreed." Great Red gave everyone a long look, then rested his hand on his chin. "But there are still people missing. I need you to bring Gasper, Gabriel, Dulio, Loki and Tannin." That request astonished everyone present.
"Not that I want to challenge your words..." Yasaka wanted to speak, but choked when Great Red gave her an unfriendly look.
"You're doing it. You're wasting time in vain." Clarified the god solemnly. "They're an impeachable part of the plan. I need them right now."
"But when Tannin learns that Issei was betrayed by the Demons, he will surely be more focused on finding them than on the plan." Tiamat was the one to speak, knowing her old friend's temperament quite well.
"That doesn't matter to me. If he has a problem, then he can talk it over with me." Great Red's words were so withering that Tiamat herself swallowed saliva with some fear.
"All right, we'll call them now." Azazel broke the rising tension with a few simple words.
A few moments later...
The new guests didn't take so long to arrive thanks to Ophis, who transported them to the mansion once they were gathered. The 3 people who didn't know anything about Issei were already aware from before they got there, so they weren't too surprised to see him, although a certain dragon was happy to see that he was still alive. Obviously, the two had a rather unemotional reunion, as Tannin looked really nervous in the presence of the two Dragon Gods, especially Great Red. Dulio and Gabriel were also happy to see him alive, as they really liked the boy in the few chances they met him.
After that little reunion, they all took their seats and Great Red made a quick explanation of the reason for their presences at his home. The 5 were completely perplexed when the last part of the information was told where it was made clear that Issei was a Dragon God. The one who was most surprised was Tannin, who could not believe that this inexperienced and weak young man he met so many months ago is actually an entity with a much greater potential than his own.
Meanwhile, Gasper reacted identically to Tiamat and Rossweisse, although he showed an even more childish side by saying that Issei was a God.
After all the explanations, reencounters, and different clarifications, it was time to start with the most important topic.
"We will all agree if we say that the best option during a war will always be to avoid the death of as many innocents as possible." Great Red's words made everyone nod. "I'm not going to be unrealistic, it's obvious that the death of innocents can't be avoided. But if we can make it so that there won't be a huge massacre because of this war."
"And what exactly do you propose?" The one who spoke was Loki, who had been deep in his role since he arrived at that place.
"The seal is about to be broken. It is true that release is inevitable, but we need to contain it as much as possible. After all, if Trihexa is released, nothing ensures that the battle between the Dragon Gods will spread across much of the Realms." Great Red explained, fixing his gaze on the most recent guests. "For that reason I have summoned all the users who possess the most magic at the moment. We need all of them to feed the broken seals to buy time. That time will be crucial, as the breach will be open from our side, and we will be able to enter the dimensional prison to release the decisive battle from within, and thus save ourselves a lot of potential trouble."
Great Red stood up, skimming through the last pages of the book.
"Tiamat, Tannin, Loki, Odin, Yasaka, Gabriel, Rossweisse, Dulio and Vali." The aforementioned looked at him with rapt attention. "You will be in charge of feeding the seal while I, Ophis and Issei take care of Trihexa. For that very reason I ask you to try to increase your magical reserves during this month, especially the weaker ones. I know that one month is a very short time for beings who are at their power limits, but any kind of gain can make a difference. I will give you some instructions given by Elohim himself so that you can exploit all your virtues." He clarified, receiving a nod from all those mentioned.
"Now, it is time to accommodate the next problem of this war: the Demons and Fallen Angels. This is where everyone who wasn't mentioned comes in." Great Red cleared his throat as he turned the page. "Penemue will be the main leader, due to her being the strongest by far. Gasper, Michael and Azazel will be the generals of the entire supernatural army. I need Michael to stay in the rear for ranged attacks, while the others will be a great asset to the front line. You must take advantage of your superiority to crush the weaker enemies. But, above all, do not let them decimate the army. You must keep morale high." Great Red attached much more importance to his last words, and the fact that he spoke them slowly was proof of that.
Great Red raised his gaze, focusing it especially on Gasper.
"For that very reason, what you must do most of all is to psych yourselves up to be leaders." The half-vampire understood that those last words were directed towards him, so he couldn't help but frown decisively. "Elohim also prepared a routine for everyone. Most of you already reached your full potential, but it doesn't hurt to do some intensive practice during this month so you'll be prepared."
"And what about the army?" Yasaka asked with much interest, a question everyone was thinking about.
"Clearly I'm talking about all the supernatural warriors who are on our side. It is true that the Yokais and Valkyries are not a large army in terms of numbers, but if we add their great power with the large number of Angels, then the army will be quite powerful, not counting other extra reserves that will join us, such as Vali's group or the warriors from the north commanded by the Viking Rosswell." Great Red closed the book, delivering a more serious look than usual to everyone present. "That means they will stop searching for the Demons. You must focus on very thorough training. Also no one but us must know that Issei is still alive, let alone who or rather what he really is, since he is our trump card that Sirzechs are not counting on. At least, no one must know until the last moment."
Great Red sat back in his seat, fixing his gaze on everyone present, looking them over one by one.
"Is it clear what everyone must do?"
They all nodded without complaint, getting a satisfied nod from the Dragon God.
"In that case, I would like to hand over the training that each of you should follow from now on." A sheet of paper appeared by means of various magic circles, where everyone received their own instructions.
"Well, I have to say it's pretty simple, but it's definitely thorough." Tiamat stated, receiving a nod from Rossweisse and Penemue.
"I'd like to say the same..." Commented the half-vampire with a face paler than usual.
It was evident that each was given different instructions depending on the positions they were to take or the potential they had yet to awaken. Their duties could vary from one person to another very easily.
That was what Issei understood, and for a moment he thought he had the simplest instruction. But there was something very odd about it all.
"Excuse me..." Issei raised his hand timidly, catching Great Red's attention. "My sheet only says that I must learn to control my full power, but it doesn't specify how..."
"That's simple. I know what we must do after you made it clear to me how much you know about your own power and your own body." The Dragon God declared, crossing his arms. "I'll explain when everyone has taken a 30-minute breakfast break." After saying those words, a large amount of morning food and drinks appeared on the table. "I'm not that involved in the society, but I did some studying and I think everyone will be comfortable with this type of food." Great Red clarified, receiving a nod from everyone.
"Everyone is welcome to stay here for training. But there won't be any kind of problem if you want to train on your own." Ophis spoke up after so long, holding a cup of hot chocolate between his hands.
"I think it's better to train in heaven, especially since my army can't come here. But I have no problem if you guys want to stay." Michael commented, receiving a nod from his most powerful Angels.
"I think it's a good idea to stay here. Besides, we'll be able to spend more time with Penu and Azaza." Gabriel commented with a sweet smile on her face, making Azazel choke after remembering that nickname the woman put on him.
"Father, I want to stay in this place. I feel like I'll be able to learn a lot of interesting things." Loki spoke to Odin, receiving a nod from the old man.
"Sure, I have no problem." Were the God's simple words, tasting his coffee.
"Issei, what will you do?" Ophis asked the question, and his beloveds looked at him to hear his answer.
"Well, I think it wouldn't be wrong to stay here. Especially since I don't want to disturb Azazel." Issei's comment caused Azazel to open his mouth, but he stopped as he saw how Ophis seemed to be very excited for some reason.
Obviously, the Cadre knew what that reason was, so he simply smiled silently.
"So, from today onwards you will live with Ophis." Declared the pretty Dragon Goddess, unable to hide that small smile that emerged from her face.
"In that case, we'll stay too." Tiamat commented with a slight smile, gaining the attention of the Goddess, who looked at Issei's three lovers with some suspicion.
"Ophis' best friends are also welcome." That was somewhat funny to hear, as Ophis clutched at Issei's shirt with one of her hands, as if she was delivering a somewhat strange message to the three women who couldn't help but look at her with a raised eyebrow.
Obviously, Issei didn't notice this.
He was much more focused on what would be the next training session that would decide the future.
30 minutes later...
Everyone who didn't want to stay in the particular mansion had already left with the idea of starting the battle plan Great Red had given them.
"I imagine you'll be very happy to know that Issei is a dragon like us. Personally, I'm very happy about this." The talk between Tannin and Tiamat was going on, while Loki was talking a couple of things with the two Angels and Gasper, both of whom were very focused on the conversation, something somewhat rare considering that Dulio and Gabriel didn't have a serious personality at all.
Meanwhile, Vali was on the sidelines of any kind of conversation as he read the paper carefully.
Rossweisse was standing a bit apart from the group. She was holding a completely empty cup of tea as she stared at it endlessly. The chatter of the others became inaudible, and thanks to that you could notice how the tea cup was making noises because her hands were shaking. Her eyes looked somewhat lost, and everything that was happening to her body made it quite clear what she was going through.
"Rossweisse." The Valkyrie Queen awoke from her transe when Issei placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Issei?" She asked him with some uncertainty and bewilderment in her gaze.
"I understand that you're feeling overwhelmed by everything that's going on. In fact, I don't think there's anyone who isn't nervous." Issei decided to be as direct as possible, causing Ross to lower her gaze in slight sorrow and fear.
"I'm not nervous..." The Valkyrie's comment made Issei shocked. "Actually, I'm afraid." She raised her gaze again, and her eyes were drawing a great deal of anxiety and worry.
"We win."
Issei's blunt and simple answer made Rossweisse blink in surprise.
"And we will all celebrate. Have no doubt about it." Issei moved a little closer to embrace her gently. In fact, his touch was so delicate and subtle that it made the Valkyrie blush a little.
Eventually, Rossweisse's surprise was slowly replaced by a smile, until she finally accepted Issei's embrace.
"When this is over, I want to go to a fair with the girls and you." Rossweisse felt Issei pull away a little when she said those words.
"And on this occasion, how about we go on a real date?" That comment made Rossweisse giggle a little, remembering how Issei and she became close through those fake dates.
"I like that idea, darling." Rossweisse hugged him a little tighter as she felt the man in her life claim her lips without warning.
Meanwhile, Ophis watched all this expressionlessly, being joined by a Penemue who watched this kiss with a slight smile.
"Weren't kisses only supposed to be for the people you love the most?" Ophis' comment made Penemue look at her with slight curiosity, and at that moment she could tell that the Goddess' lack of expression was a lie.
After all, her eyes reflected a fairly clear set of emotions.
Jealousy, sadness, and envy.
"Rossweisse has become very close to Issei these days, as have I and Tiamat." Penemue tried to explain it somehow, and Ophis seemed to understand right away.
"Issei explained it to me when I tried to kiss him." That statement made Penemue nearly spit out her drink.
The Goddess's emotionless expression changed to a tender pout as she took the hot chocolate hard.
"It's not fair. Ophis wants to be close to Issei too."
Before Penemue could react properly to such a statement, Great Red made his presence known again as he came down the stairs once more, causing everyone to fall completely silent.
"It's time to begin training." The Dragon God declared, then fixing his gaze on Issei. "Come with me." Was all he said, starting to walk away.
"Huh?" Was all Issei could say, though he complied with the man's order without complaint.
"Wait a minute, what is Issei going to do that he has to be watched by you?" Tiamat's alarms immediately went off as she noticed that there was something strange about all this.
Great Red paused after hearing that question. He slowly turned his head, looking at everyone present who wanted an immediate answer.
And the Dragon God gave them such an answer in the most immediate and succinct way possible.
"I will fight him."
END OF CHAPTER!
I hope you enjoyed it!
The last two chapters were probably a bit heavy because it only focused on explanations, but it was necessary to close the last doubts that were still lingering. I just hope I answered every single one of them.
See you soon in the next chapter.
Thank you very much for reading!
