Chapter 40 – Refinement
Labored breaths and the sound of twigs breaking could be heard as three people, two adults and a boy that seemed to be around ten years old, ran through a snow-covered forest as if their lives depended on it, matching terrified expressions on their faces.
"How…how much longer do we have to run for, Pyotr?" The woman asked as she ran while holding her child's arm. "Those things that appeared near our house…surely they can't be chasing us?"
"I hope not…but I won't risk it, Mila." The man said as his eyes darted around, looking for signs of anything abnormal in their surroundings. "You saw what they did to the car, how they tore through our livestock… We have to get to the village, warn them about what's coming…though I don't know if anyone will believe us… I saw it and I can hardly believe my own eyes. To think that monsters from folk tales would—"
A chorus of otherworldly screeches coming from all around the forest cut off Pyotr's words. Before they knew it, a horde of emaciated creatures with white skin that had canine-like heads and glowing eyes emerged from the trees and surrounded the family, their eyes focused on the humans as copious amounts of saliva ran down their fanged mouths.
"Drekavac…" Pyotr said with a trembling voice, standing in front of his wife and child in a protective manner while brandishing the worn-out axe he was holding in his right arm. "S-Stay back! I'm warning you!"
Pyotr's words were met with yet more screeches that resembled some sort of malevolent laughter as the Drekavac began closing in on the humans, long claws protruding from their fingers. While Pyotr didn't entertain any notions of winning against these monsters, he was determined to go down fighting, maybe even create a small opening for his wife and child to escape, unlikely as that possibility was.
Damn it…! Pyotr thought. At this point, only a miracle can save us!
One of the Drekavac, who seemed a bit larger than the rest, took a step forward and crouched. The next moment, it jumped, sailing through the air as it aimed for Pyotr, who found himself unable to react in time. However, before it could sink its fangs in him—a light spear sailed through the air and tore through the Drekavac's torso, sending its carcass flying into the forest. The rest of the horde snarled in agitation as they turned their gazes upward, focusing on their attacker. Pyotr and Mila also followed their line of sight, letting out shocked gasps at what they saw.
"An…Angel…?"
Mila muttered, looking like she was unsure whether she was dreaming or not. Floating above them was an Angel with six red wings growing from his back and a halo hovering above his head, who held a sword enveloped in wind in his right hand.
"Thank the Lord I made it in time…"
Leon Ainsworth remarked as he landed in front of the family, tapping his foot on the ground twice. The next moment, a magic circle appeared around the three humans, enclosing them within a small dome of light.
"Stay in there, and the monsters won't be able to get you." Leon addressed the three of them with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, it'll all be over soon."
Pyotr and Mila could only nod wordlessly, while their son had an awed expression on his face. Turning his attention back to the howling Drekavac, who were focusing on him now, Leon brandished his blade as several light spears appeared around him.
"Now then, who's ready to count their sins?"
Instead of responding to his question, the horde of Drekavac leapt at Leon while howling. His light spears flew forward in response, tearing through several Drekavac at once. Charging at them, Leon swung Fragarach with lightning-fast moves, hacking the monsters into pieces before they could react. Dodging their clumsy swipes, Leon kicked away two Drekavac and summoned Boosted Gear, smashing his armored fist through another one's head.
[Boost!]
Leon's power doubled as he swung his left arm, summoning a massive volume of holy wind that flattened a group of Drekavac, turning them into bloody smears on the ground. At the same time, he swung Fragarach once again, shooting out several wind blades that slashed apart several Drekavac. The remaining creatures tried to escape, but Leon thrust both his wind-clad left hand and Fragarach forward, releasing a concentrated wind blast that shredded the retreating Drekavac along with several trees.
After looking around and making sure that no enemies were present, Leon snapped his fingers, with several magic circles appearing beneath the Drekavac's remains and setting them on fire, leaving no trace of their presence behind. The dome protecting the family also vanished at the same time, with Leon approaching them.
"You're safe now." Leon smiled at them. "I'm sure this has been a very harrowing experience for you three. Good news is, you won't have any memory of it in a bit."
"Are…are you really an Angel?" The boy said before his parents could respond. "Did the Lord send you here to save us from the monsters?"
"You could say that." Leon said as he kneeled down to look the boy in the eye. "What's your name?"
"O-Oleg, mister Angel."
"That's a good name." Leon grinned as he put his hand on Oleg's head, with a faint glow coming from it. "The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you, the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."
The glow became stronger as it enveloped Oleg's body for a bit before vanishing.
"That was…?"
"A blessing for your son, as well as a way for me to make it up to you for cutting it a little too close." Leon said in response to Pyotr's question. "Rest now. Your troubles are over."
A small magic circle appeared on Leon's hand, with the family's eyes glazing over in response to the light coming from it before they lost consciousness. Leon then conjured a communication magic circle and spoke.
"Aria, it's me." Leon said. "I've located and rescued the family your scanners picked up, and also took care of the Drekavac pursuing them. Sending them to you now."
[No need.] A girl's voice came from the magic circle. [You are within range of Noah's teleportation array. Retrieving them right…now.]
Several complex teleportation magic circles appeared beneath the unconscious family, transporting them away.
"Got to love that pre-Cataclysm era technology." Leon remarked with a smirk. "Since you're close by, I assume that means the evacuation of the surrounding villages is complete?"
[For the most part, yes.] Aria responded. [It is fortunate that this vessel has enough space to fit all these people. Anyway, if you're done there, you should join Bruno and Damian. They seem to have made some interesting discoveries.]
"I'm on my way."
Leon spread his wings after saying so, taking flight and heading towards a village in the distance, where copious amounts of smoke could be seen rising from its outskirts. Spotting two familiar individuals, who were surrounded by several creatures bound by magic circles and rock tendrils, Leon landed next to them, retracing his wings as he did so.
"Welcome back. Everything went well?"
The one who had spoken was a young man who was the tallest and burliest of the two. He had tea-colored hair and jade-colored eyes, with his overall features looking like they were chiseled from stone. He wore a simple priest outfit and held a large sword with a blue-colored blade that curved in the middle and had jagged parts jutting from it, a golden hilt and gold ornaments attached to the flat of the blade.
"The humans are safe and the Drekavac pursuing them are gone, Damian." Leon said with a frown as he observed the bound creatures, which resembled giants with tangled green hair and bark-like skin. "Aren't these Leshies? These creatures are supposed to be protectors of the forest and rarely venture outside of it. So why were they involved in the recent string of attacks?"
"Does this perhaps answer your question?"
The other young man, who had long, dark brown hair tied into a braid, brown eyes, and tan skin, said as he pointed at one of the captives' foreheads. Engraved there was a sinister-looking black mark that was letting out a faint glow, causing Leon's frown to deepen.
"That's…Chernobog's mark." Leon said. "It's just like we thought then, isn't it, Bruno? That Evil God has allied himself with the Khaos Brigade and is responsible for the plagues and withered crops that have been occurring all across Russia as of late. I wonder though, is he causing mischief just for the sake of it like he usually does, or is this all part of the Khaos Brigade's master plan, whatever that is?"
"With the luck we've been having lately, it's probably the latter." Bruno said, letting out an irritated sigh. "First the Vatican attack, and now we have to deal with God-class terrorism involving rampant disease and food shortages, along with monster attacks and Annihilation Maker constructs appearing near Moscow and Saint Petersburg. The salaud responsible for this deserves to burn in Hell for all eternity!"
"Language." Damian said in a stern tone. "At least we stopped them here, and we also retrieved a sample of the spores Chernobog's minions have been using to pollute the land. If Heaven analyzes them, we could synthesize a cure to counter its effects."
"We have to get in touch with the Slavic Pantheon as well." Leon said. "Perun and his fellow Gods might be more willing to cooperate with us once they learn their problem child is now part of a global terrorist organization."
"I wouldn't bet on that." Bruno said. "Slavic Gods treat us Heaven folk like crap after we stole most of their believers and converted their lands into bastions of Christianity. Understandably, they're still a little upset about that, as are many other Pantheons, and would sooner mount our heads on pikes than listen to us and our pleas. C'est la vie."
"How about we focus on the immediate issue for now?" Damian said. "We cannot leave the Leshies in such a state."
"True, but breaking a God-class spell is a little beyond the capabilities of all members here." Leon said. "If only Inessa with her Sin Eater was here. Perhaps she could remove the curse. Right now though, we should—"
[Heads up, everyone.] Aria's voice came from communication magic circles that appeared near the three boys' ears. [Noah's scanners are picking up a large number of lifeforms heading your way. Looks like the earlier battle caught the enemy's attention.]
"Oh là là!" Bruno exclaimed. "Does that mean we've fallen into the enemy's trap? Très bien! Playing hide-and-seek isn't my style after all. I prefer blowing away obstacles in my path with full force. What say you, Leon? Shall we demonstrate the power of the renowned Heaven's Twin Gales once again?"
"Nobody calls us that though, Bruno…" Leon let out an exasperated sigh, turning to Damian. "Regarding the village behind us, could you…?"
"Say no more." Damian said. "I will not allow these people's houses and livelihoods to be trampled upon. This I swear on my Holy Sword Caladbolg."
After Damian said so, the ground began shaking as his body shone and a rumbling sound echoed across the area. Immediately afterwards, five-meter-tall stone walls with large towers on them burst from the ground, surrounding the village behind the three young men and projecting a barrier made of holy energy that covered the village from above.
"Impressive as always." Bruno said with a grin while whistling. "Times like this, I can't help but be a little envious of Damian's Consecration of Order. Will you be joining us as well, Aria?"
[I can't expose my passengers to danger, so unless the situation becomes dire, I can only offer you long-range support.]
"That's more than enough."
Leon said, turning his sight towards the horizon and the enemies approaching them for there. A large number of Baba Yagas standing on top of hovering mortars were leading a horde of wyverns, Rushalkas, Drekavac and Vodyanoys. Several Annihilation Maker constructs were also among the mass bearing down on the Heaven warriors. However, none of them looked nervous in the slightest.
"That's quite the army." Leon said, forming the Boosted Gear around his left arm and summoning the Shield of Evalach. "Are you two ready?"
"Of course."
"I was born ready! Not to mention, I'm the oldest of you all, so I have to put on a good show!"
Damian and Bruno said, with the latter conjuring a pair of sky-blue metal fans with bladed ends that were surrounded by wind. Leon also raised his aura as he shouted.
"Balance Break!"
[Welsh Dragon Balance Breaker!]
Boosted Gear Scale Mail formed around Leon's body as he spread his angelic wings, with Bruno and Damian doing the same. As they prepared to engage the mass of enemies charging at them, an errand thought passed through Leon's mind.
I wonder what Vali and Takeshi are doing right about now. I doubt they have it as hard as I do at the moment…
"Shit! Are you trying to kill me here for real, Master!?"
Takeshi shouted as he summoned a thick wall of ashes, barely shielding himself from Tannin's fire breath. The giant Dragon swung his tail with an impossibly fast motion, tearing through the ashes and almost knocking his opponent out the sky. Gathering miasma in his left hand, Takeshi shot a barrage of bullets at Tannin, but he evaded them with agile movements unbefitting of his massive frame.
Throwing the miasma-clad Mayhem Striker at Tannin next, Takeshi followed with numerous ash lances aimed at the direction the Dragon King evaded. However, Tannin's horns extended all of a sudden, tearing through the ashes and aiming for Takeshi. Caught by surprise, he avoided the first one in haste, but his body froze in midair as he felt gravity intensifying all of a sudden. As such, he was too slow to avoid the second horn, which tore through his left abdomen and sent him crashing on the mountainside, with Takeshi spitting out blood.
"You lost your focus, Ryuugamine Takeshi." Tannin said as he came to hover above Takeshi. "Remember, no matter the situation, you must acclimate your body and mind to maintain a steady output of draconic aura at all times. It must become second nature to you, or else you won't be able to make any meaningful progress!"
Opening his maw wide, Tannin unleashed a massive wave of flames. Struggling to readjust his aura flow and seeing that he couldn't evade in time, Takeshi attempted to switch from the equipped Dead Shore Advent into Savage Predator Incarnation. However, as was the norm over the past days, Cataclysm Zone didn't respond to his command, letting out several sparks instead. Tannin's fire breath struck Takeshi, causing a large explosion that destroyed part of the mountainside and sent him tumbling down. He crashed though several trees and a couple of boulders before coming to a stop, half-buried under a large amount of snow.
"Damn it…" Takeshi cursed as he stood up with evident effort, his Balance Breaker mending his injuries. "Do all Dragons have a couple of screws loose? If Master keeps going like this, I don't see myself surviving until the end of my training…"
"Don't let your guard down!"
Tannin bellowed as he launched another fire breath at Takeshi, who rolled out of the way with evident effort as he forced himself to focus, enveloping his body in a thin sheet of draconic aura. Once he did, the sensation of increased gravity vanished, with Takeshi gathering the large amount of ashes around him that had been the result of Tannin's attack to form several giant fists above him. Spreading his wings and flying up, he let loose a flurry of giant punches at Tannin. However, the Dragon King was unperturbed, using his own aura-clad fists to bat them away and disperse them before letting out another massive fire breath that Takeshi evaded, melting a part of the mountaintop. Takeshi couldn't help but shiver at this sight, wondering what would happen if he received such an attack head-on.
"…Am I imagining things, or are your attacks getting stronger, Master?" Takeshi asked. "You didn't display that much firepower when we started sparring two months ago. Are you perhaps holding back on me?"
"Naturally." Tannin said as he aimed a punch at Takeshi, which the latter evaded. "If I used my full power at you, I would have vaporized you along with this entire mountain range by now. My strength has been noted to be close to that of Devil King-class beings, you know?"
"You're quite the monster, aren't you, Master?" Takeshi let out a humorless laugh. "That's to be expected from someone of your status though. Are all Dragon Kings like you?"
"Some are, while others have their own characteristics and quirks." Tannin said. "You will meet another one soon, and perhaps you'll come across more of them down the line. If I were you though, I would focus on the now, unless you want to be in a world of pain!"
Tannin charged at Takeshi, with the two of them resuming their spar. At the end of it, the bloodied and exhausted Takeshi collapsed on a small plateau, his armor dissipating as he struggled to catch his breath. As for Tannin, he had landed on a nearby large outcropping and was sharpening his claws. Much like their previous bouts, he had remained unscathed despite Takeshi's best efforts.
The gap in strength and experience is too wide, not to mention the special conditions applied to the terrain. Takeshi thought, and then his expression fell. No…it's not just that. In the end, I myself am the core of the problem. No matter how much I hone my body and technique, deep inside, I am…
"Oh, I see Tannin's working you as hard as I thought, Takeshi."
The one who had spoken was Azazel, who descended from the sky and landed next to Takeshi, helping him up.
"Thanks, Sensei." Takeshi said. "You came to check on my progress?"
"That too, but I also wanted to talk to you about something." Azazel said. "You don't mind, do you, Tannin?"
"Not at all." Tannin said as he spread his wings. "Once you two are done, meet me at the usual place to resume your training, Ryuugamine Takeshi."
"Yes, Master." Takeshi said, turning to Azazel. "Follow me, Sensei."
Takeshi spread his wings and took off, with Azazel following behind him. After a brief flight, the two of them arrived at the mouth of a large cave situated in one of the tallest mountains in the area. Stepping inside, Takeshi used his demonic power to light a fire before turning to Azazel.
"Welcome to my very humble abode." Takeshi said. "I would offer you a chair, but seeing as I lack even the basic necessities here, you'll have to settle for the cold, hard ground. As for food and drinks, we have meat from some Underworld animal I don't know of that tastes bitter as Hell, and water from the nearby lake."
"Pass." Azazel said, taking out a bottle of cognac from a magic circle. "All things considered though, you seem to have adapted pretty well to living out in the wilderness. I thought you'd be bawling your eyes out the moment you saw me, demanding to be brought back home."
"It was difficult during the first month or so, but I'm getting used to it." Takeshi said as he sat down, facing Azazel. "The training on the other hand…that's far more challenging. Master has me channel my draconic aura at all times while keeping the output at a set amount. If I fail to do so, if I channel too much or too little, the magic formations engraved inside this area activate and increase the pull of gravity to nigh-intolerable amounts, sending me crashing down. It's bad enough that I have to do this during my daily routine, but keeping my aura stable in the middle of a fight…let's just say it takes quite a bit of effort."
"I'm sure it does." Azazel said. "Manipulating their aura and getting a feel of the amount they need to channel for specific tasks is something all Dragons learn to do subconsciously as they grow up. For someone like you, who isn't even a Dragon to begin with, this must seem like an insurmountable task, even more so when your demonic power mixes in with it and interferes with your control over your draconic aura."
"Yeah, that was another huge pain in the ass." Takeshi grimaced. "That, at least, I managed to deal with somehow. Master taught me how to keep my draconic aura and demonic power separate over the past couple of months, switching from one source of power to another for specific tasks. Good thing he had plenty of experience on that as a fellow Reincarnated Devil."
"What about your Balance Breakers?" Azazel asked as he took a sip from his bottle. "Have you made any progress in switching between them on the fly?"
"No luck there so far." Takeshi said. "I'm doing my best, but it doesn't seem to be working out so far. Every time I try to switch into a different Balance Breaker, Cataclysm Zone malfunctions."
"Well, you still have almost six months left in the barrier, so plenty of time left to work on that." Azazel said. "What about the most pressing issue, your nightmares?"
"Ladon's on a roll these past weeks." Takeshi snorted, a sour expression on his face. "He seems determined to let me experience as much misery and pain as possible. Sometimes, I feel like I'm hallucinating even when I'm awake. If his powers start affecting me twenty-four seven for real…this is it. Game over. I won't be able to keep it together and not go insane. Master seems to think a friend of his that will come later might help, but I'm not so sure about it…"
"Like I said before, it's too soon to give up hope, Takeshi." Azazel said, patting him on his shoulder. "You have the full backing of the Three Factions and all other allied Pantheons. I refuse to believe that all of us working together can't come up with a solution for your problem."
"You might, but the question is whether you'll be on time…" Takeshi muttered. "Enough about me though. How are the others doing with their training? Also, what did you want to talk to me about?"
"Regarding your first question, everyone's progressing well more or less." Azazel said. "Seriously, I can't help but be amazed with you kids. At this rate, perhaps you'll all become High-class, or even Ultimate-class Devils before Rias even makes her official debut. I know the next generation is supposed to surpass the previous one, but damn. I don't even want to imagine what kind of monsters your descendants will be."
Azazel took a couple of large sips from his bottle, emptying it, before he resumed talking.
"Now then, onto the other matter I came here for." Azazel said. "It involves Akeno. I understand you have your own problems to deal with right now, but I would appreciate it if you spoke with her for a while, get her to loosen up a bit. When I went to see how her training with Baraqiel was going…yeesh, the tension between them was so thick you could cut it with a knife. They seemed to be civil, if a bit distant towards one another, but I don't know if Akeno will be able to maintain that attitude for long. Unwinding a bit by talking to you should help her somewhat. It frustrates me that this is all I can do for her…even though I'm part of the reason her mother died."
"Akeno told me Baraqiel wasn't there the night her mother died." Takeshi said. "Is that because you had sent him on some sort of mission?"
"That's right." Azazel said as he leaned back, a wistful look in his eyes. "At that time, two of our Cadres, Satanael and Ramiel, had betrayed us and abandoned Grigori to pursue their own goals. Both of them, especially Ramiel, were powerful and experienced Fallen Angels, which was why I needed Baraqiel, one of our strongest fighters, to aid in apprehending them. Because of that though, he wasn't there to protect Shuri and Akeno when his enemies came for them."
"You couldn't have known that though." Takeshi said. "Shuri-san, on the other hand, she should have been aware of the Himejima family's practices and the lengths they would go to erase what they perceived as a stain on their clan's reputation. Why didn't she leave Japan with Baraqiel-san and Akeno?"
"Shuri loved this country and didn't wish to leave it, and she also underestimated the depth of the Himejima family's darkness." Azazel said with a grim expression. "She probably thought she could negotiate with the clan and settle the matter by having the elders exile her, but things didn't play out as she wished. If it had been just her, perhaps they would have let her be, but Akeno's existence, an impure being from their point of view who carried both Fallen Angel and Himejima blood, was something they couldn't tolerate. You know the rest. Shuri was killed while protecting Akeno, she was left alone and destitute to wander around Japan while dodging assassination attempts from the Himejima clan, and by the time we found out she had survived, Rias had taken her in and reincarnated her into a Devil."
"If that's the case though, then could it be…?" Takeshi muttered, a thoughtful expression on his face, before addressing Azazel. "I understand, Sensei. This is a delicate subject, but I'll do my best to help Akeno in any way I can. Seeing my girlfriend being miserable is something I can't stand after all."
"I knew I could count on you, kid." Azazel grinned as he stood up, dusting himself. "Baraqiel is a good friend of mine, and I'm sure this matter is eating him up inside. If you could help smooth things between them even a little bit, I'd be very grateful. Also, next time I come here, I'll make sure to bring you something decent to eat. I reckon you must have missed the taste of homemade food."
"That would be much appreciated, Sensei."
Takeshi said. Once Azazel had taken his leave, Takeshi sat down cross-legged, thinking about what to say to Akeno. Once he was done, he conjured a communication magic circle. After a few seconds, a projection of Akeno appeared in front of him.
[Ara, if it isn't Takeshi.] Akeno said, a wide smile appearing on her face. [What a pleasant surprise. Seeing your face again after such a long time fills me with joy. How are you doing over there? Is your training going well?]
"It's harsh, but with a Dragon King being your trainer, that is to be expected." Takeshi said. "I'm more worried about you, Akeno. Azazel-sensei was here just now, and from what he told me, you and Baraqiel-san aren't exactly getting along well."
[…Getting along with that man was never part of the deal.] Akeno said, a harsh expression on her face. [I agreed to receive training from him, but that's as far as it goes. No matter what I do…I can't separate the image of my mother's death from him. If he was there at that time like he ought to be, our family would still be intact today. I lost her because of his negligence.]
"Yes, but keep in mind that he also lost his wife, and you two lost each other." Takeshi pointed out. "I'm sure he's hurting inside just as much as you do, and you keep hurting him and yourself by shutting him off for something that can't be blamed on him in its entirety. The Himejima family's traditions, the world's norms, Baraqiel-san's enemies, the defecting Cadres that required his presence, Azazel, Shuri-san's own stubbornness, they all played their part in this tragedy. Akeno, if there's a chance for you to fix your fractured family, regain what you've lost to some degree—"
[There's no chance at all of that happening.] Akeno cut off Takeshi, her anger rising. [I understand what you're saying to a degree, but after everything that's happened, the way he let us down…I can no longer consider that person a parent. As far as I'm concerned, my father also died that night along with my mother.]
"So, if Baraqiel-san were to drop dead the next day, you mean to tell me you'd feel nothing?" Takeshi asked. "That there'd be no regrets whatsoever, that you'd go on living your life as if nothing of significance had been lost?"
[I…]
"Also, if Shuri-san could see you right now, what do you think she'd say to you, Akeno?" Takeshi pressed on. "How would she feel about this whole situation between you and Baraqiel-san? Ah, and don't give me the 'but she's not here because of him, so there's no point' cop-out answer. I want the truth, so no running away."
[…That's a low blow, Takeshi.] Akeno said after a few seconds, her head lowered. [My mother…she wouldn't have approved of my behavior for sure. She'd have probably insisted to let bygones be bygones and make up with Baraqiel. Even so, I don't…I can't find it within myself to forgive him…]
"Why is that though?" Takeshi said. "You're a smart girl and you've had years to ponder this issue, Akeno. This hatred of Baraqiel-san and the Fallen Angels borders on irrational. I can't help but wonder…do you perhaps find it easier to hate him because it hurts way less than the alternative? Deep down…do you perhaps blame yourself most of all for what happened that night?"
[What…?] Akeno muttered with a bewildered look on her face. [I…don't understand what you're trying to say, Takeshi. Hate myself? What for?]
"Azazel told me something interesting before." Takeshi said. "He said that the Himejima family hardened their stance towards Shuri because of your existence, a hybrid between human and Fallen Angel, and that got me thinking. I wonder…the assassins that came for you two, did they say something regarding that matter?"
Akeno didn't respond, overwhelmed by memories of that dreadful night that rushed in unbidden.
…Give us the child, and you may yet live…
…Shame of the Himejima family…
…Should have never existed…
…Filthy half-breed with dirtied wings!
Tears started rolling down Akeno's face in response. Takeshi lifted his hand in reflex to wipe them away, but it passed through her projection.
"I'm sorry…for forcing you to recall something so unpleasant." Takeshi said with a sad smile. "It seems my guess was right on the money. You feel responsible for what happened to Shuri-san and hate yourself deep down. However, because you couldn't handle that, you chose to project all that hatred on Baraqiel-san. Am I wrong, Akeno?"
[No…no, you are not…] Akeno let out a humorless laugh, wiping her tears from her eyes. [I'm…the worst, aren't I? Running away from my own faults, blaming others for my misfortune, lashing out like a spoiled brat and hurting my father… How can I call myself the Queen of the Gremory group like this? No, how can even call myself a decent person at this point…?]
"We all have our own faults and our own demons to contend with." Takeshi said. "What happened to Shuri-san isn't part of that though. That wasn't your fault in any shape or form, and don't let anyone, including yourself, tell you otherwise. Forgive yourself, and stop punishing Baraqiel-san for the events of that night. It's what your mother would have wanted, and it's the only way you can start healing. Remember, a smiling Akeno is the best Akeno for me and everyone else."
[At this point…can I even make things right though?] Akeno wondered. [When it comes to Baraqiel…my feelings about him are still a mess right now, and I'm sure he must have given up on me. How can I face him, or even begin to repair our relationship if that's even possible as things stand…?]
"One small step at a time, Akeno." Takeshi said. "It's not going to be easy, but it'll be worth it in the end. As for your father, judging from Azazel's words, I can say with confidence that he has never stopped loving you all this time. If you try to build bridges between you two, he'll respond to those efforts for sure."
[One can only hope…] Akeno said with a small voice, and then smiled. [Either way…I won't run away anymore. I'm facing my issues head-on, and I'll accept the outcome no matter what it is.]
"Now that's more like the Akeno I know and love." Takeshi grinned. "I'll be waiting for the good news."
[Thank you, Takeshi, for everything.] Akeno said, her smile becoming wider. [No matter what the whole world might think of you, you've brought me nothing but blessings from the moment I met you. Having you fall for me, I must be the luckiest girl in the world, ufufu~.]
"And I'm the luckiest guy in the world to have a wonderful girl like you fall in love with me." Takeshi smiled back at Akeno. "Master must be getting impatient, so I've got to go before he comes here and drags me out by force. Good luck and do your best, Akeno."
[You do your best as well, Takeshi. I'm looking forward to seeing you in person.]
Once Takeshi's projection vanished, Akeno took a few deep breaths to compose herself. She was still reeling from the unexpected insight her boyfriend had provided, but she was nonetheless grateful to him for helping her untangle the mess that was her feelings towards her father and herself to a degree. However, with that understanding came nervousness and anxiety over how she should face Baraqiel from now on.
Don't hesitate. Akeno thought, slapping her cheeks. It's like Takeshi said. I'll forge on ahead with slow and steady steps.
Psyching herself up like that, Akeno left her room and went down the stairs, heading for the cottage's small dining room. Baraqiel was already there, reading a newspaper from the human world. He glanced at Akeno for a couple of seconds before averting his gaze, focusing on his newspaper. The sight of him brought forth a multitude of mixed feelings in Akeno; hatred, longing, shame, love, all of these emotions swirled inside her.
It's not so easy when I'm actually facing him…
Akeno thought. Unless it involved training instructions, their interactions so far had been dominated by tense silence, with Baraqiel occasionally trying to make some small talk, only to be shut down by Akeno at every turn. Unsure of what to do next, she took out the karaage she had made earlier for lunch and sat down across Baraqiel. Looking from her dish to the Fallen Angel, she took out another plate and put some karaage in it as well before pushing it towards Baraqiel, who raised an eyebrow.
"This is…?"
"I made a bit too much karaage, but I don't want to throw it away." Akeno said. "That's why…I thought I could share it with you. But if you don't want it…"
"No, I will take it." Baraqiel said. "Thank you…Akeno."
"No problem." Akeno said, clasping her hands together. "You should eat it quickly before it gets cold."
Baraqiel nodded as the two of them began eating. As Baraqiel took a few bites out of his dish, Akeno couldn't help but notice that tears had started forming at the edges of his eyes.
"Is…is something the matter?" Akeno asked in a hesitant manner. "Did I put too much spice on the karaage?"
"No, it's just…" Baraqiel seemed to hesitate as well for a few seconds before speaking. "This taste…it's exactly the same as Shuri's…"
"That…I guess that's not surprising." Akeno let out a small smile. "Mother was the one who taught me everything about cooking after all…and apart from me, you're the only one who can remember the taste of her cooking…the taste of home…"
"Home…" Baraqiel said, a solemn expression on his face. "That's a word I thought I'd never hear again. Akeno, forgive me for asking, but…did something happen? You seem somewhat…different."
"I suppose something has changed, something important." Akeno said with a small smile. "The two of us…we need to have a discussion at some point. Just…not right now. There are still some things I have to process and work through. Once I do though…"
"I understand." Baraqiel said, the traces of a smile on his face. "Take as much time as you need, Akeno. Whenever you feel ready, I'll be here for you. That's a promise."
"Thank you."
Akeno nodded as the two of them resumed eating. Unlike all other times in the past however, the silence between father and daughter was far more tranquil and comfortable.
"Gah! Not again, damn it!"
Takeshi screamed as the rock pillar he was trying to climb let out an energy pulse all of a sudden that struck him head-on and forced him off it, sending him into a freefall that ended with him crashing on the ground. Takeshi let out a pained groan as he picked himself up with some effort, spitting out a few drops of blood and dusting himself off.
"Tch, I didn't even get close to the halfway point this time…" Takeshi said through gritted teeth, kicking the rock surface in frustration. "If I keep progressing in such a slow manner, my provisions will run out and I'll starve to death for sure. To think there would come a time where I would miss that cold, damp cave…"
Takeshi sighed. Right now, he was at the bottom of a wide and deep chasm within the mountains, with all his flight capabilities sealed off due to the magic formations embedded in the area around him and the use of auxiliary Sacred Gears forbidden by Tannin's decree. The only way out for him was to climb the thick rock pillar jutting upwards from the ground. The catch was that he needed to not only coat his hands and legs in a precise amount of draconic aura to prevent the spells cast on the pillar from reacting and throwing him off, he also had to adjust the amount of aura channeled on the fly to match the spells' random fluctuating patterns. On top of all that, if he didn't emit draconic aura around his body as well at all times, the weight-increasing spells would be triggered, resulting in him losing his grip and plummeting to the ground.
"I can't believe it's been one month ever since Master tossed me in here." Takeshi remarked. "If I don't pick up the pace, I wouldn't put it past him to come down here and start shooting flames to 'motivate' me. Well, no use complaining at this point. Just have to grit my teeth, pull myself together and climb out of this damn pit."
Slapping his cheeks and taking a deep breath, Takeshi closed his eyes and placed his hands on the rock pillar. Getting a feel of the necessary amount of aura he needed to use this time, Takeshi increased its concentration around his limbs and started climbing for the umpteenth time so far. Beads of sweat ran down his face as he focused on maintaining the output of draconic aura around his body and limbs while using the various handholds to progress.
All of a sudden, a chill went down Takeshi's spine, an unmistakable sign that the spell patterns were changing. He would only have seconds to identify the required aura output and adjust his own accordingly before the embedded spells blasted him off the pillar.
Come on, you dolt! Takeshi screamed in his thoughts. Move faster!
With barely a second to spare, Takeshi managed to adjust his aura output in time, letting out a relived sigh as he leaned on the pillar to catch his breath and calm himself.
[Not bad, partner.] Orochi said. [Persistence and training pay off, no? At first, you couldn't even gauge the amount of aura necessary to start climbing. Look at you now though, doing subconscious calculations and adjustments with some effort. Who knows, perhaps we'll make a fine Evil Dragon out of you after all!]
I'd rather slit my own throat than become a blight on this world like you fellows. Takeshi thought. Now shut up. I need to concentrate here.
[Never say never, partner~.]
Takeshi tuned out Orochi as he kept climbing. Overcoming four more spell formula changes by adjusting his aura accordingly in the nick of time, Takeshi passed the halfway mark after a while, a triumphant smile on his face as he forged on.
This is the farthest I've climbed so far. Takeshi grinned as he reached for the next handhold. My body's finally getting the hang of it. I can do this!
No sooner had he thought that than the scenery before his eyes changed. He was standing in the middle of a ruined city, with fires still raging around him and tons of corpses lying on his feet. His parents, Rias, Akeno, Pandora, Xenovia, Yuuto and Gasper were among them along with other familiar figures such as his classmates, the members of the Student Council and more.
"Not this…" Takeshi said with a trembling voice. "Not here, not now…!"
His whole body shaking from what he knew was coming next, he turned his gaze to his right—where his bloodstained arm had torn through Koneko's chest, her corpse dangling from it like a puppet with its strings cut. A shocked expression could be seen on her face, while her lifeless gaze seemed to be accusing him even in this state.
"This isn't real…" Takeshi muttered, forcing himself to avert his eyes from this massacre. "This isn't real, this isn't real, damn it! It will never be real!"
Takeshi's scream tore though the illusion, with the young man finding himself dangling from the rock pillar once again. Unfortunately, his brief delusion had cost him precious time and focus as the magic formulas altered themselves again at that moment. Unable to adjust the draconic aura coming from his limbs in time, Takeshi was thrown off the rock pillar once again. He barely had time to increase the density of aura surrounding his body in order to somewhat mitigate the damage from the impact with the ground. Even then, Takeshi felt as if someone had struck him with a sledgehammer, a cry of pain escaping his lips.
"Damn it all to Hell!" Takeshi shouted as he stood up. "You think this is funny, Ladon!? Are you getting a kick out of showing me scenes from my nightmares even when I'm awake, you rotten bastard!?"
[It's more like…a chore…for me…but you need…to be taught…the most important lesson…of all…the futility…of all your actions…in the grand scheme…of things…] Ladon said. [It won't…be long now… Your mind…is frayed…close to its…breaking point… Do yourself…a favor…and realize…that your defiance…is pointless…]
"If my defiance is a source of constant irritation for you, then that's reason enough for me to keep fighting." Takeshi said with a resolute expression. "Like I've said before, I will change my fate and free myself from the curse of the Evil Dragon User. Everyone who says we can only ever be monsters that bring death and ruin, I'll prove them wrong for sure!"
[Will you…now…?] Ladon snorted. [What…a joke… You can devote…as much effort…as you wish…risk life and limb…for the sake of the world…but in the end…the people living in it…will always condemn you… Beings of abnormal power…like us…are treated as irritants…and irritants…are inevitably expelled…from the current order… That's…an ironclad rule…of this world…that will not change…no matter how much…you struggle against it…]
"The world rejected you guys because you were always in opposition to it, seeking to destroy it to satisfy your demented urges." Takeshi shot back. "If you had put in the effort to be acknowledged and respected, you might have—"
[Might have what?] Grendel cut off Takeshi. [Become heroes or some crap like that? Ha! If you think so, you're still too naïve! Open your ears and listen well, shitty brat! The world never tolerates a hero for too long! In the end, the very people who raised them to that pedestal turn on them and tear them apart like savages!]
[We've met and fought our share of heroes over the course of our long lives, powerful warriors with noble hearts that were devoted to justice.] Nidhogg said. [However, most of them were brought down by the very people who raised them using various justifications like Grendel said. You want to know why? It's because no matter what kind of race you are, the common rabble cannot stand the sight of someone better them casting light on their imperfections by their mere existence. Instead of striving to emulate them, their envy consumes them and they choose the easy path of dragging them down to the same muddy pit of sins and vices they're wallowing in like the pigs they are. That is the inevitable conclusion of a hero's journey no matter the era.]
[Yeah, the whole hero schtick is kind of pointless, unless you're a glutton for punishment.] Orochi said. [If the world's going to mess with you either way, it's much better to live your life the way you want to. Take what you want when you want it, and if someone's got a problem with it, screw them! This world's always been about survival of the fittest after all, partner!]
"Your twisted worldviews aren't going to—"
[Why…are you so sure…we're the ones….with the warped worldviews…?] Ladon said, cutting off Takeshi. [Because we're evil…a word…that has changed definition…so many times…it's lost all meaning…? Don't…make me…laugh… You may call…us insane…but to me…you're the insane one… Fighting for acknowledgment…that will never come…placing value…on fleeting things…like love, duty…and friendship…seeking freedom…in a world designed…to limit you…all these…are the height…of foolishness… Deep down…you know…that the only options…you have…is rejecting your foolish ideas…or rejecting this Sacred Gear…]
[We'll be looking forward to your choice.] Nidhogg chuckled. [For all your faults, I can't deny that you've been entertaining to a degree, whelp. I might actually miss you when you're gone.]
[Not entertaining enough for my tastes, that's for sure!] Grendel said. [Still, I hope you won't walk away until the end, shitty whelp! I want to enjoy every last drop of your pain and suffering when both your mind and body break!]
Following these words, the Evil Dragons fell silent, leaving Takeshi seething. Letting out a guttural howl, he conjured several aura spheres and started hurling them around with no regard for his surroundings.
"You really have a knack for getting in my nerves, don't you, you blasted flying maggots!" Takeshi shouted. "Speaking in a patronizing manner, styling yourselves as some sort of great philosophers, thinking that you can understand me, there's a limit to being so conceited! Even if the conclusion is set in stone, I'll reject you and your nonsense until I breathe my last! Do you hear me!?"
"I can hear you loud and clear. In fact, your barking is grating on my ears, little Devil."
Startled by this unfamiliar voice, Takeshi turned around in haste, ready to summon one of his auxiliary Sacred Gears. Standing a few meters apart from him was a large Dragon that seemed to be around ten meters tall with two wings and a barbed tail growing from his back. His scales were purple in color, with some small dark blue patches here and there, and two curved horns protruded from his head. All in all, his appearance was eerily similar to Tannin's, though he lacked the majesty and presence of the former Dragon King.
"Who the Hell are you?" Takeshi said, eyeing the Dragon with suspicion and wariness, unsure if this was yet another illusion. "Did Master send you here, or do you have some other business in this place?"
"I am called Bova." The Dragon said as he approached Takeshi. "As for the reason I am here, I was curious about the dreaded Evil Dragon User, whose fame as the most unique possessor of Cataclysm Zone has reached even our territories. I thought you must be someone very special for the former Dragon King to waste his precious time on training you, but it seems I was mistaken. You seem like a plain Devil brat that can barely control himself, hardly someone worth mentioning. If we fought, you wouldn't last even two minutes."
"Careful there, Bova." Takeshi smirked. "Assumptions are the mother of all screw-ups. However, your timing is perfect. I needed something to vent my anger at. If you doubt my strength, perhaps you'd like to get a taste of it yourself? Or is talking big and then backing down when challenged your specialty?"
"I was hoping you'd say that." Bova said, a savage grin appearing on his reptilian features as he crouched. "At least you're not a coward that won't fight when provoked. That alone won't be enough to stand against me though!"
Without warning, Bova lunged at Takeshi, his claws poised to tear him apart. Switching to demonic power, and doing his best to ignore the added weight on him from the magic formations, Takeshi conjured a powerful defensive magic circle, with Bova's claws slamming on it. Although he tore through it with little effort, it had served its purpose as Takeshi summoned Berserk Devastator, the dark green gauntlets and greaves forming around his limbs, and shouted.
"Balance Break!"
[Atrocity Rise! Crime Force Awakening!]
Flames burst out of Takeshi's body as Savage Predator Incarnation's armor formed around his body. Parrying Bova's swipe, he countered with a flaming uppercut, sending the large Dragon stumbling backwards. He followed with a flaming dive kick, but Bova rolled to the side, evading the blow. He followed with a tail strike, but Takeshi jumped backwards, shooting out a wave of ice that trapped Bova's tail. Before he could free himself, Takeshi dashed at him, flames shooting out of his legs to increase his speed, and struck him in his stomach, unleashing a barrage of blows that forced the Dragon backwards as it howled in pain.
[Yes, that's it!] Grendel shouted with an ecstatic tone. [Pulverize that upstart, whelp! Tear out his claws and gouge his insides out with them!]
Takeshi ignored Grendel as he aimed another punch at Bova, only for the Dragon to shapeshift into a smaller form, causing his blow to miss his mark. Turing back into his normal size, Bova opened his mouth wide, letting out a torrent of flames powerful enough to melt the surrounding rocks. As the conflagration approached him, Takeshi clapped his hands together, conjuring a raging blizzard around him. The flames were unable to get past it, forcing Bova to stop attacking in order to catch his breath. Not wasting this chance, Takeshi directed the blizzard at the Dragon, causing ice to form on several parts on his body. Encumbered by the added weight and with the frost sapping his strength, Bova was too slow to avoid Takeshi's own breath attack, which struck him squarely on the chest and sent him crashing on the ground.
"You're not so tough after all, are you, Bova?" Takeshi taunted his fallen opponent. "I'm sorry to say that, compared to Master's fearsome flames, yours are rather lukewarm in comparison."
"Don't…look down on me, puny Devil!"
Bova roared as he charged at Takeshi, his body coated in large amounts of draconic aura. His fist slammed on Takeshi before he could react, sending him flying. Spreading his wings to stabilize himself, Takeshi countered with a volley of giant icicles, but Bova tore through them, letting loose a barrage of furious swipes. Takeshi increased the amount of draconic aura coating his body in response, propelling himself forward through his flames once again. Weaving through Bova's strikes, he aimed a punch at the Dragon's jaw in order to knock him out of the sky.
However, Bova opened his maw wide and bit down on Takeshi's arm with a lightning-fast motion. Spinning his body around, he sent Takeshi crashing on the ground and dove after him, slamming his massive frame on him. Forming thick ice lances around his hand, Takeshi jabbed them in Bova's body, aiming for gaps between his scales. With the Dragon pressing down on him, the lances dug deeper into his body as Bova let out a cry of pain. Even so, he didn't seek to escape, focusing his efforts on crushing his opponent with his massive frame instead.
Stubborn bastard! Takeshi thought. Even though he must be in a lot of pain right now, he's not backing down at all! In this case!
Takeshi stabbed his tail in the ground, focusing all his flames on it and beneath his legs. The intense heat melted the ground below, with Takeshi sinking into it as he left his ice lances embedded into his opponent's body. Bova registered the lack of resistance beneath him, but before he could react, Takeshi, having dug his way out, burst out of the ground next to him and struck his head with a heel kick, knocking some of his scales off.
Enveloping his gauntlet blades in flames, Takeshi tried to gouge Bova's left eye out, but missed his mark as he slashed his cheek instead. Balancing himself with his arms, Bova struck Takeshi with the tips of his wings, cracking his armor in those spots and forcing him back. Takeshi launched two ice Dragons from his gauntlets, but Bova melted them with a fire breath that headed for Takeshi, who countered with a frost breath. Both fighters stood still after that to catch their breaths, eyeing their opponent with wary looks for any sort of movement.
"So, feeling ready to eat your words, Bova?" Takeshi said while regulating his disturbed aura. "Or do I need to knock some of your teeth out as well?"
"If you wish to make me yield, there's only one way to do so." Bova growled as he took a stance. "A Dragon shall not acknowledge another Dragon unless they prove to be stronger than them first."
"Works just fine for me!"
Both Takeshi and Bova charged at each other. However, at that moment, several magic circles appeared around them, forming barriers that trapped them within their confines and rendered them immobile.
"What's this!?" Bova howled in outrage, struggling in vain to break free. "Who dares interfere in my fight!?"
"I am the one who should be asking the questions here, Bova."
The one who had spoken while descending from the sky was Tannin, a displeased expression on his face. Next to him was an unfamiliar western Dragon with indigo-colored scales covering its body and ram-shaped horns protruding from its head. Eerie dark blue flames surrounded its claws, neck and the tip of its tail, and its figure seemed to be flickering at random intervals, giving the impression of a mirage.
[Well, what do you know?] Nidhogg's voice echoed in Takeshi's thought. [Another nostalgic fellow has appeared before us. We're having quite a few interesting reunions during our time with you so far, whelp.]
"Why are you here, Bova?" Tannin asked, glaring at the young Dragon. "More specifically, why were you fighting Ryuugamine Takeshi? I'm aware of your troublemaker nature, but disturbing someone in the middle of training to satisfy your lust for battle is taking it too far."
"My apologies, Father." Bova inclined his head, though his tone remained defiant. "I only wished to ascertain whether this Evil Dragon User was worth your time or not."
"Wait…father?" Takeshi raised an eyebrow, dismissing his armor. "Master, that bothersome fellow is your son?"
"Indeed, Bova is my youngest child." Tannin said. "Unfortunately, out of my three sons, he's also the rowdiest and most undisciplined. My apologies for his belligerent and rude attitude towards you. He has a nasty habit of picking fights with those who catch his eye regardless of their circumstances or the time and place."
"The apple didn't fall far from the tree in this case." The other Dragon said, its voice unmistakably female. "I recall a certain Dragon being quite hotheaded and reckless in his youth. That's why, you shouldn't be too hard on him, Tannin."
"No, that's exactly why I have to be stricter with him, Zirnitra." Tannin said. "It's the duty of a parent to make sure his child doesn't make the same mistakes as him."
"Zirnitra?" Bova frowned, and then his eyes opened wide. "Could it be…?"
"It is as you have guessed, young one." Zirnitra said. "I am Ethereal Weaver Dragon Zirnitra, one of the twelve Dragon Kings like your father here."
"Not this again…" Tannin sighed. "I have told you a thousand times already, I am no longer a Dragon King, or even a proper Dragon for that matter, Zirnitra. The moment I reincarnated into a Devil was the moment the Twelve Dragon Kings became the Eleven Dragon Kings."
"Nonsense." Zirnitra huffed. "You may have accepted an Evil Piece, but that makes you no less of a Dragon in my eyes. If anything, it's nothing more than a nasty accessory. With my aid, we could remove it in a flash, restore you to the status of a full Dragon and none would be the wiser."
Did she just say she could remove the Evil Piece from within Master? Takeshi thought. How is that possible? Evil Pieces are similar to Sacred Gears in some ways, binding themselves to the soul of the receiver once embedded in them. To remove them would mean death, and yet she says she can do it? If that's the case…
"That is not an option." Tannin said. "You know my reasons for reincarnating into a Devil, and that I also hate subterfuge. I gave my word that I would live on as a denizen of the Underworld from the point I received the Evil Piece, and I have no intention of breaking it. Enough about me though. Ryuugamine Takeshi's situation is what you should focus on right now. As for me, I need to lecture my idiot son here and ensure he doesn't pull a stunt like that again…though I'm sure I'm merely wasting my breath at this point. Come with me, Bova."
"Yes, Father." Bova said, turning to Takeshi and glaring at him. "You're lucky the Dragon Kings showed up when they did, little Devil. They'd be scraping bits of you from this chasm for days otherwise."
"Took the words right out of my mouth, Bobo." Takeshi smirked. "Come back anytime you want to make a fool of yourself and get your ass kicked again."
"You little—!"
"Enough, Bova." Tannin cut off Bova. "We're leaving. Now."
Father and son, the latter with evident reluctance, flew out of the chasm, leaving Takeshi and Zirnitra alone.
"I was supposed to meet with you sooner, but an emergency situation back in my homeland required my presence." Zirnitra said. "This Khaos Brigade has thrown the entire world in disarray. Perhaps something good will come out of all this though. Challenges are what strengthen us after all. Speaking of challenges, what did you think of my spells? Very sophisticated, no?"
"The magic formations embedded within the area surrounded by the time dilation barrier, these were your doing?" Takeshi asked. "They've caused me a lot of grief, but I can't deny their effectiveness. Nothing like the threat of being crushed under your own weight midflight to get you to start coating yourself with draconic aura on instinct at all times…"
"Good, that means they are performing their intended functions." Zirnitra grinned as she conjured several magic circles around her. "Now then, let's take a look at you. Tannin said you are being troubled by nightmares generated by Ladon like many past possessors of Cataclysm Zone before you that had the misfortune to deal with that Evil Dragon. The mind is a sensitive organ, but I might be able to help alleviate your condition to some degree."
"Alleviate how—"
Before he could finish his question, Takeshi felt a numbing sensation spreading from his head throughout the rest of his body. It was almost like someone was injecting anesthetics throughout his body, with both it and his thoughts becoming sluggish in response. This went on for several minutes until the magic circles around Zirnitra vanished and the Dragon King raised her head.
"That should do the trick." Zirnitra said. "I have embedded several 'blocks' so to speak that will prevent the Evil Dragons' thoughts from reaching you for a time, along with preventing Ladon from interfering with your sleep. However, keep in mind that this is only a temporary fix. The Evil Dragons will overcome my enchantments eventually."
"Can't you…can't you just apply…those spells once again…when they do so…?" Takeshi said, struggling to get the words out due to his mind still feeling hazy. "Or is that…impossible…?"
"I'm afraid it is." Zirnitra said. "The more I interfere with your mind, the higher the chances are that irreparable mental damage will occur, leaving you with gaps in your memories and loss of vital functions, or even turning you into a vegetable. Worst-case scenario, your mind will break completely and the Evil Dragons will dominate your empty husk, using you as a vessel to rampage."
"Spectacular…" Takeshi sighed with a dejected expression as he sat down. "In the end, this is only a small reprieve from my torment. I appreciate your efforts, but…"
"You were hoping for something more permanent." Zirnitra nodded in understanding. "It can't be helped though. You are the one who has to surmount the Evil Dragons' influence and come out on top. On a related note, I noticed you seemed intrigued when I spoke about removing the Evil Piece from Tannin. Are you dissatisfied with your status as a servant, or perhaps you're hoping I could remove your Sacred Gear? Azazel spoke with both Tannin and I before, and he mentioned there was such a possibility."
"Sensei spoke to you about that?"
"He sought my help to refine the extraction technique, since I'm the most knowledgeable among Dragons when it comes to magic." Zirnitra said. "Well, if Aži Dahāka was awake, I'm certain he would protest that claim of mine. Our confrontations would go either way back in the day when he roamed the world."
"You have a history with Aži Dahāka, Zirnitra-sama?" Takeshi asked. "No, I guess that shouldn't be too surprising. Looks like everyone in this world has a beef with these bastards."
"Their violent attitude and various fixations didn't help much with their reputations." Zirnitra said. "When it comes to Aži Dahāka, he was obsessed with expanding his knowledge on the arcane no matter the cost. There was no library he wouldn't raid, no restricted area he wouldn't set foot in, and no God he wouldn't pick a fight with if he felt he could obtain valuable knowledge from them. And that's not going into the horrific experiments he would conduct on himself and others to further his understanding of magic. All Magicians in general are an unscrupulous sort, but even among them, Aži Dahāka is a special case. I suppose one shouldn't expect anything less from a creation of Angra Mainyu, one of the most depraved Evil Gods around…"
"Great, can't wait to be turned into his next experiment once he awakes, assuming I survive Ladon's mental attacks…" Takeshi groaned. "You said you fought him in the past, Zirnitra-sama? Did he seek your knowledge as well?"
"Naturally." Zirnitra growled. "I've lost several valuable grimoires from my collection because of him, not to mention his constant attempts to capture me and dissect my brain. It's a good thing he was sealed before he grew way too powerful for me to handle. Dealing with a Heavenly Dragon-class being was trouble enough. That's enough about Aži Dahāka though. We should get back to you and what you wish to do regarding your Sacred Gear, Ryuugamine Takeshi."
"It's possible then?" Takeshi asked. "You can remove Cataclysm Zone from my body without killing me?"
"I believe there is a good chance of that happening." Zirnitra said. "However, that depends on you. Of course, you should know that once the Sacred Gear is extracted, Heaven's System will recall it at once since we don't have the means to contain it."
"That means I'll have to push it on some other unfortunate fellow, who's probably not going to be treated as well as I am." Takeshi said with a dismayed expression. "Running away and pushing this burden on someone else, I can't do that."
"Keep in mind though that the same thing will happen if you fail to fully control this Sacred Gear." Zirnitra pointed out. "You will die and Cataclysm Zone will return to Heaven's System before being embedded into another human, so it makes no difference. What matters in the end is your will. So, what is your answer?"
Takeshi remained silent, examining the belt wrapped around his waist and tracing the gems on the buckle with his finger. It was true that Cataclysm Zone was the source of most of his woes, and that his body and mind were steadily being worn down by the effects the Evil Dragons had on him. Madness and death were distinct possibilities that were gnawing at him whenever he couldn't occupy his mind with other things. Even so…
"…No, I will not let go of Cataclysm Zone." Takeshi said, turning his gaze to Zirnitra. "I hate admitting this…but the Evil Dragons were right before. Without their power, I'm nothing. I have goals I'm fighting for, precious people I need to protect, and my own rule and pride to uphold. Doing all that without the Evil Dragons' power and with my own efforts alone…it's next to impossible."
"I see." Zirnitra said. "Then, you understand the truth that many have refused to acknowledge. Effort alone can only take you so far. Inborn potential matters the most, and if you remove the greatest part of your potential, you will never reach the heights you could have otherwise. Cataclysm Zone is your curse, but it's also your unique gift, one that sets you apart from the common rabble."
"The way you're saying it, you're making it sound like the old Devils are right." Takeshi let out a self-deprecating smile. "That an individual is simply born better and that bloodlines matter the most."
"They are correct to some degree." Zirnitra said. "Take me and Tannin from example. The reason we were acknowledged as Dragon Kings was because we cultivated the potential sleeping inside us from birth, reaching a level of power the average Dragon could never hope to emulate even if they trained their whole lives. Of course, I shall never dismiss the importance of hard work like the elder Devils and many from the younger generation do, or the fact that people with a lot of potential can be found in unlikely places. In the end though, if you don't possess inborn talent, your hard work will not yield the results you desire."
"Greatness can come from everywhere, but not everyone can become great, eh…?" Takeshi said. "Sad, but that's the way the world works. That's why, I will remain the Evil Dragon User and keep opposing fate to the best of my ability."
"Good." Zirnitra said. "Still, there is something else you should work on as well. Since you've accepted Cataclysm Zone as an indispensable part of your being, isn't about time you cease your belligerent attitude towards the Evil Dragons within it? As things stand, they are also part of you and your power."
"Excuse me?" Takeshi frowned. "You want me to get along with the Evil Dragons? The guys who're subjecting me to all sorts of horrors and getting a kick out of watching me suffer? That's a tall order, Zirnitra-sama, and I mean a very tall one. More like, it's totally impossible."
"I'm not saying you should become bosom buddies with them, or Great Red forbid, start emulating their behavior." Zirnitra said. "Only to cease antagonizing them to the best of your ability, and also stop treating them with disdain and hatred. You are only frustrating yourself needlessly, and you are also giving them the pleasure of getting under your skin. Not to mention, your attitude also affects the flow of power from Cataclysm Zone since Sacred Gears respond to a user's feelings. Adopt a more neutral stance towards them, and perhaps you will see improvement in several aspects."
"Let the negativity flow over me, like a stone in the middle of a river…" Takeshi muttered, thinking back to his Senjutsu lessons with Chiharu, and then chuckled. "I guess it would be pretty hypocritical of me to preach about accepting all parts of yourself to Koneko and Akeno without doing the same myself. Still, that's going to be a whole different challenge…"
"With all that said, my work here is done for now." Zirnitra said, spreading her wings. "I shall leave you to your own work, though we'll probably meet again soon. From what I understand, Tannin has something really special in mind for the next part of your training."
Before Takeshi could question her about that, Zirnitra took flight, shooting upwards and vanishing in a matter of seconds.
"Great, now I'm all anxious about what's coming next…" Takeshi grimaced, and then winced due to the aches coming from various parts of his body. "Savage Predator Incarnation is still doing a number on me, but it's not as bad as I thought it'd be. I guess Master's training is starting to show results. Plus, I won't have to deal with these cretins' snide comments and interference for a while…no, no, that's not good. Calm and neutral is the way to go…"
Takeshi muttered so as he made his towards the pillar, eager to resume his attempts to reach the top.
This concludes Chapter 40. First, in response to your questions.
—To Ryukipendragon: The most basic downside of Aži Dahāka's Sacred Gear is the large strain it puts on the user's mind due to forcing his arcane knowledge into them. As for the most complex ones, we'll be going into spoiler territory, so I'll keep that a secret for now. Apophis' Gear has the same powers it has in canon, namely Primordial Water manipulation and Darkness control, but as for its downsides, its case will be a bit special so I'll have to refrain from answering that as well for now.
—To yliaster: Indeed, a certain electromaster was the inspiration behind Akeno's newest application of her powers, so look forward to the future. Almace's design and its abilties were based on the Durandal sword that appeared on the Light Novel series Madan no Ou to Vanadis. As for Irina, don't worry about her. I share your disappointment with the way she was handled in the novel, so she's definitely getting some major upgrades down the line.
I would like to apologize if the quality of this chapter is a little lower than usual. Since I had a lot of free time, my intent was to write a bigger chapter, or perhaps even release a two-parter that would conclude this training mini-arc. However, I received some irritating news from my doctor, namely that I have to do some more chemo to further reduce the chances of a possible metastasis. That had an adverse effect on my mood, making it difficult to concentrate on my story and derailing my plans. Moreover, it's possible I might have to go on a two to three-month hiatus until I fully recuperate, though that will depend on my general condition during my treatment.
In any case, onto the chapter. The beginning part was from Leon's point of view, with the intent to give a glimpse of the events occurring outside our protagonists' point of view and have a couple more subjects of the Theotokos Project make a cameo. The rest of the chapter focused on Takeshi's training, the beginning of a reconciliation between Baraqiel and Akeno, and the introduction of Bova and Zirnitra. The latter is one of the OC Dragon Kings I'm planning to introduce in this story, though I can't tell how big of a role they'll have as of yet.
Well, that's all for now. As always, please read, review, favorite, follow, but most of all enjoy!
See you all next time!