Quick Authors Note: The original 1st & 2nd chapter were edited and merged. May be worth going back to read it! I also cleaned up grammar and spelling while adding more to the story. It's not a deal breaker if you don't go back to read it, though, as nothing too crazy changed. - This is for people who read before Jan 1st 2024.

So yes if you 'read' chapter 2 before, this is a NEW chapter 2 not the same as before.

"Hello there." Speaking aloud.

'General Kenobi.' Internal thoughts / Also can be used as 'finger' quotes

{It doesn't concern us.} Vritra Internal Monologue

{It affects us!?} Vritra External Monologue.

The soft glow of dawn seeped through the curtains, casting a warm light on the walls of my shared room. The tranquility of the early Sunday morning was a stark contrast to the storm of thoughts that had occupied my mind the previous night. As I stirred awake, the events of the dreamscape lingered in the corners of my consciousness like fragments of an elusive dream.

'I guess Issei is already awake.' I muse as I look across the room and see his bed empty.

With a resigned sigh, I dragged myself out of bed, the familiar creak of the floorboards accompanying my every step.

The shower beckoned, a sanctuary where the mundanity of water drops provides a brief respite from the enigmatic mysteries that clung to my existence. The rhythmic patter of water against tiles became a soothing cadence, drowning out the whispering remnants of my dreams.

As the water flowed over me, I couldn't help but reflect on the surreal union that had unfolded in the dreamscape. Vritra, the ancient eastern dragon, and I, an 11-year-old with memories that transcended the boundaries of time. The concept of sacred gears, magic, and DxD is fresh in my mind.

'I feel like a child on their birthday. I can't wait to learn more about magic. What gears do I have, how do they work and everything?' My mind paces at the thought of the new information.

'I need to wear this necklace at all times, too!' I say as I play with the silver necklace that hangs around my neck. The pendant on it is that of an eastern dragon… 'Go figure.'

As I dressed in my mundane casual attire of a weekend morning, I descended the stairs, my senses greeted by the comforting aroma of breakfast wafting from the kitchen.

The familiar chatter of my family echoed through the air as I joined them at the breakfast table.

"Morning, Takumi!" my Kaa-san chimed, her voice carrying the warmth of a mother's love. The clatter of cutlery against plates and the low hum of casual conversation provided a comforting backdrop.

"Morning," I greet, sliding into the chair next to Issei; though he has woken up before me, he still seems exhausted and not lucid.

Mechanically, I reached for a piece of toast; a voice, not audible to the ears but resonating within the chambers of my mind, interrupted the mundane routine. Vritra's words echoed with a peculiar blend of amusement and disdain.

{The Red Dragon Emperor, Issei Hyoudou. Appears as underwhelming as your portrayal. Merely a pawn in the grand chessboard of supernatural beings.}

His words hung in the air. A reminder that the world I was entering was far more complex and treacherous than the ordinary facade of daily life suggested.

I glanced around the breakfast table, my family engrossed in their own conversations, unaware of the clandestine dialogue occurring in the recesses of my mind.

'Does he…? But Issei's a good brother, a good person who transforms into a formidable force in the supernatural world.' Retorting to Vritra, my inner dialogue echoed with resolute conviction.

{I anticipate the unfolding days to witness this plot. However, it doesn't change his weakness; Ddraig is a prideful heavenly dragon. He won't favor a weak host.}

I savor the bite of toast, a mundane act amidst the extraordinary. Issei's conversation with our Tou-san fades as I roll my eyes, adjusting to the voice in my head—a companion more persistent than my own thoughts.

'Yeah, their relationship has a peculiar start. But Issei wins him over with his pure heart and unwavering determination.' I respond, the dryness in my tone reflecting the surreal nature of getting used to conversing with an ancient dragon.

Contemplation takes hold as I continue my breakfast routine, the aroma of coffee blending with the lingering echoes of Vritra's words.

'Now that I think about it, Vritra, I mentioned Saji from the series. What do you think happened to him? If I have your gear… damn, I liked that dude. Despite his overbearing crush, he seemed one of the most grounded guys. Good-hearted and oblivious to girls' advances,' I ponder.

My thoughts dance with a conflict—gratitude for gaining Vritra, tempered by a twinge of remorse for potentially displacing Saji from his narrative.

'Did the 'all' give him something else, or are there multiple gears of yours? Damn,' I feel some conflict; on the one hand, I am glad to have Vritra. But I feel bad about taking him from Saji and possibly removing him from the world.

{How would I know? This 'all' seems whimsical, so he likely removed him entirely to slot you into the 'plot.' Or perhaps turned him into an antagonist.} Vritra's voice resonates within my mind, its timbre carrying the weight of ages and the uncertainties of supernatural whims.

The breakfast table remains oblivious to the clandestine conversation occurring in the recesses of my thoughts. The clash between the ordinary and the extraordinary unfolds, leaving me to navigate the complexities of a world where even allies can be pawns in a celestial game.

Following breakfast, I find myself in the backyard practicing my kendo swings. My mind is asunder with contemplation and conversations with Vritra.

{Your past combat experience will prove helpful. But this sword swinging does no good to ready this body of yours for actual blows.} Vritra's voice, impassive and paternal, resonates within the recesses of my thoughts. It's akin to a father acknowledging progress while nudging toward more tremendous potential.

'Are you dismissing my Kendo and Judo skills as worthless?' I retort, a tinge of annoyance coloring my words.

{I did not say that. I said this body has not felt real hits before. Those taps on your men and padding do not harden your body or mind.} The advice lingers, prompting me to pause my kendo routine and contemplate the depth of his insight.

I stop swinging Shinai as I stand in the yard, pondering his words.

'So what should I do? Engage in street brawls? Take up another martial art, like Muay Thai?' I question, seeking guidance from the ancient dragon within.

Vritra's chuckle reverberates in my mind, a subtle amusement at my jest.

'Am I just entertainment for every supernatural being?' I grumble, frustration with the whims of my existence bubbling to the surface.

{To me, yes. I am but a passenger on this ride of yours. But no, do not go fighting thugs. That brings unnecessary risk to you and your loved ones. Muay Thai would work.} Vritra's response carries a pragmatic tone, acknowledging the intricacies of my reality.

'That… makes sense. But convincing my Kaa-san is another challenge altogether. Judo already had her a nervous wreck; Muay Thai will be a whole new level of persuasion,' I mutter, contemplating the impending negotiations with a touch of exasperation.

'Will it really make a difference?' I question the significance of adding Muay Thai to my repertoire.

{It will.} Vritra's concise yet assured response resonates in my mind, carrying the weight of ancient wisdom.

'Then, okay, I'll do it. So should I then stop Judo and Kendo?' I seek clarification, contemplating the adjustments required in my training routine.

{No, the world is filled with many types of fighting. Knowing Kendo for a basic foundation of sword fighting and Judo for grappling is highly useful.} Vritra's guidance steers me toward a well-rounded approach, acknowledging the practicality of diverse martial arts.

I nod in acknowledgment, absorbing the wisdom conveyed by the ancient dragon.

'So, practice three martial arts, go to school, and train with my gear? How the hell am I going to fit that all in?' I voice the logistical challenge, the sheer complexity of my commitments settling in.

{Lessening your time in judo should suffice. There is also the dreamscape. I can teach magic theory and practice there.} Vritra's suggestion unveils a new dimension to my training, and my eyes widen at the prospect.

"I can train in my sleep!?" Excitement spills into my words as the potential of learning in the dreamscape unfolds.

{Yes, somewhat. Martial arts should be possible to train in there along with talk of magical theory. While training magic in dreams works, practical experience is the best trainer to keep in mind. I am also still determining how your magic and body will grow from the dream world to the real world. The mind will, but others we will have to see.} Vritra's voice, a blend of guidance and limitation, emphasizes the balance between the ethereal and the tangible in my journey.

I release a sigh, contemplating the immense advantages of learning within the dreamscape. The idea of honing my skills without tangible consequences seems almost too good to be true.

'Speaking of which, will we go over the sacred gears and what powers I have tonight?' I express my internal thoughts, the childlike excitement in my voice not escaping Vritra's notice.

{We will. But later, I wish to rest. Go about your day.} Vritra's response carries a tone of anticipation and weariness, prompting me to leave the dreamscape discussions for another time and embrace the unfolding day.

With no distractions, my mind wanders, exploring the depths of my thoughts and imagination. After my death, I had envisioned a life completely different from this. Rigorous training, brutal fights, and merciless killings consumed every day of my previous existence.

'But Vritra is right. I need to step it up. I am already seeing changes in the world. Who is Sakura? Why won't Vritra tell me anything about her? How does having Vritra change the plot? Will Saji exist, he played a role in the plot. Ugh, thoughts for later.'

The verbal onslaught felt akin to enduring the legates of the legion and naval academy combined. My Kaa-sans tirade was a tempest, a hurricane of disapproval that left me pinned to the couch, defenseless against her storm. Frantic glances at my Tou-san for support were met with his avoidance, whistling a tune as if the situation were as light as a feather.

"Are you kidding me, Takumi Hyoudou! No way am I letting my son get beat up! I don't care how many times you ask!" Her scowl etched lines of determination on her face, her finger a relentless conductor pointing directly at me. The intensity of her objection resonated in the room, and I braced myself for the impending cyclone of maternal concern.

My Tou-san, seemingly unscathed by the tempest, remained a passive observer, skillfully avoiding any eye contact that could implicate him in my endeavor. Tension filled the air as my Kaa-san's protective instincts clashed with my plea for the freedom to pursue Muay Thai.

"But Okaa- "I tried to interject, only to be swiftly silenced.

"Not buts! My heart already aches when I watch you in Judo and Kendo! How am I supposed to watch my baby boy get bloody in a proper match?" Her words crashed over me like a tidal wave, drowning out any attempt at negotiation.

I clenched my teeth, grappling with conflicting emotions and a fervent desire not to disappoint her. The awareness of my own sentiments had grown, and the love I felt for my family weighed heavily on my conscience. Yet, the need for Muay Thai persisted.

"I need this, Kaa-san." The words spilled out, a declaration laid bare in pure honesty. The room held its breath, caught between the clash of maternal protection and my yearning.

My Tou-san, who had been a passive spectator, now turned his gaze toward me. A soft but inquisitive look adorned his face, hinting at a curiosity sparked by my earnest plea. My Kaa-san's once scowling countenance remained steadfast, her widened eyes betraying a depth of understanding sparked by maternal intuition.

"Why?" Her question hung in the air, a bridge between my determination and her concern.

I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts before responding. "I know it sounds strange, Kaa-san, but it's not just about fighting. It's about discipline, focus, and learning to defend myself. The world is more than just what we see in the dojo. I want to be strong for you, Tou-san, Issei, and myself."

Her gaze softened, caught in the intricate dance of emotions. The room seemed charged, the palpable tension hanging between us.

Tou-san, sensing the delicate balance, chimed in. "Miki, honey, maybe he's onto something. We've witnessed his dedication to Judo and Kendo. Perhaps this is another avenue for him to grow."

She turned to my Tou-san, a flicker of disbelief in her eyes. "Gorou, you can't be serious. Our son getting into actual fights? Look at him, Takumi's just a kid."

I couldn't blame her for her worry, but this was a path I felt compelled to tread.

"It's not his job to be strong for us! We have to be strong for him," she huffed.

My Tou-san met my gaze, his eyes assessing my determination.

"Exactly, honey. We have to be strong for Takumi and for Issei. Strong enough to support them in pursuing whatever dreams they chase," he responded.

"I promise, Kaa-san, I'll be careful. I'll train hard and ensure I'm well-prepared. It's not about getting into fights. It's about being ready for whatever comes my way." My words carry the weight of conviction.

She sighed, caught between maternal instinct and the realization that her son was growing up. After a moment of contemplation, she relented. "Fine, but under one condition. You train seriously, and you listen to everything I tell you when you're hurt! Any objections to my nursing, and I am putting you in piano lessons instead!"

A surge of gratitude washed over me. "Thank you, Kaa-chan I promise I won't let you down."

Standing up, I embraced her, welcoming the warmth of her hug as her arms enveloped me.

'This is the first time I initiated a hug… It feels nice…'

I hear her hum lightly, sweetly, clearly enjoying my embrace. "You never ask for things, Takumi, or hug. Do it more, please." I hear her speak lightly to me.

"D-deal," I responded shyly. This is nice.

I lay on my bed, closing my eyes, and the familiar sensation of transition enveloped me. The dreamscape welcomed me with its surreal colors and ethereal glow. Vritra's shadowy figure materialized in the distance, and a sense of anticipation gripped me.

{Welcome, Takumi,} Vritra's voice resonated through the dreamscape, echoing with ancient wisdom. Tonight, we explore the sacred gears and the powers within you.}

I nodded, the dreamscape's magic tingling against my skin. The vast expanse around us shimmered with vibrant hues, and the air crackled with otherworldly energy. {Your sacred gears hold immense potential. The black flames are but the tip of the iceberg.} Vritra stated as his dragon form floated around in front of me.

I swallowed, trying to match Vritra's gravitas. The dreamscape, a realm between reality and imagination, felt surreal and comforting.

"How many gears do I have?" I inquire a sense of intrigue in my voice.

{Seven, you hold all seven of my gears. But beyond that, you possess the potential for profound magic. The 'all' blessed you with great magical potential.} Vritra's eyes gleam with wisdom and excitement.

"Seven?! Fucking hell… Plus Magic? Vritra… I am relying on your mentorship here."

Vritra huffs proudly. {Of course!}

{Absorption Line: It can form lines of connections on both arms and legs, allowing the user to either absorb or transfer power from opponents, allies, and objects.}

{Blaze Black Flare: Unleashes deadly black flames, cursing the soul of those it consumes. The curse properties of these flames are enough to counter divine attributes.}

{Delete Field: Suppresses and negates opponents' abilities or items within the range.}

{Shadow Prison: Uses black flames and shadow aura to restrain opponents.}

'Well, those are the four I knew of from the story,' I muse to myself as I listen to his teaching.

{Abyssal Torrent: Concentrated beam or wave of dark energy that tears through everything in its path. It disintegrates matter on a molecular level, leaving only darkness in its wake.}

"Leaves darkness in its wake?" Interrupting Vritra seeking clarity.

{I will explain more later.} Vritra pushes past my comment.

{Eclipsing Veil: Allows you to shroud yourself and your surroundings in an ethereal veil that distorts perception and conceals your presence. The veil extends beyond the visual spectrum, affecting supernatural senses as well. It will heighten your senses while in the veil since it extends your will.}

"Fuck, that's crazy strong sounding." 'Every scout's or assassin's dream…'

Vritra huffs at my lack of understanding. {It's not as strong as you believe. The veil is limited to your magical ability, spatial awareness, and concentration. Raw strength can power through it, and beings with heightened senses won't be entirely helpless. But let me finish.}

{Void Shatter: A power of fabric of space through shadows. Create rifts in the void, manipulating the spatial dimensions to teleport short distances, deflect attacks, or even create pocket dimensions for temporary storage.}

{Dimensional Tether: Ethereal tethers that connect to various dimensions, allowing manipulation of spatial properties. Can be used defensively to create protective barriers or offensively to displace opponents by temporarily shifting them into alternate dimensions. It provides versatility in controlling the battlefield and offers strategic advantages in both offensive and defensive situations.}

{As you can see, my powers are strong, relying on each other and techniques to excel. My actual strength lies in diverse techniques and curses. My powers require immense magical control and mental ability.} Vritra explains proudly, unveiling the formidable arsenal at my disposal.

"Just how strong were you? Curses? Abyss? I don't know where I should start." I trail off as my mind races.

Vritra huffs at my words. {I was called A Dragon King for a reason. While my raw strength may be lacking compared to other Dragon Kings and Evil dragons, my diverse techniques earned me my fearsome reputation.}

I nod my head, impressed by his feats and power.

"So, where would you rank yourself regarding power rankings during your prime?"

Vritra muses at my words. {Well, I was a Dragon king and an Evil dragon. Depending on who you are comparing me to within the ranks, between Ultimate Class and Super Devil.}

My eyes widened at his words; 'I knew he was strong. Having even had the bravery to challenge Indra and, in lore, stand against Yasaka, who is considered an Ultimate Class using the Ley lines. But hell, to think he could glimpse super devil powers in the right situations.'

"Could I hope to reach that realm of power?" I ask, hopeful that being that strong would be amazing.

'It would tear away my idea of being out of the spotlight. But it would help me support Issei and find that peace I desire! I also…. Don't want to see another brother die.'

Vritra remains silent for a moment before speaking. {In your lifetime, no. My immense potential was birthed with me. I mastered my techniques over centuries. You will find faults in balancing and using all my abilities simultaneously, like I could. Given a longer lifespan and the right environment…} He pauses, clearly battling some type of emotion, pride. {You could exceed me. But unless you find a way to live for thousands of years, that is but a dream.}

I nod my head understandingly. The surrounding dreamscape pulsates with ethereal hues, shifting like the colors of a mesmerizing aurora. The air carries a faint scent of ancient knowledge, as if the very essence of wisdom permeates the space.

"A shame… But besides becoming a devil, what other ways do I have to live for hundreds of years?" I muse aloud, my voice resonating softly in the dreamy atmosphere.

{Possibilities exist everywhere, Takumi, but a topic for later life. You have much to learn before you even dream of glimpsing my power.}

"Yeah, you're right. So what about a balance breaker? or Breakers?" I ask, my gaze fixed on Vritra as he emanates a subtle aura of ancient power.

{Similar to what you described from lore, But Balance Breakers change with the user's will. So, once again, it is a topic for later.}

"Ugh… baby steps, I get it. Okay what of Sakura?" I inquire, observing the play of mystical lights reflecting in Vritra's eyes, revealing a hint of amusement.

{Later.} Is all he huffs out.

"How much later? She said she wanted to mentor me; could she? Would she be of help?" I fire off questions, attempting to unravel the mysteries veiled in the dreamy expanse.

{She could, but you have yet to summon any sacred gears. Yet alone, even learned to cast, curse, or do anything beyond swinging a sword and throwing someone. We wait to reach out to her.} He responds as he lowers his massive head down to my level.

{Now stop being nosy. It's teaching time. I will start by explaining the fundamentals of magic.}

In the ethereal, Vritra stood before me, ready to impart the wisdom of magic. The surroundings shifted, and the air became charged with mystical energy. Vritra's voice echoed, carrying the weight of centuries of knowledge.

{Magic is as whimsical as it is scholarly. Pay close attention; the key to mastering these arts lies in understanding their essence.}

{Spell-casting Techniques, or Magic, in its purest form, is the manipulation of the supernatural arcane through will and intent. Spells are the vessels through which this power flows. To cast a spell, you must master the art of incantations or gestures, sometimes both. Your thoughts, desires, spoken words and specific movements channel your magical energy, shaping it into the desired effect.}

Vritra states as black fire appears, dancing across his body before spreading into two giant fiery wings and disappearing.

{Magic is whimsical for some, such as the biblical factions and me; it is a matter of imagination and/or affinities. For others, such as Norse, it combines whimsical and scholarly. Imagination and runes. Humans typically align with the scholarly approach, but it can be whimsical and scholarly given time, practice, and other elements, such as an Evil Dragon King, in your mind. Which brings us to magical circles.}

{Magical circles, ancient symbols etched in the fabric of reality, serve as conduits for magical energy. They amplify and direct your power, allowing for more potent effects. The composition of these circles is an art in itself, influenced by Western and Eastern traditions. Study the patterns, understand their meanings, and draw upon the energies they represent.}

Vritra conjured a radiant magic circle, purple intricate runes glowing with otherworldly golden light. I observed, absorbing the complexity of the magical array. The radiant circle unleashed a snap of what looked like black lighting as it cracked across the dreamscape, eventually beyond my view.

"So, either way, the mind the key factor? Imagination influences your ability for magic and your understanding of what exactly you want and how it works?"

Vritra nods his head. {Precisely, it is why I said mastering my techniques and abilities will be difficult. You are doing more than multitasking.}

I nod as I come to grasp the scale of his explanation.

"Man, I thought it would be as easy as imaging a lightning bolt, and poof, one fire off."

{It could be, but anyone who does that limits their potential. Do scholars sit around with their knowledge or chase the unknown theories and complexities? They find new methods for those solutions and innovate. I will say that your drive for innovation has always been the strength of you humans.} Vritra regales.

My mind races as I take in his teachings.

"How do affinities play into magic? You mentioned earlier that affinities play into the foundation of it all," I ask, eager to delve deeper into the intricacies.

Vritra's eyes gleam with pride. {Affinities are the soul's connection to the very fabric of magic. Elements, my dear Takumi, are the building blocks of magic, each with its unique attributes and characteristics. Your natural elements resonate with your soul. They are as natural as breathing or speaking your native tongue.}

Vritra, within in an instance, shrouded us in a veil of shadowy mist as black fire danced across the outside.

{Understanding your affinity allows you to tap into the specific elemental forces that harmonize with your very essence. That does not stop you from using elements not attuned to you.}

The shadowy mist dissipates as the fire extinguishes around us.

Vritra Vritra conjured a radiant magic circle, purple intricate runes glowing with otherworldly golden light, exactly like the one before. But this time, instead of dark lighting snapping out, a very regular lightning bolt fired out but with the same intensity and power as the one before.

I absorb his words, my thoughts aligning with the elemental display before me. The connection between magic and soul feels palpable, and I can sense the latent power within, waiting to be harnessed.

{The Abyss, Shadows, and Darkness are my affinities. The primordial matters which created me.} Vritra's words resonated in the dream space as it shifted around us.

"What are my affinities? How can I find out?"

Vritra seems amused by the question as he lets out a mighty chuckle in amusement.

{The same as mine, Takumi, I am bound to your soul. Your soul resonates with the Abyss, Shadows, and Darkness.} Vritra pauses, his eyes swirling like a cosmic vortex, reflecting his connection's profound, enigmatic nature to the very fabric of existence.

{The 'all' plucked you from a void of darkness, an abyss. You said it had the form of a shadowy mist?} His eyes narrow as he stares at me, their intensity matching the weight of the revelation.

My mind is a twirl of thoughts, 'The same affinities as Vritra!? Hell yeah, that seems handy for his magic and gears. But the 'all'… he's provoking thoughts of my own.'

"Yes, the void or abyss, whatever you wish. Everything was pitch black, but seemingly alive at the same time. It took the form of a shadowy, misty figure. Was formless yet humanoid, tall, and even in pitch black; it was visible somehow in the darkness. It was draped in darkness. Why?"

{A prideful, powerful being of darkness like myself, merely a coincidence that they provided me to you? Or that your affinities for my own are as dense as the enigma that is you?} Vritra's voice carries a contemplative tone, resonating with the mysteries of fate and the intricate web of connections.

I sit down on this dreamscape's translucent silver and indigo ground.

The thoughts that Vritra had provoked assaulted my mind.

The dreamscape around us shimmers and dances with intricacies of lights and swirls. Pulsing as if it has infused a breath of life into it, as if it is matching our racing minds.

"I don't know, Vritra; my mind is already swirling with all the sacred gear and magic information. I don't think I could handle a bout of conspiracy theories; cut me some slack. I'm only 11 years old." I let out a dramatic sigh as I stared at Vritra.

{Hmm, very well, a topic to be shelved for now. Correction, though, the body of an 11-year-old. But the total mental age of 33… No, that's not right either. Your mental age has regressed and merged with this one. You are 11.} Vritra responds with flickers of amusement, his eyes glimmering as his body floats and intertwines with itself, clearly amused.

"Shelved. So what of curses? You're called the Deadly Curses Dragon and said your black fire curses, which it hits for eternity. How does all that work?" My voice lined with curiosity.

Vritra's majestic presence loomed over me, his violet eyes radiating wisdom as he prepared to unravel the mysteries of his curse-infused powers.

{Ah, curses, but an essence of my existence. The black fire I wield is not merely a tool of destruction; it is a conduit for eternal consequences. When my flames envelop a being, it's not just about the physical agony but the enduring mark on their very soul.}

He paused, the air around us thick with the weight of ancient knowledge.

{To be cursed by the Deadly Curses Dragon means to carry the burden across the boundary of life and death. The curse becomes intertwined with your essence, lingering even in the afterlife. Imagine it as an indelible mark, shaping the course of your existence beyond the mortal realm.}

Vritra's ethereal presence held a certain weight, his words echoing in the arcane expanse we occupied. The mystical aura surrounding him seemed to ripple as he prepared to delve further into the intricacies of his curse-infused powers.

{The nature of the curse varies, its complexity determined by the circumstances and the resilience of the afflicted. It could torment the soul, impose conditions on the afterlife, or weave itself into the fabric of subsequent incarnations.}

The revelation hung in the air, a tapestry woven with the threads of ancient and mysterious energies. I couldn't help but contemplate the profound impact of such curses.

"So the curse is not something you control but a by-product of your power?" I inquired, my voice carrying a mixture of curiosity and awe.

Vritra's response was a subtle shake of his majestic head, accompanied by a whimsical huff that seemed to ripple through the very fabric of the dreamlike space we occupied.

{I told you; the fabric of magic also lies in imagination. While the curse is a 'by-product,' I also control aspects of it. I can also interweave curses into other spells and even cast through words.}

The implications of his words struck me, widening my eyes in realization.

"I could curse someone with just my words?" A spark of excitement and disbelief coloring my tone.

{Yes, though you undermine what I mean by words. The art of verbal magic is unique to those genuinely attuned to magic. Ancient civilizations and races considered the art to be but limited to dragons, thinking it to be a Draconic language in nature.} Vritra explained, the resonance of his words lingering in the mystical ambiance surrounding us.

I nodded, absorbing the profound knowledge being shared by Vritra in the ethereal expanse we inhabited.

"But it isn't? So it's something I could learn!?" My excitement seeped into my voice, the prospect of delving into the art of verbal magic sparking a fire within me.

{While its foundation is draconic in nature, no, it is not limited to just us. You can learn it. It is the art of speaking magic itself. Something you could learn, something I would want you to know. But later.}

Vritra's dismissal didn't dampen my spirits; instead, it fueled my eagerness to explore the vast realms of magical knowledge that awaited me.

"You said you control aspects of your curse. What do you normally go for?" I inquired; my curiosity piqued.

{Depends on my opponent, but the core foundation of my curses is to attack the individual's soul itself. Draining them of life force, affinity, and power if it is a curse when I am in battle. Often outside of battle, which would help me earn my Evil reputation, I would curse individuals with haunting dreams, hallucinations, and maddening personalities. In prisoning them within themselves.}

His words resonated within me, widening my eyes in realizing the depth and potency of Vritra's curse-infused abilities. But also his implication of doing a cruel thing.

"I thought you said you weren't evil? That's a pretty evil thing to do… Cursing individuals with haunting dreams and maddening personalities. To be a walking prison… Seems cruel."

Vritra's eyes narrowed, his whimsical floating halting as he stared at me, the air becoming palpable with the weight of his response.

{I said I am not an evil husk; I have my mind. Evil is a subjective notation to those who witness, and paint said titles. I do not find cursing individuals evil. Many called for it.}

{I am a dragon. Pride. Powerful. Compelled by my pure thoughts. Remember that Takumi.} Vritra continued his words, carrying the essence of his ancient and unwavering identity.

'They called for it? I guess insulting or going against Vritra was warranting of that cruel method? I… I have killed for less, who am I to judge?'

"Sorry, just a thought I had is all…" I say, trailing off, the weight of my thoughts lingering.

{Do not worry about it. The question was valid. Honest conversations allow us to trust each other better. So let me say this, Takumi, as your powers grow and you tune more into my gear, you, at times, may find yourself in a frenzy. Tunnel-visioned by emotions of pride, jealousy, anger, lust, and battle lust.}

{Should you exchange anybody parts with me, achieve a balance breaker in completed or uncompleted states, you may find yourself closer to the mindset and emotions that have long labeled me an Evil Dragon. Truthfully, you have already grown a thirst for knowledge and power. When you have longed for peacefulness, your subconscious may have let in my influence from your soul.}

I gulped, the weight of Vritra's explanation sinking in. Concern and fear of losing myself to a monstrous evil mentality raced through my mind.

"Is it reversible? How can I avoid it? Vritra, please?"

{Stop your worrying, whelp. You are fine. You will not become some husk. I refuse to let my heir become some evil husk of a wannabe dragon. What has changed now is not reversible, but I cannot say with certainty that it was my influence or that of a child fascinated by magic. Or, possibly, simple human nature itself.}

'Heir?' those words ring in my head.

{Should you enter a frenzy in battle, it is reversible by exhaustion and or evoked emotions such as a loved one pulling you from the state. Even in a frenzied state, you can tell friend from foe, loved from acquaintance.}

"That's good to know. Keeping that in the back of my mind. I assume being stronger overall and more astute will help prevent me from entering a frenzied state?" I asked, seeking assurance.

{Yes. Albeit, not always.}

I nod grimly.

"What did you mean by heir?"

Vritra grinned as if he had been waiting for me to ask.

{I told you, the world is going to be welcoming a new Black Dragon. You are my first and only host to hold all my power. To hold all the knowledge I bring personally. To also be perfectly attuned to the same affinities as I am. I am going to mold you into an heir deserving of the Enveloper, the Dragon King of Darkness.} His words ring out, shaking the foundation of the dreamscape.

'His heir, The Dragon King of Darkness. It sounds nice, but he's right. My desire for a peaceful life feels fleeting. I still desire it, but it's like I am more acknowledging of my role… my instincts, protecting my loved ones, regardless of whether it sent here me to be entertained this is my life now. This instinctive emotional tug on my heart tells me to protect my family, that I cannot live a peaceful life until my loved ones are living peaceful lives themselves… I feel beckoned to grow, to exceed Vritra. But I don't want the spotlight that belongs to Issei…'

"Ha Ha ha, I fucking like it. What are your plans for this? How are we going to do this? What ideal steps would we take?" My questions ring out in a barrage as the excitement shines in my eyes.

Vritra let out another toothy grin and a prideful huff.

{Ideally, you sacrifice your internal organs to me. Allowing you to better regulate your blood, magic, and stamina. But I fear your body is not ready for that.}

'Sacrifice my internal organs? Didn't Issei do that for more power with his arm? Does it really grant that much a power increase?'

{We start with the basics. Learning the foundation of magic and sacred gears. We spend the next year every night and free moment of the day you have carving these foundations into your brain. Then, we reach out to Sakura. To see what agreement we can reach to get your mentorship. She will provide you with the real-world experience you need, sparring, battles, etc. An actual use case for your magic and sacred gears.}

"That sounds… like a lot, but I'll follow your guidance. Though, are you finally going to tell me who she is? Will she want anything crazy in exchange for mentorship? She made it sound free."

{She will definitely want something. It is in her nature.}

"Oh, okay, if you think so…"

{I know so… She is my daughter.} The revelation hangs in the air.

"She's what!?"

(-Line-break-)

My eyes shoot open as I sit up in my bed. Issei standing next to me, staring at me with wide eyes. His hand reached out, almost touching me.

"Woah! How did you know I was about to wake you up!?" he asks in astonishment.

'Vritra! We are not shelving this conversation!' I scream internally.

"I didn't. I just woke up and shot up. Reflex, maybe?" I say to Issei as I rub my eyes and clear my throat to wake up.

"O-okay? Well, it's time to get up! Breakfast is about to be ready, and then we have school!" Issei shouts as he runs out of the room.

'Vritra, are you there?' I inquire, my voice breaking the silence as I stretch out of bed.

{Depends.} Vritra's voice responds, sounding like a mischievous child hiding under a blanket in my mind.

'On what?' I chuckle, finding amusement in our mental banter.

{What do you wish to talk to me about?}

'Sakura? Your daughter…'

{Then no, shelve it… please.} The plea in his voice tugs at my empathy, mingled with an unmistakable note of authority.

'Okay, I will. Let's talk later about where to start with my magic and gear!' I declare, attempting to lighten the mood. The ensuing silence tells me he heard and perhaps appreciated the diversion. It's clear that Vritra is now lost in his own contemplations.

He was not kidding when he said he was going to carve the foundations of magic and power into my brain at every free moment. From the shower, breakfast, and even at school. Any moment in which a lull took place, regardless of how quick he would chime in with more information.

He didn't let up during Muay Thai training after school, constantly barraging me with mental strikes throughout the entire session. 'Takumi! A sound mind can think clearly even in the chaos of battle.' It didn't matter if I was sparing, listening to instructions from the sensei or what. I know he means the best, but it's overwhelming.

As soon as I settled into the car, his voice invaded the one place of peace I had sought. In my past life, planetary shuttles were a moment of respite where I could finally close my eyes and escape from all worries. But here, the mental bombardment is unrelenting.

'Please Vritra, just give my mind a rest. I give you my word that I will continue with your lectures once I reach home tonight… kindly grant me this peaceful car ride.'

{Fine.} Vritra closes the mental connection with an annoyed grunt, his frustration palpable.

For the duration of the next 15 minutes in the car ride, the silence that filled the air was exactly what I needed. I leaned my head against the cold window, feeling the chill seep through the glass as I watched the rain drizzle down.

I had no energy left to spare for watching drag-so ball with Issei or spending additional time with my family. I made my way to my bed and settled in for the night. Fully aware of the brutish training session that awaits me in my slumber.

The ethereal dreamscape once again envelops me as I prepare for the upcoming training with Vritra. I stand in a vast expanse of magical energy; the indigo and silver colors dancing around like vibrant flames. Vritra's imposing dragon form hovers nearby, his eyes gleaming with a mix of excitement and ancient wisdom.

{Now, Takumi, let's delve into the practical side of your newfound powers. Magic is about understanding and channeling your inner essence. Let's start with the basics.}

I nod, eager to embrace the challenge. Vritra begins by guiding me through the motions of spellcasting, explaining the intricate balance of will and intent needed to shape magical energy.

As I mimic the gestures, a soft and ethereal light spills from my hands, casting a gentle glow in the dream space.

{Good, good. Now, try to conjure a simple magical circle. Focus on your affinities—Abyss, Shadows, and Darkness. Let them resonate within you.}

I close my eyes, centering my thoughts on the mysterious forces that bind me to Vritra. The dreamscape responds to my concentration, swirling shadows and dark hues materializing beneath my feet. Slowly, the ethereal lights that were spilling from hand change from the vibrant white to a twirling of purple and black while still casting a gentle glow.

{Impressive for a beginner. Affinities are a personal connection to magic; embrace them, and they will guide you.}

I open my eyes and take in the sight of the ethereal light I cast. Focusing my mind from light, I shift to lightning, attempting to mimic what I saw of Vritra the other night. The lightning forms, but as quick as it forms, it also shoots out from my lack of control.

"Shit, that wasn't supposed to happen. I just wanted it to linger around my palm."

{Do not be discouraged. It is normal to stumble on your first steps. Lightning is a fickle element. Recall the magic circle techniques I told you about earlier today. Begin the foundation of your lighting with it.}

I take a deep breath and re-focus my mind. Concentrating as I hold out my right hand and vividly paint what I want to happen in my mind. Basing the design of the magic circle just as Vritra had explained to me and shown me before. Swirling shadows and dark hues materialize in front of my right hand. Slowly, the outline of a magical circle emerges, pulsating with energy.

The magic circle is a perfect, shimmering violet-purple circle, radiating with an otherworldly glow. It adorned its surface with intricate, intertwining letters written in draconic script, forming a mesmerizing pattern around the entire circumference. The draconic letters are a blend of purple, black, and gold, creating a harmonious and mystic appearance.

Tracing the outer edge of the circle, they delicately interweaved smaller concentric circles within the main structure. These inner circles echo the colors of the draconic letters, enhancing the overall complexity of the magical array. The patterns within the circles seem to dance and shift, creating an ever-changing display of arcane beauty.

At the heart of the magic circle, in the very center, a majestic eastern dragon design takes form. The entire magic circle, with its vibrant colors, intricate letters, and the Eastern dragon at its center, creates a captivating visual spectacle—a testament to the fusion of eastern and draconic magic that defines its purpose.

Vritra, fully engrossed, leans in closely and attentively observes every detail within my magic circle.

{Takumi, are you aware of what you just did?} His voice dripping in fascination and confusion all at once.

"I created a magic circle how you said too?"

'Is that surprising for me to do it first try or something? Or is he mad that I copied his design?' As I unsummoned the magic circle, feeling taxed on energy and strength, Vritra lets out a mighty laugh that causes me to jump in surprise.

"What's so funny?!"

{Takumi! You truly are befitting of my heir!} Vritra declares as his dragon body writhes in between itself. His seven purple tentacles moving with excitement, akin to a fluffy swaying tail you might see.

"T-thank you? I still don't follow Vritra."

{Takumi, I expected you to make a basic magic circle, a design and color similar to my own. But a basic one has no runes, no additional arrays, nothing but a basic set of script and symbol. You not only mirrored my most advanced basic circle but mirrored the draconic scripture. A language you should not even know.}

"I did what!? You mean to tell me this isn't a basic circle?! Is that why I feel so exhausted?"

{Indeed, what you created was something a High-class devil adept in their magic would make easily. Though they wouldn't have been so sloppy to waste that much magic like you did for just the circle.}

"Well, it's not like I tried to. I just imagined it and then felt exhausted. Also How was that a basic magic circle?"

{Advanced basic, it was basic because while it was advanced in many power reinforcing arrays. It was but one circle. More advanced magic circles can overlap on top of each other or even in patterns around each other.}

"Hell… it was taxing to make even one. People conjure up multiple of these stacked!?"

{It is an art that you will learn to balance. If I didn't know any better, I would joke that you picked it up so fast that you may be some long, watered-down descendant of mine. You might even control the same technique master powers that run through my ethereal veins.}

"Technique master? I thought that was just a title for you or a specialty. Are you saying it's an actual power that you have?"

{Indeed, I am made of magic itself. With an astute mind, connection to magic, and a firm understanding of how it all works. I can master magics at exceedingly fast rate, that is why I said it took centuries for me to master my skills, not millenniums.}

"Is there a way to check if I have that ability? Have your previous hosts had it? Sakura?"

{I have never known a host to have it, but I also have never been fully conscious of a host. Much as they only get fragments of my sentience, I only get fragments of their life once they die… Sakura has the ability, it is why I said she would be a wonderful mentor.}

"Is it possible for me to have it?"

{It could be, it is possible our souls are more intertwined than I previously thought. We can test but it will be a long night if we do so.}

"Let's do it! I might actually have a chance at something great here!"

{Are you implying that without my technique master I am not great?}

"Of course not…. It's just, imagine how much faster I could grow if I can learn your lectures faster."

{Hmmm, very well. Let us focus on your sacred gears first before we dive deeper into this topic. Feel the presence of the gears, Takumi. They are extensions of your being. Visualize them materializing before you.}

I take a deep breath, envisioning the gears that Vritra described during our earlier discussion. One by one, the gears emerge, hovering around me like ethereal companions. Mixture of black fire, veils of dark mist, absorption line, intertwining runes shattering, small temporal portals distorting. Aberrations of the gears that have no physical forms except for absorption line.

I choose the Blaze Black Flare, drawn to the allure of the deadly black flames. With a focused thought, the flames surge forth, dancing across my fingertips. It momentarily bathed the dreamscape in its eerie glow.

{Well done, Takumi. Each gear has its purpose, and with practice, you'll unlock their full potential.}

End Chapter 2: Vritra, Curses and Family

Thanks for the follows & favorites

AI Art is available on my profile – or the title card of this story.

Feel Free to leave feedback, reviews, PM me.

Happy new year!