A Fool's Heart

by Nosferatu869

Ise's friends turned their back on him, didn't they? They didn't consider his feelings and selfishly pushed their own agenda. These actions have consequences. They will learn. Even if they don't want to. The road to becoming an adult is difficult, isn't it? But for the sake of the future, they ALL must mature. No more being stuck. Make your move, Ise.

11. The Fool

Okay, boys. Here we are. The main event. Gremory Vs. Bael. Or more accurately, Sekiryuutei Vs. Bael. A long time coming.

Also, for some reason there were a lot of people under the impression that this story was over? Why? I never said it was. It's an ongoing story. Never said I was dropping it. I guess it was just the new readers who thought that it wasn't going to get updated anymore? Which means they don't really know me then. Which also leads into my next point:

Ahem, dear readers, please stop telling me to "update soon/please". I understand that the people asking this of me are probably those who are new to my stories, and it makes me happy that people like my stories enough to feel the need to comment that, but I can tell you that it is unnecessary. I suggest that any new readers go read my profile to get the gist of what I'm all about. After all, in my profile it says: "If you're asking me to [please update /update soon], then you probably don't know me". And that's very true because if you know me, then you know that I update VERY often. Especially considering that I have 5 ongoing stories. I seriously don't know of any authors in this community that update as regularly as I do. That's not a brag, that's just seriously the truth. I don't actually know anybody who does. And it's not like the chapters I upload are short either. Most of them, depending on the story, can vary from 5,000 (AT LEAST) to 20,000+ (AVERAGE). I say "5,000 at least" because I actually have a personal policy: [no chapters less than 5,000 words for any story], because I find writing chapters below 5,000 to be absolutely pathetic. Not for other authors, just for myself. I don't hold other authors to my standards when it comes to updates or chapter length because that's fuckin dumb. In fact, it's actually kinda unhealthy to write the way I do, so there's no way I'd be pestering other authors to meet those standards. That's just me.

Anyway, fuck all that shit. Here's the story. Get ready, it's gonna be a long one. This is going in all one chapter. I ain't splitting up the fight or any of that shit. We're just gonna fuckin kill it. (God I hope it isn't 30,000+ words).

Sidenote: As for Issei's appearance during the match, I'd say look up the [Fate Grand Order - Artic region Chaldea uniform]. It's close to that but not exactly.

P.S. Be warned. This will be the best chapter of this story to date. I can promise you I will make it so.

[Update: Holy shit. I'm 15,000+ words in and I haven't even gotten to the fucking match itself yet. I'm only now realizing how long this fucking chapter is going to be….even so, I will continue...]

[Update 2: Hahahahahahaha. It's 49,000+ words. Yes, I've officially lost my mind. Hahahaha]

---

-SCENE-

—2 weeks before the match with Sairaorg Bael

|Kiba|

"...What is this about, Grayfia?"

Buchou asked Grayfia-san, Sirzechs-sama's personal maid and wife, with a lack of interest.

Our group, the Occult Research Club, is currently gathered in the special training grounds used by our group for daily training. Or at the very least, the training grounds we "used to" use daily. At this point, it has almost become a rare occurrence that this place has been used for training.

Our entire group has seemingly lost all motivation to train after….Ise-kun's departure. Ever since he left, the group has been completely void of light. The mood gradually began to lighten again after the passage of one full month, but that came crashing down once the academy's cultural festival took place. That was when our group was denied the right to see Ise-kun, who had apparently attended the festival that day.

Time passed again, a few weeks, and the group began to get better. Though it wasn't much, it was easy to see that there was some light that began to surface again. Some of that was unknowingly thanks to the broadcast known as [The Adventures of the Foolish Sekiryuutei]. It was a new show that had apparently begun airing courtesy of Azazel-sensei. It was unexpected to say the least, and quite an unorthodox type of entertainment. But it was easy to tell that it wasn't just a show. Looking beyond the surface level, it was possible to realize that it was also a training regiment. An odd one that didn't really give much clues on why certain things were happening, but that's also deliberate. Surely sensei knew that there were things he had to keep hidden or omitted for the purpose of maintaining the integrity of the regiment.

All of that aside, just a few days ago, there was an incident. Our group gathered for the viewing of the broadcast as usual, but we came to find out there was none. Instead, Rossweisse-san personally received a physical copy of a CD containing the footage to the latest episode. At first, we were confused as to why it was being considered a [restricted episode], but we would soon come to know the reason why.

In the footage of the latest episode, there was nothing but a detailed recording of what was the most shocking thing we had ever witnessed. It was Ise-kun —facing off with an Evil-God, all on his own. It was an unthinkable event. Just watching the footage, it was unbelievable. It was beyond shocking. It was as if we were watching the footage of a nightmare in which a Godly being would brutalize Ise-kun without remorse until he died. It was all too much to process.

Little did we know that the most shocking part was yet to come. The truly most shocking parts— was watching Ise-kun himself wield Godly power, and fight on equal grounds with a mythological being of Greek legend. All on his own.

But above all else, the part that left us speechless, Ise-kun not only won the battle— He killed a God. He killed the very God he won his battle against. He single handedly eliminated a being from Greek legend.

After watching that event take place in the footage, we were all left speechless. It wasn't shocking to watch someone be killed. We have seen many battles, and there are those within our group who have killed enemies, but…...that was not just any enemy. It was a God. An Evil-God perhaps, but a God nonetheless. With only one event, one battle, Ise-kun had essentially snuffed out an existence recorded in ancient legend.

The Ise-kun we all knew. The one who always showed mercy and had never killed one of his enemies in battle, he suddenly ripped the life of the Greek Titan-God [Atlas] from existence.

This is still something our group has yet to come to terms with. It was simply too unbelievable. There was nothing we could say in response to it. There was no discussion we could make of it. There are even times when I wake up and wonder if that footage was real or just a dream. How can it be expected of me to believe it? To believe that Ise-kun had faced a God head-to-head, won, and ultimately killed him? How can I believe that?...I have to. Because…

….Now that the event has become widespread information, many different discussions and coverages have begun to take place. An entire controversy was easily spawned amongst the masses of what exactly to think about the events that transpired in Greece, and what has now become of the "Chichiryuutei/Oppai Dragon".

Soon enough, Ise-kun began to stop being referred to as Oppai Dragon by many sources. Many of the sources began to refer to him as the [God-Killing Sekiryuutei]. This title is not surprising. In the history of all Longinus, never has it been recorded that one has truly killed a God. Despite being referred to as "God-Killing weapons", there's never been an instance in which it has been confirmed that Longinus succeeded in such a task. So the fact that it is Ise-kun who has done this…

This controversy is not one that left us untouched either. Our group has also been affected by it. The Gremory group, or more specifically Buchou, has been made the subject of a deal of criticism and scrutiny over the past few days. There are many critics and outlets that are claiming that these series of events are a result of Buchou's incompetence as a master. They are saying that she has not been properly able to "keep the Sekiryuutei on a leash", meanwhile other critics say that it was an inevitable outcome because it is impossible to tame a such an unfettered existence. Either way, this is something that has affected us Gremory and not just the image of the current Sekiryuutei.

Pushing all of that aside, over the past few weeks, or even since Ise-kun left in general, our group has been neglecting its training. It is true that we still train, but it is nothing like what we envisioned when we thought of preparing for this match. We are nowhere near as committed to the regiment as we should be. We originally planned to train daily, with specific methods and such being a factor. However, ever since Ise-kun left, our training has been nominal. We don't train as often as we should, and even if we do, we don't train with everything we have. It is easy to tell that's everyone's hearts aren't in it. Many times do our Sacred Gears not properly respond to our wills, or our demonic powers end up being terribly weak compared to our normal states. That much is obvious. It is because of the issues involving Ise-kun.

It is much too painfully apparent that our group relies on him to maintain its composure. Everything about us at this point is weak. Almost pathetic, if I were to put it bluntly. In the end, I'm one of the only ones who has not neglected their training.

Rossweisse-san and I are the only ones who have kept up properly with our regimens. Xenovia has tried, but it is often during training that she gets lost in her thoughts or distracted enough to make mistakes. Asia's healing ability has been very weak, to the point that it almost doesn't seem feasible in real combat sometimes. Koneko-chan is capable of training, but it is obvious that she can't concentrate properly. Her sullen attitude is present at almost every moment. It reminds me that she isn't just the stoic face she seems to be. Even someone like her can show such sad and lonely expressions. Her senjutsu is also affected as a result of her lack of concentration. It's usually unstable and sometimes even doesn't come out. Because of this, she has refused to train. Even though she doesn't say it, it's obvious why…...She's afraid she'll go berserk….. A fear we thought was eliminated, resurfaces itself with his absence. Gasper lacks spirit in every way, Ise-kun was his inspiration as a man after all, and as a result his Sacred Gear seems to be completely useless at the moment.

Buchou and Akeno-san are the worst of us all. They practically don't train at all. For a long time Buchou just locked herself away in a room, while Akeno-san was simply unresponsive at most times. Recently they have….improved(?) similar to the rest of us. At the very least, Buchou will usually answer us if we speak to her, while Akeno-san will acknowledge that we are speaking to her with a nod or shake of her head. But beyond that, there isn't much to say on them. They don't seem to cook (most likely because there isn't someone to cook for), they don't seem to dress in any special way (most likely because there isn't someone to do it for), and they don't have any obvious motivation to do much of anything. It's almost like they lost their purpose for doing anything.

We only have 2 weeks left until the match with Sairaorg-san. What will become of us in that time? That is the question that is about to be answered.

"I have come here on the orders of Sirzechs-sama, Rias."

Grayfia-san said that with a stoic attitude as she stood before our group. That's right. We were called here by Grayfia-san for an unknown reason. Our entire group stood before her with the same dead atmosphere.

"...Onii-sama? What could he possibly want us to be doing?"

Buchou asked that with the same lack of energy as what has become usual. Grayfia-san answered plainly.

"I have already visited once to determine your state after the initial event, but at that time it was simply out of concern. This time it is for a different reason. Rias, I want you to answer me this, a question left to me by Sirzechs-sama. The question is: [How has your training progressed, Rias?]."

—?! Buchou flinched visibly at Grayfia-san's question. Training? She's asking about our progress in training…..That's…..The result is not good, that's the truth. Could it be….Sirzechs-sama predicted this outcome?

Grayfia-san seemed to sigh lightly in response to our silence.

"As we suspected, you are neglecting your training, aren't you?"

Buchou averted her gaze at the question.

"It's just as Sirzechs-sama predicted. You have been neglecting your training as a result of your attitudes. Rias. Do you not realize that such a thing is unacceptable? What do you believe will happen when the time of the match comes? What do you plan to do?"

We remained silent with shame present on our faces. Buchou kept her gaze downward with a shadow cast over her expression. She spoke in a low voice.

"...What do you expect of me? Do you expect me to simply ignore it as if it isn't happening? Do you expect me to continue on pretending that things are as normal as they should be?..."

Grayfia-san shook her head.

"We expect you to move forward in spite of it."

Buchou bit her lip harshly.

"...How?! How is it that you expect that from me?! Is it because I am ["a member of the Gremory family"]?! Is it because I am ["a High-Class Devil"]?! How is it that you expect me to move forward without him?! How can you expect that, knowing how vital he is to me?! He is..! Without him I am..!"

Grayfia-san sighed once more, before looking through us with a cold gaze.

"Is this how you plan to make a fool of him even further?"

…...What? Buchou furrowed her brows in confusion.

"...Make a fool of…?"

Grayfia-san continued to stare at us coldly.

"At this point, I am sure you have reflected on your actions well enough. However, I suppose it's best if I were to get the point across this way. Rias, you know him well, I want you to imagine yourself in his position. I want you to imagine yourself in his situation with his mindset. Can you make an attempt?"

Buchou averted her gaze shamefully.

"...I have already done so. Many times…"

"In that case, were you able to understand the humiliation?"

Buchou visibly flinched.

"...H-Humiliation?"

Grayfia-san scoffed, though very lightly.

"Hmph. As I thought, you can imagine the pain quite well, correct? Yet you cannot see the humiliation. Perhaps that is something that is only truly understood by himself. Only an adult could comprehend it as well."

Buchou gained an expression of worry.

"...W….What do you mean, Grayfia?"

"You failed to imagine it initially, but I want you to imagine it now. Though that boy does not seem to be one with a great pride like yourself, I want you to imagine what a simple minded boy living with the spirit of a Dragon would feel in terms of humiliation during the situation."

I swallowed a lump in my throat. I don't know where Grayfia-san is going with this…..but that's uncertainty is what worries me. She continued.

"If I were to label it in a dramatic sense, you essentially 'turned your backs on him', from his perspective. There was a certain level of trust that he believed to be mutual amongst the lot of you, but that trust was 'betrayed'. Or at the very least, it was certainly not 'maintained'. Instead of properly communicating to the confused boy the reasons that you were upset, you chose the option to 'berate' and 'punish' him for things he did not understand. From his own perspective, he was being hurt for reasons he could not discover. Moreover he was placed in the mindset that he had no type of support and should be the only side to blame for his actions. If you were to imagine yourself in that position, being the person whom your allies rely on so heavily and yet still be left behind in your own time of need for their selfish purposes, what sort of humiliation do you believe you will have faced?"

—! ...H...Humiliation….if I were in his position…...Ise-kun has done more for us than we can imagine…...if everything I did went unappreciated….then….. Buchou spoke quietly.

"...That is…."

"Do you understand it, Rias? Even though you say that you have placed yourself in his shoes, in truth, you have still only been thinking of yourself. That's because if you were truly thinking of him, then you would be thinking of how not to further make a fool of him. By neglecting your training and not thinking of the consequences of the match, you are only causing a greater humiliation to him, who has been doing all he can to improve himself in every way. Have you no consideration for him? If you had, none of you would be so, to put it bluntly, pathetic."

….Grayfia-san ended it in a flatly. She had given us the harshest words we've ever heard from her with such a flat tone….. But even so, I couldn't help thinking...she is right. If Ise-kun really experienced such a terrible humiliation, then by acting the way we are now…...we are just making him look bad by comparison, aren't we?...That must be what Grayfia-san is saying.

"...Why do you tell me this, Grayfia?..."

Buchou asked with an ashamed expression.

"It is for the same reason that I have come here, Rias. I have come to fix your little issue."

Buchou lifted her gaze curiously.

"...Fix?"

—Without a verbal answer, many powerful magic circles spawned behind Grayfia-san's form.

Shin Shin Shin Shin Shin Shin Shin!

—! Wha..?! What's happening? There are magic circles all behind Grayfia-san. What is…?

"I won't allow you to neglect your training any longer. On behalf of Sirzechs-sama, the Gremory family, and most importantly - Hyoudou Issei. From today forth, until the day of the rating game, I shall be reimprinting the principle of determination within you. So that you may not bring shame upon your name as Gremory, nor upon yourself as an heir. Or more accurately, considering that you no longer care about such things, so that you will not bring shame upon the one person you hold so dearly that has been trying with his all to become something more."

We could only stand in silence. This is…..Grayfia-san is going to train with us?...No, she is going to re-discipline us….

"...I…."

Without realizing it, someone from our group had stepped forward. It was Gasper.

"...I….I don't want to face him like this…"

Gasper spoke with tears falling out of his eyes, but there was a light of determination in them as well.

"...I want to make up with Senpai— And make him proud!"

….Gasper….to believe that at a time like this, you are the one who is showing the most courage…. I could suddenly hear the words of Ise-kun flash back through my mind.

("Listen Kiba! As the men of the Gremory group, it is our duty to protect everyone! We must move forward, no matter what! If we can't do that, how can we call ourselves men, let alone servants of Rias Gremory!?")

…

"...I as well…."

I stepped forward.

"...I must move forward…as a Knight of Gremory….."

Grayfia-san stared at us within the silence. After a few seconds, someone stepped up beside me. Rossweisse-san.

"I will try my best."

She said that with determination. Yes, it makes sense that she would be one of the most determined out of us all. She was the one who was least affected by the situation, but in that same sense she is determined in moving forward despite it.

Xenovia stepped forward with an almost confused expression, mixed what looked like a bit of shame.

"...I'm still someone who lacks experience in many things…..The last thing I should be doing is hesitating to learn."

After a pause, Koneko-chan was the next one to step up beside us.

"...Senpai….he has been trying….I have to try too.…"

The next person to step up beside her - Akeno-san. She had a shadow cast over her eyes that masked her expression. She held onto her arms in a lonely manner, but spoke in a firm tone.

"...I must see him…..No, I will see him…..that's why…"

The last two that were left standing behind us were Asia and Buchou. Asia looked to Buchou unsure, but soon enough, even she stepped forward.

"...I don't want to hurt Ise-san anymore…"

Buchou was the last one left behind us. She stood there silently with her head down. She spoke in a quiet whisper.

"...Ise…..My Ise…..I have..."

A long silence hung in the air for what almost seemed like minutes. After a while, Buchou silently took a step forward and approached us. She cut in between us and stood in front of the entire group. The group had finally assembled. Buchou spoke in a firm tone.

"I….I will apologize to him…..I will face him…..because I— …..I have already failed as a woman…...I must at least have the dignity to do this…..So that I am able to face him…"

Buchou lifted her gaze with determination.

"...That is why—! I will move forward!"

Grayfia-san remained silent, but held a momentary smile. She closed her eyes and nodded her head before speaking plainly.

"Good. Very well. In that case—"

Even more magic circles abruptly spawned behind her body.

"—Prepare yourselves."

For the next two weeks, we would be gradually regaining our determination as a team, and train with the hopes that we may face Ise-kun properly during the game.

---

Part 1

|Ise|

《(Hyoudou Issei)》

I heard a voice in the darkness. My world was pitch black. No, it wasn't a voice. It was almost like I didn't hear anything at all, but I somehow knew something was calling out for me. What is it?

《...Sairaorg...》

Another voice. This time, I could hear it. A woman's voice. One that I've never heard before. Where are you?

《...My son...》

I hear you. Who are you? Is that you there? You're right in front of me, aren't you? I can't see anything, but you're right here aren't you? This is you? Is this your hand?

《...I want to wake up...》

Hold on. I don't know who you are, but just don't let go of me. I'll find a way out. I can't feel my arms, but I can feel that I have some sort of physical form. I can feel around.

Is this a room? No, there's nothing here. Nothing anywhere. I can find a way. I have to. I must leave this place.

《(Hyoudou Issei)》

There it is. The silent voice again. The voice I can feel but not hear. How do I even know it's speaking to me if I can't hear it?

《(There)》

What? This way? You're leading me? You're leading the way?

《(Go)》

What's this way? What is this? Is there something ahead of me? I think there is. There is something ahead of me. I can't see it, but for some reason I know. I can't reach it. What is that? A woman's body? Why do I know it if I can't see it? Who is it?

《...I want to see my son..》

Is that you sleeping there? That's you isn't it? I can't reach it. I can't get you there. It's too far. Why is it..?

《(No prison can hold me)》

Yeah. That's right. This place can't hold me. It may be able to hold her, but it can't hold me. Ah, but that doesn't mean that I still can't bring her near it. If I can't reach then what should I do? How would I be able to get her over there without touching? If only I had such an ability. If only I could move her to the place without having to get there myself. Almost like I'm—

《Ise-sama》

I could hear a familiar voice separate from the other two call me out. A light started to appear above me. It's starting to blind my vision.

That's right. If I can't take her there myself, then wouldn't it make sense to (—) her there?

《Ise-sama》

I'm being pulled out. This is my only chance. In order to get her to that place, I must (—) her. That word. What was it? Say it. You have to say it. That ability. You have to use it.

《Ise-sama》

Say it.

《Ise-sama》

Use it.

《Ise-sama. Ise-sama.》

.

.

.

.

[Transfer]

---

[...]

"Ise-sama….Ise-sama…"

"Mm…"

My eyes fluttered open. What..?

"Ise-sama. It's time to wake up…"

The one who appeared before my vision, Ravel, spoke softly to me.

"...Ravel?"

"Yes, it's me, Ise-sama."

Ravel…..—?! My body shot up.

"Vali!"

I called out for an answer from my rival, Vali Lucifer. This is a hallucination!? I'm trapped!?

"What's wrong, Ise-sama?"

I frantically glanced around. Grigori? This is Grigori? I'm in my bed? I'm here? I'm really here? Am I actually here?

"Ise-sama?"

Ravel called out to me. I suddenly cupped my hands on her cheeks.

"Ravel! Is that really you?! Are you really there?! Is that you?!"

She looked at me with an expression of concern and held onto my hands.

"Ise-sama? What's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"

"Please Ravel! Please tell me you're here! Please tell me that you're real! I don't want to be there anymore!"

She looked at me afraid.

"Y-Yes! I am here! I am here, Ise-sama! What is wrong?! What are you feeling?!"

Feeling? —?! Feeling! I wrapped my arms around Ravel and brought her into an embrace.

"Uwah!"

She squealed in surprise…...her hair….It's soft. Her body...It smells good. Her body smells good. Her heartbeat, I can feel it against my chest. Her warmth, I can feel against my skin. I can hear her breathing…...Yes...I can feel it.

"...It's you….you're here…"

I could feel my body relax as my hold on her softened.

"...Okay…...I'm okay. I'm here."

This is real. I'm in Grigori. I'm no longer trapped within that nightmare dimension in Hell.

"Ise-sama? What's wrong? Are you alright?"

Ravel asked frantically. I sighed in relief.

"Haaah…..Yeah….I'm alright. I'm sorry."

I let go of her, but she still had an expression of concern.

"A-Are you sure? Do you need me to call Sensei? Do you want me to get help?"

I shook my head and smiled lightly.

"No, I'm okay. I'm sorry. I know where I am now."

I stroked her face gently.

"...Ravel.."

I'm back. I'm back by her side. I'm right here with her. That's all I wanted. To be with the woman I—

"...Okay…"

Ravel held onto my hand touching the side of her face softly. After a few seconds, she closed her eyes and held it there on her cheek gently. She rubbed it slowly against her soft cheek.

"...Ise-sama…."

That's right, I didn't get to spend much time with Ravel yesterday after my return. I was so tired and needed rest, so we simply slept here together. But now...

"...I've missed you so much…..I've wanted to be with you….I've wanted to feel you…."

She spoke in a quiet whisper. I can feel the softness of her skin against my own. It feels like my mind is starting to become fuzzy. This is a familiar feeling. This atmosphere… She slowly opened her eyes.

—Deep sea blue. I never thought the color blue could be so entrancing. So alluring. So enchanting. So bewitching. I'm completely captivated. I can't even think. All I can think about, all I want to do…..

"...Ravel.."

I lowered my head a bit and brought my face closer to Ravel's…

"...Ise-sama..."

Slowly but surely, our lips came into contact with each other. We kissed softly.

Chu.

…..

This softness. This taste. I've only ever experienced it once before, yet it seems so familiar. And above all else, I feel like I can't get enough of it.

…..

—Knock, knock

A knocking was heard at the door to my room. Our intimate exchange was interrupted. We separated.

"...Ah…"

We stared at each other silently. I could feel my face burn up while Ravel's became red. Even so, the most we did was avert our gazes. We didn't push each other away or overreact in a dramatic way. We just separated calmly with red faces.

I only now realize that we kissed so naturally….

"...Come in."

The door opened. It was Azazel.

"It's time, you two. This is it."

Ravel and I glanced at each other. She nodded. We stood up together. Ravel took my hand and held it in between her palms softly.

"Good luck, Ise-sama. I will be waiting there for you."

I nodded my head.

"Yeah. Thank you, Ravel."

"Of course. I will always be by Ise-sama's side..."

"Yeah….I know…"

We gazed into each other's eyes. It felt almost like there was something both of us wanted to say. Something that both of us must be thinking of, the same thing. What is it…?

Ravel let go of my hand after the pass of the silence and walked past me towards the door. She turned back one more time before leaving.

"Good luck, Ise-sama."

With that, she turned out of the door and left. Azazel turned to me.

"Barakiel will take you to the meeting place. They will be there. From that point, we will move as a group, with them. Get ready. I will see you there."

I nodded firmly.

"Yeah. Thank you, Azazel. For everything."

He smirked, but it was a soft one.

"Just make sure to look good, eh? I didn't waste all that time and resources rebranding you just for you to turn back to the boring stuff again. Especially the uniform. I get that it's a thing for you guys, but school uniforms are boring, don'cha think?"

"Hehe. Yeah, I've got it. I'll make sure to wear something more fashionable."

He nodded.

"I'll meet you there. This is the day we've prepared for. You're all grown up, so you're on your own this time. Good luck."

"Yeah. Thank you."

Azazel turned out from the door and walked out. The door to my room shut and I was left alone…..This is it. Today's the day. The fateful day. The day I've been preparing for. Many thoughts began to rush through my mind.

(What will I say? What are my opinions of everyone? What will I do when I get there? Who should I speak to first? What do they think of me at this point?)

…

I shook my head.

"No. Not yet."

That's right. My first concern shouldn't be that. My first concern should be—

"Sairaorg."

I stood from my bed. I walked to the dresser in my room and opened it. There was something sitting in the back in a nice package. A nice set of clothes that is meant for a certain group to wear in this facility.

"Wear something nice huh?"

I smirked.

Sairaorg Bael. For today— you are my only objective.

Part 2

|Kiba|

"He should be arriving any second now."

Azazel-sensei said it while taking a look at the watch on his wrist. [He should be arriving], he said that as we waited near the gondola.

It's the day of the game. We, the Gremory group, are currently in Agares territory. We're waiting at the lower station, with the gondola, that is meant to take us up to the floating city [Agreas]. That is where our match will be taking place. Up in the floating city.

But that isn't what we're concerned with right now. That's because right now we are waiting. Waiting for a certain person to show up. The last member of our group. The one we've been waiting countless days to see again. The pillar of our group. Our most important member.

I could feel the highest tension, higher than anything in my life, as we stood there in dead silence. Not a single one of us spoke to each other. We didn't even look at each other. We simply stood there without speaking, all facing the same direction. The roadside from which we are expecting a certain vehicle to arrive. Waiting. Waiting, expectantly. Waiting, impatiently. Our nerves could only tense more and more as the time passed.

…...Soon enough, a black vehicle pulled up to the station curb. That is one of the vehicles that is used for transportation in Grigori. It has the symbol for Grigori in white painted on the side. This presence…...inside of that car is…..

"He's here."

Sensei said that as the car stopped. My mouth went completely dry and I could feel a cold sweat running down my neck…...the car door opened….

"...Outo-sama?..."

I heard Akeno-san speak from near Buchou's position. That's because the one who stepped out from the backseat— it was Barakiel-san.

"We've arrived."

He said that, not to us, but to whoever was behind him in the vehicle. That was when someone stepped out right after him.

That person is—

"...Ise."

That's right. It was just as Buchou whispered under her breath. The person who stepped out wearing dark clothing, the one person we've wanted to see, our most important group member— Ise-kun.

"I will be taking a separate gondola to entry. I will be watching the match closely. Good luck."

Barakiel-san extended his hand to Ise-kun.

"Yeah. Thanks."

Ise-kun extended his own arm and they clasped each other's forearms. They shook hands in classical Roman style. A great form of respect amongst warriors.

I still have yet to process the confusion in my mind. It was obvious that Barakiel-san was here to watch the match involving his daughter. However, it was his appearance that froze my brain. He suddenly appeared alongside of Ise-kun, and for some reason, he and Ise-kun are…..their exchange…..do they have some sort of relationship? They are speaking like…..a bit like friends or colleagues would. Did he and Barakiel-san...become friends?

"Akeno."

Without realizing it, Barakiel-san approached our group and stood in front of Akeno-san.

"Outo...sama?.."

Akeno-san made an expression of pure confusion. Barakiel-san placed a hand on her shoulder and smiled.

"Good luck."

"Outo-sama?.."

He nodded at her. Somehow, I had the feeling that he was not giving us his well wishes for the game, but rather something else entirely. And I don't think I'm the only one who realizes that. Akeno-san's eyes widened a bit at his actions. He stepped away and nodded to Sensei, before walking off to another location.

Shuffle...

My gaze shifted back at the sound of boots shuffling against the ground. When I looked back in front of me— Ise-kun was standing a meter ahead of us with a calm expression.

"...Ise.."

Buchou quietly called out for him. There was a yearning in her voice. I could tell that she was moments from speaking.

"Hahaha! In the end, it looks like you still went with the Grigori uniform, huh?"

Sensei laughed from next to our group with his arms crossed. He was referring to Ise-kun's attire. Ise-kun was wearing what looked a bit like a special military uniform. Black military style boots, dark grey cargo pants, and a form fitting black T-shirt with a white logo on the left side of his chest. The symbol of Grigori. He was even wearing black tactical gloves that resembled Hatch gloves.

"Haha! Well you said to come well dressed didn't ya!"

Ise-kun gave a slick thumbs up with a smile and winked.

"Besides, ain't this how I'm usually dressed anyway?"

"Hahahaha! Yeah, in a way, but I didn't expect you to be wearing the whole uniform. You're even wearing the gloves. You've only ever worn the shirt you know?"

"Hey, I've worn the pants once or twice! I think."

"Heh, well, whatever the case you certainly look like a true recruit of Grigori now. You'd fit in well with the grunts."

"Oi, oi, oi! Coming from you I can't tell if that's a compliment or not!"

"Mm. Take it as you will."

"Oi!"

Ise-kun shouted at sensei, but there was a smirk on his face. It was the same with Sensei who was smirking slyly at his responses. Even with Sensei?... Ise-kun surely would have never had such an interaction with Sensei a couple months ago...

"—Ise…."

Buchou called out to Ise-kun in a quiet voice, but it was audible to all of us. That was when he turned his gaze to us.

(—.)

Even just with his gaze being switched to us, I felt as if my body turned to stone. He no longer held his prior smirk, but instead had a calm expression with no particular emotion present.

…..There was a heavy silence that rested in the air. A silence that felt even heavier than my own existence. I couldn't bear it, yet was frozen in time by its presence. Ise-kun's form was standing before us silently, looking straight at everyone of us, dead in the eyes. There were no words that my mind could properly muster to speak. There were no thoughts present that could somehow give me an idea on how to break this terrible silence.

What was it that I would say? I had lived this day in my mind many times. I have thought heavily and thoroughly on exactly what words to say the moment I came face to face with him. And yet now, of all times, those countless practiced lines - simply seem to escape me.

"...Ise.."

Buchou whispered once more. Her body shifted subtly forward. It was obvious that there were many things each of us wanted to say, even if we did not know it. Just by looking, I could tell that almost every one of the girls was at their limit. Within the next moments, they would surely…

"...Ise...I….I—"

Buchou's body moved forward ever so slightly. Almost as if she was about to jump forward. I could see tears build up in her eyes.

"Ise—!"

Just as she was about to speak—

"—Not now."

Ise-kun interrupted her plainly with his hand up.

…...

…...

…...

…...

What?...

"...Eh?"

Buchou made a sound of confusion as she froze alongside of us.

"Now is not the time. We can discuss all of that when we return home. For now, our priority is the match. We must focus on winning the game."

….

…We were left silent by absolute confusion…...not the time?...focus on the game?...

Ise-kun stepped up to where Sensei was, standing beside me.

"Ready to go, kiddo?"

"Osu!"

"That's what I like to hear."

Sensei stepped to the gondola door and signaled for the operator to start it up. The doors slid open cleanly and he stepped inside. Just before Ise-kun followed him inside, he turned back to me and placed a finger on my chest.

"Focus on the game."

—I froze. He said that while looking through me with a determined gaze that pierced through my very soul. It was apparent to me that I was not the only one he was speaking to. That message, it was meant for all of us….. In one moment, it had felt as if I was being spoken to by someone much greater than myself. It was like I was a child being spoken down to by an adult. In his words and in his eyes— no, in his entire attitude and demeanor, there was 'something' on a level of which I'd never seen before from him. It was…..maturity…

"All aboard please!"

The operator announced for our group to board the gondola. We were frozen in place, unable to process yet what had just transpired. Ise-kun's words rang through my head.

(Focus on the game.)

….

(Focus on the game.)

….

(Focus on the game.)

…My fists clenched tightly.

"...Everyone…"

You're right, Ise-kun. That's right. It's just as Grayfia-san said. The thing we were supposed to do from the beginning. The thing that we failed at from the start, causing this whole 2 month long dilemma to arise. We must….just for today, we must…. I turned back to my group after catching their attention.

"..Focus on the game."

I repeated Ise-kun's words with a strained face of the best determination I could muster. Everyone looked at me silently.

"We won't make a fool of ourselves…"

And with my uttering of Grayfia-san's words to us, everyone's eyes widened slightly. The silence continued. But only for a few seconds more did they stand there doing nothing.

Shuffle…

Rossweisse-san stepped up with a face of determination. She nodded.

…..

After a silent pause, Gasper stepped up. He nodded as firmly as he could. Then, as if to parallel the event with Grayfia-san two weeks prior, they stepped up in a familiar order with expressions of determination. Xenovia, Koneko-chan, Akeno-san, Asia, and even Irina who was accompanying us. They all stepped up one by one in quick succession.

In the end, the last one left standing alone was Buchou.

"..."

She held her down with a shadow cast over her expression.

"...Ise..."

She spoke in a whisper that was practically silent. But….

Shuffle..

Even she stepped forward with a strained face of determination.

"All aboard please!"

The operator announced once again, with a bit of confusion present in his tone. Everyone glanced and nodded at each other. Buchou nodded as well. I took a deep breath.

"Let's go…"

—With that, I lead our group to step onto the gondola, with me entering first.

The moment I entered I could see where Ise-kun was. He was situated in the seat beside Sensei's, a seat I would have never expected him to take willingly, prior to today. He sat with his arms crossed, legs crossed up on his seat, and a curious demeanor. He took notice the second I entered.

"..."

I froze momentarily. He said nothing, but there was a small smirk he gave me before turning away. The members began to enter the gondola in quick succession of each other. I moved forward the moment I noticed them looking towards Ise-kun.

I stepped forward— and took the seat beside Ise-kun.

"..."

I felt sweat run down my forehead when I heard no sort of reaction from him. I didn't try looking at him, or anyone else for that matter. I merely kept my gaze down towards the bottom where my shoes were.

I didn't sit here because I wanted to. I did it because it was necessary. Although we have all agreed to focus on winning the game, I know the girls of our group well enough to say that it won't be easy. At a time like this that is so sensitive, the number one thing they need to avoid doing is letting their emotions overcome them. Something like that, after all of that time, it must feel unbearable now that he is right next to us. I understand that. That's precisely why I did this.

If even one of them were to possibly sit so close to him…..what sort of reaction would any of them have? Being so close, yet feeling so far. Their fearful thoughts of uncertainty on what Ise-kun could possibly be thinking, it truly must be mortifying. That's why, the best thing to do, is to avoid from delving into those thoughts. It will certainly eat at their conscious until the end of the game, but that's why I must avoid letting them spark those thoughts and feelings as much as possible. For now, we must allow our interactions to be distant. That is something I can take, but the girls are a different matter. So, that's why, I will sit here uncomfortably in perfect silence.

…..

After what felt like minutes passed, the group members began to take their seats. Rossweisse-san sat down beside me. Does she realize issue as well? She must have. She is a very intelligent person. She must have figured it out as well, especially considering her straight face.

"Number two, set off!"

Chii!

The doors to the gondola slid shut as the operator called out one last time. Just like that, we made our trip up to the floating city of Agreas.

---

…..

Some time has passed since we set off for Agreas. The gondola was almost completely silent, aside from two voices. Sensei and Ise-kun. They have both been conversing with each other since the gondola began its ascent. They spoke on various topics - from the politics surrounding the background of this game, to discussions concerning Sairaorg Bael and the history of his clan. Topics that I never had expected Ise-kun to be speaking of so casually without having trouble following along.

I sat there quietly in seat, with my gaze focused on him from the corner of my eye. No, it wouldn't be absurd to say that practically all eyes were on him during this time. I'm sure he has noticed it himself. And yet he can continue conversing with Sensei so nonchalantly, as if we weren't there. It almost looks as if it doesn't affect him at all.

"...Um.."

Out of the silence of our entire group, Rossweisse-san spoke from beside me. Sensei and Ise-kun noticed her.

"...Asking this may be obvious, but, do you believe that there is a possibility of being attacked?"

She asked that hesitantly. She's been the only one to speak from our group at this point. Sensei answered her question, seemingly after being directed at him.

"There is. It's getting this much attention after all, and many bosses of the industry will be coming. If they have to target them, this will be the place. To them, sending off their prideful Balance-Breaker users into the place with many people, that will become a big contribution to their actions. We put on maximum security around the stadium. Though, those are all precautions. It will probably end with nothing happening, right Ise?"

Sensei answered her naturally. How can he be so sure? Moreover, he asked Ise-kun for confirmation? Ise-kun sat back in his seat comfortably.

"Yeah, there won't be any problems. Vali already promised me that nothing would happen."

…..What?

"Promised? Vali Lucifer? What do you mean?"

Rossweisse-san asked in confusion. Ise-kun nodded his head and held his finger up.

"Yeah, well, during one of our conversations Vali told me this: [It's an important match between Sairaorg from 'that' house of Bael and the Gremory group. I'm also looking forward to it. I won't let them intervene with you, Hyoudou Issei]— is what he told me."

"Hoho, you sure are loved by him aren't you, Ise?"

"Oi, oi, oi, cut it out. That seriously gives me the chills. You don't know what it's like being isolated with him like that. It gives me creepy feelings….Ueeh..."

Ise-kun shivered while Sensei snickered in amusement…..What?

"..During a conversation? With the Hakuryuukou? You were able to speak with him, Ise-kun?"

Rossweisse-san asked dubiously. I was also in disbelief at what he said. He was talking with the Hakuryuukou, Vali?..

"Ah."

Ise-kun covered his mouth lightly and averted his gaze.

"My bad. You weren't really supposed to know that. Well, it's a long story, but yeah. For various reasons I was able to talk with Vali. In that talk he was able to tell me that he wouldn't let any attacks happen on the day of the game, so it was nothing to worry about."

Ise-kun said that plainly…."Vali"?...It was only now that I was hearing him mentioned that I noticed, but, Ise-kun is referring to him in an almost casual manner…..Usually whenever Ise-kun would reference the Hakuryuukou, he would always do it so callously. He would call him "the bastard" or "that guy, Vali", but never would he so blatantly mention his name like "Vali" without any sort of animosity in his tone. There wasn't even the usual attitude of suspicion when saying it. He merely said it as if it was any other name…...what is..?

"...I see…"

Rossweisse-san sat back in her seat. Sensei spoke again.

"Well, aside from Vali, we can also think that maybe Cao Cao hasn't been targeting here from the start as well. The other factions also have their guard up in their base because there is a chance that they might be attacked if their guard is down."

"Yeah, but since Kyoto I don't expect it for some reason. At least not with Cao Cao. I have the itching feeling that he is somehow finding a new plot to move forward in instead."

Ise-kun says that in a calculative tone while sitting with his arms stretched back behind the seats and resting one of his legs on his knee.….. That sitting posture…...I have never seen such an attitude from him before…...it's almost as if he is thinking critically while having a cool demeanor…. His posture….his attitude…...in every way...

—It resembles Sensei….

"We're here."

Just as I was thinking that, Sensei announced our arrival to the city in the sky.

Part 3

The ones who were waiting for us when we got off the lift were the groups of fans and media. The moment we got off the gondola, we were surrounded by shouts of joy and flashes from cameras. However, that ended up being overpowered by a sudden overly zealous paparazzi. That's because….

"It's the God-Killing Sekiryuutei!"

"Sekiryuutei! God-Killing Sekiryuutei! Look this way!"

"It's the God-killer! Excuse me! Over here!"

"The God-slayer! The God-slaying Longinus possessor! Excuse me, a moment please! Just a moment of your time! Allow me to ask one question!"

"Sekiryuutei-dono! Do you have a comment on the ensuing controversy as the result of your actions!? Is there anything you want to say to the critics who believe you have become a threat!?"

Sensei told us to keep walking without concern for them. But….It was impossible to ignore them. And yet, Ise-kun was able to do it perfectly. He was not shooting them even a glance. He merely kept his gaze forward and continued his walk. He ignored them despite the fact that they were calling him [God-killer] and [God-slayer] while snapping hundreds of pictures, taking footage, and asking questions relentlessly. I never could have expected someone like him to maintain his composure under these circumstances. Even we all were uneasy. As the Gremory group we were used to getting a great deal of attention, but the context of it was unnerving. After all, it wasn't the regular attention. This was….something else…

We made it to a limousine which was stationed in the front, led by groups of bodyguards and staffers.

"I have been waiting for you all."

The one who was inside the limousine was Ravel. She came to the city of the Sky Agreas beforehand to do preparations for us.

"Ravel!"

Ise-kun suddenly called out with a light tone. Was that...excitement? He entered the limo without hesitation and immediately went to sit beside her.

"Come on, everyone."

Sensei motioned for us to enter as he stepped in as well. We hesitated. I could practically feel the mixed emotions of my group members behind me. But...

"...Focus on the game…"

I whispered that behind me as I entered. You can't let it get to you right now. We must focus on the game, remember? Slowly but surely, the group began to file into the limousine. Once everyone had entered, we set off for our destination, the hotel.

When I looked back from the window inside the limousine, there were cars that look like they belong to the media following after us.

"You guys need to get your own personal manager. For this match, whether you win or lose your fame will rise. It will calm down after a few days have passed, but for a while it will be like this every time when you come to the Underworld. Although for someone like Ise, perhaps he has become an existence that will no longer be able to live without it."

Sensei said the from his spot beside Ise-kun and Ravel. Of course it would make sense that they ended up being the two on either side of Ise-kun. At the very least, I didn't have to sit right next to him anymore. My nerves are much too tense to withstand it.

"Ah, yeah Ravel, how about you become Ise's manager?"

[—?!]

Sensei said something like that….I could immediately feel the tension in the vehicle rise. But these 3 seem to be unaffected by it.

"M-Me? Ise-sama's manager?.."

"Yeah, it would be the best choice wouldn't it? You already take care of him all the time now, don't you? I'm sure you're pretty much used to it. Wouldn't you want to do it? I'm sure Ise would like that?"

Ravel looked up to Ise-kun expectantly.

"W-Would Ise-sama be alright with me?.."

Without warning, Ise-kun suddenly clasped Ravel's hands in between his own and smiled.

"Yes!"

He shouted while nodding vigorously.

"Yes! Ravel is the best choice! There isn't anyone I trust more with something like this! I trust Ravel more than anyone else on anything! I couldn't imagine a better person I'd rather have doing it! So please! Become my manager, Ravel!"

…...Ise-kun pleaded with the most absolute enthusiasm. Ravel smiled with determination.

"Yes! I will! If it is for the sake of Ise-sama, then I will not hesitate to agree!"

…...

Ravel agreed and they both smiled…...their exchange seemed almost...intimate….. Despite them exuding a bright atmosphere with their carefree attitudes, most of the limousine was filled with a heavy air of tension.

The limo drove through the city, towards the dome, until we reached our destination.

---

There are many amusement facilities that exist in the city of the sky. Among them, there is a giant dome stadium that mainly does exhibitions for different types of matches and arts. Agreas Dome. We moved to the high-class hotel which is located next to the dome stadium.

It's luxuriously and gorgeously made. A spacious lobby and shiny & clean flooring. There is a giant chandelier on the ceiling.

We are being guided to our personal room by the bellboy. The match will take place at night. There is still time left. We will be here until the time of the match. I wouldn't think much of such a thing normally, but in this situation….can we really do it for that long?

"...Azazel…"

"Yeah."

Ise-kun, who was walking at the front of our group with Ravel and Sensei, spoke in a low tone that I was unfamiliar with. It was an extreme seriousness that was unnatural of him.

—Then there was a group coming from ahead of us that were emitting a weird atmosphere and a cold aura which feels like it's piercing through my skin. They have their hoods worn down so much that we can't see their faces, and they are wearing long robes where we can't even see their feet.

And at the centre of the group, there is one wearing an outfit which looks like that of a priest…

—It's a skeleton.

A skeleton is wearing an outfit that looks like the one worn by priests. On his head is a cap worn by priests as well. A cap called a Mitre. And he has a staff in his hand.

The skeleton-priest stops after seeing us.

—The eye socket which has no eyes shines in a deep red.

《Oh well, oh well. If this isn't the crimson-haired Gremory and the Governor of the fallen-angels…..And..》

That voice isn't something which came from a person's mouth... The red orbs in the skulls head took a glance somewhere…...At Ise-kun...

Hearing the words of the skeleton-priest, Sensei smiled sarcastically.

"Oh, if this isn't the God that governs death: Hades-dono, who lives in the lower part of the Underworld - the realm of the dead which is also known as the depths of Hell. So you have come here bringing so many grim reapers with you. But I never thought you, who hates devils and fallen-angels more than anything, to come all the way here."

….The God of the realm of the dead….Hades….

《Fafafa….. you sure know how to talk, damn crow. Lately it's been noisy up here, so I came to observe.》

"Skeleton geezer, it seems like you are the only one from the Grecian-side who is still uncertain about the alliance between the factions. Aside from maybe that mongrel, Ares. He was last reported to be residing in your realm wasn't he? After the incident with Atlas it seems almost like you were covering for him..."

《And what of it? Will you also get rid of this old man here, just like with Loki? After all...》

The red orbs shifted towards Ise-kun once again.

《You have now discovered the greatest tool for such a thing….haven't you?...》

—CHILLS!

I could feel chills run through my entire being as an atmosphere filled with pressure and tension overcame me. The entire group around Hades increased their killing intent to the max. But that wasn't it….. I could feel something dark emanating from right in front of me as well. Something dark and subtle was being released from Ise-kun…..

—Bloodlust.

Sensei put up his hand subtly near Ise-kun's side. It was a signal. A signal to calm down…..

Sensei shook his head and sighed.

"I'm telling you to become more open-minded like the perverted geezer Odin. I only hear black rumours about you."

《Fafafa… If the herds of crows and bats start to make noises, then even I will want to make sure I don't hear those noises.》

Then this skeleton changes his sights….to Ise-kun…... His eye socket glows.

《Welsh Dragon. It sure brings back memories of when you and the Vanishing Dragon were rampaging at the depths of Hell together…Though now, you have become something much more, haven't you…..I wonder if I will see the day when those rampages return…..rampages with a direction to face in...》

The body of Ise-kun remained completely still. I could not tell what sort of expression he was making. I could not even tell if he was breathing. For some reason, his figure seemed so much larger from right in front of me. Despite not increasing in height, his form seemed like it far exceeded my size… In fact…

—It was almost as if the two giant forms of Ise-kun and Hades were both staring each other down in the face, like they were beings of equal stance.

….It felt like a being of an entirely different level of existence was standing in Ise-kun's place...

《Well, then. I will have myself enjoy today. You should hope you won't die. I didn't come here to take all your souls with me today after all.》

Saying just that, the skeleton…..Hades, walks pasts us.

"Hades…"

In a low voice that didn't seem like his own, Ise-kun called out to the God of the dead. Hades stopped in his tracks.

"...Ares is….. You—"

"—Ise!"

He was abruptly interrupted by Sensei's tense whisper. I peered over my shoulder to look at Hades….

OOHHHHMM…

His red orbs pierced through my entire being with his bloodthirsty gaze being set on Ise-kun's back.

!-[?!]-!

《...Let it be known, God-killer…..I no longer consider you to be an existence amongst the bats, crows or any such little existences related….. In the eyes of this God, you are an existence which has more meaning than those surrounding you… Should there be a day that you decide to set foot in the realm of Gods, I will greet you… However, should you decide to fulfill the opposite role and take up the "mantle" that you yourself have created… I will likely be there to erase your "list" along with you…》

…..Hades turned away with that, and within some time, he disappeared from our sight…..

[Role]...[Mantle]...[List]... All of those words he said, they were in reference to Ise-kun's new title…..the title of God-killer…. [Setting foot in the realm of Gods]...is he suggesting that Ise-kun…..would become a God?... His message….

….[Will you become a God - or will you become a God-killer?]...

Smack!

I flinched at the sound of something being smacked. Sensei had smacked Ise-kun on the side of his head with his hand.

"Idiot. That was reckless."

"...Yes….I'm sorry… I don't know what came over me..."

Ise-kun spoke in a regretful tone. Sensei sighed.

"Haah. Well, it's alright for now, but you must be more conscious of those around you. After all, you aren't the only one who would be in the line of fire, right?"

Sensei says that while motioning to Ise-kun's right. It was only then that I noticed Ravel was holding onto Ise-kun's arm while shivering lightly. Ise-kun lowered his head in what seemed like shame.

"...I'm so sorry…"

Sensei patted his back reassuringly.

"It's alright, it's alright. Don't think about it now. Just try to keep your cool. You can lose it during the match."

Ise-kun's attitude seemed to return to normal with his encouragement…..though, we were all left just as speechless as before….after all, Ise-kun just sent his killing intent as a response to Hades own…..To a God...without hesitation….

"Dehahahahahaha! I have come, Azazel!"

"I have also come, Azazel! Gahahahaha!"

Two well-built old men with beards came and surrounded Sensei. Sensei also sighed with his eyes half closed.

"…So you came, Zeus-geezer and Poseidon-geezer… You guys are really hard to be with like always. Or at least whenever something serious isn't happening. It would have been better if Hades was lively and easy to understand like these two."

Zeus and Poseidon! The brown bearded man who's wearing no top, Poseidon-sama. But the white bearded man who was wearing a crown and toga is someone I see for the first time. I see, so he is the legendary Zeus-sama...!

It seems like these two know Azazel-sensei, and they started picking on him.

"Aren't you going to find a wife, Azazel-bou!? Being still single feels lonely doesn't it!"

"I can introduce someone! There are many great women in the seaaaaaaa! Gahahahahaha!"

"Ah~ you don't have to worry about unnecessary things…."

Sensei was being pushed back by these two. I have never seen anyone cause Sensei distress in such a way. I hardly thought it was possible. But then, the two Gods took notice of the one right behind him.

"Aya, it's the Sekiryuutei boy! Hello boy! Good to see you again!"

"Ah, if it isn't the [savior of Olympus]! We meet again, boy!"

Both Gods greeted Ise-kun in a jolly attitude. I became shocked by their interaction with him. Ise-kun has spoken with these two before?

"Z-Zeus-sama! I am honoured! Ah, and Poseidon-sama! T-Thank you for your cooperation with the Hydra! You truly saved me at that time!"

Ise-kun shakes the hands of the Gods who offered it to him with absolute respect while mentioning events I didn't understand. Since coming here we were finally able to see him become nervous. For some reason, I had forgotten what it looked like.

Zeus-sama scratched his beard.

"Ah, that's right! You were not conscious at the time of our meeting were you? I could only exchange a simple statement before you were out. I see, I see. Well, nevertheless, I'm sure Azazel boy told you of my words?"

"Y-Yes! He did! Um, b-basically just thanks for taking care of it?"

"Mm. Close. Though there was more than that. I at least wanted to make sure that you knew you were being rewarded for your accomplishment. Also, that if you were ever feeling up to the role, then you would also be rewarded for any further service to the Gods. As a proper warrior would be."

"R-Reward?"

Poseidon-sama stepped in with a smile.

"Yes, indeed! As compensation for your performance, Zeus has already requested Hephaestus to create something interesting for you to keep. A token of our gratitude as the Gods of Olympus! Hopefully it will be to your liking."

Ise-kun's mouth dropped in shock.

"H-H-Hephaestus!? As in, [Vulcan], the Greek God of the forge and fire?!"

Zeus nodded his head.

"Indeed, boy. The one and only great blacksmith God of Olympus, ruler of the fire and forge. He shall be making your [gift]. It should be done and ready by the next few moons. We hope it is something that pleases you."

[—?!]

It was not at all necessary to be able to feel the shock from Ise-kun, we were feeling it all on our own… To say that Ise-kun will be receiving something from the Greek Gods of Olympus is…

"W-Whaaaaaaaaaat?! Of course! There's no way I wouldn't be satisfied with it! It could just be a tiny participation medal and I would still value it with my life!"

Ise-kun exclaimed in response to the Gods. They both laughed heartily.

"Hahahahahaha! What a pleasing young lad! As I thought, being able to speak with the Sekiryuutei who was fascinated with breasts is surely a treat! I was right to assist you with the Hydra!"

"Hahahahaha! I agree, brother! He is promising warrior isn't he?"

The Gods smiled. To believe that this is happening… These Gods that are interacting with Ise-kun…. Despite being the Sekiryuutei…...I never thought I would witness such a thing.

Zeus-sama crossed his arms.

"Well, all of that aside, you did a good job with Atlas. It was a terrible situation that we were too naïve to realize that scale of. It was even more troubling that the damned Ares was involved with it. Though you won't have to worry about him. I have already had him pay retribution for his actions involving that incident. Ah, that's right. Say, boy, what say you visit Olympus yourself huh? Having you appear as a guest would be interesting wouldn't it?"

-[!]-

Before we could properly process the shock of Zeus-sama's words, he had already stepped past Ise-kun to walk off. Poseidon-sama began to follow him.

"Until another time, Sekiryuutei boy! I'll make sure to bring you to my personal palace under the ocean! Ah, perhaps [Atlantis] would be interesting as well?"

"Yes, yes! And be sure to show off that Triaina that we've heard of! It's great that you honour Poseidon and Hermes, from what he says, but it would also be great if you honoured me as well! I would like to see some [sparks] of power being shot off, if possible!"

Just like that they began to walk away. However, Ise-kun called out to them frantically.

"W-Wait! Poseidon-sama!"

He called out to Poseidon-sama. Poseidon-sama turned his head back.

"T— There was a Gorgon that I found! She..! She called herself….Medusa?…."

Ise-kun said something shocking that I didn't understand. Medusa? Medusa was killed. She was beheaded by the hero Perseus. There is no way that she could be alive.

"...Ah, that is…"

Poseidon-sama rubbed his chin with a serious expression. Then, he scratched his head awkwardly and sighed.

"...Aaaah, well, that is not Medusa. That is….. Haaah…..well, take care of her for now, boy. We will discuss it another time."

With just those words, the two Gods walked away from our sight… I still have yet to properly understand everything I have witnessed.

"I came, you guys."

This time it was a voice I've heard before. When I turned around, there is a chibi-dragon floating in the air. I don't know any chibi-dragons, but judging from his voice…..

"That voice, is that you old-man Tannin!? You sure have become small!"

Ise-kun announced it in surprise. It was the Former Dragon-King, Tannin-sama.

"Hahaha, it will be hard to move around in my original size. I'm usually in this form at events like this."

He says it while looking at all of us.

"The man you will be facing is said to be the strongest youth, but I don't think all of you are inferior to him. So go at him with all your might!"

"Of course! Look forward to our victory!"

Ise-kun replied to him with confidence. Tannin-sama went quiet for a moment. His gaze was set on Ise-kun specifically.

"...Your eyes have changed, brat."

Ise-kun smirked and crossed his arms.

"Heh, is that so? I've done quite a bit of reflection after all. I'm more than just a brat now."

"Yes, I can see that. In fact, you are much more than a brat, God-slayer."

"Ah."

Ise-kun smiled awkwardly while averting his gaze.

"Those eyes of yours….. Hmph. If only you had such a gaze during your training with me on that mountain. Heh. What a troublesome existence you really turned out to be."

"Ehehehe. Sorry about that."

"Well, it is of no matter now. Just win the match, will you? It would be quite disgraceful if a God-killer began losing now wouldn't it?"

"Hell yeah!"

Ise-kun pumped his fist confidently.

"Ah! Odin-sama!"

Rossweisse-san made a hysteric sound. In the direction Rossweisse-san is pointing at….Odin, the Norse All-father, was there. The reaction we would've expected would be one of distress, since he has been avoiding Rossweisse-san after all. However, he did not run off. Instead, he approached our group casually with another Valkyrie by his side.

"Oho, if it isn't the group of the Gremory. We meet again."

"Odin-samaaaaaaaaaa!"

Rossweisse-san howled in anger as she was about to complain at Odin-sama, but—

"Oya, calm down, Rossweisse. I'm speaking with the group."

Odin-sama said that with a casual smirk to Rossweisse-san, but his tone was serious. Rossweisse-san stopped in her tracks in response. Odin-sama directed his attention towards us, or more specifically to Sensei and Ise-kun.

"Oh, so you've come, geezer. I would have thought that you would avoid this time since you were running from this girl like the plague."

Odin-sama stroked his beard.

"Heh. Yes, well, though I was avoiding it I simply couldn't ignore you lot at this point could I? After all, now you have something in your group that stands out a bit much, wouldn't you say?"

He says that in a sly tone as he switched his gaze to Ise-kun.

"First, capturing a God, next is killing them? Looks like you've gone beyond the call of duty and made taking down Evil-Gods a hobby of yours, eh, boy?"

Ise-kun smiled awkwardly.

"Ah….No, well….that's…"

Odin-sama laughed at his reaction.

"Ahahahaha! I'm only joking of course! Something like that doesn't really bother me. Though, there were many leaders on my side that began to question our alliance with your side as a result of the news, I decided to keep faith and came see to it myself. From what I can see, there is no [terrifying issue] to be concerned with. I will be able to ease their worries upon my return."

Odin-sama said that in a jolly tone… The relations with the Northern side…...they were shaken by Ise-kun's actions… Of course such a thing can happen…. It's something that was unheard of after all… It would become a terrifying prospect once realized…..

Odin-sama waved his hand casually.

"Anyway, try not to worry about that sort of talk. More importantly, I can tell just by looking, but you seemed to have changed quite a bit haven't you? Your eyes are no longer the same. Your entire demeanor seems different. You seem like an adult now, don't you? And you have the eyes of a warrior. You used to look at me with uneasy eyes you know? Now that I look into them, I don't see a shred of it. Have you become accustomed to the presence of Gods now, boy?"

Odin-sama gives Ise-kun an entire dialogue that even I have trouble following. Even so, Ise-kun answers normally.

"Yeah, well, I went through a bit to get like this. A lot of soul searching and other training. It was hard, but I like to think I'm a bit more grown up now?"

Odin-sama nodded.

"Mm, mm. I see it myself. You have gotten older just in head and heart perhaps. I see. Though I don't suppose that changes your interest in breasts does it?"

"Hell no! Breasts are the best—!"

Ise-kun clapped a hand over his mouth to silence himself. Odin-sama laughed heartily.

"Hahahahaha! Well, that's fine if it's on the inside too. Too drastic of a change is bad for the heart and soul."

Odin-sama began to walk off with that. He waved back as he left.

"Good luck, [Arbitrator of the Gods]! Make sure to keep the game interesting for this geezer will you?"

With that, Odin-sama disappeared from our sight.…. "Arbitrator of the Gods"?... Does he mean….Ise-kun?...

"Alright. Let's keep going, you brats."

---

We get guided to our own personal waiting room.

Rather than a room, it's more like a spacious floor, and there are table sets so you can take a break (Green tea, snacks), and even training equipment. It's a place with everything available.

Members who will be doing some exercise got changed into our jersey and have started to do some warm ups.

If we don't do some warm ups now, then we might not be able to unleash our full power for the actual match. There's still six hours until the game. We should use the remaining time for a light exercise and to relax.

….Though, truthfully, most of us who are warming up are probably using it as an excuse to ignore our thoughts….. But for those of us who aren't warming up, this atmosphere is….

"...Hmm…."

I was doing light running exercises around the area, but my eyes were on Ise-kun who stood still with his eyes closed and his arms crossed. No, I could tell that practically all the attention was on him somehow. Even if they were doing their own things, our group was focusing on him.

I heard an odd, almost mechanical noise come out from his body as he was momentarily covered in light, and his Boosted Gear spawned on his arm. Are? I could have sworn I heard the announcement for Balance Breaker, yet he wasn't in his armour. Then, out of seemingly nowhere, something slid out from Ise-kun's backside.

Slide...

—?! What is..? A tail? That is…. It's his tail. The one from when he wears the Balance Breaker armour. It's suddenly come out from nowhere? How is it..?

Then, Ise-kun does something odd with his tail. It lowers itself to touch the ground and plant itself firmly there. Then Ise-kun picks up his legs and crossed them in midair. ?!— Ise-kun is "sitting" on his tail? He's sitting with his legs crossed in midair, his tail being the only thing holding him up. He looks as if he's meditating. What sort of display is that?... It resembles something out of a fantasy book or some manga. It does not seem like something that is realistically done by anyone. Who could teach him such a thing?

Sensei approaches Ise-kun and stands next to him curiously.

"Hoho, it looks like the geezer monkey, Sun Wukong, taught you well huh?"

[—?!]

I almost tripped over myself in shock and landed on my knee. Sun Wukong? The First Generation Sun Wukong, the legendary Youkai from "Journey to the West"? The one who had single handedly saved us from the Heroes in Kyoto? That "geezer monkey"?

"Damn right! Why else do ya think I've got such good control over things now? It's all thanks to him. Now my aura is all cool~ Now I'm as serene as a flowing river. Or actually, I am as calm as a settling fire."

Ise-kun says that while making funny gestures with his arms in the air. Sensei laughs.

"Hahaha! [Flowing rivers] and [settling fires] huh? That sure sounds like Sun Wukong himself. Though, I didn't expect you to be doing anything like that? Isn't that a piece that is only able to appear with the armour? So you were able to form it normally then?"

Sensei says that while pointing to the item of interest, the tail.

"Oh, this? Well, actually, this was just something I tried on a whim. It was an idea I got after reviewing the footage of my fight with Atlas. I saw that there was a moment I used two gauntlets instead of one, but without my full armour. I didn't know I was capable of doing such a thing, but when I thought about it made sense. I mean, if I can reform armour, then I can keep it from forming by thinking right? So that's why I thought I should try 'activating Balance Breaker', but concentrating hard enough to somehow keep armour from forming. It seemed impossible until I tried the next best thing, which was just deforming my armour once it was on. Because that was something I was already used to. So I just deformed and reformed my armour piece by piece until only the tail and Boosted Gear was left. If I made the Boosted Gear disappear, then all of my armour would go away, but if I kept it there then it was possible to maintain only certain pieces of my armor. So in the end, I was able to accomplish this much with my tail being the example. I can also keep my wings out as well."

….

My brain froze at the hefty explanation Ise-kun gave for his trick… What?... There was that much training centered around one simple trick?... You mean to say that Ise-kun of all people was able to think of something like this all himself, and then reach the point that he could easily accomplish it?...

Sensei raised a brow in surprise.

"So that light your body just released right now was your armour quickly forming and deforming. I see. Oh, oh? You mean you were able to do this with your wings as well? From what it sounds like— Ise, if you could perfect this then, perhaps that means you could be using an alternate type of Scale Mail that would make things more convenient when facing weaker enemies and greatly save up on stamina for the Balance Breaker. Especially if someone like you, who has terrible demonic powers, could use your wings without the full armour. That's a very interesting little development."

"Mm, yeah, I guess. Unfortunately though, it still takes a serious amount of concentration to do at this point. Even talking to you right now is hard. I would have to get really used to it before it gets perfected. But it really would help if I could just pop out the Dragon wings whenever instead of having to spawn the armour all the time, especially since wearing less pieces of the armour saves stamina. That's still a bit aways from happening."

I was completely enthralled by their conversation… I have had many conversations on techniques with Ise-kun before but… He was never so creative about himself…. He would only ever further expand on ideas brought up by someone else. Unless it was something perverted, he could never come up with such unique methods…

"Pardon me."

A single man entered the floor. It was someone who we know. That is...

"Raiser..!"

"Onii-sama!"

Buchou shouted weakly and Ravel exclaimed hysterically at the appearance of that man. That man was none other than Raiser Phoenix.

"Yo, I've come. Looks like you are also doing well, Ravel."

Saying that, Raiser sits on the chair.

So Raiser also came to the stadium. It must be to observe our battle. And he's already back on his feet. At one point, he hid himself in his room due to his shock at being defeated by Ise-kun. Did he come to see how we are doing? I had doubts. The other members thought the same.

Akeno-san pours tea for Raiser. Raiser says it after taking a drink.

"I thought I would talk a bit about the match. Today's game has the same amount of attention as that of a popular pro's match. The fact is, the flow of the game will basically be the same as that of a pro's match. Even the seats are being filled with viewers. You guys will be fighting under that. You might feel bewildered because of the difference with the real battle where there is a thing called entertainment involved. But, it's such a big stage like this. Unleashing your power alone will contribute to your ratings. Rias, this will be one of the crucial moments for you."

Raiser was discussing seriously. I assumed he came to taunt us, but it was the opposite. As a pro, and as a person who has experience, he talked to us.

Having Raiser say that, Buchou furrows her brows. I could see her make a glance towards a certain direction. She stays quiet for a while before speaking hesitantly.

"….I'm not as good at making tactics as Sona, and I don't have power like Sairaorg. Though, I know I'm blessed with my servants. That's why I'm irritated at myself who cannot lead these children appropriately….."

Buchou declares… It was obvious that Buchou was filled with these thoughts….. At this point, I'm not sure how she thinks of herself as a master… or maybe even a woman. Regardless, her doubts are shared with many of us here….

Hearing Buchou's words, Raiser says it.

"You can improve your strategies and power with experience and also by doing something I hate called "Working hard". With that you can attain some level of power. But you know, Rias. Your fateful encounters—Your talent to draw those with talents is different. I think these guys all gathered here because of your good talent to draw people."

"But that is—….."

Buchou went silent. It was obvious that she was about to reference Ise-kun, but stopped herself. She is afraid of saying his name or even speaking about him. After all, she is the most affected by all of this...

"It was your fate to meet the Sekiryuutei. The special something you have made you meet with the Sekiryuutei. That's why you met him. Even if the trait of the dragon drew the other ones after that, you were the one who met Sekiryuutei and made him your servant."

Raiser said it to Buchou straight.

"Have confidence Rias. These guys are your treasures."

Raiser…. He ended up saying something good. Even I felt a bit moved… Although, somewhere inside, his words were also a bit scathing... I could tell just from Buchou's eyes that his words actually had the opposite effect and hurt her instead…. Yes, it makes sense why….. I could feel the shame too….

Maybe Raiser became embarrassed at what he just said, so he continues while scratching his cheek.

"I, who am a pro will guarantee it. You guys are already at a pro-level. Rather, you have enough talented members for you to go in the top-ranks. Even if you guys were to fight my group again, it seems like we will lose badly. Well, that goes the same for the Bael-group. They are also strong. Man, why are the young ones of this generation filled with exceptional ones?"

Saying that, he got up from the chair and started to leave.

"Rias, I will be rooting for you— Win."

Before he left, his gaze switched over to a certain place. Ise-kun.

"Sekiryuutei."

Raiser calls him out. Rather than saying anything, he merely stares at him silently for a bit. Ise-kun says nothing as he stared back.

…

"Heh."

Raiser than averts his gaze and closes his eyes with a smirk. He shook his head. Raiser makes a grip with his fist, and directed at him.

"Your fist….. It's a strike I can never forget. That punch is a strike you can use to aim to the top with. —Come up here quickly, to the same stage as I am. If it's you, then you can do it right?... Or, perhaps…..it could be said that you have far surpassed me— Maybe even Devils in general, with what is being said of what you've become….. Even so, would you have rematch with me at that time, once you reach the ranks of the pros?"

Raiser asked him curiously. Ise-kun remained silently staring at him for a few seconds. I could feel another new tension settle in the air…. Until—

"Heh!"

Ise-kun raised his fist, and directed it towards Raiser.

"Yeah! Let's see if it's possible for the [God-killer] to destroy something that is unkillable or not, with his own power. No dirty tricks this time. Right?"

Raiser's smirk became larger as he nodded his head. Raiser then looks at his sister, Ravel.

"Also, I leave Ravel to you. She's as spoiled as Rias. Even so she's earnest. I will burn you if you make her cry, okay?"

"I-It's none of your business!"

Ravel responds with a red face. But Ise-kun immediately stood straight up on his feet and placed a fist over his heart.

"Osu! Leave it to me! I'll protect her forever!"

—…..I felt as if my brain froze for a moment.

Ise-kun smiled and announced it with absolute confidence….. Ravel's entire face became dyed red as she waved her arms around frantically in front of Ise-kun's face.

Something like this is….. It is the worst timing to be seeing such things….. The atmosphere was ice cold….. "Forever"...What exactly does he mean by that?... I don't think there could be any underlying implications to it, but what matters is the girls' interpretations…. I could practically feel the weight of the air around me keep me from breathing….. Though, maybe because Raiser doesn't realize the actual conflict within our group, he pays no mind to it…...

Raiser laughs at himself saying: "Yes, yes, if it's the [God-killer] then we shouldn't worry. Ah, I sure have become senile", and leaves the room. We were left in the silence.

…..

"That's right, I forgot to tell you. Sekiryuutei, I was asked by Sirzechs-sama to call you before. He asked you to show up in the VIP room. It seems he wants to show you something."

Raiser poked his head around the corner and said that. Ise-kun tilted his head.

"Oya, Sirzechs-sama? Hm, I wonder what that could be about. I'll be back."

"Yes, Ise-sama."

Ise-kun announced his departure and quickly left the room… He only said it to Sensei and Ravel next to him…..

---

|Ise|

So like that, I entered the VIP room where Sirzechs-sama should be. It's a room which has lots of expensive looking household furniture. It's spacious and gorgeous.

"I'm sorry, Ise-kun. To call you before the match. Especially with everything you must be dealing with right now. It must be difficult."

Sirzechs-sama welcomes me cheerfully.

"It's okay. So what is this thing you wanted to show me?"

"Yes, it's something good that your passionate fans sent you. I wanted to show it to you very much."

Sirzechs-sama picked up a circular looking thing from the table, and put it inside what seems like a video machine for the television.

"Disk? Is it a video or something?"

When I asked, Sirzechs-sama nods while turning on the monitor.

"Yes, it's a video letter."

What appeared on the monitor was a boy holding onto a toy of me when I'm in Balance-Breaker state. It's a homemade video.

The boy speaks bravely towards the camera.

[Oppai dragon, hello~ I like Oppai-dragon very much~ I can also sing the song as well~ I can't go to the dome for the match, but I will cheer-cheer for you from my house~ That's why please win the game~]

This is a video letter…

The video changed, and this time two siblings dancing around in a circle showed up.

[Oppai-Dragon~! Win, okay~! Zoom Zoom Iyaan~!]

[Ohyai~!]

This time it's a video of a child with his parents. He has a toy of me and the Switch-Princess in his hands.

[I will be cheering for the Oppai-Dragon and the Switch-Princess. I won't be able to go there, but I will be cheering for you all the time.]

…A video letter of support from the children to me. They kept on changing, and many children have sent me lots of video messages. I had something coming out from my eyes.

There are…..this many children are thinking about me….

"Today, the match will be broadcast live throughout the whole Underworld. Many children…..will be watching you through the television."

Sirzechs-sama brings a box which was kept at the end of the room, and he opens the box and passes a letter.

…It's a fan-letter written in poor devil-letters from the children to me. On each of them there were poor drawings of me but you can tell they tried hard to draw me.

….Each of the drawings have passion in them, and they were the one of a kind type of fan-letter in this world. While my hands were shaking for an unknown reason, Sirzechs-sama says it to me.

"These children…are the future of the Underworld. For today's match, there will be parts where the politics of adults will get involved. —But all of you don't have to worry about those kinds of things. That's why I want a favour from you, Ise-kun. When all of you will be fighting for your dream, even a tiny bit is okay, but can you please fight for these children as well? I know it's a selfish wish. Even so, I ask you. I want you to protect the dreams of these children."

—Protecting the dreams of these children.

…...A certain memory flashed through my mind. The memory of something light and delicate in my arms. A small bundle with a little sleeping child in it… His ears flicked cutely… And his little hand held onto my finger tightly… Almost as if asking me to protect him…...

….You idiot…

"...I…."

….All this time, I've only been thinking about myself… All this time, my mind was occupied with these worthless thoughts, [How do I show myself from now on? What does my image represent at this point? What does my existence mean now? Who am I supposed to be? What should I do from this point forth?]...

You're a fool….. The answer…...was always obvious….

"...I know…."

I am Hyoudou Issei. I am this Generation's current Sekiryuutei.

I am known by many names. Chichiryuutei, Oppai Dragon, God-killer, God-slayer, Red Dragon Emperor, Welsh Dragon Emperor… But all of that, it doesn't matter…. That's because it isn't my name that decides it…. It's what I do…. There are many of those who fear me now. Many who don't trust me… That's fine….because that won't change what I do… I will show you… I will make it clear to the world what I am….

This Sekiryuutei….. I will show you exactly what he represents…...

---

Part 4

|Kiba|

With the game approaching, we were waiting for the time to gather in the corridor, which is connected to the entrance of the Dome stadium. We can feel the heat and the brightness of the stadium from across the gate. At the same time we can hear the sound of the crowd.

Our battle costumes are the Kuoh Academy uniforms like always. But they are different from our usual uniforms. They are specially-made uniforms for this game. They're made with a higher resistance to heat, cold, bullets, magic defence, and such where the defence against many things has been improved.

Well, it's not that they have an insane defence to them, but they're still much better uniforms than the usual ones.

Xenovia is wearing her usual battle costume. Though it's made from the same material as our uniforms. Rossweisse-san is in her armoured form. Apparently, she feels more relaxed in it. Asia is also wearing her nun costume. It's Asia's battle clothes after all. This one also has enhanced defence.

Meanwhile, Ise-kun is only one not in it besides them. He continues to wear the Grigori uniform. His uniform was one already specialised for combat, so there was no need for him to change.

[Now, the battle of the century is about to begin! From the east gate, it's Sairaorg Bael's team!]

" " " " " " "Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!" " " " " " "

Cheers and shouts of joy could be heard even in here. The Dome shook heavily at the entrance of the Bael group.

We stood in the corridor in practically complete silence. At times like these, it would usually make sense for the leader of the group to give some words of encouragement….. But right now Buchou is…. None of us are in the proper spirit. Except…..

"...Ah, shit…."

I heard Ise-kun speak from beside me with an unsteady voice. He was standing near the back, with me. Though, compared to everyone else he is just a bit further distance wise.

Looking at his form…. His body is shaking…...but this shaking is….. As he slowly lifted his head, he made his expression visible to me, and to everyone who had their eyes on him..

—A fierce battle hungry smile - and a burning fire in his eyes.

"I'm getting too fuckin excited already..!"

…..

[From the west gate, it's Rias Gremory's team!]

We were finally announced.

" " " " " " "Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!" " " " " " "

The crowd is already heated up. It was time.

"Let's go!"

The one who stepped in front of all of us with a gruff battle cry was none other than Ise-kun himself. He walked forward…

"Let's go.."

I followed him after gathering my courage, and our entire group stepped out from the exit.

Being under the cheers, what we witnessed in front of us is…..a floating land which is floating above the spacious circular stadium.… A giant stadium, filled with an unbelievable amount of spectators.

On the opposite side of the field, the Bael group was already there.

[Now, will the Gremory group also please go to their base.]

The announcer says.

We also walked up the stairs just like the Bael group did, and we arrived on top of the base.

I can see the Bael group from afar.…..

On the base, there are cushioned seats with the same number of people as our group, and a mysterious stand. And the only other thing left is something that looks like a transfer-type magic circle located one storey higher than our base. When I looked, the opponent's base looked the same…. What kind of game it will turn out to be this time?

A super-flashy man who is wearing a microphone on his ears appears on the giant monitor positioned on the stadium.

[Hello, everyone! The broadcaster for this match will be I, Naud Gamigin from the house of Gamigin of the former 72 Pillars, who will be broadcasting to you!]

The stadium gets filled with cheers. So this is a professional-style game after all?

[The arbiter for this game will be Rudiger Rosenkreutz!]

A magic circle appears on the air. A good-looking guy with long silver-hair, dressed in full uniform appears from the magic circle. Mainly the women make huge cheers at his appearance.

"….Rudiger Rosenkreutz. He is a reincarnated devil who was a former human, and an Ultimate-class devil. On top of that, his ranking is 7th…"

Koneko-chan mutters. That's right. That man is the 7th in rating games. A single digit number. He is our arbiter for this match.

[And our special guest! We have the Governor of the Fallen angels, Azazel-sama, as a commentator today! Hello there, Governor Azazel!]

—Then a man who we are familiar with appears on screen.

We became dumbfounded and gazed at him. That man…..Sensei, introduces himself by making a smile.

[Well, hello there. I'm Azazel. I look forward to working with you tonight.]

He said he couldn't go to the VIP room because he has a special job tonight, so this is what he meant….. So he will be involved in the game as a commentator….

While we were shocked, Sensei was being introduced by the broadcaster.

[Governor Azazel, you are famous for having a good relationship with Sirzechs Lucifer-sama, and also the leaders of various factions and you are also famous for being the leading expert in the research of the Sacred Gears. For today's match, having done the coaching for the Rias Gremory team, how would you look at this game?]

[Well, yes. Personally, I wonder if both teams can release their full power and—]

Saying such and such, Sensei started to make comments with a smile.

When it calmed down after Sensei's introduction, the camera shifts next to Sensei, and it showed a man with a graceful face who has grey hair and grey eyes.

—! I thought he looked like a brilliant man just with one look.

[And we have also called another person! 1st Ranker of the Rating Game! The current Champion! "Emperor" Diehauser Belial!]

" " " " "Uooooooooooooooooooooh!" " " " "

There was an even more lively cheer than the time Sensei appeared. It's so lively that I can feel the shaking of the stadium even over here….

The man….The man called Emperor speaks brightly.

[How are you, everyone. I'm Diehauser Belial. Today, I will be doing commentary for the match between the Gremory and Bael.]

…..I decided to burn the appearance of this man into my eyes.

—This man is the conqueror of the game. Emperor. Champion. Ranked 1st…..

The broadcaster asks Sensei and Emperor.

[It might be sudden, but I would like to ask Governor Azazel who was the advisor for the Gremory team and the Champion who was the advisor for the Bael-team something. It will be helpful if you can tell us about where we should pay attention for both teams.]

[Well yes, if we talk about the Gremory team, then it would obviously be the one who is now known as the God-Killing Sekiryuutei. I'm sure at this point most of us have seen the footage. He is a terrifying fellow. And also—]

Sensei answers the question from the broadcaster and—

[Yes, I do think that the combatant Sairaorg is an excellent [King], but more than that he has a power which makes him the strongest in his team and—]

Emperor Belial also answers. The comments continue.

[First of all, it's regarding the Phoenix's tear.]

Phoenix's tear…. I heard that we wouldn't know whether we can get them or not until the last minute, so I wonder how it turned out.

[Like all of you know, because of the continuous terror by the terrorists group [Khaos Brigade], each faction has became more tensed, and the importance and the prices for the tears have risen rapidly. Because of that, we are in the situation where preparing them is difficult. —Buuuuuuut!]

The broadcaster points at the huge monitor. What appears there are two small bottles inside an expensive looking box.

[Thanks to the kindness of the current head of Phoenix who produces and sells the tears, and also because of the voices of the supporters of both team of Bael and Gremory have reached us, it's decided that each team will be given the tears for this game!]

" " "Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!" " "

The stadium makes a roar with that information.

I see, so the tears will be given to us. If I remember, Ravel also said "It's an important match which will heat up the Underworld, so I would like to somehow prepare it". Though she had told us that at a different time, before the incident.

"Heh….It seems like we need to prepare to defeat Sairaorg Bael twice."

The one who said that while looking up at the screen with a determined smirk was Ise-kun. I can see it in his eyes even now… It makes him happy. He is raring to kill at any moment….

[There is a special rule in this game!]

Like I thought, there was a special rule. We did hear that it won't be a rule which will seal our powers directly, but… This game has viewers involved, so it seems like they will focus on the 'entertainment' aspects of it.

[Before explaining the special rule, I would like to explain the flow of this game! This game won't be the type where all the team members will be running through the field, but will be done in a match-style! This is due to keeping in mind that this will be a blitz and also because it was organised to heat up all of you, the viewers! Even though this game is between the youths, the game-style of this game is the same as that of a pro!]

—! So it won't be the one where we run around. The explanation for the special rule starts.

[And now for the special rule which will determine the matches! Now will the [King]'s from both sides progress towards their personal stands in their bases.]

Buchou and Sairaorg-san, who is at the opponent's side of the base, were urged to move to the front of the stands. From the stand, something comes out.

The giant monitor also shows the vision of it. What appeared was a die.

[There is a die in front of you! They will be the key for the special rule! Yes, the rule for this Rating Game today is one of the major game types! It's the "Dice Figure"!]

The explanation of the rule by the broadcaster continues.

[I will explain the Dice Figure so that those who don't know about it can understand it! The die prepared has six-sides like the usual die, and you can roll a number from 1 to 6 with it! By rolling it, it will determine which 'pieces (servants)' can be sent for that match!]

The dice will determine the person being sent for the match. It means that the dice will determine our fate then.

[The chess in the human world has values for their chess pieces! The standard value for the [Pawn] piece is 1, and they give numeric values to the chess pieces equivalent to their strength on the chessboard. And the evil pieces for the Rating Game also use this value standard as estimation! Of course there are parts when the person from the group unleashes the power higher than their potential capacities which surpasses the value of their chess pieces, or the part things happen where it surpasses our assumption due to the hidden factor which Ajuka Beelzebub-sama input into the evil pieces! But we will be using the standard value for the rule of this game!]

I know these values. It's the values where [Knight] equals 3, [Bishop] is also 3, [Rook] equals 5, and [Queen] equals 9. When I just became a devil, I was told this by Buchou.

But it's just a mere standard. There are members in our group who won't fit in that standard value such as I who gained the factor to become a holy-sword wielder after being reincarnated to a devil, and Gasper who reincarnated into a devil with a mutation piece.

[First, both [Kings] will roll the die, and the total value rolled will determine which combatants can be sent! For example, when the total value rolled is [8]! Then you can send combatants who will fit within that value! If it's [Pawn] which has the consumption value of 1, then 8 [Pawns] can be sent! Of course you can also send 1 [Rook] with the consumption value of 5 and 1 [Knight] with the consumption value of 3, since the total value will be 8! If it is within the value range, then it is possible to send a combination of combatants from different classes! Also, group members who have consumed several evil-pieces will have the value of their total values, so if it's the Gremory-team then the combatant Hyoudou Issei - the Sekiryuutei who has consumed 8 [Pawn] pieces will have the value of 8.]

So if the value rolled turns out to be the maximum figure of 12, then it means we can have members go to the field within that value for the match. Then if that happens, from our side we can send the combination of [Queen] Akeno-san who has the value of 9 with one of the [Knight] or [Bishop].

[But in both combatant Rias Gremory's team and combatant Sairaorg Bael's team they don't have a 'piece' with the standard value of 1 or 2. It means that they can send out their members only from the value 3 and larger! Since it will be the total values, if the total values rolled turns out to be the smallest value of 2, then we will have them roll it once again! — As the match progresses, the combatants will be reduced, and possibly there might be a change in the value needed for the combatants to be sent. Then the dice will have to be rolled until the value reaches the number where combatants from both teams can be sent to the field!]

Well, that would be obvious. As it goes on we will lose members after all.

[The participation of the [King]'s will depend on the number which has been given from the people from the judging committee's estimation value beforehand! Of course, like the usual rule, the game ends immediately after the [King]'s defeat!]

That….will be a problem. Depending on the value, Sairaorg-san himself will be able to come out then. Sairaorg-san is stronger than Buchou, and the strongest member in the opponent's team must be their [King].

If Sairaorg-san wishes to come out continuously, depending on the dice values rolled, then our chances of winning will decrease.

It's like how he explained. The judging committee has given the estimation value for Buchou and Sairaorg Bael about how much their value number will be in Dice Figure before hand. With that, it will determine the number needed for each of them to appear on field. It seems like this will be calculated from the strength of the [King] themselves, the value of their servants, and also by comparing with the opponents. That's why depending on the game, the number changes.

[Now then, the chess-piece value number the judging committee chose for each [King] is this!]

When the broadcaster shouts that out, Buchou and Sairaorg-san's name appears on the huge monitor written in devil-letters, and the numbers under their names are spinning.

Then the number appears while making a rhythmical sound.

[Combatant Sairaorg Bael is 12! Combatant Rias Gremory is 8! Oooh, combatant Sairaorg has a higher value, but instead it means that he won't be able to come out unless the maximum number is rolled!]

So for this game, Sairaorg-san has a higher value than Buchou huh…. Buchou's value is less than Akeno-san's and it's the same as Ise-kun, but from Akeno-san's explanation earlier, the way the value is determined is different from us, so it doesn't mean that the value is absolute. She did say that it changes depending on the game after all.

[Also another rule. You cannot send out the same combatant continuously. This also goes the same for the [King]'s!]

So we won't be able to participate again unless we take one turn off between them, huh. So it means that Sairaorg-san won't appear continuously then.

—Then, unexpectedly, Ise-kun spoke clearly with his arms crossed.

"...Hm….Even if the first value is 12, I don't think Sairaorg will appear from the opening? From his personality, he will make his servants form a group properly, right? Wasn't that the reason they went through hard training? But, he will definitely show up as well. I suppose it depends on the total value rolled, but the problem is what timing he will appear. It's certain that he is a battle-maniac at least."

….I...Ise-kun said that…. He was the one who said that… It sounded more like an analysis akin to someone like Akeno-san or even Buchou… But it was Ise-kun who said it…..

Ise-kun then looks at Asia, who flinched under his serious gaze.

"Under this rule, sending out Asia by herself and also in a team will be a bad move. They will mainly aim for Asia, since she is a healer after all. It's better for her to stay here and heal those who won the match. This is one of the advantages for us, since we can heal without using Phoenix's tear."

"...I...I…"

Asia could only stutter in response. It was obvious that she had no words to respond with. Even we don't understand what we're hearing Ise-kun say….

[Now, the game is about to begin! Both teams, are you ready?]

The broadcaster raised the tension, and the arbiter raised his hand high.

[Now, the Rating Game between Sairaorg Bael's team and Rias Gremory's team will begin! GAME START!]

Along with the sound of the start for the game, the cheer from the crowd echoes throughout the stadium…..

Finally, the game began….

---

INTERMISSION - maybe take a break?

---

Part 5

[So then, will the two [Kings] step in front of the stands.]

Being urged by the arbiter, Buchou and Sairaorg-san stand in front of the stands.

[We will start the first match. We will choose the combatants who will be appearing. Will both of you hold the dice.]

Buchou holds the die...

[Shoot!]

After the arbiter's call, both of them roll the dice. Dice are rolling on top of the stands. And the motion stops… The monitor shows the image of the two die.

And the values are…

[The value combatant Rias Gremory rolled is…2! On the other hand the value combatant Sairaorg Bael rolled is 1! That is a total value of 3. They will be able to send out their servants within that value! In this case, since the value of the [Pawn]'s on both sides is large, they will only be able to send out 1 [Knight] or [Bishop] which have values of 3! So, which members will both sides send to the field!?]

The broadcaster says it with enthusiasm.

A 3! The smallest number came up right at the beginning! So things like this can occur from the opening, huh...

The arbiter then announces.

[You get 5 minutes of planning time. So please choose the combatant who will be participating within that time. Also the promotion for the [Pawns] will be available once they arrive at the field. The promotion will be deactivated every time a match ends, so please use promotion every time you get on the field.]

Five minutes huh… The moment it became planning-time, the bases of both sides were enveloped in a mysterious barrier.

We sat on the standby seats….. Every single one of us was silent.

….

….

Looking to Ise-kun, he was sitting alone with his eyes closed and his arms and legs crossed. It looked a bit like he was meditating… And we were doing nothing…

"...We should strategize."

The one who broke the silence was Rossweisse-san…. Yes….. Yes, she's right. We can't just be sitting here wasting time. We have to focus. Focus on winning the game. Snap out of it. I leaned forward from my seat to where the table was.

"Buchou."

I called out to Buchou who was looking towards Ise-kun behind her from the corner of her eye. He was the only one sitting in his seat away from us, in a deep meditation.

Ise-kun, who was being stared at, very slowly opened his eyes. His gaze being set on the one who was glancing back at him, Buchou.

His looked through her with an emotionless expression that implied his mind was clear of any thoughts. Even though we wasn't looking at me, it felt like he was thoroughly analysing every part of my being..

…

"Are you daydreaming?"

[—?!]

That was all Ise-kun said, straight to Buchou. Her body flinched harshly, clearly not expecting him to speak. After he said that, he slowly closed his eyes again and resumed his meditation… Buchou was left speechless with wide eyes…..

"Buchou."

Buchou turned to me after being called. I looked straight into her eyes.

"We have to focus."

Buchou remained silent. After a few more seconds, she shook her head as if breaking from a trance.

"...R-Right….. Right….. I'm sorry…."

She took one last glance back before returning her gaze to us at the table.

"...The opponents must have predicted that we will be sending Yuuto out."

I nodded. I held 3 of my fingers up while looking down at my hand.

"Since the value of 3 was rolled, there are only four of us who can be sent. Me and Xenovia who are the [Knights], and Asia-san and Gasper-kun who are the [Bishops]. We can't send Asia-san and Gasper-kun who are support-types by themselves right? They are originally rearguards who show their true strength only when they pair with warriors who will become the vanguard. They are the members who should be sent when a value of 6 or greater is rolled. Since that is the case—"

Akeno-san interjected.

"…It means that we only have the option of Kiba or Xenovia. So the reason Kiba is picked is….."

Buchou continues from where she left off.

"...Xenovia is a power-type [Knight], since she would have to battle either a [Knight] or a [Bishop] of the opponent's team, there is a high risk that she could get hit with a technique…..a counter."

Xenovia nods.

"…Yeah, it seems like it would be hard to win without taking any damage. But, I still won't be defeated by a technique-type…."

Buchou continues speaking after Xenovia.

"...But, even if she were to win, there is a high chance that she will reveal the specifications of Ex-Durandal. The identity of the Ex-Durandal will be seen through if she shows even a single ability. We also want to reserve it until much later in the game. During mid-game, after rolling a large number, the match will most likely turn into a fierce battle. If we have to show it to them, that would be the time. It would be a waste to use it from the start. That's why it's Yuuto. The one who is able to fight in various situations while having their ability already known, that would be Yuuto and not Xenovia…."

…..She's right. Even if the holy-demonic sword and my new technique is exposed, I can still adapt to the situation. Instead, Xenovia's "Durandal-cannon" has a charging time, and it's not that fast after it's been shot, so it could be stopped or dodged. It seems like Xenovia will consume more stamina than needed, and it also seems like she will take lots of damage…

I steeled my nerves.

"I still have to go, even if they know my abilities. —I'm going."

Gathering my courage, I took a step forward while taking a breath… This is it—

"Don't lose from the start eh?"

—I froze in my step. The words of Sensei reached my mind, but that voice was not his. It was Ise-kun's. Peering over my shoulder, Ise-kun said that to me while smirking…

…

"...I…..will definitely win."

That was the best response I could give….. The arbiter continues.

[The five minutes are about to be over. Would the combatants participating in the match please make their way to the magic-circle. The magic-circle is a transport-type. You will be transferred to a battlefield prepared in a different dimension. The match will then be fought on that battlefield. The battlefield will be randomly picked from the ones already prepared. Until the combatants are transferred to the different field, the bases of both sides will be placed in a barrier so the bases will become invisible. And that barrier will only be taken off every time a match ends.]

I see, so that magic-circle is to transfer the combatants to the battlefield. A special field is already prepared in another dimension. So this place won't turn into the battlefield.

"...I will be going then."

I had a microphone on my ear and stood on top of the magic circle. That instant, the magic circle glows and my body disappears from the main space.

---

"…Splendid."

Furcas disappears from my sight along with the light from the field after saying that.

—At the same time, the arbiter announces it.

[Combatant Sairaorg Bael's [Knight], retires!]

The crowd cheered with that announcement. I was able to win..! For the first battle, the one who gained victory is us! After a few seconds, my body was enveloped by a light and I disappeared from the fighting arena.

[The team which dominated the first match is the Gremory team! Now then, what will happen in the next match!?]

While the broadcaster agitates the crowds, I returned using the magic circle. At the same time, the barrier lightens up and my group can be seen from the outside now.

...I took a glance towards the side as I approached our base….. Ise-kun was still sitting with his eyes closed in a meditative state, but there was a small smirk on his face…

The time for Buchou to roll the dice has come again.

Once again, the two [Kings] started to roll the die. The value rolled was…6 by Buchou and 4 by Sairaorg-san. It's total value of 10! This time it's a big value.

[Ooooh! This time the total value is 10! Both sides will be able to send out combatants within the value of 10! Of course it's a value where you can send several combatants!]

It's like what the broadcaster said. It's a number where you can send out a team.

Who is the best combination to send? Buchou can go, but that is a bad move. Also, I just went before so I can't go this time since the rule forbids one from continuously being sent. I can only get healed by Asia and take a rest.

The magic circle gets covered in a barrier again, and it closes itself off from the outside world. The ones whom Buchou picks while using the planning time are….

"...Let's go with something solid….. Rossweisse. And for the support, Koneko…... I will leave this to you two."

Double [Rook]. This is a rare style. [Rook] has a value of 5. It's a combination where she used the maximum value allowed.

"Understood."

"….Roger."

Both of them answer as best as they can. The [Rook] Onee-san who is a magician and a moving cannon, and a loli [Rook] who is a senjutsu user. We are having these two go, but I wonder whom they will send…..

Rossweisse-san and Koneko-chan stepped onto the magic circle and were enveloped by light. They were transported to the field. The match had started.

[—]

BUUUUUUUUUUUN!

Along with the sound of the wind, a massive fist which seems like it's his last attack hits Koneko-chan.

… I closed my eyes when I saw that scene.

Crocell, Balam and Koneko-chan start becoming covered in the light for when you retire.

[Koneko-san….!]

Rossweisse-san takes hold of Koneko-chan. Koneko-chan has a battered body because of receiving a deadly strike from the giant.

[…..I'm glad. If Rossweisse-san is still active, Gremory can still fight…]

[….I'm sorry, Koneko-chan…..]

[…Please don't apologise, Rossweisse-san…. I'm glad… I was able to become useful…since we were able defeat the two of them…..]

Saying that, Koneko-chan, Crocell and Balam were covered in light for transportation. Koneko-chan's body was fully enveloped, and the last thing she said was…

[...Senpai….]

….With that her body disappeared in the light….. I could feel my eyes slowly move themselves towards a certain direction…

Ise-kun was sitting there quietly, eyes closed, with his legs and arms crossed. In that same meditative state…. No reaction…? Someone like Ise-kun… Could it be possible….that he has no reaction?... I'm sure I'm not the only one who has noticed…. I hope that Koneko-chan is not able to see that….

[Combatant Sairaorg Bael's [Knight] and [Rook], combatant Rias Gremory's [Rook] retire.]

The arbiter announces…. The second match. Even though we were able to dominate it….we finally had a casualty.

[With the second match finished, the Bael side had 3 members and the Gremory side had 1 member retire. Gremory is in the lead, but we don't know the outcome yet! The game has just begun!]

The broadcaster says.

Rossweisse-san finally returned to our base, with us. I could tell that our gazes were still caught on Ise-kun… For that reason, I said something without thinking.

"...It's…. It's better to hold it in for now…..so that it can explode later…..isn't it?..."

I said that, practically to no one but myself, out loud. The other members around me heard it. Why did I say that?... Is it because I'm trying to convince myself that is the reason behind why he shows no reaction?...

Rossweisse-san nodded and reaffirmed my statement.

"...Yes…. Yes, it's better that way… It's better to save that motivation for the real matches….."

Rossweisse-san said that with a bit of hesitation. I could tell that she was sneaking glances towards Ise-kun. Everyone else in our group began to agree by saying, "Yes, that's right" and "That's the best way"... Yes….that's what we're all agreeing on…. We choose to believe that is the reason as to why he shows no reaction…..

Now, for the third match. I wonder what kind of number will appear.

Both [Kings] rolled the dice. —The total value is 8! It's..! A value where he can show up….

It happened when we were about to go into the planning time. Sairaorg-san told the arbiter.

"We will be sending the [Bishop], Corianna Andrealphus."

Sairaorg-san declared it before sending his combatant to the battlefield. The crowd gets noisy. The opponent [Bishop] appears on monitor. If I remember, Corianna is…..

What I remembered was right on the mark. A person steps forward from the enemy base. Like I thought, it's a beautiful Onee-san with blond, long curly hair. She's the Onee-san that looks like a business woman who seems like she can handle any job.

[Is this a declaration!? Combatant Sairaorg, what is your reason for saying that?]

The broadcaster asks. Sairaorg-san looks at.….Ise-kun…. Ise-kun is still in the same position, but he is staring dead back into Sairaorg-san's eyes…..

"How would Hyoudou Issei respond, if I say that she has a technique which can oppose Hyoudou Issei's lecherous techniques?"

Sairaorg-san says it like that! A technique which can oppose his lecherous attacks…..!? I wasn't sure what to think of it. The crowd gets noisy.

The one who answered back first to that declaration was Sensei who is a commentator.

[Hoh! That's an interesting declaration! Combatant Ise has shown unequalled power against women. The reasons are basically because of "Dress Break" and "Pailingual"…..However….. No, I suppose I won't comment on it. That would just ruin the fun. This is a good test, isn't it? I say we go ahead and watch closely.]

[Combatant Hyoudou Issei is very interesting. From what I've heard, he comes up with new techniques every time. Though his current reputation is an odd clash with his previous one. I'm not sure what to think of it.]

It seems like the Emperor is also very interested in it…. Even I can think that I am curious about it… After all….I don't even know what sort of reaction the current Ise-kun will have…...

[That guy has a sponge like brain so his absorbing rate is good. His head is like a dry sponge to begin with, so he absorbs everything he is taught right away. However, in that same sense he is terrifying. In the same sense that he is a sponge, once he gets soaked he will cleanly wipe away whatever is in his sights using the new soap he's acquired. It's an odd metaphor but a good one. You will see it.]

Sensei gives that comment. Many sounds were heard from the audience which seemed like discussions or conversations. They sound unsure. Of course they do. Even we don't know what to think of it. What exactly is Sensei trying to imply?...

"That's fine!"

—Out of nowhere, I heard a familiar voice shout. Ise-kun had stood up with a confident smirk.

"I will accept the challenge!"

Ise-kun said that without hesitation… He accepted the challenge….without even so much as a consultation from any of us… He didn't ask Buchou for permission… Regardless, we did not question it….

Ise-kun walked up to the platform where the magic circle was.

" " " " " " " "Oppai! Oppai! Oppai!" " " " " " " "

The seats with children started to get heated up more than ever before.

[Please take a look! The energetic smiles of those children! The hero of the Underworld! The children are getting excited by the entrance of the Oppai-Dragon!]

The children were calling out Ise-kun as the [Oppai Dragon]. Of course they were. They haven't watched the footage. They don't understand the controversy over whatever this [God-killer Longinus] is.

Ise-kun's body began to be enveloped by the light of the magic circle, and his body was transported to the field. Above our heads, the monitor displayed the first images of the field. Both fighters from each side appeared inside the field.

The field they appeared in was a large flower garden with colorful flowers all around.

[The third match starts now!]

With the announcer giving the go, the match between the two had begun. Sairaorg-san's [Bishop], Corianna-san, immediately made her move. She began spawning magic circles that launched demonic power and Ice spears straight at Ise-kun. Ise-kun did not move. Instead—

[Welsh Dragon Balance Breaker!]

—Before any of the attacks could even reach him, Ise-kun had suddenly donned his armour.

"—No countdown?!"

Corianna-san reacted audibly in shock. We were also in shock. Ise-kun's armour had no countdown!? When— When did he eliminate such a thing? He was able to rid himself of it during his training period? He can activate it instantly.

In the next moment, before our shock could settle, Ise-kun outstretched his arm and spawned something in the palm of his hand. Ascalon! As soon as the attacks reach him, he spun around slicing up each one of the attacks effortlessly. And any attacks he did not slice, he shot back at with a minor Dragon shot, effectively destroying them.

ZIN ZIN BOOM ZIN ZIN ZIN ZIN BOOM ZIN ZIN BOOM ZIN ZIN ZIN!

[—?!]

We couldn't help but feel shocked at his display. He is spinning around so…..elegantly….. He was slicing the attacks with grace while perfectly maintaining his momentum, and then using the pauses to shoot away attacks with his separate hand… Watching him move so seamlessly…... It was almost like he was dancing. A certain image popped into my head, overlapping with Ise-kun's own figure.

…...Sun Wukong?...

BOOM!

Ise-kun destroyed the last of the attacks with a Dragon shot. He had sustained no damage.

"Kuh—! As I thought, I have no choice. In that case…"

Corianna-san clicked her tongue in frustration, but soon gained a cool expression and spoke in an almost erotice voice. She lifted her hands up to her top and…

Click….

She began to remove her jacket. Ah, is it for the possibility of increasing mobility? That's what I assumed, but then she reaches to remove her shirt…. Ise-kun stood completely still… This is….

[Ooo! This is! Coriana Andrealphus of the Bael Team started to strip all of a sudden! The male viewers are just glaring at her silently! Governor-Azazel! What is this!]

Sensei is also staring at her!

[Governor Azazel!?]

Sensei snapped out of it after being called out by the announcer. Sensei explains.

[So this is what Sairaorg's team came up with to seal Ise's techniques! What a frightening technique! Her breasts most likely tells him what she's going to take off next while she is stripping right in front of him, it's the method of going against "Pailingual" right!? For guys, the best situation is when a woman is taking her clothes off one by one. Guys are creatures that get addicted to woman stripping, that's why strip-shows exist. Using Dress-Break to strip her naked immediately is a pointless idea as well! A move which is precise and accurate by knowing the hearts of lechers! Is this how powerful the Bael group is!?]

Sensei starts saying those ridiculous ideas. It feels like it broke the heavy atmosphere for a bit. But… Ise-kun is not moving. He is not responding in any way, whether verbally, or physically. He is simply standing still…..

….Creak...

The armoured body of Ise-kun slowly began to lean forward for an inexplicable reason….. What is…? He leans forward, almost as if about to mov...

POOOM!

—Within a moment, a large booming sound resembling an explosion took place. Ise-kun had suddenly disappeared from his spot, leaving only a cloud of smoke in his place. We didn't have time to process the shock of it before he reappeared.

ZIP!

—His large, dark form reappeared right behind Corianna-san, with one of its fists reared back.

"Wha—"

She only had the chance to make a sound, right before a storm of dust shot out from her spot.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMM!

[Combatant Sairaorg's [Bishop] retires!]

….What?

What appeared from the smoke was just Ise-kun, with a huge wasteland that replaced the garden of flowers in front of him….. Corianna-san was instantly defeated…..

[Hehehe. I'm afraid to say it Sairaorg, but you have made a miscalculation. You sent in your Bishop under the impression that she would have the upper hand against the "Oppai Dragon". However, you failed to realize who exactly she was facing. You aren't facing the Oppai Dragon this time, Sairaorg. You are facing the "God-Killing Sekiryuutei".]

Sensei gave that explanation. Ise-kun's body was enveloped in light as he was removed from the field.

…Ise-kun spawned back in our base, on the platform, in his regular form. His gaze was already set on Sairaorg-san the moment he appeared, as if he knew exactly where to look to. They stared at each other silently. Ise-kun slowly made his way down from the platform, down to our base, never separating his gaze from Sairaorg-san's. He sat down in his seat and resumed his meditative state from before the match.

….

It was time for the next dice roll. The total value is announced. The number is…..8. 8 again. It's a value where Ise-kun can come out….but he can't go repeatedly.

"8 huh. I will go then."

Xenovia took a step forward. Xenovia who is a [Knight] has a value of 3, so she can obviously participate.

"...Yes, you are right. It's about time I should leave this to Xenovia."

Buchou also agreed to it. But there are still 5 values remaining. Buchou then looks at me and Rossweisse-san.

"...It might be appropriate for Kiba or Rossweisse to go with Xenovia."

Yeah. If it's me who is a [Knight] with the value of 3, or Rossweisse-san who is a [Rook] with the value of 5, then that would be within the value range of 8 and we would be able to go to the field. We also might make a good pair.

But….there is someone who has his hand up. It's Gasper…..

"….I….I will go…."

….We became shocked at his soft declaration….Gasper?

"U…Um, it's almost the mid-game…..so we won't know what will happen….and since Yuuto-senpai and Rossweisse-san are strong, I think we should reserve them for much later….."

Everyone opened their eyes wide at Gasper's words.….. No one predicted that Gasper would say such a thing himself.

…..But it's like he said. It would be better to keep Rossweisse-san and I, who are strong, for much later. I think there is also a method where we send out powerful members during the mid-game though….

…...But Gasper's eyes were filled with determination.

"Mm. That's probably a good choice."

The one who spoke behind us was Ise-kun who was still meditating in his seat. He agrees with that decision….. Buchou looks towards Gasper a bit unsure.

"...Gasper…. Then, in that case, can I trust that you will do your best to support Xenovia using your evil-eyes and Vampire powers?.."

Gasper nodded as firmly as he could.

"...Y...Yes!.."

He said it with a strong determination… For Gasper to be showing this much strength….. It makes us look pathetic… I feel proud as his Senpai… But what about him?

—For the fourth match, the battlefield the two of them arrived in is a wasteland which has rough rocks around everywhere.

…It's a place where the footing seems terrible. I'm glad Xenovia is more of a power-type despite being a [Knight]. If it was me instead, it would have affected my speed.

—Then their opponents appear in front of the two of them.

A tall lanky man and a bishounen carrying a staff with a creepy design… The tall lanky one was a [Rook] and the boy with the creepy looking staff is a [Bishop].

[From the Gremory team, it's the combatant Xenovia the [Knight] who wields the legendary Durandal, and the combatant Gasper the [Bishop] who is a girl born from a man who is popular amongst a certain group of people!]

" " " Uoooooooooooo! Gya~~~~~kun~!" " "

Just like the broadcaster said, there are male fans from a certain group of the crowd who gave their cheers to Gasper. And it seems like there are more women fans than guys for Xenovia. Maybe female [Knights] tend to gather more support from the women.

[From the Bael-team it is… Oh my! This is very astonishing since both of them are descendants from extinct households! Combatant Ludora Bune the [Rook] and combatant Misteeta Sabnock the [Bishop]. Both of them are descended from now extinct households of the former 72 pillars! Governor-Azazel, it seems like there are several of those who come from extinct households on the Bael-team…]

Sensei answers after being asked by the broadcaster.

[If they have potential, he will take in anyone from any background. That's the way Sairaorg Bael thinks. It means that the descendants of the extinct households responded to that call. Even though the descendants of the extinct households are under the protection of the current government, the reality is that they are being despised by a group of higher-ups. There are many among the devils who value the importance of pure blood so much, that they want to make those who survived by mixing blood with different races as if they never existed from the beginning.]

Sensei made a serious comment like that. Even the broadcaster looked troubled by Sensei's words.

[Hahahaha, that is definitely true.]

Though Emperor Belial was laughing… Then the tall lanky man speaks.

[That is correct. Our master Sairaorg-sama welcomed our clans who survived by means of breeding with humans.]

[Sairaorg-sama's dream is our dream.]

It seems like the boy also has a strong belief. It seems like both servants from the Bael side have their eyes burning with a sense of purpose.

[The fourth battle starts now!]

The arbiter gives the signal for the start of the match. Then both sides take stances immediately, and start their attacks.

"...Gasper, transform into a bat! Xenovia, you attack after that!"

Buchou gives an order from the base. It seems like as long as she can concentrate on the match then she can properly give orders.

Gasper transforms into several bats which spread throughout the field, and Xenovia released many pulses created from Durandal towards the enemy [Rook] and [Bishop]. The sharp waves from the holy-sword fly ahead while gouging deeply through the rocks.

Both of them dodge the attack, and the [Bishop] Sabnock releases a hot fire created from demonic-powers. If I remember, that [Bishop] also specialises in demonic-powers.

[I won't let you!]

The bats which are flying around the field have their eyes glowing red, and it freezes the fire. The frozen fires remain up in the air! And Xenovia creates a wave from her holy-sword which wipes the enemy's attack away. Good combination. It was worth practising for a team battle after all.

[Ladora! I received an order from Sairaorg-sama! We will take down the swordswoman first! I will prepare for it!]

[Roger!]

Receiving Sairaorg-san's order, the [Bishop] took a step back, and has aura running through his body! An ominous aura is rising from him…! It's an ominous aura which gives me the creeps.

And the [Rook] steps in front of the [Bishop] as if protecting him, and he took off his clothes. If I remember correctly, that [Rook] has very high defence. Is he trying to become a wall? That's what I thought, but…..

BON! DON!

…The [Rook]'s tall lanky body suddenly buffed, and it becomes an abnormal shape. Build up? No, it isn't! The tall lanky body gets even more buffed, and now a tail and wings have started to grow from his back! His mouth is covered with fangs, and his nails get sharper!

The Bael [Rook] is getting bigger!

GYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAON!

A giant black creature makes a howl…. A dragon appears in front of Xenovia and Gasper! That tall lanky [Rook] turned into a dragon!

"…Even though Bune is a devil, it's a clan which rules dragons….. But only a small group of people in their clan can transform….. And he happens to be one of them…!"

Buchou puts on a bitter expression.

A devil which can turn into a dragon. There were things like that even in fantasy stories. But when I see it with my eyes for real, it has so much intensity. More than that, I didn't see that ability in the match against Glasya-Labolas. It's my first time seeing it.

So we happened to encounter someone who was able to use that ability which is rare in his clan.

[There wasn't any information about him transforming into a dragon! That Sairaorg…he trained that servant and made him awaken it!]

Sensei made a comment like that. So he trained until he was able to transform. Then the battle between the dragon and Xenovia began.

Xenovia used both the wave and direct attacks with her holy-sword on the dragon, but because of its hard defence she can't give a decisive blow.

The "Durandal-cannon" might be able to cause it damage, but that needs quite some time for charging.

[Gasper! I will take that down! Buy me some time!]

Xenovia asks for support from Gasper. So she's planning to use it. Xenovia stepped back, and Gasper's bats surround the dragon.

[Aye! Aye!]

Gasper covered around the dragon and tried to make it get away from Xenovia. The dragon, which is finding the attacks of the bats bothersome, breathes out a huge ball of fire, but Gasper dodges it magnificently.

Xenovia raised her Ex-Durandal up high. It happened when she was about to charge it.

—The opponent [Bishop] shouts.

[This is it! Holy-sword! Seal your power!]

That moment, the [Bishop]'s staff gave a mysterious glow, and it captured Xenovia. Xenovia gets surrounded by the creepy light. Then disgusting looking marks appear on her body.

Xenovia's hand trembles. She drops her Ex-Durandal.

[…..What is this….. Durandal isn't responding….!]

W-What!? I became shocked at the phenomenon that occurred to Xenovia's body. So the holy-sword isn't responding to her! Xenovia is a natural born holy-sword wielder. That factor…disappeared?

Bael's [Bishop] then says it with a tired expression.

[..…..I also carry human blood within me. —Sacred Gear [Trick Vanish]. It's a cursed ability that I recently became able to use…]

Sacred Gear. And he became able to use it recently. That's why even though we watched that video, I am seeing this for the first time. Is that also the result of their training?

["Trick Vanish", it's a Sacred Gear which can completely seal the ability of a specific person temporarily by consuming a large amount of the possessor's stamina and mind. —It seems like the Bael [Bishop] sealed the ability of combatant Xenovia to wield the holy-sword temporarily in exchange for his power.]

Sensei says that. Like I thought! He took away Xenovia's ability to wield the holy-sword! As a payment, the opponent consumed his stamina and such, and now he looks tired.

[….Kuh!]

Xenovia is carrying Durandal as if she finds it heavy. So it isn't working at all…

[…I actually tried to give damage to her from the after-shock created by sealing the holy-sword… It seems like her talent as a holy-sword wielder is denser than I thought…]

The opponent [Bishop] smirks while being wobbly. So Xenovia isn't able to use Durandal, but she didn't receive the damage from the aftershock of sealing her ability.

GOOOOOON!

Then the dragon came to attack without any mercy. Xenovia couldn't do anything, but many bats wrap around her body.

DOOOON!

The dragon stomps on the ground where she was, but there is no one under it. Xenovia who was covered by the bats gets moved behind the rocks. So Gasper evacuated her! Well done, Gyasuke!

[…..I'm sorry Gasper. But looks like I will be useless now.]

Xenovia says that apologetically.

[N-No, you are wrong! Xenovia-senpai will be more useful to Buchou than me!]

Gasper encourages Xenovia, and he removes a small bottle and chalks from his pochette.

[I…I know a couple of ways to remove curses like this!]

Gasper activates a small magic circle in his palm, and places it on Xenovia's body. It seems like he is checking the curse on Xenovia through the magic-circle.

[I won't let you get away! Where are you?!]

The dragon is looking for Xenovia and Gasper in the rocky area while making the earth rumble.… It's only a matter of time until they are found.

"Gasper, does it look like Xenovia's curse can be removed?"

Buchou asks.

[…..Yes, it seems like I can manage it with my own way of uncursing it with the items I currently have.]

After Gasper says that, he uses the chalk to draw a magic-circle with Xenovia in the centre. He draws an unfamiliar symbol and he holds the small bottle in his hand at the end. —It's the small bottle with Ise-kun's blood in it. That is an item which increases Gasper's power.

[By mixing Ise-senpai's blood with the magic-circle I just drew, I think I can uncurse it. But it seems like it will take some time for it to be removed…]

Gasper says that to Xenovia.….. So he's going to use his blood…..?

[W-Wait Gasper. If you use that blood, you will….]

To the confused looking Xenovia, Gasper showed a big smile.

[Xenovia-senpai, I found out what my duty is.]

[Gasper…..?]

Xenovia questions him. Gasper who has completed the magic-circle leaps out from the rocks.

[I….I will buy time! Once the curse is removed, please continue to charge the Durandal!]

—! Is he trying to charge ahead by himself without drinking Ise-kun's blood?!

"It's reckless! Gasper! Hide yourself!"

Buchou shouts, but Gasper runs forward with a determined expression.

[No! I…I have to buy some time! For Buchou to win, Xenovia-senpai is needed!]

Buchou shouts again.

"I'm telling you run away immediately!"

—The dragon and Bael's [Bishop] come in front of Gasper.

[I've found you vampire. So you hid that swordswoman I see. But she's somewhere nearby right? She will appear if I spread my flames around here.]

Having the dragon approach him, Gasper's body is trembling. But he shows no signs of running away, and he made a stance to shoot demonic-power by putting his hand forward.

[I…I won't let you go berserk!]

Is he trying to charge forward in order to protect Xenovia?!

[Coming ahead by yourself, huh. I respect that courage of yours. Though you are shaking, you can't stand in front of a dragon without any courage.]

The dragon who gave his respect to Gasper…..breathed out a flame from his mouth.

GOBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!

Gasper tries to defend it by using a defence magic-circle! Run away! It's reckless! But Gasper continues to act as a shield for Xenovia so he can buy some time.

[Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!]

Gasper screams. Having the defence magic-circle destroyed, he gets pushed back by the flames. Even though he gets burned by the flames, Gasper stands up weakly.

[….Not yet. I can still continue!]

[Gasper! Don't over do it!]

Xenovia's voice.

[The swordswoman voice? She's nearby? That swordswoman, where is she?]

Hearing Xenovia's voice, the dragon looks around.

[Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!]

Gasper spreads his devil wings, and he grabs onto the dragon's arm.

[—! Let go! Unlike you whom I can beat anytime, I have to take down the Durandal wielder immediately! That curse is temporary after all!]

Gasper gets caught by the dragon's other hand, and he gets crushed very strongly by it A disturbing sound echoes through the field.

Crush..!

[Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhh!]

Gasper screams in agony…. Buchou looks away from that scene.

"….Please stop!"

Asia covers her face and screams.

The dragon throws down the crushed Gasper.

Gasper is still trying to stand despite having intense pain to the point where he can barely breathe now. Even in that situation…..he is going towards the dragon.

[…..It hurts….It hurts….. But…. I'm a boy from the Gremory group…. Please hold on Xenovia-senpai….]

Xenovia doesn't respond to Gasper's call. She should have heard Gasper's shout.

On the vision, Xenovia killed her presence and her voice probably because she understood her junior's determination. Her eyes are covered with her tears.

[You are in the way!]

Gasper gets kicked around by the dragon. Even so he doesn't give up.

[…. Gremory group's males….lesson 1…..a man has to protect a girl…..!]

—At that moment, someone stepped in front of my vision at the table.

"...Ise-kun?"

The one who stepped in front of our table, looking up at the monitor from the edge of our base, was Ise-kun… He stood there with his arms down by his sides, completely still….but, his fists were clenched tightly..

—Gasper somehow lifts his body which is trembling due to the shock and pain…and he stood up. It was only then that I realized….those are the words Ise-kun told Gasper back in the clubroom….. Gasper, even now, you..!

[…. G…Gremory group's males…..lesson 2…..a man has to stand up…no matter what…..!]

He tries to activate another magic-circle on his hand, but….

BANG!

Bael's [Bishop] carrying a staff came while being wobbly and used his staff to hit Gasper from the side.

[Give up, you won't be able to beat us.]

Heartless words. Even a strike from the wobbling guy would be like a deadly attack to the current Gasper.

Even after hearing that, he grabbed onto the rocks, and he tried to stand up again.

[…. Gremory…..group's…..males….lesson…3….]

I began to hear subtle sound from in front of us. I could feel a lingering heat touch my skin while looking up at the screen. It felt as if the pressure from inside our base slowly started to increase.

—Gasper faces forward with his swelled up face and he mutters to himself.

[…Don't give up….no matter what….I have to protect…Xenovia-senpai….]

STOMP!

A heartless attack. The dragon stomps Gasper without any mercy….

Crack!

—The ground beneath Ise-kun's feet cracked.

The dragon removes his foot. Gasper was already battered and squashed. He is no longer in a state where he can fight. He will be retiring soon.

Shuffle...

—! I trembled at the scene I am witnessing.

….That's because Gasper who is in a critical situation moved his body a bit. And he tries to move from that spot….

[…..I am from the Gremory…. I have to…make Buchou….win…]

Seeing that, a tear dropped down from my cheek.

Sss!

—Steam began to release from Ise-kun's body.

[Gaaaaaaaaasssssssssssper!]

Xenovia's heartwrenching scream echoes throughout the battlefield because she felt the shock on the earth of Gasper being stomped.

I could only hear one last thing being said by Gasper.

[...I'm sorry…. Ise-senpai…..]

—The loud stomp was one that I felt even in my bones.

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNN!

---

|Ise|

("Senpai? Will I also be of use to everyone?")

….

[…. Gremory group's males….lesson 1…..a man has to protect a girl…..!]

DOOOOONNNN!

….

("Y-Yes, Senpai! I will try my best! I-I want to make you proud!")

[…. G…Gremory group's males…..lesson 2…..a man has to stand up…no matter what…..!]

BANG!

…..Gasper….. Even now…..Even after everything….you…...

("Senpai, do you ever think….that I can become a proper man, like you?")

DOOOOONNN!

[…. Gremory…..group's…..males….lesson…3….…Don't give up….no matter what….I have to protect…Xenovia-senpai….]

STOOOMP!

….Gasper…

("I want to make Senpai proud!")

…..Gasper.

("I-I will try my best, Senpai!")

Gasper.

("S-Senpaaaaai! Help! Xenovia-senpai is bullying me!")

Gasper.

("Senpai!")

("Waaaaah~ Senpai~")

("Senpaaaaaaaaaai~")

…

[...I'm sorry….. Ise-senpai…..]

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNN!

—From deep within my conscious, I could hear a beastly, silent roar of anguish echo through my being.

My own.

《MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!》

---

|Kiba|

—The loud stomp was one that I felt even in my bones.

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNN!

Idiot…! You idiot! Idiot!... There is no one who will call you useless after seeing you right now…!

You….you are…..! You are a fine man from the Gremory group….!

"..."

Buchou faces away from the screen. There are many of us who are looking away and covering our sights. Even I have the uncontrollable urge to avert my gaze.

—But, the moment that we did—

CRACK!

—I froze as the floor beneath me broke.

"...DON'T….YOU DARE…."

An unbelievable pressure was being released from in front of us. The ground up to the table had cracked beneath us. A sizzling sound was heard escaping from a certain body that was shaking.

A low, deep voice overpowered the sound of the rest of the world around us.

—Ise-kun's body stood there shaking, with tightly clenched fists that bled, steam releasing from his arms, floor cracking beneath his feet - and droplets of water falling in front of him, which almost instantly evaporated from the pressure once they touched the floor.

"...DON'T YOU DARE — LOOK AWAY…."

.

.

.

That was the one and only thing we heard…. My gaze was stuck to his form, but slowly shifted itself towards the screen again.

[You can still move, huh. That strong will towards victory. It really shocks me. Attacking anymore than this will be cruel. Very well, I will make you better with this last attack.]

When the dragon was about to breathe out flames….

[—I won't let you.]

Xenovia shows herself while emitting enormous aura. The holy aura running through Durandal. It's so strong that it gives me chills. And the cursed marks on her body are gone. It seems like the removal of the curse was a success.

Xenovia approached Gasper, and she held her junior who had already lost consciousness.

[—You did well Gasper. You are a man. —I'm sorry, because I was worthless I made you go through this…]

Xenovia apologises to Gasper while shedding tears.

[So the curse was removed!]

The Bael's [Bishop] points his staff at Xenovia. The dragon also has his wings spread.

Xenovia got up quietly and mutters.

[…I was lacking it.]

She slides the Ex-Durandal from the sheath, and changed it to the attack-form.

[Because of everything that's happened, I lacked determination. I was caught by an attack like that. I lacked resolution, unlike Gasper, for placing my life on the line, for my master…. Buchou and my comrades. This guy was standing here with stronger resolution than me! I'm ashamed of myself…! I just can't forgive myself…!]

Xenovia's words also pain me. That's right. We should have more determination, but we are still lacking it.

—And Gasper told us that by using his body.

[Then, what should I do? How can I give my answer to this guy?]

Xenovia wipes her tears while saying curse like words.

[Yeah. This is the only thing I can do. I'm sorry Gasper. —At least let me defeat these guys for you! I think that's my answer towards you!]

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!

The pillar of holy light goes high up the sky. That's the enormous aura created from the Ex-Durandal. Even a high-class devil won't be able to endure if they get hit by it.

[I won't let you! This time I will sacrifice my life to seal that swordswoman's ability!]

The Bael's [Bishop] makes a stance with his staff and he tried to activate his Sacred Gear….but his body froze along with his consciousness.

The dragon looks at Gasper. Even though he is surrounded by the light for retiring, he has his eyes glow red despite losing his consciousness!?

Gasper stopped the opponent [Bishop]!

Tears freely ran down my cheeks. And I could feel another wave of heat and pressure released by that person cover our base.

Gasper—! You—! Even now, you—!

[The evil eyes that freeze time! Impossible!]

The dragon shouts. Xenovia swings Durandal up high.

[You guys lost to Gaaaaaasssper!]

Xenovia who said that swings Ex-Durandal towards the dragon and the [Bishop]….

ZABAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!

A huge amount of holy aura devours both the opponents…..

[Combatants Sairaorg Bael's [Rook] and [Bishop], and combatant Rias Gremory's [Bishop] retire.]

The arbiter announces the end of the fourth match.

…It's...over…..

….Sss…

Ise-kun's body which is gradually releasing less steam, slowly shifts itself around and walks towards his seat once again. He slowly sat into his seat with one leg up and resting an arm on that knee. The arm hanging on his knee covered our view of his face, leaving him expressionless as far as we were concerned.

Not to mention, that there was a unnatural, inexplicable darkness that hovered over his form like shadows and kept most of the detail on his body (especially his head) from being viewed properly.

In every way, it gave me an eerie sense of unease…. At the very least, the overwhelming pressure from before had gradually alleviated….

Part 7

The fourth match ended and there are seven members left in our team, that is Buchou, Akeno-san, Xenovia, Asia, Rossweisse-san, me, and of course…...our last member….

On the opponent's side they consist of their [King] Sairaorg-san, [Queen], and masked [Pawn]. In terms of numbers we are overwhelmingly at an advantage.

[Now, the game might have gone past the mid-game! Combatant Sairaorg Bael's team has 3 members left! While the combatant Rias Gremory's team has 7 members left! Gremory-team are at an advantage, but the remaining members of the Bael-team are powerful! Will they be able to wrap it up?!]

The broadcaster stirs the stadium.

The opponent [Pawn] consumed 7 pieces right? There's hardly anything we know of him. It's creepy. Though I think there is no doubt that he is stronger than the members of the Bael group who have shown up until now.

Then the dice roll of the Kings to determine the combatants of the fifth match began. Because there are only few members in Sairaorg-san's team, they had to reroll it several times due to the value being small.

After several rolls, the total value which showed up was 9.

….From our side, anyone can go. Moreover, it's a value where the [Queen] can go ahead.

"...Their side now has only 3 members. If it's 9, then only their [Queen] or [Pawn] can show up.…..Though I don't think the [Pawn] would be showing up."

Buchou says that.

"Do you have a reason for that?"

I ask.

"...I feel that Sairaorg doesn't want to use that [Pawn] as much as possible. There isn't even a slight indication that he's coming out. Even if he's keeping him for later, he's keeping him back too long. There were several times where that [Pawn] was able to show up, and I even thought he might send it during the second match against Koneko and Rossweisse."

Buchou tells me like that. The second match, that's when the total value was 10. That [Pawn] could have paired with one of their [Knight] or [Bishop] for that match.

So that's why Buchou went firm for that match also predicting that the [Pawn] might come out. They also probably predicted that we would send the powerful Rossweisse-san who specialises in magic since the value was large.

"If that's the case, then will the next opponent be the [Queen], Buchou?"

"Yes, Yuuto. Sairaorg's [Queen], Kuisha Abaddon. The one from the "Extra Demon", house of Abaddon, will come."

—Extra Demon, house of Abaddon.

Even the current 3rd ranker in the Rating Game is also from the house of Abaddon. According to what I heard, it's quite a powerful devil clan.

Their household takes a certain distance away from the current government, and they seem to be living quietly in the corner of the Underworld…

"—I will go."

Akeno-san proposes her thoughts to Buchou.

—! So Akeno-san is going!?

"…..Akeno, are you sure? The opponents [Queen] is a person from Abaddon you know? From the video, she's quite a formidable enemy."

It's just like what Buchou said. In the match against Glasya-Labolas, their [Queen] used enormous demonic powers and also the trait of house of Abaddon called "Hole" to overwhelm her enemies.

And that thing called "hole" is a very troublesome power which can suck in anything it wants… The circular shape "hole" appears as a hole in the atmosphere and that leads to another dimension.

"But the person who would have the highest chance would be—"

Creak….

I felt a slight chill up my spine as I silenced myself abruptly. I had spoken without thinking. From behind me, I could hear a light shuffling - then followed by a low, bellowing creaking sound. Like the dead old wood from a decrepit house. But it was a deep, unnatural sound that disturbed me. That's because I knew what was making it.

…..I peered over my shoulder to look behind me. The body of Ise-kun looked a bit like it was hunched down and now both of his legs were on the floor. His hands were placed on his knees, as if using them for support….. Wait….. He's leaning forward…. He's going to stand up…..

"—W-Wait, please…"

He froze in place before he could stand. Akeno-san had spoken out in a weak voice. She spoke while keeping her gaze to the ground, almost resembling a child.

"...Triaina….You shouldn't use it yet, Ise-kun. The time when a large value is rolled… You should show it in the Endgame….. U-Until then I will scrape off the opponents forces. It's a reckless thing that I should do…..for the sake of the group... That is what I believe…."

She said it hesitation, and perhaps a bit of fear, obviously present in her voice… It's true that it would be best for him to save it for the real endgame….. But how will he react?...

…..Shuffle…..

He….sat back in his previous posture….. He didn't say a word, but….that must mean that he complies….. Akeno-san let out a sigh of relief….

"...Rias. I will be going…."

"...Yes…. Good luck…."

Akeno-san stepped up to the platform but stopped just short of the magic circle. She asked meekly, without turning.

"...Will you watch me….. Ise-kun?..."

There was a heavy silence for a few seconds.

"...Go."

…..With Ise-kun's confirmation, Akeno-san finally stepped onto the magic circle. Her expression gradually became one of determination. Within a few moments, her body was enveloped in light and she was transported to the playing field.

The location Akeno-san arrived at was a field where many giant towers built from rocks were lined up. Akeno-san was standing on top of a certain tower.

—At the rooftop of the opposite building in front of her, there is a blonde-haired Onee-san.

It's Sairaorg-san's [Queen], Kuisha Abaddon. And it happens to be a match between a 'Black-haired ponytail [Queen] Akeno-san VS Blonde-haired ponytail [Queen] Abbadon'.

[So you came like I thought. Raikou no Miko.]

Abaddon says that.

[...Yes, I'm a bit inexperienced but nice to meet you.]

Akeno-san replies fearlessly. Her determination now evident. The arbiter appears and looks at the two of them.

[The fifth match starts now!]

The signal for the start of the match was given.

Akeno-san and the opponent flew up the air while flapping their wings. Then an intense battle between demonic-powers began.

If Akeno-san releases many fire attacks, the opponent releases a huge ice attack.

If Akeno-san releases water, the Abaddon will use wind. The sky-battle using demonic-power is evenly matched. Possibly because Akeno-san also strengthened her demonic-power by training, she is able to release much more powerful attacks than before.

It's so powerful that the impact created from their demonic-powers started to crumble the buildings around them. But we still can't let our guards down. The opponent hasn't used 'hole' after all.

When Akeno-san creates a dark cloud to the sky using her demonic powers, she strikes down a high density holy-lightning towards her opponent.

BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ!

There was a flash, and the lightning was around Abaddon….but before that happens a warp is formed in the atmosphere. A 'hole' appears in the atmosphere. So she used it here.

The high density holy-lightning gets sucked by the .hole.

[This is it! How is this then!?]

Maybe Akeno-san was aiming for this, so she creates more holy-lightning in the sky.

BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ!

A lot of high density holy-lightning attacks the surroundings. The buildings around her get destroyed by the holy-lightning.

A combo of holy-lightning which takes up half of the space of the battlefield goes toward Abaddon. If she gets hit by this, even a high-class devil will receive critical damage.

And there aren't any places she can run to. She can do it. Everyone including me confirmed Akeno-san's victory… But….

"...Akeno-chan will lose…."

We heard that low voice speak up from behind us… Glancing over to Ise-kun, he was just sitting there in the same position as before, an unnatural shadow cast over his form.

….What?... Just now, he said, "Akeno-chan will lose"?... He believes that she is going to lose?... And….

..."Akeno-chan"?... What is… That isn't the way a Kouhai refers to a Senpai…. No, more than that, Ise-kun has always referred to her as "Akeno-san", hasn't he?... It's almost as if he's speaking about a child…..

—Just as I was thinking about all of those things, most likely along with everyone else, Abaddon widened her 'hole' and she made more 'holes' appear.

The giant 'hole' and 'holes' around it absorb Akeno-san's continuous strikes of holy-lightning! Akeno-san became speechless after seeing that.

Abaddon makes a cold smile and says it.

[My "Hole" can expand and I can also create many of them. And inside the "Hole" I can split the attacks of the opponents it absorbed and release it. —Like this.]

Many 'holes' appeared which surrounds Akeno-san! They were all directed at Akeno-san!

[From the Holy-Lightning, I will remove the "Lightning" and I will just return the "Holy" back to you.]

PIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!

From the many holes, a light was directed towards Akeno-san… For a devil, light is….poisonous. Akeno-san gets covered by the lights….

[Combatant Rias Gremory's Queen retires.]

The heartless announcement of the arbiter reaches our ears…. Akeno-san was defeated…..just as he predicted….

"...Not only can it absorb, but it can also be used as a counter like that."

Buchou says that when she was able to let the words out from her mouth.

Having lost Akeno-san, we were in shock. The match in demonic-power was evenly matched. If that holy-lightning had hit her, she would have won. She was able to win.

—The reason for our loss was because we took the 'hole' of Abaddon lightly.

"….Let's move on. It's getting close to the endgame, so we can't feel relieved yet."

Buchou says that as if she's saying it to herself.

The time to roll the die for the sixth match came. Both [Kings] rolls the dice.

The total value is…..12—! It came, the max value!

[It came! The value 12 has finally come out! The meaning of this value is that the combatant Sairaorg can appear for the match!]

[OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHH!]

The crowd stirs with the broadcasters words.

As if he is responding to them, Sairaorg-san took his shirt off at his base.

Maybe it's something he prepared for battling, so he was wearing a tight black battle costume under his shirt. His magnificent body stands out.

He's coming…! Sairaorg-san is..! Sairaorg-san looks this way.

His eyes are filled with fighting intents that he gives me chills. It's an unbelievable pressure. It's so heavy that all my body hair will fall. And they were directed at us. This is it….. The best option right now would be to…...

I stood from my seat.

"Me, Xenovia, and Rossweisse-san will fight Sairaorg-san."

2 [Knights] and 1 [Rook] makes a total value of 11.

"I will try to make the opponent get exhausted as much as I can. For Buchou and our main fighter."

This is the best decision. Ise-kun should be held onto until the last match. He should be coming out in the endgame. He will be the one to win against Sairaorg-san…...

"Yuuto! Are you perhaps…"

I predicted what Buchou was going to say, so I nodded my head.

"I can't win against Sairaorg Bael by myself. I am very aware of that. Then what will be my role? It's simple. To decrease the opponents power as much as I can. Even if it costs my life… Xenovia, Rossweisse-san, will you tag along with me?"

Xenovia and Rossweisse-san nod at my words.

"Yeah. Of course. I refuse to let this courage brought to me by Gasper to go away for nothing. I will face him."

"It's good and simple since we know what our roles are. Let's exhaust the opponent as long as we can."

We all had a determined face.

We are confronting this day today in order to attain victory with Rias Gremory. For victory, for our comrades, we take one more step to 'checkmate' our opponent.

"…...Is...Ise and Yuuto, or if Xenovia teams up…"

Buchou says that, but I shook my head.

"No. We can't let Ise-kun go yet. After this battle, most likely the opponents [Queen] and Ise-kun will fight, if that happens….."

Buchou continues to explain about the plan I just mentioned.

"...If that happens then there will only be two opponents left, though because of the rule, we can't fight consecutively. That's why it will be good to make Asia go in the next battle after that and make her forfeit before fighting. If it becomes the last battle we won't be needing Asia's healing ability so making her forfeit will connect to the next game for Ise. So the battle after that will be between Ise and Sairaorg because of Sairaorg's personality he won't be sending out [Pawn]. —That's what it is, right Yuuto?"

I nodded with a satisfactory face at Buchou's words.

"Yes. Like I thought, you have been planning that far ahead."

I'm glad. If she can think about it this much, then she may be able to move forward onto the last properly….. Hopefully…..

"That's why this is the crucial moment. —We will grind down Sairaorg Bael's power."

"And we will defeat him if we can!"

Xenovia was filled with spirits. I made a bitter smile.

"Yeah. I was also planning to do that."

Buchou also became prepared and breathed out deeply.

"I will leave it to you three. Please give as much damage to Sairaorg as you can.…. I'm sorry. I made a determination just before, but I was taught new things from all of you once again… I really am a naïve and worthless [King]."

I shook my head at Buchou's words.

"By meeting you, all of us were saved. The reason we came this far is because of Buchou's love towards us. We will bring victory to you— All of us will."

I said that as strongly as I could and headed for the platform, followed by Xenovia and Rossweisse-san. We swiftly passed Ise-kun. The last thing I said to him was…

"—I leave the rest to you.."

The three of us stepped onto the platform together, and soon enough, we were enveloped in a bright light.

---

DON!

[Magnificent. I will give you my right arm. With this, I have to use the Phoenix's tear whether I like it or not. I too want to fight with my full power in the final match after all.]

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNN!

[…Our duty is…accomplished. What's left….is for my master…..and that man….my best friend to defeat you….]

[—I can only say that, you guys were splendid. I am grateful that I was able to fight you guys.]

[.… Buchou. Please win. Against this person….win...Ise-kun…..]

[Combatant Rias Gremory's two [Knights] retire.]

---

|Rias|

...I, Rias Gremory, realised that I felt relieved more than sadness after seeing Sairaorg using the Phoenix tears on his right arm which was cut off. The damage Yuuto and the others gave desperately. It was so much that it forced Sairaorg to use the Phoenix tears.

—They had a magnificent fight.

If it was just me until recently, then I would have been full with sadness. I wouldn't be able to endure it after losing my servants. But it's different now. There is a big part of me which feels joy at watching them be able to push Sairaorg to the corner.

….It all because of my servants current strength and determination that I am able to press forward. It is because of the strength that they have displayed during this game that I am able to feel pride in my heart, as a master.

…..That's because as a woman…..right now, my heart is…..

…...Endure it… The game is almost over…. Endure it….

[Now, this is near the endgame! Will the two kings roll their dice please!]

I stood in front of the stand after being urged to by the broadcaster.….. The act of rolling this die puts stress on my mentality.

What value will I roll, just predicting that makes me think even more. The more I think, the more I will get trapped… Dice Figure, this actually puts more weight on the [Kings] than it looks.

I roll the die on top of the stand. The value which was rolled is…..5. How about Sairaorg?

When I looked at the vision, the value he rolled was 4.

The total value is 9. We got this value with one roll. It is obvious who we will send from our side, and they will probably send their [Queen]. However….

…..OOOOOHHHHHMMMMMM…

I could feel it behind me. Something unbelievable was creeping up my spine. Something dark and malicious sending chills throughout my being. I could it feel it approaching. As if it was a dark mass that blanketed the base we resided in, the closer it came the more I felt that the light in my vision dimmed... It felt as if my world was being dyed a dark red…..

Creak….

I heard a bellowing creak echo through my mind as I saw a black figure pass by my sight silently. I dare not look at it directly. I knew full well what it was, yet my instincts for survival planted my vision firmly before me.

The figure had made its stop onto the platform for transportation. The magic circle shined a bright light. Despite that, the form remained as black as ever in my vision. The only thing I could see in the momentary flash— was what resembled red glowing orbs near the head.

[—]

The battlefield that they were transported to was a large colosseum with no sights of people. One of those who appeared was Sairaorg's [Queen], Kuisha Abaddon. She seems to be in wonder at the figure before her.

[Hyoudou Issei… You seem calm. Yet for some reason I can only feel chills when I look at you… Could this perhaps be the influence of the Sekiryuutei that is always being spoken of?]

She almost says it as if she does not realize it. But there is an obvious sweat appearing on her forehead. She is maintaining her composure properly. I can only commend her for it. It is something I am not able to do…..

"..."

The figure said nothing but looked up into the sky. Despite the fact that there was an artificial sun above their heads, there was an unnatural shadow cast over the top half of his body, completely darkening the top of his form over and leaving only his bottom half visible. It was almost as if the sun was casting its light upon the wrong places. As if the darkness refused to disappear, even with the light touching it.

The arbiter appeared between the two.

—At that moment was when the dark form spoke. A low and familiar voice— But for whatever reason, it seemed as if it was echoing ever so subtly. Like two different voices were being combined into one.

[...Gasper….. Forgive me…. All this time, I worried about what my opinions were….. But with you, don't worry….. I know it well enough now…]

...That was what he said….. Abaddon also seemed to become suspicious at his offputting words…..

[The seventh match! Begin now!]

The signal was given. Abaddon didn't do anything much and was waiting for him to move.

[Sekiryuutei, get into Balance Breaker. My master Sairaorg-sama wishes to see you become serious. Then I, his [Queen] have to make that wish come true.]

She's a woman with strong resolution. That person, she must have feelings for Sairaorg… Otherwise, there could truly be no method for which she would be able to stand in front of that form without quivering.

[Welsh Dragon Balance Breaker!]

The armour appeared on his body. But it was accompanied by a thick, dark red aura that would not dissipate from him. It made his figure almost look black again.

Once again, the unnerving voice spoke out from the armour. This time, it seemed even less familiar - with sentences that resembled the speech of that person we knew, and sentences which would resemble an entirely different entity, mixing together.

[Retire your piece to preserve her life...I have no choice but to release it all here… If I do not, then the rational mind will not return….. That is why, it will be exerted at full force through one outlet…... That will be enough to return the mind….. As it is right now, all I can see is death….]

[What sort of speech are you making? I don't understand i—]

Before Abaddon could speak any further, the figure took on a different, unfamiliar form.

[Change Olympic Messenger!] [Maximum Jet!]

—Without even so much as half a second to process what had suddenly taken place, the figure appeared behind Abaddon with its fist reared back.

[—Retire your piece, Sairaorg Bael.]

And just within that one moment, dust suddenly covered the vision of the screen, before the connection to the footage was completely lost.

….[Transmission lost]?...That was the only thing the monitor read. We were in confusion about the situation before a light appeared on our base's platform.

Shiin!

Out from the light appeared a form… Ise…. He was standing there in his normal form, completely still, and facing away from us. The dark shadow looked like it disappeared from him… Looking closely, I thought I saw what looked to be ash fading away from off of his right arm?...

[...Um… Ah, yes?...]

Even the announcer was in confusion as he touched the earpiece on his head. He shouted in shock

[Eh?! Sairaorg Bael's [Queen] retire?! When?! Eh?!]

Azazel, who appeared on the screen as a commentator, explained the phenomenon while crossing his arms with an deadly serious attitude.

[I can tell from what I see. The Sekiryuutei, Hyoudou Issei, was forcefully transported out from the arena - as a result of the entire sub-dimension being destroyed.]

-[?!]-

….The entire dimension was destroyed?... You mean from the attack?... He… He can't be capable of something of that scale… Is he?...

Sairaorg appears on the monitor. He had a mortified expression.

[…I made Kuisha retire forcefully….. Just as the suggestion was made, I felt the need to, right down to my bones. At that rate, she would have been obliterated by the Sekiryuutei. You were trying to kill her, were you not?]

Sairaorg called out to Ise who was deadly still on top of the platform. His form seems so….imposing….. He responded in a low tone, but his voice was back to normal.

"Do you expect an apology?... You won't be receiving it…. That attack wasn't on my behalf after all. It was on behalf of my precious junior… Besides….if she had died, it would have been your own failure as a result of not heeding my warning…"

I felt chills run down my spine at his cold, callous words. He spoke again.

"But that doesn't matter….. I have regained my rational mind back… That's why, from this point, I will have the control necessary…. I have a direction for the target sights to face in…"

His gaze set straight onto Sairaorg. I could finally see his expression portrayed in the image of the monitor.

—Green glowing eyes of burning intensity.

"Sairaorg Bael."

Seeing that, Sairaorg smiled happily after realising it.

[…What eyes…! It's filled with killing intent….!]

Sairaorg then argues while on the camera.

[I even saw dreams about crossing my fists with the Sekiryuutei. —So I want to question the committee. Isn't it enough now? It's foolish to let this man fight under the rules! —For the next match, I wish for a team battle with everything on my side against everything from their side….!]

[—?!]

Team battle! Does he mean to fight against me, Ise and Asia with his [Pawn] and himself?

That's most likely the case. Sairaorg's intention is to fight with this current tension while having a break to resume the fight.

He wished to fight the Sekiryuutei in his best condition. He must have thought that this current situation is the best timing. The crowd stirs at Sairaorg's suggestion, and the broadcaster also shouts.

[Ooo! We have received a suggestion from combatant Sairaorg in this situation!]

Emperor Belial says it while smiling.

[Certainly, it is easy to predict the flow after this. Since there is a rule that you can't participate continuously, the next match will be between Bael's [Pawn] and the Gremory's [Bishop], and after that….it would have been the final battle between Sairaorg and the Sekiryuutei. That is easy to predict. There certainly is a point that it would be boring.]

Azazel also gives his comments while putting his hand on his chin.

[If that's the case, they can settle it with a team battle. That's easy to understand, and we can continue to watch the match under this tension. Now, will the higher-ups of the committee choose the current rule which is easy to predict, or will they choose to pick the team-battle.]

"I don't mind it as well, if that is the one they want."

I also agree to his comments. After all, the next match would be just a waste. To have decided it right away by taking that match away. That will be easier to understand.

A few minutes passed, and a report was given to the broadcaster.

[Eh, yes. I just received the report from the committee— It seems like they agree to it! The next match will be a team-battle which will settle everything! It will be an all-out battle with the remaining members!]

The stadium stirs with that announcement. It's an obvious reaction since the next match will be the final match.

Hearing the decision, Sairaorg declares to Ise fearlessly.

[—So that's how it is. I might over do it. I won't say don't hold a grudge against me if you get killed, but just be prepared that you might be killed.]

The intense glare that pierced through Sairaorg's skull suddenly gained a new component— A fierce battle hungry smile.

"Do not look to me as the "Oppai Dragon" for now. As far as you're concerned, only the God-killer remains. This Sekiryuutei is the one who will show you what the strikes of a God-slayer feels like."

[I sure can't endure it any longer…!]

The battle between these two men….. I won't be able to stop it anymore.

The final match is about to begin…..

---

-The Great King Vs. The God-Killing Sekiryuutei-

|Ise|

Both my Master and I, who was already wearing my armour, put our feet down inside the spacious plain. I started to calm down after exploding and snapping at Sairaorg.

That was quite the outburst. I haven't had a killing intent like that for a long time. Well, that's how painful it was to see my junior fight so valiantly and be crushed. I could feel the rumbling in my bones. I'm not sure when it happened, but it seems that I was able to release it. I wasn't in my right mind and I surely don't remember doing it. Not to mention, the power I used, I destroyed the dimension? I can't do that. Not alone at least. All these details…. It's almost like someone else was doing it for me…

Then the announcer spoke.

[Now! The final battle for the young-devils between Bael and Gremory has proceeded to the last stage! This last battle is a group battle, as was suggested by Sairaorg! The Bael side has the "King", Sairaorg, and the mysterious masked "Pawn", Regulus! The Gremory side who is opposing them consists of Switch-Princess, Rias the "King"! And everyone's Hero, Oppai Dragon, also known as the "Pawn", Hyoudou Issei! Now being known as - The God-Killing Sekiryuutei!]

So I'm being announced as both titles huh? That's fine. The title isn't what defines me. It's alright, I'll make it clear soon enough.

[Zoom zoom iyaaan!] [Oppai!]

The children gave an Oppai-Dragonish cheer from the seats. Thank you everyone! We left Asia at the base. The reason was explained before the match started, but a healer would be targeted first so having her in the team would mean a lot of risk for us. Well, it might be a harsh thing to say, but she wouldn't be of any help for this battle. We will feel safe if we have someone who can heal us, but our opponent was Sairaorg and the "Pawn" who consumed 7 pieces. If she was to be targeted, I am confident in defending her but we will definitely receive damage. If that happens, our chances of winning will be further away. Since the situation is like this, just stay back for this battle, Asia. Either way, if either the "King" as Rias and Sairaorg fall, then the battle will be over.

"Now. I would like to start the battle."

The arbiter came between the two teams.

"…Theeeeen~..…..please start!"

Finally, the last battle commenced. The opponent "Pawn" promoted to Queen quickly. I can't promote to Queen yet. Vali and tested promotion to Queen in the Seventh Circle and it was too unstable. The power was bursting and Ddraig said I was on the verge of an evolution. In the end, I couldn't unlock it. I still required something to be acknowledged within my heart for it to work. For now I'll have to fight like this. Rias took her battle stance.

Sairaorg made a small laugh.

"Rias. There's something I want to say before the fight."

Sairaorg-san says it directly.

"Your servants are wonderful. They care about you so much that it makes me jealous. Because of that, they were all strong foes."

If a worthy rival says that, then they will also be relieved to have fought. What is left is to defeat this man and claim our victory.

"We only consist of myself and the [Pawn] over there. Your side is basically the same. It's basically the end of the game."

Sairaorg stands in front of me.

"Hyoudou Issei. This is finally it."

We haven't fought since sparring in the basement of the Gremory castle. That time I was no match against him. But… I have gotten stronger since then! You can't hold me down!

—At that moment, I felt an odd pulse in my heart.

Pulse…

What the..?

…..《—》...

—! That was..! Could it be?...

"Sairaorg. I'm afraid that there is something I must try. Will you allow it?"

Sairaorg raised a brow at my random request. There's something I have to try…

"Mm. If it is for the purpose of bringing new interest in our fight, then I will agree."

"Thank you very much..!"

I thanked him as I created a gap between myself and my master. After leaving me distanced from her, I took on a stance with both of my arms to the sides and bent my knees a bit. A power up stance.

"...Suuuuu…..Huuuuuu…."

I took in a large breath and released it calmly. I cleared my mind to the fullest extent and dove deep into the blackness of my mind.

….

…...Are you there?...

….

….If you're there, please answer my call….

…..

….What was it that you once said? [There is no longer a prison that can hold me]... If that's the case, then bust out….

…...《...》...

…..Come on…. There's no prison that can you right?... Not even the Heavens?... So bust out then…..

….《..H.…Is...》...

…...They called you something in the past didn't they? What was it?...

…..《...Te…..la…...n….》...

….You were the representation of Strength and Endurance…...You endured the punishment of the weight of the Heavens….. So what was it that they called you?…..

…《...Te…..la…...on…》...

Enduring. You endured the weight of the Heavens. That's why they called you that…..

…《Te….la….mon…》...

Isn't that right—

— ["Enduring Atlas"]?

《Telamon.》

Within only a single moment, my meditation suddenly broke, and my body burst out with power.

"Nnnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!"

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMM!

A powerful wave of energy that shook the dimension burst forth from me. My body began to release an abnormal amount of heat and pressure as my skin started sizzling. I could subtly see the scars on each of my limbs start to glow a deep orange color. The floor cracked beneath me for what seemed like a 20 meter radius.

[Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?! Hyoudou Issei, the Sekiryuutei is suddenly bursting with an unfamiliar poweeeeeeeer?! The dimension is shaking and pieces of it are tearing at the seams!? Arerererererere?! Isn't this ridiculously baaaaaaaaaad?!]

[That power..! It's no doubt the power of the deceased Titan-God Atlas! So you were still able to tap into it after all, Ise!? Don't do it, fool! This is not something you should be taking a risk with!]

I could hear the voices of the announcer and Azazel begin to fade out as many things began flashing through my mind instead. War, Gods, death, struggle, pain, hatred. Too many things for my mind to properly process.

POWER—! ENDURE—! PUNISHMENT—! REVENGE—! DESTROY—!

….《...No…..》...

The many things that were clashing in my mind began to catch up. As if I was being shown a timeline of events. It gradually began to slow down. The intensity decreased bit by bit. Before I knew it, I felt something among that contradicted all the earlier sensations and experiences flooding my mind—

《...Limit…》

—Release.

And with one last magnificent burst of power that caused the dimension to whiplash, the ground of the entire plain broke, and the power dissipated from my body.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH—!"

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMM!

….

….

I felt breath enter my lungs as my eyes slowly cleared of the dust surrounding my view…..

…...I could only see that all of the ground around me for about 150 meters, obviously reaching Sairaorg and my master's position, was just broken rubble… My armour had completely broken apart from the outburst…..

[...It seems like the power dissipated. Good going, Ise.]

I heard Azazel breath a sigh of relief to break the silence sitting in the air. At that moment, the announcer broke into hysterics.

[...HUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUHH?!]

He tapped on his earpiece vigorously.

[Q-Q-Quick! E-Emergency! Repair team! We need repairs on the dimension! It's going to fall apart at this rate! U-Um! Ladies and gentlemen let's take a quick pause from the match!— Hurry, hurry up!]

As he was losing his composure in a ridiculous manner the dimension quickly began to repair itself from the large tears that were visible above.

[Eh? What? Eh? Seriously? Is that true?... Yes…..]

He slowly sat back into his seat in a "dignified" manner that obviously showed just how in shock he still was.

[...Um, no problem ladies and gentlemen. Um, it seems that the Chief Olympian-God Zeus offered his assistance in repairing the dimension, and as a result the issue was resolved quickly….. Thank you for your patience…..]

It went silent for a bit before he cleared his throat. Then, broke out again.

[Ahem…. Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?! What just happeeeeeeeened?! Does anyone have any insight?! Emperor?! Governooooor?!]

Azazel folded his arms and responded calmly to him.

[It's as I thought, the spirit of the deceased Titan [Atlas] still sleeps within Hyoudou Issei's consciousness.]

?!-[?!]-!?

I could practically feel the shock of every single spectator as the audience stirred from the background of the transmission.

[What do you meeeeeeeaaaaan?! Please explaaaaaaaaain!?]

[Calm yourself. It isn't of any threat anymore. Well, the basic idea was this: at the time of the incident with the Evil-God version of Atlas, the monster had already begun to reach a strength that was similar to his creator. In terms of power, they had become equal, all due to his abnormal growth fueled by a true hatred. As a result, when the original Atlas was faced with the decision of transferring the last of his remaining power as an existence to the Sekiryuutei, he decided that it would be necessary to also transfer his spirit along with it. This must have been because he realized that there was no possibility of control, survival, or victory for the Sekiryuutei, should he use the power on his own. So in order to destroy the last remnants of himself, his successor and himself, he gave up his entire being to the Sekiryuutei - in essence merging his spirit with the Sekiryuutei's own and allowing him to defeat his own progeny. Looking at it symbolically, the last remaining essence of the Titan-God Atlas, which represented [Strength, Endurance and Astronomy]— lies resting within Hyoudou Issei, the current Sekiryuutei.]

[—?!]

Even I had felt shocked by Azazel's explanation…. So that's how it was huh…. As I thought, you were still sleeping somewhere inside of me… I knew it. Sun Wukong-sama was right. He must have woken you up huh… That's why I can see this small amount of black ash falling off from my right arm… "Limit" huh?... So that must mean that this is my limit…. Just one limb, once a day, is my limit?...

[So that display of power was… So then that must mean that the power used to destroy the dimension in The previous match was not Sekiryuutei's own, but rather the God's…. The fact that nothing came of it just now… Could it be that he can't use it anymore after that attack?...]

The Emperor of the rating game, Belial, speculated that with a suspicious but interested gaze. I see….. So that time I destroyed the dimension was me using the Triaina Caduceus combined with a punch from Atlas power… Just one fucking punch?... What terrifying power…. The fact that I was able to use it only on my arm and while I was in Triaina Knight form must mean that I wasn't the one in control of it…. So that was done in order to release the tension in my body, to prevent from going berserk later on….. Holy fuck…..

"...But…."

I lifted my arm as the last of the ash faded.

"Looks like I wasn't able to pull it off….. Sorry, Sairaorg…."

I said that to Sairaorg with a bitter smile. His shock turned into a smirk as his body trembled. That must be excitement huh.

"...To believe that such a thing was possible…. I imagine I would not even have a slither of a chance if I were to be hit with that power even once…. But it's alright that you cannot unlock it…..because in that case, I am more interested in the natural power of the Sekiryuutei that was able to bring out the blood of such a powerful God on his own…!"

My mind flashed back to when I was able to draw blood from the monster Atlas. Even though it was a punch with all of my remaining power in it, straight to the face, I suppose that isn't normal is it?...

Heh…..

"...It looks like we shouldn't hold back anymore, should we?... Sairaorg…."

[Welsh Dragon Balance Breaker!]

"Burst it out, Hyoudou Issei!"

[Jet!]

With that, I blasted my way straight towards Sairaorg without hesitation.

"Naaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahh!"

[Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost!]

I quickly reached Sairaorg as he reared back his fist. We launched our attacks simultaneously, landing straight into each other's faces. A cross counter exchange.

DOOOOONNNN!

The left half of my helmet broke off from his punch. Blood spilled from his nose, mouth, and even his ear as shockwaves were sent beyond both of our bodies. I spoke through grit teeth.

"That punch was for my junior..!"

"It's a strong punch…! It feels as if your spirit is coming inside my body. In such a short time you turned into a devil, how much burden have you put on your body!? It's a power that can't be attained normally! I felt that you were taking me lightly because you didn't use the new ability you showed to Kuisha. Seems I was wrong. Even with that Balance-Breaker, your power is high!"

"In that case, I will show you the punch of the God-slayer you wished for! Welsh Dragonic Rook!"

[Change Solid Impact!]

My armour took on a different thickness as the piston in my left arm made a sound of decompressing air. Then, the piston shot through the gauntlet once again, releasing the hammer down punch onto Sairaorg's cheek.

POOOOOOOW!

"Guh—!"

Sairaorg was sent quickly skidding back, struggling severely to maintain his footing as his feet broke into the floor. Once he came to a stop, he regained his balance and spit a large wad of blood out of his mouth.

"So that is the punch that drew the blood of a God. It's disgustingly powerful. Even my level of Touki cannot defend against it. It's only something I can defend from if I concentrate on defence entirely. Even now it is difficult to maintain my vision properly. I imagine I would've been down and out if I didn't prepare for it. That would surely kill a High-Class Devil with ease. Haha. Hahaha! Yet despite that I can only feel even more excitement!"

"Heh!"

I wiped the drip of blood from my own mouth.

"Your fist made me feel the same. That damn Touki of yours scrambled my brains the moment it passed through. I thought I was going to pass out for a second. The only thing that kept me here was my refusal to go down."

I said it honestly. However, if I were to look at it objectively, my punch was stronger. The Triaina Rook form seems to surpass his strength even with his Touki. If it weren't for his Touki I'd imagine that he would just lose right away. But it's so damn strong that it's able to give the impression of being at an equal level. This man is amazing.

Hm? I felt an odd presence and looked at the enemy [Pawn]. The [Pawn] who was fighting against master took off his mask. The face revealed was that of a boy who was about the same age as me. But that changed instantly.

BOKO! BEKI!

The boy's body started to morph while making a noise! His body gradually started to get bigger and was morphing into something else. Golden fur started appearing all over his body and his limbs became thicker. His mouth ripped open revealing sharp fangs. A tail appeared and long golden fur appeared around its neck.

ROOOOOOOOOAR!

What appeared was a gigantic lion. It had a big body that was about four to five meters tall. It had something like a jewel on its forehead. It stood in front of master while wavering its hair.

[Oooooooooo! The identity of the Bael Team's mysterious "Pawn" is a huge lion!]

It seemed like the announcer was shocked as well. Of course. I was also shocked! So it was a lion!

[Wait! Is that the Nemean Lion?! No, that jewel is…]

It seemed like Azazel realised something and became shocked. The announcer then asked him.

[What do you mean?]

[…It was originally the opponent who the original Hercules faced in one of his twelve labours…. The God from the Bible captured one of them and sealed it inside the Sacred Gear. It became something that was listed as one of the thirteen Longinus. If you master it, you can split the Earth in a single swing, and it can also transform into a huge lion. The "Regulus Nemea"! I remember it also had an ability to protect the possessor from projectile weapons. But I received the information that the possessor has been missing for the past several years. I never thought it would have become the "Pawn" of Bael Team…]

The Nemean Lioooon?! I studied that fuckin thing when I was researching on Greek mythology and beasts I could face! You're telling me that fucking thing is heeeereee?! And it's become a Longinus?! It was a shocking revelation but Sairaorg shook his head.

"No. Unfortunately the possessor is already dead. When I found the actual possessor of the [Regulus Nemea], he was already killed by a mysterious group. The Sacred Gear that had the form of an axe was the only thing left. The Battle-Axe that was supposed to disappear because the host died turned into a Lion by its own will, and annihilated the group that killed its possessor."

So the Sacred Gear moved by itself even after the possessor died…..! That was my first time hearing something like this!

"That's when I made it into my servant. I thought it was a fateful meeting brought by my mother's lion ruler bloodline."

Sairaorg's mother originally came from the house of Vapula that rules over lions. So it was a "destined meeting".

[….A Sacred Gear that moves by itself, by its own will….. And it's a Longinus! On top of that it reincarnated into a devil! Is it the lion that is amazing or the Evil-Piece that is amazing…. Either way, this interests me a lot! Very interesting indeed! Hmmm, no wonder we couldn't locate it. Shit! Why do rare phenomenon occur to the Longinus in this era! Forget that! Sairaorg! Bring that lion to my laboratory next time! I really want to research it!]

Azazel had an incredibly happy face. Your face is shining "Ash Crow". So that reincarnated Lion is a very rare phenomenon. No, moreover, it's the fucking Nemean Lion for damned sake!

[Even I'm shocked. That things like this happen. In my case my thoughts are cut when the possessor dies. The next time I regain my consciousness, I'm already inside the Sacred Gear of the next possessor…..]

So it's different from Ddraig as well then. That must have been a strong spirit keeping it after the possessor's death.

"The power is very unstable maybe because it doesn't have its possessor. It's not something I can send out until this game. It won't be a matter of battles if it goes berserk and attacks both enemy and allies. If I am able to send it out, then it's only the time when it can team up with me. Just like now. If something happens, I'm the only one who can stop it."

Sairaorg explained. So that was the reason why he didn't send out the "Pawn" until the very last moment. It was risky to send it out without Sairaorg who could control it … So it is a servant that is hard to send out under the Dice-Figure rule.

"…Either way, my opponent is that [Longinus] then."

Master made her stance before the lion. Despite that she seemed to lack resolve. I called out to her.

"Master!"

She looked to me in confusion.

"I leave the the beast to you!"

For a moment her eyes widened. Then a light came into her eyes and I could vaguely see them become misty. She shook her head and her stance became more firm.

"Yes!"

I found it odd that I was the one encouraging her since it made me look like master instead, but it wasn't important. Though the reason it worked is most likely because… No, not the time.

I aimed my fist at Sairaorg.

"Sairaorg! I wish to feel your strength with this current body! Take the power I have resting in me as I am now!"

He smiled fiercely.

"So you wish to fight me in this form for a bit huh? Interesting! Let's see if you won't regret that decision!"

Sairaorg and I launched at each other while my master shot her power of destruction at her opponent. Sairaorg and I began exchanging blows. His martial arts skills were much greater than my own, allowing him to land hits more consistently compared to me. But there's one thing I have that can work around that as well.

DOONN!

Sairaorg's punch landed in my face and my body whipped rightways as a result. However! I took advantage of my momentum of and allowed myself to spin around 360 degrees to meet Sairaorg again, my left hook landing square in his face.

DOOOOOONNNN!

His head whipped back from the force and he jumped back a meter to regain his footing.

"Heh! That sort of punch..! To be able to have that odd form of control which exudes some feeling of elegance. I never expected someone like you to be in possession of such a skill. It is no wonder I can feel your strikes as precisely targeted compared to my own."

I smirked proudly.

"Hehe! Well, when you get ordered around by the legendary Oji-saru, Sun Wukong himself, that kinda stuff just catches on huh!"

[Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeh?! Sun Wukong?! As in, First Generation Sun Wukooooooooong?!]

Haaah. That damn announcer.

"Sun Wukong..!? So you we're training in places even we couldn't see you then. Splendid! That's perfect! The fact that you received training from such a master, that only makes it even more exciting to face you!"

Sairaorg came at me and we continued exchanging blows.

DON!

One of my arms ended up being caught by the wrist by Sairaorg. I sent my opposite fist in response, but he ended catching that one as well, effectively holding onto both of my arms. I could predict his next movement! It's definitely going to be a headbutt! But—!

Whoosh!

I suddenly pulled my head back and crossed our arms together in an odd manner. He seemed to prepare himself to exchange headbutts with me. But that's not what I'm aiming for, Sairaorg!

Instead of aiming for a headbutt, I kept my head back, and pulled my hands back, exposing my wrists. At the moment, Sairaorg seemed to take notice of the small compartments on my wrists. Take this!

[Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost!]

—From out of the small compartments sitting on my wrists, powerful flames were suddenly shot out, and Sairaorg's top half was engulfed.

FOOOOOOOOOOOM!

The flames burned on the top half of Sairaorg's body. Before he could react, I smashed my head against his which was covered in flames.

DOONN!

There's your fuckin headbutt! Sairaorg's head whipped back and his body stumbled. He planted one of his legs back in order to keep himself up. Touki suddenly burst out from his body.

He extinguished the flames with the Touki!? I see! So he has that much control over it! His level of control over his Touki is the same level of control I have over my own natural aura. I also would have been able to put out the flames by flaring my aura in such a way.

"...Marvellous…"

Sairaorg lifted his head. The skin on his face was red and sizzling. There were even a couple burns that exposed the fact that skin was peeled or singed off. Despite all of that, he was smiling fiercely with the same intensity present in his eyes.

—For some reason, I felt pure excitement hit me when I realized it.

We are equals. This guy and I, we are practically equals. For every skill he has, I have one that counters it. For the strength that I have, his strength comes to match it. For the spirit I have, his comes to face it. The chances of me winning in Triaina were high, but the chances of me winning in regular scale mail were around 50-50. Yet I only felt the urge to keep fighting in this form. I feel like I don't care about having the advantage. I feel like I want our powers to be equal and I want to fight until we both can't stand. The closer we are in power, the better it feels to fight. What is this feeling? Is this what you fucking feel when you fight strong enemies, Vali? You and damn Ddraig, you've gotten me thinking like a battle maniac now!?

—Just as I was about to launch towards Sairaorg with a battle hungry grin, I heard a familiar scream.

"Kyaaaah!"

Wha-?! That sound-! I looked to where my Master was…

-[!]-

My Master was on her knees bleeding! The Lion stood in front of her while having received damage! Master was in danger!

[Rias Gremory will retire due to blood loss at this rate.]

The lion spoke! That lion can speak!

[If you want to save her, then use the Phoenix Tear.]

…He did that on purpose. This guy had the power to take down Master if he had wanted to. Not doing it meant that he wants us to use the Phoenix Tear. The Bael Team had already used it so they can't use it anymore. We still hadn't used ours. The enemy lion was watching attentively at the battle between me and Sairaorg.

"…If I say that it was "Unnecessary", then my quality as a [King] will decrease. Very well. I will allow that. But I will have the battle between Sekiryuutei and I continue, Regulus."

[I understand very well. My apologies. It's an action I took as my loyalty towards you, my master.]

The lion and Sairaorg hadn't resumed their attack. I went towards my Master while being alert, and took out a small bottle from her pocket. What Sairaorg doesn't know is that I have extra Phoenix tears bottle on me currently. I never used the personal batch that Ravel gave me for my fight with the Stone Golem, after all. That's why, I don't have a problem using this one.

"Master, I will use this on you."

"...Ise…. My Ise… I am sorry. I have been wanting to say for so long….. I—"

"Not now. We'll talk about after the game. We should focus on winning right now."

"...Oh Ise….. My Ise…."

That's right. We should be focusing on winning right now. I've been fooling around and getting caught up in the ecstasy of the fight that I forgot. How could I forget? Gasper fought so hard for the purpose of making us win, what would it mean to him if I just lost the match because of my foolishness? Though it's a shame, I should just use Triaina and win this fight…..shouldn't I?

When I was thinking on what to do next, the lion shouts.

[Sairaorg-sama! Use me! Please "wear" me! If it's that Balance-Breaker, then you will transcend Sekiryuutei! Are you trying to throw away a match that you can win—]

The lion said that. Wear it…? The lion? Balance-Breaker?... Then Sairaorg made an angry roar.

"Close your mouth! That…..That is the power I decided to use only during a crisis in the Underworld! What will come out of it if I use that in front of this man!? I will fight this man, only with this body, just the same with him!"

….I see. Perhaps this person could still become even stronger. If he really shows his best, will I be able to….win? But I do have an interest in it. How much stronger will he become? This man whom I respect. How much overwhelming power will he show me when he gets serious? ...Sairaorg allowed me to use Triaina, which was like a cheat. At that point, I had no right to reject Sairaorg becoming serious…

…..No, above all that, if I were to defeat him when he isn't at his best then how much would that victory mean?... How much would that mean to me, as a warrior?... That is….

("Fight me at your best, Hyoudou Issei.")

….Hmph…...damned Hakuryuukou…

"Sairaorg. Use the power of the Lion."

I said that with no hesitation. My Master who is beside me was shocked. But I still continued. That's right. If I can't defeat you without an advantage like the one I have then….

"There's no meaning if I can't surpass Sairaorg who hasn't used "that". There will have been no point in my training up to this day!"

By the time I realised it, I was speaking out my true thoughts.

"Today I will claim victory by defeating you, who gives it his everything! We are fighting for our dreams! What sort of "God-killer" would it make me if I didn't defeat you when you were in your top form?! What can we achieve by not defeating our opponent who is at his best?!"

The shouts that came from my heart. Despite how shocked any of you may be, I don't need to explain it to you. You don't need to understand it. The only one who has to understand it is him...

After a pause, Sairaorg makes a creepy smile.

"…..I'm sorry. Somewhere inside my heart I thought that this is was game. That there will be a second chance. It seems like I was thinking naïve things like that. What foolish thoughts I had…..!"

DON!

Sairaorg's body was releasing a powerful flare of Touki. He was filled with an intense spirit.

"I'm angry with myself for not realising that I won't have a fight like this again! Regulus!"

[Sir!]

The master who called his lion. The lion who answered his master. The huge lion glowed in a golden colour. It turned into light particles and went towards Sairaorg.

"Then, let's do it. I have determined today that this will be a stage for a battle to the death! Don't hold a grudge at me even if I kill you, Hyoudou Issei!"

Sairaorg who was covered in golden-particles said that loudly.

"My lion! King of Nemea! You, who has been called 'Shishiou'! Answer my howl and turn into my armour!"

DOOOOOOOOON!

The whole field began to rumble from the power. That's more like it….. Sairaorg and the Lion burst open while blowing away the scenery around them. Almost a 20 meter blast radius.

[Balance-Break!]

"Balance-Break!"

A dazzling light spread around the field. Because of its intense light, my Master shielded her vision. But I allowed the light to essentially blind me as I stared it head on. I could vaguely see a majestic form appear within it.

SHIIIIIIIIIIINNNNN!

….When the light slowly vanished, what appeared in front of me was golden coloured plate armour, which had the motif of a lion. The helm on its head had orange-gold hair, which looked like that of a lion. There was a lion-like face on its chest, and the eyes on it glowed as if it had its own consciousness.

"The Balance-Breaker of the [Regulus Nemea], the [Regulus Rey Leather Rex]! Hyoudou Issei. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for making me serious. That's why I will reward you with my fist. Come at me with that powerful [Rook]."

Sairaorg was walking towards me step by step. There was an overwhelming presence by seeing the armour covered in Touki…! His imposing form released powerful bursts of the Touki flares as if he was letting it all run free.

Sairaorg who was just a meter away from me says:

"Now. Give me your best shot."

—Pulse!

I felt the pulse of my heart beat through my body. My fists clenched tightly as I began shaking… This level of pure excitement….. I have never felt it before….. Perhaps I have truly lost my mind… If that's the case….

—Don't regret it!

"Welsh Dragonic Rook!"

[Change Solid Impact!]

My armour took on its thicker, sturdier form as I launched at Sairaorg without hesitation. I reared my fist back and prepared the percussion hammer in my gauntlet. My fist went towards him.

DOOONNN!

He caught it! Sairaorg caught the fucking punch! Both of the armour surrounding our hands cracked at the collision. A shockwave was sent out from the force of the punch that blasted the environment behind him.

[—!]

We're basically at the same level! I felt an absolute ecstasy I could not explain wash over me at the realization. The piston in my gauntlet pulled back and shot in, giving even more power to my strike.

DOOOOOOOOONNNNN!

This time, the armour surrounding my hand broke completely while some cracks ran down my arm. Sairaorg's armour around his hand also broke but there was less damage overall to his armour compared to mine!?— He used the flow of Touki to cancel out the force as much as he could!

Sairaorg smiled excitedly.

"So these are our levels! It's perfect! Hyoudou Issei!"

Sairaorg sent a right hook straight at me. I blocked it using my free arm.

DOOOOOOONNNN!

—! The strike ended up sending me skidding to the side from the force of it. The armour on my arm cracked. I came to a stop after planting my foot firmly into the ground and breaking into it.

"Now! I will come at you full force, Hyoudou Issei!"

Ddraig! Repair my armour whenever it breaks! We're going all in!

[Ou!]

[Jet!]

[Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost!]

"Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!"

With that, Sairaorg and I launched straight at each other and began exchanging blows at full force.

DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON!

With every attack that was sent, there was a counter to meet it. I sent a punch towards his abdomen, he blocked it with his knee. Both of our armours would crack. He sent a punch towards my head, I blocked it with my arm. I'd follow with a kick to his side, it would land successfully, but then his own kick would land straight in my abdomen a second later. Both of our armours cracked, and we spat blood through our grit teeth.

DON DON DON DON DON DON DON!

The furious exchange of fists would continue brutally. Until I realized a minor detail in his movements. His right arm was slightly slower than his left! So that's the effects of what my comrades attacks accomplished huh! In that case—!

I continued my exchange until I found my opportunity. There! Sairaorg sent a strike with his right arm straight towards me. I crossed my arms to block it, having no intention of countering immediately like we have been doing continuously. That's when I boosted my power.

[Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost!]

My aura overflowed, and Sairaorg's fist collided with my arms.

DOOOOOONNNN!

"Guh—!"

I could see Sairaorg make a pained expression through my arms as his fist connected. Did you feel it? That's right! I took a little lesson from both you and Sun Wukong and combined them! I boosted my power to increase in the intensity of my aura, allowing me to focus and control it around my arms once impacted! In other words, I went ahead used my powerful aura as an extra layer of defence, just like you did with your Touki! You aren't the only one with tricks up your sleeeeeeeeeve!

I used the moment's hesitation from Sairaorg and pulled back my right fist with all of the speed and power I could muster. Then I launched right hook into his armoured solar plexus with absolute force, and concentrated all of it into a certain point, just as I was taught!

[Solid Impact!]

The piston from the percussion hammer burst into the gauntlet and transferred every bit of force dead center into the perfect place in his solar plexus. And just to add the highest amount of damage I could, i used up all of the remaining aura brought out from the previous boosts and blasted it into him. The armour around his stomach was easily broken. Many of his ribs were most certainly broken.

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNNNN!

"GAHA—!"

Sairaorg projectile vomited a large chunk of blood. I didn't hesitate to send another punch to his head, launching him away from me.

DOOOONNN!

He flipped on the ground away from me, but planted his claw into the floor to catch himself. He properly regained his footing while holding his stomach in pain. His eyes were still burning with intensity. You can even stand that huh you fucking monster!

I suddenly had an idea! I raised my gauntlet into the air.

"Call upon thee! Bird of Hermes!"

[Change Olympic Messenger!]

SHIIIIIIINNNNN!

My body shined a bright light before changing forms. My aura shaved off and became a sleek, aerodynamic design. Every point on it became dangerously sharper, including the helmet. The black under armour had a hexagonal design layout, allowing it heat resistance. The booster jet pack on my back went from 6 compartments, 3 on each side, to 8 in total - thereby increasing the number of them by one on each side. Included with that, small boosters appeared on the back of my arms and legs. The final detail were the small golden pairs of wings on my helmet and on each one of my clawed feet.

[Wawawawawawawhaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?! What is that form?! A new form from Hyoudou Issei has appeareeeeed!]

I pointed my fist towards Sairaorg confidently.

"This is the evolution of the form formally known as [Welsh Sonic Boost Knight]! This is the form that is meant to pay homage to the God who risked himself for my sake that day! Triaina Caduceus! The Bird of Hermes!"

-[!]-

[That form..! So it looks like Sun Wukong, the geezer monkey wasn't lying after all! You really are honouring the Grecian Gods aren't you, Ise!]

[Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?! Well, I would say that my opinion on the form has improved certainly. But whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?!]

The announcer yells in shock and has the inconsistent reaction of a comic relief character. But that doesn't matter right now! What matters is...!

[Maximum Jet!]

PHSYOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

I shot forward with a completely unmatched godspeed. Powerful jetstreams blasted out from the boosters on my back and the ones on my limbs.

"This is the speed that surpasses Kiba, and even Vali Lucifer himself! I've mastered it while training in the depths of the Seventh Circle of Hell! Take this!"

I had already made it in front of Sairaorg in what felt like an instant. He couldn't react well enough to my speed, but still attempted to send a strike at me. I went under it effortlessly as if he were in slow motion. I blasted power from the booster on my right arm, shooting it forward at an incredible speed. It landed right where I wanted it to. The giant patch of missing armour in his solar plexus.

DON!

He winced in pain. Though the strike was not powerful, that was not the intent from the start. I don't care if the hit was weak. That's because I used my overwhelming speed and his hesitation from the pain to give him a flurry of attacks. With absolute speed, I sent an insane amount of precise attacks straight towards his most vulnerable spot that I had created. Over and over again.

DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON!

"GUHA—!"

With the last quick strike I sent to his abdomen, he spat blood onto my visor. But—

—His intense glare of determination pierced through me.

CHILLS!

I jumped back and created a gap of distance between us. This guy…. Even with the damage I dealt to him, and the pain he must be feeling….. He's still able to burn his eyes through me like that…. For a moment I felt like I had the upper hand, yet that glare of his immediately caused me to feel like I was at a disadvantage… So this is his spirit….. It's unreal…. I almost feel as if I'm lacking in comparison….

[Eh? Hm? Yes? Ah, yes. Eh? What? Huh?!]

While I was lost in thought, the announcer became shocked for unknown reasons.

[Eh?! Eeeeeeeeeh?! Wait, isn't that like, unbelievably big news?! Eh?! So all of the headlines are going crazy after all!? Is that why the announcement was even able to reach here?! Eh?! Who made that suggestion?! Eh?! Zekram Bael?! Well, if it's an order from him there's no way we can refuse!]

The announcer began shouting in shock while holding his earpiece. His incomprehensible demeanor ruined the flow of the action dammit. He quickly tried to compose himself and spoke to the audience.

[Um, this just in! Apparently we have some breaking news that has been covering all of the headlines of news sources throughout the Devil Underworld, but— Misla Bael, the wife of Lord Bael - the current of the Bael clan— apparently we are receiving a report from the House of Bael themselves that she has just awoken from her years long coma!]

!-[?!]-!

We became shocked at the unprecedented announcement. Sairaorg was frozen in place while looking up at the projection image of the commentators.

[Um, I'm not sure on the details, but many years ago she was diagnosed with a disease that seemingly had no cure and caused her to fall into a coma! Despite that it is now being reported that she has miraculously awoken from it and is in stable condition under the care of a Sitri medical professionals!]

…..That person… the one from that dream I had…. The one from the pitch black darkness… That time was…

As we could hear the shocked commentators start speaking about the subject, we stood there in silence.

"...Heh…...Haha….."

…..After a short minute… I suddenly burst out into laughter for some reason.

"Hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha! Hahahahahahahaha! Aaaaaahahahahahaha!"

I held my head as I began bursting into a fit of laughter. I was being looked at as if I was a madman. But I couldn't contain it. That's because…..

I struggled to speak clearly through the constant laughter.

"Hahahahaha! I see! I understand! Hahahaha! So that time that I failed—! That time afterwards—! You were the one I was speaking to! You were the one I led out of that dark place! Ahahahaha! I see, I see! I understand it now! Hahahaha!"

The announcer spoke of me as if I was crazy.

[Ano~ it seems that maybe the Sekiryuutei has lost his mind due to the stress of the fight. Perhaps the pain ended up taking him out of it…]

However, Azazel seemed to clear my story for me.

[I see! It was that ability, Pailingual! The ability to speak to a woman's breasts! He must have somehow been able to reach her after his interaction! But wait, his first attempt ended in failure and he was never given a second chance to try again…. Perhaps this is a new variation of that technique! He must have used a new method based off of the original one to somehow bring back the consciousness. Honestly. To bring back the consciousness of someone in a coma. What sort of things do you keep developing without knowledge huh! I will study you forcefully if this goes any further!]

[Eeeeeeeeeeeeh?! So it was the Sekiryuutei who accomplished this?! What sort of odd developments are interrupting this match?!]

The Emperor Belial gave his own insight.

[The issue that concerns me most is the Sekiryuutei's earlier comment regarding the "Seventh Circle of Hell". I'm not sure if I misheard, but I believe I heard him say that he trained himself in that place. Despite thinking this is something that is impossible, I cannot deny that I have been feeling a disgusting feeling from the Sekiryuutei ever since the match started. His aura reeks of that terribly familiar stench. Yet this cannot be. It was said that only a Lucifer could perform the spell necessary to allow access into the Nine Circles. Perhaps someone with Satan-Class power or above could also accomplish it, but they wouldn't know the technique… This is…]

My nerves felt tense at his explanation. Oh shit… Luckily, the announcer cut off the conversation.

[Ah, ah, ah! Who cares about that!? Moreover, some extraordinary news just came into light! The mother of Sairaorg Bael has just awoken from her comaaaaaa! How will he react to this neeeeeeeewws?!]

The announcer says it in an interested voice. As I thought, you're only here for entertainment purposes after all. I looked to Sairaorg. He was completely in shock. But there were tears building up in his eyes. Something I never believed I would see….

"...Mother….."

The intensity had disappeared from his eyes… No….. We can't let it go like this, Sairaorg.

"Sairaorg!"

I called out to Sairaorg who was lost in his head. I pointed my fist at him.

"What are you doing huh?! Come at me!"

He looked to me in confusion.

"Have you forgotten it, Sairaorg?! We are fighting here, for our dreams! Our lives, our hopes, they're all on the line! Rather than being in shock, shouldn't you be coming at me with your all?! Don't you understand it?!"

His eyes began to widen.

"Your mother is watching now! Don't you dare hold back!"

—Tears fell from his eyes as he realized it. His body shook violently. His teeth grinded. And finally power bursted from his body.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMM!

"That's right..! You're right!"

—He looked to me while shedding tears. His eyes regained their intensity, but more than that - they held a comforting light within them.

"I truly thank you from the bottom of my heart..! Hyoudou Issei!"

That's it….. Just like that… That's how it should be….. Fighting with our all….. That's why…..

[Partner.]

Yeah… We're going for it…..

"Sairaorg….."

I held onto my gauntlet gently.

"I hope you don't mind….. If I gather some of my courage as well…."

I took a deep breath. It's time…..

"Oi! All of you watching out there! Listen up!"

I shouted into the sky, at no one in particular. No… I am shouting to all of them… The whole world….

"I am….."

Promotion—

"...Hyoudou Issei!"

—Queen!

At that moment, a powerful aura like no other burst out from my body.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMM!

[What's this?! A unbelievable pressure is being released from the body of the Sekiryuutei!? The entire floor beneath him is caving inwards! He's almost sinking in, but his body is levitating! That's unstable! It's certainly shaking the dimension!]

The power bursting forth was unstable. I spoke from within it regardless.

"All of you out there in the world! Hear me now! My name is Hyoudou Issei! I am this Generation's current Sekiryuutei!... I am known by many names!.. Chichiryuutei! Oppai Dragon! God-killer! God-slayer! Red Dragon Emperor! And Welsh Dragon Emperor!… But I will tell you something now!... All of that—! It doesn't matter one bit!"

I could feel the sensation of being ripped apart from the unstable power, but I still continued to let it loose.

[Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost!]

"That's because it isn't my name that decides what I am! It's what I do!... There are many of those who fear me now! Many who do not trust my existence! But I will tell you now! That's fine—! Because that won't change what I do! That won't affect my actions! That won't change who I aim to become!— And that won't change who I am! What am I?! I'll tell you what I am—!"

Through all of the uncontrollable power that kept me from opening my eyes and slowly began to tear away at pieces of my armour, I pointed my fist forward.

"I am nothing but a low class commoner who became something even greater! I am the representation of those who earn their strength through hard work and determination—! I am the protector of those innocents who represent the future—!"

...I, who is about to awaken, am the Sekiryuutei who will pioneer the principle of protection.

"I am the fighter who holds up the dreams and hopes of those caught in despair—! I am the deliverer of judgement to those who are bringing injustice onto those who can't protect themselves—!"

I shelter the infinite and uphold the dream.

"I am the guardian of those who are oppressed or harmed by powers they cannot face alone—! I am the Hero to the children who hold the key to the future, Devil and non Devil alike—!"

I shall become the Aegis Dragon—

"So call me whatever you want! Call me a monster! Call me a God-slayer! Call me a God-killer! Call me a threat! Call me something to fear! Because I am all of those things! But I am all of those only to those bastards in my target sights—! Do you know who?! I am talking to you!"

—Guardian of the future.

"To those who wrongfully lay their hands upon those weaker than themselves— I am your threat! To those Evil-Gods who abuse their Godly power for nefarious purposes— I am your God-slayer! To those Evil-Gods who believe themselves invincible— I am your God-killer! So call me a monster! Because I am the monster who lives to keep the other monsters at bay! Call me suspicious! Because for those who are in the shadows and have something terrible to hide, I am that suspicion! Call me something to fear! Because to those who fear that they may one day be brought to justice for the pain they have wrought, I am that fear!"

And I shall defend you from the intentions of evil, within a sanctuary of shielding flames!

"I am Hyoudou Issei! I am the [Oppai Dragon] for the children who deserve smiles! The [Aegis Dragon] for the innocent who deserve protection! The [guardian] for those who deserve futures! And the [pillar of hope] that shall preserve the Heavens— No! The pillar of hope that shall preserve the entire world resting on its shouldeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeersss!"

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMM!

The intense power from body began to concentrate itself around me. It began forming into a shape. This is it. I pulled my left gauntlet down and held it near my chest. The jewel began to glow a bright green light….. Then slowly but surely, the light began to shift in colour…...

"There are many of those who I wish to repay for what they've done for me… Tannin, my mentor who trained me despite being a failure…. Azazel, my Sensei, and my guardian, who came to my rescue without hesitation….. Sun Wukong, my mentor who showed me that there can be worth in any fighter as long as there is dedication… The children, the ones who smiled brightly and reminded me that we are all equal and the future is what is most important… And finally, the woman I love, the one who brought me out from the darkness and comforted me with a blanket of gentle flames…! That's why! I am going to ask you all to lend me your strength once more!... My mentors—! My Sensei—! My children—! And most of all, my love! Please—! Just once more—!"

I raised my gauntlet into the air above my head as it shines brilliantly in a new beautiful colour...

"Lend me your strength—!"

Blue.

"—RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEELLLLL!"

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMM!

.

.

.

.

Flames…. Gentle flames….. I can feel them moving softly against my skin…. Protecting me… Thank you…

[WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTT?! The Sekiryuutei has unleashed a new fooooooooorm!? It's—! It's—! Magnificeeeeeeeeeeeeent!]

[I see! This fool—! He really has changed! The jewels on his armour are no longer a green colour, but a deep sea blue! The sections of his gauntlets and knee armour— they have changed into a more smooth, flat design and now give the impression of being mini shields in the shape of gauntlets! His helmet has changed shape a bit to resemble that of a mechanical monster with armoured teeth and fangs! His tail has split into three and the shape gives it the impression of large mechanical feathers! His clawed feet have changed to give the impression of having sharp talons like a hawk! And his wings—! They're shooting flames— No, they are engulfed in flames!— I see! I understand it now! This guy! This foolish boy of mine! In almost every way, his form is meant to resemble—!]

I unfurled the wings coiled around my body, protecting me from harm. Thank you. I'll take it from here. Thank you— Ravel.

[— A Phoenix!]

FOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMM!

The powerful flames shot out from my wings as they revealed my figure. I am Hyoudou Issei. That's all there is to it.

[This form—! We must name it! As his Sensei I shall take the honour. In that case, this is surely— Since it is a Phoenix the the answer is obvious! "Immortal Dragon of Aegis"! The Dragon which doesn't die and remains as a shield to the hope of the future! Hahahahahahahaha! Can you imagine it? A Sekiryuutei which protects the dreams of the oppressed. What would God say? What will all of the Gods say? Ahahahahahahaha! It seems the boy has truly lost his mind hasn't he! Well, now you have more in common with your dear Sensei! Now hurry up and win! I ain't lending you my strength to stand around!]

Looks like Azazel took the liberty of naming it. "Immortal Dragon of Aegis" huh? Not bad…. But you're right….. This strength, I will be using it now….. Thank you…..

"We are fighting for our dreams! Not just our own dreams, but for all of those like us! That's why! I won't hold back! And you won't either! Will you?!"

[Maximum Jet!]

I launched towards Sairaorg, my wings whistled as I blasted towards him. The sound of Phoenix screech.

"Sairaoooooooooooooooooooooorg!"

I saw his mouth curl into a smile before gritting his teeth into determination that beamed through his teary eyes. He launched straight towards me.

"Sekiryuutei— No! Hyoudou Isseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeei!"

The moment we reached each other— our clash began.

DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON!

[[[[[[Sairaorg, Sairaorg!]]]]]]]

[[[[[[Ise! Ise! Ise! Ise! Ise!]]]]]]]

We used everything we had. Every single attack. Every single technique. No strategy. No cheap moves. No blocking. No dodging. We just took whatever the other gave us.

DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON!

We took whatever hit came towards us. We took any blow that reached us and sent one right back. We felt everything. Every emotion. Every dream. Every hope. Every desire. Every fear. Every pain. Every hardship. Every struggle. Every memory. Every loss. Every burden. Every thought. We transmitted it to each other with our fists, and we both received fully.

DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON DON!

Sairaorg. Thank you. I am grateful that I have met you. I am grateful that we are here today like this. Even though there was pain and loneliness that brought me here, there was surely the same where you came from. The fact that I am able to experience alongside of you, I am grateful. The image of us standing against those struggles, side by side, I am truly grateful.

(Thank you, Hyoudou Issei. You have reminded me of what exactly I am reaching for. My path is clear now. The only thing that stands in my way is you. Though you are my greatest obstacle to overcome, if it is for that purpose, it is exactly what makes that struggle so important. And the fact that you stand there so valiantly, blocking my path, it is what makes the struggle such an honour and joy to experience. There is no one else I would rather have standing in my way. I am grateful.)

Yeah. I know. It is the same for me. Even if I were to lose here, the hurdle that you represent, it means so much more to me than anything I could imagine for the sake of that dream. That is why, I am grateful that my life has reached this point. I am grateful that the painful experience which dreaded me not so long ago, is now a part of who I am. And most of all, I am grateful that you were part of the journey to achieving that dream.

"Saaaaaaaaaairaooooooooooooooooooooooorg!"

I readied my fist.

"Hyoudou Isseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeei!"

—and so did Sairaorg.

We sent our strikes towards each other simultaneously.

"HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!"

"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!"

((Thank you)) (Sairaorg) (Hyoudou Issei)

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNN!

….

….

….

The dust cleared from my sight. Both of our fists had stopped just short of touching each other's chest.

…..

[...Sekiryuutei…...That's enough…. It's fine now…...]

The face of the lion on the armour shed tears as we both stood completely still.

"...Yeah…."

Tears fell from my eyes. Sairaorg…

"I know."

—Had already long lost consciousness.

….

….

"Thank you…"

I softly placed my hands on the back of Sairaorg's head and pulled his body into my shoulder. I embraced him gently. My tears fell silently.

"...It was the greatest fight I've ever had…"

[Sairaorg Bael loses. He retires. This is the end of the game. Rias Gremory Team's victory!]

The final announcement is made and the stadium became filled with the cheers and cries of an audience filled in their hearts with passion.

---

-Hyoudou Issei-

When I woke up, there was an unfamiliar ceiling.

"….This place is?"

When I looked around, I understood that I was laying on the bed with bandages on me. Rather than the wounds, I was really exhausted. It seems like there isn't the slightest amount of stamina left in me….. Did I pass out after that?

"Looks like you woke up."

….! A familiar voice! When I looked beside me….. It was Sairaorg wrapped in bandages.

"Sairaorg….. Your bed was beside mine?"

"Coincidently, yes. There should have been spare rooms. Possibly Sirzechs-sama or Viceroy-Azazel matched this room so we can have someone to talk to until we have our stamina recover."

I took notice of the redness under his eyes…

"...Your eyes are red…"

"Heh. Would you find it weak if I said it was from weeping?"

He asked me with a smile. I snorted as began laughing. I smiled brightly at him with painful tears falling from my eyes.

"Yep! You're super weak!"

"...kuh!"

He laughed joyously.

"Hahahahahahahaha! Is that so hahaha! I see, I see. Yes, you're certainly right aren't you?"

We both laughed for no reason. He sighed lightly and sat back in his bed.

"….So I lost."

Sairaorg says that.

"….I'm not sure why, but for whatever reason, this is the first time I feel joy after losing. I was fighting for my dreams wasn't I? Yet I feel such relief in my heart that I cannot find the cause for…. I suppose in have simply lost my mind…."

"Does that mean you aren't going to continue pursuing your dreams?..."

"Hmph. You aren't safe. I will come back for you."

—! Sairaorg says that with a fierce smile…. But…

"Pfft!..."

I tried to stifle my laughter. It was a futile attempt.

"Puhahahahahahahaha!"

"Oy, Oy, I am truly serious. I am coming for you."

I laughed in pure joy. Sairaorg continued threatening me but there was a happy smile on his face….Certainly. It was refreshing.

We both smiled while having our bodies wrapped in bandages. Then a person entered the room.

"Excuse me."

A crimson-haired man. It's Sirzechs-sama.

"Sirzechs-sama."

"Ya. Ise-kun, Sairaorg. It was truly a magnificent fight. I very strongly feel that way, and the other people at the top were all satisfied with it. It was certainly a fight that made me feel hopeful and look forward to the future of both of you."

Sirzechs-sama sits in the chair nearby after giving a positive comment to both of us.

"Now. I have something to tell you Ise-kun. Sairaorg. May I talk to him for a bit?"

"I do not mind…. Do you want me to leave?"

"No. I don't mind. You will not suffer by hearing this."

Sirzechs-sama says it with a serious face.

"Ise-kun. There is talk about a promotion for you."

…..I couldn't understand what he just said. But Sirzechs-sama continues on.

"To say it precisely, there is talk about a promotion for you, Kiba-kun and Akeno-kun. All of you have fended off the attacks of the terrorists. The terror that occurred at the Big-Three-Faction meeting. The terror started by Old-Maou Faction. You also have fended off the God, Loki. This was also decided because of the incident at Kyoto and the splendid fight you had today. Soon the three of you will rise up in ranking. Congratulations. This is an irregular thing, and a rare promotion that happened at this age."

Sirzechs-sama says it with a happy face….

"Huh…?"

That's the only thing I could say. Then I started to understand what he just said.

"Wa..Wa….Wait….! Pro-pro-pro….promotion! I'm getting a promotion!? Eh!? You don't mean "Promotion" as in pawn's promotion right!?"

Sirzechs-sama smiles at my question.

"That's how much you have accomplished. There's still things you lack in, but you are getting a promotion including the possibility you have in the future. Truthfully, I would like to send you to High-Class if I could, since you did defeat an Evil-God but….. it seems that tensions have stirred since your match. Due to some of the things you said….. There are a few of those in our society who can apply those "rules" you gave them to themselves and now have… um, fear because of it. Though they won't admit that is the real reason, it still hinders your chances at that type of promotion for right now. It should be fine in the future though. They are fearful after all. They can't deny you something that long if they fear you."

…..What?...While Sirzechs-sama unloaded all of those complicated issues onto me, Sairaorg then says it to me, who still didn't get a grasp of this situation.

"Take it, Hyoudou Issei. You accomplished things for which you should receive this. It doesn't matter where you were born or came from. You are a man who should become the Hero of the Underworld. The Dragon of Justice maybe? Haha."

….Even if you say that, I… Sirzechs-sama also makes a bitter smile after seeing me confused.

"Um. I will send the proper details to you next time. I want you to get a promotion after receiving the proper courtesy. We still need to decide the location of the stadium and proper details from now. Then I will excuse myself."

Saying that, Maou-sama leaves the room. Sairaorg and I were left in the room. Even now, I think this is still a dream. Because…Because I'm getting a promotion! Well yeah…. It certainly was my dream and it was what I was aiming for. I never thought that something like this will come to me this quickly… Crap! Crap! What should I do?! I don't know what's going on?! I was confused then Sairaorg says to me:

"The promotion is okay, but right now what's important is that girl you mentioned. Phoenix….. Is it the younger sister of those Phenex, Ravel?"

"...Eh?"

I was left silent with what he said. I could most literally feel my face become pale…

…..That….That wasn't part of the dream?... "The thing I needed to admit in my heart"... That was it?... Hahahaha, what?...

…

Oh shit…

…

"Hyoudou Issei?"

"Eh?!"

I was snapped out of my thoughts by Sairaorg.

"E-Eh?! W-What?!"

"...Ah, did you not realize it?..."

"...Ah…..Yeah…...Well...… Now I do…."

Sairaorg laughed.

"Hahahahaha! I see! So that's how it is. I was under the impression that it would've been someone like Rias since our last meetings, but apparently not."

….

….

"Hyoudou Issei?"

"Eh? A-Ah, yeah. Sorry…."

….I…..have changed…

…...

…..…..

".…..Yes…... I do love her."

I said those words without needing to think of it. It felt perfectly natural…..

"Then how about you tell her your feelings? This time directly with only the two of you. You already shouted out that she is the woman you have fallen for in front of all the crowd, right? Or somewhat at least. It can be interpreted in many ways I suppose, since it wasn't a direct confession. Though it sounded like it to anyone who thinks that way. That's why I think it would be best to say it directly right?"

C-Certainly I did…. But I just went with the flow at the stadium! I wasn't even thinking about it! It just— came out, ya know! And then all that other shit happened and just—! Aaaaaaaaaaaaah! Kill meeeeeeeeeee!…... I then spoke out nervously.

"…I…I can have confidence right?"

"If you couldn't, then come to my place. I will give you a cup of coffee to cheer you up and will listen to your story."

"….Sairaorg! Thank you! I…I!"

He's too kind that I started crying. I had a fist fight with this person with our dreams on the line. I thought that I would want to have a drink of tea with him again in the future.

Then someone burst into the room. And old man. Oh? Isn't that the servant who took us to see Sairaorg's mother in the first place with Master?

"Sairaorg-sama!"

"Hm? What is it? Wait, why are you here?"

—! Sairaorg was confused, but I quickly realized it.

"Sairaorg..! Your mother!"

After hearing my words, Sairaorg's words widened. He immediately tried standing up unsteadily!

"Kuh!"

"Sairaorg-sama!"

He winced in pain as he was about to fall— but I caught him and held him up from the side.

"Wha..?"

I said nothing but smiled at him. He smiled before steeling himself and standing up straight.

"Let's go."

"O-Of course."

He said that to his servant while standing up straight. They quickly left the room together, but not before Sairaorg said something right at the door.

"Thank you..."

He left with that…..

….

"Yeah…. Same here…"

---

Part 8

|Kiba|

"Yeah, it doesn't hurt anymore."

Xenovia said at as she rubbed her body in bandages. Our entire group was gathered in an infirmary room with the exception of one of our members. The other last male member. The most important member.

We still didn't have the courage to go see him for ourselves yet….

"Yo, brats."

The one who entered the infirmary and caught our attention was none other than our club advisor, Azazel-sensei.

"Good job, all around. You all did well. Gasper."

He looked to Gasper? Gasper tilted his head curiously. Sensei pointed his thumb behind him.

"A certain someone wants to see you."

[—?!]

That certainly had to be…

"...E-Eh?! U-Um…."

"He's waiting in one of the rooms. Go ahead and see him. He's alone."

Gasper glanced all around, at each of us. There wasn't anything we could tell him. We were also confused on what to say. No words came out from our mouths. He looked down to the ground with an unsure expression. After a long pause of silence, he nodded his head in determination.

"...Okay..!"

He followed Sensei out of the room. We glanced at each other hesitantly. However, Buchou immediately stepped forward and walked out. Seeing that, we followed her out.

We ended up being led to a certain infirmary room. Gasper stepped into it before we caught up, but the door was left cracked open slightly. Sensei stopped us.

"You can stay here, but don't make a sound. Don't enter."

…..He gave us those orders with a dead serious attitude. Despite how much it bothered us, we complied….. Peering in through the crack of the door we could see Gasper approach the one who wanted to see him.

…...Ise-kun was sitting up on the side of a bed, facing away from our direction. He patted the spot next to him, signaling for Gasper to sit. Gasper hesitantly sat beside him, with a bit of a gap between them. They sat there in silence for a bit.

…..

"...You did well in the game, Gasper."

Ise-kun spoke. It was a soft and earnest voice… one that I forgotten the sound of… Gasper's body started shaking subtly….

"...Senpai…"

Another silence took the air.

…..

"...You… You truly made me proud…."

Gasper's body hunched over slowly. He continued shaking in place and we could soon hear a low whimpering sound… He was crying…..

"...Senpai…."

"...You tried so hard, didn't you?..."

Gasper only made whimpering noises in response.

"...Uu..."

"...You made this Senpai truly proud….."

I felt something get caught in my throat, making me feel as if I was choking. This sort of scene….

"There isn't a better Kouhai in this world…..that I could ever ask for….."

"Guh—!"

At that point, Gasper made a noise that sounded like pain. A pain in his heart. His body began shaking violently and before we knew it—

"Senpai..!"

He was already crying, but struggling with all of his might to hold back, as if he was a moment from bursting. He then finally began apologizing for that day in the clubroom in chokes of tears the he held back.

"I'm sorry, Senpai!...I didn't know!... I swear, I didn't know, Senpai!... I—!"

That was when the unbelievable happened.

"...I know…."

Ise-kun's body slouched a bit….. No, it was hunching over in a similar way to Gasper previously….. He's…..shaking….

"...I already know that now..."

He spoke in a shaky voice.

"...That's why..!"

—He had begun crying.

"...That's why it hurt to watch..! To hear you say all of those things..! And see you fight so bravely..!"

—I didn't need to see his face, to know that tears were freely streaming out from his eyes.

"..It hurt so much— that I just couldn't bear the pain!"

My mind halted abruptly. Gasper fully burst out into tears.

"...Senpaaaaaaaaaai!"

He weakly lifted his arms as if asking to be hugged, or just holding himself back from hugging onto Ise-kun. But— suddenly, Ise-kun pulled him in and embraced him completely without hesitation. Holding onto him as if he was his own precious child.

"I'm sorry, Gasper..! Please forgive this Senpai for being so stupid..!"

Gasper clutched onto him tightly in response.

"Wwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah! Seeenpaaaaaaaaaaaaaai~!"

"I'm so sorry, Gasper!... I'm sorry!..."

My hand clasped over my mouth as to avoid making a sound. Tears freely washed down my cheeks.

"Senpai will always cherish you from now on..! So please forgive him for being so stupid..!"

My other hand clutched down at my chest as I felt an intense pain in my heart.

"I'm soowwwwwwwwwwyyy! Senpaaaaaaaaaaai~! I'm s-s-sowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwyy~!"

Gasper began crying in a manner similar to a baby. Ise-kun held onto him tightly with his body hunched over, concealing his face.

"Shut up..! Shut up you idiot..! Don't apologize..! I'm the one who's sorry..! So don't apologize you dummy..!"

"Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu! S-Sowwwwy—! Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!"

"I said not to apologize didn't I..! You idiot..! Listen to when your Senpai tells you something..! My little dummy Kouhai..! My precious dummy Kouhai..!"

"Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu! Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!"

I could hear the sound of every teardrop fall onto the ground beneath me. There were many more wet spots surrounding the floor around me. The rest of my group had already long begun crying.

"...Ise…"

Buchou called out quietly, in a weak voice full of pure sadness that broke my heart. She stepped forward to open the door. But—

"—Don't."

The hand of Sensei placed itself before her. His expression was one of a stern warning. As if trying to avoid becoming emotional.

"—Don't be so selfish... Find your own moment."

He said that in an almost cruel manner to Buchou. No, to all of us… Because of that Buchou began crying into her hands sadly. As did we all…. The only image that stuck in my head….. Was the heartwrenching image of Ise-kun and Gasper softly embracing each other…..

-Friends-

Our group stood together silently, waiting in our VIP lounge from before the game. We were already prepared to return home. Sensei separated from us saying that he had something to do. We were just waiting for our last two members.

The air was thick with melancholy and tension. That's because we're not only sad, but also nervous. There is a variety of reasons. One of them happens to be the fact that one of our group members here, is the center of suspicion, Ravel Phenex. She has a nervous but glittery expression as she fidgets in place. Practically all of our group is staring at her. They are most likely thinking about the words spoken during that game…. They want it to be made clear…. They want to see if their suspicions are true, or are nothing but needless worries….. Their hopeful gazes…. Perhaps it is because I am not one of them that I can feel…...I know the truth…

"...Nngh…. Dammit…."

The other cause for tension, was the man tapping his foot on the ground incessantly as he checked his wristwatch. One who isn't from our group. Raiser Phenex stood there with an impatient and almost nervous attitude. There was a magic circle with his family's crest shining on the back of his hand. For some reason, he was waiting here with us.

"Ah, you all."

—Then, we finally heard the voice of that person. We turned around to see him standing there.

"So you were still waiting huh?"

Ise-kun stood there, but with something on his back. No, someone. There was a person he was carrying piggyback style… Ise-kun stood there while holding onto the sleeping Gasper….. A casually friendly smile was on his face…..

—Before any of us could speak, Raiser had already begun growling a bit at Ise-kun.

"Oy, what took you so long? I've been waiting here for ages."

Ise-kun tilted his head curiously.

"Raiser? What's up? Why are you here?"

Raiser clicked his tongue in frustration.

"Tch! 'What's up', is that I have been waiting here for you to arrive so that my mother will stop her nagging..!"

"Eh? Nagging? Wait, you're mother? You mean Lady Phenex?"

"Yeah, that's right."

Raiser displayed the magic circle on the back of his hand.

"She's been pestering me ever since the end of the game. Calling and even trying to communicate through the communication circles so she can reach me in any way. She even contacted Ravel, but only once, and for some reason she's pestering me and not her!"

Ise-kun sweatdropped.

"...Um, sorry?..."

"Yeah, you better be! This is all your fault anyway!"

"...Um, how?"

Raiser smacks his face in annoyance. He turned his hand over and opened his palm, allowing a magic circle to spawn on top of it.

"Just, here."

The magic circle flashed momentarily before revealing a figure. That person, we've seen them before in the clubroom "that day"... Lady Phenex…..

[Raiser, you will answer me when I contact you. I am your mother. I will not tolerate such— Oh. Hello, Sekiryuutei.]

She had a stern gaze and irritated tone which she abruptly lost once noticing Ise-kun in front of her. To which, Raiser simply rubbed his forehead with a sigh.

"Oh, h-hello. Um, good day, Lady Phenex."

Ise-kun greeted her respectfully with a bit of nervousness. However, the demeanor of Lady Phenex was completely different. She spoke in a lighthearted tone with a kind smile on her face, as if she was in a great mood.

[Oh, good day to you dear~ It is so nice to see you again. I hope you do not mind me contacting you so randomly.]

"Eh? No, no, of course not. You can contact me any time."

Lady Phenex nodded her head with a satisfied attitude.

[Thank you very much. In that case, I'd like to say that I thought it was a truly splendid match. The display of your abilities, and the interesting speech of yours, it was all magnificent.]

Ise-kun rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly with a smile.

"Ehehehe. T-Thank you very much, ma'am. Um, sorry about stealing the whole motif of a Phoenix and everything….. It was just one of my main inspirations for a new form so….."

Lady Phenex shook her head.

[Oh no, no, no. If anything we are honoured. I found it truly marvelous to see you in that form. Especially considering it's symbolism. It was a majestic display. I can only feel pride in seeing it.]

I felt the tension become so thick that I choked on nothing.

"I-Is that so? I am glad that you think that way. I was really proud with how that form turned out as well. I thought it was beautiful, in my opinion, so it makes me happy that you were satisfied with it."

[Yes, of course. We are also happy to have seen it. That being said, I also have something I'd like you to ask you.]

"Hm? What is it, ma'am?"

I could feel my nerves tense uncontrollably. Could it be..!? Lady Phenex turned to look at Raiser.

[Raiser, would you please?]

"Nngh! Again with this! Why must I be the one to do it?! This is an issue that you are more concerned with than I! Why not do it yourself?!"

[You are her brother. Did you not promise that day when you regained your courage that you would never again become so pathetic? You said would face any possibility, including him, with strength, did you not? If that is truly the case, then as the only representative of the family that is currently present, you have the duty to ask him yourself, don't you?]

"Ngh—!"

Raiser made a sound of frustration as he kept himself from speaking. After a few seconds of growling and frustration, Raiser groaned in defeat. He asked Ise-kun in a monotone voice with an irritated expression, and averted his eyes.

"...Nn…. Sekiryu—…. Hyoudou Issei…. We…. Ugh. We will be hosting a gathering in celebration for your victory against Bael. Would you care to attend it at Phenex castle?"

[—?!]

Raiser ended up asking something that we didn't expect….. A celebration? It's just a celebration?...

"Eh? Me?! A party for me?! Or, wait, sorry. Um, a party for Gremory, for winning the game?"

Ise-kun asked with confusion. Lady Phenex nodded her head.

[Yes well, of course it will be for the group of Gremory, but you are the main guest. You did win the game for your group after all. Not to mention that your validation points earned during the match were to an unbelievable amount. Only those of pro ranking received as much merits as that. It's never been achieved by a Low-Class Devil before. It surely mainly be because of the overwhelming support from the masses of reincarnated and Low-Class Devils that comprise a majority of the Devil society. You have suddenly become an icon you know? Many seem to have forgotten the idea of "God-killer" and are instead latching to the ideal of the "Sekiryuutei of the people". Or at least those who are the masses think that way. It can still be said that those in high positions are still looking at you with suspicious eyes. Perhaps even fear. Though I can't help but giggle at it.]

Ise-kun became shocked at the news.

"Eh?! Eeeeeeh?! Meee?! No way! I got that many points?! All because of public opinion?! So my image has changed again?! Eeeeeeeh?!"

Lady Phenex giggled at his reaction.

[Ufufufufu. Indeed, that is the way it has turned out. Though, your magnificent displays of power also played a role in it. That is why we'd like to honour you. Ravel explained it to me just prior to the match, but apparently she has become your manager. This makes me happy. That's why, in the same sense that you have won the match, Ravel - who has become your manager, has also gained a great victory by representing you. She will also surely earn merits because of it. That's why, this celebration is in honour of the two of you specifically. It would truly make me happy if you could attend. Will you consider it?]

Ise-kun immediately placed a hand over his chest.

"Yes! Yes, of course! It would be my pleasu— No, it would be my honour! I am truly grateful! Please allow me to attend!"

Lady Phenex giggled at his response again. But this time, there was an obvious joy.

[Ufufufufu~ Of course~ I am truly happy that you have accepted. Thank you for allowing Ravel to become your manager. I am sure she will be in the best care, being by your side.]

"No, no, it's the same here! The fact that Ravel was able to stay by my side all this time— Thank you! I am the one who has been in her care up till now. But from now on, I will personally vow to make sure that she is happy and properly taken care of! That is my promise!"

Ravel's face became red while Raiser groaned with his head in his hand. Lady Phenex responded with absolute joy.

[Oh dear~ Thank you very much~ Truly, you have no idea how delighted I feel to hear that from you, ufufufufu~ Yes, yes. Ravel will surely be in great hands from now on. I entrust her to you fully, Hyoudou Issei-san.]

"O-O-O-Okaa-sama!?"

Ravel shouted in a high pitched voice with extreme embarrassment. Her entire head was releasing smoke. Ise-kun only nodded his head firmly.

"Yes, of course! Thank you for believing in me!"

[Oh it is no problem dear~ Raiser~ Please go ahead and give Hyoudou Issei-san the proper details when the time comes will you?]

"Haaaaah?! Why must it be me that does it?! Ravel can do it herself, she lives in the same estate!"

[Raiser~ That isn't the way a brother should act to their own sibling, now is it, "Onii-sama"~?]

"Onii-sam—!? Mother, you—!?"

[Raaaaiseeer~]

"Geeeeeeeeeh—!"

Raiser growled in frustration before handing a card with Devil letters to Ise-kun.

"Grr! Fine! Here! This is my personal contact information! I will contact you about the details at the proper time!"

"Eh? O-Oh, okay. Thank you…"

"Quiet..!"

It seemed like Raiser wanted to say more but stopped himself and sighed deeply. His body slouched in a depressed manner.

"...How else do you expect me to react?... I didn't think it would happen so soon…. No, wasn't the order supposed to be different anyway? I was wrong the whole time?..."

"...A-Ano~ Raiser-saaaan~?... Moshi, moshi~?..."

Ise-kun tried call out to Raiser who was slumped in a depressed manner. He didn't respond clearly and kept mumbling. Lady Phenex gave her goodbyes.

[Well, with all of that being said, I bid you farewell, Hyoudou Issei-san. We hope to see you at the celebration.]

"Eh? Ah, yes! Of course! Thank you! I will see you then! G-Goodbye!"

With that, the magic circle faded from Raiser's hand. Raiser sighed again with his head down. Then he turned around and left.

"Ah, um, see you later I guess, Raiser!"

"Yes….. Goodbye…"

He left with that.

"...Well then….. Let's go home, right?"

---

Chii!

[Station arrival - Lift 3.]

Our gondola arrived at the station we first arrived to before the match. Ise-kun was the first to stand up. He stood up and picked up the body of Gasper who sleeping against his shoulder. He carried him piggyback style and stepped off the lift. We all followed.

"Huuuu~ I'm tired."

He walked in front of our group with Ravel by his side…. But….

"Ise."

He stopped. Buchou had called out to him from beside us. We were all lined up together…... This is the moment….. Ise-kun sighed lightly.

"...Well…..That's time I guess."

He turned to face us. He held a calm expression. In that one moment, I could tell that the girls could no longer hold it. Buchou spoke through her tears.

"Ise—! We—! I—! I—! I—!"

But—

"I know."

—Ise-kun...… had a friendly smile on his face..

"It's alright. —I've already forgiven you."

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

At that moment— every one of those girls from our group threw themselves towards him.

"ISE!"

All in tandem with each other.

"—Gah! Te! Oi! Calm down..! Don't cry..! Wait..! Don't cling onto me, you'll wake up Gasper!"

Ise-kun tried his best to avoid having any of the girls sobbing on him touch Gasper who was on his back, as to avoid waking him from his peaceful sleep. Every one of those girls latched tightly to his form while sobbing uncontrollably, as he desperately kept his back from being meddled with.

After a short while of it, he simply sighed defeatedly.

"Yeah, yeah, alright. I get it. Just try crying quieter will ya? Gasper will seriously wake up otherwise."

He said that with a wry smile. Rossweisse-san breathed a sigh of relief from next to me… I couldn't help but have my heart feel relieved at witnessing the scene as well… Despite how much the girls were crying, it was easy to tell that they were simply pouring out their hearts, and would soon feel an overwhelming joy.

…

…

But am I the only one among us that realizes it?...

—My gaze shifted to the right of the group huddled with Ise-kun…. On that right was a young woman….. The one who accompanied him throughout his entire journey away from us… The one, that during the game, he proclaimed something for….. He…..

….

Perhaps it was because the message itself was vague. [Lend me your strength, my love] followed by a name a few seconds later, in a completely different sentence…. Perhaps it is because it was not a direct confession….. Perhaps it is because that can be interpreted in multiple ways, that you all decide to interpret it as something different… Or perhaps you simply wish not to see it… Perhaps…...you find it much easier to live with, if you were just to chop it all up….as nothing but a misinterpretation…..nothing but a misunderstanding…..

…..Yet, you all seem to fail in realizing…...that that was exactly what landed us in this position in the first place….

…..

—My gaze remained set on the girl at the sidelines. She looked to the man of the group with enchanted eyes. As if completely captivated by his very existence. A soft light glowing in the deep sea blue of her irises, and a pink blemish stuck to her cheeks.

…...

The last thing I looked to was the friendly smile of that man she looked to… A smile that looked like the ones we missed from our past…

…..But somehow...felt as if….it just wasn't the same…..

…..

….Are we all…...just fools?...

---

-Indra-

After finishing the commentary for the game I, Azazel, am walking towards the VIP room. I received a call from my subordinate that the "said person" showed himself in the VIP room. VIP rooms are all single rooms and there are many of them in the stadium. It seems like all of them are used for this game. The Old Man Odin is at the VIP room for "Valhalla". Zeus and Poseidon are at the room for "Olympus". All of them are at their designated rooms with their guards. I was walking towards one of the VIP rooms.

And the "said person" came out of the room I was walking towards with his guards. He has a buzz-cut hairstyle and he's wearing circular sunglasses, an aloha shirt and has a jewel around his neck. The "said person" is wearing a rough outfit that wouldn't be worn by someone with an important position… Well I'm not the one who can speak about other people's clothing though. I then spoke to the "said person"... Śakra.

"Well if it isn't Śakra-dono. How was the game?"

"Oh? Hey, the fallen-angel brother of justice! It was a smoking hawt match! For the fallen-angel brother who is siding with the current Maou-faction, it was good that your "student" won the match right? The Gremory team. That team has members that surpass common sense. Normal teams won't be able to put up a fight against them."

….He does speak with sarcasm like always. He's a person with ultimate-class power among the entire factions in the world. The Emperor of Heaven. The Warrior-God, who defeated the God-of-Battle, Asura….. There was something I wanted to ask this Emperor-of Heaven. It has something to do with the incident at Kyoto involving the terror done by Hero-faction.

"There is something I want to ask you."

"HAHAHA! What is it fallen-angel brother of justice! If it's me you want, then I will gladly answer."

"….The longinus possessor. You knew about Cao Cao before we did, did you not?"

I received a report from Ise that Son Goku who serves Śakra knew Cao Cao. Yes. This guy knew about Cao Cao since he was a child. He had contacts with the man with the Ultimate holy-spear. Somewhere at the place we didn't know about. Śakra then made a pleasant smile as if he meant something.

"What about it? What will you do? Is there any dissatisfaction if I knew him since he was a brat? Is it because I didn't report it? Or is it….because I had contact with him?"

….Such a cocky thing this bastard says….! He revealed it himself…!

"Indra…..!"

I called out that name with my voice filled with rage. Śakra then smirked.

"HAHAHA! You seriously like to make it entertaining by calling me by that name. Should I call you "Ash Crow" then? Don't make a scary face like that Aza-boy. If you get pissed at something like that, then what God of the Dead, Hades, is doing right now can change the whole map of the factions you know?"

He knows about Hades… Just how much does he know…? Śakra then points his finger at me.

"I will tell you one thing, youngster. All of the factions are saying "Peace" and "Negotiation". But within their mind they are thinking that "Our mythology is the strongest! Other mythologies should just be wiped out, you shit!". The shitty-geezer, Odin, and shitty-old man, Zeus, are the only ones who don't think like that and they are naïve. Though, that Shinto faction has seemingly come around as well for an inexplicable reason. No, HAHA! It surely has to do with the "Aegis boy" doesn't it? Well, no matter. The mentality of the majority is still the same! After all, it's easy to gather the thoughts of humans if the God they believe in doesn't exist! It's common sense to think that other religions can just rot, you know? Just how many Gods do you think exist that fell so low because your religion invaded our territory and took away our believers and lowered the beliefs they had towards us by making us turn into "myths"? You should just look back on each mythology. Gods are beings who are more honest with their grudges and hard feelings than humans, you know?"

…I know that. It's true that there are those who have become honest with the idea of peace, but they are the minority. Even if any of the mythologies and Gods take the official stance of negotiation, we can't tell what they are thinking deep within. No. It's obvious that they are thinking of making their move if they see the chance. But that official position is what is important right now! If the power-balance changes, then the Human World can be destroyed easily…! Then Śakra makes a sigh.

"Well, I will cooperate from the "outside". Ophis and the others are certainly a nuisance."

Ophis and the others, huh. Hey Śakra, is Cao Cao also included in that "others" as well…..?

"Also send this message to that Chichiryuutei— No. I will call him the "Aegis Dragon". Tell that God-killer: [It was a great fight. If you were to become a threat to this World, then I will eliminate you along with your spirit. The ones who can use the name "Heaven" are already enough with us. There are many "protectors" that make you unnecessary. We do not need an "Arbitrator to the Gods". Do not overstep your boundaries, "Justice Dragon"]."

Śakra leaves after saying that.

…. Śakra….Hades…. It looks like this World will still continue to shake. Ophis. The black snakes you are giving gathers powers, it strengthens their powers, it makes them get drunk on their own powers, and is becoming a threat to the World. Your dream is… making the World go into Chaos.

—The image of a certain small red figure standing in the face of overwhelming monstrous beings clouds my sight.

….You fool…

END

---

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM! 50 FUCKING THOUSAND WORDS RIGHT THERE YOU PIECES OF SHIT. HOW WAS THAT?! WAS THAT WORTH THE WAIT, HUH?! AND IT HASN'T EVEN BEEN A FULL MONTH SINCE THE LAST UPDATE. FUCK ME. I'M FUCKIN CRACKED IN THE HEAD AIN'T I?

Anyway…there's something I kinda want to say. I did a lot of preparation for this chapter, as I do with all [Milestone Chapters]. If you read Red Dragon Of Golden Light then you know what that is, but for those of you who don't know: A milestone chapter is basically just a long ass chapter that happens to have some sort of events/event that is so fucking big and significant that it easily makes the chapter one of the best or simply most important chapters in the series. This was obviously one of those. Because it's so amazing and significant, like literally the one we've all been waiting for. But anyway, I did a lot of preparation for it, like all milestone chapters. That preparation was basically: [Read Volume 10 of the Light Novel 100 times so I know it backwards and upside down] and reread the story that inspired me to ever create this one in the first place, [reread an Indomitable Will by Lionheart021]. Now this is what I want to say: When I created this story I did it with one intention, mainly to inspire but that goes for all my stories. My true main purpose for this story was one thing: [Surpass the legendary Indomitable Will, the best betrayal story there is]. And the reason I mention it is this: ...I fucking did it.

I surpassed [Indomitable Will]. In fact, I long surpassed it. I didn't realize it until I reread it, but, was that really the best betrayal story out there? I mean, don't get me wrong, no hate, all love. That story is still a part of me, but looking back at it, was I really so blinded by my love for it that I didn't realize the glaring flaws about it? My goal was always to surpass that story in terms of writing, and in fact it was one of the stories I wanted to surpass in general for any genre. But looking back at it now, i had already long surpassed it since my first story…. This story had already surpassed it by the first chapter…. Because looking back at it, this story is basically exactly what I intended it to be without even realizing [the better version of Indomitable Will]. This story, in every way, surpasses it. In terms of characters, pacing, writing style, character developments, character interactions, believability, power scaling, presentation… basically everything. I have actually achieved one of the goals I set out for myself as a writer. This ain't me calling the story bad or hating on it in any (I wouldn't be here without that story), but looking at it as a critic that's just how it seems...

Now, this isn't me bragging or boasting about being superior or any stupid shit like that. I'm just having a moment because, the entire purpose I set out to write stores in the first place was to inspire other writers and even readers to come up to my face (metaphorically) and say: [Hey, I love your stories, but guess what! I wanna be a better writer than you! I like your stories but I wanna surpass them and your writing and make way better stuff than you!]. Hell, I could give a fuck if they hated my stories! As long as they're telling me they wanna surpass me then bring it on! I want to hear it! So far I've received one of those messages. A message from a random reader telling me that he is going to become a writer and He will [Surpass my writing and stories altogether]. That one message was all I ever needed. That's why I must my ass writing these insane chapters in my stories. That's why I fuck my sleeping schedule for the purpose of updating. Because hearing that my work inspired someone to try even harder and create greater stories for the community to enjoy, that makes it worth it.

So I actually want to say that I am grateful that I was able to read [Indomitable Will]. I want to thank Lionheart for creating that story. I am glad that story remains as a part of my history on fanfiction. But that's all I have to say about myself. Also go read Indomitable Will, I love it. While you're at it, read Dragon of Bael as well.

Ah, but just because I've "surpassed indomitable Will" doesn't mean I think I'm the best betrayal story. That's still yet to be determined. Long way from now. After all, there may actually be some betrayal story out there that is just fuckin GOLD and I could just be unaware of it. In which case, please tell me which one it is. I want to see it and improve with it while using it as an example. (P.S. Here's praying that Lionheart makes his long awaited return. Don't know if he'll ever come back, but a boy can dream.)

So, what did you guys think? Insane right? I know, I'm insane so of course it transfers to my writing. Please tell me what you all thought. And tell me exactly what you think will happen next. I'm not going to tell you, but I can tell you this much. Some of you had suspicions saying that there might be a gap in time before cannon timeline where original events take place before we get to Volume 11, and some of you got that right. I won't tell you exactly but if you thought Issei wouldn't be satisfied just sitting at home after everything….. well, the Adventures of the Foolish Sekiryuutei show hasn't been cancelled yet, has it?...

Also, what is it with authors giving away all the fucking answers all the time? I saw it as a minor issue in Indomitable Will but it's basically a thing everywhere. Why the fuck do authors just come out and say "Oh here's what's happening detail by detail!" "Oh here's the whole harem list before you get to see anything so you won't be able to genuinely enjoy the character interactions and development instead!"? Like what the fuck lol? I mean, yeah do your own thing, but like why are you ruining the experience? I don't know, just my opinion. Just something I wouldn't personally do. You do you booboo (Wow I have the gay).

Anyway, yeah tell me what you guys thought.

What did you think about the reunion of the ORC and their interactions all throughout the game? What did you think about Issei's interaction with the various Gods? What will Issei's gift from the Gods be? [Becoming a God or God-killer] What does that mean? What did you think about Issei's character throughout the entire chapter? What did you think about Issei's strength compared to cannon (objectively he was stronger than Sairaorg.)? What did you think about the new perfect Queen mode to replace "Cardinal Crimson Promotion", [Immortal Dragon of Aegis]? What did you think about Issei's fight with Sairaorg? Will Issei possibly evolve the other Triaina forms in the future, and if so, what will they be like? Did Gasper deserve that touching scene, or do you think someone else did? Has everything with the ORC really gone back to normal? What will happen with them next?

Last thing I wanna say is that this story has some seriously obvious parallels to [Red Dragon Of Golden Light], my main story (which by the way, I will be updating next, RETURN TO ASGARD BABY!). Like seriously: Red Dragon Of Golden Light? Serious involvement with Norse Gods and mythology, receives a gift from the Gods, Issei goes through a change early on, Issei doesn't have the title of Oppai Dragon but instead something inspirational, Issei has a mentor that he treats like family (Tannin), Issei has a blonde love interest (Asia), gets a female familiar, Issei's begin to take serious effect on the DxD world, He is the "Fool". Then there's A "Fool's" Heart: Serious involvement with Greek Mythology, receiving a gift from the Gods, Issei doesn't have the title of Oppai Dragon but instead something inspirational, Issei goes through a change later on, Issei has a mentor that he treats like family (Azazel), Issei has a blonde love interest, gets a female familiar, Issei's actions begin to take serious effect on the DxD world, and he is the fucking "Fool". So yeah, fuckin obvious parallels. But the most obvious thing they have in common, besides being my best stories, is that they're both based around the idea of "if the DxD universe made a lot more sense" lol.

Read, Rate, Review go crazy.

Stay frosty. [P.S. The Duality of Man (new story) will be continuing.]