No Reviews in this chapter, but I have news. To those who were not in the discord, I was recently scammed, and the scammer got away with most of my money. Almost lost my Discord Account, too, but a big shout-out to Discord Support for managing to help me get it back in 24 hours or less. Dunno the exact time. Anyway, in order to recover, it was decided, after much debate, to set up a page. If you wish to help me recover from this, please go over there and donate as much as you want, and if details are asked, I will answer them in PM.
The Link shall be posted below, altered, so as not to get my stuff in trouble.
Discord: /FVXgdXtMUv
"Take this!" With a strong shout, Issei struck Dummy with as much force as he could conjure in his sword and smiled with glee as he saw Dummy's arm fall off. It soon regenerated, but the simple fact he was able to inflict such a critical injury was rewarding in itself. Dummy was ready to attack him again, to continue their training, but a voice had them stop.
"That is enough!" Solomon declared. "Good job today, both of you." Dummy stood down and returned to his corner to rest. In the meantime, Issei let his Sacred Gear return to its default state, then turned to Leonna, who waited on him with a tray of Phoenix Tears, several bottles ready. Issei readily took one and used it, rejuvenating his weary body.
"That hits the spot," Issei muttered as he took in a deep breath. "Anything to tell me, Leonna?"
"Nothing, Master. The Mistresses have been mainly going about their day and training on their own within some of our other areas, both within and outside the Dragon's Fortress." She replied. "Tell me, Master, how is your progress?"
"It is going well, Leonna," Issei replied as he took a look at his stat page. "Very good."
It has been no more than a day since his last session, yet the progress was showing well. He had decided to train today, starting from his magic, advancing some more in his shadow magic, and even maxing out his [Minor Heal] skill. The maximum level brought him more HP that can heal, 250 more compared to the last amount.
It did, apparently, unlock the next tier, called [Average Healing], which healed 800 HP for 100 Mana. It was more expensive than its predecessor, and the difference was minor, but Issei was not going to overlook it. After all, this was just the first form of the skill. As such, he replaced the healing spell he had in his [Parallel Mind] with this one so he could level it up more easily.
And by that, he meant going bare-handed against Dummy. It hurt like a motherfucker, fighting him, as he was ALWAYS stronger than Issei, always able to push him further. But it rewarded him. He was right, as the skill did grow to heal up to 1000 HP, and the cost lowered to 80 instead of 100 Mana. He also got another level of proficiency in his healing magic, meaning more of it was now unlocked when he leveled up more skills.
Not to mention the first batch of a bonus of 100K EXP from his quest.
His proficiency in water magic also went up again. Another 100K. He also brought his [Meteor Flare] to maximum level, which made it grow as well. More damage and one more addition.
{Sub-Skill} [Meteor Flare - Greater] (Level 1| 000/400): A stronger variant of [Fireball], dealing +35% damage based on your MGI, along with the possibility to inflict the [Burn] status effect with a guaranteed chance! This Skill costs 20 Mana/use.
Of course, he trained with that spell as soon as he could. He trained it to level 5, at which point it received more damage. His fire magic was running low on skills he could use to increase his proficiency, but that meant he needed more proficiency to get more skills there first. What a vicious loop. He hasn't gone into his proficiencies for golems or familiars yet, as he still feels like he needs to focus on what he has developed more. He will worry about those after he is free of worry.
What he decided to train in was his demonic skills. He had the stuff he managed to replicate from Riser's Queen, but he knew he could do more. So, with a bit of training, he managed to create himself a new skill.
[Demonic Blast] (Level 1| 100/400): A most basic attack used by Devils, allowing you to shoot raw Demonic Energy at your enemies! The damage of this skill is dictated by 50% of both your STR and MGI stat, along with a 10% damage bonus by default. 200 D.P. per use.
Safe to say he trained that as much as he could. At level 5, it grew, giving him something new.
[Demonic Blast] (Level 5| 5000/6400): A most basic attack used by Devils, allowing you to shoot raw Demonic Energy at your enemies! The damage of this skill is dictated by 50% of both your STR and MGI stat, along with a 10% damage bonus by default. 200 D.P. per use. As of level 5, you can divide your projectile into three, with all projectiles sharing the same damage output.
Good progress across the board. Next, he trained his Youjutsu, using his ability to control the elements. Fire was maxed out, but air and earth were not. He got a level into Youjutsu and maxed out air first. The maximum level didn't allow the skill to grow in power again. He likely needed something else.
Still, so far, he had a bonus of 300K EXP.
He then focused on Earth, trying to raise that as well. It made Youjutsu level up again, and this time, it went to the next tier. 400K bonus EXP! But the amount of EXP maxing out Earth gave him allowed him to have that one level up fast. Namely, the proficiency was back at level 6 in no time! In total, this meant he had a bonus of 900K EXP waiting for him to claim! More than the Main Reward gave!
But what was more…He got new skills. A LOT OF THEM.
For maxing out your masteries over Fire, Air, and Earth, you have been hereby awarded the following skills.
{Sub-Skill} [Lightning Mastery] (Level 1| 000/400): A branch of [Fire Mastery] and [Air Mastery], considered the fire of the sky! This skill enables you to generate and unleash a bolt of lightning upon your enemies! 50 Ki per use.
{Sub-Skill} [Lava Mastery] (Level 1| 000/400): A branch of [Earth Mastery] and [Fire Mastery], enabling you to generate and control lava! You can generate lava by using rocks or drawing it from nearby! 20Ki/second while active.
{Sub-Skill} [Metal Mastery] (Level 1| 000/400): A branch of [Earth Mastery], enabling you to control metal! 20Ki/second while active. You can only control solid metals at this stage.
Nothing for air, but that was alright. He got a lot anyway, and Ddraig was more than just a bit excited about lava in general. Oh boy, he will need to find someplace to train that one since he had a feeling they won't be able to clean THAT from this place easily. Now, this did result in him gaining more corruption, but he was going to deal with it later.
His martial arts were already maxed out, so he was not going to gain any EXP bonuses from that. Deciding to max out his gains, he skipped that and went right for his swordsmanship. One level gained there saw him reach a total of 1 Million bonus EXP. A LOT of EXP. He also maxed out his [Dragon Grenade], which made it grow.
{Unique} [Dragon Grenade] (Level MAX): By using your brain, you have created this new attack! This Skill creates an explosive sphere of energy that, upon exploding, deals damage based on your STR Stat + 90%, even if said stat is currently under the effect of the [Boost] Skill. Note, that splash damage is a thing here. Depending on the distance from the explosion, enemies will receive less damage. This Skill costs 100 STA to use and has a 3-second cooldown between uses. As of level 5, you can launch Multi-Grenades as well, namely, a type of grenade that breaks into more, smaller grenades that all detonate at once, spreading the damage. However, know that the more a grenade splits, its power halves each time. As of MAX level, you can choose to either make the average grenades or the new sticky variant, which can stick to surfaces or beings! Additionally, you can control when those new grenades detonate!
It gained more power, a shorter cooldown, and a new capability. Now he was REALLY going to have fun with this one! He had also made a similar effort for his [Dragon Shot], maxing it out.
(Unique) [Dragon Shot] (Level MAX): By focusing your raw power on one point and then releasing it, you have developed this seemingly pathetic, but devastating attack! This Skill deals damage based on your STR Stat + 50%, even if said stat is currently under the effect of the [Boost] Skill. This Skill costs 50 STA to use. As of level 5, you can now charge this attack using your [Boost] skill. As of MAX level, you can use stored power to launch this attack as well!
No more cooldown and the possibility to virtually store up an attack powerful enough to erase a small town! Issei was thrilled about this the most. Other than this progress, however, he had also managed to score some increases in his stats. His STR had gone up by 6 points, AGI by 12 from all the running around Dummy, and DUR - by getting his ass kicked a fair bit - went up by 9. Solomon was right before; those three are easier to train.
After those, MGI increased by a whopping 24 points! Figures, considering how much he had used magic this time around. ACC also went up by 9 points. WIS and INT did, too, but only a little. INT went up by 5, and WIS by 7.
"Time to claim my due." Claiming his quest, Issei began to receive his EXP. First, he claimed the main reward, getting 4075200 EXP from that alone! His EXP bonuses were crazy. The fact he didn't level up from that alone even more so, but then came the next amounts. 100K EXP, turned into 509400 TEN TIMES OVER! 5094000 EXP in total!
Congratulations! You are now level 46!
"Yet another level…" He checked his EXP meter. "And halfway on my way to the next one. Good."
"Master!" Suddenly, Blackberry, of all beings, came rushing to them. "Master, I have news!"
"News?" Issei echoed in confusion. "What news, Blackberry?"
"Leonna, forgive me for not telling you first, but I had to inform Master directly! Mistress Rias Gremory had contacted Mistress Kuroka, who informed me right away. Master, your presence is being requested by Rias Gremory post-haste at Kuoh Academy!"
"Right now?"
"Yes, Master. Please forgive the short notice; I know you just finished your training and must be tired, but I am merely the messenger."
"Relax, Blackberry," Issei reassured him. "As you said, you only carried the message. I will wash as fast as I can, and then I will depart for Kuoh Academy at once. Where is everyone, though? Kuroka, Ingvild, Raynare, Asia, Ravel, and Mit?"
"Master, I can answer those questions," Leonna said, clearing her throat. "Mistress Kuroka and Mistress Ingvild are on the first floor of the Dungeon. There are several bodies of water that the two had decided to train next to, for Mistress Ingvild's sake, to improve her abilities further. Additionally, Mistress Asia and your…Spawns…They are with them as well. The little ones are very lively and training constantly!"
"Ah, don't forget that they are eating plenty too! Growing dragons eat a lot, and this group seems to have a strong preference for meat. I try to balance their meals, however." Blackberry added.
"The Fallen Angels are within the Fortress, with Mistress Raynare training Mit into her new duties, and Ravel Phenex is still in her room. She has not made many moves outside of it since her arrival, I'm afraid, but Blackberry here can confirm that she has been eating properly at the very least." Leonna finished.
"Did you make sure she was kept under watch when not in her room?" Issei asked.
"Yes, Master. The fact you lack trust in her is not lost, given what her father had done to you. But, forgive me, Master, I cannot understand why you haven't placed her under the power of the seal as well. It would ease your worries about her attempting something."
"Because I find it undeeded. Ravel had offered herself in exchange for my mercy regarding her father. A life exchanged for a life. She knows that, with her father under the seal, I can easily take his life should I want to." Issei added. "She knows I hold the cards and is playing along. However, I will also hold my part and not take the life of Ramon Phenex."
"Honor is a rare trait, Master," Blackberry commented. "You are wise, Master. But precaution never hurt anyone. If you desire, I can sneak a drug in her food to make her more docile-"
"No!" Issei replied strongly, spooking Blackberry. "No such thing! I forbid it!"
"I understand. Forgive my foolishness, Master! I will depart back to the kitchen."
"Keep working with diligence, Blackberry." And so, the shadowy being returned to his post, and Issei turned to Leonna. "I hope Ravel is not being treated badly, Leonna. She had no direct fault in what her father did. Do not blame Ramon's crime on her."
"Her treatment is as you wanted it, Master. Now, please proceed to the baths, for Mistress Rias is waiting."
After bathing and cleaning himself, Issei made quick haste to Kuoh, to the Occult Research Club building. He used his [Shadow Walk] to get there as fast as he could, as the sun was already setting down. However, upon resurfacing in the shadow of Rias' chair, his other skills kicked in. There were powerful beings here, and upon looking, he saw who it was.
"Ah, glad you could join us, Issei." Sirzechs Lucifer greeted him, holding a cup of tea, along with Ajuka Beelzebub, who looked a bit worn out. Rias was the only person in the room, her peerage nowhere to be seen. "Please, take a seat."
Walking from behind the seat Rias was in, he took the invitation extended to him, taking a seat on the opposite side of the couch from Ajuka. "I must say, I didn't expect you here, Sirzechs," Issei replied. "To what do I owe the visit? You must be a busy man, so I doubt this is a mere courtesy visit."
Sirzechs smiled. "Well thought, Issei. This is, indeed, not a visit out of courtesy. We wished we'd have the time for such visits, but our schedules are always tight. No, we are here to request some things from you and also to explain some other bits and pieces. First, I guess I should begin with my main shame- the Kokabiel incident. I deeply apologize for being unable to come to your aid."
"I can understand if something was making you unable to come, Sirzechs," Issei replied, showing some understanding to the devil. "But do tell, what was it that saw you unable to come? I don't imagine it was a conflict, given how easily you might have been able to deal with it, so I assume it was something political."
"More than you can imagine, Red Dragon," Ajuka stated. "I'm afraid that the incident that saw Sirzechs tied down was my fault, as I was the person who ultimately created the objects in question."
"Oh?"
"Issei, I know you are not in the loop about news from Hell, so allow me to explain further." Rias offered. "Some time ago, a news reportage revealed the fact that the Great King Faction - one of the factions in Hell, which formed after the Devil Civil War - utilized an illegal Evil Piece to rig the Rating Games and amass massive amounts of wealth and influence, in addition to using every underhanded method in the book to keep their affairs a secret."
"Wait, you mean to tell me that the reason you couldn't come was a massive political scandal?" Issei summarized it. "I see. Indeed, this does sound serious. If you also claim it was on the news first, it means the public learned and was sent into an uproar."
"That is the general idea, yes," Ajuka confirmed. 'We have been spending the last week and more trying to manage the situation. The Great King Faction has been abolished, and we captured most of its members, including leaders. Some of them escaped but are now wanted. The ones we have captive are pending trials and investigations, but we were able to clear several individuals already as not being connected to the corruption in any shape or form or having knowledge of it."
"And what, can you tell, is this illegal Evil Piece? This is the first time I hear of such a thing." Issei asked again.
"It was the King Piece, which holds a power similar to yours. It allows its wielder to enhance their power up to a hundredfold!" Sirzechs explained, which caught Ddraig's attention.
"Cheap knock-off!"
Sirzechs cleared his throat. "Y-Yes, Red Dragon, Ddraig, it was. Their power greatly resembled yours, as I believe Ajuka here based them on a previous Red Dragon."
"That I did. I wished to replicate the Boost ability, but in the end, it was a failure. And a hazzard. I realized how easily those pieces can be exploited and the threat they pose to not just us but all of the Supernatural World should they become commonplace. Their production was stopped early, with only a limited number of them existing. I kept part of them for further research and ordered the rest to be destroyed, but the Great King Faction managed to steal them before that happened."
"I see…This is indeed troubling."
"Luckily, along with raiding every single known compound and property they owned, we also found records of hidden locations, and confessions were made that allowed us even to find where they kept the rest of the King Pieces. Currently, they should be in the process of being destroyed as we speak."
"Good. I guess that means your scandal is calming itself down, is it now?" Issei asked.
"It is. The waters are getting calmer. Although there are still stirs, the situation has been stabilized." Sirzechs replied. "As such, this is allowing us to proceed with another endeavor we have been desiring to fulfill for years now."
"We are going to finally sign an official peace treaty with Heaven and the Grigori," Ajuka added, which surprised Issei.
"Peace? Truly?"
"Those are great news indeed!" Even Ddraig seemed in favor of it.
"There are voices in every faction that demand that we maintain the status quo or re-ignite the war, but we all managed to gather enough support to enact this treaty. We will be meeting with Azazel of the Grigori upon the day of the treaty." Ajuka continued, but Issei caught on to a certain detail.
"And Heaven?" He asked.
"Well, he is running a little late," Sirzechs said, and Issei was quick to piece things together. "Do not worry; he knows how to keep his presence under check so that he won't harm Rias here."
"Who?" Issei asked, but then he felt a shiver running down his spine as [Danger Sense]...Didn't activate.
"My deep apologies for the delay, Lords Lucifer and Beelzebub." Turning around to see who appeared behind him, Issei was met with the sight of a handsome-looking man with long blond hair and green eyes wearing a red robe with a gold cross on the front of his white alb, golden shoulder plates with a white sash and a golden halo set above his head. His eyes were shaped in a perpetually sad manner, yet Issei didn't think he was actually sad. However, his skill told him who this was.
[Michael]
[Level 242]
"My word, It's him! Archangel Michael, leader of the Seraphin!" Solomon shouted within Issei. "He is the one who entrusted to me my ring!"
Suddenly, adopting a face of confusion briefly, Michael looked at Issei, seeing the boy standing with the Satans. "You must be the Red Dragon Emperor of this generation, Issei Hyoudou. Please allow me to introduce myself. I am Michael, of Heaven, at your service."
The angel took the spot next to Sirzechs. "Glad you could make it, Michael. I hope everything is alright in Heaven."
"Like always, Sirzechs Lucifer. Like always."
"Michael…" Issei muttered his name, which drew the attention of the angel. "I must say, I didn't expect this. Guess peace really is on the horizon if devils and angels can meet like this."
"Yes. It is a joyous occasion that is bound to bring prosperity to our races. No longer having to worry about further diminishing our populations in senseless fighting, and instead working together toward a new state of paradise, is a dream the Lord has had for many years before his passing." Michael replied, and then he changed the subject. "However, I am also glad to have met you, Red Dragon. In truth, I was going to originally contact you separately, but Sirzechs insisted we meet."
"Truly? And for what reason did you wish to meet with me? I am sure I made my standing clear several times already about my standing in the larger political scheme of things." Issei said back, but Michael simply put his hand up.
"At ease, Ise…I hope I can call you as such; I heard it is how close friends call you."
"I don't mind. In fact, everyone here can be counted as a friend, so feel free to call me as you desire."
"Thank you. As I said, I wished to discuss certain matters with you separately, but upon the request of my colleague, I joined you here today. Ise, I first wish to apologize for the trouble the Church has caused you. Had we protected them better, Kokabiel wouldn't have been able to take the Excalibur fragments and bring them here. I also apologize for the rudeness you may have faced from our agents. Prejudice and innate dislike for the unholy races are deeply engraved into our agents from the early stages of their training. With this peace treaty, I hope to overhaul this and teach more acceptance and understanding instead of, if I may call it such, racism."
"Apologies have been accepted, although I do have to say that at the end of the ordeal I have been…Most surprised by how Irina Shidou acted." Michael perked up at the name.
"Irina Shidou? You know her?"
"She and I were childhood friends. To see her again after so many years was quite a shock…And to learn she was actually a woman. That girl was a tomboy when she was young." That line actually seemed to draw a slight chuckle from Sirzechs. "But, the thing is…I barely recognized her. And when she left, she gave Xenovia such a cold stare that it felt like they were never even friends."
"I see. Truly, it checks out with what the Church is currently teaching its agents. I also know of the situation surrounding Xenovia Quarta, including her recent shift to becoming a devil. I do not condemn the child for her decision, and I hope that, at the very least, her faith remains strong."
"I can confirm that." Rias suddenly stated. "From what I heard, she keeps a strict habit of prayer. However, due to her nature, such things bring her nothing but harm. We barely convinced her to hide away any holy symbols from her room, as their presence was doing her harm."
"I see…Yet the child still prays. Poor soul, she truly did not deserve any of this." Michael stated, lamenting Xenovia's situation. "Unfortunately, there is nothing I can do. Please understand, Ise, that in order to maintain the Christian Religion, keeping the secret of God's passing is essential. Only the Pope and his Cardinals are privy to such information from among the Church."
"I can understand the need to maintain the faith, but isn't there a way to ease her pain? Her faith remains strong despite what happened." Issei asked, to which Michael nodded his head immediately.
"Absolutely. I can access her file in God's System and set her as an exception. She will be allowed to pray again without worry of harm."
"Is God's System really so powerful?" Issei asked in curiosity.
"I'm afraid I cannot speak of God's System freely, Ise. But yes, it is." Michael replied.
"What about Asia? Asia Argento?" Issei pressed on.
"I remember her. I also know of her current situation, being under her care. You have my gratitude for aiding her in her time of need, Ise. Despite the immense lust and sins I see in you, I can tell your soul is kind and honest. Lust is the weakest of sins easiest to forgive…Although, I won't hold my hopes up, considering the reputation of Red Dragons."
"Ddraig, is this reputation really that great?"
"Oh yeah…Oh yeah…"
Michael cleared his throat to get Issei's attention yet again. "There is also the matter of compensation. The other Seraphs and I had acknowledged, Ise, your aid in recovering the Excalibur fragments as truly instrumental. Yet, the Church had made no move to compensate you for your aid, and as such, I come bearing a gift."
Stretching his hand over the table, Michael summoned forth a golden magical circle, and from it, a sword was raised. "Impossible…" Resembling four golden dragon claws sticking upwards, before he was a European sword with a grey hilt, a red diamond design imprinted on it surrounded by four blue lines that curve slightly, and a golden pommel in the shape of a cone-like arrow. The blade was also notched three times on both sides near the bottom, and the fuller, which reaches slightly above the notches, has a gold edge in the shape of a large pearl, and the rest is colored purple.
"A sword?" Issei asked, seeing the blade, then he used his skill on it.
[Ascalon]
[A holy sword specifically meant to slay dragons! Wielded by Saint George himself, this is truly a weapon worthy of Heaven's warriors!]
"Ascalon?!" Ajuka gasped in surprise.
"Oh my…" Even Sirzechs was speechless.
"Yes. It is my compensation to you, Issei Hyoudou. I know of your destiny to battle the White Dragon. The power of this sword would serve you well."
Picking up the sword, Issei checked it a bit. However, it felt…wrong in his hands. It was tingling him, almost stinging him. "It is trying to hurt me." He stated.
"It's nature makes it attack you. I apologize, but we have several rituals we must put it through before it becomes safe to use for-"
"No." Issei put the sword back on the table. "Thank you for your kind offering, but I refuse it, Michael."
"W-what?" Michael stuttered, his eyes widening slightly. "But wouldn't this give you a major advantage against the White Dragon Emperor when you finally fight him?"
"It would trust me on that, but Ascalon…Doesn't want to be wielded by a dragon." Issei stated, which made Ajuka confused. The Super Devil leaned toward Issei a bit, then made a certain discovery as Issei dropped the little transformation magic he learned to hide his eyes, showing the devil the change.
"By the nine rings of Hell!" Ajuka gasped, and everyone in the room was speechless at what they were seeing. "Ise, what have you done to yourself?"
"I cannot reveal much, still, yet know that I began to alter my race." He revealed, further surprising everyone. "I am slowly turning into a dragon, but it is not a fast process. However, I am already 10% dragon."
"If what you say is true, then Ascalon would never accept you." Michael sent the sword back to Heaven and bowed his head. "I apologize; I have nothing else I can give."
Issei let his eyes turn back to normal. Truth be told, once he learned the magic, it was integrated into the skill. It didn't manifest as a separate skill. "Actually…" Issei trailed off, thinking about the one thing Michael COULD give him. "There is something you can offer me to compensate me."
"I-" Michael perked up, seeming a bit uneasy. "Do you…Are you going to ask for indecent images of Gabriel?"
"Huh?" Now, it was Issei's turn to be confused. "I don't even know what she looks like. Heck, until some time ago, I didn't know Gabriel was a woman."
"The bible tends to change some details," Michael added. "But, if that is not it, what could you desire?"
"Durandal. For Xenovia to use." Issei stated, and Michael seemed almost relieved.
"I see. I had a feeling you might ask that of me, Red Dragon. I didn't expect you to turn down Ascalon, but I did predict you might request the Holy Sword Durandal. As I said, I can see you have a kind soul. Very well. I will send word for the sword to be shipped to this place. It will arrive tomorrow at the earliest hour."
"Great. Now, is there anything else you wanted to discuss, Archangel Michael?"
"Please, call me Michael, Ise. And…Well, Sirzechs and Ajuka here said we were going to 'crash' at your home?"
Issei twitched at that. "Guys?"
"Apologies, Ise, for the short notice." Sirzechs apologized, although judging from his grin, he didn't really mean it. "Hope you can receive us."
"Indeed." And Ajuka was in on it, too. "The signing ceremony is in one week. We will orchestrate a fake incident to close the Academy for three days, approaching the date of the signing. During this time, we hope you can provide us with housing, Red Dragon."
Issei sighed. "I wish I could say I cannot…"
"You cannot lie, by the way," Michael added. "One of my abilities allows me to see through any lie spoken in my presence."
"As expected of Lord Michael! He is truly great!"
"Huh…So, angels are your weakness, noted."
Ignoring Ddraig and Solomon, Issei continued his talk with them. "Very well. I should have plenty of rooms. Granted, what I will show you must not be spread around, even to your closest allies. Even your wife, Sirzechs."
The man nodded. "Understood."
"Now, on another note…About Irina Shidou…" Michael began. "Ise, I inform you that she will be joining me in two days. Her behavior during this event will reflect greatly in my final decision about her."
"And what decision is that?"
"Well, whether she is worthy of becoming an angel under me," Michael revealed, which surprised Issei.
"Truly? I was not aware Heaven has such methods."
"It is still in development but very close. If Irina proves worthy, I will reincarnate her as an angel. However, as you said, the awful teachings of the Church have taken a strong grip on her. I will try to steer her on the right path during our stay."
Issei sighed. "I also hope…I can get my Irina back."
"We are also going to be using this time to talk about some last-minute details about the treaty," Ajuka added. "Matters between Heaven and Hell."
"Well then…" Issei raised his cup of tea in the air. "Cheers, guys! To peace!"
"To peace!" Everyone cheered at once.
"Tell me…Is everything prepared?" Ignium asked as he sat at his desk, several bits of papers laid before him.
"Yes." And the one who replied was not one of his own, but rather, a representative of the Old Satan Faction. They were there to ensure the further cooperation of the General with their little club of purists. "From what we know, the conference shall be held within Kuoh Academy in a few days. Are your soldiers prepared?"
"This is what most of them had been bred for," Ignium replied without looking away from the current document he was holding. "Besides, it is not like such a force will have trouble stirring the pot, but…I truly hope you thought shit through. We'd be going against quite the numbers."
"Our spy has ensured us that there shall be no trouble. He shall provide us with aid during the assault." The representative stated. "You, on the other hand, must do your part."
Ignium chuckled, having picked up on the tone that they took with him. It annoyed him, but that is what he did when something that compared to him no more than an ant to an elephant tried to use what little authority they thought they held. However, Ignium was no one's dog. No one's fool. "I suggest you watch your tone of voice, young one…It'd be a shame if your tongue went up in flames."
The representative flinched, clearing their throat. "I apologize if I overstepped, S-Sir, but understand that I am here under express orders from Shalba Beelzebub. They desire to see this operation go off without so much as a hitch."
"And they will have a bloodbath, mark my words. However, do not assume a bunch of DEVILS can order a DEMON around." Ignium made his point clear. "I care not what bullshit they spit about their superiority. Those brats had never seen a day of war in their lives, and they will die the same! At least their ancestors had the wisdom of having fought in the War in Heaven, together with Lucifer, but they have jack shit!"
"S-Sir, please, do not badmouth the Satans; they are-"
"NOT MY MASTERS." Ignium's final statement was made as his sheer voice shook the room. His sclera darkened as the mere Devil before him shrunk in fear. "Return to your masters, and tell them that I will uphold what I promise to them: The conference will end in blood. But they best keep their end of the bargain, too, otherwise…" He lifted his hand, a symbol appearing on it. "I need not say what this will do, do I?"
"No, Sir! No! I will do as you command!" And so, the representative ran, their metaphorical tail between their legs.
"Tch. Brats." Ignium said as he overlooked the documents again. Information about the upcoming conference they were able to acquire, in no small amount, thanks to the spy that had been mentioned. Michael, Sirzechs, Ajuka, Serafall, Azazel, the two Dragons Emperors…Those poor saps really are in over their heads if they believe they can attack and expect a crushing victory.
Oh no, Ignium was no fool like them. He knew their little plan was as doomed to fail as they come. Burning away the paper-he had copies - and getting up, the demon walked out of his office. The dim artificial sun of the underworld sky was the only thing illuminating the stone-cold hallway he walked through, heading to another room.
He passed several soldiers, all of them standing at the ready, with discipline that was inspired in them a long time ago. They saluted him as they passed, and as Ignium kept walking, he eventually came to his destination. A large door made of iron and gold, with a five-leaf clover engraved at the very front.
Without hesitation or fear, he pushed the doors open. Walking in, torches on the wall lit up from his mere power alone and cast light upon the table in the heart of the room. And in every seat, except for one at the other end of the room, which was his, stood his Colonels. The leaders of the Snake of Adam, rule in his absence. Their authority could be overruled only by his alone.
Standing at the table, Ignium recounted each of them. From his left to his right, they were both old and young. First, to his immediate left, sat Colonel Darium Satanachia of the Satanachia House. They were an older man with their face covered by an antelope skull, an old tradition of his house for its head to wear such a mask at important events, alongside long, flowing gray robes. Their face might be hidden, but the direct tell of their age lay in their long, whitening beard. This here was a child of the direct demon who started his House. This here was a child of the original Satanachia.
Next to him stood another damned soul, younger this time. The boy in question had jet-black hair, with their only visible eye being a powerful yellow hue that seemed to glow in the dim light. The other half of their face, however, was strongly covered by a simple, white mask, and they dressed more officially, donning a proper uniform. The Colonel's uniform within the Snake consisted of a black combination of pants, boots, and shirt, with bright golden detailings, along with the medals of honor that signified their rank being displayed on their chest. This was no head of his house, and that honor was going to their father, but he was on this council for a reason.
Indeed, Alonzo Agaliarept is everyone's enigma. Ignium liked the fact that the kid took to seriously suppressing his house's ability. No one at the table was immune to it. Not even Ignium himself.
Next to him, however, stood the only woman on the council. Long, icy-blue flowing hair and a perfect hourglass figure drew the attention of the old demon right away. He hasn't been in the loop about the current members of his council, as there have been some changes. Heck, there had been some who passed their seats on mere weeks before his return! But this woman must have been quite something. She wore the same uniform as Alonzo; granted, it was clearly a bit…Tight around the chest area, she sported a healthy pair of Double D-cup breasts.
She had no choice but to attend with a bit of cleavage showing, 'less she suffocate for the sake of modesty. Her eyes, a strange occurrence, with a yellow sclera and black irises, gave her quite the menacing look. But Ignium knew that her look reflected her power directly. Ah, yes. She was Jeanne Fleurety of the Fleurety House.
The next one was another older gentleman with gray hair. He sported a clean look, however, with a well-shaved face. His eyes were normal, all things considered, sporting only the same deep crimson as Alonzo, but his eyes were weary. Figures, considering how much this man must have seen. Like Alonzo, he wore the uniform required, yet he also wore a sword tied tightly to his hip. This man was Sanac Sarganatas of the Sarganatas house.
All of those individuals were part of the former Houses of the Lucifer Six. Officers who held positions higher than those within the Ars Goetia, or as they are now known, the 72 pillars. Lucifer's most trusted…Until they were reduced to four. The cowardly Naberius, who switched sides, and the crumbling Lucifuge house, whose daughter joined the enemy during the Devil Civil War.
However, the final person on this council was not part of that ranking. Marakus Aim, who sat at Ignium's right. A large, imposing man with a bald head and dark green eyes. He stood at the table wearing no such thing as a uniform, only the pants of it, to display his own battle-earned scars. Burns. Marakus' body had several burns and slashed over it, scarred, of course. Why, his entire left arm was nothing but a fancy prosthetic made of enchanted steel specifically designed for him.
Whenever this man stood up, he loomed over all but Ignium with his size alone. He wielded great power; Ignium knew it well. How else would he be able to get to his position? His achievements, loyalty, discipline - all of them were more than enough to see him placed upon this Council.
"Glad to see you could all make it," Ignium stated to his Colonels. "Now, how about we begin our meeting with the first order of business?"
"I didn't think I'd get to see the day, Sir," Darium said, his voice reflecting his age even more.
"I doubt any of us believed this day would come in our time, Darium dear," Jeanne replied. "Our dear General, back from captivity, and more importantly, finally making use of our might."
"Indeed, it does seem like it is time for the snake to shed its scales, adopting a more…threatening pattern," Sanac added. "Tell us, Sir, what are our plans?"
"First, we must ensure that our targets are met in Eastern Europe. What is the news regarding Objective Crimson and Objective Stake-Out?" Ignium asked, and then Alonzo took out a document.
"According to our latest reports, Objective Stake-Out is growing increasingly docile. Most likely, the ordeal they have her put through day to day, utilizing her Gear, has taken a toll on her mind, and now it is beginning to fall apart. Thankfully, we can attest to there being no attempts to abuse her in any unsightly ways, as our soldiers are on guard. Well-disciplined, as opposed to those who were responsible for the kidnapping of Ingvild Leviathan."
"Hmm. And Objective Crimson?" Alonzo flinched a bit.
"I'm afraid that…We've lost Objective Crimson, Sir."
"What?" Ignium fixed his gaze at Alonzo.
"As we were preparing for extraction of Objective Crimson, the humans fought back. We dealt massive losses to their numbers, but we suffered a few ourselves. Given the nature of the operation, we couldn't afford to send that many troops, so we were forced to retreat. Unfortunately, this also meant that The Light of Allah has managed to move the objective elsewhere. Where? We currently do not know."
"Damn Muslims, trying to hold on to their only trophy left, heh?" Ignium muttered, then rubbed his face. "Steel-Blitz, I want an update on that one, and it better be good news."
"Sir!" Marakus stood up. "I am pleased to report that thanks to the Puppet Master's efforts, utilizing a device he had managed to create for this operation, we were able to recover the objective from the bottom of the ocean."
"Finally! Someone worth the money and resources wasted on them! Where is it, Marakus?"
"Restauration work has already begun, Sir. The Puppet Master, after having managed to recover Errgo, has taken charge of the project and is currently working with members of your guard."
"I didn't ask on a progress report, Colonel. I asked for location."
"Forgive me, Sir. The ship has been taken to a secure location, in the most northern point of Norway, at the base: Frozen Timbers." Marakus corrected. "Though, if I may be so bold, Sir, why recover a relic from one of the World Wars?"
"Well, the ship has its value. A true marvel of engineering for its time, for one, and with some supernatural innovation, it will become quite the flagship of our forces. Additionally? There is something on that ship I am after. What? That is none of your concerns. Know that it is something I plan to offer to a certain someone, in hopes that they may consider being more friendly toward us."
"You had us recover the Bizmark from the bottom of the ocean for a trinket onboard?" Alonzo questioned. "What could be so precious that'd catch your eye, Sir?"
"That, Alonzo, is something I am the sole person allowed to know. Secret, and best revealed when it is in my hands. Forgive my paranoia, friends, but understand that what we are after is quite the reason for war."
"War?" Jeanna echoed. "What kind of war, Sir?"
"Why, with anyone interested, which might as well be everyone out there," Ignium added further, yet it didn't clear the mystery surrounding this mysterious trinket.
"Whatever it may be, I have faith in your decision, Sir," Darium stated. "You haven't led us astray so far. Never, might I add. It is thanks to your sacrifice, accepting to be captured, that the Houses believed to be extinct managed to recover under our protection."
"Indeed, Darium and I've not forgotten one of the goals of our organization: I made a vow when I established the Snake of Adam to see the 72 Pillars re-established. The Ars Goetia once again completed. And with a bit of luck? Even the original 7 Sins leadership system that was established at the dusk of Hell. Short-lived as it was, it will be established again." Ignium stated. "The recent event and the fall of the Great Kings Faction only works in our favor. Without those old lunatics possibly creating issues for us politically, we got a solid chance to achieve our goals."
The Colonels all nodded their heads in agreement. "But first, we should worry about the upcoming objective. Sir, you have promised the Old Satan Faction that you'd kill everyone at this peace conference, correct?"
"Do not twist my words, Sanac!" Ignium warned gently. 'I didn't promise to kill everyone at that conference. My exact words were that there would be a bloodbath. But…Whose blood? That I didn't clarify."
Later, Marakus Aim walked out of the meeting room, releasing a sigh of relief. Being in the presence of the General again, after so long, was quite intense for him. Or rather, he had forgotten how intense the aura Ignium commanded was. Regardless, he had a duty to uphold. Technically, his duties were done for the day, allowing him a rare moment of respite. But how he chose to spend such respite was up to him.
Walking into a room, he came face to face with a complex device stretched over the walls of the room, with a platform in the center. This was a secure teleportation point, another invention of the Puppet Master. It enabled them to teleport safely without the possibility of being tracked. Additionally, the system came with a barrier that made teleportation to this location impossible over a 50-kilometer radius.
Truly, a well-made device. Marakus stepped onto the platform, and the device came to life, teleporting him away. When he blinked again, he was at their base in Norway. Frozen Timber Base. However, as he arrived, he heard a familiar voice calling out to him.
"Why, look what the teleportation device had dragged in!" Out of the corner of the room stepped a tall, young-looking man with long, blonde hair and deep blue eyes. He wore a simplistic black shirt, covered by a white lab coat, along with green pants with more than one pocket on them and thick boots. But the beauty of this man was undeniable, making even Kiba look average in comparison. "How are you, Colonel, Sir?"
"Tadeus Crowley," Marakus spoke his name, then extended his hand. The man knew what this meant and did as he was asked. Leaping right into Markus' arms. "How's progress on the ship, dear?"
"Oh, as you can expect. Sea water didn't help any." Tadeus replied, faking hurt in his voice. "Poor baby, it's going to take me quite a bit to get her back into working condition."
"I trust you can handle it, no?" Marakus began walking with Tadeus in his arms, easily supporting the man on his arm, which Tadeus used like a chair.
"Please, sweetie, I've fixed worst," Tadeus replied with a smile. "But that aside, the child is proving quite the hassle. I hoped Errgo didn't mess with his program, but I was wrong."
"Is he?"
"Cleaned. I didn't back up his memory or save any of his old programming; nothing! I just stripped him for parts to use later, as I wish. I was quite the angry boy back then, wasn't I? I seem to recall needing more than one punishment before I was set straight. Luckily, you were there to keep me in line, weren't you, dear?"
Marakus coughed a bit, a blush spreading on his face. "Please, Tadeus, we are almost to the main hangar. Can you please withhold any details of our affairs?"
"Awwwww. Fine then. I guess it would be awkward if everyone knew about us." Tadeus shivered. "As much as saying something would help keep those sluts off my back."
"Female members?"
"They are so damn insistent! They don't realize or know I am gay or that I can read them like a book, but I can tell that a good number of them haven't seen any action in a few months! And now? Trust me, there had been more than one incident here, in the frozen north, where he had to discipline some…unhinged couples."
Marakus sighed. "Perhaps we should be more lenient? Offer them a free day or something to work that steam out of their system?"
"No free days! We are working against the clock here!" Tadeus stated strongly. "This also means we will have to be quick, dear."
"Quick?"
"Oh, please…" Tadeus laid his hand over Marakus' chest. "You really think I will let you leave without saying a proper goodbye?"
"Oh! Oh, my…"
"Achoo!" Leon sneezed strongly as he and George sat at a certain bar in Bulgaria.
"Bless you," George replied.
"Thanks. You know, I didn't think I'd see you here when I came to visit. I was promised a private dance and made true to return, but…Why are you here again, George? Last I checked, you said you had your agenda after we broke off from Dan."
"No man's an island, my friend. I am here to look for information and maybe even aid in my endeavor. I'd ask you to join me, knowing your skillset, but I doubt it'd be wise." George replied, twirling the glass of alcohol in his hand. "I found what I needed, but we met at the exit, so I decided to join you for a drink. You looked like you could use it."
"What can I say? A man needs some liquid courage in them now and then." Leon replied, but George didn't quite buy his words. Giving Leon a strong gaze with his blind pupils, Leon eventually sighed and gave in. "Fine! I don't know where to go, alright? When Dan found me, I was no different than now. Lost. That DUI? That was after an episode like this, where I drank myself silly. Hijacked a car and everything, then drove around like a madman. It was only after Dan found and bailed me out that they also learned that I stole that car, but by that time, we were out of Canada."
"Hmm. Makes sense. You do seem like the type of man to…Have trouble finding direction." George replied. "But, and don't take it the wrong way, why not stay with your master? Leon, you seem to be the kind of man to follow orders more than give them, even to himself."
Leon chuckled as he leaned back, downing another shot of hard liquor. "Question of the ages, is it not? Why did I run from my master? Was it because he was an asshole? He was. Was it because I grew sick of what he was doing behind closed doors? So fucking much. Was it because I blew the whistle on him being a pedophile and raping girls behind closed doors after I dipped?"
"He was a what?!"
"I know, right!" Leon continued. "Fucker must have been red when they caught him in the act. We, his peerage, were being forced to keep the silence. Shit person. Dan, though? He promised not to let such things happen again. And honestly? I hope he pulls through. I would have followed him to continue our little crusade, but he turned me down harshly a long, long time ago."
"I see. No wonder you ran; you do seem to have some morals still." George added, and then a girl came to them, tapping Leon on the shoulder.
"Well, looks like my dance is ready. A girl just became available. Nice talkin' to ya, George, hope we can meet again."
"Wait! Leon…" George grabbed Leon's hand as he tried to go to the private room. "You need to find direction."
"I know…" Then George let go, letting Leon walk away with the girl.
"Direction? Yeah, right…With whom? You were right, George; I cannot even give orders to myself to find my own path in life. "
"This way, Sir." The girl said, opening the door to the crimson room Leon was going to be enjoy himself in.
Crimson…
Blood…
Red…
"Red…" Leon thought as he took his seat, letting the girl before him start dancing slowly. "Red like…" He grinned widely. "George, I think I found my next master."
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