Two beings stood side by side: Great Red and Ophis; they were observing the unfolding chaos in the Underworld until they felt a distinctive power resonating from the Realm of the Dead; this power was enough to rattle the entire Dimensional Gap.
In his human form, Great Red grinned, "Hmm, so he has finally awakened that power?" with a mixture of curiosity and anticipation, his voice echoing with the weight of ages past.
Memories stirred within him, recalling when Issei first glimpsed the potential of his true strength, albeit temporarily, during the onslaught of those three devils. Yet now, the surge of power coursing through the air was unmistakably more significant, an ominous harbinger of what lay ahead.
Ophis, her serpentine eyes gleaming with curiosity, nodded in agreement. "Indeed. It seems the time has come for Issei Hyoudou to embrace his true potential," she remarked in her usual unemotional tone.
Great Red's grin stretched, the thrill coursing through him. "Witness and observe as he confronts the God of the Underworld," he proposed, a gleam of anticipation shimmering in his eyes.
X
In the Underworld, the exact same time.
Things in the Underworld were even worse, although the residents of the Underworld were fighting the attacks of the Old Satan Faction until a high-magnitude earthquake shook the entire Underworld; thunder and lightning rained down all over the place.
As the ground trembled and the skies crackled with dark energy, the residents of the Underworld were gripped by a collective sense of foreboding. The seismic disturbance reverberated through the various layers of the Underworld, creating an ominous atmosphere.
The sudden earthquake and thunderous upheaval sent shockwaves rippling through the Underworld, causing chaos and panic among its residents. Buildings crumbled, fissures split the ground open, and screams filled the air as demons and devils scrambled for safety amidst the tumultuous disaster.
During the chaos, Sirzechs Lucifer, the current Lucifer, and Ajuka Beelzebub, the current Beelzebub, exchanged uneasy glances. They felt the disturbance in the balance of power, a force that surpassed even their expectations.
"This isn't natural. Something significant is happening," Sirzechs remarked, his crimson hair flowing as if stirred by an invisible wind.
Ajuka nodded in agreement, his analytical mind already processing the unfolding events. "It feels like the emergence of a power that transcends our understanding. We should monitor the situation closely."
As the two powerful Devils conversed, the tremors in the Underworld intensified. Dark clouds gathered above, crackling with unnatural lightning. The high-ranking Devils prepared themselves for what seemed to be an unprecedented phenomenon.
However, this wasn't the only phenomenon that occurred; the soul-bound being that Issei left behind to assist with the invasion of the Old Satan Faction roared as they powered up. The devils of the Old Satan Faction watched in horror as these red entities grew in size and power.
Then, entities approached the Devils menacingly and horrifically; shock, fear, and panic gripped their hearts as they desperately tried to destroy the entities, only to fail.
"What are you?!" one of the devils says in a voice of fear.
The soul-bound beings who couldn't talk before were now able to, clearly due to Issei's power-up.
"We are Legion. For we are many," one of the monstrous swordsman entities says in a deep, menacing, distorted voice.
However, this message was said through all entities fighting all over the Underworld, all with the same voice despite being from different creatures.
The revelation of the entities calling themselves "Legion" scared the devils in the Underworld to their very core. The ominous words echoed through the chaotic battleground, resonating with an otherworldly presence that transcended the understanding of those who heard it. Their horrific appearance and unified voices sent shivers down the spines of the devils witnessing the unprecedented event. Panic spread like wildfire among the ranks of the Old Satan Faction as they struggled to comprehend the inexplicable phenomenon.
As the Legion powered up, they went on a killing spree, slaughtering devils of the Old Satan Faction effortlessly. The devils of the Old Satan Faction, overwhelmed by fear and confusion, mounted a desperate defence against the onslaught of the Legion. However, their efforts proved futile against the otherworldly entities' overwhelming power and sheer numbers.
X
Back in the Realm of the Dead
Issei raises his hands to examine his new power, the power radiating off him. He looks up and sees his Stats.
--
Name: Issei Hyoudou (Satanification Stage 1)
Race: True Devil/ Dragon/ Unknown
Affiliation: None
Rank: None
Type: Hybrid (Battlemage)
Stats:-
Vitality: 6300
Strength: 5670
Agility: 5310
Intelligence: 6705
Senses: 5490
Dexterity: 5670
Luck: 4680
Overall Power Level: 5664
Abilities: System and its Abilities, Magic (Dark Arts)
Gear: Mutated Boosted Gear
--
"This power... it's the same as that day," Issei thinks to himself as he remembers the day those three devils attacked him outside of the ORC clubhouse
"No, it's even better!" he exclaims internally as an evil grin appears. And suddenly, Issei burst into a maniacal laughter.
Issei's maniacal laughter echoed through the Realm of the Dead, trembling from Issei's power up, a sinister symphony that matched the unfolding chaos around him. The dark energy emanating from his transformed form intensified, creating an aura that radiated raw, untamed power.
"I thought I was powerful, but I didn't know what power really was!" he thinks, still laughing, not realising that he is now floating in the air in pure ecstasy as if he had reached enlightenment.
The echoes of Issei's laughter reverberated through the Realm of the Dead, a symphony of chaos that mirrored the upheaval caused by his newfound power. As Issei floated in the air, bathed in the dark energy of his True Devil form, a sense of ecstasy and revelation washed over him. The boundaries of his understanding of power had been shattered, replaced by an overwhelming realisation of his own capabilities.
"I am no longer bound by the limits of the ordinary. This power... it's intoxicating," Issei muttered, his eyes gleaming with the madness of enlightenment.
Hades stood there, frozen in shock and fear; a moment ago, Issei was on the verge of death, but now he is all-powerful.
[Fear has been Inducement]
[Hades's Stats have decreased by 35%]
"You... What have you become?" Hades grumbled, his voice carrying a hint of desperation.
Instantly, Issei stops laughing, and suddenly, his glowing red eyes snap towards Hades like a laser, staring at him with such intensity. Hades looks into Issei's eyes, his black sclera and red irises.
--
Name: Hades
Race: God
Affiliation: Mount Olympus
Rank: God
Relationship: Soon-to-be Victim
Type: Caster (Mage)
Stats:
Vitality: 4648
Strength: 5168
Agility:4112
Intelligence: 4864
Senses: 4512
Dexterity: 3888
Luck: 3104
Overall Power Level: 4328
Abilities: Magic (Sealing, Teleportation), Divine Aura
Gear: Skeleton Staff
--
An evil aura emanated from Issei's demonic eyes, sending shivers down Hades's skeletal form. The intensity of that gaze bore into the very essence of the God of the Underworld, stripping away the facade of godly superiority.
"I have become what you fear the most—an anomaly that defies the order of gods and devils," Issei declared, his voice resonating with newfound authority.
As Issei spoke, the very fabric of reality seemed to tremble, his words carrying the weight of his newfound power. Once the embodiment of divine authority, Hades stood before him, weakened and vulnerable, facing a force beyond his comprehension.
"You dare to defy the gods themselves?" Hades sneered, his skeletal features contorted with defiance. "You may have gained power, but you are still just a mere mortal, unworthy of challenging the might of Olympus."
Issei's lips curled into a wicked smirk, his demonic visage exuding confidence. "Mortality is but a limitation imposed by those who fear change," he retorted, his voice dripping with disdain. "I have transcended such trivial constraints. I am the harbinger of a new era where gods kneel before the might of the true devil. Pathetic Gods such yourself should grovel at my feet like the trash you are."
Hades, infuriated by Issei's bold declaration, clenched his skeletal fists. The air was tense as the God of the Underworld prepared to unleash his remaining power.
"You will regret your arrogance, devil!" Hades roared, summoning dark divine energy around him. The desolate expanse of the Realm of the Dead quivered as the two formidable forces faced off.
With a surge of divine energy, Hades unleashed a barrage of dark projectiles towards Issei, his skeletal form surrounded by an aura of malice. The projectiles streaked through the air with deadly accuracy, aiming to overwhelm the True Devil with their relentless assault.
However, Issei remained unfazed by Hades's attack. His newfound power coursed through him like a raging inferno, empowering him with an indomitable resolve. With a casual wave of his hand, he swiped the air with dark energy, effortlessly cutting Hades's projectiles in half before the projectiles dissipated into nothing.
Issei's display of power left Hades dumbfounded, his confidence wavering in the face of the True Devil's overwhelming might. The desolate expanse of the Realm of the Dead bore witness to the clash between the God of the Underworld and the harbinger of a new era.
"In your feeble existence, you are nothing more than a decrepit bag of ancient bones, deluded by your own misguided self-worth. Perish at this moment, like the insignificant scum that you are," proclaims Issei with a chilling disdain.
His skeletal features contorted with rage and disbelief, Hades struggled to comprehend the magnitude of Issei's power. The once-mighty God of the Underworld now found himself facing a force that defied the very order of divine existence.
"You...you cannot surpass the gods!" Hades roared, his voice echoing through the desolate expanse. The skeletal god, refusing to yield to the overwhelming reality, summoned even more dark divine energy, attempting to unleash a cataclysmic spell that would shatter the very fabric of Issei's newfound power.
Issei, however, remained calm and composed. The sinister smirk on his face never wavered as he observed Hades's futile attempts. Issei disappears as the divine energy nears him and reappears behind Hades instantly.
Hades, caught off guard by Issei's sudden teleportation, struggled to react in time. Before he could turn around, Issei grabbed him by the cloak, gripping it tightly.
"Such futility, it's so pathetic," Issei says mockingly before spinning Hades around and throwing him with tremendous force across the Realm of the Dead.
Hades, thrown with such force that he hurtled through the air like a ragdoll, crashed into the desolate ground of the Realm of the Dead with a resounding impact. The skeletal god skidded across the barren terrain, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.
Issei then appears next to the flailing God, grabs him by his skull and starts grinding his head into the ground as he continues with his trajectory. The Realm of the Dead trembled as Issei relentlessly dragged Hades across its desolate landscape, his skull grinding against the barren ground. The once-mighty God of the Underworld, now reduced to a battered and feeble state, struggled against the overwhelming force of the True Devil.
Issei picks Hades up and kicks him into the remains of the destroyed shrine. As Hades collided with the shattered remnants of the shrine, the impact sent debris flying in all directions, further adding to the desolation of the Realm of the Dead. The skeletal god lay amidst the rubble, his form battered and broken, yet still defiant in the face of his impending defeat.
"Where did this sudden increase in power come from?" Hades ponders, gritting his teeth in frustration. He then sees one of the Grim Reapers scythes on the ground, picking it up and lunging towards Issei while he coats his divine aura onto the scythes.
As Hades lunged towards Issei with the transformed Grim Reaper's scythe, Issei calmly watched the skeletal god's desperate attempt. The True Devil's blood-red eyes gleamed with amusement and disdain as he effortlessly sidestepped Hades's attack.
However, Hades was crafty enough to perform a secondary swing, which hit Issei in the left shoulder. The scythes pass through Issei's arm like a hot knife through butter, but to Hades's shock, Issei remains unfazed and uninjured.
Issei's demonic laughter filled the air as Hades's attack passed through him without causing any harm. The True Devil's newfound power had rendered him impervious to the god's desperate assault.
Hades staggered back, his eyes widening in disbelief as he witnessed Issei's unscathed form. The skeletal god's grip on the transformed Grim Reaper's scythe tightened as he struggled to comprehend the true extent of his adversary's power.
[Fear has been Inducement]
[Hades's Stats have decreased to 50%]
"What sorcery is this?" Hades growled, his voice laced with a mixture of fear and frustration. Realising his attacks were ineffective against Issei's overwhelming might sent a chill down his bony spine.
Hades, however, notices that the sleeve on Issei's left arm has been cut off from the jacket. His attack hit Issei, but it only affected Issei's clothes and not Issei's body.
Pondering the situation, Hades theorises, "Did he become intangible before the scythe could make contact with his body?"
Having noticed the peculiar outcome of his attack, Hades narrowed his glowing eyes in contemplation. The realisation dawned upon him that Issei had not become impervious but had somewhat manipulated his form to evade the direct impact of the scythe.
"Intangibility... an intriguing ability," Hades muttered, his mind racing to comprehend the nature of Issei's newfound power. The skeletal god's calculations adjusted, recognising the need for a more strategic approach.
As Issei's demonic laughter continued to echo, Hades assessed the situation with a newfound focus. He realised that facing the True Devil required a more intricate plan, one that exploited the potential weaknesses of Issei's enhanced abilities.
Hades once again charged at Issei, who was still laughing his ass off at Hades's attempt to harm him. Hades once again swings his scythe and drives the blade into Issei's throat. Caught off guard, Issei stops laughing and coughs out blood.
"Die, you damned Bat!" Hades shouts and swings the embedded blade upwards, splitting Issei's head in half. But to his shock, Issei was still unfazed and uninjured.
Recoiling in disbelief at sight before him, Hades witnessed the surreal and impossible—a grinning Issei, seemingly unaffected by the violent assault that should have spelled his death.
"You... What manner of trickery is this?" Hades hissed, his voice a mixture of frustration and confusion. Despite his divine insight, the skeletal god struggled to comprehend the inexplicable resilience of the True Devil before him.
Suddenly, Hades realises what is really happening. "He coughed out blood, meaning my attack had landed; even the entry wound was no longer visible. Could it be?! It's not intangibility! Instant regeneration?! His body is healing itself faster than it can break down?!" he ponders in horror.
The True Devil, now fully embracing the chaos of his newfound power, reformed his head with an eerie fluidity. The split halves seamlessly fused back together, and Issei stood before Hades, his laughter growing louder and more vicious.
"You really think such trivial wounds can harm me now?" Issei taunted, his blood-red eyes fixated on Hades. The dark energy surrounding him pulsed with an even more ominous intensity, a testament to the depths of his transformation.
[Fear has been Inducement]
[Hades's Stats have decreased to 57%]
Hades's skeletal features contorted with horror and disbelief as he beheld the true extent of Issei's power. The realisation dawned upon him that the True Devil had immense strength and the ability to instantly regenerate from seemingly fatal injuries.
"You've become a true abomination," Hades growled, his skeletal features contorted with rage and fear.
Issei, bathed in the ominous glow of his newfound power, advanced towards Hades with deliberate steps. The skeletal god, still grappling with the revelation of Issei's regenerative abilities, summoned dark divine energy to bolster his defences.
Hades conjured an array of dark projectiles and unleashed them at Issei, their trajectory unpredictable. The True Devil, however, danced through the barrage effortlessly, his movements a testament to the raw agility bestowed upon him by his transformation. Issei instantly closed the distance between them, his hand gripping Hades's skeletal throat.
"You thought you could grasp the nature of my power, Hades, but you are nothing more than a fleeting shadow before the dawn of true darkness," Issei hissed his voice, a haunting melody that resonated with the chaos around them.
"Let me show you the true meaning of despair, Hades," Issei declared, his voice dripping with sadistic delight.
With an unholy glee, Issei tightened his grip on Hades's skeletal throat, relishing the sensation of his newfound strength. The skeletal god, now trapped in the vice-like hold, felt the true weight of his vulnerability before the harbinger of darkness.
"You claim to be a god, yet you tremble before the abyss," Issei taunted, his demonic eyes boring into Hades's glowing orbs. The dark energy surrounding Issei intensified, enveloping both beings in an aura of malice.
As Issei prepared to unleash the full force of his power upon Hades, the Realm of the Dead itself seemed to react to the impending chaos. The desolate landscape shivered, and ominous shadows danced across the barren terrain, echoing the turmoil within Hades's immortal essence.
Desperation flashed in Hades's glowing eyes as he struggled against Issei's suffocating grasp. Summoning the last vestiges of his divine power, Hades attempted to break free, but Issei's hold remained unyielding.
"I am the end, the culmination of despair that devours even the gods," Issei proclaimed, his voice echoing with an otherworldly resonance. The skeletal features of Hades contorted with silent screams as he stared into the abyss of the True Devil's malevolent gaze.
[Blood Lust has increased]
[Own Stats have increased by 39%]
With a flick of his wrist, Issei hurled Hades across the Realm of the Dead, sending the skeletal god hurtling through the air like a discarded puppet. The impact created shockwaves that reverberated through the desolate expanse, shaking the very foundation of the godly realm.
His divine aura flickered as Hades crashed into the ground, and fractures appeared across his skeletal form. The once-mighty God of the Underworld now lay broken, his reign over the Realm of the Dead shattered by the ascent of the True Devil.
Issei then soars up into the air and raises his hand towards Hades, and for the first time, a magic circle is formed in front of Issei's hand. This magic circle is blood red, having intricate, otherworldly characters surrounding an inverted pentagram; within the pentagram's centre was an eye that blinked and moved as if it were alive.
The blood-red magic circle pulsed with evil energy, its presence casting an eerie glow across the desolate landscape of the Realm of the Dead. Now hovering in the air, Issei extended his hand towards the fallen Hades, channelling the dark power within him.
As Issei focused his dark energies, the magic circle expanded, its intricate characters glowing with an otherworldly intensity. The inverted pentagram at the centre seemed to throb with a life of its own, the eye within it fixating on the broken form of the God of the Underworld.
Struggling to rise from the shattered ground, Hades felt a growing dread as he gazed upon the ominous spectacle. The fractured skeletal features of the once-mighty god betrayed his silent desperation, for the true darkness that now engulfed him seemed impossible.
From Hades's perspective on the ground, the light and shadows contrast with Issei's body, giving him devil-like horns that protrude forward, and wings. Although it's common for Devils to have wings, what sets Issei's wings apart is the number of wings and size. Issei had only two wings, which didn't make sense since the number of wings a devil has corresponds with their strength; at the level of Issei, he should have at least 8 to 10 wings. But all the doubt was put to rest due to the size of each wing; they were much larger than the usual devil wings, and when expanded, they reached about 5 meters in wingspan, and their appearance was a hybrid with a dragon's and a bat's. The entire image a foreshadowing of what more is yet to come.
[Fear has been Inducement]
[Hades's Stats have decreased to 60%]
[Requirements have been met; due to Fear Inducement, Flee has been activated]
"But rejoice, Hades, for you are the first of many gods I plan on killing", Issei says coldly as the intricate characters in the magic circle start spinning.
Out of the magic circle, black and red energy is produced, constantly getting more concentrated and condensed; anyone around could feel the malice and negative energy radiating off it like a natural disaster.
The swirling black and red energy, an embodiment of malice and dark intent, continued to grow in intensity. The Realm of the Dead quivered in response to the ominous power radiating from Issei's dark ritual. The very air became thick with the palpable sense of impending doom.
Now fully aware of his dire fate, Hades frantically attempted to resist the encroaching darkness. His skeletal form trembled as he strained against the ethereal chains of the dark power, but every struggle seemed futile in the face of Issei's overwhelming might.
His eyes gleamed with a cold determination; Issei maintained his focus on the ritual. The intricate characters in the magic circle spun faster, creating a hypnotic pattern that seemed to draw in the surrounding shadows.
"Now, Hades, you shall witness the birth of true darkness," Issei declared his voice a haunting melody that echoed through the desolate realm. The shadows danced in macabre celebration as the True Devil prepared to plunge the Realm of the Dead into an abyss of his own making.
As Issei's declaration resonated through the desolate expanse, the swirling energies within the magic circle reached their crescendo. The shadows in the Realm of the Dead seemed to converge, drawn towards the epicentre of the ritual as if compelled by an irresistible force.
His skeletal form now entangled in an intricate web of chains, Hades could feel the impending doom closing in. The evil power surrounding him intensified, casting an eerie glow on the skeletal fragments that once constituted the God of the Underworld.
The hypnotic pattern in the magic circle became more pronounced, its pulsating rhythm synchronising with the very heartbeat of the Realm of the Dead. Issei's demonic eyes glowed with an unholy fervour as he harnessed the chaotic energies, preparing to unleash them upon the dominion he sought to reshape.
The shadows around Hades constricted further, weaving into a suffocating shroud obscuring the fallen god's skeletal remnants. Tormented whispers echoed in the air, carrying the vestiges of Hades's essence as it fought against the inevitable.
Issei raised his hands, directing the converging energies towards Hades's obscured form. The ritual's climax approached, and the True Devil's laughter, now echoing with a sinister resonance, merged with the symphony of despair in the realm.
Suddenly, the chains tightened, drawing Hades into a focal point within the magic circle. The skeletal fragments quivered, resonating with the impending obliteration. The shadows danced with increasing frenzy, mirroring the tumultuous energies unleashed by Issei.
In his final moment, Hades reflected on Issei and his current state.
"I see, with an appearance like that, eyes like those and a magic circle designed like that. That means you must be-," Hades muttered before Issei's roar cut him off.
With an unholy roar, Issei channelled the condensed red and black energy towards the captive god. The Realm of the Dead convulsed as the cataclysmic forces collided, giving birth to a maelstrom of chaos that consumed everything in its path.
But Hades had his final thoughts before he died: "I'm going to die, but at least in my final moment I get to see the power which was once lost to the world, the power of the original..." he concedes internally, accepting his fate.
Hades' skeletal form began to disintegrate, the essence of the once-mighty god unravelling in the face of Issei's overwhelming power. The chains writhed, unravelling the very fabric of Hades's existence. The fragments of divine essence scattered like ashes caught in an otherworldly wind.
The magic circle, now pulsating with the aftermath of the ritual, slowly dissipated. The Realm of the Dead fell silent once more, the echoes of Hades's death lingering in the air like a haunting melody.
Issei, the harbinger of chaos, surveyed the transformed landscape. The dominion once ruled by the God of the Underworld now bore the marks of a realm reshaped by chaos and malice. The shadows seemed to bow to Issei's newfound power, acknowledging the ascendancy of the True Devil in this altered dominion of death.
With a chilling calmness, Issei's demonic eyes fixated on the horizon. The true darkness he had birthed lingered, casting a long, ominous shadow over the Realm of the Dead—a testament to the irrevocable change the harbinger of chaos brought forth.
Now fully embracing his role as the harbinger of chaos, Issei stepped forward with an air of dark majesty. The dark energy surrounding him crackled with untamed fury, casting an ominous glow upon his demonic form.
He continued walking to the blast zone and found Hades, or what was left of him, his skeleton head.
"You thought yourself, above all, a god to be feared," Issei mocked, his voice resonating with the echoes of the desolate realm. "But in the end, you are nothing more than dust, scattered by the winds of change."
[Task Complete]
[Claim your Rewards]
[30 S.P. and 20 A.P]
[New Title: God Killer]
[New Title: Harbinger of Chaos]
Issei dismisses the notification windows and focuses on Hades, deciding he can add another weapon to his arsenal; he uses his cherished ability.
[Ability Used: Item Extraction]
A ball of bones forms from Hades's skull and rushes into Issei's hand, then materialising into a mace. Issei then observes his new weapon.
--
Judgement Mace
Rarity: Legendary
Classification: Mace
Stats: 282 Intelligence, 267 Vitality, 208 Luck
Ability: In mace form, attacks will ignore all durability, defences and resistance and attack the soul directly. In staff form, the skull will materialise brass scales which will judge the opponent on their sins; when opponents are found guilty, the mouth of the skull will open and decide their punishment depending on the severity of the crimes, the punishment will vary.
--
Issei grins, seeing the ability of this weapon, "How interesting, my very own penance stare", he wonders out loud.
Issei decides to use his other ability to soul-bind Hades's soul to his own
[Ability Used: Soul Binding]
[Ability failed]
[Target's soul cannot be bound as it no longer exists]
Issei clicks his tongue in annoyance and moves on. He stores the weapon in his dimensional storage and picks up Hades's skull as a trophy.
The True Devil turned away from the now-vanished god's resting place, his red eyes surveying the altered landscape. The Realm of the Dead bore the scars of his ascent, a canvas reshaped by the stroke of chaos. The shadows seemed to whisper their acknowledgment as if the very essence of the dominion bowed to the newfound power that now held sway.
Issei, realising he is still in his white-haired form, powers down, his hair goes back to black, and his eyes return to their normal silver colour.
[Due to Satanification deactivation, all stats have been returned to base]
Around this time, the earthquakes, lightning, and thunder in the Underworld stopped.
Awed, Issei ponders the power up, "Satanification?
As Issei was questioning his power, Ddraig decided to speak up.
"Well, partner, that was quite the fight," Ddraig says in disbelief.
"Ddraig, thanks. What do you know about this?" inquired Issei.
"No, I don't, unfortunately; remember, Great Red said that this power within you existed long before the existence of this reality", Ddraig replies.
"Whatever this power is, it's unlike anything I've ever encountered," Issei declared, his eyes fixed on the horizon, where the remnants of Hades's dominion still lingered. "But one thing is certain: I won't cease my efforts until I decipher its mysteries and unlock its complete potential."
Ddraig nodded in agreement. "Indeed, partner. With this power at your disposal, there's no telling what you can achieve. Just remember to tread carefully; such power comes with its own set of dangers."
Issei chuckled at Ddraig's words. However, he wasn't concerned with the words but rather how he currently felt; he felt a new form of power within him, and when he possessed Kiba, he felt this exact feeling.
"What is this strange thing coursing through my body?" Issei ask
"Magic", Ddraig answers curtly.
"Magic? I thought my magic was-" Issei starts to speak before Ddraig cuts him off.
"Non-existent? For a time, yes. Before you got the system, your magic reserves were minuscule; after you got the system, they simply became non-existent. But now it feels like a dam has been broken, and all the Magic is pouring out. My theory is the system held back your magic potential, for what reason is beyond me," Ddraig explains.
Issei absorbed Ddraig's explanation, a mixture of surprise and realisation on his face. The flood of magical energy coursing through him felt both exhilarating and daunting. It was as if a dormant aspect of his being had awakened, surging with newfound potency.
"Magic... So, this is the true extent of my magical potential," Issei murmured, his gaze fixed on his own hands as if expecting them to glow with magic energy.
Ddraig continued, "It seems that the recent events, especially the encounter with Hades and the unlocking of your True Devil form, triggered a release of your suppressed magical abilities. It's not uncommon for extraordinary circumstances to unlock hidden potentials."
Despite Ddraig's words, Issei interjects, "But it was Dark-sei who gave me this power when Hades was about to kill me."
Ddraig nodded in acknowledgment. "Indeed, Dark-sei's intervention likely played a significant role in unlocking your latent magical potential. The convergence of various factors, including your encounter with Hades and your transformation into the True Devil, seems to have catalysed this awakening."
Issei mulled over Ddraig's explanation, his mind buzzing with questions and possibilities. The realisation that he possessed untapped magical abilities opened up a whole new realm of possibilities for him.
"There's also this other feeling: despite using so much energy, I don't feel tired. Instead, I feel revitalised and restless," Issei says to Ddraig. "Do you think this new form has anything to do with it?" he asks.
"Most likely, I can feel different between this current and you before you entered the Realm of the Dead; it's like a night and day difference", Ddraig replies
"It's most likely due to the Race change Dark-sei did to me, turning me from a Reincarnated Devil into a True Devil, whatever that means", Issei explains.
Issei decides to look at the current Stats.
--
Name: Issei Hyoudou
Race: True Devil/ Dragon/ Unknown
Affiliation: None
Rank: None
Type: Hybrid (Battlemage)
Stats:-
Vitality: 420
Strength: 378
Agility: 354
Intelligence: 447
Senses: 366
Dexterity: 378
Luck: 312
Overall Power Level: 379
Abilities: System and its Abilities, Magic (Dark Arts)
Gear: Mutated Boosted Gear
--
"There's like x2.5 difference between my previous stats and my current stats, and what's Dark Arts Magic?" Issei asks
"We'll figure it out later, partner, but for now, I think there is one last person on your kill list", Ddraig remains.
"Cao Cao, now that I'm revitalised, no amount of performance enhancers he has will save him from me," he says with determination.
Issei starts to walk to the Realm of the Dead's exit, leaving behind a barren wasteland in even more ruin.
[System requires update]
[System will commence the update when the player falls asleep]
Seeing the notification for an update, Issei thinks, "Update? I haven't had one of those since I reattached Ddraig to my body."
X
Outside the Realm of the Dead stood two people who were meant to be Issei's backup if things went south. One stood there patiently while the other was snacking on sweets.
"That phenomenon which just ended was because of him, wasn't it?" Tobio asks Dulio
Dulio, deciding to stop eating so he could reply, answered, "If you're talking about the earthquakes and storms, then yeah, it was him. It happened when the malicious energy started radiating out of the portal."
Tobio nodded, his expression serious as he observed the aftermath of the cataclysmic event that unfolded within the Realm of the Dead. The devastation left in its wake was a testament to the ferocity of the power at play.
"Do you think he's alright?" Tobio asked, his concern evident in his voice.
Dulio considered the question momentarily before responding, "Given what we've witnessed, I believe he's more than capable of handling himself. If anything, he might have become even stronger."
Tobio nodded, reassured by Dulio's words but still unable to shake off the lingering worry. Issei's newfound power and the events that transpired within the realm left him with a sense of unease, a feeling that mysteries were still waiting to be unravelled.
"Let's give him some time," Dulio suggested, placing a comforting hand on Tobio's shoulder. "He'll find his way out when he's ready. Until then, we should prepare ourselves for whatever comes next."
With a determined nod, Tobio turned his gaze towards the horizon, where the entrance to the Realm of the Dead loomed ominously. Whatever awaited them beyond those dark confines, he was ready to face it alongside Issei and Dulio.
After a while, Issei walked out of the portal, but the moment he did, both Dulio and Tobio's knees buckled from the aura Issei was releasing. Due to the drastic increase in Stats and the awakening of his magic potential, Issei had no idea he had his aura flailing around wildly.
Tobio and Dulio, momentarily overwhelmed by the sheer intensity of Issei's released aura, staggered but quickly regained their composure. They could feel the immense power emanating from Issei, a power that seemed to defy the very fabric of their understanding.
--
Name: Dulio Gesualdo
Race: Reincarnated Angel
Affiliation: Heaven
Rank: Joker
Relationship: None
Type: Caster (Mage)
Stats:
Vitality: 128
Strength: 121
Agility:128
Intelligence: 121
Senses: 105
Dexterity: 122
Luck: 107
Overall Power Level: 119
Abilities: Light Power
Gear: Zenith Tempest Sacred Gear
--
--
Name: Tobio Ikuse
Race: Human
Affiliation: Grigori
Rank: Agent
Relationship: None
Type: Pet (Summoner)
Stats:
Vitality: 106
Strength: 118
Agility:115
Intelligence: 113
Senses: 110
Dexterity: 119
Luck: 100
Overall Power Level: 111
Abilities: Magic (Communication)
Gear: Canis Lykaon Sacred Gear
--
Examining their stats, Issei grinned confidently, "I understand why Michael and Azazel chose these two; they possess considerable strength. If the three of us had confronted Hades from the beginning, we could have easily overwhelmed him," he mused to himself.
Dulio and Tobio, having recovered from the initial shock of Issei's overwhelming aura, regarded him with a mix of awe and anticipation. The power emanating from Issei was on a scale that surpassed their expectations, leaving them both impressed and intrigued.
Issei, still unaware of the unintentional display of his enhanced aura, observed his companions. The smirk on his face conveyed a newfound confidence, a consequence of the power he had gained in the battle against Hades.
Issei walked to the two to start a conversation, but Dulio beat him to the punch before he could speak.
"Was it you who shook the entire Underworld?" Dulio asked Issei
Issei narrowed his eyes in confusion and replied, "Shook the entire Underworld?"
Dulio nodded, "Yes, the entire Underworld experienced a series of earthquakes and storms. We felt a powerful disturbance, and it coincided with your battle against Hades. Did something happen on your end?"
Keen to safeguard a few secrets, Issei chose to deceive. "Can't say for certain; I was deeply engrossed in the clash with Hades to take notice," he responded casually.
Dulio and Tobio exchanged glances, seemingly accepting Issei's explanation without further probing. However, there was a lingering curiosity in their eyes, a recognition that Issei's power had transcended the ordinary.
Tobio, with his ever-calm demeanour, spoke, "Regardless of the tremors, it seems your battle with Hades was quite intense."
"Well, whatever happened, it's clear that you've undergone a significant change," Dulio remarked, his eyes assessing Issei. "Your aura alone speaks volumes."
Issei, raising an eyebrow in curiosity, asked, "My aura?"
Dulio nodded, his expression grave. "Indeed. Your aura is pulsating with an intensity that I've never felt before. It's as if the power is rolling off you in waves."
Tobio chimed in, his tone measured. "It's not just the intensity but the sheer magnitude of your aura. It's unlike anything I've ever encountered."
Issei looks down at his hand and notices a faint out light of blood-red magical energy wrapping around his body and pulsating off him. "How interesting," Issei says to himself.
He looked up to see Tobio and Dulio looking at him curiously. His gaze shifted towards Tobio; something about Tobio irked him.
"Why do you look like me?" Issei asked with a stern tone.
Tobio, taken aback by Issei's question, exchanged a puzzled glance with Dulio before responding, "What do you mean?"
Issei gestured pointedly towards Tobio's appearance, observing their uncanny likeness. "Your hair colour, your eye colour, they're identical to mine. It's almost as if you're a mirror image of me; the only difference is, you're the shorter twink version of me," Issei remarked, his tone a blend of curiosity and suspicion. Despite the apparent resemblance, he casually brushed off the fact that just over a month ago, he himself had brown hair and eyes, and a similar height and build to Tobio.
Tobio blinked in surprise at Issei's blunt observation, momentarily caught off guard by the comparison. Dulio, on the other hand, stifled a chuckle at Issei's description, finding the situation mildly amusing.
"Well, I suppose we do share some similarities," Tobio admitted with a shrug, his expression calm despite the stern tone in Issei's words. "But I assure you, I'm my own person, not just a 'shorter twink version' of you."
Dulio chuckled softly at Tobio's response, then interjected, "Tobio, I have to admit, you do look like you would be Issei's younger brother", he teased, despite Tobio being older than Issei by 4 to 5 years.
Tobio shot a look at Dulio, a mild glare in his eyes. "Very funny," he deadpanned.
Issei then looks at Tobio's clothing: a black coat over dark grey clothing, which is similar to Issei's black trench coat over his black shirt and dress pants.
"We even dress the same", Issei adds.
Dulio chuckled at Issei's observation, finding the situation increasingly amusing. "It seems you two have more in common than meets the eye," he remarked, a playful glint in his eyes.
Tobio sighed, his expression resigned. "Perhaps there's some truth to that," he admitted, though he couldn't deny the uncanny resemblance between himself and Issei.
"When Azazel told me you were Akeno's cousin, I assumed you two would somewhat look alike", Issei says to Tobio.
Tobio nodded, acknowledging the connection. "Yes, Akeno and I share some family connections, but she's my second cousin; my first cousin would be her mother", he explains.
Issei nods in understanding before remembering something. He took the SD card from his Boosted Gear and gave it to Tobio.
"I assume Azazel has already told you what's in this?" Issei asked as he handed over the SD card to Tobio
Tobio, taking the SD card into his hand, replies, "Yeah, Hades' confession. Did he confess?" he asked Issei.
With a decisive nod, Issei responds, "Indeed, he did. Surprisingly, he straightforwardly spilled the beans to me as if it were just another casual conversation."
Tobio raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Confessed everything? That's unexpected. What exactly did he say?"
Issei smirked, recalling the encounter with Hades. "Well, he spilled the beans about working with Khaos Brigade, wanting to eradicate all devils and fallen angels."
Tobio's expression shifted to one of contemplation as he processed Issei's words. The revelation of Hades's confession shed new light on the complexities of the ongoing conflicts within the supernatural world.
"That's quite the bombshell," Tobio remarked, his tone serious. "To think that someone as influential as Hades would be involved in such nefarious schemes..."
Realising the broader implications of him killing Hades, Issei decides to tell Tobio a plan.
"If the Greek Pantheon still want war despite seeing and hearing the evidence in that SD card, say I acted independently, regardless of what Azazel says or tries to protest," Issei says to Tobio.
Tobio, nodding in understanding, replied, "You're suggesting that we avoid dragging the entire three factions into a potential conflict with the Greek Pantheon."
Issei explained with a determined gaze, "Precisely. Azazel has his hands full managing the aftermath of Vali's Khaos Brigade team. Adding more to his plate won't help anyone." He then retrieved Hades's skull head from his jacket pocket, twirling it on his finger like a basketball, "If the Greeks demand payment, they'll face the same consequences," he stated icily.
Tobio regarded Issei's resolve with a thoughtful expression. "Understood. We'll handle the aftermath carefully and avoid unnecessary conflicts. But what's your plan moving forward?"
Issei continued spinning Hades's skull on his finger, his eyes glinting with determination and a touch of malice. "Cao Cao is next on my list. I need to settle the score with him once and for all."
"Are you sure you're up for it?" Dulio inquired, his expression serious. "Cao Cao is no ordinary opponent, and you just had a fierce battle with Hades."
Issei grinned confidently, catching Hades's skull and pocketing it once again. "I've got a few tricks up my sleeve that he won't see coming."
Tobio nodded, acknowledging Issei's determination. "Just be cautious; Cao Cao is cunning and resourceful."
Curious about Tobio's and Dulio's next move, Issei asked, "What else did Michael and Azazel tell you to do after this?"
Dulio, being the first to respond, "Azazel told us to check out the Realm of the Dead after your fight and freeze any remaining Grim Reapers."
Issei arched his brow. "Freeze Grim Reapers? They're probably all dead by now, and the Realm of the Dead must have undergone quite a makeover." Recalling how the landscape of the Realm had changed due to the destruction both Vanta Vermillion Overdrive and his Satanification form did.
Dulio nodded in understanding. "We'll assess the situation and make sure there are no lingering threats in the Realm of the Dead. As for Michael, he wanted us to investigate any potential disturbances caused by your battle and provide assistance if needed."
Tobio added, "They also instructed us to inform the other factions about Hades's actions and share the evidence from the SD card. Azazel mentioned something about diplomatic matters to avoid unnecessary conflicts."
Issei considered their tasks, pondering the aftermath of his clash with Hades. "Alright, let's get to it then. I'll deal with Cao Cao while you two take care of the tasks Azazel assigned."
Dulio and Tobio nodded in agreement. With their respective responsibilities outlined, they prepared to carry out their missions. With a determined glint in his eyes, Issei walked away; his thoughts focused on the impending confrontation with Cao Cao.
Using his enhanced senses, Issei scanned the entire Underworld for Cao Cao; due to his new True Devil status, he felt everything from the emotions of the people in the Underworld, ranging from fear, anger, determination and sadness. He senses the ongoing fights that are currently happening, one of them being Saji and Gasper fighting against Georg. Georg is on the verge of defeat, and it seems Gasper has a new form.
In an entirely other section, both the Gremory Peerage and the Bael Peerage are fighting against both members of the Hero Faction, Heracles and Jeanne. Sairaorg is fighting Heracles, and Xenovia and Irina are fighting Jeanne.
"Cao Cao isn't here yet; I guess I'll start with a bit of interrogation. And if I must, I'll take hostages," he says to himself as he blasts from the ground with tremendous force and flies at high speeds towards the location of Heracles and Jeanne.
Both Dulio and Tobio watched in awe at how Issei moved.
"How is he able to fly without wings?" Tobio wonders out loud
"Well, Tobio, your older brother is quite the character", Dulio teases.
Tobio glanced at Dulio with a deadpanned expression. "He's not my older brother, but yeah, he's definitely something else."
"He's certainly one of a kind," Dulio remarked with a chuckle. "Flying without wings, exhibiting power beyond the norm. Issei never ceases to surprise."
Tobio, maintaining his calm demeanour, couldn't help but be intrigued. "I wonder how much of his power he hasn't revealed yet. He's proven to be quite the wildcard."
Dulio nodded in agreement. "Indeed, he's a wildcard that could tilt the balance in unexpected ways. It makes the situation both exciting and unpredictable."
Tobio, watching Issei's diminishing figure in the distance, mused, "We're just getting a glimpse of his capabilities. I have a feeling there's more to him than meets the eye."
The two then make their way into the Realm of Dead; when they both enter, they take a look at the state of the Realm; what they both saw shocked them.
Once a desolate expanse, the Realm of the Dead now bore the scars of Issei's intense battle with Hades. The landscape, reshaped by cataclysmic forces, manifested a surreal fusion of chaos and malevolence. Eerie shadows danced across the altered terrain, creating an unsettling atmosphere that echoed the transformative power Issei wielded. The once eerie glow that permeated the realm had dimmed, replaced by an oppressive aura of destruction and despair.
Dulio and Tobio surveyed the altered landscape, their expressions mirroring a mix of awe and concern. The remnants of the magical energies clashed in the recent battle still lingered, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. The once dark and barren expanse was filled with distorted shadows and ethereal echoes. This was no mere aftermath of a battle; it was a testament to the overwhelming power unleashed by Issei and the true extent of his newfound abilities.
"By the heavens," Dulio whispered, his voice barely audible over the eerie silence that permeated the air. "This is... unprecedented."
Tobio nodded grimly, his gaze sweeping across the shattered landscape. "I've never seen anything like it. The sheer force required to cause this level of devastation..."
As they ventured deeper into the realm, they encountered remnants of the battle strewn across the desolate expanse. Crumbled ruins and fractured structures bore witness to the clash between Issei and Hades, serving as silent monuments to the unfolded chaos.
X
Issei was flying towards the area where both Heracles and Jeanne were; on his flight there, he killed many devils of the Old Satan Faction effortlessly; they were dropping like flies.
While the Bael and Gremory Peerage were fighting the members of the Hero Faction, they felt the overwhelming aura travelling towards them. Everyone in the area looked towards the area the aura was emanating from.
Sensing the malevolent aura, Rias thought, "This power, is it brother's? No, it's something much creepier..." she shudders to herself.
As the overwhelming aura drew closer, Sairaorg, Rias, and the rest of the peerage tensed, preparing for the arrival of the unknown presence. The air crackled with anticipation, the atmosphere heavy with foreboding as they braced themselves for whatever awaited them.
Rias's heart raced with a mixture of apprehension and curiosity. The aura felt familiar yet unsettling, sending a shiver down her spine. She couldn't shake the unease that washed over her as the evil energy approached.
Sairaorg, his senses honed from years of combat experience, narrowed his eyes as he focused on the approaching presence. Despite his formidable strength, even he couldn't help but feel a twinge of uncertainty in the face of such overwhelming power.
Xenovia gripped her sword tightly, her knuckles turning white with tension. "Whatever it is, it's not something to be taken lightly," she muttered, her voice tinged with a hint of urgency.
Irina, her expression grave, whispered a silent prayer, seeking guidance and protection in the face of the impending threat. She knew they would need all the help they could get to confront whatever entity approached them.
Akeno's usual confidence momentarily faltered in the face of the overwhelming aura, and she tightened her grip on her holy lightning, readying herself for battle. "This... this presence, it feels... sinister," she remarked, her voice betraying a hint of unease.
Koneko's cat-like eyes narrowed in focus and emitted a low growl, her body instinctively shifting into a defensive stance. "We must be cautious," she warned, her voice steady despite the tension in the air. "This adversary is not to be underestimated."
Asia, her hands clasped together in prayer, sought solace in her faith as she prepared to face the unknown threat. "Please, guide us through this trial," she whispered, her voice trembling with fear and determination.
As the True Devil's presence grew nearer, the peerage braced themselves for the inevitable confrontation, their hearts heavy with the weight of uncertainty. They knew that whatever awaited them would test their strength and resolve like never before.
As the evil aura reached its zenith, a figure emerged from the horizon, his form cloaked in an aura of darkness and malice. Issei descended from the sky with an air of ominous majesty, his eyes gleaming with an otherworldly intensity.
The peerages tensed, their instincts screaming at them to prepare for battle. Yet, despite the palpable tension in the air, there was a sense of awe and reverence in their gazes as they beheld the True Devil before them.
Rias, her voice steady despite the turmoil within her, spoke first. "Issei... what happened to you?"
Issei, not replying, landed in front of the group before the two members of the Hero Faction. Heracles looks like he just took a beating, most likely from Sairaorg. In contrast, Jeanne, using the confusion of the peerage to her advantage, took a hostage, that being a devil child.
Issei's blood-red eyes flickered with a disturbing glow as he observed the two Hero Faction members before him. The air crackled with unsettling energy, and the darkness surrounding him seemed to seep into every corner of the battleground: his gaze, cold and unforgiving, a silent acknowledgment of the power he now wielded.
Undeterred by Issei's ominous demeanour, Rias stepped forward, her voice tinged with urgency. "Issei, what has become of you? This... this darkness that surrounds you, it's unlike anything we've ever seen."
Issei remained silent, his eyes fixed on Jeanne and her hostage. His expression betrayed no hint of remorse or hesitation as he assessed the situation before him.
Sairaorg, his fists clenched in restrained fury, took a step forward, his voice a low warning rumble. "Release the hostage, Jeanne. We will not tolerate your cowardly tactics."
Undaunted by Sairaorg's threat, Jeanne tightened her grip on the struggling devil child, a malicious smirk playing across her lips. "Back off, or the child pays the price. This is your only warning."
The devil child, seeing Issei, begged, "Please save me, Oppai Dragon..." he pledges with tears in his eyes and a horrified look on his face.
Hearing that name, that title, Issei's face contorts into disgust; despite everything he did trying to wash away the reputation he once had, he is still being referred to as such a degrading title. Issei's eyes narrowed, the mention of the title "Oppai Dragon" causing a surge of disdain within him. The memories of his past exploits, the battles fought under that moniker, resurfaced like a bitter pill he couldn't escape.
"You two will answer every question I have," Issei says to both Heracles and Jeanne coldly; he then takes out Hades's skull from his jacket pocket and throws it to the ground for everyone to see, "Or suffer the same fate," he says while releasing his aura unrestrainedly not caring about who got caught up in its overwhelming oppressive pressure.
As Issei released his aura, the atmosphere around them shifted, the malevolence radiating from him, causing an immediate impact. The pressure weighed heavily on everyone present, forcing them to their knees.
Heracles, feeling the oppressive force, struggled to maintain his composure. On the other hand, Jeanne visibly trembled under the intensity of Issei's aura. The devil child she held whimpered, the pressure seemingly amplifying his fear.
But the aura wasn't the only thing that made Issei terrifying; he also killed Hades, the Greek God of the Underworld, who was regarded as one of the top 10 strongest in the world. If Issei has killed him, then by proxy, Issei is now in the top 10 strongest in the world.
Issei's eyes, cold and calculating, locked onto Jeanne and Heracles. The skull of Hades lay on the ground, a grim reminder of the fate that awaited those who crossed the path of the True Devil.
With beads of sweat forming on her forehead, Jeanne finally yielded to the pressure and released the devil child. The child, now free, scrambled away from the scene, seeking refuge behind Sairaorg.
Heracles gritted his teeth, struggling against the pressure that threatened to crush him. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he maintained a defiant posture, unwilling to bow to the overwhelming force. On the other hand, Jeanne showed signs of distress, her trembling form betraying the fear that had taken root.
Issei's eyes glowed unholy fervour, the cold intensity of his gaze fixated on both Heracles and Jeanne. The mention of answering questions or facing a fate similar to Hades sent shivers through their spines. Hades's skull lay on the ground, a dreadful testament to the power Issei now wielded.
"Tell me, where's Cao Cao?" Issei asked in a cold tone
Issei's question hung heavy in the air; his voice laced with a chilling resolve that sent a shiver down the spines of those present. The oppressive aura surrounding him intensified, pressing down on Heracles and Jeanne like a suffocating weight.
Heracles, his muscles tense with effort, managed to muster a defiant glare despite the overwhelming pressure. "You think you can intimidate us, Devil? Cao Cao is not someone you can simply demand to see."
Her voice quivering with fear, Jeanne stammered out a response, "W-We don't know where he is! He went into hiding after your battle in the artificial dimension!"
Issei's eyes narrowed, his patience wearing thin. "Lies," he spat out the word with venomous disdain. "You both serve under Cao Cao; you must have some idea of his whereabouts."
Heracles gritted his teeth, his resolve wavering under the weight of Issei's relentless interrogation. "Even if we did know, do you think we would tell you? You've already shown that you're willing to kill gods."
Issei finally, conceding, let this aura back down, allowing everyone nearby to relax and gain composure. As Issei's aura subsided, the tension in the air eased, allowing those present to sigh of relief. The oppressive pressure on them dissipated, leaving a sense of cautious calm.
"You're right; I've already killed one God today; why should I be so polite when interrogating you?" he says in a nonchalant tone.
Issei's nonchalant tone sent a chill through the air, his unpredictability leaving a lingering unease among those present. The peerage, having witnessed Issei's overwhelming power, exchanged cautious glances.
"Why should I be so polite when I really can do whatever the fuck I want?" Issei continues in a dark tone
The darkness in Issei's tone echoed through the area, sending a collective shudder among those present. His words hung in the air, a stark reminder of the newfound power and ruthless determination that defined the True Devil. The peerage, still recovering from the aftermath of his unrestrained aura, watched him with a mixture of awe and trepidation.
Heracles and Jeanne, though defiant, couldn't completely conceal the unease that flickered in their eyes. The acknowledgment of Issei's disregard for any semblance of politeness sent a clear message that spoke of a ruthlessness that surpassed their expectations.
"You refuse to submit? Fine, I guess I'll do this the fun way," Issei says with a sadistic smirk.
Issei's sadistic smirk sent a shiver down the spines of those present, his demeanour shifting into something dark and foreboding. The peerage watched with dread and anticipation as Issei prepared to unleash his power again. Having witnessed the extent of Issei's power, the peerage braced themselves for whatever twisted method he had in mind.
