Chapter 22: A Step Towards Peace

Saji thinks he might have jinxed himself for what he said about strong guys coming. The worst he thought were some mischievous entities drawing graffiti on the school walls, not a freaking Cadre-class fallen angel trying to kill them. To be honest, he was pretty close to wetting himself if not for the fact that Kaichou and the others needed his help. The Sitri Pawn can't afford to lose his cool when his comrades and his school needed him.

Roars and booming noises echoed nonstop ever since the Gremory group went in to confront the invaders, but for some reason it's gone quiet for a while now. The Sitri group is doing their best to contain the damage but their magic was starting to run low, and it hasn't even been 20 minutes yet. His breathing is ragged and body sweating considerably, the others aren't as bad but their not far behind. Everyone except Kaichou and Fukukaichou are getting tired.

This was just maintaining the barrier of the fight. Saji wasn't sure if he even wants to get involved in said fight. He knew that Daisuke and the others are strong- not to mention how cool he looked in his battle uniform -but their opponent is a complete monster who survived in a war against a God and Satans. He wasn't sure if they could win.

"Kaichou, can I ask a question?"

"What is it Saji?"

"That church member and those two fallens went in to help Rias-senpai right? I know keeping this barrier up is important, but shouldn't we go and help too?"

"I understand your reasoning, a larger number against Kokabiel would increase our chances of success. However, unlike the Gremory group, we are not suited for direct assault. We gather as much information as we can and utilize anything to our advantage, whether it be terrain, tricks, or teamwork. We rely on careful planning to overcome our adversaries."

"Kokabiel's sudden arrival does not allow us that pleasure." Tsubaki-fukukaichou continued, "Even if we do join forces from the start, only Kaichou and I can make any difference. The rest are all too inexperienced to provide any support."

Saji gulped in worry. The Sitri Queen was the earliest member to enter Kaichou's peerage so it wasn't a stretch to call her the strongest in the group after their King. If they can only make a difference, then the others would just slow them down, even if Saji could use his Absorption Line. He hesitantly asked, "I-is something like this normal in devil life?"

"No." Thankfully, Sona-kaichou denied, causing the second-year to sigh in relief. "We are still considered immature devils, not yet ready to participate in official Rating Games. The most we are supposed to do is to hunt down Mid-class stray devils. This situation is an irregular that we should be safe from, and yet the destroyer of Sodom and Gomorrah decided to target Kuoh. Should Rias and the others fail, we will need to step in and defeat Kokabiel ourselves to protect the town."

Another gulp went down Saji's throat, he'll man up and fight if he has to. The rest of the Sitri members were also scared, yet determined to not go down without a fight. Saji sucked it up and refocused on the barrier despite his dwindling demonic magic, believing that everything will be alright, "Daisuke, please hurry up."

Although Sona talked big, she wasn't sure that they could pull it off. She was known to always be cool and collected, but now there were tiny cracks in her facade.

Tsubaki knew the state of her King considering she was an ice queen herself and whispered, "Kaichou, do you truly think Rias-san and the others could win?"

As the co-governor of Kuoh Town with Rias, Sona is entitled to know more than most about its residents to ensure the safety and peace of the town. Yet there was one enigma that she still couldn't solve, one that Rias ensured he was completely trustworthy. She may have her suspicions in the beginning as his past and existence are virtually unknown, especially when Rias discussed with her for a more efficient training ground. However, his actions and sincerity have proven himself worthy in her eyes, so she let it slide just this once and accepted him, continuing her observations to find out more.

"I cannot say for certain. It is a gamble to accept help from enemy factions, but it is to achieve the best possible outcome. Rias' group is gifted with power, even if some of them are sealed, and there is still one hope..."

All of them stiffened as they felt a surge of demonic energy. A moment after, a particularly large explosion of yellow light and blue wind cracking the barrier, wobbling them before they repositioned themselves and fixed it back. Most of them were shocked and gaped at the power clash while Sona merely smiled.

"... who happens to be known as the Gremory's super rookie."

"What?" Xenovia's entire body was shaking, her hold on Durandal loosened as she couldn't believe what she just heard. Scowling, she tighten back her hold and yelled, "You're lying! Our prayers are still answered by our Lord! I heard it myself at the Catholic Church"

Kokabiel simply chuckled silently before it grew louder and louder into a full blown cackle, drawing everyone's attention, "Valper, it is beyond impressive you were able to unravel the secret in such a short time. Your intelligence truly is uncanny."

"Kokabiel-sama, you knew of this?" The old scientist asked.

"Of course. I was there to witness it from afar during the Great War."

"Enough with your nonsense!" Durandal shined, ready to eviscerate the two with large amounts of Holy aura, prompting the devils to step back by instinct. The church agent was absolutely livid, "If you mock our Lord any further, you will face my wrath!"

"There is no such nonsense whatsoever." Kokabiel casually replied, "Michael has done a great job as a substitute. Have you ever wondered why the number of the Forbidden Move, Balance Breaker has increased throughout the years. Have you ever wondered why Heaven has not taken any major actions? Have you ever considered why only two weak girls were dispatched to retrieve Excalibur despite knowing a Cadre such as myself is involved. Surely the current wielder of Zenith Tempest would be more fitted for this mission."

Xenovia wavered as the Holy aura dimmed, even Asia was starting to tremble uncontrollably. Kokabiel continued without mercy, "I suppose I can give out this secret earlier than expected as a reward for your efforts. However, one of you seems to be aware of it already."

All eyes turned to me. I wasn't expecting Valper would be the one to blab it out to everyone. I couldn't meet their gaze, especially Asia's. Keeping this secret was necessary, doesn't mean that I like it. Aside from my friends, no one would believe someone who made his debut into the supernatural world not too long ago anyway. If any outside forces find out the heiress of the Gremory Household knows, they'll put the blame on her as well as Sirzechs. They'll be criticized like the Lucifer is playing favorites or Rias monopolizing this information to her advantage. I know God's death was important, but it's not my place to reveal it.

They were still looking at me in silence, none dared to make a sound until Asia timidly spoke, "H-Hanwei-san, i-is it true? It is wrong right? Father is still with us r-right?"

Looking at her hollow eyes made me sick, her lustrous smile was almost fake and her voice was weak, her only hope of salvation was me denying it. What I wouldn't give to say the warmonger was wrong right now, but I could only answered full of regret, "I thought it would be something like that when I saw Kiba's Balance Breaker. I just didn't think it would be this big. I'm sorry."

"N-no..." Asia lost her strength and despaired, nearly falling to her knees if not for Issei catching her.

"Asia!"

"Is that the reason why you are so adamant in reigniting the war!? Is that why you betrayed us!?" Forcuis actually shouted, loosing his composure like everyone else.

"That's right. God and Satans were all annihilated whereas the fallen angels still possess our strength. We would have been glorious, finally attaining the rights and supremacy to reign over our enemies." Kokabiel's smile twisted into a hideous scowl, "And yet that Azazel ordered to withdraw! Victory was within our grasps and he dared to order us to withdraw like cowards! That fool threw away our efforts after fighting through that bloodbath for centuries!"

"That is why I'm restarting the Great War. There are many who shared my frustrations and joined to taste the glory we rightfully deserved. After we defeat all who stand in our way, not only the Underworld, but also Heaven and Earth will belong to us." His scowl returned back to a cool smirk as he turned to Forcuis and Raynare, "You asked for my purpose, did you not? Now that you understand, I would like to extend an invitation to you both to join me."

The Gremory group plus Xenovia snapped at his words and turned to the two fallens, armed to take them down if necessary. Those two in question were troubled. On one hand, they could possibly grasp what every fallen angels would desire if they join. On the other hand, the person inviting them had already betrayed them once and also betrayed Azazel.

Kokabiel wasn't done, "You desire it do you not? Your ancestors who were once pure angels fell because they succumb to their desires. However, did they truly deserve such? Your hatred towards the angels who banished you, your hatred towards the devils who killed your kind. Join me and you will have all that you desire. Your only task is to kill those in front of you. What do you choose?"

I can tell that Forcuis and Raynare could see the possibilities. Issei's almost hyperventilating that his ex-girlfriend might turn on him again. If this keeps up, everything will be in Kokabiel's favor.

"Glory? Hatred? Desire? Who the hell to you think you're fooling?" I walked towards the floating Cadre, like hell I'll let him sweet talk his way out, "You don't care about your subordinates. You just want a war for the sake of it, a warmonger who has outlived his usefulness when the pseudo-peace arrived." He narrowed his eyes at me with oozing killing intent, but I shrugged it off, "How many died in the Great War because of people like you? Thousands? Millions? A war would bring nothing but pain and regret as more and more bodies pile up behind the survivors. The Three Factions will continue to bear hatred as their love ones die."

"However, just as there are people like you who desired war, there are people like us who desired peace. Azazel may have voted for war at the start, but at least he's smart enough to realize the ramifications should it continue and pulled back. Long ago, two certain dragons rampaged in the Underworld and disrupted your war. The Three Factions agreed on a temporary alliance, working together to fight for a common goal."

Spreading my arms towards everyone behind me, I looked at all of them, "Devils, fallens, church member," Light slowly regained back in their eyes. "spirit," Miho widened her eyes. "youkai," Koneko twitched in surprise, "vampire," Rias tighten her fists, "and even humans." I turned back to the displeased Kokabiel, "What happened before is repeating right in front of your eyes. In the past, various mythologies wouldn't even think of this possibility, but here we are now. While God is dead, our actions brought us together because of what we believe in, and neither you nor anyone else can say otherwise. I wouldn't call it true peace, but it's a start."

"Now that I think about it, it's actually crazy that he's right." Raynare stated with a small smile, "I reject your offer Kokabiel, I always liked Azazel-sama better than you anyway."

"I reject as well." Forcuis said with an unwavering smirk, "It would be interesting to see where this path of peace would take us."

"That's right." The red head King declared proudly, "Your little mind games won't work on us. We will blow you away and make you regret confronting us."

"Yeah, that's right! We won't lose to you!" Issei fist pumped.

Valper realized the situation and turned to his leader in worry, "Kokabiel-sama! Take me to safety! As long as I am alive, I can restart my research and even infuse demonic energy to improve Excalibur even further. Then no one-"

Combining Shunpo and speed bust, I stood in front of him with a pissed off look. He squealed like a little girl in fear as I grabbed his shirt collar before he could run, "You got some repenting to do. Kiba! He's all yours!"

Flinging Valper towards the Knight, the old man landed unceremoniously and tilted up his head, only to find a pair of very vengeful blue eyes, "Please wait, this is all for the sake of Excalibur! Many would-"

He didn't have the chance to scream, his heart quickly stabbed clean through by the Holy Demonic Sword. The dead body slumped, giving peace to the avenger as he nodded his head gratefully to me.

"I do not know whether you are delusional, imbecilic or both." Kokabiel narrowed his eyes, locking into mine judgingly, "Youkai? I can understand. But a vampire? Do you truly take me as a fool?"

Casually shrugging, "It's an inside knowledge, and it doesn't change the fact that we're standing together."

"Your feeble sense of unity is shared among a band of foot soldiers. Peace between factions is nothing more than a fantasy with mere words. Do you think you can shoulder millenniums of anger and hatred by yourself?" The warmonger ascended from his thrones, proudly displaying his 10 feathery wings. Light coalesced in his hand, forming a yellow spear, "Once you are all eliminated, this fallacy will cease to exist."

Everyone tensed and got into battle stance. Crossing my fingers to produce two clones, Double Burst flared and five hands work together to conjure a sphere, "That may be so, but I got friends to support me. The era of war and hatred has no reason to resume after so long. Even if we fall, there are others who will inherit our ideals and continue. And we're gonna start by stopping you!" A hurricane of blue wind roared, cracking the ground beneath me by wind pressure alone. Forcuis, Rayanre, and Xenovia were captivated by the sheer power while Kokabiel quirked up an eyebrow and channeled more light into his spear. And both of us threw.

"Interesting!"

"Futon: Rasengan!"

Both attacks clashed, Rasengan grinding against a piercing spear. It looks like they're pushing each other back until a thunderous explosion rang as they equaled in power. Everyone shielded their eyes from the smoke. Once it cleared, Kokabiel was still floating there unharmed and barely broke a sweat while I'm breathing a bit hard. Rasenshuriken is still beyond me. At full health, I can only use it four times a day before collapsing yet my strongest technique still isn't enough.

Kokabiel laughed in excitement, "So the rumors were true after all. After witnessing this spectacle myself, I can confirm that the Crimson Haired Ruin Princess does have a super rookie in her peerage. No mistake about it, shifting blue eyes, current wielder of Double Burst, as well as a unique wind user. The reincarnated devil with the highest growth rate in this generation."

"Guess my reputation precedes me. Though I was hoping for something catchy like Aoi Arashi (Blue Storm) instead of super rookie, sounds cooler in my opinion."

"I still think Super Wind Dragon sounds better."

"Issei, we already talked about this. I'm not gonna take any names from Dra-M Ball."

"I hope that is not the true extent of your powers." Kokabiel interrupted, descending onto the ground, "If so, then show me your so-called peace. Let me feel the thrill of a battle to death!"

A dangerous smirk drew on my face, "You asked for it. Guys, let's go."

[TRANSFER]

Jumping back to give Rias a clear shot at Kokabiel, she fired a colossal amount of Destruction. The warmonger, briefly surprised by the sudden change, blocked her magic with his bare hands, superficially corroding him. I sent a Getsuga towards the center, causing her Destruction to explode violently. Pushed back and slightly wounded, he quickly made a light sword to block Durandal.

"Perhaps you may be speaking the truth about God, but I cannot allow myself to fail."

"Bold words for a child. However, compared to the previous wielder of Durandal, you are weak."

"Then how about together?"

Kiba charged his unguarded side only to be blocked by another light sword. Kokabiel dual wielded against both with incredible dexterity until he had to step back from a Shinkuha to his head, grazing his shirt. Kiba and Xenovia are keeping him busy while I'm supporting from the distance with projectiles whenever there's an opening. They jumped back as another wave of Destruction came. This time, he just swat it away almost effortlessly.

Kokabiel wanted to rush in towards us, but a green barrier suddenly appeared. Asia was back on her feet to help, albeit fearfully. It was too weak for any significant changes but enough to disrupt his concentration before disappearing, pausing him for a moment for a light sword enveloped by fire and lightning to struck him head on. He used his feathers for defense against the explosion. The plasma light made him bleed a little. The Cadre was stunned at the surprisingly powerful attack and saw the rest at the back.

"A bit difficult but I can manage." Raynare stated with some sweat.

"Still impressive you could accomplish this much." Miho appraised.

"Ara ara, it is certainly ingenious of Daisuke-kun." Akeno smiled almost genuinely to the other fallens.

"Stay focused, load the next ammunition." Forcuis created another light sword.

Those four were working as long range support. Raynare was always good at light projection. Her job is to make and maintain a light sling shot and launch Forcuis' exploding light swords coated in Akeno's lightning and Miho's flames like arrows. I wasn't sure if Akeno's demonic lightning could mix well with the Holy element but I guess it worked. Either she's subconsciously using her fallen half, the fallens' light are more tainted than purer versions, or God's death is having a more diverse impact than I thought. Rias isn't suited because her Power of Destruction might eat away the sword.

"Why look so surprised?" I closed in for close combat, Dream Sword in one hand and Supairarudoro on the other, "I told you didn't I? It's a start towards peace."

Snarling, Kokabiel recreated two light swords and clashed. His class as a Cadre wasn't just for show, every slash I make was countered with precision. Fluidly blocking my upward slash, Kokabiel right sword made a horizontal swing to my chest. I barely leaned back in time and did a low sweep but he jumped and cross slashed, discharging two waves of light. Emitting magic around my body, I spun.

"Kaiten (Rotation)!"

A dome of high speed rotating defense met the light waves, grinding for a few moments until the former won. A technique I picked up to further improve my Rook defense after learning the first two steps of Rasengan. Always thought the Hyuga technique and Rasengan were very similar anyway. I quickly used my new trick with Double Burst to resist the vertigo and saw Koneko's sneak attack.

Or at least until Kokabiel held one of his swords in reverse grip and stabbed backwards, "Too naive."

"You sure about that?"

My disguised clone puffed into smoke as the real Koneko emerged from behind and threw a straight punch to his chin, knocking him away a bit. Enraged, Kokabiel was about to swing his sword before another green barrier blocked his wrist, stopping his forearm from pivoting. Rushing in, Koneko made a series of quick boxing punches to his stomach before kicking his face.

Another plasma light sword struck Kokabiel, but he saw it coming this time and blocked with both his swords and feathers. The others wouldn't give him time to rest. Kiba created erupting blades, prompting Kokabiel to jump back before Xenovia came and made heavy slashes to pressure him. While blocking with one sword, he used his other to thrust into Xenovia's abdomen. A barrier weaken the force right before it hit, allowing the bluenette to escape with a moderately deep cut. Rias and I charged up Destruction and Getsuga respectively and hurled them.

"Enough!"

Kokabiel, angered that he was getting cornered, released an omnidirectional light blast and cancelled our magic. He scanned until his eyes stopped at Forcuis. Shit! He figured out that our sensor's relaying Kokabiel's movements to Asia. That's how she's been obstructing his moves so well. Summoning more of his strength, the Cadre was about to charge to the rear group.

The healer shrunk back in fear. Issei saw her state and stood protectively in front of her with another boost, "Tch, still not enough."

Kiba, Xenovia, Koneko, and I stood in his way but he wasn't deterred. The fallen appeared in front of Koneko and blasted light energy at her abdomen at point blank range, tumbling her away with a smoking wound.

"Koneko-chan!"

"Koneko!"

Flanking Kokabiel, the blonde and I was about to slash him until he kicked the former away, making Kiba cough out blood and sent a light wave at me. Barely had time to shield myself with Buso before it tore through and struck me. Xenovia's Durandal was blocked by a light sword and she got pierced by multiple hardened feathers into her body. Kokabiel got all four of us within seconds.

"Guys, formation B!" I yelled out in agony. This felt worse than I remembered, the Cadre's finally taking us more seriously. A gash appeared on my chest and holy elements seeping into me. My new trick better work on light poisoning too.

Another plasma explosion enveloped Kokabiel, blocked but tiring him further. Rias and Akeno released the fire seals, directing the cerberuses' fire breath at him, giving Issei, Forcuis, and Raynare enough time to retrieve the others for treatment. I was flung opposite to where the others are. Miho tried to reach me but got intercepted by the steaming fallen, both emotionally and literally.

"Do not come closer to Hanwei-sama!"

The Salamander ignited her hands and began fighting in a dancing fashion, fluidly moving her fire along with her arms and body, even extending the length of her attacks with tendrils. Kokabiel casually leaned away from every assault before noticing a ring of fire encircling him on the ground. Falling back, Miho erupted a pillar of flames, enveloping the Cadre. Yet, he swung his sword to disperse them easily and brandished, intending to bifurcate her. Miho's body shook in fear before a clang echoed. Dream Sword clashed with his light sword.

"Impossible! You couldn't have recovered from that much light so soon!" Kokabiel snarled. He must be starting to wear down if he's loosing his cool.

I mostly got the light poisoning to settle down, but the wound's still bleeding. Smirking, "You think I'm dumb enough to not find a counter for the devil's greatest weakness?"

He unleashed another light wave as I unleashed a Getsuga. Quickly wrapping my arm around Miho's waist, I Shunpo us back to the others before both energy attacks collided explosively. Blood trickled down my chest as I stabbed my weapon into the ground, leaning against it for support. I'm really starting to get tired.

"Hanwei-sama!"

"Hanwei-san, are you okay?" Asia called out while attempting to heal Kiba and Koneko at once while Raynare's healing Xenovia.

"I'm fine. Heal the others first."

"I do not think so." Kokabiel summoned two large spears and threw them towards the healers. Rias, Akeno, and Miho poured out their attacks to weaken the spear towards Asia. The blonde temporarily stopped her treatment and finally halted the attack with a barrier. Forcuis threw two exploding light swords and I fired a Getsuga, but it still wasn't enough. Fear crossed Raynare's eyes as Xenovia, still injured, wanted to repel it with Durandal.

"Dragon Shot!"

A powerful red demonic beam destroyed the spear, safely averting the girls from their crisis. Stunned, they turned to see Issei wheezing but smiling and giving them a thumbs up.

"Gremory-dono!" The sensor warned as he sensed a hidden third spear speeding towards the younger sister of Lucifer. Kokabiel was aiming for an opening to strike.

Straining my legs, I Shunpo in front of Rias and rotated. The clash was different from before, I can feel my defense cracking from exhaustion. That was until I stopped, coated my hand with Buso as much as possible, caught the shaft, and rotated twice more before throwing the momentum back to him. Flabbergasted by my crazy counter, Kokabiel quickly moved but the left side of his torso was stabbed through, he coughed out blood. This kind of crazy stunt wouldn't have worked without powering up with Double Burst, weakening the spear with Kaiten, and coordinating my movements with Tenkugan. And it costed me a lot of energy.

"Daisuke! Are you hurt?" Rias asked in worry.

"I'll... be fine." The vertigo's kicking in again. My Sacred Gear's aura gently enveloping me to relax my body.

"Why?" Kokabiel spoke, angrily clutching his dripping wound, "Why!? Why won't you fall!?" He's really losing it after his plan to use my own feelings against me backfired, "Do you truly believe in peace that much like that bastard Azazel!? Wake up to reality! You are only a newly-reincarnated devil introduced into devil society. I will not allow this chance to be ruined, fallen angels are meant to reign supreme. Sooner or later war will come again!"

"You really haven't been paying attention, have you? Look around you. All of us of different species are working as a unit. And we're actually cornering you, destroyer of Sodom and Gomorrah. We may have hated each other at first, but we each have our own something precious to protect. Good or bad, every decision we made since our birth defines the us standing right now. And right now, we desire to protect our peace."

"You are only one of many who spouted nonsense about peace. Many have attempted that faraway dream, but none have succeeded and died as fools."

"Maybe, but every dream started out with a single wish. If we let go of it, then peace will truly never be grasped."

"Then you will despair in the afterlife just as your predecessors. Know your own pitiful dreams will never be realized!" Kokabiel flexed all ten wings, pouring out huge amount of magic and recreated his swords. Guess it's time for the finale.

"Asia-san, please heal Daisuke-kun. The rest of us will buy you some time." The healed Kiba along with everyone else dived into the fray whereas the Bishop stood behind me and got to work. I deactivated Tenkugan and Double Burst to recover whatever strength I can get.

The three swordsmen surrounded in triangular fashion. Forcuis formed two light swords of his own, the blades oscillating at high frequency to increase cutting power but stopped by the Cadre's wings. Kiba swept low while Xenovia swung high. Kokabiel expertly maneuvered around the three, clashing and blocking faster than the normal eye can follow until he rotated and slashed all three opponents in circular strike.

Rias threw all her magic at the front. Kokabiel responded with a magic blast of his own and broke through Destruction, knocking the King out of the air. Capitalizing the brief destraction, Akeno and Raynare hurled everything they got from behind but met the same fate as the red head.

Kokabiel grunted in dissatisfaction, "Your lightning truly is similar to his, daughter of Baraqiel."

"Do not associate me with him! I am different from that man!"

"What?"

Most of us were surprised, especially Forcuis and Raynare but refocused back on the fight. Issei came in, partially blocking the swords with his gauntlet before Koneko shoulder slammed but blocked by his wings. Xenovia reappeared from above for a downward thrust. Kokabiel let loose countless steel feathers towards the three. Miho charged up a huge fireball in the sky and threw it down, Kiba and Koneko also released their fire seals to amplify the fire.

The Cadre blasted a holy aura to disperse the flames. However, instead of disappearing, the flames were drawn into over two dozen fire seals appearing on the ground beneath him. His eyebrows rose in surprise from the illusion-concealed papers as a giant explosion bombed his unguarded side. I gave Forcuis and the rest the last of my seals to set up a trap when they engaged in close combat.

His legs and hands are singed and his breathing harder but otherwise still in fighting shape. Dammit! We lack the decisive power to end him. Being wary of me, Kokabiel's been keeping an eye on me while he's fighting. He won't let me get close with Rasengan and Issei's already reached his limit. There's gotta be something we can use to power up- Wait a second! That's it! "Asia, I'm good enough, go help the others. Rias, Akeno, I got an idea!"

Sensing danger from my words, Kokabiel tried to barrel in. A green barrier stood in his path which was easily shattered, Kiba brought out more Holy Demonic Swords and flew them straight at him but again met the same fate. His movements suddenly halted as Miho and Raynare formed tendrils of flame and light respectively to bind him. Forcuis, Xenovia, Issei and Koneko relentlessly assault as much as they can with Kiba zooming in to pin his feet into the ground with his swords.

Due to is strength waning all this time, Kokabiel struggled to endure and break free. Two massive surges of lightning and Destruction flashed out brilliantly, drawing his attention back to me with two enhanced Rasengans.

"Daisuke/Daisuke-kun, your hands!"

"Don't stop! Keep going!"

Accompanying the two were four clones, my left hand forming a thunderstorm Rasengan while the right is making a pure Destruction version. The later couldn't fuse with my wind. Both spheres are eating away my skin and it hurts like a bitch. The thunderstorm kept zapping my nerves, my arm twitching and the other feels like it's peeling my skin. I can't believe how corrosive Rias' magic is, and she's been using it her whole life! It's taking me everything to concentrate and complete the spheres.

"Aaaaarrrrrggggh! Damn yoooouuuuu!" Kokabiel blared out an exorbitant amount of power, blasting his bindings and the others away and flew up, creating a gargantuan spear of radiating light, bigger than the academy itself. It doesn't take a sensor to know he's trying to end the fight.

"Alright, they're ready. Everyone, get back! Double up x13!"

Gales of wind pushed my speed to the limit. Kokabiel brought down the spear. Jumping, the thunderstorm collided with the very tip of the spear, clashing as literal thunder booms resounded everywhere, making everyone covering their ears but still determined to see this through. The vibrations are oscillating my entire left arm right down to the bone, at this rate my arm will break first...

*CRACK*

... Or at least it would have if the spear didn't start to chip away. Kokabiel widened his eyes in disbelief as the crack traveled from the tip all the way to the other end, completely destroyed and cancelled out my attack. Powering my way through, my other Rasengan directed straight to his heart.

Until Kokabiel managed to catch my wrist before it landed. Everyone gasped in shock and despair.

"Your efforts are admirable, I will admit that much." Kokabiel began to squeeze, intending to crush my hand.

"Gaarrrrrgghhhhhh!"

""""""Daisuke!""""""

"However, you are still just a greenhorn devil who doesn't know his place, struggling against greater power. You could have fled and lived to see another day, yet you were swept by your pride, disillusioned to think you can defeat me."

*HUFF**HUFF*

"Sorry fucker, but you got one thing wrong." I smirked defiantly, "I'm not just a devil. I'm a human-reincarnated devil. Devils have the magic to achieve their dreams, and humans never give up!"

Kokabiel did not like the look in my eyes and made a spear.

*CRACK*

"Gaarrrrrgghhhhhh!"

"Then you will-"

As he was about to strike, a dark purplish space appeared around the warmonger, almost completely trapping him in a paralyze-like state. He struggled to move even a muscle "What- what... is this!?"

"D-Daisuke-senpai! Please h-hurry and beat him!"

"""""""Gasper!?"""""""

Much to everyone's astonishment, our resident Dhampir actually came out without his box. His body trembling like crazy and eyes glowing dark purple with tears leaking. Our timid junior felt fear in every inch of his body but still brave enough to come out and help his friends.

Now's my chance, "Haaaaarrrrghhhh!" Pushing past my pain, my right arm slowly slipped out of his hold, inching closer and closer. Kokabiel's visage twisted in horror until the the Rasengan struck, "Say good night, warmonger!"

He didn't get the chance to scream as Destruction exploded violently, the raging gale forced me and everyone else away from the central blast, shaking the school. The complete mass of crimson and dark magic engulfed the Cadre whole. We waited in anticipation for a few seconds, letting the dust clouds to abate. Inside a giant crater where the entire track field was supposed to be, lies Kokabiel. Unconscious with missing limbs and over half of his wings gone, and finally defeated. The dispersing magic circle set to detonate Kuoh was proof of it.

"Hanwei-sama!"

Miho rushed to my side along with everyone else. Asia and Raynare immediately began to heal my wounds. "Hanwei-sama, are you alright?"

Clothes are torn, stamina and magic plummeted almost all the way to the bottom. My back's on the ground, the muscles under the skin of my arms are almost visible. I feel like a zombie but I still couldn't help to smirk, "Never... better."

"You crazy son of a bitch. I can't believe you actually did it." Raynare smiled jubilantly.

Rias and Akeno crowded over me, tearing up and covering their mouths, "Daisuke. Thank goodness you're safe."

"Daisuke, that was totally beyond badass. We won!" Issei fist pumped before wobbling unsteadily from exhaustion.

Coughing, "Yeah, we won. Gasper-" All eyes pointed to the newcomer, "You saved me back there, you really showed your manliness proudly. Thank you."

He shifted uncomfortably and smiled softly, "E-eh? T-that was nothing. You h-helped me more senpai."

"So this is the vampire you spoke of earlier." Forcuis stated as he, Raynare and Xenovia evaluated him. "If he had such a useful power, why did he not appear earlier?"

"Waaaaahhhhhh, so many new people!" Gasper hid behind Rias, "Please don't look at meeeeeeeeee!"

"Never mind, I may already found the answer."

As much as I want to relax, there's still one more problem I need to settle, My eyes traveled upwards, "Guys, there's someone coming."

"What!?" Issei panicked as everyone tensed for a fight, following my gaze, "We're already dead tired, we can't fight another guy."

"It's not a fight, otherwise he wouldn't have float there for at least three minutes."

The barrier was lifted. Up in the dark night was a small white spot that was gradually approaching us. Everyone except Issei and Asia gawked at the almighty Vali Lucifer in his Balance Breaker.

"Hello Hakuryuukou. If you're looking for a fight against Issei, then you'll be sorely disappointed to know he's unavailable."

"I'm impressed you were able to notice me during such an intense battle. When was it?"

"Shortly after I threw his spear back at him. So, what do you want?"

"Just to retrieve the traitor back to Grigori. Azazel wanted him alive at least."

"Azazel-sama? I have heard about the Hakuryuukou as a member of Grigori, but never confirmed the truth with my own eyes."

"Wait just a moment," Rias said slowly, furrowing her eyebrows with anger, "your mission was to retrieve Kokabiel and stop him from destroying Kuoh, yet you just floated and watched our fight unfold?"

Vali shrugged nonchalantly, "You were handling him well. I do not like interrupting other people's fights. You two are the messengers, yes? You must be quite bold to act out independently so soon after your house arrest."

Forcuis and Raynare grimaced at the possible punishment. Rias saw their anxiety and proclaimed, "Do not decide so hastily. Without their assistance, we might not have attained victory. I will send a letter to Azazel to express my gratitude for aiding to protect my territory. They should be rewarded for their efforts."

Everyone including me, didn't see that coming. The fallens were touched by what the heiress is doing for them. Only Vali didn't seem to care, "I see. Knowing Azazel, he would overlook this should you do so." He then went over to pick up Kokabiel and Freed, "Rest assured, Kokabiel's army is already subdued. There will no one left to disturb your peace. As for you two, Azazel wants a full report of your actions."

Just as he was about to leave, "Are you ignoring me White One?"

"So you have also awakened Red One. Do not worry, our time to fight has yet to come. Your current host is still greatly lacking."

"Whereas your current host already unlocked your power. I have foreseen our meeting to be soon, but the gap between the two is more significant than I assumed."

"Hm? You were always leisurely awaiting my arrival for the past centuries. When did you start foreseeing occurrences?"

"Oi Ddraig, what are you doing?" Issei whispered to his gauntlet, his pupils momentarily darting towards me.

"Kukuku. Let's just say there is something far more interesting in the supernatural world, exceeding even what we have seen. Now that I confirmed the truth, I can say for certain there will be many adventures ahead of us."

"It seems you're interest has been drawn. Whatever it may be, I look forward to our upcoming battle. This era is unquestionably an interesting one unlike any other."

"Despite your words, your hostility has considerably diminished compared to our previous meeting."

"Your hostility has withdrawn as well. I have learned much with my current host, it's not bad to have a change of pace every now and then. Fret not, we have plenty of time to settle our rivalry."

"Indeed, farewell Albion."

"Until another time Ddraig."

Vali shifted his gaze from Issei towards me, staring analytically for some reason, "Azazel was not wrong about you at least. Show me more of your pride next time, Aoi Arashi."

With that, he flew off at high speed until he was gone. Hey, wait a fucking second, "Just how long was that guy watching us?"

"Ddraig, what was that about?"

"Just sensing what has changed in Albion. I assumed this might had to do with our actions."

"Forget about it Issei." I reassured the Pawn, "He didn't mention anything specific, that and I'm too tired to care. I'll let it slide. Asia, Raynare, how bad are my injuries?"

"Al-almost done." The Bishop meekly replied at the sight of my regenerating skin, kinda gross actually.

"Can't you just heal yourself like when you had light poisoning?" Xenovia asked curiously.

"It's not a healing technique. Double Burst multiplies the energy inside my body to power me up. The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems responds to stimulate or relax body tissues. So, instead of multiplying with whole numbers, I thought what would happen if I multiply with decimals or fractions less than 1. Voila, I got a detoxifying/pain-killing technique that works on anything infecting me. Or at least it works on dizziness, pain, and light poisoning."

"That's... that's actually brilliant." Forcuis was wide eyed, staring at me like I'm a new species, "I never heard a technique such as that in the past wielders."

"Ara ara, quite an interesting technique. Most people only value the prospect to increase their physical abilities."

"What can I say, I'm a math wiz."

"There." Raynare made a cursory glance, "You should be fine now. Better to take it easy a few days though." Both healers continued to work on the others.

"Thanks you two." Sitting up, I clenched and unclenched my hands to test out the response, feeling the normal sensation back in my body.

"Daisuke." My King voiced out sternly, arms crossed under her bust with admonishing expression, "Did you injure yourself just to pick up that technique?"

"Nah." I denied casually, "All I had to do was to eat chili sauce and work on easing the pain in my tongue."

"That would explain your strange recent desire for spicy food, Hanwei-sama."

"Ufufu, you can ease any pain, Daisuke-kun?" That look in the sadist's eyes is scaring me.

"Hey guys!" Thankfully, Saji and the rest of Sona's peerage came to greet us before Akeno could say anything further. They stumbled a bit due to magic exhaustion, "Way to go in kicking that fallen's ass."

"Magnificently done, Rias." Sona smiled softly towards her childhood friend, sweat dripping down her forehead and taking slightly deep breathes, "To be honest, we did not predict you would all return without at least one serious injury." The Student Council President then nodded gratefully to Forcuis, Raynare and Xenovia, "Thank you, for assisting to protect our home."

The three were flattered, replying a quick "You're welcome" uncomfortably.

"But still," Crouching down, Saji threw an arm over my shoulder and smiled excitingly, "I can tell you guys fought hard. You got to tell me how you beat a Cadre-class fallen angel."

I chuckled, "Sure."

It's finally over. Compared to fire chicken, this fight was much more intense. I had to brainstorm every single outcomes I can think of and plan our win. While extremely hard and painful, it was equally rewarding. All of us, including Gasper worked together and overcome a near-impossible task. At this rate, we just might be able to beat anything standing in our way. All for the sake for our peaceful and carefree life.

"Now," Sona clapped her hands for attention, "as the Student Council members, we must rebuild the school before classes begin."

"What!?" Saji was horrified, "But Kaichou, the whole track field is trashed, the buildings are wrecked, and we're tired. It'll take forever to fix this place."

"Then we better get started." Her icy cool glare pierced through her Pawn, "Stop complaining and hurry."

Dropping his head in defeat, Saji sniffled, surrendering to his fate and obeyed, "Yes, Kaichou..."

'Yup, peaceful and carefree.'

Trutg: Meh, I like canon stories.

Krieger 3533673: I think it'll be the magical version of that in the war against Khaos Brigade.

Guest-Questioner: You don't like Rias' morale boost? I tried making her as close to canon as possible but didn't know she was that bad. I put your review in mind and tried a different approach. Didn't think the last chapter was that close to canon.

A.N.: Hey guys, I'm back and I'm still busy with real life. Not gonna lie, this chapter took a lot of thinking, mostly on the fighting scenes but I kinda like it. Still trying to improve conversation scenes though, I was never good at those. Hope you all like it. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.

Ja Ne