Chapter 3

Issei was resting at the park because he was preparing for the Devils to come to see him sooner or later. He knew that the Devils were questioning how to approach him since his threat to Rias made it clear that he had no interest in becoming their servant, nor would he allow any Digimon to fall under their control if they had ill intentions for his subjects.

It also gave Lilith time to rest since she was sore but satisfied by her lover's actions in bed.

Lilith also knew that her lover and King had to be ready for anything. There was no doubt that the Gremory Group and the Sitri Devils would wonder who he was, so it was best he mentally prepared for them to show up and question him.

"Still though, this is going to be troublesome since I know that Barbamon is also hiding somewhere in this world, and Leviamon seems to have lost any memory of their base, which is most likely due to Barbamon casting a spell on his subordinates that should they be captured they'll lose any memory of their base, but if they did try to squeal then they would be killed.

"A-Ah!" A voice shouted as Issei turned his head to the sidewalk to see a blonde-haired girl with emerald green eyes and a nun attire, which surprised Issei since he also noticed something on her body.

The power of a Digimon was no ordinary Digimon, and it was on par with one of the Seven Sins.

"Excuse me, but are you okay?" Issei asked as he approached the girl. The girl nodded as she stood back up to show Issei her emerald eyes, which cultivated him for a moment until the girl began to speak in broken Japanese.

"My name is Asia Argento," Asia said, introducing herself before Issei introduced himself, which made the girl smile brightly as if she had been born from the sun.

Meanwhile, Issei raised an eyebrow as Asia smiled, sensing the latent power within her. However, something was off. The aura wasn't hostile, nor did it seem to affect her. Before he could speak, Asia's expression changed dramatically upon hearing his name.

"Issei Hyoudou?" she repeated, her broken Japanese replaced by clear excitement. Her emerald eyes sparkled with recognition, and she clasped her hands together in front of her chest. "You're that Issei Hyoudou! My partner told me all about you!"

Her sudden enthusiasm threw Issei off for a moment. "Your partner?" he asked, confused but keeping his tone steady. How could a nun know anything about him, let alone be so thrilled to meet him?

Asia quickly reached into her satchel, fumbling for a moment before pulling out a ring with a crystal on it that seemed to be glowing with the aura's power. Issei's eyes widened as he felt the energy shift around them. The ground trembled slightly, and behind Asia, a form began to materialize. A large creature took shape, its body resembling a massive, slumbering beast. It had chains binding it, keeping its overwhelming power in check.

'Belphemon! But he's in his Sleep Mode. How did this girl come into possession of the Digimon of Sloth?' Issei said in his mind, immediately recognizing the Digimon since he felt fear in the Digital World when facing Belphemon in not just his Sleep Mode but his Awakened Mode. His heart raced, but outwardly, he maintained his composure. "Incredible."

Asia smiled sweetly, completely oblivious to how abnormal this situation was. "Indeed he is! This is my partner, Belphemon. He's been with me for a while now, protecting me. He told me about you and how amazing you are since you freed the Digital World from Lucemon!" She tilted her head, still brimming with excitement. "I'm so glad I got to meet you!"

Issei blinked, trying to process what he was seeing and hearing. Belphemon, one of the Seven Great Demon Lords, was calmly resting in Sleep Mode right beside this seemingly innocent nun. And she was acting as if this were completely normal.

"Asia," Issei began, carefully choosing his words, "how did you come into possession of Belphemon? That's not exactly a Digimon most humans would encounter—let alone form a partnership with."

Asia looked thoughtful for a moment, her hands lightly touching Belphemon's chains. "I… I'm not sure. It was a long time ago. I was in a lot of danger when a Devil tried to attack me. I can't fight since I'm only good for healing, so I prayed for God to send an Angel to fight for me and protect me. That's when Belphemon appeared, and he's been protecting me ever since I was exiled from the Church. However, I don't understand a lot about Digimon. He just told me to stay close to him and that he would keep me safe."

Issei studied her carefully. Asia was sincere, but there were so many gaps in her understanding. If Belphemon had chosen her, there had to be a reason—one he wasn't seeing yet. And the fact that she seemed unaffected by the immense power Belphemon possessed was astonishing. The demon Digimon was dangerous, but in his Sleep Mode, he was far more manageable. Yet, the sheer potential he held was enough to send alarm bells ringing in Issei's mind.

He maintained his calm expression, but his thoughts raced inside. 'Why would a being like Belphemon choose someone like Asia, especially a nun? And how had she gone unnoticed by the Devil factions for so long?'

Before Issei could ask further, a sudden ripple in the air drew his attention. Issei's sharp senses alerted him to another presence before he could ask Asia more about her bond with Belphemon. He glanced toward the park's entrance just as a figure emerged from the shadows.

"Well, well, well, isn't this a surprise," a voice drawled mockingly. Issei's eyes narrowed as he recognized the speaker: Raynare, the fallen angel who had tried to kill him on their so-called "date." She stepped closer, her dark wings unfurling slightly as she smirked at him. "I thought I'd already dealt with you, Issei Hyoudou. Yet, here you are, alive and… apparently hanging around with a nun?" She tilted her head in confusion, her eyes scanning Asia with disdain. "What's this? A Devil keeping company with a holy woman?"

Issei clenched his jaw but didn't react since he knew Splashmon altered her memories. Raynare also hadn't noticed Belphemon yet, which meant she likely didn't have a Digimon partner—or she couldn't see Digimon at all, which gave him a huge advantage.

Asia, still unaware of the danger they were in, blinked in surprise at Raynare's arrival. "Issei… who is she?"

Issei kept his gaze locked on Raynare, his voice low and calm. "Just someone who doesn't know when to stay dead."

Raynare scoffed. "You should be the one staying dead. I was sure I'd pierced your heart. You're tougher than I thought, Hyoudou. But this time…" She extended a hand, dark energy gathering in her palm. "I won't make the same mistake twice."

Issei stayed calm, knowing Raynare couldn't see the sleeping beast behind him. Belphemon's presence would remain hidden unless he revealed itself, but he knew one thing for sure—if Raynare tried anything, she wouldn't live long enough to regret it.

Asia instinctively took a step back, clutching her ring tightly, though she seemed more confused than frightened. "Issei, what's going on?" she whispered.

"Don't worry," Issei replied softly, casting her a reassuring glance. "I've got this." He turned his full attention to Raynare. "You really thought you could get away with killing me? That was your first mistake. Now, you're about to make your last."

Raynare hesitated, sensing a strange confidence in Issei that hadn't been there before. She frowned. "What's with you? Acting all tough… You're just a human."

Issei smirked. "You really don't know what's standing right in front of you, do you?" He raised a hand, pointing behind him at the seeming space where Belphemon rested in Sleep Mode, its enormous presence hidden from Raynare's view. "I'm not alone, Raynare. And trust me, you wouldn't want to see what happens when you wake a sleeping giant."

Raynare's smirk faltered, her eyes narrowing in suspicion. "What are you talking about? Stop playing games."

Issei shrugged nonchalantly. "I'll give you one chance. Leave, and you might live to regret crossing me. Stay, and… well, let's say you'll wish you hadn't."

Raynare's pride flared at his taunt. She wasn't about to back down from someone she had already considered dead. She raised her hand higher, her light spear forming in her grasp. "Enough with the bluffing, Hyoudou. I'll finish what I started."

The moment Raynare lunged, the air around them shifted. An overwhelming aura of power rippled outward as Belphemon stirred ever so slightly in its chains. Raynare's eyes widened in shock as the ground trembled beneath her feet, and though she couldn't see the source, she could feel the immense presence now. Her wings faltered as fear crept into her expression.

Issei's voice remained calm. "I warned you."

Before Raynare could react, a massive gust of wind blew past her, the sheer force enough to send her stumbling back. Though Belphemon hadn't fully awakened, its power alone was enough to make her second-guess her actions.

"I-I don't know what you're hiding, but this isn't over!" Raynare snarled, her voice shaking. She flapped her wings and quickly retreated into the sky, disappearing as fast as she had appeared.

Asia, still holding her ring, looked between Issei and the now-settling Belphemon in shock. "What… just happened?"

Issei relaxed slightly, watching Raynare flee into the distance. "That was a Fallen Angel. Someone I dealt with before."

Asia's face turned pale. "She tried to kill you?"

Issei nodded, turning back to her. "Yeah. But more importantly, you're safe now." He glanced at Belphemon, still in its slumber. "Your partner really knows how to make an impression."

Asia looked down at her Digivice and smiled softly. "Belphemon always watches over me… even when I don't fully understand what's happening."

Issei gave her a reassuring look. "You're not alone anymore, Asia. Stick with me, and I'll make sure no one like Raynare gets anywhere near you again."

As the tension in the park finally eased, Issei realized that things were only going to get more complicated from there. With Asia and Belphemon by his side—and the attention of not just Devils, but now Fallen Angels—his quiet life had officially come to an end.

"Hey, you hungry by chance?" Issei asked, surprising Asia as her stomach growled, causing her to blush heavily until Issei took her to a nice burger shop.

As Issei and Asia sat across from each other at a small burger shop, enjoying their early lunch, the atmosphere was surprisingly light. Asia, despite her initial embarrassment from her growling stomach, was now smiling shyly as she bit into her burger. Issei watched her, amused by how quickly she seemed to relax.

Belphemon, on the other hand, remained in Sleep Mode, an intimidating yet calm presence that only Issei and Asia could see. Though silent on the outside, Issei felt the weight of Belphemon's telepathic connection settle into his mind.

[You're doing well, Issei Hyoudou, since the battle with Lucemon] Belphemon's deep voice echoed in his mind.

Issei, while appearing casual as he sipped from his drink, responded in thought. 'As are you. But let's not pretend you saved Asia out of the kindness of your heart. Back in the Digital War, you didn't listen to anyone except Lucemon. So how did you end up in Asia's care?'

He recalled Belphemon's reputation during the Digital War—an unpredictable force of destruction, only leashed by Lucemon and Barbamon's cunning. Seeing him now as Asia's protector was more than just strange—it was suspicious. But Belphemon's response took him by surprise.

[I actually don't know] Belphemon admitted his telepathic voice calm yet tinged with confusion. [After we escaped to the human realm, Barbamon kept me in Sleep Mode to avoid attracting attention. I've spent most of my time sleeping since then. All I remember is darkness until I was suddenly… called. Someone was praying for help, and before I knew it, I was standing before Asia, protecting her.]

Issei leaned back in his chair, his eyes momentarily drifting to Asia, who was happily eating her fries, unaware of the conversation taking place. He couldn't shake the oddity of it all. A Digimon as powerful and destructive as Belphemon responding to a prayer?

'Praying, huh?' Issei responded mentally. 'That's not something I expected to hear from you. You're one of the Seven Demon Lords, and now you're playing guardian to a human nun?'

Belphemon's voice remained steady, lacking any malice. [It wasn't something I understood at first, either. But when I awoke and saw her—saw Asia—I couldn't ignore the call. Something about her presence made it… easy to stay by her side.]

Issei's expression softened as he processed Belphemon's words. It didn't make perfect sense, but there was something in the way Belphemon spoke that felt genuine. It wasn't just obligation or manipulation—there was a strange sense of calm in the demon Digimon's tone, a stark contrast to the Belphemon he had known in the past.

'And Barbamon? He hasn't tried to contact you since you've been with her?' Issei asked, still wary of the larger forces that could be at play.

[No.] Belphemon's response was simple but firm. [Barbamon's hold over me is gone. He has yet to reach out, and if he did, I don't think I'd listen.]

Issei paused. Belphemon's shift in loyalty was unexpected, but it wasn't unwelcome. If the Digimon of Sloth truly had no ties left to Barbamon, then Asia might not be in as much danger as he first thought. But the mystery still lingered—why Asia? Why had a prayer from her specifically reached one of the most powerful and feared Digimon from the Digital War?

"Issei?" Asia's soft voice broke through his thoughts. She was looking at him with curious eyes, clearly having noticed his distant expression. "Is everything okay?"

Issei shook off his thoughts, giving her a reassuring smile. "Yeah, everything's fine. I was thinking."

Asia smiled in return, though there was a hint of concern in her eyes. "Thank you for today. You've been so kind to me. I didn't expect to meet someone like you… especially after all that's happened."

Issei chuckled lightly. "I wasn't expecting it either, to be honest. But I'm glad we met."

Belphemon's deep voice resonated once more in his mind, though quieter this time. [You seem to care for her. That's good. She'll need someone strong if Barbamon or the other forces come looking.]

Issei didn't reply aloud but inwardly agreed. Things were becoming more complicated by the minute. The Fallen Angels, the Devils, and Barbamon were still out there, lurking in the shadows. Asia's involvement with Belphemon put her right in the middle of it all, and now it seemed like Issei was being pulled in deeper, too.

But one thing was clear—no matter what came next, he wasn't going to let anyone harm Asia. She had somehow tamed a demon Digimon without even realizing it, and that alone made her someone worth protecting.

"Well," Issei said, standing up from the table, "what do you say we get going? Let's keep a low profile for a while. Things might get complicated soon."

Asia nodded, still unaware of the full extent of what was happening but trusting Issei nonetheless. She stood up, carefully holding her Digivice close, while Belphemon's silent presence loomed behind them, unseen by the rest of the world.

As the two left the burger shop, Issei couldn't help but wonder what else fate had in store for them. But one thing was certain—he wasn't facing it alone.

"I-Issei! Could you please do me a favor?"

"Of course. What would that favor be?"

"Could you take me on a date please?!"

Issei stared at her in shock before asking.

"Huh?"

Later.

As the day went on, Issei found himself doing something he hadn't expected: enjoying a date. Asia was all smiles, her excitement bubbling over as they wandered through the streets. From small boutiques to a quick stop for ice cream, Issei was surprised at how natural the whole thing felt, especially considering how strange their first meeting had been.

Belphemon, still in Sleep Mode but hovering ever-watchful, trailed behind them like an invisible chaperone. His presence, though massive and menacing, was strangely comforting. Issei couldn't help but chuckle to himself at the thought—a Demon Lord as a chaperone on a date.

Asia, however, seemed completely oblivious to any tension Issei might have felt. Her laughter was infectious as she tried new foods and wandered wide-eyed through shops. She loved every moment, her happiness so pure that it rubbed off on Issei, making him forget, even for a moment, the dangerous world they were both wrapped up in.

Belphemon, while silent, had an odd energy about him that felt almost… proud. Issei occasionally glanced back at the hulking figure, sensing an air of satisfaction as if the demon Digimon was silently approving of the time Asia was having. He could swear the beast felt something akin to a fatherly protectiveness over Asia, which was both heartwarming and bizarre.

The day passed quickly, and as the sun began to set, the two of them found themselves back at the park where they'd first met. The air had cooled slightly, and the gentle breeze carried the scent of the earth and blooming flowers. Asia sat on the bench, her legs swinging gently as she admired the calm surroundings. Issei sat beside her, relaxed, enjoying the quiet after their eventful day.

As they rested, a small commotion caught their attention. A boy, no older than eight or nine, had tripped on a rock nearby, skinning his knee. The boy whimpered softly, holding his bleeding knee as his mother rushed over, trying to calm him down.

Without hesitation, Asia stood up. "Excuse me," she said softly, approaching the boy and his mother. "May I help?"

The mother, clearly flustered, glanced at Asia but gave a quick nod, unsure of what the girl could do.

Issei watched closely as Asia knelt beside the boy, placing her hands gently over the wound. A soft, glowing light emanated from her hands, surrounding the injured area in a warm, golden aura. The boy stopped crying almost immediately, watching in awe as the wound began to close before his eyes. In seconds, the skin was mended, leaving no trace of injury behind.

Issei's eyes widened. Twilight Healing. He'd heard of it before—a sacred gear, the power to heal, granted only to those of great faith within the Church. But seeing it in action was something else entirely. Asia possessed such a rare and valuable gift, and yet…

The mother thanked Asia profusely, hugging her son tightly as they hurried off, leaving Asia standing there with a serene smile on her face. She turned back to Issei, her smile fading slightly when she saw his expression of surprise.

"You… have Twilight Healing," Issei said, trying to piece it together. "That's incredible. I didn't know you had that kind of power."

Asia nodded but looked down, her expression softening into something more cynical. She returned to the bench and sat next to him again, her usual cheerfulness replaced by a quiet sadness.

"There's something I haven't told you," she began softly, her voice hesitant. "The reason I'm here… why I'm not with the Church anymore."

Issei listened carefully, his curiosity piqued. He had known from the moment they met that there was more to Asia than met the eye, but now he was about to hear the full truth.

"I was… exiled from the Church," Asia admitted, her hands trembling slightly as she spoke. "Even though I have Twilight Healing, or maybe because of it, I was cast out. You see, I healed a Devil once. I didn't know at the time; I just saw someone hurt and… I wanted to help."

Issei's eyes softened as she continued.

"When the Church found out, they branded me as a traitor. Healing a Devil was unforgivable in their eyes. They told me I had betrayed God, that my power was a curse. I didn't understand… I only wanted to help people." She looked down at her hands as if questioning her gift. "So, they excommunicated me. That's why I'm here now, alone."

Issei's chest tightened as he listened. Asia's kind heart had led her to help someone in need, and for that, she had been punished, cast aside by the very people who should have protected her.

"And then, after being cast out, I was lost," Asia continued. "I didn't know where to go, but that's when Belphemon found me. He saved me from some dangerous people and since then… I've been with him."

Issei was silent for a moment, taking it all in. The Church had thrown her away, and in her darkest moment, Belphemon, of all beings, had become her protector. It was an irony not lost on him, but it also made sense in a way he couldn't quite explain. Asia had such a pure soul that even a Digimon like Belphemon had been moved to watch over her.

"You didn't deserve that," Issei finally said, his voice low but filled with conviction. "You were only trying to help."

Asia smiled, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Thank you, Issei. It means a lot to hear that."

Issei leaned back, looking up at the darkening sky. "You're not alone anymore, Asia. I promise I'll protect you, no matter what."

At that, Belphemon's telepathic voice entered his mind again, low and almost… approving. [You understand now, don't you? She has a gift that's worth more than any power we have.]

Issei nodded silently, glancing at Asia as she quietly admired the stars beginning to peek through the twilight. He couldn't deny it—Asia was special, not just because of her power, but because of who she was. And now, it was up to him to make sure nothing ever harmed her again.

Issei stood silently for a moment after Asia finished sharing her story. He had already been considering it, but now, after hearing everything she had gone through—the exile, her kindness misunderstood by the Church, and her unexpected bond with Belphemon—he knew he couldn't let her be exposed to the dangers lurking in the human world. The Devils, the Fallen Angels, Barbamon—they would all see Asia as a pawn to use or destroy.

He turned to her, his expression serious yet gentle. "Asia," he began, "I don't want you to be targeted by those who would harm you, either the Devils or the Fallen Angels in this town. You deserve a place where you can be safe… where you can be free."

Asia blinked, confused. "A place where I can be free?"

Issei nodded and held out his hand. "Come with me. There's a place where you and Belphemon can live peacefully without the fear of being hunted. A place where your powers will be appreciated for what they are."

Before Asia could ask more, Issei raised his free hand, and with a soft pulse of energy, a shimmering portal materialized before them. The air around them rippled as the gateway formed, swirling with a faint blue glow. Asia's eyes widened in awe and confusion, and even Belphemon stirred slightly behind her, his presence intensifying at the sight of the portal.

"This… this leads to the Digital World," Issei explained. "A world I built—my kingdom."

Asia's eyes widened in shock, her gaze flicking between Issei and the portal. "Your kingdom?"

Issei gave her a soft smile. "There's a lot you don't know about me, but I think it's time I showed you."

Hesitant but trusting him, Asia gently took his hand, and the two of them, with Belphemon looming behind, stepped through the portal. The world around them shifted in an instant, and suddenly, they were no longer in the park.

Asia gasped as they emerged sky-high above the Digital World, a vast and stunning landscape stretching out beneath them. Lush forests, sparkling rivers, and towering mountains spread out in every direction, with an immense castle nestled in the heart of it all. The sky was a brilliant blue, dotted with clouds that seemed to shimmer with a strange, ethereal light.

Before Asia could react, she felt herself lifted gently into the air. Belphemon, still in Sleep Mode, had extended his power, and she was now floating as though cradled by an unseen force. She looked down at Issei, who was lying beside her, his wings—large and shining with a faint light—unfurled from his back.

"Issei… you're flying," she whispered in awe.

He glanced over with a grin. "Lucemon taught me a thing or two before I came to rule here." His wings beat softly, effortlessly keeping him aloft as they descended through the skies.

Belphemon, though still slumbering, carried Asia higher and higher, gently guiding her through the air. She giggled, her fear melting away as the sensation of flying filled her with joy. It was like a dream—a dream where she was safe, free, and completely at peace.

"Is this really the Digital World?" she asked, her voice filled with wonder as they flew closer to the massive castle that loomed in the distance.

"Yes," Issei replied. "This is my kingdom. A place where Digimon and humans can live in harmony. Where you don't have to fear being cast out for doing what's right."

They touched down at the castle's entrance, its grand gates opening as if in response to Issei's presence. Asia marveled at the structure—it was unlike anything she had ever seen. The architecture was grand yet serene, a mix of organic design and digital constructs as if the very essence of the Digital World had been molded into stone and crystal. The castle seemed alive, its walls humming with the faint, vibrant energy of Digimon all around.

As they walked through the corridors, Asia could hardly contain her amazement. Digimon of all shapes and sizes moved through the halls, each one bowing respectfully as they passed, their eyes filled with admiration for their King. Issei led her to a large balcony overlooking the kingdom, giving her a breathtaking view of the world below.

"Issei… this is incredible," Asia whispered, her eyes sparkling. "I had no idea such a place existed."

Issei nodded, resting his hands on the balcony's railing as he gazed out at his kingdom. "There's a lot you don't know about Digimon and me. I've spent a long time building this world and creating a safe haven for Digimon, who was displaced after the war. They needed a leader, and I—well, I ended up becoming that leader."

Asia looked at him with wide eyes, absorbing his words. "But… how? How did you become the ruler of the Digital World?"

Issei smiled softly. "It's a long story, but let's just say that after the Digital War, Lucemon entrusted me with a power that allowed me to shape this world. I've been protecting it ever since. And now, I'm offering you a place here as well."

Asia blinked, surprised. "A place here? What do you mean?"

He turned to her, his gaze serious but kind. "I want you to be a part of this world, Asia. To be a part of my council. Your powers could help protect Digimon, just like you've helped people in the human world. Here, your healing abilities won't be condemned—they'll be valued."

Asia's heart raced as she listened to Issei's offer. She had never imagined something like this—a place where she could belong, where she could use her powers to help others without fear of judgment. Her mind swirled with thoughts, but one thing stood out: this world, this kingdom, felt like home.

"You… really want me to be part of your council?" she asked, still in disbelief.

Issei nodded. "Yes. You and Belphemon both. You've already proven you have the heart to protect others, and with your powers, you could make a real difference here. So, what do you say?"

Asia's eyes filled with emotion, a mix of gratitude and hope. She glanced at Belphemon, who remained quiet but ever-present beside her as if silently encouraging her to leap.

"I… I'd be honored," Asia said, her voice trembling with happiness. "Thank you, Issei. I want to help. I want to protect this world."

Issei smiled, relieved and genuinely happy for her. "Then welcome to the Digital World, Asia Argento. You're part of something much bigger now."

As the two stood on the balcony, gazing out at the vast kingdom below, Asia felt something she hadn't in a long time—peace. She had found her place, and with Issei and Belphemon by her side, she was ready to face whatever challenges came next.

Meanwhile, in a darkened corner of the city, Raynare paced back and forth, her heart racing and her mind swirling with confusion and anger. The memories of her encounter with Issei replayed in her mind: the way he had effortlessly thrown off her with the mysterious power radiating from him and the audacity he had to claim he was not afraid of her or the Devils.

"What the hell is going on?" she muttered, pulling at her hair in frustration. "How is he still alive? That power… it felt like nothing I've ever encountered! No mere human should have that kind of strength!"

Her thoughts raced as she plotted. If he's become this strong, then that nun must be the key. I have to get my hands on that power! She has to be the source of it all!

Just then, as if summoned by her desperation, a shadowy figure materialized in front of her. Raynare stepped back, her instincts kicking in, but as the figure came into focus, her fear morphed into curiosity. The man before her appeared old, with a long white beard and eyes that glinted with knowledge and malice. His presence radiated an aura of darkness and power.

"Raynare," the old man spoke, his voice smooth and enticing. "I believe we have a mutual interest."

"Who are you?" Raynare demanded, trying to maintain her composure despite the swirling energy around him.

"Ah, forgive my manners. I am Barbamon," he said with a slight bow, the corners of his lips curling into a smile. I am here to offer you power—the power you so desperately seek to eliminate that insufferable Hyoudou and obtain the nun."

Raynare narrowed her eyes, intrigued but cautious. "What's the catch? There's always a catch."

Barbamon chuckled softly, his gaze penetrating. "You are wise to question my motives. Nothing indeed comes without a price. All I ask in return is for the souls of your comrades currently holed up in the abandoned Church."

Raynare's heart raced. The fallen angels she had once fought beside had grown weak and complacent, hiding away like cowards. She had no real loyalty to them anymore. "You want their souls? That's all?"

"Yes," Barbamon replied, his smile growing wider. "In exchange for the power to defeat Issei and seize the nun, I merely wish for the lives of those who no longer serve a purpose."

Raynare grinned, feeling the thrill of potential power coursing through her. "I'll do it! Just give me what I need to crush him!"

"Very well," Barbamon said, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Prepare yourself."

Before she could respond, Barbamon stepped closer, and in one swift motion, he plunged a dagger deep into Raynare's heart. She gasped, but rather than pain, an overwhelming rush of energy surged through her body. It felt as if her very essence was being rewritten, transformed.

Barbamon whispered ancient incantations, pouring Digiessence—power derived from Digimon—into her body, merging with her very being. As the essence coursed through her, Raynare felt her physical form shift and change, as if the boundaries of her identity were dissolving. She was no longer just Raynare; she was becoming something more—she was merging with the power of Tankdramon, a fearsome Digimon under Barbamon's command.

As the transformation began, her wings erupted into a surge of dark energy, shimmering and warping as they morphed into mechanical appendages reminiscent of Tankdramon's armored structure. The feathers dissipated, replaced by sleek, metallic surfaces adorned with glowing blue circuits that pulsed with energy. Her limbs expanded and restructured, becoming more robust and powerful, the muscles beneath her skin hardening into a hybrid of flesh and machinery.

Raynare's face contorted momentarily in pain as her features altered. Her eyes glowed an ominous red, becoming more beast-like, embodying both her fallen angelic nature and Tankdramon's fierce visage. Her hair shifted, turning darker and more wild, with streaks of electric blue framing her face, resembling the cables and wires of a digital warrior.

The dagger in her heart pulsed with energy, and she could feel the essence of Tankdramon integrating into her soul. Her voice warped as she spoke, taking on a deeper, more resonant tone. "I… feel it! I am no longer just a Fallen Angel—I am a fusion of power!"

As the transformation was completed, she fell to her knees, overwhelmed by the sensations coursing through her. Her wings now spread wide, revealing their new armored, mechanized form, a perfect blend of angelic grace and Digimon's might. "I am yours, Barbamon," she declared, her voice a blend of fury and loyalty. "I swear fealty to you."

"Excellent," Barbamon replied, clearly pleased with her submission. "Now, I have a task for you. Attack the Hyoudou Home and draw Issei into the abandoned Church. It's there you will reveal your newfound power and show him the consequences of defying the Fallen."

Raynare stood tall, her form now a striking blend of angel and Tankdramon—a fierce creature born from the shadows of Barbamon's design. She felt the raw energy pulsing through her, the capabilities of a powerful being ready to be unleashed.

"Consider it done," Raynare said, her voice a seductive blend of malice and confidence. "Issei won't know what hit him. I will make him regret crossing me!"

With a final, wicked smile, she took to the skies, her heart filled with determination. She could feel the energy thrumming within her, waiting to be unleashed. Issei Hyoudou would soon learn that he had made a grave mistake by underestimating her—and he would pay dearly for it.

With a powerful flap of her enhanced wings, Raynare soared into the night sky, ready to enact her vengeance and reclaim her place in this twisted game.

"And now the pieces are in place. Let us see what you can do, Issei, when you face not a Digimon or a Supernatural being but a combination of both?" Barbamon said with glee as he vanished, waiting for the fun to begin.

Scene!

Now, Asia Argento and Raynare are part of the Digital Word, but Asia is now Belphemon's partner, while Raynare is the new commandment serving Barbamon and is now a test subject for Barbamon.

Get ready for the fun to begin!

Issei's Harem: Lucemon, LadyDevimon, Angewomon, Asia, and whoever else might be a good addition.