DISCLAIMER: The Taimanin series belongs to Black Lilith.

Chapter 2: Changing the Game, Act I

[From Wolfgang's viewpoint]

(I ask you to read my dialogues in the voice of Peter von Gomm... with a Dutch accent!)

Just another day in the life of a bounty hunter in Gosha Academy. I almost forgot they have such state-of-the-art facilities from a gym and swimming pool in one place, with two secret bases underneath. The smell of sweat and determination fills the air, mixed with the faint scent of cleaning products used to maintain the pristine equipment.

Here I am in the gym taking a run on the treadmills and coaching Kotaro-chin on grappling techniques and how to escape them. The kid's got potential, I'll give him that. Gosha's training of ninjas are very much spartan-like to say the least, at least depending on the instructor's methods. I can see the strain on Kotaro's face as he tries to break free from a hold I've taught him.

"Come on, Kotaro-chin," I encourage, "Use your leverage. Remember, size isn't everything in a fight."

While our boy Kotaro is back to being trained by his guardian, Tokiko, who happens to be a teacher here in Gosha, I took my eye at an unseen presence as I opened up my sports drink and took a gulp. The cool liquid is a welcome relief after the intense workout.

I recaped the events from the last chapter, my voice lowered to avoid being overheard, "There's a politician and his wife got blackmailed by some gang of demons whose illegal activities being scrutinized by authorities, and kidnapped their daughter. So, I went to help the task force with the rescue mission. Thanks to a tactical diversion, we gave the TF's strike team a breathing room. The mission was a success, until some tanned and tit-less idiot completely blew up her gasket and destroyed the facility. Good thing that didn't caused a nationwide uproar if not for Section 3 being able to cover up any possible death and collateral damage caused during a Taimanin's fights."

I shake my head, remembering the chaos of that mission. It's always a delicate balance between getting the job done and keeping collateral damage to a minimum.

While taking a time out, I see Gina coaching our two leading ladies, Rin and Shizuru in a sparring of boxing at the ring, no less. The rhythmic sound of gloves hitting pads echoes through the gym, punctuated by Gina's encouraging shouts.

I once again spoke to this mysterious presence observing the narrative, "In case if you missed 'The Wolf and the Hermit', Georgina Takayama is a Taimanin from the UK, hence she's called the British Taimanin. Her clan is part of the Uehara clan, as her father and Rin's mum are childhood friends. The rest is history."

As Rin and Shizuru spar, I'm completely mesmerized by how their breasts bouncing like jelly everytime they move, not helped that they're both in leggings and sports bra. Their movements are fluid, graceful yet powerful. Rin's lightning-quick jabs contrast with Shizuru's more calculated approach. The fact I can't resist breaking the fourth wall, I once again whispered, "I shouldn't forget that I've seen a lot of jiggle physics since I got roped into every single Taimanin fight and missions thanks to their form-fitting battle suits. But this... this is something else entirely."

I try to focus on their technique, but it's a losing battle. My eyes keep wandering, and I have to remind myself to be respectful. After all, these women are my colleagues and formidable fighters in their own right.

Then, I remembered that I've been assigned to a squad within the task force, even though I'm only a foreign benefactor. I thought to myself, "Rin has no particular specialty in terms of missions, but her adaptability makes her invaluable. Shizuru is a tactical espionage specialist, which is not out of place from the Metal Gear series. And I'm a contract killer for the highest bidder, bringing my own unique set of skills to the table. Think about it... a substitute teacher, an English teacher, and an alchemist. Never thought I find myself surrounded by two, super attractive women. This kinda speaks volumes."

As I ponder our unlikely trio, I can't help but wonder what kind of missions we'll face in the future. With our diverse skills and backgrounds, we're bound to encounter some interesting situations. And with the growing tension between Rin and Shizuru, well, that's a whole other can of worms I'm not sure I'm ready to open.

I once again stared back at the mysterious presence and pondered regarding the two women. My thoughts wandered to some of the more... unconventional experiences I've had since joining the Taimanin Task Force.

"You know," I said, my voice barely above a whisper, "Rin and I have had some pretty wild encounters. There was this one time with a succubus - talk about a night to remember. And then there was that incident with the old lady who could transform back into her younger, more attractive self. Let's just say it was an eye-opening experience."

I paused, watching Rin and Shizuru continue their sparring match. Shizuru's graceful movements caught my eye, and I felt a twinge of unease.

"I've got to admit, I'm a bit worried about Shizuru," I confessed to the unseen presence. "She's been getting awfully close lately. I mean, don't get me wrong, she's attractive and all, but I've made a commitment to Rin. I'm not looking to complicate things further."

My mind drifted to a recent incident I'd heard about, and I couldn't help but cringe. "Did you hear about what happened with Fuuma at the hot springs? Apparently, Shizuru gave the poor kid a boob job. I'm not one to judge, but it made my skin crawl. And that's saying something"

I shook my head, trying to clear the mental image. "I've got to be careful around Shizuru. She's a valuable team member and a skilled Taimanin, but I can't let things get out of hand. Rin means too much to me, and I won't jeopardize what we have."

As I watched the two women finish their sparring session, I couldn't help but feel a mix of admiration and trepidation. Working closely with such skilled and attractive colleagues was both a blessing and a curse.

[From Rin's viewpoint]

(Read my dialogues in the voice of either Shino Nakano or Yukako Kiuchi.)

As Shizuru and I continue our sparring match, I can't help but notice Wolfgang's incessant muttering from across the gym. His voice, though low, carries just enough for me to catch snippets of his ramblings. It's distracting, to say the least, and I narrowly avoid a well-aimed straight from Shizuru.

The gym's fluorescent lights glare overhead, casting harsh shadows on the ring. The smell of sweat and rubber mats fills my nostrils, a familiar scent that usually helps me focus. But today, Wolfgang's peculiar behavior is throwing me off my game.

I whisper to myself, my voice barely audible over the sound of our gloves connecting, "Normally he's edgy and serious in missions. Outside of it, I can't say if he's really that insane with all the medium awareness. Maybe this is just being him."

My momentary lapse in concentration doesn't go unnoticed. Shizuru's emerald eyes narrow slightly, a mix of concern and curiosity in her gaze.

"What's wrong, Miss Rin?" Shizuru asks, lowering her guard slightly. Her breathing is slightly labored, a sheen of sweat glistening on her forehead. Despite the intensity of our sparring, her voice carries its usual gentle tone.

I shake my head, trying to clear my thoughts. "Normally, I would've kept my head together if not for his nonsensical ramblings. In fact, I'm already used to it."

Shizuru's eyebrows furrow slightly, her gaze flickering towards Wolfgang before returning to me. "Perhaps we should take a break?" she suggests, concern evident in her voice.

I nod, grateful for the reprieve. As we step out of the ring, I can't help but steal a glance at Wolfgang. He's still engaged in what appears to be a one-sided conversation, his eyes darting around as if addressing an invisible audience.

Gina approaches us, offering water bottles. "Good work, ladies," she says, her British accent crisp and clear. "Rin, you seemed a bit distracted towards the end there. Everything alright?"

I take a long swig of water before responding. "Just... boyfriend troubles, I guess," I say with a wry smile, nodding towards Wolfgang.

Gina follows my gaze and chuckles. "Ah, yes. Our resident werewolf does have his... quirks."

For now, though, I need to refocus. We have another sparring session to complete, and I can't let Wolfgang's eccentricities distract me further. After all, in our line of work, losing focus could mean the difference between life and death.

I roll my shoulders, feeling the tension release. "Ready for round two?" I ask Shizuru, forcing a smile.

She nods, her own smile warm and reassuring. As we step back into the ring, I push thoughts of Wolfgang to the back of my mind. Whatever's going on with him, it can wait. Right now, I have a sparring match to win.

While avoiding jabs and straights from Shizuru, I can't help but notice her enthusiasm about my relationship with Wolfgang. Her emerald eyes sparkle with an almost childlike excitement as she ducks and weaves, her movements graceful despite the intensity of our sparring.

"The fact you're with Mr. Wolfgang makes you the luckiest woman, Miss Rin," Shizuru exclaims, her voice slightly breathless from exertion. She throws a quick jab that I barely manage to dodge. "Look at him, he's such an Adonis!"

I can't help but roll my eyes, even as I counter with a swift combination. "Attractive? Yes," I admit, feeling a slight warmth creep into my cheeks. "But he's hardly a hero. Because he lacks the qualities of one."

Shizuru raises an eyebrow, curiosity evident in her expression. She steps back, creating a moment's pause in our exchange. "What do you mean, Miss Rin?"

I take a deep breath, considering my words carefully. The gym's background noise seems to fade away as I focus on explaining the complex nature of the man I've come to care for.

"He exists solely to be a force of nature," I explain, my voice low and serious. "His past is not for the faint of heart, and this is the reason why he can be very vicious and unpredictable."

Shizuru's eyes widen slightly, her guard dropping for a moment. I could take advantage of this opening, but instead, I lower my fists, sensing that this conversation needs my full attention.

"But surely, his actions with the task force..." Shizuru begins, but I cut her off with a shake of my head.

"Wolfgang operates by his own moral code," I explain, leaning against the ropes of the ring. "It's not always aligned with what we might consider heroic. He's capable of great kindness, but also terrible violence when he deems it necessary."

"He's like a storm," I continue, turning back to Shizuru. "Powerful, unpredictable, and sometimes destructive. But also capable of bringing much-needed change."

Shizuru nods slowly, her expression thoughtful. "I see," she says softly. "It must be... challenging, to be with someone like that."

I can't help but laugh, a short, slightly bitter sound. "Challenging is an understatement. But..." I pause, searching for the right words. "There's something about him that draws me in. Maybe it's the complexity, or the raw honesty of who he is."

Shizuru's eyes soften, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "Love is rarely simple, Miss Rin. Especially in our line of work."

I nod, feeling a sudden wave of gratitude for Shizuru's understanding. Despite the growing tension I've sensed between us, in this moment, I'm reminded of the bond we share as fellow Taimanin.

"Now," I say, raising my fists once more, a playful smirk on my face. "Shall we get back to our sparring? I believe I was about to teach you a lesson."

Shizuru's melodious laugh fills the air as she assumes her fighting stance. "We'll see about that, Miss Rin!"

As we resume our match, I can't help but feel a renewed sense of focus. Discussing Wolfgang has reminded me of the complexities in my life, but also of my own strength. With each punch and dodge, I reaffirm my commitment to navigating this challenging path I've chosen, both in love and in my duties as a Taimanin.

[From Wolfgang's viewpoint]

"Damn, I must've been talking too loud," I chuckled to myself, noticing Rin and Shizuru glancing my way for a brief moment. They seemed oddly unfazed, though. I turned back to my invisible audience, lowering my voice to a whisper. "Well, who else is the only one capable of fourth wall breaks? I'm probably the closest thing to the Taimanin equivalent of a certain Merc with a Mouth, but with the edgy personality of Inuyasha's Sesshoumaru. Funny thing is, that guy got with a woman also named Rin. Coincidence? I think not."

I drained the last of my water bottle, then decided to show off a bit. With a quick flash of alchemical energy, I transformed the empty plastic into a protein bar. I took a big bite, savoring the taste of my handiwork.

Heading back to the treadmill, I cranked up the speed and settled into a steady rhythm. As I ran, I couldn't help but continue my musings, keeping my voice low enough that only my imaginary listeners could hear.

"You know, I feel bad for most of the Taimanin guys who aren't Kotaro Fuuma," I began, my feet pounding steadily on the treadmill belt. "Take Rinko's little brother, Tatsurou, for instance. Poor kid's the weakest in the Akiyama clan, and rumor has it he's got some... uncomfortable feelings for his sister. Yikes. No wonder he's MIA in Taimanin RPG and Action Taimanin - guy's probably hiding under his bed."

I wiped a bead of sweat from my brow, increasing the treadmill's incline. "Then there's Kiryuu, that demonologist who used to work for my old man. Guy ends up at Gosha because he's got a creepy obsession with Miss Murasaki. He's got that mad scientist vibe, you know? Makes me look like a boy scout in comparison."

My breathing was starting to get heavier, but I pushed on. "Now, our boy Fuuma - he's different. He's your textbook male protagonist, but he's got something special. Looks like a slacker, but when shit hits the fan, he's all business. Kid's got a talent for getting into awkward situations, though. I can't resist messing with him sometimes - you should see his face when I prank call him during class. Priceless."

I felt a twinge of curiosity as I mentioned the Fuuma clan. "I've heard some things about the Fuuma clan's history. Apparently, it's pretty messed up, even by Taimanin standards. But that's all I know - their secrets are locked up tight."

Finally, I turned my thoughts to myself. "And then there's yours truly - the handsome, flawed, amoral, vicious seven-time world champion, bounty hunter, and son of a vampiric crime lord. I'm what you'd call a Byronic hero, I guess. Cold-blooded killer with a troubled past? Check. Done terrible things to get the job done? Double-check. I've ended more than a few careers in the ring, and not always cleanly. There was this one guy in Prague... well, let's just say he won't be walking without a limp anytime soon."

My pace slowed as I delved into more personal territory. "And let's not forget my immortality issues. There was a time I prayed for death, if you can believe it. But then... well, things changed. I found a reason to keep fighting, to keep living. Started writing a new chapter in my life."

As I finished my run, I couldn't help but glance over at Rin, still sparring with Shizuru. A small smile tugged at my lips. "Maybe I'm not the hero type," I murmured, "but I'm trying to be better. For her. For myself. Who knows? Maybe this old wolf can learn some new tricks after all."

I watched as Rin landed a solid hit on Shizuru, her face lit up with the thrill of combat. Yeah, I thought to myself, she's definitely worth changing for. And who knows? Maybe one day, I'll even be worthy of her. But for now, I've got a gym to clean up and a girlfriend to impress. Time to show off those alchemical skills again - nothing says 'I love you' like magically removing sweat stains, right?

After our intense gym session, I made my way down to the second floor basement of the academy. The weapon facility was my destination, and I couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement as I approached. My latest project, a briefcase weapon, was finally ready for inspection.

As I entered the facility, the smell of metal and ozone filled my nostrils. The fluorescent lights hummed overhead, casting a harsh glow on the various workbenches and equipment scattered around the room. I spotted Uraru Mekamura, or 'Ura-chan' as I affectionately call her, hunched over a workbench in the corner.

"Ura-chan!" I called out, my voice echoing slightly in the cavernous space. "How's our baby doing?"

Uraru looked up, her glasses slightly askew and a smudge of grease on her cheek. She grinned, pushing her chair back and gesturing to a sleek black briefcase on the table. "See for yourself, Wolfgang-san. The Brahmastra is ready for action."

I approached the table, my eyes fixed on the innocuous-looking briefcase. To the untrained eye, it might seem like an ordinary piece of luggage, but I knew better. This was the culmination of weeks of hard work and ingenuity - a man-portable railgun disguised as a briefcase.

"Mind if I do the honors?" I asked, reaching for the case.

Uraru nodded, stepping back to give me room. With practiced ease, I lifted the briefcase and initiated the transformation sequence. The case unfolded smoothly, components sliding into place with satisfying clicks. In moments, I held not a briefcase, but a formidable railgun.

"Beautiful," I murmured, admiring the weapon's sleek lines and efficient design. The Brahmastra was a marvel of engineering, boasting an excellent rate of fire, high ammunition capacity, and incredible penetration power. It was capable of punching through powered armor and even larger Tempest drones.

"We've outdone ourselves this time, Ura-chan," I said, turning to my colleague with a grin. "This beauty could give even the Freedom Gundam a run for its money."

Uraru chuckled, used to my frequent Gundam references. "It gets better," she said, gesturing to another identical briefcase on a nearby table. "Two Brahmastras can be combined into one cannon, doubling the firepower."

My eyes widened at the possibility. "Now that's what I call overkill. I love it."

As I examined the weapon more closely, my mind drifted to the three weeks of intense work it took to bring this project to fruition. We had encountered numerous challenges along the way - power supply issues, heat management problems, and more than a few minor explosions. But seeing the finished product in my hands made it all worthwhile.

"Have we run all the necessary tests?" I asked, suddenly mindful of the potential dangers. "We can't risk this thing blowing up in our faces out in the field."

Uraru nodded, pulling up a holographic display of test results. "We've put it through every stress test imaginable. It's as safe as a weapon of this caliber can be."

I nodded, satisfied. "Excellent work, Ura-chan. I think it's finally safe to use. Have we started mass production yet?"

"Affirmative," Uraru replied, her eyes gleaming with pride. "The first batch is already rolling off the production line. Soon, every Taimanin specializing in firepower will have access to one of these beauties."

[From Shizuru's viewpoint]

(Read my dialogues in the voice of Kanan or Yuu Serizawa.)

The cool night air brushed against my skin as I stood in the Training Forest with Miss Rin and Wolfgang. The moon hung high in the sky, casting an ethereal glow over the clearing. It was an unusual sight - two Taimanin teachers and a bounty hunter preparing for a mock battle. I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension.

Miss Rin and I were clad in our battle suits, the sleek material hugging our forms and ready for action. Wolfgang, on the other hand, stood out like a sore thumb. Tonight, he had opted for his casual outfit - a well-worn leather jacket over a v-neck shirt, paired with black jeans that looked more suited for a night out than combat training. Yet, I knew better than to underestimate him based on appearances.

As we took our positions, I couldn't help but marvel at the array of weapons Wolfgang carried. His smartwatch, innocuous at first glance, housed a variety of gadgets. At his waist hung two beam sabers, Rahu and Ketu, their hilts glinting in the moonlight. But what really caught my attention were the two briefcases he had brought along. I had heard rumors about these - man-portable railguns that could combine into a devastating cannon.

The tension in the air was palpable as we waited for the signal to begin. Suddenly, Wolfgang made his move. With a grace that belied his muscular frame, he reached for Rahu, drawing it from his left side. In one fluid motion, he combined it with Ketu, the two sabers locking together with a satisfying click.

Energy crackled along the length of the weapon, and twin blades of light erupted from either end. The double-ended saber hummed with power, casting an eerie glow across Wolfgang's face. His eyes, usually twinkling with mischief, now held a fierce determination that sent a shiver down my spine.

Without warning, he charged towards us, the saber whirling in a deadly arc. Miss Rin and I exchanged a quick glance before leaping into action. I summoned my Wood Art, vines sprouting from the ground at my command, while Miss Rin's hands crackled with electricity.

As Wolfgang closed in, I couldn't help but think how surreal this all was.

With a quick tap on his smartwatch, Wolfgang opened what appeared to be a weapons app. Suddenly, he was surrounded by an array of translucent, ethereal weapons, each one digitized and floating around him like a high-tech armory. It was a sight to behold, and for a moment, I found myself distracted by the sheer spectacle of it all.

But Wolfgang wasn't one to waste time. His eyes scanned the floating arsenal, and with practiced ease, he reached out and touched one of the ghostly weapons. In an instant, it began to materialize, transforming from a digital projection into a very real, very dangerous piece of equipment.

The weapon that took form in his hand was unlike anything I'd seen before. It was a massive chainsaw, its teeth gleaming wickedly in the moonlight. But this was no ordinary power tool - it was also designed to function as a zweihander, a two-handed sword of impressive size and reach. The duality of the weapon was as intriguing as it was terrifying.

Wolfgang now wielded this monstrous chainsaw-sword in one hand, while his other still gripped the double-ended beam saber. The combination was intimidating, to say the least. His eyes gleamed with a mix of excitement and focus, reminding me once again why he was such a formidable opponent.

Rin and I exchanged quick glances, silently acknowledging that we needed to step up our game. I quickly summoned my Wood Art, creating a thick wall of interwoven vines and branches between us and Wolfgang. It was a defensive move, but I knew it wouldn't hold him for long.

As if on cue, Rin unleashed her Lightning Art. Bolts of electricity arced through the air, illuminating the clearing with brilliant flashes of light. I ducked behind my plant wall, grateful for the momentary protection it provided from both Wolfgang's advance and Rin's lightning.

But my relief was short-lived. The air was suddenly filled with the deafening roar of Wolfgang's chainsaw-sword. I watched in a mix of awe and dismay as he brought the weapon down on my carefully crafted plant wall. The rotating teeth tore through the vines and branches like they were made of paper, sending splinters and leaves flying in all directions.

As the last of my defenses fell away, I found myself face to face with Wolfgang. His grin was wild, his eyes alight with the thrill of combat. The chainsaw-sword in one hand and the beam saber in the other, he looked every bit the legendary fighter he was reputed to be.

As I watched Wolfgang charge towards us, I couldn't help but feel a mix of anticipation and concern. Rin, ever the quick thinker, was already formulating a plan. I saw her eyes dart around, assessing the situation, and I knew she was about to make her move.

In a flash, Rin disappeared from my side. I blinked, momentarily disoriented by her sudden absence. It was clear she was attempting a sneak attack on Wolfgang. But as I turned to face our opponent, I was met with another surprise – Wolfgang had vanished as well.

For a brief moment, the clearing fell silent. The tension in the air was palpable as I stood alone, my senses on high alert. With both Rin and Wolfgang out of sight, I realized I needed to be prepared for anything.

Suddenly, a crackle of electricity to my left caught my attention. Rin had reappeared, her hands glowing with lightning energy. I barely had time to react as she launched a bolt of electricity in my direction. Instinctively, I summoned a thick wall of vines to shield myself from her attack.

"Nice reflexes, Shizuru!" Rin called out, a hint of playfulness in her voice despite the intensity of our training session.

I was about to respond when a familiar voice boomed from behind us. "Don't get too comfortable, ladies!"

In an instant, Wolfgang materialized between Rin and me, catching us both off guard. His sudden appearance was startling enough, but what happened next left us truly amazed.

Next to Wolfgang, a massive, furry form began to take shape. At first, I thought it was just Wolfgang transforming into his werewolf form as he often did during battles. But as the shape solidified, I realized something extraordinary was happening.

A second Wolfgang stood before us – or rather, Wolfgang's beast form. The werewolf was impressive, with striking blue fur that seemed to shimmer in the moonlight. Yellow patches covered its chest and abdomen, creating a unique and somewhat intimidating appearance. The beast's eyes glowed with an otherworldly light, intelligent and fierce.

"Surprised?" Wolfgang grinned, standing confidently next to his manifested werewolf form. "Thought I'd spice things up a bit."

Rin and I exchanged shocked glances. This was new, even for Wolfgang. He had somehow managed to manifest his werewolf form separately from his physical body, allowing both man and beast to fight side by side.

"How is this possible?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Wolfgang shrugged, his casual demeanor at odds with the incredible feat he had just performed. "Just a little trick I've been working on. Thought it might come in handy."

The werewolf beside him growled softly, as if in agreement. It was uncanny how the beast seemed to have a mind of its own, yet was clearly connected to Wolfgang in some profound way.

Rin, ever the tactician, was already assessing the new challenge before us. "Well, this certainly changes things," she said, a mix of excitement and determination in her voice. "Looks like we'll have to step up our game, Shizuru."

I nodded, my mind racing with possibilities. Fighting Wolfgang was always a challenge, but now we had to contend with both his human form and his beast form simultaneously. It was a daunting prospect, but also an exhilarating one.

As I narrowly avoided the Lunarnium Beam from Beast Wolfgang, I couldn't help but marvel at the precision of his attack. The stream of energy, fired from his left forearm in an 'L' position with his right hand supporting his left elbow, crackled through the air, leaving the scent of ozone in its wake. The heat from the beam was palpable, even from a distance, and I silently thanked my quick reflexes.

Determined not to be outdone, I summoned my Plant Invade technique. The ground beneath my feet rumbled as thick, verdant vines burst forth, coiling and twisting towards Beast Wolfgang. The cluster of vines, each as thick as my arm, shot upwards with explosive force, aiming to ensnare my opponent and send him skyward.

However, Beast Wolfgang's agility was truly impressive. With a graceful leap that belied his massive form, he dodged the seed bomb fired from my Plant Invade. The vines crashed harmlessly into the empty space where he had been just moments before, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of frustration.

Meanwhile, the clearing was filled with the sound of clashing blades as human Wolfgang and Rin engaged in their own duel. Their movements were a blur, too fast for the naked eye to follow. The air crackled with electricity from Rin's volt blades, meeting the hum of Wolfgang's beam sabers in a dazzling display of skill and power.

In a surprising move, Rin threw one of her volt blades at Wolfgang. I held my breath, certain that this would catch him off guard. But Wolfgang, ever the unpredictable fighter, caught the blade mid-air with a casual grace that left me stunned. What happened next was truly extraordinary.

With a mere touch and a flash of concentration on his face, Wolfgang transmuted Rin's volt blade. The weapon shimmered and changed shape in his hand, transforming into an electrified boomerang. Without missing a beat, he hurled it back at Rin, the weapon cutting through the air with a menacing crackle.

Rin's eyes widened in surprise, but her reflexes were just as sharp as Wolfgang's. She ducked, the boomerang missing her by inches, her hair whipping in the wind of its passing.

As the fight reached a fever pitch, both Wolfgangs suddenly regrouped. In a blink of an eye, Beast Wolfgang merged back into human Wolfgang, the transformation so smooth it was almost imperceptible. But before Rin or I could react to this change, Wolfgang disappeared once again, leaving us both on high alert.

The clearing fell silent for a moment, the tension palpable. Rin and I exchanged glances, our senses straining to detect any sign of our elusive opponent. Then, from somewhere unseen, we heard Wolfgang's voice ring out:

"Garyou Tensei!"

The words seemed to echo around us, and as Rin and I spun towards the source, we were met with yet another transformation. Wolfgang stood before us, but he was no longer in his casual attire or his beast form. Instead, he was now clad in his Royal Knight form - Paladinus Lupus.

The sight was truly awe-inspiring. Wolfgang's battle suit was a perfect blend of form and function, a masterpiece of advanced technology and classic knightly aesthetics. The carbon fiber bodysuit hugged his muscular frame, giving the impression of a futuristic chain mail. Golden shin guards and gauntlets adorned his legs and arms, gleaming in the moonlight. His chest was protected by platinum armor that seemed to absorb and reflect the ambient light, making it appear to glow softly.

What caught my eye most were the pauldrons - beautifully crafted in the shape of lion heads, they added a regal touch to the ensemble. Behind the armor flowed a white longcoat with striking red and blue accents, billowing slightly in the night breeze. The helmet that covered Wolfgang's face was equally impressive, featuring a wolf's mouth opening that served as the visor, somehow managing to look both intimidating and noble.

In his right hand, Wolfgang wielded the Wilhelmus, the legendary weapon of the Dutch Royal Knights. The sword seemed to hum with barely contained power, its blade catching the moonlight and reflecting it in mesmerizing patterns. I noticed that his beam sabers were now holstered at his waist, ready to be drawn at a moment's notice.

As Wolfgang stood there in his full Paladinus Lupus glory, I couldn't help but feel a mix of admiration and trepidation. This was Wolfgang at his most formidable, and I knew that the real challenge was just beginning. Rin and I exchanged determined glances, silently acknowledging that we would need to work together if we hoped to match this new level of power.

Wolfgang's eyes gleamed with determination as he disassembled the Wilhelmus's blade from its base handle. The legendary weapon of the Dutch Royal Knights hummed with energy, seemingly eager for what was to come. With practiced ease, Wolfgang pulled the trigger twice in quick succession.

"Bronze! Silver!" the voice of the sword proclaimed, its tone clear and resonant in the night air.

Rin and I watched, fascinated, as Wolfgang attached the blade to the left side of the handle. The connection port clicked into place, and before our eyes, the majestic knight sword transformed into a formidable beam gun. The metamorphosis was as seamless as it was impressive, a testament to the advanced technology embedded within the Wilhelmus.

Wolfgang, now fully embracing his Royal Knight persona, raised the transformed Wilhelmus skyward. The moonlight glinted off the weapon's surface, creating an almost ethereal glow around him. For a moment, everything was still, the calm before the storm.

Then, with a slight squeeze of the trigger, Wolfgang fired a single beam into the sky. The energy burst forth, a brilliant streak of light against the dark canvas of the night. But this was no ordinary attack. As the beam reached its apex, it suddenly split into multiple lasers, each one arcing back towards the ground where Rin and I stood.

The air crackled with energy as the beams descended, their paths unpredictable and erratic. Rin and I exchanged a quick glance, a silent communication born from years of working together. Without a word, we sprang into action, diving in opposite directions to avoid the incoming assault.

I rolled to my left, feeling the heat of a laser as it struck the ground mere inches from where I had been standing. The earth sizzled and smoked, leaving a small crater in its wake. My heart raced as I pushed myself to my feet, already scanning the sky for the next wave of attacks.

Across the clearing, Rin was a blur of motion. Her agility was on full display as she weaved between the falling beams, her movements fluid and graceful. Electricity crackled around her hands, ready to be unleashed at a moment's notice.

"Not bad, Wolfgang!" Rin called out, a hint of excitement in her voice despite the danger. "But you'll have to do better than that to catch us off guard!"

Wolfgang's response was another barrage from the Wilhelmus. This time, the beams seemed to curve in mid-air, creating an intricate web of light that threatened to ensnare us. I summoned a thick wall of vines, hoping to provide some cover, but the lasers sliced through my defenses with alarming ease.

As I ducked and weaved, narrowly avoiding the relentless assault, I couldn't help but marvel at the complexity of Wolfgang's attack. It wasn't just about raw power; there was strategy behind every move, every beam fired. He was testing our limits, pushing us to adapt and overcome.

"Shizuru, on your left!" Rin's warning came just in time. I pivoted, bringing up a shield of densely packed leaves just as a beam threatened to catch me unawares. The laser dispersed against my impromptu defense, but the force of the impact sent me stumbling backward.

As we continued to dodge and defend against the onslaught from above, I realized that Wolfgang was slowly but surely controlling the battlefield. His aerial assault was not just an attack, but a means of directing our movements, herding us into positions of his choosing.

"Rin!" I called out, my voice barely audible over the chaos. "We need to change tactics. We can't keep playing defense!"

Rin nodded, her eyes never leaving the sky. "I've got an idea," she shouted back. "Cover me!"

Without waiting for a response, Rin began to gather her Lightning Art, the air around her crackling with intensifying energy. Understanding her intent, I redoubled my efforts, creating a series of plant barriers to shield us both from Wolfgang's continuous barrage.

As Rin's power built, the very air seemed to thrum with anticipation. Wolfgang, sensing the shift in our strategy, intensified his assault. The beams from the Wilhelmus came faster, more furious, threatening to overwhelm my defenses.

Just when it seemed we might be overwhelmed, Rin unleashed her attack. A massive bolt of lightning shot skyward, meeting Wolfgang's beams head-on. The collision of energies lit up the night sky, creating a dazzling display of light and power that momentarily blinded us all.

As the light faded and the dust settled, we found ourselves in a momentary stalemate. Wolfgang stood tall, the Wilhelmus still raised, its energy seemingly depleted for the moment. Rin and I were poised for action, our breaths coming in quick gasps, but our determination unwavering.

The night air crackled with residual energy, and the scent of ozone mixed with the earthy smell of my plant defenses.

Much like before, Wolfgang removed the Wilhelmus's blade unit from the port. His movements were fluid and practiced, a testament to his years of training as a Royal Knight. With a precise motion, he pulled the trigger thrice in rapid succession.

The weapon's voice rang out, clear and authoritative, "Bronze! Silver! Gold!"

Each word seemed to resonate with power, and I could feel the air around us thrum with energy. Wolfgang's eyes gleamed with determination as he returned the blade to the upper end of the hilt. The connection was seamless, and for a moment, everything was still.

Suddenly, Wolfgang crouched low, his muscles tensing like a coiled spring. In a burst of motion that almost defied human capability, he launched himself into the air. As he reached the peak of his jump, something extraordinary happened. His longcoat, which had been billowing behind him, began to extend and twist. It elongated rapidly, wrapping around his right foot and forming into a drill-like shape.

"Dutch Destroyer!" Wolfgang's voice boomed across the clearing as he positioned himself for a devastating diving kick.

Realizing the imminent danger, I instinctively conjured another Plant Wall, pouring all my concentration into making it as dense and strong as possible. The foliage sprang up from the ground, intertwining and hardening in record time.

Behind me, I heard the familiar crackle of electricity as Rin prepared her defense. "Hang on, Shizuru!" she called out. I felt her volt whips wrap around my waist, anchoring us both to the ground. The air buzzed with the combined energy of our powers.

Despite our combined efforts, Wolfgang's attack was overwhelming. His foot, now encased in the drill-like extension of his longcoat, connected with my Plant Wall. The impact was tremendous, sending shockwaves through the ground beneath our feet. My wall held for a fraction of a second before splintering under the force of the kick.

Rin and I struggled to maintain our footing as the force of the impact pushed us back. Her volt whips strained against the ground, leaving deep furrows in the earth as we skidded backward. The smell of ozone and crushed vegetation filled the air, a testament to the power of the clash.

When we finally came to a stop, both of us were breathing heavily. The ground between us and Wolfgang was scarred, a visible reminder of the strength of his attack. We exchanged a glance, a mix of awe and respect in our eyes. We had faced many opponents before, but few could match the raw power and skill of a Royal Knight.

"Impressive," Rin murmured, her voice a blend of admiration and frustration. "I've never seen anything quite like that before."

I nodded in agreement, my mind already racing with strategies for how we might counter such an attack in the future. But for now, it was clear that we had been bested.

Wolfgang landed gracefully, his longcoat settling back into its normal form. With a series of quick movements, he once again detached the blade unit of the Wilhelmus. As he did so, a remarkable transformation began to occur. The vibrant, powerful armor that had made him look like a figure from legend began to fade. The colors drained away, leaving behind a grayscale version of its former glory.

Then, in a display that was both beautiful and slightly eerie, the armor began to dissipate. It broke apart into countless particles of light, each one twinkling like a miniature star before fading away entirely. In mere moments, the imposing figure of the Royal Knight was gone, replaced by Wolfgang in his human form, dressed in casual clothing.

As we caught our breath, Rin turned to me, her expression serious. "You know," she began, her voice low, "a Royal Knight's power isn't something to be taken lightly. Wolfgang will only use his Royal Knight powers when facing high-ranking demons, especially ones that other Taimanins can't defeat."

I listened intently, always eager to learn more about our enigmatic ally. Rin continued, her tone a mix of respect and caution, "However, he's forbidden to kill others as a knight. It's a strict code they live by. But..." she paused, her eyes flickering towards Wolfgang, "this isn't the case in his demon form. The rules are different then."

Rin's voice softened slightly as she added, "He has pledged an oath to never misuse his sword for righteous indignation. It's a heavy responsibility, wielding that kind of power."

As I absorbed this information, I found myself looking at Wolfgang with newfound respect. The weight of such an oath, the discipline required to wield such power responsibly - it spoke volumes about his character.

The clearing was quiet now, the echoes of our battle fading into the night. Wolfgang stood a short distance away, the Wilhelmus now dormant in his hand. Despite the casual clothing, there was still an air of nobility about him, a reminder of the powerful warrior that lay just beneath the surface.

[From Wolfgang's viewpoint]

As the dust settled from our intense training session, I felt a mixture of exhilaration and contemplation. Rin and Shizuru had put up an impressive fight, pushing me to showcase more of my abilities than I had initially planned. Their teamwork was admirable, a testament to their years of working together as Taimanin.

I took a moment to catch my breath, running a hand through my slightly disheveled hair. The night air was cool against my skin, a stark contrast to the heat of battle we had just experienced. As I looked at my two companions, I could see the respect and curiosity in their eyes. It was time to provide some context.

"You know," I began, my voice carrying a hint of amusement, "there's more to this power than meets the eye." I held up the Wilhelmus, its surface gleaming in the moonlight. "If you haven't seen Beauty and the Beast Chronicles Vol. 2, I made a pretty important pledge during the Ceremonial Atonement."

Rin and Shizuru exchanged glances, their interest piqued. I continued, "I swore never to use the Wilhelmus to indiscriminately cast righteous judgment. It's not just a personal choice; it's the one rule that all Royal Knights must never break."

I paused, letting the weight of those words sink in. Then, with a wry smile, I added, "And here's a fun fact for you: my Royal Knight suit? It's an obvious homage to Cody Rhodes' American Nightmare gimmick, right down to the signature longcoat. But if you look closely, you might notice some... let's say, 'Homelander-esque' qualities. Let that sink in for a moment."

The expressions on their faces were a mix of surprise and thoughtfulness. I could almost see the gears turning in their heads as they processed this information.

"It's quite the balancing act," I mused, more to myself than to them. "My Royal Knight and beast forms... they're like two sides of the same coin. The knight - heroic, chivalrous, bound by a code of honor. And the beast? Well, that's a whole different story. Raw power, instinct, the primal will to survive. Both are part of me, alter egos of one fourth-wall-breaking bounty hunter."

I flexed my fingers, feeling the residual energy from our training session. "Tonight's little exercise? It wasn't just about showing off. It was about proving my worth, to myself as much as to you. Even without transforming into Paladinus Lupus, I can hold my own against some pretty tough opponents. Top-tier demons included."

Rin nodded, a hint of pride in her eyes. "You certainly proved that tonight, Wolfgang. Your control over the Wilhelmus is impressive."

Shizuru, ever observant, added, "But it must be a heavy burden, carrying such power and responsibility."

I laughed softly, appreciating their insights. "You're not wrong, Shizuru. It's a delicate balance, using this power responsibly. But that's what makes it interesting, don't you think? The challenge of it all?"

As we stood there in the clearing, the night sky twinkling above us, I couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie. Despite our different backgrounds and abilities, we were united in our goal to protect and serve. And nights like these, pushing each other to our limits, only made us stronger.

[From Rin's viewpoint]

After our intense training session, we made our way back to my mansion. The night air was cool against our skin, a welcome relief after the exertion of our practice. As we approached the front door, I could sense a slight tension in Wolfgang's shoulders. I thought nothing of it at first, assuming it was just residual adrenaline from our training.

However, as we stepped inside and I casually mentioned that Shizuru would be staying with us from now on, Wolfgang's reaction was nothing short of comical.

"She's staying here with... with... us?!" he sputtered, his eyes wide with disbelief.

I couldn't help but chuckle at his expression. "Yeah," I replied, trying to keep my amusement in check. "Partly because her base of operations is mostly in Yomihara. She had sold her house here in Gosha and she's going to live here with us."

As I explained, I watched Wolfgang's face turn a shade of red that could rival a ripe tomato. It was clear that having Shizuru around made him feel a strange tinge of discomfort. For someone who could face down demons without flinching, it was amusing to see him so flustered by the prospect of living with another woman.

"If Shizuru wants to be our third wheel, that's okay," I said, trying to reassure him. "There's nothing to be embarrassed about since we're both part of a squad now."

But my words seemed to fall on deaf ears. Wolfgang was now frantically checking his hands and the soles of his feet, muttering something about splinters from Shizuru's Wood Art.

"Jesus, Wolfgang. Calm down!" I exclaimed, unable to contain my laughter any longer. "You don't have any splinters on your body. Also, you are surrounded by two attractive women, there's nothing to be embarrassed about!"

As we continued to bicker playfully, I couldn't help but wonder about the dynamics this new living arrangement would bring. We all knew Shizuru was quite provocative and no stranger to making risqué suggestions. Her reputation for teasing men, including Fuuma, just to get a reaction out of them was well-known. A mischievous part of me was curious to see how she might interact with Wolfgang.

While Wolfgang and I continued our back-and-forth in the living room, I could hear the faint sound of running water. Shizuru was taking her customary bath after training. It was a habit of hers to bathe before and after missions, which made sense given her affinity for plants and their need for water.

As the evening wore on, I found myself looking forward to this new chapter in our lives. Living together would undoubtedly bring its challenges, but I had a feeling it would also bring a lot of laughter, camaraderie, and perhaps even some unexpected revelations. After all, in our line of work, having a strong team was crucial, and what better way to build those bonds than by sharing a living space?

I glanced at Wolfgang, who had finally calmed down and was now slouched on the couch, looking somewhat defeated. I couldn't resist one last tease.

"You know, Wolfgang," I said with a smirk, "for someone who can transform into a powerful werewolf and wield the Wilhelmus, you sure get flustered easily around women."

He shot me a look that was part exasperation, part amusement. "Very funny, Rin," he grumbled. "Just wait until Shizuru starts her teasing. We'll see who's laughing then."

As if on cue, we heard the bathroom door open, and Shizuru's voice called out, "Did someone say my name?"

"Oh, hell no!" Wolfgang's eyes widened in panic, and I had to stifle another laugh. Yes, this new living arrangement was going to be very interesting indeed.

[From Wolfgang's viewpoint]

After Shizuru finished her shower, Rin followed suit. I found myself alone on the couch, my mind wandering to the strange situation I now found myself in. My eyes drifted to a spot on the wall, as if addressing an unseen audience.

"I never thought I might end up having a harem of two overly-sexualized ninja ladies," I muttered under my breath, a mix of disbelief and amusement in my voice. "Something that even Issei Hyoudou can dream of having only Rias and Akeno alone. Besides, what can possibly go wrong?"

The words hung in the air, heavy with irony. I couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of it all. Here I was, a Royal Knight and werewolf, living with two skilled Taimanin. It felt like the setup to a bizarre sitcom.

I stretched out on the couch, trying to relax despite the lingering tension in my shoulders. The sound of running water from the shower was oddly soothing, a reminder of the domestic normalcy that seemed so at odds with our extraordinary lives.

As I waited for my turn in the shower, I found myself pondering the dynamics of our new living arrangement. Shizuru's presence added an unpredictable element to what had been a comfortable routine between Rin and me. I couldn't shake the feeling that things were about to get a lot more complicated.

Finally, it was my turn to shower. The hot water was a welcome relief, washing away the sweat and tension from our earlier training session. I tried to clear my mind, to focus on the simple pleasure of the warm water cascading over my skin. But thoughts of what awaited me outside the bathroom kept creeping in.

Thirty minutes later, feeling refreshed and slightly more relaxed, I stepped out of the bathroom. The house was eerily quiet. Too quiet. A sense of foreboding washed over me as I made my way to the bedroom, a towel wrapped around my waist.

As I pushed open the door, I was met with a sight that made me freeze in my tracks. There, on the bed, were Rin and Shizuru, both as naked as the day they were born. They lounged on either side of the bed, leaving a conspicuous space between them. A space that was clearly meant for me.

"W-what's going on here?" I stammered, my eyes darting between the two women.

Shizuru's lips curled into a mischievous smile. "We thought we'd make you feel welcome, Wolfgang," she purred, her voice dripping with suggestiveness.

Rin, her cheeks slightly flushed, added, "We... we wanted to show you how much we appreciate you, Wolfgang."

I felt my face grow hot, a mix of embarrassment and something else I couldn't quite name. My grip on my towel tightened as I stood there, frozen in indecision.

Shizuru's smile widened as she patted the space between them. "Why don't you join us? We don't bite... unless you want us to."

As I turned my head to an unseen presence, a mix of disbelief and excitement coursed through me. "Holy shit!" I whispered, my eyes wide. "I never thought this would actually happen. It's too good to be true!"

My gaze swept back to Rin and Shizuru, their inviting forms sprawled across the bed. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast alluring shadows across their curves, making the scene before me even more tantalizing. I felt a shiver run down my spine, a combination of anticipation and nervousness.

With a nonchalant shrug that belied my racing heart, I took a step towards the bed. It was a silent answer to their invitation, a sign that I was all in. The towel around my waist suddenly felt constricting, and I found myself fighting the urge to let it drop to the floor.

As I approached, I couldn't help but marvel at the situation I found myself in. Here I was, a Royal Knight and werewolf, about to engage in something straight out of a fantasy. The irony wasn't lost on me.

Once again, I addressed our unseen listener, a hint of pride and amusement in my voice. "Eat your heart out, Issei!" I muttered under my breath, referencing the protagonist of a certain other supernatural harem story.

Rin's soft laughter brought me back to the present moment. "What are you mumbling about, Wolfgang?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

I shook my head, a sheepish grin spreading across my face. "Oh, nothing. Just... processing all this."

Footnotes & Trivia:

- Wolfgang now has access to the Mahesvara, Marika Krishna's chainsaw weapon. This is symbolic in a way due to Carla Cromwell being Wolfgang's biological aunt (as Edwin Black is her brother), as Marika's soul is always bound to Carla.