/ "Dialogue." /

/ 'Internal Thoughts.' /

/ "Flashback Dialogue." /

The best part of working in construction is that, when it's slow, you get to be home and write.

Nivek Beldo: Rizevim is planning to invade a different world (not a spoiler), called ExE (in the lore) not the elemental nations. Though that is not a bad idea had the story been different. And I agree, we won't see the actual games, since, he isn't in them.

I fixed that Nyx part. I somehow did not recall that detail.

They had not said a word. Not a single member of the Hero Faction uttered anything as they crossed into the scorched wasteland of the Realm of the Dead. When their eyes met the charred, broken ground, they all swallowed hard. Euclid Lucifuge had implied them that a certain someone had escaped Hades' grasp, and now, this sight confirmed it. There was no need for explanations—no one cared for them at this point.

Thanatos, the Grim Reaper, arrived to meet them, his presence calm and grateful. He pointed toward the blackened, flaming sphere in the sky and said "... Free our Lord. And we will be in your debt."

Georg widened his eyes, 'He did this!?'

Cao Cao bow and replied, "That is no problem. However, we're going to need something from the God of Death."

"Hades-sama will consider his level of generosity once he is back on his rightful throne."

And so, the work began.

Georg was effective, using high-level magic. As he destroyed rock by rock, the flames faded with them.

Cao Cao, however, made the greatest impact. Wielding True Longinus, he drove his spear deep into the sphere, piercing, breaking it, and dispersing the darkness with each thrust. There was no better tool for something like this. He could have used more of his power, perhaps even shatter the entirety of it, but he had no desire to overwork himself for a god he personally despised.

Eventually, they struck something.

Black-oil ooze began to seep from the cracks. The liquid pooled at the base of the sphere before it began to solidify, rising and forming into a shape.

The Lord of the Dead manifested from the ooze, his skeletal figure restored.

Hades appeared calm, his jaw stretching, opening, and closing. He observed his hands, stretching and squeezing, feeling the warm tension in the air. His almighty aura spread, seeping into the ground. Following this, Grim Reapers suddenly flew down from the sky, crashing around them. They fell to their knees as skeletons rose from the ground to do the same.

His skeletal neck extended, rising higher and higher while the rest of his body remained unchanged. When his head reached the clouds, it twisted in all directions, surveying the ruins of his realm.

The devastation was undeniable.

Eventually, it came back down to reunite with the rest of his body.

The God grumbled, "Humans..." his voice surprisingly relaxed, "More of your kind. Look at what your folly has done to my realm."

Cao Cao lowered his eyes. "You wanted Uchiha Sasuke. We gave you Uchiha Sasuke. I've come to collect my payment."

Orcus stammered, "You will hold your tongue, boy."

Hades commanded, "Silence." Then, he looked around, "We must rebuild. Our defenses. Our prisons. My throne. Where is Pluto? I'll have his soul, again, for his failure. That is why is here!"

After a moment of silence, the God seemed to realized what had happened.

"... That fool. I told him to withdraw. No matter. He served me, and our mission. Now, he can rest in peace. Everyone, get it done!"

The Reapers bowed and scattered. Thanatos, however, stepped forward.

"My Lord, leaders from the other realms of the underworld came seeking... a certain human. We drove them off with a show of force."

Hades replied with sarcasm, "I'm sure you did. Go, Thanatos. Raise the undead. You have my blessing. We must be ready to strike at a moment's notice."

Turning to Cao Cao, he added, "As for your payment? Magical knowledge about your Sacred Gears from the dead? Fine. You will have it. Stop by whenever you see fit. But keep those artifacts out of my sight. Those things are the second most dangerous entities in this world, second only to aliens."

The spearmen stood firm. "We want something else. Someone else."

"You dare make demands of me!?"

"Don't stiff us on this!" He shot back. "We broke you out from your prison. That took time and energy. My time."

His form began to shake, his anger barely restrained. "I assume it is your affiliation with a certain organization that makes you feel so entitled and enables you to be so disrespectful!"

"I want Samael," Cao Cao declared. "Georg can control him, and we want him."

Hades paused, lowering his non-existent eyes. "...Demands upon demands. I need Samael. He is mine—especially now, with evil dragons running rampant and destroying everything."

The Hero Faction exchanged glances, realizing that Shalba had been lying, but they suspected that themselves. Afterall, they had fought Hyoudou Issei. He was not capable of causing this level of destruction.

"We can use Samael," Cao Cao said. "And there's something else for you to know. It's a good trade."

Hades sneered. "What is it?"

"Shalba Beelzebub is planning an attack on the underworld."

There were no other details given, and that was intentional.

"Hm," The God of Souls muttered. "I may look into this myself. But I will not be attending any such confrontation, regardless."

"If you want," The Hero offered, "We can get Sasuke again."

Hades scoffed. "He is dead—struck by my curse. I seen it with my own eyes. His soul will come to me, as will yours, if you keep wasting my time."

"...About that..."

Instead of denying it, reacting with anger, or accusing them of lying, the God exhaled with a strange calmness. It was as if he accepted the possibility that Uchiha Sasuke may have survived the curse.

That... was very, very strange. They had not expected him to be so willing to believe it.

It only made them feel... anxious.

Eventually, the Greek deity pondered with clarity, "What kind of power does he have, to resist my curse?"

"I don't know," Cao Cao admitted. "But what kind of power did he have to break free and imprison you in your own domain?"

Hades froze, his fury simmering as he reluctantly accepted the truth. If a human could pull his own soul from the God of Souls, his power was indeed greater than expected in every possible way.

But then, he studied the human's face—his cocky, arrogant expression. It gave away a clue, hinting at something else.

"... You already have him?"

Cao Cao smirked, nodding toward his magician. "Bring him out."

Georg's magic circled conjured below him. As a master in all fields, teleportation and summoning were no stranger to him.

After a moment, a figure emerged, one on his knees.

Yes, here he was.

Uchiha Sasuke sat on his knees. His hands and legs were bound by magical binds. Also, strangely, he was blind-folded.

"Why are his eyes covered!?" Hades roared like a confused child. "And what happened to your own eye?"

Cao Cao rubbed his right eye, now replaced with a light grey iris and dark pupil.

"Sasuke's power comes from his eyes. We realized this during our fight. Did you notice? When you fought him, the color of his eyes likely had changed. Georg figured it out—his eyes are his catalyst. As for me?... I wanted an upgrade."

Hades grumbled, "...Is this really him?"

The man definitely looked like the Uchiha. And, he possessed chakra, from what the God could analyze. Though, it was sealed, so that may explain why he barely feels any coming from him.

Georg stared, nervous, he was so nervous. Far more nervous than usual, 'This won't work...'

"Boy, do you hear me!?" Hades yelled. "You could not hide from me for long! Your soul will be mine! Kukuku! I will mount you across this realm, crucify you as if you were the messiah reborn. Your suffering has only just begun!"

Turning to Cao Cao, he growled, "Very well. You may borrow Samael. But I expect him back intact! If he is hurt, you heal him! Do you understand?"

The Hero grinned, "...We understand, Lord of Death."

"What's the match type?"

"Dice Figure rules."

They felt as if they had been talking about it for ages. And now, it was finally coming.

It was to take place in the city of Agreas, a place where Sasuke has been trying to gain closer, and closer too. However, this event would bring too much security. Too much heat for them not to be on alert for. Despite this, he hopes to get somewhat close, close enough to where he could learn a space to teleport to, if he ever needed. That way if he ever wants to come back, he can easily do so.

"That makes it more complex," he said. "It's pure fighting. You can only hope to roll better."

She nodded, "Yes. But we have Rossweisse now."

Yes, that was also true, and there was a deeper meaning to that as well. With the Valkyrie taking up that piece, it confirmed one thing.

Rias Gremory had a full set.

Eight Pawns. Two Bishops. Two Nights. Two Rooks. One Queen. And one King.

That second Rook had been saved for him.

Sasuke wondered if she would bring it up, but she didn't. Instead, it was him who decided to speak, "I have nothing against you. Or your devil society. But I am a human."

She gave him a look and smiled, "You don't have to explain yourself, I know. I'm sorry if I ever pressured you."

Rias had grown since they'd met. Though she had accepted his refusal to become her Rook, she still viewed him as a strong, dependable ally. There were things she liked about him—his strength, his loyalty, his presence.

Sometimes, she would do things to get his attention, like rearrange his hotel room in Kyoto, spy on him when he was with Akeno, or try to persuade him to spend more time with her. However, that had always backfired. Now, she simply began to try and be... normal. It wasn't uncommon to act differently around someone you wanted to like you. Yet, after hearing and seeing him with Akeno, the 'King' now simply wished to be... friends.

Or at least, that was what she had told herself.

"…But," he added, "If I had no choice… there would be no one else. Compared to your peers, you're the best I've seen."

She smirked and jokingly replied, "If that happens, we'll have to discuss whether or not we would even want you."

There it was. Her playful attitude, her genuine smile. It is what she should have been doing from the beginning. To just be... her.

"You and Akeno," Rias said after a pause. "... I didn't expect that."

He shrugged. "I don't know what to make of it. She asked me, and I said yes."

Rias took a risk and swallowed. "Don't take this the wrong way. I don't want to get involved in your business. It's not my place. But... I need to say somethings about her. I've known her for a long time, and I think I—"

"There's no one better than you," Sasuke interrupted. "You're the only one I want to hear from, if it involves her."

Those words made her feel confident.

"She... she means so much to me. All I ask, and suggest... is to be patient. Give everything she offers a chance. You know it, she has... deep wounds. Wounds I could not help her heal. Be gentle, at least, when she wants you to. Though, knowing her, that won't be for too long. I do hope you can help her through that pain she carriers... and... congratulations. She is no easy prize to win over."

He gave a short nod. "…I'll try to remember that."

The King was cautious, "If you want, if you're unsure, about anything. Just come to me."

"... I will."

"About anything," Rias assured him. "I only want her to be happy. And I know you feel the same, so if there's anything I can assist you with..."

Sasuke gave her a cautious look. "...Like what?"

She blushed. "Like... what are you getting her for her birthday?"

He froze.

"You didn't know it was coming up!?"

He had never asked when it was.

Rias sighed in relief. "Good thing we caught it early. Do you have any gifts in mind? She's very sentimental. Almost anything will do. I always had an easy time buying her gifts."

"...I have no idea."

She sighed. "Okay, okay… flowers. She loves them. But for a birthday… that's not enough. I spoiled her growing up, so you may need to do better than that. I can ask her if she needs anything and then tell you. Better I forget a gift than you."

"Nothing."

"Try harder!" Rias said, suddenly alert. "I won't let you disappoint her."

Sasuke smiled at that. "Fine."

"You two went to the aquarium, no? Maybe you could buy her something to remember that day by."

He gave her a suspicious look, "... How did you know that?"

"Oh!" The 'King' flustered. "She... told me about it."

The Uchiha smirked, "Oh, did she now?" he then remembered, "There were these... photos we took. I held onto both of them, and forgot to give one back to her."

Rias snapped her fingers. "That! Get it framed. A glass one. Don't be cheap. Not that you are... it's just… that sounds sweet."

She seemed so happy, as if she was the one getting such a simple, yet memorable gift.

"I should get that done," Sasuke replied. "...Thanks."

The woman gave a smile, but once he left, her expression faltered. Yes, a part of her wished it was her. There was nothing wrong with that—it was her true feelings.

Maybe, one day, there would be a chance. Though, knowing him, he didn't seem like the type to have... more than one.

Then again, he also never seemed like the type to have one to begin with.

"True Longinus."

"Dimensional Lost."

"Annihilation Maker."

The city of Kuoh was like any other—full of life, bustling crowds, small cafés, and restaurants—a good place to socialize and connect with others. Yet, it was not every day that Uchiha Sasuke sought out a one-on-one meeting with the Governor-General of the Grigori. Their relationship was more complex than the others in the club. The shinobi had never shown any interest in training or learning with the club advisor, as he felt he didn't need to. And so, the two rarely bonded.

Azazel, on the other hand, had taken a growing interest in him. Despite having no Sacred Gear, Sasuke possessed potent fighting abilities. He was clearly was more than what he seemed, which intrigued the curious Fallen Angel.

The Uchiha mumbled coldly, "Cao Cao, Georg and Leonardo." he inspected a manila folder that was on the table. It held pages inside of information about members of the Hero Faction.

"They have many more members, but I suppose these are the three who concern you the most."

He glanced at the contents briefly before asking, "I only requested information on the first two. This… child…"

"Trust me, he's just as capable," Azazel replied, taking a sip of coffee. "Honestly, he's arguably more terrifying than the other two, if not as outright powerful. The Annihilation Maker is one of the least understood Sacred Gears. It's... unique among the unique."

"The one that creates monsters? I saw them. Those invisible creatures. Grotesque forms that used light as a weapon. They were like nothing I'd ever seen."

Azazel tensed. "Yes. The user can create monsters from their imagination. It's all about creativity. While it can't recreate beings from history, it can manifest nightmares that have never existed—or perhaps those from stories, even legends. Beings from other worlds, yada, yada… you get the picture. In the wrong hands, it could destroy the world."

One part of his explanation caught his attention.

"... Other worlds?"

"It's a figure of speech," The Fallen Angel clarified. "Basically, any monster it creates could be seen as being from 'another world,' since they've never existed here, naturally. But like I said, it's not a very well-understood Sacred Gear. We're hoping to get the kid into safe hands. Frankly, if he stays with Cao Cao, he might get himself killed."

"Do you know where they reside?" Sasuke asked, shutting the folder.

Before he could pull it toward him, the governor-general placed his hand on it, stopping him from doing so.

"No," Azazel said, eyeing him cautiously, "Why? Looking for a little payback?"

"Stopping terrorists is my only concern."

"C'mon," He replied with a smirk "You just got into something with someone. Let's not go around beating our chests like cavemen, running into situations that could get us killed. Consider it a favor. From me."

Sasuke paused, allowing himself to think over Azazel's words. Of course, he intended to conduct his own investigation regardless.

Then, Azazel's face twisted, becoming full of mischief, "Unless you want to me where you really went after Kyoto. Or rather, where you were sent to. Then I'd be happy to share with you the classified information." When the student opened his mouth to speak, he interrupted, "I know, I know, Cocytus, you already told me. A tormented place, and you could not use teleportation magic until you climbed up its depths. I know. Nothing wrong with being vulnerable, my friend. C'mon, I tried looking for you, I would like to know."

If he had been sent to the Realm of the Dead, wouldn't they know he was lying?

That was odd—unless there was one explanation.

Hades, or the Grim Reapers, hadn't informed them that the human had been there.

Why? Maybe it had to do with pride. Admitting that a human had broken free, destroyed their realm, and done so with the assistance of dragons, might severely tarnish their fearsome reputation.

It also made him consider that maybe the score was still yet to be settled.

"... Don't waste your time." He replied, "It's as I told you. Whoever told you I had gone elsewhere is simply misinformed."

"Fine, fine." The club-advisor replied, "Just know, Serafall-chan will want to know as well. And she will get her answer, she is a very curious woman. You would be unwise to underestimate her as I often had."

He chose to ignore that. Instead, changing the subject entirely.

"I have a favor to ask." Sasuke then said, "It's about..."

As if on cue, a feminine voice called from the side. A woman had entered the café, her black hair framing violet eyes. She wore a black jacket and a purple miniskirt. Though she appeared as a normal human, this was just a disguise. She glanced around the room cautiously, inspecting every angle, as if she feared someone might be following her.

"You're here already!?" Raynare complained. "I came early!"

She looked down at the Uchiha, and then her gazed traveled to the man sitting across from him.

When he saw her, he raised an eyebrow.

The woman froze in place. Clearly not expecting to be in the presence of the Governor-General of the Grigori.

"...Who are you?" Azazel asked, recognizing her as one of his own.

She tensed, sweat forming on her forehead. Suddenly, she made a break for the exit, but Sasuke's grip caught her wrist, yanking her.

"Sit."

Azazel inspected her closely. "I think I remember you," he said, rubbing his chin. "We met at a party, and you spiked my drink. When I woke up, I was bound and gagged." His tone turned rough. "Not cool. Very not cool. Usually, I'm the one doing the binding and gagging."

Raynare tilted her head, her eyes wide and nervous as she glanced at the Uchiha, "No… I… I mean yes, yes… that was me."

That was most definitely not her.

Sasuke explained, "This is the one who led the others around here."

"Ah," The Governor said, his eyes narrowing slightly as he leaned back. "I see. Yes, yes... Raynare the War-Maker. I knew you were somewhere in this city. I felt your presence some time ago. Good to see you're still alive, somehow."

Raynare avoided eye contact, her awkward and uncomfortable posture making it clear she felt cornered. Genuine fear lingered in her eyes, and the only thing she could think to do was to practically attach herself to the man sitting beside her, hoping he would defend her.

Suddenly, another voice broke the tension.

"Oi, sorry I'm late."

Hyoudou Issei now entered the café, walking up to the booth beside his sensei. He dropped into it with a sigh. "I had to beat up Saji-kun. He swore I wouldn't break his rope. I told him it was stronger than his love life. Snapped like a twig when I used my Boosted Gear!"

The Pawn casually inspected the menu, but as he glanced up around the table, his calm demeanor twisted entirely, when his eyes locked onto his... former lover.

Issei immediately shot up from his seat and yelled, "Oi! What the hell is she doing here!?"

"Sit down," Sasuke said, his voice firm, "And lower your voice."

He turned to Azazel, who nodded in silent agreement. Begrudgingly, he sat back down.

Hyoudou crossed his arms, "What the hell does she want?"

"To settle the score," Sasuke replied. He motioned toward her. "Tell him what you want."

Raynare hesitated, her fingers tightening around his arm as though he were her shield. Her lips trembled before she finally spoke. "I want to rejoin the world... without worrying about dying." she said softly.

Issei replied in anger, "No way!" he looked away, "No way... no way." his voice hardened, "And let go of him! He's already dating Akeno-senpai. Don't be such a homewrecking bitch as well as a murderer!

Azazel sighed, "Calm down, Issei," his tone gentle. "The world is changing. Sworn enemies are becoming sworn allies. It's a time for healing. Sasuke-kun simply wanted to offer a chance. An opportunity for redemption and forgiveness."

"No!" The red-dragon emperor shouted, his fists clenching.

The Uchiha's voice dropped, cold, "Then tell her that. Tell her what you want, and do what you want. If you won't forgive, then so be it."

There was a deep, reflective look in the boy's eyes. His anger seemed to vanish, replaced by something somber and melancholic. It surrounded him. His aura, his expression, and even his voice carried it.

Issei spoke softly, "In Kyoto, Asia and Irina told me they loved me. And when they did, I didn't say it back—even though I wanted to." He swallowed hard and looked away in shame. "That night, I had a dream that they both stabbed me in the heart and laughed about it. I woke up terrified, and I couldn't shake the feeling."

Tears rolled down his face, and he wiped them away roughly.

"A-And now... I don't think I'll ever be able to tell Buchou how I feel about her either."

He was known for his obsession with women's breasts, but more deeply, Hyoudou loved women in general. There had been many lonely nights for him, both before and after becoming a devil. That natural desire to crave and be craved, to be close to someone, was deeply embedded in him. When someone had finally told him she wanted to date him—though it had only been one date—it had been a waking moment for him.

For him, it felt as though there was suddenly a reason to get out of bed, a purpose, to think of the future, to believe his time was not being wasted.

His voice cracked. "Go ahead," he said, wiping his eyes. "Let her and her friends come back. They are still the same. But I'm not. I'll see through it. I'll never be that me again. I'll never be a weak human again. Just a broken devil."

They watched him storm off, breaking the grip Azazel had on him. It was sad, his emotions being felt by everyone.

Raynare whispered softly, a painful look in her eyes as Issei left, "...Sorry..."

After another round of awkward silence and tension, the entire cafe finally stopped staring at them.

Sasuke asked, "What about you? Do you feel the same way?"

Azazel took one last sip of his drink and reluctantly sighed. "Very well. If you two agree to get married, I'll allow you back into the Grigori. Having two wives from our species will hopefully save us all."

"If that is the only way..." She whimpered.

Now annoyed, he stood up, "We're done here."

"I'm joking, I'm joking..." The Governor quickly raised his hands in mock surrender. "Fine. Raynare, get your disgraced group back into the underworld. But in exchange, you'll be joining our growing alliance."

Those dark silver eyes of his made their way awake.

It was always rough coming out of that trance-like state. There were pains, the senses were overwhelmed, and it became intoxicating. However, for someone as powerful and nonchalant about his mental health, he could care less.

Rizevim Livan Lucifer lived a mundane life. He was always catered to. He was always the center of attention. It led him to become very unfulfilled, with no purpose or direction. He never cared about anything or even himself.

Even during the Devil Civil War, he had not taken a side. He did not care about his name, his legacy, his family, or his allies. It was all pointless to him. Interestingly, because of that decision, he was not considered a criminal in the Underworld. At this moment, he could walk into the capital and roam freely without worry. So long as he did not attempt to claim the position of Lucifer. But even that held no interest for him.

It was only when his loyal servant, Euclid Lucifuge, presented him with information and theories about other worlds and the true complexity of the universe that things began to change.

Right now, he was recovering, almost like a hangover. Next to him, the Sephiroth Graal, with its immense power, lay knocked over, rolling on the ground.

When his eyes opened, they met ones that were just as ferocious, just as cold, just as defiant and ambitious. Though, his, were black.

Rizevim grinned, "Sasuke-chan, my dear boy... It's been some. I've been reading your reports from Euclid, well done, well done indeed." He then lowered his voice, "You're in perfect place to strike against that Ajuka Beelzebub. You better be careful, though, he's quite the crafty one, kukuku." He then looked behind the Uchiha, suddenly annoyed, "... Next time, don't bring your sex-cravings with you. Leave the girl in your bed."

Never in her life has Raynare felt more uncomfortable. The immense, unsettling presence of the devil struck at her core. She hid behind the human, feeling the tremendous amount of fear coursing through her body. She had no idea who he was, but just him looking at her made her want to flee, to break, to cry.

A true intimidating aura.

Sasuke lowered his eyes, "Give me the Grail." he said, "I'm giving it to Valerie. It will make her feel better."

The superdevil stretched his arms, ""... Ah yes, the chosen one. Kami-sama truly loved her. Take it. I need to rest my brain."

He would have taken it regardless of whether the devil agreed or not. It wouldn't have been the first time.

The Uchiha stared at the cup, a small tad of its liquid still resting at the bottom.

Rizevim saw him. "Drink it," he suggested. "It will give you wonderful visions. That power is unmatched. You can see it. I saw it. I saw them with my own eyes. That place. That other world. Not ours, and likely not yours, either. It's grey, Sasuke. Why is it so grey? Yet the beings were colorful, like spirits in the air. They were running. Why were they running? Some vanished in plain sight. They appear weak, however. How much life is there? I suppose I will find out when I cross that Gap, kukuku.

Though he had accepted that multi-worlds existed, it was still difficult to think that even more were out there. How much more different? How much in common?

Yes, Sasuke wanted to see this other world. However, discipline is a shinobi's strength. Who knows if it would back fire?

"... I'll pass."

Lucifer spoke once more, "There was a meeting, when you were recovering. Don't worry, we saved your honor, that child and his spear were as pale as ghosts when they realized there little plan to snatch you away had failed tremendously. I like you, my favorite alien, I like those eyes of yours. To give you up to some other green-boy, or worse, an old-god who refuses to die, kukuku. Not with me. Not on my watch."

The Uchiha replied, "What else happened?"

Rizevim waved his hand dismissively. "They wouldn't shut the fuck up about some Rating Game. That idiot Shalba is intent on dragging the rest of us down with him. They scorned my plan, so I could care less about them. Let them perish in the battle. As for you, don't go—or go, and die. I don't really care! Kukuku!"

Sasuke always knew of the strange relationship between himself and the devil.

When it came to saving him from Hades, he knew it was really about unleashing the dragons for some bloodlust.

And now, he didn't seem to care whether he would survive the upcoming attack.

"...Just Shalba?"

"Who else? You mean Gods? Goddesses? Old-Devils? New-Devils? Magicians? Heroes? Probably not. Who gives a shit? They will all die, regardless. And I, will be laughing. He wants to kill everyone there. He doesn't even care about being Maou anymore. He especially hates your friend, the Sekiryūutei, probably because he got fucked up by him! Aaha! Aahaha!"

'Hyoudou?' That's right. Issei had smashed Beelzebub into the ground, nearly killing him. He would have died had the pawn not lost control during that fight.

The Uchiha smirked, "They don't scare me. None of you beings do. I'll be attending. Let them come. I might even get to fight."

Rizevim took that differently. To him, Sasuke would have to save the day. Rather, he would want to save the day.

"You humans… you know, I envy you, almost. Yet I pity you. I find you dull, but there is a certain jealousy I have." He paused. "You can be anything you want. A craven, a coward, an evil being. Or, you can be a hero, brave, a good-hearted thing. As for me? I am a devil. No, I am the devil. A truly vile creature. Why? Because that is what we are supposed to be. There is no one more true to that name than me. That is what my father was. And he held that belief… until the end. If I remember correctly. But my memory has faded. Just as the next world will fade, when I take it. So, go ahead, be the human you want to be."

"What the fuck was that!? Who was that!?

The two navigated through the corridors and hallways of Tepes Castle. In his hand, Sasuke carried a large silver platter, with everything a certain dhampir enjoyed. Yet his companion in this labyrinth, Raynare, feared and flinched at every moment. Vampires eyed her with disgust, human servants with curiosity, and some with lust. The dragons, however, paid her no mind and gave respectful nods to to the human.

He had garnered a reputation among these beasts, though he did not particularly like them.

Sasuke had fought back—against Hades. He was no sheltered noble wishing for peace or escape. They knew he had killed Pluto, set fire to the realm, and imprisoned the god himself. None dared openly acknowledge this, but the dragons knew. They relied on instinct above all else, and their instincts valued strength, battle, and destruction. They truly revered strong entities to challenge, and him, a human, was firmly on their radar.

"Why did you bring me here?" Raynare asked. "Can we leave?"

When they reached Valerie's door, He stopped and turned to her. "... I want you to stay here."

Her face went pale, her eyes widening in horror. Before she could object, he spoke again.

"I saved your life. Twice," Sasuke began. "And I want you to be here. I will pay you, and you will be... safe. There is someone in here. Someone important. I need you to be with her. Watch her, take care of her, and make sure no vampires come strolling in. It will mean a lot to me knowing she is not alone."

There was much more he could say, but he chose not to.

"...A disgusting vampire?" Raynare asked. "That's against—"

The Uchiha sighed loudly. "Please," he said, his tone softening. "I'm not saying you need to bathe her. Just keep her company."

She looked around, still frightful, and frowned. "...How long?"

"Not long." he assured her. "I've... been thinking of plans. But she is nice and caring. You should be the same. You never know. You may need her someday."

When they entered, Valerie was awake, staring as if she already knew people were outside her door. She lay under a blanket, appearing to be in high spirits. Her mood only brightened at the sight of her friend. Her power flared slightly, sensing the unfamiliar figure as a Fallen Angel.

Sasuke placed the platter near her bedside and handed her a small glass cup of blood.

There was no denying the pure disgust on Raynare's face. She had watched him press a knife against his hand to get that much out of it. Now, the Dhampir was drinking it as though it were cold medicine. Sasuke, however, had moved on from the unsettling sight. If it truly helped someone who had helped him, then... it was acceptable. Though, he would never fully understand it.

As Valerie drank, her body straightened, her skin regaining a healthy peach tone. Even her stamina seemed to recover, like a sudden second wind.

"Muah!" Valerie said, wiping her mouth. "It's an acquired taste, but once you drink enough of it, it's like a fine wine." She looked over to Sasuke, who was watching her intensely. "...What's wrong?"

Sasuke pretended to be upset, though his smile gave the playfulness away. "...You're in trouble."

The woman faked a gasp. "Oh no... what did I do this time?"

"You were caught running around this castle, trying to rally vampires for some... dumb mission. You know the rules—running like that is strictly forbidden."

She smirked and shrugged. "I wanted to get some air. Is that a crime in this place now?"

"Yes."

Raynare watched them smile at one another, unable to believe where she was—deep in vampire territory, under the command of a human, no less.

"Who's your friend?" Valerie asked, glancing at Raynare. "...Is she the one you said you were..."

"No." Sasuke answered quickly. "This is Raynare. I told her about you, and she wants to help out around here."

Valerie smiled warmly. "Oh... that is so sweet. But I already have..." She hesitated, searching for a better word than 'servants.'

"...Friends."

Yes, that's a better way to put it.

The Uchiha's expression suddenly grew serious, "I want her to be here. With you. To help you. As much as possible." then his voice hardened, "I need her to be with you."

Valerie looked hesitant.

He repeated, "...I need her to be here with you."

Raynare stepped in with a fake smile. "I want to be here as well. Sasuke-sama often talks about how... beautiful... this place is and how much everyone has to... see it."

He glanced over his shoulder, clearly annoyed by the 'sama' honorific. And the fact that her statement was an obvious, unconvincing lie.

Valerie Tepes looked at him and saw his concern. She did not like when he was like this. But, she no doubt appreciated it. There were no friends here, truly. He was the only friend to have. So, if he was willing to trust this Fallen Angel, and, if it would make him feel better, she saw no reason to not wish to have someone with her. Though, she did not really need it.

She smiled, "Sasuke is a good friend of mine. I trust him, and so, I trust you. Please, take care of me, Lady Raynare. I promise not to be too much of a burden, though." Then, her eyes suddenly lit up, "... My Grail?"

It was never good whenever Valerie did not have at least two of her grails with her. Sacred Gears were imbued with a person's soul, granted at birth. Only having one of them at all times was like only having a third of a soul. She would not die from it, of course, but she was absolutely feeling the effects. That combined with overuse in reviving the dead had led to her current condition.

"... You should take it."

!?

He frowned, "Don't be ridiculous. That's your power. And you'll feel better with it."

She also frowned, "This is the one Rizevim had. He will just take Marius' from him, and then Marius will bug me till I give him this one."

Marius.

Sasuke lowered his eyes. There was a reason why he often only confronted him very rarely. He was her brother, and to him, a brother is a brother. That meant something. Despite a terrible one at that. Though, he was unsure if she felt any love toward him.

She glanced at the platter and added, "You only brought enough food for the two of us... What about Raynare-chan?"

"...She isn't hungry."

"I'm not hungry." Raynare confirmed.

A sudden growl from her stomach immediately gave away the lie. Just the mention of food made her weak.

Valerie gave a laugh as she swallowed a piece of bread. "Can you get her something as well? She's my lady now, remember?"

Sasuke paused, nodded, and stood. Before leaving, he gave The Fallen Angel one last slightly annoyed look, then left.

She ducked, punched, missed, punched again, and again. He caught her hand, the pressure from the strike and the fierce force of air between them sweeping past with such intensity that it knocked over a tree.

Koneko Toujou had come a long way.

She activated her touki—an ability used to control her own life force. It enhanced her physical strength, speed, and stamina.

Suddenly, a second tail sprouted from her back, her aura growing even stronger. Sasuke observed the change with his sharingan, its potency growing at a huge rate. It reminded him a little of the Eight Gates. Though that was on a completely different level. Still, he thought she might have been capable of learning it if her smaller body could handle the strain. But he did not possess the knowledge to teach it to her.

He kept his smile the entire time. Yes, Koneko was someone to keep an eye on. Though he refrained from using any jutsu, his taijutsu was on full display. No sword—just good old knuckles-on-knuckles combat.

The two exchanged blows with increasing intensity. Her speed grew exponentially, her smaller frame darting in and out of his defenses.. She attempted to break his guard by weaving through his attacks, aiming for vital points, but his speed was his ally.

She coated her palms with senjutsu, likely enhancing the damage of her strikes. Sasuke caught sight of it and wondered how much more effective the attacks might become.

When he threw a high kick and missed, she seized the opening. The Rook slipped underneath, raised her hand, and landed a solid punch to his jaw.

It was the first time she had ever landed a clean hit on him.

Yet she knew—he had allowed it.

Sasuke was sent skidding across the ground, dirt rolling everywhere. He came to a stop and stood, rubbing his cheek.

"That extra emphasis doesn't make the hit much more impactful," The Uchiha remarked. He then added, "But if you could turn that senjutsu into something more... elemental, it might be more effective."

Koneko tilted her head, curious. "What do you mean?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I can try to show you some magic. Instead of just using basic chakra, try coating your hands with an element—fire or lightning, perhaps. Physical strength can take you far, but if you're up against something that brute strength can't break, like a wall, elemental energy could weaken it for you."

Before she could respond, she suddenly dropped to her knees, panting heavily. Her enhanced nekomata form had reached its limit.

He observed her carefully, noting how the transformation had drained her chakra.

"...And that," he warned, his tone serious, "Don't use that form unless you're absolutely sure your enemy will lose. Because if they get just one chance—one opening—they'll take it. And they'll hurt you when you're at your weakest."

She rested on the ground, her hands braced over her knees. He approached her and lifted her up without a word, carrying her to a nearby bench. Once there, she leaned back against the wooden frame to relax.

When Sasuke sat beside her, Koneko quickly adjusted her position, shifting to rest her head on his lap. Her golden eyes gazed up at him. The same golden eyes as her older sister's.

Speaking of which…

He glanced toward the trees. High above on a branch, a black cat lay sprawled out, its own golden eyes watching them. Kuroka. She often prowled around Kuoh, usually staying hidden under the cover of darkness. Normally, the Rook would have sensed her sister's presence from this distance, but she was too exhausted. Her strategy of converting energy into physical power was effective, but likely not her full potential.

"Lightning," Sasuke mumbled, thinking aloud. "We'll try that. Most people aren't immune to it." He paused and added, "It might hurt you, though, if you're not careful. Good thing you wear gloves."

He imagined Koneko using lightning to coat her hands, striking an opponent with a more piercing force. It would be something to witness—especially against enemies who relied heavily on defensive magic or a durable body.

"...And maybe..."

A soft purr interrupted him. He glanced down to find that she had fallen asleep.

Sasuke sighed quietly. Yes, a rating game was coming up—a crucial one. They shouldn't waste time resting. It was important to stay focused on missions, objectives, and dreams.

Yet, for her, there was also a simple desire for simple comfort, for peace.

To her, this was not a waste of time.

A katana crackled with black lightning, coating around the blade.

Xenovia charged first, Durandal in hand, glowing with holy aura.

Kiba followed, on her opposite side, two swords being utilized. One had a yellow-lighting coating, while the other had wind, which was specifically designed to counter his opponent's elemental weapon.

The Uchiha parried the great sword with an upward strike, then countered with a riposte that cut her shoulder. She irked in pain, as his blade also had holy power. Then, the other Knight attacked on cue, but Yuuto wasn't as fast as Sasuke. The latter caught the wind-blade with his own, witnessing the black lightning fade. He jolted his head backward, narrowly dodging the other sword by centimeters.

Despite the two-on-one advantage, he held control. His sharingan read their movements before they made them. Every strike, every feint—they were predictable to him.

"You're too focused on me," Sasuke said calmly, pushing them both back. "Don't just watch me. Watch each other."

The two exchanged glances but didn't fully register his advice. She lunged again, aiming a powerful horizontal slash. At the same time, the male Knight circled to his opponents side, swinging his own lighting-sword.

Sasuke ducked under both attacks, stepping between them as their swords nearly collided.

"See?" He said, smirking as he stood between them.

They recoiled quickly, realizing how close they had come to striking each other.

"You almost hit me!"

"You attacked too soon!"

"You're still not paying attention," He interrupted. "You have to sync your moves. I'm reading both of you like a book."

Their teamwork had improved greatly, but Sasuke now applied more pressure. For the first time in training, he used his sharingan. Though their enemies would never possess such eyes, those they faced would be stronger. This fact had become especially apparent after Kyoto, where both of them, despite their efforts, were bested by another swordsman even while fighting two against one.

Sasuke glanced at Kiba and asked, "...Why are you trying to use two swords at once? It only hindered you there. Use it only in appropriate situations. That engagement required more control, and you'll always have more control with one sword than two."

The blonde sighed, "Truth be told, it was something I picked up from our enemy. The one in the Hero Faction..."

"Siegfried." Xenovia finished, "He used... six swords." Even though she was there, and was defeated by it, she still could not believe, "Can you believe that, sensei? Six swords with six arms. Let's take a break, I need to patch this wound up."

They huddled around a bonfire, there swords resting on the trees. The night had come, but the knights were by far the most willing to train no matter what time of day. Both of them had a sincere desire to be better, to serve better, to fight better, and they enjoyed having Sasuke help them be better.

He was good, too good for his age.

As the flame crackles, the Uchiha spoke, "... Some time ago, I fought someone who used eight blades. It was chaotic as you can imagine. Though, he only had two arms."

Killer Bee, the Hachibi Jinchuuriki. Never had anyone wielding a katana shocked Sasuke as much as that Hidden Cloud jonin. The man was a freak of nature, so in sync with his tailed beast that his joints could move in impossible ways. Even with the power of his eyes, the Uchiha had been bested in swordplay.

"…How did you win that?" Kiba asked, as if he knew the answer.

Sasuke recalled the memory and smiled faintly. He unzipped his jacket, revealing a small scar just below his collarbone. "I didn't." he answered, surprising both of them. "In one attack, he stabbed me with all of his swords and sent me on my back." Seeing their reactions, he smirked. "I hope you two can do the same to me someday. I'm no God. I'm far too mature to be one."

His expression shifted to suspicion. "But how did you two lose? I expected more."

They both looked a little ashamed and embarrassed.

Xenovia answered first. "He cut us down. I could blame the number of swords, but... he was an expert. Even with all of them. I underestimated him."

"You let him do that to you?" Sasuke asked, shaking his head but smiling. "My golden student... slain on the battlefield..."

The Knight blushed deeply. "W-What?" she stammered. He had never called her that before. Likely because he was joking. After all, she was his only student.

Kiba nudged forward, taking responsibility. "It was my fault," he admitted. "When they teleported you away... I demanded that they bring you back. I went in fully intending to kill Georg. But I kept getting pushed back by their swordsman. I got tunnel vision… and…"

The Uchiha sighed.

It was the same issue Kiba had been dealing with for a while now.

Perhaps, he could use some true advice. Something that the experienced shinobi could tell him. To express how bad it was to act like that in battle.

In more ways than one.

Sasuke leaned back and reflected for a moment. "When I was younger, I was in a tournament with two of my friends. It was to the death. We were cornered. I was unconscious, so I don't know exactly what happened, but…" He paused, his mind flashing back to the Forest of Death. "I woke up and saw my friend beaten—badly. I was so angry. It was one of the moments where I completely lost myself in fury and revenge."

He hesitated, remembering the scene vividly. "One of our enemies—I took his arms and subdued him. He surrendered. Begged me to stop. But I didn't. And then... snap. They suddenly no longer worked as intended."

"She was crying, as she often did. She had told me that I had gone too far. That it was enough. And only then did I realize... it was. After that, I don't think she ever saw me the same way again. I had changed. Even if he deserved it, that wasn't right. It could have been avoided."

They both stared at him, their expressions shifting from excitement to discomfort. It was not the heroic, save-the-day story they were expecting. Actually, it was quite brutal to imagine. Someone having their arms broken like that. To hear from him that he could be so... violent. It shattered an image they had of him, that he was this grand, near-perfect individual. But it was real.

He noticed the uncomfortable looks on their faces and was oddly glad to see them. That was the whole point of sharing the story.

Sasuke then clarified, "What I am saying is, you shouldn't focus your revenge in a fight. Especially when you don't understand what's going on. Otherwise, you'll be the one with your arms broken. Or worse, you will alienate those around you. I just so happened to win. Had I failed? Well, you get the idea."

He knew how fortunate he had been—stronger than Zaku and the rest of the Sound trio. The curse mark had no doubt influenced his mind, but that burning drive for vengeance had already been there.

Kiba waited a moment and swallowed, "... I'll try to do better." he replied, "I get angry, when I don't know what's going on. Especially if it's my comrade being harmed. But you're right. I don't want to die, pointlessly, without even knowing if my death will save them. Nor do I want them to look at me like... they don't know me." he then added, "But I am afraid it's a part of me. Though, I know it shouldn't be."

Vengeance.

A part of him.

Sasuke thought about that for a moment.

"Vengeance," he replied as the flames burned. "I remember vengeance. It had a good smell but a bad taste. Vengeance was what I was about. For a long, long time, I thought it was the reason I was even alive. To settle the score. To seek revenge. To bring hell, and maybe... just maybe... a little bit of justice. But that was the least important part of it. Avenging was my name."

He paused, his expression hardening. "In the end, it brought no satisfaction, no resolve. Instead, I lost myself. I was lied to, manipulated. And in the end... I only wanted more vengeance. It wouldn't leave me. It had become a part of me, as well. When it was gone, it felt strange, like a piece of myself was vanishing. Having that curse of hatred we all can possess... it can be comforting, or rather, coping. To focus on one thing, one act, perhaps one person to think of when in your weakest moment. There is no better motivator than hate."

"Now... I'm this new person. Someone I wasn't sure I could be. But I had to change. Otherwise, I would have kept chasing the same thing, until I either died, or there was nothing else to chase. I would have never been satisfied."

There was silence, the fire crackling filling the void.

"... Who was it?"

Kiba jolted, giving Xenovia a cautious glance.

It was a silent warning not to pry.

Some things were better left unsaid.

Yet, she was curious.

There was not much emotion in it, but he gave an answer to them.

"My brother."

The truth, of course, was part of a more complex answer. However, even in this world, Sasuke sought to preserve the legacy Itachi had left behind. Even if... it made him look like the way they were imagining now. Yes, it was hard for the Uchiha, to do that. However, he did not want pity. Never did he want people to see him as a victim, when the reality of everything was far more... complicated.

He wondered if they would ask, why his brother?

But they chose not to.

To them, it did not really matter why.

"Ara ara, there he is!"

Akeno smiled as Sasuke climbed the staircase, despite him easily being able to use a magic circle to appear closer. Something about him walking up felt romantic, like he was climbing a great mountain to see the only person waiting at the top—the only person he wanted to see.

He returned her smile, though his eyes quickly took in her ragged appearance. "...Who were you training with?"

The Queen bowed slightly. "Ah, my father agreed to help me."

"...How did it go?"

Her expression softened. "It was good. He just came to help. We didn't talk much, but I'm glad he was here. He said he's going to watch the games, and... that made me happy." Then, she asked, "How did it go for you?"

Sasuke thought for a moment, "Koneko. Xenovia and Kiba. It went well." he then paused, "I was supposed to go with Hyoudou and Azazel. But he's mad at me, and refused to do so."

"Ara, be nice to our favorite pawn," Akeno said playfully. "Issei-kun is valiant and powerful. Go easy on him, please?"

He nodded. "...Okay."

She stepped closer as he turned to her, their eyes meeting. Without words, he understood what she wanted. Akeno gently kissed his cheek and hugged him. It had become their routine whenever they saw each other. It was moving quickly, at least for him, but for her, it wasn't fast enough.

Sasuke pulled back and reached into his bag. "Here. Take this."

Akeno flinched as she looked at the item and then smiled softly. "Oh, from our day... How sweet. Did you just frame this now?" She giggled. "That was... an okay day, right?"

"I thought it was mostly fine."

The Queen, of course, had not forgotten that, in a very emotional moment, had stormed off during their day together. It had been bad, and was still rough to think about, since it had ruined everything. But seeing him look back on it fondly made her feel much better about it overall.

He then explained the reason for his sudden gift, "... For your birthday."

Akeno tilted her head. "Oh..."

Oh, indeed.

She smiled gently.

He looked at her cautiously, "What is it?"

"N-Nothing..." She gave a small laugh. "Thank you..."

"What's wrong?" he pressed.

"It's just..." Again, Akeno giggled, "Usually... people don't give birthday gifts... until the actual day."

"Oh."

Sasuke looked at her. It wasn't often he felt as though he had made a small mistake that made him look like a fool. Nor was it like him to forget or overlook something so simple. But he was feeling it now. He had been so focused on getting the gift quickly that he hadn't even realized her birthday was still a few weeks away.

What was she doing to him?

"...I see..."

Akeno quickly reassured him. "But thank you. I will remember this on my birthday." She kissed him again and added, "Come inside. I have some tea, and you look tired too."

As they crossed through the shrine, he got a gaze of a symbol on the wall. One that resembled the area itself.

A small, red, Torii Gate. And at the bottom, orange flames burning a strand of black aura.

To him, it stated.

"Evil Spirits Burn Through These Gates."

The Himejima clan emblem.

When they arrived inside, he retreated to the main living room while she stated, "Let me change real quick."

He nodded and began inspecting everything on the walls. There was much to see. Many aged paintings of people, deities, and serene natural beauty. It was as much a museum inside as it was outside. And still, there was much to know, and he still did want to know.

Sasuke came across another picture of her mother, Shuri Himejima, though as a child. Behind her, he saw what he assumed were the clan grounds where she had grown up. Relatives resembling her stood in the background, all wearing the same attire. It appeared as if this uniform has been around multiple generations, leading him to wonder how truly far back it went.

Not that he ever doubted Akeno's story, but his own experience made it difficult to fully believe in the concept of clans like hers.

Clans, at least from his perspective, were sacred—close-knit communities that upheld tradition and family above all else. His clan had been that way, from what he remembered. But clearly, not all clans functioned like that.

One day, the little girl named Shuri had grown.
At her shrine, she found a wounded outsider—an evil spirit.
With the sacred arts passed down to her, she cursed his wounds.
Guiding him from the brink of death.

Then, love did what it did best.

And because of that...

They had cast her out as if she had never belonged.

As if she had never meant anything to them.

It made him think of his own clan, and how they would have been

He wanted to believe that his father would not have done the same thing to a member. To believe that they were better than that. But, he isn't so sure, since they had died when he was only a child. What if, they met Akeno? Would they approve? Would even his mother approve? Pointless questions, with no answers. It was not healthy to ponder these thoughts so intensely.

Still, there was something... absolutely... infuriating about this photo. Something that truly, truly bothered him to no end. Though, that was beginning to feel more reflective toward himself now. It made him realize how much he knew of his... companion, while she knew nothing of him. These were important details, one that defined a person origin. And yet, she knew nothing of him really, and it brought a small sense of guilt within him.

Akeno walked over, noticing him looking at the picture.

"I'll place this right here." she said, gently setting down the photo of them together. She positioned it carefully on the shelf, next to her most important memories, and those, of people no longer with her.

That made him feel... vulnerable inside, which was rare, since he is often just cold.

It was kind, too kind for his liking, really.

Sasuke watched her in silence for a moment, then looked back at the picture of Shuri.

He had not forgotten, of course, that he had agreed to embrace Akeno. To accept her affection, for what it was, and what it could be. There was some pressure, no doubt. But, at this moment, he was really putting it on himself.

After some deliberation, he finally spoke.

The words came out, gently at first, and slow.

"I want to tell you something."

"One day, I woke up, came out of my bed, and saw my mother and my father. I ate breakfast, said my goodbyes, and left home for the day. I passed through the only life I had known at that point. I saw the bakers, the police force, the people I grew up with. They were me—just older. We were all part of the same clan. A share culture, a shared history, a shared belonging. They saw me as the future, and because of that, they all had high hopes for me, though not as much as they had for my brother."

"On the outskirts of the village, there was a training ground I went to. I didn't want anyone to see me train because I wanted to show them what I could do when I was finished, especially my father."

"But when I came back that day... I was late. Far later than my mother would permit me to be out, and dark, so dark. I should have realized that it was far too quiet to be normal. I've never felt such quiet since. Yet, I knew I had to get home as soon as possible. So I pressed on without thinking about it."

"They were all dead."

"I walked through the streets. Their bodies were on the ground. Their homes broken into. And when I reached my own house..." He hesitated briefly. "I had to go inside. I had to. And when I did..."

"There they were. Lying on top of one another."

"All of clan, all of their voices, their spirits, their thoughts, their dreams, their successes, their failures, their history. They are all gone. Now, there's just me. To make up for all of them. It's been over ten years."

Akeno listened, her heart tightening. At first, she was confused, since it seemed out of nowhere. But she quickly realized from the way he spoke that this was like ripping off a band-aid, a very attached band-aid. Something that could not have a build up.

It just had to be said. Sooner, better than later.

Yet there was no sadness or anger in his voice. No hint of pain. There was… nothing. It was as if he had no more tears to shed, no more fury to unleash. He had long since emptied himself of those emotions. That was perhaps the worst of it. That, he could no longer even feel anything from it.

But she cried. She couldn't help it. Tears welled in her eyes as she stepped forward, cupping his face in her hands. She kissed him on the lips softly, a gesture that seemed to confuse him.

Sasuke gently pulled her arms away and looked at her with a slight frown. "…Why?"

Akeno shook her head, embarrassed. "I... I don't know," she admitted, wiping her eyes. "I didn't know what to say. I thought it might make you feel better."

He assured her, his voice calm, "It was a long time ago. I don't need to feel better. I told you before. I made peace with it."

When she continued to cry, he felt compelled to say something. "…I…"

"I know," she interrupted, her voice shaky. "I'm glad you've moved beyond it, truly. But I'm not crying because of that. I'm sad because it's a horrible thing to hear, Sasuke. To know that it happened. To know you went through that. To know... you were so lonely."

He waited. And waited. Wondering if she would ask the inevitable questions.

Who did it?
Why did they do it?
Did he get revenge?

Those were the questions that had haunted him for years. The one he himself spent his entire life chasing. Only, in the end, to be disappointed.

But Akeno didn't ask. To her, it did not matter who caused all of this. It just mattered how he was now.

Instead, she hugged him again, resting her head on his chest, allowing herself to cry freely. Sasuke accepted it, standing quietly with her. He didn't push her away, didn't try to stop her tears. He simply stayed, offering silent support.

They remained like that for a while, until she was ready to move on from it—just as he had, not so long ago.

Yes, he had moved on from it, no doubt. Yet, feeling embraced by someone, who also deeply distraught over it, made him feel... better. It was like that comforting feeling truly was reaching him.

He was not aware of it, but he was changing, by the day.

And... it felt good.

What was she doing to him?

The sacred five-peaked mountain of Mount Meru served as the perfect base of operations for the Hero Faction. No law from the outside dared pursue them in the Hindu religion. Having powerful Gods on your side like this was only possible with the fact that this entire realm was not united. That reality played right into their favor. All they had to do is choose one side over the other, and reap the benefits.

Resting nearby, subdued and unconscious, was a large dragon. Perhaps no entity in history had been cursed more than this beast. It slumbered relatively peacefully, as did the upper body of a Fallen Angel connected to it, like a centaur. It was covered with patched wounds on the back of its neck, wings, and stomach.

Siegfried smirked with adrenaline. "I have to admit. I didn't expect you three to come back."

Heracles let out a deep exhale. "That was tense. When they surrounded us, I thought they were going to rip out our souls."

Cao Cao grinned. "We could have handled it. My spear would have protected us." He turned to the faction's genius duo. "Good job, you two."

Leonardo nodded, while Georg slumped against a wall, still shaken.

"We would've died," The magician said, wiping sweat from his forehead. "He would have taken our souls if he had found out we were lying."

"Pizza," Leonardo suddenly said, with a blank, expression. "Games."

Cao Cao chuckled. "Yes and yes. Go ahead, I'll meet you later. Just show me how many you can create first."

Before the child left, rising from his shadow, all around them were around twenty newly create figures.

They froze in place. All of the them, humans, slightly above average in height. Each wore the same attire. A black coat, dark blue shirt, black pants, and black shoes. A dark choice of apparel, but fitting, for the person they were supposed to resemble.

Black hair. Black eyes.

Sheathed swords rested at their sides. Though, basic blades.

Uchiha Sasuke.

Georg murmured nervously, "Annihilation Maker... it would take a lifetime to uncover its mysteries. It's supposed to draw on the wild imagination of its user and never recreate things that already existed. That rule was perhaps the one concrete thing we knew about this sacred gear." He raised his eyes, deep in thought. "...But if it's something from another world—something that never existed here—then it seems there's an exception to the rule."

Siegfried was the first to notice one of the off details, "I could have sworn he mostly used his sword in his right hand..."

It was true. Though the real Sasuke was ambidextrous, he often favored his sword in his right hand. Yet, they all had one positioned so his left-hand would withdraw it.

Those who knew shinobi, would know instantly of that small detail.

Cao Cao narrowed his eyes. "That doesn't matter. More importantly, his eyes still haven't changed. They're not purple or red like I wanted. Are we unable to replicate that? And what about his chakra? This isn't nearly as much as he possessed."

Georg frowned. "If Leonardo tried imagining Sasuke at full power, it would kill him. He would need to be in Balance Breaker or a higher state. He's too young to create someone of his caliber. We all underestimated him. Wherever he's from, if he's average there... then we're doomed if they come looking for him. Here, he's powerful, Cao Cao. More god than human, I'd argue."

Of course, trying to use Annihilation Maker to imagine someone like the Uchiha in his full glory, is a feat that can never truly be accomplished.

These shadows currently, aren't even a fraction of the power Sasuke held.

However, it was like discovering a new life-form. Be curious, be observant, and most importantly, be careful.

[THUD]

Cao Cao slammed the bottom of True Longinus onto the ground. "As long as I have spear in my hands, there is no creature in this world I need to fear."

The magician looked away, frowning. 'But he is not from this world...'

Siegfried grinned. "Lord Hades may be upset when he realizes that's not Sasuke. Just one of Leonardo's creations."

His spear twisted, a confident smile on his face, "... Once we bring Samael to our boss, there is no God that will ever try to order us around. If anything, it will be us to give the orders."

A booming voice suddenly interrupted their conversation.

"Ah, you boys, you boys..."

They turned to see Indra, the Hindu God of War, approaching with a smirk.

"Now, what do we have here? Did Hades let you go with your souls intact?"

Cao Cao smiled. "We left on good terms."

"That's good, that's good..." Indra replied, "Are you all attending the Rating Game in the Underworld? Shiva is going, so now I have to go. Can't risk not knowing what he's up to. If he's negotiating an alliance with the Three Factions, I'll have to act."

The spearman bowed slightly. "He'd be suicidal to do that. And if that's the case, we'll be by your side, as we always have."

"Hm," Indra replied, narrowing his eyes. "I certainly hope so..." He glanced over his shoulder, his expression shifting slightly. "Speaking of... humans. Who are all these? Friends of yours?"

Georg swallowed nervously. "Yes. We're testing something. Don't worry, they're under Leonardo's command."

"That child is dangerous." The God replied in a threatening tone, "You make sure, he stays under your control."

That's enough "chill"-ness, for now.

We need some chaos.

Let me know what you think!