This site has changed a lot. Many DMs about people offering to do art on the story, or audio for YouTube. And they aren't even real people.

Appreciate the reviews! There's actually a lot more than I really expected. There's a lot to say on them, lot of constructive opinions. There was one about Sasuke being glazed, and that's true, but the problem is if you don't glaze someone we all know is powerful like him, he gets compared to how he is in Boruto (the worst fate), and it's difficult for me at least to balance that out. He's either really strong, or he's in boruto.

One thing I definitely am not doing is glazing his personality. He can be an asshole, he can be manipulative, he can also be a good person. He's always been a grey character.

Great Red in this story is also glazed to the max. I kind of need him to be. The story is about a couple of things, and Great Red is one of them. But it's also about who Sasuke is as a person, his growth, etc.

A dense mist settled over the ancient ruin, clinging to him as he moved through the maze. In this world, the architecture was of eastern style, which conveniently enough, reminded him of the Land of Fire. It was in decay, as no person had roamed through year ever since the being within had been sealed. Moss covered every surface, trees pressed in from all sides, and a light drizzle fell.

The Uchiha lowered his eyes and pressed onward. Massive caves branched deep into the mountain, twisting into darkness. With a torch in hand, a memory surfaced—a place Orochimaru had once spoken of, though he'd never ventured there himself. The sannin's body had been far too frail to withstand the journey.

Ryuchi Cave.

His scowl deepened as he stepped into the largest cavern. He knew why he had come, but this was not a place he had ever wished to revisit.

Sasuke's voice echoed, his tone withholding restrained anger. "I thought we had an understanding. What happened? I expected loyalty, but you tried to kill me—again."

His words drifted into the darkness, unanswered. Frustration surged within him, and the shinobi no longer held back.

"Your kind was born in darkness and thrives on betrayal," he spat. "I knew better than to trust a serpent, and yet I still did. That's on me."

Suddenly, four colossal snake heads lunged from the shadows, striking from every direction, each larger than the last. Sasuke's Susanoo quickly flared to life, its armored form encasing him just as two of the heads crashed against it. Fangs sank into the ethereal ultimate defense, oozing dark purple venom. However, the ethereal body was not made of flesh, and the poison failed to make an impact.

The black flames of Amaterasu surged, consuming both heads as they writhed in agony, while a third head retreated into the earth. The shinobi leapt into the air, drawing his Susanoo's bow, and loosed a flaming arrow into the ground, obliterating the snake, before it could even emerge.

Only one head remained now. Instead of fighting, it descended down to confront the human.

This was the evil dragon Yamata no Orochi. A massive gray and white serpent with bleeding red eyes. This was the being that had been sealed into the Sword of Kusanagi, and this place, this cave, is the domain it resided in while being within the blade.

It finally spoke, its voice filled with scorn.

"Are you blind, human? I tried to attack Albion, to listen to your order, and he crushed my heads till blood spewed out. Your little surprise attack failed. And what did you do after he was on his back? You let him live!"

It had not been Albion that Sasuke had fought. It was Vali Lucifer. But dragons, in their own way, often recognized those who wielded dragon power as dragons themselves.

Sasuke asked, "Then how did he know you were in the sword? It ruined my plans. Why wouldn't I think you had something to do with it? Perhaps you thought they would help you."

"Dragons know dragons! We recognize each other! We despise one another!" Yamata hissed, its voice dripping with venom, literally. "Albion knew I was sealed in this sword the moment we got close, but he was probably too focused on his pet human to care! I've seen you around others dragons who have recognized me, yet you still don't get it? Stupid, ignorant human! Pay closer attention or I'll rip you to shreds!"

There was no denying the strange aggression these beasts held toward one another, constantly fighting to prove their strength. Sasuke recalled how, back at the castle, Crom Cruach had to use force to maintain order with the other evil dragons, though none dared challenge the black dragon directly. Then there was the ongoing rivalry between the Sekiryuutei and the Hakuryūkō.

He stared back, his mind contemplating, but his tone dripping with mockery. "I still haven't decided whether or not to throw you in the river and let you be forgotten."

Yamata's voice grew loud of anger, his eyes mouth opening, "Just try it human! I'll strangle you in your sleep, poison you in battle, and devour you when you least expect it!"

A smirk tugged at his lips, a hint of amusement in his eyes—but it didn't last long. There was no reason to make an enemy when this creature could easily be swayed to his side.

"They say you have eight heads, but I've only ever seen four. Where's the rest of you? Or are you still holding back on me, evil dragon?"

It sneered, a bitter edge to its voice. "My soul is bound to this cursed weapon, but only half of my soul! My other half is out there! Do you know what it's like to be missing part of your own soul!?"

"Where?" Sasuke pressed suddenly, his voice sharp. "We had an arrangement. You help me, you tell me everything, and when I'm done here, I'll release the seal placed on you in this place. For now, I'll believe your story about Albion. But you need to continue telling me everything... or else..."

The serpent's gaze darkened, its fury growing. "You already know everything!" it replied, its voice thick with anger.

"No..." He replied, "There's too much I don't know."

Those bleeding eyes lowered, an intense trauma within them, "I feel my other half... I dream of it. Bound to some magician girl. Some human. Some worthless bitch. She has me nailed onto a cross in one of Heaven's cursed sacred artifacts! I am crucified, bleeding. I can feel it. I dream of it. I have nightmares of it."

Even creatures like this slept, dreamed, endured pain, and were consumed by a swarm of negative emotions. They were not so different from humans after all.

"Walburga," The shinobi recalled, the name slipping from his lips. "She leads one of the magician factions in our organization." He knew he may need this magician, if they ever manage to even get close to Great Red. However, who knows if she is even willing. And if not, Sasuke would rather have this dragon on his side when the time is right.

"Get me out—not just out of here, but away from that cursed holy relic," Yamata's tone became desperate, pleading. "Bring my soul together, and I'll help you. Free me from this cave, and I'll help you with whatever the hell you need from me! I can't stand being here another moment!"

The creature sought freedom. It would do anything, even things out of its own instincts. Some might call it desperate, or even unnecessary. But it would take any chance to escape the world it had been trapped in.

Was this still about the dragon? Or about himself? It was almost laughable. But Sasuke didn't laugh.

He nodded slowly, considering. "Very well. I'll make you whole again—if you actually cooperate." Sasuke had no mastery over sealing jutsu or magic, but making false promises to a snake was a risk he was willing to take.

Anything to leave this place, anything to go home.

"Kukuku," Yamata chuckled darkly, the sound echoing ominously. "You better not fail me, human."

"And you better not disappoint me."

In the dim chamber beneath Tepes Castle, Euclid Lucifuge read through a black journal, his smug expression unchanging. "So, the three factions have come together?" he mused aloud. "These are trying times indeed." He paused, "And you, the hero. We've heard the tales—whispers of a human who defeated the Hakuryūkō. Your name isn't well-known, granted, but you revealed yourself from the shadows. Was that intentional?"

"... It was unavoidable."

Was it, though?

"Vali is Rizevim-sama's grandson, but don't concern yourself with his fate, not that I suspect you would. Had he died, no one would have cared. The child was never loved—not by his father, and certainly not by his grandsire." Euclid's eyes suddenly widened as he scanned further. "Sirzechs agreed to share the Evil Piece technology with Michael!?" His voice was incredulous, bordering on disbelief. "Is that truly what they discussed?"

Sasuke stood, his expression as neutral as ever, "The Grigori are joining is as well."

"Complete disaster." The devil replied. A grin then came to his face, "I'm sure that Ajuka will be lively to know he must give it all up to inferior scientists. After all, the only reason the other factions have not even come close." The evil piece system had been in place for 400 years at this point. It was an edge the devils have had, yet, it was never utilized in a grand war.

"They seem capable enough," The Uchiha replied, "How is it they have failed for so long?"

Euclid closed the book with a deliberate snap. "No one truly knows how this system was created," he said. "It's exceedingly complex, and the time it took to develop… well, only the creator himself could say for certain." His expression darkened, a hint of foreboding in his eyes. "But one thing is clear. It took countless years and an imagination capable of bringing the impossible to life. All that time, all that development, the endless trials and experiments that must have taken place—all of it was built on the groundwork laid by one man… Ajuka Beelzebub." He paused, his tone filled with unease. "I can't imagine he's pleased to have to share the fruits of those discoveries."

"Angels rely on humans," Sasuke added, "And Michael holds a particularly high regard for them. I suspect even the hardliners within the church won't resist the idea as strongly, knowing it serves their own side."

Euclid applauded, a smirk curling at his lips. "Well observed, Sasuke-kun. You're adapting to the intricacies of politics with surprising ease. I suppose, when you go to the Underworld, you could investigate this little discussion, if you're interested enough."

The shinobi's interest was piqued, but it was Beelzebub himself—not merely the system—that truly held his curiosity. Much of the intelligence they needed hinged on unearthing the hidden secrets surrounding the superdevil. Perhaps, if their goals aligned just right, they could gain access to what they sought.

Sasuke's gaze fell to a neatly organized box of scrolls, each bearing the emblem of House Lucifuge and embedded with traces of his own magic. He picked one up, examining the intricate design. "These scrolls… were they difficult to make?" he asked. This was the same type of scroll he'd given to Issei. Back then, it had contained Amaterasu, designed so that, once a devil infused it with their demonic energy, it would activate the chakra-powered flames. However these were essentially blank.

The scroll was, in a sense, a bridge between the worlds of chakra and demonic energy. From his world, and this one.

"The first one, yes," Euclid answered. "But it only took one attempt to grasp the basics. Remember, this relies on chakra, not senjutsu. Demonic energy and chakra don't easily align. But it's not impossible. There are beings here with a natural connection to chakra, though they're rare."

Sasuke's eyes narrowed. "Is there anyone in the Khaos Brigade besides me who can use chakra? Someone to show me what I cannot figure on my own. Teleportation. Barriers. Someone who... knows senjutsu as well."

Euclid shook his head thoughtfully. "They will likely be unreliable. However, it is still possible for you, And you wouldn't have to hide in the shadows for it. Though, you would likely have to seek that out on your own side. Azazel is famous, he would likely know someone, if you can stomach his presence. "

The look the human gave said it all.

He moved through the grand halls of the castle, his silent steps barely disturbing the hushed atmosphere. The vampires here had tolerated his presence, some even respected him, and he found it strangely refreshing not to be constantly met with suspicion. In time, he'd gotten to know his way around the intricate corridors, winding staircases, and hidden pathways.

He even had his own quarters, maintained meticulously by servants who never asked questions and always had the space ready for his return.

Today, he made his way to the kitchens. The task was routine by now. He took out the ingredients and prepared a plate—a familiar one, her favorite. It was the usual assortment, steak, medium rare, or in reality, rare. Some vegetables, to create a balance. She was not allowed to drink alcohol, but he brought it up anyways. One glass of water, one glass of a liquid called wine, and a more, thick... red liquid.

His next destination was at one of the higher levels of the castle.

Not everyone knew who he was. It was more the high-ranking locals. But it not just vampires who resided in this fortress. Sasuke passed through the castle's main hall and encountered a unique group. These four were not locals. Their very presence seemed to disrupt the quiet intensity of the castle.

The first to catch his eye was Apophis. By far the most level-headed and decent of them. Next was Grendel, green-haired and disdainful. This one was wicked, blood thirsty. He was the one that had most recently been brought back from the dead, and hasn't had much time to truly live.

Behind him stood a large figure with two heads arranged back to back, a twisted reminder of an old acquaintance—Sakon and his conjoined twin, Ukon. This dragon, named Azi Dahaka, wore a twisted grin. Then, there was Ladon. Despite in his humanoid form, he was an unsettling sight. Average in build, with brown hair and green eyes. His right arm seemed to be part tree—bark, roots, and leaves mingled with flesh, almost as if he'd grown out of some ancient forest.

"Sasuke-san," Apophis said, his voice carrying his usual courtesy. "We heard you fought Albion. Very impressive indeed."

Grendel snorted, "I once took on Ddraig myself. He was the equal of that white dragon. What a waste that they serve humans now, chopped into pieces and trapped in that fate."

Azi Dahaka frowned, "And to think we once believed death was the worst outcome."

These weren't all the Evil Dragons in the Khaos Brigade, but they were a formidable force. Unlike other factions, they had a certain reliability—at least when it came to fighting. They would challenge anyone, anything, and they would die fighting if it came to that, even against Great Red. That was their purpose here, their strength. Yet, they were mischievous, often sneering or mocking Rizevim when his back was turned.

But the human? They respected him. He didn't flinch, didn't back down, didn't cower. His clash with the White Dragon Emperor only heightened their regard for him, reinforcing that Sasuke was someone worthy of their respect.

The Uchiha gave them no reply, brushing past them without a glance. He ascended the main staircase, avoiding curious servants, pacing guards, and the castle's roaming packs of otherworldly beasts. At the top of the stairs, he turned down a dimly lit corridor, his mind on his destination, only to come to an abrupt stop.

Something—or rather, someone—blocked his path. A vampire this time. One he did not like, one no one really liked. The Lord of the castle had taken his position by treachery. The levies, guards, servants, all preferred his father, who was imprisoned. And many even preferred his sister, despite her being only half vampire.

Lord Marius, whose pale, flawless face bore that insufferably smug smile. Far more infuriating to look at than Euclid's. Marius's gaze first traveled down the staircase, taking in the dragons, "Wretched creatures," he muttered, his eyes narrowing. Then, with a sneering turn, he looked back at Sasuke, tilting his head playfully. "Not as handsome and pure as you, Sasuke-chan. Tell me, are you visiting my dear sister once more?"

Sasuke said nothing, knowing that his silence would sting. Without a second glance, he brushed past him, intent on reaching the door at the end of the hall. But Marius wasn't one to be so easily dismissed. There was nothing more disrespectful than ignoring the lord of the castle. Especially since person committing the act is not even royalty, nor a vampire, but a human.

"Excuse me, sir—did I give you leave?" Marius demanded, his voice barely concealed with rage. "She is my sister. If you wish to bother her sleep, you will need my position! From here on out!" Everyone in the upper hall heard the yelling and commotion. The servants stared, the dragons below stared, and the guards who were stationed against the wall stared, but no one moved.

Before Sasuke could reach the door, Marius's hand shot out and seized his wrist—the one holding the plate. The sudden jolt caused a roasted potato to tumble from the dish, rolling across the floor. His eyes stared blankly as he registered the sight of the wasted food. It wasn't his meal, nor did he care about a fallen potato, yet the careless treatment of something he'd prepared for another struck him deeply. For whatever reason, it irked him.

Marius smirked, as the human stepped back away. He considered a retreat, a confirmation to his authority. The vampire traced his body, observing him, up until his own red eyes met Sasuke's own.

Wait.

When did the Uchiha ever have a red eye? He was no vampire, as far as Marius knew. And his other eye as well was intriguing, not red like his right, but a different color.

'Purple?'

Sasuke reached out, placing his free palm firmly against the vampire's chest in what seemed like a simple push. To simply, push the lord away, so he could open the door. But that push was no push, there was a current, a surge, a sudden burst of energy neither seemed to have anticipated.

"What the—!"

Marius gasped as he was abruptly lifted off the floor, his body hurtling backward as though caught in a gust of wind. He collided with the wall above the staircase with a loud thud. For a split second, he hung suspended, dazed, before his body fell to the floor. As he lay there, struggling to rise up, the chandelier above him swung and trembled. It creaked and shook, before the ornament came crashing down on top of him.

There was silence, and then a chorus of laughter and jeers erupted from the dragons.

For a moment, Sasuke stared at his own hand, flexing his fingers as if to understand what had just transpired. He'd barely exerted any effort. There were no hand seals And yet, a burst of power that had sent the vampire hurtling backward.

When he looked down at Valerie Tepes, it was not easy. She was a dhampir, a lady of this castle, someone of importance. She even possessed one of the most powerful Sacred Artifacts gifted by God. She was entirely from this world, connected deeply. There was no denying it. And yet, as he stared down at her, something else stirred within him. He saw more than just this woman.

In that gentle, soft face, with those closed red eyes, he could see echoes of someone else. There was an innocence in her, untouched by the tragedy in her life, but it was fragile. The life within her was dim, her light struggling to shine through. For a half-vampire, she showed only her human side—a sweet and kind essence that seemed out of place in the dark halls of Tepes Castle.

She looked even skinnier and weaker than when he'd last seen her.

Valerie had helped them all, supporting their cause in ways no one else could. Those dragons in the depths of the castle? She'd brought them back. The dragon sealed in his sword? That was her doing too. Without her, there would be no army for their faction within the Khaos Brigade, no powerful allies bound to serve.

When he looked at her, who did he really see?

There had been a girl, he had met her a long time ago. She was from Kusagakure, and had participated in the Chunin Exams. It was a difficult time then, for all of them. Sasuke had found her in the Forest of Death. It did not look good for her. She had been lost from her team, trapped, with death looming above her. A bear, the biggest either had ever seen, was about to devour her. A truly terrifying animal.

The Uchiha had intervened, saving the girl, and when he stared down, he was disappointed, but he was happy to have been there to stop the beast.

"An earth scroll just like us, huh?" Sasuke had said to her, but she did not reply. He gave one smile before departing, "... Later."

It had been the first time he had met Karin.

Looking back, he had known. Everyone had known. That woman had loved him, perhaps ever since the first time they mad. But Sasuke never shown any affection toward her, or even friendship. Though they had reconnected in the war, there was clearly a... disconnect between them. He had not forgotten her in this world. Nor has he forgotten when he had seen her... face.

That face.

The face she had made when his lighting spear went right through her.

Perhaps, when he returns, he can make it right. After everything he can apologize.

Perhaps, he-

"AAAAAH!"

The Uchiha flinched, his body jolting as he staggered backward, hand clamping onto the vanity set beside her bed. He nearly toppled onto the plate he'd brought, barely catching himself in time. Valerie had sprung up from her pillows. Her sudden yell and energy at levels he'd never seen from her before—eyes wide, practically glowing with life.

She looked at him, still catching her breath. "Sasuke!" Valerie exclaimed, her voice shaky but full of excitement. "I woke up… from… from…" She paused, regaining her focus. Her eyes lit up. "You met him!"

Sasuke steadied himself, as if he hadn't just been on the brink of toppling over, and walked up smoothly, doing his best to play it cool. "I didn't even know you could break out of that genjutsu," he replied. In truth, she'd been experiencing memories he'd shared over the past months—his battles, the peerage, everyday moments, even those fights. However, likely because of her sacred gear, she could break free. It wasn't a particularity strong jutsu, nor did he intend for it to be.

"Gasper!" she said, breaking into a bright smile. "Gasper's alive! You saw him!"

He tilted his head, "... Who?

"Gasper!"

Oh, right, the bishop.

"Yes!" Valerie exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement as she rubbed her eyes and moved to the edge of the bed. "He's from here!" She paused, reconsidering. "Well... not exactly." Looking up at Sasuke with the biggest smile he'd ever seen on her face, she continued, "His name is Gasper Vladi. He's from House Vali and sworn to my family. We used to play together before I helped him escape. He's alive... and he's a devil now... I'm so happy. I heard a terrible rumor he had been killed by vampire hunters."

Sasuke recalled his memory of the bishop. It was not an impressive one, but he did not wish to ruin her good mood, "... He did well in the battle." Though, a lie, it did bring a smile to her face. As for him dying, that was also plausible. Death did not stop someone from becoming a vampire.

Valerie's expression softened as she stood up—she actually stood up—and placed her hands on his shoulders, grabbing him with a rare, earnest strength. "Sasuke," she said, her voice full of a mix of gratitude and determination, "Can I ask something of you?"

Can she ask something of him?

He did not respond, but that seemed to assure her.

"He's my friend," Valerie stated, "Please, look out for him."

That was it. No begging, no pleading, no desperation. Just a simple, honest request—no nagging, no fuss.

She smiled, a gentle and self-aware look in her eyes. "I would look after him myself, but... I'm slow."

That word. Slow. It brought a memory to his mind. Obviously by slow, she meant... slowly dying. But that was just a more polite way of saying it. To him, however, it meant and reminded him of something else. An unpleasant thing he had told to someone else who was... being slow.

"Karin... if you're slow enough to get taken hostage, then you're of no use to me."

The resemblance now was almost unsettling—Valerie, like Karin, in a position too vulnerable to protect herself. Arguably in a more deadlier position than a hostage.

"... Okay." He replied. Though, he did not want to.

"Thank you." She had never made such a smile, such an expression of happiness. She then took a sip of blood, "Mmm, delicious." And that triggered an even further boost to her spirit. Her energy returning, "Is it warm outside? Can you come with me? I want to see if the flowers I planted have blossomed."

The Underworld's green-tinted sky stretched endlessly above, casting a glow over the landscape. Though distinct in its design and environment, this realm took heavy inspiration from the human world. Overtime, it had adopted elements like an artificial sun, artificial clouds, and even an artificial moon. Below, sprawling villages, cities, rivers, and lakes spread across the valleys. And while humans often described the Underworld—hell—as unbearably hot, it was quite cold this time of year.

For the past few ours, they were traveling by transit. Along, fast train that provided much needed space for their journey. Like Issei, Sasuke had initially expected they would use teleportation circles, but they both learned these were illegal for common use, reserved only for emergencies and official government purposes.

"Your move." Akeno's voice drew him out of thought and back to the chessboard between them. He stared down and moved his strongest piece. The Queen captured one of her pawns. It was fast with him, easy, but she took her time. Perhaps, too long to move.

The Queen sat across from him and had seemed distracted in recent days. Her usual warm and always playful presence was quiet lately. She was often in deep thought, and struggled to retain focus. A game like chess only gave her an excuse to pretend as if she was living in the present. Sasuke had noticed this change in demeanor quite soon, but kept his mind elsewhere. It was never his desire to get into people's business, just as he never wished for them to get into his.

"You... you like chess, right?" She suddenly asked. It was not like her to stutter or even struggle to ask questions. Nor did she really ask such... regular questions. Akeno surprisingly appreciated deep-thought and personal conversations. But it wasn't too often she started one with him.

"It passes the time." He replied, They then heard a loud commotion and banging in the cart next door. A drunken commotion and banging. Sasuke lowered her eyes, "I can't believe your King let that fallen angel take over her club. I thought she had pride in it. Now, she just accepts whatever he wants."

Azazel was now the official advisor to the occult research club. Meaning, he had taken it over. The direction it was going, it's future, it's fate, all in his hands now. Though, he has yet to "advise" the sole human of the club.

"... You don't like Fallen Angels, do you?" It was not her usual tone, nor was it her usual type of questioning. Ever since the battle against the Old-Satan faction, Akeno had not been herself.

Sasuke glanced at her and shrugged. "Devil, Fallen Angel, Angel—You're all the same to me." That answer seemed to surprisingly lift her spirits, "But someone like him… doesn't he have better things to do?" He must have. Azazel is the Governor-General of the Grigori. Someone as influential and important as he must be doing something better than advising a group of devils.

"He does snoop a lot," She replied with a smile, "It's only a matter of time before he reaches his hand out and tries to advise you."

The Uchiha replied, his tone icy and ominous, "He tries to reach his hand out to me, he loses the hand. His remaining hand."

She gave a light chuckle, "Be thankful the alternative never came to fruition. If it weren't for him, we'd probably be getting regular visits from Lady Serafall-sama."

The twist on his face amused her. It was a rare sight, as Sasuke is often so composed and unreadable, yet with the satan he had become irritable, and eager to avoid any interaction. That debate rang in his mind. A Satan, or a Cadre-ranked Fallen Angel. A magical princess, or a lustful alcoholic who took an interest in everything Sasuke seemed to do.

Yet, the human avoided him. Like he did with Sirzechs and even Rias to a degree.

"It would be one of the hardest decisions of my life." He replied.

Out of the corner of his eye, something in the sky caught his attention—a strange, still shape hanging in the distance. His gaze sharpened, and without a word, he rose from his seat. He stepped closer to the glass, pressing his palm against it as his eyes locked.

"Do you know that place?" Sasuke asked, "That floating island."

She looked out but couldn't see anything at first. She stood up, her eyes fixed on the distant sky. They currently hovered over Sitri territory, with the Gremory lands just beyond. Far off on the horizon, she saw the formation in the clouds. At first glance, it seemed like rain, but it was too wide and distinct to be a storm. As she watched, realization dawned on her, and her eyes widened, gleaming with excitement. It wasn't rain but a cascading waterfall, glowing brightly in the distance.

"Of course!" Akeno said with a rush of excitement, "It's the most romantic place in the Underworld It's where Lord Sirzechs proposed to Lady Grayfia after the civil war." The Queen, like many hopeless romantics, knew the story of those two devils by heart.

Euclid had told him before: Lucifuge must always be with Lucifer.

"... That's what it's known for?" Sasuke asked with his usual deadpanned expression.

She tilted her head and finally answered, "Agreas. It's in House Agares' territory."

The name rang out, a smirk forming on his face. 'Agreas.' He said to himself, 'There. That's where I need to be. That's where it starts. That's where it ends."

Sasuke stood back, crossing his arms as he thought, 'For a human to go there now would attract unwanted attention. I'd need someone with me to avoid looking suspicious. Especially if he is there…' Hidden in plain sight. The devils, for the most part, were careless—too absorbed in their own little worlds, their clans, their lands. But even the slightest disturbance from one of them could raise questions. And in this place, on this mission, questions were dangerous.

"Take me there." He said, his town more of a command than a request.

The Queen stood frozen for a moment, unsure if what she heard was what she actually heard. But his expression confirmed it. A slight flush coloring her cheeks. Akeno hesitated, her voice uncertain. "You… want me to take you?" She stammered, the idea catching her off guard. "We could go… you and I…" Never before has she been so caught off guard and unprepared. She of course remembered the romance story, and felt a strange feeling in her stomach. A new feeling. A warm feeling. A good feeling.

His smirk deepened, "Good. Before we head back to the human world. Whenever we're done with... why are we again?"

Before she could respond, the train abruptly halted. Both were thrown off balance, tumbling across the car. Sasuke hit the floor hard, his head slamming into the ground. Loose furniture scattered around them, bouncing off the walls and shattering glass. Dazed but unharmed, he opened his eyes and found himself staring up at a pair of violet eyes hovering inches above his face.

Akeno had tumbled with him, and was now close enough that he could feel her breath on him.

"Ara, we haven't even reached the island yet, Sasuke-kun…" Akeno teased, leaning in close, her hair spilling over her shoulder. For now, it seemed as though her usual self had returned. Seconds passed, yet she hadn't moved off him; they just stared at one another, a silence settling over them that left Sasuke puzzled.

"…Are you okay?" he finally asked, noticing her lack of urgency to get up.

Before Akeno could respond, the train shifted violently beneath them. It felt as if they'd fallen through the very floor of the train. Suddenly, they were in free fall, hurtling through empty space as the world around them spun into a dizzying, violet blur. As he descended, a firm hand gripped Sasuke's shoulder from behind, halting their fall and pulling them back to reality.

A day had passed since their arrival by train in the Underworld. Now, the peerage was settled in Gremory territory, at the grand estate where Rias' parents resided. Sirzechs, as a Satan, didn't live here—his main quarters were in the new capital, Lilith. The manor itself was impressive, with a blend of aristocratic charm and modern elegance in its architecture, a clear symbol of House Gremory's prestige, which had only grown over the centuries.

Though Sasuke wasn't a devil, Rias had invited him, and he'd been treated with a respectful courtesy he wasn't used to by devils. He responded in kind, seeing no reason for hostility. Her parents, Zeoticus and Venelana, looked shockingly young. Of course, he had known devils aged far more slowly than humans, but actually witnesses was truly amazing.

It was a miracle if shinobi lived long enough to die as an elder.

The train incident that had occurred had been a setup by Azazel and Rias—an excuse for the peerage to test their skills against a dragon. Tannin, a reincarnated devil who had kept his dragon form, was as intimidating as they came. Sasuke observed from the sidelines with Rias, while Akeno took charge of their battle strategy. She commanded with clear, quick decisions, and for once, the Uchiha found himself impressed by her sharp command.

They were like a small army. But the army needed to work together for it to be effective.

No King - No Sasuke.

In the end, though, the peerage fought bravely and with strong trust in one another, they were outmatched. Tannin's strength quickly forced them into a conclusive defeat, and Azazel had to step in before things went out of hand.

There had been a new addition to the peerage as well. After the battle, Xenovia had accepted Rias' offer to join as her second Knight—a reckless, youthful, and impulsive decision. She was in a state of confusion, her faith in God shattered, and now she was searching for something new to believe in. Sasuke assumed she'd try to find strength within herself, as a human, but instead, she'd placed her faith in these newfound comrades.

To him, it felt rash, naive, to change her fate so drastically overnight—but it wasn't his concern.

Once their training was complete, they would face him. If they could pass his analysis, then perhaps working with others wasn't a waste of time after all.

Tension hung over the peerage, but it wasn't directed at each other—it was internal. Koneko, Akeno, Kiba, and even Rias seemed distant, each lost in their own thoughts, wrestling with some personal struggle. Sasuke could relate, in a way; he knew what it was to carry inner conflict. But for him, those struggles had always driven him to become stronger, never a distraction—if anything, they sharpened his focus.

It was late at night.

The Underworld had its own artificial moon, a replica of the one in the human world. But this wasn't the moon he had come to know—the moon tied to the Sage of Six Paths, to Kaguya, to the Otsutsuki. To him, it was no moon at all.

Leaving the Gremory estate now would be too risky. The property was heavily guarded, surrounded by barriers and magic circles that traced the sky—an estate of high status where any human wandering off would immediately attract attention. And besides, Sasuke had no idea where the floating island he was searching for was even located.

The balcony door slid open, and Sasuke sensed the presence of someone he'd often avoided being alone with. Not because he feared her, but because the King was more than just another piece of his mission—she was something to keep at arm's length. He had a deal with Hyoudou, and in truth, the Uchiha was not entirely sure what the pawn wanted. To stay away from her? To not get close?

He glanced over his shoulder, "Rias."

The King paused, surprised by the sound of her name in his voice. It wasn't the formal "Buchou" that her peerage often used. No, he addressed her simply by name—her true name.

"Sasuke-kun," she replied, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Sorry you had to do nothing all day. We were all training, and Azazel wanted to give us a broad—"

"I know what that bird wanted," he interrupted, his irritation clear. "And you just went along with it. After all we've been through, all the training, all the fighting, the advice I gave. Some random, gross fallen angel swoops in and offers to help you gain power..."

Rias watched him carefully, for a moment thinking he was genuinely disappointed—or perhaps hurt—that he was no longer the one leading their training. A twinge of guilt crept into her stomach. She had never meant to hurt him. He had been so reliable, so trustworthy. She opened her mouth to apologize, but then she caught the faintest tug at his lips, and she relaxed.

Even Uchiha Sasuke could make a joke.

"Good. Get stronger."

She smiled, nodding. "We will. But why are you so focused on it? I mean, being strong is important, I know that better than anyone. But… you never spend time with us when we do other events. Is… fighting all you think about?"

"Yes."

There was a pause. It was a not so surprising revelation.

"Nothing else?" she pressed gently. "No… fun? Hobbies? Do you read? Cook? Do you... have an interest in certain person? Or... multiple people? I'm not trying to offend. I'm just curious." Like many, she felt she had to walk on egg-shells around him sometimes. Otherwise, his retorts could be hurtful.

His silence spoke volumes, and she nodded, as if piecing the answer together herself. "I see… is that... from your culture? I mean, what you grew up doing?"

Sasuke turned to face her, leaning against the railing. "I have goals," he said quietly. "Though, it'll be some time before I fulfill them. Everything else... is just there to pass the time."

Rias nodded, "I see…"

"And what about you?" He asked, turning the question on her. "Your family, your brother—they all have high expectations for you. But what is it you want? You already defied the marriage agreement. What else have you done to go against your House? Your family?"

Rias gasped, taken aback. "What! I would never!" She crossed her arms, clearly flustered. "If Riser had shown a single shred of love… who knows?" For a moment, the King became lost in thought. The marriage pact had been her family's decision, a duty she had been expected to fulfill, regardless of her own desires. Many women throughout history had done the same thing, sacrificing their happiness for the sake of tradition. But Rias had no regrets. In the end, it was her own happiness that mattered.

A proud smirk replaced the frown on her face, "My goals? I want to have the top-rated peerage in the Rating Game system. To be the best."

That wasn't the answer Sasuke had expected, but it made sense. The Rating Games were a crucial part of devil society—a show of power, social status, and fame. For any House within the 72 Pillars to have that title would be a tremendous honor. Still, it was strange Rias would strive for that.

He saw right through it. There was a deeper reason behind her desire, something driving her more than just the desire of fame.

"Your brother is the strongest devil," Sasuke stated, "He's the hero of your society. It was his power that won your civil war. They gave him the title of Lucifer and made him the face of the Underworld. Many say he is the strongest devil alive, maybe even of all time."

Rias stared at him, her mind racing, wondering where he was going with this.

Sasuke's gaze didn't waver as he added, "You feel envious, maybe jealous, and more than likely, a bit of inferiority."

The King had a blank expression on her face, clearly taken aback. She became flustered, "W-What?! No! I love my brother! If anything, I want to be just like him. He just has a huge age gap on me."

He gave a nod, having expected that type of reaction, "I don't doubt it. And he clearly loves you. But I have seen, and I am not wrong. You do not wish to be known as his sister, not like that. You want people to know your name. You want your own merit. You don't want to be known as just Lucifer's sister. You want to be the Rating Game champion, right?"

"I want to…"

"Be Rias Gremory." he finished for her.

There was no harm in it. Nothing bad about such a thing. Rias had always been taken care of, never quite given the chance to stand alone.

She opened her mouth, as if ready to debate his take, but no words came. As she thought about it more and more, it began to make sense. His words struck deeper than she expected. He gave her a look—soft, understanding. It was as if, without even realizing it, he had understood something about her that not even she knew herself. Uchiha Sasuke was not just a strong ally. Another surprising fact about him was that he understood people—despite how much he seemed to dislike them.

"And you? What about your family?"

No one really dared to ask about him, where he is from, who he is from. Since, of course, the human never answered those type of questions before.

Sasuke crossed his arms, a distant look in his eyes and thought to himself, 'I'm the only one left.' After a moment of silence, he allowed himself to share some good memories. Ones that felt were from so long ago.

"I had an older brother myself. Like yours, he was... a prodigy. Stronger, faster, smarter, better than me in every way. No matter how older I got, he had already been a master at that point. People ignored me because of him. They only knew me as his little brother. I wanted to be stronger, like him, I wanted to more known like him. I wanted my father to look at me the way he looked at him. I was jealous, and wanted to surpass him. But... I did love him, more than anything, more than anyone."

After a pause, the story ended.

Rias smiled gently. "I see. No wonder you understand. What about now? I find it hard to imagine another human being stronger than you. I'd love to meet this brother of yours."

There was no harshness or sadness in his tone. They were just words, "They're all gone now."

Her smile faltered. "Oh… I'm so sorry—"

He raised a hand, cutting her off. "People die. I've made my peace with it."

She nodded, sensing it was best to leave the matter at that. Rias quickly shifted the conversation, not wanting to dwell on it any longer. "Thank you," she said suddenly, her voice sincere. "For helping with my peerage. Especially with Kiba, Issei… and now it seems even Akeno."

Sasuke raised an eyebrow. "Even Akeno... what about her?"

Rias shook her head, laughing lightly. "Nothing. I have to admit, though... I'm a bit jealous." She smiled playfully, but there was a tinge of hurt behind it. "Sometimes it feels like they're more comfortable coming to you than me."

"Maybe they are." He replied, his tone flat.

"But I'm their King," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of hurt. "I should be the one they turn to."

"No," Sasuke corrected. "You're their friend. Riser is a King. You're more than that. They don't want to burden you, or risk embarrassing themselves. They don't want to disappoint you. Except Hyoudou, he has no issue with that"

Rias's expression softened, a warmth in her eyes. "I love them all. I'd die for them."

"And they're loyal to you," Sasuke replied, "But there are things they can't bring to you."

She nodded, understanding what he meant. "I get it. And… thank you again, for looking out for them. I know it's not your responsibility. If you ever want to stop, I won't blame you."

"I know what it's like... to lead others."

Rias glanced at him, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I bet you were good at that, like you are at everything."

He shook his head, his voice lowering, "No. That's something you're far better at than I ever was. I don't think I could ever be as good as you—not even close."

Team Leader Sasuke.

Heibi.

Taka.

The faces flashed back to him—Karin, Suigetsu, and Jugo. Each had their own reasons for coming with him, but Sasuke knew the truth deep down. They stayed because of him. They had fought alongside the Uchiha, trusted him, even when he had pushed them to their limits. And through it all, they had remained loyal to their leader, even when he hadn't deserved it.

This devil would never have treated them the say he did.

Rias took a slow breath, sensing the weight behind his words. "Thank you, Sasuke. That means a lot. Really."

The two had spoken before, but never truly alone like this. The moon hung high above, its light glowing against the clouds. Rias glanced at him, a small smile tugging at her lips. Though he was blunt and often expressionless, she had come to realize that when he chose to speak, his words held weight. Now, the question lingered in her mind—how could she get him to open up again?

The Young Devils.

These were the children of aristocratic devils—the clans, the Houses, the vassals. Each one was part of a family that commanded its own army, wealth, land, and influence. Devil society, with its hierarchy and decentralized system, reminded him of how the early days of Konoha must have been. A time when each clan operated independently, driven more by their own self-interests than by any sense of unity.

However, war had changed the shinobi world to create a broader unity.

House Gremory - House Sitri - House Bael - House Glasya-Labolas- and House Agares

Sasuke watched as the young devils taunted each other, their words laced with arrogance. They shouted, broke things, and became an embarrassment to their respective families. It all boiled down to status. Though they were similar in age, some were clearly stronger than others. But for them, it was less about strength and more about status. If you had a negative reputation, it emboldened others to look down on you, even if they were all High-Class devils.

A figure appeared beside him—Akeno, though Sasuke had sensed her arrival. Her voice was softer than usual, with a hint of weariness. "One talk with Buchou, and now you're dressed up in a dazzling suit, standing proudly with us." She smirked as her eyes ran over his attire.

The Uchiha glanced down at himself briefly, "Where've you been?" he asked. "Weren't you going to take me to that floating city?"

Akeno's smile lingered, though it seemed slightly strained. "I've been training... and I haven't forgotten. Hopefully, we'll have some time before we need to leave."

He raised an eyebrow, "You look like you haven't broken a sweat. Whoever's training you isn't pushing hard enough."

Normally, she would've responded with a playful retort, something teasing. But this time, her eyes drifted to the side, and a faint frown appeared on her face. It had only been a few days and the Queen was back to her distant self.

"What's with you?" he asked.

She appeared hesitant, but her violet eyes took a chance and met his black ones, "I…"

Before Akeno could reply, a loud crash roared in the air. A body suddenly crashed through the wall and skidded to the floor, kicking up dust and debris. A devil with blue hair and dark skin lying face-down, motionless—obviously the victim of a one-sided fight. Surprisingly, the young devils around them didn't react with shock. Instead, irritation spread across their faces, with a few rolling their eyes and muttering as if this kind of scene was more of a nuisance than an outrage.

Behind the collapsed man stood an imposing man, tall and muscular, with jet-black hair and fierce violet eyes. He possessed clear raw strength that was uncommon even among the others devils in the room. This was Sairaorg Bael. His voice echoed through the hall, confidant and loud, "Insulting a fellow devil, especially a woman, is beneath us. Such behavior should not be tolerated in our generation."

A young woman with long, pale greenish-blonde hair stepped forward, her expression composed but unimpressed. Akeno leaned close and whispered to Sasuke, "Seekvaira Agares." Sasuke's eyes flicked to her, a sudden interest forming.

Seekvaira spoke coldly, "I appreciate your… concern, son of Bael, but I don't require a protector. I'm capable of handling my own affairs. There's no need for you to step in on my behalf."

Sasuke's thoughts raced, piecing together the situation. 'House Agares... she could also get me to that city.' She would be even more useful, as her House is located in that territory.

Movement.

He looked toward the window, there had been movement. Or maybe not, perhaps he had sensed something instead. That skill had been slowly growing the more he paid attention to it. Akeno watched him walk over, and followed him. They stared out into the night, the darkness capable of hiding anyone who would be peaking inside.

"Someone is out there." The Uchiha grumbled, "Someone was watching the fight happen."

The Queen shrugged, "Why wouldn't they have just come in and watch it?"

Sasuke smirked, "They likely did not want to be seen."

Kind of a nothing chapter, but some setup for the future. Definitely just going to be cruising through the anime. I do enjoy the Akeno moments, though. Might have to make some room for those.