(Ryoto POV)

I just couldn't do anything in that moment. Not even move an inch. Asia, right in front of my eyes, is slowly dying after having her own Sacred Gear extracted from her.

Ryoto: *trembling* "Asia! NO!"

""Opening theme: Trip Innocent of D""

(3rd POV)

Raynare: *grinning* "Yes. I've been lusting after this power for years. Those miserable hearts are in the palm of my hand. Perfect..."

With the Sacred Gear rings secure in Raynare's grasp, she absorbs them into herself. Ryoto and others were just blinded by the intense light given off by the Sacred Gear. Once Raynare has been bonded to it, she could be seen glowing with the same green aura as the rings. And Ryoto's amulet once again starts to react by glowing in the same color.

Raynare: "Ahahahahahah... I'll be beloved. I'll be the most powerful fallen angel there is. All those pricks who screwed me over are going to regret it!"

Ryoto: "Try me for size, bitch! HRAAHH!"

Ryoto was ready to charge in, but dozens of cloaked priests bring out their weapons in the attempt to stop him. But with Ryoto's willpower in play, they couldn't even scratch him, with him just bludgening anyone with his gauntlet.

Ryoto: *charging* "Out of my way, cannon fodder!"

But he of course can't keep up forever. With one priest sneaking up on him, he couldn't react in time. Instead, Yuuto, with his Holy Eraser, disables the priest's weapon, allowing Koneko to lift him up and throw him away like a rag doll.

Issei: "Meteor Dragon Roar"

Everyone suddenly ducked as Issei shoots a fiery beam out of his mouth, blasting everything around them. That guy's wild, no question... Next, Furumai, with his energy talons, just gracefully chopping and slashing anyone else dumb enough to approach and Kyouka raining down light shots from above. As all five of them joined the fray, they managed to make a path for Ryoto to run up directly to Asia.

Ryoto: "You guys..." *running* "Thanks a bunch. I'm coming, Asia!"

He manages to run up to the alter. But Asia isn't moving at all. Raynare just stands off to the side... with a bit of a distant look in her eyes.

Ryoto: "Asia?... Can... can you hear me?"

Raynare: *smirking* "You deserve a reward for making it this far."

At that, Raynare snaps her fingers and the chains holding Asia to a crucifix snap off. Ryoto immediately catches her and she's in a horrible state, just barely breathing.

Ryoto: "Gotcha... hey, Asia. Wake up, please..."

Asia: *weakly* "...R-Ryoto... you came..."

Ryoto: *smiling* "Yeah, just as promised. We'll get out of this, so just hang on, 'kay?"

Asia: "...'kay."

Raynare: "Go ahead and take the girl. I got what I needed."

Ryoto: *frowning* "Not so fast. I'm not done with you. Return Asia's Sacred Gear this instant, or else!"

Raynare: *unimpressed* "Sooo tough~. Sorry, I had to betray my superiors to snag that little gem. Unfortunately for you, you're about to become my dénouement. But the good news is, you get to die together."

Yuuto: "Ryoto! 'Fraid they've got the upper hand!"

Furumai: *blocking attacks* "We need to get out- *punch* -as fast as possible!"

Ryoto: "And to think I was almost fooled by that facade of yours..."

Raynare: *smirking* "I'll admit, I thought you'd get away. But it still made my job easier instead of just chasing down you're sorry little behind."

Ryoto: "Hmph. Well I'll admit, that disguise was very convincing."

Yuuma/Raynare: "*giggle* Sweetie, that was the point. I needed you to play hero for my damsel in distress-"

Ryoto: *fed up* "Oh spare me already. I don't care what was your plan with me. I'm pissed off how you robbed Asia of the life she rightfully deserved."

Raynare: "Heh. And still trying to play hero, are you? So naïve. You should've known something like this was bound to happen to her sooner or later."

[Meanwhile]

Rias, Akeno and Masashi are still doing their best to stall out Mittelt, Dohnaseek and Kalawarna. As they threw their light spears right at Rias, Akeno protected her with a barrier, while Masashi disabled the attack with his own light spear.

Mittelt: "That's gonna get old really fast."

Kalawarna: *amused* "And exactly how long do they intend to hold their shield?"

Dohnaseek: "Not a very well thought out tool, is it? That's gotta be draining."

Mittelt: "Tell you what. Put those barrier things down and we'll let you go. So kidding! Get comfy, cause you're gonna be here a while. Man, I bet your minions think you've dropped them like a bad face lift."

Masashi/Shamsiel: 'Ugh... Mittelt just never shuts her yap.'

Mittlet: "Oh my God! Especially that pansy who fell for Raynare's pure little sunshine act. I bet she's crunched his ass by now!"

Rias: "If I were you, I wouldn't underestimate him. Let's just say, he was the most powerful pawn I've ever seen."

[At the Church]

The battle just continued to get more and more heated. But Raynare still isn't satisfied in mocking Ryoto, while he just glares daggers into her with nothing but scorn.

Raynare: "Yuuma Amano. Meaning "evening daze". I found it appropriate, since my plan was to kill you at sunset. Let's talk In-appropriate. First, you reject me, then refuse to die and then you replace me with some pias platinan nun-slut." *mocking* ""Ugh. Ryoto, I'm hurt. Weren't we supposed to be special? You're making me jealous. I bet you took HER on a yawn-a-thon date instead." Heh. Oh, how do you expect to play hero when you keep putting your victims to sleep? Ahahahahahaha!"

Ryoto: *pissed off* "Shut up already!"

Raynare: *grinning* "I love a man who takes control! You should've shown me some of that the first time we've met!"

Ryoto: "Oh yeah!? Well you're about to see!"

As Raynare was about to attack with light spear, Ryoto jumped off the alter and was replaced with Kyouka weilding a blade out of golden light. That switch out just made Raynare angrier. Kyouka proved to be much stronger, as her counterattack nearly pushed Raynare into the wall.

Kyouka: "You've gone far enough tormenting my son, you witch! Have at thee!"

With Asia in his hands, Ryoto attempts to make way back out. However, Yuuto, Koneko, Issei and Furumai are still locked in combat with priests.

Ryoto: "Guys!"

Yuuto: *sword swinging* "We got this! Get out of here, now! Hurry! We'll keep them busy! Run!"

Ryoto: *hasitating* "But-"

Yuuto: "We'll be fine! I promise!"

Issei: "Don't wait! Go and skiddadle out!"

Ryoto: "..."

Koneko: "Come on! Leave already!"

Ryoto: "I can't leave you like this!"

Furumai: *slashing* "You can't always help everywhere! You just have to make the right choice!"

Yuuto: "That's right! And right now, you standing there isn't helping anyone! Go!"

Ryoto: "Hrrr... Thanks. All of you. I promise that this is the last time I'll ever need bailing out." *running out* 'I'm done running away... I'll get strong enough once again... and face any challenge head on!'

Even if they couldn't hear Ryoto's declaration, Furumai, Issei, Yuuto and Koneko still knew what he's willing to do and smiled at their friend's determination.

[In the woods]

Mittelt: "A Pawn? Well isn't that nifty. You nerds name your servants after chess pieces? The Pawns are the dopes who line up in the front. Is that right?"

Kalawarna: "Ahahaha! Yeah, they're the sacrificial players."

Akeno: "Nonsense. We would never sacrifice any of our members. We're family."

[At the Church]

Ryoto finally exits back into the main church hall and lies Asia down on a bleacher. From around the alter, Daimonji runs over and is shocked to see the state that Asia is in. She can barely breathe as what remains of her strength. She at least manages to reach out her hand for Ryoto to hold.

Ryoto: *concerned* "Come on, Asia. Stay strong. We're nearly out of here. Everything will be like nothing bad ever happened. I swear."

Daimonji: "grrraaww"

Asia: *weakly* "...I know it wasn't a very long time, but... I'm so blessed to have made a friend like you..."

That wasn't okay how she spoke. Even if she was trying to smile, Ryoto could see that she didn't have enough strength to hold on much longer. It even drove Daimonji to whimper in tears that their friend was in so much pain.

Ryoto: *tearing up* "Don't talk like that, Asia. This isn't over. Not a chance... once you get better, we can hang out even more. I can even introduce you to my friends at school... they may be a bit of odd-balls, but they're good kids... I'm sure they'd adore you..."

Asia: "...I wish it could be different. It would've been great to grow up in this country... going to your school..."

Ryoto: *crying* "Of course you can... it would be even more of a blast with you around..."

With Asia's state not getting any better, she lets go of his hand and caresses his face.

Asia: "...I never wanted to make you cry... oh Ryoto... I'm... sorry... goodbye..."

After she just paused and her hand goes slack, Daimonji starts to panic and pulls on Ryoto's sleave. It takes him a bit to react, since he's still processing what just happened while slowly tearing up. But once he does, Daimonji starts pointing to his chest.

Ryoto: "What... what are you saying?..."

And sure enough, the amulet around Ryoto's neck is still faintly shining in the same green color... as Asia's Sacred Gear! Ryoto wipes his eyes, immediately pulls out the amulet and tries to focus his own magic into it.

Ryoto: "Please... let this work... at least a bit..."

Then, he clips the amulet around Asia's neck, hoping some of that magic will keep her barely alive.

Ryoto: "Come on... please stay strong, Asia... I'm not letting this be the end..."

The amulet starts to glow a bit brighter... but Asia still isn't moving. Ryoto just holds her closer and Daimonji nuzzles to her as well, still waiting for the amulet to work.

Ryoto: "...I'm not letting her die... she still has so much to live for in this world..." *trembling* "Why are you doing this to her?... She deserved to be alive more than anyone I ever knew... or are you punishing her for associating with a devil?... Are you punishing ME for bad mouthing you!? ...I'm sorry, okay? Just don't let this pure soul leave... anything but that!"

Raynare: "A former demon asking for forgiveness in church? What an insidious sense of humor."

Of course Raynare had caught up to them. This time, even Daimonji is absolutely trembling with fury at her presence. Ryoto however is still trying to keep a cool head and just glares at her.

Ryoto: *angry* "What do you want now?"

[In the woods]

Things were not starting to look good on the other side. Akeno is already having trouble keeping up with the three fallen angels, Masashi is starting to slow down and Rias has trouble figuring out any openings.

Dohnaseek: "It doesn't matter what that moron's abilities are. He doesn't stand a chance against Lady Raynare."

Mittelt: *amused* "Even if she is his "past admirerer". Ahaha! Oh, we heard all the tragically lame details of their little pre-fling!"

Dohnaseek: *laughing* "Now stop, Mittelt. You're evil!"

Kalawarna: "Ha! What a joke!"

Once again, they hurl their light spears at the same time for a deadly blow. But Masashi is ready for it.

Akeno: "Watch out!"

Masashi/Shamsiel: *growling* "Hrrr... I've heard enough of your bullshit about my son!"

And flings his own light spear like a frisbee, somewhat blocking their combined attack. However, everything is immediately disabled when Rias suddenly explodes with pure destructive aura, making her glow crimson red. Just one look at her face would tell she's pissed beyond believe.

Kalawarna: "She deflected all of it!?"

Rias: *glaring* "He's not a joke. No one laughs at my servants. Especially my long-lost dear friend."

Akeno: *smiling* "Look what you did now. Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to taunt her like that. Whoopsie on you~."

And with the final destruction spell, Rias finally silences the three fallen angels - by reducing them to nothingness. Masashi could just look on how powerful an heiress of the house of Gremory can be when pushed to the limit.

[At the Church]

Raynare: "Ugh, how tacky is this? That rabid angel momma of yours managed to cut me on the way here. Hmm... wonderful, huh? No matter the injury, I heal instantly."

Now possessing the Twilight Healing Sacred Gear, Raynare is able to heal any kind of injury to herself. Her haughty attitude is getting on Daimonji's nerves as he's ready to pounce, but Ryoto calmly signals him to stay put and hold the amulet on Asia.

Raynare: "A perfect gift for those of us who no longer have the benefit of divine protection. Whouldn't you say? And now, I'll never risk losing my rank in the Underworld." *praying* "Oh... Great Azazel and Shemazai, I am prepared and ready to do your works."

Ryoto: *glaring* "Yeah right, when Hades freezes do death... Now I'm gonna ask this again - why did you go to such lengths to ruin an innocent life? She wasn't any threat to anyone from the beginning. And this time, I wanna hear EVERYTHING."

Raynare: "Hmph... unfortunately for those with Sacred Gear, THIS is their destiny."

Ryoto: "Now that's just absolute garbage reason. She just wanted to live peacefully."

Raynare: "Out of the question. Humans don't have the ability to survive in their world with the Sacred Gear. Even if they choose to use the power for good, they are seen as different and would be tortured out of fear."

(FLASHBACK)

Asia: "They said anyone with my power was seen as a heretic, so I had no choice but to run away. Honestly, i'd be happy to have any friends."

(FLASHBACK END)

Ryoto: *pondering* "So that's what she meant..."

Raynare: "Exactly. Have you ever heard anything more absurd? That's just how the humans operate. Hah. Such an unfortunate waste of power."

Ryoto: "Still... you're wrong... I could protect her. I'm the first person she could actually lean on. And I would never let anything happen to her. Ever."

Raynare: *frowning* "She's dead! Stone-cold dead and you're whining about protecting her. You realise how psychotic you sound? You wouldn't have been able to save her back then anyway. And you can't save her now."

Ryoto: "*sigh* What do you think I've been trying these past few minutes?..."

Raynare: "Huh?"

To her surprise, Ryoto just starts to lightly smile and looks behind. Raynare follows his gaze and is baffled that he's actually trying the impossible. Ryoto is still glaring at her, but not in anger, but in determination.

Ryoto: "You should count yourself lucky that I'm not the type to hold grudges. Not even to enemies who are obviously being deceived themselves."

That seemed to get Raynare's attention and steps back in worry.

Raynare: "Wh-What are you on about?-"

Ryoto: "Save your excuses. I've already seen and heard the signs - you hesitated to stab me at the park and just little while ago, you complained about some pricks not taking you seriously. I have no idea who's making you do all of this and I think I know how to get to the bottom of this."

Rias: 'Any Sacred Gear works in direct correlation to the current feelings of it's owner.'

Ryoto: "But first things first..."

Rias: 'To put it another way, the stronger those feelings are...'

Ryoto: "I shall bring Asia back. And you can't stop me!"

Rias: '...The more powerful your Sacred Gear will be."

DRAGON BOOST!

Ryoto once again deploys his Sacred Gear, this time more powered up than before and symbols shining on it, bracing himself for one more confrontation with Raynare. She's still a bit taken aback by his reasoning, but also braces herself by deploying a light spear.

Raynare: "You don't pay attention, do you!?"

They charge against each other, with Raynare having a slight advantage in speed. Ryoto tries his best to counter or to knock her off balance.

Raynare: "There's nothing you can do to win! Even if you triple the power you have!"

Ryoto just tries to stay focused and boosts his power again. Now trying to go on the full-on offense, he lunges a blow at her, but she still manages to dodge and summon two more spears.

Raynare: "Hmph. And you're still trying to test me?"

Ryoto: "Not exactly. But I won't stop until you start talking! Who is making you do this!?"

Raynare once again flinches a bit and starts lowering the spears, questioning if any of this is actually worth it. But still tries desperately to not falter. Once Ryoto starts to charge again, she chucks both spears into his legs, making him slump down in pain. But to her surprise, even while crouching in agony, Ryoto still hasn't lost a little smirk on his face.

Ryoto: "See?... You hesitated... again..."

High School DxD NEO

Ryoto is just completely still as both his legs are pierced by light spears. Even while trembling with horrible pain, he still doesn't give in. His headstrong attitude is really starting to get to Raynare.

Raynare: *annoyed* "Will you just give it a rest already!? You don't know anything about me!... You can't even move right now, so why are you so adamant about getting to me? If you're trying to buy time to steal back that girl's Sacred Gear, you're just throwing pebbles at the brick wall."

Ryoto: "...Maybe. But being persistant is just how I was taught."

Still not ready to give in, Ryoto starts to pull both spears out of his legs, despite both of his hands pretty much being fried and losing massive amounts of blood. Once yanking them out, he boosts one more time and shakily stands off against Raynare.

Ryoto: "...I can sense it... a small tinge of guilt in your soul." *smirking* "Kind of suprising not even you fully realise it."

Raynare: "...You know, I really am impressed. A former lower class devil making it this far? That power is something to be reckoned with."

Ryoto: *sarcastic* "...Thanks for the recognition."

Raynare: *frowning* "However, I'll say this one last time. You're wrong about me. All of this was my decision. And I didn't kill you right away, because I wanted to make sure you got your kudos for doing so much better than expected from someone of your class."

Yet another lie. Ryoto is fully aware she's just intentionally putting everything on her shoulders. Evidenced by her adverting her sight and slight trembling of her hands. Having enough of this game, Ryoto starts to stand up, despite his damaged legs. Raynare is just baffled at this point for his persistance.

Ryoto: *standing up* "Liar, liar, pants on fire... Just how much are you going to cast this personal illusion?... Oh well, that's what I'm here for..."

Raynare: "Will you just leave me out of this!?"

Ryoto: *staggering* "Nope... because I made the same mistake as you're doing... adverting my eyes away from what must be done. You're making yourself blind from an empty promise."

Raynare: *shocked* 'Is this guy mental!?'

Ryoto: "I might seem really obsessive right now, true. But I'm only doing what I believe to be right. Just as you should, despite you're faults. Raynare... It's time to WAKE UP!"

And at that, his power just continues to skyrocket, his devil aura reforms and his devil wings, still a bit tattered, are once again let out, rattling and hissing like before.

Raynare: *baffled* "How are you doing this!? This is impossible, that light should be burning you inside out! And you're still preaching about me being some tool!? You... You don't know anything, got it!?"

Ryoto: *still staggering* "Correction... I don't know anything YET. And with this pain, I can't even think straight. But so what? I'm more than aware of what needs to be done! And NO ONE CAN STOP ME!"

EXPLOSION!

With Ryoto's resolve even more unshakable, his Sacred Gear boosts to the point of assuming a new form - a fully formed gauntlet on the entire forearm and sharp claws covering his fingers, while still retaining the yellow back-spikes. The power is now almost blinding.

Raynare: *shocked* "That energy is at least second level!"

Ryoto: 'Wait... I've seen this kind of gauntlet before...'

"Focus! Wait for an opening and strike with all your might!"

Raynare: "You're Sacred Gear should be nowhere near this strong! It's... It's just a Double Critical!"

Ryoto: *grinning* "Really... then try and find out."

With Ryoto's presence rising and his rattling wings giving off even more intimidating aura, Raynare starts to panic and throws one more light spear to get him to stay away. Ryoto however, just swats it away like nothing.

Ryoto: "Wrong, Raynare!"

Now really getting frightened, Raynare desperately tries to fly away, but Ryoto floats to her with whatever remains of his stamina. Grabs her by the arm and reals back his Sacred Gear for a decisive blow.

Raynare: *scared* "No! I have the supreme power!"

Ryoto: "I said, it's time to WAKE! UP!"

"Use all the strength you've got, boy!"

And hits her right in the face, sending her crashing through one of the mural windows. With his energy fully depleted, Ryoto retracts back his wings and starts to fall down due to injuries. Only for Yuuto to come in and hold him by his free arm.

Yuuto: "Heh. Look at you handling that on your own."

Ryoto: *amused* "What took you so long? Had a rough date with death?"

Yuuto: "Nah, just instructed to stay back. Rias' orders, sorry."

Ryoto: "Seriously?"

Rias: "Seriously. I knew you would defeat her. In your own way."

At that, he turns around and Rias is just leaning against the alter. Still, seeing her again brought Ryoto sour memory of their falling out.

Rias: "Once my business was finished, I found my way to the basement and arrived just in time to see everyone have a free-for-all with the bevy of fallen angels. But your mother has managed to make short work of all of them in the blink of an eye."

Yuuto: "I don't think that we could have gotten out at all."

Furumai: "Speak for yourself. I was having a blast just smashing bones left, right and center."

Issei: *cracking neck* "Well I feel a little numb... bleh."

Issei, Furumai and Kyouka show up at the hall, Furumai just dusting his clothes from his monstrous smashing and Kyouka runs over to Ryoto to check on his wellbeing. She starts using her own healing magic and injuries on his legs completely disappear.

Kyouka: "Oh dear. You must've took on a lot."

Ryoto: "Yeah, but still satisfied. And where's dad?"

At that, both Koneko and Masashi enter through the main door, with the former holding beaten up Raynare.

Koneko: "Did someone order this?"

Raynare is thrown onto the floor in front of everyone. Kyouka tries to protect Ryoto, but he motions to her that he'll be fine.

Rias: "You must be Raynare. Lovely entrance. I am Rias Gremory, also known as the next head of the House of Gremory."

Raynare: *trembling* "Gremory? You've got to be kiddin'..."

Rias: "It's wonderful to meet you. What a shame we don't have time to chat. But sadly, it's time to join your friends I disposed of earlier. They were rather rude to me."

To prove her point, Rias drops three black feathers in front of Raynare. She's just left speechless... but... she also seemed a bit... relieved?

Ryoto: "Woah... so she just vaporized them?"

Yuuto: "Rias' fuse is long, but when pushed, she lives up to her title as Empress of Annihilation."

Ryoto: "Ok... this group is more brutal than I thought. In a good way."

Issei: "And this still wasn't a full extent."

Ryoto: "Wait, but... dad? Were you okay with all that happening?"

Raynare too looks behind her, recognizing Masashi as Shamsiel.

Masashi: "Trust me, son. It's much better with those assholes out of the picture."

[In the woods]

Meanwhile, Akeno is busy sweaping away a whole bunch of black feathers that were left by their arrogant assailants.

Akeno: "So many feathers. It looks like the forest is molting. *giggle*"

[In the Church]

Raynare: "Why would the heiress of Gremory dare such a thing?"

Rias: "Well, since you ask, after Dohnaseek attacked Ryoto, I discovered multiple fallen angels had plans to attack this town. Normally, I would have stayed out of it, but they insisted on targeting my team."

Ryoto: "So you were trying to defend me from the very start?"

Rias doesn't answer the question, instead points everyone's attention at his newly formed Sacred Gear.

Rias: *surprised* "Look at you. I didn't see your Sacred Gear."

Furumai: "Now it literally looks like a dragon hand."

Ryoto: "Yeah, I guess. I just focused on it and it turned into this. And I think it spoke to me a bit."

Rias: "It's called the Red Dragon. Which... explains a lot, actually." *turns to Raynare* "Did you see this Raynare? You weren't defeated by a Double Critical Sacred Gear afterall. No need to feel too embarrassed."

Raynare: "What?"

Ryoto: "Red Dragon... wait. You mean!..."

Rias: "Precisely. The one Ryoto uses automatically doubles it's owner's power every ten seconds. Allowing him to transend both God and Satan at will. It's one of the 13 varieties of Longinus. The strongest level of the Red Dragon Emperor is called Boosted Gear."

Raynare: *trembling* 'So the sacred tool with the ability to destroy God is in the hands of a child!?'

Ryoto: *shocked* "You're kidding... and here I believed I wasn't supposed to wield a Sacred Gear. And not only I actually DO possess one, but the form of the legendary Longinus no less!?"

Furumai: *grinning* "Fickle finger of fate, dude."

Rias: "The one downfall is that it requires a decent amount of time to start due to it's immense power. The only reason he was able to beat you was because you let your guard down. If only you learned that lesson earlier."

Yuuma: "Ryoto, please."

To Ryoto's surprise, Raynare assumed her disguise as Yuuma, trembling with fear.

Yuuma: *fearful* "I'm sorry. I know I've said some mean things to you, but I didn't have a choice. I had to fulfill my role as a fallen angel."

Ryoto: *frowning* "What're you trying again?"

But she just pulled out from her skirt pocket the same enveloped letter she sent Ryoto.

Yuuma: "I mean, if I really didn't care, would I still be carrying this?" *tearing up* "Please don't tell me you forgot. You said that we could try again in the future. How could I possibly get rid of this. It always reminds me of you and your honest heart."

Masashi: *frowning* "What a coward..."

Kyouka: "Should we step in?"

Masashi: "Definitely."

Before they could, Ryoto motions them to stay back and Rias did the same for her team.

Yuuma: "You wouldn't let them hurt me, would you?"

True, Ryoto feels an intense amount of loathing towards Raynare's feeble attempt for persuasion. He just takes a deep breath and walks over to her, crouching down to her eye level. She started to gain some hope, but flinched after seeing Ryoto's mad look in his eyes. It wasn't even the look of anger or betrayal, more just that of disappointment.

He just snatched the letter from her, crumbled it a bit in his gauntlet and hid in his pocket.

Ryoto: "Try as you might, you aren't getting out of this so easily. Now, I'm going to ask you one more time... Who made you target us?"

Others were kind of confused on what Ryoto meant. But Raynare stayed quiet and just slowly adverted her eyes. Knowing she won't spill the beans, Ryoto stands back up and brings out the small scepter.

Ryoto: "Fine. But just so you know, you brought this on yourself. And I'm taking back Asia's Sacred Gear."

The scepter reshapes into a longbow and Ryoto reels back an energy arrow from a golden light, slightly increasing in power thanks to Boosted Gear, much to the Gremory team's bewilderment at seeing such an elegant weapon. The front cross ornament shining in red, blue, white and purple color, powering up the arrow for a decisive strike. Without his amulet, he can get only one shot.

Raynare couldn't even move from terror. But now, Ryoto was the one hesitating. Until he felt a hand on his shoulder. It was Rias, giving him a reassuring smile, to do what he believed was best.

Ryoto: *whispering* "Think over extremely carefully what you did. Yuuma."

The arrow is fired and it pierces her right between her lungs. She tried to gasp for air few more times, but gave in almost immediately and imploded in the orb of a golden light. Some of her feathers remained behind, as they drifted around in the air.

(FLASHBACK)

Yuuma: *excited* "So... w-will you be able to except me?"..."I see... then, I don't want to sound clingy, but... would there still be a chance in the future? If... you don't find anyone."

(FLASHBACK END)

Ryoto: *solemnly* 'Once you'll have courage to admit the truth, then you'll be free.'

And with Raynare no more, the Twilight Healing Sacred Gear is now free. The two silver rings in the green orb float down from the air, supported by a golden streak of light encircling it and Rias gently picks them up.

Rias: "These are beautiful. Shall we return them?"

Ryoto: *nodding* "...Absolutely."

Everyone gathers around Asia's motionless body. Throughout the whole fiasco, Daimonji still didn't let go of the amulet around Asia's neck. But now it only faintly flickered.

Ryoto: *petting Daimonji* "Thanks for keeping an eye on her, partner."

Daimonji: "hrraawwwrr"

With the amulet back with it's rightful owner, Ryoto puts the rings back on Asia's hands, hoping it will do something. But... they have no effect anymore... Ryoto starts to tremble with the thought he failed.

Ryoto: "When I left 2 days ago, I was so adamant I'll be able to do anything in my ability to at least protect her from such cruelty. But I was wrong. I was being a lone-wolf coward. And now she's gone because I wasn't strong enough to make the right decision. I'm sorry, Asia."

With a certainty that she isn't coming back, Ryoto starts tearing up. Daimonji just nuzzles to him and his parents along with Rias try to comfort him.

Rias: "You have nothing to apologize for. Nobody is placing a blame on you. Least of all Asia. You weren't prepared to return to this world... that was a great error on my end. "

Ryoto: "I...I..."

Rias: "Now, this may not make any sense, but I'd like to show you something."

He turns his attention to Rias, as she pulls out of her skirt pocket... a chess piece.

Rias: "Have you seen one of these before?"

Ryoto: *thinking* "A chess piece... wait... that shape. Isn't that a Bishop?"

Akeno: *teleporting in* "Uh-huh. That is a Bishop."

Ryoto: "And what does that mean?"

Rias: "The Bishop's position of power is to protect and heal the other devils in a household. Perhaps the timing is perfect. We could use a good Clergyman."

Ryoto: "So that means..."

Rias: "Our good sister is about to be born again into the Underworld... do you wish to see her again, Ryoto?"

Ryoto: "Huh? Why ask me?"

Rias: "It's true I brought you in without your consent... so I wish to give some compensation. Well?"

Others were taken aback on how Rias is pretty much asking for permission to resurrect her. Ryoto however, didn't have to think hard.

Ryoto: *nodding* "Yes, please do. She deserves to live."

With that out of the way, Ryoto and Masashi carefully lay Asia down on the floor. Rias places the Bishop piece on her chest and a magic circle is summoned under her.

Rias: "In the name of Rias Gremory, I call to Asia Argento. Hear my command. Return thy soul from the shadows of death to the human realm. Rise once more as my demon servant. Rejoice, for you have been given a new life. Wake as my Healer and Clergyman."

During the whole process, Ryoto, Daimonji, Kyouka and Masashi looked on with amazement, for this is the first time they've seen the devil resurrection.

Once the Bishop piece disappeared within Asia, Ryoto walked over to see for himself.

Ryoto: "Is that it?"

Rias: "Just wait."

And sure enough, Asia's Sacred Gear sprang to life, waking her up, while still a bit dazed.

Ryoto: "Asia, you're back. So she's now..."

Rias: "She is. I don't make a habit of reviving the deceased. But her power may be useful. From here on, you are her protector. You are the senior devil, after all. If you so choose."

Asia: "Ryoto... I, um... am I here?"

Ryoto: "Yes... you're back, safe and sound... Welcome home, Asia."

Not wanting to let her disappear again, Ryoto just embraces her and Daimonji also joins in. The others could only look on happily, seeing a precious friend alive.

Of course, with the whole resurrection process, Asia's understandably tired and Ryoto picks her up after she falls asleep in his arms. Everyone just starts making their way out of the church. Ryoto however, quickly informs Masashi of something. And whatever it is, it made Masashi quite astonished, but still understand what to do.

[The Next Day]

It's just a quiet day in the ORC clubroom. Rias is just waiting for others to arrive, while drinking tea. Even after the falling out with Ryoto, she still hopes he'll come to visit. And it seemed like her lucky star was particularly generous.

Ryoto: "Hello? Ryoto Akanishi reporting in."

Rias: *relieved* "Hi. I'm surprised to see you here today. How're you feeling?"

Ryoto: "Um... Back to speed. Thanks to both mom's and Asia's healing, it's like nothing ever happened."

Rias: "Fantastic. She's already proving how useful she can be. It's no wonder all those fallen angels were so threatened by her power."

...Awkward silence ensued. Neither of them know what else to say to break the remaining tension.

Ryoto: *nervous* "So... I mainly came, because... I wanted to apologize for how I snapped back then. I guess... no. No excuses. I was being a wimp on where I belong."

Rias: "It's okay. Honestly, I really needed that jolt from when everything went down. I brought you in without your input... I guess I just turned into a possessive little girl after realising who you were."

Ryoto: "But still... did you already find out before hand who I was or what exactly?"

Rias: "Initially, no. Truth be told, even when I still weren't sure who you were, or if you had Sacred Gear, I wished to at least meet you, simply because... you looked familiar. But... how to put it... we're in the time after the war. And the strains between devils, angels and fallen angels are extremely fragile. If we started a fight against fallen angels right there in the open, the higher ups would find out soon enough on all sides. And-"

Ryoto: "-and they would use that as an extortion to kickstart another conflict. Is that it?"

Rias: *nodding* "Yes. At least one of many possibilities. But that's no excuse for letting you be put in harms way like that. I just waited on what would happen, instead of trying to find out more. And that allowed them to infiltrate Kuoh Academy. I'm the one who should be sorry, Ryoto."

Now the air between them is no longer so heavy. It's such a liberating feeling of their argument being resolved.

Rias: "I must confess, though. That was probably the most I've cried in quite some time."

Ryoto: *feeling guilty* "Oh. Yeah, apologies... I kind of let my yōkai temper kick in..."

Rias: "So, Ryoto. What do you wish to do?"

Ryoto: "Do what?"

Rias: "Do you wish to stay as a devil in my household? If you wish to return back, I'll arrange for you to be released from the pact. It won't be easy, but I want to make sure you're happy."

Honestly, with all the craziness in a span of just one week, Ryoto did already think things through.

Ryoto: "No. I'll stay."

Rias: *surprised* "Are you sure?"

Ryoto: *nodding* "Mhm. Normal life would at this point feel way too boring. This is where I truly belong. And also, I gave Asia promise to spent a lot of time together. So... I'm ready to return back as a devil."

With that declaration, the Pawn piece on Rias' desk starts to shine in red again and Ryoto's devil wings, sprout out of his back, fully reforming, before being retracted back in. Rias gives Ryoto a warm smile, happy to have him back on the team.

Ryoto: "So, I've been wondering. Us being represented by chess pieces also means on how many there can be based on the number of pieces, right?"

Rias: *drinking tea* "Correct."

Ryoto: "Huh. So there can still be 7 more Pawns besides me. Uh, n-no worries. I wouldn't mind more teammates like me."

Rias: *amused* "You're the only Pawn I'll ever need, Ryoto."

Ryoto: "Wait, for real?"

Rias: *standing up* "When a human becomes a devil, the number of Evil Pieces they consume varies. It just depends on what special abilities that person has to contribute."

While telling all of this, Rias walks behind Ryoto and gives him a warm hug, while letting his head rest on her bosom. The close contact is making Ryoto a bit flustered...

Rias: "For you, the pieces I had remaining, were one Knight, one Rook, one Bishop and eight Pawns. So that is what I had to choose from. After I knew I wanted to bring you back as my servant, I decided to use all my Pawns in order to save you. It was a gamble. I already knew your power alone was strong enough to replace everyone of the others. Humans with that potential are hard to find, so I consider the sacrifice to be well worth the risk. Now that we know you possess the Boosted Gear of Longinus, I know for certain it was worth it. You are worth it."

Ryoto: *looks at his hand* "So. The Boosted Gear. Tapping into the power of the Red Dragon Emperor. Wow..."

Rias: *shifting Ryoto's focus* "The Crimson Haired Princess of Ruin and the Wielder of the Red Dragon. I don't know if we could be any more perfectly matched."

Ryoto: *blushing* "Heh... Team Red for the win."

Rias: "Strive to become the mightiest Pawn. I have complete faith in your ability to achieve this. Consider it an order, my dear servant~."

Ryoto: "That does sound pretty epic. I'll do all that I can to reach such heights. ...I hope then I can reform- huh?"

Before he could think of anything, Ryoto felt Rias hold onto his face... and gave him a kiss on his forehead.

""Ending theme: STUDYxSTUDY""

Rias: *winking* "Just a little spell to strenghten your stamina."

Ryoto: *blushing* "Oh, woah..." *grinning* "I have no idea how to properly react and frankly, who cares!"

Rias: "You'll need strength to better fulfill my orders. And I'm going to have to stop coddling you or else our newest member will become jealous."

Ryoto: *pausing* "Ghh- Wait, wha?"

Of course, Ryoto wasn't paying attention in that little moment of bliss and hadn't noticed Asia standing behind him, accompanied by Daimonji on her shoulder, with quite an envious look, while the latter giving Ryoto a knowing smirk.

Asia: *tearing up* "Um... what's going on?"

Ryoto: *turning around* "Oh, Asia! Nothing serious, really."

Daimonji: *jumping on the couch* "greheherr~"

Asia: "That's what always starts... It's okay, I know she's prettier than me. And she'll probably do things that I won't, so it makes sense that you like her more..." *worried* "Oh! I shouldn't say things like that! I swear I'm not jealous, I'm just insecure! Dear Lord, please forgive my sins of lust and envy- *zap* Oww!"

Ryoto: "Woah, that happened to me too!"

Asia: *crying in pain* "I feel like a knife just ran through my head!"

Rias: "God's not very receptive to the prayers of demons."

Asia: *sad* "I forgot... he's probably angry I became a devil, huh?"

Ryoto: "Nonsense! He has no right to decide who you are."

Rias: "How do you feel about it?"

Asia: *recovering* "Oh, me? I have no regrets at all. The best part is that Ryoto and I can be together forever now and that's all I've ever really wanted."

Ryoto: "Glad to oblige. Um..." *pointing* "Also, about your clothing..."

Sure enough, Asia is now wearing the female Kuoh school uniform, minus the corset and shoulder cape replaced by a slate black sweater vest.

Asia: *twirling around* "What do you think?"

Ryoto: "Fits you to a T. But does that now officially make you a student here?"

Rias: "It does. My father is on the school boards, so getting her enrolled as a transfer student wasn't a problem."

Ryoto: "Sheesh... IS there anything impossible for you?"

Eventually, Yuuto, Koneko, Furumai and Issei enter the clubroom.

Yuuto: "Good morning, everybody~."

Koneko: "Glad to see you with all of your limbs intact."

Ryoto: "Meh, I've survived worse... probably."

Furumai: "Would pay to be a witness."

And finally, Akeno came from the backroom, carrying a freshly baked cake on a trolley.

Akeno: "Oh perfect, you're all here. I just finished this cake, so we can officially welcome our new member."

Issei: "And bonus, welcome back the most recent member. Right?"

That managed to get a chuckle from others.

Rias: *smiling* "Ryoto? Great job today. I was very impressed."

Ryoto: *grinning* "Thanks. Hope to impress even more in the near future."

As everyone was having their little celebration, a strange bird with flaming feathers and bright blue eyes is seen watching everyone from outside the window. And through the bird, an arrogant voice can be heard.

???: "Hahahahahahahhh!... Wasn't that a sweet ending. Gag me..."

However, Ryoto very subtly senses a burning aura from outside and narrows his silver eyes, just as the bird flies away. After everything that happened, he won't let himself be cornered again. Whoever else shows up, he'll be ready.

[END]

Aaaand... first arc finished. Phew... I'm on a roll. Asia's saved, Ryoto and Rias reconciled and the Gremory team is once again complete. I tried to give everyone a bit of spotlight without writing too much exposition.

Now, time for the second arc. Now that Ryoto accepted his new role, what else will there be for him to overcome?

Find out next time on High School DxD NEO! ...was that too much? ...sorry.-_-'

FYI: I gave Ryoto a bow as a sort of family weapon. This is based on my real experience - I'm part of an archery club at my college.