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The Golden Dragon Empress - Chapter 19: Summit Interrupted
🕑 Added 2025-02-13 14:00:11 +0000 UTCRias and Sona both stepped forward, each taking turns giving their reports of Kokabiel's attempt at restarting of the Great War, neither leaving anything out in their accounts.
When the two Kings finished, Serafall was the first to speak, "Yay, So-tan and Rias-chan!"
Sona visibly shivered in disgust at her sister's exclamation while Rias smiled back at the female Maou.
"Good job, Rias." Sirzechs said, but his smile soon fell when Rias stared at him blankly before returning to the wall and rejoining her Peerage, not giving him a second glance.
She's still angry it seems. Sirzechs thought dejectedly.
"How cute." Azazel remarked drily, "How about we move onto the important part of this meeting, hmm? Our perpetual three-way stalemate is getting rather old and is hardly doing this world any favors. I assume we're all in agreement on that?"
Michael sighed, "The people present in this room are aware of the acknowledge that God is dead So I can agree that continuing down this path will only lead to more destruction amongst our kind."
Asia quietly gasped and looked down at the ground, a somber expression appearing on her face. She knew that God was dead, but hearing Michael, the head Angel, say it so causally, felt like the final confirmation of a truth she terribly wished was not true.
Issei looked at Asia worryingly, having noticed the girl's reaction. His hand twitched at his side, wanting to take Asia's hand and hold it reassuringly, but decided not to, not wanting to draw attention to themselves.
Irina, I suppose she must have heard the truth by now. Xenovia thought as she stared at Irina, seeing the sad expression on the other girl's face.
"Azazel, I want to ask one thing." Sirzechs began, "Why have you been gathering owners of Sacred Gears for the past few decades? At first, I thought you were gathering humans and attempting to augment your battle potential, I even anticipated that you wanted to wage war against Heaven or us but, but even then, your actions did not align with that train of thought."
Michael's opinion was the same as Sirzechs, "Yes, no matter how much time passed, you didn't wage a war against us. When I heard that you got a hold of the Vanishing Dragon, I was enveloped by a strong wariness."
Azazel smiled bitterly, "It's for the sake of Sacred Gear research. If that's the case, should I send a part of the research materials to you as well? I wouldn't wage a war against you or anything as I don't have any interest in war as of late, I am perfectly satisfied with the world right now. I have strongly ordered my subordinates to 'Don't interfere with the human world's politics,' you know? I have no intention of intervening in religion either, or to influence the business of the Devils. Damn, is trust in my faction the least out of the three?"
"That's true."
"That's right."
"That's exactly it. " Sirzechs, Michael, and Serafall said in unison, each smiling at Azazel.
That's rich. Natsuki thought, she found it hypocritical that Michael, Sirzechs, and Serafall were looking down on the Fallen race, despite the clear issues that Angels and Devils clearly had within their own ranks.
Maybe the three of them know Azazel pretty well, but I doubt it. Kokabiel didn't try to restart the war on his own, Freed and Valper were working with him and both used to be members of the church. And then there's fucking Riser, the less said about him the better, along with everything Sirzechs did to prevent Riser from having to marry him. All three sides are shitty in my opinion, it's like these guys are trying to compete in the world's stupidest race for who is less shitty than the others.
Upon hearing this, Azazel uninterestedly pecked at his ears, "Che, I thought you were better than God or the last generation's Lucifer but, you guys are troublesome guys yourselves. Sneakily researching doesn't get along well with you, huh? Then let's make peace already."
"I also planned to propose peace to the Devil side and the Grigori. The original cause of the war, God, and Maou-sama, have all been annihilated, so we all have nothing left to fight over, and I won't restart a war over the desires a dead person." Michael stated.
Azazel burst out laughing at Michael's words, "Ha! Look at stubborn little Michael growing a backbone and a voice! Even though you used to be God's perfect lapdog, the only thing you could talk about God, God, God."
Michael frowned, pushing past Azazel's taunts, "I have lost a lot of things over the centuries, however, there is no use seeking things that are no longer present. It is our duty to guide humans, we members of the Seraph have the same opinion that the most important thing is to watch over the children of God from now on, and to guide them."
"Hey, hey, with your speech just now, you'll fall you know? If you keep speaking so recklessly, even if you have taken over the system. And the world is completely different from the one we once inherited, falling now, will be entirely different."
"It's the same for us as well." Sirzechs spoke, "Even if the original Maous are no longer here, to continue the species, we Devils too have moved forward. Even we wouldn't want war, and even if we did, the Devils of today would not survive such a conflict."
"Yes, if we do another war, the three factions will definitely be mutually destroyed. And then, it will affect the human world as well, and the world will end, we can't do wars now." Azazel agreed, becoming serious for the first time since the meeting began, "Do you think a world without God is wrong? Do you think a world without God would decay? I am sorry to say, but that hasn't been the case."
"Because the world moves even without a God." Serafall voiced, she too becoming serious, "There's no point wasting time on what used to be."
Azazel smiled at the Maou, "You're right."
"So, we have all come to an agreement? About ending this cold war and officially coming together?" Sirzechs asked.
Azazel scoffed, "Would we have given each other those little 'gifts,' if none of us were serious?"
"Good." Sirzechs grinned as the most important conversation of the night came to an end.
And while Grayfia began serving tea to the faction leaders, Michael turned his gaze towards Issei. "Now then, the discussion has considerably been solved in a good direction, is it all right if we hear about the matter of Sekiryuutei-dono?"
Everyone's gazes were now concentrated on Issei as he tried on to show his nervousness. He was surprised that Michael had remembered the end of their conversation at Akeno's shrine, but he wrote this off as expected of the leader of the Angels.
Issei turned his head to Asia and when she smiled at him, Issei faced Michael confidently, "Why did you exile Asia?"
At his question to Michael, everyone looked at Issei either wondering what he was talking about or why he was asking such a question of the Seraph. Issei didn't care about this, wanting to hear the Angel's response.
Why Asia, who trusted God so much? Why was she exiled? Issei thought strongly.
Michael answered Issei's question earnestly, "I can only apologize for that. After God had been annihilated, only the system to govern divine protection, mercy, and miracles remained. This system was, if I explain it simply, God made the system, used it to bring about miracles, and to bring about the effect of holy things like exorcism and crosses."
"And after God died, some trouble occurred in this system, is what you're saying?" Issei asked.
Michael nods his head, "To be honest, it takes a big toll on anyone who uses it with the exception of God. With me as the center, every one of the Seraph was able to somehow start up the system, but compared to the times when God existed, the divine protection and mercy to those who believe in God now is not complete. It's an unfortunate thing but, those who can be granted salvation are limited."
The truth clicked in Natsuki's head after this, and she spoke out, "So you needed to keep away those who could cause the system to falter. Asia's [Twilight Healing] can not only heal humans, but Devils and Fallen as well, and then there's Kiba's Holy Demonic Sword, it's as Kokabiel said; such things could only be possible in the world if God was dead, meaning that the balance between light and dark could no longer be upheld."
"You are spot on, Natsuki-chan." Michael said, smiling ruefully, "Asia Argento's [Twilight Healing] could influence the faith of those around her, the system is barely surviving as it is, and we cannot afford to lose a substantial number of believers with proof of God's nonexistence, which is why [Twilight Healing] was declared a forbidden Scared Gear by the Church and why-"
"And why those who know the truth about are also excommunicated?" Xenovia asked, looking the head Angel straight in the eye.
"Yes, that's right, Xenovia. To lose you was a serious wound even for us, but if anyone apart from the Seraph and the higher rank Angels, know about the non-existence of God, then the system may collapse in on itself." Michael said before bowing to both Asia and Xenovia, "I must apologize. There was no other way but to make you and Asia Argento into heretics."
Then, she didn't betray us? Irina thought as she looked at Xenovia, shocked by what Michael just said.
The top of the Angels was apologizing to Asia and Xenovia, causing the two in question to stare at the Angel in wonder. For a moment, they were troubled on how to respond, however, immediately Xenovia shook her neck sideways, and smiled. "No, Michael-sama, please don't apologize. I grew up in the Church, so I must admit that I have a few regrets. But to be perfectly honest, I am more satisfied with my life as a Devil."
This caused the rest of the Peerage to smile at the girl, happy that Xenovia felt this way about her new life with them.
"As am I, Michael-sama, and I'm so much happier as a Devil too. I've met so many people I cherish who also care about me, it's everything I've ever wanted." Asia also said while clasping her hands together.
At Asia's and Xenovia's impassioned words. Michael showed nothing but relief, "Both of you have such forgiving sprits, and I am grateful for that."
Azazel started to chuckle, smirking as he looked at Asia, and when Asia noticed his stare, trembled in fear. "Oh, right, I've heard of her. It seems one of my subordinates killed her while keeping quiet about it. I received a report about that incident as well."
Issei glared at the Fallen, pushing himself off the wall and walking closer to the table, "Yeah, and you should be apologizing for that! Do you know why that Fallen Angel bitch killed her? Because she wanted to be like you, you stupid asshole!"
"Issei, calm down." Rias tried to warn him, but just as these words left her lips, the room was filled with the oppressing feeling of Azazel releasing a bit of his magical power, causing everyone besides the Maous, Michael, and Vali to flinch and tremble at the action.
Natsuki felt herself gasping for air as the sensation hit her harder than the others due to her energy sensing abilities.
Natsuki! Calm down! Focus on the sound of my voice, you are not in danger, that fool will not attack you or your friends, not while the Maous and the Angel are present. Lux hurriedly inwardly said to her partner.
Lux? Fuck that was horrible, is this going to happen to me every time I'm in the midst of a powerful person? Natsuki thought as she forced herself to relax.
No, you will grow accustomed to it the longer you surround yourself with these kinds of individuals. Lux reassured. It's only your sensor ability that is making things hard for you; we must work on helping you attain better control of it going forward. What is worse is that the Fallen was only highlighting a small amount of his power, otherwise your leaders would have jumped into action instead of remaining seated.
Lux, that's fucking terrifying. It's just like with fucking Sirzechs, these guys really are monsters that hide behind curated facades. Despite her fear and dislike of Sirzechs, Michael, and Azazel, she could not deny the admiration she held for their power.
Issei's eyes widened as he felt like falling to his knees before the now angered Azazel, but he held strong, continuing to glare at Azazel.
As quickly as he released it, Azazel suppressed his magic, the scowl on his face leaving as he sighed. "It's true, we Fallen Angels are eliminating Sacred Gear users who may cause harm to us and the world. We sense a person that may become a threat in the future, then if we know about it beforehand, we'll eliminate him. The real reason is we killed you, Issei, is because you were a human with no talent, you could have run wild with the power of the Sekiryuutei and not having the ability to control it."
Natsuki scoffed, "So that's why you had Raynare kill us? Because you were scared? You had no proof that Issei and I would lose control over our powers, and so you acted irrationally."
Azazel stared at Natsuki seriously, "Oh, my actions weren't irrational. Each leader in this room has seen an example of a human who couldn't control their gift, risking the lives of others."
When the others at the table did not refute Azazel's words, Natsuki reluctantly accepted them to be true to an extent.
"And you, Natsuki? You would have been a far greater threat as a half human hybrid than Issei would have been if you remained humans."
Fucking Azazel knows too? Why am I even surprised? Natsuki thought angrily, ignoring the confused and surprised looks that were the faces of all her friends except for Akeno. "Well, now I wish I was still human. With how scared you're acting, maybe I'd have a better chance of beating you into the dirt for everything you've done."
"Natsuki!" Rias hissed, but Azazel only laughed in response to Natsuki's words, reminding Natsuki far too much of Vali.
When Azazel stopped laughing, he leaned forward with a smirk, "Now then, I think it's time we hear the opinion of people other than us, those who seem like they can influence the world; the invincible Dragon-sama. Vali, what do you want to do to the world?"
Vali smiled, "If I can fight strong guys, then it's fine."
You seriously only like combat? That seems like a nuisance to others though. Issei thought as Azazel turned to him.
"Alright then, Sekiryuutei, what about you?"
Issei replied while scratching his cheek awkwardly as he was put on the spot. "To be honest, I don't really know, I've already got a lot of stuff on my mind with being a Devil along with looking after my Devil kouhai, so even if I am asked what I think about the world, how should I say it, I don't have any big feelings to express."
"While that may be the case, you are one of the few people with the power to change the world, if you don't make your choice, then it would be difficult for those standing on top of each of the powers, such as myself, to make moves. Do you understand?" Azazel said, troubling Issei.
But I really don't have any opinions on the state of the world.
Azazel let out an amused look at the lost expression on Issei's face, "Well then, why don't I make this easier for you Hyoudou Issei, so try to focus here. If the three great powers start fighting again, then you'll never be able to have your way with Rias Gremory."
Issei's eyes widened as he stared at Azazel, "...Uh?"
"But if we make peace, then there won't be a need to fight. If that happens, then what's left that is the most important is continuation of the species and prosperity. You may be able to endeavor in making children with Rias Gremory every day. How's that? Is it easy to understand? If there's a fight, then there's no sex. If there's peace, then you can have sex all the time, so which will you choose?"
"Hey, I'm right here!" Rias exclaimed, a small blush forming on her cheeks as she scowled at Azazel.
Grayfia let out a tired sigh, not at all surprised by Azazel's clear manipulation of Rias' Pawn.
For the first time, Issei understood Azazel's language from the bottom of his heart.
I see! If there's peace, then I can do ecchi things with Buchou all the time! No, can I do ecchi things with Buchou? Am I in that position? Even if I don't, peace means I have a chance to someday be able to do ecchi things with Buchou! That wish is huge!
"Peace is number one!" Issei cheered with a large grin, "Yeah, peace for me, please! I'm going to do it with Buchou so hard!"
As Issei let his desires known, Rias' face turned completely red, no longer able to look at him due to the embarrassment she was feeling.
"Ise-kun, Sirzechs-sama is present here, you know?" Kiba said with a bitter smile.
Oh, right. Issei froze as he realized that Sirzechs was now laughing lowly to himself.
Rias covered her face with a hand, "Both of you are nightmares."
Issei's face fell when Rias said that and when he saw Akeno laughing into her hand behind Rias while the rest of the Peerage looked at Issei embarrassed.
"Why is Issei-senpai such a pervert?" Koneko asked aloud in disgust, crushing Issei further.
"You know, Issei, you almost sounded cool for a moment, but then you fucking ruined it." Natsuki sighed, looking at the other Pawn tiredly.
I'm trying, I just can't help it! Issei thought, to him, one moment he was trying to think about what he would genuinely want out of the world, and then the next he was listening to Azazel convincing him that he might have a chance with Rias.
Azazel smirked as he looked at Natsuki, "And you, Kogane Ryū Kōgō? What do you want?"
What do I want? Natsuki thought to herself. I do want to get stronger, strong enough to not have asshole think they can look down on me, but is that really enough?
She started to think about all the things that are important to her; Kushina, the children at the orphanage, her friends. Natsuki also began to think about
"I don't think that even with my title that I can change the world." Natsuki began, "It's foolish to think otherwise because people are always going to be people, whether they're humans, Devils, Angels, Fallen Angel, or whatever else. We're always going to be selfish, cruel, violent, manipulative, spiteful, and ignorant, I don't think there's any other way of being for most people. So, what I want is to live my life comfortably, and that means having a lot of powerful, riches, and a feared reputation that the cunts of the world don't try to mess with me and the people I care about."
Azazel stared at her for a few seconds before he started to laugh, "So that's what you want? To get strong and rich enough so you can live the easy life?"
Natsuki shrugged, "If I'm going to be a Devil and must take on all the responsibilities and the problems that come with it, I might as well enjoy the perks of the lifestyle."
Rias sighed, "Why am I even surprised? You were just like this when I first revived you."
"I'm a selfish bastard." Natsuki said plainly.
"You're damn right you are!" Issei exclaimed, "How can you judge me for my goal when yours is just as vain?!"
"I judge you because of how obsessed you are with boobs. Also, because trying to get money is far more important than trying to have sex."
Issei stepped closer to Natsuki and grabbed her by the collar of her jacket, pulling her down and looking her dead in the eyes with a blank expression. "Take that back. Take back that terrible lie you just spewed from your mouth."
Natsuki stayed silent as Issei accosted her, not seeing the point in trying to argue with him, especially not about a topic like this.
Your friend truly needs to let this matter go. Lux said to Natsuki.
Yeah, but not anytime soon. Natsuki replied, I wonder if-
Suddenly, Natsuki felt a shiver race down her spine, followed by an overwhelming amount of magic energy coming from the ORC clubroom.
What the hell? There's someone-no, there's a bunch of people here in the school! But the Angels, Fallen, and Devils outside should be keeping anyone from breaking in. Were they defeated without any of us noticing?
Natsuki felt another sensation rip through her body, causing her to pull herself out of Issei's grasp, her eyes widening when she realized that the magic she was feeling was Gasper's and that said magic was coming towards them all rather quickly.
Gasper!
Natsuki! Now is not the time to lose your composure, you must move now! Lux shouted inside Natsuki's mind.
Natsuki grabbed Akeno's hand, ignoring the sound of surprise that escaped Akeno's lips as Natsuki grabbed her, pulling her to the side.
~X~
"Woah. What the hell happened?" Issei asked, he had felt the familiar sensation of Gasper's time stop touching him for a few seconds before it disappeared. He looked down and realized Rias had clung onto him when the time stop had hit the room.
Nothing in the room appeared out of the ordinary at first, until Issei noticed that the walls, floor, and ceiling were a bright purple, along with the sky.
"It seems time has been stopped." Michael said as he stood up and walked to one of the windows.
"Fortunately, those of us with superior powers weren't affected." Azazel said, a lazy smile on his face, "And for those of us without, Kogane Ryū Kōgō has thankfully decided to step in."
Rias quickly turned to look at the rest of her Peerage; no one was frozen. Koneko was standing perfectly fine, but Kiba and Xenovia had both summoned their Holy Demonic Sword and Durandal and Xenovia had an arm wrapped around Asia.
And when she realized that Akeno and Natsuki were no longer standing near her, Rias quickly turned around and saw a strange sight; Natsuki with one arm wrapped around Akeno's waist, and the other was around Sona and Tsubaki, forcing them just like Akeno, to be pressed against Natsuki's body.
"Um, what are you all doing?" Rias asked.
"Why don't you ask your Pawn." Sona said, looking up at Natsuki with a deadpanned expression, "She ran towards us like a madwoman and grabbed us."
"I'm sorry, did I invade your personal space?" Natsuki asked sarcastically, letting go of the three older girls when she realized they were no longer in danger of freezing. "It's not as if I had time to ask, 'Kaichou, can I grab you and Tsubaki-senapi so that you don't end up frozen,' now did I?"
"Ara, ara, that sounds like a convenient excuse." Akeno teased, pressing herself closer to Natsuki.
Natsuki scowled at the older girl and took a step back, "Piss off."
Rias' eyes widened as she realized what had happened, "Ise is the possessor of the Sekiryuutei, Koneko is... Yuuto has an irregular Holy Demonic Sword, Xenovia invoked Durandal, and Natsuki is the possessor of the Kogane Ryū Kōgō, so it makes sense that they were all safe. Like Azazel said, everyone with higher powers was unaffected. So, by being in physical contact with those of us without such powers when the freeze occurred, we were kept from being caught in the time stop."
Asia looked at Durandal, the Holy Sword was releasing a powerful aura before looking up at the Devil wielding it. "Thank you for protecting me, Xenovia-san."
"There is nothing to thank, Asia-san. My body truly moved on its own." Xenovia said, gripping Durandal tighter.
"Let us now focus on what is going on outside." Sirzechs said as he stood next to Michael, "We're under attack, it seems our summit was too monumental to ignore and try to capitalize on."
"Who are those freaks?" Issei asked as he looked outside and saw a large group of hooded people in black robes slowly descending from teleportation circles the sky, firing magical bullets from their heads towards the school.
"Magicans." Akeno answered looking at the human with disgust, "Humans capable of using magic. They use a magic system created by the legendary magician Merlin Ambrosius, based on the Demonic powers of Devils."
Serafall pouted, "They're so rude! I'm a real-life magical girl and they're flat out ignoring me!"
"That is not important in the slightest." Sona said, staring at her sister with serious judgement.
"Who is this power coming from?" Michael asked, referring to the freezing of time.
"Most likely, they're forcing that half-vampire kid's Sacred Gear to go into Balance Breaker state." Azazel explained, "It's only a temporary Balance Breaker state, even then, to think that it even affects people present in the interior of objects outside the field of vision. So that half-vampire's potential ability was this high. Well, it seems that he lacks the output to stop us top-position guys, though."
"Gasper has been made into a terrorist weapon at the old school building. Just where did they get information on my servant's abilities and location? Moreover, for them to use Gasper's power to go after this important meeting? Never have I been so insulted like this! These fools will pay for this disrespect!" A red aura began to waft off Rias' body, her fists were clenched at her sides and her eyes briefly flashed red.
Buchou looks really scary right now! Issei thought with a shiver.
"Gya-kun... One... one of us should have been there to protect him. Now he's scared and all alone with those people." Koneko whispered, her shoulders shaking as she spoke, her worry for Gasper evident.
Kiba placed a hand on Koneko's back and rubbed it gently, "None of us could have known he would be targeted. It's not anyone's fault or yours, Koneko-chan. We have to focus on saving him right now and making sure those who hurt him pay for it."
Koneko looked up at Kiba, seeing the resolute and fierce expression on his face and felt emboldened by it, she gave Kiba a sharp nod and clenched her fists.
We're going to save you, Gya-kun. Koneko thought strongly.
"By the way, the armies of the Fallen Angels, Angels, and Devils outside of this school building all seem to be stopped as well. Geez, Rias Gremory's family is just dreadful." Azazel said, putting a hand on Rias' shoulder.
Rias brushed off Azazel's hand, turning her glare onto the Fallen, "Don't touch me."
Azazel sighed as he turned his attention back to the window, raising his hand up just as the magicians outside were attacking the second barrier surrounding the school building, causing countless light spears to appear in the sky.
In a matter of seconds, the light spears rained down at the same time Azazel put down his hand, showering the attacking magicians.
The terrorists tried to put up barriers of their own to protect themselves, but the spears smashed through them without any trouble, eradicating the magicians.
When the dust settled, the school grounds were covered with the lifeless corpses of the magicians, blood and severed limbs could be seen all over. This was proof of Azazel's power, finishing the humans in a single attack that he made with no preparations or effort.
"Holy shit." Issei whispered under his breath at the gruesome scene.
Of course he would be a monster too. Natsuki thought as her gaze drifted to the Governer General.
"This school is enveloped in a barrier and despite this, these humans have appeared within it. There must be a transfer-use magic circle or a person connecting with a gate to the inside of the premises. Either way, if they increase the effect of [Forbidden Balor View] any more than this, there's a concern that they'll be able to stop even people like us too. By stopping us here with their fierce attack, they intend to annihilate each school building the instant our time is stopped."
As Azazel said this, magic circles appeared at various places in the school grounds and started shining ominously. From where the magic circles appeared, more magicians began to come out of them, hovering over the bodies of their fallen comrades.
Azazel pursed his lips, "They'll keep appearing even as we knock them down again and again. With the timing and the technique, it stands to reason that there is a traitor in our mist. One who knows that we cannot dissolve the barrier to the school without causing damage to the human world."
"I recommend we act fast then." Sirzechs said, "If they manage to make Gasper even stronger, none of us will survive it, so our first goal should be to rescue him from the old school building.
"Onii-sama, I'll go. Gasper is my servant. It's my responsibility to take him back." Rias proposed strongly.
Sirzechs frowned, "I understand my younger sister's personality. However, how will you get to the old school building? This building is currently surrounded by magicians and the usual way of teleporting is also blocked by magic. And even then, how will you free Gasper?"
"We could transfer some of your power to them to force a teleportation circle. [Castling] should be effective in this situation." Grayfia said, "Ojou-sama should have another Rook she can use for the process."
"I do. I have my unused Rook piece in a safe inside of our clubroom." Rias said, more determined than ever.
[Castling] would allow for her King piece to switch locations with one of her two Rooks, having the same principle as the maneuver in chess. Rias had never used the technique before as it was usually one that was only used in Rating Games, not only that, but she would not be using her own power to perform it but her brother's, something that could have adverse effects.
"Alright, however, it's reckless to go alone." Sirzechs relented, "Grayfia, is it possible to transfer more than one person through [Castling] with my magic system?"
Grayfia nodded her head, "We would only be able to deploy a simple technique ceremony here, but it should be possible to transfer Ojou-sama and one other."
"I'll go, Sirzechs-sama!" Issei and Koneko said at the same time.
The Devils looked at each other after saying this; Issei looked surprised, not expecting anyone else to speak out, and Koneko stared at him with a glare, wanting the Pawn to back down.
"I will go with Buchou and save Gya-kun." Koneko said strongly, her glare hardening as she stared at Issei.
But Issei was not deterred by this, "No, I will go."
Koneko was going to argue but Issei did not give her time to, "Koneko-chan, I have to go with Buchou. I know you're worried about Gasper, but I won't let anything happen to him, I will save him. You can count on me!"
Koneko grinded her teeth together, looking away from Issei as she clenched her fists. "You better, or I'll beat you into the dirt, pervert."
Issei grinned, pumping his fist, "I won't let you down, Koneko-chan!"
Koneko's cheeks turned slightly red as she looked upon Issei's earnest smile, and she quickly turned away from him, muttering under her breath.
Sirzechs' eyes turned towards Issei for a moment, but then quickly moved in Azazel's direction. "Azazel, according to rumor, you've been researching how to freely handle Sacred Gears for a fixed time, right?"
Azazel raised an eyebrow, "Yeah, that's true, but what about it?"
"Is it possible to control the Sekiryuutei?" Sirzechs asked.
Azazel fell silent in response to Sirzechs' question, however, the Governor of the Fallen Angels reached into his breast pocket as he called out to Issei. "Oi, Sekiryuutei."
"Yes?" Issei asked.
"Take this." Azazel then took something out of his pocket and tossed it to Issei.
When Issei caught the items, they appeared to be wide rings large enough to put around the hand with multiple layers of strange characters carved into them.
"Those are bracelets with the power to control a Sacred Gear to some degree. If you find the half-vampire, put one on him, it'll help him control his power somewhat." Azazel explained.
Issei frowned, "But why there are two of them?"
"The other one is for you. You haven't mastered the power of the [Welsh Dragon, right? If so, put it on. If it's for a short time, it'll be possible to go into the Balance Breaker state without paying any price. This will be used in place of the price."
Seriously? I'll be able to go into Balance Breaker? Issei thought wide eyed.
"What's the catch?" Natsuki asked before Issei could even think of putting on one of the bracelets, staring at Azazel suspiciously.
"What? You don't trust me?" Azazel asked teasingly.
Natsuki narrowed her eyes, "Nothing comes without a price. So don't go making these things sound like they're so amazing when you're expecting us to put them on Gasper and Issei."
Azazel looked from Natsuki to Issei, "As a side effect, you'll also temporarily undo the seal that's been applied on you. Your [Pawn] power has been blocked, right?"
But this did not alleviate Natsuki's concerns, "And just where did you get that information from?"
Issei did not yet possess the strength to cope with the power of the eight Pawn pieces used to revive him as a Devil, so Rias had been actively suppressing it. Everyone in the Peerage knew about this, and Natsuki would assume that Sona and her Peerage, along with Sirzechs, Grayfia, and Serafall would all know, but why would Azazel? A man who before today was the leader of an enemy faction?
"It wasn't that hard to see from the times I met you both as a client." Azazel said with a grin, "This is only my personal opinion, but in terms of piece distribution, Ddraig is seven and Issei is one. No, wait, it may actually be 7.9 and 0.1. [Promotion] also builds the necessary foundation for the sake of manifesting Ddraig's true power. Either way, it's a fact that releasing Ddraig's power will release the seal as well, right, Rias Gremory?"
Rias narrowed her eyes in response to Azazel's question, giving the Fallen Angel no answer.
"Use that ring as a last resort since it can't regulate its consumption of stamina, you'll just exhaust yourself wastefully if you activate it suddenly. It will consume a large amount of stamina and magical power while in armor mode."
Michael sighed tiredly, "Azazel, just how far did your research into Sacred Gears take you?"
The Fallen Angel just smiled fearlessly, "It's fine, isn't it? God isn't here, right? Isn't it better if there's someone who can explain Sacred Gears at least a little? I heard there are all kinds of things that even you don't know."
"The problem is that you're the one who's researching it." Michael deadpanned.
It really isn't just us Devils that have childish leadership, but everyone, huh? Natsuki thought, watching the scene in front of her.
"Ojou-sama, please wait a little while." Grayfia said as she placed the special technique formula on Rias' forehead.
Rias clenched her fists, "Please hurry, Grayfia."
As Rias and Issei were getting ready, Azazel turned to the Hakuryuukou, "Vali."
"What is it, Azazel?" Vali asked boredly.
"You go catch the enemy's attention outside. If the Hakuryuukou comes out at the front, it'll disrupt their strategy a little. And someone may make a move to intercept you." Azazel said.
Vali became a bit more interested, "So that they will also become aware of me being here?"
"If you do that, they won't expect for the Sekiryuutei to transfer over to the center using [Castling]. It'll have the effect of attracting their attention."
Vali scoffed, "Wouldn't it be faster to blow up all the terrorists in the old school building and the half-vampire?"
This caused the Gremory Peerage to glare at the White Dragon Emperor, each of them infuriated by his careless words and attitude.
"What did you say, you fucking dick?!" Issei yelled, trying to push past Kiba who was using his free arm to block and keep him back.
Azazel let out an exaggerated sigh, "Vali, try to be a bit more considerate, okay? After all, we're trying to make peace here."
"Understood." Vali said with a sigh before releasing his wings from his back, showing off his Sacred Gear. He then smirked, "Balance Breaker!"
[Vanishing Dragon Balance Breaker]! A voice called out from the wings.
After that sound, a snow-white aura covered Vali's form and when the light dissipated, his body was wrapped in full-body armor that emitted a white radiance.
Both Natsuki and Issei stared at Vali, each seeing how easily he was able to enter his Balance Breaker, lamenting their own inability to do so.
After glancing at the other two dragons, Vali opened the meeting room's window and rushed out into the sky. In that instant, a loud shockwave was heard from outside as Vali dropped down from the sky, cutting through the enemy magicians.
He danced in the air without worrying about the concentrated bullets the magicians threw at him, and a large mass of surge bullets hit the school grounds in their attempts. Without accomplishing anything, the magicians were annihilated, but magic circles appeared right afterwards, and a new group of magicians appeared.
"That guy really is a dick." Natsuki said as they watched Vali fight.
"A strong dick." Issei said, disliking Vali greatly but unable to deny his power.
Natsuki nodded her head, "The worst kind of dick there is."
"Stop saying the word 'dick,' please." Kiba sighed.
"Azazel, I wish to continue what you said earlier." Sirzechs announced.
"What about it?" Azazel asked.
"What are you trying to do by collecting Sacred Gears? You've been collecting [Longinus] owners too, right?" Sirzechs asked, narrowing his eyes at the Fallen.
Azazel shook his head at the question, "It's to prepare."
"To prepare?" Sirzechs scoffed.
"That's some uneasy talk for a man who has been rejecting war so fervently all day." Michael stated
Azazel looked annoyed, "I said I won't go to war against you people, so I won't make war. However, means of self-defense are necessary. Rather, I would say we're not just preparing for an attack from you all."
Serafall raised an eyebrow as she looked at Azazel, "Then who are you preparing to fight?"
"The Khaos Brigade." Azazel finally said.
Khaos Brigade? Natsuki thought, having never heard the name before, and by the looks on Sirzechs, Serafall, and Michael's face, they had not either.
"I only confirmed the organization's name and background recently, but my Vice Governor, Shemhazai, also had his eye on this suspicious group for a while. It's said that they're gathering dangerous members from all three big powers, and some Sacred Gear-possessing humans who have attained Balance Breaker seem to also be included. I've also confirmed several [Longinus] possessors among them."
"What is their goal?" Michael asked.
"Destruction and mayhem, it's as simple as that. They don't like this world's peace, moreover, they're ill-natured to the extreme. And the organization's leader is the most powerful dragon we know, the one far above the Welsh Dragon, Evolving Dragon, and Vanishing Dragon."
Everyone besides Natsuki and Issei became speechless at Azazel's confession.
"...I see, so they have finally moved. The Ouroboros Dragon, Ophis. The dragon feared by God, the one who kept reigning over with the position of the strongest since the world began." Sirzechs said with a grim expression.
The Ouroboros Dragon, Ophis? Who is that, Lux? Natsuki asked her dragon, knowing that they could not have been with the way everyone else was reacting.
Lux took a moment to respond, her voice just as grim and tired as Sirzechs.' There are many things that one could use to describe Ophis, but the most important is that they are one of the most powerful dragons, the most powerful being in all of existence. A god who represents infinity, chaos, and nothingness.
And you did not think to tell me that there is a crazy dragon god out there in the world? Natsuki asked.
It did not seem necessary. Lux said. Ophis, for as long as I have known them, does not interact with other creatures very much. And Khaos Brigade should not have attacked this summit, especially knowing what Ophis created the group to truly accomplish.
What? What do mean by truly accomplish? Natsuki asked.
Before Lux could answer, Natsuki felt a chill race down her spine, realizing that someone was trying to teleport to the room. A magic circle quickly appeared in the center of the room, and a voice spoke out, "Yes, Ophis is the leader of the Khaos Brigade."
Sirzechs-sama clicked his tongue, recognizing the voice, "Grayfia, transfer Rias and Ise-kun quickly!"
"Yes!" Grayfia said as she urged Issei and Rias to a corner of the meeting room and created a small magic circle on the floor where they stood. "Ojou-sama, I wish you the fortunes of battle."
"W-Wait, Grayfia!? Onii-sama!" Rias called out, but she and Issei were quickly enveloped in a bright light, teleporting from the meeting room.
~X~
As Rias and Issei disappeared, a figure stepped through the other magic circle, causing various reactions in everyone present.
Notably, Azazel laughed, and Sirzechs made a sour expression, glaring at the woman with nothing but contempt.
The new figure was a tall bespectacled woman with a voluptuous figure, she had tan skin with long brown hair tied into a bun with an ornate hairband and had purple eyes. She wore a low-cut purple dress with high slits which exposed much of her breasts and legs.
"Well, well, well. If it isn't the unworthy Maous Sirzechs-dono and Serfall-dono." The woman said fearlessly.
"Explain yourself, Katerea Leviathan; what are you doing here?" Sirzechs growled.
Natsuki's eyes widened. Leviathan? So, she-
She is descended from the original Leviathan. Lux finished for her.
Katerea smirked, "The members of the old Maou faction have decided to cooperate with Khaos Brigade."
"So, it's a feud between the new and old Maou sides has become full-scale, huh? You Devils are all so difficult to deal with." Azazel just smiled like it was someone else's problem.
"Are you sure that you want to say such a foolish thing, Katerea?" Sirzechs asked, his eyes flashing crimson for a brief moment.
"Sirzechs, it's exactly as I said; we are also taking charge of this attack and are fully committed to it."
"So, it's a coup d'état, huh? Why?"
"Sirzechs, we have arrived at the exact opposite idea of this worthless meeting today. We've concluded that, since God and the original Maou are gone, this world should be reformed."
So, they did this coup d'état after learning everything about the non-existence of God and the peace conference of the three great powers? Natsuki thought.
"Has that Ophis seen that far ahead into the future? That doesn't seem likely." Azazel asked with a smirk.
Katerea let out a breath in response to Azazel's question, "Aside from being a symbol of power, he also bears the position for the sake of gathering power. We've asked for his help to destroy the world and rebuild it again, so that we may be the ones to manage this new world."
"So, you're a gathering of Angel, Fallen Angel, and Devil rebels who want a new world that they rule over. And the mediator of this all will be Ouroboros Ophis." Sirzechs said, smiling at the Devil sarcastically.
"Katerea-chan! Why are you doing such a thing!? Don't you understand that if you continue this path then you'll just be throwing your life away?" Serafall yelled, staring at Katerea pleadingly.
Katerea turned to Serafall, staring at the other woman hatefully, "Serafall, how dare you act so shamelessly, as the one who stole the position of [Leviathan] from me! I'm descended from the original Leviathan! I was the one suited to be Maou!"
"Katerea-chan. I... I!" Serafall was at a loss for words, not knowing what to say in the face of the woman she once knew.
Katerea's smirk grew, "Don't worry, Serafall. Today, I'll kill you and take the title of Maou Leviathan for myself. Then, Ophis will become the god of the new world, and it will be fine if he's just a symbol. The system, the laws, this world's very doctrine will be constructed by us. Michael, Azazel, and Lucifer-no, Sirzechs, your era is over."
The expressions of Sirzechs, Serafall, and Michael, all darkened at Katerea's words. However, there was one person who was pleasant and smiling. And it wasn't long before Azazel started to laugh hard and loudly.
Katerea glared at the Fallen, "What is so amusing, Azazel?"
Azazel continued to laugh, "Hahaha. So, you—no, you people, will reform this world all together, huh?"
"That's right. That's exactly right, Azazel. This world is—"
Azazel laughed some more, "In decay? Humans are foolish? The Earth will be destroyed? How cliche. Come on, you must know that the first villains to die always say crap like that?"
Katerea's eyes twitched, becoming enraged as a powerful aura flowed from her body. "Azazel! I'll punish you for daring to ridicule me!"
"Oh, you will, will you? This sounds like fun." Azazel grinned as a gloomy and oppressive yellow magical aura covered his body. "Sirzechs, Serafall, Michael, I'll take care of it. Don't help, okay?"
"Katerea, do you have no intention of surrendering?" Sirzechs asked as a final warning.
Katerea said nothing, a wild grin forming on her face as she lifted her staff, sending a large magic sphere hurdling towards the group.
In an instant, Michael, Serafall, and Sirzechs used their magic to form another protective barrier around the new school building, keeping Katerea's attack from destroying it.
"I think you've gotten your answer about a possible surrender." Natsuki said aloud, her eyes remaining on Katerea.
"The kid's right." Azazel said as he stepped out of the barrier and unfolded his twelve black wings from his back, flying up to meet Katerea in the sky. "A descendant of the former Maou Leviathan, a desperate monster nearing her end. Not a bad opponent. Katerea Leviathan, are you dressed up for a bout of Armageddon with me?"
Katerea responded to Azazel's intense challenge with a fearless smile of her own, "I was just wishing for that, Governor of the Angels who fell."
As the auras around them increased, more magicians were spawning onto the school grounds, replacing each of their slain at higher volumes.
"Just how many magicians are a part of Khaos Brigade?" Irina asked with a mixture of surprise and annoyance.
"It seems even the efforts of The White Dragon Emperor are not enough." Sirzechs said before looking at the teenagers of the room. "Michael, Serafall, and I must keep the barrier around the school up now that Azazel and Katerea are going wild out there. I hate to ask this of you all, but I need you all to keep the enemy outside busy until Grayfia finishes her analysis of the magicians' transfer-use magic circle."
"Yes, Sir!" The Devils said in unison. Irina did not respond to Sirzechs but nodded her head in agreement.
Natsuki looked at Asia, "Asia, I think it would be best if you to stay here."
"I'm going with you all." Asia exclaimed, a determined expression quickly forming on her face.
Natsuki sighed, "Asia, were going to be surrounded on all sides by the enemy. It would be safer for everyone if you stay here."
Asia looked around, seeing that no one was disagreeing with Natsuki, and her head fell in disappointment. "Okay."
Asia watched frustrated and troubled, worried for all her friends, and she hated that she could not deny that Natsuki was right; she would not be helpful in such a situation. In a fight where they needed to take down as much of the enemy as possible and to prevent them from doing something, she would just get in the way.
She knew that she was not as strong as the others, that she could not fight like them, but she had been confident in her ability to heal anyone. And now she could not help but see how ignorant that was, feeling a deep sense of uselessness.
The group rushed outside, and Sona took charge, "We will make a circular formation around the school. If we can push them back and advance, then we will, but if not, continue to hold the line until Grayfia-san is done with her work."
Natsuki smirked as she and the others began their charge, she summoned her Sacred Gear, absorbing the magical attacks thrown at her before firing her own spells at them, cutting them down with ruthless precision.
As the fight continued, Xenovia and Irina found themselves back-to-back, surrounded by a horde of magicians. Xenovia used Durandal to block multiple magic bullets fired at them, which gave Irina the opening to jump over her, using her Excalibur Mimic to tie all the magicians together and throwing them off to the side.
"Thank you." Xenovia said, tightening her grip on her Holy Sword.
"Why?" Irina asked, glaring at the magicians around them, "Why didn't you tell me the truth, Xenovia? That you weren't a traitor, but had just been exiled?"
Xenovia sighed, "In order to tell you that, I would've had to tell you that God no longer existed, I couldn't do that to you. And I didn't have the strength to tell you."
Irina's eyes widened before she squeezed them tightly, her body beginning to shake as she was overcome with sorrow.
Xenovia turned her head slightly, witnessing the other girl's reaction, "Irina?"
Irina shook her head, her eyes snapping open and her shaking ceasing, a smile appearing on her lips. "Well, come on. We can't let these talks be thwarted by these fools, right? Because if peace gets established, then Devils won't be my enemy anymore.
This caused Xenovia to smile, positive that their friendship could be salvaged when this fight they were in was over. "And neither will believers in God. Let's do this; let's fight for our friendship's sake!"
Irina grinned, "All right!"
The two girls then leapt forward, their swords raised as they rushed towards the magicians.
With the group working together, the number of humans was beginning to thin out, but they were still greatly outnumbered.
Sona used her water manipulation to create a large flock of birds, sending them flying towards the magicians, knocking them back. Tsubaki noticed a magician trying to attack Sona from behind and she rushed towards them, cutting them down with her naginata.
"Thank you, Tsubaki." Sona said, glancing at her Queen.
Tsubaki then created a defensive barrier around them, protecting them from a few magical bullets. "It is nothing, Kaichou."
Sona then looked up, "Akeno! Now!"
Akeno grinned from her place above the others and let down a storm of Holy Lightning, killing dozens of the magicians around Sona and Tsubaki.
Seeing the threat that Akeno was, a few magicians tried to fire at her, but were quickly dispatched by Kiba and Koneko, the Knight and Rook, going after each of them before they had a chance to attack Akeno.
Where is Vali? Natsuki thought, she could feel his presence on the school grounds, but she realized that she had not seen him for a while, and that only she and the others were attacking the magicians.
Natsuki did not have time to ponder this further as she felt an attack heading towards Sona and Tsubaki before it was released. She ran with all her might towards the girls tackling them out of the way seconds before a giant Holy Light spear obliterated the ground where they once stood.
"Seriously?! What the fuck, Azazel?!" Natsuki yelled, glaring at the Fallen as he continued his fight with Katerea.
"Sorry about that." Azazel smirked, "She's a bit more stubborn than I thought."
Katerea was breathing heavily as she glared at Azazel, "You dare-"
"I'll take care of her now, no more playing around with my food." Azazel said.
Katerea scowled before she reached into the front of her dress, pulling out a small bottle and swallowing a small snake that had been inside of it.
Space vibrated intensely, and a wave of power surged throughout the school yard. The magic power given off by Katerea's body swelled up and gave off an ominous aura.
Natsuki shuddered, she could feel Katerea's power increase exponentially, she now felt on par with that of Governor General.
Azazel fired countless spears of light at her, but they were easily destroyed just by Katerea calmly moving her hand sideways.
"How could a snake be giving her this much magical power?" Kiba asked, staring at the scene in shock.
Natsuki looked at Sona, "Could it be Ophis?"
Sona thought about this, "It could. Ophis is known for their connection to snakes, and they are the leader of Khaos Brigade, so it would stand to reason that they would give Katerea something to ensure she could win today."
"Should we help him?" Xenovia asked as she and Irina joined the others.
Sona shook her head, "Azazel's power is comparable to that of my sister, Sirzechs-sama, and Michael. We would only be getting in his way if we did that. Let us keep our attention on the magicians."
"That's if we don't get killed by any stray attacks." Natsuki muttered to herself.
The Pawn was content to follow Sona's order, until she felt Vali's magical presence closing in on them. At first, she thought Vali was simply flying around, but she felt him racing towards Azazael and Katerea, his magic congregating in one of his hands.
Natsuki summoned her wings and flew upwards, her hand raised in front of her as she sent a Black Bolt at Vali. Vali used his [Divine Dividing] to half the attack before smacking the remainder of it away with the back of his hand.
Natsuki flew until she was behind Azazel, glaring at the Vali, "I thought you and this fucker were allies. Seems that you just tried to attack him."
"Tch, so you're betraying me under these circumstances, Vali?" Azazel turned his head to look at The White Dragon Emperor, glancing at Natsuki. "Thanks, it seems I'm losing my touch a little bit."
"Sorry, Azazel." Vali said coolly, "Things just look so much more interesting on this side."
Azazel sighed in an exaggerated manner, a lazy smile appearing on his face, "I guess I should have figured that peace would have sent you running for the hills."
Comments
Kas the Weeb
That would be funny, because I could imagine Natsuki being shocked that someone would nominate her, and let alone that people would vote for her. She would be questioning the intelligence of the student body. And the student council would be fucking shocked too.
kickfyck01
You know with Nat hold onto them like that it give me idea, how funny would it be if she somehow ended up being student council president instead in her 3rd year thanks to some silly circumstances
Kas the Weeb
I was going to have Natsuki make a joke, but I figured that since she was the one who started it, to let it pass. I wanted to show how close Xenovia and Asia have become, and I figured since I was making the change to shave Natsuki protect Akeno, Sona, and Tsubaki, that I could change that too. And I'm currently writing the fight between them, and I'm hoping it lives up to expectations.
KaeKat
"A strong dick." - Issei 🤣 I'm surprised that Natsuki didn't make a wise crack about it but just continued saying dick lol. Nice on Natsuki on protecting Sona and Tsubaki too. And it's a cute change you make Xenovia instinctively protect Asia too. Looking forward to the next chapter! Can't wait to see how Natsuki holds herself up to Vali. It's kinda hard to think on how she can counter Vali's power with what she has now.
