High School DxD
/ High School DxD Chapter 178: Life.3 Hyoudou Issei-1
"Ise-sama…"
Having walked into the room, Ravel looked at me with a worried expression.
"What is it, Ravel? Don't you need to rest?"
I smiled as I looked at her, but her face was still clouded with unhappiness.
"Well, it's already fine. Compared to that…I really made you worry. And I wasn't by your side when you had your career consultation…I was useless in all the crucial moments, as your manager I'm too ashamed…"
"It doesn't matter. It's enough that Ravel is safe."
"B-But…I couldn't do anything at all during all the critical moments…! During the [Devil Uprising], the unrest in Romania, that time with Auros, and even this time…! I'm supposed to be your manager, yet I can't stay by Ise-sama's side…. If that hadn't happened to me, Ise-sama's parents wouldn't have…"
Ravel poignantly cried. Although she covered her face with her hands, streams of tears still flowed down her face through her hands. …So she was actually concerned about such a thing. She had clearly been helping me all along, but Ravel kept on thinking that she couldn't accompany me in those crucial situations. I — quietly approached her, and then hugged her tightly.
"You're wrong about that, Ravel. Precisely because I had Ravel waiting for me, I was able to face the enemy and fight with confidence, you know? So, don't cry."
"...I will always, always accompany Ise-sama by his side. Regardless of whether it's a hundred years, a thousand years, or even the more distant future—"
"Thank you. Since you've said that, Ravel, I'm not going to die."
I hugged my cute manager even more tightly, and I vowed
"—Definitely, we'll come back to live with everyone."
"…Yes!"
I felt that being able to hold Ravel, who was safe in my arms, was really nice. Yeah, I definitely can't die. Nor will I let anyone else die. —Tou-san, kasan, I'll definitely come to save you!
The battle strategy meeting had concluded, and it had been only been about half a day since Kuroka had passed that information on to us. The members of [DxD] were all gathered in the room underneath the Hyoudou household where a gigantic transportation magic circle had been drawn. The members included the Gremorys, Sitris, Irina, Griseldsan, and Dulio of the [Brave Saints], Slash Dog's Ikuse-san, Kuroka and Le Fay. This time's battle would be — a surprise. At this stage, the enemy still believed that we were looking for the location of Agreas and had yet to ascertain it. If we didn't make any miscalculations, it would result in an unexpected attack for Qlippoth that would be outside their expectations. For us, this was the pre-emptive strike. It was Vali's tenacity which finally led to the discovery of the wherabouts of Agreas. Otherwise, the floating city which had been transported there and could move wouldn't have been so easy to find. …Thinking about it, that guy wouldn't be together with us; he was probably going in alone to find out where Rizevim was hiding. Sairaorg-san and Seekvairsan who weren't present here were on standby in the Underworld in case anything happened. However, if it was a suitable time, they would also join up with us to fight. This time, right after we would be transported through the magic circle, we would immediately begin the battle in the city of Agreas. Azazel-sensei looked at us as he said
"Kuroka told me the approximate coordinates of where Agreas has stopped. —Ajuka will also help in transporting us over there. But his transportation magic can be considered as a special type, so the number of people that he can transfer at a time is limited. But, without his magic, it won't be possible to break through the barrier to transport us to Agreas."
I also noticed that the magic circle on the ground looked different to the ones in the past. So it was Beelzebub-sama using his magic to control it. Although he wasn't here in person, he was able to control the magic circle from a distance. He was even using an especially powerful type of transportation magic…but, without doing at least this, it wouldn't be possible to attack Qlippoth's base. Sensei continued
"The first team — is a diversionary unit."
Sonzenkaichou and the Sitri peerage took a step forward.
"That will be done by us Sitris. We'll definitely get the enemy's attention and then create an opening."
"I will also go."
First it would be the Sitri household, Dulio, and Sister Griselda (+ several [Brave Saints] members) who would enter the city and cause confusion. That would be in order to draw the enemy's attention—. Sensei turned towards Rias.
"The second team will be the main force. Rias, Ise, and the members of the Occult Research Club."
That's right, we would be the main force. After we transported over to Agreas, I would rescue my parents, and we would also weaken Qlippoth's forces as much as we could. Rias nodded.
"Yes, I understand. After all, I am going to be taking care of ogifu-sama and ogibo-sama[1]. The people who are their own family members should go to save them."
Everyone in the Occult Research Club nodded in agreement.
"And then Tobio, you'll go together with Rias' group. As soon as you arrive, immediately begin supporting them from the shadows on your own. —As for me, I'll be going over after you guys. I'll head into the power generation rooms inside Agreas. If I'm able to stop it, then I'll stop it."
Azazel-sensei also planned to charge into that place. Yes, if he could stop Agreas, it would be best to do so. We couldn't allow that sacred Rating Game location to continue to be exploited. That was the place where Sairaorg-san and I had once fought each other—. Sensei turned around to ask Le Fay
"Le Fay, what about that guy Vali?"
"He and the other members are on standby near Agreas. If you don't move carefully, Agreas and Vali-sama's osofu-sama[2] may escape."
Vali and Bikou were currently keeping an eye on it. Kuroka began to giggle.
"Since you're going to attack, you plan to get rid of them in a single assault rather quickly right? For Vali, it wasn't easy for him to finally catch the enemy's tail, so he definitely won't let them get away again nya~"
So he had prepared his determination to such a degree huh. However, we also had the element of surprise, so it would be a good opportunity. I as well, since I was going there, I could settle things with those bastards. But sensei seemed to have a slightly doubtful look, as he held his chin with one hand.
"Thanks to Vali's persistence, we found their hideout…saying that isn't wrong. However, Rizevim's actions have been too conspicuous this time. While the act of targeting Ophis and kidnapping Ise's parents isn't a bad move, it seems too impatient for a conspirator like that bastard. It feels like he's very anxious. Or did he want us to think this way and make such calculations…?"
I didn't quite understand what sensei was thinking about… Since sensei noticed that everyone's attention was focused on him, he refreshed himself and warned us
"Anyway, you all have to be careful. That bastard isn't just any ordinary guy. We don't know what sort of things he'll pull. You need to pay attention to every step. Even in the worst scenario, we need to rescue Ise's parents out of there!"
"Yes!"
We earnestly replied in unison. Sensei then made a bold smile and said to us
"But, remember this point well. —Those bastards have entered the sanctuary that they shouldn't have entered. They're a group of bastards who deserve to die. We absolutely cannot forgive them. If you're able to defeat them, then turn them into dust. I'll allow it."
"Yes!"
That was obvious! Since they've attacked us, we'll retaliate just as hard! —Vali, if you were going to come, couldn't you have come earlier? I could drop everything just to destroy those bastards! While I was becoming more and more determined, the first team consisting of the Sitri household and the others began their preparations to be transported—. The surprise battle on Agreas had begun!
Part 2[edit]
When we arrived, the sound of explosions could be heard everywhere. Accompanied by the loud sounds of explosions, the ground was also shaking violently.
The location that we arrived at was the west side of the city's central plaza. Nearby there was a vast park, with many trees planted there. Looking up, several clouds of smoke could be seen in the distance. It seems like the Sitri household, Dulio, and the others who arrived just before us were going wild. Arriving together with us was Slash Dog's Ikuse-san. He and the black dog — Jin moved forward together.
"Sorry, but I need to do my own job. —I wish the rest of you good luck. Hyoudou Issei-kun, you absolutely must rescue your parents."
"I will!"
Having confirmed my answer, Ikuse-san and Jin swiftly left the scene without even the slightest noise. After all, he had received instructions from Azazel-sensei to do support work in secret.
"Let's go!"
Under the command of Rias, we advanced towards the Government Office in the floating city of Agreas that Rizevim was on. It was at the northwest corner after exiting the park. Familiar with the location, Rias lead on, and we followed after her. We didn't fly in the air since we wanted to avoid being seen. Looking up at the sky, we could see countless number of mass-produced Evil Dragons flying towards the diversionary unit. …This was indeed the base of Qlippoth; there were an unimaginable number of them. Moving through the park, we stayed under the shadow of buildings to advance without drawing any attention to ourselves. After several minutes—. We arrived in front of the high-rise building. It was a building with a very unique design. It was Agreas' Government Office. We stayed under the shadow of a building that was a short distance away from the Government Office and observed the surroundings. There were numerous Evil Dragons surrounding the Government Office on standby. In the sky above, just as many Evil Dragons were circling about.
"…Well, what are we going to do next?"
Rias had considered bursting directly into the Government Office. The Evil Dragons which were in front of the Government Office were within our expectations. Regardless of whether we launched a frontal assault or a surprise attack, it was inevitable that the enemy would guard their own strongholds. While we were thinking of what our next step would be, Koneko-chan pinched her nose and said
"…It stinks. It looks like we've been discovered."
Koneko-chan pointed to a certain place. In the middle of a myriad of Evil Dragons, a long and slender snake-like creature appeared, it was a dragon with black scales. It's dense and powerful aura was on a level that couldn't be compared to the mass-produced Evil Dragons. —It was Níðhöggr. The instant I saw that figure, my anger immediately resurged. …It did that to Ophis…it did that to tou-san and kasan…. In order to stop me from getting carried away due to my anger, Kiba placed his hand on my shoulder, and Asia held onto my hand. …I know, it's supposed to help me calm down right? Ah, I'm fine. —Thank you. I thanked Kiba and Asia in my mind. After I took a deep breath, I allowed myself to calm down. But, that bastard didn't care at all and called out towards us, though we didn't want to expose ourselves.
>
…They already knew. We all looked at each other, and then nodded. We readied our respective weapons, and I also speedily wore my armour. After finishing our preparations for a fight which could start at any time, we quickly moved to the front of the Government Office. Upon seeing Níðhöggr's ugly face, we couldn't help understanding the reason why Koneko-chan previously said that 'It stinks'. …A nasty smell wafted out of Níðhöggr. Everyone put on an expression of disgust. Ddraig said in a voice that everyone could hear
[—Níðhöggr.]
After hearing Ddraig's voice, the Evil Dragon deepened the smile on its ugly face, which caused everyone to become even more disgusted.
>
I took a step forward, and asked Níðhöggr
"…So you're the bastard that caused Ophis to end up like that?"
After hearing my question, the Evil Dragon laughed nastily.
>
…I see, it was exactly the same as what was recorded in the video…. That bastard's shrill voice continued.
>
I was so mad that my fists were trembling as I clenched them… —…Ah, ah, that bastard…I'll destroy it so hard that not even a scrap will remain! Rias and Kiba both…both didn't stop me anymore. One step, one more step and I would be right in front of that Evil Dragon. I held onto the firm resolve that I had already established. Níðhöggr still spoke with pleasure as it disregarded the people who were around it.
…Ah, that's if you can do it.
"Then let me see you do it!"
I rapidly flew forwards, and attacked at a speed that Níðhöggr couldn't even register! Facing its abdomen, I threw a punch! After it stumbled back, I landed a kick on its hind legs. And then, I kept on kicking its back! After that, I gave it several more fierce blows to its face.
>
That bastard didn't have the strength to fight back against my high-speed movement and attacks. It gracelessly spat fresh blood out of its mouth. …It dared to hurt my important friend — it did something like that to Ophis. Do you think it's settled with just that…? You also used my parents as hostages, and threatened Ophis…. I definitely won't let you go with just this! I seized Níðhöggr's throat with my arm which had thickened due to Solid Impact.
"Beating over and over again, kicking over and over again…that's what you said."
Níðhöggr shook its large body and freed itself from my grip. It flew back slightly, and then used its momentum to charge towards me while it readied its front paws as it targeted me.
DOON! It was the sound of a clean and crisp hit. Looking towards the source, Crom Cruach's right arm had actually transformed into a massive dragon's claw, and struck Níðhöggr directly in the face while it had its guard down.
>
Fresh blood splattered out of its mouth as it cried out in pain. Crom Cruach twisted his neck, and the sound of his flexing muscles could be heard.
"…You, you guys are too fond of playing little tricks."
Even after being bathed in Níðhöggr's miasma, Crom Cruach still courageously said those words.
"I originally intended to learn what a dragon was by observing Ophis. But you would hinder me — well, I can destroy you until not a single speck is left can't I?"
Crom Cruach looked up towards the sky — no, he was looking at the top floor of the Government Office, as he shouted these words to that bastard.
"Rizevim Livan Lucifer, did you see that? Even if you want to control many Evil Dragons, you are mistaken."
With his coat fluttering, Crom Cruach bluntly asserted that after his confrontation with Níðhöggr.
"A true dragon will not be constrained from its birth till its death; it will live only according to its own will. That is what is known as a dragon!"
All of a sudden, Crom Cruach turned his eyes towards me and then pointed to the top floor of the Government Office as he said
"—Go."
—Huh. I was surprised by Crom Cruach's actions. Does that mean, this guy…wants to deal with Níðhöggr by himself?
"…Is that okay?"
I asked in confirmation.
"..."
As usual, it was his silent reply.
"…I'm really sorry about before."
Seeing me bow my head to apologise, he shook his head.
"—There's no need. Since you're a Heavenly Dragon, there's no need for you to lower your head to an Evil Dragon like me."
I couldn't say anything in return. Rias nodded as she faced me — and Asia as she said
"Ise, Asia! Leave this place to us, you two guys go first! Please go and save ogifu-sama and ogibo-sama as their 'son' and 'daughter'!"
—Yes! Rias…! She told Asia and I to go save my parents. …Yes, that's right. That role — was only for me and Asia. I looked towards Asia.
"Although it's dangerous, do you want to come?"
Asia's eyes were filled with strong determination as she nodded.
"—Let's go."
…Alright, that was simple then. I expanded my dragon wings, and lifted Asia into my arms as I prepared to fly off. I need to get to the top floor quickly! But the sky was completely black in colour as a massive number of mass-produced Evil Dragons were circling about. In order to reach the top floor, it looked like I'd have no choice but to break through the middle of them. Perhaps having just been on the top floor watching Crom Cruach, that cold dark aura — Rizevim's aura came over to us from the rooftop. Having experienced that bastard's aura, it was a chilling and evil aura which was impossible to forget. When I had held Asia with a princess carry and was about to fly out, the mass-produced Evil Dragons grouped together and rushed towards us. But they didn't reach us. —They were slashed through by a holy-demnoic sword with a dense and calm aura. In a single instant, three slashes were made—. With such godly speed, it seemed as though a single sword had split into three and attacked in different directions. — Sandanzuki[4], it was a technique that Kiba had released. It was a technique of the former Shinsengumi captain Okita Sōji[5]. Although he had forbidden himself from copying his mentor's sword techniques, after his feelings about it changed, he was able to use if perfectly. Kiba's favourite techniques were originally his high-speed combat skills. Sandanzuki was one of the most skillful techniques of them all. Right in front of us, a horde of Evil Dragons had been sliced apart by three powerful strikes. Kiba held up his holy-demonic sword as he said to me
"Ise-kun, hurry up and go! Xenovia, Irina, I want you to come and accompany them!"
In response to Kiba's call, Xenovia and Irina ran over after they struck down the Evil Dragons they were dealing with using their holy swords.
"Leave it to us! We'll guard Asia well!"
"We're known as the Church Trio! Xenovia and I will escort you up there, Asia!"
Xenovia and Irina pat grabbed onto my shoulder. Just as I was about to start flying, Níðhöggr aimed a magic circle at me as it prepared to attack!
Níðhöggr had tears streaming down its face while it continued to drool as it awkwardly tried to attack Crom Cruach. — However, the dragon which was known as the strongest Evil Dragon threw a straight punch directly at Níðhöggr as it moved forwards. Níðhöggr's massive body was sent flying. Whilst being propelled away, Níðhöggr knocked several buildings down with its body on the way. …So that's what his punch was like. It was like Sairaorg-san's, no, it was in a class even greater than that! I pulled myself together again, and turned my attention back towards flying. Although it would be nice to watch Níðhöggr and Crom Cruach's fight, the most important thing right now was to rescue my parents! I unfolded my wings, and flew up. In my arms, Asia — bowed and thanked Crom Cruach.
"U-Um, thank you so much!"
The enormous Evil Dragon then replied
[—Banana.]
"Eh?"
Crom Cruach then lifted the edge of his large mouth; it looked like he was smiling.
[Bananas really are nice things.]
Being extremely surprised by this, Asia's eyes began to moisten.
"Yes!"
As I flew in the air — I was almost stopped by Crom Cruach's sudden move. No, I was certainly distracted in that moment. …Like this, it was the third time since Tannin-ossan and Fafnir's Outrage. ...Damn it, damn it! I wholeheartedly regretted trying to pursue Crom Cruach at home. Although my parents and Ophis had been exposed to danger, I…I really was too stupid!
[That guy is a dragon that has been watching the human world for a long time.]
As I was reflecting, Ddraig said that to me.
[—Partner, you definitely can't forget Crom Cruach's appearance just now. That is the ultimate form of an Evil Dragon who has single-mindedly pursued power. —Well, what is borrowed will be returned.]
…Yes. Exactly! There are a lot of dragons who are worth learning from —. That's why I definitely have to become the strongest and greatest dragon — to become the Sekiryuutei! At that time, I'll definitely surpass Crom Cruach —.
Part 3[edit]
Waiting in the air as we flew were a countless number of mass-produced Evil Dragons.
"Haaaaaah!"
"Oryaaaaah!"
While holding onto my body, Xenovia and Irina released holy waves at the Evil Dragons which flew past. Although they were struck down one after the other—.
"This really is endless!"
"What's going on? Just how many of them are there!?"
Faced with the endless onslaught of Evil Dragons, Xenovia and Irina were dumbfounded. Another group of Evil Dragons was now flying towards us! After we had flown about halfway towards the Government Office, Xenovia and Irina respectively opened their Devil and Angel wings and moved away from me. They began an aerial fight. The two of them cut down the Evil Dragons as they shouted
"There are a lot more Evil Dragons up here."
"Leave this place to us, you guys charge into the interior from that bottom window there and then run up, that may be faster!"
After saying that, Irina released a holy wave with Hauteclere, and destroyed a section of the glass wall. So that's where you want me to go in. After saying 'I'll leave the rest to you' to the two of them, I hurriedly flew ahead with Asia in my arms. It was true that there were much fewer Evil Dragons here. At most, there were a few small Evil Dragons wandering through the corridors. While still in a position where I was holding Asia, I continued to run ahead. Even if there were Evil Dragons here, I ignored them, and focused only on running towards the top floor. At that time, a voice was projected out of a loudspeaker within the building.
[Good day, members of the Underworld. I am Diehauser Belial. My whereabouts were previously unknown, but as you can all see, I am currently safe.]
—What! I was surprised by the owner of the voice! It was actually the Champion's voice! He's upstairs? Just as I felt surprised, I suddenly halted in front of a particular room. I carefully looked at that room. Placed inside it were several monitors. Displayed on all of the screens was the image of Emperor Belial. …That, was it a live broadcast? Also, he addressed that just now to the members of the Underworld. …Did they hack into the TV stations to broadcast this out to the Underworld…? On the screen, the Emperor continued speaking with a serious expression
"Next, I have something which I must tell everyone. That is — the darkness of the Rating Games."
—What! …Sure enough, that was what the Champion wanted to convey. The conspiracy behind the Rating Games. I didn't stay to watch it any longer, and instead continued to move up to the top floor. While I was running, the Champion's voice continued to reverberate throughout the building.
[In my generation, like fast-growing mushrooms, talented young Devils have appeared one after another, struggling at the forefront of the Rating Games. Ranked second, Roygun Belphegor and ranked third, Bedeze Abaddon have learnt from each other that the content of the Games are praised by people.]
Upon seeing the stairs, I dashed up as fast as I could.
[But, I have heard of some disturbing news. Regardless of whether it's Roygun, Bedeze, or other contestants, they weren't very outstanding Devils when they were young—. When I first heard about it, I laughed it off; I thought that they were just rumours which had spread as a result of jealousy towards those who had gained results with their talent.]
The Champion then lowered the tone of his voice.
[…But, on a certain day, my cousin Cleria told me that she had obtained some interesting information related to the Rating Games.]
—Do you know about the [King] piece, she asked. That's what Cleria Belial said. Cleria was Rias' predecessor who used to be in charge of her territory. During the era when the Three Factions were hostile to each other, she was the woman who had fallen in love with a human man, and in the end, she was tragically killed by the higher ups of the Underworld—.
[I simply replied 'Ah, that's nothing more than an urban legend'. But she continued. 'In the region of Japan that I've been appointed to, Maou Ajuka Beelzebub's hideout is nearby.' — she said. It was quite popular amongst some people that Ajuksama had been [making the Game] somewhere in Japan due to his interest.]
The Champion admonished Cleria.
[Don't bother the Maou. No matter what, don't carelessly approach that place, alright?]
But, having heard stories about contestants and the higher-ups from the Champion since she was young, she was highly interested in it, and began to collect information about it alone. But more investigation into this information was cut off halfway; Cleria believed that there was definitely something big behind all of it. The Champion's voice was filled with sorrow.
[…She, just because of some little story of mine, was killed. Because I always stayed in the position of Champion, more than anything, I was displeased about the ridiculous reports that the reporters made. She knew everything about me, and knew that my strength was genuine. …To me, she was a family member more important than anything else…I always regarded her as my own imouto.]
Following that, the Champion calmly said
[Speaking of the conclusion, it's clear that Cleria was erased. — She was eliminated by the government of the Underworld. This wasn't the decision of the current four great Maous, but the decision of the Old Devils. Because these facts were covered up, I didn't know about the truth. I was only told that my cousin Cleria had died. …In order to resolve my suspicions, I relied on a certain pipeline, and finally learned the truth.]
…Wasn't she eliminated because she had fallen in love with a human man…? In other words, wasn't that the reason why the Champion Diehauser Belial joined Qlippoth…? A certain pipeline, by that he meant Rizevim and Qlippoth. He obtained information from them. Emperor Belial continued
[The conclusion is that — the [King] piece exists. And in the photos and information that I am now showing everyone, they have only obtained the strength that they have today as a result of using the [King] piece.]
I was afraid that the video being shown to the people of the Underworld right now was the video which we were shown at Ajuka Beelzebub-sama's place. The information that the Champion obtained by cooperating with Rizevim was the truth behind Cleria's death and the darkness of the Rating Games. …That information had now been released! The Underworld must be in a state of chaos…! The Champion then told the residents of the Underworld about the darkness of the Rating Games that they didn't know about—. The Champion also stated the exact things that we heard about from Beelzebub-sama. I quietly continued to advance towards the top floor. This is — his revenge against the Old Devils as the Champion for killing Cleria…! When I had finally reached the observation room of the top floor, the Champion's broadcast had just ended. The image on the large monitor in front of me became a mosaic of static noise. It was a very spacious looking room. It might even have enough space to serve as the venue for a fight…. When I stepped into the room, Emperor Belial turned around and questioned me. It seems like he noticed my presence a while ago.
"…So, Sekiryuutei-kun. What do you plan to do with me? By giving this truthful information to the masses, it'll be enough to condemn those guys. Moreover, there are also the matters regarding Agreas, and the match with Raiser Phoenix-san…"
I put Asia down, and then stepped forward. I slowly moved closer to the Emperor. …With what was happening in the Underworld, I could only place my trust in the Maou-sama. Beelzebub-sama had also told me that before, so that I could do the things that I had to. In that case, my current mission was—. Rescue my parents safely.
"—Anything's fine in this situation."
A very familiar voice which would make people feel uneasy came into my ears. Looking over to where it came from, a silver-haired Devil emerged from the shadow of the display equipment.
"I have — no, as the son of Lucifer, haven't I already allowed this, Belial?"
"…Rizevim-sama"
Rizevim patted the Champion's shoulder, and then turned his gaze towards me.
"It seems we meet again after our previous meeting in Heaven, Sekiryuutei. Also — Gigantis Dragon Princess[6]."
I suppressed my anger as I said to him
"…Yo, son of Lucifer. I really wanted to see you. Well, hurry up and return them, my parents! …And, why would you go after Ophis?"
Upon hearing my question, Rizevim shrugged.
"I just wanted Ophis' assistance all of a sudden, that's all. Ophis — perhaps it's more suitable to say Lilith; I wanted to increase her power…. Níðhöggr relied on Aži Dahāka's magic to enter the underground space of the town that you all live in; at this time, your parents were originally used as hostages, and since it was a friend's parents who were being used as hostages, even if it's that Dragon God, she would still reveal openings. But, because there was external interference, that didn't happen."
That really was the worst way of thinking, this bastard…! I could feel my anger rising continuously! Rizevim revealed a fearless smile. …But looking closely, he seemed to have dark rings under his eyes, or was it just my imagination?
"It's really nice of you to make it. —There's also someone else, a highly important guest who has arrived."
—Ah! I immediately understood what Rizevim was saying. From the other side of the glass wall outside the observation room, a very powerful aura could be felt. With a flash of light, it sped over in the air from quite a distance away! The person who forcefully smashed through the glass wall was Vali, with his entire body clad in pure white armour! As soon as Vali arrived, he faced Rizevim and said
"…You've been cornered, Rizevim."
The corners of Rizevim's mouth rose as he made a smile.
"The last to show up is my lovely grandson. It looks like every one of tonight's main members have stepped onto the stage."
…That bastard Rizevim, he was really pretentious! No matter how gorgeous your words are, you can't hide your malice! I saw through you a long time ago! I stepped closer to Vali, and asked him
"What about the others?"
"They're with the people on your side outside, going on a rampage."
So that's how it was, they had congregated below. Vali's aim was Rizevim. But there was also a reason for me.
"I suppose you aren't going to let anyone else interfere. But, let me do this with you. …In a way, I'm also someone involved."
"…Fine. You're also considered someone who has suffered similar misfortune. We'll fight together, but don't get in my way!"
After exchanging my opinion with Vali, we confirmed each other's intentions. The two Heavenly Dragons readied their posture in front of Rizevim. Rizevim showed a sarcastic smile, and said to us
"Well then, please allow me to introduce the audience for this show."
Rizevim clicked his fingers, and a transportation magic circle appeared in a corner of the observation room. After the light of the transfer faded, the ones who appeared there were — my tou-san and kasan.
"—It's the Hyoudou fusai[7]."
The two people who were introduced by Rizevim were completely unaware of the situation, and appeared extremely confused. I released the helmet of my armour, and called out to them
"…Tou-san! Kasan!"
After noticing my voice, my parents looked over at me.
"…I-Ise…? Why are you wearing such a strange thing on your body? And why is Asia also here?"
"…From the beginning, this silver-haired man has been saying some strange things. Your kasan and I are both confused. Just what is happening…?"
.... …Based on kasan's words, I knew what kind of understanding that the two of them had about the current situation. In other words, the fact that I am a Devil was already—. With vigour, I asked Rizevim
"…Rizevim, you bastard, what the hell did you say?"
That bastard had a carefree expression, and smiled with pleasure.
"Nothing much, just some trivial things. Next up is the main topic. As long as you do a real performance, your parents won't understand the truth about you."
...That asshole! …He was forcing my parents to watch our battle with their own eyes…fuck him! My heart was violently pounding nonstop, and I couldn't stop my arms or legs from shaking. —I definitely couldn't let my parents see me fight with supernatural abilities! But, if I don't fight, if I don't win, I won't be able to save my parents! I had no choice to refuse, I could only fight! …How could this be? Fine, I haven't had any good excuses up until now! My heart continued to pound wildly against my chest, and at that time, Vali said to me
"I'll deal with Rizevim. You deal with the Champion."
After taking a deep breath, I replied
"…I didn't expect that I'd have to fight against the opponent that I planned to fight against in the future right here…. I really didn't expect it."
"…Anyway, both of them are monsters. Even if we switch opponents, it'll be a tough fight. Since you want to save your parents, show them your unyielding determination to survive."
"…I already died twice before. If that really happens, I'll have died three times."
I reluctantly mocked myself. …But, if the third time that I die is for my parents, then that would be fine. But I didn't have any intention of dying! After I exchanged a glance with Vali, we each readied ourselves against our respective opponents. I would fight the Champion, and Vali was up against Rizevim. The two people opposite us responded, and lined up. Four people now faced each other. After a brief moment of silence—. Without any further words, the battle began. The first to charge ahead was Vali. He advanced directly towards Rizevim who stood in front of him while clenching a fist enveloped in a massive amount of aura. Although he landed a direct hit, Rizevim easily dissolved Vali's aura which had been strengthened by his Sacred Gear! Vali staggered.
"…Argh, as long as it's associated with a Sacred Gear, direct attacks won't work."
After muttering that, he continued to rush forwards to fight! It was a combination of high speed kicks and punches! But what was surprising was that Rizevim was quickly dodging all of them. Taking advantage of an opening, he counterattacked against Vali! From Rizevim's back, the wings of Lucifer expanded, and he punched Vali directly in the abdomen with a fist imbued with demonic energy! The instant that Vali was hit by that punch, his armour was shattered as a result of the Sacred Gear Canceller's effect, and he suffered a direct hit to the abdomen.
"…Guah!"
Taking a solid punch, Vali cried out. Blood oozed out from a corner of his mouth, but he readied his posture, and equipped his armour again. It was the same as the time when I fought against Rizevim in Heaven; as long as I took a direct attack, or even just a scratch, he would touch my armour, and I would receive a painful attack! If I used my Penetrate ability, perhaps I would be able to defeat that guy…. But since Vali said that he would defeat him himself, I should focus on defeating the Champion in front of me! The fight on my side began; I reduced our distance, and then began an unrestrained close-combat fight. There were no openings at all. I couldn't find any at all. Within a brief exchange of blows, every single one of my attacks were effortlessly evaded by him. The gap between our strength was far too wide! I asked the Champion
"…It doesn't seem like your peerage is here."
Indeed, the Champion was here by himself. On the way up here, I didn't encounter any of his peerage members; presumably, this was because he gave the order for his peerage not to follow him here. As I had guessed, the Champion said
"That's right, I told them to stay outside as they have no need to follow me to this place."
…So he decided to shoulder the responsibility for all of this himself. That was his so-called duty. He really did possess the qualities of a Champion.
[Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost Boost!!]
I used the power of Boost to multiply the power of my fist, and thrust it upwards in at once! But, the fist which I had amplified the power of so much was easily evaded. It simply hit the air. I straightened my posture, and attempted to charge forwards again. The Champion touched my fist frontally! Suddenly, the amplified aura which had enveloped my fist instantly vanished! —What! …My power disappeared!? It was invalidated!? No, it was slightly different from Rizevim's ability! If I was touched by that bastard, even my armour would disappear! Just then, it only felt as if the power of Boost on my fist had disappeared! Seeing this, the Champion said
"—[Worthless]. That is my, the Belials' ability. I do believe that you've heard of it…"
…I see, so that was [Worthless]. The power which could invalidate special abilities—. That's how he was able to invalidate my Boost ability. Even so, I didn't stop attacking! I then ramped up the intensity of my attacks. I madly attacked with punches and kicks in combination with each other, and unleashed potent shots of demonic energy, yet all of my attacks were still invalidated by the Champion with a small gesture. Even when I fired shots of demonic energy, they simply burst into nothingness in the palm of his hands. I enhanced by attacks with [Boost] and [Penetrate] as I continued to attack. But the attacks which had been strengthened with [Boost] were still invalidated by him. Even when I used the ability of [Penetrate], I was unable to hit him; despite counterattacking with [Penetrate] in a blind spot, I was unable to do anything effective. …If I was able to land a direct hit on him with [Penetrate], the damage would be transmitted to him directly! —But, I couldn't land a hit on him! Every single one of my attacks had been evaded! The Champion's evasive movements were akin to an elegant dance. Conversely, I was the only one who was sweating profusely in my armour. —The difference between us was simply too big. The opponent wasn't using his full power at all! This was someone who was Maou-class! The absolute Champion! The top ranker in the Rating Games! If I could use Crimson Blaster or Longinus Smasher then it might be possible. But, I couldn't even put a dent in the Champion's confidence! Nevertheless, I didn't stop attacking, and continued to face Emperor Belial. While avoiding my attacks as if they were a novice's, he calmly said
"Your attacks are good; they're straight and direct without a trace of hesitation. I really would like to have a contest against you in a Game."
"It's too late for that now! Haven't you already done what you've wanted to do!? As a result of that, the entire Underworld has been plunged into chaos! Your…the Champion's confession carried such a heavy weight!"
That's right, after listening to everything that the Champion said, there would definitely be disputes everywhere in the Underworld. Would they think that it was a lie? No, he was the Champion who had absolute support in the Underworld, and that confession was both heavy and realistic. Even if the Champion was associated with acts of terrorism, no, precisely because he was willing to associate with terrorists, it must have been the truth. The people would probably believe that.
"Ah, I understand. I completely understand."
"You didn't completely understand it!? —Your attacks carry a sense of hesitation with them!"
That's right, the Champion, he — hadn't directly attacked me at all! At most, he fought against me by using his ability to invalidate mine. If he really had the intention, the instant that my power was invalidated, he could have given me a fatal injury! The Champion, he — was hesitating in this battle!
"…Ku!"
Just when the Champion and I were speaking to each other, Vali had been knocked to floor. He got back up again, equipped his armour again, and confronted Rizevim…if things continued like this, he would eventually be defeated due to exhaustion! If he was able to use Juggernaut Drive, then it would be another story, but simply using that would consume an incredible amount of stamina and demonic energy. Since the opponent had the power of the Sacred Gear Canceller, all that stamina and demonic energy would go to waste if it the transformation was carelessly invalidated. For Vali, fighting like this right now would be his best choice.
"Hoho, what is it? Vali. Using attacks like this against your grandfather are useless yo."
Rizevim said that with a pleased expression…on the other hand, Vali had an extremely dissatisfied expression. Vali extended his right hand out after releasing its armour, and generated several magic circles from his right hand which he then used to fire bursts of magic towards Rizevim. Then Rizevim — didn't use his cancellation ability, and instead dodged them! Those attacks were purely magic! They didn't have anything to do with a Sacred Gear, they were pure magic attacks! That guy Vali, he had an outstanding talent for magic! So that's how it was, he relied on his Balance Breaker armour to reduce the gap in their physical abilities, and then used magic or demonic energy to attack Rizevim. As Vali attacked with magic, he said with a displeased tone.
"...This really is an eyesore. As the son of Lucifer, you behave like a Lilin[8], yet you intend to display some kind of dignified attitude…"
Vali pointed at Rizevim as he spoke.
"Your original aura which you've tried to hide within yourself, but can't contain from leaking out is equally sinister and ruthless. Rizevim, you're evil and malicious to begin with."
With this pointed out by his grandson, Rizevim stared blankly for a moment, and then laughed 'hehe' in a rather evil manner.
"If so, how about you, stupid grandson-kun? Could it be that you can't even win a single battle of revenge against this old and feeble grandfather as a trashy dragon?"
He was even sticking his tongue out; he was still playing around with his usual clownish attitude. Ah, that's what I also thought. No matter how dignified he made his words and deeds sound, this foolish attitude right now was Rizevim's true nature. Even if he acted with a Maou's demeanor, it was nothing more than an act—. As his grandson, Vali had already seen through his grandfather's true nature. —At that time, Rizevim turned his eyes towards me, and then called out
"Champion-kun! Hurry up and use that!"
He suddenly issued an instruction. I watched as the Champion took out a small vial of red liquid from his chest pocket. The Champion, without a single noise, instantaneously disappeared on the spot—.
"Gah!"
He was actually grabbing my face…! The distance between us was closed in an instant! The Champion used a finger to open the lid, and with his other hand he forced my mouth open and planned to pour it in. In order to resist, I pushed the Champion away with both hands, but a small portion of the liquid in the vial still entered my mouth! My counterattack missed as the Champion darted all the way to the back of the room! …My mouth was filled with an awful taste, the taste and smell of blood lingered on my tongue, and it felt very viscous. But it also seemed like a familiar taste. My mouth would often be filled with it during battles. Yes, that red liquid was — blood! …I didn't know what kind of blood it was at all; why did they make me drink it—. Dokun dokun! Then, my heart rapidly began to throb! At the same time, I couldn't stop my body from trembling all over. Following that, my body began to slowly heat up from the inside, and the heat spread to my entire body! The heat which was generated within my body surprised even me! I couldn't stand it, and I released the armour on my right arm. Clearly, I had no intention of letting my right arm turn into a dragon's arm, but it turned into a dragon's arm by itself. …I knew that I didn't enhance my dragon's power. My arms and legs…they turned into those of a dragon! I immediately understood. Yes, that blood was — dragon's blood! My dragon's blood was used in order to enhance Gasper's ability. Similar to that, the Champion forced me to drink the blood of a dragon. Hence, the dragon's power within me had increased; my body became hot, and I couldn't stop my body from changing. My arms had already dragonified, and an abnormal heat was now reaching my head! My helmet then released on its own—
"Hyaa!"
I heard kasan's scream. I looked over at kasan, and she looked back at me with an expression as if she was looking at a monster. …What's going on? While I was thinking about that, I used my hand to touch my own face. …The sensation of touching the human skin that I normally had couldn't be felt, but what I felt instead was the texture of very rigid skin. Rizevim sent a small magic circle flying towards me. A mirror emerged from that magic circle. I looked in the mirror — my skin had become hard, my eyes had been enlarged, and my teeth had grown out of my mouth; it was a completely alien appearance. …I, even my face started to become dragonified…. In this situation, Rizevim lightly laughed as he gleefully said to my parents
"Please look at this carefully, Hyoudou fusai. This is what that son-shaped thing in front of you looks like — a monster."
—! …Bastard, he would actually say that right now!? From the very beginning, he planned to have me dragonify, and let my parents see it!? He actually prepared this as some kind of a show!? …This was his payback to me for beating him up in Heaven. That bastard was actually so obsessed about that…fuck! —Seriously, even dog shit would be better than this bastard…! Rizevim continued
"In the spring of last year, your precious son died. This dragon then usurped your son's position. He lived a false life with you. During the break, didn't he say to you that he needed to travel away? That was because he needed to go to the world of the Devils. At the end of the year, wasn't he always busy, and unable to spend time together with you? That's because he was doing certain activities, as an alien, and as a monster!"
That bastard, he was really enjoying this, he was saying such things with a joyful expression! My parents' faces were dyed with fear as they looked at Rizevim and me. …I didn't want to look at the expression on my parents' faces.
"…Please don't look at me, tou-san, kasan."
…I tried to say such words. If there was a hole in here, I would want to hide in there! With such an appearance, I definitely didn't want to be seen like this by my parents! Stop it! Please stop! I hope this is all just a dream! Like this…with this…uhh! My…mind collapsed. I could do nothing but cry—. Meanwhile, Rizevim continued to speak with a playful expression
"Tou-san? Kasan? Oh ho, did you fusai hear that? That monster still plans to use lies to deceive the two of you, right?"
At this time, standing in front of me, someone shielded me. —It was Asia! Asia had tears streaming down her face as she desperately told tou-san and kasan about the situation
"Otou-san, okasan! This person is Ise-san! Please, the both of you have to believe this! Indeed, he was reincarnated into a Devil, and he also has the power of a dragon in his body. Even so, it isn't wrong that he is Hyoudou Issei! Please believe in him! You must…I'm begging you!"
Looking at Asia as she cried, Rizevim smiled as he said
"Hyoudou fusai, this blonde-haired girl is also a Devil. Please don't be deceived. Things like Devils were originally monsters who used sweet temptation to pull humans into the abyss; presently, you both have been lured in by the Devil's whisper, so it would be better to take note of that."
...Asia was a good child. …The only reason that Asia died is because of me…. …Tou-san, kasan, its fine if you don't trust me. But, only Asia — you only need to trust Asia…! …I…couldn't say a thing; bearing such verbal assaults, I could only blindly apologise.
"...Sorry. ...Kasan, tou-san...I'm sorry..."
…I'm guilty of deceiving you until now. This was my silent punishment. Perhaps this was the moment of my retribution. Because I never told you about being a Devil. No, even if I said so, would my parents believe it? Also, if I did tell them, there was the possibility that I would drag them into the supernatural world. Supposing that was the case…I couldn't. …However, as a result, my parents were still endangered. That's right, all of it was my fault! If I never got involved with Raynare, things wouldn't have become like this. If I was smarter, perhaps I would've found a way to live as a human. …But, you know tou-san, kasan. I don't regret becoming a Devil in the slightest. I met many people, and I learnt a lot of things. As a human, those were things which were absolutely impossible to experience. Only this, I'll definitely never regret. The only thing that I regret is — I never told my parents about my true identity. So, I need to apologise to them.
"—I'm truly very sorry, tou-san, kasan."
So, I apologised. That was all I could do. Even if I'm rejected by those two, even if they cut off our parent-child relationship, that's also fine. Afterwards, it'll be fine as long as I can rescue them. Yeah, I definitely need to rescue them. I swear! After I rescue them — I'll leave. I can't allow them to be endangered again, I will — obediently disappear. From my parent's side, I'll obediently disappear. So, I'm really sorry, tou-san, kasan. I burst into tears. I — repented. After I had prepared myself to be rejected by them, a voice was directed towards me.
"…You are Ise? Is that right?"
—It was tou-san's voice. Tou-san walked a little closer to me. Rizevim was shocked for a moment, and then he said with dismay
"Hold on, Hyoudou-shi[9]. You mustn't be fooled. Telling such stories while showing such emotional tears, it's something that Devils can calmly do."
But, tou-san shook his head, and still approached me.
"You're wrong, he is Ise. …That bad habit of apologising is exactly the same."
Kasan then followed behind him as she nodded and said
"Yes, I also know. Even if the appearance of his face has changed, I understand his response. Ise. That child is Ise!"
The two of them — they arrived in front of me and Asia. Having dragonified, I couldn't properly look at them…but tou-san stood in front of me, and protected me. Standing in front of Rizevim and the Champion, his legs were trembling but he still shouted
"From now on, I won't let you do anything to my child! If you want to lay a hand on Ise, then you'll have to send me flying first!"
—Mn! …I was shocked by tou-san's words.
"…For me, when I was born, it was very ordinary, nothing special ever happened. I never thought about doing anything special. I just wanted a plain and ordinary job; I just wanted a normal family; I just wanted to live an ordinary life with that family. Even now, that's what I want."
Tou-san clearly asserted.
"Whether he's some Devil or not, or whether he's some Maou, I don't know anything about it at all to be honest. Even in this current situation, I'm confused to the point that I don't understand any of it. …But, I know one thing; this child is my son! This is obvious, because he's my Ise."
Rizevim shook his head, and said to tou-san
"Hey hey hey. Otou-san. You need to take a good look. Does that red creature look like a human to you? Does it look like your son? You, listen carefully. That is a Devil, and that is also a dragon. In other words, it's a monster."
"No, he is my child. My Ise. You won't understand. But, I can understand. That's because, I'm his parent. These past seventeen years, I've been raising this child."
In response to tou-san's words, Rizevim sighed.
"What have you understood in these mere seventeen years, human-kun? Do you even understand the truth and reality of this world, human? The way to read signs; what can you who cannot even see the nature of one's aura possibly understand?"
In order to protect me, kasan tightly embraced me.
"You're Ise? Ah, I can understand after holding on to you. This child is Ise. That's because I've hugged you many times before, so I understand."
Tou-san opened his arms, and then made a protective pose as he said—.
"—These seventeen years are everything about our family. They're not trivial things which can simply be explained!"
Kasan hugged me as she also appealed
"Yes. This child — is my lovely son."
"That's right, even if he looks like this! Even so…even so!"
Tou-san looked at my face, and then heartily said
"—Even if he has reincarnated and his appearance has changed, he's still my child, isn't that right?"
—Mn. .... .... Tears streamed down my face. They were unstoppable as they trickled down my cheeks. ...I had already made up my mind and resolve that I would be rejected by my parents so I kept on apologising. —But, regardless of whether it was tou-san or kasan who looked at me, they still said that I was their child. Even if there really existed something that only a parent could understand, I—. Tou-san hugged me, as well as kasan and Asia; we hugged each other together as I cried.
"In that case, I've got something that'll be even less pleasing than this. As parents, you're not very fortunate!"
Kasan hugged me and Asia as she called out
"Yes! Even if he's become like this and he'll recognise me as his haha…that's enough!"
Asia — she simply continued to shed tears, and sobbed. Tou-san faced Rizevim, the son of the Maou and bellowed!
"This child is our child! We won't allow you to lay a single finger on him!"
In that moment, my body radiated a warm aura, and it cloaked the four of us together—.
Part 4[edit]
Before I had realised — I was floating through a place which seemed like the Dimensional Gap. This is…reality? No, it didn't feel real. If I had to say what it was like, it was the same as when I saw the world in Akeno-san's heart during the fight with Loki—. A screen appeared before me all of a sudden. Displayed on the screen was the consultation room of an unfamiliar hospital. Inside were a doctor and…a very familiar male and female couple. Looking carefully, they appeared to be tou-san and kasan when they were young!? It felt as though I was looking at the younger version of my parents that I had only seen in photos. What was going on? This space is…tou-san's and kasan's memories? Could everything in their memories be seen through this display? Was I actually subconsciously using pailingual with kasan…? While my mind began to be filled with such questions, the doctor and my parents on the screen showed a sombre expression. The doctor told my parents
[—I'm very sorry, please give up on the child in your belly.]
Hearing this, kasan — burst into tears on the spot. Tou-san woefully supported kasan's shoulder. …Was this a scene from the obstetrics and gynecology department? It was a scene that I had never heard about before…. Just as I was lost in this confusion, kasan's voice reverberated within the space.
[When I discovered that my body would make it very difficult to give birth to children, it was a few years after I had married my husband. It was always difficult to conceive a child, and it was very difficult to finally become pregnant after all those years. But, because of my body…]
The scenery changed, and it became a familiar living room. It was my old house. Sitting on the sofa, kasan was still in tears.
[I'm sorry, my dear…]
As kasan continued to grieve and cry, tou-san comforted her.
[About that — you don't need to worry about it! Although the unborn child in your belly is very unfortunate, you can't give up! You can definitely give birth to our baby!]
…The child in her belly, their baby…. This, don't tell me…. Are these the events which occurred before I was born? But, was I not successfully born…? I was confused by this situation that I had not heard of at all. At this time, I heard kasan's voice again.
[Two years after that, there was another opportunity.]
The scenery changed again. On the screen, kasan was gently stroking her own belly with a joyful expression.
[This is great! We finally did it! It's okay! Everything's okay now!]
Tou-san was gleefully hopping up and down around the room. Amidst the vision of these memories, I saw my parents visit a bookstore where they bought many books about birth, and also childcare related books. They had purchased an excessive number of books, and were then immersed in reading them. In order to ensure their child's successful birth, they went to the obstetrics and gynecology department — the memories of their recurring consultations unfolded in front of me one by one.
[In order to ensure the birth of our child, my husband and I paid careful attention this time. We always attached great importance to the child in my belly—]
Once again, the display returned to the scene inside the consultation room of the obstetrics and gynecology department. The doctor solemnly explained to my parents as they had a look of despair on their faces
[Hyoudou-san, although it's painful for you, it's definitely not because of the things between the two of you, there are many other factors—]
On the way home in the snow, tou-san stopped in the middle of the road, and faced kasan as he spoke to her.
Chapter end
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