The morning after Azazel's visit found me in the castle's training grounds, eager to explore the full extent of my newly acquired Shadow Extraction abilities. The courtyard was spacious enough for experimentation, with reinforced stone walls that could withstand considerable magical stress.
*Time to understand exactly what I'm working with,* I thought, calling up the system information that had been granted after defeating the Hero Faction. The knowledge felt comprehensive but theoretical—like having a detailed manual for equipment I'd never actually operated.
**Shadow Storage**, or more accurately **Shadow Preservation** as the system had designated it, was the first ability I explored at its maximum level. I could store unlimited shadows within my own shadow and summon them instantly anywhere I desired. The sensory sharing was perfect—I could experience everything my shadows experienced simultaneously across vast distances, creating an omnipresent surveillance network that spanned dimensions.
*Complete omniscience within my domain,* I observed, feeling the absolute connection to every shadow under my command. *No blind spots, no communication delays, perfect coordination across unlimited distances.*
**Shadow Exchange** at its highest mastery transcended all conventional limitations. I could create shadow portals to any location I could visualize, regardless of distance or dimensional barriers. No cooldowns, no anchor points required, no energy costs—pure spatial dominance that treated the fabric of reality as my personal highway system.
*Absolute mobility,* I realized, effortlessly opening portals between different areas of the courtyard. *Every shadow in existence is a potential doorway. Every location I've ever seen is instantly accessible. This isn't just teleportation—this is sovereignty over space itself.*
But the most overwhelming ability was **Ruler's Authority** at its absolute pinnacle. This wasn't mere telekinesis—it was the fundamental force that Rulers used to impose their will upon reality. At maximum level, it was virtually impossible for any being to resist unless they possessed equivalent Ruler-level authority.
Testing the ability on a large stone block, I didn't even need to focus. My will became reality instantly. The stone responded not just to my commands, but to my intentions, desires, even unconscious thoughts. Multiple objects could be controlled simultaneously with perfect precision while I performed other tasks.
*This is dominion over existence itself,* I understood, feeling the absolute nature of the control. *Not just moving objects, but commanding reality to conform to my will. This is the power of a Sovereign.*
"Impressive display, my lord," came Elene's voice from the castle entrance. She approached with characteristic grace, though her expression carried curiosity about my morning activities.
"Just familiarizing myself with new capabilities," I replied, gently setting the stone block back in place. "How are territorial affairs progressing?"
"Quite well, actually. The formal recognition has eliminated most administrative complications, and the population seems to be adapting to the changed circumstances." She paused beside me, watching the shadows gradually return to their normal configurations. "Though there have been some interesting requests."
"Such as?"
"Several minor supernatural communities have inquired about potential alliance arrangements. Word travels quickly in supernatural circles, and your... management style... has generated considerable interest among various factions."
*Politics never sleeps,* I thought. *Though having other supernatural groups seek alliance rather than opposition is definitely preferable to the alternatives.*
"What's your assessment of these requests?"
"Mixed," Elene replied thoughtfully. "Some appear genuinely interested in beneficial partnerships. Others seem more concerned about potential threats and want protection arrangements. A few are clearly attempting to gather intelligence about the new power structure."
"Recommendations?"
"Selective engagement. There are several smaller supernatural communities whose leadership I'm familiar with from past diplomatic interactions. Their territories would provide strategic value without creating unnecessary complications." She produced a small scroll from her sleeve. "I've prepared preliminary assessments if you're interested in reviewing them."
*Delegation really is more efficient than trying to handle everything personally,* I noted, accepting the scroll. *Especially when the delegated authority has relevant expertise and demonstrated competence.*
"Excellent work. I'll review these this evening and we can discuss specific approaches tomorrow."
Before Elene could respond, familiar magical signatures appeared at the edge of my perception. My shadow soldiers were approaching—not the human shadows I'd created, but the three Hero Faction members I'd transformed.
*Perfect timing,* I realized. *I should test their capabilities while evaluating territorial defense arrangements.*
"Siegfried, Perseus, Leonardo, Heracles," I called, and the four shadow figures materialized from the darkness with fluid precision. "Report your current capabilities and available techniques."
Siegfried stepped forward first, his shadow form wreathed in dark energy that somehow enhanced rather than diminished his legendary presence. "My lord, I retain all sword techniques and combat experience from my original form, along with my mastery of demonic swords," he said, his silver-white hair now touched with shadow energy. "My abilities as 'Chaos Edge' Sieg and 'The Demonic Sword User' have been amplified through the transformation."
He demonstrated by summoning multiple demonic swords simultaneously, including the reconstructed Gram that now pulsed with both demonic power and shadow energy. Each weapon carried the malevolent power of legendary demonic armaments, enhanced by his new shadow nature.
*His specialization was always demonic sword mastery,* I observed. *The transformation preserved his ability to wield multiple cursed blades simultaneously while restoring even the weapons I destroyed.*
Perseus moved forward next, his neat brown hair now touched with shadow energy, though he still carried himself with the loyalty and dedication that marked his service to Cao Cao. "My lord, I retain the spirit of Perseus and my Sacred Gear abilities. The Aegis has been restored and enhanced through shadow power."
He materialized his legendary shield, which now radiated both divine protection and shadow enhancement. The reflection ability that could show the true form of anyone looking into it remained intact, while gaining new shadow-based powers.
*The Sacred Gear was preserved through the shadow extraction,* I noted. *Even destroyed equipment can be reconstituted as shadow versions with enhanced capabilities.*
Heracles filled most of the space as he stepped forward, his massive frame and arrogant demeanor intact despite the shadow transformation. "My lord, I am Heracles! My legendary strength and the power of my Sacred Gear remain, enhanced by shadow power! The Variant Detonation can now create explosions infused with shadow energy!"
He demonstrated by creating a controlled explosion in his palm—the signature ability of his Sacred Gear now carried darkness that could affect both physical and spiritual targets.
Finally, Leonardo approached—a short, young boy who remained characteristically quiet and expressionless. Unlike the others who spoke, Leonardo simply nodded, maintaining his pattern of never speaking aloud. Instead, he demonstrated his abilities directly.
Shadow-enhanced creatures began materializing around him, created through his restored Annihilation Maker Longinus. The anti-monsters were now infused with shadow energy, making them far more dangerous than their original forms while retaining their specialized design for countering specific supernatural threats.
*His Longinus has been perfectly preserved,* I realized. *The shadow extraction process maintains all abilities while adding shadow enhancement. Even a Top-tier Longinus remains functional.*
*Each shadow retained their distinctive specializations while gaining shadow-enhanced capabilities,* I noted. *This makes them significantly more valuable than their original forms for defensive purposes.*
"Excellent," I said. "Your assignment is territorial defense and population protection. Siegfried, establish patrol routes and defensive positions. Perseus, create monitoring zones around key population centers. Leonardo, develop early warning systems and communication networks. Heracles, handle any direct threats that require overwhelming force."
"Understood, my lord," all three replied in perfect unison, their mental connections allowing for instantaneous coordination.
As they began implementing their assignments with supernatural efficiency, I turned back to Elene, who had been watching the demonstration with visible awe.
"That should address most security concerns," I said. "Having legendary heroes as dedicated guardians provides protection few territories could match."
"Indeed," she replied, though her voice carried a hint of philosophical concern. "Though I must ask—do you ever have doubts about the transformation process? They were human once."
*An interesting question,* I thought. *She's probing whether I have moral reservations about the methods I employ.*
"They made their choice when they attacked people under my protection," I replied honestly. "The alternative was permanent elimination. At least this way, their capabilities serve constructive purposes rather than being wasted."
Elene nodded thoughtfully but didn't press the matter further. Her expression suggested acceptance rather than judgment.
---
Later that afternoon, I was reviewing territorial reports when Valerie approached with an expression of hopeful determination that immediately caught my attention.
"Akira," she began, settling into the chair across from my desk, "I was hoping we could discuss something important."
"Of course. What's on your mind?"
"Now that the situation between Carmilla and Tepes has been resolved, I'd like to return to Kuoh," she said, her voice carrying both excitement and nervous anticipation. "I want to see Gasper again."
*Understandable,* I thought. *She's been separated from someone important to her during a period of considerable upheaval. Now that stability has been established, naturally she'd want to reconnect.*
"That's perfectly reasonable," I replied. "When would you like to leave?"
"As soon as possible, if that's alright with you." Her relief at my immediate acceptance was clearly visible. "I know there have been a lot of changes recently, but Gasper is... well, he's like family to me."
"Family connections are important," I agreed. "Especially after everything you've been through recently."
Valerie's expression brightened considerably. "Thank you for understanding. I was worried you might think it was poor timing with everything that's been happening."
*Actually, the timing is quite good,* I reflected. *The territory is stable, diplomatic arrangements are progressing smoothly, and having some distance from recent events might be beneficial for everyone involved.*
"Would you prefer to travel alone, or would you like company for the journey?"
"Well..." she hesitated, clearly having thought about this already, "I was hoping Xenovia might come along, if she's willing. We've gotten quite comfortable traveling together."
*Their partnership has developed naturally,* I noted. *Valerie's noble background complements Xenovia's straightforward approach, while Xenovia's authenticity seems to help Valerie relax her formal conditioning.*
"I'm sure she'd be happy to accompany you. Though I should mention—I'll be using Shadow Exchange for transportation rather than conventional travel methods."
"Shadow Exchange?"
I explained the teleportation ability briefly, noting her fascination with the concept. "It's instantaneous and completely secure. We can be in Kuoh within minutes rather than hours."
"That's... incredible," she said, her academic curiosity clearly engaged. "The magical principles must be extraordinarily complex."
"They operate on different foundations than traditional magic," I agreed. "More spatial manipulation than energy projection."
As if summoned by our conversation, Xenovia appeared in the doorway with her usual direct approach. "I heard you mention Kuoh. Are we returning home?"
"If you'd like to come along," Valerie replied hopefully. "I want to visit Gasper, and Akira offered to transport us using shadow magic."
Xenovia's expression brightened immediately. "Of course I'll come. I've been wondering how everyone at the Academy has been managing without us."
*Their enthusiasm is refreshing,* I thought. *It's clear they both consider Kuoh their primary home base, despite recent adventures in vampire politics.*
"Then it's settled," I said, standing from behind the desk. "We can leave this evening if you'd prefer."
"What about territorial responsibilities?" Valerie asked, her sense of duty clearly conflicting with her personal desires.
"Elene and Elmenhilde are perfectly capable of handling routine matters," I replied. "The shadow soldiers provide security, diplomatic arrangements are progressing smoothly, and there are no immediate crises requiring my attention."
*Besides,* I added mentally, *maintaining connections with the Occult Research Club serves strategic purposes as well as personal ones. Staying informed about Kuoh Academy's supernatural activities could prove valuable.*
"And Jeanne?" Xenovia asked. "Will she be joining us?"
I considered this briefly. "I think she might prefer to remain here for now. She's still adjusting to her new circumstances, and spending time with Elene and Elmenhilde might help her find her footing."
"That makes sense," Valerie agreed. "The transition from enemy to ally is probably more complex for someone with her background."
*Religious conditioning can be particularly difficult to overcome,* I reflected. *Having time to observe how the territory actually functions under my authority might help her reconcile her moral framework with practical realities.*
---
As evening approached, I found Jeanne in the castle's library, absorbed in what appeared to be historical texts about supernatural governance. Her concentration was complete, but she looked up when I approached.
"Fascinating reading?" I asked, noting the variety of books scattered around her workspace.
"Enlightening," she replied, marking her place with a silk bookmark. "I'm trying to understand how different supernatural communities have handled transitions in leadership throughout history."
*Academic research as a coping mechanism,* I observed. *She's trying to contextualize recent events within broader historical patterns. A healthy approach for someone struggling with major philosophical adjustments.*
"Finding any relevant precedents?"
"Several, actually. Though most historical examples involved considerably more violence and instability than what occurred here." She gestured at the texts around her. "Your approach was remarkably... efficient."
"Efficient resolution of conflicts tends to minimize long-term complications," I agreed. "Did you want to discuss anything specific about the transition?"
"Actually, I was hoping you might allow me to remain here while you visit Kuoh," she said, her request matching my expectations. "Elene and Elmenhilde have offered to continue my education about vampire society and supernatural politics. I think that knowledge would be valuable."
*Exactly as I'd anticipated,* I thought. *She's choosing to understand her new environment rather than immediately returning to familiar territory. Another indication of genuine adaptive capacity.*
"That sounds like an excellent use of your time," I replied. "They're both knowledgeable about supernatural politics, and having diverse perspectives on governance methods could prove valuable."
"Thank you," she said with obvious relief. "I'll ensure the territory remains secure during your absence."
"I'm confident it will be. Between you, Elene, Elmenhilde, and the shadow soldiers, security should be more than adequate."
---
The departure preparations were surprisingly simple thanks to Shadow Exchange. No travel arrangements, no security concerns, no coordination with conventional transportation systems—simply the selection of an appropriate arrival point and the activation of spatial manipulation.
I'd chosen to emerge in the clearing behind Kuoh Academy, a location that provided privacy while being within easy walking distance of the school dormitories. The shadow of a large tree would serve as the arrival point, minimizing the chance of startling any ordinary humans who might witness our sudden appearance.
"Ready?" I asked Valerie and Xenovia, who were standing beside me in the castle's main hall.
"As ready as we'll ever be, for magical teleportation," Xenovia replied with her characteristic directness, though her expression carried anticipation rather than concern.
Valerie nodded, though she was clearly fascinated by the magical preparations. "Will there be any physical sensations during the transfer?"
"Minimal," I replied, activating Shadow Exchange. "You might feel a moment of disorientation, but nothing uncomfortable."
The world shifted around us with that peculiar sensation of stepping through dimensional barriers. One moment we were standing in the vampire castle's elegant interior, the next we were emerging from the shadow of a large oak tree in Kuoh's central park.
The evening air was noticeably different—less mystically charged than vampire territory, but carrying the familiar scents and sounds of a human community with supernatural undercurrents.
"Incredible," Valerie breathed, looking around with obvious delight. "It's like no time passed at all, but we traveled hundreds of miles."
"I know, it's cool, right?" I confirmed, noting that the magical signature of our arrival was already dissipating. "No trace of the transfer method remains, and we're exactly where we intended to be, in just a blink of an eye"
Xenovia was already orientating herself toward the Academy buildings visible in the distance. "Sigh!" she said with satisfaction. "It's good to be back."
*Their comfort with this environment is obvious,* I observed, noting how both women immediately relaxed once they recognized familiar surroundings. *Kuoh really has become their primary spot of relaxation.*
As we walked through the park toward the Academy, I found myself appreciating the normalcy of ordinary human environments after days of vampire politics and supernatural diplomacy. The sounds of evening traffic, distant conversations, and everyday life created a peaceful backdrop that was quite different from the mystical intensity of supernatural territories.
"So," I said conversationally as we approached the Academy gates, "what's our first priority once we arrive?"
"Finding Gasper," Valerie replied immediately. "Though I should probably check in with the Occult Research Club as well. They might be wondering what happened to us after we disappeared so suddenly."
"They definitely noticed," Xenovia agreed with a slight smile. "Knowing Rias, she's probably been worrying about whether we got ourselves killed or captured."
*Speaking of the Occult Research Club,* I thought, *it might be wise to update them on recent developments. Having their leadership understand my current status could prevent potential complications later. But Sirzechs already know that, I don't think it needs any further briefing*
"Would you like me to accompany you for the reunion, or would you prefer to handle them privately?"
"Please come with us," Valerie said quickly. "I think they'd appreciate knowing exactly what happened, and your presence would probably answer a lot of questions they'd otherwise spend time speculating about."
"Besides," Xenovia added practically, "they're going to find out about your new status eventually. Better to handle explanations directly than let rumors spread."
"Not yet, I got some business to take care of with Azazel, you guys go ahead" I waved at them as I was about to pay visit to Black Dog Bar, to check on Asia as well. She must be doing great as she willingly pushes herself hard for other people sake. Seeing them sigh, I just smiled and motioned them to have some fun after all that warfare.
As they passed through the Academy gates and headed toward the dormitories where Gasper and the Occult Research Club typically gathered in the evenings, I reflected on how much had changed since our departure. We'd left as individuals seeking resolution to vampire political disputes, and we were returning with formal diplomatic recognition and significantly enhanced capabilities.
*The question,* I thought, watching Valerie's excitement build as they approached familiar territory, *is how successfully we'll balance our new responsibilities with the relationships and obligations we maintained here.*
But that was a bridge we'd cross when we reached it. For now, it was enough to be returning home with mission accomplished and partnerships strengthened.
. . .
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