Chapter 51: Chapter 51
I found myself standing on black stone that stretched forever. The sky above was deep red with gold veins running through it like lightning frozen in time. Chunks of rock floated in the air, covered in green fire that didn't burn.
This place felt old. Really old.
"So, you finally notice me."
I turned around and froze.
The dragon was massive—easily the size of a building. Black scales covered its body, but silver lines pulsed through them like a heartbeat. When it looked at me with those burning gold eyes, I felt like an insect under a microscope.
"What the hell are you?"
"I am what lives within Incursio," it said, voice rumbling through my bones. "The Holy Water of Life awakened me fully when you drank it."
My stomach dropped. "You've been conscious this whole time?"
"I was Dormant. Until that divine essence gave me strength." Its massive head tilted. "Listen carefully. If you push Incursio beyond its current limits, I will take control of your body and consciousness. Permanently."
"What do you mean, permanently?"
"Your mind will cease to exist. Even the Holy Water of Life cannot save you once I take over completely."
I stared at it, confused. "Why are you warning me? Wouldn't you want to take my body?"
Something like amusement flickered in those gold eyes. "Perhaps once. But this world has Great Red, Ophis, the Heavenly Dragons, Maou-class devils. If I take your body, I must face them all. I prefer remaining safely bound to your mortality."
The dragon leaned closer. "But if you force my hand by being reckless, I will not hesitate to survive. Everything you seek to protect will burn in my wake."
The black stone began cracking beneath my feet.
"Remember this warning," it said as everything shattered.
I jolted awake, gasping and covered in sweat. The dragon's words echoed in my head.
Shit. All this time I've been carrying around something that could destroy everything I care about.*
I looked at my left, where Incursio usually rested. For the first time since getting this power, I was genuinely afraid of it.
After breakfast, I called from the living room. "Asia, Valerie, can you come here for a minute?"
They walked in—Asia wiping her hands on a towel, Valerie carrying her morning coffee.
"You look terrible," Valerie said, sitting on the couch. "What happened?"
"Bad dream." I pulled out the Bishop and Knight pieces, setting them on the coffee table.
Both girls went quiet.
"Things are getting dangerous," I said. "Listen, There are people who want me dead, and they won't hesitate to hurt you two to get to me" I continued "These could give you the power to protect yourselves. So are you girls up for it?"
Asia picked up the Bishop piece, examining it carefully. "I would... I would still be me, right?"
"Yes. Not, Just stronger, but faster as well. You would probably gain increase in mana and would help your combat improve significantly."
"And we'd be part of your peerage," Valerie said, studying the Knight piece. "Connected."
"Right. It'd be great in giving a boost to your abilities when in trouble."
Asia was quiet for a moment, holding the piece with both hands. "If... if I could help more people... heal them better..." She looked up with those gentle green eyes. "I would like to try."
Valerie nodded. "I've read enough about devil society to understand the benefits. And I'm curious about what magical abilities I might develop."
"You're both sure? Once this happens, there's no going back."
"We're sure," they said together, then laughed.
I stood and began tracing the magic circle. Silver light followed my movements, creating the pattern on the floor. When I completed it, power filled the room.
"Asia, step into the center."
She walked forward without hesitation. I held up the Bishop piece.
"Asia Argento, do you accept becoming my Bishop?"
"Yes... I accept," she said softly.
I released the piece. It floated toward her, glowing until it touched her chest. Light exploded through the room. Asia gasped, but her expression was wonder, not pain.
When the light faded, she moved differently—more graceful. Her eyes held a new depth.
"How do you feel?"
"It's... it's strange. But in a good way. Like there's more warmth inside me now... it feels good. Stronger, maybe?"
Valerie stepped into the center next. I held up the Knight piece.
"Valerie Tepes, do you accept becoming my Knight?"
"I do," she said with that smile that always made me smile in adoration.
The Knight piece merged with her in another flash of light. When it cleared, the change was more obvious—she stood taller, moved with fluid precision.
"This is amazing," she said, sparks dancing between her fingers. "The speed enhancement, the magical potential...it feels increased"
I dissolved the circle and sat back down, exhausted but relieved. I could sense them now—their presence, their emotions. It was intimate in a way I hadn't expected.
We're connected now. Whatever comes next, we face it together.*
Two magic circles suddenly appeared—one red, one blue. I paused with my tea halfway to my lips, then set it down as Rias and Sona materialized.
Asia and Valerie immediately flanked me as I stood. The new bond made them react to my alertness.
Both devil heiresses looked more worried than I'd ever seen them.
"What's wrong?" I asked, though I suspected I knew.
"Kokabiel," Rias said immediately. "The fallen angel Xenovia mentioned. He's decided to start a war."
Of course he has.* I sighed internally. *First Vali with his battle obsession, now this maniac. Is Azazel the only sane person in his group?*
"He plans to destroy Kuoh Academy first," Sona added, her composure cracking. "Then the entire town. He wants to reignite the Great War."
Another bored immortal with nothing better to do than cause mass destruction.*
I looked at their panicked faces, then felt Asia and Valerie's steady presence through our bond. At least now I knew they could defend themselves.
Time to see what my peerage can do.*
Chapter 52: Chapter 52
I looked between Rias and Sona, their worried faces telling me everything I needed to know about the gravity of the situation.
"Contact your siblings," I said plainly. "They can handle Kokabiel without breaking a sweat. See, it's that simple"
Rias immediately shook her head. "No. I'm confident, together we can defeat Kokabiel ourselves."
Here we go again.* I sighed mentally. *She didn't learn anything from the Rating Game against Riser. Her overconfidence is going to be the big hurdle for her to climb over*
Sona pushed up her glasses "I would prefer not to involve my sister. Should Serafall learn that Kokabiel is targeting me directly... the collateral damage would likely extend far beyond acceptable parameters. Japan itself might not survive her response."
"Sounds like she cares about you," I commented.
"Only if you knew," Sona muttered under her breath.
I rubbed my temples. Two stubborn devil heiresses with pride issues. Perfect.
"Fine. What's the plan then?"
Sona straightened "The most logical approach would be for my peerage to establish and maintain a containment barrier around the academy grounds. This will prevent civilian casualties and contain any collateral damage. Simultaneously, you and Rias's peerage will engage Kokabiel in direct combat."
I nodded. It was a solid strategy, even if I wished we had backup. "I'm in."
"We'll head to the academy first," Rias said, her confidence still radiating despite the circumstances.
"I'll be there shortly," I assured them.
Both magic circles flared, and they vanished, leaving me alone with Asia and Valerie.
I turned to face my two newly reincarnated companions. Asia remained human but was now my Bishop, while Valerie maintained her dhampir nature as my Knight. They were trying to hide their nervousness, but I could feel their emotions through our bond.
"Alright, listen to me," I said "This is going to be your first real battle since joining my peerage. You're both stronger now, but strength means nothing if fear controls you."
Asia fidgeted with her hands, unconsciously touching the hilt of Ingvild—the divine sword I'd given her for protection some time ago. "I... I've never been in a real fight before."
"And that's okay. Your job isn't to fight—it's to keep everyone alive. But Asia," I looked directly into her gentle green eyes, "you cannot be afraid. In battle, hesitation is a big problem to deal with. Trust your instincts, trust your power, and trust us to protect you. Ingvild will react and defend you automatically, but stay alert."
She nodded, determination replacing some of the fear as her grip on the divine sword's hilt steadied.
I turned to Valerie. "You're my Knight now. Use Spirit Spear Chastiefol—its versatility will give you options in any situation. But watch your back. Kokabiel isn't some street thug. He's a ten-winged fallen angel with centuries of combat experience. Don't go straight for him, alright?"
"Understood," Valerie said, chasteifol swirling around her fingers.
I began tracing a teleportation circle beneath us, silver light spreading across the floor. "Ready?"
"Ready," they said together.
The circle flared, and we vanished.
We materialized outside Kuoh Academy just as Sona's peerage finished establishing their barrier. The translucent dome shimmered around the entire school grounds, sealing off the area from the outside world.
Rias was waiting with her peerage—Akeno, Koneko, and Issei.
"About time," Rias said, though relief was clear in her voice.
"My, this should be interesting," Akeno said quietly.
Koneko just nodded grimly, her usual stoic expression even more serious.
"This feels different from when we faced Riser," Issei muttered, looking toward the academy.
I could feel the oppressive aura emanating from within the barrier.
"The barrier has been successfully established and is operating within optimal parameters," Sona reported through her communication spell. "Current projections indicate we can maintain structural integrity for approximately six hours under normal combat conditions."
I looked up at the shimmering dome, then at the academy grounds beyond. Through the windows, I could see flashes of light and shadows moving.
"He's not alone," I observed, extending my senses "There are two more individuals with him and one of them seems to be holding multiple swords. Merging them?"
Rias frowned. "What do you mean?"
The memory of Freed's insanity flashed through my mind. At least that particular madman was dead and gone. "They're trying to fuse the Excalibur fragments into something more dangerous."
"Then we stop them before they succeed," Rias declared.
I felt Asia and Valerie's nervousness spike, but they called down when I nodded at them. Their trust in my capabilities was way beyond the terror of Kokabeil.
"Alright," I said, taking out Incursio sword in my hand, in response to my rising battle instincts—though I kept the dragon's warning firmly in mind. "Let's get done with this"
We approached the barrier's entrance, where Sona had left a small gap for us to pass through. As we stepped onto the academy grounds, three figures awaited us.
Kokabiel sat casually in an ornate chair that floated several meters above the ground, his pairs of black wings spread wide behind him. He was a tall, pale man with long black hair and narrow, blood-red eyes. Unlike other Fallen Angels, he had pointy, elf-like ears. He wore a black robe with detailed accessories, and his presence radiated the kind of ancient malice that came from millennia of bitterness and war.
Below him, a short, bespectacled elderly man with gray hair and a mustache worked frantically over several glowing sword fragments, his black eyes gleaming with obsession as he muttered incantations in his priest outfit.
Beside the working priest stood another figure—a younger man with wild eyes and a manic grin, clutching modified holy weapons with the unmistakable identity of a stray exorcist.
"Valper Galilei," a new voice said from behind us, filled with recognition and hatred.
We turned to see Kiba approaching, his usual calm demeanor replaced by barely controlled rage. His hand gripped his sword hilt so tightly that he might jump on said man, any moment.
"Kiba!" Rias called out, but he was already moving past us, his eyes locked on the old man.
The elderly priest looked up from his work, while the stray exorcist's manic grin widened at the sight of us. "Ah, more test subjects for my beautiful creation," the priest said with calculated madness. "How thoughtful."
The stray exorcist laughed, a sound that reminded me too much of Freed's insanity. "It's time to spill lots of blood!"
Kokabiel's narrow red eyes fixed on our group, and when he smiled, it was filled with bloodthirsty anticipation.
"Finally," he said, his voice carrying both authority and barely contained excitement for battle. "I was beginning to grow bored waiting. Though I must say, I'm disappointed the Satans themselves didn't come to play with me."
I stepped forward, feeling Incursio's power coursing through me while keeping careful control over it. The dragon's warning echoed in my mind—I had to be in control. No reckless moves.
"Sorry to disappoint," I said, my voice steady despite the overwhelming presence before us. "But you'll have to settle for us."
Kokabiel's laughter was sharp and aggressive, filled with a warlord's hunger for conflict.
"How amusing. Let's see if you can provide some entertainment before I wreck this pathetic peace"
. . .
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Chapter 53: Chapter 53
Kokabiel's smile turned predatory as he swirled his fingers. "Allow me to introduce my pets."
Two massive magic circles flared to life beside him. From them emerged two colossal three-headed Cerberus, each one towering over the school building. Their roars made the ground tremble beneath our feet.
I tightened my grip on Incursio, but Valerie stepped forward, Chastiefol spinning lazily around her.
"I'll handle them," she said quietly.
I glanced at her. "Both of them?"
She nodded, meeting my eyes with steady determination. "I won't let you down."
She's grown stronger since joining my peerage* I thought, feeling a surge of pride. *And more confident. This is what I wanted to see from her.* Something in her tone convinced me completely. "Alright. Show me what you've got."
Rias shot into the air, her crimson hair whipping behind her. "Akeno, you and the others handle that Cerberus. I'll take Kokabiel myself."
"Ara ara~ How exciting," Akeno purred, her sadistic smile already forming as lightning crackled around her fingers.
Valerie positioned herself between Asia and the right Cerberus. "Chastiefol, Form Four."
The spirit spear transformed into a massive golden sunflower, energy beams shooting from each petal. The Cerberus howled as the attacks struck, but barely flinched.
"Tougher than it looks," Valerie muttered, then called out again. "Form Two."
The sunflower collapsed and reformed into a towering green black patched bear that charged the three-headed beast head-on. With few strikes from him and koneko's heavy punches, it landed face first to the ground, seeing this opportunity, Ingrid did what he does best.
Asia stayed close to cover, her hands clasped together nervously. "I-I'll do my best to help everyone..." she whispered, her gentle nature showing even in the midst of battle. Ingvild's divine presence shimmered protectively around her.
The clash of metal drew my attention. Kiba had engaged the stray exorcist, who was swinging around what looked like several Excalibur fragments welded together.
"Still playing with broken toys?" Xenovia's voice cut through the air as she landed behind the exorcist, Durandal gleaming.
The exorcist spun around with a manic grin. "Two for the price of one! Perfect!"
While they fought, green vines suddenly erupted around Valper Galilei, wrapping around his throat and cutting off his incantations.
"Form Seven," Valerie said under her breath, somehow managing both the bear construct and the vine restraints simultaneously.
Impressive. She's using multiple forms at once without losing focus. My knight is exceeding my expectations.*
The old priest struggled against the vines, his face turning purple as his Excalibur fusion ritual began to collapse. In desperation, he managed to gasp out words between the choking vines.
"The... the sword fragments... they're not just weapons!" Valper wheezed. "They're... monuments to a lie! God... God isn't watching over them anymore! Or else it wouldn't have been interrupted"
Kokabiel's attention snapped to his subordinate, and a cruel smile spread across his face. "Ah, how fitting. Even a pathetic human heretic speaks the truth." His voice grew louder, addressing everyone on the battlefield. "Yes! Let me enlighten you all about the reality you refuse to face!"
"You fools still believe in your pathetic charade!" Kokabiel's voice boomed with centuries of accumulated bitterness. "I'll tell you the truth that will shatter your delusions - God has been dead since the Great War! Your prayers fall on deaf ears!"
"This is impossible!" Rias's usual composure cracked as she hovered unsteadily. "The Church... the angels... they would never..." "This is seriously messed up!" Issei shouted, his Boosted Gear flickering. "First fallen angels, now this?! I just wanted a normal high school life!"
"Lord... Lord, that cannot..." Asia's voice trembled, her faith shaking to its very core. She stumbled slightly, one hand reaching for her cross pendant.
Xenovia's entire body went rigid, her knuckles white as she gripped Durandal. "You're lying," she said flatly, but there was a crack in her usually unwavering voice.
Interesting* I thought, leaning against a nearby tree. *So Kokabiel's using psychological warfare now. Smart, but...* I watched as the revelation shattered everyone's morale. *If God really is dead, then what about Runeas? The devils think she died in the war too, but I know better. There's more to this story than even Kokabiel realizes.*
The emotional impact on my allies was immediate and devastating. I could see it in their movements—hesitation where there had been confidence, fear where there had been determination. *This is exactly what he wanted. Break their spirits before breaking their bodies.*
From my vantage point, I watched Rias and her team get steadily beaten down. Even with Issei using Transfer to boost them, they couldn't scratch Kokabiel. Xenovia and Kiba joined the air battle but fared no better, after they took care of stray exorcist and Valper.
They're falling apart* I realized with growing concern. *Rias is second-guessing every move, Akeno's lost her usual sadistic confidence, and the others are just trying not to get killed.*
"Aren't you going to help?" Valerie asked, appearing beside me after her Cerberus collapsed into golden particles.
I watched Rias take another hit that sent her tumbling. "She said her peerage could handle it."
"They're getting destroyed."
She's right. My pride isn't worth watching them die.* The sight of Asia cowering behind debris, tears streaming down her face as her entire worldview crumbled, made something twist in my chest. *Enough of this.*
She was right. Kokabiel was toying with them now, and it was getting ugly. *I can't just stand here and watch them suffer because of my stubborn principles.*
I pushed off from the tree. "Yeah, okay. Enough of this."
Time to remind everyone why dragons are apex predators.*
Drawing Incursio, I let its power flow through me. Golden light erupted as the armor materialized, but this time it felt different—stronger. *The dragon's power is responding to my emotions. My anger at seeing my allies broken, my determination to end this.* Massive golden wings burst from my back as I launched myself skyward.
Let's see how a war maniac handles a real dragon.*
"Finally!" Kokabiel's eyes lit up with genuine excitement. "A real opponent!"
I hovered opposite him, wings beating slowly. *He's enjoying this. The chaos, the despair, the violence. Everything I despise about pointless conflict.* "Sorry I'm late. You looked so pathetic I wasn't sure you were worth the effort."
His face darkened. "You arrogant little—"
A light spear the size of a telephone pole materialized in his hand. The same attack that had leveled part of the school earlier. He hurled it with everything he had.
I caught it in my right hand.
The spear simply... dissolved. Absorbed completely.
All those encounters with fallen angels finally paid off. Every light attack they threw at me, every time I had to adapt and overcome—it all led to this moment.*
"What the hell?!" Issei shouted from below.
"Impossible," Kokabiel breathed.
I flexed my fingers. "Thanks to your underlings, for the gift they gave me. Light attacks don't really work on me anymore." I shrugged. "Got anything else, or is this it?"
His response was to unleash everything—dozens of light spears filled the air.
I swatted them aside like they were made of paper. Some I absorbed, others I just knocked away. *Pathetic. Is this really the best a ten-winged fallen angel can do? No wonder the war ended in stalemate.*
"How disappointing," I said, dodging another incoming spear "Here I thought a war-hungry maniac would be more entertaining. You're just a bitter old fool throwing a tantrum."
That did it. Kokabiel's face contorted with rage, but before he could respond, I was already moving.
Time to end this*
My fist connected with his stomach before he even saw me coming. The impact launched him into the ground with enough force to crater the academy courtyard.
That felt good. Maybe too good.* I floated above the crater, looking down at him. *Control yourself, Akira. You're sounding like him. Don't become what he is.* Kokabiel lay there, covered in dirt and blood, hatred burning in his eyes.
"I never imagined... when we crossed swords in spar, you held back this much," Xenovia said, her voice filled with genuine awe and a hint of warrior's respect.
"If I'd used this against you in our spar..." I glanced down at her.
Xenovia managed a weak smile despite her injuries. "I would have been annihilated before I could even react."
"Hey partner," Ddraig's voice rumbled from Issei's gauntlet, "I can sense incredible draconic power from him, but it's... different. Unlike anything in my memories."
"Ddraig, please don't give him ideas about fighting me!" Issei's voice cracked with panic. "I'd rather not become a red stain on the ground!"
Down in the crater, I called out, "Come on, get up. Don't fall down so soon, I didn't even get to use my Bungee Gum."
He's not done yet. I can see it in his eyes—that desperate fury of someone who refuses to accept defeat.*
Kokabiel snarled and summoned another Cerberus behind me.
Predictable.* I didn't even turn around. A golden spear materialized in my hand, and in five quick slashes, the beast was in pieces. *Is this really the caliber of opponent that had everyone so worried?*
"Time to meet your Lord," I said, pointing the spear at him.
Moving faster than anyone could track, I hit him with a combination that would have killed a lesser being instantly. When I was done, I flicked the blood off my spear and watched him fall.
It's over.* The satisfaction felt hollow somehow. *Another enemy defeated, another crisis averted. But seeing everyone's faith shattered like that...*
The Incursio armor faded as I drank from a vial of holy water, healing the backlash damage. Looking down at Kokabiel's still form, I thought it was finally over.
At least Asia and the others can start picking up the pieces now—*
Then the barrier shattered like glass.
Of course. It's never that simple.*
Standing in the sky above us, white wings spread wide, was Vali.
. . .
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Chapter 54: Chapter 54
The magical barrier shattered like glass, fragments dissolving into sparkling motes of light as they fell. Standing in the sky above us, pristine white wings spread wide against the night, was the White Dragon Emperor in his Balance Breaker armor.
Vali's silver and white form descended slowly, his armored gaze fixed specifically on me as I stood beside Kokabeil's lifeless body. The fallen angel's blood still stained my hands, and I could feel everyone's tension ratchet up another notch.
"Oh no, not him too!" Issei's voice cracked as he stumbled backward. "First Kokabiel, now this white armored dude or maybe a girl hehe...Can't we catch a break?!"
"This is bad," Rias muttered, crimson energy already flickering around her fingers despite her exhaustion. "If they fight here, the entire academy could be destroyed."
Akeno's usual playful demeanor had completely vanished, replaced by grim calculation. "Ara... this is troublesome. After that display of power, if these two clash..."
Even Koneko, normally stoic, took an unconscious step back. "The destruction would be immeasurable."
Vali's armored boots touched the ground with barely a sound. His helm turned toward the Kokabeil's corpse, then back to me. Despite the armor concealing his features, I could sense his assessment.
"Looks like I was late," he said casually, reaching down to hoist Kokabeil's lifeless form under his arm like a sack of grain. The casual disrespect for the fallen angel's corpse was somehow more chilling than any threat.
He straightened and faced me directly. "I'm not interested in fighting you right now." There was something almost amused in his tone. "But it will be sooner than you think."
I met his gaze through the armor's visor. "I'll be ready to face you anytime, any place."
A smirk was audible in his voice as he prepared to launch skyward, but Ddraig's ancient rumble stopped him cold.
"Albion," the Red Dragon Emperor's voice echoed from Issei's gauntlet, heavy with centuries of rivalry. "Are you ignoring me?"
The response came not from Vali, but from within him—Albion's voice, cold and dismissive. "I think your current host is far too weak, Ddraig. He should get stronger quickly, or I'm shifting my rivalry from you to this human."
Wait, what?* I thought, sweatdropping internally. *I didn't agree to be anyone's rival. One dragon-related headache is enough.*
"Later," Vali said simply, gathering the stray exorcist's body as well before his white wings spread wide. In a flash of silver light, he was gone, leaving only the lingering scent of ozone and the weight of his unspoken promise.
Back at home, I found myself in the familiar warmth of my living room, the chaos of the academy battle feeling like a distant nightmare. Valerie sat cross-legged on the floor while Asia perched nervously on the edge of the couch.
"You both handled everything well tonight," I said, settling into my favorite chair. The exhaustion was starting to catch up with me now that the adrenaline had faded.
Asia's eyes widened with surprise and pleasure. "R-really? I barely did anything..."
"You kept everyone healed and provided crucial support," I reached over and patted her head gently. "That takes real courage when everything around you is falling apart."
Her face lit up with a radiant smile, but I caught Valerie's envious glance out of the corner of my eye.
"What about me?" Valerie asked with exaggerated casualness, though her fidgeting betrayed her. "I did well too, didn't I?"
I chuckled and extended my other hand to pat her head as well. "I'm proud to see you act so courageously. You handled those Cerberus like a true knight of my peerage."
Her smile was brilliant as she leaned into the gentle touch.
Retracting my hands, I stretched my arms high above my head. "Alright, I want to get some rest after such a tiresome fight."
Valerie deadpanned. "You fought for like a minute."
"Fighting makes me hungry," I said with a theatrical sigh.
"I'll cook something!" Asia immediately jumped up, ever eager to help. Ingvild's sword form began bouncing excitedly around her as she headed toward the kitchen, the blade somehow managing to convey pure joy through its movements.
Once we were alone, I turned to Valerie with a knowing look. "Alright, ask whatever you're having trouble with."
She sighed deeply. "You know me too well."
"Let me guess—it's about me killing one of the Fallen Angel leaders, and my deal with Azazel?"
She nodded profusely. "Won't Azazel come after you now? I mean, you did just kill one of his cadre..."
I stretched out on the couch, letting my body finally relax. "Azazel won't give an order to attack a devil's base while claiming to be at peace. If he wanted to start a war, he wouldn't have just sent Kokabiel alone, and then had Vali avoid fighting us directly." I closed my eyes. "Kokabiel acted on his own, so you don't need to worry about Azazel troubling me. Relax."
Relief flooded her features as she settled beside me on the couch. "I was worried you might end up fighting Azazel because of all this."
"Even if that happens," I said quietly, "I won't step back if it means protecting you." Her face flushed beautifully. "And Asia too."
She twitched slightly at the addition, shooting me a look that suggested she knew exactly what I was doing.
"You're cute when you're easy to tease," I said, reaching over to pat her head again.
She blushed deeper but didn't pull away, clearly enjoying the affection despite her embarrassment.
Later, alone in my room, I reflected on the night's events. The academy battle felt like a turning point—not just for the supernatural world, but for my own people. Valerie and Asia had both shown real growth tonight. Valerie's confidence in combat, her ability to multitask with Chastiefol in different forms, the way she'd stepped up when it mattered most. And Asia, despite her shattered faith, had found the courage to keep supporting everyone even when her entire worldview crumbled around her.
They're becoming stronger. More confident. This is what I wanted to see.*
A familiar blue screen materialized in front of me, glowing softly in the darkness.
[GACHA SYSTEM ACTIVATED*
[RANK 9 GACHA TICKET ACQUIRED - KOKABIEL ELIMINATION REWARD*
I raised an eyebrow. *Rank 9? That's higher than usual.* My finger hovered over the activation button before pressing it.
The screen flashed, and my eyes widened at the result.
[SAGE'S EYE ACQUIRED*
The Sage's Eye? From The God of High School?* My heart rate picked up as I read the description. *This is... incredible. But...*
A new notification appeared:
[INSTALLATION OPTIONS*
[1. FOREHEAD PLACEMENT - THIRD EYE CONFIGURATION*
[2. OCULAR REPLACEMENT - SUBSTITUTE EXISTING EYE*
I frowned, weighing the options. *Having a third eye on my forehead would be impossible to walk around without explaining how I got it. I'd have to wear a bandana for the rest of my life, and that's just asking for unwanted attention, cause how long can I possibly hide it* The choice was obvious, even if it felt daunting.
Replace one of my existing eyes it is.*
I selected the second option, and immediately felt a cool sensation wash over my right eye. Then the pain hit.
It was like someone was carving into my skull with a molten blade. I dropped to my knees, clutching my face as waves of agony crashed over me. Sweat poured down my face as I bit back screams that would wake the entire house.
When it finally subsided, I stumbled to the mirror with shaking hands. My reflection showed my right eye had completely transformed—the iris is now a deep crimson with white omega symbol pupil within it. It's easier to say it's a side effect of using my sacred gear too much as it will be hard to come with an explanation for another eye popping up on my forehead.
Despite the lingering pain, I couldn't help but smile with excitement as information flooded my mind.
Creation abilities... healing... barrier construction... nature manipulation...* The list went on. *But the real prize is the fundamental forces manipulation. Gravity, strong nuclear force, weak nuclear force, attraction and repulsion, inertia... The possibilities are endless*
I flexed my fingers experimentally, feeling the new power thrumming beneath my skin. Then the warning hit me like a bucket of cold water.
Using too much Wisdom of the Sage at once without the King's Body will shorten my lifespan.* I sobered quickly. *The intensity of the power determines how much life I lose.*
Fortunately, I had a substantial supply of Holy Water of Life. Still, this was a serious consideration. *I'll need to contact Chysis about increasing my supply when she comes for her next refill. Better to be over-prepared or else I might die before my attack reaches my opponent*
I tested the power carefully, creating a small gravitational field around a pencil on my desk. It worked perfectly and it lifted it up in the air. I didn't feel the subtle drain or anything, as the magnitude of usage was too low.
What's my next move?* I wondered, dismissing the power and letting the pencil drop. *I have two peerage members now, and the Hero Faction could show up at any moment. With the Sage's Eye, I'm more confident about handling them, but...*
A troubling thought occurred to me. *Did Queen Carmilla tell Cao Cao about my identity? He hasn't made any moves yet, which could mean several things. Either he doesn't know, he's planning something, or he's waiting for the right moment.*
I made a decision. *I need to visit Romania myself. Get a firsthand look at the situation and act accordingly.* The thought of confronting that particular problem made my new eye throb slightly in excitement.
But first, I need sleep.* The combination of the battle, the eye replacement, and the strategic planning had left me completely drained. Tomorrow would bring new challenges and journeys in my life, but tonight, I just wanted to rest.
As I settled into bed, I caught a glimpse of my reflection in the darkened window—one normal eye and one burning with ancient power. *Things are about to get very interesting.*
. . .
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Chapter 55: Chapter 55
The next morning arrived with an unusual quiet that felt almost unnatural after the chaos of the previous night. I was sitting in my kitchen, nursing a cup of coffee while Asia hummed softly as she prepared breakfast. The domestic tranquility was a welcome change, but I couldn't shake the feeling that it was temporary.
My new eye is still adjusting, I thought, blinking deliberately with my right eye. The Sage's Eye felt different—not uncomfortable, but like wearing contact lenses for the first time. At least the crimson color isn't too noticeable unless someone looks closely. I can always claim it's a side effect of using my sacred gear too intensely.
Valerie wandered into the kitchen, still in her pajamas, hair adorably messy from sleep. "Morning," she mumbled, heading straight for the coffee.
"Someone's not a morning person," I observed with amusement.
She shot me a half-hearted glare that lost all impact due to her bed head. "Says the guy who was up until three in the morning doing... whatever mysterious things you do."
If only you knew I was writhing in agony while getting a legendary eye implanted. "Just thinking about our next moves. Things are going to get more complicated from here."
"They always do around you," Valerie said, but there was fondness in her voice rather than complaint.
The doorbell rang, interrupting our morning routine. I raised an eyebrow—it was still early for visitors.
"I'll get it," I said, setting down my cup.
Opening the door, I found myself face-to-face with Xenovia. She looked different from our previous encounters—gone was the absolute certainty that had defined her every movement. Her chin-length blue hair with the distinctive green fringe on the right side was slightly disheveled, and her brown eyes held a vulnerability I'd never seen before.
"Xenovia?" I said, genuinely surprised. "This is unexpected."
She stood there in casual clothes rather than her usual church attire, fidgeting with her hands in a way that seemed completely foreign to her normally confident demeanor.
"I... I need to talk to you," she said, her voice lacking its usual strength. "About last night. About everything."
Here it comes. The fallout from Kokabiel's revelation about God's death.
"Come in," I said, stepping aside. "We were just having breakfast."
She entered hesitantly, nodding politely to Asia and Valerie as they looked up from the kitchen with curiosity.
"Would you like some coffee?" Asia offered sweetly, already moving to get another cup.
"That would be... thank you," Xenovia said, her usual directness replaced by uncertain politeness.
We settled in the living room, with Xenovia perched on the edge of the couch like she might bolt at any moment. The silence stretched uncomfortably before she finally spoke.
"After last night, after learning the truth about..." she paused, swallowing hard, "about God being dead, I find myself without purpose. The Church I served, the faith I held absolute... it was all built on a foundation that no longer exists."
I could see the pain in her brown eyes, the way her hands clenched in her lap. She's completely lost, adrift. For someone who lived their entire life with absolute certainty, this must be devastating.
"I've been thinking all night," Xenovia continued, her voice strained, "and I realized that despite everything, I still want to fight. I still want to protect people. But I need... guidance. Someone who won't feed me comfortable lies."
She took a deep breath and then, to everyone's surprise, slid off the couch to kneel on the floor.
"Please, let me join your group. I want to serve under someone who has the strength to face the truth of this world, and the power to actually change it."
This is unexpected but not unwelcome. Having someone of her caliber would be invaluable, especially with the Hero Faction looming.
"You understand what you're asking?" I said seriously. "Joining my peerage means accepting a bond that goes deeper than simple allegiance. You'll be tied to me in ways that affect your very soul."
Xenovia's laugh was bitter but determined. "After learning that the God I served is dead, a soul bond seems almost mundane." She looked up at me with fierce resolve. "I've watched you fight, seen your strength. More importantly, I've seen how you treat your companions—like family, not tools. That's what I want."
She's thought this through. And honestly, her combat skills and holy sword mastery would be incredibly valuable.
I stood and extended my hand to help her up. "Alright. But fair warning—my enemies are the kind who could destroy entire countries. You sure you want to sign up for that level of chaos?"
Her grin was sharp and eager, more like her old self. "Try and stop me."
I retrieved a Knight piece from my pocket, holding it up so it caught the morning light streaming through the window. The piece seemed to pulse with an inner radiance.
"This will create a bond between us, but unlike devil reincarnation, you'll remain human. You'll just gain access to enhanced abilities and the connection to my power. It might feel strange at first."
"I'm ready."
The process was fascinating to watch. The evil piece dissolved into golden light, merging with Xenovia's body. Unlike devil reincarnation, there was no fundamental transformation—instead, I could sense a new connection forming, a thread of power linking us together.
When it was complete, she stood with a new aura of strength surrounding her, her brown eyes showing a subtle golden flicker that matched my own energy signature.
"Welcome to the team," I said, and her smile was radiant.
Three members now. We're getting stronger, but we'll need to be with what's coming.
"I can feel it," Xenovia said wonderingly, flexing her fingers as golden energy briefly flickered around them. "This power... it's incredible."
"You'll learn to control it with time," I assured her. "For now, why don't you join us for breakfast? We were planning to visit the Occult Research Club today anyway."
Later, at the academy, we made our way to the familiar clubroom. My phone had buzzed earlier with a message from Rias: There's someone I'd like you and your peerage to meet. It's important.
Gasper, I realized. She's finally ready to introduce her bishop. And given the timing, this should be interesting for Valerie.
When we entered the clubroom, I could immediately sense the nervous energy radiating from inside. Rias, Akeno, Kiba, Koneko, and Issei were all gathered around what looked like a large cardboard box in the corner.
"Ah, perfect timing," Rias said with visible relief as we entered. "There's someone I'd like you all to meet." She gestured toward the box. "This is my bishop, Gasper Vladi."
The box rustled slightly, and a small, timid voice emerged from within. "I-I don't want to come out! There are too many people!"
Valerie froze beside me, her eyes widening in recognition. "That voice..." she whispered.
Here we go. This reunion is going to be emotionally charged.
"Gasper," Rias said gently, "these are friends. And one of them is someone very special who's been looking forward to meeting you."
"N-no! I'm fine in here! Boxes are safe! No one can see me in boxes!"
I exchanged a glance with Valerie, who looked like she was fighting back tears. She's been wondering about him for so long. This must be overwhelming.
"Gasper," I called out, crouching down near the box. "I'm Akira. I have someone here who really wants to see you."
"I don't know any Akira! Go away!"
Valerie stepped forward, her voice gentle but filled with emotion. "Gasper... it's me. It's Valerie."
The box went completely silent. Then, slowly, a small flap opened, revealing a single pinkish-violet eye peering out nervously.
"V-Valerie? But... but you're supposed to be dead! The other vampires said you died!"
"I know what they told you," Valerie said softly, kneeling beside the box. "But I'm here now. I'm alive, and I've been looking for you for so long."
The box burst open as a small figure practically launched themselves out, tackling Valerie in a desperate hug. Gasper was exactly as I'd expected—an effeminate-looking male with platinum blond hair and pinkish-violet eyes, his hair styled in a short bob cut with several small fringes over his forehead. He was wearing what looked like a girl's school uniform that somehow worked perfectly on his androgynous features.
"Valerie! I missed you so much!" he cried, tears streaming down his face. "I was so scared when they said you were gone! I didn't know what to do!"
Valerie held him tightly, her own tears falling freely. "I'm sorry, Gasper. I'm so sorry it took me so long to find you. But I'm here now, and I'm never leaving you again."
This is exactly what she needed. Family. A connection to her past that isn't filled with pain and betrayal.
I felt Asia's hand on my arm and turned to see her wiping at her own eyes, clearly moved by the reunion. Even Xenovia looked touched, though she was trying to hide it behind her usual stoic expression.
"I take it you two know each other?" Rias asked with a knowing smile.
"Gasper is... family," Valerie said, still holding the smaller vampire close. "We grew up together before everything went wrong."
Gasper suddenly seemed to remember there were other people present and tried to hide behind Valerie, peeking out at us nervously. His gaze landed on me and my peerage members.
"A-are they safe?" he whispered to Valerie, his voice barely audible. "I don't like meeting new people..."
"They're wonderful," Valerie assured him. "Akira is my King—he's the one who saved me and gave me a new home. Asia is our newest family member, and Xenovia just joined us today too."
He's exactly as timid as expected. But there's potential there, especially with that Sacred Gear of his.
"H-hello," Gasper managed, still mostly hidden behind Valerie. "I'm Gasper Vladi, Rias-senpai's bishop."
"It's nice to meet you properly," I said warmly. "Valerie's told me a lot about you."
His pinkish-violet eyes went wide. "She has?"
"All good things," I assured him. "She's been worried about you."
"I was worried about her too!" Gasper said, his voice gaining a little strength. "When they told me she was gone, I... I didn't want to come out of my room for months."
Poor kid. Losing the one person who understood him must have been devastating.
The room fell into a comfortable quiet as the two vampires caught up, sharing whispered conversations about their time apart. I found myself watching them with satisfaction.
This is what I wanted for her. Connection, family, a sense of belonging that goes beyond just my peerage.
My contemplation was interrupted by a sudden shift in the air—the unmistakable presence of immense power approaching. Everyone in the room stiffened as two elaborate magic circles appeared near the center of the room, their intricate designs speaking of high-ranking devil nobility.
Oh, wonderful. Here comes the politics.
From the larger circle stepped a man with long crimson hair , wearing an expensive-looking suit. His presence alone made the whole room silent in recognition.
Sirzechs Lucifer. One of the Four Great Satan-class devils and Rias's older brother. This should be interesting.
Behind him materialized a woman with silver hair and blue eyes, dressed in a perfect maid uniform. Her demeanor was professional to the point of being intimidating, and I could sense the lethal competence that made her respectedamong devil-kind.
And Grayfia Lucifuge, the ultimate devil maid and one of the strongest Queen-class devils in existence. They're really pulling out the big guns for this visit.
"Rias," Sirzechs said warmly, his serious expression melting into genuine affection as he looked at his sister. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything important."
Rias immediately straightened, her casual demeanor replaced by formal composure. "Brother! I wasn't expecting you."
The family dynamics are already showing. She's nervous, probably wondering if this is about the Kokabiel incident.
Sirzechs's gaze swept the room, taking in each person present before settling on me with obvious interest. His green eyes seemed to pierce right through me, and I could feel him assessing my power level.
"Actually, I'm here to meet someone specific." His eyes locked with mine, and I felt the full weight of his attention.
. .
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